This month, the Somerville Arts Council is rolling out two exciting and anticipated projects in the city: the introduction of a Poet Laureate for Somerville and a Kids Maker Series. Continuing its commitment to providing innovative and multi-level opportunities for residents of all ages, the programs support and benefit both the young and the young at heart.

Apply to be Somerville’s First-Ever Poet Laureate!

The City of Somerville is currently seeking candidates for its first-ever Poet Laureate position. The City views the position as a means to enhance the profile of poets and poetry in Somerville and surrounding communities. The Poet Laureate is expected to bring poetry to segments of the community that currently have less access or exposure to poetry: senior citizens, youth, and schools. The Poet Laureate will serve a two-year term, appointed by the Mayor, and will be provided an honorarium of $2,000 per year.

To apply, submit the following information in PDF format to GJenkins@somervillema.gov, with “Poet Laureate” in the subject line, or mail submissions to: Somerville Poet Laureate, Somerville Arts Council, 50 Evergreen Ave., Somerville, MA 02145:

• Contact information, including full name, address, phone number, email address, and website (if applicable);
• Proof of residence. Acceptable formats include copies of a utility bill, lease or rental agreement, or phone bill;
• Curriculum Vitae or poetry-related biography;
• Up to 20 pages of original poetry;
• A one to three-page vision statement with details as to how you will implement a public benefit component of this position.

Applications must be postmarked by Monday, November 17, 2014.

For more information about the Poet Laureate position visit:  http://somervilleartscouncil.org/poetlaureate

MUSCRAT Kids Maker series

The Multi Use Somerville Community Roving Art Transport (MUSCRAT) is coming to a neighborhood near you for this FREE series! Come out and check out the new vehicle and learn more about electronics, woodworking and craft projects with Parts and Crafts staff. Workshops will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturdays throughout November, as follows:

• Nov. 1: Mystic Activity Center parking lot, 530 Mystic Ave.
• Nov. 8: Capuano Early Childhood Education Center, 150 Glen St.
• Nov. 15: Clarendon Hill parking lot, 268 Powerhouse Blvd.
• Nov. 22: Clarendon Hill parking lot, 268 Powerhouse Blvd.

The MUSCRAT is a former school bus that has been transformed into a mobile arts center for the entire community to enjoy.

For more information about the MUSCRAT and this series visit http://www.somervilleartscouncil.org/muscrat.