It’s just about that time of year again. Allergy season? Well, yes, in full bloom. But even better, the Nevada Film Office’s Screenwriting Competition’s submission period is May 1- Aug1, for its 21^st year, making it the oldest state sponsored contest in the country.

There are a few changes to the judging criteria and internal structure of the competition, which should only benefit the writers. The contest has seen magnificent talent over the years; several scripts have even been sold and produced.

Along with various prizes, the winners of the 2007 competition received script consultations with author and screenwriter, Dan Decker. The Nevada Film Office will also send the top three scripts to production companies, studios, and agents in Hollywood.

The 2008 competition will undoubtedly be bigger and better than ever. The competition is open to any unsold writers. Scripts must be feature length and be standard industry format. The content must contain 75% of locations filmable in Nevada, and cannot be in pornographic in nature. The cost per script entry is $15 for Nevada residents and $30 for non residents. For full details visit www.nevadafilm.com or call 1-800-NEV-FILM. Who knows, maybe your script will go from a Silver State contest to the silver screen.