An international team of filmmakers are on the lookout for Kansans to participate in a statewide essay contest to describe the influence of poetry on their lives.

Participants are invited to explain in 600 words why their favorite poem is important to them.

Submissions will be judged by a jury of five nationally known poets and writers, and winners will be individually featured in short documentary films that will be screened in Kansas City and New York City later this year.

Instructions for submissions can be found at www.poetryunites.com.

More information is available by contacting Felicia Summerlin at (913) 725-3114 or at fsummerlin@poetryunites.com.