Big KPRC 2 2022 anchor changes!

KPRC 2 is seeing an anchor leave, one come back and another one shuffled as we near the end of 2022 according to an internal email sent to the staff.

UPDATE
Sofía Ojeda's KPRC 2 return is here
Lauren Freeman leaving KPRC 2

Sources say that noon and 4pm afternoon anchor Christine Noël is leaving KPRC 2.

Morning anchor Lisa Hernandez will move to Noël's spot.

And recently departed, and former weekend morning anchor, Sofia Ojeda returns to take Hernandez's morning spot. 

Look for the changes starting November 14th.

RELATED
Dave Strickland exits KPRC 2
Jerry Martin retires from KPRC 2 GM position

UPDATE WITH OFFICIAL KPRC 2 PRESS RELEASE:

October 31, 2022 – Houston, TX – We are excited to announce that former KPRC 2 weekend news anchor Sofia Ojeda will return to anchor KPRC 2 News Today alongside Owen Conflenti, and anchor Lisa Hernandez will be promoted to the Midday, Noon and 4 p.m. newscasts. The move begins Monday, November 14, 2022.

 

Houston viewers will remember Ojeda from her seven years reporting, and most recently anchoring KPRC 2 News Today Weekends. Prior to KPRC 2, Ojeda served as an anchor/reporter at WNEP 6 in Scranton, Pennsylvania, anchor/reporter at WTEM 18 in Elmira, New York, and anchor/reporter at WIVT/WBGH NewsChannel 34 in Binghamton, New York.

 

Born in Lima, Peru, Sofia moved to the U.S. as a child, growing up in New Jersey.  She is a graduate of The College of New Jersey with a degree in Communications and is fluent in Spanish.

 

Lisa Hernandez joined KPRC 2 in June 2020 as co-anchor of KPRC 2 News Today with Owen Conflenti and KPRC 2 News Midday with Andy Cerota. Prior to KPRC 2, Hernandez anchored in Houston for 8 years. This new shift will allow her to bring her journalism skillset to an entirely new audience.

 

“KPRC 2 has a wealth of current and former talent,” says KPRC 2 Vice President & General Manager Phil Lane. “I’m thrilled that Sofia will be returning to KPRC 2 News Today and so happy to be able to promote Lisa to the afternoons where she will continue her great work as an important and valuable part of our team.”

 

Christine Noël has announced she is leaving KPRC 2.  A valued part of our KPRC 2 News team, Christine joined us in February 2019 and has gone on to anchor our Noon & 4:00 p.m. newscasts, also filling in at 5, 6 & 10 p.m.  During her time at KPRC 2, Christine has covered numerous stories, including the 2020/21 Tokyo Olympics, the Astros 2021 trip to the World Series, and played a pivotal role in our Bells for Abigail series.

 

“We want to thank Christine Noël for her hard work and professionalism,” says KPRC 2 Vice President & General Manager Phil Lane. “We wish her all the best as she pursues her next chapter in life.”

BBC turns to KHOU's Daniel Gotera for Astros coverage

KHOU 11 Houston Sports reporter/anchor Daniel Gotera talks with BBC World News about the Houston Astros 2022 World Series run.

Jerry Vazquez, Telemundo Houston ND, loses cancer battle

Jerry Vazquez in center with Ubaldo Martinez, Alejandro Mendoza, Crystal Ayala and Carlos Robles (2018 photo taken for mikemcguff.com courtesy of Telemundo Houston KTMD)

Gerardo “Jerry” Vazquez, 54, the Vice President of News for Telemundo Houston KTMD, has lost his battle with cancer over the weekend.

UPDATE JANUARY 2023
Freddy Oldenburg named Telemundo Houston KTMD VP of news

Crystal Ayala, Telemundo Houston evening anchor, posted the following about Vazquez's death on Facebook:

"He was the one who saw in me, as in so many of my colleagues, a special light, so I don't hesitate to further push my career at Telemundo Houston. I'm lucky to have earned his trust and had the blessing to work by his side, to learn from him... and growing up with him for almost eight years.

A boss who was always looking out for the well being of my two kids; that is valued even more.

Jerry Vazquez was a great connoisseur of journalism, leader by nature, passionate who lived enormously proud of his team, his mom and his brothers."

"Jerry was terrific Journalist, terrific manager and a great friend," former abc13 KTRK Vice President of News Dave Strickland told mikemcguff.com.  "My heart goes out to his family. I can't believe he's gone. He will be missed."

 "Jerry was was one of the best newsmen I ever worked with," former abc13 KTRK assistant news director Don Kobos told mikemcguff.com.  "He not only understood the English newscape but he was a top flight Spanish speaking newsman.  He will be missed. Prayers to his family. He was a wonderful friend."

