August 2008 poetry calendar of events

POETRY CALENDAR (last updated 8-30-08)
This calendar is a day-by-day listing of poetry readings, meetings and classes in central Indiana, with a few other literary events that might be of interest to poets.

Note: Events frequently change or are dropped without notifying me. If possible, please call to confirm the event. I cannot be held responsible for incorrect information. If you have an event, news, an opinion, or a correction, please send it to jl.kato@sbcglobal.net. There’s no charge to be listed. This calendar is updated as soon as possible after I'm notified, although such things as the day job, vacations, illnesses and naked procrastination might prevent me from being as prompt as I should be. Be sure to call to confirm the event.
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Indianapolis Museum of Art: Today through Sept. 21. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. 4000 Michigan Road, Indianapolis. Free. “On the Road Again With Jack Kerouac and Robert Frank.” The museum reunites two of the iconic members of the American anti-establishment Beat Generation of the 1950s, novelist Jack Kerouac and photographer Robert Frank. The centerpiece of the exhibition is the 120-foot-long original typescript for Kerouac’s 1957 cross-country odyssey, “On the Road,” owned by Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay. The manuscript is accompanied by 83 photographs taken by Robert Frank during his own two-year cross-country pilgrimage and first published in Europe in 1958 as “Les Americains.” The IMA is at 4000 Michigan Road, Indianapolis. 317-923-1331 or ima@imamuseum.org. http://www.imamuseum.org/.

James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home: 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays, noon to 3:30 p.m. Sundays. 528 Lockerbie St. $3, seniors $2, children 7-17 50 cents. 317-631-5885. (Note: Closed Dec. 30 through Jan. 15)

James Whitcomb Riley Old Home and Museum: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays. 250 W. Main St., Greenfield. $3.50, children 7 and older $1.25, younger children free with adult. (317) 477-4340. Birthplace and boyhood home of the poet.

National Art Museum of Sport: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. 850 W. Michigan St. Free. (317) 274-3627. Sporting Words:Exhibit of National Art Museum of Sport paintings with poems written about them by eight Central Indiana poets: Phoenix Cole, Ruthelen Griffith Burns, Barry Harris, Joseph Heithaus, JL Kato, James Murdock, Michael Strosahl and the 2003-2007 Indiana poet laureate, Joyce Brinkman. Through Dec. 31, 2009. (317) 274-3627 or www.namos.iupui.edu/Exhibits.html.

FRIDAY, AUG. 1
7 p.m. The Athens Boys Choir (aka Harvey Katz) will appear at Out Word Bound Bookstore, 625 N. East St., Indianapolis. Katz is described as a Jewish transsexual man living in the Deep South, who has a sense of humor about the whole ordeal. “This ‘choir’ is a one-man lyrical machine gun with spitfire unapologetic spoken word and hip-hop. Katz has been touring as the Athens Boys Choir since 2003, hitting the stage with such performers as Ani Difranco, Katastrophe, Alix Olson, Michelle Tea, Leslie and the Ly’s, poets from HBO’s Def Poetry Jam, and more. Athens Boys Choir has shown a flair for versatility and for breaking barriers within communities with his heart-on-the-sleeve, accessible spoken-word pieces and irresistibly dance-inducing hip hop." www.myspace.com/athensboyschoir $5, $7 at the door. 317-951-9100.

10 p.m.-2 a.m. Write On: The Poetry Spot Open Mike at 1111 W. 34th St., Indianapolis. $8 ($5 for poets). 317-250-5163 www.writeonthepoetryspot.com. Every Friday.

SATURDAY, AUG. 2
11:46 a.m. The Poets Weave on WFIU-FM (103.7), Bloomington. www.indiana.edu/~wfiu/poetsweave.htm

1 p.m. to 4 p.m. You Are Here: Adventures in Travel. Instructor: Sarah Layden. Location: Writers’ Center of Indiana, 812 E. 67th St., Indianapolis. Cost: $45 or $40 for Writers’ Center members. Whether you've taken an unforgettable trip or dream of future journeys, learn how to capture the details of place and experience through travel writing. We'll utilize the raw material of memory and observation; feel free to bring a photograph, guidebook or small piece of memorabilia (or borrow one from the instructor.) No matter if your destination is the next county, next country, or if you'll write for yourself or the public: this class will take you there. For information call 317-255-0710 or e-mail The Writers' Center. Web: Writers Center Classes

2 p.m.-5 p.m. The Humpback Barn Poets meet every Saturday in Room 201 in Bracken Library of Ball State University, Muncie. Parking is free in the garage east of the library. When the library is closed during BSU breaks, the alternative location will be the MT Cup on University Avenue. Bring poems to share or simply come to discuss poetry. Contact Jeff Pearson jjopcelia@comcast.net, 765-749-0731.

4 p.m. Art of the Matter on WFYI-FM (90.1) www.wfyi.org/artOfTheMatter.asp

SUNDAY, AUG. 3
5:30 p.m.-6 p.m. A Cycle of Poets on WFHB-FM (91.3 and 98.3), Bloomington.

