Library accepting nominations for Youth Poet Laureate
The Watsonville Public Library is accepting nominations for the new Watsonville Youth Poet Laureate.
The program’s primary goal is to recognize those under the age of 20 for their literary achievements with a commitment to and a passion for promoting awareness of poetry and whose work (literary or otherwise) demonstrates a commitment to social justice, equity and diversity.
Young people ages 12-19 are encouraged to apply.
“The new Youth Poet Laureate Program will work with our current Watsonville Poet Laureate Robert ‘Bob’ Gomez to represent the City of Watsonville and the art of poetry through outreach and literary activities of the Watsonville Public Library,” Library Director Alicia Martinez said. “The Youth Poet Laureate will provide a focus for the appreciation and dissemination of poetry in Watsonville, promote the appreciation and knowledge of poetry among other youth, and act as a spokesperson for the growing number of young poets and writers in the City of Watsonville.”
Nominations are being accepted in-person and online at bit.ly/345sIqL through April 30.
For information, visit bit.ly/345sIqL or email Martinez at [email protected].
Soroptimists honor local women
Soroptimist International of Watsonville selected seven local women as winners of its 2023 “Live Your Dream” awards program. Each received a check ranging from $2,500 to $4,000, which they can use for anything that enables them to complete their education, such as rent, child care and car repairs.
Women who are enrolled in college level or technical training courses, are the head of their household, and have a demonstrated need are eligible to apply for the award.
The women were honored in a Zoom celebration, hosted by club President Pat Donohue and featured Keynote Speaker Alta Northcutt, Director of Student Life and Welcome Services at Cabrillo College.
Award winners shared their educational goals and how grateful they were to receive these cash awards, particularly as all are single mothers dedicated to pursuing their education in order to improve their families’ lives.
Soroptimist is a global volunteer organization that provides women and girls with access to the education and training they need to achieve economic empowerment. Learn more about the Watsonville Soroptimist club’s “Live Your Dream” program by visiting siwatsonville.org.
