Kicking Off 2016: Strange Things Brewing at Coffee and Critique

 

Nick's last visit to C&C

The new year kicked off on a strange note yesterday at Coffee and Critique. As those present took turns going around the table at the beginning of our first session for 2016 --during which we shared our writing, publishing and other news--first up was Pat, who showed us a photo of her new puppy and mentioned she got an e-mail informing her she made it through the first hurdle for Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Joy of Less.

That prompted a comment from Jack, who was sitting at the far other end of the table, to say, "Did you say 'the joy of lust?'"

After we all stopped laughing out loud, we discussed how CS wouldn't publish an anthology focused on the joy of lust, although it would be an interesting read. Jack's comment was one for the books!


The readings by Doyle and Jack, "the boys," went well, as did critiques from the rest of us. With only six writers present, we wrapped up our critiques and discussions early and three of "the girls" stayed for lunch.



Bea in one of her many chapeaus

While Marcia, Jane, and I were eating, I began to discuss how much I missed Bea Siros and Nick Nixon, two of our members who had passed away a few years ago within one year (almost to the day) of each other.


Just then about a dozen glasses and cups fell off the drink counter near the cash register. No one was anywhere near the counter. One server was waiting on a table on the other side of the restaurant, and the other server was in the kitchen. The closest customer was at a table over six feet away.



Bea at her birthday party

Our awesome servers, Chrissie and Kim, quickly swept up the shattered glass, and the owners came in from their office to make sure everyone was okay.  C&K explained they didn't know how the glasses fell because no one was anywhere near the counter at the time. It was indeed a strange happening.

When Chrissie stopped by our table to top off our drinks, she said. "I swear there's a ghost in here."
Her comment gave me chills because right before the glasses shattered, we were talking about the deceased members of our group. Could their spirits be lingering at the restaurant?

It could've been a coincidence, but if you ask my opinion, it looks like our critique group will be in for a strange and an interesting year.

Thanks to our Coffee and Critique Writers' Group Veterans

Thanks to all our Coffee and Critique writers' group veterans, past and present.Thank you for the sacrifices you have made so the rest of us can enjoy our freedoms.

The following is the roll call of US Veterans who belong to Coffee and Critique writers' group who have honored us with their words, their wit, and their wisdom:


Nick Nixon (USMC, deceased)
Doyle Suit (US Army)
Bill Mueller (US Army)
Jack Zerr (US Navy)
Charles Rogers (USAF)
Les Thompson (US Navy)
Lonnie Whitaker (US Army)

Without your service we wouldn't be able to enjoy the liberties at our critique group, including:

* The right to assemble (every Tuesday for two hours and sometimes for lunch afterwards).

* The right of self-expression during our critiques (as long as they don't exceed two minutes).

* The freedom to write without fear or intimidation, (as long as we don't exceed our five, double-spaced page limit with one inch margins all around in Times New Roman or a similar font). ;-)

* The right to read our works and receive generous feedback from everyone present.

Rest in Peace, Nick Nixon

Words can't express the sadness the Coffee and Critique writers feel at the loss of our cherished friend and fellow writer, Nick Nixon.

Nick will always be remembered for his beautiful writing, kind heart and kind words.

This photo of Nick was taken during his visit to Coffee and Critique earlier this summer.

Please keep Nick and his family in your hearts and prayers.

Nick Nixon's Visit Surprises and Delights

Today was an extra special day for members of Coffee and Critique.

Shortly after I got up this morning I received a call from Coffee and Critique co-founder and my best writing buddy, Lou Turner, telling me that Nick Nixon was going to stop by our critique group today for a visit.

Nick is a gifted writer, award-winning songwriter, and chart-topping Country entertainer who has belonged to our group for several years.

Since then, he has entertained and inspired us with his beautifully written, passionate, and humorous essays at our Tuesday morning meetings.

To say Nick has a way with words is an understatement. He also gives thoughtful and spot-on critiques.

Several months ago Nick informed us that he was diagnosed with cancer, so he hasn't been able to attend our group regularly for some time, but we've kept in touch with him through calls and e-mails -- and we've always kept a seat for him at the table.

This morning Nick, his lovely wife Kim, their beautiful daughter Autumn Rose, and Nick's good buddy Nick Berry (in the photo on the left) who is visiting from Ohio,  graced us with a surprise visit.

Nick read an essay about his first paying gig as a Country singer. It was a delight! He also gave comments on stories other writers read.

Before they left, I managed to snap a few photos, and Kim took a couple more of our group members who were present today.

Those in the group shot are (from left): Stan, Janet, Bill S., John, Rebeca, Doyle, Nick B., Lou, Nick, Donna (me), Marcia, and Bill M.

