Meet your new assistant editor

Hello, my name is Melissa Koenig and I am excited to announce that I am the new assistant editor for the Franklin Square/Elmont Herald. I am eager to learn more about the communities and the people who call Franklin Square and Elmont home.

For the past two and a half years, I have been covering Valley Stream, Lynbrook and East Rockaway. During that time, I have reported on a variety of issues, including the backlash over New York American Water’s newly-implemented conservation rates, maintenance problems at Valley Stream North High School and the unintended consequences of the Green Acres Mall tax break.

I also previously had an internship at the Bellmore and Merrick Heralds, during which I covered the makeup of the state legislature and events at an elementary school.

I graduated from Hofstra University with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and political science in May 2016, and received a master’s degree from Hofstra the following year.

While studying for my master’s, I took a course in community journalism and Scott Brinton, the Herald’s executive editor, was my professor. He taught me about the importance of a community having an outlet to express itself, which furthered my interest in local journalism.

But I first decided to pursue journalism because I’ve always enjoyed writing and researching. Then when I was in high school, I took an Advanced Placement United States government course, in which I read a lot of political stories and became interested in hearing both sides of an argument. Now, I hope to portray various points of views in my writing here in Franklin Square and Elmont.

So, if you see me around town, come say hello. I would like to get to know you, and would be honored to tell your story. You could also reach me at mkoenig@liherald.com or call me at (516) 569-4000 ext. 202.