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.
A Joliet man now faces more serious charges following a June 2022 crash that claimed the lives of Kathleen Repsis and Adrian Spaargaren.
The signing event for the renowned veteran's recent book will be held at New Lenox Village Hall Saturday, Sept. 30.
Tinley Park Police Chief Matthew Walsh was sworn in Monday to be the next chief in Indian Head Park, Illinois.
A 3.5-percent increase from Homewood Disposal Services will kick in Oct. 1.
Pints and Pork is set for Saturday, Sept. 30 in the parking lot of St. Joseph School in Manhattan.
A 51-year-old Manhattan man faces several charges after apparently losing control of his truck early Sunday in Manhattan Township.
Fans can get a look inside the Vogt House, while enjoying guest beers and a limited food menu. A grand opening date is not yet set.
Arrangements have been made for Marshawn Mitchell, 14, who died after being shot while leaving his high school's homecoming game Sept. 15.
Nominated for the Teacher Spotlight, Kolmar Elementary teacher Ken Hiemer was always destined to do great things.
Nominated for the Community Leader Spotlight, Darren Meyers shows "intentionality, a listening ear," and respect.
A woman inadvertently pressed the gas pedal instead of the brake, sending her car into the front of the building.
Residents are reminded that New Lenox police will never solicit money via phone.
The department will also update signage in the interim, in hopes of preventing additional crashes at the Manhattan intersection.
PLUS: Police chief resigns | New coffee at Metra station | Retired chief is back | Gaelic Park raffles off house | Crossing guard retires
Margie Owens-Klotz, of Owens Media Inc. will lead the Sept. 30 session at Orland Public Library.
A crowd formed outside Hillcrest High School Wednesday, to pay tribute to Marshawn Mitchell, who was slain after Friday's homecoming game.
Nancy Hullinger's last day serving as crossing guard for D142 was Sept. 8. Students will miss her, and her furry guest stars.
The charity arm of Oak Forest's Gaelic Park is raffling off a home valued at $650,000. Tickets are $100 each.
Jeff Wold was rehired and sworn in Tuesday, Sept. 19.
Owner "can't wait" to start serving in Tinley Park. Hours will be 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekends.
