Aurora looking for first poet laureate to tell city's story

At a time when Aurora is stressing a theme of "renewal," the city is looking for someone who can help tell its story.

The city next month is planning to name its first poet laureate. Self-identified poets who live in Aurora are encouraged to apply for the volunteer position through next Tuesday.

Officials say the poet laureate will celebrate the heritage, uniqueness, diversity and achievements of the city through the art and appreciation of poetry.

"We need someone who can help tell our story in a poetic and empowering way." Mayor Richard Irvin said.

The poet's post is for a two-year term with the first laureate serving until the end of Irvin's first term in April 2021. The poet laureate must be available to participate in public events for the duration of the term.

Local poet Leo Zarko presented one of his books of poetry to Irvin last week during a media briefing.

"This is a fantastic undertaking," he said. "There's a big need for it. Art heals people."

Aurora residents wanting to apply to become the poet laureate can do so online at aurora-il.org/AuroraPoetLaureate or in person by visiting the mayor's office at 44 E. Galena Blvd. Applications are due by 4 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 15.

An ad hoc committee will review the applications and finalists will be invited for face-to-face interviews and recitations. Irvin will announce the final selection during a media briefing on Nov. 5.

The new poet laureate's first official appearance will be at the Veterans Day Parade on Nov. 11.

Irvin said it's a fast-paced selection process. But based on the response the city has received, he said, "we know Aurorans are ready and prepared with their poetry about their city."