Remembering the Hurricane Katrina evacuees at Houston's Astrodome [PICS]

Photos from The Astrodome in 2005 when Hurricane Katrina evacuees were trying to figure out what's next



In 2005, after watching the non-stop coverage of the post-Hurricane Katrina horrors in New Orleans, the city of Houston and Harris County opened its doors to the storm victims.

The then named Reliant complex became "Reliant City." I was stationed at the complex to help cover the many stories that happened there.

One area that housed many of Katrina's evacuees was the abandoned Astrodome. A setting that seemed to fit the story of what was happening to New Orleans at the moment. For the New Orleanians, one dome shelter just became another.

It was a strange juxtaposition when walking into the "Eighth Wonder of the World." Frozen in time were Houston Astros and Oilers banners suspended from the domed ceiling. Just a few years before Katrina, its where Houstonians spent decades having fun and escaping the troubles of the world.

Now on the former astroturfed field was concrete filled with human misery. Grief stricken faces, still shocked from a hurricane, infrastructure breakdown and a failed emergency response, sat on cots wondering what was next.

Signs adorned walls with notes to missing family members on how to regain contact.

Then from a real flood, came a flood of Hollywood celebrities to the complex. With all the nation's gaze still fixated on the tragedy, apparently this story became quite the promotional vehicle. I remember standing near CNN's tent and seeing celebrities have their time in the spotlight. Stars would also speak at press conferences held throughout the day. They would talk about the tragedy and their upcoming projects.

But there were whispers among the journalists in attendance that a movie star showed up, volunteered to help the evacuees and vanished without doing any press. It was Steve Guttenberg (Police Academy, Three Men and a Baby, Short Circuit and Cocoon). Years later, when he was on ABC's Dancing with the Stars, I interviewed Guttenberg for abc13.com where he told me about his volunteering experience.

"I went to Katrina under the radar as a volunteer," Guttenberg told me in 2008. "I enjoyed the great sense of purpose I gained there and surprising the clients of the relief center when they realized someone from Hollywood was there to help them. That seemed to be somewhat meaningful to them, and people who hadn't had anything to smile about sometimes rewarded me with a smile. That's one of the biggest paychecks I ever received. I made many friends, and during the Dancing with The Stars exposure, I've received such positive support from the people of Katrina. They said I sent them hope every time they saw me on the show. Volunteering is an essential American tradition. We all need to chip in our time."

I will always be a fan of Guttenberg's.

Unfortunately, hurricane season wasn't finished yet. Hurricane Rita was just around the corner. That meant many of the Katrina survivors and much of the Houston area's population were about to embark on another mass evacuation.

Since this was 10 years ago in the pre-Android/iPhone era, here are some grainy cell phone pics I took with my Sanyo 5600 from inside the Astrodome. Images, I will never forget.

Craig Roberts returns to KPRC 2

Craig Roberts re-launches "The Daily Craig" column on KPRC 2's click2houston.com

Craig Roberts was the longest-tenured sportscaster at KPRC 2. He arrived at the station in 1980 and delivered the news with his irreverent style until 2002.

Now Roberts is back on KPRC 2's with his "The Daily Craig" column on the station's website click2houston.com.

That column actually was a mainstay at his last station, News 92 KROI.

I wonder if Roberts will make any guest appearances on Sports Sunday? He created that show in 1983 and it's still on the air today.

Roberts has always been a busy guy. In addition to his KPRC 2 work in the evening, Roberts used to serve up a helping of sports news on 101 KLOL's Stevens and Pruett show (Anyone heard about an upcoming Rock 101 KLOL documentary?).

You could also find him doing play-by-play for the University of Houston and the Houston Oilers, as well as college basketball on NBC Sports.

Roberts later did sports talk on 790 KBME.

Roberts is a graduate of Southern Illinois University. He served three years in the U.S. Marine Corps.

Black-ish star Anthony Anderson featured at The Houston Association of Black Journalists event

Emmy-Nominated Actor Anthony Anderson to Keynote “The Real Role Models” Gala - Fundraiser Event Hosted by The William A. Lawson Institute for Peace & Prosperity and The Houston Association of Black Journalists

The William A. Lawson Institute for Peace and Prosperity (WALIPP) and the Houston Association of Black Journalists (HABJ) present, "The Real Role Models" Gala, honoring community leaders, students and media professionals on October 24th at 6:00 pm at the Royal Sonesta Hotel (2222 West Loop S., Houston, TX 77027).

This year’s keynote address will be given by Emmy-nominated actor Anthony Anderson of ABC’s hit sitcom ‘black-ish. Anderson will share on the dynamics of his career in the film industry, while speaking on the need for more young black professionals in the media field.

“We are excited to have Anthony Anderson as our keynote speaker this year. His story is an inspiring one, and most certainly fits the theme of a Real Role Model – he had them in his parents and he has become an impactful one through his journey from Compton to Hollywood star,” says Jerome Solomon, HABJ President. HABJ is raising scholarship funds to assist aspiring journalists.

HABJ’s partnership with WALIPP emphasizes the importance of education for young people in secondary schools as well as college-bound journalists. WALIPP is proud to be honoring H-E-B and its president, Scott McClelland for their continuing support and commitment in the field of education. Mr. McClelland is a corporate role model of philanthropy and service to the community.

“Investing in the future demands that we invest in the scholarship of students across all ages, not just accepting the status quo but requiring more today than yesterday” says Rev. William A. Lawson, Founder of WALIPP and proud parent of one of the city’s most well-respected journalists.

The evening aims to reflect positive role models in multiple areas, celebrating journalists, non-profit leaders and scholarships. WALIPP’s mission to continue the work of civil rights leader and renowned Pastor, Rev. William A. Lawson, is realized through its charter school, The Lawson Academy which provides quality single-gender education for middle school students and the WALIPP Senior Residence, an affordable housing facility for active elders.

Funds raised from this event will allow The Lawson Academy to expand its facility and HABJ provides professional development, honors excellence in journalism and cultivates young journalists to enter the professional world of media through various outreach programs. HABJ will allot $20,000 in scholarships to deserving college students majoring in the media and communications field.

Attendees can expect a night of dinner and dancing emceed by TV ONE host and commentator, Roland S. Martin, along with Houston’s FOX 26 Reporter, Isiah Carey. In addition to Scott McClelland, H-E-B President, the evening will honor “Real Role Model Awards” recipients Mary Benton (former KPRC-TV Ch. 2 Reporter), Marie Bosarge (philanthropist and founder of Music Doing Good), Khambrel Marshall (“Houston Newsmakers, KPRC-TV Ch. 2 host), Serbino Sandifer-Walker (Texas Southern University) and Georgetown University student, Rashema Melson.

Proceeds from this year’s gala will benefit both WALIPP and HABJ.

habj.org/


(This post was taken from a press release sent to me by HABJ)

Best TV news bloopers August 2015

Steven Tyler stops by Houston's 93Q & The Eagle

Aerosmith singer Steven Tyler drops by 93Q KKBQ and 107.5/106.9 The Eagle KGLK

Rock royalty and Aerosmith lead singer Steven Tyler is in Houston today...because of country music?

