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.
Zach Crean's mother was 46 years old when she took her own life. He'll spend the rest of his chasing down the dream she believed deeply in.
Officials pitched the state a packet detailing an updated rendering, cleanup plans and support for the Village acquiring the land.
Tickets are still available but going fast for Tinley Park's Brew & Vine Fest, to be held Saturday, April 1.
Tinley Park's Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre will be one of 25 stops.
A Chicago man who was previously caught stealing from Jewel in Homewood went back for more, police said.
Brenden Wetzel was devastated when first responders had to cut off his favorite cowboy boots. New Lenox firefighters did something about it.
Flossmoor now competes against Saranac Lake, New York, for a chance to advance into the Final Four.
The lightning strike happened Sunday evening in the Silo Ridge subdivision, officials said Monday.
Patch is providing candidate profiles for the April 4 election. Jeff Mech is running for Tinley Park District commissioner.
Patch is providing candidate profiles for the April 4 election. Tina Zekich is running for trustee of the Orland Fire District.
The complex is envisioned for 100 acres near Silver Cross Hospital. Planning will begin this year, with play hoped to begin in 2025.
Rachel Slabenak is asking any current or former military who can make it Friday, March 24 to join her family.
The Manhattan Chili Cook-off will be held Sunday, March 26 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Gallagher's Pub. There's still time to enter.
The Frankfort museum will get a new, bigger building to be constructed at the entrance to the New Lenox Commons.
PLUS: Rainbow Cone opening in Orland | Man stalked woman, fled police | 911 call leads to drug charge | No injuries in Tinley house fire
Patch is providing candidate profiles for the April 4, 2023 election. Iwona Piwowarczyk is running for Orland D135 Board of Education.
Get your taste buds ready. A South Side and Chicago favorite will soon have its very own location in Orland Park.
The fire happened just after midnight in the 19600 block of Brookridge Drive.
The brewery and fundraising team Stunod hope to double the amount raised for last year's event on Saturday, March 25.
Palos Park man Nicholas Roberto repeatedly texted, called and approached the victim, violating an order of protection, police said.
