Amanda came to Patch in June 2010 after graduating from Northwestern University with a bachelor's degree in journalism. She launched Lemont Patch in 2010, and covered the community for two years before moving to Downers Grove in August 2012.
Prior to Patch, Amanda wrote for her college newspaper, The Daily Northwestern, covering city council and education. In 2009, Amanda spent three months interning at the Orange County Register in California. Despite the large market, it was here that she learned the ins and outs of community reporting. After returning to Illinois in June 2009, Amanda immediately started working as an editorial intern in the DuPage County office of the Daily Herald. During her senior year at Northwestern, she spent six months investigating a possible wrongful conviction case with the Medill Innocence Project.
The Illinois Senate amended its election code Nov. 29 so that candidates in local elections—from park district to school board—can submit nominating petitions until 5 p.m. on the day after Christmas.
Students at North High were treated to a special assembly Friday, with guest speaker Mark Scharenbroich offering his take on life, love and self-respect.
Tips for keeping your home—and holiday decor—safe.
Check out images from the village's tree lighting ceremony on Nov. 23, courtesy of the village of Downers Grove.
The village council will vote Tuesday to approve new waters rates that reflect the rate hikes implemented by the DuPage Water Commission. Commissioners will also consider increasing the fees for commuter parking permits.
Commissioner Becky Rheintgen requested the council discuss increasing the number of chickens permitted, decreasing setback requirements, banning roosters and requiring a license or permit for keeping chickens, according to village documents.
A look back at the Downers Grove headlines, Nov. 26 - Dec. 2.
Patch recaps top stories of the month of November, including a coyote attack, a map of heroin incidents, DGN's viral video, Bonfield Express and an update on Hunter Himes.
Elmhurst College running back Scottie Williams is one of 10 finalists for the most outstanding football player in NCAA Division III.
Deputy Chief James R. Black will replace outgoing Chief David R. Linder on Jan. 7, 2013, city officials announced Friday.
The approved extension is 4.9 percent higher than last year's request, which is necessary to cover new construction values, diminishing state aid and a potential shift in pension costs, officials said.
The council is expected to vote on the measure Dec. 4, despite continued opposition from nearby residents.
Illinois Sen. Christine Radogno (R-Lemont) was chosen to continue her position Wednesday during the inauguration ceremonies for the 98th General Assembly.
Thanks to a very special U.S. Postal Service program, "Santa" will reply to children who mail him their Christmas wish lists this holiday season.
Illinois Sen. Christine Radogno (R-Lemont) was chosen to continue her position Wednesday during the inauguration ceremonies for the 98th General Assembly.
Two jackpot-winning tickets were sold in Arizona and Missouri, but two Illinois winners also received a lovely holiday gift.
Cartier watches, sapphire earrings, and pearl and diamond necklaces were among the items stolen from the 1500 block of Snowberry Court on Saturday, Nov. 24.
The free "Alive at 25 Defensive Driving Program" will be held Saturday, Dec. 15, at Downers Grove Village Hall.
Students will perform the musical "Suessical Jr." Thursday, Friday and Sunday.
Although unemployment is down from this time compared to last year, in Downers Grove numbers slightly increased from September 2012 to October.
