Pictured, some of the young poets who participated in the program, held at the Mattituck Library on Nov. 24, and witnessed by one of the largest audiences in the 13- year history of the popular event. In the back row, from left, program facilitators Sylvia Pafenyk of the North Fork Reform Synagogue; Joan Prager and Paula Shengold of Congregation Tifereth Israel; and Billy Hands, one of three local poets who served as judges. Young poets from the Southold School District: Colin Sommo and Lyla Zablotny. From the Cutchogue School District: Raylan Disilvio, Addia Hough, Rachel Kubetz and Lily Lopez. From the Oyster Ponds School District: Nicholas Dowling, Sean Furman, Alex Rowson, Stella Squire and Noel Stevenson. Not pictured, judges Jerry Matovick and LB Thompson; and facilitator Fred Cohen of NFRS. “The program encourages the schoolchildren to appreciate poetry and to share their feelings and thoughts about peace,” Paula Shengold said.

Carol Seigel photo