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.
The juveniles were seen throwing the rocks from the viaduct near Rte 30 and Cooper Road. Six cars were reported damaged from the incidents.
Will County's survey will help local emergency management officials assess county-wide property damage and aid in relief efforts.
The family of Hazel Gonzalez, 5, who drowned at Tinley Park-Park District's White Water Canyon Water Park, is suing for wrongful death.
The market will be held in the parking lot of Village Hall Saturday, July 20.
The Honor Rewards program offers registered Will County veterans specials, discounts, and deals at participating businesses.
Soka Japanese Hibachi and Sushi will celebrate its grand opening at 340 W. North St. on Friday, July 19.
Linda and Jake Annolino are still hoping they'll find their bird, who flew from their home on June 6.
The Block Party is back for another year of live music, fun, food and drink Saturday, July 20 and Sunday, July 21 in Zabrocki Plaza.
ALSO: Board's Open Meetings Act snafu | Lockport HS almost ready to reopen | Fatal crash victim ID'd | 43K pack Ribfest | Free Chamber night
Orland Mayor Keith Pekau and the Board of Trustees erred in clearing the board room during a contentious meeting in February, AG says.
New Lenox's Elliot Schaffrath, of Lincoln-Way West, was one of 63 musicians from across the country to attend the academy.
The tornado count for Monday's derecho event continues to rise, with an EF-1 tornado confirmed to have hit Flossmoor.
Jamir Frazier, 6, died after falling into the Kankakee River while reaching for a ball Tuesday.
TJ's Bar and Grill has stood empty for years—but there's a new bar moving in, with a concept New Lenox's "proud Americans" will love.
The performance will be held Thursday, July 25 on the steps of the Flossmoor Public Library.
Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to recognize teachers and show them how much they’re valued and appreciated. Meet Jimmy Riley!
Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to recognize teachers and show them how much they’re valued and appreciated. Meet Emily Yovich!
The crash happened at 4:30 a.m. Tuesday on I-80 eastbound and Kedzie Avenue in Hazel Crest.
The boy was playing on a dock when he reached for a ball that had fallen in the water, family said.
Tinley Ribfest was held July 4–7 at the 80th Avenue Metra train station parking lot. It drew a bigger crowd than expected, officials said.
