LexPoMo Participants

Total poets:
260
zralos
Bio
who and what are we really at the core of our being
Yersinia Pestis
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Bio
Yersinia enjoys long walks on the beach, sardonic humor, and the occasional bout of poetry.
Reason for signing up:
6 straight years enlisting against Summer's seasonal affective disorder
Yawny
Bio (she/her)
I've always been into writing ever since I was a young child, I've a retired from Education which I've been in for nearly 25-30 years.
Reason for signing up:
Since I've retired, I felt it was something I'd like to get back into and meet some new people and hopefully make new friends.
Winter Dawn Burns
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Bio (she/her)
Winter is Haiku. Nature moves her words along. She trails the still crumbs.
Reason for signing up:
The adventure of writing poetry, daily, is a noble pursuit.
Wayne Willis
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Bio (he/him)
Wayne is a retired professor of education, an artist, and an aspiring poet, He and Melinda will celebrate their 50th anniversary this year.
Reason for signing up:
Third time - too fun to miss.
Virginia Lee Alcott
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Bio
Virginia Lee Alcott writes, creates, photographs and spends time discovering the elements of nature. Her writing reflects natures connection to justice, memory and relationships, trauma and healing.
Reason for signing up:
Lexpomo is a wonderful community of poets that enriches my life and writing.
Victoria Gross
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Bio (she/her)
Victoria is an author and poet from southeastern Kentucky. She lives with her husband, pack of pups, and cat.
Reason for signing up:
I'm a regular! :)
victoria cruz-falk
Bio (she/her)
victoria cruz-falk is a woman and a poet. The work she is most proud of is Campus Candor: Students’ Stories Unmasked. Victoria resides in Lexington, Kentucky where she works to infuse empathy and whimsy into local government. She is a founding member of the KY Climate Choir.
Reason for signing up:
I want to read words written by humans.
Toni Menk
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Bio
Toni is a poet/Lampwork artist who lives in rural Kentucky. She has a BA in Anthropology from the University of Kentucky and a MFA in Creative Writing from Spalding University. She is a member of the Kentucky Guild of Artist and Craftsmen and the Sheltowee Artisans. When she is not in her studio playing with fire and glass, Toni is avoiding housework, trying to write a poem, mowing, or hauling wood.
Reason for signing up:
Kim Shaver
Tom C. Hunley
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Bio
Tom C. Hunley is the author of eight full-length poetry collections,
eight chapbooks, two textbooks, and two produced films. He and his wife of
thirty years have four amazing kids. Right or wrong, he believes he has
impeccable taste when it comes to literature, film, music, and the one
woman who has his whole heart. He seriously lacks inner resources, and
he’s almost certain that his liver is diseased. He despises generative AI,
groupthink, the tortured language of propaganda, big government, and
bloated bureaucracies, especially in universities. He has published poems
and stories in journals with names beginning with every letter of the
alphabet, from Atlanta Review to Zone 3. He is currently working on a novel
and a memoir.
Reason for signing up:
I look forward to working with this community every year. One of the highlights of my year.
TiltedOne
Bio
Retired 😁
Teagan Feezor
Bio (they/them)
Teagan is a college student, and they are majoring in psychology. Besides writing poetry, they enjoy knitting, reading, and both coaching and playing volleyball!
Reason for signing up:
I want to challenge myself to write more poetry!
Taylor
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Bio (she/her)
Taylor is a freshly graduated high school student planning to study social work at University in the fall. She enjoys writing, photography, and drawing.
Reason for signing up:
To have motivation to write!
Taunja Thomson
Bio
My work has appeared in several journals, including New Plains Review, The Bookends Review , Mantis Magazine, and most recently in Sagebrush Review. I have co-authored a chapbook of ekphrastic poetry entitled Frame and Mount the Sky that was published by Finishing Line Press in June of 2017. I am the author of Strum and Lull (2019) and The Profusion (2019), and three of my poems have been nominated for the Pushcart Award. My full-length collection, Plunge, was published by UnCollected Press in 2023. I won First Place in The Ekphrastic Review’s “Ticked Pink” poetry contest in August of 2024. In 2025, Shanti Arts published Delight Is a Field, of which I am co-author.
Reason for signing up:
To encourage myself to write, write, write, & to have the opportunity to read the work of other poets.
Tasha Lee
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Bio (she/her)
Tasha Lee is a lifelong writer and past participant of Lexington Poetry Month. She believes in maintaining a healthy amount of whimsey at all times.
Reason for signing up:
I enjoy being part of this community.
Tamtunes
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Bio (she/her)
Tamara McNabb is a person in recovery. She works at Eastern State Hospital as a Certified Peer Support Specialist. The job, her artwork, her writing, and her beloved Shih Tzu Buddy, are among her greatest joys!
Reason for signing up:
I was referred by my friend Katie at work. Im not very prolific but I would like to try to produce more. Having a forum for my writings could prove to be very inspiring!
Taco
Bio (he/him)
Mario Felice blends faith and fitness to inspire healthier living, encouraging others to grow stronger, honor God, and realize they are more capable than they believe.
Reason for signing up:
Last year was my first experience, and it proved both enlightening and therapeutic. I signed up again with a different theme and approach, hoping to experience similar (or even greater) growth, reflection, and purpose while encouraging others along the way.
Tabitha Dial
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Bio (she/her)
Tabitha Dial believes everyone can write.
She will perform at NYC Poetry Fest this July with Jersey City Writers.
She's the author of "Cheese Astrology: A Weekly Guide".
Reason for signing up:
Though I haven't lived in Kentucky for almost five years, I can't experience June without LexPoMo.
Our community feeds my imagination and challenges my skills!
Sylvia Purvis
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Bio (she/her)
Sylvia is a reader, a writer, and a cat mom
Reason for signing up:
Why not?
Sylvia Ahrens
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Bio
Sylvia Ahrens has published poetry books and cozy mysteries. She writes under Allison Thorpe.
Reason for signing up:
inspiration
suz
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Bio (they/them)
I teach writing. I learn writing.
Reason for signing up:
I crave connection, beauty, and hope.
Sunflower10
Bio
I write poetry inspired by emotion, personal experience, and the thoughts that are often hardest to say out loud. My poems explore vulnerability, growth, love, and the beauty found in honest reflection.
Reason for signing up:
I singed up to get my critiques and share my poems with other writers.
Sue Leathers
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Bio
In her 30th year of teaching, Sue works and lives in the Lake Cumberland region of Kentucky.
Reason for signing up:
for joy
stefani heller
Squad
Bio (she/her)
Karen relocated to Kentucky in 2020. Because of the libraries here.
Reason for signing up:
Friend support, creative inspiration
Spitfire
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Bio (she/her)
Spitfire is a poet, screenwriter and filmmaker. Currently creating the Dance Film, To Dance With Trees which will include poetry voiceover about the trees of Central Park in NYC.
Reason for signing up:
To challenge myself.
Sophie Watson
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Bio (she/her)
Sophie Watson is a 19-year-old queer poet from Lexington, Kentucky. She has written a poem a day since April 21, 2020, and intends to continue until either incapacitated or deceased.
Reason for signing up:
Glimpse the apparition briefly disturbing her own tiring vanishing act. Written mementos track the dissolution into thin air, wavering between here and gone again, perhaps just past the stage curtains.
Sonya Pavona
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Bio (she/her)
Sonya is a poet and writer from Lexington, Kentucky. She has a bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Georgetown College and will start her master’s program at the University of Louisville in the fall.
Reason for signing up:
It’s June! :)
SMurrey
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Bio (she/her)
Shauna Murrey has taught middle school Language Arts for twenty-six years and loves helping kids be brave with their writing, so now she has to be brave with her own writing. An avid reader and a proud aunt, she finds a lot of her inspiration in the classroom, in faith, and at home with family. Shauna lives in Southeastern Kentucky, where she is probably grading papers, reading a book, or working on her next poem, but definitely not folding laundry
Reason for signing up:
I tell my kids to take chances, therefore so must I.
Shelda
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Bio (she/her)
Shelda Hale is a Kentucky native who writes poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction. Her poetry has appeared in Coming of Age: Writing & Art by Kentucky Women over 60 (Vol. 1 and 2), The Heartland Review, and The Last Stanza Poetry Journal. Shelda has conducted workshops such as Dream Journaling for Writers and Artists, and Words, Season and Place in Poetry. She enjoys bird watching, photography, bookmaking, and preparing international cuisine for family and friends!
Reason for signing up:
The writing community I discover here is very inspirational. Poets of all ages, backgrounds, and themes fascinate me. I appreciate the feedback from them and how we support each other. Go 2026!
Shaun Turner
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Bio (they/them)
I'm a writer, poet, editor, etc from southeast Kentucky.
Reason for signing up:
Love LexPoMo!
