Waco Poetry Music and More

It's been a long time Waco Poetry and Music Scene!

2009-08-15T17:01:00.000-07:00

I couldn't remember the email address I used to sign on to this blog, so that's one of the main reasons I've been MIA. Sorry!

I wish I could say I have this grand announcement that there's a lot of great things going on, but that's not the case. It's Saturday night and I am at home, blogging about nothing to do around Waco. The best thing this summer has been Tuesday nights at the $1 movies (50 cents all day) and a nice evening of Putt-Putt with Jen. It's been a pretty boring year since Beatnix Coffeehouse closed last summer. Boring.

School starts on the 24th and we head back to work on Monday. I'm still teaching at Carver, and shall be just as busy, however, looking forward to finding some cool adult activities during the school year. Any ideas???

I'm sure we'll attend the Cultural Arts Fest in September. I think this year, I might volunteer.

Beatnix Coffeehouse closes for good this Saturday!

2008-07-25T07:42:00.001-07:00

Come out at 6pm to celebrate with the local artists and musicians as we bid our ole' coffee shop farewell.

http://www.beatnixcoffee.com

2008 going in another direction...

2007-12-30T05:55:00.001-08:00

For the moment that is. I'm teaching officially and the Spring will be busier than the fall, as we prepare for the TAKS test. With that being said, I've been unable to host open mic poetry at Beatnix for months. Penney, the owner, has taken over the reigns and I'm sure they have plenty to offer in the new year. Until then, keep Waco full of life and culture by supporting anything that has to do with poetry, music, art, and more.

Maryee

September Poetry Theme Night -

2007-09-08T06:45:00.001-07:00

The Theme Night for Thursday September 27th is "Other Poet's Poetry" read by the coffeehouse poets. If you've attended Open Mic Poetry at Beatnix Coffeehouse and have said to yourself, "Wow, I'd really like to read that original poem of...", then this theme night is for you! Now the original poems can be that of one of the HOT Poets or any of your favorite poets, dead or alive. A suggestion from the crowd this past Thursday was "Rumi, Rumi, Rumi!" OK, I never even heard of Rumi, but since his 800th birthday is this year, I thought it would be cool to honor him and his timeless work. Check out this link on Rumi to learn more about him. Need help narrowing down your choices, or better yet, coming up with a choice or two, check out this website or just google famous poets.

If you'd like to read another Beantix Coffeehouse Poet's poem, then this is the night to do it. If you do not know how to get in touch with a poet whose poem you'd like to read, email me, leave a comment, or contact Beatnix Coffeehouse directly. See ya'll at Open Mic Poetry!

Too busy to blog????

2007-09-08T06:34:00.001-07:00

I shall catch up...I promise!

On the Walls at Beatnix Coffeehouse-Susan Roberts

2007-08-08T18:13:00.000-07:00

From August 5th til' the first week in September. Please visit her Blog.

May Poetry Night

2007-05-11T05:17:00.000-07:00

May 24th is Themed Poetry night and this month's theme is: Hang-ups, Addictions, and I shole do need to quit!

Have fun with this one folks!

The Featured Poets night is Thursday May 31st. Katie and Gregg will be sharing their personal works so come out early if you want to get on the mic between 7:30pm and 8:30. We'll probably start Featured Poets night at 8:40 and end at 9:45pm. We will still have open mic from 7:30pm to 8:30pm.

Come on out and support local poets!

Theme Poetry Night-From A Man's Point of View

2007-04-19T05:08:00.000-07:00

Well, tonight at Open Mic Poetry, we'll be sharing poetry from a "man's point of view". Last month was Women's Poetry theme in celebration of Women's History Month. With this being National Poetry month, hopefully we'll have lots of poems shared by famous and not so famous poets. I need to find me some Langston Hughes to read, myself.

Last week I could only stay a little while because I had school work to do. Alex Simpson hosted and did a fantastic job!! Thanks Alex!

Jack Larimore will be hosting tonight after the poetry workshop from 6-7pm.

Nick Stewart Performing at Beatnix Coffeehouse

2007-04-06T22:53:00.000-07:00

Videos coming of Nick Stewart and Friends.

March Poetry at Beatnix Coffeehouse

2007-03-08T16:53:00.000-08:00

Poetry Workshop is March 15th from 6-7pm in the meeting room
March's Theme Poetry Night is From a Woman's Point of View-March 22nd
Featured Poets March 29th - Sassy and Monica Miller

1st Drum Community Circle at the Art Center Waco

2007-02-24T19:20:00.000-08:00

Visit their website for more info!

Open Mic Jamz 1-27-07

2007-01-27T22:04:00.000-08:00

Here's some photos from the night here.

Featured Poet Night is Thursday at Beatnix Coffeehouse

2007-01-23T20:06:00.000-08:00

Maryee and Jack Larimore: Starts at 8:30pm
Open Mic will be from 7:30pm til 8:20. Don't be late!

Here's photos from the night!

Open Mic Jamz at Beatnix Coffehouse

2007-01-06T20:01:00.000-08:00

Always something going on!!

Slam Poet Apoetaswell reciting Little Boys at Beatnix Coffeehouse Open Mic Poetry Waco, Tx

2007-01-04T22:27:00.000-08:00


1-4-07

Kareem reading I Do Have a Color Problem at Beatnix Coffeehouse Open Mic Poetry Waco, Tx

2007-01-04T21:34:00.000-08:00


1-4-07

Krystle reading an original piece at Beatnix Coffeehouse Open Mic Poetry, Waco, Tx

2007-01-04T21:13:00.000-08:00


1-04-07

David C. reading Dogs Do Bite at Beatnix Open Mic Poetry

2007-01-04T20:17:00.000-08:00


Reading to a packed house this past Thursday, David helped close it out and he succeeded in sending us home with lots of laughs!!

Poetry tonight! Are you ready?

2007-01-04T06:02:00.000-08:00

Just in case you've procrastinated like me and haven't quite written a slew of poems over the holiday to prepare for tonight's "No Old Poem" night, here's a link on writer's block. Well, I guess I should also add a link on procrastination as well cause a lot of times putting things off leads to not writing anything at all. Hope this helps. Now, if you've not written anything new, please don't let that keep you from coming out tonight to enjoy others who may have something new to share. I've spoken to a few who actually have been at work starting the new year off with new material. My hat goes off to them. Come on out to poetry night tonight. It shall be fun!

