Announcements
If you have a literary announcement to make, please contact the CPC at franklinbeth1309@gmail.com (Bob King, Colorado Poets Center)
Fischer Prize August 31, 2022
Founded in 1997 to honor a beloved Telluride poet who died young, the 23rd Annual Fischer Prize is a national poetry contest open to English language writers of all ages living in the U.S. or to U.S. citizens living overseas. All styles and subject matter are welcome. Deadline for the contest is the last day of August each year. Winners are announced in October. Prizes include $1000 Fischer Prize winner, $500 Cantor Prize winner, and five $250 Fischer Prize finalist awards. More information is in the following link: https://www.tellurideinstitute.org/fischer-prize/.
Poetry Reading at the R Gallery and Art Bar February 15, 2022
Please join us for a poetry reading at Boulder's R Gallery and Art Bar with Kathryn Winograd and Jeffrey Franklin on Tuesday, February 15, at 6:00.
Bardic Trails Poetry Reading Series February 1, 2022
The first Tuesday of every month there is an online gathering of words, wit, and wisdom. Hosted by Wilkinson Public Library’s Joanna Spindler — the current San Miguel County Poet Laureate — each Bardic Trails poetry night will feature a guest poet sharing their work for the first 15-20 minutes. Next Joanna will lead virtual participants in a short question&answer session, followed by a zoom version of our traditional Talking Gourds circle. Each participant will get a turn to tell a story, share a poem (one’s own or a fav from another), comment on the evening, or simply pass. One of the key principles of our program is providing each person a voice. Don’t forget to register early with the Wilkinson Public Library as registration closes the night before. For late joiners, email Emma at emma.youngquist@western.edu.
Register here each month to receive the Zoom link: telluridelibrary.org/events
More information is found in this link: https://www.tellurideinstitute.org/bardic-trails/
Holocaust Poetry Reading January 27, 2022
The Colorado Poets Center is sponsoring a webinar, Poetry Reading in Remembrance of the Holocaust, on January 27, 2022, International Holocaust Remembrance Day. To attend, you need to register at the link below.
You are invited to a Zoom webinar. When: Jan 27, 2022 07:00 PM Mountain Time (US and Canada) Topic: Colorado Poets Center Holocaust Poetry Reading Zoom Meeting Register in advance for this webinar: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Atpf_P5DSG2DVUGebUuzoQ After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar. |
R Gallery Poetry Reading November 17, 2021
We had a very successful poetry reading and open mic last night at R Gallery and Art Bar in Boulder. Thank you, Uche Ogbuji, Lisa Zimmerman and Jacqueline St. Joan.
LOVELAND POET LAUREATE HIGH SCHOOL POETRY CONTEST April 1, 2020
Loveland Poet Laureate
High School Poetry Contest
First Prize $75.00
Additional Runner Up Prizes
To Enter:
· Submit one poem
· Must be your original work
· Maximum length 35 lines, including line spaces between stanzas
· Times New Roman font, point size 12
· Deadline for submissions April 1, 2020
· Email submissions to: lovelandpoetlaureate@gmail.com
· Include your name, school and email address
Winners will be announced on May 1, 2020.
There will be a public reading. Time and place to be announced.
The contest is for high-school students in the Thompson R2J school district.
Chris Ransick November 7, 2019
In Memorium
Chris Ransick’s first book, Never Summer, won a Colorado Book Award in 2003, and he published a collection of short stories in 2005 titled A Return To Emptiness, which went on to win the Colorado Authors’ League Award for Fiction. He has a number of other published works of poetry and short stories, including Asleep Beneath the Hill of Dreams, Lost Songs & Last Chances, Language for the Living and the Dead, and mummer prisoner scavenger thief.
Chris lived in Montana, Wyoming, California, Colorado, and Oregon, working as a reporter, editor, and professor. He served as the assistant to the editors of the definitive anthology, The Last Best Place: A Montana Anthology. His work has appeared in Pilgrimage, Copper Nickel 3, The Eleventh Muse, Fugue, and The Paterson Literary Review.
Chris died in 2019, leaving his wife, son, and daughter with a lifetime of words and love.
Thin Air: Accepting Submissions for Spring 2020 October 20, 2019
Thin Air invites all writers, emerging and established
alike, to submit to their Spring 2020 issue. They accept
fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry, and visual arts. Their
editors are also interested in pieces that defy categorization.
Regardless of form, we want material that feels fresh.
The pieces we accept tend to surprise us and remind us why
we fell in love with reading in the first place. We continually
strive to publish authentic work from a multiplicity of
perspectives.
They publish and circulate their journal annually. Alongside
their print journal, they also offer the opportunity for publication
through their online Web Features with no submission
fee at all.
Send them your most resilient work, something that
will survive above 7,000 feet. They are excited to read it.
-Thin Air Staff
35th Annual Central Coast Writers Conference September 26, 2019
Named the “Best Conference in the West” in 2019 by The Writer magazine, the 35th Annual Central Coast Writers Conference takes place at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo, September 26-28, 2019. Lodging and activities are also planned in picturesque Morro Bay, CA.
Forty presenters will offer 112 classes in screenwriting, beginning writing, poetry, memoir, novels, nonfiction, children’s, young adult, critiques, keynotes, and many other unique craft lectures.
Thank you for your time and consideration,
Opal Theodossi
(760) 884-6215
www.centralcoastwritersconference.com
Instagram and Twitter: @CCWritersCon
Facebook: Central Coast Writers Conference
Medium: www.medium.com/central-coast-writers-conference
Chris Ransick: Reading at ArtWorks Loveland September 19, 2019
Chris Ransick: ArtWorks Loveland on Thursday, September 19th at 7 pm
Poet Chris Ransick, former Poet Laureate of Colorado, will read from his new book, mummer prisoner scavenger thief, as well as other work at ArtWorks, 310 N. Railroad Ave., Loveland, on Thursday, September 19th at 7 pm.