Yes, half of the former Toxic Twins, is waving his microphone scarves for the Nashville crowd [hear his new song here]. But let's face it, there were some 90s Aerosmith tunes that kind of veered in that direction anyway.

With added twang in his voice, Tyler was here to meet 93Q KKBQ program director Johnny Chiang and music director Christi Brooks, plus sit down with the Q Morning Zoo to talk about his move into country music.

A Cox Media Group representative tells mikemcguff.com that Tyler was incredibly nice and even brought his two dogs with him.

And being that this is the lead singer of one of America's greatest rock bands, Tyler did stop in to talk with Dean & Rog over at classic rocker 107.5/106.9 The Eagle KGLK.

UPDATE
Kelly pointed out that after his radio appearances, Steven Tyler headed over to Cafe Express in Uptown Park.

RELATED
- VIDEO: Aerosmith playing in Houston - 1977
- Walk This Way: The Autobiography of Aerosmith review
- Aerosmith & Cheap Trick rock Houston's Toyota Center
- Top pro-shot Houston concerts on YouTube

BREAKFAST W/ @THETIMMCGRAW LOOKS PRETTY GOOD, DONUT?? @THENEW93Q

A photo posted by Steven Tyler (@iamstevent) on Aug 28, 2015 at 8:32am PDT

This is totally going to be my Christmas card the year....#MerryChristmasFromTheTylersSteven Tyler, I <3 u!<3 The Fabulous Jennifer Tyler
Posted by Houston's Eagle on Friday, August 28, 2015

Mayra Moreno joins KTRK abc13 from KENS 5

UPDATE AUGUST 26, 2018
Mayra Moreno to anchor new 3pm newscast on abc13 KTRK

KENS 5 San Antonio anchor Mayra Moreno comes back to Houston at KTRK abc13

UPDATE OCTOBER 31, 2015
Mayra Moreno is new abc13 KTRK weekend morning anchor

Mayra Moreno

A familiar face is returning to Houston TV. Former KIAH 39 MMJ Mayra Moreno is coming back to the Bayou City as an anchor/reporter at KTRK abc13.

"Years ago when I embarked on my journey to become a journalist, I always envisioned myself working for the station I grew up watching in Houston," Moreno posted on Facebook.

She leaves KENS 5 San Antonio where she has been since 2011. Moreno was hired as a reporter for the now TEGNA station, eventually being promoted to Saturday morning anchor.

Moreno started in TV at KRGV in the Rio Grande Valley.

The new KTRK anchor was born in Guanajuato, Mexico and raised in Houston. She graduated magna cum laude from the University of Houston with a double major in Journalism and Spanish.

"After spending 4 years in San Antonio with KENS 5 CBS it is bittersweet," she added. "To all my loyal viewers over the years I thank you from the bottom of my heart for allowing me to bring you the news and stories that impacted the community. I feel blessed to be given an opportunity to return home, accomplish a long-time goal and continue to do what I love."

As I wrote years ago for her switch from KIAH to KENS, I worked with Moreno in the last days of KIAH 39s news department.

Dear San Antonio,Years ago when I embarked on my journey to become a journalist...I always envisioned myself working...
Posted by Mayra Moreno on Thursday, August 27, 2015

UPDATE OCTOBER 31, 2015
Mayra Moreno is new abc13 KTRK weekend morning anchor

Disturbed announce Houston & Dallas, Texas 2016 tour dates

Disturbed announce 2016 US tour dates

Hard rock titans Disturbed have announced a 2016 tour in support of their upcoming sixth studio release, Immortalized, out August 21 via Reprise Records. The tour, which kicks off March 11 in Vancouver, will offer a rare chance to see Disturbed's arena-ready show in an up close and personal setting, such as The Fillmore in San Francisco, Irving Plaza in New York City, Roseland Theater in Portland, and more.

"Our return from hiatus was for one reason: we are dying for our fix of the live experience," said David Draiman. "We need to satisfy our addiction to the feeling you get when you play to the most dedicated and vibrant fan base in existence, the Disturbed ones. We know the Arena shows will come, but we wanted to start out feeling like it did in the old days. Intimate, hot, and intense. We can't wait. Prepare yourselves. The Leviathan has risen."

The Grammy Award-nominated foursome returned from its four year hiatus earlier this summer by announcing Immortalized. The album features single "The Vengeful One," currently #2 at Rock and Mainstream Rock radio and lauded by Loudwire, who said, "Expect 'The Vengeful One' to take its place alongside the band's biggest hits."

Watch/share the official video for "The Vengeful One":
http://smarturl.it/thevengefulone

Order the new album:
Immortalized

Formed in Chicago in 1996, the multi-platinum Disturbed - David Draiman [vocals], Dan Donegan [guitar], Mike Wengren [drums], and John Moyer [bass] - have sold 12 million albums globally, scored nine No. 1 singles at Active Rock Radio, and had four consecutive albums debut at #1 on the Billboard Top 200, a feat shared only with Metallica and Dave Matthews Band. Their quadruple-platinum 2000 debut The Sickness formally announced their arrival as hard rock leaders, with that status solidified by their subsequent Grammy Award nomination as well as gold-, platinum- and double platinum-certified records.

CONFIRMED 2016 TOUR DATES:
03/11 Commodore Ballroom - Vancouver, BC
03/12 The Showbox - Seattle, WA
03/14 Roseland Theater - Portland, OR
03/16 The Fillmore - San Francisco, CA
03/17 The Observatory - Santa Ana, CA
03/20 House of Blues - San Diego, CA
03/23 House of Blues - Dallas, TX
03/24 House of Blues - Houston, TX
03/25 House of Blues - New Orleans, LA
03/27 Iron City - Birmingham, AL
03/29 House of Blues - Myrtle Beach, SC
03/30 The National - Richmond, VA
04/01 Baltimore Sound Stage - Baltimore, MD
04/02 Theatre of Living Arts - Philadelphia, PA
04/04 Irving Plaza - New York, NY
04/05 Rapids Theater - Niagara Falls, NY
04/07 St. Andrews Hall - Detroit, MI
04/08 Orbit Room - Grand Rapids, MI
04/10 New Daisy Theatre - Memphis, TN

VIDEO #TBT: A Day In The Life of WFAA News 1991

Here is a DFW Throwback Thursday


A day in the life of WFAA 8 Dallas-Fort Worth News circa 1991. This video follows the news process from 6am thru 6am the following day. Featured are the great Bert Shipp, Marty Haag, and John Miller. You will also notice Carolyn Fessler, Jana Sims, Chip Moody, and Lisa McRee. This video was edited by Brad Kaplan and produced by Becky Slack.

