LAKEPORT
Lake County Arts Council announces Poetry Out Loud 2023
The Lake County Arts Council is currently recruiting for the 2023 Poetry Out Loud competition. Local high schools, including independent and alternative schools, are invited to participate.
Poetry Out Loud (POL), in partnership with the National Endowment of the Arts, Poetry Foundation, and California Poetry Out Loud, is a nationwide program introducing students to the depth, history, and performance aspects of poetry, helping students to master public speaking skills and build self-confidence. This national arts education program encourages the study of both classic and contemporary poetry by offering free educational materials and a dynamic recitation competition for high school students across the country. Since the program began in 2005, more than 4.1 million students across the country have participated in Poetry Out Loud. The Lake County Arts Council has administered Poetry Out Loud since 2007.
This program has traditionally been used by both English and performing arts teachers, however this choice is up to each school and their respective teachers. LCAC provides support to participating schools and teachers by providing ongoing informational meetings, all necessary materials including lesson plans and teacher’s guides, and Poet Coaches to work with students if needed.
The program culminates every year with school competitions complete with a judging panel and cash prizes provided by the Arts Council. Champions from each participating school will be invited to perform publicly and participate in a countywide competition where they can compete for the chance to represent Lake County at the state level. State winners will move on to compete nationally. Every level of the competition has an opportunity for both notoriety and cash prizes. The countywide competition will be held in early 2023. States hold their competitions by mid-March. Following the state finals, the National Finals will be held in spring of 2023.
Any Lake County student currently enrolled in grades 9–12 are eligible to compete, whether enrolled in a public, private, alternative, or homeschool. Non-school organizations, such as after school clubs, libraries, or nonprofit organizations, may also choose to participate in Poetry Out Loud. LCAC is asking the community to encourage schools, teachers, and students to participate in this valuable program.
To participate or submit questions, contact the Lake County Arts Council Poetry Out Loud Coordinator Georgina Marie Guardado at gmarie@lakearts.org before December 2022.
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KELSEYVILLE
Dinner benefit for Shade Canyon Charter School October 1
Celebrate Fall at a gourmet Harvest Dinner and Silent Auction fundraiser for Shade Canyon School, Saturday, October 1, from 4 to 8 p.m., at Peace and Plenty Farm, 4550 Soda Bay Road in Kelseyville. The dinner will feature Lake County produce in a harvest-inspired menu designed and prepared by Rosey Cooks. Several servings of Lake County wine are included in the discounted meal price of $95 when you purchase by September 23. Thereafter, the price reverts to $125. Purchase tickets at shadecanyon.org.
While you dine under the walnut trees, you’ll listen to gentle acoustic guitar music by John Ruiz with special guest, Daniel Mitchell. Stroll the silent auction tables to bid on fabulous items donated by our local businesses and wineries.
The proceeds from this celebratory event will help to build Shade Canyon School, a tuition-free, public charter school opening in Kelseyville in Fall 2023 with grades TK-2 and adding one grade per year until the school offers a full TK-8 program. The school will increase the educational choices available to Lake County families, as enrollment will be open to all.
Shade Canyon’s curriculum aligns with State Standards while being rooted in Waldorf education principles that engage head, heart, and hands. The school’s program is designed to meet each individual student’s learning style and will integrate school subjects with practical and fine arts, as well as outdoor exploration. With community, relationship-based learning, and nature connection as central values, Shade Canyon’s school culture will reflect Lake County’s agricultural heritage and warm, friendly communities.
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