7 p.m. WordSmiffs open mike at Mo'Joe Coffeehouse, 222 W. Michigan St., Indianapolis. Every first Sunday. For poetry and live music. $7 ($5 for open-mike participants.) Every first Sunday of the month. 317-250-6597.

8 p.m.-11 p.m. SpokenSoulFood Sundays at Midtown Arts & Coffee Lounge, 519 E. 38th St. (just east of Central Avenue), Indianapolis. Host: aLLEN iMAGERY. $5 cover. 317-223-1288 or www.myspace.com/midtownartscoffee. Every Sunday.

MONDAY, AUG. 4
7 p.m. Open mic and poetry slam. Zwanzigz Pizza, 1038 Lafayette Ave., Columbus. First Monday of the month. 812-376-0200. http://www.myspace.com/yespoetryslam

TUESDAY, AUG. 5
8 p.m. Poetry Salon, an evening of conversation and critique, led by Richard Pflum. 812 E. 67th St., Indianapolis (just west of the Indianapolis Art Center.Meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Bring copies of original poetry for feedback. 317-356-2048 or drahcir@indy.net.

9 p.m. Vocab at the Casba, 6319 Guilford Ave., Indianapolis. $2 if performing at open mike; $3 otherwise. Featured artist: Kahlil Jahiz. Host: Rebelle. 317-251-3138. Every first Tuesday of the month.

9 p.m. Spoke-N-Heard Tuesdays. Open mic at Center Stage Cafe, 970 Fort Wayne Ave., Indianapolis. Open mic for poets, musicians, rappers, comedians and writers. $5. 317-917-2233 or 317-506-6552.

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 6
6 p.m. Poetry on Brick Street presents David Shumate, followed by an open mic. Brick Street Inn, 175 S. Main St., Zionsville. Free. For information, call Barry Harris at 317-733-1811, or Susan Miller at 317-587-1438, or send an email to poetryonbrickstreet@cyberroad.com. Every first Wednesday of the month. Shumate’s work has appeared widely in literary journals andreviews as well as on The Writer’s Almanac, in Good Poems for Hard Times and in The Best American Poetry 2007. Shumate’s collection of prose poems, High Water Mark, (University of Pittsburgh Press , 2004) was awarded the 2003 Agnes Lynch Starrett prize. His second collection of prose poems, The Floating Bridge, has recently been released by the University of Pittsburgh Press.

THURSDAY, AUG. 7
6 p.m.-8 p.m. VOICE: Creative Writing for High School Students. Instructor: Rachel Sahaidachny. Location: Writers’ Center of Indiana, 812 E. 67th St., Indianapolis. Participants will engage in thinking and writing exercises guaranteed to generate ideas for stories and poems. Enrollment limited. For information call 317. 255-0710 or e-mail The Writers' Center. Free, every Thursday.

7 p.m.-9 p.m. Kafe Kuumba at The Way, an open mic, meets every Thursday from 7 to 9 p.m. at Scott United Methodist Church, 2153 Dr. Andrew J. Brown Ave. (formerly Martindale Ave.), Indianapolis. Free. Contact James Depp, 317-895-4919. Sponsored by Midtown Writers Association.

7 p.m.-9:30 p.m. In the Company of Shakespeare, An Evening of Poetry (open reading) at Lazy Daze Coffeehouse, 10 S. Johnson Ave., Indianapolis. Free. Every Thursday. 317-353-0777 or http://www.lazydazecoffeehouse.com.1/

10:30 p.m. Poetry slam at Skylight Hookah Lounge, 116 N. Third St., Lafayette. 765-429-8600. www.skylightcoffeehouse.com/showspage.htm. Every other Thursday.

AUG. 8-10
Fran Quinn poetry workshop: http://www.franquinnworkshops.com/. Quinn also offers private tutoring. For details, e-mail him at admin@franquinnworkshops.com.

FRIDAY, AUG. 8
7:30 p.m. Open Mic Night for Poetry & Music in the Underground 9 Studio at Bookmamas, 9 S. Johnson Ave., Indianapolis. Free. Every second Friday of the month.

10 p.m.-2 a.m. Write On: The Poetry Spot Open Mike at 1111 W. 34th St., Indianapolis. $8 ($5 for poets). 317-250-5163 www.writeonthepoetryspot.com. Every Friday.

SATURDAY, AUG. 9
11:46 a.m. The Poets Weave on WFIU-FM (103.7), Bloomington. www.indiana.edu/~wfiu/poetsweave.htm

1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Business Writing. Instructor: Robin Beery. Location: Writers’ Center of Indiana, 812 E. 67th St., Indianapolis. Cost: $45 or $40 for Writers’ Center members. This class will cover the basics of communicative writing in the workplace, including customer relations and sales letters, memos, and e-mails. In case you don't currently have a workplace, or are looking for a better one, it will also include an extensive look at application letters. Participants should bring a copy of their current resume or CV to use as a reference. For information call 317-255-0710 or e-mail The Writers' Center. Web: Writers Center Classes.

2 p.m.-5 p.m. The Humpback Barn Poets meet every Saturday in Room 201 in Bracken Library of Ball State University, Muncie. Parking is free in the garage east of the library. When the library is closed during BSU breaks, the alternative location will be the MT Cup on University Avenue. Bring poems to share or simply come to discuss poetry. Contact Jeff Pearson jjopcelia@comcast.net, 765-749-0731.

