12 YEARS OF 3 MINUTES
As we reported on at length in our Open Mics issue last July, Auntie's Bookstore's 3 Minute Mic has been giving creatives a place to express themselves through poetry for over a decade. Hosts Chris Cook (pictured) and Chris Coppen have ensured the open mic's longevity by inspiring emerging and established poets alike to share their work each First Friday of the month for 12 years now. On Friday, April 4, the poetry open mic celebrates its 12th anniversary with a special guest appearance by local poet Asyia Gover plus the usual slate of public performers. Here's to 12 more years of 3 Minute Mic! (MADISON PEARSON)
WOMAN IN CHARGE
Washington State University has entered a new era of leadership as university President Elizabeth Cantwell began her tenure as the school's 12th leader. Following a nationwide search, the WSU Board of Regents announced Cantwell had been chosen in early February. The first woman to ever lead WSU, she began her tenure on April 1, replacing former President Kirk Schulz after his nine-year tenure. Before joining WSU, Cantwell spent almost two years as the president of Utah State University. "I've long admired Washington State University, and a couple of years ago my family's connection to the university deepened when my daughter became a Coug, enrolling in one of WSU's graduate programs," Cantwell told WSU Insider. "This opportunity to serve WSU as president is truly a dream come true!" (COLTON RASANEN)
THIS WEEK'S PLAYLIST
Noteworthy new music arriving in stores and online April 4:
Because they found so much success with their viral music videos, OK Go is the rare band whose music actually gets overlooked. The group looks to deliver more power-pop gems on its first LP in over a decade.
BON IVER, SABLE, FABLE
This LP continuation of the 2024 EP Sable finds Bon Iver's Justin Vernon further exploring lush pop soundscapes rather than sparse indie folk ones.
THE MARS VOLTA, LUCRO SUCIO; LOS OJOS DEL VACÍO
The always-experimental prog rock band has taken a unique approach to the rollout of its ninth LP. Rather than put out any songs from the album, The Mars Volta has been playing it in full while opening for Deaftones. (SETH SOMMERFELD)