Telemundo Houston KTMD has most watched 10pm news in August 2015

Telemundo Houston’s 10 PM Local Weekday Newscast Outranked All English-Language Late News Programs Among Adults 18 to 34 and Adults 18 to 49, For Four Consecutive Months



Telemundo Houston / KTMD today announced that Noticiero Telemundo Houston at 10 PM was the market’s most-watched late local newscast, regardless of language, from Monday to Friday among Adults 18 to 34 and Adults 18 to 49 during the August 2015 Sweep Period.

This is the first time that KTMD’s 10 PM weekday newscast leads the market as the most-watched local late news program among Adults 18 to 34 and Adults 18 to 49 during an entire survey period. Additionally, August 2015 marks the fourth consecutive month that Noticiero Telemundo Houston at 10 PM outranked all English-language market competitors' late local news among Adults 18-34 and Adults 18-49.

At the close of the August 2015 sweep period, Telemundo’s Super Series, El Señor de los Cielos, was the market’s most-watched program in the 9 PM to 10 PM time period for two consecutive months, among Adults18 to 34, Adults 18 to 49 and Adults 25-54.

“Our responsibility is to deliver the news and information that our viewers need to stay ahead and flourish in their daily lives,” said Tony Canales, President and General Manager, Telemundo Houston. “It is very exciting and humbling to know that our local communities are choosing Telemundo Houston as their local news source. This honor reinforces our commitment to be our community’s first informers and deliver best-in-class journalism day-in and day-out.”

Specifically, Noticiero Telemundo Houston at 10 PM (Monday to Friday) averaged a 2.2 rating for 34,860 Adult 18 to 34 impressions and a 2.2 rating for 64,493 Adult 18 to 49 impressions. El Señor de los Cielos averaged a 3.1 rating for Adults 18 to 34, a 3.0 rating for Adults 18 to 49, and a 3.3 rating for Adults 25 to 54.

Source: Nielsen HOU Sweeps; Prelim Live +SD; (Aug15, Jul15, Jun15, May15); 9p-1030p M-F Chronological Program Averages KTMD, KXLN, KFTH, KTRK, KHOU, KPRC, KRIV, KIAH, KTXH, KZJL, KYAZ, KTBU, KUVM; AQH Ratings & Impressions.

RELATED
KTRK abc13 EP Jerry Vazquez to be KTMD news director

(This post is taken from a release sent to me by Telemundo Houston KTMD)

Lisa Hernandez delivers gives birth to daughter

KHOU 11 anchor Lisa Hernandez and Houston Rockets director of broadcasting/radio announcer Joel Blank welcome baby daughter

UPDATE NOVEMBER 09, 2015
Lisa Hernandez returns to work at KHOU 11 after maternity leave.

Lisa Hernandez

KHOU 11 anchor Lisa Hernandez gave birth to a baby girl this morning. Hernandez "delivered" the big news on Facebook (embed below).

Taylor Angeline Blank is 7-pounds 4-ounces.

"So in love with her already," gushed Hernandez. "Feeling truly blessed!!!!"

Hernandez announced the pregnancy on a channel 11 newscast last March. At the time, she handed out Blue Bell ice cream to her fellow anchors.

Hernandez got engaged to Houston Rockets director of broadcasting/radio announcer Joel Blank in 2013. They were married last year.

Finally here! Taylor Angeline Blank was born this morning...7lbs 4oz... so in love with her already! Feeling truly blessed!!!!
Posted by Lisa Hernandez KHOU on Wednesday, August 26, 2015

Tom Abrahams releases Allegiance Burned: A Jackson Quick Adventure

Tom Abrahams is back again with his second Jackson Quick novel Allegiance Burned.

Allegiance Burned is the second novel in an exciting series of action adventures. It combines political thriller with espionage and science fiction in the explosive, fast-paced world of a reluctant hero...
Guns. An heiress. Nuclear Fission. Jackson Quick just couldn't stay away.
A scientist is murdered a mile beneath the earth, his secret laboratory exposed. A formula capable of shifting power among the world's largest nations is missing and its rightful owner wants it back. After staying hidden for months, Quick is pulled back into the darkness he despises. Forced to face his demons and align himself with the very people who betrayed him, he agrees to hunt for the formula. Racing against time and an evil black-market czar, Quick crosses the globe in search of a mathematical equation so valuable that nations and terrorists will pay whatever the cost to control it. From the scientist's lab in South Dakota, to London, Chernobyl, Ukraine, and Heidelberg, Germany, Quick uses his guile and good luck to outwit the competition at every turn. Or so he thinks. In the end, is his freedom worth the price he'll pay to earn it? Or is he better off letting the formula fall where it may.

Dr. Red Duke remembered through videos

"From The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, I'm Dr. Red Duke"

Tonight, The Houston Chronicle reported that Dr. James "Red" Duke Jr. died of natural causes at the age of 86. The Texas proud doctor most importantly founded Houston's Life Flight helicopter ambulance system. In addition, he was made famous by his local TV reports across the country.

Here are some great Red Duke clips I found on YouTube - from a tribute by his medical colleagues, a montage of his television news work, to the story of his presence at Dallas' Parkland Hospital when President John F. Kennedy was assassinated.

Jeopardy! moves to KTRK abc13 from KHOU 11 after many decades

KTRK abc13 to start airing Jeopardy! Sept 14th at 3pm

UPDATE SEPTEMBER 11, 2015
KHOU 11 expands 4pm newscast to one hour


Alex, I'll take a great Houston TV steal for $1000.

Based on the email and social media comments I'm receiving, KTRK abc13's grab of Jeopardy! from KHOU 11 must be one of the best gets in Houston television history.

The Alex Trebek hosted game show has aired in Houston on KHOU 11 for at least 20+ years if memory serves. So in the Bayou City, this is quite a seismic shock.

Now, other shows have moved around the Houston TV dial, but let's face it, not many syndicated shows have the history of Jeopardy! So after decades on the same channel, this is a big deal to Houston TV watchers.

Now for the Daily Double. The big question I'm getting is why is this happening? Well, TV shows pay a fee to the owners of syndicated shows (non-network) like Jeopardy! Maybe new KHOU 11 owner Tegna doesn't want to pay the Jeopardy! price anymore. Maybe channel 13 was willing to pay more? Don't know the answer, but money always plays a part in these moves.

If Wheel of Fortune leaves channel 11's 6:30pm slot, then I think the entire city will shut down like on half-inch snow days.

Channel 13 will start airing Jeopardy! Sept 14th at 3pm. Tune in early on the same day at 1pm for Tyra Banks' new show FABLife.

On one last abc13 related note, just announced this morning, Joy Behar is returning to ABC’s The View next season.

http://www.fablifeshow.com/

UPDATE SEPTEMBER 11, 2015
KHOU 11 expands 4pm newscast to one hour

Media job moves across Texas since May 2015

School's back and I'm giving you the TX TV, radio and newspaper media job moves since May 2015



Send TX media job announcements to me via email. See which Texas TV jobs are open here.

Dallas - Fort Worth

Veteran WFAA Dallas reporter Byron Harris to retire in October.

NBC5 KXAS DFW adds Chris Jose as reporter.

