KTRK shooting update, 2 Houston news anchors back after leave and more

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Documents detail bizarre behavior of woman who allegedly fired shots at TV news station
In a probable cause court hearing Friday, a judge raised the bond for the woman who allegedly fired shots into a KTRK abc13's studio.
- Images from KTRK abc13 shooting
- Alleged TV Channel 13 Shooter Wrote of People "Exploiting Me Nude," and Other Bizarre Stuff

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Like any number of crafty veteran baseball pitchers at this time of year, KTRK (Channel 13) anchor Dave Ward is on the mend after undergoing shoulder surgery.

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MOVING

Jarrod Carroll used to be "Allen Parkway" on the radio telling us about clogged freeways - if you're from Houston, no doubt a great radio traffic name. Carroll took a decade detour into the world of TV assignments (KTRK, News24Houston), but is back on the radio doing traffic under his real name on News 88.7 KUHF. Catch him weekdays from 5 to 10am.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
- Ron Trevino returns to KHOU 11, addresses DWI arrest
- Houston TV anchors celebrate St. Patrick's Day 2014
- Culturemap vs Houstonia Magazine
- Ford Atkinson retires from Fox 26 KRIV
- Ashley Johnson joins Fox 26 from PHL17 in Philadelphia
- Keola Lui-Kwan gets Hot 95.7 afternoon shift and more
- Brian Collister to leave KTRK abc13
- News 88.7 KUHF cleans up at Texas Associated Press Broadcasters awards
- KHOU 11 reported on Montrose apartment night before big fire
- Elliott Wood takes over 94.5 The Buzz afternoon drive, program director duties
- Hilary Whittier sneaks into Fox 26 after WPIX NY
- Art Rascon to be honored at Sylvan Rodriguez Scholarship Gala
- KTRK abc13 studios shot at again; suspect in custody

Montrose apartment fire video tops YouTube

Montrose apartment fire video offers the new media dynamic


So the video of the Houston Montrose apartment fire from this week was at the top of YouTube with more than 6 million views at the time of this posting. And why not? It was an amazing rescue by members of the Houston Fire Department.

It's under the account, Karen Jones, who I assume is the person who shot the video from inside the AIG building or nearby in the other office buildings.

Not like I have to tell you, but even more evidence of the changing media environment we live in is evident by the fact that on the video's summary. It notes the clip is represented by Newsflare. To use this video for broadcast or in a commercial player you have to email that company.

It's just not viral video subjects like a cat or kid who get famous, but now also just the videos themselves. Call the video's agent.

In the old days, one of the Houston TV stations would have gotten the video and then it would have been put up on satellite for the network and cable channels. That's still the case, but I have to wonder if the YouTube and other sites that have ripped off offer even more exposure in today's world?

Images from KTRK abc13 shooting

Photos from KTRK channel 13 studio shooting

Here are photos from the second KTRK abc13 shooting rounded up from social media.

This woman is in custody accused of shooting at KTRK this AM. Everyone ok. #shooting #Hounews #Breaking #shotsfired pic.twitter.com/8TcqDtpROK
— Samica Knight (@SamicaKnight13) March 27, 2014

Houston Police say woman fired 5 shots into KTRK, CH. 13 today, another 4 into cars. http://t.co/ZfO2NkhQAT #KHOU pic.twitter.com/T8XS89yFPE
— The Bishop (@BillBishopKHOU) March 27, 2014

Gunshots fired outside KTRK studios, woman in custody. http://t.co/7B43DLdjYl #ABC13 #hounews pic.twitter.com/FqTqBgtF5u
— Houston Chronicle (@HoustonChron) March 27, 2014

BREAKING NEWS: Reports of shots fired at KTRK Channel 13 http://t.co/LusIwE8jD2 #HOUnews #KPRC pic.twitter.com/TBBcLvklRP
— KPRC Local 2 Houston (@KPRCLocal2) March 27, 2014

#Breaking Shots fired outside Channel 13 KTRK-TV studios. One person in custody #hounews pic.twitter.com/yyCsWRKimw
— MyFoxHouston.com (@MyFoxHouston) March 27, 2014

This Hyundai and BMW each have bullet holes in windshields outside KTRK-TV. Suspect drove a silver Camaro. @KHOU pic.twitter.com/5gZxGxb8Qt
— Andrew Horansky (@KHOUAndrewH) March 27, 2014

Witnesses say they saw the woman shoot at KTRK--motive, however, is not clear. #BreakingNews @KHOU pic.twitter.com/5X7lo7yAz8
— Andrew Horansky (@KHOUAndrewH) March 27, 2014

A rare sight. @KHOU covering @abc13houston after shooting. #KTRK #abc13 #KHOU pic.twitter.com/8F0ceW7DpS

— mike mcguff (@mikemcguff) March 27, 2014

KTRK abc13 studios shot at again; suspect in custody

KTRK abc13 building shot at again; arrest made this time

In February when shots were fired at the KTRK abc13 studios, I was the only one to report it at first (I don't think the other TV stations ever did). Today's shooting was a different case since it happened around 9am on the main street of Bissonnet.

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PHOTOS: Images from KTRK channel 13 shooting
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Hopefully this ordeal is over and no one will have to report on it again.

