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SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS 2007

(previous engagements/clients/references here)

January 12-13 - Minneapolis, Minnesota.  Mike will be giving two workshops at a memoir festival held at the Loft Literary Center.  This event features my Bread Loaf mentor Patricia Hampl and featured speaker Katherine Lanpher.  Registration required: More info here or call (612) 379-8999.

January 17 - Boulder, Colorado.  Reading, discussion, signing.  7:30 p.m., Boulder Bookstore, 1107 Pearl Street.  (303) 447-2074.

January 18 - Fort Collins, Colorado.  Reading, discussion, signing.  7:30 p.m., Matter Bookstore, 144 North College.  Directions here.  (970) 472-4284.

January 19 - Denver (Highlands Ranch), Colorado.  Reading, discussion, signing.  7:30 p.m., Tattered Cover Bookstore 9315 Dorchester Street (note this is Highlands Ranch Tattered Cover, click for directions) (303) 322-1965.

January 26 - Red Wing, Minnesota.  Guest speaker, Midwest Value Added Agriculture Conference.  A great bunch of folks, perhaps I can gain some chicken-raising insight.  Registration required.  This'll be held at the Treasure Island Resort & Casino.  Baby needs new shoes... 

February 3 - Onalaska, Wisconsin.  Guest speaker, Wisconsin Farmers Union Annual State Convention.  Registration required.  Note to self: do cow jokes.

February 10 - Tomah, Wisconsin.  Luncheon speaker, Wisconsin FFA Alumni Convention.  Registration required.  Note to self: Again, cow jokes.

February 10 - Monroe, Wisconsin.  Guest speaker, Monroe County EMS Christmas party and awards ceremony.  Private event.  Man, there's gonna be door prizes.  Always a sign of a quality event.

February 28 - Black Earth/Mazomanie, Wisconsin.  Mike will be speaking to students during the day.  At 7 p.m. (6:30 p.m. reception) he will speak at the Black Earth Public Library.  More info here.  A special thank you to sponsors!

March 1 - Viroqua, Wisconsin.  7 p.m.  Reading, discussion, signing.  Western Technical College, 220 South Main Street.  Sponsored by Bramble Bookstore.

March 2 - Oshkosh, Wisconsin.  2:00 p.m., Guest speaker, Heart of the Farm Women in Agriculture Conference.  PDF of registration brochure here.  Event is at LaSure’s Hall, located on Washburn St. South of Hwy 44 near the 44/41 overpass. It is on the same frontage road as the Prime Outlet Mall.

March 10 - Eau Claire, Wisconsin.  11 a.m.  Mike will be down at the L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library to participate in the Kick Off Event for Eau Claire Community's Big Read.  Mike will be speaking for about 20 minutes at one point, but he is especially excited about the part where big shiny fire trucks are gonna roll up and unload free copies of Ray Bradbury's Fahrenheit 451.

March 17 - Eau Claire, Wisconsin.  Mike will be participating with a number of other writers, poets, musicians and artists as part the L.E. Phillips Library Fundraiser.  This event takes place at legendary music club The Stones Throw.  Show includes jazz from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., readings from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and then live music from 9 p.m. to close.  The lineup is jampacked.  Details at www.thestonesthrow.com.  

May 3 - Eau Claire, Wisconsin.  Mike will be a guest on WHYS at approximately 9:00 a.m.  I get to bring some of my favorite music and have it played.  Plus shoot the breeze.

May 3 - Eau Claire, Wisconsin.  Guest luncheon speaker, Wisconsin Library Association.  Private event, registration required.

May 12 - Eau Claire, Wisconsin.  Music Event Mike and the Long Beds will be playing a set at the Volume One 5-Year Anniversary party.  There is a reading beforehand, we will take the stage at approximately 10 p.m. and play for about an hour.  It is our pleasure to open for The Daredevil Christopher Wright and Laarks.  $5 at the door, comprehensive info here.

June 16 - Radio  Today, Michael Feldman's Whad'Ya Know? will be a re-broadcast of the show in which I discussed my kidney stone problems.  It got quite intimate.  For a minute there I thought Michael was going to unplug my microphone.  Locate a station here.

June 17 - Radio  Three songs from "Headwinded" will be featured on KMSU's "Listen to Your Folks". Show airs at 9 a.m. CST. You can catch the live stream here (you'll want to click on "Listen Live").  You can sample "Headwinded" here.I'm told there were technical difficulties, they're going to try a rebroadcast next week.

June 20 - Appleton, Wisconsin.  Keynote speaker, Community Development Society and National Rural Development Partnership Annual Conference.  Registration required.

June 20 - Appleton, Wisconsin.  Reading, discussion, signing.  6 p.m. Conkey's Bookstore, 226 East College Avenue. (LATE NEWS - this event will actually take place a couple of doors down the sidewalk at the 1910 Sausage Company, 204 E. College Ave.  Yes.  That's right.  Sausage company.  It's a cool venue.)

June 24 - Radio  Three songs from "Headwinded" will be featured on KMSU's "Listen to Your Folks". Show airs at 9 a.m. CST. You can catch the live stream here (you'll want to click on "Listen Live").  You can sample "Headwinded" here

June 25 - Washington Island, Wisconsin.  (A great excuse for a boat ride!)  Music Event 7:30 p.m., The Red Barn.  Located in the Red Barn Park along South Shore Drive.  Can't find it?  Just ask someone.  Anyone.  The island ain't that big, folks.  Unless we grab someone at the last minute, this will be Mike solo. So be prepared to hum your own guitar solo while Mike chonks away in straight 4/4 time.  Admission is $5.00 for adults and $3.00 for students.  5 years and under admitted free, $20 for a family if that's cheaper.  Two sets with an intermission for coffee and lemonade.

June 26 - Washington Island, Wisconsin.  (A great excuse for a boat ride!)

11:00 a.m. - 1 p.m. - book signing, Islandtime Books.
2:00 a.m. - 4 p.m. - book groups Q&A, Islandtime Books. info: 920 847-2565
7:30 p.m. - Reading, humor, discussion, signing.  Trueblood Performing Arts Center.
Call (920) 847-3355 for more information about the Trueblood event, including ticket prices.