Oh and by the way, if you have a friend who's a writer, poet, musician or artsy fartsy at all, here's a suggestion for gift giving to those who probably don't want flowers, a picture or stuffed animals for gifts. More than likely, they want tools to improve their craft. I know I do. Check out this link to see what I mean..
Which reminds me, have you checked out my froogle lately??? :-)

No Open Mic Poetry until January 4th 2007

2006-12-28T09:29:00.000-08:00

Beatnix Coffehouse has been on holiday vacation since Sunday December, 24th and will not re-open until Tuesday January 2, 2007. So that will give all the poets time to reflect and write some new poetry because January will be HOT Poets 1 Year Anniversary Celebration. What does that entail? Glad you asked! Every week we'll have something fun going on, including two theme nights.

The first poetry night will be Thursday January 4th. This will be theme night and it's called RESOLUTIONS-Out with the Old and In with the NEW! What kind of poetry will be shared? The answer: ALL NEW POETRY!!! Yep that's right, no old poems will be read on Resolutions Theme Night. Hopefully we will all be able to enjoy New Poetry for a New Year!!! You can write about anything, including any Resolutions you may have made for 07'.

The second poetry night will be HOT POETS 1 YR ANNIVERSARY NIGHT! This will be January 11th. On this night, I plan to have a photo/video montage to present for all the documentation of the past year. For those of you who've been faithful to Open Mic Poetry at Beatnix, my request is that you come and share what poetry at Beatnix has meant to you. I'm looking for "back then" and "now" short pieces. They can be written in poetry form or just plain ole' writing from the heart. We want to have a nice cozy night and I guess you could call it, "testimony" night. Come ready to share your feelings on poetry night and reminisce about your favorite poem or favorite night you attended. Or perhaps the first time you got up to read or the first poem your wrote. What ever you come up with is fine with me!!

The third poetry night which will be January 18th will be another theme night. The theme will be FAVORITE NURSERY RHYME, TV THEME SHOW OR LYRICS night! What does that mean? Just pick your favorite of the afore mentioned and change the words/verses and make up your own personalized poem. Just make sure it's fun and clean! Thanks!

The last Thursday of the month will be Featured Poets Night. The two Featured Poets will be Jack Larimore and Me! Come on out and share in both our personal works. Jack will also have available his second book of poetry he's just published called Metamorphosis.

And that will wrap up the start of a great New Year of Open Mic Poetry in Waco!

Featured Poets Night Photos

2006-12-22T09:01:00.000-08:00

In case you missed last night's presentation from the HOT Poet's Featured Poets Night, you can check them out here in my Fokti Album. PJ Kelly and David Crelia presented their personal works in front of a full and supportive crowd. We had such a great time because PJ and David shared from their heart! I guess you should have been there! Videos coming soon!!

Hosted on Fotki

Hosted on Fotki

David C. reading Soggy Sandwich at Beatnix

2006-12-17T23:41:00.000-08:00


12-17-06

David C. reading Freetos at Beatnix

2006-12-17T23:00:00.000-08:00


12-17-06

Open Mic Poetry tonight!

2006-12-14T05:12:00.000-08:00

Come on out to Open Mic Poetry tonight. It's Positive People Poem Night! Got a positive poem you'd like to share about some special person/people in your life? If so, come on out and share on the stage!

The last poetry night of 2006 will be next Thursday December 21, with Featured Poets, PJ Kelly and David Crelia! Don't miss either night!

Featured Poets Night Photos and Videos

2006-12-01T06:58:00.000-08:00

Sha'rol and Mike Guinn

Hosted on Fotki

Hosted on Fotki
More photos from the night are Here! Videos coming soon...

Featured Poet Night is Tonight at Beatnix Coffeehouse

2006-11-30T09:06:00.000-08:00

Come out to see HOT POETS November Featured Poets at Open Mic Poetry at Beatnix.

Featured will be Sha'rol, a Waco native, bringing some hometown flavor. Here she is reciting an original called, Round and Round.

Sonny Mac and Mike ~ Beatnix Coffeehouse Sidetracks - Waco, Tx

2006-11-29T23:18:00.000-08:00


Sonny Mike Show Original Piece called Nice and Slow.

Wayne and Jody - Sidetracks

2006-11-22T22:54:00.000-08:00

Photos from their performance are HERE!

I guess We had ISSUES

2006-11-17T21:52:00.000-08:00

OK, why did Poetry night go on til' 10 o'clock last? I guess a lot of us really had issues! What a fun night! Don't miss out on Theme Poetry Night at Beatnix Coffeehouse.

HOT Poets Update

2006-11-16T05:23:00.000-08:00

Tonight HOT Poets is having I Got Issues Night at Beatnix Coffeehouse.
We will have "themed" poetry nights monthly and I will add to the schedule earlier to give everyone time to prepare their poems. We'll see if we can reserve all "I Got Issues" Poems until after the break so I can videotape them all in on shot this evening. Theme nights help you in creating new work and that gives us a variety of new poems to hear at least on a monthly basis for us regulars.

Next week will be Thanksgiving, so no poetry night because Beatnix will be closed for the holidays.

The last Thursday of each month is Featured Poets Night. November 30th (mark your calendars) we will be featuring Sha' Rol, a local poet cutting her teeth at OMP and our long distance HOT Poet, Mike Guinn of the Ft. Worth Poetry Slam. It should be an exciting night filled with a lot of original pieces from the heart.

On Featured Poets Night, regular OMP will be from 7:30 til about 8:20ish and the Features will have 30 minutes each the rest of the night.

Keep writing, and I hope to see you out tonight!

Maryee

Shane Spann - Looking for you

2006-11-10T23:26:00.000-08:00


Performing an original song at Beatnix Coffeehouse's Live Music Night, Friday November 10, 2006. Shane was recently signed to Amnesty Records and goes on tour in January 2007. Show him some love by linking this video to your myspace or blog and leaving your comments in his guestbook at http://www.shanespann.com

Coffeehouse Blues - Shane Spann at Beatnix - Waco, Tx

2006-11-10T23:25:00.000-08:00


11-10-06

Peter Do You Love Me? by Shane Spann -Beatnix Coffeehouse -Waco, Tx

2006-11-10T23:24:00.000-08:00

I GOT ISSUES NIGHT

2006-11-06T20:11:00.000-08:00

Next Thursday, November 16th is I Got Issues Night at Beatnix Coffehouse Open Mic Poetry. Need any ideas on what you want to write about? Well, you can check out the IGOTISSUES website for starters.

