Local poets Eleanor Berry and Colette Tennant, and Portland-area poets David Hedges and Wendy Swanson, lead workshops from 9:45 to 11 a.m. and 2:15 to 3:30 p.m. Critique groups occur at the same time, led by teams from Salem's Peregrine Writers. The lunch session includes a reading by Jon Broderick of Astoria Fisher Poets.

To participate in any of these events, advance registration must be received by April 21. For registration information visit www.oregonpoets.org.

The Third Thursday Poetry Series offers a free reading by award-winning poets Clem Starck and Henry Hughes on April 17 at 5:30 p.m. at Willamette University's Alumni Lounge. Refreshments will be available.

Silverton
The Silverton Poetry Festival begins April 5 with an open reading of favorite poems. Events feature several poets, including Tom Blood, winner of the 2007 Oregon Book Award; Kim Stafford, who reads and sings on April 6; Vern Rutsala, who leads a two-hour workshop on April 12 and Maxine Scates, who will read and discuss with Rutsala. The final Feast of Poets on April 13 includes readings and special food. Please see www.silvertonpoetry.org for a complete schedule, locations and registration fees.

Stayton
Stayton hosts its Second Sunday Poetry Series on April 13 with award-winning writer Floyd Skloot reading from his new release, Selected Poems. At the series audience members are invited to read during the open mike portion of the program. The series takes place from 3 to 5 p.m. at Paul Toews' art studio, 349 N. Third Ave.