New Jamestown sports reporter brings veteran perspective to community

Paul Garcia II arrived in Jamestown on Jan. 15, bringing a mix of military discipline, storytelling ambition and a commitment to covering local sports. A six-year Air Force enlistee who trained in Minot, Garcia said his service shaped the work ethic that carried him through community college and advanced studies in sports journalism.

Garcia spent the first 21 years of his life in California’s East Bay before signing a six-year contract with the U.S. Air Force in 2011. Rather than the world tour he expected after basic training, he was stationed at Minot Air Force Base and stayed for the duration of his enlistment. He embraced local life there, attending $6 Minotauros hockey games, playing disc golf across the state and volunteering for concert security at the North Dakota State Fair. On leaving Minot, he laughed at his own vow about winter: “I’ll never live in the snow again.”

After his service he moved to San Diego, then pursued higher education while leaning on the discipline learned in the military. He attended San Diego City College, the University of California San Diego and earned a master’s degree in sports journalism from the Walter Cronkite School at Arizona State University. The offer he received to join Jamestown’s newsroom made returning to North Dakota an easy choice.

Local sports coverage matters for more than game recaps. In towns like Jamestown, high school and amateur athletics are a central public square where families and neighbors connect, youth find mentors and community identity is reinforced. Garcia’s arrival has practical significance: more beat reporting can mean better attention to youth sports safety, clearer communication about facility needs, and more visibility for programs that promote physical activity and mental health.

As a veteran entering local media, Garcia’s experience also points to broader community needs. Veterans often contend with service-related health challenges and transition stress, and visibility in civic life helps destigmatize seeking care. Local newsrooms play a role in connecting residents to services and holding systems accountable for equitable access to care, recreation and youth programming. Strengthening that reporting supports public health and social equity across Stutsman County.

Garcia has been in Jamestown for a week and said he looks forward to meeting people at games and around town. He asked for restaurant tips and activities that capture the full Jamestown experience. Readers can reach him directly at pgarcia@jamestownsun.com or by phone at (701) 952-8461.

For residents, Garcia’s move means more consistent coverage of the sports and community moments that knit Jamestown together. Expect to see him at local fields and rinks; engaging with parents, coaches and athletes; and amplifying stories that connect recreation, health and community life.