Camille T. Dungy: Reading and Workshop August 23, 2019
Camille T. Dungy: Reading (Friday, August 23rd at 7 pm) and Workshop (Saturday, August 24th) at 9:30 am
Camillle T. Dungy is reading at the Loveland Public Library on Friday, August 23rd at 7 pm. She is also giving a workshop on Saturday, August 24th at 9:30 am. Please register for the free workshop through the library website or by calling 970-962-2765. Space is limited.
Luncheon Seminar August 17, 2019
BLOOD RHYTHM
Finding the poetry in your prose
Saturday August 17, 2019
A one-day luncheon seminar.
In Letters to a Young Poet, Rainer Maria Rilke writes,
"In writing poetry, one is always aided and even carried away by the
rhythm of nature: of waters, the wind, the night. But to write rhythmic prose one must go deep into oneself and find the rhythm of the blood."
To find the beating heart of our own prose, during this Saturday Luncheon Seminar we will turn for inspiration to poets: Ted Kooser, Philip Levine, Mary Oliver, David Lee, Diane Gilliam, John Haines, and David Whyte.
Page does a great job with these day long seminars. This one, at Mount Vernon Canyon Club, is above the heat but with the view. Check it out at:
http://www.pagelambert.com/workshops_speaking.html
Jim Keller
Bhanu Kapil: Reading at the Loveland Museum August 1, 2019
Bhanu Kapil is reading, with a focus on immigration, on Thursday, August ,1 at 5:30 at the Loveland Museum and Gallery (Foote Auditorium).
Poetry Reading by and Celebration for Loveland Poet Laureate Ronnie Patterson May 19, 2019
Ronnie Patterson will give a poetry reading at the Rialto Theater in Loveland on Sunday, May 19, at 4:00. Following the reading, there will be a celebration of Ronnie being named Poet Laureate of Loveland.
Reading by Chloe Leisure April 12, 2019
Chloe Leisure will read at 8:00 p.m. on Friday, April 12, at the LoCo Artisan Coffee House, 544 Cleveland Avenue, Loveland, CO. Open mic starts at 7:00 p.m..
National Poetry Month: Pattiann Rogers Reading and Workshop April 5, 2019
In honor of National Poetry Month, Pattiann Rogers is coming to Loveland for a reading and workshop.
Friday, April 5th, 7 pm, READING, and Saturday, April 6th, 9:30 am WORKSHOP.
Both events will take place in the Gertrude Scott Room at the Loveland Public Library; both are free and open to all. You will be able to register for the workshop through the Loveland Public Library website.
♦ The Poetry Of Earth Is Ceasing Never/Wild Has Its Skills ♦
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Pattiann Rogers has published fourteen books of poetry, most recently Quickening Fields from Penguin/Random House in 2017. Rogers is the recipient of two NEA Grants, a Guggenheim Fellowship, a Lannan Fellowship and a Lannan Literary Award in Poetry. In 2018 she received a Special Burroughs Medal for Lifetime Achievement in Nature Poetry. Among other awards her poems have received five Pushcart Prizes, two appearances in Best American Poetry, five appearances in Best Spiritual Writing, two Strousse Awards from Prairie Schooner, three awards from Poetry. She has taught as a visiting writer at the University of Montana, University of Texas, Washington University, and was Associate Professor for four years at the University of Arkansas. She is the mother of two sons, has three grandsons, and lives with her husband, a retired geophysicist, in Colorado.
Mad Blood Presents a Poetry Reading by Kathleen Cain and Mike Coste March 29, 2019
For March’s Final Friday (March 29), we have two more special poets: Kathleen Cain and Mike Coste.
Kathleen Cain is a native Nebraskan who has lived in Colorado since 1972. She was an early recipient of a poetry fellowship from The Colorado Council on the Arts and used the award to make the first of ten trips to Ireland, where she also lived for several months. Her poetry has been published in numerous literary magazines and anthologies. Two of her poems were included in Nebraska Poetry: A Sesquicentennial Anthology: 1967-2017. Her nonfiction book, The Cottonwood Tree: An American Champion (2007), was included in the Nebraska 150 Book Project, in honor of 150 years of statehood. Her prose poem “Lack of Light” was recently selected as the monthly WordFold winner by Folded Word Press. She has poetry forthcoming in The Comstock Review.
Mike Coste has taught philosophy and humanities at Front Range Community College for over 20 years, and currently teaches philosophy at Regis University. He is also a dean of instruction at Red Rocks Community College. His works have been published in The Burningword Literary Journal, 34th Parallel, Right Hand Pointing, Drunk Monkeys, and Dual Coast Magazine. He has a story coming out in an upcoming edition of Jitter Press.
As most of you know by now, Mad Blood Presents has moved its venue to Evergreen’s United Methodist Church, with scheduled presentations for each month’s last Friday, starting at 7PM. We normally have two featured presenters/performers for 30 - 40 minutes each and then have open mic readings of 3 -5 minutes each, by members of the audience. Most scheduled presenters will feature poetry, but there also will be flash fiction, short plays or memoirs, etc. And often like this month, there will be gigs by local musicians.
Seminar by Dr. Judith Briles March 9, 2019
Denver Woman’s Press Club Spring Seminar, “ANY GOOD NEWS IN PUBLISHING?with Dr. Judith Briles
Saturday, March 9, 2019, 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. DWPC Clubhouse: 1325 Logan Street, Denver.
Dr. Judith Briles is the award-winning and best-selling author of 36 books, includingAuthor YOU: Creating and Building Your Author and Book Platforms; Snappy Sassy Salty: Wise Words for Authors and Publishers; The CrowdFunding Guide for Authors & Writers; How to Avoid Book Publishing Blunders, Bloopers and Boo-Boos; and How to Create a $1,000,000 Speech.
Info and RSVP: AnneRandolph@KitchenTableWriting.com 303-758-3426
Joy Sawyer Writing Workshop February 28, 2019
Please join Joy Sawyer for a "poetry of affection" writing workshop from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. at historic Southard-Gillespie house, 1103 9th Avenue, Greeley. to register, send a $35 check made out to Historic Greeley, c/o Ken Weaver at 1725 12th Avenue, Greeley, CO 80631.