"Jerry was a mentor to me and a news whisperer," KIII 3News Corpus Christi morning anchor John-Thomas Kobos told mikemcguff.com.  "When it came to guidance over the best way to deliver stories, how to dress professionally on-air or handle contract negations - his advice was always golden and spot on.  His legacy in the news business will outlast his time here on earth. He will be greatly missed as a mentor and a friend."

Vazquez joined KTMD in August 2014 where he rebuilt the station's news department after Comcast bought the NBCUniversal owned station from General Electric.

"When you have the right team in place together you can accomplish anything," Vazquez told me in 2018.  "In my opinion we have assembled a team of the best producers, anchors, reporters, photographers and assignments desk!"

Under the leadership of Vazquez, President and General Manager Tony Canales, Vice President of Marketing JC Perez and others, KTMD moved to the top of the ratings in Houston. 

Vazquez came to KTMD from abc13 KTRK (2001 to 2014) where he oversaw the 5, 6 and 10pm newscasts as executive producer when the newscasts were the number one shows in their timeslots.

He previously worked as:

- News Director KMID Odessa/Midland (1997 to 2001)

- Assignments Manager KMOL (Now News 4 San Antonio WOAI) (1993 to 1997)

- Assistant News Director/Assignments Telemundo San Antonio KVDA (1989 to 1993)

- Producer KGNS 8 Laredo (1986 to 1989)

"Hispanic TV in the past had been underrated and under served and not taken seriously in the field or by civic leaders," Vazquez told me in 2018.  "This has changed since when I first worked for Telemundo in the early 90’s. We had to wait for soundbites in Spanish until after the English station got everything they needed. Today the press conferences are held in English and Spanish Giving us us the same opportunity to run them live."

On a personal note, Jerry was one of my favorite bosses at channel 13.  He was always there with good advice on everything from scripts to how to handle various situations in the newsrooms.   Beyond being an amazing mentor, he was a great overall guy with a funny sense of humor that could always make the toughest newsroom situation a little better. Jerry was always a big supporter of my Alzheimer's disease advocacy work.  He certainly will be missed. 

Happy Texas TV Halloween 2022!

A roundup of how Texas TV stations celebrated Halloween 2022.

Best Halloween TV News Bloopers

Houston Halloween fun

Texas TV meteorologists terrorized

Justin Stapleton, Caroline Brown go head-to-head in Battle of the Halloween houses

Robert Arnold is ready for Halloween!

Happy Halloween from KHTV 39 (1968)

WFAA's Sean Giggy scares Marc Istook and Kara Sewell

KENS 5's Sarah Forgany goes all out for Halloween with this amazing costume

See KENS 5's Paul Mireles as 'Two-Face' for Halloween

KTSM dresses up for Halloween!

Chucky makes an appearance on The Morning Loop

Best Halloween TV News Bloopers

Jonathan Martin gets Houston ready for World Series

Been known to dance for special occasions Well, the #WorldSeries starts tonight!
Let’s go @astros ⚾️ 🤘🏾@FOX26Houston #LevelUp pic.twitter.com/niV7yaaeWl

— Jonathan Martin Fox26 (@JMartinTV) October 28, 2022

DeJonique Garrison joins CW39 Houston

DeJonique Garrison joined CW39 Houston KIAH as a digital journalist back in June 2022 according to her LinkedIn.

RELATED
Gianella Ghiglino leaves CW39 for new job

You might remember Garrison leaving 12News KBMT-KJAC Beaumont back in November 2021 where she was an evening anchor.  She started with the TEGNA staitons as an investigative reporter/anchor on The Beat and KJAC Tonight.

The New Orleans native previously worked as a multi-media journalist (MMJ) for FOX 54 WFXG Augusta, Georgia.

A magna cum laude grad from Clark Atlanta University, Garrison went on to earn a Master of Science in Journalism at Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism. As a student, she reported for the  Medill News Service.

The Lone Star EMMY winner also owns luxury self-care brand Deauxs Lifestyle, LLC.

Brady Brewster joins KKTV 11 News Colorado Springs, CO

Brady Brewster joins KKTV 11 News Colorado Springs, CO as a forecaster from CBS4 Mornings KDBC El Paso mornings in October 2022.

"I never imagined I’d leave this place so soon, but life happens," Brewster tweeted. "I can’t express my love for the kind souls I’ve met here. I’ve made friends I’ll keep forever."

Brewster was on El Paso TV since October 2021.

The University of South Carolina grad and current Mississippi State University student's first TV job was with NBC Montana KECI Missoula, MT as an MMJ / Weather Anchor.

She interned with WIS Columbia, South Carolina.

