Moorestown|News|
Community Update

Rob has been a reporter for roughly six years. In 2003, he graduated from Lycoming College in Williamsport, Pa., with a bachelor's degree in communication with a focus in media writing. After college, he began working at The Danville News, a small daily newspaper in Central Pennsylvania. Later, he moved up to their larger sister paper, The Daily Item. Most recently, Rob worked as the political reporter at the Gloucester County Times. He just moved to New Jersey last fall and is still getting used to the quirks of the Garden State: full-service gas stations and being able to buy beer and wine in the same store. He's new to Moorestown and is eager to make Patch's presence here even stronger.
Our 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 them to inject their beliefs into stories or to dictate coverage according to them. In fact, the intent is the opposite: we hope that the knowledge that their beliefs are on the record will cause them 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
How would you describe your political beliefs?
I suppose the easiest way to answer this question is I tend to be socially liberal and fiscally centrist. My view on politics - from watching it, reading it and covering it - is there seems to be a level of detachment between the people who govern and the governed. Not as much at the local level, but at the state and certainly the federal levels. That's why you see so many polls reflecting the populace's growing lack of faith in their representatives.
Religion
How religious would you consider yourself?
I was raised Roman Catholic, went to church every Sunday and attended Catholic school for seven years. But I now find that, while I appreciate the role organized religion plays in many people's lives, it's not for me. That's not to say I'm not religious. I believe in … something. But I see merit in every faith.
Local Hot-Button Issues
What do you think are the most important issues facing the community?
The liquor referendum. Everyone's talking about it and the debate seems to revolve around two ideas cast in opposition: The town's "character" vs. dollars and cents. What wins out?
Teacher contracts. It's only a couple weeks till school starts and still no resolution. When will it come? And what will the long-term implications of the new contract be?
The new municipal building/library/police department.

Federal authorities say GB Check Cashing will have to forfeit more than $1 million for failing to file necessary reports.
The board of education and the union hope to reach an agreement before the start of the school year.
Phil Costa, 26, is a starting center for the Dallas Cowboys and a graduate of Holy Cross High School in Delran.
Maple Shade Police are looking for the public's help in tracking down these three men.
Mount Laurel Police say this man smashed his way into Laurel Liquors. Can you help them find him?
Also, check out this 'charming, storybook' home for sale in Riverton with beamed-ceiling living and dining rooms and private fenced yard.
Also, check out this renovated split-level home in Moorestown with a home office, family room wired with surround sound and big backyard with a pool.
The number of crimes in Cinnaminson has dropped in virtually every category in the first half of 2013, according to the state's uniform crime report.
Crime is down, but a Moorestown Police spokesman says the report only gives a broad-brush view of crime statistics in the township.
Looking to adopt a furry friend? Check out the pets available at the Burlington County Animal Shelter in our pet of the week feature.
Looking to adopt a furry friend? Check out the pets available at the Burlington County Animal Shelter in our pet of the week feature.
Expect big announcements about new stores and restaurants in the coming weeks, says a PREIT spokesperson.
After 17 years fighting a rare autoimmune disorder, Cinnaminson resident Nereida Smith needs help paying for a serious operation that will save her life.
Palmyra Police are asking for the public's help tracking down the third suspect.
Police sought the public's help locating Patrick Bystrzycki, who they described as an "at risk" missing person.
Also, three people allegedly steal ATVs, but can't get away from cops.