Dallas-based TEGNA8 drops featured early morning reporter Brian Glenn from Daybreak.

After more than four decades in the trenches, CBS11 reporter Bud Gillett is bowing out.

Fox4 reporters Latoya Silmon, Calvert Collins are both putting the station behind them.

Ray Villeda leaving, Meredith Yeomans arrives at NBC5 KXAS DFW.

Fox 4 KDFW Dallas investigative reporter Becky Oliver retires.

The NBC Owned Television Stations appointed KXAS 5 DFW news director Susan Tully president and general manager of WVIT Hartford-New Haven, Conn. (DMA 30).

NBC-owned KXAS Dallas-Fort Worth (DMA 5) appointed Mark Ginther vice president of news.

Rick Hadley, the longtime news director and even longer-time newsman for WBAP/820 AM and its sister station KLIF/570 AM, left radio to be the executive director of communications for the Grapevine-Colleyville school district.

WBAP promotes Freda Ross to news director.

Amanda Fitzpatrick leaves Dallas TV for WCCB.

Houston

FOX 26 KRIV reporter Kristine Galvan announced her departure from TV.

Lora Hines left the Houston Chronicle where she was a reporter covering the health care biz and went to Houston's Methodist Hospital as a web writer.

KPRC assistant creative services director Michael Penix jumps across the street to be creative services director at KIAH 39.

Justin Sternberg returns to Houston TV as KTRK abc13 Sr. Project Manager, News and Digital.

Former KTRK abc13 producer Adam Darsky leaves WABC NY as an executive producer to become assistant news director at WTNH New Haven, Connecticut. Houston media watchers might remember that former KHOU 11 news director Keith Connors is now the WTNH news director.

Houston TV and radio assignments manager Joe Segura left to be assignments manager for KGBT-TV in Harlingen.

Chris McDonald leaves the KHOU assignments desk to become the KEYE Austin assignments manager.

John Brewer left KPRC 2 as an assignments editor to be assignments manager at KXAN Austin.

Christine Nguyen left KENS 5 San Antonio to be a producer at KPRC 2 Houston.

Mix 96.5 KHMX/Houston Ups Chad Pitt To APD/Afternoons.

TAMMY JOHNSON departs KSBJ EDUCATIONAL Contemporary Christian KSBJ (89.3 GOD LISTENS)/HOUSTON for an opportunity to work with the band SWITCHFOOT.

Benjamin Phoenix left 104.1 KRBE's The Roula & Ryan Show.

Former News 92 KROI anchor Bonnie Petrie is the new morning news co-anchor on WTMJ-AM (620) Milwaukee.

Courtney Fischer joins KTRK abc13.

Devi Dev promoted at 93.7 The Beat KQBT.

Casey Curry and Travis Herzog switch places on KTRK abc13.

Mix 96.5 KHMX drops 'The Atom Smasher Morning Show'.

The Dave, Mahoney & DK Morning Show to hit Mix 96.5 KHMX.

Pablo Alsina Joins KHOU 11.

Cathy Hernandez joins KPRC 2.

Sara Donchey joins KPRC 2 from KRIS.

Sharron Melton exits KTRK abc13.

John Fenoglio joins KTRK abc13.

Angela Chen departs KTRK abc13 for FOX 26 KRIV.

Jonathan Martinez joins KPRC 2 as weekend anchor.

Elita Loresca joins KTRK abc13 after LA's KNBC 4.

Karla Barguiarena exits abc13 KTRK.

San Antonio

Mayde “Mimi” Gomez, a multimedia journalist and fill-in co-host on KSAT San Antonio’s, “SA Live,” is heading to KABC-TV in Los Angeles.

Former KSAT investigator April Molina joined News 4 San Antonio WOAI’s Trouble Shooters unit.

Claudia Garofalo took on a new role with WOAI and KABB beginning the week of May 18th, guiding viewers through their daily commute on the stations’ morning newscasts as the full-time traffic reporter.

KENS 5 San Antonio general manager Robert McGann announced retirement plans.

KENS-TV’s comedic traffic reporter Jennie Stencel leaves job and S.A.

Kevin Cuenca signed off from San Antonio Fox affiliate KABB.

After three years as KENS-TV morning anchorman, Mat Garcia bid farewell to his job.

KENS 5 reporter James Doughty (aka James Muñoz) joins KWES NewsWest 9 as news director.

Chelsey Hernandez joins KENS 5 San Antonio.

Austin

5 p.m. anchor Jim Bergamo retiring from KVUE Austin.

Shelton Green, one of Austin’s longest-tenured and most recognizable TV news reporters, left KVUE after 27 years in the news business – 19 of them on the air in Austin.

Christine Haas leaves Fox 7 KTBC Austin to start new business.

Fox 7 KTBC Austin hires new weekend meteorologist Chelsea Humphrey joined the station taking over the spot vacated by Scott Prinsen, who left for a job outside the TV business.

Fox-owned KTBC Austin, Texas (DMA 39), named reporter Ann Wyatt Little weekend anchor of Good Day Austin.

Jenni Lee returned to Austin TV as a reporter/anchor at KVUE-TV.

Tom Miller left KVUE to become a reporter at KCRA Sacramento, CA.

Collin Myers joins KEYE Austin as a meteorologist.

Around Texas

KABC reporter Robert Holguin has left the Los Angeles ABC-owned station for a job at El Paso's KFOX.

Veteran anchor Wayne McCormick retired from KTXS, the ABC affiliate for Abilene, Texas.

JANE MONREAL to Weekend Morning Anchor at KSHB in Kansas City (from KIII in Corpus Christi).

Tara Mergener Joins KWTX Waco As Anchor, EP

Field Sutton leaves East Texas TV for WFTV, the ABC affiliate in Central Florida.

Zack Henrick leaves KTEN Texoma region to be an MMJ reporter for News 4 WOAI and KABB Fox 29.

Josh Gorbutt has been named interim news director of KBTX Bryan-College Station. He was the news operations manager and replaces Jamie Burch, who had been news director. at the station since October 2013.

Three on-air talent are getting their start in local TV thanks to KETK Tyler, TX - Morgan Boydston, Allison Smith and Elisabeth Armstrong.

Eddie Flores Joins KGBT Rio Grande Valley as Anchor.

KCEN Waco morning anchor Ashley Allen is now in the same gig at KION Salinas, CA.

Chris Davis leaves KCEN Waco to be a reporter at WHTM / ABC27 Harrisburg, PA.

Nestor Mato has started a new job as a Multimedia Journalist for KGBT 4, the Sinclair-owned CBS affiliate in Harlingen, TX.

Send job announcements to me via email. See which Texas TV jobs are open here.

REMEMBERING
- Former Houston journalist Fred King remembered for his smarts, decency
- Bert Shipp’s final news story unfolds
- Veteran San Antonio Newsman Sandoval Dies
- Hall of Honor member, former UH SID Ted Nance passes away

Why One Direction at Houston's Johnson Space Center is important

Top music act One Direction films video for "Drag Me Down" at NASA's Johnson Space Center Houston

One Direction at NASA's JSC (Columbia Records)

It's always nice when Houston gets positive attention. Like any city, it has its haters.

