Join us at the Grape Escape for an evening of poetry and discussion presented by two regional Poet Laureates, Jenna Goldsmith of Rockford, IL and Galena’s very own, Ted Williams.
In a conversational style, Ted and Jenna will discuss their poetical journeys, making an impact with the written word, and read from their work.
Jenna Goldsmith is a poet, writer, and teacher living in the Midwest. She is the author of 4 poetry chapbooks, including CRUSH, winner of the 2022 Baltic Writing Residency Chapbook Contest. Her writing has appeared in numerous publications, including South Carolina Review, New Delta Review, and Cleveland Review of Books. She is the Director of the Oregon State University Cascades Low-residency MFA Program in Writing, and is the City Poet Laureate of Rockford, IL where she resides.
Ted Williams has been a writer, producer, director, and performer for over twenty years. He blends heart, mystery, history, and humor in all his endeavors whether he’s writing a poem or song, taking folks on a ghost tour, producing a play, or starting a new venture. In 2024 he was appointed the City of Galena’s first Poet Laureate. He shares a loving life in Galena with his wife Robyn and his goldendoodle Winn Dixie.
Galena LitFest 2025 is the eleventh annual literary festival organized and funded by the Galena Public Library with support from the Friends of the Galena Public Library and in partnership with the Galena Center for the Arts, Miss Kitty’s Grape Escape, and Hawk Valley Retreat & Cottages. Events will take place throughout January in-person and virtually.
