Events

Grand Rapids’ Poetry: A Salon with Linda Nemec Foster

Poetry in Michigan/Michigan in Poetry

December 8 7:00-9:00 PM
Join Linda Nemec Foster, Grand Rapids’ first Poet Laureate, in this casual and informal Holiday Poetry Salon. Linda will read several favorite poems from her six collections in print (which will be available for purchase) and new work that has recently been honored with national awards and critical recognition. Described as a “New and Selected Poetry Reading,” this event will be an opportunity to dialogue, discuss, and mingle with friends who love reading and writing. A reception with refreshments and a book signing will follow. Books and Mortar Bookstore, 955 Cherry Street, Grand Rapids, MI 49506. For more info, contact the store at info[at]booksandmortar.com

August 20 3:00 PM–5:00 PM
Linda reads in Detroit’s new writers’ series, The East Side Reading Series, that showcases both established and emerging writers. Other poets and writers on the program include Robin Gaines, Nancy Owen Nelson, Paul L. Bancel, Breayne Riddle, and Aubri K. Adkins. The location is Coffee and (___) at 14409 E. Jefferson, Detroit. The event is free and open to the public with free parking on Jefferson or in the parking lot on Chalmers. For more info, contact Aubri Adkins at aubri.k.adkins[at]gmail.com or connect with the series via Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/events/866500573482795/

May 12 11:00 AM–Noon
Linda joins musician Laszlo Slomovits in a poetry reading/musical performance of “Cry of Freedom.” Q&A and book/CD signing will follow the presentation. Women’s City Club, 254 E. Fulton, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. For more info on this and other programs, contact Jean Vanderlaan at kvande6233[at]aol.com

April 27 6:30 PM
Linda is a sponsor for “Poetry & the Creative Mind: Celebrating the 20th Anniversary of National Poetry Month.” This gala event is organized by the Academy of American Poets and benefits the Poets-in-the-Schools Program. Special guests include Paul Simon, Amy Ryan, Matthew Weiner, Bill T. Jones, Mohammed Fairouz, David Krakauer, and Elizabeth Alexander. Alice Tully Hall, Lincoln Center, New York City. For more info on this program and other events, visit Poets.org

April 22 7:00 PM
Linda gives a poetry reading and participates in a panel, “Ask the Poet Laureates,” that discusses the role of the Poet Laureate position in various communities (cities, regions, states). Other panelists include David Cope, Rodney Torreson, Lew Klatt, Patricia Clark. Great Lakes Commonwealth of Letters, 758 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI. Free and open to the public. For more info, visit www.readwritelive.org

April 16 2:00 PM–4:00 PM
Linda participates on a panel, “Story Time with Our Elders,” that discusses the history of the Detroit Working Writers. Other panelists include Liz King, Elizabeth Buzzelli, and Kathleen Ripley Leo. Bingham Woods Condominium Clubhouse, 30760 River Crossing, Bingham Farms, MI 48025. For more info, contact Iris Lee Underwood at (248) 628-7814 or irisleeu[at]sbcglobal.net

April 4 7:00 PM
Linda’s poetry is featured in “Lilith Calling–Calling Lilith,” an evening of drama, poetry, and music celebrating an art exhibit by Mary Ellen McNaughton. Fountain Street Church, 24 Fountain Street NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. For more info, contact Mary Ellen McNaughton at memcnaughton[at]ameritech.net

February 16 and 18 9:30 AM–1:00 PM
Linda is poet-in-residence at Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. She will be presenting poetry workshops inspired by the permanent art installation of Michelle Oka Doner’s “Beneath the Leafy Crown” for area middle school and high school students. For more information about this program, contact Anna Wolff, Curator of Arts Education at awolff[at]meijergardens.org

January 16 3:00 PM
Linda reads her poems published in The Michigan Poet Anthology for the Big Rapids’ Book Launch Party. Great Lakes Books, 840 Clark St. #1, Big Rapids, MI 49307. For more info, contact Foster Neill at foster.neill[at]gmail.com

January 15 6:30 PM
Linda reads her poems published in The Michigan Poet Anthology for the Grand Rapids’ Book Launch Party. Some of the other poets participating in this event are Miriam Pederson, Joy Gaines-Friedler, Robert Fanning, and Rob Haight. GLCL, 758 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. For more info, contact Foster Neill at foster.neill[at]gmail.com

December 12 2:00 PM–3:30 PM
Linda is invited to join other area poets and writers (such as Gail Griffin and Kathleen McGookey) at Kazoo Books’ Annual Author Hop for informal meetings, booksignings, and discussions. For more info about this event, contact Kazoo Books, 2413 Parkview, Kalamazoo, MI 49008; phone (269) 553-6506. www.kazoobooks.com

October 16 12:30 PM–1:45 PM
Linda will be the featured speaker at the 2015 Michigan College English Association Conference. Her poetry reading at this annual statewide event will center on the conference’s theme of Conflicts and Resolutions. Davenport University, Robert W. Sneden Center, 6191 Kraft Avenue, Grand Rapids, MI 49512. For more info, contact MCEA President Janet Heller at janetheller[at]charter.net

October 7 11:30 AM–1:30 PM
Linda is invited to read her poem “The Movement of Grace” (written for Grand Rapids Mayor George Heartwell’s inauguration) as part of Heartwell’s keynote address to the Metz Legacy Society of the Grand Rapids Community Foundation. Cascade Hills Country Club,
3725 Cascade Road SE, Grand Rapids MI. For more information on the Metz Society, please contact www.grfoundation.org

September 25 9:00 AM–3:00 PM
Linda is poet-in-residence at Pine Ridge Elementary School for the fourth-grade class. Presentations, readings, workshops, and individual instruction will take place in every fourth-grade classroom.

August 30 2:00 PM
Linda participates in New Issues’ 20th Anniversary Celebration and is invited to read a poem from Talking Diamonds. Other writers include Gail Martin, David Dodd Lee, and Kathleen McGookey, Bell’s Eccentric Cafe, Kalamazoo, MI. For more info, www.wmich.edu/newissues.

August 14 2:30 PM
Linda joins musician Laszlo Slomovits in a poetry reading/musical performance of “Cry of Freedom.” Q&A and book/CD signing will follow the presentation. Saugatuck Woman’s Club, 303 Butler Street, Saugatuck, MI. For more info about the organization, contact Pat Huyge at patriciahuyge[at]comcast.net

July 19 1:00-3;00 PM
Linda participates in “Expressions in Ink” sponsored by Water Street Gallery. The program involves poets and writers creating new work inspired by the art exhibition, “Abstractions: Acoustic.” Other participants include Susan Ramsey, Alison Swan, Kathleen McGookey, and D. J. James. Water Street Gallery, 98 Center Street, Douglas, MI 49406. For more info, contact Krista Reuter at (269) 857-8485.

