“A poem begins as a lump in the throat . . .”

. . . so wrote poet Robert Frost. Despite lumps in throats, on Tuesday, Middle School Poetry Recitation finalists–

• Ciera Carr
• Roman Soobben
• Sherwin Hemmati
• Sierra James
• Mia Meyer
• Jackie Padgett
• Tal Maruvada
• Yola Belickis
• Zander Eaton
• Walker Craven
• Louisa Richardson
• McKenzi Johnson–

gracefully, and sometimes passionately, shared words of solace, concern, love, hurt, and presence. Judges Andrea Coffey, Chris Griffin, and J.K. Hilbert selected the three most outstanding recitations–those of Ciera Carr, Zander Eaton, and McKenzi Johnson. Following Poetry Out Loud guidelines, the three were acknowledged for the poise and appropriateness of their physical presence, articulation and enunciation, and understanding. Ciera Carr was selected Audience Favorite.