July 19 - Eau Claire, Wisconsin.  CANCELLED FOR FAMILY FUNERAL.6:30 p.m. in Phoenix Park ampitheater.  Volume One Sounds Like Summer Concert Series.  Mike and the Long Beds featuring an opening show by Billy Krause and other members of the Long Beds - set free from Mike's iron fist and allowed to romp freely a bit until he takes the stage and squashes their fun. Hey, Phoenix Park is a wonderful space at the confluence of the Eau Claire and Chippewa rivers.  Admission: Free. PLEASE NOTE: There will be a hot dog man and ice cream vendor. YES!  CANCELLED FOR FAMILY FUNERAL.

July 29 - LaFarge, Wisconsin.  Kickapoo County Fair.  Mike will be performing in the spoken word tent from 3:30 p.m to 4:30 p.m. and will sign books after.

August 11-12 - TELEVISION APPEARANCE A while back I spent one hot day trying to catch some sunfish with Dave Carlson, host of Northland Adventures.  The outing was documented by videographer Dave Roll, and the finished product (including some Long Beds music, I'm told) will be airing in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Indiana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Illinois, Michigan, and Nebraska) on these stations this weekend.

August 14 - Rice Lake, Wisconsin.  Official TRUCK paperback release event.  United Presbyterian Church, 20 W. Messenger Street.  At 6:00 p.m. Pastor Dave Butler will open with his guitar and some original tunes.  At 6:30 I'll do a reading, shoot the breeze, maybe play a song or two myself.  This'll be a relaxed event.  Not that any of my events are high-tension.  For more information contact Blakeley at ThymeWorn Treasures gift shop (or just stop in, they're at 30 N Main), (715) 736-0233.

August 15 - Excelsior, Minnesota.  Mike will be appearing as part of the One Book, One Community event.

4:30 p.m. - Mike will tour the local fire station, this tour is open to the public.

5:30 p.m. - Mike will be at Badger Park for the community picnic (bring your own blanket, food and drink).

7:00 p.m. - Reading, discussion, signing at Southshore Center, 5735 Country Club Road, Shorewood, MN.  

 More info here.

 

August 17 - Manitowoc, Wisconsin.  7 p.m., Reading, Discussion, Signing (and maybe a song or two) at LaDeDa Books & Beans, 1624 New York Avenue.  More info (920) 682-9140.

August 18 - Grand Haven, Michigan.  2 p.m., Mike will be appearing at the Grand Haven Book Festival across from 407 Columbus Avenue.  

August 19 - Grand Haven, Michigan.  11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Mike will be at the Bookman book store, 715 Washington Ave.  More info: (616) 846-3520

August 20 - Montague, Michigan.  6 p.m.  Reading, discussion, signing, Book Nook & Java Shop, 8726 Ferry Street. (231) 894-5333.

August 24 - Sheboygan, Wisconsin.  Music event.  7 p.m. - Mike will be appearing in concert with his band The Long Beds at the amazing John Michael Kohler Arts Center Library Sculpture Garden.  The show will precede a magic lantern presentation designed by Molly Ross and community members.  Admission free. More info here.  Directions to Arts Center here.  NOTE: If it rains, we'll be playing inside.

August 25 - Sheboygan, Wisconsin.  "Sheboygan Reads"

10 a.m. - Writers workshop presentation/discussion by Mike in the James Tellen Woodland Sculpture Garden in Black River.  Open to writers age 16 and over; pre-registration required (limited attendance), call 458-6144 beginning July 2.

7 p.m. - "An Evening with Michael Perry," reading/talk/book signing at Mead Public Library, 7 p.m, followed by reception and refreshments. More info here.

August 30 - Eau Claire, Wisconsin.  Music event.  6:30 p.m. in Phoenix Park ampitheater.  Volume One Sounds Like Summer Concert Series.  Mike and the Long Beds featuring an opening show by Billy Krause and other members of the Long Beds - set free from Mike's iron fist and allowed to romp freely a bit until he takes the stage and squashes their fun. Hey, Phoenix Park is a wonderful space at the confluence of the Eau Claire and Chippewa rivers.  Admission: Free. PLEASE NOTE: There will be a hot dog man and ice cream vendor. YES!

September 7&8 - Spring Green, Wisconsin.  Spring Green Literary Festival.  This wonderful festival incorporates the landscape of Frank Lloyd Wright and the events take place in Wright's own Hillside School and Theater on the grounds of Taliesin.  The featured authors include two Pulitzer Prize winners and one muddling freelance chicken farmer.  The author photos are instructive.  Registration info here.

September 10 - Brookfield, Wisconsin.  7 p.m.  Reading, discussion, signing.  Harry W. Schwartz Bookshop, 17145 W Bluemound Rd.  1-800-689-9902

September 18 - Seattle, Washington.  Reading, discussion, signing. 6:30 p.m, Seattle Public Library, Ballard Branch/Secret Garden Bookshop, 5614 22nd Ave NW.  (206) 684-4089

September 20 - Seattle, Washington.  Pacific Northwest Booksellers Association.  Author Breakfast participant.  Registration required.

September 21 - Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin.  Reading/Music event - 7 p.m. Mike will read and then be joined onstage with his band the Long Beds.  Yessir.  At the beautiful Heyde Center for the Arts.  Admission: adults-$10, seniors-$9, students-$6, family of four-$30, children under 5 free, season pass.The Heyde Center for the Arts is located at 3 South High Street.  For more information, please call 715-726-9000.

September 24 & 25 - Eau Claire, Wisconsin.  Mike will be doing several events at the University of Wisconsin -- Eau Claire for the One Book program.  (There will be a public reading Monday, September 24 in Schofield Hall at 7:30 p.m.).

September 28 - Viroqua, Wisconsin.  Viroqua Writers Workshop...details to follow.  This event includes Ben Logan, author of The Land Remembers.  One of my very favorite books.  Still remember curling up in a chair with that one when I was young.