Personal news: This week will be my last on CBS4 Mornings. I never imagined I’d leave this place so soon, but life happens. I can’t express my love for the kind souls I’ve met here. I’ve made friends I’ll keep forever. Stay tuned for what’s next. For now, thank you, El Paso.♥️ pic.twitter.com/ulmq2KKGir

— Brady Brewster (@bradygbrewster) September 26, 2022

 

Kimberly Davis is engaged

Kimberly Davis posted some wedding news this week!  The KHOU 11 Houston morning news anchor is engaged to be married. 

Davis joined KHOU 11 in June 2021.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kimberly Davis (@kimberlydaviskhou)

 

Leslie Adami dances for charity

Leslie Adami took second place at Dancing with the Coastal Bend benefitting the American Cancer Society and Real Men Wear Pink.

The KIII 3News Corpus Christi evening co-anchor and dance partner Donovan Reagan from YAPP 361 dance studio in Flour Bluff trained for weeks and competed against 13 other teams to fight  breast cancer. 

Adami joined KIII in 2019 from KVUE 24 Austin.

You can watch the full dance below.

Still in shock of this! SECOND PLACE!!
Also, never would I have imagined I’d see “Dancing Queen!” and my name in the same headline 😅💃🕺

We danced to@DUALIPA @eltonofficial’s “Cold Heart” I hope y’all enjoy it as much as we loved dancing to it! 🪩✨☺️https://t.co/bfGVfpv6jI

— Leslie Adami (@LeslieAdami) October 14, 2022

Andrew Moore joins KENS San Antonio

Andrew Moore returns to his hometown of San Antonio to join KENS 5 after seven years with KCEN 6 Waco/Temple/Killeen.

At KCEN, Moore was a Multi-Skilled Journalist (MSJ) who was a general assignments and investigative reporter.

The University of Texas at Austin grad interned with KENS 5. 

RELATED
Hannah Tiede joins KENS San Antonio

Cathy Hernandez gives birth to baby #2

Cathy Hernandez is well known to KPRC 2 morning newscast viewers for cheering on the Houston Astros, and now she has something even bigger to cheer for!

Hernandez gave birth to baby girl Olivia Jane on October 21, 2022.

Megan Mitchell joins WFAA 8 Dallas

Megan Mitchell debuted on WFAA 8 Dallas January 27, 2023 as a weekday morning anchor/reporter.

UPDATE DECEMBER 2023
Megan Mitchell leaving WFAA 8 Dallas

"I got into this business to make an impact and with this opportunity I am going to be joining and learning from a top notch team of amazing storytellers in the 5th biggest news market in the country," Mitchell posted on social media.  "Part of this role will allow me to focus specifically on LGBTQ+ stories in Texas during a time when a number of pieces of legislation and rhetoric are hitting the state."

According to her bio, Mitchell is also an LGBTQ+ influencer with 1.8 million followers on TikTok.

Mitchell is currently the weekend morning anchor/reporter for WLWT 5 Cincinnati, Ohio where she has been since July 2016.

She previously was the morning news anchor/reporter for KFYR 5 Bismarck, North Dakota and an anchor/producer/reporter for WEBN Boston.

The Emerson College grad interned with MTV Networks and NBC Universal.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by megan mitchell (@megan.mitchellll)

Where is Chauncy Glover?

Chauncy Glover addressed his long absence from the airwaves and social media of abc13 KTRK Houston, which started in October 2022. 

UPDATE NOVEMBER 2024
Glover has passed away

UPDATE JULY 2023
Chauncy Glover leaves abc13 Houston

UPDATE JANUARY 23, 2023
Chauncy Glover returns to abc13 Houston after nearly 4 month absence

A few days after I posted about the evening anchor being off channel 13 since the fall, Glover posted  this statement on Facebook:

"Hi Friends—

I appreciate all the inquiries over the past few days. I want everyone to know that I’m taking some time away to deal with some medical and family issues. Thanks for the concern. Nobody is more anxious to get back to work at ABC13 and on your TV screen than me. I promise to come back better and stronger. See everyone soon. -CG"

ORIGINAL POST

I received a Houston TV viewer email asking me if I know where abc13 KTRK anchor Chauncy Glover has been lately?

From what I have been told, he has been off the air for three to four weeks.

His last social media posts are at the end of September or very early October 2022.

There has been a tweet asking Glover's co-anchor Mayra Moreno if he's okay.

@MayraABC13 hi mayra, is @ChauncyOnTV okay? haven't seen him

— kes (@tebybae) October 24, 2022

So I am posting this to let other Houston TV viewers know, I am aware of the situation.

Stay tuned....

Gianella Ghiglino joins Spectrum News 1 Texas

Gianella Ghiglino has joined Spectrum News 1 Texas as a reporter after CW 39 KIAH Houston.

Ghiglino worked at CW39 from September 2021 to September 2022.

