On Monday, November 13, the 10 poems to make the final round of judging in a new poetry and songwriting contest were written on the First Amendment Monument. Entitled "First Amendment Writes," the contest is a celebration of the creative heights that can only be achieved when artists are free to express themselves on any theme, subject or idea. The final round of judging will take place at Starr Hill Restaurant on November 16 at 7:00 PM. The finalists in the poetry and songwriting categories will read and perform their works before judges Rita Dove, Boyd Tinsley, and Bruce Flohr. The public is invited and tickets are $3.00. - Joshua Wheeler

Photos: Joshua Wheeler, TJ Center for Freedom of Expression