June 6  1:00-2:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster and Rod Torreson will be honored by the Dyer-Ives Foundation for their contributions to poetry in West Michigan during the annual Grand Rapids’ Arts Festival.  The awards presentation will take place at the 47th Annual Dyer-Ives Poetry Contest Reading at the UICA (Urban Center for Contemporary Arts), 2 West Fulton, Grand Rapids, MI  49503.  Free and open to the public.  For more info, contact Christine Stephens at dyerivespoetry[at]gmail.com

May 12 1:30-3:30 PM
Linda discusses her poetry in a class presentation titled “The Poetry of Place: Amber Necklace from Gdansk” for the OLLI program at Aquinas College. Registration and fee are required. For more info, contact Carol Gunst at [email protected]

April 26 3:00-5:00 PM
Linda conducts a workshop titled “Poetry and the Power of Collaboration” with photographer Dianne Carroll Burdick at the Great Lakes Commonwealth of Letters, 758 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI. Registration is required. For more info on this workshop, visit the link
http://readwritelive.org/events

April 20 6:30-8:00 PM
Linda conducts a poetry workshop for high school students from the greater Grand Rapids area sponsored by the Creative Youth Center,
413 Eastern Avenue, SE, Grand Rapids, MI. Registration is required. For more info on this program, please contact Kristin Brace at
[email protected]

March 23  6:30 PM
The Kent District Library (Kentwood Branch) celebrates Women’s History Month with a poetry reading featuring three diverse women poets:  Linda Nemec Foster, Miriam Pederson, and Diane DeCillis. Kentwood Library, Breton Road, Kentwood, MI.  Free and open to the public.  For more information, contact Greg Lewis at glewis[at]kdl.org. View large version of event’s poster here.

March 4  7:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster presents An Eastern European Poetic Exploration entitled “Cry of Freedom” with the photographs of Jacko Vassilev, the music of acclaimed Ann Arbor musician Laszlo Slomovits, and her poetry from the chapbook, “Ten Songs from Bulgaria.”  Free and open to the public.   The evening will also include readings by poets Rebecca Vlasic and Brian Gilmore.  Sponsored by the Poets & Pies Literary Series at the Hannan Cafe, Hannan Foundation Building, 4750 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI.  For more information, visit the event’s Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/events/757726427647105/

February 15  3:00 PM
Linda is joined by jazz composer and pianist, Steve Talaga, as they perform Contemplating the Heavens, a unique fusion of poetry and music.  For the poetry reading, Linda will be accompanied by the nine-member ensemble, Nonet, conducted by Talaga.  This program is the debut event of the new Underground Series sponsored by Lazaro Vega, Jazz Director of Blue Lake Public Radio.  LaFontsee Galleries, 833 lake Dr.  SE, Grand Rapids MI  (phone 616-451-9820).  Tickets are $20 in advance / $25 at the door; $10 for students with a student ID.  Advance tickets are only available from www.adventuremusic.org.    For more information,  visit the website.

February 5  9:30 AM–1:00 PM
Linda is poet-in-residence at Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park.  She will be presenting poetry workshops inspired by the exhibit, Splendors of Shiga: Treasures from Japan  for area 6th-12th graders.  For more information about this program, contact Heidi Holst, Curator of Arts Education at hholst[at]meijergardens.org

January 22-23  9:30 AM–3:00 PM
Linda is poet-in-residence at St. Stephen’s School (East Grand Rapids, MI) for all the students in grades 5-8.  Presentations, readings, workshops, and individual instruction will take place during the two-day residency.

January 21  7:00 PM–8:30 PM
Linda is a guest lecturer at the RCAH Center for Poetry at Michigan State University.  She presents a special lecture/discussion on the poetry of Lisel Mueller for the “Read a Poet, Write a Poem Program.”  Michigan State University, Snyder Hall, Room C201.  For more information, contact cpoetry[ay]msu.edu

January 17   9:00 AM–11:00 AM
Linda gives a poetry reading at the invitation of Grand Rapids’ Mayor George Heartwell as part of his State of the City Address.  DeVos Place, Grand Rapids, MI  49503.  For more information about this civic event, contact gheartwe[at]grcity.us

November 12  9:00 AM–3:30 PM
Linda is poet-in-residence at Pine Ridge Elementary School for the fourth-grade class.  Presentations, readings, workshops, and individual instruction will take place in every fourth-grade classroom.

November 6   1:30–3:30 PM
Linda participates in a joint poetry reading/musical performance of “Cry of Freedom” with musician Laszlo Slomovits.  Q&A, book/CD signing will follow the presentation.  OLLI program at Aquinas College, Browne Center, 1607 Robinson Road SE, Grand Rapids, MI.  For more information, contact Carol Gunst at (616) 632-2430.

July 29 5:30-7:15 PM
Linda is a guest lecturer at Grand Rapids Community College for Professor Katie Kalisz’ Women in Literature class. She presents a special lecture/discussion on the poetry of Lisel Mueller. Registration is required. For more info, contact Katie Kalisz at [email protected]

July 19 5:30-7:00 PM
Linda has been invited to participate in “Expressions in Ink” sponsored by Water Street Gallery. The program involves poets and writers creating new work inspired by the art exhibition, “Not So Still Lives.” Linda’s poem written for the event, “Distance & Observation,” was inspired by Graceann Warn’s six assemblages of the same title. Other participants include Jack Ridl, Susan Ramsey, Gail Martin, and Alison Swan. Reception and reading are free and open to the public. Water Street Gallery, 98 Center Street, Douglas, MI 49406. For more info, contact Krista Reuter at [email protected]

June 13 5:00-7:00 PM
Linda participates in a poetry reading to celebrate the publication of the anthology, Poetry in Michigan/Michigan in Poetry (New Issues Press) at the Dog Ears Book Store, Northport, MI. Other readers include Keith Taylor, Anne-Marie Oomen, Dennis Hinrichsen, Joy Gaines-Friedler, and Bill Olsen. The event is free and open to the public. For more info, contact the store at www.dogearsbooks.net

June 7     1:00-2:30 PM
As the national judge for the 2014 Dyer-Ives Poetry Competition, Linda will participate in the awards ceremony at the UICA (Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts), 2 West Fulton, Grand Rapids, MI.  Free and open to the public.  For more info on this annual contest, contact dyer-ives.org

June 3 7:00 PM
Linda participates in a reading and discussion centered around the anthology, Poetry in Michigan/Michigan in Poetry (New Issues Press).
Other readers include editor Bill Olsen and Amorak Huey. Grand Rapids Public Library (main branch). Free and open to the public. For more info, contact Kim Kolbe at [email protected]

May 18     2:00 PM
Linda is a featured poet in The Fox Chase Reading Series sponsored by The Fox Chase Review in Philadelphia.  She will be reading with Lynn Levin.  This event is free and open to the public.  Ryerss Museum and Library, 7370 Central Ave., Philadelphia, PA  19111.  Book signing and reception will follow the readings.  For more info on the series, contact foxchasereview.wordpress.com 

National Poetry Month Events

April 11    1:45-2:45 PM
Linda participates in a featured poetry reading at the Festival of Faith and Writing at Calvin College with L.S. Klatt and Susanna Childress to celebrate the publication of Poetry in Michigan/Michigan in Poetry.  Book signing at the Festival’s Bookfair to immediately follow. Spoelhof Hall, Room 322, Calvin College, Grand Rapids, MI.  For more info on this event, contact Kim Kolbe at [email protected]