For those of you who've been coming out to Thursday night Poetry on a regular basis know that from time to time, I give "homework" so to speak. This month's assignment is to write about about whatever issues you may have. It can be issues with yourself, your work, relationships, life, quirky things that really bug you or whatever you come up with. Be as creative as possible, and also, have fun.

Remember it's rated PG, so make sure you bring something that will be fun but interesting to hear. How about folks with unusual feet? Anything you can come up with I'm sure will be just fine. And remember, have fun!!

Jazz Night at The Palladium 10-27-06

2006-10-28T11:53:00.000-07:00

View photos from the event here.
Tim Cates and the Dave Wild Band opened up the night.
Rob Holbert of Mirage was the headliner for the evening. It was such an awesome night! I was a little under the weather but enjoyed Mirage thoroughly. Richard Thomas emceed the event sponsored by Black Tie Productions.

Featured Poet Night is Tonight at Beatnix Coffeehouse

2006-10-26T17:01:00.000-07:00

Jena Evans and Apoetaswell tonight at Beatnix Coffeehouse: 8:30-9:30pm. Come on out and support these HOT Poets.
Pictures from the Open Mic and Featured Poets night are here.

Jena reading one of her original pieces called Love Me.

Apoetaswell reciting A Sword in the Snow from his CD.

Baylor Lariat Gives Kudos to Beatnix Coffeehouse

2006-10-19T21:43:00.000-07:00

Here's very nice article in the Baylor Lariat about Beatnix Coffeehouse. They even mentioned poetry night. Yea!! So nice!

Personality Art Show at Beatnix Coffeehouse

2006-10-08T23:49:00.000-07:00

Pictures from the reception are here.

HOT Poets at the Waco Cultural Arts Fest today!

2006-10-01T09:23:00.000-07:00

Today from 1pm-4pm, the HOT Poets will be reading and reciting poetry at the Waco Cultural Arts Fest. Come check us out at the KWBU Kids's Stage. HOT Poet teens will perform between the musical acts from 1pm-2pm and the HOT Poet adults will perform as well from 2pm-4pm. The musical act line up will be various musicians who've graced the stage at Beatnix Coffeehouse's Open Mic Jamz. Nick Stewart will host the musicians and I'll host the poets.

Yesterday's activities were fun filled and there were a lot of families out. The weather was nice and warm. Make sure you dress comfortably and get ready to buy some good food and drinks from local restaurant vendors.

Old Dallas Highway - Live Music Night

2006-09-22T23:53:00.000-07:00

Playing to a packed audience of family, friends, and patrons, Old Dallas Highway played for the first time formally at Beatnix Coffeehouse tonight! I captured a little video. Enjoy! Pictures from their performance can be viewed here.

Poetry Workshop at Beatnix 1st and 3rd Thursdays

2006-09-20T20:12:00.000-07:00

HOT Poets will be hosting a poetry workshop for all ages starting this Thursday 9-21-06 from 6pm to 7pm in the meeting room at Beatnix Coffeehouse. HOT Poet Jack Larimore will be the facilitator. Bring at least one piece of poetry (and a few extra copies) you're working on for helpful feedback from fellow poets. This is also an opportunite for those who want to read on Open Mic Poetry to practice reading their piece before getting on the stage. Come on out!! For more info, check out the Beatnix website.

Happy 1 Year Anniversary Beatnix Coffeehouse

2006-09-17T09:04:00.000-07:00

Don't Forget to Write a Poem for Thursday

2006-08-31T18:20:00.000-07:00

Reminder about Positive Waco Poems for 8-31-06

2006-08-30T11:43:00.000-07:00

Repost:

OK, from time to time I like to give "writing prompts" or "assignments" to the HOT POETS and anyone who'd like to participate in these writing exercises. Well about two weeks ago while on stage it came to me that we ought to come together and write a positive poem about good ole' Waco, Tx! Now the poem can be written any way you want to, just as long as it's positive.
Need some ideas about what you can write about? Try these links:

THE DEADLINE FOR THE POEM IS THURSDAY AUGUST 31ST!!!

Exciting News about Shane Spann

2006-08-27T17:12:00.000-07:00

Shane is a regular at Beatnix Coffeehouse and my sister Jen and I just found out some GREAT NEWS about Shane. Read about it HERE! Congrats Shane!!

Tangled Blue Performs at Beatnix

2006-08-25T22:46:00.000-07:00

St. Paul Lutheran Church of Bellmead sponsored a community concert featuring Tangled Blue of Austin, Tx tonight at Beatnix. They performed a caffeinated Folk-Rock blend of songs with a Christian twist. Jen and I met the sweet duo early in the Summer when they dropped by Beatnix. Watch them perform I Close My Eyes below. I had front row seats and captured some good footage. The concert was awesome. Joel and Aimee are very engaging, funny, and have a lot of energy. Visit their website and join their email list to see when they'll be in town again. Aimee and I share birthdays 8 days a part in October. I have her by one year, but she looks marvelous!!!! It was such a nice evening as usual at Beatnix Coffeehouse.

Andrew Currey Art Reception at Beatnix Coffeehouse

2006-08-25T00:06:00.000-07:00

Andrew Currey's Art will be on the walls at Beatnix until October 8th instead of until October 1st. That's an extra week to drop by and enjoy this talented artist's work.

If you'd like to see more pictures from the Opening Reception, please visit MJS Productions.

This was my first time meeting this young man, and I might say I was quite impressed. He's very articulate, mannerable, and quite handsome! I wish him much success at the University of North Texas this fall.

