Almost everyone has written a haiku at some point in their life. Put one together with c’hai and we get a “Rooftop CHAIku” — the innovative new poetry series at Next@19th. Based on the grounds of the historic Temple Israel in downtown Miami, Next@19th has expanded its programmingto include monthly poetry readings, along with monthly live music performances and stimulating discussion forums and debates.

Known for Guava Rugelach Lounge, a monthly music event featuring a diverse range of world music, Next@19th joined up with the literary geniuses at the University of Wynwood and created “Rooftop CHAIku.” “Rooftop CHAIku” is a monthly literary series featuring a guest writer who will share his or her work with the audience. Last week’s event featured local journalist and poet Jen Karetnick.

“We are looking forward to moving boldly into our second season with the momentum we gathered in our first,” said Jenni Person, director of Next@19th. “Our goal is to continue engaging audiences in all that culturally rooted arts and ideas can be.”

The great thing about “Rooftop CHAIku” is that the audience is invited to share their own haikus, longer poems and/or short literary works that may (or may not) be rooted in Jewish identity and culture. “Rooftop CHAIku” is free and open to the public. Donations are welcome.

For information on the next “Rooftop CHAIku” (Tickets: free), “Guava Rugelach Lounge” (Tickets: $12 and $10 for students, seniors and artists at www.brownpapertickets.com) and the Discussions (Tickets: free), visit Next@19th’s event calendar. Temple Israel, 137 N.E. 19th St., Miami, Fla. Contact 305-542-7732, or visit the website at www.nextat19th.org.