April 12    1:00 PM
Linda gives a poetry reading for members of the Detroit Working Writers at the main branch of the Detroit Public Library on Woodward Ave. in downtown Detroit.  For more info on this event, contact Iris Underwood at  [email protected]

March 18 7:00 PM
Linda participates in a joint reading/musical performance and CD release event for “Cry of Freedom” which features Linda’s poetry rendered into song by Laszlo Slomovits. Set to a wide range of music–rich ballads, quiet elegies, and expressive folk and blues tunes–these powerful poems-now-songs about people living on the edges of society are witnesses to the common dignity of people everywhere. Linda will read her poems and Laz will sing them. Q&A and book/CD signing to follow.
Kent District Library, East Grand Rapids Branch, 746 Lakeside SE, East Grand Rapids, MI 49506. For more info, contact
Dawn Lewis at (616) 647-3889 or [email protected]

February 25 9:30AM-11:00 AM and 11:30 AM-1:00 PM
Linda serves as poet-in-residence in the main gallery at Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park for area high school students.
Registration required. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, 1000 East Beltline Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525.
For more information on this program, contact Heidi Holst at (616) 974-5225 or [email protected]

February 20 7:00 PM
Linda participates in a joint reading/musical performance and CD release event for “Cry of Freedom” which features Linda’s poetry rendered into song by Laszlo Slomovits. Set to a wide range of music–rich ballads, quiet elegies, and expressive folk and blues tunes–these powerful poems-now-songs about people living on the edges of society are witnesses to the common dignity of people everywhere. Linda will read her poems and Laz will sing them. Q&A and book/CD signing to follow.
The Old Town Poetry Series, Creole Gallery, 1218 Turner St., Lansing, MI. For more info, contact Dennis Hinrichsen at
(517) 648-1342 or [email protected]

February 18 4:00 PM
Linda participates in a joint reading/musical performance and CD release event for “Cry of Freedom” which features Linda’s poetry rendered into song by Laszlo Slomovits. Set to a wide range of music–rich ballads, quiet elegies, and expressive folk and blues tunes–these powerful poems-now-songs about people living on the edges of society are witnesses to the common dignity of people everywhere. Linda will read her poems and Laz will sing them. Q&A and book/CD signing to follow.
Concordia University Kreft Art Series, Earhart Manor Ballroom, 4090 Geddes Rd., Ann Arbor, MI. For more info, call the university at (734) 995-7358.

December 14, 2013  1:00-2:30 PM
Linda participates in a book signing to celebrate the publication of Poetry in Michigan/Michigan in Poetry (New Issues Press, 2013).  Other poets from the anthology that are scheduled to appear are Phillip Sterling, Kim Kolbe, and William Olsen.  Kazoo Books, 2413 Parkview Ave., Kalamazoo, MI.  For more info, contact Kim Kolbe at [email protected]

December 11, 2013  7:00 PM
Linda participates in a poetry reading to celebrate the Grand Rapids book launch for the anthology, Poetry in Michigan/Michigan in Poetry (New Issues Press, 2013).  Other poets on the program include Miriam Pederson, Phillip Sterling, L.S. Klatt, Alison Swan, and Amorak Huey.  Kent District Library, East Grand Rapids Branch, 746 Lakeside Dr. SE, East Grand Rapids, MI.  For more info, contact Dawn Lewis, Branch Manager, at [email protected]

November 17, 2013  
Linda’s poetry is honored at the annual Poetry Salon in Warsaw, Poland as the event celebrates the work of selected American poets including Linda Nemec Foster, Stuart Dybek, John Guzlowski, and Cecilia Woloch.  The Salon takes place at the historic Teatre Polski in the center of Warsaw with acclaimed Polish actors reading the poets’ work in translation.  For more info, contact event organizer Janusz Zalewski at [email protected]

November 17, 2013  2:00-4:00 PM
Linda reads at the Detroit book launch for the anthology, Poetry in Michigan/Michigan in Poetry (New Issues Press, 2013).  Other poets on the program include Naomi Long Madgett, Keith Taylor, Dennis Hinrichsen, Josie Kearns, and Terry Blackhawk.  Sponsored by the Hannon House, 4750 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI.  For more info, contact M.L. Liebler at [email protected]

November 8, 2013  6:00-7:00 PM
Linda and photographer/artist Dianne Carroll Burdick discuss their book, Listen to the Landscape, for the Friday Night Conversation Series at the Grand Rapids Art Museum, Grand Rapids, MI.  For more info about the series, contact the museum at www.artmuseumgr.org

October 24, 2013 7:00-9:00 PM
Linda reads new work for M.L. Liebler’s Detroit Tonight Live with poets Mindy LePere, Suzanne Scarfone, Alise Alousi, and John Jeffire. Musical guest, Leonardo. The Detroit Jazz Cafe at Music Hall, 350 Madison, Detroit, Michigan.
For more information, contact M. L. Liebler at [email protected]

October 23, 2013 8:30 AM-3:00 PM
Linda is the Poet-in-Residence for Pine Ridge Elementary School, Ada, Michigan. This residency is sponsored by the Cultural Arts Committee of the Forest Hills Public School District.

October 20, 2013 2:00-5:00 PM
Linda reads at the book launch party for the anthology, Poetry in Michigan/Michigan in Poetry, published by New Issues Press. Other poets on the program include Kathleen McGookey, Diane Seuss, Phillip Sterling, Rodney Torreson, Dennis Hinrichsen, Cullen Bailey Burns, David Cope, and John Rybicki. Bell’s Brewery, 355 E. Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo, Michigan. For more information, contact Kim Kolbe at [email protected]

September 29, 2013 2:00-4:00 PM.
Linda participates in a promotional reading of poems from the anthology, Song of the Owashtanong: Grand Rapids Poetry in the 21st Century, with other area poets including editor David Cope, Miriam Pederson, Rodney Torreson, Barbara Saunier, Eric Greinke, and David Landrum. Kentwood District Library, 4950 Breton Road, Kentwood, Michigan. For more information, contact David Cope at [email protected]

June 29, 2013  3:00-5:00 PM.  
Linda is a featured writer at the American Library Association’s annual convention. McCormick Place Convention Center, Chicago, IL. For more info, visit the organization’s website at www.ala.org

June 13, 2013
Linda gives a poetry reading in memory of Lara Gabriel van Dongen during a ceremony in her honor near the UN’s European headquarters, Geneva, Switzerland.

