• Joseph HutnakPatch Staff Verified Patch Staff Badge

  • Johnston, RI

Email: joseph.hutnak@patch.com

Phone: 401-369-1659

Joe is currently Field Editor for six Rhode Island Patch sites, previously Local Editor for Bristol-Warren Patch, Smithfield Patch, and Johnston Patch.

A native Rhode Islander, Joe grew up in Johnston and graduated from Johnston High School. He attended Rhode Island College and earned a bachelor's degree in English, then started in professional journalism with the Kent County Daily Times in West Warwick. After stints in Hopkinton and East Greenwich, Joe served as Editor of The Cranston Herald.

Some of Joe's previous work includes:

— Press Secretary for Aram Garabedian's mayoral campaign in Cranston against Steve Laffey in 2002;

— Advisor to Cranston Democratic City-wide Council slate in 2004 and 2006;

— Membership Director for Cranston Chamber of Commerce;

— State-certified high school English teacher.

Joe joined Patch in November, 2010, and launched Johnston Patch six weeks later. In September, 2012, he launched Smithfield Patch before assisting with coverage of Bristol-Warren Patch and taking on the Field Editor role in 2013.

Joe lives in Cranston. He is married to Andrea DiPonte Hutnak, whose parents live in Johnston. Joe and Andrea have one daughter, Carina Rose.

Posting Activity

Johnston|News|

Find Afterschool Programs in Johnston

The Rhode Island Afterschool Plus Alliance (RIASPA) posted a new Google map showing more than 200 program locations — including six right here in Johnston.

Find Afterschool Programs in Johnston
Johnston|News|

What Restaurant Is Johnston Missing?

We've got plenty of culinary selections in Johnston — but do you think there's something missing?

What Restaurant Is Johnston Missing?
Johnston|News|

Chamber of Commerce Unveils New Website

The updated site for the Johnston-based North Central Chamber of Commerce features scrolling text, sponsor advertisements — and a JohnstonPatch video!

Chamber of Commerce Unveils New Website
Johnston|News|

Aug. 29: Final Check before School, Anyone?

The opening bell of the 2012-13 school year is about to ring — and we're getting you ready with our 5 Things to Know Today for Aug. 29.

Aug. 29: Final Check before School, Anyone?
Johnston|News|

One Year After Irene, Has Anything Changed?

Tropical Storm Irene rolled into Rhode Island a year ago this week — have you taken any steps to be ready in case of another storm?

One Year After Irene, Has Anything Changed?
Johnston|News|

Johnston Bus Company Issues Route Updates

First Student released its revised bus schedule this week — here's how to check whether your kid's route has changed.

Johnston Bus Company Issues Route Updates
Johnston|News|

Familiar Face Takes New Role at Ferri

Longtime teacher Leanne DeMarco recently earned a promotion to Assistant Principal at Nicholas A. Ferri Middle School in Johnston.

Familiar Face Takes New Role at Ferri
Johnston|News|

Hazel L. Lawton

The Scituate native passed away on Aug. 25, 2012, at Briarcliffe Manor in Johnston.

Hazel L. Lawton
Johnston|News|

Aug. 28: Johnston School Schedules

JohnstonPatch is your source for school bus routes in Johnston — and the opening and closing times. Here are your 5 Things to Know Today for Aug. 28.

Aug. 28: Johnston School Schedules
Johnston|News|

When Do Schools Open in Johnston?

Here are the opening and dismissal times for Johnston public schools, as well as well as our links to bus routes.

When Do Schools Open in Johnston?
Johnston|News|

'We Will Catch You — [And] the Homeowner Will Pay'

Mayor Joseph Polisena issued a pledge this morning to locate — and penalize — Johnston homeowners who claim that out-of-town children are living at their homes.

'We Will Catch You — [And] the Homeowner Will Pay'
Johnston|News|

Anthony R. Ventetuolo

The Johnston resident and Air Force veteran passed away on Aug. 24, 2012.

Anthony R. Ventetuolo