Gina Sunseri, ABC News Producer, receives 2024 RNASA Space Communicator Award

Gina Sunseri, a Houston-based ABC News Producer, received the prestigious 2024 Space Communicator Award from the Rotary National Award for Space Achievement (RNASA) Foundation on April 26, 2024, at the Houston Hyatt Regency.

UPDATE MARCH 2025
Gina Sunseri Wins 2025 National Space Club & Foundation Press Award

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"Being in the same company as previous honorees is truly humbling," Sunseri said in a statement.  "I have always tried to make the space program engaging for our viewers—and to share the curiosity, hard work, creativity, and passion of the people who fulfill our desire to explore. I am fascinated by the small stories-- the cat videos from space. The lost tomato. The astronaut who had spicy shrimp cocktail for breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day of his mission. And of course, Suni Williams’ cutting her ponytail in space for charity."

A trusted fixture on the ABC News space beat for more than two decades, Sunseri started covering the space program in 1996 when one of her earliest assignments was to cover astronaut Shannon Lucid - the only American woman to live aboard the Mir space station. Since then, Gina has produced or contributed to hundreds of articles and broadcast news segments covering Space Shuttle launches, spacewalks, commercial space flight, the International Space Station, five Mars missions, and the much-anticipated Artemis II mission scheduled to launch in 2025.

"For over two decades, Gina Sunseri has set a high bar for outstanding coverage of our nation’s space programs, educating millions of Americans through her thoughtful and expert productions for ABC News," Mark Carreau, Aviation Week & Space Technology Houston Correspondent, and 2006 Space Communicator Award recipient who nominated Sunseri said.

 "Her deep understanding of the space program is evident in stories that often provide angles that other media miss," Veronica McGregor, Digital News and Media Manager for NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory and 2013 Space Communicator Award recipient, said. "Her dedication to covering the space beat has benefitted the industry as well as ABC and millions of viewers."

After the tragic loss of the Space Shuttle Columbia in 2003, Sunseri extensively covered the seven astronauts lost aboard STS-107, NASA’s investigation of the disaster, and the safety measures implemented before the 2005 Return to Flight. She played a crucial role in the ABC News team that earned an Emmy Award for their investigative report titled "Columbia Final Mission," which aired on "Primetime Thursday." 

When she's not pursuing stories or conducting interviews, Sunseri enjoys travel, weather, music, and gardening. She is happily married to retired KPRC photographer John Treadgold and is a mother of two.

The RNASA Space Communicator Award, established in 1997 in honor of KTRK, Houston Channel 13 space reporter and long-time RNASA Advisor Stephen Gauvain, who tragically died in a car accident in 1996, recognizes individuals or teams for outstanding contributions to public understanding and appreciation of space exploration.

 Previous recipients of the award include William Harwood of CBS; Miles O'Brien, formerly of CNN; Elliot Pulham of the Space Foundation; the NASA-Contractor Communications team that responded to the Columbia accident; Mark Carreau, formerly of the Houston Chronicle; Neil deGrasse Tyson of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History; Veronica McGregor, Manager of News and Social Media at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory; Chris A. Hadfield, former Canadian Space Agency astronaut; Bill Nye (the science guy), CEO of the Planetary Society; Rob Navias, Public Affairs Officer (PAO) Mission commentator; William Shatner, actor, author, producer, and director; and Bill Ingalls, senior NASA photographer.

2024 Media Alliance of Houston Star Awards winners

The 2024 Media Alliance of Houston Gala brought us this year's Star Awards winners on April 18, 2024, at the Royal Sonesta Houston Galleria.

Kelley Rodriguez with Love Advertising is the 2024 Silver Star Honoree.

This year, the happy hour, dinner, and after-party took place in a "tropical oasis setting" and benefitted the MAH scholarships while supporting the community through the DREAM fund.

Congratulations to the 2024 Media Alliance of Houston Star Awards recipients!

