"I am trying to check my habits of seeing, to counter them for the sake of greater freshness. I am trying to be unfamiliar with what I'm doing." - John Cage


Monday, March 3, 2025

A new role for me: Poet Laureate of Nevada County!

 

Chosen from a competitive pool of applicants, Karen Terrey was selected by a committee of literary and arts professionals, along with Nevada County Library staff. Her deep-rooted commitment to the region’s literary scene, her published works, and her vision for community engagement made her the ideal candidate. You can read the complete press release here.

 A poet laureate is someone chosen, by their communities, to represent a region. They actively engage and support others to develop a love of poetry and its potential, and inspire literary initiatives of meaning to residents.

The transition will be marked by two celebratory "Passing of the Laurels" events—one at each end of the county—honoring both outgoing Poet Laureate Kirsten Casey and welcoming Terrey into her new role.

 

“This is such an honor, especially following in the footsteps of Kirsten Casey,” shares Terrey. “I’m

excited to connect, spark, and catalyze the work and magic of poetry in our many communities. As an artist, being a literary citizen and fostering a sense of belonging is what drives me. My goal is to bring poetry’s power of voice and inspiration into daily life.

 

Tuesday, March 4 | 5:30 PM | Alibi Truckee

Featuring a conversation and poetry reading by Karen Terrey and Poet Laureate emerita Kirsten

Casey, followed by an open mic hosted by Terrey.

 

Saturday, March 29 | 6:30 PM | The Stone House, Nevada City

The Western Nevada County Passing of the Laurels Ceremony will serve as the culminating event of the Sierra Poetry Festival Pub Crawl, blending literary revelry with poetic inspiration.

Poets are active listeners, bearing witness to our deepest truths, shaping culture, reflecting humanity, and inspiring change.

Reflecting on the significance of the Poet Laureate role, Nick Wilczek, Nevada County Librarian,

shares:

 

"We are thrilled to celebrate our partnership with the Nevada County Arts Council and welcome

Karen Terrey as our new Poet Laureate. Poetry has the power to connect, inspire, and enrich our

community, and we look forward to the creativity and passion Karen brings to the position.”


 

 

 

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