September 29 - Eau Claire, Wisconsin.  Music event.  Mike and Billy Krause and Squeeze This! will be playing at The Nucleus/Racy D'Lene's Coffee Lounge.  This is part of the Big Sh-Bang! Music Festival.  Ticket information here.  Squeeze This! plays at 8 p.m., Billy Krause plays at 9 p.m., Mike and the Long Beds play at 10 p.m.  All-ages, smoke-free event.  This is the coffee shop where I've written for years.  Love the place.

October 3 - Minneapolis, Minnesota.  2 p.m. Reading, discussion, signing.  University of Minnesota Bookstore, 300 Washington Avenue SE.. (612) 624-9200

October 3 - Minneapolis, Minnesota.  7:30 p.m. Reading, discussion, signing. Magers and Quinn, 3038 Hennepin Avenue. (612) 822-4611  Details and map here.  This is the uptown store.

October 4 - Roseville, Minnesota.  7:00 p.m. Reading, discussion, signing.  Barnes & Noble, 2100 North Snelling.  (651) 639-9256

October 5 - Telluride, Colorado.  Mike will be appearing at the Writers in the Sky festival.  Registration info here.

October 11 - Madison, Wisconsin.  LIVE RADIO APPEARANCE 11:06 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. CST, Wisconsin Public Radio, Mike will be on air with Larry Meiller.

October 11 - Madison, Wisconsin.  7 p.m. Borders Books & Music, 3750 University Avenue.  (608) 232-2600.  This is part of the Wisconsin Book Festival.

October 21 - Neillsville, Wisconsin.  Reading, discussion, signing.  Contact Neillsville public library for information regarding time and place (will probably be held offsite at the Middle School). (715) 743-2558.

October 22 - Mequon, Wisconsin.  7 p.m. Frank L. Weyenberg Library of Mequon-Thiensville.  Reading, discussion and signing as part of Community Reads event.  Details here. (262) 242-2593.

October 23 - Mequon, Wisconsin.  Mike will be shooting the writing breeze with students at Homestead High School.

November 1 - Grand Rapids, Michigan.  11:30 a.m.  Reading and signing, Schuler Books & Music (brand new downtown store).  44 Fountain NW. (Call Main Number at (517) 349-8840 for more information).

November 1 - Okemos, Michigan.  7:30 p.m.  Reading, discussion and signing, Schuler Books & Music (NOTE: this is the Okemos store at 1982 Grand River Ave).  (517) 349-8840.

November 2 - Ann Arbor, Michigan.  7:00 p.m.  Reading, discussion and signing, Nicola's Books.  2513 Jackson Ave.  (734) 662-0600.

November 6 - Middleton, Wisconsin.  NO EVENT Sorry, I got my wires crossed...we're working on coming to Middleton in 2008 but I'm not sure where I came up with this date.  I think I wasn't paying attention during a meeting.  Since I hardly ever have meetings so there is no excuse.

November 7 - Waukesha, Wisconsin.  Guest speaker, 5:30 p.m., Waukesha County Federated Library System Celebration honoring Library Trustees and Friends.  Merrill Hills Country Club, W270 S3425 Merrill Hills Road.  $15, Reservations required, call (262) 896-8080 for information.

November 8 - Janesville, Wisconsin.  Reading, discussion, signing.  7 p.m., Hedberg Public Library, 316 Main Street.  Membership Drive Kickoff.  More information, (608) 758-6588.

SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS 2006 
(previous engagements/clients/references here)

December-January-February (through the 24th) - No Events.

February 25 - Eau Claire, Wisconsin.  Guest Speaker, Indianhead Track Club.  Westgate Sportsman Club (private engagement).

March 2 - Eau Claire, Wisconsin.  Guest Speaker, Heart of the Farm Conference.  Registration information here.  Mike will be speaking at approximately 2:30 p.m.  The event is taking place at the Chippewa Valley Museum. (registration required, as this is part of a conference).  (715) 272-5214.

March 7 & 8 - St. Peter, Minnesota.  As part of "St. Peter Reads", Mike will be speaking at a number of classroom and public events.  The main public reading, talk and signing will take place at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 7, at Trinity Lutheran Church.  More information here.  (507) 933-6017.

March 20 - Birchwood, Wisconsin.  Live television remote appearance with Birchwood High School students (Mike will not actually be in Birchwood, but his electronic avatar will!).

March 22 - Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.  Radio Interview Mike will be doing a live phone-in interview with Greg Stenland on WFDL 97.7 at approximately 9:30 a.m.

March 22 - Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.  Radio Interview Mike will be doing a live phone-in interview with Bob Hoffmaster on KFIZ AM 1450 at approximately 11:08 a.m.

March 22 - Fox Lake, Wisconsin.  Mike will be speaking to the Creative Writing class at the Fox Lake Correctional Institution.

March 23 - Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.  As part of the "Fond du Lac Reads" program, Mike will be making two appearances:

- Writers Workshop for students, teachers and others, 3 p.m. in the Eugene G. McLane Meeting Room, Fond du Lac Public Library.  Admission is free.

- Reading, signing, talk, 7:00 p.m. Windhover Center for the Arts.  Admission free, refreshments served.

For complete information on a particular event, please go to www.fdlpl.org, call the Fond du Lac Public LIbrary Help Desk at 929-7080, ext. 131

March 31 - Wisconsin.  TELEVISION APPEARANCE  7 p.m.  Wisconsin Public Television re-airs "Shoes" on Here and Now.

April 1 - Eau Claire, Wisconsin.  Speaker, Farm Life Mini-Conference and Workshop, Chippewa Valley Museum.  (The museum's new Farm Life exhibit is fascinating, even if you've only ever seen cows on television).  While this event (it runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.) is designed for educators and historical society leaders, family members and others are welcome.  Admission is $8 and includes the museum's gallery exhibit, the panel exhibit available for travel, the complete teacher's guide, school kits, admission to the new object theater production This Day, and the Farm Life book publications. A special collections/curatorial workshop about preserving and interpreting rural history will also be held.  For information, call (715) 834-7871.