So when the news came out that English-Irish pop boy band One Direction filmed a new video at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston, there was some positive attention for Space City.

But it's also good news for NASA in general. Outside of the International Space Station, there is no manned space travel since the space shuttle program was cancelled. Budget cuts have slowed down other efforts. Now it's the era of the Jet Propulsion Lab's Pluto probes/Mars rovers, private companies like SpaceX and paying for Russian Soyuz rides to the ISS.

And the public's interest in space doesn't seem to be as high as in the past when astronauts were rocketing through the sky to new horizons.

Just a few weeks ago at Space Center Houston, I was on the NASA tour tram when I overheard a woman in her early 20's sitting behind me turn to her friend and asked what's the point of this space travel? She felt it seemed like bragging rights of an aging superpower. There were surely more important issues we could be focusing down here.

NASA, we have a PR problem.

I wanted to turn around and say you can probably thank the Apollo program for laying the groundwork of the the phone you are texting on today.

Youthful ambivalence about space exploration is a far cry from when I was a kid in the 80s. Thanks to the shuttles, NASA was a big presence in a child's life back then. Ask a kid what they wanted to be when they grew up back then and astronaut would probably be one of the desired gigs.

No, I wasn't around in the 60s, but that clearly was a big time for space travel. The Cold War with the Soviet Union helped gin up the public's interest in the space race. Listen to this quick ABC News broadcast on 99.1 KODA-FM from 1964 to hear more perspective on that.

So maybe in a way, having 1D's heartthrob Harry Styles and crew singing "Drag Me Down" along side of NASA T-38 aircraft jets and the WB-57 High Altitude Research Aircraft, will help the group's young audience appreciate NASA and humankind's long desire to explore the depths of our galaxy. Could it even get kids into STEM education you hear so much about in the media?

Or will they simply think Style's playful interaction with Robonaut, a human-like robot that is also on the ISS, is totally YOLO.

Hey, any word if One Direction music will be sent with the Orion crew to Mars?


Since I'm talking space news. I was just at Space Center Houston last week and took this photo of the new space shuttle replica Independence that will be open for public view January 2016. This will save me the trip to New York to see another "space shuttle."

We get the Independence space shuttle replica at #spacecenterhouston in January 2016! There will be an exhibit inside unlike the one in New York. #Houston #NASA

A photo posted by mike mcguff (@mikemcguff) on Aug 18, 2015 at 2:47pm PDT

Root Sports kicks-off 2015 Houston high school football games

Root Sports kicks-off 2015 Houston high school football season live August 27th

ROOT SPORTS, the television home of the Houston Astros, Rockets and Dynamo, announced today its 2015 schedule for the High School Football Game of the Week presented by Memorial Hermann IRONMAN Sports Medicine Institute starting Thursday, August 27th.

The 10-week season will consist of 10 Thursday night regular season games, all broadcast Live and in High-Definition.

“High school football in Texas is very special and we are especially excited for the line-up of games that we have scheduled this season,” said David Peart, General Manager of ROOT SPORTS. “The passion and enthusiasm that exudes from the athletes, students and community throughout a high school football season in Texas is unsurpassable and we look forward to being a part of that excitement this fall and sharing it with our viewers.”

The 2015 season consists of games throughout the region and opens from McKinney, Texas as the Boyd Broncos host the Mesquite Horn Jaguars. See below for a full television schedule of games, dates and times. All games will be broadcast on ROOT SPORTS main channel unless otherwise noted.

2015 High School Football Game of the Week presented by Memorial IRONMAN Sports Medicine Institute Schedule on ROOT SPORTS

(Subject to change)
Thursday, Aug. 27 Mesquite vs. McKinney Boyd 7pm
Thursday, Sept. 3 Harker Heights vs. Stony Point 7pm
Thursday, Sept. 10 Bellaire vs. Klein Collins 7pm
Thursday, Sept. 17 DeSoto vs. Ciobolo Steele 7pm*
Thursday, Sept. 24 Travis vs. Hightower 6pm
Thursday, Oct. 8 Bush vs. Marshall 7pm
Thursday, Oct. 15 Calhoun Lavaca vs. Terry 7pm
Thursday, Oct. 22 Lakeview Centennial vs. Garland 7pm
Thursday, Oct. 29 Klein vs. Dekaney 7pm
Thursday, Nov. 5 South Grand Prairie vs. Cedar Hill 7pm

*Will Air on ROOT SPORTS Alternate Channel

ROOT SPORTS is available on AT&T U-verse, DIRECTV, Comcast Xfinity, Coastal Link, Consolidated Communications, Phonoscope. Visit ROOTSPORTS.com for channel listings and the most up-to-date
schedule.

(This post is from a release sent to me by Root Sports)

Classical music to leave Houston's 91.7 FM

UPDATE FEBRUARY 24, 2016
Classical 91.7 KUHA being bought by KSBJ to become NGEN Radio


Classical to move from 91.7 FM to 88.7 HD-2 and other platforms; potential sale for 91.7 FM

Classical 91.7 KUHA is leaving its FM dial position and going digital in a move approved today by the University of Houston Board of Regents.

This will be the first time in decades that a Houston FM station will not air classical music (before full-time NPR broadcasts, 88.7 mostly featured classical; 92.1 KRTS was 24 hour classical until 2004).

The station will move it's 24-hour classical programming to 88.7 HD-2.

"We are making this change in recognition of the growing popularity, superior broadcast quality and greater efficiency of digital broadcasting," said Lisa Shumate, associate vice president and general manager of Houston Public Media. "Placing our focus on HD radio and digital streaming for our classical music programming enables us to make the best use of technology and resources to continue providing the music and arts and culture content that our listeners enjoy."

-------------
UPDATE
Lisa Shumate addresses Classical 97.1 sale
-------------

In addition to HD radio, Houston Public Media has a variety of ways listeners can access its classical music programming: online at houstonpublicmedia.org and free applications like iHeartRadio & TuneIn, and via television at TV 8.5.

HPM says for the near future, Classical 91.7 will continue its 24-hour, seven-day analog radio broadcast, but announcements will begin letting listeners know of the station's impending departure on all of its platforms.

"We want to make this change as smooth as possible for our classical listeners and minimize any inconvenience," said Shumate. "We will be communicating across all of our platforms in the coming months to ensure that listeners are well informed about the availability of HD radios for car or home, the ease of use, as well as the free online streaming and applications now available."

So what does this mean for 91.7 FM, which is more synonymous with KTRU's Rice Radio than a symphony?

A spokesperson for Houston Public Media tells mikemcguff.com the organization will entertain offers for the 91.7 transmission tower and license from potential buyers.