Joy Sawyer Reading February 27, 2019
Joy Sawyer, a poet on the CPC, will read from her works as part of the UNC Writers Conference on Wednesday, February 27, at 7:00 p.m. in the Panorama Room of the University Center.
Emily Bobo Poetry Reading February 25, 2019
Dr. Emily Bobo is doing a reading of her work from 3-4 p.m. in the Panorama Room at the University Center at UNC. Dr. Bobo is the author of three books and the editor of Bobo Books, a local non-profit anthology series, turning poems into sandwiches for public school kids.
February Final Friday Poetry Reading February 22, 2019
Mad Blood presents a poetry reading by Lorrie Wolfe and Kathleen Willard and a musical event by The Lost Creek String Band on Friday, February 22, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the United Methodist Church, 3757 Ponderosa Drive, Evergreen, CO. Open mic after the performance.
Crestone Poetry Festival (A Gathering of Poets from Colorado and New Mexico) February 21, 2019
This four-day celebration of the spoken word includes readings, workshops, open mic opportunities, and lots of time for poets and friends from around the region to get acquainted. This event is intended to help grow and sustain a community of poets, writers, and literature enthusiasts in the mountains and high deserts of Colorado and New Mexico, with a special emphasis on the Sangre de Cristo region. To register go to the following link: poemfest.com.
Reading by Writing Lab Poets January 31, 2019
On Thursday, January 31 at 7:00 p.m. at ArtWorks Loveland, members of the Writing Lab will be reading from a new collection, Begin With Leaves. Free with refreshments.
Poetry Workshop January 13, 2019
Veronica Patterson is offering a poetry workshop on Sunday, January 13, from 2-4 p.m. at ArtWorks Loveland. The cost is $20 ($15 for ArtWork members).
Mad Blood Presents Jerry Smaldone and Robert Cooperman September 28, 2018
Jerry Smaldone and Robert Cooperman will give a poetry reading at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, September 28, at the United Methodist Church, 3735 Ponderosa Drive. It is sponsored by Mad Blood.
Mad Blood Presents Stacy Fahrion (Piano) and James Bernath (Poetry) August 31, 2018
Stacy Fahrion and Jim Bernath will present at Mad Blood on Friday, August 31, at 7:00 p.m. at the United Methodist Church of Evergreen, 3757 S. Ponderosa Drive, Evergreen, CO 80439.
Bhanu Kapil: Reading and Workshop August 3, 2018
On Friday, August 3rd, Bhanu Kapil will give a reading at 7:00 p.m. in the Gertrude Scott Room at the Loveland Public Library. On Saturday, August 4, there will be a free workshop from 9:30-12: Writing the Poem Before It Arrives. Please e-mail Therese.Torpy@cityofloveland.org to register for the workshop.
New Chapbook by Daniel Klawitter: Quiet Insurrections July 31, 2018
Daniel Klawitter has published a new chapbook of poems, Quiet Insurrections, by Kelsay Books. The book may be purchased on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/1949229009/ref=dbs_a_w_dp_1949229009
Michelle Bitting wins Fischer Prize for Poetry July 31, 2018
Michelle Bitting, Poet Laureate Emerita of Pacific Palisades, California, won the 21st Annual Fischer Prize in Poetry with her poem, “Everything Crumbling Becoming Something New.” Chosen by Judge Joan Logghe of Española, Bitting attended the awards ceremony and received her $1000 prize at the Telluride Literary Arts Festival this spring.
Finishing her Ph.D. in Mythological Studies at Pacifica Graduate Institute, Bitting will be a lecturer at Loyola Marymount University this fall. A well-known figure in the Southern California scene, she has won numerous awards for her poetry and been widely published.
Also attending the ceremony was Jane Hilberry, professor of English at Colorado College and Ph. D. graduate of Indiana University. She won the newly-established $500 Cantor Award for the best poem submitted by a Colorado poet, “Beginning with a Line from Paul Monette,”which also was a finalist for the Fischer Prize.
Other finalists included Jose Alcantara of Carbondale, Colorado, with “Lady in Rags,” Claire Blotter of Novato, California, with “Rocking,” Devreaux Baker of Mendocino, California, with “Breathing Water, Swimming Air,” and Elizabeth Jacobson of Miami Beach, Florida, with “Birds Eating Cherries From the Very Old Tree.”
All the poems are available for viewing at www.tellurideinstitute.org/2018-fischer-prize-winning-poems.
New Book of Poetry by Lary Kleeman June 21, 2018
The link to Lary Kleeman's new book of poetry: http://www.blurb.com/b/8802437-geometries-of-indifference
Beginning and ending in different states of speechlessness, this collection is a study of last things. |
Passing of James S. Tipton June 5, 2018
James S. Tipton, who lived in Colorado from 1992-2005, and won the Colorado Book award in 1999, passed away at his home in Chapala, Jalisco, MX, on May 16, 2018. Two weeks prior to his passing, he published his final book The Alphabet of Longing and Other Poems (Librophilia 2018). Most of the poetry was originally written during the thirteen years during which he lived in Fruita and kept bees there. The book will be available on Amazon.com in June.
Dave Mason Reading May 7, 2018
Former Poet Laureate, David Mason, will be reading from his new book, The Sound: New and Selected Poems, at the Book Bar on Friday, May 18, from 7-9 p.m.
Celebrate National Poetry Month April 8, 2018
Join us for a celebration of National Poetry Month with Colorado Poet Laureate Joseph Hutchison and Aurora Poet Laureate Assetou Xango on Sunday, April 8, 2018, from 2-3:30 p.m.Hutchison is the author of 15 poetry collections, including “Thread of the Real” and “Marked Men,” a verse cycle about the Sand Creek Massacre. Hutchison writes muscular lines with a sharp eye for the outside world and the inner pathways of the human heart. Assetou Xango is a poet and community activist born and raised in Colorado. She has been performing poetry since 2009, was featured on HBO's Brave New Voices in 2010, and is a two-time TEDxMileHigh Speaker. She is currently the coordinator for Poetry Out Loud, a youth poetry competition through LightHouse Writers, Denver. Hutchison and Xango will discuss the road to being chosen as poet laureates, and will do readings and performances of their own work. We'll also be leaving time for Q&A with the poets. Denver Public Library Central, 7th Floor Training Room, 10 W 14th Ave Parkway, Denver
Congratulations to the following three 2018 Colorado Book Award Finalists in Poetry March 21, 2018
2018 Colorado Book Award Finalists
Veronica Patterson Published New Book of Poetry February 22, 2018
Veronica Patterson has published a new book of poetry, Sudden White Fan, with Cherry Grove Collections.
