Poetry, Connection & What’s Ahead: A Late Summer Update

Since my last post on June 21st, I’m thrilled to share that all the events I mentioned were so much fun. Each one offered a chance to connect in person—with words, with community, and with fellow poets whose work continues to inspire me.
✨ Highlights & Heartfelt Moments
One of the most memorable experiences was reading alongside Sandra Yannone (Poet Laureate of Old Saybrook) and Nancy Gerber at Weslyan RJ Julia Bookstore. Their poetry resonated so deeply that I felt compelled to create a cento—a poem stitched together from lines of their work and mine. It was a tribute to the shared spirit of that evening and the power of poetic dialogue. The colors of each line correspond to the color of the poet's name. 

I also had the joy of attending the Poetry in the Garden Series organized by Barbara Jennes in Ridgefield. The setting was serene, the audience warm, and the poetry alive with possibility. A personal highlight was finally meeting my teacher and fabulous poet Joan Kwon Glass in person at her reading. She shared poems from her work, old and new, including her award winning book Daughter of Three Gone Kingdoms. What a down to earth poet, despite her impressive resume. Her presence and words were as luminous as ever.
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And in a lovely surprise, Bussani Mobility featured me this week in their latest blog post, “Recalibrating Gravity”. They shared my journey as a poet, advocate, and author, and highlighted my memoir-in-verse. I’m deeply grateful for their thoughtful spotlight and the opportunity to reach new readers through their platform.
📅 Upcoming Events
The calendar ahead is full of exciting opportunities to gather, share, and celebrate:

• 🎤 Drop the Mic Night – Saturday, October 11, 2025 2–5 PM GE CoCreate, Stamford
  I’m honored to be one of the 10 contestants selected for this storytelling showcase hosted by SPEAC Success. Each speaker will share a heartfelt take on the theme of community. Expect laughter, inspiration, and maybe a few happy tears.
• 📖 Stratford Library Reading – Sunday, November 2, 2025 2 PM
  I’ll be reading from my short story, "Free Bird" which will appear in the upcoming 2025 Connecticut Literary Journal, alongside other contributors to the anthology. The story touches on the delicate balance between safety and independence as we age. The afternoon promises to be a rich afternoon of voices and stories.
• 🌟 Featured Author Night – Monday, November 3, 2025 5:30 PM Harry Bennett Library, Stamford
  I’ll be the featured author for the evening, sharing selections from recent work and reflecting on the writing journey. What a special way to spend Veteran's Day.
• 🗣️ Author Panel – Saturday, November 15, 2025 10:30 AM–12:30 PM Berlin-Peck Library
  I’ll be joining a panel of fellow authors to discuss craft, creativity, and the evolving literary landscape. Come with questions, curiosity, and a love for books.

💌 Stay in Touch
As always, thank you for your support, presence, and shared love of poetry mean. I’ll continue to post updates here. If any of you are interested in a newsletter for occasional reflections and new work, let me know. I'm off to spend the last days of summer swimming as much as I can before the pool closes.... 
With gratitude and joy,
Mary​