Looking Back, looking ahead

I was dismayed at the turnout of the last election. Just because it wasn't the presidential election, less people at the polls, opportunity for an otherwise, unpopular resolution to pass (which by the way increases property tax for only those people who own property in "school district" but amendment/referendum open to all eligible voters). So even you live in a community that is exempt from paying "school district" tax such as 55 and older community, you can vote "yes" for the bond and only those people (like me) who live in "school district" will feel the pain of increased property tax. WT???

This gives me an idea for the next mid term election: ban on private use of fireworks.  

Fireworks can be dangerous if in the wrong hands and have been known to increase numbers in emergency rooms during certain holiday period. In the hands of inconsiderate neighbors who don't care if you have work the next day, fireworks are a nuisance. Moreover, unlike commercial firework operators with city permits who have to clean up after display, private use burdens the city with cleaning up the debris otherwise the city becomes an eyesore. So for any next election except presidential, I propose we add a ban on private use of fireworks. What do you think?

Every Eight Years

That's what they say that every eight years, my birthday will be on a Saturday and that day is today. So I will  host some poetry, check out some art and who knows dance the night away. But before all that, what to do with my hair?

I am going to tend to that but will I see you later? Poetry perhaps?

Twas Five Days Before Christmas

Twas Five Days Before Christmas and a scream from down the hall. Contractions were closer so they took her to the maternity hospital where a baby girl was born.

That was some decades ago and no, I will not give out the year as you don't need to know my exact age.

Next Saturday, December 20th, I will celebrate that day by hosting a poetry event and I hope to see you there.

The Concept Fair on 12/06/14

I adore art but it took me the day before the end of the fair to make it. Tuesday was the preview but it much too much to drive from work to Miami. I did it today and I-95 was a stop and go foot pain. We made it. Parking cost $15. Pricey. They changed the layout from last time: 3 levels of art but no Swarovski birds. No Swarovski anything! I was looking forward to seeing those statement pieces.   It seems the art galleries were different from last year but definitely the art was different. Once I went to an art show in Palm Beach then to Miami and saw almost identical items, so whew!

I overheard complaint about the lack of buyers. Yes, the yacht is near the Intercontinental but it also close to the kiosks at Bayside. So my suggestion is to also sell some posters along with the pricey art. The pricey art for the people who can afford to stay at the Intercontinental and posters for posers (like me). We can have a $20 version of some pricey art. Some people like fake Coach bags, I like art posters. I would have paid $20 for a poster of Ring of Light by Jorge de la Torriente as I liked the realism with a touch of surreal and great use of light. The main object was a palm tree with what looked like a halo around it. It was beautiful digital photography and very pleasing to my eye.

I have a poster of Starry Night that I have framed and hanging on a wall. I had bought it from a museum I visited. Maybe not a good example but some of these galleries displaying could take a hint from the museum and sell some posters.  It would help promote their artists.

One of the displaying galleries had some Monet pieces. The ornate frame alone had me sighing. I was too scared to look at the price.

My other new favorite piece was an oil on canvas by Tomas Sanchez. I adore gorgeous landscapes!  However I don't like when the sign says "request price." I wish they had a poster for that too.

Then I went over to Bayside entrance to look at some installation art on war. I walked past the dome project - completely missed it. Overall, it was a nice art fair with some nice art. Now that I feel inspired, time to write poetry!

Now that I'm Stuffed...

Starving writer, I am not! I feel like a Thansgiving Turkey. Yes, the day just passed but I've been gorging on leftovers. Now that I am sated, it's time to write and I must writing a quatrain, just 4 lines is harder to do. So feast your eyes on one of my other work while I go off to write:
(Your comments are always welcome)

Greedy Gobblers

As we progress through time, are we becoming more dim-witted? So I rant as Thanksgiving takes its place with Presidents', Memorial and Labor Days as just another reason for a sale.

Instant gratification may undo the human race. What do you think?
And if you're just getting off work...

Thinking about Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving isn't even here yet (okay, it's just a couple days away) and Christmas stuff is already in our faces. Can't we just take one Holiday at a time? There's plenty to give thanks for and I want my Thanksgiving Holiday without all the Christmas galore. I want my stuffing, I want my cranberry sauce and I want my turkey. I'm in charge of the sweets this year so I am looking forward to do something sweet but pretty. I am off to look up some pie recipes unless you have one you're willing to share (share below please and thanks)!