Reports say the female suspect in custody had a semi-automatic gun and was firing at the building from the sidewalk on Bissonnet. Bullets were found inside the building afterwards. The employees were on lock down inside understandably. There were no injuries, but a close call.

Luckily the security guards inside were able to close the gate apparently, so the suspect could not come closer to the building.

The station brought pizza in for the employees today.

News 92 is reporting that the suspect posted many wild theories about ABC News on her Facebook page.

For a few years, while I was working at the station, my desk faced that front window overlooking the Bissonnet side parking lot. I was told it was bullet proof. Hopefully that is true.

Here is the coverage from around the Houston media and beyond (heck this story is now national actually).

- Shots fired outside Channel 13 in SW Houston

- Woman who fired shots at Houston TV news station charged with deadly conduct

- Alleged TV Channel 13 Shooter Wrote of People "Exploiting Me Nude," and Other Bizarre Stuff

- HPD: Shots fired outside KTRK Channel 13 building

- Shots fired at outside of KTRK studios in Houston

- Shots Fired at Houston TV Station; Woman in Custody [LISTEN]


PHOTOS: Images from KTRK channel 13 shooting

Art Rascon to be honored at Sylvan Rodriguez Scholarship Gala

The Houston Association of Hispanic Media Professionals (HAHMP)is holding its 28th annual Sylvan Rodriguez Scholarship Gala and honoring KTRK abc13's Art Rascon

Art Rascon

The Houston Association of Hispanic Media Professionals (HAHMP) is holding its 28th annual Sylvan Rodriguez Scholarship Gala – Escape To Carnaval, Saturday, April 5th at the Hyatt Regency Downtown.

KTRK abc13 Live at Five anchor Art Rascon will receive a lifetime achievement award.

Newly elected HAHMP president and KPRC 2 morning meteorologist Anthony Yanez will host the event with the 93Q Morning Zoo's Erica Rico.

The group will hand out ten $3,500 scholarships to deserving Hispanic students from the Houston area. Since 1986 HAHMP has handed out more than $700,000 in scholarships.

Tickets are $75 and tickets can be bought here through PayPal.

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Hilary Whittier sneaks into Fox 26 after WPIX NY

Hilary Whittier joins Fox 26 KRIV after working at WPIX New York City

UPDATE JULY 2015
FOX 26 KRIV reporter Hilary Whittier leaves the TV news world and goes back to New York as a communications specialist for CBRE.
- Secrets on how to jump from media to PR from those who've successfully done it

Back in action! Reporting on the huge oil spill affecting cruise ships in Galviston. Live at 5 on fox26 pic.twitter.com/ZRMWFHfBsF
— Hilary Whittier (@HilaryWhittier) March 24, 2014

Credit: WPIX

Here I thought Ashley Johnson would be the only new Fox 26 KRIV reporter mentioned on the blog this week, and then Hilary Whittier sneaks into Houston on me and starts on air! See where blogging hubris gets you...

As you can see in her above tweet earlier this week, Whittier is so new to H-town, she is not totally clear on how to spell some of the cities in our coverage area - but I'm sure she is a quick learner after working in TV market numero uno. Quick, someone in the KRIV newsroom needs to tell her how to pronounce Kuykendahl!

Whittier, comes from KIAH 39 Tribune sister station WPIX in New York. According to tunedinnyc.com, she worked with Fox 26 assistant news director Howard Dorsey at WPIX.

A quick check of Whittier's LinkedIn profile tells us she worked at WPIX for around two years. Before that she was a reporter/anchor at KNDU, the NBC affiliate which serves south-central and southeastern Washington state according to Wikipedia.

This is a return to the Lone Star State for Whittier since her profile also says she has a journalism and psychology degree from Texas Christian University. With a degree like that, she's going to have those Fox 26 photogs figured out after long car trips.

You can watch Whittier's demo tape embedded below.

RELATED
Ford Atkinson retires from Fox 26 KRIV



(Thanks to "you know who you are" and Taylor)

Elliott Wood takes over 94.5 The Buzz afternoon drive, program director duties

94.5 The BUZZ KTBZ Names Elliott Wood Program Director

94.5 The Buzz KTBZ has issued a release about Don Jantzen's replacement:

94.5 The BUZZ, Houston's New Rock Alternative, announced today that Elliott Wood has been named Program Director, effective April 1.

Wood will join 94.5 The Buzz to oversee programming of the new station after working in radio research and consulting stations from a variety of formats in the U.S., Canada, and throughout Europe for the past 15 years. He most recently
worked at Strategic Radio Solutions in Seattle and prior Broadcast Architecture, where he focused on radio programming related research projects. Wood's past experience also includes roles at CNN, WZNY, WKST and WXDX. He also launched
and programmed one of the early alternative rock stations, X-15 in Pittsburgh.

"I've been fortunate to have worked with some of the biggest brands in radio and with the programmers who make those stations' successful. Over the years I have learned so much from working closely with Clear Channel's programmers. Together we found ways to engage more listeners, more often. After some amazing years on the road, I look forward to having a singular focus with The Buzz, and finding ways to make the station even more successful," said Wood. "I can't even begin to express my excitement for the opportunity to work with such a strong heritage brand like The BUZZ. This is truly an honor, and I can't wait to get to work."

