News hires Homer local for reporter position

The Homer News has hired a new reporter to join the staff of Homer’s oldest news source. Born and raised in Homer, Charlie Menke started at the paper on July 5.

“I am pleased to announce the appointment of Charlie Menke to the role of general assignment reporter for our Homer News team,” Publisher Jeff Hayden wrote in an email. “… Our Homer readers will recognize Charlie as he has lived in Homer most of his life. In addition to his academic prowess, Charlie brings a passion for community journalism and local affairs to our team. Please join me in wishing Charlie well in his role as Reporter for the Homer News.”

Menke graduated last spring from the University of Portland, Oregon, with a bachelor of arts in philosophy and psychology. At the university, he worked as a writing tutor and a student researcher in sociology. Vice-president of the University of Portland Philosophy Club, he delivered papers on the Scottish philosopher David Hume, philosophy and feminism and, for psychology, on Zen Buddhism. He also published in the University of Portland’s “Writer’s” magazine.

“I’m ready to serve the city of Homer the best I can,” Menke said. “My goal is to shine light on the wonders, challenges and people that make up our community, sharing stories to enrich our yesterday, today and tomorrow.”

The son of Melanie Dufour and John Menke, Charlie Menke graduated from Homer High School in 2018. At Homer High he ran cross country and played soccer and hockey, and served as captain of the hockey team his senior year. Menke and his hockey team mates gained attention in 2017 while at a tournament in Anchorage when they helped treat the injuries of an unhoused man who had been assaulted.

This summer, Menke has been coaching youth soccer for the Homer United Football Club. He enjoys writing poetry, long distance running, creating and painting visual arts, and Ultimate Frisbee.

Menke fills the position of reporter previously held by Sarah Knapp. A general assignment reporter, he will cover sports, education, politics, community news and other beats. He can be reached at 907-235-7767, ext. 50582, or email at charlie.menke@homernews.com.

Reach Michael Armstrong at marmstrong@homernews.com.