MACT Meeting and 5th Annual River Jam

2006-08-21T21:34:00.000-07:00

Jen and I attended the Music Association of Central Texas (MACT) meeting tonight and surprisingly enough ran into a handful of folks we already knew. The 1st picture is of Johnnie Bradshaw, the President of the Waco chapter. He was reading off all of the available volunteer positions for the 5th Annual River Jam sponsored by MACT. The fundraiser event for Caritas is Saturday, September 16th from 4pm-11pm at the Bosque River Stage on MCC's Campus. Performers include: John Nitzinger, Sonny Mac Blues Band, Zychek, Sandusky, Touch of Class, The Nick Hildebrand Band with Gordon Collier, Clark Naubert and Jonquil. I'll be in school that day at MCC, so I'll head over there after 5pm. If you'd like to volunteer, contact them via their website.
The next picture is Scott Vaughn. He hosts the songwriter's workshop the Monday after the MACT meetings. I plan on dropping by next Monday night at 7pm to share some of Jen's and my song lyrics.

The third picture is Michael and Rita Jones. Rita was the songwriter of the year last year and her birthday was today. We celebrated with cake! Penney at Beatnix sent us to the meeting to represent Beatnix, because they are members of MACT. Beatnix is one of the major sponsors for River Jam this year, so they were real happy to see us. We saw Terry Roller, Bryan Martin, Marty Floyd, Gordon Collier of The Nick Hildebrand Band, Carolyn Hurst and her husband. It was nice to see familiar faces. We met plenty other singer/songwriters including Glenn Parmelee of Tenderheart Ministries. We invited all out to Open Mic Jamz and to Beatnix Open Mic Poetry. We also sat and chatted for a moment with Mary Duty of Poppa Rollos Pizza where the meeting was held. It was a good night.

Sherman Evans on the Wall

2006-08-21T21:15:00.000-07:00

If ya look real close at the man on the plaque and our faces, you may see a strong resemblance. Why? Because that's our late Uncle Sherman on the plaque. He was a well known singer all over Central Texas for many years until his health failed in the late 80s and he passed away in 1989. About 5 years ago MACT decided to start honoring those who've made major contributions to music in the Central Texas area by having a Hall of Recognition annually presented at the Groovy Awards. Well, our Uncle Sherman was the first inductee.

I have run into plenty of folks of all races all over Waco who when they find out I'm an "Evans", they ask, "Do you know Sherman Evans?" I poke my chest out, grin shining on my face and proudly say, "That's my Uncle!!" What follows is always, "Your Uncle was a great singer!! He sang at Walker's Auditorium. We'd go see him here and there." Of course they'd name places that no longer exist in and around Waco that I was unaware of in my youth. I really miss my Uncle Sherman and like anyone who loved him dearly like me, I wish he were still here today to make me laugh and sing a sweet tune in my ear. He was a fun, witty, and handsome Uncle. He's been gone for 17 long years but his spirit will never die. Just wanted to give ya'll the inside track on our family.

My dad is a good singer as well and Uncle Sherman's son, Jason plays the bass for a Christian Rock band here locally. Unfortunately for me, I write songs, but can't carry a tune in a bucket! I guess I'll stick to reading and reciting poetry and oh, writing songs.

Article about the Art at Beatnix in the Baylor Lariat

2006-08-21T17:01:00.000-07:00

Beatnix offers local artists space to display paintings

Aug. 21, 2006

By ANNA WOODCOCK, Entertainment editor

Students can now get their daily dose of caffeine and art at Beatnix Coffeehouse.

The coffee shop offers a new environment for coffee lovers free from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

With food, drinks, live music and "Open Mic Poetry Night," Beatnix has a variety of entertainment to offer, but it's also a local art venue.

"When we found out how starved locals were, we wanted to give them a location to display their work and help get their name out," said Todd Millerd, Beatnix's general manager and business partner.

Beatnix first opened its doors to customers and McLennan Community College art students by mounting their works on the walls.

Since the opening, the art exhibit has expanded to include more than just work from MCC students, but from artists all around central Texas.

"Classes came occasionally, too," Millerd said. "One professor had her students draw what drink they wanted on napkins as a grade."

Keeping the local community in mind, Millerd, along with his business partner Penny Simpson, immediately accepted Laura Walton's request to display her pieces of art.

"Laura was originally a customer and was one of the first artists to hang her pieces," Millerd said.

Walton later became the curator of the local art venue, searching for local artists and creating six-week shows.

"I've been to nearly every poetry night," Walton said. "One night, Penny and I got to talking and that was part of her vision, to have a nice looking, gallery-type presentation, so we put our heads together."

The first show, "New Geometries," began July 9 and ended Sunday with features from James C. Brown, Ruby Hanna and curator Laura Walton.

Brown's three-panel work titled "Relativity" is the largest piece on display and is definitely an eye-catcher, Millerd said.

Walton, who has run her own art shows in Dallas and Austin, said this is the first introduction outside of school for many of these artists who otherwise may not have the opportunity to display their works.

"It's very nice to have the opportunity for a place like this in Waco," she said. "You feel proud having your family and friends and prospective artists view your work in a local business."

The dimly-lit atmosphere mixed with cozy couches and recliners would appear to be the most unlikely place to display art.

However, Millerd said Walton makes sure to design the proper lighting needed for an art show.

"The presentation and lighting is more what you would find in an actual art gallery," Walton said.

While business remains relatively the same, Millerd said the number of positive comments and questions concerning the show have soared.

"Especially with this show, people are asking questions and are happy to find out we deal with local artists," he said.

Reicher High School senior Lauren Pate, an employee, said the art display has sparked her decorating interests for her future college dorm room.

"I always notice when we get new pieces and like to look at them during my breaks," Pate said.

All the art on display is for sale, ranging in price from $85 to $600.

Beatnix is not discounting the artwork from its loyal students.

The coffee shop is still transforming its back coffee room into a venue solely devoted to local student work, including MCC, local high schools and Baylor. The new exhibit is free and open to the public and began in early August with works from the artist Andrew Currey.

