West Virginia Names New Poet Laureate

From the State Journal:

Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin appointed Marc Harshman as the state's newest poet laureate on May 18, replacing Irene McKinney, who died in February.

Harshman is a poet and storyteller who has authored 11 children's books. He lives in Wheeling.

"I'm pleased Marc has accepted this unique opportunity to serve as poet laureate," Tomblin said in a release from his office. "Whether it's one of his children's stories or a prose poem, Marc's creativity serves as a reminder of the immeasurable talent of West Virginia's authors. I hope, in this new capacity, he will continue to challenge himself and inspire a new generation of writers."