Thursday, May 30 at 7:00 PM
Linda participates in an evening of poetry, fiction, and song sponsored by Springfed Arts.  She will be reading recently completed poems and will be joined by novelist Jeff Vande Zande, rare book dealer Jett Whitehead, and songwriter Jen Cass.  Birmingham Unitarian Church, 38651 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills, MI  48304.  Free and open to the public.  For more information, please contact John D. Lamb at [email protected]

National Poetry Month Poster. Click for larger view

Events for National Poetry Month–2013

Friday, April 5  7:00-9:00 PM.  
Linda will participate in a reading and book signing for the anthology, Song of the Owashtanong: Grand Rapids Poetry in the 21st Century (Ridgeway Press, 2013).  Ryerson Auditorium of the Grand Rapids Public Library (main branch), 111 Library Street NE, Grand Rapids, Michigan.  Other poets included in the book are Miriam Pederson, Rodney Torreson, David Cope, L.S. Klatt, Carmen Bugan, and Eric Greinke.  The event is free and open to the public and will mark the book launch for this anthology.
For more information, contact the book’s editor, David Cope, at [email protected]

Friday, April 12  7:00 PM.  
The world premiere performance of Cry of Freedom, the poetry/music collaboration of Linda Nemec Foster and Hungarian musician Laszlo Slomovits.  Schuler Books & Music, 2660 28th Street SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan.  Free and open to the public.  Cry of Freedom is a CD that renders Foster’s poems (from her chapbook, Ten Songs from Bulgaria) into original songs composed by Slomovits.  Copies of the CD and chapbook will be available for purchase.  For more info, contact Emily at [email protected]

Wednesday, April 24  
Calvin College Youth Writing Festival.  Linda will present and teach poetry workshops for high school and middle school students throughout the day.  Registration required.  For more info, contact Kristin Otte Groom at [email protected]

Tuesday, April 30  7:00 PM  
Performance of Cry of Freedom, poetry/music collaboration of Linda Nemec Foster and Laszlo Slomovits.
Nicola’s Bookstore, 2513 Jackson Ave. Ann Arbor, Michigan, phone (734) 662-0600.  For more info, contact www.nicolasbooks.com

Tuesday, April 30
Linda Nemec Foster and Laszlo Slomovits are interviewed on Michigan Public Radio (an affiliate of NPR) for the program, Stateside with Cynthia Canty. They discuss their new CD, Cry of Freedom, and share poems and songs from their collaboration. For the complete interview, visit
http://www.michiganradio.org/post/bulgarian-photography-and-michigan-poetry-inspire-album

February, 2013
Linda conducts poetry workshops for middle-school and high school students for the Hanneke Beaumont sculpture exhibit at Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, Grand Rapids, MI.

January 26, 2013 at 9:00 AM
Linda Nemec Foster is invited by Grand Rapids Mayor George Heartwell to read her poem, “La Grande Vitesse,” in celebration of Grand Rapids before the mayor’s State of the City address to community leaders. DeVos Hall, Grand Rapids, MI.

October 24, 2012
Linda is the poet-in-residence at Pine Ridge Elementary School in Ada, Michigan.

October 16, 2012  from 3:00 PM–6:00 PM
Linda discusses her poetry in the context of contemporary literature.  Guest lecture and presentation for advanced poetry course, Aquinas College, Grand Rapids, Michigan.

September 26 from noon-1:30 PM
Linda Nemec Foster will be the keynote speaker for the Grand Rapids Community Foundation’s annual luncheon for the Metz Legacy Society.  This event is by invitation only.  For more info, contact Roberta King at (616) 454-1751 or [email protected]

September 15 from 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster will present a poetry workshop, “The Art of Poetry, The Poetry of Art,” (10:00-11:00 AM) as part of the all-day writing conference sponsored by the Detroit Working Writers.  The conference takes place at the Clinton-Macomb Public Library, 40900 Romeo Plank Road, Clinton Township, MI  48038.  For more info, call (586) 226-5020.  Registration and details also available online at www.DetWorkingWriters.org

August 15 at 7:00 PM
Poetry readings by Linda Nemec Foster, Mary Jo Firth Gillett, Larry Smith, and Wardell Montgomery with musical performances by the RJ Spangler Trio and Keith Gamble.  Event takes place at The UDetroit Cafe, 1427 Randolph Street in Detroit.  For more info, call (313) 962-0660 or www.udetroit.com/home.php

August 14 at 7:00 PM
Readings, discussions, and book signings by poet Linda Nemec Foster and memoirist Mary Minock at Schuler Books and Music, 2660  28th Street SE, Grand Rapids, MI  49512.  For more info, call Emily Stavrou at (616) 942-7330 ext. 305 or [email protected]

July 3 from 5:00-7:00 PM
A book signing by Linda Nemec Foster, Beverly Matherne, Ron Riekki, and other poets and writers connected with the 2012 U.P.Book Tour.  For more information, contact Ron Riekki at [email protected] or visit the website at www.upbooktour.org

July 1 at 7:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster gives a poetry reading at the Township Hall in Republic, Michigan with Jennifer Burd, Laszlo Slomovits, Marty Achatz, and Cameron Witbeck.  This event is part of the 2012 U.P. Book Tour. For more information, contact Ron Riekki at [email protected] or visit the website at www.upbooktour.org

June 28 at 7:30 PM
Linda Nemec Foster’s first play, “The Waiting Room,” will be performed by the Soo Theatre Project, a community theatre in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.  The world premiere is part of the 2012 U.P. Book Tour.  For more information call (906) 632-1930 or check the website at www.sootheatre.org

April 24 at 7:00 PM
Motown meets Grand Rapids at the Literary Life Bookstore! Poetry reading by M.L. Liebler and Linda Nemec Foster, two of Michigan’s most prominent poet/poetry activists. FREE For more info, contact [email protected]

April 12 at 9:30-11:00 AM 
Life Journey with Books at the Cascade Public Library, Grand Rapids. Linda Nemec Foster discusses the work of Pulitzer Prize-winning poet, Lisel Mueller. FREE For more info, contact Noreen Savage at [email protected]

April 6 at 7:00 PM 
Poetry on Demand at the Grand Rapids Art Museum. West Michigan poets–including Poet Laureates Linda Nemec Foster and David Cope–respond to the art of Robert Rauschenberg. An unprecedented trio of exhibitions that explore the work of this “boundary-busting” American artist will be seen in only three cities worldwide: Grand Rapids, New York, and Paris. FREE For more info, contact Greg Bliss at [email protected]

April 5 at 7:00 PM 
Linda Nemec Foster is the featured poet–along with poets Miriam Pederson and L.S. Klatt — for the final event in the Grand Rapids Poets’ Conference. Grand Rapids Community College, 2nd floor, Library. FREE. For more info on this event and the other April events listed below, Go to http://cms.grcc.edu/grpoetsconference.

April 5 at 2:30-4:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster presents a panel on Working with a Publisher. FREE Grand Rapids Community College, Sneden Hall–Room 108.

April 5 at 1:00-2:15 PM 
Linda Nemec Foster presents a poetry/music collaboration, Ten Songs from Bulgaria, with musician Laszlo Slomovits. FREE Grand Rapids Community College, Sneden Hall–Room 108.

April 4 at 1:00-2:30 PM 
Linda Nemec Foster presents a panel on Local Reading Series for the Grand Rapids Poets’ Conference. FREE Grand Rapids Community College, Sneden Hall–Room 108.

March 2, 2012 at 3:00 PM
Associated Writers Program Annual Conference. Linda will be giving a book signing for her poetry collection, Talking Diamonds, at the AWP Conference in Chicago. The event will take place at the New Issues Press booth at the Conference Bookfair located in the Hilton Chicago. For more information, contact Kim at [email protected]

February 25, 2012 at 2:00 PM
Poetry reading at Great Lakes Bookstore in Big Rapids, Michigan. As part of Ferris State University’s Annual Celebration of the Arts, Linda will participate in a reading along with novelist, Elizabeth Stolarek. For more info, contact Lynn Anderson at [email protected].