Amazing Time

Yes - I went on vacation.
No - I did not want to come home but I did as the vacation has ended. Now for this Nanowrimo - I planned to finish my novel that I already started and I am proud to say that I did write while on vacation (and some reading too).
Here's an excerpt:

Ok, I seem to be more creative handwriting so I will continue this way and when I am finished, then I will type it up.

Does typing affect your creativity? If it did and you overcame it, do you mind sharing (and thanks)?

#amwriting

I'm scared. Not because it's a dark and scary night but because of the chatter, the sound of pencils sharpening, clicking of the keys, tapping at the touchscreen and rustling of the pages. Why? National Novel Writing Month also known as nanowrimo. They are writing with some achieving the goal of writing a first draft.

I'm jealous. Not because I don't have ideas to write but because I find myself distracted such as playing computer games and watching TV (2 Broke Girls are back and I enjoyed that new episode) when I should put aside some writing time and finish my novel that I started when...last year. Hmm. I guess my personal goal is to finish that novel and avoid distrac... (I saw some posters for some upcoming movies, piqued) ...tions.

By the way, did you see my cakes especially my Halloween masterpieces, go to Twitter.com/SuzzetteDawes and check out my pictures.

I'm thickheaded. Yes, I am! It is really hard to be disciplined: setting up my own timetable to efficiently use my time. I really just want someone to hold my hand and help me enlist in one of these groups so we can motivate each other and mostly deter me from distractions.

But in the meantime, I'm giving myself a kick that I will write and my goal, in two weeks November 15th, is to have a substantial part done and share with you a portion.  And if I don't, I'll probably write a post on my latest distraction. Until then, I #amwriting.

Fascination with Numbers

I was singing along with my new favorite song: "1, 2, 3 drink"
They're everywhere...
NUMBERS
We have Social Security Numbers. My job has given the employees a PERNR which is a PERSONNEL NUMBER. When I go to the deli in the supermarket, I take a number and wait until it is called.

Now only if my lottery number would win!

There are some numbers we don't want to be include with, such as fatalities and diseases. Don't be another number, check out this free event next Tuesday at Cinema Paradiso:

RSVP: http://latinosenaccionflorida.com/contact-us/

That's it for today but if you know of any events around town, loop me in (comment below) and thanks.

Art and Poetry reflects Life

I have to thank Rosalia for inviting me to her reception for her art on display at the Pride Center. Loss, Sex and Life is appropriately titled as she touches on HIV and domestic violence. The latter struck a cord with me as she explained to me how her co-worker was murdered by an ex-boyfriend. I was appalled but reminded of the time that I visited Skagway and saw the monument to Molly; which jogged me back to my co-worker informing me that her former co-worker, who lived down the street from me, was recently murdered by her husband. I had passed a house down the street from me with that yellow police tape.
I wrote a couple poems that day.

Therefore in commemorating Domestic Violence Awareness Month, here is one of those poems:

Not now, Not then

 Some women can't escape

Not now, not then

Domestic bliss turns into dispute

And poor Natalia is dead.

Some women can't escape

Not now, not then

Her heart was won by the wrong suitor

Who pursued Mollie until he shot her dead.

So happy to be married to the man of her dreams

But short lived was the domestic bliss

When he took to the bottle and became Mr Hyde,

Mollie escaped from Alaska to Seattle to hide.

One day I passed and saw the police tape

Then the news told me Natalia, who lived down my street, is dead.

Different in looks, different states

But both Mollie and Natalia are dead

From the ones who should cherish them most.

So many lives shortened, especially wives!

Copyrighted by Suzzette Dawes 

picture taken by Suzzette Dawes of Monument in Skagway, Alaska in 2013.

Dog Days

I am tired of hearing Happy _______(place in blank the day of the week). In fact it has the opposite effect and makes me quite sad: Why so cliche, passe and most of all meh?
The proposal - let's use alliteration:

Sarcastic Sunday (in honor of writing this blog)
Moody Monday (that's just how most people are on their first day of week)
Terse Tuesday (make it short, we're trying to get through the day)
Wacky Wednesday (that's the best I can do)
Thirsty Thursday (Got the weekend on the mind and researching fun for the weekend warrior)
Freaky Friday (maybe a bit cliche but I am so happy it's Friday and in a good mood that some people who saw me earlier in the week wonders, "who is this other person, is this her twin?")
Saturday (no alliteration needed but if you must insist then "Satisfied Saturday" will be the moniker.

Suggestions? Those are my names for the days of the week. What are yours?

