"Philadelphia Poets" Journal

Philadelphia Poets journal has a long history, going back to August 1980.  We poets had gathered for a reading at the old Painted Bride Art Center on South Street, and afterwards were musing about the fact that it was so hard to get publicity for our events; also, there were not enough publishing outlets for our work.  If I recall correctly, it was Jeff Branin and Ben Caesar (who later changed his name to Ketan) who encouraged me to put out a monthly newsletter.  And then and there, Philadelphia Poets was born.  Over the years, which included a hiatus, the publication evolved into what it is now--a full-fledged, full-length literary journal.  I will write more of its history in future pages.  Meanwhile, click on to "Blog" under the category of "Philadelphia Poets" to read about our current issue and our latest reading! 

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES TO PHILADELPHIA POETS To those unfamiliar with the credo of Philadelphia Poets, don't be misled by its title to think that it publishes poets from Philadelphia only.  It originates in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and its founder and editor believes in the humanistic ideals of those who founded this city.  Besides recognizing and supporting the talents of local poets, the editor is open to publishing poetry from poets anywhere.  So even if you are not an actual Philadelphian, feel free to submit your poetry, according to the following specifications: When submitting poetry by mail, please send no more than eight pages of previously unpublished poetry.  Make sure your name and address appear on each page, including your e-mail address if you have one.  Include a three-line bio.  Also, send an SASE with sufficient postage if you want your unaccepted poetry returned to you.  If you would prefer that I respond to you by e-mail and not return your unaccepted poems, no SASE is necessary.  No e-mail submissions.  My address is:  Rosemary Cappello, 1919 Chestnut Street, Apartment 1721, Philadelphia, PA 19103.  Payment is in one copy.  The deadline for the upcoming issue is November 1, 2009. AWARDS Two awards, The Amy Tritsch Needle Award and the John and Rose Petracca & Family Award, are given annually.  The first Amy Tritsch Needle Award was given to Maria Fama in 2006; the second, to Tommi Avicolli Mecca in 2007; third, to Lili Bita in 2008, and the fourth, to Peter Baroth in 2009.  The winner of this award is selected by the readers of Philadelphia Poets.  The first John and Rose Petracca & Family Award, also chosen by readers, went to Andy Macera in 2007.  The second Petracca Award, chosen by a Judge, went to Jane Stuart in 2008.  Our Judge for this award was James Morrison, Ph.D.  The third Petracca Award, chosen by Judge Diana Cavallo, went to Kay Peters in 2009. The first prize winner of each award receives $50, second prize winner, $25, third prize, $20, and three special mentions at $15 each. Our Award Presentation Readings this year were wonderful! 

 

Rosemary Cappello