4 p.m. Art of the Matter on WFYI-FM (90.1) www.wfyi.org/artOfTheMatter.asp

7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The Indy Artists’ Peace Project—Live at the Bean Cup Coffee Shop, 8908 S. St. Peter St., Indianapolis, north of Greenwood Park Mall. An evening of performances reflecting themes of peace, nonviolence and social justice. Scheduled performers include Thomas Floyd (singer/songerwriter), Marshall Gibson (storyteller), Everett McKee (singer/songwriter), Dan Henkel (finger-style guitarist) and Jeff Matheus (poet). Host: writer/filmmaker Michelle Gussow. Free. For more info e-mail Jeff Matheus at jeffmatheus@hotmail.com or visit www.myspace.com/indyartistspeaceproject. Note: This is not an open mic.

SUNDAY, AUG. 10
5:30 p.m.-6 p.m. A Cycle of Poets on WFHB-FM (91.3 and 98.3), Bloomington.

7 p.m. An Evening With the Muse, an open mic and reading by poets published by Barry Harris’ Tipton Poetry Journal. Scheduled guests include Tracy Mishkin, Stephen R. Roberts, Michael E. Strosahl, Kevin McKelvey, James Murdock, Marlene Million, Richard Pflum and Rohana McCormack at the Writers' Center of Indiana, 812 E. 67th St., Indianapolis (in the Cultural Complex Center just west of the Indianapolis Arts Center). Host: Rohana McCormack, (317) 259-7900, rohanamccormack@sbcglobal.net. Every second Sunday of the month. The first issue of the Tipton Poetry Journal consisted of poems written by poets who had attended the Tipton Poetry Reading, which met monthly from 2002 through 2005. The readings usually featured a prominent Indiana poet, always included an open mic, and were attended by poets from the countryside and cities around Tipton. Although the monthly format no longer exists, Barry Harris conceived of the magazine,Tipton Poetry Journal, which evolved from the energy of those public readings.

8 p.m.-11 p.m. SpokenSoulFood Sundays at Midtown Arts & Coffee Lounge, 519 E. 38th St. (just east of Central Avenue), Indianapolis. Host: aLLEN iMAGERY. $5 cover. 317-223-1288 or www.myspace.com/midtownartscoffee. Every Sunday.

MONDAY, AUG. 11
1:30 p.m. The Friends of Poetry Club, an affiliate of Indiana State Federation of Poetry Clubs, meets at the Terre Haute Southland Library. Contact Rosemary Brown, 412 E. Wood St., Paris, IL 61944 or 217-465-4580. Meets every second Monday of the month.

TUESDAY, AUG. 12
9 p.m. Spoke-N-Heard Tuesdays. Open mic at Center Stage Cafe, 970 Fort Wayne Ave., Indianapolis. Open mic for poets, musicians, rappers, comedians and writers. $5. 317-917-2233 or 317-506-6552.

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 13
6 p.m. Coffee, Tea & Poetry group meeting at Noble Coffee & Tea in Noblesville. Contact Marlene Million at 317-796-1874. Meets every second Wednesday of the month.

THURSDAY, AUG. 14
6 p.m.-8 p.m. VOICE: Creative Writing for High School Students. Instructor: Rachel Sahaidachny. Location: Writers’ Center of Indiana, 812 E. 67th St., Indianapolis. Participants will engage in thinking and writing exercises guaranteed to generate ideas for stories and poems. Enrollment limited. For information call 317. 255-0710 or e-mail The Writers' Center. Free, every Thursday.

7 p.m.-9 p.m. Kafe Kuumba at The Way, an open mic, meets every Thursday from 7 to 9 p.m. at Scott United Methodist Church, 2153 Dr. Andrew J. Brown Ave. (formerly Martindale Ave.), Indianapolis. Free. Contact James Depp, 317-895-4919. Sponsored by Midtown Writers Association.

7 p.m.-9:30 p.m. In the Company of Shakespeare, An Evening of Poetry (open reading) at Lazy Daze Coffeehouse, 10 S. Johnson Ave., Indianapolis. Free. Every Thursday. 317-353-0777 or http://www.lazydazecoffeehouse.com/.

FRIDAY, AUG. 15
6 p.m. to 9 p.m: Poets For Change, a voter registration drive, will hold simultaneous open mics at 10 Indianapolis Starbucks. Free. Locations (and hosts) are:
1420 N Capitol Ave., (317) 686-1183 (Tasha Jones)
10800 Pendleton Pike, (317) 826-8252 (Sheila Chadwick)
854 Broad Ripple Ave., (317) 255-1624 (aLLEN iMAGERY)
3778 N Meridian St., (317) 920-8670 (‎Ike Boyd)
2910 N. College Ave., (317) 926-2435 (Reedi Garrett and Sharenia Long, youth)
5060 W. 38th St., (317) 299-3787‎ (Nsaychable)
1950 W. Kessler Blvd. #1, (317) 257-2031 ‎ (Metaphor and Niq, for youth)
6706 E. 82nd St., (317) 842-3225 (Creative Artist)
5702 E. Washington St., (317) 354-0927 (Lylanne Musselman)
5599 Emerson Way, (317) 253-2174 (Cymplycity)
Note: For information, contact Tasha Jones at iamtashajones@yahoo.com or 317-538-1874.

