DURHAM -- Novelist Zelda Lockhart has been chosen as the second Piedmont laureate.
The Durham County writer will spend next year in the position, which was created by several area arts commissions to promote the art of writing.
Lockhart's novels, "Fifth Born" and "Cold Running Creek," won several awards; her third, "Fifth Born II: The Hundredth Turtle," will be published in June. She will replace current Piedmont laureate and poet Jaki Shelton Green of Mebane.
Lockhart will receive a $7,000honorarium and spend the year presenting readings and workshops and participating in various functions. She will be expected to create at least one original project to expand the appreciation of literature.
"I am honored and excited to share my passion for literature," Lockhart said in a statement released by the Raleigh Arts Commission.
Get the biggest news in your email or cellphone as it's happening. Sign up for breaking news alerts.
Hearing loss, a disability currently untreated in about 85 percent of those affected, may be the nation's most damaging and costly sensory handicap. It is a hidden disability, often not obvious to others or even to those who have it. 
Weight Watchers overhauled its weight-loss plan just over a year ago and is getting mixed reviews. For a story, we'd like to talk with members about their experience, and what they think about the changes. Have they helped you lose weight? 
A documentary with North Carolina ties tells the story of a couple whose love became a legal issue: "The Loving Story," a film chronicling the story of Richard and Mildred Loving, whose battle to be legally married led to an end of bans on interracial marriages in 16 states. 
Raleigh Denim can mark off another New York fashion first: New York Fashion Week. 
This year's Cost of Loving Index is notable in that most of the nine items that are tracked did not go up in price, including long-stem roses, lingerie, wine, Godiva chocolates and greeting cards. 
Nell Finch led her family, her church and her community through her tenacious and determined spirit, always ready for the next adventure - on any continent. 
Every January, my spouse of seven years and I make separate lists of our previous year's accomplishments and joys, our disappointments and sorrows. Read our feature stories on your time. We'll deliver our best work right to your inbox, for free!
Subscribe to Lifestyles - it's free!
Subscribe to Family & Community - it's free!
Subscribe to Food & Fitness - it's free!
Subscribe to Here's the Deal - it's free!
Subscribe to Home & Garden - it's free!
Subscribe to Travel Deals - it's free!
Subscribe to TriangleMom2Mom - it's free!
