Poets Demand Your Vote

This fall's Poet Populist competition is underway, without the electoral advantages of national TV ads, televised debates, or Sarah Palin. Local poets in the event are reading in two blocks, and the first such gathering is tonight.

On stage will be Elizabeth Austen, Karen Finneyfrock, Tatyana Mishel, Arne Pihl, Chelsey, Richardson, and Judith Roche.

The second tier reads at 6:30 p.m. Mon. Oct 27 at the Youngstown Cultural Arts Center. Four finalists will vie at Hugo House again on Nov. 14 for the final $500 cash prize.

See the Poet Populist Web site for further details on how to vote for your favorite contestant. Here's where to got for your first installment of verse:

Richard Hugo House, 1634 11th Ave., 322-7030. Free. 7 p.m. Thurs. Oct. 16.