 Who has some cash to give me for 91.7 mikemcguff.com radio?

houstonpublicmedia.org

UPDATE FEBRUARY 24, 2016
Classical 91.7 KUHA being bought by KSBJ to become NGEN Radio

Soundgarden singer Chris Cornell goes solo with Texas show dates

Soundgarden's Chris Cornell playing Dallas' Majestic Theatre & Austin's ACL Live @ The Moody Theater

Chris Cornell's debut single - "Nearly Forgot My Broken Heart" - from his forthcoming studio album Higher Truth accomplished a rare feat as it became the #1 most added single at Triple A and Active Rock, two distinctly different formats, this week. Hailed by Rolling Stone magazine as "dynamic," "Nearly Forgot My Broken Heart" was also the #1 most added single at the Mainstream Rock format, a testament to the song and the legacy of the multiple Grammy® Award-winning, Golden Globe nominated and acclaimed singer and songwriter.


Higher Truth will be released on Friday, September 18, 2015 via Universal Music Enterprises (UMe), and fans can pre-order the deluxe version of album, which contains four bonus tracks. Produced by Brendan O'Brien (Bruce Springsteen, Pearl Jam, Neil Young), Higher Truth showcases Cornell's constant evolution as a master songwriter, lyricist and musical craftsman - telling human stories which transcend musical genres. Inspired by the stark arrangements of musicians like Nick Drake, Daniel Johnston and White Album-era Beatles, Cornell creates a musical universe unlike anything he has done before.

Last week Cornell released the lyric video for the song, directed by Josh Graham. The clip beautifully reflects the essence of the song and in a few short days it has racked up over 170K views.

In other news, Cornell will kick off the Higher Truth acoustic tour on September 18th in San Diego, CA crossing North America before winding down on November 4th in Phoenix, AZ stopping at famed venues like the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles, the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Massey Hall in Toronto and more. A full list of dates can be found below.


Chris Cornell 2015 Solo-Acoustic Tour Dates:

Date: City: Venue:
9/18/15 San Diego, CA Balboa Theatre
9/20/15 Los Angeles, CA Walt Disney Concert Hall
9/21/15 San Pedro, CA Warner Grand Theatre
9/23/15 Santa Barbara, CA Granada Theatre
9/24/15 Santa Rosa, CA Wells Fargo Center for the Arts
9/26/15 Oakland, CA Paramount Theater
9/27/15 Modesto, CA Gallo Center for the Arts
9/29/15 Seattle, WA Benaroya Hall
9/30/15 Vancouver, BC Orpheum Theatre
10/2/15 Denver, CO Paramount Theatre
10/3/15 Salina, KS Stifel Theatre for the Performing Arts
10/5/15 Minneapolis, MN State Theatre
10/6/15 Chicago, IL Chicago Theatre
10/8/15 Lakewood, OH Lakewood Civic Auditorium
10/9/15 Toronto, ON Massey Hall
10/11/15 Buffalo, NY University at Buffalo Ctr for the Arts
10/12/15 New Brunswick, NJ State Theatre
10/14/15 N. Bethesda, MD Strathmore Music Theatre
10/15/15 Philadelphia, PA Merriam Theater
10/17/15 Wilkes Barre, PA Kirby Center for the Performing Arts
10/18/15 New York, NY Beacon Theatre
10/19/15 New York, NY Beacon Theatre
10/21/15 Boston, MA Shubert Theater
10/23/15 Wilmington, DE Grand Opera House
10/24/15 York, PA Strand Capitol Perf. Arts Ctr
10/26/15 Atlanta, GA Atlanta Symphony Hall
10/27/15 Nashville, TN Ryman Auditorium
10/29/15 Miami, FL The Knight Concert Hall
10/30/15 Saint Petersburg, FL Mahaffey Theater
11/1/15 Dallas, TX The Majestic Theatre
11/2/15 Austin, TX ACL Live @ The Moody Theater
11/4/15 Phoenix, AZ Orpheum Theatre

Amanda Fitzpatrick leaves Dallas TV for WCCB

After 5 years of working in the Dallas market, Amanda Fitzpatrick is leaving to move back to her home state of North Carolina.

Amanda has accepted a position at WCCB TV (Charlotte, NC) as a weekend anchor and nightside Reporter.

She most recently worked as a fill in traffic reporter on WFAA - TVs Daybreak morning show.

Prior to that she was the main five and nine pm Anchor and weathercaster for CW33s Nightcap news, which was cancelled in May of last year.

She began her career in Dallas working as a news reporter at KXAS, where she covered stories at the Super Bowl, World Series, and NBA Finals along with reporting breaking news and weather.

While in Dallas she was named by "D" magazine as "Dallas Most Beautiful."

Her work telling under told stories on the Black community in Dallas led to 3 EMMY NOMINATIONS, 4 National Association of Black Journalists Salute to Excellence awards and a 2015 MLK Community Hero award.

She was featured as" Top 25 People to Watch in 2014" by Dallas weekly, named Grand Marshall of the Elite News MLK parade and featured in dozens of Publications.

She was honored with a 2015 'Women that Rock' award and was selected for a 'Girl Bosses' campaign promoting 'Girl Power' in business.

Her volunteerism included working with the Heads Up foundation, raising money for college scholarships with the Don't Believe the Hype charity, the Wade Smith Foundation, The Palace of autism, and she also organized a Veterans shoe drive on Memorial day weekend gathering hundreds of new and gently worn shoes for vets.

Amanda's career path includes reporting at WTVD the ABC affiliate in her hometown of Raleigh-Durham NC, WCSC-TV in Charleston, SC and WALB-TV in Albany, GA.

Amanda's going away party will be at Buttons Restaurant in Addison August 20,2015 7pm-12am.

Her first day at CW Charlotte will be September 1, 2015.

(This post was taken from a release sent to me by Amanda Fitzpatrick)

Courtney Fischer joins KTRK abc13

Courtney Fischer joins KTRK abc13 as a reporter from WTAE Pittsburgh

Courtney Fischer

Courtney Fischer has joined KTRK abc13 as a reporter mentions Foti Kallergis on Twitter.

UPDATE DECEMBER 2024
Courtney Fischer leaves ABC13 Houston

Fischer comes from Pittsburgh's Action News 4 WTAE where she's been for the last year.

Before the Steel City, Fischer worked at WLEX Lexington, Kentucky and WEHT Evansville, Indiana.

The regional Edward R. Murrow award winner is a graduate of DePauw University.

She is a Chicago native.

Rebecca Spera & hubby clearing lanes for baby

KTRK abc13 traffic anchor Rebecca Spera adding to new family

Rebecca Spera

After getting hitched earlier this year, Rebecca Spera is pregnant.

The 4pm KTRK abc13 traffic anchor broke the news today on Facebook:

BREAKING NEWS! A future football player joins our team in late 2015! I'll be coming to you all with lots of questions and much-needed advice over the next four months!!!

The former Live Well Network Mirror-Mirror host married former LSU football player Eric Valentino last March. That explains the future football player joining the team statement.