Digital Sales Professional (All Media)
Rita Dalati, KRBE

Out of Home or Print Account Executive
Karen Erwin, Outfront

Out of Home or Print Media Manager or VP
Traci Pelter, Houston Business Journal

Sports or Entertainment Specialist
Sean Pendergast, Sports Radio 610

On-Air TV Personality
Crystal Ayala, Telemundo

Local TV Account Executive
Glenda Carmon, KTRK

TV Sales Manager or Director of Sales
Sonya Villamagna, KHOU

TV News Director
Bernice Kearney, KPRC

TV Market Manager or VP
Wendy Granato, KTRK

Radio Producer or News Director
Erik with a K, Audacy

Radio On-Air Personality
Roula Christie, Cumulus

Local Radio Account Executive
Laura Imming, Audacy

Radio Sales Manager or Director
Tim Gratzer, Cumulus

Radio Program Director or Operations
Josh Adams, Houston Public Media

Radio Market Manager or VP
Lisa Shumate, Houston Public Media

Promotions Director or Marketing Professional
Kyle Claude, Houston Public Media

Local Media Sales Assistant or Traffic Assistant
Pam Loza, Audacy

Local Community Affairs Director
Mariah Gardner, KPRC

Creative Director or Manager
Josh Power, Nicely Done

Local Agency Support Staff
Jon Little, Love Advertising

Local Agency Account Service/Brand Management
Casey Mitchell, Mind Dance Marketing

Local Agency Buyer
Grace Roman, Love Advertising

Local Agency Planner
Natalie Lyles, Love Advertising

Local Agency Digital Professional
Avery Domenech, Avail Media 

Local Agency Media Director or Associate Media Director
Amanda Reed, Avail Media 

Agency Principal
Kelley Robinson, Avail Media 

Agency of the Year (Small)
Mind Dance Marketing

Agency of the Year (Large)
Love Advertising

MAH Rising Star
Nea Canady, KHOU

Market Rock Star
Mia Viera, Crispin Porter Bogusky

KFDM 6 Beaumont gets new studio for 2024

KFDM 6 and Fox 4 Beaumont KBTV are celebrating a new studio home at 6320 Walden Road in Beaumont.

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Beaumont anchors: Where are they now?

With a new building comes a new set.

After 61 years at its previous location on I-10 near 11th Street, the Sinclair Broadcast Group duopoly television stations had to make a necessary move due to the widening interstate. The stations temporarily moved to a location east of Vidor.

Initially reported to open in the summer of 2023, the new studio's debut officially occurred in April 2024.

97.1 The Eagle KEGL is back on DFW radio...again

Like the phoenix that rises through the ashes, 97.1 The Eagle KEGL makes its second return to the Dallas-Fort Worth FM radio dial to the delight of hard rock fans if they still care.

UPDATE MAY 8, 2024
Ben and Skin return

The latest station that couldn't overtake The Eagle was sports/talk station 97.1 The Freak, which debuted on October 3, 2022, at 3pm.

Houston listeners might wonder if this means 101 KLOL is ever coming back. I highly doubt it. To return to the glory days of rock music, they will have to watch my "Runaway Radio" documentary.

Today, April 29, 2024, The Eagle returned for the second time at 10am with a custom recorded message from Metallica with lead singer/guitarist James Hetfield saying, "Very excited to report that 97.1 The Eagle is back on the radio in Texas. Kick Ass. Hell yeah. Metallica loves you, Dallas-Fort Worth. The Eagle is back!"

The first song was back for 97.1 The Eagle was not Metallica but "Kill the King" by fellow Big 4 of Thrash band Megadeth.

No word yet on the new air staff or morning show.

"I’m excited that The Eagle is back and ready to rock Dallas-Fort Worth again," Patrick Davis, senior VP of programming for iHeartMedia Dallas-Fort Worth, said in a statement. "This is a legendary brand for the market, and listeners have been asking to have it back on air, and we listened!"

The Eagle signed on in 1980 and was a cross between rock and top 40 until the early 90s when it became active rock.  

KLOL Houston fans will recognize that Stevens and Pruett, followed by Moby, were on the 97.1 The Eagle morning slot before Howard Stern took over until he was kicked off the station. Russ Martin followed, and another KLOL pairing of ‘The Grego and Brian Morning Show’ from 2002-2004.

In May 2004, the station flipped to Soft AC Sunny 97.1.

By August 2005, KEGL became "La Preciosa."

Then, in December 2007, the first return of 97.1 The Eagle happened.

LISTEN TO THE RETURNED STATION HERE

Dan Rather returns to CBS in new interview

Nearly two decades have passed since Dan Rather bid farewell as anchor and managing editor of the "CBS Evening News," concluding a 44-year tenure at the "Eye Network." 

During his time there, Rather covered wars, politics, and the JFK assassination, while also mentoring a budding correspondent named Lee Cowan, who interviewed him on "CBS Sunday Morning" for his return to the network after being fired in 2005. 

Now at 92, Rather sits down with Cowan to reflect on his distinguished career, the notorious story that tarnished his reputation (and CBS's), and his life after CBS, which has involved book writing and connecting with a younger audience through social media.

