Say it Loud Spoken Word and Open Mic Night hosted by the Griot Collective of West Tennessee and the Friends of the Library at The NED was a dynamic convergence of local talent and poetic expression. The variety of poetic styles that graced the stage was beyond what I had hoped. The diversity in presentations, themes, and community members present reminds us of how the arts can unify us as a people. We are thankful for the City of Jackson, the Jackson Arts Council, The Friends of the Library, and The NED for providing the backdrop to a memorable experience.
The winners of the Open Mic Contest:
1st place: Bill Marable
2nd place: Gloria Stuart
3rd place: Tekia Denwiddie

The winner of the Spoken Word contest: Ty Williams. Chandra Maclin- event coordinator and emcee.