The Pahrump Arts Council is hosting the High Desert Shorts International Film Festival of Pahrump, a video and movie competition until July 28th, and the public is invited to participate.

Several categories are needed, including drama, documentary, animation, comedy, family, science fiction, action and adventure. The competition is supported by the Nevada Arts Council and Pahrump.

There is a $5 fee for each film submitted, and a VHS format is requested.

Films should be short (40 minutes or less, including credits) and clearly labeled with contact information (name, address, phone, and e-mail address; if applicable).

Films will be selected by a jury of Hollywood film industry personnel. A winner in each category will receive a $25 prize and a signed, numbered, limited edition commemorative poster.

The final winner in each category will also receive a custom award, as will the "best of show," to be selected by popular audience vote.

KPVM-TV, Channel 41, is sponsoring the competition and will show the films to obtain audience input. The selected films will be showcased in the Events Center of the Pahrump Nugget, whose management has donated the space.

Linda Kaas, founder of the competition said, "It is our sincere wish to provide a showcase for both veteran filmmakers and budding talent at home and abroad to celebrate their unique vision and creativity."

The competition is part of the Wild West Extravaganza and Pahrump Harvest Festival. The winning films will be part of a 10-day event Sept. 25^-27.

Mail film submissions to High Desert Shorts, c/o P.O. Box 5610, Pahrump, NV 89041. Questions should be directed to Kaas at 727-9400.