Entry forms are now available at Gualala Arts Center, the Dolphin Gallery in Gualala, and Coast Community Library in Point Arena for the third annual competition for original, unpublished creative writing. Deadline for entries is August 31, 2005.

Gualala Arts, with co-sponsorship of the Rotary Club and The Sea Ranch Foundation, is offering $1,000 in prize money for the best personal essays and creative nonfiction submitted by full- or part-time Redwood Coast residents from Elk to Timber Cove. This contest is open to writers previously unpublished in a book or national periodical (local and school publications okay).

In each of two entry divisions, Adult (over 18) and Youth (13-18), winners will receive a First Prize of $250 and publication in The Redwood Coast Review. Second and third place entries in each category will receive $150 and $100, respectively. Winners will be announced and their essays read at the Awards Ceremony on October 24 at the Gualala Arts Center.

The success of the last two years' short story and poetry contests inspired the organizers to sponsor another creative writing competition this year in a different genre. Eligible writers are encouraged to prepare their best personal essay or creative nonfiction for entry. There is no entry fee. Complete guidelines are available on the entry form.

For more information contact Gualala Arts at (707) 884-1138.