DOWNEY -- Downey poet Steve Gross will read from his work at the Thursday, Sept. 15, edition of Poetry Matters at Stay Gallery. 

Gross' writing has been described as "pulsing with surrealistic images, spine-tingling stories and memorable people real and imagined." His work has appeared in numerous periodicals and small press publications. 

Doors open at 7 p.m., with an open mike at 7:30 p.m. Admission is free. 

"It is a friendly atmosphere, and a great place to read your poem for the first time," event organizers said. 

For more information, visit downeyarts.org or find the Downey Arts Coalition on Facebook. Poetry Matters is curated by Lorine Parks.