I think these photos capture the joy of the occasion.

Thanks, Nick and family for sharing your time with us.

You are the best!

We hope you'll come back and visit us soon.

Take Ten with Coffee and Critique Member Nick Nixon

I'm thrilled and honored to share my recent interview with Coffee and Critique member extraordinaire, Nick Nixon.

Nick is a gifted writer and a local Country Music legend, with a 1970s chart-topping album and a long list of Billboard singles.

Nick's thoughtful and candid critiques and his unique and haunting writing voice make him a cherished member of Coffee and Critique.

Due to his health he hasn't been able to grace our critique group table at the Rendezvous Café for several months, but he keeps in touch through e-mails and is always with us in spirit.

The photo above is of Nick Nixon with Donna Volkenannt (that's me) and Lou Turner at a tribute for Nick last fall.

Nick's memoir, "Dreams Worked Magic," is available on his website and from his publisher, High Hill Press.

The following are my "take ten" interview questions and Nick's answers, along with his own bonus question and answer.

1. What inspired you to become a writer? 

Nick: Aspiring young writer Jerry Tucker was a friend of mine, we lived in the same apartment building.  He wanted to be the next Ernest Hemingway.  We each had jobs, but for quite a while neither could afford a television.  Occasionally, to pass the time, he would read his Hemingway efforts, some were good.  I even penciled a few things of my own but was reluctant to share them for fear he'd find them simple.

As far as my writing that's the way it went for the next 25 years.  Then one day the idea came to me again when another friend of mine, Nick Barry, encouraged me to contact local writing groups. I joined Coffee and Critique and Saturday Writers, and they soon gave me the confidence I needed to write freely.  I showed some of my pieces to an older Jerry Tucker and he in turn encouraged me as well.

2. What is your writing specialty? 

 

Nick: Personal essays, short stories, and memoirs.

3. How would you describe your writing process? 

 

Nick: When the mood strikes.

4. What’s the best part about being a writer?  The worst part?

 

Nick: The best is the opportunity to be creative.   The worst: Trying to type, I don’t like the typing.

5. What the best writing advice you’ve received?  The worst?

 

Nick: The best is write the way you talk.  Worry about the spelling later.  The worst:  Someone told me I needed an education first.

6. Which books on writing can you recommend for other writers? 

 

Nick: I don’t know.

7. How has belonging to Coffee & Critique effected you as a writer? 

 

Nick: They gave me the confidence I needed to write freely.

8. Which writing awards mean the most to you? 

 

Nick: My first writing award meant the most. “July the Wonder Dog" won first place in a Saturday Writers’ short story contest.

9. What three words best describe you? 

 

Nick: Risk taker, entertainer, humorous.

10, What is your writing dream? 

 

Nick: I’d like to interview Abraham Lincoln and write for the Lone Ranger. I would ask Abe how many times he re-wrote the “Gettysburg Address,” and did he feel confident about its content.

And, finally, Nick came up with his own bonus question: 

 

Nick: How long would you like to live?  Nick: As long as it takes to write the Nick Nixon memoirs.

 

There's not much I can add to Nick's answers, except to say, isn't he amazing!

Announcements and Welcome to our New Members

Something's always brewing at Coffee and Critique.

In the past month or so we've had some new members join us, so I'd like to formally welcome them to our group.

Bill S. -- not to be confused with Bill M, whom Bill S. refers to as Bill the Elder -- has traveled the world during his military and civilian career. His stories reflect his many adventures, mostly with women who become his girlfriends or wives.

John is a busy father of two-year-old triplets and a four-year-old son. John writes faith-based epistles and true stories infused with spiritual messages. John's readings inspire and uplift, and at times have moved me to tears. Yesterday he announced that his manuscript "Letters to Jack" has been accepted by Treehouse Publishing Group.

Janet is a talented writer and thoughtful critique giver who has already published a book. She's been busy of late helping with the 2013 MWG conference, but after the conference is over we're hopeful she'll visit more regularly.

Sarah, our newest member, visited for the first time yesterday. Sarah is a gifted writer who has already completed an historical fiction novel. She read the first chapter yesterday, and I'm already hooked and want to hear more.

Announcements

In other news, Lou reports that she saw Nick over the weekend, and he seems to be doing well. We are all praying for his recovery. Nick Nixon's memoir, Dreams Worked Magic, has been re-released by High Hill Press with five new stories.

Several members from C&C dropped in for Jack's book signing last Saturday at All on the Same Page Book Store. Sadly, because of a family event I couldn't make it, but yesterday both Charles and I purchased copies of Jack Zerr's latest book, Sundown Town Duty Station.

