CNHI reporter to co-author James Patterson novel

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Kecia Bal, a reporter for the Johnstown (Penn.) Tribune-Democrat, got the surprise of her life recently with an opportunity to co-author a mystery thriller with best-selling novelist James Patterson.

Bal won the national James Patterson Co-Author Competition. Her story idea for a technology-driven novel topped thousands of other entries from students enrolled in Patterson's online MasterClass in fiction writing.

"It really is a dream come true," said Bal, 32.  "Every writer wants to one day write a novel. But the idea seemed overwhelming. Then I saw the co-author contest and decided to give it my best shot.

"The idea of working with a record-breaking, best-selling author is hard to imagine. I'm so grateful for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."

Bal will receive a cash award of $5,000, but, she said, "the real prize is working with James Patterson."

Bal is the mother of boys Aiden DiBuono, 11, and Evan DiBuono, 9. She has been writing for newspapers and magazines for 11 years, covering the business beat and Somerset County for The Tribune-Democrat.

"This is an exciting moment for Kecia and for our entire organization," said Chip Minemyer, editor of The Tribune-Democrat. "We're very proud of her."

Robin L. Quillon, the paper's publisher, said: "We are absolutely thrilled for Kecia. Her talents as a journalist and writer are well known in our region. Now the world gets to appreciate her work."

Bal, Johnstown, Patterson
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