April 5 - Madison, Wisconsin.  Keynote speaker, Fifth Annual Wisconsin Statewide National Service Conference, Concourse Hotel and Conference Center.  Registration required.  608-267-2359 or 608-266-5116.

April 17 - Baraboo, Wisconsin.  Mike will be doing two events:

- 1-4 p.m. UW-Baraboo/Sauk County Campus discussion "Becoming a Writer"  This will be in the Rodems Room.  Information here.

- 7:30 p.m. Reading, talk, signing. AAUW Baraboo West Square Building (I'm not completely clear on where this will be...last I heard it will be in the cafeteria room).  Call the number below for more info.

More info: (608) 356-8351 ext 234 or (608) 355-5220

April 24 - Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin.  On behalf of Chippewa Valley Literacy Volunteers, Mike will be discussing writing at the County Jail.

April 26 - Eau Claire, Wisconsin.  Keynote speaker, American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science.  Registration required, see www.wiscls.org.

May 2 - New Richmond, Wisconsin.  Speaker, St. Croix Valley Reading Council.  Susannah's Restaurant.  Info: Judy Bender, (715) 565-7362.

May 4 - Wisconsin.  Speaker, Wisconsin Retired Educators Association.  EVENT CANCELLED.

June 15 - Kenosha, Wisconsin.  Speaker, Workshop Leader, Educators for Community Engagement National Gathering.  More information here.  Registration required.  Mike will be leading a workshop during the day and delivering a reading and talk during dinner in the evening.For updates on the program, registration, and scholarships, please contact Dan Neumann, 262-595-2002, or Heather Vallejos, 262-595-2637. EVENT CANCELLED.

June 24 - Eau Claire, Wisconsin.  Reading/Musical Performance.  8 p.m., Racy d'Lene's Coffee Lounge.  Mike will be reading excerpts from his forthcoming book Truck: A Love Story (to be released by HarperCollins in October), followed by a performance of original songs with the help of singer/songwriter Billy Krause.  Reading portion to be recorded for possible audio release.  More information: (715) 834-0000. Racy's is located one block off Water Street at 404 Riverside Ave.  Directions here.  PLEASE NOTE: TRUCK THE BOOK WILL NOT BE RELEASED UNTIL OCTOBER...THE BOOK HASN'T BEEN PRINTED YET AND WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE AT THIS EVENT.  I'LL JUST BE READING SOME EARLY EXCERPTS. DON'T WANT ANYONE GETTING CRANKY ON ME.

July 23 - Alma, Wisconsin.  Guest appearance (by telephone) on the Big River Radio Wave show.  Two shows, one recorded at 4 p.m., one at 6 p.m.  Each show is recorded live at the funky Big River Theatre in beautiful Alma, Wisconsin.  Mike is a roving/raving correspondent and thus calls in by phone, but the rest of the stage show is live and features writer/naturalist and all-around storyteller Kenny Salwey, comedian Mary Mack, the RiverBenders band featuring B Squat Woody, and announcer Al Ross (He of the Velvet Pipes).  Times, location, ticket prices here, or call 507-450-9888.  Directions here.

July 23 - Madison, Wisconsin.  Dinner speaker, Annual Midwest Association of State Departments of Agriculture.  (Registration required)

July 30 - Alma, Wisconsin.  Guest appearance (by telephone) on the Big River Radio Wave show.  Two shows, one recorded at 4 p.m., one at 6 p.m.  Each show is recorded live at the funky Big River Theatre in beautiful Alma, Wisconsin.  Mike is a roving/raving correspondent and thus calls in by phone, but the rest of the stage show is live and features writer/naturalist and all-around storyteller Kenny Salwey, comedian Mary Mack, the RiverBenders band featuring B Squat Woody, and announcer Al Ross (He of the Velvet Pipes).  Times, location, ticket prices here, or call 507-450-9888.  Directions here.

August 6 - Alma, Wisconsin.  Guest appearance (by telephone) on the Big River Radio Wave show.  Two shows, one recorded at 4 p.m., one at 6 p.m.  Each show is recorded live at the funky Big River Theatre in beautiful Alma, Wisconsin.  Mike is a roving/raving correspondent and thus calls in by phone, but the rest of the stage show is live and features writer/naturalist and all-around storyteller Kenny Salwey, comedian Mary Mack, the RiverBenders band featuring B Squat Woody, and announcer Al Ross (He of the Velvet Pipes).  Times, location, ticket prices here, or call 507-450-9888.  Directions here.

August 12 - Eau Claire, Wisconsin.  Show starts at 9:30 p.m., Mike expected to be onstage from approximately 10:50 p.m. to 11:20 p.m....Mike will be doing a few numbers as an opening act for the Jaggernauts and the Space Rangers.  Farewell Phineas is also playing.  $5 cover charge, over 21 to enter.  House of Rock, 422 Water Street. (715) 838-0158.

August 13 - Alma, Wisconsin.  Guest appearance (for this one Mike will actually be at the theater and part of the show) on the Big River Radio Wave show.  Two shows, one recorded at 4 p.m., one at 6 p.m.  Each show is recorded live at the funky Big River Theatre in beautiful Alma, Wisconsin.  Mike is a roving/raving correspondent and thus calls in by phone (NOT THIS TIME, HE'LL BE IN THE HOUSE "LIVE" WITH STORIES AND GUITAR), but the rest of the stage show is live and features writer/naturalist and all-around storyteller Kenny Salwey, comedian Mary Mack, the RiverBenders band featuring B Squat Woody, and announcer Al Ross (He of the Velvet Pipes).  Times, location, ticket prices here, or call 507-450-9888.  Directions here.

