How much can I win?
There will be one Grand Prize of $5,000 (five thousand dollars). We will also award cash prizes to 60 other authors. In addition, winning contestants will win other, non-cash prizes.
How many words do I need to write?
You can write any amount of words up to 350 words. This means you can write a 20 word poem, a 280 word essay, or any amount you like. However, if you write more than 350 words, your entry will be disqualified.
What/how should I write?
Think about what love means to you. Really take time to think about it. When you know what it means to you, then write a poem, essay, or letter that describes love the way you see it. Be clear and truthful, and you will write a wonderful piece of literature!
I don't have an email address. Can I still enter the contest?
Yes! Just be sure to include your mailing address, phone number, and the address and phone number for your school on your entry form.
Does my entry have to be handwritten, or can it be typed?
It can be either handwritten or typed. Please be sure to write clearly if you are handwriting it.
Can more than one person write an entry together?
No. Each entry must be written by one person only, the person whose name is on it.
How many entries may I send in?
One entry per person.
If I am a member of the Screen Actors Guild, can I still enter the contest?
Yes!
Does my teacher win something if my entry wins?
Yes, if your entry wins a prize, your teacher will win a special Valentine's Day gift.
When will I know if I've won?
We will be contacting everyone with a qualifying entry by January 31st, 2007 to let them know if they've won a prize.
Why is the contest limited to 6 to 11 year olds?
One main reason is the cost. It takes a lot of money to hold a contest like this, and each time we add an age level, the cost goes up. So we just had to stop at 6-11 years. We plan to expand the contest next year, and maybe we'll be able to add age levels then. On our website you can add your email to our mailing list, so when we announce the rules for next year, you'll be one of the first to know!
Why is the contest limited to Los Angeles County?
This is the first year of the Love Equals contest. We are trying it out and learning what works and what doesn't. That way we'll be ready to make it a national contest for next year.
Are there any exceptions for students who live in another county?
No. Unfortunately we cannot make any exceptions for students living in another county. If we did, we'd have to let anyone enter, no matter where they live. We plan to make this a national contest next year so kids all across the United States will be able to enter. But this year, it is only for Los Angeles County.
Why are you having this contest?
Henri Zimand of Zimand Entertainment wanted to start a contest for children and Valentine's Day. Because of its successful literacy programs, he approached the Screen Actors Guild Foundation to partner with him. Together they created this exciting new contest, which they plan to hold as an annual contest.
