I knew I wanted to be a writer at a young age, and never dreamed of doing anything else. My love of writing was born when a grade-school teacher encouraged me to try my hand at fiction. I took her advice, but quickly gave up make-believe stories for the real thing.
I got involved with my high school newspaper before double majoring in journalism and English.
I graduated in 2002 and landed my first newspaper job within six months. I spent eight years at The Enterprise newspaper in Plainfield, where I developed my passion for community journalism.
When a coworker pointed me in the direction of Patch.com, I jumped at the chance to be part of the future of local news.
Most Illinois residents can expect a direct payment, while unemployment is beefed up and extended. Here's what it could mean for you.
If everyone in Kendall County adheres to social distancing, coronavirus may not peak until late summer, according to a recent analysis.
If everyone in DuPage County adheres to social distancing, coronavirus may not peak until late summer, according to a recent analysis.
If everyone in McHenry County adheres to social distancing, coronavirus may not peak until late summer, according to a recent analysis.
If everyone in Kane County adheres to social distancing, coronavirus may not peak until late summer, according to a recent analysis.
If everyone in Lake County adheres to social distancing, coronavirus may not peak until late summer, according to a recent analysis.
If everyone in Cook County adheres to social distancing, coronavirus may not peak until late summer, according to a recent analysis.
If everyone in Will County adheres to social distancing, coronavirus may not peak until late summer, according to a recent analysis.
Virus at Fla-Vor-Ice factory | Dr answers virus questions | Sidewalk of hope | Virus at care home | Homeless shelter on lockdown |
Those who refuse to distance are "spitting in the face of the doctors and nurses and first responders who are risking everything," gov says.
The United States now has more coronavirus cases than any other nation in the world.
Seniors sing to you | Nurse fired | Stubborn parents during shutdown | United Center is emergency hub | Parents petition IHSA
As Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced a state tax deadline extension, more help is also on the way for small busineses.
The new cases include two corrections officers at Stateville prison and one inmate.
Do-gooder on Dr. Oz | 1 death, 3 news cases in suburb | Grand Princess passenger speaks | Body found | Coronavirus clears streets
Pritkzer outlines steps being taken to increase the number of hospital beds, ventilators and other essentials as IL reports 250 more cases.
More than 50 retail chains have temporarily shuttered in response to the ongoing new coronavirus outbreak.
Businesses connected to the industry feeling the hurt, too.
19 Illinois residents have died of coronavirus.
Socially distance, have fun | Man coughs on cop, says he has virus | Cannabis is "essential" | Police department closes | TV shows give back
