For the first time in its 32-year history, with over 400 readings during that time, the prestigious Chicago Poetry Center had to cancel a reading last week. As a notice on the organization’s website explained, the Poetry Center had made several special arrangements to accommodate singer Jill Scott for an appearance wherein she would read from her new book, The Moments, The Minutes, The Hours (St.Martin’s). “More than 800 people were expected at the event,” explains the note, and “The Poetry Center distributed 250 free tickets, as was requested by St. Martin’s Press.” But one hour before doors were to open, Scott canceled. The Poetry Center “even offering to refund all ticket sales in the hopes that Ms. Scott would honor her commitment to her fans,” while St. Martin’s offered to give everyone a free book. But Scott still refused. The snub is drawing heated commentary in Chicago. Critic Jessa Crispin, on her popular blog Bookslut, headlined the story, “Jill Scott fucked Chicago and The Poetry Center” . . . although Crispin also admitted her first reaction was, “Jill Scott was invited to read her poetry?”