St. Paul names first poet laureate

St. Paul, Minn. — Minnesota's capital city has its first poet laureate, St. Paul resident Carol Connolly. Connolly's first commissioned poem will come on Aug. 2, during Mayor Chris Coleman's budget address.

Connolly is a published poet and columnist. Her latest book of poems is called "Payments Due."

In addition to her writing, Connolly has been active in local and state politics for years, and served formally as Minnesota Racing Commissioner and head of the St. Paul Human Rights Commission.

She spoke with MPR's Steven John.

Broadcast Dates

• All Things Considered, 07/20/2006, 6:20 p.m.
• All Things Considered, 07/20/2006, 6:23 p.m.