Give me a holler with story ideas, suggestions, or questions: michelle.rotuno-johnson@patch.com. You'll see my bylines in NJ and PA, and occasionally other places on Patch. I live in southern Ohio currently.
I "began" my journalism career at the age of six when I decided to produce a paper for my neighbors with looseleaf paper, a pencil, and some very amateur drawing skills. Now, I am a general assignment editor for Patch with our NJ/PA team, providing local news coverage to our readers in the region. I really enjoy covering local news and working with other Patch journalists.
My work has appeared in newspapers, on TV stations, and for a radio station as well as on digital platforms. I have undergraduate degrees in journalism and religion from Ohio Wesleyan University, and a double Master's degree in journalism and mass communication from Ohio University and the University of Leipzig in Germany. In 2014, I wrote a local history book on the Marion Popcorn Festival, which takes place every fall in Marion, OH.
When I'm not "doing the news," I am usually thinking about Star Wars, The Kingkiller Chronicle by Patrick Rothfuss, or soccer. I am a big fan of Chelsea Football Club, both the men's and women's teams. I have a dog named Sprout and two cats, Scoops and Bast.
The Special Olympics Unified Sports programs brings Wayne Schools students with disabilities, and those without, together on the same team.
The blaze broke out in a three-story building Monday morning, according to one of the fire companies on scene.
One of the students injured in the crash, who is a high school wrestler, has been identified via a GoFundMe that will support his family.
Inflation in the Philadelphia metro area continues to outpace other parts of the country, according to a new analysis.
The amount is a slight decrease from last year's report, but the study shows residents still pay 55 percent more than the average American.
Inflation in New Jersey's two major metro areas continues to outpace other parts of the country, according to a new analysis.
Ready to hit the road and view the beautiful fall colors? Check out these five scenic drives across the Garden State.
Residents are asked to participate in a public survey, which will help guide the formation of the first new Master Plan in 30 years.
The state anticipates about 2 million homeowners and renters will get a benefit this year, with payments ranging between $450 and $1,750.
Police said the fire was likely accidental, and that an LED flashlight may have overheated. $11K has been raised for the victim's family.
There will also be a "blessing of the animals," a demonstration by the sheriff's K-9 Unit and Mounted Unit, and an adoption parade.
Many witnessed the amazing display on Thursday night, and if you missed it — or want to see the lights again — here are the chances in PA.
Many witnessed the amazing display on Thursday night, and if you missed it — or want to see the lights again — here are the chances in NJ.
Patch sent out questions to local candidates seeking public office. See Holt's responses on issues affecting the school district/township.
Patch sent out questions to local candidates seeking public office. See Varela's responses on issues affecting the township.
Patch sent out questions to local candidates seeking public office. See Sheppard's responses on issues affecting the school district.
Patch sent out questions to local candidates seeking public office. See Mayer's responses on issues affecting the school district.
Patch sent out questions to local candidates seeking public office. See Alequin's responses on issues affecting the school district.
Catch up with the stories making headlines today in the Garden State.
Catch up with the stories making headlines today across New York City.
