Poetry Out Loud over and out
Written by William F. DeVault on March 15, 2008 – 7:28 pm -The results are in at the WV Finals of Poetry Out Loud…and I know them (having been one of the three judges, I got to shape them!)…
First off, let me say that all the contestants were worthy. It takes guts to get up and recite long, complex word puzzles while your friends, family and competitors stare at you with blank, unblinking eyes, silently praying for you to humiliate yourself.
The winner was:
Carolyn Rose Garcia of Notre Dame High School in Harrison County, who edged the competition in the finals owing to her incredible performance of "Shirt" by Robert Pinsky.
The runner-up was Jasmine Lewis of Spring Valley High School in Wayne County who gave a powerful recitation of "Still I Rise" by Maya Angelou.
I have to give two special unofficial awards out of my own.
The first is to Elizabeth Falstreau of George Washington High School in Kanawha County who wow-ed the judges with her poise and presence, particularly in her finals delivery of "Walking Down Park" by Nikki Giovanni.
The second is to Emma Dalen, whose charming delivery of Shel Silverstein’s "Sick" got her into the finals.
Congratulations to one and all, although I should point out that most of you failed to approach me to sign your gift copies of my book at the reception!
Tags: Poetry Out Loud
Posted in Journal, Media, News, West Virginia |
January 12th, 2009 at 9:11 pm
Just cruizing and happened to type “Emma Dalen” in at Google and found you and your ‘unofficial special award” for Emma at the 2008 Poetry Out Loud. I couldn’t agree more but I’m her Mama! Unfortunately she will NOT be able to compete this year as Pendleton Co. could not raise enough interest to hold a High School or local library comgetiton. And wouldn’t you know it, she had selected one of your poems, “The Face on Page 1-B” for the competition. She has, however, volunteer to help at the state competition so maybe we’ll see you there.
January 12th, 2009 at 9:20 pm
I doubt I will see her there, as I have not heard from the Poetry Out Loud people this year and must presume the organizers found someone more to their liking! Not a problem, as I enjoyed the readings last year and the opportunity to see so many excellent, earnest fans of poetry, including your daughter.
Give my best to your daughter, please