Also, while you're here, reader Murdoch sent me Rather's KHOU 11 1961 Hurricane Carla news highlights.

Former abc13 producer-editor is reaching for the stars

Former ABC13 KTRK Special Project Producer/Photographer/Editor David Mackey left TV news and followed ABC13 veteran Ted Oberg to Washington, D.C., to start a new life. 

RELATED
Gina Sunseri, ABC News Producer, receives 2024 RNASA Space Communicator Award

Mackey took a year off to learn about the city and landed a job with an IT company as a video content editor for NASA.

While his work won’t take him to space just yet, David Mackey's new role with NASA is a global adventure. He'll be traversing the world, contributing to projects he deeply cares about. 

Mackey answered some questions for us about transitioning away from a career in TV news.

Mike McGuff:  What advice do you give people in TV news looking to start a new career?

David Mackey: The best advice I could give to anyone looking to start their career outside of TV news is to be patient. It's not always an instant success; it takes time to find the perfect fit. The key is being brave enough to make the jump, it’s scary but the reward on the other side is worth it! Going from living “on call" with a station to “banker’s hours” and holidays off or being told “it’s snowing, just stay home and work” is life-changing when it comes to work/life balance. 

MM: How much did your TV news skills help you land the new job?

DM: I wouldn’t be the videographer I am without my “on the job” training I received working in television.  I worked with some of the best in the business and was mentored by skilled multi-Emmy award-winning animation creators like Paul McKenna, editors like John Mubarak, and managers/photographers like Scott Morrow. Working at a number-one station in a top-ten market is like boot camp. The rush to get packages done with reporters, producers, and managers standing over your shoulder prepares you for the slowed-paced life of corporate, where projects you used to do in hours can now be focused on, allowing you to enjoy the finished project and not feel like you threw it together. Even more appreciative is the fact that after a project is done you get credit for it. So often in television the focus is on the “face” of the story. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen incredible stories air where everyone cheers the reporter while the photographer/editor is standing on the side unacknowledged, knowing the story was crafted in an edit bay and not on paper. 

MM: Any advice on moving to a new city that you learned along the way?

DM:  When it comes to moving to a new city and starting a new life, the best advice I can give is to say it’s never too late. I left ABC13 after 24 years as a 50-year-old and moved over a thousand miles away to Washington DC, not knowing a single person here. All I knew was, I didn’t want to be the person that never experienced life outside of their hometown. I figured at 50 with my kids grown, I was still young enough to have a life, fit enough to enjoy the life and attractive enough to destroy the life. I started at ABC13, married to a woman, and left divorced from a man, all while raising two successful daughters. I accomplished everything in Texas I could. As for the move, it took a while, but I am adjusted to DC life (and the snowy weather), and now I am making a difference with my skills, not rushing to work to deal with hurricanes and car crashes. Creating great projects for the government from the comfort of my home. The life path I chose may not be right for everyone but I couldn’t ask for a better place to be in my journey. A career that is not a job but a joy and the opportunity to help other organizations and non profits with my production company tdmphotography.com in the most historic city in the country. 

Dave Ward's surprise 85th birthday!

A 20 Year Old Television Camera made this video

Max Crawford promoted to chief meteorologist at KBTX Bryan-College Station

Morning meteorologist Max Crawford is taking over as KTBX News 3 Bryan - College Station chief meteorologist from Shel Winkley, who signed off on April 25, 2024.

UPDATE MAY 2024
Kayleigh Thomas takes Crawford's spot on KBTX's Brazos Valley This Morning.

Here is what Crawford posted on Facebook:

"I owe a lot to this guy. A lot of other people do, too. He never asked for recognition or praise. That’s one of the MANY things that makes him such a great leader. 

Meteorologist Shel Winkley KBTX and I always said we wouldn’t leave this job unless it was for an amazing opportunity. I’m thrilled for my former boss and one of my best friends for embarking on a new adventure. 

We have BIG shoes to fill, but he’s laid a great foundation.

I’m honored and privileged to be your next Chief Meteorologist, Brazos Valley!"

Anchor Rusty Surette says Crawford will become only the third person to hold the title "Chief Meteorologist" at KBTX.

The Texas A&M University grad interned under Winkley in 2013.  He then worked with Tom Tefertiller at KWES 9 Midland/Odessa before returning to KBTX in June 2015.

Crawford's wife, Kimberly, gave birth to a baby boy on Christmas Day 2022. 

