At its annual Poetry Forum, the East Metro Atlanta Christian Writers group recently presented its People’s Choice Award to poet Carol Whitmire of Covington.

Contestants entered original works and recited them before an audience, which then voted on the winners.

Whitmire took first place for "God’s Treasure Chest" and "Five Great Friends." Second place was awarded to Jim Smith for "Gray" and "Caine." Third place went to Jeff Hipps for "A Stream Observed" and "The Great Dig."

Honorable mention went to: Minister Elizabeth Partridge-Godfrey, "From Heart to Heart" and "Turn Them Loose;" Barbara Latta, "The Soul of Old Glory;" Patricia Manns, "Heart and Harmony;" Ann McCurdy, "A Plea for Peace" and "Build on the Rock;" Buddy McElhannon, "It’s Lent but Easter’s Coming;" and Grace Potts, "Seth’s Song."

EMACW encourages increased publication, distribution and sale of poetry books.

To learn more, visit emacw.org or call 404-444-7514.