Community Editor, New Hampshire Patch

Birthdate: July 5, 1964, Nuremberg, Germany

Tel. 603-369-9173

e-mail: robert.cook@patch.com

Married to Mary.

Son: Patrick, 9

Your 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 because human beings have beliefs. So in the spirit of simple honesty, our policy is to encourage our editors to reveal their beliefs to the extent they feel comfortable. This disclosure is not a license for you to inject your beliefs into stories or to dictate coverage according to them. In fact, the intent is the opposite: we hope that the knowledge that your beliefs are on the record will cause you to be ever mindful to write, report and edit in a fair, balanced way. And if you ever see evidence that we failed in this mission, please let us know.

Politics

I have evolved from a lifelong Democrat to an Independent who prefers to vote for the best qualified candidates instead of party lines.

Religion

I was baptized a Catholic and my son was baptized a Methodist, but I do not really subscribe to any particular religion. I fully respect others' freedom to worship in whatever religion they choose.

Local hot-button issue

Like many other communities in New Hampshire, Portsmouth has done its best to weather the economic storm as best as it can and keeps moving forward with new commercial and residential development. Maintaining the level of municipal and educational services this city is accustomed to seeing continues to be a challenge.

My beliefs: Fairness, equality and tolerance. Treat others the way you wish to be treated.