I was born and raised in the south suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. I attained both my bachelor and master degrees in journalism from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. During my time in local news, I have learned invaluable lessons in journalism, as I teared up while covering the funeral of a beloved couple and chased a renegade miniature pony through a subdivision. I have seen firsthand what responsible, inspiring hyper-local journalism can do for a community.
I started with Patch in 2010, as a Local Editor covering the south suburbs. In 2017, I moved into the national role of Deputy Managing Editor and now Director of Editorial Recruitment and Training, in which I handle the recruiting, hiring, and training of journalists on our team, in addition to other editorial projects. I'm thrilled to contribute in such a way to a news organization I've grown to love so deeply over the past 12 years.
Questions? Concerns? Comments? You have my full attention at lauren.traut@patch.com, or 708-323-6173.
Bob Meyers needs a kidney transplant to extend his life. His family is hoping the community can help their "go-to guy."
"Mercy" was found on the side of I-355 after being hit by a car. Her leg required amputation. She's now eligible for adoption.
Three firefighters were promoted to the ranks of engineer, lieutenant and battalion chief.
John Fleet is charged in the Dec. 2024 crash that killed Illinois State Trooper Clay Carns, of Orland Park. He wants a jury trial.
The Country Club Hills man was arrested after he had just stolen from the Bolingbrook location, while police were at the New Lenox one.
Flipside Brewing owner Erik Pizer will celebrate the brewery's fourth anniversary with a party on Saturday, July 25.
Fr. Ken Fleck was pastor at St. George from 2003 to 2020. The alleged abuse took place more than 30 years ago at a different parish.
Mokena Festa Italiana is set for Saturday, July 25.
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Steger woman, 60, is charged with aggravated DUI and several other charges in the July 21 hit-and-run.
Original artwork, handcrafted gifts, specialty foods and unique creations showcased at the family-friendly, free event July 26.
HOPE Program offers free spay, neuter, and microchip services for pet owners in need of assistance.
Annual Southland gathering honors women whose leadership and service strengthen Illinois communities.
He used the funds to buy Apple devices for family members and a reseller. Some funds also went to someone extorting him online.
The crash happened on the 147th Street ramp Tuesday around 7:30 p.m.
In response to the victim's account, the woman told police she "did not care for Muslims" and "had a dislike for them."
The man told police he didn't recall the events leading up to the crash. Surveillance footage captured the Tesla speeding up LaGrange Road.
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The man pleaded guilty earlier this year to the heists in Orland Park and Calumet City.
The man had last been seen on foot in the 8800 block of 179th Street, police said.
