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. Kiran Schwaderer, who just graduated from Pelham Memorial High School, describes how important the Examiner has been to her:

Fifth-grade me never thought this day would come. I still remember the day I met Mr. Zahradnik (whom we fondly called “Z”) and learned about the Examiner for the first time. The Examiner was only a year old at that time, and now seven years have flown by.

I came to the Examiner as a Hutchinson Bear reporter who wrote multiple stories a week. I was motivated, excited, and ready to learn about reporting. But I didn’t realize all of the other lessons I would learn. The Pelham Examiner has shaped me more than anything else has to this point in my life; it has increased my confidence exponentially. As an elementary schooler, I was very quiet. But now, you would never hear “shy” and “Kiran” in the same sentence.

My all-time favorite story was writing about the sinkhole in the Four Corners parking lot in 2022, but from the business owners’ perspectives. It showed me the power of journalism by giving a voice to ordinary people in our town. After loving writing that story, I eventually became the Village Board of Trustees reporter, informing the town of residents’ concerns and questions that were put to the board. After some time, more and more people began speaking at public comment sessions, creating real change and opinions for the board to consider.

I am very sad to leave the Examiner, but I know it will be in capable hands. To all of the young reporters and hopeful reporters, keep writing, keep learning, keep working hard. I believe in all of you and know that the Examiner will continue being a source of news for our town for many years to come.

I am forever grateful for the now-alumni who showed me the ropes as a young reporter, especially Audrey Levenson, Cristina Stefanizzi, and Gabby Ahitow. You are my inspiration to continue writing every day.

I’m writing this letter in the hope that you will continue 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!

Sincerely,

Kiran Schwaderer
Executive Editor, 2025-26
PMHS class of 2026