The California State University, Northridge grad started in TV at KYMA Yuma, Arizona. 

RELATED
DeJonique Garrison joins CW39 Houston

Raúl Brindis Commemorates 30 Years as a Radio Host in Houston

HOUSTON, TEXAS – OCTOBER 24, 2022 – TelevisaUnivision, the world's leading Spanish-language content and media company, will celebrate Raúl Brindis' 30th anniversary as a Radio Host in Houston, Texas, during the "Que Buena Fest" on Sunday, October 30, 2022. He will be honored for his contributions to the City of Houston, Spanish-language media, and the Hispanic community.

 While based in Houston, "El Show de Raúl Brindis" (The Raúl Brindis Show) is syndicated in more than 20 markets and reaches over one million monthly listeners via the Uforia app, the audio division of TelevisaUnivision. The six-hour morning show airs Monday through Saturday and features thoughtful reflections on life, current affairs, artist interviews, prominent community leaders, politicians, athletes, and more.

 "It has been a privilege to be in front of the microphone for three decades informing, empowering, entertaining, and serving the Hispanic community," said Brindis. "After 30 years, I am still elated to start my day with our loyal listeners. It is an honor with great responsibility."

 Brindis is the longest-running morning show host for the same station in Houston. His massive appeal transcended radio and into television, including appearances on TelevisaUnivision Network shows "Despierta América," "Viva el Sueño," "Sábado Gigante," "Nuestra Belleza Latina," "Premio lo Nuestro," "Premios Juventud" and "Festival del Mariachi."

 "Raúl is the gold standard for morning radio in Houston and across Texas. His special brand of humor, characters, music, and content consistently make "El Show de Raúl Brindis" Houston's #1 most listened-to morning radio show, regardless of language," said Glenn Coleman, Vice President, Station Manager, TelevisaUnivision Houston. "Raúl's passion and connection with his audience have made him a long-lasting radio star, and we joined him in celebrating this incredible milestone."

 Brindis also has a long-standing deep commitment to community and continues his work with the St. Jude Research Hospital and Shriners Hospital for Children, as well as support for hurricanes and earthquake-devastated U.S. and Mexico states. In addition to keeping his audiences informed of natural disasters, he has mobilized his community to serve and help each other for over thirty years.

 Brindis' career and service has been recognized with numerous awards, including two NAB Marconi Radio Awards, the Houston Air Award, Medallas de Cortez, Mr. Turista of South Texas, and the City of Hidalgo U.S. Ambassador of International Goodwill. Additionally, he was a stand-out nominee for the Radio Hall of Fame.

 Brindis will be celebrated during the Que Buena Fest, presented by Uforia, on

 Sunday, October 30, 2022 | 12:00 - 9:00 p.m.

Image Venue, outside Escapade 2001

11903 Eastex Fwy

Houston, Texas 77039

 For more information about tickets, please call 1-800-668-8080 or visit Ticketon.com. 

(this post has been taken from a release sent to me by TelevisaUnivision Houston)

Shane Hinton moves to KVUE Austin mornings

Shane Hinton moves to the KVUE Austin Daybreak morning newscast meteorologist role from the weekend morning weather shift.

UPDATE OCTOBER 2024
Shane Hinton leaves KVUE Austin

Here is what Hinton posted on Facebook:

"I’ll let you in on a little secret…I’m not a morning person. At least I didn’t use to be.

When I moved to Austin and started on KVUE’s weekend morning shows, I realized the impact you can have on someone’s day. Whether it be with a laugh, smile, or a story, you can completely set the tone for anyone’s daily journey.

It’s with this new understanding I’ve learned my purpose as a meteorologist: preparing you for what to expect with professionalism and positivity. If I can sometimes make you laugh along the way, then that’s a bonus.

I’m proud to finally announce I’ve accepted the role of Daybreak Meteorologist at KVUE and will officially be joining our weekday team. I’m thankful for all of the love and support I’ve been shown in my life to get to this moment. Now I want to take that love and share it with all of you each morning.

Now let’s get to rising and shining."

THE KVUE WEATHER SHIFT

- Erika Lopez leaves KVUE Austin

- Hunter Williams named KVUE chief meteorologist from mornings

Hinton joined KVUE Austin in November 2020 from WCTI TV 12 and FOX 8/14 New Bern, North Carolina where he was a weekend meteorologist.

The University of Miami logo grad interned with NBC News. He was also a meteorologist for the school's UMTV.

Brenda Medina gives birth to baby #4

Brenda Medina welcomed baby girl Valentina to the KTSM 9 El Paso family on October 11, 2022.

In her on-air pregnancy announcement back in August, the morning anchor declared she'll have two boys and two girls and then no more kids.

