Last August, Governor Jan Brewer did something big. Something that we totally supported and thought was nothing short of great. No, really. She named writer Alberto Álvaro Ríos Arizona's first-ever Poet Laureate. The official purpose of the Arizona State University Regents' Professor and award-winning poet and memoirist's new gig is "to commemorate Arizona literary artists whose work and service best represent Arizona's values, independence and unique Western history and culture." It's also a reason for some serious state pride and most definitely a cause for celebration.
That's why Tempe's Changing Hands Bookstore will host a reception for the Nogales, Arizona, native on Wednesday, January 29. During the event, Ríos will discuss what his new role means to both him and the state in addition to reading selections from his literary works.
The reception begins at 7 p.m. at 6428 South McClintock Drive. Admission is free. Visit www.changinghands.com or call 480-730-0205.
Wed., Jan. 29, 7 p.m., 2014