While most Utahns are enjoying pleasant fall weather away from hot summer temperatures, Deseret News editors are thinking Christmas.
They are planning for the annual "Christmas I Remember Best" series that has become a popular feature among readers. It's also of interest to authors planning to enter this year's contest.The contest is seeking memorable stories that have happened during a Christmas season, whether it was just last year or 50 years ago. Deadline for entries is Nov. 25 - the day after Thanksgiving.
Because Christmas is a time for sharing, readers are invited to share these experiences with others. Entries must be true - not fiction or poetry - and must never have been published.
Five of the most interesting and unusual stories will be printed in a series, with the final story published Christmas Eve. Contest officials emphasize that the story does not necessarily have to be the writer's "best" Christmas but the one "best remembered" because of unusual circumstances.
Although there is no set limit on the number of words for entries, contest officials suggest stories be between 800 and 1,000 words.
Stories should be typewritten or handwritten legibly. Those not selected for publication will be returned if submitted with a self-addressed, stamped envelope.
A $60 prize will be awarded for each of the stories selected for publication.
Entries should be mailed to "Christmas Best," Deseret News, P.O. Box 1257, Salt Lake City, Utah 84110, or delivered to the newspaper office at 30 E. First South.