KTSM 9 News morning reporter Jasmine Perry also gave birth to Leila earlier this month.

Monday night as I was sound asleep to be up early Tuesday morning to deliver you all the morning news, I ended up with my own breaking news Monday night!!! This is the 6lb girl who has been kicking me when I would go LIVE at 5-7 a.m. Monday through Friday💕Thank you all @KTSMtv pic.twitter.com/NCAT79fl8E

— Jasmine Perry (@JasmineKTSM) October 5, 2022

Today marks my birthday 🎂 & I was able to bring a great birthday gift home 🎀👶🏻 Leila 💖 pic.twitter.com/lwItVNcqmE

— Jasmine Perry (@JasmineKTSM) October 6, 2022

Texas TV meteorologists terrorized

KSAT 12 San Antonio meteorologists Sarah Spivey and Mia Montgomery leave the comforts of a television weather center and try out the haunted houses at Six Flags’ Fright Fest.   

RELATED
See who replace Mia Montgomery on KBTX Bryan - College Station
Houston TV meteorologists go head-to-head in Battle of the Halloween houses

Houston TV reporter gets Astros tattoo!

Shelby Rose, who joined FOX 26 KRIV as a reporter in June, just got a tattoo in honor of the Houston Astros. 

Now, the "made to fade" tattoo is a temporary one, but it does last for almost a year. 

Rose's tattoo says "Go Astros" and was written by former Astros player and current team TV color analyst Geoff Blum.

Ted Oberg's next job after abc13 is...

I have learned the station that is lucky enough to be Ted Oberg's next TV job.  Click the link, which directs you to the original post (updated with new job) about his leaving KTRK.  

I'm trying to keep everything together since that post has already been linked to in the trades and newsletters.

Lindsey Ragas joins FOX 10 Phoenix KSAZ

Lindsey Ragas announced she is joining FOX 10 Phoenix KSAZ after CBS Austin KEYE where she was a multi-media journalist (MMJ) for almost four years.

Here is what Ragas posted on Facebook for her FOX 10 Phoenix KSAZ hiring announcement:

"I’m so excited to share this life update.

You’re looking at the newest reporter/fill-in anchor for FOX 10 in Phoenix.

When I made up my mind to leave Austin, I had no clue where I was going next, but choosing FOX 10 couldn’t have been any easier after my first chat with the news director and first visit to the station.

I can’t wait to be a part of a team that has already welcomed me with open arms.

My first day is October 31."

Here is what Ragas posted on Facebook for her CBS Austin departure announcement:

"That’s a wrap! Today was my last day reporting at CBS Austin. 

Austin, thank you for the last 3.5 years. 

To the viewers, thank you for trusting me to tell your stories. I truly enjoyed every second.

I’m grateful for each person I’ve met while out on a story, and each friend I’ve made in this city. You made this experience one to remember.

Texas, it’s been a wild ride, but it’s time for this Californian to move closer to home. 

I can’t wait to share what’s next."

Ragas, a Texas Press Broadcasters Association award winner, joined KEYE in May of 2019 from KTXS News Abilene where she was an weekend anchor/reporter/producer for three years. 

The San Francisco State University Magna Cum Laude grad interned in San Francisco with Michael Finney of 7 On Your Side KGO and KRON 4. 

*updated with Lindsey Ragas FOX 10 Phoenix KSAZ job hire

Brennon Gurley joins KYTX CBS19 East Texas

Brennon Gurley joins KYTX CBS19 East Texas as 6, 6:30 and 10pm anchor with Marangeli Lopez from Spectrum News 1 Kentucky where he was an anchor/reporter since September 2020.

This is a return for the Bullard, TX raised (Plano native) anchor to his home television market which serves the likes of Tyler, Longview and Nacogdoches.  

Gurley previously worked across the street as an anchor/multimedia journalist for KLTV 7.

The Arkansas State University grad started his TV career in Springfield, Missouri working as an MMJ for FOX 5 KRBK and KOLR 10. 

He interned in the broadcasting department of the Dallas Cowboys.

Gurley takes over for Aaron Baker who left the CBS19 anchor desk in July 2022 after two years.  Baker joined WYFF News 4 Greenville, South Carolina as an anchor and reporter in October 2022.

Ted Oberg to join NBC Washington WRC

Ted Oberg is leaving his investigative reporting job with abc13 KTRK Houston and joining the NEWS4 I-Team at NBC Washington WRC mikemcguff.com has confirmed.

"After 21 years here, my family and I made a really, really tough decision to move on from abc13, my home since 2001," Oberg said on the the KTRK 6pm news for his October 20, 2022 on-air goodbye.  "It is the hardest professional choice I have ever made.  I love Houston. I love our 13 Investigates team and all of our colleagues here. ABC 13 worked hard to keep us here, but the new opportunity gets my family and me back to the East Coast where I grew up, where my parents still live and it gives us a chance for a new adventure." 

