Aubry Bracco, Patch Staff

A native New Englander, Aubry has always been intrigued by the region's history, gritty character and small-town culture.

Originally from New Hampshire, Aubry attended Phillips Exeter Academy in Exeter, N.H.  She graduated from Brown University in 2008 with a degree in Latin American Studies, where she wrote and illustrated a children's book about a manatee's adventures through the Caribbean and Latin America.

Aubry discovered her passion for community reporting in the summer of 2006 during an internship at the <i>Atlantic News</i>, a family-owned weekly that was based in Hampton, N.H. Following graduation, she wrote for Seacoast Media Group. Her work has appeared in the <i>Rockingham News</i>, <i>Hampton Union</i>, <i>Portsmouth Herald</i>, and the <i>Exeter News-Letter</i>.

In her spare time, Aubry enjoys coaching field hockey, running, pursuing her latest arts and crafts adventure, studying astrology and psychology, traveling to the Caribbean and discovering new places in her own backyard.

<b>Beliefs</b>: 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.<br><br><b>Politics:</b> I am a registered independent. <br><br><b>Religion</b>: Though I come from a family with a historically Catholic background, I was raised to appreciate all faiths and have familiarized myself with traditions from a variety of religions.  I believe in the interconnectivity of the universe, but do not consider myself a member of a particular religion.  <br><b><br>Local Hot-Button Issues</b>: Salem is a city on the move.  Mayor Driscoll, city officials and local organizations are dedicated to the revitalization of the downtown and making Salem a destination.  Salem may only be 8.1 square miles, but the city is bustling - new restaurants and businesses are opening every week.

In October, all eyes are invariably set on Salem as tens of thousands flock to the city for downtown festivities. In addition to tourism, the fall months also present a challenge to the police and fire departments.

The Salem Harbor Power Plant continues to be an issue in the city and Marblehead. A number of individuals and organizations have questioned the safety of work conditions, health and environmental issues the coal-burning plant could cause.