Cover Reveals with special guest Author C.P. Bialois

Let's welcome and congratulate Author C.P. Bialois on his upcoming books! Here's the Cover Reveal from C.P.:

Good day! Today I'd like to welcome you to the cover reveals for two of my upcoming releases from the Sword and the Flame universe. The first is Building A Legend. It's the second book in my YA series (The first was Stranger Passing) featuring the Halfling Eron bucking the trend and becoming a warrior.  Coming November 15.

About the Book  Respect is often one of the most difficult things to find when setting out on a new path. It’s not any easier being a Halfling, but Eron is determined to achieve his dream of being a ranger. Following the death of Reinhart, Eron is duty-bound to follow through on his dream. The one thing he never expected was to be challenged at every turn by those who he met along the way. From shape shifters and old men, to a one-eyed Dwarf and a secretive Elf, he quickly learns not everything is as it appears. Success is won one step at a time in Building A Legend.

My second release is the third novel in the Sword and the Flame series (Not YA), The Lightwalker coming November 22.

About the Book   Four years after the end of the Minotaur War and Berek's sacrifice, the friends have moved on with their lives. Each has faced new challenges, but nothing can prepare them for what's to come. Solaria fought against the Gods of Pyrain for dominance in an age long forgotten by most. Defeated, he was imprisoned within the bones of the world for eternity. The coming of the Phoenix allowed The Fallen God Solaria to escape from his prison. Promising revenge on those that wronged him, Solaria seeks out those with anger in their hearts to champion his cause while he gathers his strength. Will the prophesized Lightwalker rise before the world is destroyed by a ancient conflict? Coming November 22.

Where to stalk CP  Website  Facebook  Twitter

About the Author    CP Bialois’ love of words began as a small child when his father bought a stack of comics to teach him the reading skills he wasn’t mastering in class. Before long, he was reading at an advanced level and teachers were shaking their heads over the unconventional method. Growing up in the ‘80s, Bialois was exposed to even further inspiration through the popular cartoons of the day. Transformers, in particular, sparked his imagination and led to him put his first stories on paper. After a decades-long break, Bialois began getting back into the world of writing by joining some role-playing groups. These groups taught him about fleshing out characters and building worlds that stuck with him as he began writing short stories for fun. To his surprise, Bialois would end up completing his first full-length novel, Call of Poseidon, in 2007. Armed with a finished product, Bialois began working on another book, The Sword and the Flame, unsure of what he would ultimately be doing with either. As with many others in the later part of the first decade of the 2000’s, he found himself out of work and looking into new options. Over the next two years, he would spend most days at the library, completing an additional half-dozen works. Six books later, Bialois is planning for the release of many more and enjoying the feedback he receives. The up-and-coming author takes inspiration from favorites such as Steven King, Tom Clancy and Sue Grafton. His love of history, fantasy and old monster movies has also served as a muse. When he’s not busy writing or chatting on his social networks, Bialois enjoys watching hockey and football as well as Metallica DVDs. He currently lives with his wife- a fellow writer- and their fur children. CP Bialois is also active in several South Florida writing groups, as well as the online writer community, and the Florida Writers Association.

Poetry Events

Here's a question that are frequently asked: Where are the poetry/spoken word events in South Florida? So I gathered a couple of resources and here are a few:

At poetryopenmikes.org, you can search for open mikes by dates and location, contact the host to ensure that event is still active.

At South Regional Library, there is a poetry club and the next meeting is on 10/21/2014 Time: 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Location: South Regional/BC Library Conference Room URL: http://ems.browardlibrary.org/MasterCalendar/EventDetails.aspx?data=hHr80o3M7J7unK3K4%2f3cc0aQ7vxIZdiziQCbhkbYpE%2bvUO0sdMZwle9ucyQ2pZAk

Renda Writer will host Open Mic Thursdays at Kelly Brothers Irish Pub which is located at 3045 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33306. Starting October 9th, 2014
https://www.facebook.com/events/1476996155905341/?ref=2&ref_dashboard_filter=upcoming

Are you interested in Poetry Workshops? Then go to Anastasia Clark Poetry Workshop on Saturday, October 11, 2014, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM at Margate Catharine Young Auditorium
http://ems.browardlibrary.org/MasterCalendar/EventDetails.aspx?data=hHr80o3M7J7y0wtftajMNyJAZ8%2fD8IUbCgcSvMeZMzYkboKQ%2beUuPqRAkVu8g81B

So that's my upcoming poetry round-up! If you know of any other events, please let me know in the comments below.

