This winter, the Palisadian-Post welcomes new interns who will assist in producing the paper by providing editorial support through stories and editing.
Simone McClary
My name is Simone McClary and I am a junior at Palisades Charter High School. I have been a resident of Pacific Palisades since I moved to Los Angeles in third grade. From reading my poems in the library in fourth grade, winning the science fair in fifth grade, to playing on the Pali High tennis team, being featured in the Palisadian-Post has always been exciting. I also enjoy spotting my friends and neighbors in the Post each week. This local newspaper has always made me feel connected to the Palisades community and has kept my family and me up-to-date with current community news.
I have been interested in writing for many years and started writing my own stories at a very young age. I would create stories about exploring magical fantasy lands or solving engaging mysteries. This past summer, I decided to stray from my usual path of creative writing and give journalism a try. I participated in a program with The New York Times in New York City where I instantly became inspired by the exciting things that journalism has to offer. I learned about what goes into being a reporter and journalist, as well as important skills, such as conducting interviews. When I discovered that the Post offered internships, I realized it would be the perfect opportunity to not only further my interest in journalism, but also to contribute to my community. During my time at the Post, I hope to improve my skills as a writer and journalist. I am also eager to write articles about issues that directly affect the Palisades, as well as its people, shops and restaurants. I cannot wait to use my creative abilities as a writer in a positive way.
Dalton Hanna
I will never forget the first time I was in the newspaper, and for that I have the Palisadian-Post to thank. I was playing AYSO soccer at the time, and my team, the Blue Sharks, had made it to the final. The Post decided to do a story on us, and my name was printed in the paper along with a photo.
While I am no longer a soccer star, and my days on the Blue Sharks are far behind me, the passion and interest in journalism that sparked from the second I saw that story in the Post has only grown. My name is Dalton Hanna, I am an aspiring journalist and junior at Marlborough School. Since I have been a neighbor to the Palisades my entire life, I’ve always felt welcomed dining in its restaurants, playing at the park or simply involving myself in the community. Whether running in the Turkey Trot at Palisades Charter High School, or visiting Santa at The Village, the Palisades has consistently been there to help shape moments in my life.
This summer, I decided to reach out to the Post after completing a summer program at the School of The New York Times. I was looking for opportunities to shadow their paper. Instead, they asked if I could write an article on my summer experience and I was thrilled.
When I saw the Post was offering internship opportunities throughout the year, I knew I had to try to be a part of it. To be a part of a real publishing paper is the best hands-on experience any high school journalist could ask for.
That brings me to today, my first personal profile for the Palisadian-Post. I am so thrilled to be working with the entire, intelligent staff on this paper, and I cannot wait for all the tips, tricks and lessons that I am bound to learn.
Sarah Soroosh Moghadam
My name is Sarah Soroosh Moghadam. I am 16 years old and a junior at Palisades Charter High School.
My interest in journalism began last year when I joined Tideline, my school’s newspaper, as a news staff writer. I developed a passion for informing my community about important events and creating a platform for people to express their perspectives on school issues. I am continuing to follow that passion this year as a news section editor.
Though I began learning about journalism recently, I have loved reading and writing for as long as I can remember. I am always looking for the next great book to read.
Outside of journalism, I enjoy playing the cello. I have been playing for five years and I joined Santa Monica’s Youth Orchestra two years ago. I also do volunteer work at local elementary schools and libraries. This is my second year being a part of the Palisades Branch Library Teen Council, where I am able to make a positive impact on my community.
In my free time, I enjoy getting coffee and reading a good book or spending time with my friends, often in The Village. I also love learning new forms of art, such as drawing, painting and crocheting.
I am so excited to intern for the Palisadian-Post. I believe it will give me the opportunity to further develop my writing skills as a journalist. I hope to broaden my understanding on how newspapers are run by learning from the experienced writers and editors at the Post. I am looking forward to sharing my writing with the Palisades community by joining the team this winter.
Ella Kraynak
My name is Ella Kraynak and I am a new intern at the Palisadian-Post. Born in New York City in 2006, I moved to Pacific Palisades when I was only 4 years old. Growing up in the Palisades I attended Methodist Preschool, Palisades Elementary Charter School, Paul Revere Charter Middle School, and I am currently a sophomore at Palisades Charter High School.
The Post was a major component in my upbringing as it was a common topic of discussion at my family’s dinner table. My fondest memories stem from giggling with my mom over the funny comments from the Post’s “2 Cents” column during Sunday night dinners. As I have gotten older, my interest in journalism and writing has blossomed. This past summer I chose to indulge in my passion through The New York Times’ Summer Academy. I stayed at Fordham University’s campus in New York City and took a two week course titled, “The City as a Muse and Subject: Introduction to Critical Thinking.” During this program, I visited many neighborhoods throughout the city. I learned the history of the people living there and utilized the tools we were taught, such as interviewing individuals on the street, listening without judgment or interrupting, as well as keeping an open mind.
The Summer Academy opened my eyes to the world of journalism and how it keeps you exploring new stories and events everyday. I have always had an interest in advocacy, and with journalism it is possible to shed light on events that others cannot share with the world themselves. I am ecstatic to learn and gain experience through my time with the Post, as well as participate in the very publication that sparked my interest in writing when I was a little girl.
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