"Elliott's caliber of talent and experience will be a great asset not just for The BUZZ, but for our entire cluster of stations," said Marc Sherman, Vice President Programming, Clear Channel Media and Entertainment Houston. "This is a pivotal time for Houston to forge ahead and we are looking forward to great success with Elliott's wealth of experience."

KHOU 11 reported on Montrose apartment night before big fire

KHOU 11's Drew Karedes reports on Montrose apartment day before 5-alarm fire

Can't believe complex we did story on last night caught fire. Thoughts to firefighters/ construction workers @KHOU pic.twitter.com/VtaHk7had1
— Drew Karedes (@DrewKaredesKHOU) March 25, 2014

Drew Karedes

KHOU 11 reporter Drew Karedes did a story on the new Montrose apartment building the day before it went up in flames.

 The new development was in the news because folks were upset the complex was built right up against a century plus old cemetery (story video embedded below).

The coincidence of the fire after the story aired has people talking on social media.

The eventual 5-alarm apartment fire started early Tuesday afternoon and could be seen from all over Houston - here is my image from the edge of the Texas Medical Center. At the time of this post's publishing, there were no injuries. All the construction workers inside reportedly got out.

Here is a view from the Texas Medical Center of the Montrose apartment fire. #Houston pic.twitter.com/Xi5C5N87xc
— mike mcguff (@mikemcguff) March 25, 2014

News 88.7 KUHF cleans up at Texas Associated Press Broadcasters awards

Houston Public Media’s News 88.7 KUHF receives 11 awards from Texas Associated Press Broadcasters, the highest total of any major market radio station

Houston Public Media this week announces that its radio news channel News 88.7 (KUHF) has won 11 Texas Associated Press Broadcasters (TAPB) awards this year, the highest number among major market radio stations in Texas.

The TAPB awards annually recognize excellence and achievement in radio and television journalism. Award winners will be honored during the TAPB banquet in Austin, Texas on April 12, 2014.

“It is gratifying to see our talented and dedicated team at News 88.7 receive this recognition for the outstanding work they do in keeping our community informed,” said Lisa Trapani Shumate, executive director and general manager of Houston Public Media. “Each of our reporters brings a high level of skill and creativity that really shines through in the stories they produce.”

The four first place TAPB awards captured by News 88.7 journalists include business reporter Andrew Schneider for his special series, “Winding Down the War;” energy and environment reporter Dave Fehling for an investigative report, “An Unusual Search Warrant and What it Says About How Texas Regulates Drilling;” transportation reporter Gail Delaughter for her feature, “Metro’s Twin Bus Drivers;” and Jack Williams, news director, for his use of actuality production in the story, “Back to Bolivar Five Years After Ike.”

Second place honors were received by News 88.7’s health and science reporter Carrie Feibel for reporter of the year; web news editor Valerie Lawhorn for website and digital presence; education reporter Laura Isensee for specialty or beat reporting and for her general assignment report, “More Students Learning Chinese, So More Teachers Learning How to Teach It;” and reporter Gail Delaughter for her sports story, “Astros Looking to the Future as They Wrap Up Dismal Season.”

Honorable mention awards recognized the News 88.7 team spot news reporting for “Lone Star Stabbing Incident” and Dave Fehling’s report “Keeping Oil Wells from Leaking,” for use of actuality production.

“I am very proud of the accomplishments of our team at News 88.7,” said Jack Williams, news director. “I am fortunate to work with a group of broadcast journalists who consistently focus on delivering news to our audiences that is not only timely, relevant and informative, but also engaging.”

The Texas Associated Press Broadcasters is a not-for-profit organization made up of the various Texas radio and television stations who subscribe to the Associated Press wire service. TAPB has expanded over the years to be an advocate for key issues in today’s media and the organization works with other groups on programs related to freedom of speech, freedom of information and media law. In conjunction with similar groups in other states, TAPB organizes and conducts contests and presents awards for outstanding achievements in the field.

(This post was taken from a release sent to me by Houston Public Media)

Brian Collister to leave KTRK abc13

Brian Collister to leave KTRK 13 Undercover after a year on the job

UPDATE APRIL 02, 2014
Brian Collister exits KTRK abc13 for KXAN

#Photo: Is he back in #SanAntonio to uncover corruption? Longtime @News4SA investigative reporter, @BrianCollister. pic.twitter.com/HCQtE3086z
— Joe Caruso (@JoeCaruso1) March 19, 2014

Brian Collister

Word on the street is that Brian Collister, the successor to KTRK 13 Undercover's Wayne Dolcefino, is leaving the Houston ABC owned station after a year at the gig.

In fact, word has apparently reached Collister's old stomping grounds of San Antonio based on the above tweet. Collister worked as WOAI's longtime investigative reporter before coming to Houston.

According to his bio, Collister, who grew up in The Woodlands, has specialized in investigative reporting for most of his career since graduating from Sam Houston State University with a degree in broadcast journalism. It goes on to say he worked in Bryan and Austin. A web search reveals his Austin stop was Fox 7 KTBC.

No word on Collister's next move. Stay tuned.