The Passing of Lois Beebe Hayna January 5, 2018
Lois Beebe Hayna died this April at the age 104. Her work is archived at Regis at http://libguides.regis.edu/hayna.
She is the author of 10 published books of poetry; she also received the following awards:
The Colorado Author’s League Lifetime Achievement Award, 2014
The Colorado Author’s League Best Book of Poetry Award – 2015, 2016
An honorary Doctorate of Letters awarded by Regis University, 2009
Born in Vesper, WI in 1913, she won a scholarship (during the Depression) to the University of Wisconsin. She graduated, married and raised 3 children. For 30 years “I wrote nothing,” she recalled. In 1974, she started teaching poetry, before she stopped teaching the class and joined it, transforming the meetings to a critique group for inspiring each other’s work.
In tribute, the Lois Beebe Hayna Writing Center in the Dayton Memorial Library honors her published works, as well as providing space for reading, writing, and poetry classes.
The Regis University Archives and Special Collections holds the revisions and manuscript drafts of her approximately 43 years of writing: essays about rural life, the Depression, the war effort, short stories, a play, and over 3,000 poems depicting love, hate, death, age
Aaron Abeyta September 26, 2017
CPC poet, Aaron Abeyta, published an essay, "Ancester of Fire," on the Center for Humans and Nature website (https://www.humansandnature.org/ancestor-of-fire).
New David Rothman Essay June 30, 2017
Our CPC poet, David Rothman, recently contributed an essay and poem to the Center for Humans and Nature's latest publication, Wildness: Relations of People and Place.
The new anthology was published by University of Chicago Press and features stories that explore the spectrum of wildness found in wilderness areas, on working landscapes, and in urban communities. The book merges culturally diverse voices to delve into the evolution of "wildness," including Margo, Gary Snyder, Vandana Shiva, Robin Wall Kimmerer, Robert Michael Pyle, and Winona LaDuke.
In his essay, David takes the reader on a lyrical journey to the Massachusetts mountain slopes, where the greater wildness of which we are always already a part shapes the poetic imagination even as it raises difficult questions.
CPC Poetry Advisory Group June 30, 2017
As many of you know, Robert King passed away on April 14, 2017. His wife, Beth Franklin, will maintain the Colorado Poets Center with the help of a CPC Poetry Advisory Group. The four poets on the Advisory Group are Veronica Patterson, Evan Oakley, Jack Martin, and Lisa Zimmerman. All four poets are CPC poets. A big thank you to these four poets for their help in sustaining the CPC.
New Lit Mag announced December 4, 2016
I recently published the first issue of Aife magazine, a hybrid lit journal/women's lifestyle magazine. We are currently looking for submissions for our next issue (Oct. release) and curious if we might find a place within Colorado Poets Center to reach out to writers/poets. Heather Mills Messner Aife Media Ltd, Publisher P.O. Box 1052 Gunnison, CO 81230 http://www.aifemedia.com (970) 596-4970
Grever book available December 3, 2016
TURNINGS: Reflections on a Conscious Life
After two decades of writing about others' life-changing events and relationships, it finally seems right to share personal stories of specific, transforming “turnings” that shaped my unusual journey as a straight spouse and beyond.
Critical episodes and adventures are interspersed with original poems that touch a gay mate’s coming out, a spouse’s addiction, a risk-filled search for identity, and an evolving spiritual awakening.
I invite you to visit my Amazon.com author's page to learn more and perhaps read a sample from the book. I would be grateful for your review and comments there. Or just let me know your thoughts.
Warm regards,
Carol Grever, Author
Blog http://www.straightspouseconnection.com
Website http://www.carolgrever.com
CAL Winners Announced July 24, 2016
The Colorado Author’s League has awarded Dan Gunther’s poem ”When the Owl Came to Gunnamatta Park” best of the year in the single poem category and Lois Beebe Hayna’s Moon-Hung Midnights as the best poetry collection.
Up Bear Creek February 29, 2016
Art Goodtimes’ blog covers Telluride and its environs, natural, poitical, and poetic.
http://upbearcreek.blogspot.com/2016/02/25feb25016-food-hub-fresh-local-food.html
Hooked on Books...Again! February 29, 2016
Jim and Mary Ciletti are looking forward to opening a second Hooked on Books store in Colorado Springs on April 1st at 10 and 12 East Bijou St. in the downtown’s core.
Colorado Writers Workshop Opens January 13, 2016
COLORADO WRITERS’ WORKSHOP
Inspiration - Guidance - Results
Do you love to write but have trouble finding the time?
Are you a burgeoning writer looking for guidance?
Are you an author looking for constructive feedback?
Are you new to writing and curious to learn more?
Do you dream of publishing but don't know where to start?
McFayden-Ketchum founded the Colorado Writers' Workshop for these reasons and more.
"While creative writing classes are great places to generate new material and share your work, they're expensive and often house too many students. Coffee shops are great gathering spaces, but it’s rare to find someone you trust to critique your work. Friends and family? We know how that goes.
"The Colorado Writers’ Workshop provides all of these services and more. Whether you are interested in generating new material, workshopping a piece hot off the press, or exploring your imagination via the written word, the Colorado Writers’ Workshop provides a collaborative, fun, and affordable space for writers of all levels to do just that.
How It Works
My primary goal as the Workshop leader is to facilitate a Workshop that helps writers find their voices, generate new material, critique and revise, and achieve their goals. We will also explore the publishing world, writing we love, and other literary pursuits.
Each Session meets for six weeks each Wednesday from 6:30-8:30 in my home in South Denver at a cost of $200 per member. You can also purchase a Drop-In for $40 if committing to a six-week Session is too much for your schedule.
