Looking for Culture in Vegas? Dime Grinds has You Covered

A common complaint from those who move to Vegas from other cities is the lack of cultural activities. I always thought that was a load of hooey, but after attending several Dime Grinds events I know it is. Hosted by Joe Maxx Coffee in Henderson and organized by the Henderson Writers Group, Dime Grinds is a monthly event that combines: authors (aspiring and accomplished), 10 cent coffee, and three readings.

Walking into Joe Maxx Coffee on the first Sunday of every month feels like visiting a friend’s house. The coffee shop itself is airy and spacious. With a variety of comfortable seating options and featuring a rotating selection of local artists’ work for wall decor, the result is eclectic and welcoming. I’ve been helped by different members of the staff and every time the service has been friendly and informative. They also have a loyalty program, excellent for those of us who are happy to patronize the business on a regular basis.

The menu is not limited to coffee. A vegan haven, Joe Maxx Coffee also carries an assortment of wraps, sandwiches, snacks, and pastries. As much as I am always tempted by the 10 cent coffee offered during the event (it smells toasty and delicious), my default order has been the Island Joe smoothie. I’m a weirdo who likes beverages that taste healthy, meaning smoothies that actually taste like the ingredients they’re made of and not masked with a ton of sugar.

I normally arrive 30 minutes before the event begins. This allows me to order leisurely, find a good seat, and catch up with people. Most of the others in attendance are writers, but all are welcome at Dime Grinds—if you like books, you’ll enjoy this event. It allows readers to connect with the author before being immersed in what he/she has created. The fact that these are all local authors, involved in the Vegas community, only adds to the allure. Reading begins promptly at 2 pm Joe (the master of ceremonies, no relation to Joe Maxx) wouldn’t have it any other way.

Three local authors of various backgrounds, publishing credentials, and genres are featured each month. I particularly enjoyed June which showcased Amanda Skenandore, Andres Fragoso Jr., and Oksana Marafioti. Amanda read from her debut historical fiction novel (traditionally published), Andres read from his poetry collection (self-published), and Oksana read from her memoir (traditionally published). At Dime Grinds, the variety in genres and types of publishing creates a window into many different experiences.

Before reading from their pieces, each author takes the time to discuss their background and work. As someone who is interested in traditional publishing, I found both Amanda and Oksana’s journeys fascinating. Even though their genres and writing styles are dissimilar, there were plenty of commonalities. The women described a long, often arduous road filled with obstacles (internal and external). While some may find this particular dose of reality discouraging, I find it invigorating. It’s reassuring to know that success is possible even after multiple rejections, or a harrowing writing process.

In order to gain more insight into what makes Dime Grinds such a well-rounded event; I asked Tonya Todd, Dime Grinds Organizer and Henderson Writers Group Education Chair, a few questions.

Veronica Klash: How did Dime Grinds start?

Tonya Todd: In early 2017, the then-manager of Coco Café in Town Square approached several writing groups and invited them to partner on the concept of coffee house readings with 10¢ cups of coffee as an homage to the beatnik days. Henderson Writers Group bit. We scheduled the first presentation for March with two amazing authors. After that, Dime Grinds almost suffered an early death. By the second event, management changed and we lost our point of contact. By the third, the coffee shop had closed permanently. In May, three days before the event, Joe Maxx stepped in and graciously honored the 10¢ coffee.

VK: How did you get involved?

TT: Once HWG agreed to take on the project, former president Gregory Kompes asked for a volunteer to coordinate it. Two of us stepped up, and I think the decision to work together rather than struggling alone has made all the difference. I handle scheduling, talent scouting, and photography. My partner Joe Van Rhyn creates the monthly tents you see on the tables each month. He designed the logo and created the posters we use for advertisement. He’s also our adorable emcee.

VK: What is your favorite aspect of the event, as one of the coordinators?

TT:  Bringing diverse crowds together. I enjoy listening to the crowd’s reaction and watching the authors' face light up when those unfamiliar with their work respond.

VK: What is the mission of Dime Grinds/What do you hope it accomplishes?

TT: To expose the public to local authors. I hope that the choice to feature writers from various sources expands each author’s audience.

VK: How do you choose the authors who read at the event?

TT: One of my contributions was the commitment to feature a mix of Henderson Writers Group authors with those outside our group. I regularly attend other author events with an eye open for undiscovered talent. And, sometimes they fall into my lap. I met one of my featured authors at a free movie screening. My mother asked a woman about the interesting looking book she was reading. When asked who wrote it, she said, “I did.”

VK: This is unrelated to Dime Grinds, but it’s something I always want to know from people: What do you love about Vegas?

TT: That’s easy. 24-hour access to nearly anything I want.

I look forward to hearing and learning from all the authors Tonya has lined up in the coming months. And I hope to see you there!

If you are an author who would like to read at Dime Grinds please reach out via email at: dimegrinds@gmail.com. Do keep in mind that due to the popularity of the event bookings are for 6-7 months in advance.

Have you attended Dime Grinds? What do you enjoy about this event?