FREE POETRY CONTEST OPEN TO JACKSON RESIDENTS

The International Library of Poetry has announced that $58,000 in prizes will be awarded this year in the International Open Poetry Contest.

Poets from the Jackson area, particularly beginners, are welcome to try to win their share of more than 250 prizes. The deadline for the contest is April 30. The contest is open to everyone and entry is free.

"Any poet, whether previously published or not, can be a winner," said Christina Babylon, contest director. "When people learn about our free poetry contest, they suddenly realize that their own poetic works of art can win cash prizes, as well as gain national recognition."

To enter, send one original poem, any subject and any style, to: The International Library of Poetry, Suite 19910, 1 Poetry Plaza, Owings Mills, MD 21117.

The poem should be 20 lines or less, and the poet's name and address should appear on the top of the page. Entries must be postmarked or sent via the Internet by April 30. You may also enter online at www.poetry.com

The International Library of Poetry, founded in 1982, is the largest poetry organization in the world.