Issue 16: “I’ve been in a really bad place lately (denver).” – @kassoysauce
A new poem about my younger sis and me.
Hello, Strawberries!
Another week, another promising – and yet, still frustrating – update on your chapbook orders, as more and more folks continue to report their orders have (finally!!) arrived.
Good news: The publisher confirmed that all outstanding orders DID go out last week.
Bad news: Some folks are still waiting on their copies.
Good news: The delay is, in part, due to a “rapid and unexpected increase in sales.”
Bad news: Some folks are still waiting on their copies.
Bottom line: If you don’t receive your chapbook(s) by the end of this week, please let me know. In this case, the publisher tells me, it’s likely an issue with USPS/shipping, and they’ll refill your order at no cost (not that that’s much consolation at this point).
Last thing: Continued apologies for the delays and sincere thanks for your patience. People have (rightly) told me, “Hey, it’s not your fault!” which is true, but doesn’t change the fact that I’m very frustrated and sorry on your behalf. You WILL receive my chapbook, and let’s just bank on the theory that the longer you wait, the more gratification you’ll receive when reading it. Right? Ok great, let’s go with that.
1. Poem: “A Christmas Lyft To IHOP”
One of my favorite poems from the chapbook was just published by a site I really love! It’s about my younger sister Mallory, along with comedy, depression, pancakes, Thai food, and Miley Cyrus.
(Psst…if you’re compelled, you can leave up to 50 lil’ “claps” at the bottom of the post. This helps more folks see the work!)
2. Impact: Highlights From The Welcome America Festival
As I’ve mentioned, I’ve been working with Welcome.US, which empowers and mobilizes everyday Americans to sponsor hundreds of thousands of refugees seeking safety, opportunity, and a fresh start in the States.
On World Refugee Day (June 20), my work appeared at a very cool installation at the Welcome America Festival in Philly, where they displayed our “story houses” to share the powerful, life-changing experiences of refugees and their sponsors. In the video below, it’s kinda hard to see my actual work, but you’ll get a sense of the energy and atmosphere of the event.
3. Recommendation: Your Local Public Library!
I don’t want to brag, but I have two – yes, TWO – library cards. Picked up one in Santa Monica, and then when I moved – BOOM! – snagged one for Los Angeles. And that’s dual citizenship, baby!
You already know this, but it’s also easy to forget: Your public library is a super valuable – and free! – resource for all kinds of stuff. I check out books, I do my printing, I use the free wifi and get some work done. Also to enjoy: lectures, readings, children’s/family events, and all kinds of services for folks looking to improve their English, register to vote, and more. Your local library is a wonderland and you should check it out…pun intended!!!!
That’s all!
With love and thanks and library cards and pancakes,
Ben