Something new for the new year.

Beginning at the February WordFest on Tuesday, February 3, guest reviewers will be giving feedback to the evening’s presenters, identifying strong points in their writing, as well suggesting how they can improve their writing.

 The guest reviewers will be professional or otherwise established writers who have years of experience and expertise to share.

The first two reviewers will be Cathy Zimmerman, features editor for The Daily News, and Ned Piper, Cowlitz PUD Commissioner and monthly columnist for The Columbia River Reader.

The three presenters at the February WordFest will represent a variety of writing genres and styles:

Rita Fontaine, an English instructor at Lower Columbia College, will be reading her nonfiction article on sailing, entitled “The Good Mariner.”

Laura Baird will be reading from her romance mystery novel, Gem Opportunities.

 And Rick Jaspers will read the first chapter from a novel he is working on for young people, entitled The Magical Photo Booth.

By adding guest reviewers to our monthly gatherings, WordFest presenters and participants will be able to benefit from the feedback of experienced writers.

There will also be the usual open mic time, when people have 10 minutes to read their material to the audience (Note: the guest reviewers will not be critiquing these shorter presentations.)

Brits owner Alice Dietz will open the doors at 5:30 for those who wish to order a meal from her select menu.