Some upcoming readings and new MN license plates

First, a few readings I came across in the near future, then a note about the new MN license plates.

Tim O'Brien, March 19 & 20, 2009 at the Hopkins Center for the Arts. Tix are $35.

Joshua Beckman (poet), Friday, April 17, 7:30pm - Magers And Quinn Booksellers. Free,
Tom Robbins: Tuesday, April 28, 7:00pm - Free. Minneapolis Central Library, Pohlad Hall, 300 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis. Rita Dove, May 11; The Fitzgerald Theater, $20.

If you haven't heard the news, Minnesotans will have a few new license plate choices in the near future. The plates, created by the Department of Natural Resources, are deemed "critical habitat" plates; for an added fee of $30, MN drivers can purchase them. The proceeds go to the DNR, which uses the money to purchase (and manage) land for public use. Well, the DNR came up with eight choices and they are putting it to a vote. Four will make the cut. The plates feature loons, white-tailed deer, a showy ladyslipper, a fishing scene, a pheasant, a black-capped chickadee, a walleye, and a woodduck.

Here's my favorite (the bobber is a nice touch):

(license plate photo courtesy of the MN DNR)

You can see all the of the contenders and vote on them here.