Thanks to video production team Angela Cochran and Tony Evans, the January 8 Celebration of Poetry was recorded for all to enjoy. So, in case you missed this event or would like to see it again, you may watch it here.
On January 8, 2023, ‘Poetry Moves,’ created by nonprofit Artstra in partnership with C-Tran honored poets who have engaged, delighted, and inspired riders with poems on buses since 2016. This multifaceted celebration of poetry took place at Magenta Theater in downtown Vancouver, Washington.
Washington State Poet Laureate Rena Priest was guest of honor and former Clark County Poet Laureate Gwendolyn Morgan (2018-21) “passed the pen” to Clark County Poet Laureate Armin Tolentino (2021-24). The afternoon event included readings from Poetry Moves poets from its past five seasons as well as interpretive dance and music.
“The collaboration of Artstra and C-Tran,” says Poetry Moves Program Director LaRae Zawodny, “has brought something special to the community—an opportunity for connection—for poets to hone and share their voices, and enrichment for those who hear them.” Artstra, C-Tran, the Clark County Arts Commission, Humanities Washington, ArtsWA, and Magenta Theater joined together in support of this event.
I am a local poet, residing in Clark County and have had my poetry published for over two years in the monthly The Messenger, the Clark County newspaper, for over 50.
I attended the January 8th “A Celebration of Poetry” and found from start to finish, it was outstanding! I was proud to be a citizen of Vancouver to witness such a professional display of beauty, talent and well-orchestrated direction especially by LaRae Zawodny, Poetry Moves Director, Artstra and others involved.
Greetings Betty, Thank you so much for your comments. It is gratifying that appreciation of poetry has a growing audience in Clark County. Your name is familiar to me as I always read the poetry section of The Messenger.
Heartfelt appreciation for your enthusiastic support and that you have taken the time to write. I look forward to reading more of your poems. LaRae