Melanie Lawson celebrates 40 years at abc13 KTRK

Melanie Lawson, a Houston institution, is celebrating 40 years with abc13 KTRK.  For a generation of Bayou City television news viewers, she represents the 5pm news. 

On September 13, 1982, Lawson started as a new reporter for channel 13 Houston's Eyewitness News under news director Walt Hawver. He was the only Walt in charge at the time since Disney would not buy the station until the next decade.

Lawson returned to Houston with multiple degrees and areas of study under her belt.  She first graduated from Princeton University in 1976 where she studied politics.  Next she earned a joint degree in both Law and Journalism from Columbia University in 1980.

When returning to Houston for her new KTRK position, Lawson was transition from one area of study to another.  For the three years prior, she worked for a Wall Street law firm with what she felt was little prospects for the future.

“On the surface, it appeared that they were unbiased, but many of the largest firms and investment houses had only a few black professionals, if they had any at all, and most of those professionals tended to hit the glass ceiling early, and hard," Lawson told the Houston Chronicle in 2012.  "You couldn't see it until you were nearly hitting your head on it, but it was there."

Growing up in Houston's Third Ward, Melanie watched her father, the Reverend William D. Lawson, and mother Audrey, found Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church. Observing a trailblazer such as Rev. Lawson, who became friends with Martin Luther King Jr. and advanced civil rights in Houston, put Melanie on a path to make advancements of her own.

"For such a long time, I felt as though our stories weren't being told," Lawson told Bishop James Dixon in 2021.  "They weren't being properly told in a lot of cases. That it's easy to do a drive by in a neighborhood or, you know, talk to somebody today about, you know, a shooting or a fire or whatever. But there's some neighborhoods where the roots are deep, the stories are strong, and yet they're not being told. So I felt as though my mission was to represent people who grew up in the city, people who love this city, but whose voices were not always heard."

Today Lawson anchors "Live at 5" and Eyewitness News at 11am with numerous awards including EMMYs, interviews with three US presidents among other notable newsmakers, and enough hours of community involvement to make her parents proud. It would actually be difficult to list everything Lawson has accomplished in this post, so go read her bio for details here.

Not just an anchor, Lawson continually works on reporting impactful stories and documentaries when off the news desk. 

No one reads this blog for my personal anecdotes, but I will add a story that I don't think Lawson will mind me sharing. 

As a young abc13 special projects producer, my father suddenly passed away.  If you see my current day Alzheimer's Association advocacy work you might know my mom was battling the disease at the same time.  There were few people in my life at the time to even talk to me about what was going on or how to deal with it.  

One night, I received a call from Melanie asking me how I was doing. And she kept checking in on me.  Around that time, I was about to ask my now wife to marry me.  Melanie offered to let it happen on her home's balcony overlooking scenic Houston views.  To this day, I have a mirror hanging by our back door that Melanie gave us as a wedding present.  It makes me think of her kindness daily.

Her thoughtfulness, warmth and intelligence will never be forgotten by this blogger. I write this to demonstrate the type of person Melanie Lawson is on TV and off.

Fun fact:  Lawson and now retired abc13 morning anchor Tom Koch started at KTRK on the same day.

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Melanie Lawson's mother, Audrey, passes away

KTRK abc13 anchor Melanie Lawson's mother, Audrey, dies at age 83

Melanie Lawson

Not only is KTRK abc13 anchor Melanie Lawson a big part of Houston, but so are her influential parents.

So unfortunately the Houston Chronicle reports her mother, Audrey Lawson, passed away of natural causes Saturday at the age of 83.

The Rev. Bill Lawson and Audrey founded Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church in the early 1960s. She worked tirelessly to help those in need through the church and charter schools, plus helped build The Ensemble Theater.

"She was the strongest woman you've ever know," Melanie described her on the station's website.

The Houston Library has even archived letters between Audrey and Bill Lawson online.

Channel 13 anchor Tom Abrahams filed this piece in memory of Audrey Lawson.

Melanie Lawson returns to ABC13 anchor desk

Melanie Lawson was back anchoring on the ABC13 KTRK Houston anchor desk today on the 11am newscast with Jeff Ehling and meteorologist Rachel Briers.

Special thanks to all of Lawson's loyal viewers who immediately contacted me about her return. 

UPDATE
Here is the transcript with Lawson's opening remarks at the beginning of the June 26, 2025, ABC13 Eyewitness News at 11am newscast:

"And I'm Melanie Lawson. It's been so long since I've said that it took me a second there, but it's been a while since I've had the pleasure of saying those words, I have to say, it is so good to be back with you, Jeff and Rachel, and it's wonderful to be back with all of you.

Of course, we've got a lot of news to get to this morning, and I will get right to that, but I wanted to start by saying thank you. Over the last few months, I've been overwhelmed by your kindness. I've gotten so many lovely messages and well wishes from so many of you and I can't tell you how much it has meant to me.

I am so blessed to have grown up here and to still call this city, my home, and despite the crazy weather which we'll be telling you about from flooding, to freezing, to sweltering, and all kinds of strange critters, there is no better place to live than Houston. 

You've been part of my family here at ABC 13 for decades and family sticks together no matter what.

All of your words of warmth, kindness and concern have reminded me over and over again about our city's giant heart and they have been absolutely amazing! So, as I said, I'm so thrilled to be back home with you back in this chair back with you, Jeff and Rachel, and bringing you all the important news you expect from us here at ABC 13.

So let's get right to the news."

"Just want to say, it's great to see you back where you belong," Ehling added. 

"Oh well, thank you so much, Jeff. I love the fact that my first day is with you, buddy," Lawson replied.

"So proud to be by your side," Ehling said. 

"And Mel, it is so nice to see our Queen back on her throne here," added Briers. "We have missed you so much here on the 11. And I'm so glad to have you back."

Lawson, who had been off since last spring 2024, recently interviewed Beyoncé's mother Tina Knowles.

The legendary Channel 13 anchor had been away due to reported foot issues, and after the death of her father and pillar of the community, Reverend William A. Lawson. 

A few years ago, the longtime Live at Five anchor celebrated 40 years with KTRK.

