The Journal-World is having its annual songwriting contest in conjunction with USA Weekend’s songwriting contest for teens.

The winner of the national contest will receive:

• A trip for two to a season finale of Fox TV’s “American Idol.”
• A meet-and-greet with Simon Cowell, plus a VIP backstage pass.
• Winning lyrics printed in USA Weekend magazine.
• A $1,000 U.S. Savings Bond.
• The Sony Vegas + DVD Production Bundle, which includes a DVD/CD burner, and Sony Acid Music Studio software.
• A Nokia 3300 “American Idol” phone/MPE player, plus a $100 Sam Goody gift card.

Contest rules:

• Students 13 to 18 years old who are full-time students in grades 7 to 12 can enter.
• The song should reflect the contest’s theme, “Make a Difference,” and not exceed 125 words, including the title.
• Send entries to teens@ljworld.com or by mail on a typed, double-spaced, 8 1/2-by-11-inch paper to Songwriting Contest, Lawrence Journal-World, 645 N.H., Lawrence 66044. Include your name, school, grade, hometown and phone number.

All entries must be postmarked or submitted online by Feb. 14. Journal-World entries will be forwarded to the national contest.