SHS Sophomore State Finalist in Poetry Out Loud

March 14, 2018

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SHS Sophomore, Madalyn Lobmeyer of Seward was selected one of the top six finalists in the annual Poetry Out Loud Poetry Recitation State Finals contest held in Lincoln on Sunday, March 11 at 1:30 at the Sheldon Art Gallery auditorium.  She represented Seward High School.  She is the daughter of Amy and Jonathan Lobmeyer of Seward.

Madalyn selected and memorized three poems, “The Last Laugh” by Wilfred Owen, “The American Soldier” by Philip Ferneau, and “War Widow” by Chris Abani.  The students were judged on accuracy, interpretation and level of understanding.  There were 18 students in the contest from across Nebraska.

Hope Stratman of Omaha Skutt High was selected first place, with Maggie Harris of Thayer Central placing second.

As a finalist, Madalyn was presented with a collection of poetry books and a certificate.  Her speech coaches are Clark Kolterman and Melissa Pohl of Seward High.

Clark Kolterman, her speech coach, was also recognized by the Poetry Out Loud Committee for his ten years of service to the program, as he is retiring at the end of the school year.  He was presented a certificate, Ted Koozer book of poetry and a gift certificate from the Nebraska Arts Council and the Nebraskan’s for the Arts.