A Times News carrier is in the running for the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association’s Carrier of the Year contest.

Joanne Lewis, nominee for the senior division, began her journey at the Times News as a carrier 30 years ago, after seeing an ad in the newspaper.

As a change of pace, Lewis decided to give the job a try and has stayed with it ever since.

A resident of West Penn Township, she handles two motor routes in the township.

Lewis showed gratitude for her nomination, saying that “It makes me feel like I’m doing a good job.

“I always do my best,” she said. “So it is nice to know that my customers think so, too.”

She also shared what she believes to be the most rewarding part of her job.

“I enjoy getting to meet my customers,” Lewis said.

“Whenever I get the chance to talk to them it really means a lot,” she said.

The contest has been awarding carriers of all ages for their outstanding performance since 1959. First- and second-place winners are chosen from three different age divisions including youth, adult and senior. This year, there was a tie in the senior division, leading to three nominees.

Other nominees for the senior division include Donna Mayfield, The Republican-Herald, Pottsville, and Pat Thomann, LNP Media, Lancaster.

All nominees are invited to a “Luncheon of Champions” ceremony at the Hershey Country Club on Wednesday, where award positions will be announced.

Winners will receive an award certificate, cash prize and two undated tickets to Hershey Park during the ceremony.