Open Mic Jamz at Beatnix Coffeehouse

2006-08-19T23:48:00.000-07:00

I come out and support my sister Jena every Saturday night for Open Mic Jamz at Beatnix. Each week new folks come up and play/sing as do the folks who return weekly to hone their craft and get their 15 minutes of fame. Most performers play original work which is cool, because if any of them make it "big", we'll already have their songs all memorized. The 1st collage picture has Jaimee, a high school student at Midway high singing an original tune. This was her first time on the stage at Beatnix, but certainly not her first time performing. She performs with her dad and she sings and plays with extreme passion. Visit betteroffdad's website to learn more about Jaimee and her dad. Jerry Simonek plays his original tunes and I think he was singing Board it Up here. It has a catchy tune and repetition that makes you find yourself chanting, "a board it up, a board it up". Pic number 3...yeah, Nick the host and I decided to do the mean "hard pose". Being silly and having fun. 4th-mixed media with Nick as the backdrop for my exeriment. Miles helped me out on this one. 5th-Laura Walton and me, posing with our new Beatnix Coffeehouse starburst yellow T-shirts on. I love it!! Jackson Edwards, by Ashley's request, jumped on the Banjo and strummed out a cool tune. Check out that new hair cut and Dynamite Colgate smile! Thanks for playing the Celtic tune again Jackson!! Next, Jen and Nick singing the Beatles favorite, Yesterday and the last, another picture of Jaimee. She's sweet and very talented. You go girl!!
Now, on to the Beatnix T's. They are $15 plus tax, I guess, and the three colors to choose from are Starburst Yellow, Blue, and Army Green. I tried them all on and settled with the Yellow. When you drop by Beatnix, make sure you pick one up. They are going fast!!!

No More Teen Poetry Cafe

2006-08-13T08:01:00.000-07:00

The last night for Teen Poetry Cafe was Tuesday August 8th. And I might say it ended on a great note! Lots of teens and lots of poetry read. We had young folks there from public and private schools, teens and tweens. They was so much energy and it was such a "social" night. Laughing, movement, and lots of chatter going on. Check out some pictures from the Cafe.

If you were a teen and enjoyed yourself and would like to see the Cafe open over the holidays and school breaks, leave me a comment. I spoke with Penney, the owner of Beatnix about having Saturday workshops, especially right before UIL so those competing can sharpen their skills in preparation for the competitions. Poetry is one of the categories at all levels. I know because I was a volunteer UIL coach for Carver Academy this past Spring for the 6th graders. Now 7th grader Zagoria D. placed 2nd and she has graced the stage at Beatnix on a Thursday night with the big dogs! So email me or leave a comment if you are interested in Beatnix and HOT Poets hosting ongoing workshops or the Cafe opening back up before next Summer.

OAN, Beatnix is still having Open Mic Comedy on Tuesdays and I believe it will be every Tuesday night from 9pm until...Contact Beatnix Coffeehouse for more info.

Open Mic Jamz 8-12-06

2006-08-12T23:21:00.000-07:00

More pictures from Open Mic Jams HER E.

Virginia and Claude performing at Beatnix

2006-08-05T17:08:00.000-07:00

Playing this Friday August 11th, at Beatnix, Virginia and Claude, a husband and wife duo. Live performers at Beatnix on Friday night play for tips and there's no cover charge. Show starts at 8:30pm. Come check them out and support local musicians!

Sir Ulises - Afro Brazilian Music at Beatnix Coffeehouse

2006-08-04T23:31:00.000-07:00


Open Mic Jamz

Open Mic Poetry 8-3-06

2006-08-03T23:59:00.000-07:00

Click HERE for more photos of Open Mic Poetry.

Hosted on Fotki

Brittany and Allie both reading on stage for the first time at Beatnix. Although they said they were nervous, no one could tell. Both shared original work. We expect to see these Baylor Bears back often!!

Come out to see Murray Price at Beatnix Coffeehouse

2006-08-03T21:50:00.000-07:00

Murray Price specializes in Country Western Music and will be a featured live performer Friday August 4th at Beatnix Coffee House. He's Good!!!! Come on out and support him!! Here he's playing and singing Folsom Prison Blues. Your comments are welcomed!

Photography by Maryee of MJS Productions

2006-08-02T19:35:00.000-07:00

Photos taken of artist, Laura F. Walton for her portfolio. Visit Walton Studio today!

What's So Good About Waco? Write about it!

2006-08-02T15:06:00.000-07:00

OK, from time to time I like to give "writing prompts" or "assignments" to the HOT POETS and anyone who'd like to participate in these writing exercises. Well about two weeks ago while on stage it came to me that we ought to come together and write a positive poem about good ole' Waco, Tx! Now the poem can be written any way you want to, just as long as it's positive.

Need some ideas about what you can write about? Try these links:

My sister Jen has composed a song called Waco, My Home Town, but guess what? She has no lyrics to it. So I was thinking that those of you who'd like to partake in writing a poem about Waco might want to take a listen to her song and it may give you some inspiration to say, write something that may go along with the melody.

THE DEADLINE FOR THE POEM IS THURSDAY AUGUST 31ST!!!

Here's Jen playing her song. It's quite nice, I might say, and I'm not saying that because she's my sister. You see for yourself. Make sure you give the video time to buffer.

What's Going On Poetically and Musically Speaking

2006-08-02T09:31:00.000-07:00

Here's the skinny on what's going on this Summer with Jen and Maryee around Waco:

Every Tuesday from 7-9pm:

Teen Poetry Cafe
at Beatnix Coffee House on 19th and Lake Shore. This will last until Tuesday August 8th, with a final Teen Feature Night! So if you have teen and tweens, bring em' on out to Beatnix Coffee House. These young folks are really talented and have a lot to share. Oh yeah, and send em' with some money cause they're gonna want to eat some pizza or get something to drink. Check out Beatnix's menu.
The Teen Poetry Cafe host is Richard Simpson, an 8th grader at St. Lewis.

Every Thursday from 7:30-9:30pm:

HOT POETS' Open Mic Poetry
at Beatnix Coffee House. It's open to all ages. There's a lot of poetry that gets either read or recited each Thursday night. If you've never attended an open mic poetry meeting, come on out. It's a warm and inviting environment and the audience is quite gracious. Trust me, I'm the host.
I know. If you have any music accompaniment or a drummer you'd like to read or recite your poems to, Beatnix has congas, a banjo and an acoustic guitar for your pleasure.

