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.
In 1993, two girls made a grisly discovery in an Illinois state park. Now, police say remains were identified as a missing Tennessee mother.
Wallace Hunter was last seen March 3, Aurora police said.
Smollett's attorney wants him out | Young mom accidentally killed by toddler IDed | Man accused of threats to state rep
Here's how Illinois Patch readers said the 2 years of the pandemic have affected their lives, finances and mental health.
The 22-year-old mother was killed when her toddler got hold of a gun and accidentally shot her as the family sat in their car.
The toddler accidentally shot the woman Saturday in a Food 4 Less parking lot.
Police say the Arkansas woman wandered away from her family's home in Shorewood.
While the extra daylight might remind you of spring, DST starts in Illinois with some wintry weather.
The regular season was pushed back again, but the Tigers will play their first spring training game next week.
The regular season was pushed back again, but the Sox will take on the Cubs at spring training next week.
Gov. Pritzker has proposed a temporary freeze on taxes for gas, groceries, and doubling property tax deductions.
Tyler James Martinez was being transported from California back to Wisconsin when he escaped custody.
Tyler James Martinez was being transported from California to Wisconsin when he escaped custody.
Doomsday clock inches closer to midnight | IL residents donate vans, rescue fleeing Ukrainians | WGN security guard slain
A Dodge Durango was hit after the driver tried to beat the train, officials said.
Salena Claybourne was stopping for gas on her way home from work when she was fatally shot, the station said.
Starbucks, Coca-Cola and Pepsi are joining the Chicago-based burger chain in leaving Russia.
Could gas prices hit $5 per gallon in Michigan?
How soon will gas hit $5 per gallon in Illinois?
We'll lose an hour of sleep, but gain an hour of daylight. Here's what to know about Daylight Saving Time In Illinois.
