Channahon-Minooka|News|
Why the Media Must Talk About Sandy Hook
“Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it." ~ George Santayana

E-mail: Dawn@chicago-patch.com
Phone: 630-330-4136
Hometown: Westchester
Birthday: Dec. 24
When I began my adventure with Patch, I was living in Will County. I had the pleasure of getting to know a number of residents through my work at two local newspapers, as editor of Channahon-Minooka Patch and one of three editors of Joliet Patch. I now live in DuPage County, but plan to move back to Will County.
I have a Bachelor of Arts in journalism, with a minor in theater from Northern Illinois University. I finished my Masters in Teaching in 2014. In the past, I have reported on news, features and education issues and have won awards for my news and feature coverage.
I am an avid reader, love theater and have been known to have one of two television guilty pleasures. To relax, I often take out paints and a paintbrush or head to a yoga mat.
I lived in Germany for two years and in Georgia for one. I have two beautiful boys, who are ages 13 and 10.
My Beliefs
At Patch, we promise always to report the facts as objectively as possible and otherwise adhere to the principles of good journalism. We also acknowledge that true impartiality is impossible because human beings have beliefs. In the spirit of simple honesty, we encourage editors to reveal their beliefs to the extent they feel comfortable. This disclosure is not a license to inject our beliefs into stories or dictate coverage according to them. Rather, we hope the knowledge our beliefs are on the record will cause us to be ever mindful to write, report and edit in a fair and balanced manner. If you ever see evidence we failed in this mission, please let us know.
Politics
I have voted in every election except two since I have been old enough to vote. This includes primary elections. I believe a lot of people fought for me, as a woman, to have a right to vote and I do not take that lightly. As a journalist, I do not take sides. As an individual, I have an opinion. I do not vote along party lines. I vote by issues and take each candidate on an individual basis. I think debate is healthy and that even if I do not agree with someone on an issue, I would gladly share my opinion in an environment in which it would be respected.
Religion
I believe we are all spiritual beings having a human experience. I believe in the divinity of all things. And, I believe we each have a spark of the divine within each one of us. We are not all climbing the same mountain of meaning. I believe we need to respect everyone's search for what moves their soul. If we could see past our differences to see the spark of the divine, the world would be a better place. Namaste.
“Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it." ~ George Santayana

Coats are being collected now through Dec. 27 for MorningStar Mission in Joliet.
The Grundy County Sheriff passed away suddenly on Dec. 14
These property transfers were recorded with Will County in recent weeks.
These property transfers were recorded with Will County in recent weeks.
These property transfers were recorded with Will County in recent weeks.
These property transfers were recorded with Will County in recent weeks.
Districts in Joliet, Minooka and Channahon have all worked with local law enforcement for years to keep students safe.
Got a little one you are buying for this holiday? We have just the thing.
Joliet Police said the incident is still under investigation.
Coroner says Terry Marketti died of natural causes.
Another Joliet business has joined in the drive.
As part of Patch's partnership with Joliet Township High School, students share their thoughts on the seven character attributes.
Channahon residents who opted for First Energy should see savings on the bill which comes out Dec. 15.
By Thursday afternoon, not one house in Joliet had shared its light display in our contest.
Shorewood-Troy Library turns to the residents for thoughts on a potential new building.
The beagle puppy is looking for a home as are two of his doggie brothers.
Shepherd puppy was surrendered by a family who lost their home.
Obituaries, memorial services and upcoming visitations at area funeral homes.
As part of Patch's partnership with Joliet Township High School, students share their thoughts on the seven character attributes.