Library opens poetry contest

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PIQUA — In celebration of National Poetry Month in April, the Piqua Public Library’s Youth Poetry Contest returns for a third year.

First-, second-, and third-place awards will be conferred in four divisions: grades K-3, 4-6, 7-9 and 10-12. First-place winners in each group will win $50; second-place poets will receive $25, and third-place finishers, $10. There also will be a “Library Favorite” poem chosen by the library staff from among all divisions. The writer of that poem will also receive a $50 award.

“Two hundred and fifty-four poems were submitted by young people from Miami and Shelby counties last year. These poets represented 20 schools, as well as homeschoolers.” said Robin Heintz, program coordinator. “We were deeply impressed with the quality of the entries, and grateful for the dedication of the many educators that submitted the work of their students.”

Poems are sent to more than a dozen judges across the country. All scoring is “blind,” which means that when the judges receives poems, they don’t see poets’ names or schools listed. They only know the grade levels of the poets. Among the volunteer judges are teachers, librarians, artists, professional educators, community leaders and graduate students.

Submission will be accepted from March 1 through March 31. Winners will be announced April 19, and the contest concludes with a Poetry Night Awards Reception,, April 26, at 6 p.m. There is no entry fee. More information and submission details are available online at www1.youseemore.com/piqua.

Staff report

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