The first hour of each Workshop focuses on generating new material; the second hour focuses on critique. While you don't have to bring anything for critique, you will never leave the Colorado Writers' Workshop empty handed. Be it a revised character outline, a brand new story, a sonnet, or a list of new and exciting ideas, you will leave each Workshop with something to show for your time and effort.
Who Can Join?
Any writer of any skill level, age 16 and up. Each Workshop is capped at 8 members, with a minimum of 4.
When Is The Workshop Held?
The Colorado Writers' Workshop meets each Wednesday night from 6:30-8:30 PM, light refreshments provided.
REGISTER http://www.andrewmk.com/signup.html
Winter Session: February 3 - March 9.
1st Spring Session: March 16 - April 27.
2nd Spring Session: May 4 – June 8.
Drop-In: Attend any Workshop $40
Summer Sessions TBA
Where Does The Workshop Meet?
In my home in South Denver. Address provided when you register.
Cost: $200, payable via Paypal (you do not need a paypal account), refundable up to 5 business days before the Workshop start date.
Parking: Ample free street and lot parking.
Public Transit: Colorado Station is a pleasant 10-minute walk from the Workshop.
Andrew McFayden-Ketchum is an author, freelance editor, and lecturer at the University of Colorado who has been leading creative writing workshops from my home, in the classroom, and online for over a decade (click here to view my CV). Many of my students, colleagues, editing clients, and Workshop members have gone on to publish their books, join MFA and PhD programs, and publish their essays, stories, and poems in literary journals. Check out client testimonials here. See my teacher rating at ratemyprofessors.com here.
My first book of poems, Ghost Gear, was published by the University of Arkansas Press in 2014 and was a Finalist for 2014 Foreword Reviews’ INDIEFAB Book of the Year Award, the Colorado Book Award, and the Miller Williams Prize.
My first anthology, Apocalypse Now: Poems and Prose from the End of Days was published by Upper Rubber Boot Books in 2012. My second anthology, Warning! Poems May Be Longer Than They Appear: An Anthology of Long-ish Poems will be published by Lamar Uni am an author, freelance editor, and lecturer at the University of Colorado who has been leading creative writing workshops from my home, in the classroom, and online for over a decade (click here to view my CV).
Many of my students, colleagues, editing clients, and Workshop members have gone on to publish their books, join MFA and PhD programs, and publish their essays, stories, and poems in literary journals. Check out client testimonials here. See my teacher rating at ratemyprofessors.com here.
My first book of poems, Ghost Gear, was published by the University of Arkansas Press in 2014 and was a Finalist for 2014 Foreword Reviews’ INDIEFAB Book of the Year Award, the Colorado Book Award, and the Miller Williams Prize.
My first anthology, Apocalypse Now: Poems and Prose from the End of Days was published by Upper Rubber Boot Books in 2012. My second anthology, Warning! Poems May Be Longer Than They Appear: An Anthology of Long-ish Poems will be published by Lamar Uni
am an author, freelance editor, and lecturer at the University of Colorado who has been leading creative writing workshops from my home, in the classroom, and online for over a decade (click here to view my CV). Many of my students, colleagues, editing clients, and Workshop members have gone on to publish their books, join MFA and PhD programs, and publish their essays, stories, and poems in literary journals. Check out client testimonials here. See my teacher rating at ratemyprofessors.com here.
My first book of poems, Ghost Gear, was published by the University of Arkansas Press in 2014 and was a Finalist for 2014 Foreword Reviews’ INDIEFAB Book of the Year Award, the Colorado Book Award, and the Miller Williams Prize.
My first anthology, Apocalypse Now: Poems and Prose from the End of Days was published by Upper Rubber Boot Books in 2012. My second anthology, Warning! Poems May Be Longer Than They Appear: An Anthology of Long-ish Poems will be published by Lamar University Literary in September, 2016. He is fpunded and editor-in-chief of PoemoftheWeek and of the Floodgate Poetry Series.
Feel free to email me at AndrewMK@AndrewMK.com with questions, or concerns .
TESTIMONIALS
"When I hired Andrew McFadyen-Ketchum to copyedit my novel, it was a wise decision. Not only was he meticulous about grammar, punctuation and the mechanics of writing, but his comments displayed an insight and appreciation of the characters and my vision of the story. When I rewrote, I took all his suggestions into account." -- Chelo Diaz-Ludden, author of The Cracked Bean, Mateo's Map, and Mandela's Reach
"My novel would never have been completed if it had not been for Andrew. His encouragement and support never wavered during those times I was stuck on a character’s development or a plot twist. He never tired of reading each draft word for word, offering suggestions and pointing out areas that needed improvement. I would recommend Andrew McFayden-Ketchum as a writing coach, editor, and mentor to anyone who is serious about creating a piece of publishable work. Before I met Andrew, I thought I couldn't write. With his help, now I know can." -- Joan Thomas, novelist
"Andrew is a GREAT Writing Coach. His skillset ranges from nonfiction to fiction to poetry to...whatever you need! He understands mechanics as well as popular, current styles of writing, and how to get it published. His knowledge and knowhow have matured my writing, and his recommendations for reading and research are spot on. As an aspiring author, I want to learn as much as I can without being told what to do. Andrew reins me in when I need it without forgetting my work is mine, not his. This push-and-pull approach allows me to improve as a writer without losing my voice or changing my beliefs. I’ve worked with Andrew for over two years. I know he puts as much thought into his editing and coaching as he does his own writing. I wouldn’t be the writer I am without him." --Kenneth Northington, student and retired military
"Andrew is a true professional and a breeze to work with. He has an expert editorial eye, meets deadlines, communicates clearly with authors, editors, and publishers, and is as practically minded as he is creative. He took Apocalypse Now: Poems and Prose from the End of Days from drawing board to eBook/paperback and helped elevate my publishing company to the next level. Our latest project, The Floodgate Poetry Series: Three Chapbooks by Three Poets in a Single Volume, promises to further elevate Upper Rubber Boot Books. Whether you are writing your first novel or prepping a manuscript for publication, I highly recommend him." -- Joanne Merriam, owner Upper Rubber Boot Books
"I began working with Andrew in September 2013 on my book, Sun God Sacred Secrets: The Archaeology, Art & Science of Ancient World Religions, when I needed to replace my existing editor. Andrew is client-focused, service-drive, and affordable. He always met our deadlines and brought a level of energy to my first book that was a great boost to my confidence as a burgeoning writer. I found Andrew to be very quick, responsive and incisive in his editorial approach and very enjoyable and surprisingly easy to work with, even when his commentary meant I had a lot of rewriting to do! I greatly enjoy Andrew's entrepreneurial approach as well as his teaching skills; no doubt, his editorial advice took my book to the next level. I have already asked Andrew if he would work with me in the near future. Whatever happens do not skimp on the editorial process. Work with Andrew and you won´t be disappointed!" -- Carlton Brown, author of Sun God Sacred Secrets: The Archaeology, Art & Science of Ancient World Religions
New Book by Mariluyn Krysl January 7, 2016
Marilyn Krysl’s new book of essays on poetry is called Yes,There will Be Singing (Univ. of Michigan in their annual series called Poets On Poetry edited by Marilyn Hacker and Kazim Ali. The book will be on sale at AWP.