Leigh Waldman joins CNN

Leigh Waldman announced she is leaving her KSAT 12 San Antonio investigative reporting role.

UPDATE:  It was later revealed she is joining CNN as a New York-based correspondent for CNN Newsource, reporting for the network’s more than 1,000 affiliate partners.

"When I left CNN in 2016 as an intern, I always said I would be back again as a correspondent for this incredible network," Waldman tweeted. "After years of hard work, dreams do come true. So thrilled to work alongside these incredible journalists."

When I left CNN in 2016 as an intern, I always said I would be back again as a correspondent for this incredible network. After years of hard work, dreams do come true. So thrilled to work alongside these incredible journalists.https://t.co/TnMTKIq0ZA pic.twitter.com/IcgjnBrDBP

— Leigh Waldman (@LeighWaldman) April 30, 2024

Here is a portion of what Waldman posted to Facebook when leaving KSAT:

"My time at KSAT is coming to an end at the end of the month. 

I've said it time and time again to our team here, working at KSAT is my favorite thing in the world.

The journalists who serve this community tirelessly every day are unmatched in their dedication, skill, and devotion. 

This is not just a job, this is a passion. Management at KSAT took a chance on me coming from Omaha, Nebraska, with only a few years of experience under my belt and has allowed me to continue taking chances."

Waldman added she is keeping her "next chapter quiet for just a little bit longer," but she will share it soon.

Waldman joined KSAT in 2021. In 2023, she was promoted to the KSAT Investigates Team.

She arrived in San Antonio from 6 News WOWT Omaha, Nebraska. 

The Texas Tech University grad started her professional TV career with KAVU 25 Victoria as an anchor/producer.

Fox 7 Austin photographer has charges dropped upon release

Carlos, the FOX 7 Austin KTBC photojournalist, who was arrested Wednesday at the pro-Palestine protests on the campus of the University of Texas at Austin, was released from jail Thursday.  

UPDATE APRIL 30, 2024
Texas DPS charges against photojournalist dropped after UT protest arrest

The station reports the criminal trespass charges against the FOX 7 photographer and others were dropped.

- SPJ condemns arrest of Fox 7 News photojournalists, calls for law enforcement to allow journalists to report without interference

FOX 7 Austin photographer arrested at UT protest

A FOX 7 Austin KTBC photojournalist was arrested at the pro-Palestine protests held on the campus of the University of Texas at Austin Wednesday afternoon.

UPDATE APRIL 30, 2024
Texas DPS charges against photojournalist dropped after UT protest arrest

UPDATE
Fox 7 Austin photographer has charges dropped upon release

Guy with camera gets rko’d by police at Palestine protest. #ut #palestine #protest pic.twitter.com/5HI2SU8VKs

— Christopher Kuhlman (@Chris_Kuhlman00) April 24, 2024

KTBC did not identify the photographer, but as he was being taken away by a Texas Department of Public Safety trooper, the TV photog said in an X video posted by KXAN weekend anchor Nabil Remadna that his name was Carlos. UPDATE: KXAN later identified him as Carlos Sanchez.

This man says he is a member of the press. An officer said his camera hit an officer. The man claims it was not on purpose. ⁦@KXAN_News⁩ pic.twitter.com/mZUcTSNJuZ

— Nabil Brent Remadna KXAN (@RemadnaKXAN) April 24, 2024

"They were pushing me, and they said that I hit an officer," Carlos said in the video. "I didn’t hit an officer. They were pushing me.

"No, this has never happened to me. I was just covering things, and they were pushing. Yeah, I told him that I was the press. This one says I was hitting an officer. I was not hitting nobody."

According to FOX 7, its photographer was booked into the Travis County Jail later in the evening and charged with criminal trespassing. KVUE reports that more than 50 people were arrested.

"This is ridiculous. I worked with Carlos @fox7austin," abc13 Houston KTRK reporter Shannon Ryan posted to X.  "Like the rest of their team, he is kind and professional. The fact he is sitting in jail for having done nothing but his job is an embarrassment and waste of public resources."

This is ridiculous. I worked with Carlos @fox7austin. Like the rest of their team, he is kind and professional. The fact he is sitting in jail for having done nothing but his job is an embarrassment and waste of public resources. https://t.co/IbufKsX9GU

— Shannon Ryan (@_shanryan) April 24, 2024

"I can’t remember a journalist ever being arrested for doing his job in my 24 years of reporting in Austin," Austin American-Statesman and KVUE reporter Tony Plohetski posted.

