ZELIENOPLE - The Strand Theater Initiative is holding a creative writing contest to coincide with its upcoming Halloween festival.

"The Ghost of the Strand" offers junior high and high school students the chance to tell a fictional story about a ghost who haunts the theater, as well as the history of the haunting. The group is working to restore the theater in downtown Zelienople.

The contest is open to all students in grades 7 through 12. There is a $5 fee for each entry.

Entries will be judged on creativity, descriptive imagery and proper use of language. Two important features judges will look for are a strong physical description of the ghost and a compelling story.

Entries can be typed or handwritten, though neatness will count.

Entries must be submitted by Sept. 10.

Entries must include the writer's name, address, and telephone number on every page and be accompanied by the entry fee, payable by cash or check to Strand Theater Initiative.

Submissions without the entry fee will not be considered.

Cash will only be accepted at The Strand Store location.

Entries should be mailed to: The Strand Theater, P.O. Box 31, Zelienople, PA 16063. They can be dropped off at the Strand store, 119 North Main St., from 4 to 9 p.m. Fridays and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays.