Robert Frost Poetry Award

I'm pleased to announce that a friend of our family has won the prestigious Robert Frost Poetry Award presented by the Robert Frost Foundation of Lawrence, Massachussetts. Rob Smith's poem, "Catbird", was chosen out of more than 650 submissions from poets representing twelve countries. Specifically, this contest seeks to recognize poetry written "in the Spirit of Robert Frost." This year's judge of the blind competition was Ben Mazer, contributing editor of Fulcrum Annual, a review of English language poetry.

Rob Smith has been writing poetry all his life, but only a few poems have been put forward for publication. His major literary works are two novels, Night Voices and Children of Light. Additionally, he has a novella/short story collection under consideration by a publisher. As a novelist, Rob tries to bring his sensitivity as a poet to bear on his characters and storyline. Winning the 2006 Robert Frost Award is a highpoint in his career. A long time admirer of Frost, Smith has presented public readings of the poet's work. Currently, Rob divides his time between writing and teaching Religion and Philosophy online for Wright State University in Dayton. Rob is a native of Youngstown, Ohio who attended high school in the Cleveland area. He holds degrees in religion and philosophy from Westminster College and Princeton Theological Seminary. He was our pastor for many years and officiated at our daughter's wedding eleven years ago.

Congratulations, Rob. Proud to know ye!