Becky has been busy moving and is finalizing her memoir.

Claudia has an agent who is looking for a publisher for her women's fiction novel.

Donna, Jack, Marcia, and Karen had works accepted for publication in the 2013 Edition of Well Versed, published by the Columbia Chapter of the Missouri Writers Guild. 

If you are a member of C&C and have some news to share, please let me know.

Posted by Donna Volkenannt.

An Overdue Post

We've had some going ons and a few new faces in our Coffee and Critique group.

First, welcome Janet and John. I met them at  Dianna Graveman's seminar on marketing and told them about our group. They are just getting the feel for our group, but they are welcome additions and bring to the table open minds and a willingness to learn and share

Also, welcome back, Doyle. Doyle recently returned from Florida, looking relaxed and ready to write--and critique. We have missed your smiling face and helpful comments. The comments he gave me on my essay last week were spot on.

An overdue welcome is due to Rebeca, who spent a few months in England. Her always sweet smile and considerate comments are very helpful.

Get well wishes to Nick and Judy. Hope to see you back soon.We also are thrilled that Karen's surgery went well and she is back on her feet--and back to teaching, but will join us again during summer break.

Charles has been on a winter hiatus, but he should be back next month.

Lou has been busy making books--not in a gambling sense, although some might argue being in the publishing business is a big gamble.

Take care, and don't forget to write!

All Star Tribute to Nick Nixon on Sunday, October 28

On Sunday October 28 at 1 p.m., local country western entertainers, as well as a couple guest stars from the Grand Old Opry, will show their support during an all star tribute and fundraiser for Nick Nixon at the Stegton Regency Banquet Center, 1450 Wall Street in St. Charles.

Nick is a legendary local country and western star and a treasured member of Coffee and Critique writing group.

In the 1970s Nick had more than a dozen top 100 hits on the Mercury label, including "Rocking in Rosalee's Boat," which climbed to No. 28 on the U.S. Country Charts. The Nick Nixon Tribute and Fundraiser is being held to help support Nick with medical expenses in his battle with Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Headliners include: Johnny Rodriguez, Barb Allen, Leona Williams, Curtis Lyn Cook, Doc Holiday, the Well Hungarians, and an all star house band.

General admission tickets are only $10 per person and can be purchased at the door. Other highlights include a 50/50 raffle, a silent auction, a live auction, and some special surprizes.

For more information, or to make a donation, e-mail Elmo Linton, who planned and organized the event, at elmojllinton (at) wildblue.net.

Hope to see you there!

Coffee and Critique Group Members Win Big at Ozarks Creative Writers Conference

Last weekend, three Coffee and Critique group writers won big at the Ozarks Creative Writers Conference in Eureka Springs, Arkansas.

C&C member Lou Turner is on the board of OCW, and Lou and the rest of the board do an outstanding job putting on this conference each year.

The OCW conference is attended by writers from all over the United States, and the contests include dozens of entries in each category. Winning at Eureka is quite an honor, and here's what some C&C members won:

Marcia Gaye took home these awards:

1st: Las Manos Bella de Elizabeth for short story
2nd: Giving Love a Chance for memoir essay
2nd: My Volkswagen for Creative Nonfiction essay
2nd: Lost Hope Missouri for Literary Novel
3rd: Geese for Japanese Tanka Poetry
HM: Mother of the Painted Desert for free verse poetry

Nick Nixon was recognized for:

1st: Little Red Rider for Storyteller Magazine award
3rd: Bless u Dexter for humorous short story
3rd: Old Dempsey for Ozark Nostalgia
3rd: The Teacher's Paleo Pecker for Jim Richardson Memorial Award

Doyle Suit received awards for:

1st: Tales of a Misspent Youth for The High Hill Press Book Award
1st: A Loose Sole for Search for Excellence Award
1HM: Hale's Law for the Oxbow Award
3HM: A Pig for Sarah for OWL Award

Doyle also received lunch with agent Cherry Weiner for winning the synopsis award

Congratulations to all the winners!

Nick Nixon Reading Tomorrow at C&C

UPDATE: Nick e-mailed this morning that due to an emergency (his dog is about to have puppies) he can't make it today. He should be there next week. Stay tuned!

In case you didn't receive my e-mail to members of Coffee and Critique. Here's some good news:

Country Western legend Nick Nixon will be rejoining us at the Rendezvous Cafe tomorrow. He will be accompanied by his lovely daughter Autumn Rose.

Nick will be reading Part II of his tribute to Chet Atkins. I can't wait to hear it!

Here's a video of his song "Eight Belles." Enjoy!