Email: daniel.lai@patch.com
Phone: 734-223-6947
Hometown: Allen Park
Birthday: Aug. 31, 1982
Bio: I became editor of Dexter Patch after three and a half years at Heritage Newspapers covering the Manchester, Dexter and Chelsea areas. Prior to that, I worked for a small community newspaper in Taylor, Texas. I'm a 2006 graduate of the University of Texas College of Communication and I've worked extensively in print media for more than seven years.
When I first started off in journalism, it took me awhile to wrap my head around what it truly meant to be a community journalist. After years of covering local meetings, events, people, and places, I am a strong advocate of community journalism and I hope to turn this site into the best source of news for the Dexter community. I believe everyone has a story to tell and they just need the write person to tell it. I've met many fascinating people over the years – from the painter to the brain surgeon – everyone's lives fascinate me, and that's why I love to write about people.
In addition to my duties as an editor and reporter for Patch, I am an avid bass player in a classic rock cover band called Delirious Love. We perform in both Wayne and Washtenaw counties, and I look forward to bringing the band out to Dexter to perform during Dexter Daze and other events. Dexter is a great community, and I am eager to hit the ground running.
Your Beliefs
At Patch, we promise always to report the facts as objectively as possible and otherwise adhere to the principles of good journalism. However, we also acknowledge that true impartiality is impossible because human beings have beliefs. So in the spirit of simple honesty, our policy is to encourage our editors to reveal their beliefs to the extent they feel comfortable. This disclosure is not a license for you to inject your beliefs into stories or to dictate coverage according to them. In fact, the intent is the opposite: we hope that the knowledge that your beliefs are on the record will cause you to be ever mindful to write, report and edit in a fair, balanced way. And if you ever see evidence that we failed in this mission, please let us know.
Politics
Though journalists try to remain neutral, if I had to choose, I tell people that I am a liberal conservative. In other words, there are issues that both liberals and conservatives support that I agree with. You have to be informed about the issues and do your own research. I don't believe decisions can be made by listening to talking points on FOX or CNN.
Religion
I am a practicing Catholic. I perform with the young adult church band every first and third Sunday at my church. However, I am open to all religious beliefs and values. I believe we should all be able to co-exist together and respect each other's values and beliefs.
Local Hot-Button Issues
Most of the hot-button issue right now may or may not be hot-button issues in a year from now. However, the economy, taxes, public education and road/bridge repairs are pretty important to this community. I welcome any and all comments or story suggestions on these and other news items affecting our readers on a daily basis. I can be reached at daniel.lai@patch.com.
The board will consider Superintendent Andrew Ingall's recommendation to approve one opening in the Virtual Learning Academy Consortium for the 2012-2013 academic year.
Friends and family gathered at Veterans Park on Sunday to pay tribute to military heroes.
The exhibit includes prints, drawings, and ceramic sculptures designed by area artists.
Here's a look at some events going on around the Dexter area today.
The portable sign will be stationed around the village to help regulate speeding.
The village was recently recognized by the Michigan Municipal League at its conference on Nov. 2.
Members of the military received special recognition at St. Andrew's United Church of Christ on Sunday.
Local businesses salute our service men and women with special deals year-round, as well as on Veterans Day.
Here's a closer look at one of the homes on the market in the Chelsea area.
Here's a closer look at one of the homes on the market in the Dexter area.
The training program will teach students how to detect threats to cyber security across the state.
The annual campaign will attempt to raise $330,000 for needy families across the county with 40 kettle locations.
Check out these job openings, courtesy of indeed.com.
Here's a look at Veteran's Day events in Washtenaw County throughout the weekend.
The nonprofit charity is encouraging residents to write letters to homeless veterans in Ann Arbor.
The donation is part of a $100,000 grant from Lions Clubs International to provide assistance to families displaced by the hurricane.
The local author will share tips with residents on how to find healthy, local food on a budget.
Community groups must apply to participate in the parade no later than Nov. 16.
Law enforcement officials will provide business owners with quick and easy tips to avoid hackers.
The 41st annual Christmas bazaar will take place at the Dexter Area Museum on Dec. 1.
