2008: Our First Festival
April 3– 6 , 2008
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The First Annual Spring Pulse Poetry Festival was held in Cobalt April 3–6th, 2008. Founded by Mr. David Brydges, Cobalt native and poet, having become interested in the historical and literary significance of physician and nationally renowned poet, Dr. William Henry Drummond, a major figure in the early part of the century in Cobalt, spearheaded a unique cultural opportunity for our area
Poet Betsy Struthers saw 390 children in 4 schools over 2 days. In 20 events, 420 adults participated and attended for a total of 810 people touched by poetry this weekend. We made history with our poetry Hall of Fame inductee Dr. William Henry Drummond, and the establishment of our Poet Laureate position for ann Margetson. The Lifetime Achievement Award was given to Mr. Douglas Pollard. Member of Parliament Charlie Angus returned to his roots and performed on Sunday afternoon.
Donations benefiting the Temagami Public Library, the Latchford Public Library, the Cobalt Public Library, the Temiskaming Shores Libraries, the Centre d'education des adultes were distributed along side of some of the larger poetry prize purses. Ann Margetson was installed as our Poet Laureate for the coming year,and the town of Cobalt proclaimed Cobalt as "the Poetry Capital of the North."
Monthly, through the Poetry Pulse column in a local newspaper The Voice…of the Shores, highlighted o the ongoing events inspired by the festival and the ongoing work of our Poet Laureate.
All in all, a first for Northern Ontario and a first for a small community in Canada, to say nothing of it being the biggest poetry/arts event in Northern Ontario's history. Well done everyone, and special thanks to all our sponsors.
Winner's List for the 2008 Drummond Contest 
2008 Spring Pulse Young Poets Winners.
The Social Event of the Summer Season was the Reading and Recital at the Drummond Cairn, July 26th, 2008. For more details and photos