Oberg added he will be here working his investigative stories until Thanksgiving. He says he can never thank Houston television viewers enough for what they have given him and his family over the years. 

And before anyone says it first, I guess former Texas Gov. Rick Perry will say "adios mofo" to Oberg.  Click the link if you have no clue what I'm talking about.

RELATED
Ted Oberg takes home first Dave Ward Media Excellence Award

Oberg, who arrived at channel 13 Houston back in October 2001 as a night side reporter, will be a tough loss for Houston journalism. He is a towering journalistic figure in this town, and I am not just saying that because of his height.

Always a creative and thoughtful storyteller, my first thought back then upon seeing his works was 'this guy belongs on the network!' 

Clearly others noticed as Oberg rose through the KTRK on-air ranks to investigative reporter and his "Turn to Ted" consumer segments.

The self-described "FOI addict" reads over public records like some people play Wordle on their phone!

The University of Michigan grad previously worked as a reporter for:

- WAVY 10 Hampton Roads, VA

- WSLS 10 Roanoke, Virginia Area

- WLUC Marquette, MI

And for those longtime blog readers, Oberg is married to former KPRC 2 Healthbeat reporter Krista Marino. 

*updated with info about Ted Oberg's job after abc13 KTRK at NBC 4 Washington WRC.

Mo from 100.3 The Bull is pregnant

Monica "Mo" Lunsford from The Morning Bullpen on 100.3 The Bull KILT Houston is pregnant and the baby is due November 6, 2022.

UPDATE
Mo from 100.3 The Bull gives birth

To celebrate the upcoming bundle of joy's arrival, co-host Erik Scott Smith dedicated his 10-Minute-Tune at 7:30am to the baby with an original song to the tune of Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean."

In the below photo, Mo is featured with Katelyn Maida from Houston country station rival The New 93Q Q Morning Zoo KKBQ who is also pregnant. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mo (@realradiomo)

 

Nick Canizales leaves 12News KBMT Beaumont

Nick Canizales leaves his anchor role at 12News KBMT-KJAC Daybreak Beaumont, but his career with the station might be longer than Southeast Texas viewers even know.

"I have poured my heart and soul into the TV industry for half of my life," Canizales said on the station's site. "I thank God for allowing me to accomplish more than I could ever dream of. Now it's time to start a new chapter."

It's unclear if the new chapter is a TV job or not. Stay tuned.

Canizales returned to 12News in November 2020 from sister-station KCEN Waco/Temple/Killeen where he had been sports director since 2012.

Prior to Central Texas, Canizales worked for FOX 4 Beaumont KBTV (back when it was a Nexstar Media Group station) as a weekend sports anchor/reporter and account executive. 

In November 2002, the Lamar University grad got his TV news start in the Golden Triangle at KBMT (hence his return in 2020) where he was a production assistant/photographer.

He has been recognized by the Texas AP Broadcasters and Press Club of SETX for Best Sports Anchor, Best Sports Story, Best Sportscast and State of Texas Media Honor Roll.

Canizales's last day on air will be Friday, October 28, 2022 from 4:30am to 7:00am.

Lauren Kelly is married

KPRC 2 Houston Life reporter Lauren Kelly got married to fiancé Gabriel Sauceda this weekend at the Omni Houston Hotel.

The couple met back in June 2017 when Kelly was doing mornings on Mix 96.5 KHMX.  Co-host Sarah Pepper helped get the two together.

Eric Pointer joins KVUE Austin

Eric Pointer returned to Texas TV at KVUE Austin as a Daybreak morning newscast reporter in October 2022.

Natalie Haddad who started in April 2022 moved back to the KVUE 5 and 6pm evening newscasts.

RELATED
Ford Sanders joins KVUE Austin

"I took this picture in 2017 because I really wanted to work in Austin and told myself, 'I’ll use to to make an announcement on social media,'" Pointer tweeted with an image of an Austin mural.  "Lots of hard work, determination and 5 years later… here we are! Tomorrow I start as a reporter at KVUE!"

Pointer comes from a morning reporter role with Nexstar Media Group duo CBS4 WTTV Bloomington and FOX59 WXIN Indianapolis, Indiana where he had been since September 2020.

He previously worked for:

WFXR News Roanoke, Virginia - Multimedia Journalist (MMJ)

KSLA News 12 Shreveport, Louisiana - Digital Content Producer & Multimedia Journalist

2 NEWS WDTN Dayton, Ohio - Multimedia Journalist

ABC 40 News KRHD Bryan/College Station - Reporter/Photographer

KXXV News Channel 25 - Production Assistant

The Texas A&M University grad interned at KBTX News 3 Bryan - College Station.

