Bethel man named 2013 inaugural poet

    Richard Blanco of Bethel was named Wednesday as the inaugural poet for President Barack Obama's swearing-in ceremony Jan. 21, according to published reports.
    Blanco will write an original poem to be read at the Capitol in Washington, D.C.
    Born in Spain and brought up in Miami, Fla., he is the son of Cuban exiles. He earned a degree and worked in engineering in Miami before going into writing.
    He has lived in Bethel since 2009, and currently serves as the vice-chairman of the Bethel Planning Board.
    Blanco could not be reached for comment by press time. On his Facebook page he wrote,"Yes, it's true! I've been given the honor of being selected to read a poem at President Obama's Inauguration. I'm so blessed and humbled . . . and excited!"