February, 2012 
Throughout this month, Linda will be presenting poetry workshops to students from area middle schools and high schools at Frederick Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park in celebration of the Deborah Butterfield exhibit. For more information, contact Heidi Holst at (616) 974-5225 or [email protected].

October 14, 2011 at 1:00 PM
OLLI Institute at Aquinas College. Linda will give a presentation and in-depth discussion of the many nationally (and internationally) famous poets, writers, and playwrights that have read for the Contemporary Writers Series at Aquinas College. In celebration of the Series’ 15th Anniversary, she will talk about how this program has engaged the west Michigan community in an ongoing and vibrant literary conversation.

October, 2011 
Poetry residency at Pine Ridge School in Ada, Michigan.

Tuesday, September 27 at 6:30 PM
Linda Nemec Foster will present a poetry reading and discussion in conjunction with the international arts festival, ArtPrize. The subject of her presentation will be Poetry, Art, and the Natural World. Catholic Information Center at Cathedral Square, 360 Division Ave., Grand Rapids, MI, Gallagher Room. For more information, contact Irene Strom at (616) 459-7267 ext. 1801.

Wednesday, September 21 at 7:30 PM
Linda Nemec Foster will give a reading of her work to celebrate the 15th season of the Contemporary Writers Series at Aquinas College. Linda will be joined by novelist Patricia Gussin and memoirist John Otterbacher. Aquinas College, 1607 Robinson Rd. SE, Grand Rapids, MI, Wege Center Ballroom. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Pam Luebke at [email protected] or visit the CWS website at http://www.aquinas.edu/cw/11-12feat.html.

Monday, August 8, 7:00 PM
Lido Gallery in Birmingham, MI
Linda Nemec Foster joins other winners of the 2011 Springfed Arts Writing Contest in a reading and celebration of poetry and short fiction. Besides Linda, other winners include Zilka Joseph, Joe Ponepinto, Sophia Rivkin, Olga Klekner, John Jeffire, and Mary Minock. Hosted by John D. Lamb. The gallery is located at 33535 Woodward Ave., Birmingham, Michigan, phone (248) 792-6248. This event is free and open to the public.
For more info, contact John Lamb at [email protected].

Summer Book Tour in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan

Tuesday, July 12, 5:00 PM-8:00 PM. 
Poetry reading with Michigan poets and writers including Eric Torgersen, Phillip Sterling, Darrin Doyle, Patrick McGinnity, and Jennifer Burd. Negaunee Public Library, Negaunee, Michigan. For more info, contact Ron at [email protected].

Thursday, July 14, 1:00 PM-3:00 PM. 
Poetry workshop inspired by the theme of Poetry and the Landscape. Informal discussion and writing of new work will be featured. Vista Theater, Negaunee, Michigan. For more info, contact Ron at [email protected].

Saturday, July 16, 3:00 PM-4:00 PM. 
Booksigning at the Country Village Bookstore, Ishpeming, Michigan. Linda will be signing copies of all six of her books in print: Living in the Fire Nest, Contemplating the Heavens (book and CD), Amber Necklace from Gdansk, Listen to the Landscape, Ten Songs from Bulgaria, and Talking Diamonds. For more info, contact Ron at [email protected].

Saturday, July 16, 5:00 PM-6:30 PM.
Panel discussion with prominent Michigan poets including Linda Nemec Foster, Jack Ridl, Josie Kearns, Zilka Joseph, and Phillip Sterling. Richmond Township Library, Palmer, Michigan. For more info, contact Ron at [email protected].

June 28-30. 
Linda Nemec Foster participates in the 35th anniversary gala to celebrate the Goddard College/Warren Wilson College MFA Program for Writers. Warren Wilson College, Asheville, North Carolina.

Thursday, June 23, 7:00 PM-8:30 PM. 
Presentation with a lecture, reading, and discussion of the poetry of Larry Pike. Roethke House, Saginaw, Michigan.

Tuesday, May 3, 6:00 PM-8:00 PM. 
Poetry workshop for adults inspired by the art and sculpture of Jim Dine. Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Friday, April 29, 2011 from 5:00-9:00 PM
Wege Pavilion at the Grand Rapids Art Museum.
“Poetry in Bloom: Words Inspired by Flowers.” Several of Linda’s poems were selected to be part of this exhibition. For more info, contact Natalie Thomas at [email protected]

Events for National Poetry Month–April, 2011

April 7 at 7:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster participates in a poetry reading and panel discussion entitled “Professors’ Poetry Panel” at the Literary Life Bookstore, 758 Wealthy St., Grand Rapids, MI. For more info, contact Zachary at [email protected]

April 15 at 7:00 PM
The Grand Rapids Art Museum celebrates National Poetry Month with a reading, presentation, and workshop, “Nature and Haiku,” conducted by Linda Nemec Foster. Reading from her book, Listen to the Landscape, Foster will discuss the poetic form of haiku and lead a community workshop for children and adults.
For more info, contact Natalie Thomas at [email protected]

April 21 at 7:00 PM
Literary Life Bookstore celebrates National Poetry Month with winners of its third annual poetry contest. Second-prize winner Linda Nemec Foster will join other winners and contest judge John Rybicki in a reading for the Grand Rapids community. For more info, contact Zachary at [email protected].

April 27 from 8:15 AM to 1:45 PM
Youth Writing Festival at Calvin College. Linda Nemec Foster conducts poetry workshops for middle school students (in the morning) and high school students (in the afternoon). For more info, contact Kristin Otte at [email protected].

February 17, 2011 
Poetry workshops at Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park for the Jim Dine exhibit. Linda Nemec Foster conducts morning sessions for middle-school students and afternoon sessions with high school students.

February 16, 2011
All-day poetry workshops for fourth-graders at Pine Ridge School, Cascade, Michigan. Linda Nemec Foster is the school’s poet-in-residence.

February 11, 2011 at 8:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster debuts a poem commissioned by Aquinas College for Alumni Night. Aquinas College, Holmdene Manor House.

Saturday, December 11 at 4:00-6:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster will participate in a Poetry Tribute for Henrietta Epstein along with Ed Hirsch, M.L. Liebler, Gaylee Rubin, and other Michigan poets at the Detroit Public Library, Explorers Room, Woodward Ave, Detroit, Michigan. For more info, contact the event’s organizer, Leonard Kniffel at [email protected].

Wednesday, December 8 at 7:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster will give a guest lecture and reading for students in the advanced poetry workshop at Aquinas College, 1607 Robinson Rd. SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan. For more info, contact Miriam Pederson at [email protected].

Friday, December 3 at 7:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster reads her poetry along with poets Diane DeCillis and Mary Jo Firth Gillett at the Lido Gallery, 33535 Woodward Ave, Birmingham, Michigan. For more info, call the gallery at (248) 792-6248 or visit their website at www.everythingart.com.

