APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — The public is invited to help kick off Appleton’s poet laureate program Friday evening.
Cathryn Cofell has been named the city’s inaugural poet laureate.
“A single poem can educate and inspire, can evoke anger, joy, pain, and delight all at once. What one person experiences from a poem, a laureate can amplify to many, connecting this community in a powerful way,” Cofell said in a statement. “By embracing poetry, Appleton is fostering a community that values creativity and forward-thinking.”
An event is set for 5:30-6:30 p.m. Friday at the Scheig Center, 1313 E. Witzke Blvd. The event is scheduled to include the unveiling of a poem for the renovated Appleton Public Library, a reading by Cofell, an interactive poetry activity and the opportunity for attendees to meet Cofell.
Mayor Jake Woodford initiated the poet laureate program, modeling it after similar programs in other Wisconsin cities. The poet laureate serves a two-year term, and is assigned to create at least two original poems annually for city events, festivals and ceremonies, and present at least three programs or projects each year to connect community members with poetry, such as workshops, open mic events and outreach initiatives.
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