Caldwell wins poetry contest

Local scribes recited rhythmic verse last night at the latest of the town’s centennial celebrations.
The centennial coffee house was held at the Fort Frances Museum, in conjunction with the Valley Adult Learning Association, where nearly 30 people gathered to visit, have coffee, indulge in cheesecake, and listen to the soothing sounds of poetry about our town.
Five people registered for the centennial poetry contest, where poets were to write about Fort Frances and what it means to them.
“It went really well,” said Marla Simpson, the town’s centennial coordinator.
“It was a nice, intimate gathering.”^All five registered poets recited their creations to those gathered— as did a “special guest.”^Simpson said a member of Fort Frances Little Theatre dressed up as well-known local poet Kate Ruttan and entertained guests with her poetry from the early part of the 20th-century.
The big winner of the poetry contest was Ruth Caldwell.
“It was about growing up in Fort Frances and the key things you remember about growing up [here],” said Simpson. “They were all really fitting about the history of Fort Frances.”^Simpson added the people’s choice went to Cheri Stanley.
“Cheri had some funny limericks that everyone enjoyed,” she noted, adding that one was about romance here and how the guys would rather be out fishing.
The other three contestants were John Jankiewicz, Lynn Oster-man, and José Balcewich (of Emo).
Simpson said all the contestants won gift packs and will be asked to recite their poetry again at the Centennial Arts Celebration slated here June 7.
Though there were only five contestants, Simpson felt that was enough.
“It’s about quality, not quantity,” she remarked. “[Originally], we had anticipated more [contestants] but it turned out five was just right.
“I think it’s something that would only get better each time,” she added, hoping the poetry contest is something that can continue even after the centennial.
The contest was judged by people selected by the Valley Adult Learning Association. The were Pat Tougas, Dave Black, Kim Redford, Carol Simpson, and Maxine Remier.
Other highlights of the evening were the musical stylings of Chris Denby and his guitar—and the cheesecake.
“Oh, it was so good,” said Simpson, adding it came from Debbie’s Desserts.