New TGI reporter on the cops and courts beat

LIHU‘E — The Garden Island is pleased to welcome aboard the newest member of its news team, Tom LaVenture.

“The newsroom is excited to have a seasoned reporter join its staff to cover crime on Kaua‘i,” said TGI Managing Editor Nathan Eagle. “After serving for more than a decade as managing editor and staff writer of the Asian American Press, I look forward to seeing Tom’s passion for culture help him successfully transition to this diverse island.”

In June, LaVenture left his 13-year position as staff writer and managing editor of the Asian American Press, a weekly Twin Cities, Minn., Asian community newspaper, and moved to the Garden Isle to become part of TGI’s news team. He also credits his experience at The Daily Journal in International Falls, Minn., with helping prepare him for this role.

LaVenture is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Superior, where he earned a bachelor of science degree with a major in political science and a minor in journalism. He is a veteran of the Gulf War, having served as an active-duty soldier in the U.S. Army for six years.

“The Garden Island is a comfortable fit and seems like a natural step,” LaVenture said. “An opportunity like this comes along once in a lifetime. My background in Asian and Pacific Islander communities led to this experience, that I couldn’t turn down. I’m looking forward to getting to know the island and the people. The cops and courts beat will be new to me, but I believe I can excel, especially given my background in political science.”

Former cops and courts reporter Jessica Musicar moved to Montana to be closer to family. Following her departure, LaVenture was chosen from more than 100 applicants spanning at least a dozen states, Eagle said.

Tom LaVenture may be reached at tlaventure@thegardenisland.com or 245-3681, ext. 224.

• Vanessa Van Voorhis, staff writer, can be reached at 245-3681 (ext. 251) or by emailing vvanvoorhis@thegardenisland.com.