I am for many words, very seldom, if ever publicly.. Sentimental...

Funky Crunk Mike Whalen: you are a giant among men. Big heart, infectious smile, profoundly silent, yet effective in your leadership role, and by far, one of the most able strategist in the slam world. I have learned a tremendous amount about life, poetry and friendship from you. Words cannot express the gratitude I have for the experiences and rewards. I only hope that when I find the courage to pick up a pen or pound upon my laptop, that my art (words and performance) enhance what I have gotten from all of "THIS".

Teamies: To name you individually would be a dis-service to what we have accomplished. There were no individuals in the group, simply individuals being themselves in the concept of a team!!! Individual voices, blending, merging, morphing and making significant contributions when needed the MOST. And ohh did we make it work. Fck we MASTERED THAT SHYT. Thank you for balancing me, teaching me, loving me, even being upset with me (when I deserved it.) I couldn't have asked for a better opportunity and environment in which to thrive and grow.

Angel/Sarah/Ebony: I pray that I am able to do for you what Mo has done for me. Befriend you. And selfishly grow as a person, writer, friend, and woman, by allowing you to help me grow. Because believe me I get so much more than YOU than you could ever get from me.... Know that.. it's always about giving.... And you are never my GROUPIES... Sisters, I am YOURS!!!!

Mo: You already know. I don't have to say a word. Sometimes it's difficult and I buckle at the knees. Struggling to do.. Struggling to be... You've taught me that the world is not full of selfish, bullshyting ass women. That women can uplift one another without a shred of jealously, maliciousness, or hate. Thanks for ALL that you do in spirit, love, words and writing.. Brooklyn in October!! Can hardly wait. Can I be a pebble to your rock? :0)

LaLove: If not you... Your spirit filled our hearts and we shared your words from the final stage, a subtle shout-out, but I know you felt the love! "I ain't no putha!"

ELM: All my attention and time... Uh ohhh.....

Masons: WHAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

To the Neo-Souldiers, Community and Family: thanks for your continued support we could have never done it without you. Every venue, every night, recognized faces, shouts and love... We share this honor with you, we are the #2 Team in the Nation with the #1 Community of Support!!!

Lastly: My village (great-grand, grand, and mom). I pray that my voice represented.... I pray that my words reached you...... RIP: Jones/Belisle/Taylor...