TABLE OF CONTENTS_______________________________________
- Quotes
- Poem of the Month
- Book of the Month
- Website of the Month
- News Items / Writing Workshops
- Poetry Calendar for June
- Subscription and Contact Information
I:__QUOTES________________________________________________
In poetry, you must love the words, the ideas and the images and rhythms with all your capacity to love anything at all.
– Wallace Stevens
Deprivation is for me what daffodils were for Wordsworth.
– Philip Larkin
Many of my shortest and seemingly simple poems took years to get right. I tinker with most of my poems even after publication. I expect to be revising in my coffin as it is being lowered into the ground.
– Charles Simic
II:__POEM OF THE MONTH__________________________________
THIRTEEN WAYS OF LOOKING AT A BLACKBIRD
Wallace Stevens (1879 - 1955)
I
Among twenty snowy mountains,
The only moving thing
Was the eye of the blackbird.
II
I was of three minds,
Like a tree
In which there are three blackbirds.
III
The blackbird whirled in the autumn winds.
It was a small part of the pantomime.
IV
A man and a woman
Are one.
A man and a woman and a blackbird
Are one.
V
I do not know which to prefer,
The beauty of inflections
Or the beauty of innuendoes,
The blackbird whistling
Or just after.
VI
Icicles filled the long window
With barbaric glass.
The shadow of the blackbird
Crossed it, to and fro.
The mood
Traced in the shadow
An indecipherable cause.
VII
O thin men of Haddam,
Why do you imagine golden birds?
Do you not see how the blackbird
Walks around the feet
Of the women about you?
VIII
I know noble accents
And lucid, inescapable rhythms;
But I know, too,
That the blackbird is involved
In what I know.
IX
When the blackbird flew out of sight,
It marked the edge
Of one of many circles.
X
At the sight of blackbirds
Flying in a green light,
Even the bawds of euphony
Would cry out sharply.
XI
He rode over Connecticut
In a glass coach.
Once, a fear pierced him,
In that he mistook
The shadow of his equipage
For blackbirds.
XII
The river is moving.
The blackbird must be flying.
XIII
It was evening all afternoon.
It was snowing
And it was going to snow.
The blackbird sat
In the cedar-limbs.
III:__BOOK OF THE MONTH_________________________________
Each month we highlight a book of poetry by a Connecticut author.
THE WEATHERING: NEW AND SELECTED POEMS
by Rennie McQuilkin
Culled from what McQuilkin considers the most lasting of his poems, the work in this New & Selected displays both the weathering of the poet, who has reached his seventy-third year, and the extent to which he and those he admires have weathered the worst life has thrown at them. The folk McQuilkin admires are a rare and wonderful lot. The book is a cornucopia of characters. It is also a cornucopia of moods and motifs, ranging from humor to horror, sometimes in the same poem; combining hope and despair, sensuality and spirituality, fury at a fierce father and reconciliation with him; passionate involvement in the work-a-day world and an equally passionate affair with the world of art, which inspired many of the poems in The Weathering. Throughout the book, there is rare honesty and willingness to face hard facts, some of them being the poet’s own shortcomings. Above all, there is love, not for himself as much as for the immediate and mediate members of his family, which begins at home and extends to all manner of creatures, some of them animal, vegetable and mineral. Along with love comes the equal and opposite force of rage, rage at lovelessness. This is a book for all seasons.
About the book, Eamon Grennan said, “Quietly vigilant, affectionate yet scrupulous and at times humorously wry, the poems in The Weathering—in their landscapes and dreamscapes, their weathers, their swift erotic swerves, their family of loved ones, their undimmed, perpetual relish for the things of nature and the things of man—give, in form and content, language and matter, continuous pleasure.”
Gray Jacobik adds, “Rennie McQuilkin writes in the gracious and prized practice of poetry’s high calling, the American Romantic tradition. The poems in The Weathering, a gathering of new and selected work, excel in conception, execution, passion, and musicality.”
Richard Wilbur has praised McQuilkin’s new book, his tenth, for its “unostentatious brilliance of structure” and “seemingly offhand way of threading thought through its particulars.”
Rennie McQuilkin’s poetry has been published by The Atlantic Monthly, Poetry, The American Scholar, The Southern Review, The Yale Review, The Hudson Review, Crazyhorse, and other journals. He is the author of ten poetry collections, two of which have won awards, and has received fellowships from the National Endowment for the Arts as well as the State of Connecticut. For many years he directed the Sunken Garden Poetry Festival at Hill-Stead Museum in Farmington, CT, and subsequently founded Antrim House Books, which publishes the work of Northeastern poets. In 2003 he received the Connecticut Center for the Book’s Lifetime Achievement Award. He and his wife, the artist Sarah McQuilkin, live in Simsbury, CT.
$23.50 Antrim House (ISBN: 978-0-9798451-7-8)
Rennie will be reading in Waterbury on June 17. See the Poetry Calendar below for details.
IV:__WEBSITE OF THE MONTH______________________________
CONNECTICUT POETRY FESTIVALS
There are two poetry festivals in Connecticut this month, the well-known Sunken Garden Poetry Festival at the Hill-Stead Museum in Farmington, and the second Riverwood Poetry Festival at numerous venues around the Greater Hartford area.
The Sunken Garden Poetry Festival, from the website: “Since 1992, audiences have enjoyed verse and music among the fragrant blooms of Hill-Stead’s Sunken Garden. This performance series has featured the likes of Billy Collins, Yusef Komunyakaa, Maxine Kumin and Grace Paley. Festivities include a ‘plein air’ café and bookstore and meet-the-poet opportunities.” www.hillstead.org/activities/poetry.html
The Riverwood Poetry Series has innovated many programs, such as the Riverwood Poetry Festival and last year’s Connecticut Beat Poetry Festival, since its inception in 1997, all of them free to the public. The details of this year’s Riverwood Poetry Festival are still being finalized, so be sure to check the web site for changes. www.riverwoodpoetry.org
V:__NEWS ITEMS / WRITING WORKSHOPS____________________
Saturday, June 11 2009
10:00am - 5:00pm
WALLACE STEVENS WALK DEDICATION
The Wallace Stevens Walk is complete! It’s been over ten years in the making, but the Wallace Stevens Walk, which consists of 13 stone markers installed along the two miles Stevens walked from home to office, has been completed. The self-guided course of The Wallace Stevens Walk is marked by Connecticut granite stones, each uniquely carved and engraved with a stanza from Stevens' poem, “Thirteen Ways of Looking at a Blackbird.” On June 11, there will be a formal opening and dedication. (See the Poetry Calendar below.) The walk was made possible by the Hartford Financial Services Group and many generous donors.
Visit www.wesleyan.edu/wstevens/stevens.html for more details.
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Saturday, June 14 2009
10:00am - 5:00pm
SUNDAY WRITING RETREATS
with Sharon Charde
Many of us sense that there are stories within us that need to be told, but cannot find the time, space or circumstances in our busy lives to do so. This series of Sunday writing retreats with Sharon Charde will provide that opportunity. The retreats are intense community writing experiences. Together we create a safe and supportive writing environment that encourages risks we would never take alone. We are fed by the listening of others, the rest from our busy lives, the delicious lunch. There is no critical feedback, only focused attention and deep acceptance.