10 p.m.-2 a.m. Write On: The Poetry Spot Open Mike at 1111 W. 34th St., Indianapolis. $8 ($5 for poets). 317-250-5163 www.writeonthepoetryspot.com. Every Friday.

SATURDAY, AUG. 16
10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Getting Published in Literary Magazines. Instructor: Victoria Barrett. Location: Writers’ Center of Indiana, 812 E. 67th St., Indianapolis. Cost: $60 or $50 for Writers’ Center members. In this class, you'll learn how literary magazines work, how to match magazines with your work, how to understand submission guidelines, how to write great cover letters, and how to keep submission records efficiently. By the end, you'll be an expert at sending out your writing with confidence and style. (Bring a sack lunch, or plan to eat in nearby Broad Ripple.) For information call 317-255-0710 or e-mail The Writers' Center. Web: Writers Center Classes.

11:46 a.m. The Poets Weave on WFIU-FM (103.7), Bloomington. www.indiana.edu/~wfiu/poetsweave.htm

1 p.m. The awards ceremony for the 2008 Best Books of Indiana Contest at the Indiana State Library, 140 N. Senate Ave., Indianapolis. Free. Reception will follow. http://www.in.gov/library/2315.htm

2 p.m.-3 p.m. Linda Plahitko-Gosnell will read from her new book, The Nursing Home Poems, and will sign copies at Beech Grove Public Library, 1102 Main St., Beech Grove.

2 p.m.-5 p.m. The Humpback Barn Poets meet every Saturday in Room 201 in Bracken Library of Ball State University, Muncie. Parking is free in the garage east of the library. When the library is closed during BSU breaks, the alternative location will be the MT Cup on University Avenue. Bring poems to share or simply come to discuss poetry. Contact Jeff Pearson jjopcelia@comcast.net, 765-749-0731.

4 p.m. Art of the Matter on WFYI-FM (90.1) www.wfyi.org/artOfTheMatter.asp

CANCELED: 7 p.m. Poetry in the Café, an open-mike reading sponsored by the Indiana State Federation of Poetry Clubs, at Barnes & Noble, 14709 U.S. 31 North, Westfield. Free, the third Saturday of every month. Host: Michael E. Strosahl, 765-425-7792.

7:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Poetry Salon at Out Word Bound Bookstore, 625 N. East St., Indianapolis. Host Chi Sherman shares works by well-known authors as well as her own work. Followed by open mic. Free.317-951-9100 or www.myspace.com/chisherman.


SUNDAY, AUG. 17
5:30 p.m.-6 p.m. A Cycle of Poets on WFHB-FM (91.3 and 98.3), Bloomington.

8 p.m.-11 p.m. SpokenSoulFood Sundays at Midtown Arts & Coffee Lounge, 519 E. 38th St. (just east of Central Avenue), Indianapolis. Host: aLLEN iMAGERY. $5 cover. 317-223-1288 or www.myspace.com/midtownartscoffee. Every Sunday.

MONDAY, AUG. 18
7 p.m. Central Indiana Writers’ Association meeting at Oasis South, Ind. 135 and Smith Valley Road, Greenwood. For more information, contact Norma Gardner at njgardner2@att.net or Michael Rogers 317-784-2958. www.geocities.com/centralindianawritersassociation/agenda.html. Every third Monday of the month.

TUESDAY, AUG. 19
8 p.m. Poetry Salon, an evening of conversation and critique, led by Richard Pflum. 812 E. 67th St., Indianapolis (just west of the Indianapolis Art Center. Meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Bring copies of original poetry for feedback. 317-356-2048 or drahcir@indy.net.

9 p.m. Spoke-N-Heard Tuesdays. Open mic at Center Stage Cafe, 970 Fort Wayne Ave., Indianapolis. Open mic for poets, musicians, rappers, comedians and writers. $5. 317-917-2233 or 317-506-6552.

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 20
1:30 p.m. Anderson Poetry Corner, an affiliate of Indiana State Federation of Poetry Clubs, meets at the Anderson Public Library every third Wednesday of the month. Contact: Glenna Glee, poetgglee@sbcglobal.net or 765-642-3611.

7 p.m. Circle City Wordsmiths presents Open Mic Night at Barnes & Noble in Greenwood Mall. (Meet near the B&N Café.) Sign up at the B&N Customer Service Desk or register by phone at 317-859-8257. Writers may present a five-minute (maximum) reading of their work with an optional three-minute audience feedback. Material must be G-rated.

THURSDAY, AUG. 21
6 p.m.-8 p.m. VOICE: Creative Writing for High School Students. Instructor: Rachel Sahaidachny. Location: Writers’ Center of Indiana, 812 E. 67th St., Indianapolis. Participants will engage in thinking and writing exercises guaranteed to generate ideas for stories and poems. Enrollment limited. For information call 317. 255-0710 or e-mail The Writers' Center. Free, every Thursday.

7 p.m.-9 p.m. Kafe Kuumba at The Way, an open mic, meets every Thursday from 7 to 9 p.m. at Scott United Methodist Church, 2153 Dr. Andrew J. Brown Ave. (formerly Martindale Ave.), Indianapolis. Free. Contact James Depp, 317-895-4919. Sponsored by Midtown Writers Association.

7 p.m.-9:30 p.m. In the Company of Shakespeare, An Evening of Poetry (open reading) at Lazy Daze Coffeehouse, 10 S. Johnson Ave., Indianapolis. Free. Every Thursday. 317-353-0777 or http://www.lazydazecoffeehouse.com/.

10:30 p.m. Poetry slam at Skylight Hookah Lounge, 116 N. Third St., Lafayette. 765-429-8600. www.skylightcoffeehouse.com/showspage.htm. Every other Thursday.

FRIDAY, AUG. 22
6 p.m.-8 p.m. Fruitful Friday, a Christian venue for open mic poetry, at The Sanctuary Church, 955 Oliver Ave., Indianapolis. Admission: Freewill. Every fourth Friday of the month. Contact: Minister Theresa Edmonson, 317-205-7820.

9 p.m. "A Tribute to Working Men & Women for Labor Day," Fields of Bluegrass Radio Hour with host Carry Allen Fields, WICR-FM (88.7 FM), Indianapolis. Norbert Krapf's poems and bluegrass songs.

10 p.m.-2 a.m. Write On: The Poetry Spot Open Mike at 1111 W. 34th St., Indianapolis. $8 ($5 for poets). 317-250-5163 www.writeonthepoetryspot.com. Every Friday.

SATURDAY, AUG. 23
11:46 a.m. The Poets Weave on WFIU-FM (103.7), Bloomington. www.indiana.edu/~wfiu/poetsweave.htm

1 p.m. Poetry group at the John F. Kennedy Public Library, Muncie. Call Raleen Huston at 765-282-1050. Meets every fourth Saturday of the month.

2 p.m.-5 p.m. The Humpback Barn Poets meet every Saturday in Room 201 in Bracken Library of Ball State University, Muncie. Parking is free in the garage east of the library. When the library is closed during BSU breaks, the alternative location will be the MT Cup on University Avenue. Bring poems to share or simply come to discuss poetry. Contact Jeff Pearson jjopcelia@comcast.net, 765-749-0731.

4 p.m. Art of the Matter on WFYI-FM (90.1) www.wfyi.org/artOfTheMatter.asp

SUNDAY, AUG. 24
5 p.m.-7 p.m. God’s House of Poetry, Praise and the Spoken Word at Scott United Methodist Church, 2153 Dr. Andrew J. Brown Ave. (formerly Martindale Ave.), Indianapolis. Free. Contact Rev. James Anyike, 317-529-3768.

5:30 p.m.-6 p.m. A Cycle of Poets on WFHB-FM (91.3 and 98.3), Bloomington.

8 p.m.-11 p.m. SpokenSoulFood Sundays at Midtown Arts & Coffee Lounge, 519 E. 38th St. (just east of Central Avenue), Indianapolis. Host: aLLEN iMAGERY. $5 cover. 317-223-1288 or www.myspace.com/midtownartscoffee. Every Sunday.

MONDAY, AUG. 25
6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Children’s Picture Books: When Text Meets Art. Instructors: Rebecca Kai Dotlich and Sharon Vargo. Location: Writers’ Center of Indiana, 812 E. 67th St., Indianapolis. Cost: $100 or $85 for Writers’ Center members. First of two Monday evening classes. When text meets art, it creates a new world on the page--an expressive balance where each complements the other. Join poet/author Rebecca Kai Dotlich, and illustrator Sharon Vargo for a hands-on workshop in which participants will experience writing from an illustration, and sketching an illustration from a poem or prose quick-write. This is a great workshop for both writers and illustrators. No previous drawing experience needed. Please bring pencils, erasers, and a tablet. For information call 317. 255-0710 or e-mail The Writers' Center. Web: Writers Center Classes

7 p.m. Heartland Incantations features an open mic and members of the Indiana State Federation of Poetry Clubs at Beech Grove Public Library, 1102 Main St., Beech Grove. Free. Confirmed readers include Barry Harris, Michael Strosahl. Lylanne Musselman. (317) 788-4203.

TUESDAY, AUG. 26
9 p.m. Spoke-N-Heard Tuesdays. Open mic at Center Stage Cafe, 970 Fort Wayne Ave., Indianapolis. Open mic for poets, musicians, rappers, comedians and writers. $5. 317-917-2233 or 317-506-6552.

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 27
7 p.m. Airpoets Book Launch at the Indianapolis Arts Center, 820 E. 67th St., Indianapolis. Please join the Writers’ Center of Indiana for a celebration of Rivers, Rails and Runways, the first book from the Airpoets. The Airpoets formed as a result of the Writers’ Center’s call to poets for the project with glass artist Martin Donlin at the new Indianapolis International Midfield Terminal. Since then they have been meeting at the Writers’ Center to continue their collaboration. Dr. Carolyn Kreiter-Foronda, Poet Laureate of Virginia says the book “gains its strength from a juxtaposition of styles, each elegant and attuned to the rhythms of everyday life.” The five poets include Jeannie Deeter Smith, Norbert Krapf, Joe Heithaus, Ruthelen Burns and Joyce Brinkman. They will read and sign copies of the book, which is published by San Francisco Bay Press. Light refreshments will be served

8 p.m. Poetry slam at Melody Inn, 3826 N. Illinois St., Indianapolis. $50 to the winner. Every fourth Wednesday of the month. Host: Jason Ammerman. $3 cover. 317-923-4707.

THURSDAY, AUG. 28
6 p.m.-8 p.m. VOICE: Creative Writing for High School Students. Instructor: Rachel Sahaidachny. Location: Writers’ Center of Indiana, 812 E. 67th St., Indianapolis. Participants will engage in thinking and writing exercises guaranteed to generate ideas for stories and poems. Enrollment limited. For information call 317. 255-0710 or e-mail The Writers' Center. Free, every Thursday.

7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Writers Speak Volumes! A poetry/prose-no-need-for-a-mic open reading will meet on the fourth Thursday of every month at Bookmama's, 9 S. Johnson Ave., Indianapolis (in Irvington across the street from Lazy Daze Coffee House). Host: Lylanne Musselman Free. Participants can read their works, share a favorite poet or listen. lylanne22@yahoo.com

7 p.m.-9 p.m. Kafe Kuumba at The Way, an open mic, meets every Thursday from 7 to 9 p.m. at Scott United Methodist Church, 2153 Dr. Andrew J. Brown Ave. (formerly Martindale Ave.), Indianapolis. Free. Contact James Depp, 317-895-4919. Sponsored by Midtown Writers Association.

7 p.m.-9:30 p.m. In the Company of Shakespeare, An Evening of Poetry (open reading) at Lazy Daze Coffeehouse, 10 S. Johnson Ave., Indianapolis. Free. Every Thursday. 317-353-0777 or http://www.lazydazecoffeehouse.com/.

FRIDAY, AUG. 29
10 p.m.-2 a.m. Write On: The Poetry Spot Open Mike at 1111 W. 34th St., Indianapolis. $8 ($5 for poets). 317-250-5163 www.writeonthepoetryspot.com. Every Friday.

SATURDAY, AUG. 30
10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Point of View. Instructor: Alicia Rasley. Location: Writers’ Center of Indiana, 812 E. 67th St., Indianapolis. Cost: $60 or $50 for Writers’ Center members. Point of view is the way the reader experiences the story--by becoming, if only for a moment, the characters. By learning to use point of view, you can improve the reader's experience, enhance character identification, and increase the interactivity of your plot. In this interactive workshop, Alicia Rasley will guide you through exercises that will teach you how you can use POV to add power to your voice, your plot, and your characterization. For information call 317-255-0710 or e-mail The Writers' Center. Web: Writers Center Classes.

11:46 a.m. The Poets Weave on WFIU-FM (103.7), Bloomington. www.indiana.edu/~wfiu/poetsweave.htm

2 p.m.-5 p.m. The Humpback Barn Poets meet every Saturday in Room 201 in Bracken Library of Ball State University, Muncie. Parking is free in the garage east of the library. When the library is closed during BSU breaks, the alternative location will be the MT Cup on University Avenue. Bring poems to share or simply come to discuss poetry. Contact Jeff Pearson jjopcelia@comcast.net, 765-749-0731.

4 p.m. Art of the Matter on WFYI-FM (90.1) www.wfyi.org/artOfTheMatter.asp

SUNDAY, AUG. 31
3 p.m. The Garfield Poetry Circle will meet at the Garfield Park Arts Center, located in the center of the park on Indianapolis’ Southside. Host: Mike Rogers, mikerogersciwa@aol.com.

5:30 p.m.-6 p.m. A Cycle of Poets on WFHB-FM (91.3 and 98.3), Bloomington.

6 p.m.-7 p.m. The Indy Artists' Peace Project presents "Mightier Than the Sword--Words & Music Against War" at the Indy Fringe Fesitival, Mass Avenue Tent Stage (748 Massachussetts Avenue, Indianapolis). Featuring performances by Thomas Floyd (singer/songwriter, acoustic rock), Jeff Matheus (poet), Jason Chaplin (Native American wood flute), Jody Rust (poet).

8 p.m.-11 p.m. SpokenSoulFood Sundays at Midtown Arts & Coffee Lounge, 519 E. 38th St. (just east of Central Avenue), Indianapolis. Host: aLLEN iMAGERY. $5 cover. 317-223-1288 or www.myspace.com/midtownartscoffee. Every Sunday.

Next month:
http://jlkatocalendar.blogspot.com/2008/08/september-2008.html

Mailing list for calendar of events

Some of you know that I compile a calendar of events. And that I've been e-mailing it to about 100 people (mostly poets).

It started in 2001 as my personal calendar as I began attending readings, slams, classes and workshops. After a few friends wanted me to share the calendar with them, I began posting it on a Web site called IndyBookings. When I began to have some issues with the company that hosted my Web site, I decided to go the e-mail route. But now I'm thinking of posting a month's worth on this blog. So beginning next month, look for the calendar on this blog. I'll title it by month and year. That way, I can easily update it and everyone will have access to the latest changes. Look for the first one on Aug. 1.

UPDATE: On second thought, the better thing to do is to post a link to another site that lists the monthly calendars. That way, no superlong posts will clutter this site. I'll be working on this, and I'll let you know when you can access the site.

I'm published, sort of ... I think ...

I received the following e-mail today:

Dear Mr. JL. Kato: I am very happy to tell you that my essay on you and your poems, translated and written in Japanese, for Japanese poets, has been published.The poems I quoted and translated: "Festival of Dolls" and "Banzai" (part). The poetry magazine: Poetry and Thoughts (No. 265, August 2008.pp.83-85.) Thank you very much for your splendid poems and your permission of my translating them. With my respect, Noriko* Today I am sending you one copy, on postal mail.

That's great! I'm going to receive a magazine that I can't read! (For those of you who don't know me, I was born in Japan but was raised in the United States since the age of 2. I can't speak or read Japanese, even though my early poems deal with getting in touch with my long lost heritage.)

How Noriko first read my poem "Festival of Dolls" is an example of circumstances falling in place. I had publicly read the poem, about the social aftermath of the atomic bombs, after making the acquaintance of a visiting Japanese poet. She asked for a copy and took it back to Japan, where she showed Noriko.

So Noriko contacted me early this year and asked for another poem, with the goal of translation in mind.

So, what am I going to do when I receive the magazine?

Kokomo Poetry Club disbands

I received this message last weekend from James Murdock:

As the old saying goes, "something has got to give." After ample consideration of the demands upon my time I have decided to no longer host the Kokomo Poetry Club meetings. I'm so busy most days that I don't have enough time to write, let alone properly organize and lead a club on a consistant basis. ... If someone steps forward to lead the club I'll make sure they contact you about the meetings.

I know exactly how James feels. I've been involved as host for several poetry gatherings -- readings or what not, and it's discouraging after spending much time, energy and money to promote an event that attracts only one or two people. (But hey,that's better than none--which has happened a few times.)

I have to admit, I never made it to the Kokomo Poetry Club meetings, so I don't know what the turnout was. Driving more than 50 miles from home on a weeknight is not something I do lightly. But perhaps I could have made at least one of the meetings.

No honors for Indiana poets

The Indiana Center for the Book has announced the finalists for the best poetry book for 2008. Eligible were books and authors with Indiana connections published in 2007, such as Matthew Graham's A World Without End, Donald Platt's My Father Says Grace, Mari Evans' Continuum: New and Selected Poems, Norman Minnick's To Taste the Water and David Shumate's The Floating Bridge, to name a few. In the past competions, Jared Carter, Karen Kovacik and Shumate won honors for their collections.

And the finalists for this year are -- NO ONE.

I disagree strongly with the judges' recommendations that no one receive an award this year. The only reasons I can see such a thing happening is either a deadlock occurred and/or flaws in the nominating process discouraged nominations and created a small pool of quality entrants.

Under rules of nomination, several books have to be donated the center to be judged. And with no prize money offered, what's the incentive to do so?

To avoid this happening, here are some recommendations that the competition's organizers might want to consider:

1.) Don't depend on authors and publishers to nominate their own works. Be proactive and consider books by established authors. One of these years, the center will be embarrassed when a local author wins a national honor but wasn't even considered by the judging committee.

2.) Instead of asking for several nonreturnable books, accept manuscripts or photocopies. I know that this is not desirable from the standpoint of reading the entries, but it should help in winnowing out books in the early judgiing process. Later, actual books might be requested for judging -- or better yet purchased.

3.) Offer prize money to the winners! Give an incentive to enter.

UPDATE (8-8-08): It dawned on me that after the first year of the Best Books of Indiana Competition, the list of finalists in the poetry category has been shrinking each year.

In 2005, the three fnalists were High Water Mark (David Shumate), Poems: New & Selected (Marianne Boruch), and 103 in the Light (Mary Sexson).

In 2006, just two finalists were named: Metropolis Burning (Karen Kovacik) and Night Highway (Barbara Koons).

In 2007, just one finalist was chosen: Cross this Bridge at a Walk (Jared Carter).

In 2008, no finalists.

So, does this mean in 2009, we start giving back a previous award?

Obviously, the rules for considering poetry finalists need to be changed.

Revelries & Reveries: Adult Poetry Workshop

Revelries & Reveries: Adult Poetry Workshop (first of 11 Thursday sessions) begins on Sept. 4 (7 p.m.to 9:30 p.m.).

Facilitator: Alessandra Lynch. Location: Big Hat Books, 922 Westfield Blvd., Indianapolis (in Broad Ripple).

Requisite texts: Contemporary American Poetry, 8th ed., edited by A. Poulin & Michael Waters and
In the Palm of Your Hand, by Steve Kowit.

Cost: $330.

Contact: alessandralynch@aol.com, (317) 925-2282.


“Whether you are a novice or an experienced poet, this poetry workshop will give you the opportunity to share your passion for language. Here, we will explore a poem’s possibilities and pitfalls and discuss the particular delights and challenges of the art and craft of poetry. The group will help you make and shape your own poems through rigorous and compassionate critiquing. In addition to weekly discussion of your own poems, we will also peruse primarily contemporary poets and muse over poetical devices and techniques. I will also be happy to provide you with a variety of writing prompts and exercises to help you fine-tune your diction, images, music, figurative language, syntax, line breaks, et al.”

Lynch, author of Sails the Wind Left Behind (Alice James Books, 2002) and It was a terrible cloud at twilight (Pleiades Press, 2008), has been teaching creative writing and poetry classes for nearly 15 years. Currently she teaches at Butler University. She earned an MFA in poetry from the Iowa Writers’ Workshop, has received residencies at the MacDowell Colony for the Arts and the Corporation of Yaddo, and been nominated for the Pushcart Prize.

For a sample of Lynch's poetry: http://www.alicejamesbooks.org/lynch_poem.html

Poetry & Music series

The American Cabaret Theatre and new Indiana Poet Laureate Norbert Krapf have announced a new series called Together Again: Music & Poetry. All performances will take place in the American Cabaret Theatre, 401 E. Michigan St., Indianapolis. 317-631-0334 or http://www.actindy.org/.

The schedule:
7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 4, 2008: A Call for Peace. $5.
Krapf and jazz pianist and composer Monika Herzig, along with Tom Roznowski and the Living Daylights, will perform songs and poems of war and peace.

7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13, 2008: A Knight of Etheridge. $5.
A dozen or so local poets, backed by jazz musicians Larry Clark (drums), Frank Smith (bass) and Carl Hines (piano), will pay tribute to the late poet Etheridge Knight of Indianapolis.

7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 12: Love Songs & Poems for Your Valentine. $25 couples, $15 individuals. Must reserve tickets in advance by calling ACT at 317-631-0334 or visiting the box office at 401 E. Michigan St.

Krapf, Herzig and vocalist Wendy Reed in an evening of traditiona love songs and original poems.

7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 23: Folk and More. $5.
Krapf will recite several poems during performances by singer-songwriter Greg Ziesemer, Kriss Luckett and Kate Lamony with blueprintmusic.

Poets for Change

Poets For Change, a voter registration drive, will hold simultaneous open mics at 10 Indianapolis Starbucks from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 15. Free.

Locations (and hosts) are:
1420 N Capitol Ave., (317) 686-1183 (Tasha Jones)
10800 Pendleton Pike, (317) 826-8252 (Sheila Chadwick)
854 Broad Ripple Ave., (317) 255-1624 (Allen Imagery)
3778 N Meridian St., (317) 920-8670 (Ike Boyd)
2910 N. College Ave., (317) 926-2435 (Reedi Garrett and Sharenia Long, for youth)
5060 W. 38th St., (317) 299-3787? (Nsaychable)
1950 W. Kessler Blvd. #1, (317) 257-2031 (?)
6706 E. 82nd St, (317) 842-3225 (?)
5702 E. Washington St, (317) 354-0927 (?)
5599 Emerson Way, (317) 253-2174 (?)

Note: Hosts are being sought for the final four listed Starbucks. If interested, e-mail Tasha Jones at iamtashajones@yahoo.com

Although this is supposed to be a nonpartisan event, due to the corporate sponsorship, participants should be aware that representatives from the Barack Obama, Andre Carson and Jill Long Thompson campaigns (all Democrats) will be on hand to register voters.

I'm somewhat skeptical that there are enough interested poets and spoken-word artists to fill three hours at the 10 simultaneous open mics. That's 30 hours of open time. Unless there's an organized caravan of performers traveling to each location, expect a lot of down time at the mic. Nonetheless, I applaud Tasha for taking on this audacious, daring project.

(Note: Not that anyone cares, but I'll be out of town when this event happens. I wish everyone luck.)

Update here: http://jlkato.blogspot.com/2008/08/poets-4-change-update.html

The Flying Island, spring/summer 2008

THE FLYING ISLAND: The spring/summer 2008 issue of The Flying Island is now available for $5 from the Writers' Center of Indiana.

This issue’s contributors include poets Verna Austen, Tony Brewer, Michael Brockley, Sally Carter, Terry Cunningham, Jeb Andersen Frisham, Barry Harris, W. Edward Harris, Rebecca Hill, Karen Kovacik, Norbert Krapf, Elizabeth Krajeck, Linda Lee, Rebecca Lilly, Bonnie Maurer, Kathy Mayer, Tracy Mishkin, Roger Mitchell, Lylanne Musselman, Jeffrey Owen Pearson, Roger Pfingston, Katharine Rauk, Stephen R. Roberts, David Shumate, Michael E. Strosahl, Dorothy Summers, Teresa Wyeth, Shari Wagner and Hiromi Yoshida. Fiction writers are E.M. Dalton, Robert Erikson, Shasta Grant and Andrew Scott.

The deadline for submissions for the spring/summer 2009 issue is Nov. 30.