The New Journal and Guide Introduces ‘Adult Poetry Showcase’

NORFOLK
The Venue on 35th Street served as the site on Thursday night February 18 to introduce the New Journal and Guide’s year-long showcase of area poets. Four poets were on hand for the kick-off and to lend a voice in how the showcase will develop.
The purpose of this year-long event is double fold: to showcase the works of adult poets 21 years of age and older living in the 757 cities; and to provide a dialogue that keeps alive the accomplished Black poets of the past.

“The New Journal and Guide (NJG) caters to the African-American experience,” said Ernest Lowery, who is coordinating the community outreach project “The NJG’s belief is that its new Poetry Showcase will provide an opportunity to enjoy the poetry of current poets and, at the same time, celebrate past African-American poets.”

The NJG with its 116-year history has covered two world wars, the Great Depression, J. Edgar Hoover, segregation and Jim Crow. With this in mind, Lowery said the NJG wants to guide new readers and supporters into the NJG continuing history where they can tell their story.

– Rules That Apply Are –

1. Present a short bio (must be age 21 and older) and say a little something about yourself on stage before your reading. Be mindful that the NJG is a Christian-valued company and certain language (ex., profane, sexually and racially offensive) will not be accepted. Please be prepared to comply. Thanks.
2. Every poet must read one poem from a published African-American Poet of the past, not to exceed 5 minutes.
3. State the title of your poem and read your poem not to exceed 5 minutes.
4. Poets will be filmed for possible showing on the NJG’s website, www.thenewjournalandguide.com. The filming will take place from 8pm – 10pm, on Thursday. Be there by 7:30 and sign in. We will meet at the Venue, 631 35th St. Norfolk, VA 23508.
5. Each Thursday, one poet may be selected to be showcased on the NJG web page throughout the year. Family, friends and the general public will have the opportunity to vote for the poet of their choice. At the end of the quarter, the winner will receive a gift on behalf of the NJG.
6. Call (757) 420-4663, leave a detailed message. Ernest will give you a return call ASAP.

Ernest Lowery – Community Outreach Executive, njguide@gmail.com