WHAT: The Society of Professional Journalists' Digital Media Committee is proud to present an evening of exploration into the much talked about topic of "hyperlocal journalism."

To give you an idea of the topics that will be discussed, here are a few questions that the panelists will be asked:

• How do you make money selling local news?
• What is a day in the life of a Patch reporter like? What about the editor(s)?
• What content on Patch sites is being consumed the most?
• What, if any, multimedia skill sets is Patch looking for when they hire reporters?

The end of the evening will be Q&A with questions from the audience. Questions via Twitter and e-mail are encouraged for those individuals who cannot attend in person. Send your questions to spj_dmc@yahoo.com or use the hashtag #spjpatch

WHO:

Sherry Skalko - Editorial Director, Midwest Region for Patch
Holly Edgell - Regional Editor, St Louis for Patch

Dennis Robaugh - Chicago Regional Editor for Patch
George Slefo - Local Editor, Skokie for Patch

Fernando Diaz, managing editor of Hoy Chicago, will be our panel moderator.

LIMITED SPACE: The Illinois Technology Association has generously donated the space for our event. However, seating is limited. There will be no on-site tickets available. Tickets are FREE! Please bring your ticket with a valid form of ID in order to be admitted into the building.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND: Journalist, citizen journalists, hackers, programmers, professors

What is PATCH? (in their own words):

"We’re a community-specific news and information platform dedicated to providing comprehensive and trusted local coverage for individual towns and communities." Read more...

Light refreshments will be provided.

This event is co-sponsored by the Chicago Headline Club.