Elaine Piniat is a 2010 graduate of Rutgers University, with a bachelor's degree in Journalism and Media Studies.

Elaine began pursuing a career in journalism through multiple internships with magazines, newspapers, and organizations including Whole Foods magazine, the Healthcare Intelligence Network, Home News Tribune, Athletes in Action, InnerVoice magazine, and the Long Island Press. She was also a Staff Writer for the Daily Targum, Rutgers University's daily newspaper as well as a freelance reporter for Micromedia Publications.

Elaine can most likely be found spending time with her family and friends. As a former collegiate athlete, Elaine enjoys working out and bike riding.

Beliefs

At Patch, we promise always to report the facts as objectively as possible and otherwise adhere to the principles of good journalism. However, we also acknowledge that true impartiality is impossible and human beings have beliefs. So in the spirit of simple honesty, our policy is to encourage our editors to reveal certain key beliefs to the extent they feel comfortable.

This disclosure is not a license for our editors to inject these beliefs into stories or to dictate coverage according to them. In fact, the intent is the opposite: we hope that the knowledge that our beliefs are on the record will force us to be ever mindful to write, report, and edit in a fair, balanced way. And if you, the user, ever think you see evidence that we failed in this mission, we wholeheartedly invite you to let us know.

Politics

* How would you describe your political beliefs?

Undeclared.

Religion

* How religious would you say you are? Casual, observant, devout, non-religious?

Devout Christian, denomination- Greek Orthodox.

Local Hot Button Issues

What do you think are the two or three most important issues facing the community?

Some long-term issues in Lacey Township include the Oyster Creek nuclear power plant, the oldest operating nuclear power plant in the country, and the debate over developing a roadway along a former railroad to alleviate traffic on Route 9.

Another pressing issue is the state and local budgets, which will directly affect the people of Lacey.

I am looking forward to becoming a part of the Lacey Township community so I can learn and cover what is affecting the town on a daily basis.