Hard work is finally paying off for junior Alexei Belzer, who has written numerous stories for the online school newspaper, the Tam O’Shanter, since she joined the staff last year. Two of Belzer’s stories received honorable mention awards in the Keystone Press Awards contest sponsored by the Pennsylvania News Media Association.
Belzer was informed March 7 about her two stories that she entered in a statewide contest, the Keystone Press Awards, in January. She was excited to hear the news.
“This isn’t really enough,” said Belzer. “I know I could have done better, so now I’ll be pushing myself more to reach my potential.”
The two stories she entered into the contest were both written on 2016 graduate, Jake Beistel. The stories were on Beistel’s high school wrestling career, which culminated with a state wrestling championship. Beistel said he is proud to see Belzer getting recognized for her work.
“Alexei is a great writer and is very hardworking,” said Beistel, “I’m glad that she worked with me so much. She really is a great person.”
As a sophomore last year, Belzer wrote her very first journalism story about Beistel, which got published in the local newspaper, the Independent-Observer and then later the Tribune Review.
“I have had the same mindset every since I started writing,” said Belzer. “It was easy with Jake because he opened up to me really easily.”
She has also had other stories published into the Trib and also in the school newspaper.
“Mr. (Chuck) Brittain and Jake have supported me the most throughout everything,” said Belzer.“They honestly are the reason that I am where I am.”
Belzer will receive certificates for her achievements and is considering attending the awards ceremony at the Student Keystone Press Awards Luncheon during the America East Media Business and Technology Conference April 12 in Hershey.
“I am really proud,” said Belzer. “This is an achievement that I worked hard for.”