Sharon Waters
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Bio (she/her)
Sharon Waters holds an MFA in Creative Writing from West Virginia Wesleyan College. She has been published in a number of anthologies and journals. She lives in Beckley, WV.
Reason for signing up:
It sounded like great fun and grants me the opportunity to connect with yet another community of writers.
Sean Corbin
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Bio (he/him)
Sean Corbin is the Poetry Gauntlet Coordinator for the Carnegie Center for Literacy and Learning. He is the author of MY FATHER, THE WATER BIRD (Accents, forthcoming) and THE LEPER DREAMS OF SNOW (Finishing Line, 2018). He also writes media reviews as The Magnificent Lou, at themagnificentlou.wordpress.com. He lives in Lexington with his wife, Amanda Kelley Corbin, and kids.
Reason for signing up:
The challenge to keep things forever moving.
Scott Wilson
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Bio (he/him)
Born and raised near Lexington. Might leave but not most likely. Love the landscape.
Reason for signing up:
Inspiration and community
Savanah Weakly
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Bio (she/her)
Fantasy author and D&D world-builder; lover of books, both reading and writing! <3
Sav Noël
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Bio (she/her)
Sav Noël is an Appalachian poet and mother. She studies Sociology at Berea College and is also an artist. This is her third year participating in LexPoMo.
Reason for signing up:
I love participating. This is my third year!
Sarah Stoltzfus Allen
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Bio (she/her)
Sarah Stoltzfus Allen drinks coffee, mothers teenage boys, and writes words. She’s a poet and essayist living in eastern Kentucky in a little house on the edge of a big hill.
Sarah McGinnis
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Bio (she/her)
Sarah is a lover of words in all their varied forms. From a thoughtful email to an evocative poem, Sarah believes words are a wellspring of life.
Reason for signing up:
For the love of words!
Sarah Josephine Pennington
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Bio (she/her)
Sarah Josephine Pennington is a queer artist and writer currently living in South Louisville.
Sanida Palavra
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Bio (she/her)
Sanida Palavra is a writer and poet from Bosnia and Herzegovina who currently lives in the Bluegrass state. By day, she works in the finance department of a sustainability advocacy non-profit; by night, she swaps spreadsheets for pen and paper and dives into her creative side.
Samuel Collins Hicks
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Bio (he/him)
Samuel Collins Hicks is a poet, essayist, journalist, actor, and prophet. Sam is disabled, queer, and loud; the kinda guy who cops shoot during a "wellness check."
Reason for signing up:
This year I am drawing inspiration from scripture to reclaim religion for those who need it, and to shame the Bible-thumping apostates and heretics ruining this world.
Samantha Renee Ratcliffe
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Bio
Samantha Renee Ratcliffe is a recent graduate of the University of Kentucky’s MFA program. She’s the founder of Hill Writers Collective. Her work is forthcoming in YNST, QueerKentucky, the Argyle Magazine, Vagabond City Lit, The Uncommon GRACkle, among others. Originally from Pikeville, Kentucky, she now resides in Louisville, KY with her husband and three fat cats. Find out more at SamanthaRatcliffe.com
Reason for signing up:
Best part of the year.
Samantha Arthurs
S.L.Bradley
Bio (she/her)
Shari moved to Kentucky to start over and with this new start she found a love of writing.
Reason for signing up:
to challenge myself to focus more on what I enjoy and worry less about things out of my control
S.L. Cavin
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Bio (she/her)
S.L. Cavin is a poet and digital artist based out of Lexington, KY. She is a board game lover, cat mom of Luna and Charlie, and wife to her husband Josh.
Reason for signing up:
sarah.cavin714@gmail.com
Ryan Oppegard
Bio
Father to a beautiful son; Partner to a loving woman; Keeper of dogs and cats;
Devourer of bacon.
Reason for signing up:
To celebrate the laughs and embrace the tears of a challenging and rewarding life.
RUDY THOMAS
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Bio (he/him)
Rudy Thomas is a poet, novelist, and editor/publisher. He has published worldwide and has 35 books in print.
Reason for signing up:
I enjoy the month of June better if I am well and writing.
Roberta Schultz
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Bio
Roberta Schultz, is a songwriter, teacher, and poet from Wilder, KY. She writes some of her songs on a mountain in North Carolina.
Reason for signing up:
I need to howl and grieve.
River
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Bio
River likes coffee ice cream, prayers, music videos, and sea lions.
Website:
Renee Rigdon
Bio (they/them)
Renée Rigdon is here, queer,
and ready (damn near). They are the author of Plant Daddy, published in 2025 by Accents Publishing.
Reason for signing up:
Ya gotta make stuff with the brain trash or your spirit becomes a landfill.
Reid Goins
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Bio (he/him)
I am from Frankfort & now live in Lexington. I play in local band Naptaker. and I have a solo project now also: R E I D on all streaming platforms. Oh also I like to write poetry sometimes :-)
Rebecca Richards
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Bio (she/her)
As a life long lover of reading and writing, Rebecca is enjoying exploring poetry in her more creative "third act". She shares her life in Louisville with her husband and 3 adult children who have become her "trusted readers".
Reason for signing up:
I love the challenge of creating poetry every day.
R.J. Gordon
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Bio (she/her)
R.J. Gordon is a professor of religion, a (very rusty) classical violinist, and an avid boardgamer. From 2019-2025 she was an active member of the Black on Black Rhyme Tallahassee poetry community, and together they wrote, produced, and released the spoken word album Rebel Dreams in the summer of 2020. She now reads and writes and performs with the folks of Poetry at the /'tāb(ə)l/ in Lexington, KY.
Reason for signing up:
Looking for pressure to put pen to page!
Philip Corley
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Bio (he/him)
Philip Corley is a Lexington native participating in his eleventh Poetry Month, mostly while sitting underneath his favorite tree.
Reason for signing up:
I can no longer imagine a June that doesn't involve lots and lots and lots of poetry.
PBSartist
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Bio (she/her)
Me trying to use words so that the colors make some sense.
Reason for signing up:
Because poetry; duh! :)
Pauletta Hansel
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Bio
Pauletta Hansel’s newest book is a hybrid entitled, Understory: A Women’s History of Appalachia. Pauletta lives in Cincinnati but adds to her Lexington creds the 2026 Judy Gaines Young Book Award.
Reason for signing up:
Because it is June,
Patti Miller
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Bio (she/her)
Patti Miller lives with her husband and a feral cat in Central Kentucky. Her chapbook, A Crooked Spoon, will be available in October of this year.
Reason for signing up:
I love this writing community.
Patrick Johnson
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Bio (he/him)
Patrick Johnson currently lives and writes in Morehead, Kentucky. He is an instructor at Morehead State University.
Reason for signing up:
I enjoy the community this creates.
Pat Owen
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Bio (she/her)
Pat is the author of four poetry collections published by Larkspur Press, Accents Publishing and Shadelandhouse Modern Press.
Reason for signing up:
It's June.
Pam Campbell
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Bio (she/her)
Pam Campbell was born in the Southern Appalachians (Alabama) reared in the Central Appalachians (Kentucky and Virginia). Wherever she roams, these mountians are the meniscus that hold her together.
Reason for signing up:
Love this community of writers!
Noah Smith
Bio (he/him)
He has no idea how to write poetry, but he’s really trying.
Nettie
Bio (she/her)
Nettie Farris writes poetry and nonfiction. She lives in the mountain lake region of South Carolina.
Reason for signing up:
To write with friends.
Neofight67
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Bio (he/him)
From the small town of Frazer, Kentucky 59 years of age.
45 years of writing and this year I've gained freedom to give my words flight on bated breath and pray that these words cause more reason for inflection and introspective thought to all that read or hear them.
Reason for signing up:
I care very little fir being heard myself but I hope I say something that connects on a level which elevates, restores peace and connects people one to another in a world that seems to be locked in struggle.
Nancy Jentsch
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Bio (she/her)
Nancy is a second-career poet, retired teacher, mother, wife, grandmother and friend who gets a real lift from reading and writing poetry.
Reason for signing up:
Can't imagine June without LexPoMo.
Nancy Gourde
Bio (she/her)
A retired teacher and sometimes poet living both large and small
Reason for signing up:
a repeated experience for me first mentioned by the writing group Rebel Cartographers
N. D
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Bio (she/her)
Back for another year, N is an Irish poet that loves all things language. She hopes to inspire and encourage other creatives with her work
Reason for signing up:
Lexpomo is becoming a tradition near and dear to my heart. Forever grateful to have found a place to return to
Mya Sophia
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Bio (she/her)
A lover of the color yellow, this poet writes about nature, liberation and how we process grief. She finds poems in the garden, in sunrises and the divine. Her poetry is featured in the Carnegie Center's & KBWC's Perfect Black: Poetry for the People, the 2019 & 2023 anthologies from LexPoMo and two anthologies from Skinner House; Shelter in This Place and BLUU Notes.
Mrs Ladybug
Morgan Matchuny
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Bio (she/her)
Morgan Matchuny is a poet, poetry editor for Tiger Leaping Review, and a participant in the 2026 Poetry Gauntlet Workshop.
Reason for signing up:
Sean Corbin said so!! :)
Morgan Black
Bio (she/her)
full time geologist, part time poet and circus artist
Missy Brownson
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Bio (she/her)
Missy Brownson, who resides in Georgetown, is the author of Hush Candy. Her poetry has appeared in journals, anthologies, and collaborative visual art exhibits/books.
Mike Wilson
Bio (he/him)
Mike's work has appeared in many literary magazines, two poetry collections, and a debut novel, Food Court.
He lives in Lexington KY
Reason for signing up:
To prompt me to write and to read what my friends are writing
Mickey Higginbotham
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Bio (she/her)
Atlanta native Mickey Higginbotham has called Louisville home for two decades. She’s been published in newspapers nationwide, and has a memoir forthcoming. Poetry is her Pilates.
Reason for signing up:
1. Seeking poetry community.
2. My Hindman Settlement School buddies invited me.
3. Need more creative challenges in my life.
michiestes
Bio (other)
Hey fam!
My name is Michi and I'm 36 years old. I'm a beginner level witch. Feeling the vibes and digging them. I'm an artist, poet, mother of four beautiful cats, and a member of the LGBTQ+ family. I also live with invisible illness and I'm a little neurospicy. Pretty sure I'm an omnivert. I love anime, cartoons, crystals, coffee, tea, food, drawing, painting, anything artsy. I'm also a huge fan girl at heart.
Reason for signing up:
Because I love writing poetry and would love to connect to a community.
Michele
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Bio
Michele LeNoir is an eclectic creative who balances her artistic practice with gardening, family time—especially with her grandson—and life-coaching former refugees she once taught. She lives with her spouse and a small menagerie of a horse, a dog, and three cats.
Reason for signing up:
Returning for my third year of LexPoMo, I am back to engage with the beautiful spirit of this community and to embrace the challenge.
Meredith McCurry
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Bio (she/her)
Meredith loves writing poems about family.
Reason for signing up:
Because I love Christopher McCurry!
Melissa Helton
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Bio (she/her)
Melissa Jørgenrud Helton’s collections include A Middle-Aged Woman Rages, Hewn, and Inertia: A Study. She’s editor of Troublesome Rising: A Thousand-Year Flood in Eastern Kentucky and the magazine Untelling.
Reason for signing up:
Because more poetry is always a good thing.
Meghan
Bio (she/her)
Meghan Goins is a lifelong Kentuckian. She first participated in Lexington Poetry Month in 2020 at age 19, and now returns with two degrees and a cat.
McKenna Carter
Bio (she/her)
McKenna is now twenty-five and still unsure of what she wants out of life, or what it wants out of her. A beautiful world everchanging.
Mary Potts
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Bio (she/her)
Mary is a native to Lexington who is finally settling in with herself and appreciating the beautiful community she has surrounded herself with. She is currently navigating motherhood of a preteen girl while balancing a social work career and coaching. She's ready to "write about it."
Reason for signing up:
LOVE this community. Can't wait to do it again!
Mary N
Bio (she/her)
Mary lives in central Kentucky with her family and an old border collie.
Reason for signing up:
To commit to writing more and to read great poetry.
Mary Knight
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Bio (she/her)
Mary is a writer living in Lexington with her husband, Jonathan, and their very old, very polite cat. Although she has written several novels, she considers poetry her native language.
Reason for signing up:
Because, after attending my first Poetry at the Table and a writing retreat with Leatha Kendrick, I wanted to be part of this community. Also, poet Mary Allen invited me.
Mary Allen
Bio
Mary Allen, who lives in Lexington, is a poet and word nerd. She reads widely in several genres and spends too much time solving crosswords and Sudoku.
Reason for signing up:
June wouldn't be June without LexPoMo!
Marie Slone
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Bio (she/her)
Marie Slone is a lifelong writer and artist. She finds joy in the authentic and comfort in connection.
Reason for signing up:
This is is always a wonderful experience!
Marianne Worthington
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Bio (she/her)
Marianne Worthington is a poet, educator, editor, and author of two poetry collections. She lives, writes, and teaches in Southeastern Kentucky.
Reason for signing up:
Want to support poetry communities.
Marianne Peel
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Bio (she/her)
Marianne is nurturing her own creative spirit after teaching English for 32 years. She has three collections of poetry just waiting for you to read: No distance Between Us, Singing is Praying Twice, and Untamed Arabesque.
Reason for signing up:
To read a whole bunch of fabulous poets all month!!❤️❤️❤️❤️
Maria Nichols
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Bio (she/her)
Maria Nichols strives to find the good in difficult situations, enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, and looks to God for guidance.
Reason for signing up:
I have friends who have done this for years, so I've been aware of Lexpomo. I'm looking forward to challenging myself and maybe growing a little as I stretch myself in this poetry challenge.
Manny Grimaldi
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Bio
Manny Grimaldi co-founded Yearling Poetry Journal in collaboration with Chris McCurry as editor-in-chief at Workhorse in Lexington, and worked the publication as managing editor from 2021 to 2026. He recently won the Browning Literary Club Prize in Poetry from WKU, awarded by Creative Writing faculty, and spends much time performing his work regionally. Manny is author of two full length poetry collections-- Riding Shotgun with the Mothman, and Finding a Word to Describe You.
Reason for signing up:
Because!
Makia Adkins
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Bio (she/her)
My life is one big story. I plan to share it one poem at a time.
Reason for signing up:
I want to challenge myself to get back to a love that I have separated from.
Makenna Delap
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Bio (they/them)
Makenna Delap is a sophomore in the Literary Arts program at Lafayette High School. They enjoy writing essays and most fiction, and are an avid member of Model Government. When they are not doing either of these things, you can find them going on walks with their dog Griffin, browsing the local book store, or nerding out over art.
Maira Faisal
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Bio
Maira Faisal was the 2024-25 Kentucky Youth Poet Laureate. She enjoys painting, drinks too much chai and coffee, and hopes to be a physician in the future.
Reason for signing up:
After the past five years, it's tradition.
Maeve
Bio (she/her)
Maeve McCarty is a rising senior in college where she is working towards a degree in psychology. She is a proud native of Appalachia writing from Eastern Kentucky.
Reason for signing up:
I signed up to get some writing practice in :)
Madison Miller
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Bio (they/them)
Madison is a feral dog parent, improviser, and therapist. They’re forever trying to get their plants to stay alive, their car to park between the lines, and their partner to adopt a 3rd dog. They write sometimes.
Reason for signing up:
Somehow it’s just that time again.
maddie mitchell
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Bio (she/her)
Maddie moves through creative pursuits as if she must collect all the artistic endeavor merit badges before turning thirty. Her main focuses are poetry and crochet, though she hopes to one day be the well-rounded grandma figure her family needs.
Reason for signing up:
I have found myself taking way too many extended breaks from my writing. Pomo seems to be about the only way I hold myself accountable with my writing and find connection with my writing community to make it all feel meaningful again.
Maddie Coleman
Bio (she/her)
Doing some traveling this June so hoping to have some fresh inspiration
M.Kinney
Bio (she/her)
Mary is a 2D and 3D artist and she encourages herself to write poetry. She learns something new every day.
Reason for signing up:
I loved the challenge last year and wanted to be part of it again.
luv jōnz
Bio (she/her)
Poet trying to find her way back to the page to write her way through this all of this. Author of Black Girl at the Intersection. Published by Accents Publishing.
Reason for signing up:
For the medicine.
Louise
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Bio (she/her)
Louise is a free-roaming, tree-hugging, ocean loving Californian, living in Kentucky.
Reason for signing up:
I can't stop myself.
Lou
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Bio (she/her)
Lou is 22 and will always take up for killer whales.
Reason for signing up:
To write!
Lorie Conley
Bio (she/her)
Lorie Conley writes from the hills of Eastern Kentucky, where the outdoors never fails to inspire.
Reason for signing up:
I enjoy the challenge of writing a poem every day. I’ve never been able to write every day, but I write more each year I participate.
Lori Taylor
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Bio (she/her)
Lori Taylor is no stranger to LexPoMo since 2016 nor NaNo WriMo since 2013. She’s a youngster with heart trapped in the body of a grandma who enjoys life and writing about it.
Reason for signing up:
The LexPoMo community is phenomenal. The month’s daily challenge keeps one accountable.
Liz Prather
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Bio
Liz Prather is a teacher, writer, and poet who lives in Mt. Sterling.
Reason for signing up:
It's June!
Lisa M.
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Bio (she/her)
Lisa M. Miller is fun! She's also a grandma and loves popular grandma style handicrafts including sewing, gardening and profanity collage. Kentucky trees and nature trails are her happiest places to be. @LisaMillerBeautifulDay
Reason for signing up:
I love our Poetry community!
Lisa Jensen
Photo of Lisa Jensen
Bio (she/her)
Lisa Jensen is a forest therapy guide, writer, and mom of three. Her debut novel, "All Is Well," was published in 2025.
Reason for signing up:
I love creating in community with others!
Lisa A. Brown
Bio (she/her)
Lisa A. Brown is an award winning poet, author, and playwright. She also enjoys photography. Her photos have won numerous awards. She enjoys travelling and spending time with family and friends.
Reason for signing up:
I wanted to challenge myself to write a poem each day. Also, I am participating in the Carnegie Center's Poetry Gauntlet. My instructor, Sean Corbin, encouraged us to participate.
Linda Meg Frith
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Bio (she/her)
Linda Meg Frith earned an MSSW at the Kent School of Social Work,
University of Louisville. . In previous iterations of her life, she taught adult education, classes
of poetry, vocabulary and public speaking.
She has published poetry in River and South, eMerge, Rainy Weather Days,
Amethyst Review, Eclectica Magazine, and most recently was the featured
poet in the September issue of Tipton Poetry Journal. She received a
Pushcart Prize nomination for her poem, Home is Where the Hurt Is.
Linda Meg currently lives with her Chihuahua, Jasmine, in Louisville, KY
Reason for signing up:
Love of poetry, love of community.
Linda Freudenberger
Photo of Linda Freudenberger
Bio (she/her)
Linda Freudenberger resides in Lexington, Ky with her rescue Westie named Percy. She is enrolled in BGWS MFA program in creative writing and enjoys expressing herself with poetry. She has 2 poetry books published by Finishing Line Press and Kelsay Books.
Reason for signing up:
I enjoy the community of poets and opportunity to share and encourage each other.
Linda Bryant-Davis
Photo of Linda Bryant-Davis
Bio (she/her)
Linda Bryant-Davis is devoted to poetry. Her latest book, Ghost Dancing with Music, was published by Act of Power Press in 2025.
She has an MFA in poetry from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Bryant-Davis publishes The Bell, an online literary magazine.
Reason for signing up:
When I moved to Kentucky in 2019 the first thing I did was sign up for LexPoMo. The tradition continues!
Linda Angelo
Photo of Linda Angelo
Bio
Linda started writing ten years ago and can't seem to stop. She is addicted not just to writing, but to the writing community.
Reason for signing up:
The work that pours in daily is energizing, inspiring.
Lincoln Oliphant
Bio (he/him)
Lincoln is a graduate student at DePaul University, where he studies Creative Writing and Publishing. When not writing, he enjoys spending time with his two cats and beautiful wife.
Reason for signing up:
I thought it would be a great experience and opportunity to dive deeper into my poetry.
Lillian Bramble
Bio (they/them)
lillian bramble has something up their sleeve…
Lil Andre
Photo of Lil Andre
Bio (they/them)
Andrea is a 15 year old writer whose work mainly touches on the deeper emotions that hide behind "teenage angst"
Reason for signing up:
I want to remain consistent with my poetry and hope to add another publication to my belt!
Website:
Libby Falk Jones
Bio (she/her)
Libby Falk Jones is author or co-author of five books of poems. A recipient of the 2026 Joy Bale Boone Prize from The Heartland Review, she leads writing workshops locally and nationally.
Reason for signing up:
I love supporting and being supported by an amazing group of poets!
LH Martin
Bio (she/her)
Retired ELA/Reading/Librarian educator. Connection and sharing, whether written or oral is what fires my engine. I enjoy trying new poetic forms.
Reason for signing up:
To stretch myself
Lennie Hay
Bio (she/her)
Lennie usually writes near water, the Ohio River or the Gulf of Mexico. She has published two poetry collections.
Lee Chottiner
Photo of Lee Chottiner
Bio (he/him)
Lee Chottiner's first collection of poems, "Talking to Irwin," published by Kelsay Books, came out in April. His work has also appeared in several print and digital publications.
Reason for signing up:
Hopefully, I'll learn something. Hopefully, I'll write something worth reading.
Leah Tolle
Photo of Leah Tolle
Bio (she/her)
Leah is an eighteen-year-old halfway through her sophomore year of college as an English minor. This is her second year participating, and she's freakin' pumped! Leah enjoys fiction, writing, and, uh...
Reason for signing up:
I LOVE POETRY :D
Leah Tenney
Photo of Leah Tenney
Bio (she/her)
Leah writes poetry, short stories, and archaeologically inspired novels. She spends a great deal of her time cuddling a large black cat and making friends with rocks, plants, and insects.
Reason for signing up:
This is my third year participating in #LEXPOMO. Each year I'm incredibly inspired by all the other amazing writers, and I grow in my own poetry practice.
Leah Darnell
Bio (she/her)
Leah Darnell is a poet and student from Maysville, Kentucky. She holds a passion in fostering a sense of community and understanding through writing.
Laverne
Photo of Laverne
Bio (she/her)
In the 80s, Laverne was known as a poet, writer, hair designer. In the 90s, recognizing that “to publish is to make public,” she created the Working Class Kitchen for readings and Act of Power Press for publishing Artist books and chapbooks. In 2000 she became a fiber artist and designed Wearable Art for her performative readings and in 2022, coming out of the quiet of COVID, she created Cafe LuigArt so we could ROAR. Her newest chapbook is “Orange, a collection of sensuous poetry”
Reason for signing up:
Love the community!
Lav
Photo of Lav
Bio (they/them)
back at it again
Reason for signing up:
it's really fun, i like the community, i like what i create during the challenge, and i never do it by myself the rest of the year so i have to do it now
Lauren Myfelt
Photo of Lauren Myfelt
Bio (she/her)
Lauren is starting over (again)! She is excited to see where life goes.
Reason for signing up:
I miss poems :)
Laura Foley
Larry
Photo of Larry
Bio (he/him)
Larry Vogt is a piano tuner, guitar player and writer from Lexington. "When Whippoorwills Call, a back to the land memoir," will be published by Act of Power Press during the summer of 2026.
Reason for signing up:
Desire to connect with other writers and poets.
l. Sipe
Bio (they/them)
Pacific Northwest native L. does not make a living from writing or the teaching of writing. Music, poetry, and writing, like breathing, are everyday practices. Two cats are family.
Reason for signing up:
While not identifying as poet or writer, L. feels compelled to write because it opens doors, opens eyes, opens hearts.
L. Coyne
Photo of L. Coyne
Bio (she/her)
L. Coyne is a full-time historian, part-time poet who enjoys experimenting with different styles and forms.
Reason for signing up:
I had fun last year and wanted to try again!
Kris
Photo of Kris
Bio (he/him)
Kris lives by the river in an old house full of ghosts. He has cats.
Reason for signing up:
I look forward to Lexpomo 11 months of the year.
Kim Kayne Shaver
Photo of Kim Kayne Shaver
Bio (she/her)
Proud owner of an MFA from Spalding University. Lives at Red Tulip Cottage on the edge of Crescent Hill. Plants zinnias, Likes dogs and porches strung with party lights.
Reason for signing up:
Well, I always do. &, I like reading everyone else’s poetry. I am always surprised by the variety of voices and their eloquence—reminds me there is always something to write about!
Kevin Nance
Photo of Kevin Nance
Bio
Kevin Nance is Managing Editor of Yearling, the poetry journal of Workhorse Writers (please submit!). His latest poetry collection is SMOKE, available at accents-publishing.com.
Reason for signing up:
To write, read, and be here with all of you.
Kel Proctor
Photo of Kel Proctor
Bio (they/them)
Kel Proctor holds a BA in English from Bellarmine University and works at Light of Chance, a Kentucky non-profit. They spend their weekends with their cats, Quentin and Caddy.
Reason for signing up:
I'm hoping this year's challenge will help me work through my burnout and get me writing semi-regularly again!
Kayla Mattox-Frye
Bio (she/her)
Kayla is a Mississippi native who now calls Lexington home. She believes there is nothing that can connect us to the beauty within ourselves and others quite like poetry.
Reason for signing up:
I love the idea of creating alongside a community of writers!
Katrina Rolfsen
Bio (she/her)
Storyteller-scientist, tree hugger, cat lady, (Disney) world traveler, Marvel fan
Reason for signing up:
Tradition!
Katie
Photo of Katie
Bio (she/her)
Katie is a poet, a mother, wife, musician, and many other things. Her youngest son took his own life, which plunged her into grief and the grief expressed itself many ways, including in her poetry.
Reason for signing up:
Because I have poetry bouncing around in my head begging to be written.
Kathy Rueve
Photo of Kathy Rueve
Bio
Practicing and participating in the art and skill of crafting poetry makes my heart sing.
