The people who bring you the news

The Left Hand Valley Courier has been fortunate to have devoted staff members who bring you the news every week. We profiled many of our staff members a year ago, and have had some new valuable additions this year, and thought you might want to know who is reporting what you like to read.

Madison Shaw

Hi, I'm Madison Shaw! I was born and raised in Colorado, graduated from Dawson School, and am now a student at CU Boulder. Sko Buffs!

Growing up, I was an avid reader and imagined a career in journalism. Though I have explored other paths, joining the Left Hand Valley Courier has inspired me to seriously entertain a life of storytelling.

When I started writing for the Courier in May, I had no experience in journalistic writing, interviewing, or storytelling for a publication. Since then, I have had the opportunity to get to know many remarkable people connected to our town, including professional athletes, musicians, artists, and business owners. I have covered nearly every sport offered at Niwot High School, as well as community events such as Rock & Rails, Dancing Under the Stars, and other local happenings.

At the events I cover, you can often find me with a camera in my hand. The Courier has allowed me to greatly improve my photography skills and has left me with some cool shots to look back on.

When I am not writing, I enjoy cheering on my hometown teams, trying new foods, and spending time with my family and friends.

My favorite thing about the Courier is the connections it has brought me and the privilege of sharing the stories of people in our community. I am endlessly grateful to be a part of the Courier team, and I hope you enjoy reading my work!

Neharika Bhandari

Hello! I am Neharika Bhandari, and I am a senior at Niwot High School. I began writing for the Left Hand Valley Courier in June after I had contacted Editor Elise Marylander about writing an article about an event that I was organizing.

I never expected to enjoy writing for the Courier as much as I have over these past few months. My favorite part of the role is talking to people. They are the heart of every story and bring it to life and add the depth that makes it meaningful.

Another aspect I love is how much I have learned along the way. Before this job, I didn't know much about sports, but covering them has been such an eye-opening experience. I've also enjoyed getting to know the incredible educators I have profiled for teacher features. Every story offers something new and fascinating to discover, and it's been an incredibly rewarding journey.

Some of my favorite activities include dancing, creating intricate henna designs, baking, spending quality time with loved ones, and exploring new places. While I haven't traveled extensively yet, I dream of doing so in the future. I also like organizing, which, surprisingly, some people find unusual.

I am proud to say I can speak four languages: English, Nepali, some Spanish, and some Hindi. I spent three years living in Nepal as a child, where Nepali became the very first language I learned. I also grew up watching Hindi language movies and songs, and I have connected with many of my friends because of it.

I am so glad I joined the Courier and I hope to write more and learn more as I continue.