While The Royal Canadian Legion branches in Orillia and throughout Ontario are currently closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, that doesn't mean its programs have been halted.
The seniors' literary competition is returning for a second year after being launched as a pilot program that was well received.
“It’s something that seniors can do from home. They don’t have to be athletic or interested in going out at night to take part in something,” said Seniors Literary Chairman Betty-Jean Murray, a member of the Coldwater Legion.
The contest is open to Ontario seniors 55 years of age and over, and it’s not a requirement to be a Royal Canadian Legion member.
The four categories are short stories, essays, poetry and memoirs which include biographies, autobiographies and travel writing. They cannot be previously published.
The contest provides an opportunity for seniors to share their talents and be judged on their work for a chance to win a nominal award once the pandemic has passed.
“We felt that we needed to offer seniors a little bit more now that they have more time on their hands,” Murray said.
The deadline for the electronic submissions is June 15.
For entry forms, contestants should contact Murray by email, branch270seniorsliterary@
