Full name: Jamie Rogers
Phone: 703-203-4791
Birthday: June 14
My passion for journalism blossomed from my love of writing in my diary—which I have been doing regularly since I was 9 years old.
I found comfort in writing thoughts and ideas on paper and am still fascinated about being able to look back at my own words and recall memories, feelings and events.
I knew I wanted to be a journalist and never thought seriously about veering from that path as I earned a degree in journalism and mass communications from the University of South Carolina in Columbia in 2006.
Aspiring to immediately work for a large newspaper in a major city, I ended up back in my hometown of Florence, S.C., working for the Morning News, owned by Richmond, Va.-based Media General, Inc.
I originally viewed my acceptance of the job as a setback because I didn't want to be back in my home town. But I quickly realized the newspaper was fertile ground for me to grow as a journalist.
I covered news for six mostly rural counties in eastern South Carolina for the mid-sized newspaper. I met friends and acquaintances, and learned much about what I refer to as "the human element" during my four years as a public safety, crime and courts reporter.
I moved here to Northern Virginia, where I accepted the job as Patch editor for Manassas Park.
Politics & Religion
It has been said that a journalist cannot be politically unbiased. Well, I'm probably the closest thing to a poitically unbiased journalist.
I have been a Jehovah's Witness my entire life and all practicing members of my faith do not get involved in political affairs. Witnesses believe there is one God who created a world that it is impossible for humankind to govern correctly.
This does not mean that I refuse to pay my taxes or participate in anarchist activities. The government leaders, although imperfect, are ministers of justice and lawfulness who exist to maintain some sort of order. So, we must respect our leaders and lawmakers and abide by all laws.
Hot button issues
Many people complain about their commute, the construction on Interstate 66 and Fairfax County taxes.
Many Manassas Park residents do not appear to be happy about having to get a decal for their car to avoid getting a ticket from the police.
The Virginia Department of Education is in the process of updating its Achievable Annual Measurable Objectives (AMOs.)
The Virginia Department of Education is in the process of updating its Achievable Annual Measurable Objectives (AMOs.)
The event is at Signal Hill Park from 5 to 9 p.m.
SySTEMic program has its roots in Prince William County.
SySTEMic program has its roots in Prince William County
SySTEMic program has its roots in Manassas Park.
The man's keys were also stolen, according to police reports.
SySTEMic program has its roots in Manassas Park.
The gun turned out to be a BB gun, Manassas Park Police said.
Manassas Park City Council hears proposal for $4 million and a free office building or office space for 40 acres of land.
Got something to say? Tell us in your very own Patch blog.
The cornpole will take place on Aug. 11.
In this report: Hunan Star, Subway and Pizza Spot in Manassas Park, and Pizza Hut, El Taco, Starbucks, Szechuan Gourmet in Manassas.
The performance is part of the second annual Summer Evenings Under The Stars series.
The winning team will receive a cornhole set.
Manassas Park City Council heard more about a proposal that could result in $4 million and a free office building or office space for city business. In exchange, the city would either sell or give the developer 40 acres of land for the building.
David Ford reflects on his life as a mechanic and a father.
The Manassas Park Community Center and the city's Department of Social Services in city hall will both serve as "cooling centers" for residents who need it.
Manassas Park Police and residents will take a stand together against crime.
Columbia Gas hasn't received any reports of its customers falling to the scam, but still wants to make them aware.
