WTCI-Channel 45, the community's public television station, announced the 8th Annual WTCI Reading Rainbow Young Writers and Illustrators Contest. The contest is open to children in grades Kindergarten through Fifth grades. The deadline for entries is March 20.
The contest is designed to help children open their minds and explore their world in an exciting and creative way by writing their own original story and drawing imaginative illustrations. In years past, the contest was open to grades kindergarten through third grade. In 2006, the contest has been expanded to include fourth and fifth graders. Last year over 300 stories were received from local children.
"Parents asked us to include additional grades to the Reading Rainbow contest and we are happy that WTCI is able to open the competition to more children," said Kelly Williams, WTCI vice president of programming and public information. "This is one our favorite outreach events at Channel 45. Not only does it encourage a life-long love for reading. It encourages children to use their imagination and share their creativity with others."
Complete rules for the contest and entry forms may be obtained by visiting the WTCI web site at www.wtci-tv45.com or calling Kevin Lusk, director of public information and community outreach, at 423-629-0045. There are minimum and maximum word requirements for each grade level. All storied submitted must have a minimum of five illustrations. There is no charge to enter the contest.
All children that enter will receive a Certificate of Achievement signed by Reading Rainbow host LeVar Burton. WTCI will honor first, second and third place winners in each grade with prizes, a trophy and an awards ceremony at the Tennessee Aquarium. All local winners will have their story featured on the WTCI Web site.
Reading Rainbow is a multi-award winning PBS series, which takes viewers on unforgettable learning adventures to nurture a lifelong love of reading.
The WTCI Reading Rainbow Young Writers and Illustrators Contest is locally sponsored by Allied Arts of Greater Chattanooga, Dr. Joseph Chung, DDS, and Sunny 92.3-FM.
WTCI is a PBS station owned by the people of the Tennessee Valley. It exists through the direct financial support of the community.