As for Dolcefino, he is now running Dolcefino Consulting. In full disclosure, I designed and built the Dolcefino Consulting website.

UPDATE APRIL 02, 2014
Brian Collister exits KTRK abc13 for KXAN

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Keola Lui-Kwan gets Hot 95.7 afternoon shift and more

Keola Lui-Kwan joins Hot 95.7 KKHH as assistant program director/music director and afternoon drive host

Houston’s Hot Hits, 95.7 (KKHH) has announced Keola Lui-Kwan as Assistant Program Director/Music Director and PM Drive host beginning Monday, March 24, it was announced today by Bruce Logan, Vice President of Programming and Operations for Houston and Program Director of the station.

Keola joins the on-air team which features The Hot Show in Morning Drive and Carmen Contreras in mid-days. He will host the CBS RADIO station’s afternoon program broadcast live weekdays from 2:00-7:00PM, on-air, online at www.hothits957.com and via the Radio.com app for a variety of mobile devices.

Keola has served as the Assistant Program Director for Houston’s New Country, The Bull at 100.3 (KILT) since 2012. Since 1999 Keola has worked in the industry serving as APD and PM Drive hosts on stations such as KUPL in Portland and KBKS in Seattle.

Bruce Logan, VP of Programming said, “In my time with CBS Houston, Keola has impressed me with his energetic on-air skills & his use of phones to interact with the audience. As the APD of The Bull he and I worked side by side to rebrand and begin the rebuilding process of KILT-FM. At every turn he exceeded my expectations with his attention to detail and the speed with which he moved through the tasks at hand. He and I quickly developed a great working chemistry and when he showed interest in moving across the hall to Hot – I couldn’t have been more thrilled.”

Keola added, “First and foremost I’d like to thank Bruce Logan, Michael Martin and Sarah Frazier for this amazing opportunity! Everyone at 100.3 The Bull has become family to me and now it grows, within CBS Radio Houston, to Hot 95.7! I can’t wait to get started… It’s time to bring the HEAT @ HOT!!! Houston summer temperatures not included.”

Carmen Contreras has accepted the post as Assistant Music Director and will continue her post in Mid-Days.

(This post taken from a release sent to me by CBS Radio Houston)

Ashley Johnson joins Fox 26 from PHL17 in Philadelphia

Ashley Johnson joins Fox 26 KRIV from WPHL 17 Eye Opener in Philadelphia

UPDATE JANUARY 29, 2016
FOX 26's Ashley Johnson is leaving

Ashley Johnson

Ashley Johnson is joining Fox 26 KRIV from WPHL 17 in Philadelphia where she worked for Tribune morning show Eye Opener.

Johnson tweets she will be an entertainment correspondent and reporter for the Houston Fox owned and operated station.

The Philadelphia native got her start in the TV biz as a multi-media reporter for WPTZ the NBC affiliate serving Burlington, VT and Plattsburgh, NY.

According to her bio, Ashley attended the University of Pennsylvania where she dual majored in political science and communications. Later she earned a Master’s of Science in broadcast journalism from Northwestern’s Medill School of Journalism. Like 30 Rock's Kenneth Parcell, Johnson participated in the NBC Page program in New York City, where she worked for programs like The Suze Orman Show and Weekend Today.

I contacted Johnson for more information and will post it if I hear back from her.

UPDATE JANUARY 29, 2016
FOX 26's Ashley Johnson is leaving

RELATED
- Hilary Whittier sneaks into Fox 26 after WPIX NY
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Ashley Johnson PHL 17 Reporter from Ashley Johnson on Vimeo.

Ford Atkinson retires from Fox 26 KRIV

Ford Atkinson leaves Fox 26 KRIV after 22 years

Ford Atkinson

Ford Atkinson has retired from Fox 26 KRIV after working at the station for 22 years.

“Today, we announce the retirement of longtime FOX 26 newsman, Ford Atkinson," said Bob Morford, FOX 26 KRIV news director, in a statement to mikemcguff.com. "Whether on the anchor desk or out in the field reporting, Ford has established a solid reputation for his keen news sense and dedication to this station. We will miss his aggressive approach to covering news and wish him well in this next chapter of his life."

Atkinson was most recently a morning newscast reporter. Before the AM duty, he anchored the station's weekend newscast starting in 1997.

The managing editor of City Under Siege gig brought Atkinson to the station in 1992. He came to Houston in 1982, where he worked as a reporter at KPRC 2 and then as an executive assistant to a Harris County Commissioner.

Before Houston, the award winning journalist worked at TV stations in Montana, Washington, Utah and Arkansas.

After his absence from the airwaves since December 2013, I contacted Atkinson for comment but did not hear back from him.

Fox 4 KDFW's Clarice Tinsley interviews President Obama

Fox 4 anchor Clarice Tinsley asks President Obama about the Malaysia Airlines Flight, Obamacare and raising the minimum wage

Dallas News | myFOXdfw.com

Clarice Tinsley

KDFW FOX 4 Dallas anchor Clarice Tinsley sat down with President Obama in the White House Wednesday (she was the only Texas reporter to speak to the President) about pressing American and international issues such as the missing Malaysia Airlines Flight 370, Obamacare and raising the minimum wage.