Thursday, November 18 at 7:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster and Robert Fanning will read from their poetry books at Literary Life Bookstore & More, 758 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. For more info, contact Zachary at (616) 458-8418.

Wednesday, October 27 at 11:30 AM
Linda Nemec Foster reads her poem, “She Imagines the Seasons,” commissioned for the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts’ 7th Annual Benefit Luncheon, Women + The Arts. Luncheon and program will be held at Eve in The B.O.B. at the corner of Monroe Avenue and Fulton Street, Grand Rapids, Michigan. For more info, contact Jill May at [email protected] or call (616) 454-7000 x. 26.

Sunday, October 3 at 2:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster joins poets Miriam Pederson and Edward Haworth Hoeppner to discuss the collaboration process between poets and visual artists. This panel discussion will be moderated by sculptor Ron Pederson and is part of the events presented in conjunction with ArtPrize, the International Arts Competition. Second floor conference room in the Cathedral Square complex, at the corner of Wealthy Street and Division Avenue, Grand Rapids, Michigan. For more info, contact Ron Pederson at [email protected].

Monday, September, 20, 2010 at 7:00 PM
Poetry reading at Central Michigan University. Linda Nemec Foster is the featured reader for the first program of the season for the CMU’s Visiting Writers Series sponsored by the English Department. For more info, contact Robert Fanning at [email protected].

Wednesday, September 15, 2010 from 6:00-9:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster will conduct a poetry workshop entitled, A Passion for Poetry, based on the current art exhibit at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts. Workshop takes place at the Center, 400 Culver Street, Saugatuck, MI 49453. For more info, contact Krista Reuter, Program Director at [email protected] or go to their website www.sc4a.org.

Sunday, September 12, 2010
Kerrytown Book Festival in Ann Arbor. Linda Nemec Foster will sign copies of her poetry book, Talking Diamonds, at the New Issues Press booth at 3:30 PM. She will also give a poetry reading with other New Issues authors (Khaled Mattawa, Josie Kearns, John Rybicki, Mary Ann Samyn) at the Crazy Wisdom Bookstore in Ann Arbor from 5:00-6:30 PM.For more info, contact Marianne Swierenga at [email protected].

Sunday, August 29, 2010 at 3:00 PM
New Issues Press Annual Fundraiser. Poetry reading with New Issues authors Linda Nemec Foster, Rob Haight, and Phillip Sterling. Bell’s Eccentric Cafe, 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave., Kalamazoo, MI. For more info, contact Marianne Swierenga at [email protected]

Monday, August 9, 2010 at 7:00 PM
Poetry reading to celebrate award winners for the Springfed Arts Annual Writing Awards. Linda Nemec Foster will read her first prize poem and other selections with fellow winners John Jeffire, Linda Sienkiewicz, Zilka Joseph, Terry Blackhawk, and Kristine Uyeda. Scarab Club, 217 Farnsworth, Detroit, MI. For more info, contact M.L. Liebler at [email protected].

Thursday, July 29, 2010 at 11:00 AM
Presentation with Dianne Carroll Burdick on their book, Listen to the Landscape, with poetry reading and book signing to follow the discussion.

Women’s City Club of Grand Rapids, 254 E. Fulton, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. For more info, call (616) 459-332.

Events for National Poetry Month

Tuesday, April 13, 2010 at 7:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster reads with Robert VanderMolen and Patricia Clark at the Grand Rapids Public Library, 111 Library St. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. For more info, contact Chris Byron at[email protected].

Thursday, April 22, 2010 at 7:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster reads with Jack Ridl at Schuler Books and Music, 2660 28th St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512. For more info, contact Emily Stavrou at [email protected]

Wednesday, April 28, 2010 at 7:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster reads with Robert Fanning at ArtWorks on Main St. in Big Rapids, MI 49307. For more info, contact Foster Neill at [email protected].

Friday, April 30, 2010 at 7:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster celebrates National Poetry Month at the Literary Life Bookstore, 758 Wealthy St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. For more info, contact the store at (616) 458-8418.

March 27, 2010 at 2:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster reads from and discusses her new book, Talking Diamonds, at the East Grand Rapids Library, 746 Lakeside Dr. SE, East Grand Rapids, MI 49506. For more info, contact Dawn Lewis at [email protected].

February-March, 2010
Poetry workshops for students inspired by the Michele Oka Doner Exhibit at the Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, Grand Rapids, MI. For more information, contact Heidi Holst at (616) 974-5225 or at [email protected].

January 9, 2010 from 2:30 PM-4:30 PM
Poetry reading and panel discussion on the theme, The Immigrant Experience in Poetry, for the annual meeting of the American Historical Association, San Diego Marriott Hotel, San Diego, CA.

November 19, 2009 at 7:00 PM
Literary Life Bookstore, 758 Wealthy St., Grand Rapids, MI.
Book launch party to celebrate the publication of Linda Nemec Foster’s new book of poems, Talking Diamonds. Foster will do a reading and book signing. Reception will follow with music, light refreshments, wine, coffee/tea.
For more info, contact Gina Gort at [email protected] or (616) 458-8418.

November 12, 2009
Full-day poetry colloquium on Women, Poetry, and Faith sponsored by Loyola University in Chicago. Linda Nemec Foster will participate in poetry readings, panel discussions, and a seminar to discuss the themes of faith, creativity, and poetry. For more information, contact Rachel Hart Winter at [email protected] or (773) 508-3820.

Author Update
Linda Nemec Foster has been contracted to be Poet-in-Residence for the Forest Hills Public School District for the spring semester of 2009. Foster will conduct poetry workshops and class presentations in a number of the district’s schools from January to April, 2009.

March 20, 2009 — 7:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster will give a unique poetry reading inspired by visual art complete with a Power Point presentation that features the particular art pieces. This reading is part of the Friday Arts Forum at the Grand Rapids Art Museum, 101 Monroe Center, Grand Rapids, Michigan. For more info, call Jean Boot at (616) 831-2930.

Nov. 11, 2008–7:00 PM
Poetry reading (with other area poets) in conjunction with the Jaume Plensa exhibit at Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. For more info contact Heidi Holst at (616) 974-5225 or[email protected]

Nov. 13, 2008–9:00 AM–11:00 AM
Poetry workshop for area middle school students at the Calvin College Middle School Writers Workshop. For more info contact Nancy Hull at (616) 526-6264 or [email protected]

Nov. 20, 2008–7:00 PM
Poetry reading (with Jack Ridl) to celebrate the publication of Ten Songs from Bulgaria, at Schuler Books and Music, 28th Street location. For more info contact Emily Stavrou at (616) 942-7330
ext. 305 or [email protected]

Tuesday, April 22 at 7:00 PM
Reading for the anthology, Fresh Water (Michigan State University Press) with other contributors (Alison Swan, Jackie Bartley, Lisa Lenzo, Gail Griffin). Herrick District Library, 300 S. River Ave., Holland, Michigan. For more info, call the library at (616) 355-3100.

