Jon has spent more than a decade in journalism, starting in 2001 at the University of Alabama's student newspaper, The Crimson White, as a staff writer; he later moved up the ranks to become news director. Shortly after graduating from Alabama in 2004 with a bachelor's in Telecommunications and Film, he began his professional career in Bartow County, Ga., serving as the education reporter for The Daily Tribune News in Cartersville until November 2010. Jon has earned a total of six journalism awards during his time in collegiate and professional journalism.

When he is not on the work clock, Jon is hanging out or going to the movies with friends, watching Alabama football or any Atlanta sports team, or catching up on video games or whatever is on his DVR at the time.

You can reach Jon at jon.gargis@patch.com.

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 consider myself conservative on fiscal issues, and Libertarian on most personal issues.

Religion

I was raised Catholic, but today find myself content with simply living a good life rather than adhering to the rules and schedule of any one religion. I respect the religious beliefs of others, and I approve of the good works people do for their church, or just for the good of the people.

Local Hot-Button Issues

As a newcomer to Paulding County, I'm still trying to get a feel for what's on the community's mind. I'm always open for a discussion of important issues, and I'll listen to anyone who has put serious thoughts behind their beliefs.