Part 2 airs Thursday at 9PM on KDFW FOX 4.

ON WHETHER OR NOT FINDING THE MISSING MALAYSIAN AIRLINES PLANE IS A TOP PRIORITY

"Oh absolutely. I mean first of all, we want to send out our thoughts and prayers to all the families that have been affected, but particularly our American families, who I can only imagine what they are going through with all of this uncertainty that's taken place. We have put every resource that we have available at the disposal of the search process. There's been close cooperation with the Malaysian government and so not just NTSB but FBI all, anybody who typically deals with anything related to our aviation system is available and so, our thoughts and prayers are with the families, I want them to be assured that we consider this a top priority and we're going to keep on working with the international community to see if we can get to the bottom of this."

"Well, part of the challenge is that when you have a lot of unanswered questions, people start speculating. And, sometimes it gets reported as news and that's hard for the families. We have tried to be very careful in saying that we do not have conclusive evidence one way or another as to what happened. As we get more information, we try to make sure that when the administration speaks, we know what we are talking about. But this is a tough situation. It's a big piece of planet that we're searching and sometimes these things take time, but we hope and pray that we can get to the bottom of what happened."

ON RAISING MINIMUM WAGE

"You know, I have to say that every time there has been a debate about the minimum wage, this issue gets raised. And yet, we have evidence that when the minimum wage gets raised that's not what happens. What happens is that people who are working full time but still living in poverty get a little bit of a boost. They're able to pay their bills at the end of the months. Twenty eight billion people would benefit if we raised the minimum wage to ten dollars and ten cents an hour. And that makes a difference in a lot of families and a lot of differences to whether they are going to be able to buy groceries or pay the electricity bill. The majority of folks in low wage jobs our women. Often times, who may be supporting children on their own and so when more workers have more money in their pockets, they're also customers. They spend more, that means businesses have the opportunity to get more profits, the economy as a whole gets a boost, America grows best when it grows from the middle class out, from working families doing well, to everybody doing well. Right now the minimum wage is where it was when Ronald Reagan came into office. In fact, it's a little bit lower. That doesn't make any sense. The cost of everything for everybody has gone up and at a time when the economy has grown, cooperate profits have rarely been higher, the stock market is booming. The idea that we can't make sure that our workers get a little bit of a boost, doesn't make much sense to most people."

ON OBAMACARE

"Well, look it's tougher when states don't cooperate. I mean, keep in mind that right off the top, you've got a million Texans, who don't currently have health insurance that we know we could sign up right away for health insurance through medicaid, if Governor Perry and others decided to do the right thing. It wouldn't cost Texas a dime right away. The federal government would pay for it. The idea that political reasons those folks aren't getting the help they need doesn't make sense. Now, in addition, what we've also seen is that when states don't corporate that means local groups, churches, synagogues, community organizations they are having to do their own out reach with not a lot of resources. We're doing everything we can to help. We have seen some surge in enrollment in Texas overall. We now have seen despite the terrible problems we have had with the website that first month and a half, which was entirely our fault, what we have seen is over five million people have now signed up and people still have two weeks to sign up, until March thirty-first. What folks are finding, even some folks who are opposed to the law and didn't like when they heard is actually when they go on the website, healthcare.gov, they find out it's actually a good deal. They can potentially get health insurance for a hundred dollars or less...good quality health insurance that gives them free preventative care, gives them financial security that they need. We're particularly reaching out to Latinos in Texas and other areas where they are most likely to be uninsured. And so between the healthcare.gov site, the...quidato...the...uh...the....Spanish-speaking site that we have, CuidadoDeSalud.gov, we have the opportunity to make sure that people get signed up over the next couple weeks. They will enjoy the kind of financial security and health security that really is priceless."

ON COLLEGE BASKETBALL, WHICH PRESIDENT OBAMA IS A FAN OF

"Larry Brown is a great coach, and you know, I think it's a great story for him to have everything that he has accomplished both at the college level and the pro level to go back to the school that didn't have the great tradition of basketball and really build up a wonderful program, so my suspicion is that Coach Brown and the team will be back. I want to congratulate them on a great season."

Houston TV chopper crash coverage

Remembering those at KTRK abc13 and Fox 26 KRIV who lost their lives

As the sad news of KOMO Seattle's helicopter crash reached the nation yesterday, I thought it's time to remember some of the Houston TV crews that lost their lives in chopper crashes.

Fox 26 KRIV's SkyFOX crashed on 11/16/2000. The pilot, whose name was not given in the video clip below, died that night. If anyone knows his name, please add it in the comments.


KTRK abc13's SkyEye 13 crashed in October 2008 in Montgomery County. Pilot John Downhower, 43, and photographer Dave Garrett, 36, were killed that day.






RELATED
Houston has history of TV news helicopter crashes

Culturemap vs Houstonia Magazine

Houstonia Magazine issues statement concerning Culturemap articles: Round One!

I talk about Houston radio wars here, but now we seem to be in the midst of Houston online news site vs magazine wars. Two of the biggest, and most well-funded, are going toe to toe. In one corner, it's the first to the table Culturemap vs newcomer magazine/site Houstonia.

Time for us to sit back and butter up the popcorn.