The group is limited to eight women, many who attend on a regular basis. The cost is $75 per session, or $60 if you sign up for four or more. Remaining dates for 2009 are 6/14, 7/12, 8/16, 10/18, 11/15, and 12/13. (In October the annual Block Island Writing Retreat will be held from Friday, Oct.2 - Sunday, Oct. 4). The location is Lakeville, CT, at the home of Sharon Charde. See her web site (www.SharonCharde.com) for more information and testimonials from women who have attended in the past. Write her at sharchar@sbcglobal.net to register or to ask other questions.
VI:__POETRY CALENDAR FOR JUNE_______________________
Monday, June 1 2009
6:30pm
ARTEMIS RISING
Come enjoy and evening of eclectic poetry with the members of the renowned poetry group Artemis Rising: Eileen Albrizio, Priscilla Herrington, Terri Klein, Suzy Lamson, Mary Elizabeth Lang, Suzanne Niedzielska, Paula Panzarella, Victoria Rivas, and Linda Yuhas.
Sponsored by Faxon Library
Faxon Library
1073 New Britain Ave
West Hartford, CT
860-523-5545
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Monday, June 1 2009
7:00pm
THE LOVE JONES EXPERIENCE
Spoken Word and Song event. All poets welcome.
$5.00 cover. Hosted by Darlene Brandon Scott.
The Russell
103 Pratt Street
Hartford, CT
www.therussell.net
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Monday, June 1 2009
7:30pm
ANYTHING GOES!
Anything Goes! for this open mike - spoken word, poetry etc. We have a piano and congas. Refreshments available.
Hosted by Jennifer Shafer Wood. Meets every Monday.
7:30pm sign up; 8:00pm start. $3.00 donation.
The Buttonwood Tree
605 Main Street
Middletown, CT
860-347-4957
thebuttonwoodtree@gmail.com
www.buttonwood.org
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Monday, June 1 2009
7:30pm - 9:00pm
POETRY BEAT
Poetry open mike at Las Vetas Lounge.
Las Vetas Lounge
1462 Post Road
Fairfield, CT
203-255-1958
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Monday, June 1 2009
9:00pm
BEATNIK 2000
Music and poetry every Monday night, hosted by Ed Leonard. No Cover.
www.cafenine.com/schedule.html
Cafe 9
250 State Street
New Haven, CT
203-789-8281
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Tuesday, June 2 2009
7:00pm - 9:00pm
FIRST TUESDAY POETRY (Middletown)
featuring Victoria Rivas
Victoria Rivas has been published in many journals, including, in the Journal of Asian Martial Arts, a poem about her other passion, martial arts. Poems about her hometown, Erie, PA, have been included in two anthologies, Working Hard for the Money and Along the Lake. Recent publications include poems about her math students, “Keisha’s Gone” placed 43rd in the 77th Writer’s Digest Annual Writing Competition. “Balancing Equation” was published in The Cleave poetry webzine. She has one chapbook, Doing Laundry, and is working on a new book, Yo Miss! I Need a Pencil, which includes poetry and prose.
Victoria was on the board of directors for the 8th Annual National Poetry Slam Championship & 1997 Connecticut Poetry Festival, and the 2001 and 2003 Connecticut Poetry Festivals. She was also an alternate on the 1998 CT Slam Team.
Broad Street Books hosts a monthly poetry reading, First Tuesday Poetry Series, with a featured poet followed by an open mike, on the first Tuesday of every month at 7:00pm. Admission is free.
45 Broad Street
Middletown, CT
Broad Street Books
For more information, contact Brian Mitchard at 860-685-READ
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Tuesday, June 2 2009
7:30pm
POEMALLEY at Curley’s Diner
Read poetry, discuss writing and other topics of interest.
Curley’s Diner
62 West Park Place
Stamford, CT
203-327-3716
ayarmal@earthlink.net
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Wednesday, June 3 2009
6:30pm
GEMMA MATHEWSON
Local poet Gemma Mathewson’s poetry explores diverse themes and styles, and is witty, engaging and playful. Gemma has been published in Caduceus 6, The Poets at Art Place, and in Re-Markings, a Biannual Journal of Letters, Chandigarh, India. A poem of hers was dramatized in Plays and Poetry by the East Haddam players. She is a long-time member of the Shoreline Cluster Poets and a recent member of the Connecticut Poetry Society.
Gemma resides in Guilford, CT, and was the director of Nursery On Notch Hill in Branford for seventeen years. She has recently worked and volunteered at I-Park, a multi-discipline artist residency retreat in East Haddam, and is also a published fantasy illustrator.
Schafer Community Room
Edward Smith Library
3 Old Post Rd (junction of Rt. 17 and Rt. 22)
Northford, CT
To sign up for this program, please stop in or call 203-484-0469.
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Wednesday, June 3 2009
7:30pm - 10:00pm
WEDNESDAY NIGHT POETRY SERIES
featuring Norah Pollard & a Favorite Poem Project Reading
We have something of a double feature tonight. One is Norah Pollard: According to Atrium House, poet Norah Pollard, who holds an M.A. in English from the University of Rhode Island, has been variously “a folk singer, waitress, nanny, teacher, solderer, and print shop calligrapher.” She currently works for a Bridgeport steel company. In 1983 she received the Academy of American Poets Prize from the University of Bridgeport, and for several years was editor of The Connecticut River Review. She lives in Stratford, Connecticut.
She’s also daughter of “Seabiscuit’s” jockey, Red Pollard, and has written a collection of poems called Leaning In from Atrium House, which speak to her early life, as well as about her father. The book has excellent reviews from Dick Allen and Rennie McQuilkan, among others.
The other is a community reading of America’s favorite poetry which is a part of the Favorite Poem Project started by Robert Pinsky in 1997 when he was poet laureate of the United States. Bring a poem that is NOT YOUR OWN, a masterwork poem by a famous poet, hopefully one that sparked your interest in poetry, or that speaks to you in some deep way. During the open mike which precedes Norah Pollard’s reading you will get to share your favorite poem. Is your taste Longfellow, Whitman, Sandburg, Poe, Shakespeare, Clifton, Ashberry? Whatever your favorite famous poem bring it to share with our Wednesday Night Poetry Community.
WNPS, the longest running weekly poetry series in Connecticut, boasts an open mike, feature poets, a Q&A with the feature, and a poetry critique workshop. For more info, visit the website: www.wedpoetry.net.
Molten Java Coffee Roasters, LLC
102 Greenwood Avenue
Bethel, CT
203-739-0313
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Wednesday, June 3 2009
9:30pm - 11:00pm
POETRY NITE at the Huntington Street Café
Poetry Nite every Wednesday at the Huntington Street Café. Run by Sammy and Natalie, it’s open to everyone. Stop by to check the scene or even read a little something. Walk in and you’ll be added to the list.
Email Pollie_Vack@yahoo.com for info.
Huntington Street Café
90 Huntington Street
Shelton, CT
203-925-9064
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Thursday, June 4 2009
7:00pm
CURBSTONE PRESS READING SERIES
with Melanie Greenhouse and Jude Rittenhouse.
