Born in Gonzales, Texas in 1955, Michael Machicek (also known as "Mister Natural," "Hippie Michael," "Mother Nature's Son," and "Barefoot Michael") is a notable and easily recognized member of the Peace Movement. A self-described rebellious agitator, he prides himself on his involvement with the Dallas Peace Center and on his commitment to a world free of strife, greed, and prejudice. He has participated in various anti-war rallies and protests, including demonstrations in Dallas, Crawford, and Austin.

An active poet as well as a soldier for peace, Michael cites Mark Twain and Edgar Allen Poe as his early influences. His first book of poetry, It's the Journey. . .Not the Destination, was self-published in 2003. In addition to his peace work, Michael made regular appearances at several former open mic venues, including the Insomnia coffee house, The Velvet Hookah (where he had a featured reading), the Cosmic Café, the Balcony Club, and Bill's records & Tapes. He currently appears at the Mad Swirl readings, hosted by Johnny O. on the first Wednesday of every month at The Absinthe Lounge, and at the Lakewood Poetry Salon at Paperbacks Plus on Sunday evenings.

"Will work for peace."