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.
Flossmoor Police on Monday released the results of a year's worth of STEP traffic safety efforts.
The man left a group home Sunday afternoon, and got into an unlocked vehicle, obscuring him from other search efforts.
The man allegedly drove a high speeds as police remained on the scene of a fatal crash in the early morning hours of Oct. 15.
The event is set for Saturday, Nov. 21 at All Saints Lutheran Church.
A driver killed in a two-vehicle crash near Silver Cross Hospital and Crossroads Sports Complex Wednesday night has been identified.
Officials issued a statement saying they believe the school "reacted swiftly and responsibly" to the Sept. 4 incident.
Experienced nonprofit executive will guide the agency through its next chapter of growth and service to survivors of domestic violence.
Patch profile for U.S. Representative 2nd Congressional District candidate Ashley Banks.
Patch profile for U.S. Representative 2nd Congressional District Democrat Candidate Donna Miller.
A contract for several cameras obtained using Will County grant funds was not renewed, but 4 original Flock cameras will stay—for now.
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El Mariachi's Bar & Grill opened Oct. 9 in the former Flor de Fuego space. Its owner also operates El Sombrero in New Lenox.
The crash happened Wednesday night at Route 6 and Cedar Crossings Boulevard, near Silver Cross Hospital and Crossroads Sports Complex.
The man, who returned home Sunday, had last been seen Monday, family told Patch.
Halloween is just a little more than weeks away. If you haven't picked your perfect pumpkin yet, there's still time!
Halloween is just a little more than weeks away. If you haven't picked your perfect pumpkin yet, there's still time!
Halloween is just a little more than weeks away. If you haven't picked your perfect pumpkin yet, there's still time!
Halloween is just a little more than weeks away. If you haven't picked your perfect pumpkin yet, there's still time!
Halloween is just a little more than weeks away. If you haven't picked your perfect pumpkin yet, there's still time!
Halloween is just a little more than weeks away. If you haven't picked your perfect pumpkin yet, there's still time!
