The contest will be judged by a Frank Stewart, editor of Manoa: A Pacific Journal of International Writing, and Shelly Mecum, author of "The Watercolor Cat," with artist Peggy Chun and "God's Photo Album."

Contest entries need not be on overtly holiday themes and need not concern any holiday in particular. But they are meant to provoke thought and feeling, engender hope, convey the strength of the human spirit or give us all a good smile — or even a belly laugh.

The winners in each of the two categories will receive $200.

CONTEST RULES

Word count limit: 1,500 words.

Stories — fictional or fact-based — must be the author's own work. Winners will be required to sign a fee-for-service contract attesting that the work is original and that the author has the proper permissions and rights to the work, and granting The Honolulu Advertiser the right to publish the story and place it online. Authors must use their real name; no noms de plume. Authors will be asked to provide a short biogaphy and to send in or sit for a photograph.

Entries in verse are acceptable. Illustrations will not be considered.

Judges' decision is final. Employees of The Honolulu Advertiser may not enter.

Manuscripts or e-mails must include name, address, daytime telephone and e-mail address. No pen names, please.

Manuscripts or e-mails must be labeled "adult" or "children's."

Deadline: Postmarked or e-mailed on or before Nov. 30.