Culturemap has published articles that seem to take delight in pointing out problems over at Houstonia. So Houstonia is trying to set the record straight from its perspective with the following press release:

Of late, CultureMap has published a series of misleading articles about Houstonia. It’s time we set the record straight.

1. Robb Walsh is not leaving Houstonia.

Robb Walsh, the author of 14 cookbooks, has now been presented with the opportunity to write several more. Even so, he will continue to be Houstonia’s monthly restaurant critic/reviewer and contribute to our food-related cover stories and events to the exact same degree as in the past.

CultureMap’s headline read, "Houstonia suffers another big loss: Super hyped, food writer hire leaves full-time position”.

It’s simply not true.

2. There has been no staffing turmoil and no series of big losses.

In its first year Houstonia has lost exactly one editorial employee and gained exactly one editorial employee. Here is the list of editorial employees since the launch of Houstonia:

Scott Vogel
John Wilburn (departed May 2013)
Catherine Matusow
Kerry Howley
John Nova Lomax
Michael Hardy
Peter Holley
Robb Walsh
Dan Derozier
Chris Skiles
Alese Pickering
Chesney Fuller
Katharine Shilcutt (joined May 2013)

CultureMap headlines:

1/31/14: “It’s another shakeup for Houstonia magazine…” (Or as the caption of an accompanying photo puts it: “Houstonia’s seen plenty of change and turmoil in its first year.”
6/21/13: “…Shakeups continue at new magazine”
3/9/14: “Another big loss…”

Again, it’s simply not true.

3. Diane Caplan, Houstonia’s new Publisher, is a seasoned Sales & Marketing executive.

Over the past seven years, as Marketing & eCommerce Director at Momentum Motors, Diane has bought media from nearly every major media outlet in Houston, making her a perfect fit for Houstonia’s customer-focused advertising efforts.

In the January 31 article referenced above, CultureMap derided Caplan as someone with “no experience” and as a “car salesman.”

Again, it’s simply not true.

We built this company from the ground up over the last 10 years, from publishing one magazine to publishing over 40 magazines. We have done it with honesty and integrity and we hoped others would do the same. In the absence of that, we felt it was time you heard from us.

Houstonia has had astonishing success in its first year due to the unparalleled contribution of its staff as well as the incredible support of the advertising community. We look forward to serving this remarkable community for many years to come.

Houston TV anchors celebrate St. Patrick's Day 2014

Houston TV anchors bring out the green for St. Patrick's Day 2014, just not on the green screen!

Post by KPRC Local 2.

.@DonTraffic demonstrates why he and I cannot wear green today. Can anyone chip in to get him a new snuggie? #abc13 pic.twitter.com/WluwWRsZRa

— Travis Herzog (@HerzogWeather) March 17, 2014

Post by Caitilin Espinosa FOX 26.

Post by Fox 26 Meteorologist Mike Iscovitz.

Happy #StPatricksDay lovin the green socks and tie, @CPATexas pic.twitter.com/ixgi6DRm1k

— Michelle Merhar (@FOX26Michelle) March 17, 2014

More Houston media photos here!

Ron Trevino returns to KHOU 11, addresses DWI arrest

After DWI arrest, Ron Trevino returns to KHOU 11 and talks about it on air

UPDATE JUNE 19, 2014
Ron Trevino's DWI case dismissed

Post by KHOU 11 News.

Ron Trevino returned to the KHOU morning news desk today a little less than week after being arrested and charged with suspicion of driving while intoxicated last Tuesday as his station first reported (clip embedded above or on mobile click here).

 Ron Trevino

During the morning newscast, Trevino talked about the event and said the arrest happened on his way home from the rodeo.

Trevino expressed gratitude to viewers who have supported him. He admits it has been an embarrassment to him, his family and KHOU but said it is important for him to talk about it.

The anchor said nothing like this has ever happened to him before and he is still processing it.

He admitted the severity of the charge, and while he may not agree with the allegations against him, he supports what the Houston Police Department does to protect citizens from drunk drivers.

He says his side of the case will be presented soon and KHOU will continue to report on the story.


UPDATE JUNE 19, 2014
Ron Trevino's DWI case dismissed

Dominique Sachse gets painting back from Nazis, plus TX TV moves and more

MORE VIDEOS
- Houston media celebs milk it for ratings
- Tom Abrahams on how journalism skills helped write 'Allegiance'
- Classic Houston TV news clips
- Fake Chef Fools Midwest Morning Shows, Makes Reporters Eat Gross Food
- Seattle Reporter Unaware He’s Live, Says Nothing Offensive
- Mike McGuff talks H-Town parenting on KUHF's 'Houston Matters'
- KVUE's Mark Murray in a 1980s commercial
- News anchor quits on the air
- ‘We’re Gonna Have to Run Because Our Light’s Catching on Fire’
- Watch out for the purse
- Ummm
- Gloria Campos - Share Promo
- A special goodbye to Izzy from News 8 Daybreak
- We are KHOU 11
- KENS 5 AM IMAGE - COFFEE
- KHOU - For Your Information and Anyone Else's (2 Reports), 1990
- KSAT NewsWatch 12 at Five (FULL), 2/28/1983
- KHOU - The Spirit of Texas Promo, 2001

NBC5's Kendra Lyn heading back to Disneyville
After two years of grinding it out on the early morning beat, NBC5 reporter Kendra Lyn is heading back to Orlando, FL.