August 20 - Alma, Wisconsin.  Guest appearance (by telephone) on the Big River Radio Wave show.  Two shows, one recorded at 4 p.m., one at 6 p.m.  Each show is recorded live at the funky Big River Theatre in beautiful Alma, Wisconsin.  Mike is a roving/raving correspondent and thus calls in by phone, but the rest of the stage show is live and features writer/naturalist and all-around storyteller Kenny Salwey, comedian Mary Mack, the RiverBenders band featuring B Squat Woody, and announcer Al Ross (He of the Velvet Pipes).  Times, location, ticket prices here, or call 507-450-9888.  Directions here.

August 23 - New Auburn, Wisconsin.  MUSIC EVENT 7 p.m., New Auburn High School band room [NOTE: venue changed to the old gym].  Fundraiser concert for the New Auburn Village Park community building.  This building will replace the old tin shed.  Mike and his band the Long Beds will play all original material...mostly country/folk, although occasionally the spirit of Waylon Jennings will be present.  Admission is $3 for adults, under 18 free.  $2 of each admission will be donated to the building fund.  $1 of each ticket will go to buy gas for my band guys, who live in big faraway cities like Eau Claire and St. Paul.  Food and refreshments will be on sale, and yes, you betcha, keep yer ticket stub, because there will be door prizes.

September 6 - Eau Claire, Wisconsin.  School event with Billy Krause.

September 13 - Elroy, Wisconsin.  Reading, talk, signing.  7 p.m., Elroy Public Library, 501 2nd Main Street.  (608) 462-2407.

September 14 - Madison, Wisconsin.  After-dinner speaker, Wisconsin Public Power annual meeting.

September 16 - Denver, Colorado.  Speaker, Author Breakfast for Literacy, Mountain and Plains Booksellers Association.  Other speakers include: Robin Chotzinoff, Hampton Sides, and Jane Hamilton.

September 17-18 - Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin.  Keynote speaker and workshop leader, Wisconsin Association for Home and Community Education conference.  Information at http://www.wahceinc.org/.  

September 29 - St. Paul, Minnesota.  Books & Author dinner, Midwest Booksellers Association Trade Show, RiverCentre, 175 West Kellogg Boulevard.  (Registration required)

September 29 - St. Paul, Minnesota.  Book signing.  Noon, Midwest Booksellers Association Trade Show, RiverCentre, 175 West Kellogg Boulevard.  (Registration required)

September 30 - Menomonie, Wisconsin.  7 p.m.  Live Appearance/Radio Interview Mike will be appearing on a special edition of Wisconsin Public Radio's Higher Ground with Jonathan Overby broadcasting from the amazing Mabel Tainter Theater. More info: (715) 235-0001.

October 6-8 - Dearborn, Michigan.  Great Lakes Booksellers Association trade show.  (Registration required)

October 12 -   If yer within range of the antenna antlers of Moose 106.7, I'll be on with Jay Moore this morning.  The Moose is in Truck: A Love Story.

October 13 - TELEVISION APPEARANCE The History Channel airs "Into the Fire", a firefighting documentary shot by Academy Award-winning director Bill Couturie.  Mike is one of the firefighters interviewed (and there is rumored to be footage of the One-Eyed Beagle).  Air time is 8 p.m. Eastern/7 p.m. Central.  Check your local listings, or the History Channel itself.

October 15 - Eau Claire, Wisconsin.  Truck: A Love Story early release event (book may not yet be available in stores, but will be available at venue) - Here's the deal on what we know so far (NOTE: If you can come early to get your book signed, that would be great, it helps us get to the music portion of the presentation in a timely manner):

Venue: The very cool auditorium of the Masonic Temple at 616 Graham Avenue (click for map).

Schedule
2 p.m. - 3 p.m. Mike will sign books (books will be available for sale at the venue)
3 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. Mike reads from and discusses "Truck: A Love Story"
3:45 p.m. - 4:15 p.m. Mike will sign books (available for sale at the venue)
                  4:00 p.m. Singer Billy Krause will play while Mike finishes signing
4:15 p.m. - 5:15 p.m. Mike and his band the Long Beds will perform.

October 16 - Milwaukee, Wisconsin.  Truck: A Love Story early release event (book may not yet be available in stores, but will be available at venue) - Mike will be reading and signing from the new book.  Copies will be available at the venue.  This will be part of the Milwaukee Book Festival.  Event will be at  Marquette University ’s Weasler
Auditorium, corner of 15^th and Wells StreetWeasler
Auditorium, corner of 15^th and Wells StreetWeasler
Auditorium, corner of 15^th and Wells Streetcorner of 15^th and Wells Street .  More info pending.

SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS 2005
(previous engagements/clients/references here)

January 1 - February 18 - Hiding out.  Mike has for dang sure got to sit still and do a whole bunch of typing, or the banker will be coming for his house.  The banker will have to get in line behind several editors.

February 4 - Duluth, Minnesota.  Guest speaker, 25th Annual Arrowhead EMS Conference.   Mike will be the luncheon speaker and will also sign books at noon and 5 p.m.  Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center.

February 12 - Washington Island, Wisconsin.  Reading, talk, signing.  7:30 p.m., Red Cup Coffee House.   Near the Post Office.  If you can't find it, ask.  If the person you ask doesn't know where it is, they are either lying or not from there.

February 19 - Madison, Wisconsin.  Guest speaker, Dane County EMS Banquet.  7:00 p.m., West Side Club, 437 County Road M.

February 23-24 - Madison, Wisconsin.  Madison Area Technical College Reading Together program.  I'll be speaking with students and instructors, and several of these events are open to the public.  You can find more information here.  The following events are open to the public:

February 23 (Wednesday) - 9 a.m. Reading and discussion with EMS/Fire students in Mitby auditorium.  This is on the Truax campus, 3550 Anderson St., directions here.

February 23 (Wednesday) - 12 - 1 p.m. Open mic discussion in the Student Lounge.   This is on the Truax campus, 3550 Anderson St., directions here.

February 23 (Wednesday) - 6 p.m. Reception, Downtown Education Center, 211 N Carroll St.  This is on the Downtown campus, directions here.

February 23 (Wednesday) - 7 p.m. Reading, talk and discussion.  Downtown Education Center, 211 N Carroll St.  This is on the Downtown campus, directions here.

