It is our pleasure to bring you the winning entries in the Weekly's 20th Annual Short Story Contest. For the past two decades, we have published a staggering range of stories submitted by our readers. Comedy, tragedy, introspection, action -- the tone and style of the tales have never failed to enlighten and amuse. This year's selections are no different. From a decidedly different take on "The Exorcist" to the long-awaited answer to "How to Solve a Rubic's Cube," local writers have once again demonstrated the wealth of talent that exists on the Midpeninsula. We would like to thank all the contestants who entered this year's contest and invite the community to submit their works next year.

First Place
Kathleen Jalapour,
Flight from Egypt

Second Place
Kathleen Davis ,
The Zeppelin

Third Place
Mark Clevenger,
Liars

Children 9-11

First Place
Wendy Wu
The Stowaway

Second Place
Lisa Wu
A Doll Named Maya

Third Place
Evelyn Wang
Child of the Forest

Teen 12-14

Third Place
Nils Gilbertson
Like Father, Like Son

Young Adult 15-17

First Place
Ross Raffin
The Exorcistein

Second Place
Christina Hueschen
Bubble Gum

Third Place
Hilary Brennan-Marquez
Red Rock