BREAKING NEWS! A future football player joins our team in late 2015! I'll be coming to you all with lots of questions...
Posted by Rebecca-ABC13 on Tuesday, August 18, 2015

(Thanks Robin)

Univision Houston's Michelle Galvan filling in on Primer Impacto

Univision Houston anchor Michelle Galvan fills-in on network show Primer Impacto

Michelle Galvan

Univision 45 KXLN anchor Michelle Galvan has left the network's Houston studios for the national stage.

Don't worry, the network gig is a temporary assignment.

Galvan is filling in on national Univision show Primer Impacto while anchor Barbara Bermudo is out on maternity leave. Bermudo has shared photos of newborn Sofia Andrea Victoria.

Here is a video introducing Galvan to the national audience.

Galvan joined channel 45 in 2012 from Televisa in Mexico City.

(Thanks Juan)

Tom Abrahams dominates Republican debate coverage

KTRK abc13 weekend anchor Tom Abrahams gets close and personal with Donald Trump

Tom Abrahams

Vox reported Fox News's first Republican debate Thursday night was the highest-rated non-sports cable program ever.

And one candidate probably trumped the others when it came to ratings draw.

However, in the post-debate coverage, one figure caught my attention.

 In the gaggle of journalists, I noticed KTRK abc13 weekend anchor Tom Abrahams!

 Later on, looking through the Internet, Abrahams reminded me of the old channel 13 promo "There's that news van again!" (Watch the WABC NY version here). He just kept appearing all over the debate coverage getting candidate interviews.

Here are some of the best images/video of Abrahams:

ABC News video

USA Today

Yahoo! News (watch the video for Abraham's question to Donald Trump)

The Daily Signal (You will see several photos of Abrahams and the abc13 microphone flag)

Just surf around and I'm sure you can play the new "Where's Waldo" game called "Where is Tom Abrahams interviewing presidential candidates?" Twenty points if you spot Tom in Trump's hair.

James Doughty joins KWES NewsWest 9 as news director

Midland native James Doughty returns home to be KWES NewsWest 9 news director

James Doughty (aka KENS' James Muñoz)

Former KENS 5 San Antonio reporter James Doughty (aka James Muñoz) is joining NewsWest 9 KWES Midland/Odessa as news director.

It's a homecoming for Doughty who is a Midland native.

"I am so excited about returning to my birthplace," Doughty told mikemcguff.com. "I Ieft in 1983 and Midland has changed, but the people are still so friendly."

Most recently Doughty has worked as communications manager for San Antonio City Councilman Joe Krier.

His television news career started in 1998.  Besides KENS 5, it's taken him across Texas at stations including KVII Amarillo, KIII Corpus Christi, KTRE Lufkin and KSAN San Angelo.

An interesting fact about Doughty is that he is a fourth generation Texan! He carries the namesake of his third great-grandfather who was the first superintendent of the King Ranch and Sheriff of Refugio County. Another one of his ancestors, John Moses, came to Texas in 1847 and wrote a series of columns for the San Antonio Express News from 1887 to 1890 under the pseudonym Sesom.

A search for his family is chronicled in his 2008 book Some Monument To Last. The book documents his interview with Walter Cronkite and how that meeting led to James finding his rich family history all the way back to 1755.

The Texas Tech University graduate is married with two children.

"This is a great time to be in television news and I am working under the direction of an outstanding and experienced General Manager (Jackie Rutledge)," Doughty told me. "I have already noticed the NewsWest 9 team of journalists here has what it takes to get the job done."

Elita Loresca joins TBS' "America’s Next Weatherman"

KTRK abc13 meteorologist Elita Loresca to appear on TBS' Funny Or Die presents America's Next Weatherman with other Houston TV connections

Elita Loresca with Jillian Barberie & Johnny Mountain (Photo Credit: Trae Patton)

Considering what my blog covers, then you can imagine that I will be excited about the new TBS show called Funny Or Die presents America's Next Weatherman. Then add the fact that Houston television news folks make appearances, well that makes it blog worthy!

The show, which debuts Saturday, Aug. 8 at 10pm Central, features 12 competitors vying for a job as America's next great weathercaster, having to withstand physical challenges to the dramatic vote-offs.

Maybe there will be green screen failures to contend with? With Funny or Die behind it, you can guess the show is laughing at reality contest shows.

Brand new KTRK abc13 meteorologist Elita Loresca will appear on the upcoming series' second episode as a weather mentor to the contestants. I don't want to give too much away, but Loresca oversees a hurricane related challenge. And some of the contestants seem to really like Loresca much to the chagrin of their teammates.

Loresca is joined by longtime Los Angeles weather personalities Johnny Mountain (KABC/KCBS) and Howard Stern super fan Jillian Barberie (Good Day LA). Baba Booey.

But who is that second KTRK connection? Well, it's host Matt Oberg. Does the last name sound familiar to Houston viewers? That's because Matt is KTRK reporter Ted Oberg's brother! I've been covering Matt's career on this blog since 2008.

You'll get a kick watching Oberg's "confessional" about Loresca.

The last Houston TV connection in episode two is the omnipresent Isiah "The Factor" Carey's bug in mouth video. It sets up a cringe worthy appearance for the contestants.

While the show is funny, the prize is very real. Contestants will be vying for $100,000 and an appearance on TBS's sister network CNN forecasting the national weather for the morning show New Day. Loresca's mentoring will make someone famous!

Catch the show's premiere Saturday, Aug. 8, at 10pm (CST) on TBS, with availability across TBS's on-demand, digital and mobile platforms the following day.

KENS 5 producer Cody Broadway releases short 'She Rides Bulls'

KENS 5 producer Cody Broadway jumps from TV screen to movie one with "She Rides Bulls"

Cody Broadway is a Texas TV guy who is transitioning to Hollywood.

"She Rides Bulls" is his latest short film and it has Texas written all over it because of its rodeo story and San Angelo shooting location.

As IMDB summarizes the film: "Darlene believes she has the right stuff to make it in the mans world of Professional Bull Riding: fearlessness, strength and that touch of crazy that compels you to keep going when every cell in your body cries for you to quit."

Broadway, who is a producer at KENS 5 in San Antonio, has bootstrapped a film crew from his TV connections. Houston media types might know his director of photography, Michael Lukaszewskyj, from his time as a programming photographer at KTRK abc13 a few years ago.

But it was his job as promotions/production director at KIDY San Angelo/KXVA Abilene where he met writer Greg McGee that got the film in motion.

"I had always been a fan of the rodeo – especially the bull riding competitions," said Mr. McGee in a release. “I'd been looking for a script idea to sink my teeth into, and for some crazy reason I came up with the idea of a girl going toe to toe against all those macho cowboys in the PBRA. It was just outlandish enough, but not something I figured any sane woman would actually DO anytime soon. I sat down one Friday night and started writing. The words were leaping on to the page. I knew I was onto something, because the script was virtually writing itself.”

