HomeMy WebLinkAboutStaff Report 5394
CITY OF PALO ALTO OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK
December 15, 2014
The Honorable City Council
Palo Alto, California
Proclamation for Waverley Writers
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment A: Proclamation for Waverley Writers (DOC)
Department Head: Beth Minor, Acting City Clerk
Page 2
CITY OF PALO ALTO
PROCLAMATION
WAVERLEY WRITERS
WHEREAS, Waverley Writers is a group of poets in Palo Alto, California that was originally founded
by Dave Berry, Bob Evans and Katie Reeder in 1981 and celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2005; the group
has a 33-year history in our community; and
WHEREAS, Waverley Writers, a community of poets and friends, gather on the first Friday of each
month, except summer months, at the Friends Meeting House on Colorado Avenue, continuing a rich
history of readings, open “mics” and events focused on providing opportunities for poets to “own” and
deliver their poems. Palo Altans hold these free and open readings and, indeed, welcome the larger
community of poets and non-poets from throughout the Bay Area; and
WHEREAS, Waverley Writers conducts readings, conferences, and “critiquing workshops” by
highlighting active listening and focusing on clear and supportive comments. By resisting defining poetry
and having a less formal process, any style or form of poetry is welcome. Many participants have published
works; and
WHEREAS, Waverley Writers publishes bi-monthly issues of Fresh Hot Bread, a collection of poems
and artwork submitted by its members; and
WHEREAS, the phrase Fresh Hot Bread is from the following quote by Pablo Neruda: “On our earth,
before writing was invented, poetry flourished. That is why we know that poetry is like bread; it should be
shared by all, by scholars and by peasants, by all our vast, incredible, extraordinary family of man”; and
WHEREAS, Waverley Writers participants enhance the craft and art of poetry by providing many ways
for poets to share and explore the arts, refining their work over time, and demonstrating a strong
commitment to “Poetry and Performance.”
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Nancy Shepherd, Mayor of the City of Palo Alto, on behalf of the City
Council do issue this proclamation and express on behalf of the entire community to Waverley Writers
participants for their devotion and enhancement of poetry in all its forms and styles through their creativity,
exploration, and contributions.
Presented: December 15, 2014
_____________________________
Nancy Shepherd
Mayor