In celebration of National Poetry Month, I've read twice this week.
At St. Bernard's Park, with David Michael Nixon and Donna Marbach, I read a selection of poems from Within Reach. It was a lovely evening. We read in a former chapel, now community room.
We could hear birds in the eaves until sundown, then silence.
On Wednesday, I read at Monroe Community College, in the Theatre at Noon. A large and attentive audience, who asked thoughtful questions. It was such a gift, having the opportunity to
promote my new book at this college. Some of my former students, now professors there attended my reading. Cathryn Smith the chair of the English Department is a long time friend and fellow writer. So enjoyed seeing her and catching up. I'm grateful for her kind invitation to read.
A bit later, I visited Tony Leuzzi's creative writing class. He too is a terrific poet and teacher.
This visit gave me the opportunity to purchase his latest collection of poems. Steve Fellner wrote a positive review of his book a while ago, which intrigued me. At last, I have a copy of the book:
Radiant Losses(New Sins Press 2009).
Poet, photographer, social activist Margaret Randall read from her recently released collections (4 of them!) at St. John Fisher College yesterday. What an honor having her on campus. She's a pleasure to be around and talk to -- about everything. I'm grateful for the literary collaboration with John Roche at R.I.T. We've done this quite a bit and it's allowed us to share visiting writers. Soon, we'll be celebrating John's newest poetry release at the Bug Jar on April 30. So glad I will be able to attend this reading, which will showcase some other poets and musicians too. So if you live in our area, I hope you will be able to make this reading.
On Saturday, April 16th, we will be celebrating Earth Day at Hamlin State Park.
Nine
Just Poets :
Donna Marbach, David Michael Nixon, Karla Merrifield, Lori Nolasco, Colleen Powderly, Wanda Schubmehl. Anita Augesen, M.J.Iuppa, Cynthia Blair~ will be reading under the tent, 10:30 a.m. until NOON in Area 4. The admission to the park is free. Dady Brothers will be playing after the poetry readings. Think sun, sun, sun. Last year we have a beautiful day.
Next week will be a short week at St. John Fisher. Break for Easter will begin on Wednesday around 6 p.m. After this long weekend, we return to finals week. The way this semester is ending is difficult. It's hard to switch gears from chocolate rabbits back to the grind of studying for exams and final papers. Cross bunny ears that this will work out for all!
After the grading marathon, I will be off to NYC !