Guidelines:
**3 poems or 5 minutes, which ever comes first
**Rated PG-13 ~~ It's a family atmosphere and poets from ages 7+ read weekly ~~
**If you have announcements, give them to Maryee to announce during the break
**Have fun and bring a friend or two

Every Saturday from 8:00-11:00pm: Beatnix Open Mic Jams
Can you sing, play an instrument, like to cover your favorite artist's songs? Christian, Folk, R & B, Rap, Country, drummer, harmonica, flute, bass???

Well come on out and get your 15 minutes of fame at Open Mic Jams.

Nick Stewart is the host and is himself, a very talented singer/songwriter. Come on out, sit back, relax and enjoy some good ole' music from local talent right here in Waco, Texas. There have been artists who've come out to Open Mic Jams and after the feedback and encouragement, they auditioned with Penney, the owner and were given a night to feature on Friday night Live Music Night at Beatnix. So who knows, you might be inspired and talented enough to have your own show one day. Come on out!! If you can't sing or play an instrument like me, you'll enjoy yourself anyway. Check out some video below of two performances.

Gabe Gattle Playing Rock Me 7-29-06

2006-07-29T23:34:00.000-07:00

Open Mic Jamz 7-29-06

2006-07-29T22:54:00.000-07:00

Open Mic Poetry 7-27-06

2006-07-27T23:55:00.000-07:00

Click HERE for more photos from Open Mic Poetry.

Hosted on Fotki

Roland sharing heart warming original work about his wife and poetry.

Open Mic Comedy At Beatnix Coffeehouse

2006-07-27T09:24:00.000-07:00

Today's paper has a nice picture and blurb about Open Mic Comedy at Beatnix. Check out the article here. If you want to see some pictures, you have to buy the Trib or see a few pics I took. I videotaped a few, but have not decided if I will upload them to google video or not. Make sure you come on out in two weeks to share in the laughter and fun!

Open Mic Jamz 7-8-06

2006-07-22T13:43:00.000-07:00

When I have and make the time, I like to upload artists I recorded and don't mind seeing over and over again on my blog. Here's Gabe Gattle on the acoustic guitar:

Open Mic Poetry 7-20-06

2006-07-20T23:45:00.000-07:00

Click HERE for more photos from Open Mic Poetry.

Hosted on Fotki

Cody V. reading an original poem he'd written during the break. Richard was his inspiration.

Three More Weeks Left for Teen Poetry Cafe

2006-07-19T07:29:00.000-07:00

If you are a teen and have not dropped by Beatnix Coffeehouse for Teen night, you're missing a treat. This past Tuesday seemed like Teen Comedy night! Adults and teens alike were laughing and sharing poetry the whole time. I'm really impressed with the talent of these young people!

Open Mic Poetry 7-13-06

2006-07-13T23:43:00.000-07:00

Click HERE for more pictures from Open Mic Poetry.

Hosted on Fotki

Jack Larimore reading A Dream within a Dream

2006-07-12T23:54:00.000-07:00

Teen Poetry Cafe at Beatnix 7-11-06

2006-07-11T23:10:00.000-07:00

Click HERE for more pictures of Teen Poetry Cafe.

Hosted on Fotki

Raven a Freshman at Midway High, reading a poem about love. She was also selected to be a writer on the Waco Teen Trib team! Go Raven!

New Geometries Art Show Reception

2006-07-10T22:46:00.000-07:00

When I started this blog, I titled it Waco Poetry Music and More. Well here's some of the MORE:

New Geometries will be on Exhibit from July 10th until August 19th.

Open Mic Jamz 7-8-06

2006-07-08T23:46:00.000-07:00

Open Mic Poetry 7-6-06

2006-07-06T23:37:00.000-07:00

Click HERE for more pictures from Open Mic Poetry night.

Hosted on Fotki

Jason says he loves working the Open Mic Poetry shift cause that's when he gets the most tips! We'll miss his when he heads off to the University of Dallas in August.

The crowd is very supportive and buys lots to eat and drink. Hearing and reading poetry can really work up a thirst and an appetite!

Poetry Announcement for the week from Maryee

2006-07-03T10:49:00.000-07:00

TEEN POETRY CAFE

Beatnix Coffeehouse will be closed from today (Monday) til Wednesday. That means No Teen Poetry Cafe tomorrow night. They will re-open Thursday, bright and early at 7am for coffee and pastries and we will have Open Mic Poetry at 7:30pm as scheduled.

If you haven't been out, please come and bring some upbeat poems if you have any. Last week was kinda melancholy and we need the HOTPoets to always have a poem or two handy to lift the mood when it starts to get too dark in the place. The crowd has been good even though it's summer time, but hey, that may be a Waco thing, cause there's no other consistent Open Mic poetry nights going on and not much to do on a Thursday night.

OBSERVATIONS FROM MARYEE

I've noticed that most of the poets are reading their own work. We try and provide a safe place in which to share at Open Mic Poetry Night, which is good. Most of us share intimate and personal stuff, so that's helpful for them and others also and very therapeutic. Sometimes it gets pretty deep.
The young folks amaze me by not being fearful of reading in front of a crowd. They add a nice balance for Thursday evenings and put the older folks to shame with their courage and creativity. Tuesdays have been nice as well and the poetry prompts I‘ve been giving the teens have been put to good use.
Something else I've noticed is how many folks are becoming inspired to write their own "anthems" if you will, partly from others who have shared their own. Nick Stewart's "Screw You Ex-Girlfriend" has "spawned" others into writing from their own perspective. He said he’ll be reading it this Thursday.
The self-censuring has been going fairly well. Beatnix is in business to make money, not run off customers who get offended when they walk in the doors to get a Chai tea and a danish and hear something lewd or offensive come from the stage. So, as a reminder, please be considerate of the Coffeehouse, the patrons, and the fellow poets when you read yours or someone else's work. IOW, use wise discretion.

PICTURES PICTURES PICTURES
I have been uploading pictures in my fotki account. If you would like to check them out, please do. If you want to purchase any, that would be great also. Check back often cause when I get the time to upload I will. If you want a picture but need it edited first (lightened, cropped, red-eye removed, etc), let me know and I'll clean it up before you purchase it. Right now, I'm just uploading pictures mostly without major touch-ups.