Once more with feeling
An appreciation and evaluation of WFAA8 anchor Gloria Campos
- Campos goes out like a champ with the day's most-watched show
- Gloria Campos' roots are in Harlingen
- Gloria Campos says her finale is definitely the end
- Wednesday’s Child success story surprises Gloria Campos

WBAP's Steve Lamb and NBC 5's Deborah Ferguson Open Up About His Stroke
Two well-known DFW media personalities, one frightening medical emergency. NBC 5 KXAS' Meredith Land sits down with morning anchor Deborah Ferguson and her husband, WBAP's Steve Lamb, one week after Steve suffered a stroke. They share the warning signs, and hope for the future.

NBC 5's Bobbie Wygant Wins National Gracie Award
Recognized as 'Outstanding Reporter/Correspondent' for NBC 5 Anniversary Special

KSBJ to Receive 2014 NRB Award for Radio Station of the Year
KSBJ, Houston’s number one contemporary Christian station, received the 2014 NRB Media Award for Radio Station of the Year on Tuesday, February 25, at the NRB 2014 International Christian Media Convention.

Dominique Sachse and Nick Florescu celebrate return of painting
Nick Florescu and his family members, including wife Dominique Sachse, are quietly celebrating today the return of a valuable painting looted from the family trove by Nazis during World War II.

Tribune, KPRC-TV seal partnership deal
The Tribune Newspapers and KPRC-TV Channel 2 have agreed to become news partners. The agreement allows both news organizations to expand their penetration of news for their readers.

Christi Myers, Longtime Medical Reporter Retires
Myers’ retirement announcement in February took many by surprise, but her colleagues and longtime friends within the Texas Medical Center expressed their gratitude for her decades of support.
- Christi Myers to retire from KTRK abc13

CSN Houston Owners Actually Agreed on Something
The good news is that the Houston Astros, Houston Rockets, and Comcast finally found something on which to agree. The bad news is that the agreement's on how much the attorneys handling the bankruptcy of Comcast SportsNet Houston should be paid.
- Astros want lawsuit against McLane, Comcast moved back to state court

Jumping from KENS to WOAI; more TV tidbits
Gary Cooper, the S.A. TV reporter with the fun swagger and movie star name, was on KENS one day and at competitors WOAI and KABB the next.

Time Warner launching S.A. news channel
Time Warner Cable confirmed it will be launching a 24-hour news channel for San Antonio.

New ‘Living’ co-host is wife of WOAI anchor
KCYY-FM morning personality Claudia Garofalo has been named a part-time co-host on “San Antonio Living,” which is hosted by mainstay Shelly Miles.

S.A.’s news stars: Where are they now
San Antonio’s news stars: Where are they now? Part 2

On hand in Austin for Kimmel's first of five shows
Lights, cameras, more lights: Jimmy Kimmel’s five shows this week from SXSW-fueled Austin are impressively back-dropped by a neon array of long-lasting, signature establishments.

February sweeps Austin
KXAN wins most news time slots
- Fox 7 KTBC February 2014 ratings highlights

Station Trading Roundup: 2 Deals, $1.8M
The sale by Blue Bonnet Communications of four LPTV stations in Texas to London Broadcasting

Inside the Texas Tribune model of sustainable journalism
Austin-based Texas Tribune tapped former New York Times exec Tim Griggs to be its new publisher and chief operating officer.

T-Squared
Terri Langford is Texas Tribune's Latest Hire.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
- Vicente Arenas' big CBS News send-off party pics
- Texas Associated Press Broadcasters competition 2013
- KTRK abc13 and Univision 45 KXLN team up for Affordable Care Act info
- Houston media moves and TV retirements
- KTRK abc13 10pm election coverage preempted by commercials & 'Inside Edition'
- Media out in force at Rodeo Houston
- Katie McCall exits KTRK abc13
- Ume out of Austin brings rock music back
- Fox 7 KTBC February 2014 ratings highlights
- Houston TV, newspaper & radio job changes out the wazoo
- KHOU 11 anchor Ron Trevino arrested & charged with DWI

Mike McGuff talks H-Town parenting on KUHF's 'Houston Matters'

Mike McGuff offers tips on raising kids in the Bayou City on 88.7 KUHF's Houston Matters

If you are a parent in Houston, or thinking about having kids, you might want to listen to this (interview embedded above). I scrapped thinking, writing or talking about Houston media for about 20 minutes and instead focused on parenting in a 88.7 KUHF Houston Matters segment over at Houston Public Media.

As some of you know, I am primarily a stay at home dad. The blog is something I do to keep busy while kids are at school or asleep. How could I hold a full-time job down and do this blog? That would be practically impossible.

Kelly Davis, the founder of the Houston Moms Blog, was with me as we took questions from host Craig Cohen and callers about the challenges and great parts of raising kids in Houston.

Got a great reaction from the listeners of Houston Matters over this, some of which will be coming up in a future blog post here! Tease, tease, tease.