Still Embracing Autumn with Poetry

After sitting in the audience at Louder Than A Bomb this past Saturday evening, I'm encouraged to support poetry events. Spoken word has all the glory, and like rap, a lot of people especially young people are taken. The evening highlighted the in-your-face style that I dislike for myself. I'll admit to not being a fan of the "spoken word" style nor my family who left me solo when I shared what kind of poetry event but I went anyhow. Yet, when they vary the voice, tone and mood (even add a little song), it is not all in your face and the overall effect is good.

The evening started with the students. The duo were cute, introducing what's to come for the rest of the night in rhyme. Then she started strong but paused, stood there, when she forgot her words.  The audience was kind and waited until she could recall and move on. If she was reading (had a paper to read from), then she wouldn't have been stuck. But I do appreciate the hard work inputted to memorize the lines. Then another young lady she walked from the audience with her mic, her tone started soft but then she did the "spoken word" fast and hard speak then she ended soft. The effect was good. Next the quartet that poetry was straight from the news: from Ferguson event to Robin Williams' death.

The emcee returned and explained what they are trying to do, help young people through poetry. He then encouraged the audience to take out their phones and go on social media and let people know where they were. It's important to note that the professionals that follow all shared how poetry helped them and elevated them. They all were excellent: Betrand Boyd, Carlos Robson, Jason Carney and Asia.

I agreed with the message delivered although I was waiting for an audience member or two to jump up with an "Amen" because it got preachy at times. I also noticed that rhymes in couplets and/or quatrains are spoken artists' favorite tools. One of my favorite artist ended the night. His stuff was deep though unlike the last time I heard him loving the 90s. He also reminded me of supporting artists especially when they have projects that need funding. So now, I want to encourage everyone to support two projects on Kickstarter:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/693237577/100-wishes-for-broward

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/theasiaproject/the-asia-project-touch-album?ref=nav_search 

Overall it was a good night with positive messages: the poets overcame difficulties with the aid of poetry. I definitely share that sentiment about poetry. Next week I will have an opportunity to share and will try encourage any style that will help you heal thyself. Feel free to invite and share as the below events are free. morning and/or evening.

Support poetry events and I invite you to come to these poetry events:

Gulfstream Writers Presents Autumn Poetry Workshop Saturday, September 27, 2014 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Hallandale Beach Branch Community Room 2 300 S. Federal Highway, Hallandale, FL 33009, 954-357-6380 Contact Tasha Watson 954-357-6380

I hope to hear you read!

Join us at Cinema Paradiso for Poetry in the Courtyard with sign up starting at 5:30 pm on Saturday, September 27, 2014. Reading begins at 6:00 pm so bring some poems to read or just sit back, relax and listen to the words flow in the Courtyard. Hosted by Suzzette Dawes Cinema Paradiso is located at 503 SE 6th Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 Tell a friend! Bring a friend!

Let's Embrace Autumn with Poetry

Autumn officially starts on September 21st (tomorrow) and I wish the summer heat to be on its way out. Be gone already! I feel prepped for my mini-workshop to talk about Autumn theme poems next week as I found many poems that embraced Autumn including some poems from local poets.

So until next week, check out Louder than a Bomb Florida tonight at Seminole Paradise and I hope to see you next week at the Workshop and/or the Poetry Reading later that evening.

Paradise Live Seminole HardRock  5715 Seminole Way, Hollywood FL, 33314 (954) 585-5091

Gulfstream Writers Presents Autumn Poetry Workshop Saturday, September 27, 2014 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Hallandale Beach Branch Community Room 2 300 S. Federal Highway, Hallandale, FL 33009, 954-357-6380 Contact Tasha Watson 954-357-6380

Join us at Cinema Paradiso for Poetry in the Courtyard with sign up starting at 5:30 pm on Saturday, September 27, 2014. Reading begins at 6:00 pm so bring some poems to read or just sit back, relax and listen to the words flow in the Courtyard. Hosted by Suzzette Dawes Cinema Paradiso is located at 503 SE 6th Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 Tell a friend! Bring a friend!

