Join In: Contribute to Poetry Map, Weekend Poetry Workshop

Hello, fellow Patchers and Albanians! I am honored to have recently been selected to serve as . I've met many of you at various readings and events around town, but wanted to take an opportunity to introduce myself here on Patch as well, and let you know about one of my first projects, the establishment of an Albany Poetry Map.

Many people may travel far and wide to see where great writers and artists were inspired -- think Stratford-upon-Avon where the Bard penned his plays, Monet's gardens at Giverny where the water-lilies came to life on canvas, or any of the enticing destinations listed as American Poetry Landmarks.

In this spirit, the Albany Poetry Map will endeavor to log the "Locations of Inspiration" within our own city limits.  Some local poets have already submitted their Albany-written poems and places; you can view the Albany Poetry Map here.

If you'd like to submit a poem, just send it to me at albanypoetry@gmail.com  Include the author's name, and the location (address, cross-street, or even gps coordinates!) where it was written. The poem doesn't need to be about Albany, just written in Albany.

We have a vibrant and talented artistic community! What poems are being written in Albany, and where? Let's find out!

PS: If you haven't yet written a poem in Albany, but want to, join me at , a free writing workshop at 2 p.m. this Sunday, Feb. 12, at the  .