"We shot most of it on 4K video, which is a huge frame," Broadway said. "It gave me a lot of options in the editing room, such as cropping in on various parts of the picture to get the composition just right, and not sacrificing image quality. There was a lot of footage from multiple cameras, so it was a complicated editing job. It helped a lot to be the guy who shot it as well. I didn't have to waste time figuring out where all the shots were. I already knew."

The film won best bury selection at the LA Indie Film Festival. Next up is the Brightside Tavern Film Festival in New Jersey. Broadway says the short is up for consideration for more festivals.

"We're hot on the trail of funding for the full feature film," Broadway added. "There's a lot of interest. I can't say any more or I'd have to lock you in the stall with my favorite bull. Just kidding."

Starring: Carl Bailey, Sheril Rodgers & Grey Acuna

IMDB:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt4460262/

Fan Page:
https://www.facebook.com/SheRidesBulls

She Rides Bulls Trailer #1 from MUSE studio + gallery on Vimeo.

Pablo Alsina Joins KHOU 11

Pablo Alsina Joins KHOU 11 News Sports Team

Pablo Alsina

KHOU 11, Houston’s CBS affiliate, announced Tuesday that Pablo Alsina will join the KHOU 11 News Sports Team.

Alsina will be seen on-air beginning in mid-August, and will anchor weekday sports and KHOU 11 Sports Extra.

In his career, Alsina has covered a wide range of high-profile sports events – from MLB and two World Series to college football, international soccer and Ultimate Fighting Championships.

“Pablo connects with people—the athletes he’s covering and the audiences watching him. He clearly loves that human connection just as much as he loves sports. He has fun—and it shows,” said KHOU 11 Executive News Director Philip Bruce. “Plus, he can’t wait to start covering all the big-time sports in Houston.”

Alsina comes to Houston from Los Angeles, where he has worked as a bilingual anchor for Fox Deportes and other national and regional cable sports networks.

He has also been seen on the airwaves in a different capacity, with 20 national commercials and a stint on ABC’s General Hospital to his credit.

Alsina is a graduate of the University of Florida.

RELATED
Bob Allen announces he's ready to beat his cancer diagnoses - will take extended leave from KHOU 11


(This post taken from a release sent to me by KHOU)

Casey Curry and family get blue by the pool

Casey Curry, husband Carl and daughter Windsor attend "Once in a Blue Moon" Pool Party for good cause

Carl Hahn, Casey Curry, Windsor Hahn (Photo credit: Daniel Ortiz)

Now that KTRK abc13 meteorologist Casey Curry has swapped shifts with Travis Herzog, I think we might see more of her around town since she doesn't have to wake up at 2am.

Case in point, last Friday when Curry, husband Carl Hahn and daughter Windsor were supporting a good cause.

Everything under the bright full moon turned blue for child abuse awareness at the "Once in a Blue Moon" Pool Party, which was held on Friday, July 31, 2015. The Thread Alliance and The Houstonian Club welcomed close to 500 members and guests at The Houstonian resort and lap pool to celebrate the last blue moon until August 2018. Because, they believe "child abuse should never happen, not even once in a blue moon!" In efforts to raise awareness for child abuse prevention, the event also raised over $2,000 to benefit The Thread Alliance.

Blue is the color for child abuse awareness and guests of all ages enjoyed a water obstacle course, dancing to the DJ, Smurf's "Once in a Blue Moon" dive-in movie, and swimming with blue noodles and toys. Helping to protect children was the campus Harris County Constables with their own Child Fingerprint/DNA kit and Profile Keeper. Children and their adults were treated to complimentary blue snow cones, blue cotton candy and s'mores.

All proceeds from the Arbor Grill's blue moon menu benefited The Thread Alliance, which included Blue Moon beer, blue agave margarita, blue corn chips with guacamole and salsa, blueberry and grilled chicken salad, and grilled flat iron steak.

The Thread Alliance, a non-profit organization founded by Sheila Aron, is dedicated to ending the cycle of child abuse. The non-profit's mission is to bring child abuse awareness to the forefront and provide a central registry of local, state, and national resources for those seeking child abuse prevention, intervention, or treatment information and services. By increasing awareness and volunteerism through individual and community participation, The Thread Alliance strives to protect every child from cruelty and neglect and make child abuse a thing of the past.

For more information on The Thread Alliance, visit thethreadalliance.org.

The Dave, Mahoney & DK Morning Show to hit Mix 96.5 KHMX

UPDATE JANUARY 2017
After getting dropped by Mix 96.5 KHMX, the Dave and Mahoney Morning Show returns 2.6.17 on X107.5 Las Vegas without Daena Kramer.

The Dave, Mahoney & DK Morning Show Launches September 14

CBS RADIO’s Mix 96.5 announced today a new morning show will debut on Monday, Sept. 14 (6:00-10:00AM) as the station celebrates its 25th anniversary broadcasting Hot Adult Contemporary music. The Dave, Mahoney & DK Morning Show joins the station from CBS RADIO’s KXTE-FM in Las Vegas where they have been a proven ratings winner during their six year tenure. The show will be broadcast on-air, online at www.mix965houston.com and via the Radio.com app for mobile devices.

As part of Mix 96.5’s anniversary celebration, the station will host a concert featuring Rachel Platten, Matt Nathanson and Houston’s own Hilary Duff on Sunday, Sept. 20 at the House of Blues. Tickets go on sale to the public Monday, August 10th.

“Mix is a huge brand with a 25-year heritage in Houston,” said Sarah Frazier, Senior Vice President and Market Manager, CBS RADIO Houston. “As we celebrate our silver anniversary, we are excited to introduce the listeners to Dave, Mahoney and DK. With them anchoring our lineup, we are in a strong position to expand our brand over the next 25 years.”

“The Dave, Mahoney and DK Show is best described as a progressive, fast-paced program that connects with a young adult audience in an authentic, fun and relatable way,” said Charese Fruge, Vice President of Programming/Operations Manager, CBS RADIO Houston. “Dave, Mahoney and DK are real, self-deprecating and just plain funny. They are just everyday people talking about everyday things that are top of mind for all of us.”

“We want to thank CBS Radio for trusting us with this huge opportunity on Mix 96.5. To work in a major market with the programmer that has helped us build The Dave, Mahoney, and DK Morning Show into what it is today, is the perfect opportunity. We're primed for a win with CBS Radio Houston and we're going to hit the ground running on September 14th” said Dave, Mahoney & DK.

RELATED
- Listen to a show preview
- Mix 96.5 KHMX drops 'The Atom Smasher Morning Show'
- Atom Smasher ready to shake things up at Mix 96.5 KHMX
- Mix 96.5 KHMX moves Blake Hayes to mornings
- Mix 96.5 KHMX dumps Kidd Kraddick
- Kidd Kraddick replaces Maria Todd mornings on Mix 96.5 KHMX
- Maria Todd and Brad Booker team up for Mix 96.5 KHMX mornings
- Changes at Mix 96.5 KHMX mornings
- Sam Malone out at Mix 96.5 KHMX

(This post was taken from a CBS Radio Houston press release)