Email: joe.odonnell@patch.com

Phone: 331-222-6034

Hometown: Golden Valley, Minn.

Birthday: May 13

Bio: I'm a news nut who graduated with a journalism degree from DePaul University in 2009. I've been infatuated by the media industry since I picked up an issue of the Minneapolis Star Tribune at age 9 and started reading the weather page. Later, it was the sports section and, eventually, the front. I've never wanted to be anything other than a news editor. 

I've worked at the Chicago Tribune, The Chicago Reporter, the U.S. Olympic Committee press office, and the Chicago Cubs publications department. 

My favorite music is by Paul Simon and my favorite movie is "The Big Lebowski." ("Donnie, you're out of your element.") I also love playing and/or watching any sport—just try me.

Beliefs

At Patch, we promise always to report the facts as objectively as possible and otherwise adhere to the principles of good journalism. However, we also acknowledge that true impartiality is impossible because human beings have beliefs. So in the spirit of simple honesty, our policy is to encourage our editors to reveal their beliefs to the extent they feel comfortable.

Politics

I can say I'm a moderate and still sleep at night. I think there are valid ideas across the political spectrum and as a member of the media, I see it as my job to present each of those ideas with respect.

Religion

O'Donnell? Take a guess. I come from a Catholic family.

Local Hot-Button Issues

I'm very interested in the local business environments of Hinsdale and Clarendon Hills. At a time when being an entreprenuer is more difficult than ever, keeping folks up to date on incoming and outgoing businesses as well as the issues they're facing will be a big part of my site.