Melanie Greenhouse, poet & playwright, lives and writes on the outskirts of Noank village, a place that inspired her to write, produce and direct two plays based on local history. She participates in Roundtable, a consortium of local playwrights whose work is produced around the country. From 1994 to 2004 she coordinated the Arts Café~Mystic music and literary series that continues at the Mystic Art Center. The Connecticut Commission on the Arts named her a “Distinguished Advocate of the Arts” in March, 2003.
Jude Rittenhouse is an award-winning writer and finalist for the 2003 and 2007 Pablo Neruda Prize for Poetry, and has received an honorable mention in the 2002 Emily Dickinson Awards. In addition to her holistic practice, Integrated Healing Services, Jude teaches at conferences, retreats, schools, hospitals, alternative health centers, and domestic violence shelters, among other places. She has been a speaker and presenter for literary audiences, cancer survivors, spiritual gatherings, high school and college students, as well as a variety of other groups. Her book, Living In Skin, will be available at the reading.
The reading will begin at 7:00 pm, after which the readers will be available for questions and discussion.
Hygienic Art continues its evenings of monthly poetry readings in association with Curbstone Press from Willimantic on the first Thursday of the month. This reading is sponsored by the Robert N. Rue Education Fund at Curbstone Press, established in honor of Dr. Rue, who died in September 2007, honoring his lifelong commitment to education and good writing.
Hygienic Galleries
79-83 Bank Street
New London, CT
860-443-8001
www.hygienic.org
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Thursday, June 4 2009
7:00pm - 10:00pm
THURSDAY NIGHT POETRY
Open Mike Poetry Reading at Bean & Leaf. Old poets read, new voices heard. A new venue with “a killer sound system and lots of delicious teas and coffee and pastries.” Visit the website for more information: www.bean-leaf.com.
Bean & Leaf cafe
13 Washington St.
New London, CT
860-701-0000
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Friday, June 5 2009
6:00pm
OPEN MIKE FRIDAY
There is an open mike each Friday at LaSalle Market. Poets, musicians, local talent of any type is invited. Stop by and check it out—then show us what you’ve got.
LaSalle Market
104 Main Street
Collinsville, CT
www.lasallemarket.com
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Sunday, June 7 2009
2:00pm - 4:00pm
BEAN & LEAF OPEN MIKE POETRY READING
hosted by Tom Weigel
Old poets read, new voices heard in a new venue with “a killer sound system and lots of delicious teas and coffee and pastries.” Visit the website for more information.
Bean & Leaf Cafe
13 Washington St.
New London, CT
860-701-0000
www.bean-leaf.com
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Sunday, June 7 2009
3:00pm
TOWARD A FUTURE EARTH: New Poetry from Native American Voices
Join Marilyn Nelson, founder of Soul Mountain Retreat in East Haddam, and her poets-in-residence for a reading of new work. The roster of Native American poets includes Santee Frazier, Jennifer Foerster, Travis Hedge Coke, dg okpik, Lara Mann, and James Stevens.
Free with Museum admission.
Florence Griswold Museum
96 Lyme Street
Old Lyme, CT
860-434-5542
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Sunday, June 7 2009
3:00pm - 5:00pm
EILEEN ALBRIZIO & FRIENDS: An Afternoon of Poetry and Book Signing.
Join prize-winning former broadcast journalist, poet and author Eileen Albrizio for an author talk and book signing. Joining Eileen, the 2003 and 2008 recipient of the Individual Artist Fellowships for Poetry from the Greater Hartford Arts Council, will be many other authors, listed below. Don’t miss this rare opportunity!
Also featuring:
- Connie & Eileen Albrizio (as a Mother-Daughter poetry team)
- Mel Hawthorn (Historical Fiction)
- Denis Horgan (Memoir & Contemporary Fiction)
- Jan Mann (Travel & Recipes)
- Patricia Sheehey (Gift-Giving and Contemporary Fiction)
- Carol Shmurak (Murder Mysteries & Young Adult)
Free admission. Refreshments will be served.
The Buttonwood Tree
605 Main Street
Middletown, CT
860-347-4957
thebuttonwoodtree@gmail.com
www.buttonwood.org
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Sunday, June 7 2009
4:30pm - 6:00pm
POETRY POTLUCK AT THE SANCTUARY
Do you love poetry? Would you like to be part of an ongoing poetry discussion group offering food for the mind and the heart? If so, come and join us on the this first Sunday of August at The Sanctuary in East Haddam to discuss poetry and build community.
This is not about sharing our own work but instead offers us a chance to share the work of poets we love, so you don’t have to be a poet to be part of this group. Just come and bring your love of poetry and a poem you would like to share.
Hosted by Greg Coleman, Suzy Lamson, and Edwina Trentham.
The Sanctuary at Shepardfields
59 Bogel Road
East Haddam, CT
(From Daniels Road, turn left onto Bogel, then look for the “Labyrinth & Yurt” sign. It’s a dirt driveway.)
For more information call 860-319-1134 or visit www.sanctuaryatshepardfields.org. Pass this along to anyone you think might be interested in being part of this discussion group. This is a different type of poetry event. Instead of a particular feature or an open mike where we read our own poetry, this is a gathering to read aloud some of your favorite poems - those not written by you. In a way, it’s like a poetry salon, a sharing of the poetic intellect. We’ve called it a “Poetry Potluck” because whoever comes will bring something different to it. (There will be foodstuffs of cookies and hot drinks available.)
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Monday, June 8 2009
7:00pm
THE LOVE JONES EXPERIENCE
Spoken Word and Song event. All poets welcome.
$5.00 cover. Hosted by Darlene Brandon Scott.
The Russell
103 Pratt Street
Hartford, CT
www.therussell.net
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Monday, June 8 2009
7:15pm
MONDAY NIGHT POETRY in STAMFORD
featuring Faith Vicinanza
WNPS (Wednesday Night Poetry Series) founder Faith Vicinanza, our current bookings curator and the former executive director of the Series. She is a poet, educator (a CT Master Teaching Artist), visiting artist (PoetTs, Inc.), editor (The CT Poet, The Underwood Review), publisher (Hanover Press), event facilitator/creator (the Connecticut Poetry Festival), nature photographer, Information Technologies Consultant, I.T. Management Consultant, and web site developer. She's read from "San Francisco to Stockholm" and has several books of poetry out including one from Pudding House Press. Her work has been published in The Paterson Review, The Connecticut River Review, The Red Brick Review, The Fairfield Review, in Dogwood, on the CT Authors & Publishers Assoc. web, in Poetry Slam - The Competitive Art of Performance Poetry, In The Raw, Poetry Superhighway, and Selected Poems From The Daily Grind, among many others. She and her late husband Peter rode touring bicycles from Key West Florida to St. Stephens, Canada and a book on their three-month journey is in the works.
Her personal website can be found at www.faithvicinanza.net.
Monday Night Poetry meets on the second Monday of each month at Barnes & Noble Bookstore in Stamford Town Center. Please come and listen to local poets, bring a favorite poem, or read your own.
Barnes & Noble Booksellers
Stamford Town Center
100 Greyrock Place Suite H009
Stamford, CT
203-323-1248
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Monday, June 8 2009
7:30pm
ANYTHING GOES!
Anything Goes! for this open mike - spoken word, poetry etc. We have a piano and congas. Refreshments available.
Hosted by Jennifer Shafer Wood. Meets every Monday.
7:30pm sign up; 8:00pm start. $3.00 donation.
The Buttonwood Tree
605 Main Street
Middletown, CT
860-347-4957
thebuttonwoodtree@gmail.com
www.buttonwood.org
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Monday, June 8 2009
9:00pm
BEATNIK 2000
Music and poetry every Monday night, hosted by Ed Leonard. No Cover.
www.cafenine.com/schedule.html
Cafe 9
250 State Street
New Haven, CT
203-789-8281
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Tuesday, June 9 2009
7:30pm
POEMALLEY at Curley’s Diner
Read poetry, discuss writing and other topics of interest.
Curley’s Diner
62 West Park Place
Stamford, CT
203-327-3716
ayarmal@earthlink.net
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Wednesday, June 10 2009
6:30pm
SUNKEN GARDEN POETRY FESTIVAL
featuring Robert Hass and Brenda Hillman
Opening night presents Pulitzer Prize-winner, environmentalist, teacher and former U.S. Poet Laureate (1995–97), Robert Hass has published numerous books of poetry, including Field Guide, Praise, Human Wishes, and Sun Under Wood, as well as a book of essays on poetry, Twentieth Century Pleasures. His most recent book is a collection of poems entitled Time and Materials (Fall 2007), won both the National Book Award and the Pulitzer Prize. As U.S. Poet Laureate, Hass worked tirelessly both to heighten literacy and to promote awareness about the environment. His deep commitment to both issues led him to found River of Words (ROW), an organization that promotes environmental and arts education in affiliation with the Library of Congress Center for the Book. Awarded the MacArthur “Genius” Fellowship and twice the National Book Critics’ Circle Award (in 1984 and 1997), Hass is a professor of English at UC Berkeley.
Hass will be joined by his wife, acclaimed poet and fellow activist Brenda Hillman, author of seven collections of poetry. Recipient of the William Carlos Williams Prize for poetry and fellowships from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Guggenheim Foundation, Hillman has developed a great interest in innovative and experimental lyric traditions, particularly in how Romantic concepts of nature and spirit are manifested in contemporary poetry.
From 6:30–7:30: Music by Classical Spirits, a trio comprised of flute, viola and guitar, offering an exotic blend exploring both classical and contemporary repertoires of the world.
Sunken Garden Poetry Festival
Hill-Stead Museum
35 Mountain Road
Farmington, CT
- Time: Gates open at 4:30 pm. Music performances begins at 6:30, poetry at 7:30pm. Books and CDs available for sale 8:30-9:00pm.
- Admission: Free to the public. On-site parking: $10 per vehicle. Off-site local parking is available on a limited basis (see below).
- Seating: Bring a lawn chair or blanket for seating in and around the garden.
- More info and directions at www.hillstead.org/activities/poetry_performseries.html
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Wednesday, June 10 2009
7:00pm
INESCAPABLE RHYTHMS
Alchemy Juice Bar supports both established and emerging poets through its new poetry reading and open mike series, “Inescapable Rhythms.” The event takes place on the second Wednesday of each month. A featured poet gives a half hour reading (7:00pm) followed by an open mike (7:30pm), in which members of the audience are invited to share their work.
The series takes its title from the Wallace Stevens poem, “Thirteen Ways of Looking at a Blackbird.” Stevens, a major American Modernist poet, was a Hartford resident.
Alchemy Juice Bar
203 New Britain Ave
Hartford, CT
Email questions to: ahenchey@hotmail.com
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Wednesday, June 10 2009
7:30pm - 10:00pm
WEDNESDAY NIGHT POETRY SERIES
featuring Charlie Bondhus
Charlie Bondhus’ poetry chapbook, What We Have Learned to Love, was the recipient of BrickHouse Books’ 2009 Stonewall Series Chapbook Award. He earned his MFA in creative writing from Goddard College in 2005, and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in literature at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, where he teaches writing and literature. His poetry manuscript, How the Boy Might See It, was a finalist for the 2007 Blue Light Press Award for a first book. His poetry and fiction have been published in The Harrow, Potter’s Field 3, The Starry Night Review, Swell, and Red Owl Magazine, among others, and he has an academic article forthcoming in the May 2010 edition of Gothic Studies.
WNPS, the longest running weekly poetry series in Connecticut, boasts an open mike, feature poets, a Q&A with the feature, and a poetry critique workshop. For more info, visit the website: www.wedpoetry.net.
Molten Java Coffee Roasters, LLC
102 Greenwood Avenue
Bethel, CT
203-739-0313
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Wednesday, June 10 2009
9:00pm
POETZ REALM
Blessings from the Poetz Realm. The venue goes down every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month. Admission is $5.00 for regular patrons and free for whomever signs up for the open mike. There is a feature for each show. Features have included: Ngoma, Fredrick Douglas, Mo Jarvis, Baub Bidon, E da Storyteller, Shanna Melton, Kamal Imani, Influence, Ainsley Burrows, and others.
Hosted by E da Storyteller and Baub Bidon.
Innovation Center
955 Connecticut Ave
Bridgeport, CT.
poetzrealm.com
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Wednesday, June 10 2009
9:30pm - 11:00pm
POETRY NITE at the Huntington Street Café
Poetry Nite every Wednesday at the Huntington Street Café. Run by Sammy and Natalie, it’s open to everyone. Stop by to check the scene or even read a little something. Walk in and you’ll be added to the list.
Email Pollie_Vack@yahoo.com for info.
Huntington Street Café
90 Huntington Street
Shelton, CT
Phone: 203-925-9064
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Thursday, June 11 2009
5:00pm
WALLACE STEVENS WALK DEDICATION
Employees of The Hartford Financial Services Group, members of Friends & Enemies of Wallace Stevens, as well as the general public will convene for a dedication of The Wallace Stevens Walk, a 2.4 mile self-guided walking tour that traces the path the poet took each day to and from his Hartford home.
Beginning at The Hartford, where Stevens served as vice president beginning in 1934, and ending at his former home at 118 Westerly Terrace, the Walk traverses the Asylum Avenue section of Hartford’s Asylum Hill and West End neighborhoods.
The course of The Wallace Stevens Walk is marked by 13 Connecticut granite stones, each uniquely carved and engraved with a stanza from “Thirteen Ways of Looking at a Blackbird,” a poem among Stevens’ most well known and frequently studied works.
The Front Steps
The Hartford Financial Services Group
690 Asylum Avenue
Hartford, CT
Sponsored by Friends & Enemies of Wallace Stevens
Info: 860-508-2810 or jforjames@aol.com
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Thursday, June 11 2009
6:00pm
POETRY IN THE PARK
featuring Windham Young Poets
Please join us this summer at our Poetry in the Park Reading Series 2009. All readings start at 6:00 P.M. in the Julia de Burgos Park, at the corner of Jackson Street and Terry Avenue, in Willimantic, CT. For more information, or for a rain location, please contact Curbstone Press at 860-423-5110. This is a free event, co-sponsored by the Robert Rue Fund and Curbstone Press, and with the support of Colectivo Mestizal and Neighborhood Revitalization Zone.
Julia de Burgos Park
319 Jackson St
Willimantic, CT
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Thursday, June 11 2009
7:00pm - 10:00pm
THURSDAY NIGHT POETRY
Open Mike Poetry Reading at Bean & Leaf. Old poets read, new voices heard. A new venue with “a killer sound system and lots of delicious teas and coffee and pastries.” Visit the website for more information: www.bean-leaf.com.
Bean & Leaf cafe
13 Washington St.
New London, CT
860-701-0000
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Friday, June 12 2009
6:00pm
OPEN MIKE FRIDAY
There is an open mike each Friday at LaSalle Market. Poets, musicians, local talent of any type is invited. Stop by and check it out—then show us what you’ve got.
LaSalle Market
104 Main Street
Collinsville, CT
www.lasallemarket.com
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Saturday, June 13 2009
3:00pm
FAVORITE POEM PROJECT
with Robert Pinsky
Former U.S. Poet Laureate Robert Pinsky’s Favorite Poem Project is a much-loved model for inspiring people from all walks of life to rediscover poetry and strengthen their communities through the art of sharing poetry. The International Festival of Arts & Ideas, with the Connecticut Library Consortium, presents the culmination of a statewide Favorite Poem Project at this community reading with Pinsky and citizens from across Connecticut.
Yale University Art Gallery
1111 Chapel Street
New Haven, CT
artidea.org
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Saturday, June 13 2009
6:00pm - 9:00pm
OPEN MIC NIGHTS at Bru Cafe
Hosted by Baub Bidon
Music DJ Ccoubz
Admission: “Just buy something to eat.”
Second Saturday of each month.
Bru Cafe
141 Orange Street
New Haven, CT
203-752-0052
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Sunday, June 14 2009
2:00pm - 4:00pm
BEAN & LEAF OPEN MIKE POETRY READING
hosted by Tom Weigel
Old poets read, new voices heard in a new venue with “a killer sound system and lots of delicious teas and coffee and pastries.” Visit the website for more information.
Bean & Leaf Cafe
13 Washington St.
New London, CT
860-701-0000
www.bean-leaf.com
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Sunday, June 14 2009
5:00pm - 7:00pm
STUDIO 59 POETRY CIRCLE - BARBER STREET
Flag Day Celebration featuring Dan Wilcox
An blend of poetry and the masterful piano music of Timothy Alexandre Wallace.
Dan Wilcox, host of the 3rd Thursday Poetry Night at the Social Justice Center in Albany, NY, is a member of the poetry performance group “3 Guys from Albany” and the Veterans for Peace. As a photographer, he claims to have the world’s largest collection of photos of unknown poets. He has been a featured reader in venues throughout the Capital District & the Hudson Valley. Dan has been published in Out of the Catskills, Post Traumatic Press 2007, Chronogram, Poetica, and under the imprint A.P.D. Read his blog at www.dwlcx.blogspot.com.
Open mike from 5:00 to 6:00pm. $10.00 Cover. Light refreshments, BYOB.
Studio 59 - Barber St.
59 Barber St.
Torrington , CT
860-482-6801
studio59poetry@gmail.com
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Monday, June 15 2008
5:00pm - 7:00pm
CPS POETRY WORKSHOP in DANBURY
The Danbury Chapter of the Connecticut Poetry Society holds a writing workshop at the Danbury Library on the third Monday of each month. Newcomers are welcome! Bring poems for sharing and discussion (about 6 copies to pass around, if possible).
For information, contact: dmh2000@sbcglobal.net
Danbury Library
Upstairs Conference Room
170 Main Street
Danbury, CT
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Monday, June 15 2009
7:00pm
THE LOVE JONES EXPERIENCE
Spoken Word and Song event. All poets welcome.
$5.00 cover. Hosted by Darlene Brandon Scott.
The Russell
103 Pratt Street
Hartford, CT
www.therussell.net
.......................................................................................
Monday, June 15 2009
7:30pm
ANYTHING GOES!
Anything Goes! for this open mike - spoken word, poetry etc. We have a piano and congas. Refreshments available.
Hosted by Jennifer Shafer Wood. Meets every Monday.
7:30pm sign up; 8:00pm start. $3.00 donation.
The Buttonwood Tree
605 Main Street
Middletown, CT
860-347-4957
thebuttonwoodtree@gmail.com
www.buttonwood.org
.......................................................................................
Monday, June 15 2009
9:00pm
BEATNIK 2000
Music and poetry every Monday night, hosted by Ed Leonard. No Cover.
www.cafenine.com/schedule.html
Cafe 9
250 State Street
New Haven, CT
203-789-8281
.......................................................................................
Tuesday, June 16 2009
7:30pm
POEMALLEY at Curley’s Diner
Read poetry, discuss writing and other topics of interest.
Curley’s Diner
62 West Park Place
Stamford, CT
203-327-3716
ayarmal@earthlink.net
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Wednesday, June 17 2009
6:30pm - 8:30pm
CALLING ALL POETS
presents Rennie McQuilkin and Julia Morris Paul
Rennie McQuilkin, Poet Laureate of Simsbury, CT, has authored ten poetry collections and is a recipient of the Swallow’s Tale Poetry Prize for We All Fall Down and the Texas Review Chapbook Prize for An Astonishment and an Hissing. His poetry has appeared in The Atlantic Monthly, The Southern Review, The Yale Review, The Hudson Review, Poetry, and The American Scholar. He has received fellowships from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Connecticut Commission on the Arts as well as first prize in the 2000 Yankee Awards series, the New England Poetry Club’s Ruth Fox Award and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Connecticut Center for the Book. He has taught at Phillips Academy and Miss Porter’s School, is co-founded and former director of the Sunken Garden Poetry Festival and founder of Antrim House, a publisher of New England poets.
Julia Morris Paul is membership chair of the Connecticut Poetry Society and a director of the Riverwood Poetry Series. Her poems have appeared in various journals, including Connecticut River Review, Broken Bridge Review, Common Ground Review, Caduceus, and RUNES. She has received awards from Artists Embassy International’s Dancing Poetry Contest, Late Blooms, and the Arthur Anthony Cultural Arts Foundation. The East Haddam Stage Company selected one of her poems to be performed as part of its 2008 production, Plays and Poetry. She is an attorney in private practice in Manchester, specializing in elder law.
The open mike theme is “Picture perfect poetry: if words could paint a poem.”
The reading will be held downstairs. Admission is free. Hosted by Victoria Muñoz. “Calling All Poets” is an opportunity to hear other poets as well as express your own voice through poetry.
The Silas Bronson Library
267 Grand Street
Waterbury, CT
203-574-8223
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Wednesday, June 17 2009
7:30pm - 10:00pm
WEDNESDAY NIGHT POETRY SERIES
featuring Susan Allison
Susan Allison lives in Middletown with her husband, Stephan, and son, John. Born in Derby and raised in Louisville, Kentucky, she calls poetry and wanderlust the two main constants in her life. After mountain-climbing and hitch-hiking through East Africa, she returned to Wesleyan University to earn a BA in African Studies in 1985. Shortly after graduation, she discovered used and rare bookstores, which became new destination points for her wanderlust until she opened her own, Ibis Books & Gallery, in 1989. The bookstore was transformed in 1991 into NEAR, Inc./The Buttonwood Tree, an arts and cultural performance space on Main Street in Middletown, CT.
WNPS, the longest running weekly poetry series in Connecticut, boasts an open mike, feature poets, a Q&A with the feature, and a poetry critique workshop. For more info, visit the website: www.wedpoetry.net.
Molten Java Coffee Roasters, LLC
102 Greenwood Avenue
Bethel, CT
203-739-0313
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Wednesday, June 17 2009
9:30pm - 11:00pm
POETRY NITE at the Huntington Street Café
Poetry Nite every Wednesday at the Huntington Street Café. Run by Sammy and Natalie, it’s open to everyone. Stop by to check the scene or even read a little something. Walk in and you’ll be added to the list.
Email Pollie_Vack@yahoo.com for info.
Huntington Street Café
90 Huntington Street
Shelton, CT
203-925-9064
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Thursday, June 18 2009
6:30pm
WORD OF MOUTH POETRY SERIES
On the third Thursday of each month, Word of Mouth Poetry Series celebrates an eclectic mix of poetic voices. Free. Refreshments. Open mike. Outstanding featured readers. In a casual setting. Open to all members of the public and others. For more information, please contact allwordofmouth@gmail.com or mcguireschwartz@gmail.com.
Doors Open at 6:30. Open mike at 7:00. Please arrive a few minutes early to sign up for open mike.
The Institute Library
847 Chapel Street
New Haven, CT
Word of Mouth is an affiliate of Arts and Literature Laboratory. Please visit our website at www.allgallery.org.
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Thursday, June 18 2009
7:00pm - 10:00pm
THURSDAY NIGHT POETRY
Open Mike Poetry Reading at Bean & Leaf. Old poets read, new voices heard. A new venue with “a killer sound system and lots of delicious teas and coffee and pastries.” Visit the website for more information: www.bean-leaf.com.
Bean & Leaf cafe
13 Washington St.
New London, CT
860-701-0000
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Thursday, June 18 2009
7:30pm - 9:00pm
THIRD THURSDAY OPEN MIC
Open mike poetry reading on the third Thursday of every month at the Stamford Borders.
Borders
1041 High Ridge Road (near Merritt Parkway exit 35)
Stamford, CT
Phone: 203-968-9700
.......................................................................................
Friday, June 19 2009
1:00pm - 2:45pm
POETRY DISCUSSION GROUP
Retired English professor Alan Holder leads this once-a-month poetry discussion, which take place on the third Friday of the month at 1:00pm. Each month a different poet’s work will be up for discussion. New members always welcome.
A limited number of free copies of the book to be discussed will be available for approximately one month before the meeting. See the library’s Circulation Desk. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library.
Location: Dayton Program Room
Ridgefield Library
472 Main Street (Route 35)
Ridgefield, CT
203-438-2282 or
rdgprograms@biblio.org
www.ridgefieldlibrary.org
.......................................................................................
Friday, June 19 2009
6:00pm
OPEN MIKE FRIDAY
There is an open mike each Friday at LaSalle Market. Poets, musicians, local talent of any type is invited. Stop by and check it out—then show us what you’ve got.
LaSalle Market
104 Main Street
Collinsville, CT
www.lasallemarket.com
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Saturday, June 20 2009
12:00pm
12th ANNUAL WALLACE STEVENS MEMORIAL POETRY READING
with Nancy Kuhl and Brian Johnson
Connecticut poets read at the Rose Festival in Hartford’s Elizabeth Park, which was Stevens’ neighborhood park. The reading takes place rain or shine. Admission is free.
Pond House, Elizabeth Park
Rose Festival Weekend
Asylum Ave & Prospect Ave
Hartford, CT
www.wesleyan.edu/wstevens/stevens.html
.......................................................................................
Sunday, June 21 2009
2:00pm - 4:00pm
BEAN & LEAF OPEN MIKE POETRY READING
hosted by Tom Weigel
Old poets read, new voices heard in a new venue with “a killer sound system and lots of delicious teas and coffee and pastries.” Visit the website for more information.
Bean & Leaf Cafe
13 Washington St.
New London, CT
860-701-0000
www.bean-leaf.com
.......................................................................................
Monday, June 22 2009
7:00pm
THE LOVE JONES EXPERIENCE
Spoken Word and Song event. All poets welcome.
$5.00 cover. Hosted by Darlene Brandon Scott.
The Russell
103 Pratt Street
Hartford, CT
www.therussell.net
.......................................................................................
Monday, June 22 2009
7:30pm
ANYTHING GOES!
Anything Goes! for this open mike - spoken word, poetry etc. We have a piano and congas. Refreshments available.
Hosted by Jennifer Shafer Wood. Meets every Monday.
7:30pm sign up; 8:00pm start. $3.00 donation.
The Buttonwood Tree
605 Main Street
Middletown, CT
860-347-4957
thebuttonwoodtree@gmail.com
www.buttonwood.org
.......................................................................................
Monday, June 22 2009
9:00pm
BEATNIK 2000
Music and poetry every Monday night, hosted by Ed Leonard. No Cover.
www.cafenine.com/schedule.html
Cafe 9
250 State Street
New Haven, CT
203-789-8281
.......................................................................................
Tuesday, June 23 2009
7:30pm
POEMALLEY at Curley’s Diner
Read poetry, discuss writing and other topics of interest.
Curley’s Diner
62 West Park Place
Stamford, CT
203-327-3716
ayarmal@earthlink.net
.......................................................................................
Wednesday, June 24 2009
6:30pm
SUNKEN GARDEN POETRY FESTIVAL
featuring Baron Wormser & CT Poetry Circuit Winners
Five winners of a Connecticut Poetry Circuit-sponsored, state-wide poetry contest among Connecticut college students will captivate the audience with their work. Poets include: Matthew Gilbert, an English/Creative Writing major at the University of Hartford; Jordan Jacks, an English major with a Writing concentration at Yale University; Susanna Myserth, an English & Religion major at Wesleyan University; Sarah Nichols, a General Studies major at Tunxis Community College; and Katie Rowe, a Sociology major at Albertus Magnus College.
Author of seven books of poetry, a poetry chapbook, a memoir and a collection of short stories, Baron Wormser served as Poet Laureate of Maine 2000–2005 and received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from the University of Maine at Augusta in 2005. He teaches in the Stonecoast MFA program and the Fairfield University MFA program, and directs the Frost Place Conference on Poetry and Teaching in Franconia, New Hampshire. He has received fellowships from the National Endowment for the Arts and the John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation, and won the 2006 McGinnis-Ritchie Award for fiction from Southwest Review for his short story “William Blake.” Baron Wormser lives with his wife on twenty-six acres in Cabot, Vermont.
From 6:30–7:30: Music by New York-based Uptown Trio, with Sam Reider on piano, Jeff Picker on bass and Jake Goldblas on drums.
Sunken Garden Poetry Festival
Hill-Stead Museum
35 Mountain Road
Farmington, CT
- Time: Gates open at 4:30 pm. Music performances begins at 6:30, poetry at 7:30pm. Books and CDs available for sale 8:30-9:00pm.
- Admission: Free to the public. On-site parking: $10 per vehicle. Off-site local parking is available on a limited basis (see below).
- Seating: Bring a lawn chair or blanket for seating in and around the garden.