Gioia Named California Poet Laureate December 5, 2015
David Mason let us know that California governor Jerry Brown has named Dana Gioia for a two-year stint as the state’s poet laureate.
Colorado Poet Awarded Kafka Residency Prize November 11, 2015
New CPC poet John Casquarelli has been awarded the Kafka Residency Prize by Shalom Neuman and will leave for Prague in June.
Kleeman Wins Blue Mesa Prize October 21, 2015
Lary Kleeman’s poem, "geometries of indifference," won first place in poetry for the 2015 Blue Mesa Summer Writing Contest. It will be published online in issue #32. The prize also includes a $500 award.
Julie Carr judged the poetry and wrote: “Lary Kleeman’s sonnet sequence, “Geometries of Indifference” reminds me of the work of A.R. Ammons: at once ornate and colloquial, formal and playful. The poem meanders easily between the present, the remembered and the imagined, keeping the reader off-kilter but returning her again and again to the stability of the real thing – melon, turtle dove, body, sage, and pine: language is sensation and the senses speak a language Kleeman knows how to read. Complex, rich, and delightful.”
New Publishing Venture for Colorado October 16, 2015
Middle Creek Publishing and Audio (MCP&A) has created a new imprint, ECOCO Books, which will focus solely on books about or based in Colorado by Colorado authors. Fiction & Non-Fiction, Poetry, Field Guides . . . very open. Seeking works with emphasis on ecology & culture of this great western state.
For more information follow the link below:
http://www.middlecreekpublishing.com/#!ecoco-books/nww0x
Beachy-Quick Guggenheim Scholar July 21, 2015
Associate Professor of Creative Writing at CSU Dan Beachy-Quick has been named a fellow by the John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation. Beachy-Quick was one of 175 scholars, artists and scientists selected to receive a 2015 Guggenheim fellowship and one of 10 recipients in the organization’s poetry category, (there were more than 3,100 applicants). He is the first CSU professor from the humanities to win the prestigious award and only the fourth professor from the university. The award will enable Beachy-Quick, who also is a CSU Monfort professor (he was the first humanities professor to be awarded that title) to spend the next year writing. Read more here:
http://source.colostate.edu/csu-creative-writing-professor-wins-guggenheim-fellowship/
Herrera Appoined Poet Laureate June 11, 2015
Juan Felipe Herrera has been appointed the first Latino U. S. Poet Laureate.
Photo and info at:
http://www.latimes.com/books/jacketcopy/la-et-jc-poet-laureate-herrera-20150610-story.html
Other sources:
http://www.nbcnews.com/news/latino/1st-latino-poet-laureate-juan-felipe-herrera-migrant-workers-son-n372816
http://fusion.net/story/148238/juan-felipe-herrera-is-the-nations-first-latino-poet-laureate/
AND the Facebook pages for Academy of American Poets.
Man Booker Prize Winner May 21, 2015
László Krasznahorkai, the Hungarian writer known for his dense and challenging novels and extremely long sentences, has been named the winner of the sixth Man Booker International Prize.
More info at:
http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/0c890a12-fe37-11e4-8efb-00144feabdc0.html
New Book from Juan Morales May 20, 2015
A chance to pre-order Juan Morales’ new book The Siren World (and read two poems) at Lithic Press:
http://lithicpress.com/index.php/our-catalog/46-the-siren-world
Trommer named Western Slope Poet Laureate May 19, 2015
TELLURIDE – Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer of Placerville was named the third Poet Laureate of the Western Slope during the Talking Gourds Poetry Performances Saturday, May 16, 2015, at the Ah Haa School of the Arts during the Second Telluride Literary Arts Festival (LitFest).
Emeritus Laureate Aaron Abeyta made the announcement after he read several of his own poems to great applause, the crowd calling for more. He spoke warmly of Rosemerry as one of the region’s best poets. Abeyta himself has won a Before Columbus Award, a Colorado Book Award, and is a highly respected English teacher at Adams State University in Alamosa, as well as mayor of his San Luis Valley hometown, Antonito.
“The Western Slope has such a rich, talented, diverse, generous poetry community,” said Trommer in accepting the title. “I’m so grateful to be a part of this landscape of poets. I’ve always felt so supported, and I look forward to continuing that tradition."
Trommer served two terms as San Miguel County Poet Laureate. She’s maintained a poem-a-day practice for almost a decade, sharing her work with students and friends on the Internet. At this year’s LitFest she catalyzed a Poetry Burlesque performance with several other women; premiered a poem video short with a local filmmaker, Suzan Beraza; premiered a neo-classical vocal composition she’d written and Robert McCauley had set to music (performed by an amazing vocalist and musicians at Arroyo’s Wine Bar and Gallery); and led a writing workshop titled “Walking in Two Worlds at Once” at the Wilkinson Library.
"I love what happens when people read, write, listen to and share poems with each other -- you can almost see the doors of the mind and heart swing open,” Trommer explained. “And I’m really excited about collaborative projects that combine poetry with art, music, dance, theater or video. I’ve already started to imagine projects I might coordinate to encourage more people to participate in their own poetic endeavors.”
