Mary Ann Lopez, Patch Staff

Phone: 630-433-0783; Hometown: Naperville

Bio: Mary Ann Lopez grew up in Calumet City, studied Political Science at Northern Illinois University; Studied Print Journalism at the University of Colorado at Boulder, where she earned a Master's Degree. She has worked for Patch.com since 2010. Prior to Patch, Mary Ann worked in new media at the Sun Time News Group, was involved with the launch of YourHub.com in Denver, was a reporter at the Durango Herald covering a number of beats; Staff reporter at The Montrose Daily Press; Interned at The Staunton Daily News Leader in Staunton, Va. and The Boulder Daily Camera.

Growing up in Calumet City, I was was the youngest of four children and the only girl. During my formative years, I suffered many bumps, bruises and nuggies at the hands of three older brothers, which may have toughened me up for a career in journalism.

I lived in Cal City most of my life until relocating to Boulder, Colo. for graduate school. Once in Colorado, I spent eight years studying and working before returning to the Chicago area. I have a bachelor's degree in political science from Northern Illinois University and a master's degree in print journalism from the University of Colorado at Boulder. I interned at The Boulder Daily Camera and The Daily News Leader in Staunton, Va., and I'm a Chips Quinn Scholar.

A journalist for more than 10 years, I started working at small-town papers, including The Durango Herald, in Durango, Colo., where I covered a variety of beats including agriculture, education and business. During my time as a journalist, I've won many awards, including six awards in one year.

In 2005, I moved to online journalism, first for YourHub.com and later the Sun-Times News Group. I began my career with Patch.com one of two Naperville local editors, then I moved on to be the Glen Ellyn local editor. Now, I am the DuPage County business editor, writing about real estate, small business and other business interests.

In my free time, I practice and teach yoga, run, and spend time at the dog park with my Australian shepherd rescue, Sadie. I love the outdoors, love to ski, camp and hike. I may take on another triathlon.

If you see me in a local coffee shop, stop and say hello.