Reason for signing up:
I am excited to take on the 2026 LexPoMo challenge
Katerina Stoykova
Bio (she/her)
A Bulgarian from Kentucky.
Reason for signing up:
Hoping to write a few poems.
Katelyn Donley Weldon
Photo of Katelyn Donley Weldon
Bio (she/her)
Katelyn is a 3rd year medical student in Northern Kentucky currently interested in pediatrics. She received her bachelor’s degree in biology from Thomas More University with a minor in Spanish and truly enjoys poetry. She also enjoys teaching dance to her students and spending time with those she loves.
Reason for signing up:
Brings me so much joy each year and I love seeing work by familiar faces!
Kat Gillespie
Photo of Kat Gillespie
Bio (they/them)
Kat is a poet, a librarian, and a huge weirdo.
Reason for signing up:
I need to write more, and this challenge always helps with that.
Kat Briggs
Photo of Kat Briggs
Bio (she/her)
Kat is a 7th grade science teacher with a passion for noticing.
Reason for signing up:
I signed up because I want to continue to inspire and be inspired by this incredible community of writers in Lexington.
Karen George
Photo of Karen George
Bio
30-word:
Karen George’s (Florence, KY) most recent books are the poetry collection Caught in the Trembling Net (Kelsay Books, 2024), and the fiction collection How We Fracture (Minerva Rising Press, 2024).
Reason for signing up:
Because it’s inspiring to read the other LEXPOMO poems, and I’ve been writing a poem-a-day in June since the beginning.
Kaibrey Donnelly
Photo of Kaibrey Donnelly
Bio (she/her)
Kaibrey Donnelly is a rising senior at Lafayette Highschool where she attends the scapa literary arts program. This summer she is attending the morehead GSP program.
Reason for signing up:
My teacher Mr.McCurry told me to.
K. Nicole Wilson
Photo of K. Nicole Wilson
Bio
K. Nicole unfolds,
spring flower, May baby blooms,
spills fresh ink on leaves.
Reason for signing up:
Here from jump, cannot
stop splashing into rivers
winding wild with rhyme.
Jules Unsel
Joy Kreves
Photo of Joy Kreves
Bio (she/her)
Joy Kreves is a visual artist/poet in Ewing, NJ. She published her 2nd chapbook, The Little Book of Love & Death, this year, has been in US1Worksheets, NewVerseNews, Pinky Thinker, Burningwood.
Reason for signing up:
Why sign up for poetry? What could we possibly need more of these days?
Josie Angel
Bio (she/her)
Josie is a transgender poet who also loves writing short stories, stage plays, screenplays, and is attempting her first novel.
Reason for signing up:
To generate new work, enjoy others’ work, and participate in community.
Joseph’s Kid
Photo of Joseph’s Kid
Bio (other)
Likes to write poetry in his free times. Most of the time it’s when he’s depressed but he thought he’d come out of his comfort zone to do this event.
Reason for signing up:
Dad told me I should try it. Joseph Allen Nichols specifically.
Website:
Joseph Allen Nichols
Photo of Joseph Allen Nichols
Bio (he/him)
Joseph Allen Nichols is a poet, author, and lyric essayist who splits his time between his hometown of Frankfort, KY and his church in Lima, OH. Writing is both what feeds his Spirit and how He endeavors to feed beauty back into this world.
Reason for signing up:
LexPoMo is the rest and feast before the adventure of the rest of the year. And I love this community.
Jordyn Gomora
Bio (he/him)
I'm an aspiring social worker and poet who aims to share joy and foster empowerment in vulnerability. I hope to connect with others whether our experiences are shared or not.
Reason for signing up:
I want to advance my poetry skills, share in community, and commit to my passions and love of art.
Jordan Quinn
Photo of Jordan Quinn
Bio (she/her)
Jordan is a working poet and a legal assistant whose favorite moments are spent with family, friends and her cats. She’s honored to participate in another LexPoMo.
Reason for signing up:
Trying to kindle the spark of inspiration once again…
Jonel Sallee
Bio (she/her)
Jonel Sallee is a retired teacher who reads a lot, writes a little, does dishes when necessary, and loves her crazy life.
Reason for signing up:
It's gotten to be a habit, and I feel guilty when I don't. I hate feeling guilty, so here I am.
John W. McCauley
Photo of John W. McCauley
Bio
John W. McCauley is an award-winning author, who was recognized twice for his book, Kentucky Is My Home: A Journey into the Life of Jesse Hilton Stuart. The book climbed to #1 on the Jesse Stuart Foundation best-seller list, and he participated in the 2025 Kentucky Book Festival. His recently released book, Harvest of Life, has reached #2 on the JSF best-seller list. He is a contributing author to Hidden Heroes of Greenup County, and his essays and poetry have been published in anthologies, literary journals, magazines, and newspapers. John retired from a career in private industry and public service that included an appointment by President Barack Obama. In his spare time, he is learning to play a Kentucky handcrafted Appalachian dulcimer. John and his wife Rebecca spend time between homes in Kentucky's Appalachian and Bluegrass regions.
Reason for signing up:
It's a great experience to read the poetry and network with such talented writers.
John Vance
JLBrown
Bio (she/her)
JL Brown is a cook, caregiver, friend and lover. She's been writing poetry since the age of six.
Reason for signing up:
I want so much to complete this challenge.
Jim Lally
Bio
Jim is founder and, since 2010, director of the Maysville KY writing group, Old Washington Wordsmiths. The Wordsmiths are proud members of the Ohio River Valley Art Guild.
Reason for signing up:
To let the words come while they may.
Jessica Swafford
Photo of Jessica Swafford
Bio (she/her)
Jessica Swafford is a poet from Georgetown, Kentucky.
Reason for signing up:
It's tradition by now.
Jess Roat
Bio (he/him)
Jess was teacher for many years. He now spends his time in creative projects and service to others.
Reason for signing up:
Poetry improves your overall writing. Remember that the pen is mightier than the sword.
Jerry Hicks
Bio (he/him)
Jerry is a farmer and writer in Fleming County, Ky.
Reason for signing up:
I participated in LexPoMo last year and really enjoyed it. The need to write every day keeps me thinking of new things to write and is a great encouragement.
Jerielle
Photo of Jerielle
Bio (they/them)
Jerielle is a spiritual person because she has been through hell. Walking the way of the heart has been their only salvation and will be the only meaning in their existence. It has always been this way. It is no wonder then that their name means "An arrow shot by God"
Reason for signing up:
I look forward to this all year. It has been life changing for me. I so enjoy the people I have met and continue to meet who are now great friends. I love seeing what those people write and meeting others. Really there is nothing but sheer joy involved.
Jeremy Stacy
Photo of Jeremy Stacy
Bio
Jeremy is an Eastern Kentucky writer now living in Nicholasville. His work maps the emotional and geological forces that shape a life, exploring endurance, fracture, and the Appalachian landscapes that raised him.
Reason for signing up:
I love LEXPOMO!
Jennifer Burchett
Bio (she/her)
Jennifer Burchett writes fiction, creates recipes, and makes art in Lexington, Kentucky.
Reason for signing up:
Writing poetry is a good stretch for my fiction writers brain, so I’m trying this yet again.
Jennifer Beckett
Bio (she/her)
Jennifer Beckett is a teacher and poet. She is working on a poetry collection. She recently adopted two cats, and she is embracing furry feline chaos.
Reason for signing up:
I love this community!
Jennifer Barricklow
Photo of Jennifer Barricklow
Bio (she/her)
Jennifer Barricklow lives and writes in Lexington. She loves being part of Kentucky’s vibrant literary ecosystem. A lifelong gardener, she thinks of poems as seeds that develop uniquely in the soil of each reader’s experience.
Reason for signing up:
I love rubbing elbows with other critters in the literary ecosystem!
Jazmine Opdycke
Photo of Jazmine Opdycke
Bio (she/her)
Jazmine Opdycke is an Appalachian poet from McKee, Kentucky whose work explores girlhood, grief, faith, inheritance, and the opioid epidemic in Appalachia. Rooted in Eastern Kentucky, her poetry examines complicated relationships, survival, and the emotional landscape of rural poverty and addiction. Her work has appeared in Three Line Poetry #54, Inscape (2022-2026), and Eber & Wein’s Imagination and Best Poets of 2024. She completed the 2025 Poetry Gauntlet through the Carnegie Center and has received first place in poetry for Inscape three times. She is currently working on her first collection of poems.
Reason for signing up:
I’m signing up for LexPoMo because poetry has helped me make sense of grief, addiction, faith, and growing up in Appalachia. I want to continue growing within a literary community that values honest storytelling. Writing alongside others pushes me towards accountability and allows me to take creative risks. I’m especially excited to connect with other creatives, support one another, and read some new writing during LexPoMo!
