Just about any writer or artist who is out to accomplish will have an insatiable craving for one thing: recognition. And while that can sometimes be challenging to achieve, it can also be a bit less stressful if one only knows where to look.

Fortunately, seven Bob Jones students were pointed in the right direction and subsequently found some much-appreciated recognition.

Each year, the Huntsville Literary Association opens the Young Writers Contest, a contest in which students of various ages can submit poems, short stories, and/or art pieces. Typically, rewards for the winning students include a cash reward, as well as a plaque, medal, or certificate, and winners get the chance to present their winning submission at the yearly awards ceremony.

This year, Bob Jones students swept away the competition. For the short story portion of the contest, Kennedy Saaristo (senior) claimed third and Michael Burleson (junior) snatched an honorable mention. In the poetry category, Megan Zecher (senior) placed first, Kiara Gunn (freshman) placed third, and Kalee Yem (senior) was awarded an honorable mention.

Zecher, having entered the competition last year as well, reflects on the shock that she felt when she found out that she had won: “Once the idea sunk in, I just couldn’t believe it – I still almost don’t.”

Zecher claimed that she had wanted to win HLA ever since last year’s contest, and her determination clearly paid off. Why, exactly, is HLA’s Young Writers contest one of the most desirable competitions for students to enter?

“It gives students in North Alabama a chance to succeed,” Zecher said. “It gives young students some encouragement and recognition.”

Meanwhile, in the art category, Donald Rizzardi (junior) stole first place, and second place went to Alyssa Kennedy (senior).

Not unlike Zecher, Kennedy has also entered an array of contests before – occasionally snagging wins at state and even national levels – though this HLA win was her first for art.

“I think it’s something special,” Kennedy said, “not just because they gave me a nice plate and a check but also because it reminded me not to focus so much on one talent – like writing and acting. It is a good reminder that as you develop one talent, sometimes you unlock other talents that are natural extensions.”

This year’s winners received not just a pat on the back and an introspective reminder, though. Those students who placed received a commemorative plate as well as a certificate…in addition to a monetary prize (some of which were as much as $250).

“It’s never really been about the money – it’s nice; don’t get me wrong – money is always nice,” said Kennedy. “I’ve entered and competed in competitions over the years because they are fun, and it’s nice to create something and have someone say, ‘well done – here’s some cash.’”

For the most part, HLA is all about spotlighting the students and their creations – and these particular creations (and students) are well-worth the recognition.