Successful first day at @KVUE! Including a special delivery from the sweetest friends! So happy to be back in Texas pic.twitter.com/cdxzgRHGMe

— Eric Pointer (@EricPointerTV) October 13, 2022

(Thanks Adam)

Maggie Flecknoe gives birth

Maggie Maggie, the host of CW39 KIAH's 'Houston Happens' Flecknoe gave birth to Marguerite “Mae” Louise Cooney on October 13, 2022. Mae came in at 6 lbs 10 oz, 20 inches.

UPDATE JANUARY 2023
Maggie Flecknoe returns to 'Houston Happens' with baby

RELATED
Maggie Flecknoe is married

Kayleigh Thomas joins KBTX 3

Kayleigh Thomas joined the KBTX 3 Bryan - College Station PinPoint Weather Team in September 2022.

The Deer Park, TX raised meteorologist forecasts for the Monday through Thursday Noon and 4pm newscasts, and the Friday 5pm, 6pm and 10pm newscasts.

Thomas comes to the Brazos Valley from KTAB - KRBC Abilene where she worked from July 2021.

The Texas A&M University grad joins her brother, father, uncle, aunt and grandfather who are all Aggies.

Thomas and KBTX colleague Drew Davis are both founding members of Texas A&M Weather Broadcasting. 

Say Howdy & give a follow to the NEWEST member of the PinPoint Weather Team: @KBTXKayleigh pic.twitter.com/HHsf6TP2S6

— KBTX Weather (@KBTXWeather) September 29, 2022

Lena Maria Arango talks Astros sweep with actual broom on TV

Lena Maria Arango, who joined FOX 26 Houston KRIV as a meteorologist in August 2021, appeared on television Sunday morning with an actual broom to celebrate the Astros sweeping of the Seattle Mariners in the ALDS Saturday night.

Sorry, Seattle 🤷🏼‍♀️😬🧹 #LevelUp #Houston #Astros pic.twitter.com/5VFdlHlqgl

— Lena Arango FOX 26 (@LenaDTV) October 16, 2022

Took a nap & woke up to realize that I think I’m having my first mini viral Twitter moment 🫣😂

— Lena Arango FOX 26 (@LenaDTV) October 16, 2022

Ford Sanders joins KVUE Austin

Ford Sanders joined KVUE Austin in October 2022 as a reporter/multi-skilled journalist (MSJ) from TEGNA sister station WHAS 11 Louisville, Kentucky, where he held the same position.

UPDATE
Ford Sanders leaves KVUE Austin

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Conner Board leaves KVUE for new reporting job

Sanders joined the WHAS11 News team in January of 2022 from WNCT News Greenville, North Carolina, where he was an MMJ and fill-in anchor for a year.

The University of Tennessee Knoxville grad interned with CBS Evening News with Norah O’Donnell.

While in school, Sanders worked as a Web Producer/Digital News Reporter for WVLT 8 in Knoxville, Tennessee, and interned there.

Love you, Lou ❤️. Next stop: Austin, TX. @KVUE pic.twitter.com/bgCBGjiasD

— Ford Sanders KVUE (@fordsandersTV) September 2, 2022

Southeast Texas featured in two national cable shows

Southeast Texas is getting featured in national cable shows that air Sunday and Monday nights.

HLN's "VENGEANCE: Killer Coworkers" comes to Beaumont, TX
"VENGEANCE: Killer Coworkers" airs this Sunday, October 16 at 8pm and 9pm CT on HLN.

"How America Works" with Mike Rowe features Port of Houston
Catch the Houston episode Monday, October 17th, 2022 at 7pm CT on FOX Business.

Justin Stapleton, Caroline Brown go head-to-head in Battle of the Halloween houses

KPRC 2 meteorologists Justin Stapleton and Caroline Brown go to head-to-head to see who can build the best Houston Halloween candy house. 

And you thought Houston weather was scary...

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NBC DFW anchors on the TODAY Show

We’re giving a warm welcome to our extended NBC family morning anchors! ☀️ pic.twitter.com/VyL4aHbHVy

— TODAY (@TODAYshow) October 14, 2022

NBC 5 Today DFW KXAS morning news anchors Laura Harris and Deborah Ferguson were in New York today to tape TODAY Show promotional spots with Hoda Kotb and Savannah Guthrie.

The North Texas anchors were even live on the NBC morning show from Rockefeller Center.

Lewanda Sullivan, abc13 KTRK editor, passes away

Lewanda Carol Sullivan, 50, who has been a behind the scenes mainstay at abc13 KTRK as an editor since 1998, passed away this week on October 22, 2022. 

Lewanda's Twitter bio reads, "I'm a free-spirited, creative type with a love of travel, cooking, and fitness."