LitFest is a collaboration among the Telluride Institute’s Talking Gourds program, the Wilkinson Library, Between the Covers Bookstore, Ah Haa School for the Arts, Telluride Arts and Arroyo’s Telluride. Talking Gourds is indebted to grants from Audrey Marnoy and San Miguel County Poet Laureate Peter Waldor for seeding this year’s poetry program. For more info, visit
Poetry Archive Announced April 20, 2015
For NaPoMo, Library of Congress features 75 years of readings in its new Archive of Recorded Poetry and Literature:
http://www.openculture.com/2015/04/library-of-congress-launches-new-online-poetry-archive.html
David Mason's Children's Book March 30, 2015
David Mason's new children's book, "Davey McGravy," is filled with wonder, love, and tragedy. See more at:
http://www.cpr.org/news/story/new-childrens-book-former-colorado-poet-laureate
A Colorado on-line bookstore February 22, 2015
View Conundrum Press’s new cozy warm bookstore:
http://conundrum-press.com/we-have-a-brand-new-bookstore/
Call for poems: Mountain Gazette January 5, 2015
Michael Henry is the new editor of Mountain Gazette and wants to publish “engaging smart poems.” Poems, Henry says “are journeys of discovery. It may be the land you already know. It may be a completely foreign landscape. It may be a trip into the mundane, into dream, into memory. Or into the mountains. Indeed, when in doubt, go higher. And deeper.”
If you’re interested in submitting, please send 3 to 5 poems via Submittable at: https://lighthousewriters.submittable.com/submit/31254.
Submitted poems must have titles. And please, no poems longer than two or three pages, single-spaced. If you like, feel free to include a short, two or three sentence bio with your submission. Poems must be previously unpublished. Rights revert back to writer upon publication.
Laureate Hutchison Moves Blog January 4, 2015
Colorado Poet Laureate Joe Hutchison writes: “I'll only importune you all once on this subject. After 8 years of blogging on blogspot.com, I've moved The Perpetual Bird to Wordpress so that I could integrate it with my redesigned Web site, and I wanted to invite you all to subscribe to it. It's free, of course! Just go to my site (http://www.jhwriter.com), scroll to the middle section of the page, and sign up.”
Hutchison Interview on TweetSpeak November 23, 2014
Joseph Hutchison, Colorado’s new Laureate, is featured in a 3-part interview with Maureen Dioallas on “TweetSpeak: the best in poetry and poetic things.”
“Why I Teach Poetry”
http://www.tweetspeakpoetry.com/2014/10/29/why-teach-poetry-interview-colorado-poet-laureate-joseph-hutchison/
“Let Go of What You Mean to Say”
http://www.tweetspeakpoetry.com/2014/11/05/interview-with-colorado-poet-laureate-joseph-hutchison-part-2/
“Everyone Has Imagination”
http://www.tweetspeakpoetry.com/2014/11/12/interview-colorado-poet-laureate-joseph-hutchison-part-3/
Conundrum Press Announces Tri-annual The Conundrum November 5, 2014
Conundrum Press says: “To kick off our next phase of building the press—expanding our area of influence and building direct-to-reader sales—we are pleased to announce the first issue of [The Conundrum—a free, tri-annual sampler of the phenomenal literature we publish. The Conundrum is meant to be shared freely and proudly. It is our gift to you! Read it online. Download it to your favorite reading device. Share it. Talk about it. Love it. We'll make more."
http://issuu.com/conundrumpress/docs/conundrumreader_vol1_interactive_pa/1
8th Colorado Poet Laureate Announced September 9, 2014
On Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2014, Gov Hickenlooper named Joe Hutchison of Indian Hills as the new Colorado poet laureate. See more information on Joe at his pages on ColoradoPoetsCenter.org.
Read an interview on one of his latest books, Marked Men at http://www.coloradopoetscenter.org/eWords/issue26/hutchison.html
Irwin's 7th Book Out August 9, 2014
Sample poem and ordering information for Mark Irwin’s 7th book, Large White House Speaking (New Issues, Western Michigan University, 2013)
at http://wmich.edu/newissues/titles/irwin-largewhitehousespeaking.html
Interview of Irwin by Susan Bell on Large White House Speaking and a sample poem at: http://dornsife.usc.edu/news/stories/1569/the-metaphysical-house
Index to Interviews Now Available June 26, 2014
NEW on the CPC homepage: click on “Interviews” and get an index of interviews with poets’ names (From Mike Adams to Jake York) and a clickable link to the page of The Colorado Poet where they first appeared.
CPC on Facebook April 7, 2014
The Colorado Poets Center is now on Facebook. Find us and 'like' us, if you can.
Rocky Mountain Poetry Series Planned January 21, 2014
Heard about the Rocky Mountain Poetry Series that Caleb at Conundrum Press if fomenting? It’s a subscription series and the hope is to reach a goal of 300 by May this year. David Rothman has already gotten started on the series which will include anthologies of Colorado and Wyoming poets and two new collections by Bruce Berger. Visit the site to find out more. https://rally.org/rockymountainpoetryseries#post_fahEtnUKZQa
Colorado Poets Center Now on Facebook September 28, 2013
As of summer, 2013, the Colorado Poets Center has a Facebook page. Visit it and "like" us, as they say. The same content is posted there as on this site (Awards and Writing News) but a bit more quickly. Become a friend!
Abeyta New Western Slope Laureate April 3, 2013
Aaron Abeyta received the Western Slope laureateship at the recent Karen Chamberlain Poetry Festival in Carbondale. Abeyta is an award-winning poet and professor at Adams State College in Alamosa and the author of Colcha, (Univ. Press of Colorado, 2001) and as orion falls (Ghost Road Press, 2005).
Now Accepting Submissions: Fruita Pulp February 18, 2013
Fruita Pulp (http://www.fruitapulp.com) has recently emerged as an on-line publication to act as a cultural guide to Fruita, Colorado, and the Grand Valley. The editor, Kyle Harvey hopes it will serve as a literary journal on the Western Slope and is soliciting submissions of “poetry, short friction, etc.”
