Erma Bombeck Writing Competition Current Winners

Photo of Erma Bombeck
"Hook 'em with the lead. Hold 'em with laughter. Exit with a quip they won't forget." ˜ Erma Bombeck
Congratulations to the winners of the 2026 Erma Bombeck Writing Competition!
Read the winning entries.

Winning Entries - Current Year


Congratulations winners, honorable mentions and entrants of the Erma Bombeck Writing Competition. Enjoy reading the entries below and be inspired!


Winning Entries - 2026
Humor Category - Local
First Place:  Pamela Chandler -  West Carrollton, OH, United States
Honorable Mention:  Jessica Loughman -  Galena, OH, United States
Honorable Mention:  Shannon Szyperski -  Sylvania, OH, United States
Humor Category - Global
First Place:  Vivian Sade -  Churubusco, IN, United States
Honorable Mention:  Angela Baldasare -  Monroe, GA, United States
Honorable Mention:  Judi Harrington -  Medford, MA, United States
Human Interest - Local
First Place:  Annmarie Kelly -  Shaker Heights, OH, United States
Honorable Mention:  Lisa Chiu -  Solon, OH, United States
Honorable Mention:  Alexandra Kincaid -  Liberty TWP, OH, United States
Human Interest - Global
First Place:  Jyl Barlow -  Mechanicsville, VA, United States
Honorable Mention:  Kay Julian -  Leawood, KS, United States
Honorable Mention:  Beth McCullough -  Adrian, MI, United States