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Melanie Lawson is out with foot issues

My inboxes have been filling up asking about the whereabouts of abc13 KTRK Live at Five anchor Melanie Lawson.

UPDATE JUNE 26, 2025
Melanie Lawson returns to ABC13 anchor desk

As most will know, Lawson lost her father, the legendary Reverend William A. Lawson in May 2024 and has been off-air since then.  

Today, meteorologist Kevin Roth just shared the news that Melanie has unfortunately also been out with foot issues.

Lawson celebrated four decades with Channel 13 in 2022.  Here is to many more!

(Thanks Shad)

Dave Ward and Houston TV stars celebrate Crime Stoppers of Houston

Crime Stoppers of Houston Gala focuses on 50 years of Dave Ward

Photo Credit: Vicky Pink

The Honorable Mayor Sylvester Turner was honored at the 2016 Celebrating History in the Making Crime Stoppers of Houston Gala on Thursday, October 27th at the Hyatt Regency for his outstanding contributions to public safety in his years as a member of the Texas House of Representatives to his current position as Mayor of the City of Houston.

The focus of the evening was Celebrating History in the Making - the history Crime Stoppers of Houston is making with the construction of the first-ever Crime Stoppers headquarters anywhere in the world, the history the building's namesake, Guinness World Record holder Dave Ward, will be making when he celebrates 50 years at ABC - 13 Eyewitness News just a few days following the gala, along with special guests who are also making history.

The annual gala, which serves as the organization's largest fundraiser, welcomed more than 500 guests from all industries and raised more than $435,000 for Crime Stoppers' Tip Line and crime prevention programs, which for over three decades have empowered, educated, and engaged the community in important conversations about crime, public safety and the protection of society's most vulnerable citizens.

The evening began with a VIP reception with keynote speaker, Senior Investigative Reporter with the Boston Globe Spotlight Team, Michael Rezendes. His incredible investigative work led him to sharing a Pulitzer Prize in 2003. Rezendes' real-life work was the basis for the 2015 award-winning movie, "Spotlight", in which his character was played by Mark Ruffalo. "Spotlight" won the Academy Award for Best Picture and Best Screenplay. VIP guests were able to mingle with Rezendes and then participated in the silent auction to support Crime Stoppers' mission. Guests were also invited to place their bids during the live auction. Items included a Taft McWhorter 60" x 40" Texas Flag "Live" painting, a trip to the pleasures and treasures of Tuscany, and all that glitters with 18kt gold Italian earrings with sapphire and diamonds from Wayne Smith Jewels.

Festivities kicked off in the Imperial Ballroom with a special opening performance by The Salvation Army Harbor Light Choir of Put a Little Love in Your Heart, followed by a warm welcome and moment of silence with emcee Jan Carson, Houston Lifestyle and Homes Editor and Columnist. Jan shared that for the first time tonight, Houstonians could be a part of this history by purchasing a brick paver that would forever sit on this Public Safety and Crime Prevention Block in Midtown.

Crime Stoppers Executive Director Rania Mankarious then took the stage to continue the celebration and share that the organization's new home in Midtown is expected to open in January 2017.

"Our new facility is the result of 35 years of study and is constructed to meet the needs of our growing community." said Mankarious "It will firmly and proudly stand as our city's HUB for everything related to crime prevention and public safety. It will be a place where current, cutting edge education can be given out and community partners can gather to focus on solutions. Not competition, not working in siloes, but expanding the proven power of our programming that makes Houston a safer place to live. We are so thankful to everyone who has helped get us here."

Remarks followed from Gala coordinator and visionary Laura Ward, and friends of Crime Stoppers Tilman Fertitta and Jan Carson who both spoke about Dave Ward's contributions to this 36 year old organization and in his incredible news career.

Before the night concluded, a very special friend of Ward - NASA Astronaut Scott Kelly - delivered a heartfelt message onstage in his honor. A surprise tribute video was played to introduce both Astronaut Kelly and the Dave Ward who followed by taking the stage to reveal that his final date on the anchor desk would be December 9, 2016.

Thursday's celebration was supported by many individuals, community partners and generous underwriters, including Houston First, The Lester and Sue Smith Foundation, Cabrina and Steven Owsley, Becker Family Foundation, Valerie and Bob Brindley/Integrity Partners, CenterPoint Energy, Paula Goldstein, Harris County Sheriff's Office Foundation, Michelle Heinz, P&R Productions, Strake Foundation, Jill and Charles Talisman, Laura and Dave Ward, plus many others.

Guests included Tilman Fertitta, Scott Kelly, Amiko Kauderer, Tim Connelly, Trish and Rock Morille, Jan Duncan, Carol and Dr. Tom Sawyer, Edna Meyer-Nelson, Elva and Truett Akin, Shayna Andrews, Neil and Maria Bush and Vicki Rizzo.

Notable elected officials included Harris County District Attorney Devon Anderson, Harris County Commissioner Jack Cagle, Senator John Whitmire, State Representative Gene Wu, City Council Member Brenda Stardig and Houston Police Acting Chief Martha Montalvo.

Others celebrating with Crime Stoppers included Tama Lunquist and Gary Becker, Tena and Tyson Faust, Joella and Steve Mach, Ellen and Paige Cokinos, Laurie and Tracy Krohn, Roula Christie and Tasos Kostas, Michele Strake, Jennifer Reyna, Franco Valobra, Roseann Rogers and Aashish Shah, Leisa Holland-Nelson, Paul-David Van Atta, Sherri Zucker, Joann and Bill Crassas, Elizabeth and Tom Netting, Daryl Price, Dale Lockett, Farida Abjani, Stephanie Von Stein, and Melissa Rascon.

If you would like to learn about Crime Stoppers of Houston and our prevention programs, visit www.crime-stoppers.org or call 713-521-4600.

RELATED
Dave Ward to have a building named after him - Crime Stoppers of Houston Gala

Michael Rezendes, Rania Mankarious, Dave Ward, Laura Ward (Photo Credit: Roswitha Vogler)

Melanie Lawson, Houston Police Acting Chief Martha Montalvo (Photo Credit: Vicky Pink)

Roseann Rodgers, Gina Gaston, Dave Ward, Rania Mankarious, Jan Carson, Melanie Lawson, Don Nelson, Amanda Wilkinson (Photo Credit: Vicky Pink)

Margaret O'Brien, Don Nelson, Judy Nichols (Photo Credit: Vicky Pink)

Emcee Jan Carson (Photo Credit: Vicky Pink)

Tilman Fertitta and Mayor Sylvester Turner (Photo Credit: Vicky Pink)

NASA Astronaut Scott Kelly (Photo Credit: Roswitha Vogler)

(This post has been taken from a release sent to me by Crime Stoppers of Houston)

The Rev. William A. Lawson dies at 95

Sad news to report that abc13 KTRK Houston anchor Melanie Lawson's dad, the Reverend William A. Lawson, died this morning at the age of 95.

Known as "Houston’s Pastor," Reverend Lawson founded Houston’s Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church.

"Beyond the walls of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, Lawson has helped change the face of Houston, by leading the battle to desegregate the city," the church published on its website.  "He joined the national civil rights movement led by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by setting up a local office of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC). Dr. King remained a close friend of Lawson’s, until his untimely death."

"Rev. William Lawson is an icon among icons. He is one of the reasons our city is so great. He helped us during civil rights and social justice like probably no other individual in the country because Houston benefited from his leadership and character," said Mayor John Whitmire. "It saddens us, but though God doesn't allow us to choose when we lose a loved one, he does allow us to celebrate their lives. I'm certain all of Houston will celebrate this great man's life in the coming days. Our condolences go to the Lawson and Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church families." 

"Reverend Lawson was a civil rights icon," Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee said in a statement. "He courageously fought for the rights of Black people at a time when doing so could have meant death. He was a world-class mind who for decades used his voice and influence to advocate for oppressed people in Houston, throughout the U.S. and across the globe."

Reverend Lawson retired from preaching in 2004.  His wife, Audrey Lawson, passed away in 2015.

Sample of Houston media coverage:

- Rev. Bill Lawson, founder of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church and civil rights icon, dies at 95

- Houston civil rights icon William Lawson, founder of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, dies at 95

- Rev. Bill Lawson, champion of civil rights, human rights and spiritual rights, has died at 95

-  Rev. William Lawson, Houston civil rights leader and Third Ward church pastor, dies at 95

- Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church founder Rev. William Lawson dies at 95

It is with both inexpressible sorrow and overwhelming gratitude that we announce the passing of our Founding Pastor, Reverend William A. Lawson on May 14, 2024. He has completed his time of service here on earth and is now enjoying eternal rest. pic.twitter.com/P7Cq43ihpO

— Wheeler Avenue BC (@WheelerAvenueBC) May 14, 2024

 

Melanie Lawson returns with Tina Knowles interview

Many loyal ABC13 Houston KTRK viewers have been asking me about the whereabouts of Live at Five anchor Melanie Lawson.

UPDATE JUNE 26, 2025
Melanie Lawson returns to ABC13 anchor desk

Well, Lawson recently returned to the Channel 13 airwaves with this Tina Knowles interview.  

For those that don't know, Tina is Beyoncé's mother.  Lawson has always been very good at landing the big interviews!

abc13 anchors celebrating some big anniversaries

Happy 37 to abc13 KTRK anchors Tom Koch and Melanie Lawson who arrived on the same day at channel 13 back in 1982.

"ABC13-Melanie Lawson and I are celebrating another anniversary at #KTRKTV," Koch posted. "She’s been one of my best friends throughout all these years even though I have seniority on her because they called me in two hours early on our first day!"

"Actually, Tom always claims seniority because he was called into work two hours early – give me a break," Lawson joked. 😀😀 "But the truth is he has always been one of the kindest, most compassionate, and funniest guys I know. Love you, Tom!"

Also celebrating an anniversary is anchor Gina Gaston.

She's celebrating her 25th year of covering Houston.

Gaston started at KTRK in 1992 as a morning anchor with Tom Koch and later anchored at MSNBC New York in 1999.

She returned to channel 13 a few years later where she has been ever since.

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Happy happy anniversary to my dear friend and colleague @tomkochabc13 We started at @abc13houston on the same day! Actually, Tom always claims seniority because he was called into work two hours early – give me a break! 😀😀 but the truth is he has always been one of the kindest, most compassionate, and funniest guys I know. Love you, Tom! ❤️❤️ @abc13houston

A post shared by Melanie Lawson (@abc13melanielawson) on Sep 13, 2019 at 1:48pm PDT

So grateful for 25 years reporting news in Houston! Thanks to YOU and my @abc13houston family! #newsanchor #Disney #25yearsanniversary pic.twitter.com/u1KD6VUEqi

— Gina Gaston (@GinaGaston13) September 10, 2019

Melanie Lawson talks knowing Beyoncé over the years

Melanie Lawson returned to the ABC13 KTRK Houston anchor desk this week after being gone for more than a year.

And with her return, Lawson talked with Briana Conner about her relationship with Beyoncé and the Knowles family through the decades ahead of this weekend's Cowboy Carter tour at NRG.

- Beyoncé's early days remembered by Houston TV
- Beyoncé interviewed with Kelly Rowland in 1992 on "Good Morning Houston"
- Melanie Lawson returns with Tina Knowles interview

Tom Koch & Melanie Lawson hit 30 years at KTRK

It's the year of 30 in the Houston television market. First we had KHOU 11's Ron Trevino and KTRK 13's Don Kobos hit the big 3-0 at their respective stations.

Now a reader points out that KTRK anchors Tom Koch and Melanie Lawson both hit their 30th anniversaries with the ABC owned station in the past two weeks will hit their 30th anniversaries with the ABC owned station.

Koch's anniversary was August 10th, Lawson's August 14th. CORRECTION: Turns out neither anchor has hit the actual anniversary date yet, in fact, both started on the same day. I couldn't find any information about the anniversaries on abc13's website, but did find mentions on its Facebook account. The station posted on the above crossed out dates that the anchors celebrated their 30th anniversaries, but that must have been the day they received their Disney 30th swag. The actual start date for both Koch and Lawson was September 13, 1982.

According to his bio, Koch joined KTRK in 1982 as a reporter for 13 Eyewitness News. In 1987, in addition to his reporting duties, he became the morning anchor for 13 Eyewitness News at 7am which has obviously expanded over the years and been very dominant in the ratings.

According to her bio, Lawson first started as a full-time general assignments reporter and later became the co-anchor of Live at 5 and Channel 13's midday show. She also hosts a weekly Community Affairs program called Crossroads.

Many Houston TV stations have newsrooms that have as much employee foot traffic heading out the door as exits at Minute Maid Park right now (well maybe the ball park doesn't have that many people coming back in so it is a bad analogy this season).

Considering in the past two months we have three people at KTRK arriving at 30 years says something about why that station does so well in the ratings.

Congrats to Tom and Melanie, two great anchors who are just as nice off the air as they are everyday behind the anchor desks.

Texas TV news and radio job moves June 2020

Send tips for the monthly Texas media job list here.

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- Houston social media stars June 2020
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DALLAS - FORT WORTH

Carlos Tamez joins Estrella TV as news director/managing editor.

Julie Fine renews her agreement as political reporter and anchor of Lone Star Politics at KXAS. - Napoli

Allie Spillyards renews her agreement as reporter at KXAS. - Napoli

Nicole Nielsen joins CBS 11 KTVT.

Former CBS 11 KTVT general manager and Nexstar Broadcasting Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Brian Jones to retire.

CBS 11 KTVT Programming Director Ken Foote retiring.

Stella M. Chávez starts Immigration & Demographics beat at KERA.

Alejandra Martinez KERA as a reporter.

The Dallas Morning News is testing out reporter-specific promo codes for readers on the fence about subscribing.

Classical music in quarantine: WRR builds connections over the airwaves.

- NBC 5 KXAS launches "Texas Today," Dallas-Fort Worth’s New Lifestyle Program
- Pretend to be A FOX 4 KDFW Good Day anchor

HOUSTON

Khambrel Marshall reports the weather and supports Houston.

Houston Public Media’s Ernie Manouse says being out ‘enriches’ his life.

Why I love Texas: KPRC’s new anchor Lisa Hernandez shares her love for Houston’s sports, diversity and food.

Joey Guerra spotlights diverse local musicians at the Houston Chronicle.

KPRC 2 investigative reporter Joel Eisenbaum celebrates 15 years with the station.

Sports editor and LGBTQ ally Jenny Dial Creech advocates for progress at The Athletic Houston.

Morning meteorologist Elita Loresca celebrates five years at abc13 KTRK.

Reporter Janelle Bludau celebrates three years with KHOU 11.

Steve Campion renews his agreement as an MMJ and reporter at KTRK in Houston. - Napoli

Houston Chronicle digital reporter ShaCamree Gowdy was selected for the Poynter-Koch Media and Journalism Fellowship.

An Advocate at ABC13: Brandon de Hoyos uses his platform to promote LGBTQ equality.

Dr Jim Siebert renews his agreement as Chief Meteorologist at FOX 26 KRIV. - NWT

Victoria Cordova helps Houston Public Media address the needs of its audience.

Former KHOU 11 reporter Drew Karedes renews his agreement as reporter at WFXT in his hometown of Boston. - Napoli

From TV to online: The evolution of remote learning at UH.

Ex-Chronicle reporter accused of attempted sexual assault of child.

- Former Houston TV News Producer Promoted to President of Myriad Global, USA
- abc13 KTRK virtual town hall discussing relationship between police and communities of color
- Lisa Hernandez debuts on KPRC 2
- Steve Simon exits CW39 KIAH
- VIDEO: KPRC 2 Uniquely Dominique Sachse
- Brett Buffington leaves KHOU 11
- Juan Beltran exits abc13 KTRK
- Melanie Lawson and Chauncy Glover's conversation about racism
- Ron “The Show” Hughley joins SportsRadio 610 KILT
- Getting to know Eric Rowe - Producer Roula & Ryan Show 104.1 KRBE
- KPRC 2 Investigators 2000 Promo - Tony Kovaleski
- What happened to Mario Diaz?
- Morning traffic anchor Chrisdyann Uribe leaves FOX 26 KRIV Houston
- KHOU 11 noon and 4pm meteorologist Erika Lopez re-joins KVUE Austin as chief meteorologist
- Melanie Lawson's town hall discussing race relations and our Faith communities
- Tom Koch now does weddings
- Dominique Sachse talks with psychotherapist about coping with anxiety, depression and isolation
- Hannah Mackenzie leaves KPRC 2
- Melanie Lawson involved in Juneteenth documentaries
- Mike Iscovitz's amazing dog rescue story
- KPRC 2's "Houston Life" is moving
- KTRK GM Wendy Granato tests positive for COVID-19
- Houston Public Media experiences staff cuts due to COVID-19 budget shortfalls
- Houston teen builds HTX Breaking News into big news brand
- Houston Chronicle reporter Jay R. Jordan has breaking news come to him
- 104.1 KRBE wins big at 2020 Worldwide Radio Summit Industry Awards
- TNCRadio wants to be Houston's online driving online station
- Chauncy Glover hosts town hall discussing violence against transgender women of color
- Dave Ward interviews Rudy Tomjanovich, Smokin Joe’s Driving Range back, 2015 Peach Bowl on CW39
- Bill Barajas tested positive for COVID-19
- Executive News Director Sally Ramirez to leave KHOU 11
- KHOU 11 4pm anchor Russ Lewis to retire
- 104.1 KRBE "Roula and Ryan Show's" Ryan Chase tests positive for COVID-19


SAN ANTONIO

Myra Arthur returns to KSAT after birth of second child: The veteran KSAT anchor has been out on maternity leave.

Black members of the KSAT family reflect on recent protests against racism.

Sarah Acosta renews her agreement at KSAT as a Reporter/Anchor. - NWT

Japhanie Gray renews her Reporter agreement at KSAT. - NWT

Larry Ramirez renews his agreement as sports anchor and reporter at KSAT. - Napoli

Jack Acosta celebrates five years as news director at KENS5. He was previously assistant news director at KHOU 11 Houston.

Kaiti Blake enters into a new agreement as a Weekend Meteorologist at KSAT. - NWT

iHeartMedia Austin/San Antonio has announced Jason McCollim has been named Senior Vice President of Programming.

Emmy and AP award-winning news producer Alicia Nicole celebrates five years with News 4 San Antonio WOAI and KABB FOX 29.

Introducing KSAT Explains, a new weekly look at the biggest issues facing San Antonio - it is free to stream on smart TVs, devices and KSAT.com

Alpha Media launches WE 103.3/San Antonio.

- Leslie Mouton leaves KSAT 12
- KVII Amarillo Investigative Reporter/Anchor Niccole Caan joining KENS 5 San Antonio as consumer investigative reporter


AUSTIN

Austin’s KXAN Investigations are as big as Texas. Find out why KXAN Austin’s latest investigation involved almost two dozen people in news, digital, production and marketing, and how the station balances that content on TV and digital platforms across all the Nexstar stations in the Lone Star State.

John Engel makes a 60 market move as he is named Political Reporter at KXAN Austin from WCYB Tri-Cities, Tennessee. - NWT

Tony Plohetski celebrates 20 years at the Austin American-Statesman.

Hema Mullur renews her agreement as primary anchor at KEYE. - Napoli

Sports Anchor/Reporter Emily Giangreco celebrates a year at KVUE 24.

KOKE/Austin’s Bob Cole diagnosed with COVID-19.


AROUND TEXAS

Mark Garcia named VP & GM of KMID Midland/Odessa.

James Brown leaves KBMT Beaumont

Mike Lee promoted to VP-GM of KWKT & KYLE Waco/Temple/Bryan.

Lori Bruffett promoted to KBTX GM.

Ramon J. Pineda to lead KRIS Corpus Christi.

Paul Alexander is the new news director for KFDM Beaumont. He formerly was an ND in Corpus Christi and Brownsville.

KWES Odessa reporter Cory Mose delivers fun standup.

Emani Payne moves to WNCN Raleigh, NC as a reporter/MMJ from KCEN Waco/Temple/Killeen anchor/reporter. - NWT

Amarillo Radio: KXGL Taps Ashley & Brad For Wake-Up Duty.

KORQ Abilene flips from Top 40 To Country.

Stephanie Bates announces she will be joining the ABC7 KVII Amarillo team as weekend meteorologist/reporter.

General Manager Danny Aguilar leaves Fox West Texas stations.

UT Tyler to launch new NPR affiliate with KVUT purchase.

- John-Thomas Kobos, KIII morning anchor & marriage officiant

Tom Koch and Melanie Lawson hit 35 years at abc13 KTRK

A big congrats to two legendary Houston anchors - Tom Koch and Melanie Lawson. They have been at KTRK abc13 since 1982!

Koch posted more yesterday on Facebook:

We both started at ABC13 Houston on this day in 1982! Though I have seniority because they called me in two hours earlier on my first day for breaking news... no kidding. Melanie Lawson and I have been close friends ever since. It's been an honor to work with such a great journalist and to work at this incredible TV station. Thank you to all our viewers who've supported us for so many years. I hope we have served you well. Here's to many more at #abc13

Here's to many more great years with channel 13 for this anchor duo!

KTRK 13's Melanie Lawson, NewsFix prank, former KPRC anchor and more

KTRK 13 anchor Melanie Lawson profiled
KTRK 13 anchor Melanie Lawson: Every soul in Houston loves her. Every. Soul. After all, for more than 25 years, she has been coming to the living rooms (do people still watch TV in their living rooms?) of many Houstonians every week day as co-anchor of Channel 13’s Live at 5 and Eyewitness News at 11a.m. And on the weekends, she hosts the community affairs program, “Crossroads.”

Images: Behind The Scenes Of KPRC Promo Shoot
KPRC Local 2 traveled all across the Houston area to shoot our new "image campaign." Take a peek behind-the-scenes to see why we’re so "Proud 2 Cover Houston."

Charlie Sheen's Violent Torpedo of Truth sinks star live in Detroit
Charlie Sheen's remaining credibility was blown out of the water as fans booed him off-stage on the first night of his 20-date tour.
- Charlie Sheen-isms in your newscast

Former KIAH 39 News meteorologist Keith Monahan
Former KIAH 39 News meteorologist Keith Monahan checks in with Ken Hoffman.

Tribune’s KIAH 39 Set to Launch Video-Less Newscast
TVSpy has fun with KIAH 39 NewsFix in an April Fool's Day joke.
- Matt Lauer Pranks Ann Curry on ‘Today’

More on reinventing News on TV...or any screen
Former Tribune Chief Innovation Officer and NewsFix creator Lee Abrams says treat news like a movie with the story line being the news of the moment. Sexiness can be an ingredient, but the whole show is focused on visual stimulation which is a timeless characteristic of anything on a screen.
- Lee Abrams will be in Las Vegas on April 11 as part of a Compelling Content panel

Former KPRC 2 anchor Larry Audas becomes big man in charge at new station
Larry Audas named president and general manager of WFMY-TV in Greensboro, NC.
- VIDEO: KPRC 1993 news update featuring then-anchors Larry Audas and Shern-Min Chow(KHOU)

YNN Austin gets new news director
Your News Now (former News 8 Austin) ups Michael Pearson to news director.
- News 8 Austin’s news director Kevin Benz is gone

Keith McMahan Succeeds the Late Greg Koelfgen as KABB News Director
Keith McMahan has been promoted to news director of San Antonio’s KABB.
- TV anchors, reporters across S.A. mourn news boss’ passing

Isiah Carey AKA The Insite gets profiled
Isiah Carey AKA The Insite gets proiled in Houston Defender.

Texas Watchdog contributor to investigation that won Peabody Award
Texas Watchdog was a part of a multi-part series with the Center for Public Integrity and National Public Radio that won a Peabody Award for a 2010 series on sexual assault on college campuses.

Best pair of shoes in morning news
When it comes to the Insite shoes of the week, that honor goes to FOX 26 KRIV morning anchor Chris Stipes.

TV-hospital news coverage raises questions about ethics
Hospitals have long competed for patients by advertising in television commercials and newspaper ads. Increasingly, the ads can blend into news as economic pressures in the health care and media industries have created partnerships that some say cross the ethical line separating marketing and journalism.

Michael Berry: TV pitchman
740 KTRH and 950 KPRC talk show host Michael Berry went from Houston city council member to TV pitchman.

New urban channel coming to KVQT
A new promo reel began to run for Urban Houston Network on KVQT 21.6 in Houston. The reel consists of rap videos. The promo says the station will be starting on May 1.

Sabrina Hall leaves KIII Corpus Christi
She leaves the weekend anchor thing for a primary co-anchor and consumer reporter role at WKOW Madison.

An Awkward Moment on ‘Fox News Watch’
“Fox News Watch” had an awkward moment this week while discussing the story that NBC News did not cover General Electric’s $0 tax bill.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
- Mike Barajas' old job posted by Fox 26 KRIV
- Former Korn guitarist Brian 'Head' Welch in Houston

Tom Koch and Melanie Lawson make appearance on 'Who Wants To Be A Millionaire'

Fridays are best with Millionaire...and our friends from @ABC13Houston ! Catch @MelanieLawson13 and @TomKochABC13 present today’s Question of the Day on Millionaire! pic.twitter.com/M2V1wbX0jE

— Millionaire TV (@MillionaireTV) January 25, 2019

Wait, was that abc13 KTRK anchors Tom Koch and Melanie Lawson today on syndicated game show Who Wants To Be A Millionaire hosted by Chris Harrison today?

I don't need a lifeline for this one because the answer is yes!

Besides helping people win money, these two longtime Houston anchors actually started at channel 13 on the same day back in 1982.

"Melanie Lawson and I have been close friends ever since," Koch posted on Facebook back in 2017. "It's been an honor to work with such a great journalist and to work at this incredible TV station. Thank you to all our viewers who've supported us for so many years. I hope we have served you well."

Though they started on the same day, Koch claims to have seniority by two hours because they called him in early on their first day for breaking news!

I'll take "Legendary Houston television journalists" for $500 Alex...wait...wrong show!

Melanie Lawson's car broken into, a look at car break-ins in Houston

From the highs to the lows, last week we celebrated anchor Melanie Lawson's anniversary with abc13 KTRK and today, we learn her car was broken into near the Museum District.

"FRUSTRATED AND ANGRY," posted Lawson to Facebook. "That’s how you feel when someone breaks into your car. Windows smashed and your valuables taken – You feel so violated. It happened to me two nights ago and I’m not the only one."

Reporter Marla Carter did an expanded look into this crime with the five new hot spots for car break-ins in Houston.

Lawson told Carter that she was eating at a nice restaurant and even parked in a well-lit garage. She came back and her back window as smashed out with others cracked. Three windows had to be replaced.

The thieves got her bag which had an iPad and documents in it. They even took her lunch kit.

Charles Porter Jr., first Black abc13 producer-reporter, has died

Charles Porter Jr., whose obituary says he was the first Black news producer and reporter at abc13 KTRK Houston, has died at age 81.

"Charles was one of the nicest people I’ve ever met & he took me under wing at [KTRK] as an intern," 'Live at Five' anchor Melanie Lawson posted on X. "He truly set the gold standard for so many of us." 

Lawson says Porter worked for Channel 13 from 1971 to 1978 where he produced programs such as "Sweet By and By," about local Black churches and "Barbara Jordan Goes to Washington." Lawson says he also hosted "The Show" which aired on weekends.

He would later become the 90.9 KTSU general manager. 

In the early 1980s, Porter also joined Houston PBS station KUHT 8 where he hosted a show called "City Scene."

"He was the ultimate professional, I was young and he helped guide me in the right direction as I went onto my own career in media," his then KUHT 8 producer Joseph Williams told mikemcguff.com.   "He made my job easier because he was so good at what he did." 

Porter leaves behind two daughters and two sons, 14 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held 11:30am on October 10, 2023 at Saint Thomas Episcopal Church (4900 Jackwood).

Oh my goodness, I’m so sorry to hear this! Charles was one of the nicest people I’ve ever met & he took me under wing at @abc13houston as an intern. He truly set the gold standard for so many of us. My deepest condolences to his family. #RestInPower https://t.co/bxAVT6LVZ8

— Melanie Lawson (@MelanieLawson13) October 4, 2023

Melanie Lawson and Miya Shay earn Disney gold

Melanie Lawson celebrated 40 years with abc13 KTRK Houston in September and reporter Miya Shay celebrated 20 in December!  

Today the channel 13 duo were given the "gold" as their service awards were handed out by news director Keaton Fuchs. 

Since abc13 is owned by Disney, looks like Lawson received a Donald Duck award and Shay a Simba from the "Lion King."

In other KTRK news, Shay reveals in the post that NPPA member Francisco Barragan has been named chief photogapher for the station. Barragan replaces Anthony Reed who left for the operations manager role for sister-station ABC11 WTVD Raleigh-Durham, NC back in late 2022.

Melanie Lawson's town hall discussing race relations and our Faith communities

As the nation grapples with race relations following George Floyd’s death, abc13 KTRK’s Melanie Lawson moderates an interfaith discussion on how religious leaders are addressing the crises of racial inequality and violence.

Panelists for the Houston town hall include:

Pastor Remus Wright, The Fountain of Praise

Co-Pastor Mia Wright, The Fountain of Praise

Bishop James W.E. Dixon II, The Community of Faith

Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, Galveston-Houston Archdiose

Rabbi David Lyon, Congregation Beth Israel

Imam Tauqeer Shah, Islamic Society of Greater Houston

Rev. William Lawson, founding pastor, Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church

Pastor Steve Wells, South Main Baptist Church

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez, Harris County Sheriff

Houston media members affected by COVID-19

Rucks Russell has passed away 

May 12, 2021

John "Rucks" Russell, former KHOU 11 reporter, has died at the age of 55.

Courtney Fischer recovering from COVID-19
February 2021
Courtney Fischer announced right before our Texas arctic blast that she is battling COVID-19 but feeling better.

Keith Garvin and Christine Noël recover from COVID-19 

January 15, 2021

KPRC 2 anchors Keith Garvin and Christine Noël announced on social media  they have both recovered from COVID-19 in the last weeks.

Art Rascon, and son Jacob, battling COVID-19

January 15, 2021

Longtime abc13 KTRK anchor Art Rascon and his son, KPRC 2 anchor Jacob Rascon, took to Facebook to publicly talk about their family's battle with COVID-19.

Courtney Zavala and Darby Douglas dealing with COVID-19 

January 08, 2021

Courtney Zavala's husband, Orlando, is battling COVID, while former KHOU 11 morning traffic anchor Darby Douglas has tested positive.

Dominique Sachse tests positive for COVID-19

January 07, 2021

Dominique Sachse posted to YouTube about her battle with COVID-19.

David Nuño returns after COVID-19
DECEMBER 25, 2020
David Nuño, the abc13 KTRK weekend sports anchor, took to Twitter to say his COVID-19 battle made him feel like Baby Yoda.

Melanie Lawson returns to work after COVID-19
DECEMBER 11, 2020
abc13 KTRK anchor Melanie Lawson and others report on their COVID-19 quarantine or positive test.

Britta Merwin returns after COVID
DECEMBER 7, 2020
KPRC 2 morning meteorologist Britta Merwin announced her return after a COVID quarantine.

Bob Slovak leaves abc13 KTRK
SEPTEMBER 09, 2020
abc13 KTRK weekend sports anchor Bob Slovak says his job is like so many others - a misfortune of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Janel Forte requests prayers for her grandmother
AUGUST 19, 2020
KHOU 11 reporter Janel Forte tweets that her grandmother has sadly passed away at age 96.

abc13 KTRK hosts 'COVID-19 and Our Schools' town hall
JULY 28, 2020
ABC13, Houston’s news leader, presents, “COVID-19 and Our Schools” a two-night town hall.

Astros TV's Todd Kalas to miss beginning of season after positive COVID-19 test
JULY 24, 2020
Todd Kalas, Houston Astros TV play-by-play broadcaster, posted on Twitter he will be missing the start of the 2020 season due to a positive COVID-19 test result.

Lily Jang's father dies of COVID-19
July 9, 2020
Former KHOU 11 morning anchor Lily Jang posts that after a hard fought battle that began with COVID-19 nearly five weeks ago, her beloved father has passed away.

Taniya Wright reveals why she had to put her health first
JULY 08, 2020
Former KPRC 2 morning anchor Taniya Wright reveals what it was like to have a hospital procedure during COVID-19.

Ryan Chase tests positive for COVID-19
June 29, 2020
104.1 KRBE "Roula and Ryan Show's" Ryan Chase tested positive for COVID-19 he revealed on Twitter.

Bill Barajas tested positive for COVID-19
June 28, 2020
KPRC 2 reporter Bill Barajas announced Sunday night on Facebook that he has returned to work after testing positive for COVID-19.

Houston Public Media experiences staff cuts due to COVID-19 budget shortfalls
June 23, 2020
Current reports that Houston Public Media (News 88.7 KUHF/Houston PBS 8 KUHT) is among the latest public broadcaster cutting staff due to budgetary shortfalls stemming from the coronavirus pandemic.


ABC13 President and GM shares warning after contracting COVID-19 from young daughter
June 22, 2020
KTRK abc13 is reporting that its own President and General Manager, Wendy Granato, has tested positive for COVID-19.

abc13 KTRK Virtual Town Hall discusses COVID-19 impact in Houston Asian American Community
May 24, 2020
Hosted by ABC13’s Eyewitness News reporter Miya Shay, the town hall coincides with the observation of Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month and will discuss the disparate challenges of COVID-19.

KUBE 57 High School Sports Zone cancelled
May 20, 2020
Todd Freed's High School Sports Zone show on KUBE 57 has been cancelled due to economic factors stemming from the Coronavirus.

"Producer Hoss" in hospital with COVID-19
May 17, 2020
Radio producer/on-air talent Adrian ‘Producer Hoss’ Perez for Cox Media Group Houston is battling COVID-19.

KLOL's Dayna Steele starts podcast
May 14, 2020
While quarantining from home, the Texas Radio Hall of Famer and former Rock 101 KLOL DJ has been reaching out to her vast network and landing some great interviews.

The future of TV news work after COVID-19
May 12, 2020
TV stations have been forced to jump technologically thanks to the coronavirus, so when this is over, do we fully return to normal operations?

97.5 FM KFNC hosts Raheel Ramzanali and Barry Laminack out
May 6, 2020
The duo reportedly lost their jobs because of the economic downturn associated with the COVID-19 pandemic the station said.


abc13 KTRK holds virtual town hall to address COVID-19 & communities of color
May 06, 2020
ABC13 anchor Chauncy Glover, who battled COVID-19 and has since recovered, will moderate the discussion, featuring U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, entrepreneur and community activist Tina Knowles-Lawson and other community and medical leaders.

Univision cancels some weekend newscasts, announces job cuts
April 28, 2020
Univision layoffs and furloughs announced, cancellation of Saturday newscasts


Houston film critics review "Movies on Lockdown" free for broadcast
APRIL 24, 2020
With movie theatres shuttered, the Houston Film Critics Society is now posting at home viewing suggestions on its website to help movie fans endure lockdown, while offering free access to movie reviews from select Society members to broadcast stations across the US and Canada (the critics will also appear live).

KPRC 2 went bananas and then this happened
APRIL 23, 2020
On a story about Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo’s mandatory mask order and $1000 potential fine, the NBC affiliate accidentally wrote you can wear "homemade masks, scarfs, bananas."

VIDEO: Randy McIlvoy talks sports broadcasting during COVID-19
APRIL 23, 2020
KPRC 2 sports director Randy McIlvoy talks to the High Tech Texan Michael Garfield for "The Quarantine Chronicles."

Familiar Houston radio voice battled COVID-19; family still in quarantine
Apr 17, 2020
Marc Sherman's voice is familiar to many Houston radio listeners. He spent years on sister station Sunny 99.1 with Dana Tyson. And like thousands of people in the Greater Houston area, Sherman fought a battle he never expected to; one with COVID-19.


EXPLAINED: How KPRC 2 decides how long to keep a press conference running on live television
April 17, 2020
Why do you always cut off the President of the United States in the middle of his televised speech and why don’t you cut off President Donald Trump when he is giving an obvious campaign stump speech?

New York Times Best-Selling Author Shea Serrano Raises $31,000 for the Houston Press
April 13, 2020
Last week, we ran an appeal to readers as part of our recent campaign to attract donor/members to help support the continuing work of the Houston Press.

KTRK GM Granato: "TV is seeing a huge resurgence"
April 13, 2020
abc13 KTRK president and general manager Wendy Granato: "We thought we'd lost the 20-something year olds, we thought we lost them to social media, we haven't."


Mia Gradney to anchor CBS Weekend News Easter weekend
April 11, 2020
KHOU 11 5, 6 and 10pm anchor Mia Gradney anchoring for CBS News' weekend newscasts

Carlos Robles using augmented reality weather graphics from home
April 10, 2020
Telemundo Houston KTMD chief meteorologist Carlos Robles is using augmented reality weathercasting in his living room.

KPRC 2, KHOU 11, FOX26, CW39 join forces for COVID-19 PSA
April 9, 2020
Channels 2, 11, 26 and 39 come together to show Houston TV solidarity during coronavirus pandemic.

Houston churches to air on local TV Easter Sunday
April 8, 2020
While you can't physically attend Easter Service, Houston churches and television stations are joining forces to help you celebrate without leaving your house.

TEGNA, owner of KHOU and many Texas stations, announces furloughs
April 6, 2020
TEGNA, owner of Texas stations like KHOU Houston, WFAA Dallas, KENS San Antonio, KVUE Austin, KCEN Waco, KAGS College Station, KYTX Tyler, KIII Corpus Christi, KBMT-KJAC Beaumont, KXVA Abilene and KIDY San Angelo has announced week long furloughs to come this month.

Nick Natario takes stay at home studio to next level
April 5, 2020
abc13 KTRK multi-media journalist (MMJ) Nick Natario builds awesome home studio, while channel 13 tests emergency broadcast location

Former KHOU photographer John Shaw loses wife to COVID-19
April 1, 2020
Shaw tells his former station that he recently lost his wife to COVID-19 after being with her for more than 50 years.


Chauncy Glover discusses experiencing COVID-19
March 31, 2020
Chauncy Glover goes live with his 3pm co-anchor, Mayra Moreno, about his condition.

Morning Dose returns to CW39 Monday away from studio
March 29, 2020
After being off the air Friday, CW39 KIAH's Morning Dose returns Monday.

FOX 26 KRIV tests remote broadcasts
March 29, 2020
Weekend anchor Tom Zizka posted photos on Facebook of FOX 26 KRIV conducting broadcasting tests from its transmitter location.

COVID-19 pandemic forces sports media to adapt
March 27, 2020
With a lack of sporting events for the foreseeable future, media outlets have pivoted in attempts to fill a content void for their audience.

Chauncy Glover tests positive for COVID-19
March 26, 2020
Chauncy Glover, 3pm and 6:30pm anchor for abc13 KTRK, announced today he has tested positive for coronaviurs and is self-quarantining.

Cleverley Stone puts show on hold
March 21, 2020
CBS SportsRadio 650 KIKK "Cleverley Food Talk" radio host Cleverley Stone posted the following: "Due to the Coronavirus issue and my illness (I’m fighting stage 4 uterine cancer with chemotherapy treatments), we are putting The Cleverley Show on hiatus for now."

From the Houston Chronicle editor: During coronavirus crisis, we’re working for you
March 20, 2020
A word about newspaper delivery during these troubled times: We have no indication from health authorities that the coronavirus can be spread on newsprint. But in an abundance of caution, we have provided gloves to all our press workers and delivery agents. And we are aggressively sanitizing our facilities daily.

TV anchors broadcast from home
March 20, 2020
Houston news anchors are staying home, but still delivering the news on TV.
- Houston TV helps the kids online

VIDEO: New ways TV news crews are working during COVID-19
March 19, 2020
Many Houston TV news stations are not letting their field crews (reporters/photographers) come into the station unless absolutely needed. Many are now staging from home and going to the story in their own vehicles. Some stations pair teams together to work strictly away from the station.

The Houston Press Not Immune to These Hard Times, Needs Help
March 19, 2020
As the Houston Press has documented for you over the last several days, these are hard times for our city. We’ve gone out of our way to detail the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic, especially for those in the arts, music and restaurant/bar communities, as well as relaying important public-health news and updates.

abc13 KTRK reporter Miya Shay and photographer Mario Segura confronted during live shot
March 13, 2020

I’m just going to assume this guy dropped a bunch of F bombs on me this morning because his wife sent him for toilet paper too early. #jobhazard#Coronavirus #COVID19 is serious. We are not hyping it. #abc13 https://t.co/fWUjPZUbWc pic.twitter.com/9zMhcP46xp

— Miya Shay (@ABC13Miya) March 13, 2020

Houston Chronicle news staffers could have been exposed to coronavirus
March 10, 2020
Four Houston Chronicle journalists attended a conference last week where a participant has had a presumptive positive test for novel coronavirus.

Former abc13 KTRK photographer Jaime Zamora's daughter is blogging for KPRC 2 on what it is like on lock down in Spain
March 9, 2020 and ongoing
Isabella Zamora, a Houston native and Maddie Wharton, of Portland, Oregon, were teaching in Spain together when Madrid went on lockdown over the coronoavirus. They will share their experiences on click2houston.com to provide a real-life view of what life is like right now in Spain.

KPRC 2′s Eric Braate under self-quarantine after returning from trip to Asia
March 9, 2020
KPRC 2 meteorologist Eric Braate just returned from a two week trip to Asia and has been asked to self-quarantine as a precautionary measure. Braate says he was not anticipating having to self-quarantine because when he left for the trip, the situation had not grown to what it is now. He feels fine and is healthy and said had he known how the coronavirus crisis would play out, he would have reconsidered his two-week trip.
- UPDATE 3-17-2020: ‘I’m on a 14 day quarantine. This is what it’s like.’