February 24 (Thursday) - 12-1 p.m. Open mic discussion in the Student Lounge.   This is on the Truax campus, 3550 Anderson St., directions here.

March 4 - Boyceville, Wisconsin.  Guest speaker, Boyceville school.

March 10 - Eau Claire, Wisconsin.  CANCELLED Guest speaker, Heart of the Farm - Women in Agriculture Conference.  Conference information page is here.  Eau Claire information was not posted when this site was updated, but contact information is available on the site. 

March 12 - Bloomington, Illinois.  Guest speaker, Corn Belt Energy 67th Annual Meeting.  Directions here.

March 17-18 - Walker, Minnesota.  Guest speaker, several events, see below.

March 17

5 p.m. Walker Public Library.  Book signing, visit with writing and book clubs.  Directions and contact information here.

6:30 p.m.  Potluck and informal discussion down at the Fire Hall.

March 18

1:30-3:15 p.m. Workshops with students and teachers.

7:00 p.m. Community-wide presentation (Reading, discussion, signing).  Walker-Hackensack-Akeley High School Auditorium. (218) 547-4208

March 26 - Eau Claire, Wisconsin.  [musical event, not a reading]  Mike Perry and the Long Beds will be opening for Chippewa Falls band Elliston at the Acoustic Cafe, 505 South Barstow.  More info call (715) 832-9090.   Mike and the Long Beds will play from roughly 8:15 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.  More info here.

March 29 - Rhinelander, Wisconsin.  Guest speaker, Nicolet Area Technical College Arts & Speakers Series.  7:30 p.m., Nicolet Theatre.  More information here.  Driving directions here.  For more information call (715) 365-4646 or (800) 544-3039, ext. 4646.

April 12-May 12 - On tour for Off Main Street.  From "Nobbern" to Memphis!

April 8 - Rice Lake, Wisconsin.  [radio interview] WJMC 1240 AM.  Mike will be on at approximately 8:35 a.m.

April 12 - Rice Lake, Wisconsin.  Reading, talk, signing.   6:30 p.m., Thyme Worn Treasures, 30 North Main Street.  (715) 736-0233 

April 14 - Blytheville, Arkansas.  Reading, talk, signing.  Noon, Rotary Club.

April 14 - Blytheville, Arkansas.  Reading, talk, signing.  6:00 p.m. That Bookstore in Blytheville, 316 West Main Street.  (870) 763-3333 bookstbly@missconet.com

April 15 - Memphis, Tennessee.  Signing only.  Time approximately noon - 1 p.m., but this depends on Mike's travel schedule.  Davis-Kidd bookstore, 387 Perkins Road Extended, (901) 683-9801.

April 15 - Little Rock, Arkansas.  Arkansas Literary Festival.  Mike will be at the Wine, Dine & Sign: Party with the Authors event.  He is hoping there will be cheese curds and Lil' Smokies.

April 16 - Little Rock, Arkansas.  Arkansas Literary Festival.  3:00 p.m., Mike will be reading, yapping (under the careful guidance of my professional moderator, Carol Ann Fitzgerald of The Oxford American) and signing, this for a panel called The Wide World of Nonfiction (check the schedule here).

April 17 - Milwaukee, Wisconsin.  Guest lecturer, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Spring Writers Festival.  12:30 p.m.   Information at http://cfprod.imt.uwm.edu/sce/course.cfm?id=6774.   (414) 227-3200 or (800) 222-3263.  Registration deadline April 15.

April 18 - Grand Haven, Michigan.  [radio interview]. Morning show on WGHN with Rob Willey.

April 18 - Milwaukee (Brookfield), Wisconsin.  Reading, discussion, signing.  7:00 p.m., Harry W. Schwartz Bookshop.  17145 West Bluemount Road, Brookfield.   (262) 797-6140 (Please note this is the Brookfield store...there are others.)

April 19-21 - Muncie, Indiana.  Guest lecturer, Ball State University's Lilly II Visiting Writers Series.

April 20 - Muncie, Indiana.  Reading, discussion, signing.  7 p.m., Bracken Library 225.  More information here.

April 18 - Grand Rapids, Michigan.  [radio interview]. WGVU FM/AM morning show.

April 21 - Ann Arbor, Michigan.  Reading, discussion, signing.  7 p.m., Shaman Drum Bookshop, 313 South State Street.  (734) 662-7407.  publicity@shamandrum.com

April 22 - Flatrock, Michigan.  Cable television appearance, "The Read Program" with Jackie Hull.

April 22 - Kalamazoo, Michigan.  [radio interview] WKZO with Lori Moore.  I think I'll be on around 9:30 a.m.

April 22 - Lansing, Michigan.  Signing only.  1 p.m., Schuler Books & Music, 2820 Town Center Boulevard.  (517) 316-7801

April 22 - Montague, Michigan.  Brief talk and signing (Mike has to do another event this evening, so this will be a quick stop, but a heartfelt one!).  5 p.m., Book Nook and Java Shop, 8726 Ferry Street.  (231) 894-5333.  info@thebooknookjavashop.com

April 22 - Grand Haven, Michigan.  Reading, discussion, signing.  7:30 p.m., Bookman bookstore, 715 Washington Street.  (616) 846-3520.

April 23 - Allegan, Michigan.  Reading, discussion, signing.  2:00 p.m, Books, Coffee and Friends bookstore, 111 Locust Street.   (269) 686-2348.  Lock up your cats.

April 23 - Kalamazoo, Michigan.  Reading, discussion, signing.  7:00 p.m., Athena Book Shop, 154 S. Kalamazoo Mall. (269) 342-4508.

April 25 - Chicago, Illinois.  Reading, discussion, signing.  4:00 p.m., The University of Chicago Bookstore, corner of Ellis and 58th. Details here.   (773) 702-7712. (NOTE: PLEASE CALL TO CHECK TIME...WE HAD 3 p.m. POSTED FOR A WHILE)

April 26 - Wisconsin Public Radio.  [statewide radio interview] 11:45 a.m., Larry Meiller radio show.

