Editor’s note: Seven years ago, the Pelham Examiner began with a handful of student reporters — and today it remains a trusted voice in our community because of readers like you. Charlotte Cohn, who will graduate from Pelham Memorial High School on Saturday, describes how important the Examiner has been to her:
Dear Reader:
In June of 2019, Mr. Z (Rich Zahradnik) gathered a group of fifth-grade reporters from the Siwanoy Spotlight and recruited them to join the Pelham Examiner. Now, seven years later, I’m incredibly grateful that I accepted his offer.
Throughout my time on the Examiner, I have grown not just as a writer but as an engaged community member. I have had the pleasure of interviewing local business owners, politicians, and other passionate Pelhamites. As a reporter, I have learned about the history of numerous local events and people’s personal connection to them. It can be daunting as a student interviewing adults in the community. However, the more interviews I conducted, the more my communication skills developed.
Since I joined the editorial leadership team, the Pelham Examiner has been a consistent part of my everyday life. Whether I was covering a Board of Education meeting, gathering information for a breaking news story, or going to every high school English class promoting the Examiner, I have enjoyed my time (even the hours I spent deciphering the school’s budget).
There are two main reasons why I love the Examiner: 1) Our work is extremely important because we keep residents consistently up to date on local news; 2) My bond with the “Exam Fam.” I have met so many people across different grades because of the Examiner. Throughout our many JCafe meetings and Pelham Farmer’s Market Tables, I not only developed as a reporter – I made many friends. I would like to thank all of the previous masthead editors, Mr. Z, and Mr. Farrell for offering me guidance. I’m so grateful for my time on the Examiner and can’t wait to see what future masthead editors will accomplish.
I’m reaching out today to ask you to support the Pelham Examiner. Donations help us provide news coverage for our community while offering opportunities for students to develop as writers and researchers. Please give to help make sure the Examiner remains a vibrant and impactful platform for years to come!
With gratitude,
Charlotte Cohn
Deputy Managing Editor, 2025-26
PMHS class of 2026