Anyone who knew the Baytown, TX native will say that sums her kind-hearted personality up nicely.  We even attended a cooking class together.  I always knew if she suggested a Houston restaurant to take note.

Her love of restaurants and the food scene led to an Lone Star Emmy win for her "Friday Night Spotlight" segment.

Besides travelling and food, Lewanda was into music, which we would talk about often.  She even knew the Austin band (made famous by MTV and radio) Dangerous Toys which I always thought was pretty cool.

A graduate of Texas State University according to LinkedIn, Lewanda started her television career with KVUE Austin in 1996 as a news editor and feed coordinator. A KTRK management representative told me she also attended Sam Houston State University.

She will be missed.

Here are more reverberances from current and former KTRK staffers:

Love this picture @MayraABC13

A beautiful soul… her smile and laugh were contagious. I loved seeing the twinkle in her eyes when she talked about her latest vacation or her sweet fur babies. Missing you sweet Lew. https://t.co/2UvoJ9C6uu

— Elita Loresca (@ABC13Elita) October 13, 2022

Heartbreaking to hear that our beloved colleague, @lewandasullivan passed away unexpectedly yesterday 💔 She was part of the ABC13 family for 24 years and spent most of her time as our editor. @abc13houston pic.twitter.com/WTUbJBiyOX

— Rosie Nguyen (@RosieABC13) October 13, 2022

I worked w/ @lewandasullivan at @abc13houston and also spent countless hours w/ her at the dog park. She called me recently after my dog died, cried with me and invited me on a girls trip with her 💗 hope she knows how much she was & always will be loved, appreciated and missed💔 https://t.co/869dYEyfOy

— Kristy Gillentine Callaway (@KrisGillentine) October 13, 2022

*updated with SHSU info and age

Xavier Walton and Eden Checkol are engaged

Xavier Walton and Eden Checkol are engaged to be married.

The former KHOU 11 Houston anchor is having a great 2022.  

First Walton gets a national gig with NewsNation, and now he's engaged to girlfriend Eden Checkol who is the 10pm anchor for WSFL and WPLG Local 10 Miami reporter.

Walton dropped to one knee with ring in hand at the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in Miami. According to its website, The Vizcaya is "a Gilded Age estate on Biscayne Bay surrounded by ten acres of formal gardens, a mangrove shoreline and rockland hammock." 

If the engagement was this good, can't wait to see what the wedding will look like!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Xavier Walton (@xmanwalton)

Fred Cantú celebrates 50 years on-air

Fred Cantú, aka "Uncle Fred," who is synonymous with Austin TV, is celebrating 50 years on air.

The CBS Austin KEYE reporter started spinning records at 1600 KBOR Brownsville at the age of 17. He also got practice doing news and color commentary on high school football games.

"The BOR stood for border cause it was on the border, but the kids said it stood for boring," Cantú once joked in the Austin American-Statesman.

The University of Texas at Austin student showed up for school in 1980 as an electrical engineering major, but while in school, he started working part-time as weekend anchor at KNOW/KCSW now KFIT “Sun Radio” and KBPA “Bob FM.”

In 1981, Cantú followed his KNOW news director to KLBJ-AM “NewsTalk 590.”

In 1982, he got back into programming full time launching KTXZ 1560 with “Music of your Life” followed by “All Star Rock & Roll” and “Tejano Hits.”

Going back to school to finish his journalism degree, in 1988 Cantú part-timed at KVET-AM “The Country Giant.”

"In 1990 Channel 7 (now FOX 7 KTBC) was my first on-air TV job in Austin after spending the 80s up and down the dial on Austin radio," Cantu posted on Facebook.

After serving as the KTBC weekend anchor, Cantú worked his way up to a top rated morning anchor for KVUE 24 from 1995 to 2001. In 2002, he started with CBS Austin where he has worked as an anchor/reporter. He also was the 5 and 10pm newscast anchor for sister-station Telemundo 42.2.

Over the years Cantú has picked up awards like being named a five-time winner of Best TV Anchor in the annual Austin Chronicle readers' poll and a Texas Associated Press award. He was also nominated for the Texas Radio Hall of Fame in 2011.

And according to his bio, Cantú was also nominated for a Grammy! 

"Around 1984 I was at KTXZ programming All Star Rock & Roll, a mix of oldies and local music," Cantú told mikemcguff.com.  "I was approached by someone from a local guitar band called Trash, Twang & Thunder. They needed a riot sound effect for a recording. I found a sound effect in public domain and made them a dub. They decided to credit me for the riot on the album which ended up nominated for a Grammy. Since my name was on the album I was included in the nomination. 'We' didn’t win."

Do yourself a favor and look up Cantú's Austin-area pronunciations guide!  Someone in Houston should do this.