News Summary
The Copper Courier has announced the winners of its third annual poetry contest focused on Arizona. John Idalis from Mesa took first place, showcasing a profound connection to the state. The contest featured 67 submissions from poets across Arizona, culminating in a celebration of local art with a monthly open mic event planned to promote community participation in literature and poetry.
Mesa, Arizona – The Copper Courier has announced the winners of its third annual poetry contest, which this year centered on the theme of “Arizona.” In total, 67 poets from across the state submitted their work, reflecting a vibrant array of interpretations related to the Southwest and its cultural significance.
The contest culminated in the awarding of first, second, and third place positions, with the winning poem penned by John Idalis, a 26-year-old poet from Mesa. His piece was recognized for its captivating narrative and profound connection to the state. Excitingly, two poems tied for third place, each contributing unique perspectives and emotional depth tied to Arizona’s landscape and experiences.
In supporting the local arts community, the Copper Courier is set to host a monthly poetry open mic on July 2 at Meraki Kava Bar from 8 to 10 p.m. Idalis will be featured as a reader at this event, encouraging fellow participants and spectators to engage with poetry in a lively atmosphere. All poets who submitted entries to the contest are also invited to read their works at the open mic, further promoting community involvement and the sharing of diverse voices.
The submitted poems showcased a range of themes, including humor, deep personal narratives, and reflective moments deeply tied to the lives of those in Arizona. Contest judges assessed each submission, taking into account various poetic styles and the ability to convey the essence of the Arizona experience.
Among those who submitted entries were poets Ana Briones, 25, from Tempe; Patricia Macias, 42, from Phoenix; and Becky Jo DoRan, 43, from Maricopa. Each of these poets added their own interpretation of life in Arizona, contributing to the contest’s rich tapestry.
The Copper Courier has a broader mission to enhance community connections through art and literature, encouraging participation by all Arizona residents. Submissions for future contests are welcomed from anyone residing within the state, fostering an inclusive environment where the art of poetry can flourish. Participants can look forward to upcoming contests aimed at celebrating the voices of Arizona, having previously received as many as 100 submissions in past years.
Organizers expressed gratitude to all participants for contributing their work, highlighting the importance of sharing personal narratives through poetry, and reinforcing the belief that art can serve as a bridge linking diverse communities. The contest not only spotlights individual talents but also underscores the collective creativity present within the state.
With the announcement of the winners and the planned open mic event, The Copper Courier aims to further celebrate and inspire Arizona’s poets while inviting the wider community to engage with the literary arts. Poetry continues to serve as a vital medium for expression, reflection, and dialogue, and the success of this contest reinforces its relevance in today’s society. As Arizona navigates its unique cultural landscape, events like this play a crucial role in preserving and promoting the state’s artistic heritage.
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Additional Resources
- Copper Courier: 2025 Poetry Winners
- Google Search: Arizona poetry contest
- Copper Courier: Copper Courier Poetry Contest 2025
- Wikipedia: Poetry
- InMaricopa: Statewide Poetry Slam Championship Returns
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Poetry
- KTAR: National Student Poets
- Google News: Poetry in Arizona
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