Saturday, April 19 at 1:45 PM
Poetry reading at the Festival of Faith and Writing, Calvin College, Prince Conference Center Board Room, Grand Rapids, Michigan. Foster is one of 15 poets invited to read at this national conference; there are other writers from other genres scheduled to present. A book-signing follows her reading.

Other poets and writers include Mary Gordon, Paul Mariani, Rod Jellema, Mary Karr, and Franz Wright. For more info contact Festival Director Shelly LeMahieu Dunn at (616) 526-8720 or [email protected]. The entire Festival web site can be accessed at http://www.calvin.edu/festival.

February 27, 2008
Poetry workshop for literacy teachers at 6:00 PM-7:30 PM, Grand Rapids Public Library, VanderVeen Center for the Book–4th floor, Grand Rapids, Michigan. For more info contact Shay Kraley at (616) 459-5151 ext. 13 or [email protected]

February 14, 2008
Craft lecture and discussion at 10:00 AM-10:45 AM; poetry reading at 2:00 PM-2:45 PM at Kalamazoo Valley Community College, Kalamazoo, Michigan. For more info contact Rob Haight at (269) 488-4452 or [email protected]

January 5, 2008
Poetry reading at the Embassy of Poland, Washington, DC as part of the annual conference of the American Historical Association. Foster was also presented with the 2008 International Creative Arts Award by the Polish American Historical Association at a gala awards banquet at the Embassy. For more info contact Dr. Anna D. Jaroszynska-Kirchmann at [email protected]

February 28, 2007 12:30 PM–2:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster and Dianne Carroll Burdick present their book, Listen to the Landscape, for the Grand Forum at Grand Valley State University, Eberhard Center, Room 215, 301 W. Fulton St., Grand Rapids, Michigan 49504. For more information, contact July Palmer at (616) 331-6615 or at [email protected]

March 7, 2007 7:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster and other writers included in the award-winning anthology, Fresh Water, read their selections for the VanderVeen Center for the Book at the Grand Rapids Public Library, Ryerson Auditorium, 111 Library St. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. For more information, contact Chris Byron at (616) 988-5402, ext. 5497.

March 8, 2007 7:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster reads from her book, Listen to the Landscape, and discusses the dimensions of poetry that reflects on nature at the Catholic Information Center, 246 Ionia NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. For more information, contact Mary Vaccaro at (616) 459-7267 or at[email protected]

March 11, 2007 1:30 PM
Linda Nemec Foster reads from her recent poetry collections in celebration of Women’s History Month at the Grandville Barnes & Noble in the Rivertown Crossings Mall. For more information, contact Linda Arnold Schuhardt at (616) 531-5875 or at [email protected]

March 25, 2007 2:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster reads her poetry for the Metro Detroit Writers’ Downtown Literary Series at The Scarab Club, 217 E. Farnsworth, Detroit, MI. For more information, contact Series Director M.L. Liebler at (313) 577-7713 or at [email protected]

March 28, 2007 12:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster and other writers included in the award-winning anthology, Fresh Water, read their selections at the University of Michigan, Institute for Research on Women and Gender. For more information, contact Alison Swan at [email protected]

September 17, 2006 12:00-3:00 PM
Fountain Street Church’s Keeler Gallery, “The Good Earth” exhibit: Dianne Carroll Burdick, photography; Linda Nemec Foster, poetry; reception and book signing for Listen to the Landscape.

September 24, 2006 4:00-5:00 PM
Summer Writers Series at Till Midnight Cafe. Linda Nemec Foster reads from the new book, Listen to the Landscape, and other poetry collections.

September 10, 2006 2:00-4:00 PM
Lowell Area Arts Council reception for InnerScapes, an art/writing exhibit juried by Poet Linda Nemec Foster and Artist Dianne Carroll Burdick. Book signing for Listen to the Landscape. Lowell Area Arts Council, 149 South Hudson, Lowell, MI 49331.

August 4, 2006 at 6:30 PM Linda Nemec Foster reads her poetry at the Grand Rapids Art Museum.

May 19, 2006 at 2:00 PM-4:30 PM Linda Nemec Foster reads with other Michigan poets at the Ludington Poetry Festival in Ludington, Michigan. For more info, go to the festival website at www.ludingtonwriters.com

April 13, 2006 at 7:00 PM Linda Nemec Foster reads her poetry for Voices in Verses at the Grand Rapids Public Museum.

April 11, 2006 at 7:00 PM Linda Nemec Foster reads with Miriam Pederson and Sue William Silverman in celebration of National Poetry Month at Schuler Books in Kentwood, Michigan.

March 23, 2006 at 6:30 PM Linda Nemec Foster reads her poetry for the Catholic Social Services of Grand Rapids 60th Anniversary Celebration at the Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

March 22, 2006 at 7:00 PM Linda Nemec Foster reads her poetry in celebration of Women’s History Month at Grand Rapids Community College Library, second floor.

June 2005
Linda Nemec Foster in Poland

In June, 2005 Linda Nemec Foster was the cultural representative for the city of Grand Rapids, Michigan in an official Sister City delegation that visited Bielsko-Biala, Poland.

Grand Rapids City Commissioner Robert Dean and Grand Rapids Poet Laureate Linda Nemec Foster at Town Hall in Bielsko-Biala, Poland participating in the Sister City Delegation in June 2005

The city in southern Poland is one of four places that has developed close ties with Grand Rapids in the Sister Cities International Organization. (The other three are in Japan, Italy, and the Ga District in Africa).

More than twenty people comprised the delegation that included Grand Rapids mayor George Heartwell and his wife Susan, City Commissioner Robert Dean, Aquinas College President Harry Knopke and his wife Sheila, and various professors, scholars, and translators. As the first poet laureate of Grand Rapids, Foster had specific duties during the trip that included meeting with university professors to develop a college exchange program and talks with secondary school educators to discuss the possibilities of a high school exchange program.

Barbara Rylko-Bauer, Grand Rapids Poet Laureate Linda Nemec Foster and Urszula Kassel at Mayor’s Reception in Bielsko-Biala, Poland in June 2005

Her main goal was to develop relationships with prominent Polish poets and writers to explore the creation of a program in which these authors would be writers-in-residence at Aquinas College’s Contemporary Writers Series. With that goal in mind, she had a personal meeting with Adam Zagajewski, one of Poland’s most significant poets and writers. He was very interested in the Contemporary Writers Series and the residency program that would be connected with it. Foster is hoping that this cultural connection with Poland and Grand Rapids will be a reality in five years. In the meantime, she feels this trip was instrumental in starting the process.

Friday, May 7-14, 2005 
Grand Rapids , Michigan , poet Linda Nemec Foster will appear on the nationwide broadcast of the public radio literary program New Letters on the Air. Foster, the first Poet Laureate of Grand Rapids, Michigan, talks about her books of poetry, including her most recent, Amber Necklace from Gdansk. The program will be available on the public radio satellite on April 27, 2005, and can also be heard on the program’s website www.newletters.org. May 4-17.