April 26 - Madison, Wisconsin.  Reading, discussion, signing.  6 p.m., University Bookstore, 711 State Street.  (608) 257-3784.

April 28 - Colchester, Vermont.  [radio interview] The "Charlie and Ernie" show, WVMT-AM.

April 28 - Montreal, Canada.  [radio interview] 7:05 p.m. Wisconsin time, 8:05 p.m. Montreal time.   Interview on CJAD with Peter Anthony Holder, Holder Overnight, Here's the show schedule.

April 29 - Grand Marais, Minnesota.  [radio interview] 6 p.m. air time, WTIP.   With Bob Carter.  This was fun.  Many chuckles.  Vis-a-vis, yep.

April 29 - Wisconsin [statewide public television] 7 p.m. Mike will be interviewed on "Here and Now" tonight.   He forgot to shave, and apologizes to host Frederica Freyberg, as she is classy and shouldn't be forced to interview a guy wearing such a ratty shirt.  Mike also needed a haircut, but had been on the road for 14 days.  And frankly, haircuts are becoming less and less relevant where Mike's head is concerned.

May 3 - Wisconsin - Moose Country 106.7.  [radio interview] 9:00 p.m. or so.  I always have a good time on the Moose with host Jay Moore.  The Moose plays country music that doesn't feel the need to shake its butt or wax its chest.  Boys or girls.

May 5 - Eau Claire, Wisconsin.  [television interview] 5:00 p.m., guest, NewsCenter 13 at Five, WEAU TV-13.

May 5 - Eau Claire, Wisconsin.  7:00 p.m., Borders #138, 4030 Commonwealth Avenue.  (715) 832-5783.

May 6 - Alma, Wisconsin.  Reading, discussion, signing by Mike, followed with a concert by Mike and his band, The Long Beds.

  - Tickets are $7.00.  Available at the door or reserve seats (this is a 72-seat theater) by calling (608) 685-4859.

- 6 p.m. Reading, discussion and humor drawn from Mike's various titles including Off Main Street, Population 485, I Got it From the Cows, and Never Stand Behind A Sneezing Cow.  Also included, glamorous book tour stories.

- 7 p.m. (roughly) until 8 p.m. Mike will sign books and visit.

- 8 p.m.  Mike and his band The Long Beds will perform.  Some call it roughneck folk.  Some acoustic, some electric, some picking, some greasy slide, some trucking songs, some busted heart songs, a song about a lumpy little dog, and at least one banjo sighting.

May 9 - Mitchell, South Dakota.  [radio interview] 8:40 a.m. Central Time, KORN 1490 AM.

May 13 - Wisconsin [statewide public television] 7 p.m. A new "End Insight" video essay is scheduled to air on "Here and Now" tonight.   We filmed it in and around a culvert.  A culvert of my youth.

May 15 - Lodi, Wisconsin.  Guest speaker (will sign books, also), Lodi EMS 35th Anniversary Open House.  Open house is 1-3 p.m., Mike will speak at 3 p.m.  Station is on Main Street.

May 16 - Baraboo, Wisconsin.  Postponed.

May 19 - Barron, Wisconsin.  Guest speaker, Wisconsin Sheriff's Administrative Professionals.  Private afternoon event.

May 19 - Chetek, Wisconsin.  Reading, talk, signing.   7 p.m., Calhoun Memorial Library, 321 Moore Street.  (715) 924-3195.  This is where I got my first-ever library card.

May 21 - Nationwide.  [radio interview] Michael Feldman's Whad'Ya Know?  10 a.m. Central Time.  To find the broadcast times and stations near you, click here.  To get tickets to the live broadcast, click here.

May 27 - Milwaukee area.  [radio interview] Interview with Jane Hampden on WUWM's "At Ten," which airs 10 a.m. and 10 p.m.

June 11 - Bloomer, Wisconsin.  Guest speaker, Bloomer Historical Society.  1 p.m.

June 18 - LaCrosse, Wisconsin.  Signing event at Waldenbooks in Valley View Mall.  1-3 p.m.  This is a special fund-raising event, with a percentage of all Mike's books and recordings sold this day donated to local fire departments.  Members of the Holmen and Shelby fire departments will be on hand in uniform, and there may be special handouts for children.  Please contact the store for details:  (608) 781-5222

June 27 - Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin.  Guest speaker, Wisconsin County Clerks 100th Anniversary.  Private event.

July 8 - Grand Marais, Minnesota.  [radio interview]  Sometime between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. WTIP with Bob Carter on "The Roadhouse".

July 11 - Hayward area, Wisconsin.  [radio interview]  8:30 a.m., WOJB. (online audio available)

July 12 - Duluth, Minnesota.  [radio interview]  8:15 a.m., KUMD. (online audio available)

July 13 - Denver, Colorado.  [radio interview]  Somewhere between 7 a.m and 9 a.m. Mountain Time.   KQMT. (online audio available)

July 14 - Cable, Wisconsin.  6 p.m.  Mike will sneak into Redbery Books to sign books for half an hour before roaring back down to the Moose Lips coffee shop in Seeley for the music event below.  Redbery Books is at 42785 Highway 63, (715) 798-5014.

July 14 - Seeley, Wisconsin.  MUSICAL EVENT  7 p.m.  The Cable-Hayward Area Arts Council has invited Mike to the featured artists for CHARAC's monthly singer/songwriter showcase at Moose Lips Java Joint.  Mike and some members of his band The Long Beds will play original material for one hour, followed by an open mic for other singer/songwriters.   Information about and directions to Moose Lips here.  Information about CHARAC here.   Moose Lips phone: (715) 634-5660; CHARAC phone: (715) 634-2433.

July 15 - Grand Marais, Minnesota.  READING/CONCERT  7 p.m.  Suggested donation, $8.00 (partial proceeds go to Friends of Grand Marais Library).  Mike will read and perform humor, take a short break to sign books, and then join some members of his band The Long Beds back onstage to play original material for one hour.  Some acoustic, some electric, some picking, some greasy slide, some trucking songs, some busted heart songs, a song about a lumpy little dog, and at least one banjo sighting.  Information about and directions to Arrowhead Center for the Arts here.  For more information about the event or tickets, call Bob Carter at (866) 645-5536.