Word of the Day

Why did I subscribe? I like to tell myself lies such as I would have exercised if it didn't rain; but this time, research is on my side. I have used in the past, the word of the day from dictionary.com as a prompt (back in April for National Poetry Month). I'll admit not all poetry produced was a delight but it got the juices going. Another reason to look at the word of the day is to increase my vocabulary so this time I am using the word of the day from overlymacadamia.com:

Sunday - palabra
Monday - calvous
Tuesday - (skipped)
Wednesday - scaramouch
Thursday - lorn
Friday - rejectamenta

As I peruse these rejectamenta palabras, I dream of partying with that scaramouch, The Mad Hatter, and wonder if wearer of hats really become calvous after a while. Overall, I find these palabras a bit lorn and in need of some modern words. What are other poets doing? One way to find out is to go to some poetry events. So let's go forth and explore some poetry events:

Paradise Live Seminole HardRock  5715 Seminole Way, Hollywood FL, 33314 (954) 585-5091

Gulfstream Writers Presents Autumn Poetry Workshop Saturday, September 27, 2014 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Hallandale Beach Branch Community Room 2 300 S. Federal Highway, Hallandale, FL 33009, 954-357-6380 Contact Tasha Watson 954-357-6380

Join us at Cinema Paradiso for Poetry in the Courtyard with sign up starting at 5:30 pm on Saturday, September 27, 2014. Reading begins at 6:00 pm so bring some poems to read or just sit back, relax and listen to the words flow in the Courtyard. Hosted by Suzzette Dawes Cinema Paradiso is located at 503 SE 6th Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 Tell a friend! Bring a friend!

Why ask 'Is Poetry Dead'?

I always wonder why that topic keeps getting asked. I look around me and it seems very much alive:

• by the number of people writing poetry
• by the number of poets publishing poetry
• by the amount of poetry readings around.

I have the opportunity (and I hope you can attend) to discuss Poetry with an Autumn Theme and some questions that I could be asked and I will ask of you:

What is Poetry? What does it mean to you?

So share your thoughts in the comments below.

...and here's some poetry events (not all are poetry readings and yes, I recall "we can talk about socializing with other poets and/or supporting other poets" in my next post so here goes: meet me at one of these wonderful events and I'll give you my point of view):

Paradise Live Seminole HardRock  5715 Seminole Way, Hollywood FL, 33314 (954) 585-5091

Gulfstream Writers Presents Autumn Poetry Workshop Saturday, September 27, 2014 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Hallandale Beach Branch Community Room 2 300 S. Federal Highway, Hallandale, FL 33009, 954-357-6380 Contact Tasha Watson 954-357-6380

Join us at Cinema Paradiso for Poetry in the Courtyard with sign up starting at 5:30 pm on Saturday, September 27, 2014. Reading begins at 6:00 pm so bring some poems to read or just sit back, relax and listen to the words flow in the Courtyard. Hosted by Suzzette Dawes Cinema Paradiso is located at 503 SE 6th Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 Tell a friend! Bring a friend!

Read then maybe Revise

I like to write poetry. When I read out loud to a crowd, sometimes the words don't flow as I wish it would. I find myself modifying on the fly so I make a note and later at night, I revise. Hence, why I find that going to poetry readings helps refine my poems. Hey, maybe it will also help you sparkle. Here are some poetry events around town (not all are poetry readings but next post we can talk about socializing with other poets and/or supporting other poets):

Paradise Live Seminole HardRock  5715 Seminole Way, Hollywood FL, 33314 (954) 585-5091

Gulfstream Writers Presents Autumn Poetry Workshop Saturday, September 27, 2014 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Hallandale Beach Branch Community Room 2 300 S. Federal Highway, Hallandale, FL 33009, 954-357-6380 Contact Tasha Watson 954-357-6380

Join us at Cinema Paradiso for Poetry in the Courtyard with sign up starting at 5:30 pm on Saturday, September 27, 2014. Reading begins at 6:00 pm so bring some poems to read or just sit back, relax and listen to the words flow in the Courtyard. Hosted by Suzzette Dawes Cinema Paradiso is located at 503 SE 6th Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 Tell a friend! Bring a friend!

Words and Senses

They say that a picture is worth a thousand words but poets can paint a picture, convey a feeling and/or touch the senses with just a few words.

So let's explore our senses:

Sunday, August 31, 2014 at 5 pm Tropical Skoops 11635 Red Rd, Miramar, FL (954) 440-8736

Paradise Live Seminole HardRock  5715 Seminole Way, Hollywood FL, 33314 (954) 585-5091

Gulfstream Writers Presents Autumn Poetry Workshop Saturday, September 27, 2014 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Hallandale Beach Branch Community Room 2 300 S. Federal Highway, Hallandale, FL 33009, 954-357-6380 Contact Tasha Watson 954-357-6380

Join us at Cinema Paradiso for Poetry in the Courtyard with sign up starting at 5:30 pm on Saturday, September 27, 2014. Reading begins at 6:00 pm so bring some poems to read or just sit back, relax and listen to the words flow in the Courtyard. Hosted by Suzzette Dawes Cinema Paradiso is located at 503 SE 6th Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 Tell a friend! Bring a friend!

