The 10th Annual Voices of Lincoln Poetry Contest officially began in April, as part of the celebration of National Poetry Month, with five new categories: “Once Upon A Time,” “Ten Years From Now,” “It’s A Miracle,” “A Journey Worth Taking” and “People Are Funny.”

Poets may submit a maximum of three poems, no more than one in each of three of the five contest categories.

Everyone is encouraged to enter the contest. Poets do not have to live in Lincoln, CA to be eligible. Young Poets, 18-years of age or under, are encouraged to submit poems and will compete in a special “Young Poets” category. Last year was the best year in the history of the contest. One hundred thirty-three (133) poets submitted 272 poems. We had 56 entrants submit 81 poems in the “Young Poets” category. The 2013 contest had entries from 34 California cities and 10 out-of-state cities from five (5) states. In addition, the Voices of Lincoln Poetry Contest went international again last year. One entry came from Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia. 

As such, again we are trying to get the word out about the contest to the largest number of people possible.

The Rules and Entry Form and the Contest Flyer, which may be posted, can be downloaded from the following website: www.libraryatlincoln.org under “Programs and Events.” All poems must be received no later than Saturday, July 26, 2014, at the address on the Entry Form. Early submissions are appreciated.

Thank you for entering the contest. If you have questions, please email me at slolowe@icloud.com

Alan Lowe

Coordinator, 2014 Voices of Lincoln Poetry Contest