E-mail: darren@patch.com

Phone: 708-275-8365

Hometown: Andover, MA

Current town: La Grange, IL

Birthday: September 24, 1987

Bio: I was born and raised in Eastern Massachusetts, and first took an interest in journalism when I was named the National Correspondent of the Year for SchoolSports (now called ESPN Rise.) I relocated to Chicagoland in 2006 to attend the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University, where I wrote for a number of student publications. During my time in school, I also completed editorial internships with Chicago Parent and Vicon Publishing. Upon graduating, I became Western Springs Local Editor with Patch.com

My interests/hobbies include sports, reading, fiction writing, gaming, and outdoor living (hiking/camping/canoeing.) I play both indoor and beach volleyball, and I'm passionate about golf (if not terrific at it.) I also author the online graphic novel Panthera as "D. Z. McRoy."

Politics: I am a registered Democrat; my politics are socially liberal and economically moderate.

Religion: I am a member of the United Church of Christ, though my practice is largely casual.

Local issues: In my opinion, the most important matter facing Western Springs is the continuing balance of finances as the village makes important improvements even in difficult economic times. This may involve necessary changes in both the village's spending plan and revenue collection. It is a continual commitment to making improvements such as these that has cemented Western Springs' reputation as one of the best suburbs in America to live in.