Jamie M. Rogers, Patch Staff

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.