CityLit Project and the Write Here, Write Now workshops, invites you to help us kick off the new year right with another in our popular series of open mic readings in the relaxed coffee-house atmosphere of Baltimore Chop Books in downtown Baltimore. Here's a chance to try out your latest writing in front of an audience of fellow writers -- no critiques, just claps!

The open mic will be "first come, first read" -- there will be a sign-up sheet at the counter, so plan to come early to be sure to get a choice spot on the list. Everyone who signs up will get a 10-12 minute block to fill up however they want to. And -- the best part -- because owner Andy Rubin keeps the Chop open until whatever o'clock, we'll be able to have as many readers as we can line up.

Coming early has other advantages too -- it will give you time to shop the Chop's terrific collection of books (it's Baltimore City's only remaining independent general bookstore), and to get a nice hot mug of coffee/tea/espresso/cappuccino/hot chocolate/etc. and fresh desert before you read. (Browsing and caffeinating is also encouraged throughout the evening's festivities, of course.)

At Baltimore Chop Bookstore and Espresso Bar, Baltimore City's only independent general bookstore, 625 Washington Blvd, in Baltimore. For directions, visit Baltimore Chop's MySpace page or call (410) 752-4487. Free street parking is available in front of and around the bookstore, and there's a parking garage nearby too.