Hoffman Estates High hosts Poetry Power Event

Students, staff and guests presented a variety of original or published poetic works during the second annual Poetry Power at the Hoffman Estates High School library Dec. 7.

Terry Loncaric, a published poet and teaching assistant at Hoffman Estates High School, created the event as a labor of love. She said she created the event to show students poetry can be grass-roots.

"Poetry Power is unique because it isn't just an open mic," she said. "Poetry Power is an all-out celebration of poetry; a chance for our school community see the power of poetry to transform lives."

For sophomore Angelique Caro, the event was a chance to show her writing abilities.

"Tonight was about letting your artistic side take control," she said. "It showed that poetry has no limits."

Caro said that though she was nervous prior to getting on stage, the event made her feel welcomed.

Though last year's event was during national poetry month, Loncaric said it was decided to host this year's in December due to planned renovations of the school's library. This year's event saw in increase in attendance of both audience and participants.

Loncaric said she felt honored that former student and Northern Illinois University freshman Randy Parent chose to return to present an essay, which included poetic tones. She said that while she considers herself a purist, she enjoyed what he wrote.

"I liked what he wrote because it was an honest reflection of his struggles as a college student," Loncaric said.

Students were treated to readings by award-winning poets Tracie Padal, Tamara Tabel and Anne Gottlieb, as well as original works from many Hoffman Estates staff members.

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