The Picayune Writers Group is looking for local writers to participate in the group’s ninth annual writing contest.
Not only will entries be judged, they will also be included in the group’s next anthology, Writers Group president Marilyn Grather said.
“It’s important to me that we get as many people as possible to participate,” Grather said. “Some people may want to write and are afraid. This is also a way for local writers to get published. I had never written anything for publication before 2007, which was when I entered the contest. I was surprised when I won second place, but that encouraged me to keep writing.”
Writers of all ages are encouraged to enter the contest, which is open to anyone who wants to participate, Grather said.
According to the entry form, the contest is divided into three categories, including fiction, non-fiction and poetry. First place winners in each category will receive a $25 cash prize and a certificate of merit. Second and third place winners will receive a copy of the anthology and a certificate of merit.
The entry fee is $5 per manuscript and contestants can enter up to four submissions, the entry form states.
According to the form, the deadline for submissions is April 1 and they can be dropped off at Barze´ Place Antiques and Collectibles, which is located at 213 Hwy. 11 S., Picayune. Entries can also be mailed to 12960 Indian Springs Rd., Picayune, MS 39466. For more information about the contest, contact the group at 601-749-0756 or 601-799-1287.
The Picayune Writers group is comprised of local people from all walks of life, Grather said.
“We meet and discuss writing,” Grather said. “We have two published haiku writers and I’ve learned a lot from them. It’s a great and friendly place to learn things.”
The Writers Group meets every Tuesday of the month except the first Tuesday of the month in the community room at Bank Plus, which is located at 115 Williams Ave., Picayune from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., Grather said. Every third Wednesday of the month, the group hosts an Open mic night at Southern Char Steakhouse located at 210 W. Canal St., Picayune at 6 p.m.
“The public is welcome to come,” Grather said. “We have musicians perform and our writers from our group will read.”
The cost for a yearly membership is $25. However, people can attend five meetings for free, Grather said.
Follow the group on Facebook at Picayune Writers Group.