A review of "The Collection"

Yesterday, I had a poetry reading event. In addition, I received a review of The Collection from Meryl Stratword (author of The Magician's Daughter) and will share the review with you.

Here are some of the poems that especially appealed to me and my thoughts thereon:Fairy Tale:  I'm currently reading anthologies of fairy tale poems.  Anne Sexton's Transformations remains one of my favorite books on the subject.
Running From Love:  I like the way the chorus repeats itself like a song.Loaded Gun:  It brings to mind Emily Dickinson's famous poem, My Life Had Stood a Loaded Gun.  Susan Howe wrote an entire book about that one Dickinson poem, My Emily Dickinson.The Heart of Man:  I like the use of metaphor.The Ugly Girl:  This is really interesting in its use of alter ego.  You could do more with this.  And I notice Cinema Paradiso has just opened a film on this theme, The Double.Wolf:  I'm just now reading a beautiful novel with a wolf man theme, Alice Hoffman's Second Nature.A Visit to Brighton:  This is my favorite, and, in my opinion, your best work.  It excels in its narrative drive and in its use of specific detail.  Or, as they say, showing, not telling.Neolithic's Best: I've also been to Stonehenge!No Title:  I like the repetition of shoot me.  This is a good one for poetry readings!Everywhere:  Surreal.  I like the mysteriousness of this one, its dream-like quality.
Many thanks for your book!  It's now on my bookshelf, alphabetically,  between Lucille Clifton and Emily Dickinson.
Love, Meryl

Have you read The Collection? If yes, share your comments with me below.

The Rain Never Bothered Me Anyway

It's July! Yes, midsummer where dreams of sonnets have often invaded my nights after the humidity of the day and the afternoon thunderstorms. The afternoon thunderstorms don't deter me from going out after work. Less people when I take the classes, maybe the rain stops them. I like to do activities after work even if it is raining (Rain or no rain, I have to leave work when my work is done). But if I am already home, I may not want to leave as I like listening to the sound of the rain beating down on the roof.

If at home, why not write! Here's a topic: Miami Heat is losing LeBron and if you're into writing haiku, there's a contest for that go to https://t.co/WQO59s4f69
and you can say your goodbyes to LeBron.

I don't mind driving in the rain to get to poetry events so here are a few  for July:

• Sea Glass Poetry (reading by Sea Glass Project participants) July 24, 2014 starting at 6 pm. Studio 18. 1101 Poinciana Dr, Pembroke Pines, FL 33025. (954) 961-6067.
• Poetry Reading in the Courtyard. July 26, 2014 at 6 pm. Cinema Paradiso. 503 SE 6th St., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301. (I'm hosting).
• Open Mic Poetry Nite. July 27, 2014 at 5 pm. Hosted by Anastasia Clark. Tropical Skoops. 11635 Red Rd, Miramar, FL 33025.

If you know of any other poetry events for July, let me know in the comments below.

Zapped

Somewhere between the sky crying down on the earth, somewhere between the sound of thunder and frightful light show called lightening, these afternoon thunderstorms have made my once browning grass green and lush and tall. So tall I grabbed the mower one evening after work and mowed but stopped when the rain drops started trickling down because before long it will turn to a downpour with a swimming pool right at my door.

Then comes Saturday and I had promised myself to do some reading at least once a week. At least once a week to search through the venues of mostly Broward and read at some poetry event. However the rain beating down on the roof has me transfixed and I can't even move. My energy has been zapped!

So here's a snapshot of poetry event for next week (courtesy of http://poetry.openmikes.org/calendar/)

Maybe I'll see you there (or here next week).  Until we meet again, here's a poem where rain can't get in our way:

What's next?

Yesterday evening, I hosted my first poetry reading in 2014 at Cinema Paradiso. It was a small group but a great start for the year.  Here’s one of the poems that I shared:

Hopefully next month, I will have more readers and listeners. So what to do in the meantime? Here are some other poetry events going on around town this week:

June 15th	6 pm -	Poetry & Spoken Word Downtown Hollywood	Goddess Studio 2017 Harrison St, Hollywood, FL
June 17th	6:30 – 7:30 pm	Poetry Club	South Regional Library 7300 Pines Boulevard, Pembroke Pines, FL 33024
June 18th	7 – 11 pm	Conundrum Stages Year 6 Open Mic Tour	Gigi’s Music Café 4385 NW 88th Ave, Sunrise, FL 33351

If you know of any other events this week, let me know in the comments below

It's So Hot!

