It takes a staff of dedicated journalists to bring you the news from around Central Indiana. In this feature, the Indianapolis Star introduces readers to our newsroom staff — or, rather, we let them introduce themselves. Up this week is Zach Osterman.
What’s your job title?
IU Insider
When did you join IndyStar?
October 2013
What’s your favorite part of your job?
The places it takes me, the people I meet and the reality that there’s never a moment when can I know with certainty exactly what that day’s story is going to be.
Why journalism?
My father, Jim, was a reporter and editor when I was growing up. He was my first and greatest role model. My love of this business started by watching him in it, and he’s been a consistent inspiration ever since.
What’s your favorite Indy area restaurant or hidden gem?
I’m going to cheat on this one, since I tend to work at the Star’s informal Bloomington bureau with my dogs (and cats), and go for something down here. If you’re down here, I would strongly recommend any of Mother Bears (pizza), Uptown Cafe (brunch or dinner) or Nick’s English Hut (vibes). Those are staples most IU alums know, so if you’re looking for something a little bit off the beaten path, try Marco and Polo on Grant Street just off Kirkwood. It’s Uyghur cuisine, and it’s excellent.
What do you do to unwind from a job that can be stressful?
I play soccer at least once a week, sometimes twice. I’m not any good, but I’ve played since childhood and I still enjoy it, even if my knees and back do not always agree so much anymore.
What are you reading or streaming?
Just finished the latest series of “Slow Horses” (excellent) and am digging into Season 2 of “Landman” (guilty pleasure).
What song do you shamelessly jam out to in the car?
Anything ’90s country.
Do you prefer dogs or cats?
Both. We have two dogs (a Lab/St. Bernard mix and a Pyrenees/border collie mix), as well as two retired barn cats that spend their days hunting sunshine for naps.
What’s your bucket-list vacation destination?
The Isle of Barra in the Outer Hebrides off the western coast of Scotland, where my family traces its ancestral roots.
What’s your favorite sport and team?
Liverpool Football Club
What’s your favorite comfort food?
A 12-inch Publix sub. Those who know, know.
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Meet IndyStar IU Insider Zach Osterman
Reporting by Zach Osterman, Indianapolis Star / Indianapolis Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