The link is: http://public.fotki.com/MsMaryee/beatnix_coffeehouse/

VIDEOS VIDEOS VIDEOS

As of last Thursday I also started videotaping the poets which means I took less still still shots, but captured as many poets as possible reciting their poetry. My digital camera as some of you know is also a camcorder and audio recorder as well, which means, you can have your stuff recorded by me with still or moving pictures, and solely audio as well.

I'm not working this summer substitute teaching so I thought it would be a good idea to offer my services in photography for those who are willing to help me out while I have fun doing what I love, which is capturing moments, visually, digitally and audibly. We've had a lot of memorable moments at Beatnix and I wish I had been capturing them all since the beginning, but hey, at least we are doing what we are doing. So support my side gig and purchase some pictures.

Believe it or not, it is a bit time consuming dealing with hundreds of photos. Downloading and editing can be a bear, especially when uploading video to google.com. I'm finding out the hard way that I need more hard drive space on my computer to handle all of picture and mSo I do what I want to do because I enjoy it, but if you want me to do a "paid" project for you, I'll be more than happy to discuss it with you via email or at Beatnix. Penney is helping me get my portfolio together, so if anyone wants to join in and support my efforts, that would be great.

The videos I have uploaded so far are here:
http://video.google.com/videosearch?q=beatnix+coffeehouse
If you want to see some, check out google video. They are allowing for comments and ratings for google members, so please know that if I upload your video someone whom you do not know may comment. Just an FYI…

HOTPOETS.ORG WEBSITE
The hotpoets.org website is under construction. So, for now any announcements and updates will be coming either from the hotpoets newsletter group http://groups.yahoo.com/group/hotpoetsnl/

my blog: http://www.wacopoetryandmusic.blogspot.com

or http://www.beatnixcoffee.com

WANT YOUR POEM ADDED TO YOUR PICTURE?

If you want me to add your poem under your picture on the blog, just email me with the text and I’ll add a the poem with the picture. If there’s anything you do not want, say a picture of your, etc, just email me off line and let me know and I’ll fix it.

HAVE A BLOG OR WEBSITE?

Send me your links to your blogs/websites and I’ll add them to the links in my Waco blog. You can also add your links into the newsletter group, by clicking on “links” when you are in the group.

Well, that’s all for now. Your comments and suggestions are welcomed. Looking forward to seeing you out on Thursday night!

Maryee

Waco Poet Jena Evans performing One Two

2006-06-29T23:17:00.000-07:00

Jen reciting an original piece at Open Mic Poetry 6-29-06

Waco Jazz Musician Richard Thomas playing the Bambo Flute

2006-06-29T23:06:00.000-07:00

This tune is called We Are Marching.
Richard also owns Richard's Band Instrument Repair on 510 Elm Ave. Please click on the link above to visit his website.

For private engagement bookings, please call Richard at 254-752-1000 or 866-752-1003.

Hosted on Fotki

Isabel congratulating Richard on his jazzy performance!

Wooley Tarpit, The Straw In Camel's Back

2006-06-29T20:59:00.000-07:00

Original piece by Brent.

Get Your Truth and Freedom Poems Ready - Thursday June 29th

2006-06-28T08:34:00.000-07:00

The Mother's Day and "IT" poems were great and we are still hearing
others that were not shared on the assigned nights. The "THEY"
poems will be scheduled perhaps later. We'll see. The feedback on
the "assignments" has been good and the poems have been creative and
very thought provoking.

To give folks time to prepare some really good Truth and Freedom
poems, we'll share them the week before the 4th of July on Thursday
June 29th. If you have any questions, email me or see me at Beatnix
tonight.

Keep writing,
Maryee

If you would like to receive reminders for upcoming events via your email, make sure you sign up for the yahoo hotpoets Newsletter.

Jackson Edwards performing Gotta Go To Chicago

2006-06-24T23:02:00.000-07:00

Jackson will be performing at Beatnix Friday, July 28th. Come on out and support him.

Jason Millerd and Jena Evans performing Upside Down

2006-06-24T22:53:00.000-07:00

Go Jason!!!

Jena Evans performing Blues Jam at Open Mic Jams-Beatnix Coffeehouse

2006-06-24T22:49:00.000-07:00

Jason Millerd is helping out on the drums. Fun and fast!

Check out more of Jena's Music on her Soundclick.

Your comments are welcomed!!!

Aaron Singing and original song called Mysterious

2006-06-24T22:22:00.000-07:00

I'll add more info soon!

Open Mic Poetry 6-22-06

2006-06-22T23:26:00.000-07:00

Click HERE for pictures from Open Mic Poetry.

You always meet a new friend at Open Mic Poetry at Beatnix Coffeehouse!
Hosted on Fotki

Nick Stewart Performing Bed Time Blues

2006-06-17T22:48:00.000-07:00

Nick Stewart, the host of Open Mic Jams at Beatnix performing my favorite song by him called Bedtime Blues. He's so talented and I just love it!!!

Art and Poetry

2006-06-16T17:06:00.000-07:00

Here's a poem I wrote last week.

I would suggest you change the replay to

really fast!!

Hope you enjoy!

Up in the Sky

Two more here:

Yes or No?

What Can Make You White As Snow?

Open Mic Poetry 6-15-06

2006-06-15T23:22:00.000-07:00

Click HERE for more pictures from Open Mic Poetry.

Hosted on Fotki

Typical Crowd at Open Mic Poetry night supporting local poetry and the literary arts!

Poetry Night 6-8-06

2006-06-08T23:26:00.000-07:00

Click HERE for photos from Open Mic Poetry.

Hosted on Fotki

Teen Poetry Cafe at Beatnix Tonight

2006-06-06T16:35:00.000-07:00

Tonight from 7-9pm at Beatnix Coffeehouse will be Open Mic Teen Poetry. So if you are at teen or at least in the 6th grade on up, come on out!

Here's some pictures from Teen Poetry Cafe:

Click HERE for more photos

Teen Poetry Workshop today at the Waco Public Library

2006-06-03T15:18:00.000-07:00

I just came from the teen workshop held today at the Central Library. It was hosted by my fellow poet friend Laura Walton. The workshop was awesome, I might say. The attendees were pretty enthused as well. There were some really talented teens in attendance. I didn't have my camera, as I usually do, so I didn't get any photos. I will add a poem I wrote from the poetry writing exercise Laura gave us that the participants seemed to like. If you don't understand it, you probably had to be there. It was a cool exercise.