Weather.com said it is 91 degrees without a breeze. It's so hot! Already! And it's not even the official start of Summer (which is June 21st). So what to do? Go to poetry events!

Check out Anastasia today as she hosts poetry event this evening at TROPICAL SKOOPS in Miramar. 

Congratulations to Meryl for her feature with POETRY BUƒƒET PARTY  

Monday, June 16, 2014, 7-9 pm at CrepeMaker Cafe. Following Meryl's reading, join in round-robin open mic reading with own selection. If interested, RSVP at dclocicero@gmail.com and include your phone number. 

Then it's the return of  the poet at Cinema Paradiso (Fort Lauderdale) on Saturday, June 14th at 6 pm. I will be hosting so I hope to hear you read!

The Return of the Poet

Poetry soothes the soul;

once you enter, you can not go.

Into the darkest night I roam

To hear the prose burns

From the lips of men

And women -

And the rhymes

Like church bells chimes.

From The Collection, copyrighted by Suzzette Dawes

Well, I've been roaming and reading these last several weeks. Now I'll be hosting and a toasting at CP-Lauderdale (that is)! Join me on June 14, 2014 at Cinema Paradiso Courtyard where you can read some poems or just sit back and listen to the words flow.

Cinema Paradiso is located behind the SE 3rd avenue courthouse at 503 SE 6th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301.

Sign up begins at 5:30 pm.

Free parking available!

Join us....

An Evening of Poetry and Song

SpeakOut is scheduled for Friday, May 30th from 8pm to midnight at Gigi's Music Café in Sunrise.

Address is 4385 N. Pine Island Road, Sunrise, 33351 between Oakland Park Blvd and NW 44th Street.

I will be one of the poets and would like your support so hope to see you there. Please share...

April 30th

Today is the last day of April. The last day of National Poetry Month. I enjoyed sometimes, I toiled sometimes and I only missed one day from writing a poem a day during National Poetry Month (I even fell asleep with the light on).
So let me know which are your favorites by clicking "like" at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Tortured-Souls/173397456139588?ref=hl
And I'll post the favorites in a next blog.

One of the things I enjoyed during National Poetry Month was reading at the libraries especially the sea glass project circuit led by Anastasia Clark:

The poetry will also be displayed at Studio 18 in Pembroke Pines with a reception. As I get more details, I will share because I hope you can make it there.

Broward & National Poetry Month

Yippee, it's here. April is National Poetry Month and there is plenty of events in Broward. Here's a few:

April 16

Sea Glass Poetry Project Free Public Presentation 5:30 - 7:30 pm

Main Library

100 S. Andrews Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301

April 21
Celebrate National Poetry Month!  Meryl Stratford, winner of the Ninth Annual YellowJacket Press Chapbook Contest for Florida Poets 2013,  presents a poetry reading and book signing from her book, The Magician's Daughter. Refreshments sponsored by the Friends of the Hallandale Beach Branch Library. 6:30 - 7:15 p.m. Monday (April 21), at 300 S. Federal Highway. Call 954-357-6380.

April 26
Gulfstream Writers Group presents Local Authors Showcase. Several local authors will sign books and discuss their work, 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Hallandale Beach Branch Community Room 2

http://ems.browardlibrary.org/MasterCalendar/EventDetails.aspx?data=hHr80o3M7J4BW%2bdIvm4PR4FteY%2ft11Z8%2f5rqsnofByb2Q1du6KGWf8bUIIogHSJr

April 29

Sea Glass Poetry Project Free Public Presentation 5:30 - 7:30 pm

Stirling Road Branch

3151 Stirling Road, Hollywood, FL 33312.

Who know you might just see me there!

Spring Cleaning

Yes, it's that time of year as I try to remove the cobwebs, old magazines, junk mail and dust of yesteryear. A little spot painting to make the walls seem fresh and hanging wall accessories to give the place some zest.

In other news, April is right around the corner. So join in on some activities and celebrate National Poetry Month (special thanks to Anastasia for inviting me to these events):

West Regional Library, Broward County, Florida celebrates

April National Poetry Month

Free Public Poetry Reading April 7, 2014   6:00-7:30pm

Featured Poets: Anastasia Clark, Suzzette Dawes, Steve Murray, Fabian Novoa,
Donna Raglund-Greene & Sue Thompson

West Regional Library is located at 8601 W. Broward Blvd., Plantation, FL 33324.