- More info and directions at www.hillstead.org/activities/poetry_performseries.html
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Wednesday, June 24 2009
6:30pm - 8:30pm
RIVERWOOD POETRY FESTIVAL
Speak Easy: A Generational Poetry Slam
Hosted by Elizabeth Thomas
Oral presentation has always been a part of history and tradition. Stories are told through the generations so we do not forget. The Riverwood Poetry Festival and the Charter Oak Cultural Center, in collaboration with One Word CT are excited to announce this generational poetry slam between members of past CT adult national poetry slam teams and current members of the CT National Youth Slam Team 2009.
Be prepared for a panorama of artistic performances and cultural/political dialogues, bringing together the young and not so young of poetic expression.
Charter Oak Cultural Center
21 Charter Oak Avenue
Hartford, CT
860-249-1207
www.riverwoodpoetry.org
NOTE: The schedule is still changing. Please check with the web site for the final schedule before attending events!
.......................................................................................
Wednesday, June 24 2009
7:00pm
2009 REGGAE SLAM in Downtown Hartford
June 24, 2009 $100.00 Reggae Slam 2: Qualifier at the Russell Restaurant
7:00 - 7:20pm Andy Maxx
7:20 - 7:40pm Shakespearion Blakk
7:40 - 8:00pm Black Ice
8:00 - 8:15pm Jarule (Poet Laureate BGCG 2009)
8:20 - Reggae Slam (15 poets)
DJ DANA
MC NUNNU
Feel free to contact Zimbabwe at 860-478-5814 or info@boutwestindies.com for entry info or any other inquiries. Also visit www.boutwestindies.com/poetry_slam for information on results, future slam dates, and the big Fall 2009 BGCG $1,000.00 Slam Finale!
The Russell
103 Pratt Street
Hartford, CT
www.therussellct.com
A poet is known by their spoken word! -Zimbabwe
.......................................................................................
Wednesday, June 24 2009
7:30pm - 10:00pm
WEDNESDAY NIGHT POETRY SERIES
featuring Timothy Mason
Timothy Mason has been actively performing poetry and promoting folk music since the 1980’s. He honed is performance style in the early poetry slams and around the campfires of the fabled Kerrville Folk Festival giving the songwriters a run for their money.
An extensive background in human services, three years volunteering for a telephone crisis intervention hotline, training as a rape crisis counselor, four years working with developmentally disabled adults, a stint with court-involved youth, and eight years volunteering in a battered women’s shelter have given him a unique empathy with the quiet battles of daily survival.
Born in the Midwest and raised in North America, his family eventually settled in Salt Lake City, Utah, which he still calls home, although he has been a New Englander for well over two decades. On the east side of the Big River, he has called Worcester, Cambridge and South Boston MA home and after a few bi-coastal years commuting to Richmond CA he has recently returned to East Cambridge MA. He supports himself by providing bookkeeping services, tax preparation and consultations to independent artists and arts oriented small businesses. He is also the Director of the New England Folk Music Archives.
WNPS, the longest running weekly poetry series in Connecticut, boasts an open mike, feature poets, a Q&A with the feature, and a poetry critique workshop. For more info, visit the website: www.wedpoetry.net.
Molten Java Coffee Roasters, LLC
102 Greenwood Avenue
Bethel, CT
203-739-0313
.......................................................................................
Wednesday, June 24 2009
9:00pm
POETZ REALM
Blessings from the Poetz Realm. The venue goes down every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month. Admission is $5.00 for regular patrons and free for whomever signs up for the open mike. There is a feature for each show. Features have included: Ngoma, Fredrick Douglas, Mo Jarvis, Baub Bidon, E da Storyteller, Shanna Melton, Kamal Imani, Influence, Ainsley Burrows, and others.
Hosted by E da Storyteller and Baub Bidon.
Innovation Center
955 Connecticut Ave
Bridgeport, CT.
poetzrealm.com
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Wednesday, June 24 2009
9:30pm - 11:00pm
POETRY NITE at the Huntington Street Café
Poetry Nite every Wednesday at the Huntington Street Café. Run by Sammy and Natalie, it’s open to everyone. Stop by to check the scene or even read a little something. Walk in and you’ll be added to the list.
Email Pollie_Vack@yahoo.com for info.
Huntington Street Café
90 Huntington Street
Shelton, CT
203-925-9064
.......................................................................................
Thursday, June 25 2009
6:00pm
POETRY IN THE PARK
featuring Wally Swist
Please join us this summer at our Poetry in the Park Reading Series 2009. All readings start at 6:00 P.M. in the Julia de Burgos Park, at the corner of Jackson Street and Terry Avenue, in Willimantic, CT. For more information, or for a rain location, please contact Curbstone Press at 860-423-5110. This is a free event, co-sponsored by the Robert Rue Fund and Curbstone Press, and with the support of Colectivo Mestizal and Neighborhood Revitalization Zone.
Julia de Burgos Park
319 Jackson St
Willimantic, CT
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Thursday, June 25 2009
7:00pm - 9:00pm
RIVERWOOD POETRY FESTIVAL
The PIPS
Hosted by Christine Beck
Featuring Sherri Bedingfield, Christine Beck, Tere Foley, Pat Hale, Bob Jacob, Nancy Kerrigan, and Elaine Zimmerman.
Wood Memorial Library
783 Main Street
South Windsor, CT
860-289-1783
www.riverwoodpoetry.org
NOTE: The schedule is still changing. Please check with the web site for the final schedule before attending events!
.......................................................................................
Thursday, June 25 2009
7:00pm - 10:00pm
THURSDAY NIGHT POETRY
Open Mike Poetry Reading at Bean & Leaf. Old poets read, new voices heard. A new venue with “a killer sound system and lots of delicious teas and coffee and pastries.” Visit the website for more information: www.bean-leaf.com.
Bean & Leaf cafe
13 Washington St.
New London, CT
860-701-0000
.......................................................................................
Thursday, June 25 2009
9:30pm
RIVERWOOD POETRY FESTIVAL
The Underwood Cafe
featuring Dan Wilcox and LisaAnn LoBasso
In the basement of the Wood Memorial Library
783 Main Street
South Windsor, CT
860-289-1783
www.riverwoodpoetry.org
NOTE: The schedule is still changing. Please check with the web site for the final schedule before attending events!
.......................................................................................
Friday, June 26 2009
6:00pm
OPEN MIKE FRIDAY
There is an open mike each Friday at LaSalle Market. Poets, musicians, local talent of any type is invited. Stop by and check it out—then show us what you’ve got.
LaSalle Market
104 Main Street
Collinsville, CT
www.lasallemarket.com
.......................................................................................
Friday, June 26 2009
6:00pm - 9:00pm
A POETRY EXPLOSION
Poetry Slam/Open Mike event
Refreshments available. Tickets are only $5.00.
Come On Down And Enjoy The Show!
4th Friday each month. Presented by: WindhamARTS Collaborative & The Young Poets
WindhamARTS Collaborative Annex
866 Main Street
Willimantic, CT
860-450-1794
.......................................................................................
Friday, June 26 2009
6:30pm - 8:30pm
RIVERWOOD POETRY FESTIVAL
Main Event at Faxon Branch Public Library
Hosted by Tom Nicotera
Featuring Dana Sonnenschein, Marilyn Johnston, Marcia Lewis, and Susan Kinsolving.
Faxon Branch Public Library
1073 New Britain Avenue
West Hartford, CT
860-561-8200
www.riverwoodpoetry.org
NOTE: The schedule is still changing. Please check with the web site for the final schedule before attending events!
.......................................................................................
Friday, June 26 2009
9:30pm - 1:00am
RIVERWOOD POETRY FESTIVAL
Main Event at Fernwood Restaurant
Hosted by Mike Walker
Featuring Melissa Emma and an Open Mike
Fernwood Restaurant
1113 New Britain Ave
Hartford, CT
860-233-6662
www.riverwoodpoetry.org
NOTE: The schedule is still changing. Please check with the web site for the final schedule before attending events!
.......................................................................................
Friday, June 26 2009
10:00pm - ???
RIVERWOOD POETRY FESTIVAL
Poetry Campout / Fireside Reading
Hosted by Victoria Rivas
For more information about the Campfire Reading, go to the Campout Page of the web site (below) and perhaps plan to pitch a tent as well as read your poetry. We have reserved seven campsites, called the River Sites. They are in a private cove on the river. The camping resort has wonderful facilities.
MooseMeadow Camping Resort
Willington, CT
860-429-7451
www.riverwoodpoetry.org
NOTE: The schedule is still changing. Please check with the web site for the final schedule before attending events!
.......................................................................................
Saturday, June 27 2009
1:00pm
TONY FUSCO at Yale Bookstore
Tony Fusco, editor of Caduceus and President of the CT Poetry Society, will read from his new book of poetry, Droplines, at the Yale Bookstore. “Fusco’s love for subjects, past and present, darts in and out, slippery as the fish he drops lines to catch,” writes award-winning poet Vivian Shipley.
The Yale Bookstore At Barnes & Noble
77 Broadway
New Haven, CT
203-777-8440
.......................................................................................
Saturday, June 27 2009
1:00pm - 4:00pm
RIVERWOOD POETRY FESTIVAL
Artemis Rising
Artemis Rising is a Connecticut-based poetry circle of accomplished, electric, powerful, vibrant and bountiful women writers. The group formed in 1997 when a few of us had been seeking a serious writers’ group. We wanted to develop our own voices in the company of other women. We also wanted to be part of a group that would be supportive in an emotional sense, that would share life experience as well as poetry, and poetry information. The group provides a strong, supportive community to each member, and we wish you as much success and community spirit in your own group(s) as we experience in Artemis Rising. Featuring Eileen Abrizio, Priscilla Herrington, Suzy Lamson, Mary Elizabeth Lang, Suzanne Niedzielska, Paula Panzarella, Victoria Rivas and Linda Yuhas.
An open mike will follow.
Broad Street Bookstore
45 Broad Street
Middletown, CT
860-685-7323
www.riverwoodpoetry.org
NOTE: The schedule is still changing. Please check with the web site for the final schedule before attending events!
.......................................................................................
Saturday, June 27 2009
6:30pm - 8:30pm
RIVERWOOD POETRY FESTIVAL
Antrim House Press Poets
Hosted by Rennie McQuilken
Feature poets are Steve Foley, Ginny Lowe Connors, Jim Kelleher, Jen Gates, and Norah Pollard.
The Buttonwood Tree
605 Main Street
Middletown, Connecticut
860-347-4957
www.riverwoodpoetry.org
NOTE: The schedule is still changing. Please check with the web site for the final schedule before attending events!
.......................................................................................
Saturday, June 27 2009
9:00pm
RIVERWOOD POETRY FESTIVAL
Outlaw Poetry Night and Open Mike
Hosted by Yvon Cormier
Featuring:
Puma Perl - NY, NY
David Smith - Mountain View, CA
Dan Kellett - VA
Rob Plath - Long Island, NY
Frank Reardon - Boston, MA
James Crafford - Northern CT
Karl Koweski - Mountains in Alabama
James Darman - South Philadelphia, PA
Zach King-Smith - Southern CT
Scott Wannberg - Florence, OR
Gatekeepers Tavern
73 Ferry St
Middletown, CT
860-347-2883
www.riverwoodpoetry.org
NOTE: The schedule is still changing. Please check with the web site for the final schedule before attending events!
.......................................................................................
Saturday, June 27 2009
10:00pm - ???
RIVERWOOD POETRY FESTIVAL
Poetry Campout / Fireside Reading
Hosted by Victoria Rivas
For more information about the Campfire Reading, go to the Campout Page of the web site (below) and perhaps plan to pitch a tent as well as read your poetry. We have reserved seven campsites, called the River Sites. They are in a private cove on the river. The camping resort has wonderful facilities.
MooseMeadow Camping Resort
Willington, CT
860-429-7451
www.riverwoodpoetry.org
NOTE: The schedule is still changing. Please check with the web site for the final schedule before attending events!
.......................................................................................
Sunday, June 28 2009
1:00pm - 4:00pm
RIVERWOOD POETRY FESTIVAL
Main Event at Harriet Beecher Stowe House
Featuring Ernie Blue, Bessy Reyna, Kate Rushin, Ameen Storm, and Sue Ellen Thompson.
Harriet Beecher Stowe House
77 Forest Street
Hartford, CT
860-522-9258
www.riverwoodpoetry.org
NOTE: The schedule is still changing. Please check with the web site for the final schedule before attending events!
.......................................................................................
Sunday, June 28 2009
2:00pm - 4:00pm
BEAN & LEAF OPEN MIKE POETRY READING
hosted by Tom Weigel
Old poets read, new voices heard in a new venue with “a killer sound system and lots of delicious teas and coffee and pastries.” Visit the website for more information.
Bean & Leaf Cafe
13 Washington St.
New London, CT
860-701-0000
www.bean-leaf.com
.......................................................................................
Sunday, June 28 2009
6:30pm
RIVERWOOD POETRY FESTIVAL
The Last Hurrah!
Featuring Tad Richards, Terri Klein, and John Jeffrey.
An open mike will follow.
City Steam Brewery
942 Main Street
Hartford, CT
860-525-1600
www.riverwoodpoetry.org
NOTE: The schedule is still changing. Please check with the web site for the final schedule before attending events!
.......................................................................................
Monday, June 29 2009
7:00pm
THE LOVE JONES EXPERIENCE
Spoken Word and Song event. All poets welcome.
$5.00 cover. Hosted by Darlene Brandon Scott.
The Russell
103 Pratt Street
Hartford, CT
www.therussell.net
.......................................................................................
Monday, June 29 2009
7:30pm
ANYTHING GOES!
Anything Goes! for this open mike - spoken word, poetry etc. We have a piano and congas. Refreshments available.
Hosted by Jennifer Shafer Wood. Meets every Monday.
7:30pm sign up; 8:00pm start. $3.00 donation.
The Buttonwood Tree
605 Main Street
Middletown, CT
860-347-4957
thebuttonwoodtree@gmail.com
www.buttonwood.org
.......................................................................................
Monday, June 29 2009
9:00pm
BEATNIK 2000
Music and poetry every Monday night, hosted by Ed Leonard. No Cover.
www.cafenine.com/schedule.html
Cafe 9
250 State Street
New Haven, CT
203-789-8281
.......................................................................................
Tuesday, June 30 2009
7:30pm
POEMALLEY at Curley’s Diner
Read poetry, discuss writing and other topics of interest.
Curley’s Diner
62 West Park Place
Stamford, CT
203-327-3716
ayarmal@earthlink.net
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