Fellowships of $7,000 each are given annually to Illinois writers. Finalists receive grants of $700 each. The awards, which alternate yearly between poetry and prose, are given to Illinois residents who have lived in the state for at least one year prior to the application deadline and who are not enrolled in any degree- or certificate-granting program. This year's competition is open to poets. Submit up to 15 pages of poetry completed within the past four years, proof of residency, and a resum by September 1. There is no entry fee. Visit the Web site for the required application and complete guidelines.