Jay St. Orts
Photo of Jay St. Orts
Bio (he/him)
Jay St. Orts has been a Husband, Father, Son, Brother, Uncle, Cousin, Friend, Musician, DJ, Homebrewer, Cook, Editor, Writer. Not necessarily in that order. Sometimes exactly in that order.
Reason for signing up:
To everything, there is a season. This season is one of rebuilding from the basement to the ground up.
Jay McCoy
Photo of Jay McCoy
Bio (he/him)
Jay McCoy is a queer Appalachian who explores whatever fancy interests him through words and art.
Reason for signing up:
Because it's what you do in June
Jasmine Robinson
Bio (she/her)
Jasmine is a writer and poet living in Lexington. She is a lover of languages, music and nature.
Reason for signing up:
To be inspired!
Jamie Mann
Bio (she/her)
Lives in Winchester, KY with her husband and a small band of misfit furry pals.
Jaime Quackenbush
Photo of Jaime Quackenbush
Bio (she/her)
Jaime is an educator, mother, musician, and free spirit who writes and dances her way through a magical life in Sleepy Hollow, NY with her two kids and two black cats.
Reason for signing up:
I participated last year and loved the shared community and productive inspiration. Looking forward to another month of powerful writing!
J.T. Williamson
Bio (he/him)
A new writer learning the craft.
Reason for signing up:
Thought it sounded fun!
j.e. barr
Photo of j.e. barr
Bio (she/her)
32 and clinging to relevance
Reason for signing up:
I love this community.
Isabel
Bio
Isabel is a young Catholic who loves playing Minecraft, spending time outside, and, of course, writing.
Reason for signing up:
To create and share awesome poems
ing
Photo of ing
Bio (she/her)
writing poems for 2026
Hunter Nelson
Bio
Just a local poet who likes tacos and is very upset the government.
Reason for signing up:
A yearly tradition!
Hope Wilder
Photo of Hope Wilder
Bio (she/her)
Hope is a Kentucky poet, social worker, and counseling graduate student whose writing explores motherhood, trauma, healing, identity, and resilience.
Reason for signing up:
Poetry has always been the place where Hope makes sense of the things that are difficult to carry out loud. She signed up for Lexington Poetry Month to connect with other writers, share pieces rooted in vulnerability and healing, and continue growing her voice within a creative community. Much of her work explores womanhood, motherhood, trauma, recovery, identity, and the complicated process of becoming. As both a social worker and future counselor, she is deeply interested in the ways storytelling can create connection, challenge shame, and help people feel less alone.
HJ
Photo of HJ
Bio (she/her)
HJ is a poet, music lover, and theater kid. She believes that music is life and poems are the soul. Even as a junior in high school, they want to inspire and bring people together through poems. she may have been through a lot but that doesn't define them. She looks forward to becoming a neuroscience or psychology teacher/professor while working towards an end goal of being a singer.
Reason for signing up:
love poetry and want to improve my skills in lyrical writing.
hb elam
Bio (he/him)
hb is trying, he swears.
Reason for signing up:
watching the world burn was getting boring.
Website:
Hat
Photo of Hat
Bio (she/her)
“Struggles not a team sport
You’re not afforded recourse”
-earl sweatshirt
Reason for signing up:
It’s that time of year
Hannah E. Bernard
Bio (she/her)
Hannah is a native Lexingtonian who is inspired by resiliency, nature, and her neighbors. You can find her work in Friends of Friends Zine in Brooklyn and in the most recent publication of Pegasus.
Reason for signing up:
I’m hoping this helps me complete my morning pages.
H.P. Shaw
Photo of H.P. Shaw
Bio (he/him)
H.P. returns for Lexpomo still trying to achieve his mission to become the world’s best Bukowski knock-off. He’s quickly learning this endeavor is harder than it looks.
Reason for signing up:
The world needs more poetry about baseball, beers and cigarettes. God knows there isn’t enough.
H.A.
Photo of H.A.
Bio (she/her)
H.A. is a teacher, writer, and adventurer. She believes we are all made of stories and she is honored when others share theirs with her.
Reason for signing up:
I love the PoMo poets. They inspire me.
Guillotine Harlot
Photo of Guillotine Harlot
Bio (other)
Abigail Kesten is a zillenial who has somehow managed to infiltrate a radio station run by a bunch of 18-23 year olds (WRFL) and become a NWS certified storm spotter. She also enjoys gardening on her family's rural acreage, taking care of her cats, playing Fallout, nose to tail cooking, going to the gym, and working her way through the many classic films she has yet to watch. She is an enthusiast for the Swedish language, onomastics, and her big yellow box of Lego bricks.
Reason for signing up:
I wanted to see if I could do better than I did last year
Greg F
Photo of Greg F
Bio (he/him)
Greg Friedman is a Franciscan priest, residing in Rome, Italy, where he is a researcher and writer at a Franciscan study center, the "Collegio San Bonaventura." He is currently writing the life of an American scholar from the 20th century.
Reason for signing up:
LexPoMo always offers me a daily creative moment, and a friendly community of writers to engage.
Goldie
Photo of Goldie
Bio (they/them)
Wallowed-out nemean hide of the cub of the Nothing incensed to life by a sneeze.
Human theremin transposing the movements of hummingbirds and oak leaves into whatever key most dog whistles muddle in.
Bowling ball esteem bored into a crack in the grin of the Rio Grande gorge.
Dangling modifier.
Moon in Sagittarius. Rain clown.
Ginny Whitehouse
Bio (she/her)
Ginny Whitehouse, Ph.D., is director of the ICCA School of Communication and a professor of multimedia journalism at Eastern Kentucky University.
Reason for signing up:
Poetry is fun.
Geoff White
Photo of Geoff White
Bio (he/him)
Geoff White is a husband, father, poet, and dog owner from Lexington, KY. He would be happy to tell you of any reading opportunities he has heard of recently. He has been published in Frontier, Atlantic Pacific Press, The Writing Disorder, and has an upcoming poem in Yearling.
Reason for signing up:
I'm drawn to the challenge of it. Hopefully, I'm up to the task. One of my friends asked me whether I was going to join, and I couldn't think of a reason not to.
Gaby Bedetti
Photo of Gaby Bedetti
Bio
Gaby Bedetti enjoys the challenge of pairing one of her photos with a short poem.
Reason for signing up:
I like to spend a month thinking of a new poem each day, and this month I am celebrating my retirement.
G. Akers
Bio (she/her)
G. Akers is an Ashland, KY native interested in archive research, history, folktales, and more.
Reason for signing up:
I want to write more poetry!
Francesca Annoni
Photo of Francesca Annoni
Bio (she/her)
Francesca Annoni is an art historian, filmmaker, and actor. In poetry, she dabbles.
Reason for signing up:
I started doing this in high school, why stop now?
Fanny Hubart-Salmon
Photo of Fanny Hubart-Salmon
Bio (she/her)
A Kentuckian from Normandy… A horse racing reporter, a filmmaker and community archivist exploring complex chapters of our shared history.
Reason for signing up:
To read (mostly) and share (as often as possible) poetry in this incredibly creative and inspiring community.
Evelyn Paige
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Bio (she/her)
Freshly graduated from Georgetown College with a Bachelor’s in Psychology, Evelyn is using this summer to reconnect with her roots.
Reason for signing up:
My queen, Sonya invited me!
Eric W. Willis
Photo of Eric W. Willis
Bio (he/him)
Eric W. Willis lives and works in Lexington, Kentucky with two feisty cats and one amazing fellow human. He is a graduate of the Bluegrass Writers Studio.
Reason for signing up:
Because the best time to start the next poem is now!
Eric Scott Sutherland
Photo of Eric Scott Sutherland
Bio (he/him)
Eric Scott Sutherland is the author of six collections of poetry including the forthcoming, Awkward Scrapes. He lives and works to protect trees as Urban Forester in Lexington, KY.
Reason for signing up:
To share in community and to be inspired to write more.
Eric Morris
Bio (he/him)
Eric Morris is a writer who has found his love for writing poetry over the last few years via his efforts with students at Morehead State University, where he teaches writing and other English classes.
Reason for signing up:
I signed up to honor a colleague who will soon be enjoying her own retirement from many years of teaching writing!
Emma Lindner
Photo of Emma Lindner
Bio (she/her)
Emma Lindner is a one-month resident of Lexington. She is currently a fiction author with affinities for all things old-timey, art in all its forms, and alliteration.
Reason for signing up:
A dear friend of mine who coaxed me out of hiding from amidst the hills of central MA and into an unknowable future within the sprawling bluegrass state, has since infected me with the poetry bug. Thus, I sign up for poetry happenings.
Emily Brown
Photo of Emily Brown
Bio (she/her)
Emily is completing her bachelor's degree in psychology and philosophy at Thomas More University. This summer, she's spending her time writing, after running and work, of course!
