One of their own is having health issues so a local group of poets is putting on an event to honor her.

The event, from 1-4 p.m. June 11 at the Bainbridge library, is for Nancy Rekow, who in 2018 was named a “Bainbridge Island Treasure.”

Rekow always loved reading and books, and she has a bachelor’s degree in English and a master’s in Education and became a teacher.

It was on her small farm on Bainbridge Island when her journey into writing really began. She not only taught creative writing to all ages but also hosted poetry readings all across Kitsap County, culminating in the decades-long BI celebration of local poets in the annual publishing event, Poetry Corners. She has also led writing workshops, self-published 14 books and calendars, is an award-winning poet and served as the first director of the Bainbridge Island Arts Council.

Local poet Tamarah Rockwood said Rekow “has touched the lives of all around her. These were all people who were Nancy’s students, or who worked with her, were mentored by her, and who participated in her workshops over the years. She taught, guided, edited their work and was their friend.”

They have compiled a self-published book called, “Ode to Nancy Rekow,” which will be read at the event. Those involved are: Adelia Ritchie, Sue Hylen, Beverley West, John Davis, Nancy Taylor, Neil Baker, Diane Moser, John Wilson II, Robert Vandersluis, Ali Edvardsen, Carl Jensen, Ruth Marcus, Al Gunby, Anne Kundtz, Marsha Cutting, Leigh Kennel, Lisa Giles, Marianna Mears, David Stallings, Dawn Jarvela Henthorn, Barb Clark, Kathryn R. Kent, Kris Hotchkiss, Kay Jensen and Diane Walker.