Click here to read full press release

Wednesday, April 27, 2005

POET LINDA NEMEC FOSTER TO APPEAR ON NATIONAL RADIO PROGRAM

KANSAS CITY – Mo.  Grand Rapids, Michigan, poet Linda Nemec Foster will appear on the nationwide broadcast of the public radio literary program New Letters on the Air.  Foster, the first Poet Laureate of Grand Rapids, Michigan, talks about her books of poetry, including her most recent, Amber Necklace from Gdansk. The program will be available on the public radio satellite on April 27, 2005, and can also be heard on the program’s website www.newletters.org. May 4-17.

Foster discusses one of her earliest books, A History of the Body, that details her thoughts and emotions during her first pregnancy.  Foster also talks about her friendship with German-American writer and mentor, Lisel Mueller, and how she contributed to Foster’s getting in touch with her Polish heritage and the lives of her ancestors under Nazi rule.

“It took me until my middle age to really understand the richness of that heritage and culture, and wanting to know more about it,” says Foster.  “That’s what led me to Poland for the first time in 1996, and I was just so amazed with what I saw, the people I met, the family that I never knew I had.  Amber Necklace from Gdansk really is a by-product of that first trip.”

Linda Nemec Foster holds a B.A. in social science from Aquinas College, Michigan and an M.F.A. from Goddard College, Vermont in 1979. She received the Pushcart Prize for poetry in 1984, a National Writers’ Voice Project Fellowship in 1999 and was named Poet Laureate of Grand Rapids, Michigan in 2003. She lives in Grand Rapids Michigan where she has been working as the coordinator of the Contemporary Writer’s Series at Aquinas College since 1997.

Available to over 400 public radio stations nationwide, New Letters on the Air is distributed weekly via the Public Radio Satellite System, and also is streamed in RealAudio format on our website, http://www.newletters.org. New Letters on the Air is public radio’s longest-running literary program, and is a production of New Letters, a magazine of new writing, published at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. The program is funded in part by the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency.

New Letters on the Air is pleased to offer a catalog of archive programs available on audiocassette or CD. Call Angela Elam or Dennis Conrow at (816) 235-1159, or write to 5101 Rockhill Road, Kansas City, MO 64110, or email [email protected] to place orders, or to comment on the program. People with speech or hearing impairments may call Relay Missouri at (800) 735-2466 (voice). Also visit www.newletters.org for more information or to order past programs.

Friday, February 4, 2005 from 6:00 PM
Grand Rapids Poet Laureate Linda Nemec Foster is doing a poetry reading and presentation at the Grand Rapids Art Museum on Friday, February 4 from 6:00 PM to 6:30 PM in the Museum’s Cook Auditorium (second floor). The reading is from work that was specifically inspired by the visual arts and will include a slide presentation of those pieces. A question and answer period and book signing will follow. This event is free and open to the public.

Thursday, November 4 at 1:00 PM, 
Linda Nemec Foster gives a reading from her new work at University of Michigan-Dearborn.

Thursday, October 28 at 1:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster presents her poetry at Thornapple Evangelical Covenant Church, 6595 Cascade Road, Ada, Michigan. Her work will be presented in the context of Woman as Immigrant.

Friday, October 22 at 7:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster is the featured poet at the Writers Place in Kansas City, Missouri.

Friday and Saturday, October 15 and 16
Linda Nemec Foster critiques poetry manuscripts and conducts a poetry session at the Detroit Working Writers Conference at Schoolcraft College, 18600 Haggerty Road, Livonia, Michigan 48152.

Saturday, October 9 at 4:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster reads from her critically acclaimed book, Amber Necklace From Gdansk, at the Hamtramck Public Library in celebration of Polish Heritage Month.

Wednesday, September 29 at 7:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster will be reading poems inspired by visual art for a special exhibit at the Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center, 1516 South Cranbrook Road, Birmingham, Michigan 48009.

Monday, June 14, 2004 at 6-8 PM. 
at the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts
Linda Nemec Foster will read a new poem especially written to celebrate the 35th anniversary of La Grande Vitesse, Alexander Calder’s magnificent public sculpture that has graced the Grand Rapids’ City Hall Plaza since 1969. The sculpture was the first public arts project to be funded by the National Endowment for the Arts.

Thursday, June 10 at 7:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster reads her poetry in celebration of Grand Rapids’ neighborhoods. The program,” We Sing the City Electric: Poetry from the Neighborhoods,” is sponsored by the Grand Rapids Humanities Council. The reading takes place at the Grand Rapids Public Library, 111 Library Street, Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Saturday, May 22 at 7:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster is the featured poet at the 7th Annual Theodore Roethke Poetry Festival. Reading takes place at the Anderson Enrichment Center, 120 Ezra Rust Drive, Saginaw, Michigan.

Wednesday, April 14 at 4:00 PM 
Linda Nemec Foster will present a talk entitled “Publish or Perish: How Poems are Created, Written, and Published.” Vandenberg Center for the Book Arts, Grand Rapids Public Library, Main Branch, 111 Library St NE, Grand Rapids, MI.

Friday, March 26 at 4:30 PM 
Linda Nemec Foster will moderate and participate in a panel discussion celebrating the poetry of Lisel Mueller, Pulitzer Prize Winner. Associated Writing Programs Annual Conference, Palmer House Hilton Hotel, Chicago, IL.

Thursday, March 18 at 7:00 PM
Linda Nemec Foster presents a poetry reading and discussion of all six of her published books. Peninsula Writers March event. Schuler Books and Music, 2660 28th Street, Grand Rapids, MI.

Friday, January 23, 2004 at 7:30 PM.
Poetry reading and book signing for Amber Necklace from Gdansk.
Michigan State University,
Main Library, North Conference Room

Tuesday, December 30, 2003 at 2:00 PM
Poet Laureate Linda Nemec Foster reads a poem specifically written for the inauguration of the new mayor, George Heartwell.
Grand Rapids City Hall, 9th floor, City Commissioners Conference Room.

October 23, 2003
Poetry reading and book signing for Amber Necklace from Gdansk
Shaman Drum Bookstore, Ann Arbor, MI, 8:00 PM.

Sunday, March 30 at 2:00 PM
Poetry reading in celebration of Women’s History Month – Fenton Public Library.
Fenton, Michigan.

July 28, 2003 
Poetry workshop based on visual art, Franciscan Center, Lowell, MI, 7:00 PM.

May 18, 2003
Poetry reading at Grand Rapids Public Library, 2:30 PM

May 8, 2003 
Celebration of poetry and contest winners in Grand Rapids Writing
Competition, Grand Rapids Public Library, 7:00 PM.

April 25, 2003
Poetry Workshops for area high school students, Calvin College,
9:00 AM to 11:00 AM.

April 24, 2003
Poetry reading at the Women’s City Club, Grand Rapids, Michigan,
11:00 AM.

April 21, 2003 
Poetry reading in celebration of the opening of the new Grand Rapids Public Library, 10:00 AM.

April 16, 2003 
Creative Writing Seminars at East Grand Rapids Middle School, all day sessions.

March 27, 2003
Creative Writing Workshops at East Grand Rapids High School, 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Tuesday, March 18, 2003 at 7:00 PM
Poetry reading on the subject of Woman as Immigrant, Aquinas College, Wege Student Center, Loutit Room. Grand Rapids, Michigan