Reason for signing up:
You know what they say: the third time's the charm!
Ellen Austin-Li
Photo of Ellen Austin-Li
Bio (she/her)
Ellen Austin-Li hosts Poetry at Artifact in Cincy, where she lives. She’s a 2026 Ohio Arts Council Individual Excellence Award recipient. Her 2025 collection, Incidental Pollen, was runner-up to Madville Publishing's Arthur Smith Poetry Prize.
Reason for signing up:
FOMO
Elle Brown
Bio (they/them)
Elle Brown is a co-author of Southern Dis-Comfort: Confessions of a Southern DEI Officer...How Jim Crow and Plantation Economics Run the 21st-Century Organization and lives in tiny woods.
Reason for signing up:
I am new to the Southern Writers' Workshop and love this opportunity to write in a low-pressure consistent and seen way and enjoy everyone's contributions together!
Ella Helmuth
Bio (she/her)
Ella is an attorney in Lexington. More importantly, Ella has been a poet for most of her life. She is delighted to be back for her third (nonsequential) year of LexPoMo.
Reason for signing up:
It's time to be a writer again.
Elizabeth Roach-Smith
Bio (she/her)
Elizabeth Roach-Smith lives in Louisville, Kentucky with her family and Great Pyrenees, where she works in communications and spins tales. In addition to poetry, her published work includes freelance nonfiction articles about food
and bourbon, and her appreciation for good food often spills into her work. She holds a degree in English from Furman University and a graduate certificate in publishing from Columbia University.
Reason for signing up:
For accountability & to support my regular writing practice. Plus the community!
Elizabeth Beck
Photo of Elizabeth Beck
Bio
Elizabeth Beck is a writer who leads Poetry at the Table, a monthly series in Lexington, Kentucky.
Reason for signing up:
inspiration and community
Elaine Olund
Photo of Elaine Olund
Bio (she/her)
Elaine Olund is a climate-concerned poet, writer and sketchbook-keeper based in Cincinnati, Ohio. Her chapbook, The Invisible Suitcase (Finishing Line Press) came out in 2020. She hosts a bi-monthly climate-focused meditation/writing group and is working on a collection of poems about our changing world. Find her at elaineolund.com.
Reason for signing up:
Generation motivation!
EDL
Photo of EDL
Bio (they/them)
Eirill DeLonge (EDL) is a multimedia artist originally from Ramberg in Lofoten, in the Arctic region of Nordland, northern Norway. EDL creates across different creative fields: photography, photojournalism, videography, editorial writing, creative writing and modeling. This variety comes from years of exploring a wide range of creative practices. EDL’s style is defined by edge, attitude, and bluntness. From the start, there was no intention to comfort the audience. With a provocative nature, the work challenges people to confront the raw, unfiltered realities of life. Based in Oslo, Norway – working worldwide.
Reason for signing up:
2024 and 2025 was pretty cool!
Dillon Hume
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Bio
for peace, not war
Reason for signing up:
I am not AI
Diana Worthington
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Bio
A Queer Sonoran-Bluegrass Poet, Actor, Multimedia Artist, and community broadcaster who grew up in Lexington and Frankfort, KY. Currently residing in Tucson, AZ she enjoys spending time with her partner and their two lovely pets, photography, and talking about the weather.
Instagram: @dyana_tea
Bluesky: @whirlybirdphotos.bsky.social
Reason for signing up:
LexPoMo is one of the ways I stay connected to my roots and this amazing community of writers.
Dennis Preston
Bio (he/him)
Dennis J. Preston lives in Owensboro, Kentucky. He taught elementary school language arts for twenty-five years, but now likes being semi-retired. He is a pastor, and enjoys reading, writing, traveling, and spending time with his family. He has published nine books of poetry including Water for the Withered Fig.
Reason for signing up:
I work better with a challenge.
Debra Glenn
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Bio (she/her)
Debra enjoys writing, baking, walking, helping people, and working at the farmers market.
Reason for signing up:
The challenge of writing a poem a day.
Debbie Cooper
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Bio (she/her)
I have not missed a LexPoMo since its inception! Too much fun!
Reason for signing up:
Because it is June!!!
Deanna Mascle
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Bio (she/her)
Newly retired National Writing Project teacher and active Rebel Cartographer
Reason for signing up:
Because June is coming!
  • Poems:
  • June 01, 2026 Fly
David Moore
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Bio (he/him)
David is a 3rd year PhD student at Clemson University in Industrial and Organizational Psychology, originally from NKY. He is exploring creative writing!
Reason for signing up:
Katelyn D-W asked me to and I thought it could be fun :)
Darlene Rose DeMaria
Bio (she/her)
Darlene Rose loves to paint poems. Play with the light flowing in and out of Haiku. Hides in Found, felt in Lyric and flows in Free Verse.
Reason for signing up:
I love to write. June is my Birthday month. Words are even more fun when being channeled in a community of writers!
damwrite
Bio (he/him)
Born and raised in Miami, FL, Diego Alcaraz-Monje is an 18 year old poet and journalist. Diego currently studies Creative Writing and Journalism at Western Kentucky University, and serves as assistant content editor for the WKU College Heights Herald. He was awarded the title of Lexington Youth Poet Laureate in 2025 and is a Scholastics Art and Writing Awards national American Voices gold medalist. When not writing, Diego likes to play pool and listen to goth music.
Crozzy
Bio (she/her)
under construction...
Reason for signing up:
To keep the poetry juices flowing amid graduation, moving, painting, and renovating.
Courtney Music-Johnson
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Bio (she/her)
Courtney Music-Johnson lives and writes in Morehead, Kentucky. This is a special tradition, she enjoys with her husband.
Reason for signing up:
This is a yearly tradition!
Cooper Mills
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Bio (he/him)
Cooper Mills is currently studying creative writing at Morehead State University. He has previously been published in the 2026 edition of Inscape.
Reason for signing up:
I'm participating in Lexington Poetry Month because I want to push myself to write more and improve my poetry.
Colette Crown
Bio (she/her)
Colette has participated in LexPoMo for several years. She has been inspired and empowered in the process. She lives in Lexington, but is often off on a travel adventure.
Reason for signing up:
I signed up because I can’t imagine June without LexPoMo.
Coleman Davis
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Bio
Coleman Davis is the resident forest elf at Owsley Fork Writers Sanctuary.
Reason for signing up:
lexPoMo in June~ thirty days, thirty poems, no problem ....lol
Clinton W. Waters
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Bio (he/him)
Clinton W. Waters was born and raised in Bowling Green, KY. They hold a Bachelor’s in Creative Writing from WKU and is currently in the graduate program there. Their work has been featured in Still: The Journal, Untelling Magazine, and Testament: A Rural Anthology from Backwoods Literary Press.
Christopher McCurry
Bio
Christopher McCurry writes love poems for his wife.
Reason for signing up:
Because I love poetry.
Christina Myers
Christina McCleanhan
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Bio (she/her)
Christina McCleanhan, born on July 4th, was raised between the hills of eastern Kentucky and the riverbanks of the mighty Ohio. She completed her undergraduate degree at Transylvania University and received an MFA in English and Creative Writing from Mills College in Oakland, California. She is a first-generation college graduate. As an artist, Christina has learned that the rhythm of humanity offers itself to those who find peace in crowded rooms and resilience in empty hallways. Her current writing explores the delicate privilege of balancing grief and joy. She is a writer, performer, and adjunct college instructor.
Reason for signing up:
Poetry is the structure I drape most of my feelings on, and I am usually more creative when I consistently practice the craft. This summer is going to be full of acting, writing, and self-care, so why not jump back on the Poetry Party Bus?
Christina Joy
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Bio (she/her)
Christina is a 'tree-hugging but take-no-$**t' soul born near Woodstock, NY - but has lived in KY as long now as there. She betimes posts poems on her FB page (aka 'shouting into the void').
Reason for signing up:
Because I'm still here, and LexPoMo is still here, so it's tradition now.
Chelsie Kreitzman
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Bio (she/her)
Chelsie Kreitzman lives and writes in Lexington, Kentucky. She loves reading, writing, being near the water, and all kinds of animals.
Reason for signing up:
For community and motivation to write again after taking a too-long break!
Catrina L Vargo
Bio (she/her)
From the hills of eastern KY, Catrina Lynn Vargo shares her words, thoughts & adventures through multiple outlets. A poet, singer/songwriter/musician & photographer, she is the creator/blogger & YouTuber of Gal Gone Camping. An animal, history & nature lover, she writes primarily from her “shanty on the river” in Lawrence Co. Making up for lost time, she’s driven to document her compositions and gives God the glory for the gift of it all.
Reason for signing up:
I want to improve and grow in everything I do. Being in a supportive community with creative people who know the art of words is an inspiration to me.