Writing Exercise by Maryee
6-3-06

The mother will write with a mild pencil

She's had enough of slick pointy ends
that have no real say so in how she feels

Ink stinks
She thinks
as she glides the wooden brush across the paper
with subtle dullness rather fast

Blue
The shade of her dreary disposition
Dark misty clouds

Write
She will, but her story, it will only be led by her feelings

Sad
Discontented
Melancholy

Alone
Widowed
Childless
Without ink

She thinks
and then she writes again to fill the lonely void

Poetry Night 6-1-06

2006-06-01T23:02:00.000-07:00

Click HERE for pictures from Poetry night tonight!

Orlando reading an original piece.
Hosted on Fotki

Poetry Night at Beatnix Time Change

2006-05-23T10:09:00.000-07:00

With school out for the summer and the sun setting later in the evening, we decided to start and end Open Mic Poetry later from 7:30pm to 9:30pm.

Another change to Beatnix's schedule is, they are now open Monday through Friday until 11pm.

The time change for each started last week.

Waco High Band Drum Solo

2006-05-16T21:59:00.000-07:00

Open Mic Poetry in May at Beatnix

2006-05-03T05:02:00.000-07:00

OK, I looked at the calendar and it looks like we'll shoot for Mother's Day Poems for the 11th (next Thursday) and IT Poems the week after that (May 18th). If you have any inspirational poems for/by Teens and young people, bring those this Thursday! We may have a younger crowd visiting this week to read and listen to some good HOT Poetry.

For May 25th, see if you can cook up some poems for Memorial Day, end of school year, and Summer.
Take care!

Maryee
HOT Poets

HOT Poets Newsletter on Yahoo

2006-05-01T05:09:00.000-07:00

If you want news concerning upcoming events with HOT Poets or Open Mic Poetry right to your email or via online Group access, then subscribe to HOTPOETSNL, the newsletter with HOT Poetry updates and announcements.

Click to join hotpoetsnl

What's been goin' on

2006-04-20T23:14:00.000-07:00

Even for a cold and rainy night, we managed to get a faithful few out to come and read and share. New faces as well, who dropped by to see what this "poetry night" was all about. Carl Hoover has it listed weekly in the Entertainment section of the Trib and we only anticipate more new people as well as those curious to come on out.

It's been more than fun hosting Open Mic Poetry at Beatnix Coffee House. I have the sneaky suspicion this is becoming a family, a community of people coming together to create, share, and grow. I don't believe I'm speaking for myself. Since we've started, I've had other HOT Poets help me out by hosting. That's so no one can ever say when I'm not in town, the show can't go on. I call it good succession planning! Jen, Orlando, and David C. have hosted, and I'm sure more are to come.
Here's a collage of poetry tonight!

As usual we had our faithful regulars come up to grace the mic as well as some new faces, one being Tank's 7 yr old daughter "A". She read like a pro, an original hand written piece, preferring to sit rather than stand. Her younger brother shouted and cheered his big sis on, later sharing with the crowd that he was "working on his poem." Priceless!

Beatnix Open Mic Jamz

2006-04-15T23:46:00.000-07:00

A few pics from Open Mic Jamz tonight! Jen stepped in to host in Nick's absence. New folks come each week to share mostly original pieces or cover favorites. Enjoy!

Open Mic Poetry night growing each week

2006-04-06T23:31:00.000-07:00

We had all ages and all types of poetry read. The youngest tonight was PJ, who's 13 yrs old. This young lady has some talent, and so does her Mom, Isabel Kelly, who's a fantastic Massage Therapist.

Pretty full house! Soon we're gonna have to record the nights on audio and video! We had too much fun tonight! The article in the Waco Trib came out today! Hope everyone read it.

HOT Poets featured in Trib today!

2006-04-06T16:13:00.000-07:00

We had a lot of folks out to Open Mic Poetry again! Some came because they read the article in the paper and wanted to check it out. Others came to actually read. There's so much talent in Waco and it's displayed weekly at Beatnix CoffeeHouse.

The poem I wrote doesn't come up on line. Here it is for your reading pleasure! Come on out to Beatnix tonight!
Poetry
by Maryee

Recited or read well
Rants, raves or amusing stories to tell
Future songs or picture books
Some rhyme, but not all the time

Poetry
It evokes emotion
Sadness, grief, laughter
Sheer joy, peace, love

Poetry is visual painting written on a paper
It flows from the heart of the poet
to the soul of the hearer or reader

Poetry begins as early as learning your ABC's
and your favorite nursery rhymes

Poetry will never die
From spiritual to lyrical
This muse has longevity

Poetry

Beall Poetry Festival at Baylor April 6-8, 2006

2006-04-01T22:40:00.000-08:00

Not sure which event we'll go to, but there's three day's worth to choose from.

The Waco Trib was out tonight!

2006-03-30T23:41:00.000-08:00

The Trib came out and took pictures tonight! We had a pretty packed house with a lot of new voices on the mic and new faces in the place. There must have been about 55 folks in here tonight! For the first time we had Rafer Earle Mainor come and open us up with an original piece. He had some of his books available for sale afterwards. We had from the young people's side representing Waco High, University High, The Methodist Home, and St. Lewis Catholic.

There was so much enegry in the place, even Rod Aydelotte from the Trib enjoying heading over for the photo shoot. He was taking pictures for the article that's coming out next week by Carl Hoover on poetry. The article will be discussing the upcoming Beall Poetry festival at Baylor and our weekly open mic poetry at Beatnix. So, we'll be getting some publicity about open mic poetry.

Most people who come out are pleased as well as surprised with how good the poetry is and how engaged the audience is. We've even had folks who dropped by "just to get some coffee" and ended up either staying to hear some poetry or, believe it or not, get up and read/recite something they had on their laptops. Unbelieveable at first, but now, not unusual!

It doesn't matter if you read from a paper, come straight off the cuff from your "mental", or have your work memorized from start to finish, Open Mic Poetry is a place where you can share and express from the inside out! You can be a regular HOT Poet, a Slam Poet, or new to the mic. You can read your original work or someone else's. It doesn't matter. Every Thursday night at Beatnix CoffeeHouse.