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ARTS COMMISSION
SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES
JUNE 16, 2010 AT 7:00 P.M.
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
101 B SAND CREEK ROAD
BRENTWOOD, CA 94513

CALL TO ORDER: Chair Juan Castillo called the meeting to order at 6:39 p.m.

ROLL CALL:
Present were, Chair Juan Castillo, Vice Chair Danny Senn and Commissioners Barbie Koncher and Donna Spencer. Commissioner Wanda Groseclose arrived at 6:50 pm. Staff members present were Poldina Scherff, Recreation Manager and Elaine McGurk, Administrative Assistant II.

CITIZEN COMMENTS: NONE

CONSENT CALENDAR: NONE

SCHEDULED MATTERS:
1. DISCUSSION ITEM: Discuss the Poet Laureate for the term July 1, 2010 – June 30, 2012. (P. Scherff)

Mr. Steve Seager was present this evening to meet the Commissioners. He presented a poem entitled “Sonnet To My Single Love.” He is more of a “traditionalist” and hopes to present at workshops that will allow people to learn what poetry writing is all about.
Commissioner Barbie Koncher asked all three candidates why they should be selected as the next Brentwood Poet Laureate.

Mr. Steve Seager believes it’s important to have different perspectives and believes in change. He feels that what was presented in the past tended to be more free verse. He feels that nowadays the poetry represents good thoughts with breaks that make them sound like a short story. Mr. Seager is more into the craft of poetry.

Ms. Kati Short sees the possibility of exposing poetry writing to the town. She likes to work with schools and hopes to draw the interest of the community. She realizes that people just need the opportunity to try and learn how to write poetry. She is more than willing to help those who are interested. She wants to see and ensure that written poetry continues to flourish in this town.

Ms. Diane Lando definitely sees and feels the joy in writing poetry. She has studied poetry writing to a great extent. She likes to incorporate the community and the feel of the community in her poetry. She would like to continue what she is currently doing and is glad that other applicants have come forward for this position. She too would work with schools and draw the interest of the community.

Vice Chair Danny Senn asked Mr. Steve Seager about the types of workshops he would hold. Mr. Seager responded in saying that the workshops would cater to the needs of the interested parties. He hopes to expand open mic from Gabby’s Grind to Code Brew at the Streets of Brentwood. He hopes to educate the community on the various types of poetry writing and not just free verse. He wants to go back to the traditional ways of writing poetry.

Commissioner Donna Spencer asked Mr. Steve Seager if he has any closing statements he would like to make before the Commission. Mr. Steve Seager appreciated the opportunity to come before the Commission. He told the Commission that he has been writing since his senior year in high school and writing is in the family blood. He draws inspiration from his family and various life events into his poetry.

COMMISSIONER COMMENTS: NONE

STAFF COMMENTS: NONE

REQUEST FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS: NONE

ADJOURNMENT
Chair Castillo adjourned the meeting at 6:58 pm.