Catherine Perkins
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Bio (she/her)
Catherine Perkins, Lexington, KY resident, semi-retired Thoroughbred owner and trainer, spends almost all her awake time writing, playing games on her phone, doing PT exercises and going to the bathroom. She has a part-time gig operating zero-turn mowers for a local farm.
Catherine is the author of one published poetry collection, "Udder Uproar," Accents Publishing, 2024.
Reason for signing up:
I enjoy being part of the LexPoMo community. They inspire my creativity.
Carrie Elam Spillman
Bio
Carrie Elam Spillman is juggling both greatness and madness.
Reason for signing up:
For the love of the game.
Carole Johnston
Bio (she/her)
Carole Johnston writes about her obsessions.
Reason for signing up:
I love the diversity of styles and genres in this amazing community of poets. June is always interesting.
carole johnston
Bio
Carole Johnston writes about her obsessions.
Reason for signing up:
morgana.bag@hotmail.com
Carina Grady
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Bio (she/her)
Carina is a poet, fiction writer, dancer, and former engineer. Based in Lexington, KY, she brings systems-based thinking to her writing and civic life. Nowadays, she performs anti-capitalist poetry at open mics, reads pre-contemporary literature, volunteers at a used book store, salsa dances until sunrise, and hangs out at artist collectives.
Reason for signing up:
To write and share poetry with some cool people.
Brother Buck Markowitz
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Bio (he/him)
Harold Sherman is a freelance musician and has been for most of his adult life. He is also a Donovan Scholar at UK, having previously received his MM in Composition in 1999. He once taught piano lessons to rising standup comic star Ariel Elias and recorded a Christmas CD with Laura Bell Bundy. He did not, however, invent the internet--nor has he ever dated Taylor Swift.
Reason for signing up:
Heard about it at Carnegie Center Writing Practice.
Bronson O'Quinn
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Bio
Bronson O’Quinn is a software developer who writes video game poems, lefty pop culture essays, & cross-genre fiction, often satirical, but always with empathy.
Reason for signing up:
The same reason we do anything, Pinky...
Website:
Bill Brymer
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Bio (he/him)
Writer and photographer from Louisville, KY back for another round.
Reason for signing up:
Back for another go around!
  • Poems:
  • June 01, 2026 BLT
Bethany Robinson
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Bio (she/her)
Beth is a queer Appalachian from Eastern Kentucky. She is a lover of nature and yoga, and has been with LexPOMO since 2020.
Reason for signing up:
Fun little challenge each year
Bernard Deville
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Bio
Bernard is a retired bookseller and teacher who lives in Lexington with his wife and a wonderful collection of cats, dogs, and books.
Reason for signing up:
It's keeping up the tradition!
Beatrice
Bio (she/her)
Beatrice is a wandering Kentuckian currently located in Missouri. She teaches high school, and loves reading, writing of all genres, and travel.
Reason for signing up:
I'm an OG LexPoMo participant. I love being a part of the literary community every year, especially for the creative challenge.
Website:
Autumn Cook
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Bio (she/her)
Autumn keeps coming back year after year, despite her fear of running out of things to write about. Somehow, she never does.
Austin Rathbone
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Bio (he/him)
Austin lives in Lexington with his sweet family and cats. Poetry continues to be a foreign concept to him, but one that he's constantly attracted to nonetheless.
Austin Green
Bio (he/him)
Pike County Native, 2021 University of Pikeville
Austen
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Bio (she/her)
Austen Reilley is a mom, teacher, comic, and poet who lives in Lexington, KY.
Reason for signing up:
Lexpomo breathes life back into my poet soul each year.
atmospherique
Bio (other)
a poet, unfortunately
Ash Sauer
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Bio (they/them)
Ash Sauer is a sophomore in the SCAPA literary arts program at Lafayette High School. They enjoy writing poetry and personal essays about music, languages, and pop culture. When they’re not writing you’ll find them at a concert, baking, at marching band practice, or reading books.
Ash Nicole Morris-Russell
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Bio (she/her)
Ash was born and raised in Morehead, KY, a magical childhood spent hunting crawdads in creeks and drinking honey suckle nectar straight from the flower after long country road bike rides with friends. Now replanted in Lexington with three littles and her husband, she continues to open herself up to all things wild and whimsical and is wholeheartedly committed to capturing this in her writing.
Reason for signing up:
I need something to look forward to.
Arwen C
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Bio
Arwen is a mother, a business owner, an acupuncturist, and an advocate of equilibrium.
Reason for signing up:
In case inspiration hits. And to be able to interact in community.
Website:
Antheia
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Bio
Antheia is a queer poet and fiction writer from Eastern Kentucky. Her work has been featured in Merion West, Roi Faineant, The Genre Society, Down in the Dirt and more. She is currently obtaining her MFA in Creative Writing.
Anna H
Bio (she/her)
Teaching and writing the best I know how!
Ann Haney
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Bio (she/her)
Ann Naito Haney is a visual artist who loves drawing and painting. She also enjoys exploring imagery and ideas through writing.
Ani
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Bio (she/her)
Ani is slowly coming out of hibernation
Reason for signing up:
Why not?
Andrea Lawler
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Bio (she/her)
Andrea Lawler is a Kentucky poet, educator, and storyteller whose work explores love, longing, faith, memory, and the complexities of becoming. Her poetry dwells in the spaces between desire and duty, grief and beauty, seeking the sacred within ordinary human experience.
Reason for signing up:
I need to create.
Amy Le Ann Richardson
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Bio (she/her)
Amy Le Ann Richardson is a writer, educator, and community organizer based on her family farm in Carter County. She is the author of three poetry collections, including Out of Places (Pine Row Press), and editor of the forthcoming anthology Rooted, Resilient, Rising: Women Growing Food across the Mountains (University Press of Kentucky). She is founder and director of the Bloodroot Young Writers Collective, an inaugural National Arts Futures Fellow, and co-founder of the Appalachian Literary Arts Festival in Morehead, Kentucky.
Reason for signing up:
For the love of poetry.
Amanda
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Bio (she/her)
A little of this and that all rolled in to one person.
Reason for signing up:
I enjoy the community
Alvera Lisabeth
Bio (she/her)
Alvera has spent more than half a century observing, learning, wondering, reflecting, creating, and sharing.
Reason for signing up:
More to wonder about and reflect upon and more incentive to create and share, of course!
Alora Jones
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Bio (they/them)
Alora is a writer trying to break out of cycles through poetic verses and truthful prose. They have aspirations to one day publicize a collection of their work and share the human experience of trying to come out the other side.
Reason for signing up:
I've participated in LexPoMo for the past three years, and I always learn so much about writing and life. Can't wait to see what I learn this year!
Allison Belter
Bio (they/them)
Allison is a Creative Writing student at Morehead State University. They are published in the citizen trans project by New Words Press and MSU’s 2026 publication of Inscape.
Reason for signing up:
I am aiming to write more regularly, especially to hone my poetry skills. This seems like a great opportunity to do so in a group with both writers I already know and those I don't!
Allisa Ragan Farthing
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Bio (she/her)
Lisa was an Army brat and an Air Force spouse and has lived in many places. She began writing in 2024 with a focus on family and nature.
Reason for signing up:
I want to be challenged to try new techniques and maybe learn something along the way.
Allen Blair
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Bio (he/him)
Allen Blair's a writer, dad, former journalist, and Shakespeare-quoting, beer-making dabbler from Kentucky. He still owns a calculator and a typewriter. Follow him most places @TheTinpoet.
Reason for signing up:
My cat told me it could help him make a difference in this life!
Alissa Sammarco
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Reason for signing up:
I retrieved the gauntlet from where you threw it. So here's to another June marathon.
Ali Viera
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Bio (she/her)
Ali Viera: upward not northward
Alex Simand
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Bio (he/him)

Alex Simand lives and works in San Francisco, though he was born in Russia and
grew up in Toronto, which means he exists in a state
of constant cultural confusion.
He holds an MFA from
Antioch University Los Angeles.
Reason for signing up:
Revisiting after a few years away! Excited to participate again :)
AJ Kline
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Bio
Anna Kline is a songwriter and poet, who lives in Mt. Sterling, KY. A hound with her nose to the ground, she follows the scent and welcomes the adventure, wherever it may lead.
Reason for signing up:
I want another crack at Lex PoMo.
Abby Kane
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Bio (she/her)
Abby Kane is a writer with too many ideas in her head and too little time on her hands.
Reason for signing up:
Always looking for a reason to write more :)
A.R. Koehler
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Bio
Ayla studies soil and is constantly trying to remember to take deep breaths
A. G. Vanover
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Bio (he/him)
Chemist, amateur poet, and father of three. He writes about the beauty and the difficulties of existence.
Reason for signing up:
It’s such a fun challenge. Last year was my first year, I did all 30 days and it was difficult to keep up but incredibly rewarding.