They are also interested in pieces about Fruita, Colorado, Mountains, Culture (Art, Music, Photography, Food, Drink, etc), Outdoors, Mountain Biking, Paleontology, Geology and Astronomy.
Please send all submissions via email at fruitapulp@gmail.com.
Submissions should be submitted as a Word Document (.doc, .docx, etc) or in Simple Text form. Please include byline as well as any bio information and links to relevant materials.
Talking Gourds Poetry Club January 28, 2013
Talking Gourds Poetry Club is a collaboration among local poets, the Wilkinson Library, Between the Covers Bookstore, and Arroyo’s. Members meet monthly, first Tuesdays, in the evening, at Arroyo’s Fine Art Gallery & Wine Bar at 220 E. Colorado Ave. in Telluride. 970.239.2006
Rocky Mountain Poetry Series December 5, 2012
Conundrum Press is launching the Rocky Mountain Poetry Series by subscription. Subscribers receive 3 new poetry collections along with a discount code for books published by Conundrum, Burnside Books, and Samizdat Create. They need 300 subscribers (the categories are $50, $75, $90 and $140). Donate at: https://rally.org/rockymountainpoetryseries/donate
Denver's Lighthouse Writers Workshop September 26, 2012
In case you don’t know about the Lighthouse Writers Workshop, here is their statement with website at the end.
"Lighthouse Writers Workshop is an independent creative writing center in Denver, Colorado, founded and operated by working writers and university-level teachers of writing. Since 1997, Lighthouse has enabled writers to explore their craft in a supportive yet challenging environment.
"Our faculty are among the best and brightest writers in Colorado and beyond, and have won many prestigious awards, including Stegner Fellowships, the Rome Prize, Pushcart Prize, and the Colorado Book Award.
"Among our members, many have published and received awards too--but that's not the only goal of Lighthouse. We care about the written word, the beauty and energy in telling stories, but mostly we believe in the transformative power of writing, which is an integral part of our mission.
"Lighthouse is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that complies with all federal rules and regulations in providing equal access and opportunities in both learning and employment. We do not discriminate on the basis of age, gender, physical disability, sexual orientation, race, or religion."
Check their website for faculty, workshop schedule, and more:
https://lighthousewriters.org/
Innisfree Bookstore on Facebook November 5, 2011
Find poems, news, and links to poetry articles at Boulder’s Innisfree Poetry Bookstore and Café on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Innisfree-Poetry-Bookstore-Cafe/152102094837613
March 30, 2011
Colorado Book Festival November 30, -0001
Colorado Book Festival. March 3, 2018. A bustling, free day of reader forums about everything from book clubs to middle-grade books to chats with authors to novels and poetry and nonfiction. Keynotes by state historian Patricia Limerick and bestselling author and CPR contributor Peter Heller. At the main Denver Public Library downtown. 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM. Info: www.cobookfest.org
Western Slope Poetry Tour November 30, -0001
Following on the heels of a successful kickoff to the poetry program’s first Fall tour this year with Avon’s Jodie Hollander, one local Western Slope poet, Luis Lopez of Grand Junction, and one Front Ranger, Val Szarek of Louisville, will share the spotlight as featured guest poets in Telluride, Norwood, Paonia and Fruita, Oct. 24-27.
The monthly Tour begins at the Telluride Arts Gallery at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 24; moves to a new venue on Wrights Mesa outside Norwood at Million Miles Away, located at 1150 County Road Z42, starting at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 25; appears at the Paonia Public Library beginning at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 26; and has its grand finale in Fruita, Friday, Oct. 27, in the Lithic Bookstore & Gallery at 7 p.m.
Nature and Place Poetry Competition November 30, -0001
The RSPB and The Rialto, UK's poetry magazine, are working with BirdLife International and the Cambridge Conservation Initiative to offer prizes for a poetry competition.
Prizes
1st PRIZE £1000
2nd PRIZE £500
3rd PRIZE A Place on a Creative Writing Course at Ty Newydd in 2018 (worth £550)
TWO ADDITIONAL PRIZES
A personal tour with Mark Cocker of his most cherished wild life places in East Anglia. Mark is one of Britain’s most celebrated writers on nature.
A personal tour with Nick Davies of his beloved Wicken Fen to learn about his research there. Nick is Professor of Behavioural Ecology at the University of Cambridge.
The judge is celebrated poet, Michael Longley.
Michael Longley’s eleven poetry collections have received many awards, among them the Whitbread Prize, the T.S. Eliot Prize, the Hawthornden Prize, the Irish Times Poetry Prize, the Griffin International Prize and the PEN Pinter Prize. His Collected Poems was published in 2006, and Sidelines: Selected Prose in 2017. In 2001 he received the Queen’s Gold Medal for Poetry, and in 2003 the Wilfred Owen Award. He was appointed a CBE in 2010, and from 2007 to 2010 was Ireland Professor of Poetry. He and his wife, the critic Edna Longley, live and work in Belfast. In 2015 he was elected a Freeman of the City.
The entry fee is £6 for the first poem and £3.50 for each subsequent entry.
Full details and the facility to enter online can be found on The Rialto website:
https://www.therialto.co.uk/pages/nature-poetry-competition-2018/
Poetry Reading: Sudden White Fan November 30, -0001
There is a reading from Veronica Patterson's new collection of poetry, Sudden White Fan. It will be at the Loveland Museum/Gallery in the Foote Auditorium, Friday, March 23rd, 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Free. Refreshments. Books will be available.
Poetry Reading: Sudden White Fan November 30, -0001
There will be a reading from Veronica Patterson's new collection of poetry, Sudden White Fan. It will be at the Loveland Museum/Gallery in the Foote Auditorium, Friday, March 23rd, 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Free. Refreshments. Books will be available.
Poetry Reading: Sudden White Fan November 30, -0001
Veronica Patterson will read from her new collection of poetry, Sudden White Fan, at the Loveland Museum/Gallery in the Foote Auditorium, Friday, March 23rd, 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Free. Refreshments. Books will be available.