Sea Glass Poetry Project Free Public Presentations will take place at:

Margate Catharine Young Library 5810 Park Drive, Margate, FL 33063	Apr  5, 2014    Saturday     2:00-4:00pm
Main Library 100 S. Andrews Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301.	Apr 16, 2014  Wednesday  5:30-7:30pm
Stirling Road Branch 3151 Stirling Road, Hollywood, FL 33312.	April 29, 2014  Tuesday    5:30-7:30pm

Check back soon for more updates. Know of any poetry events around town? Let me know!

Calling All Ye Bards!

Wow! We're in March already. April is next. April is National Poetry Month. So let's take a look at some of the poetry contests. There are plenty of poetry contests on the internet but the below two are free:

South Regional Library Poetry Club Contest. Submissions are open until April 6th. Email your poems to Sadiq Alkoriji at salkoriji@broward.org or drop them off at the AV/POP or Reference Desk. Contact Library for guidelines and prize information. 954-201-8870

Southwest Florida Poetry Contest. Submit one original poem no longer than 32 lines to tropicalia@news-press.com. Deadline is March 21.

If you see anymore free poetry contests, please share with me.

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MY POEM FOR THE WEEK

POETRY AROUND TOWN

Poetry Reading on March 11, 2014 at 7 pm with HKPF top three award winners (Susan Williamson, Meryl Stratford and Zan Gray).

Southern Breezes Cafe, building 68
Broward College

South Campus

7200 Pines Blvd.

Pembroke Pines, FL 33024

                                                                       ###
West Regional Library, Broward County, Florida celebrates

April National Poetry Month

Free Public Poetry Reading April 7, 2014   6:00-7:30pm

Featured Poets:  Anastasia Clark, Suzzette Dawes, Steve Murray, Fabian Novoa, 

Donna Raglund-Greene & Sue Thompson

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Poetry Club. South Regional/BC Library Multi-Purpose Room. Monthly, every 3^rd Tuesday at 6:30 pm.

Poetry & Spoken Word. Goddess Store n Studio. 2017 Harrison St, Hollywood, FL. Monthly, every 3rd Sunday. 6 pm.

Open mike (music, comedy, poetry). Gigi’s Music Café. 4385 NW 88 Ave. Sunrise, FL. Weekly on Wednesdays at 7 pm.

Some resources for poetry events include poetry.openmikes.org and meetup.com.

Dreams and/or Delusions of Poetry

With all the poetry, poets and poems in movie (Beat poets have been dominating the movie scene "Howl," "On the Road," and "Kill Your Darlings"), I dream of hosting an event that evolves around poetry and film. I was dreaming yesterday

First, I researched films about poet and poetry.

(Yes, I was not surprised to find several databases that show movies based on poems:

15 Movies Based On Poems - Huffington Post

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/07/24/poem-movies_n_3641770.html

10 Great Movies Based on Poems – Flavorwire

http://flavorwire.com/387561/10-great-movies-based-on-poems/)

Next, I narrowed the search to find movies released on or after 2012. The list was still promising. I read the synopsis and drafted a dream program for April (since it is National Poetry Month):

10:00 – 10:15 am           Opening Remarks

10:15                            Movie

Rita Dove: An American Poet

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3211016/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1

10:55 am                       Harlem Voices: The Poetry Of Langston Hughes And Claude McKay

http://www.filmsmediagroup.com/ItemDetails.aspx?TitleId=24065

11:30 – 1 pm                 Poetry Reading in Courtyard & Lunch

1:00 pm                        A Poet in New York

(about poet Dylan Thomas)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2870668/

                        2:30 pm                        Lemon

(about poet Lemon Anderson)

www.lemonthemovie.com/lemon-the-movie/about.php‎

4:00 pm                        Tar

(inspired by CK Williams’ work with a lot of Hollywood biggies).

www.imdb.com/title/tt2133333/‎

Now that would be my program based on my research. Question is how much is it to get the rights of these films so I could show them? I could actually get a venue, possibly do some advertising and get some folks to attend. Is my dream reachable or am I delusional?

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poetry AROUND TOWN 

Poetry Club. South Regional/BC Library Multi-Purpose Room. Monthly, every 3^rd Tuesday at 6:30 pm.

Poetry & Spoken Word. Goddess Store n Studio. 2017 Harrison St, Hollywood, FL. Monthly, every 3rd Sunday. 6 pm.

Open mike (music, comedy, poetry). Gigi’s Music Café. 4385 NW 88 Ave. Sunrise, FL. Weekly on Wednesdays at 7 pm.

Some resources for poetry events include poetry.openmikes.org and meetup.com.

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my poem for the week 

 Since I day dreamed above, here's one to dreaming in my sleep: