FOX 26's Jillian Hartmann gets engaged at AT&T Stadium

Jillian Hartmann's now-fiancé, Laurn Randell, really outdid many guys when he took FOX 26 Houston KRIV reporter to AT&T Stadium and proposed to her near the Dallas Cowboys' 50-yard line, complete with giant letters spelling "Marry Me." (Go watch Hartmann's Instagram stories to see the video before it goes away.)

OK, I realize Houston Texans fans might not be cheering, but give Randell credit for originality and access!  You know me, I've written a lot of Houston TV engagement posts in my time, but this would be the first time one was Jerry Jones-approved. Does this mean Dale Hansen will come out of retirement and criticize it?  That was a little North Texas TV humor for you today. 

But seriously, no joke here...congrats to the newly engaged couple!

Hartmann joined FOX 26 Houston KRIV as a reporter from WPXI 11 in April 2025, where she spent five years reporting in her hometown of Pittsburgh.

Previously, she worked as a morning news reporter for Fox 4 News WFTX in Fort Myers, Florida.

She began her career as a reporter for WJAC 6 in Johnstown, Pennsylvania.

A graduate of the broadcast journalism program at the E.W. Scripps School of Journalism at Ohio University, Hartmann interned at WPXI. 

(Thanks, Shad!)

Maria Aguilera leaves KHOU 11 Houston

Maria Aguilera is leaving her KHOU 11 Houston reporter position in September 2026 after four years.

Aguilera's Saturday announcement on social:

“Goodbye to KHOU after four years. Yesterday was my last day,” Aguilera wrote. “It has been an honor to report in my hometown and meet so many amazing people along the way. I’ll be sharing more from my time here soon.”

I've been blogging about Aguilera moving up Texas markets for years now. In fact, I even met Aguilera earlier this year while working a crisis communications event for my real job.  

Aguilera joined KHOU 11 in October 2022, returning to her hometown after a brief ten-month stint at sister station KVUE in Austin.

Before moving to Houston, Aguilera joined KVUE in January 2022 from KCEN 6 in Waco-Temple-Killeen, where she worked as a multimedia journalist beginning in 2018.

She began her television news career at KTXS 12 News in Abilene, where she worked as a reporter covering the crime and courts beat.

A Houston native, Aguilera graduated from the University of Houston with a Bachelor of Arts degree in broadcast journalism.

While attending UH, she gained early television experience at Telemundo Houston KTMD, working as a marketing assistant and production assistant before interning in the station's news department.

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Karol Suárez joins Noticias Telemundo as Houston correspondent

Karol Suárez has joined Noticias Telemundo as a news correspondent in Houston, bringing a decade of experience covering breaking news, international affairs, and major events across Latin America.

Here is what Suárez posted on social media:

"Today I begin a new career phase as a correspondent for @noticiastelemundo. I am very grateful for the trust and the opportunity to continue doing what I love most: journalism.

It is an honor and a privilege to join this great team of professionals and take on the challenge of covering, from Houston and wherever the news takes me, the stories of the moment. Texas, here we go!"

Suárez began her journalism career in Venezuela at El Impulso, where she worked as a multimedia journalist covering the country’s political, social, and economic crises for print and digital platforms. Her multimedia background also included video editing and digital reporting.

She later moved into radio, serving as production manager for Union Radio, where she oversaw content planning and production for two FM stations, managed social media, and edited radio content.

Suárez began working with CNN in 2018 as a desk and field producer. During her time with CNN, she traveled throughout Latin America covering breaking news, political unrest, natural disasters, immigration and other major stories.

Her work included collaborating with CNN correspondents such as Patrick Oppmann, Rosa Flores, Paula Newton, Richard Quest, David Culver and Matt Rivers. As a field producer, Suárez handled research, source coordination, script support, live-broadcast preparation and field logistics, while producing content in both English and Spanish.

She also worked as a freelance correspondent and field producer for TVN, Chile's national television network, covering Venezuela's 2018 presidential election.

In 2019, Suárez joined The Courier-Journal, part of USA TODAY, as a research writer. Based in Mexico, she focused on cross-border investigations involving organized crime, cartel violence and the synthetic opioid crisis in the United States.

Her investigative work has been cited in U.S. national-security reports and recognized by academic institutions, including Harvard Kennedy School. Her reporting has also been referenced in books examining armed groups and challenges facing U.S. and Mexican law enforcement and tourism.

Suárez's work has extended beyond traditional news reporting. In 2020, she was a field producer for the Global Health Reporting Center, producing a documentary about frontline health workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Mexico.

In 2023, she presented an academic lecture in Groningen, Netherlands, discussing her research into drug cartels at the United Nations Student Association.

Suárez joined CNN en Español as a reporter and field producer in 2024. In that role, she covered major stories across the region, including cartel violence in Mexico, immigration, U.S.-Mexico relations, political unrest and natural disasters. She also pitched, produced and shot both short- and long-form stories and contributed breaking-news alerts and digital reporting for CNN platforms.

Her coverage of the migration crisis in Mexico with CNN correspondent David Culver for Anderson Cooper 360° earned two Telly Awards in 2024, and the work was also nominated for an Emmy.

Suárez holds a bachelor's degree in Radio, Television and Digital Communication from Universidad Yacambú in Lara, Venezuela. She is bilingual in Spanish and English and has experience working across television, radio, print, digital and social media.

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Lauren Kreidler joins FOX 5 New York as meteorologist

Lauren Kreidler has joined FOX 5 WNYW in New York City as a meteorologist.

Kreidler announced the move on social media, sharing her excitement about making the jump to the nation’s largest television market:

“AHHH, SOMEONE PINCH ME!!!  It’s official…I am the newest meteorologist at @fox5ny in NEW YORK CITY!!!

It’s still sinking in that I’m actually living in New York City and starting this next chapter at such an incredible news station. To have the opportunity to work in the number 1 TV market is truly a dream come true.”

Kreidler joins FOX 5 after more than three years at WINK News in Fort Myers, Florida. She most recently served as WINK’s Supervisor of Digital Content Integration from March 2026 until September 2026, while also working as a meteorologist at the station from June 2023 through September 2026.

Before WINK News, Kreidler worked at WPTV in West Palm Beach, Florida, as a production assistant and student meteorologist from April 2022 to May 2023.

She studied meteorology at Florida State University.

- Liv Johnson joins PIX11 New York WPIX

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Monica "Mo" Lunsford joins SUNNY 99.1

Monica "Mo" Lunsford is the new SUNNY 99.1 KODA afternoon host from 3 to 7 p.m., in addition to her morning radio work.

What makes this more interesting is that at SUNNY, Mo replaces Tessa Barrera, who also previously had Mo's other radio job at 94.5 The Buzz KTBZ Houston.

"Rod said I couldn’t leave until he dies sooooo…doin both!," Mo joked with a listener in the Instagram comments.

- Mo reveals all to Rod Ryan

Lunsford joined The Rod Ryan Morning Show on The Buzz, along with Alex Middleton and Jose “The Chile” Santos, in May 2025.

She was previously part of the long-running 100.3 The Bull KILT-FM "The Morning Bullpen with George Mo and Erik." 

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Lauren Kelly talks Beyoncé with Jimmy Fallon

Lauren Kelly of KPRC 2’s Houston Life recently visited Rockefeller Center in New York City for a one-on-one chat with Jimmy Fallon.

Kelly sat down with The Tonight Show host to talk about what viewers can expect from the show’s new fall season, Fallon’s memorable visit to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, and how Kelly’s old Houston middle school yearbook may have inspired a new segment.

And yes, Kelly came prepared with some serious Houston star power.

In a surprise segment, Kelly pulled out her 1995 Welch Middle School yearbook and showed Fallon photos of some of her former classmates.  You might have said their names...Beyoncé Knowles and Kelly Rowland. 

- Beyoncé's early days remembered by Houston TV
- Kris Jenner interviewed Beyonce on "Good Morning Houston?"

The pair also looked at Kelly’s own middle school photo, giving Fallon a glimpse of the Houston Life anchor before her television career.

Fallon also reminisced about his trip to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, including his attempt at roping cattle, Texas barbecue, and the warm hospitality he experienced while visiting Houston.

But now I have a proposal for a future late-night segment: Beyoncé needs to go on Jimmy Kimmel Live! and bring her old Welch Middle School yearbook and show pictures of Kelly!

Because that would be “Irreplaceable.”

Kelly also played the Whisper Challenge with Fallon.

- Houston Life celebrates 10 years on KPRC 2
- Lauren Kelly and Sarah Pepper reminisce about their time together on Houston radio
- Sarah Pepper returns to Houston Life
- Lauren Kelly is married

Ross Guidotti retires after 25 years at CBS Pittsburgh KDKA

CBS Pittsburgh KDKA announced the retirement of veteran reporter Ross Guidotti, concluding a distinguished 31-year television journalism career that included 25 years serving viewers across Western Pennsylvania at KDKA-TV. His last day on air is today, September 18, 2026.  

"Throughout his 25 years at KDKA-TV, Ross became synonymous with the values that have defined this station for generations: service, community and a commitment to our viewers," said Julie Eisenman, president and general manager of CBS Pittsburgh. "His connection to Pittsburgh, combined with his passion for storytelling, made him a trusted presence in homes across the region. We thank Ross for his lasting contributions to KDKA and wish him all the best in this next chapter." 

A trusted journalist, Emmy Award-winning reporter and familiar presence in Pittsburgh homes, Guidotti spent more than two decades covering the stories, issues and events that shaped the region. His reporting spanned breaking news, major weather events, community issues and nationally significant stories, helping generations of viewers stay informed and connected.

"Ross embodies everything great local journalism should be," said Cathy Noschese, vice president and news director, CBS Pittsburgh. "For 25 years, he has earned the trust of viewers through his integrity, professionalism, and genuine connection to the communities he served. Ross approached every story with compassion, curiosity, and an unwavering commitment to getting the facts right. His impact on KDKA-TV, our newsroom, and Western Pennsylvania is lasting, and his legacy will continue long after his final sign-off." 

Born and raised in the Pittsburgh area, Guidotti began his journalism career in 1995 at WHSV-TV in Harrisonburg, Virginia, after serving in the United States Marine Corps. He later worked at WJAC-TV in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, and WTVR-TV in Richmond, Virginia, before returning home to join KDKA-TV in 2001 as a general assignment reporter. 

Throughout his three-decade career, Guidotti covered some of the region's and nation's most notable stories, including major hurricanes, wildfires, the impeachment proceedings involving former President Bill Clinton and the Sago Mine disaster. His reporting reflected a deep commitment to informing audiences through accurate, community-focused journalism. 

Guidotti's dedication to excellence earned him numerous professional honors, including three NATAS Mid-Atlantic Regional Emmy® Awards. This month, he also received a proclamation from Allegheny County Council recognizing his contributions to journalism and public service. He will be inducted into this year's NATAS Gold & Silver Circle Honor Society, which recognizes television and media professionals with 25 years or more of distinguished industry service. 

"Serving the Pittsburgh community has been one of the greatest privileges of my life," said Ross Guidotti. "I am grateful to the viewers who welcomed me into their homes, the sources who trusted me with their stories, and the talented colleagues who made this journey so rewarding. Pittsburgh has always been home, and I will forever be thankful for the opportunity to tell the stories of the people who make this region so special." 

TAB Board welcomes 8 new directors

One thing I am honored to do each year for the Texas media world is judge the Texas Association of Broadcasters Awards.

It's nice to give back to the community that has given me so much.  

Now the TAB has asked me to announce the new members of the Texas Association of Broadcasters Board of Directors for the next three years.

New directors were installed at TAB’s Annual Business Meeting on August 5. The meeting was held alongside the organization’s annual convention and trade show at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions in Round Rock, the largest state or regional industry gathering in the country.

“I’m delighted to welcome these experienced local broadcasters and community leaders to the TAB Board of Directors,” said TAB Board Chairman Brian Purdy, senior advisor for Audacy, Inc. “They and the entire 37-member Board are key to our organization’s delivery of direct services critical for station operations.” 

“We are fortunate that so many local broadcasters from throughout the state are willing to dedicate themselves to TAB’s efforts to advance the industry’s public policy interests which include Open Government, Free Speech, and an even competitive and regulatory playing field,” said TAB President Oscar Rodriguez. 

New Board Members

Steve Eberhart, KGAF AM-FM Gainesville
Eberhart has spent more than five decades in broadcasting, beginning his career at KGAF in Gainesville, Texas, in 1973. His career has included KVIL, KLUV, KDMX and ABC Radio Network. In 2008, he returned to KGAF as an owner-operator, helping transform it into a thriving small-market station. Eberhart remains deeply involved in the station and is passionate about sharing his experience to help small-market broadcasters succeed.

Evan Chance, KITY/KHUK Highland Lakes
Chance is a small-market Radio owner and broadcaster serving the Highland Lakes through KITY and KHUK. With a background in advertising, marketing and Radio creative. He is passionate about helping local businesses grow while keeping Radio deeply connected to the communities it serves. Chance’s stations focus on local programming, community involvement and the unique role small-market Radio plays in the Texas Hill Country.

Humberto Hormaza, KIAH Houston
Hormaza is Vice President and General Manager of KIAH-TV/CW39 in Houston and brings more than 20 years of broadcast leadership experience to the TAB Board. His career includes leadership roles in Miami, Orlando and Hartford and his stations are known for expanding local news and developing new digital platforms. Hormaza is focused on local broadcasting, community service and creating meaningful connections with viewers and advertisers.

Britt Milstead, KLBK/KAMC Lubbock
Milstead is Vice President and General Manager of KLBK-TV and KAMC-TV in Lubbock. A longtime Texas broadcaster, he has built his career in broadcast sales and leadership, with a strong track record of growing revenue, developing teams and creating innovative solutions for local advertisers. A graduate of Midwestern State University, Milstead is also a longtime member of the Texas Association of Broadcasters.

Ashley Parker, KSAT San Antonio
Parker is Vice President and General Manager of KSAT-TV in San Antonio. During more than 20 years with the station, she has advanced through roles in sales and management before being named VP/GM in 2022. Parker is committed to local broadcasting, innovation and strengthening KSAT’s connection with the San Antonio community.

Derek Rogers, KXII/KXIP Sherman-Denison
Rogers is Vice President and General Manager of KXII-TV in Sherman and brings more than 25 years of broadcasting experience. His career spans production, promotions, sales and station leadership, including previous General Manager roles in Mississippi and Georgia. An Emmy-nominated producer and award-winning broadcaster, Rogers is dedicated to strong local journalism and serving the communities of Texoma.

Kelly Trevino, ICA Radio Corpus Christi
Trevino is General Manager of ICA Broadcasting in Corpus Christi, overseeing KPUS, KAJE and KKPN, and co-host of the popular Pretty Fugly Morning Show. With more than 35 years in broadcasting, she brings extensive experience in on-air talent, promotions, sales and station leadership. A well-known voice in the community, Trevino has received multiple local honors, including recognition as one of Corpus Christi’s top Radio personalities.

Mark Grubbs, Ranch Radio Group Kerrville
Grubbs began his Radio career while attending Oklahoma State University and has spent more than five decades in broadcasting. After working in Corpus Christi, New Orleans, San Antonio and Austin, he found his home in the Texas Hill Country, launching The Ranch in Kerrville in 1994. Grubbs went on to build The Ranch Radio Group into a strong network of local stations known for its programming and deep community involvement. That commitment to serving the Hill Country has earned the group TAB’s Bonner McLane Public Service Award seven times.

View full Board list at: www.tab.org/about/board-of-directors

The Texas Association of Broadcasters represents more than 1,300 local Radio and Television stations licensed to serve distinct communities throughout the state of Texas. TAB works to promote and protect a favorable economic and regulatory climate for broadcasting at the state and federal levels and to educate members and the public at large about the opportunities available and advances possible through the efforts of free, over-the-air broadcast operations.

Victor Lopez, NewsWest 9 morning anchor, dies after cancer battle

Victor Lopez, the longtime morning anchor at NewsWest 9 KWES in Midland-Odessa, has died following a lengthy battle with cancer.

The station announced Lopez passed away on September 17, 2026, surrounded by friends and family.

A native of Lamesa, Lopez graduated from West Texas State University, now known as West Texas A&M University. He began his television career at NewsWest 9 in 2003 behind the scenes and in 2007 as a reporter before moving to the anchor desk in 2011.

Lopez became a familiar face to viewers across the Permian Basin as part of the station's morning newscast. The program earned the Texas Associated Press Broadcasters' "Best Morning Show" award in 2011.

Beyond the anchor desk, Lopez was known for his commitment to the community. Friends, family, and community members described him as strong, passionate, and a natural leader. He was particularly proud of being a community advocate and speaking up for those who needed a voice, while making sure the people around him felt supported and appreciated.

Lopez publicly shared his cancer journey with viewers after being diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer in August 2024.

"I was diagnosed with adenocarcinoma stage 4A colon cancer," Lopez said in an interview published on the KWES website. "Being told that you have cancer... it makes you just get a whole new mindset and look at life."

What initially began as a routine checkup led to the discovery of a large tumor in his colon and a lesion on his liver.

Lopez underwent surgery in October 2024 and began chemotherapy the following month. He ultimately went through 12 rounds of treatment.

In July 2025, Lopez celebrated a major milestone when he rang the bell marking remission. He also used his experience to encourage others, particularly men, to take cancer screenings seriously and catch potential problems early.

But the celebration was short-lived. By September 2025, Lopez learned that the cancer had returned.

Even as the disease took a greater toll on his body, Lopez continued working and showing up for NewsWest 9 viewers. Through additional surgeries and chemotherapy, he continued to arrive bright and early to deliver the day's headlines and weather updates from across the Permian Basin.

His determination to continue serving his viewers became another chapter in a career defined by his connection to the community.

Lopez's family is asking for privacy at this time. They are requesting that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to organizations and causes important to him, including the Texas Oncology Foundation, Permian Basin Gifts of Hope, Midland Community Theatre, Safe Place of the Permian Basin, and the Crisis Center of West Texas.

KHOU 11 Houston reporter Anayeli Ruiz wrote a touching tribute to her former colleague. KENS 5 San Antonio morning anchor Audrey Castoreno also shared a touching tribute. 

 

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Jam Creative honored at Texas Radio Hall of Fame ceremony 2026

On Saturday, November 7, 2026, the Texas Radio Hall of Fame (TRHOF) will present its George Baches Award for Broadcast Marketing Excellence to Jonathan and Mary Lyn Wolfert of JAM Creative Productions for their service to hundreds of Texas radio stations.

 This award recognizes those who contribute to radio stations' success through branding efforts such as logo design, sales and marketing materials, billboard and television messaging, and, in the Wolferts' case, jingles and audio imaging. 

The award is named for the late graphic designer George Baches, who designed or reimagined dozens of radio station logos, including KLOL’s iconic Runaway Radio and the 1990 relaunch of San Antonio’s KISS-FM.

 “Jingles are an essential ingredient in creating and sustaining ‘station-ality’”, notes Doug Harris, a 2011 TRHOF Inductee who now serves as the organization’s Executive Director. “At their best, jingles are the glue that connects a station’s music and spoken word content while earning a place in the listener’s memory.”

 Since 1974, the Wolferts’ work at JAM Creative Productions has touched thousands of radio stations from Los Angeles to New York City and around the world. Notably, the company has remained in the hands of its founders, uninterrupted, since its first day of operations. “It’s a lot of work”, observes Jonathan, “but it’s better than having a real job!”

 The TRHOF’s Induction Ceremony and Radio Reunion Weekend is scheduled for Saturday, November 7, 2026, at the Texas Broadcast Museum in Kilgore, TX. Complete details are available at Reunion Weekend & Induction – Texas Radio Hall of Fame

 For additional information on JAM, visit JAM Creative Productions.