If you are bored by me talking about anything other than media, then look no further to the link below where I was on Houston Matters talking the news biz with Houston Chronicle senior editor George Haj and former KTRH reporter and assistant news director Joe Householder.

RELATED
Mike McGuff talks media on KUHF's 'Houston Matters'

KHOU 11 anchor Ron Trevino arrested & charged with DWI

Ron Trevino charged with driving while intoxicated

UPDATE JUNE 19, 2014
Ron Trevino's DWI case dismissed

KHOU 11 is reporting that its own morning anchor Ron Trevino was arrested Tuesday night and charged with driving while intoxicated.

--------------------
UPDATE MARCH 17, 2014
VIDEO: Ron Trevino returns to KHOU 11, addresses DWI arrest
--------------------

The station notes the DWI arrest happened when he was off the clock.

The station offers its support to Trevino:

"We are aware of the circumstances surrounding the arrest and are grateful that neither Ron nor any others were injured in this incident.　

His guilt or innocence of these charges is yet to be determined.　　
Ron will go through the system and present his own defense.　
KHOU supports Ron as he goes through the legal process."

He isn't the first Houston TV anchor this has happened to over the years and probably will not be the last.

Ironically Trevino just appeared in a video on this very blog today in connection with an event from last week.

Trevino has been with the CBS affiliate for 30 years.


UPDATE JUNE 19, 2014
Ron Trevino's DWI case dismissed

UPDATE MARCH 17, 2014
VIDEO: Ron Trevino returns to KHOU 11, addresses DWI arrest

VIDEO: Houston media celebs milk it for ratings

Houston media celebrities trash talk each other to get the white stuff at Rodeo Houston

)
One of the classic Houston media events at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is the "Celebrity Goat Milking Competition." TV anchors, radio hosts and newspaper reporters all warm their hands and milk for one minute. At the end of all of the heats, a winner is determined by the total amount of milk produced. No experience necessary - in fact I think everyone finds it funnier that way.

I was invited this year to participate, so I just had to take a camera along to harass the other contestants with questions for mikemcguff.com!

Watch above (or click here to view) as I shove the camera in the faces of Houston TV anchors, radio show hosts and newspaper reporters. NO ONE IS SAFE. In fact I had to edit some of the crazier talk out. My wife was like, "That's just gross." What can I say, I don't get out of the house much.

Rodeo Houston still has more than a week to go!

Photography: Scott Myers
Edit: Mike McGuff

rodeohouston.com/

Houston TV, newspaper & radio job changes out the wazoo

Houston Chronicle, KTRK abc13, 88.7 KUHF, 94.5 The Buzz KTBZ, KHOU 11, News 92 Online Hot 95.7 job moves

KTBZ program director exits
94.5 The Buzz KTBZ afternoon jock and program director Don Jantzen has left the station after 10 years. He is tweeting sad notes about being unemployed.

Mike Ward joins the Houston Chronicle
After 25 years with the Austin American-Statesman, Austin-based reporter and blogger Mike Ward moves to the Houston Chronicle. His Twitter bio says he will specialize in the Texas Senate, criminal justice issues and investigations.


Eddie Robinson replaces Rod Rice on 88.7 KUHF
Eddie Robinson replaces Rod Rice on Houston Public Media's 88.7 KUHF. Robinson comes from New York where he was an on-Air News Host/Anchor and Producer for WNYC Radio, co-host of For Your Ears Only (formerly Newsweek On-Air), and contributor for Studio 360 with Kurt Andersen. Robinson has a connection to Houston from the past. According to his old bio, while earning a Mechanical Engineering degree from Prairie View A&M University, he received numerous awards as an on-air talent for NPR-affiliate, KPVU-FM.

Trent Seibert starts at KTRK abc13
Former Texas Watchdog editor Trent Seibert tweets he is now working at KTRK abc13 as the investigative producer with Ted Oberg and Brian Collister.

Kristy Gillentine jumps to News 92 FM KROI from KTRK abc13
I have it confirmed that abc13 KTRK web producer Kristy Gillentine is moving to News 92 FM KROI as online editor Online Content Manager.

From Great Day Houston to KHOU 11 News This Morning
Not a TV station move, but Great Day Houston reporter Courtney Perna seems to also be joining KHOU 11 News This Morning as a feature reporter much like Ruben Galvan at KPRC. Clearly Galvan is having an impact on the morning news ratings race.

KKHH Afternooner Kaden Is On The Move
CBS Top 40 KKHH (HOT 95-7)/HOUSTON afternoon ace KADEN exits.

VIDEO: Tom Abrahams on how journalism skills helped write 'Allegiance'

Tom Abrahams breaks down how TV types can dip into the book world

Tom Abrahams

Not only does he anchor for KTRK abc13, but Tom Abrahams also writes novels.


His latest, "Allegiance," has already received critical acclaim. I caught up with the Abrahams at Houston's Murder by the Book for one of his signings.

The sophomore novelist talks about the book, how he uses his journalism skills to make the story so real plus how the heck does he have time to write books and work in television!

You might want to check out his first book, Sedition, which received positive reviews with one even comparing Abrahams to Tom Clancy.

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Tom Abrahams' "Allegiance" borrows from TV career