County Legislature Appoints First-Ever County Poet Laureate

The county’s first-ever Poet Laureate was named during Thursday’s Cortland County Legislative meeting. The legislature unanimously voted to appoint Phillip Asaph as the Poet Laureate of Cortland County. Asaph was selected by a committee spearheaded by Legislator Reed Cleland, who Chairman Fitch credited for his hard work.

“We gave this to you to spear head and you did an exemplary job.” Fitch said.

According to the county, the Poet Laureate will serve as an ambassador for poetry and literary arts in the county. Asaph will be expected to participate in civic events, public readings, and educational and cultural activities throughout the county. The role also requires Asaph to be non-partisan.

“Cortland County will be the smallest county with a Poet Laureate in New York State, but that does not mean the Poet Laureate of Cortland County is going to be a small job.” Legislator Cleland said. “We’re going to be continuing to work to build the position and see what it can do.”

Mr. Asaph spoke to the Legislature after officially being named the first Poet Laureate of the County. He expressed his thanks and said it was an honor to receive the title.

“I am determined to do a very good job.” Asaph said. “I will certainly be welcoming any input you have for me. Poetry is and has been the greatest love of my life since 1974 and in 1978 I said I would give my life to [poetry].”

Mr. Asaph then instead of giving a speech following the honor, he did what a Poet Laureate would be expected to do, he read a poem about poets.

Cortland County Clerk Brooke Kemak then swore in Mr. Asaph officially. The position is a two-year term with the Poet Laureate required to adhere to a non-partisan role. The position does not include any monetary compensation.