Wednesday, March 18, 1998

In search of 6 poets

From reprinting former editor Frank Grimes' famous poem, it's a logical step to remind readers of the Abilene Reporter-News' first ever poetry competition.

Entries are being accepted in three categories and two age groups. Each person may submit one poem of no longer than 40 lines. The manuscript of the poem itself must not have your name or any other biographical information on it. If you have seen the advertisement in the paper, you may submit your entry with that form, which asks for your name, address and phone number, the category you are entering -- children's poetry, regional poetry or general poetry -- and your age group -- 15 and younger or 16 and older. That form will be printed again Saturday and Sunday. Otherwise, provide the information separately.

April 13 is the deadline for submissions. Send them to Abilene Reporter-News, Attention: Lisa Rodriguez, Editorial Department, P.O. Box 30, Abilene, TX 79604, or by e-mail to rodriguezl@abinews.com.

Judges will choose winners in both age brackets for each category. Winning poems will be published in the paper, and winning authors will receive a gift certificate from a local bookstore.