Here are some facts about the competition:
- The competition is held every two years.
- It is open to almost everyone in the world.
- It is sponsored by the Washington Centerville Public Library and the University of Dayton (Ohio).
- There are four categories: Humor (Global and Local) and Human Interest (Global and Local)
- There is a $500 prize for the winner in each category.
- There's a $15 entry fee.
- In 2010 there were only 651 entries.
Here are 5 facts about Ohio native Erma Bombeck:
- She was funny.
- As an American humorist, Erma Bombeck wrote nationally syndicated newspaper columns, magazine articles, and 15 books about suburban home life.
- She was a TV personality, contributing regularly to ABC's Good Morning America as well as being a popular guest on many talk shows.
- She was criticized by conservatives for her vocal support of the Equal Rights Amendment for Women.
- She was married and had 3 children, 1 girl and 2 boys.
- There's nothing sadder in this world than to awake Christmas morning and not be a child.
- The only reason I would take up jogging is so I could hear heavy breathing again.
- Seize the moment. Think of all those women on the 'Titanic' who waved off the dessert cart.
- A child needs your love more when he deserves it least.
- There is a thin line that separates laughter and pain, comedy and tragedy, humor and hurt.
- It takes a lot of courage to show your dreams to someone else.
- Housework can kill you if done right.
- When my kids become wild and unruly, I use a nice, safe playpen. When they're finished, I climb out.
- Marriage has no guarantees. If that's what you're looking for, go live with a car battery.
- When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, 'I used everything you gave me.'