July 21 - Sioux City, Iowa.  [radio interview]  10:10 a.m. to 10:50 a.m CST.  KSCJ.

July 29 - Beaumont, Texas.  [radio interview]  3:15 p.m. to 3:45 p.m CST.  KOLE-AM with Dan Gresham.

August 15 - Washburn, Wisconsin.  Reading, talk, signing.   7:00 p.m.  Washburn Public Library, 307 Washington Avenue.  (715) 373-6172.

September 9 - Wisconsin [statewide public television] (NOTE: POSTPONED)  A new "End Insight" video essay is scheduled to air on "Here and Now" tonight.   We filmed it in a graveyard.

September 12 - Menomonie, Wisconsin.  Reading, talk, signing.   7 p.m., Menomonie Public Library, 600 Wolske Bay Road.  (715) 232-2164

September 15 - Waupaca, Wisconsin.  Reading, talk, signing.   7 p.m.  Waupaca Area Public Library.  107 South Main Street.  (715) 258-4414.

September 16 - Washington Island, Wisconsin.  MUSICAL EVENT 7:30 p.m.  Concert with Michael Perry and Billy Krause.  Red Barn Theater, South Shore Drive in Red Barn Park.   Tickets $5 at the door. (920) 847-3064

September 17 - Washington Island, Wisconsin.  Reading, talk, signing.   3 p.m.   Red Barn Theater, South Shore Drive in Red Barn Park.   (This will be a fundraiser for the "Friends" campaign to build a new gym and renovate the library - suggested donation of $5 at the door. (920) 847-3064

September 19 - Sister Bay, Wisconsin.  Signing, discussion.   1-3 p.m., Passtimes Books, 527 Bayshore Drive (main drag).  (920) 854-2127.

September 19 - Manitowoc, Wisconsin.  Reading, discussion, signing.  7-9 p.m.  LaDeDa Books & Beans, 1624 New York Avenue.  (920) 682-7040.  (Postponed until a future date...I respectfully suggest you go see Larry Watson at the Manitowoc Public Library, he'll be there tonight.)

September 20 - Green Bay, Wisconsin.  Guest Speaker, Wisconsin Health Care Engineering Association.

September 20 - Ashwaubenon, Wisconsin.  Reading, discussion, signing.  7 p.m.  Barnes & Noble bookstore, 2498 South Oneida.  (920) 490-1770.

September 21 - Milwaukee, Wisconsin.  Reading, discussion, signing.  5 p.m.  Voss Books, 229 N Water Street.  (414) 278-1260.

September 22 - Oshkosh, Wisconsin.  Reading, discussion, signing.  7 p.m.  Oshkosh Public Library, 106 Washington Avenue.  (920) 236-5205.

September 23 - Sheboygan, Wisconsin.  Reading, discussion, signing. 6 p.m.  Wonderful World Coffee House.  1022 Michigan Avenue.  (920) 694-0300.

October 1 - Eau Claire, Wisconsin.  Guest Speaker, Chippewa Valley Museum "Farm Life" event, Plaza Hotel and Suites on Clairemont Avenue.  Info: (715) 834-7871.

October 5 - Vadnais Heights, Minnesota.  Guest Speaker, Emergency Nurses Association.

October 8 - Shell Lake, Wisconsin.  READING/CONCERT  7 p.m.  Mike will read and perform humor, take a short break to sign books, then return to the stage to play and sing original material for about an hour.  Because Mike's regular band The Long Beds are out of town, tonight he'll be backed by a very able crew called The Bed Liners.  Singer/songwriter Billy Krause may join us also.  This event will be held at the Erika Quam Memorial Theater, 605 First Street.  Go to http://www.titw.org/map.html for a map.  More info available through the Shell Lake Library (715) 468-2074 and the Spooner Memorial Library (715) 635-2792.  They're the sponsors - thank you!

October 18-28 - Germany.  Mike will be doing a reading and speaking tour in Germany for the release of the German translation of Population 485.  Here are the details, as best we can tell (our German language abilities are limited to a phonetic pronounciation of "That tastes good."):

NOTE: There will be some other appearances, but we're not 100 percent clear on all that.

October 20 - Reading, Weinstube im Hinterhof, 60316 Frankfurt am Main, Egnolffstrasse 17.  8 p.m.  This is part of the Harper Perennial World Tour.

October 25 - Reading with poet Paula Sergi.  Ministry for Sciences and Arts, Wiesbaden. 7:30 p.m.

October 26 - Reading, Schlachthof, 7 p.m. (I think).  Details (including a photo of Lemmy) here.  More (!?) details here.

October 27 - In the morning I will be reading at a school in Frankfurt.  I will be at the Frankfurt Book Fair in the afternoon.  Then, a public reading in the evening: Stadtbücherei Frankfurt, Zeil 17-21, 60313 Frankfurt am Main.  7:30 p.m.  Entrance: € 6 / reduced € 4 (Information Tel. 069-212-38353)  Details here (scroll down).

November 5 - Spencer, Wisconsin.  Reading, talk, signing.   7:30 p.m. Lucille Tack Center for the Arts.  (715) 659-4499.

November 7 - Verona, Wisconsin.  Verona High School, presenting to writing groups and classes.

November 7 - Madison, Wisconsin.  Reading, talk, signing.  7 p.m.  Barnes & Noble, West Towne Mall, 7433 Mineral Point Road.  (608) 827-0809.

November 8 - Hudson, Wisconsin.  Reading, talk, signing.   Here are the details as I understand them:  From 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. I will be at the Hudson Area Joint Library.  Books will be for sale and I will sign from 6 p.m. to 6:30, then I'll read and shoot the breeze for a while, then sign books again.  At 8 p.m. the shindig moves three doors down the street to Back to Books bookstore where there will be a reception and I'll keep signing books. (715) 386-3101.

November 12 - Al