I can’t remember a journalist ever being arrested for doing his job in my 24 years of reporting in Austin. https://t.co/onOzhh6yPq

— Tony Plohetski (@tplohetski) April 24, 2024

Camilla Rambaldi joins NBC Los Angeles

Camilla Rambaldi announced today that she is joining KNBC 4 LA as a reporter after leaving her evening anchor role on San Antonio TV.

Here is the career update Rambaldi posted on social media:

"I’m thrilled to announce I’ll be joining the NBC Los Angeles team. 

I couldn’t be more excited to begin this next chapter in my career, reporting in Southern California, where I was born and raised. 

It’s truly a dream come true to be back home in LA. I’m immensely grateful for this opportunity and thankful for everyone who has supported my journey."

After nearly eight years, Rambaldi concluded her tenure as a FOXSA 29 Puro San Antonio KABB evening anchor with her final newscast on January 12, 2024.

Ashley Paredez, who has a background in Texas TV, was hired from ABC 15 KNXV Phoenix to replace Rambaldi.

Rambaldi joined KABB in January 2016 as a reporter and fill-in anchor. She was elevated to the 9pm newscast in 2019.

Before her time in Texas, she was an Anchor, Reporter, Producer, and multimedia Journalist at KTVH in Helena, Montana.

A graduate of California State University-Northridge, Rambaldi was involved with KCSN Radio-88.5FM as a morning producer/anchor and LA Channel36 Valley View News as an MMJ. She also interned with ABC7 KABC, Access Hollywood, and The Hollywood Reporter.

Where is KHOU 11's Maria Aguilera?

I have been getting viewer questions about the whereabouts of KHOU 11 reporter Maria Aguilera.

She had not posted on her KHOU social media accounts for around a month and, from what I hear, hasn't appeared on channel 11 either.

Aguilera just posted to let us know what is happening. She is recovering from surgery:

"In sickness and in health. I will love and honor you all the days of my life. Happy one year anniversary!  We thought we’d be on a beach somewhere celebrating. Instead my husband has been by my side taking care of me as I recover from surgery. I couldn’t be more thankful."

As I blogged back then, Aguilera was married in 2023. Before she joined KHOU, I had blogged about how the then-KVUE reporter got engaged in 2022.

(Thanks Shad)

Bill Barajas and other Texas TV talents are engaged, married

KPRC 2 Houston weekend anchor Bill Barajas was engaged to Carla Salinas in Positano, Amalfi Coast, Italy.

"Engaged to the most beautiful woman, in one of the most beautiful places in the world," Barajas posted to Instagram.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Bill Barajas (@kprc2billbarajas)

WFAA 8 Dallas-Fort Worth reporter Jay Wallis got engaged to WFAA Brand Marketing Manager Maria Delgado. 

"She officially said yes! Can’t wait to start this next journey of life with you," Wallis tweeted.

She officially said yes! Can’t wait to start this next journey of life with you. pic.twitter.com/0yXZzpGuA4

— Jay Wallis (@WFAAJayWallis) April 20, 2024

And congratulations are in order for KENS 5 San Antonio Meteorologist Ryan Shoptaugh, who was married in March.

Two Texas media members die Saturday

San news to report in the Texas media world as we lost a radio DJ and TV photojournalists in separate incidents this past weekend.

Amy Garza, 45, known as afternoon host "Amy-O" on 104.9 The Beat KBTE Lubbock, was killed in an early Saturday morning motorcycle crash in San Antonio.

UPDATE
Motorcyclist arrested for crash that killed his passenger, a popular Texas DJ

"We are deeply saddened by the loss of Amy. It is rare to find a person as passionate as she was to her career and community," Jay Richardson-Sr Vice President-Alpha Media Lubbock said on the station's website.  "I had the opportunity to work with Amy for the last 14 years and she was the face and energy behind 104.9 The Beat. It is impossible to replace what she brought to our organization and to the people of Lubbock."

Also in San Antonio, KSAT 12 photojournalist Jose "Joe" Arredondo, 49, died while asleep before his Saturday morning work shift.

"Joe was a beloved and energetic journalist who always had a smile," KSAT News Director Mario Orellana said on the station's website. "He had been with KSAT since 2019 and was someone we depended on for the big stories and events. Joe’s creativity, hustle, and kindness will be missed throughout the building."

Texas TV stations open-closes from 2004 to 2006

These just appeared on YouTube so enjoy...

The Art of Podcast Storytelling

Andy Adler apparently no longer with CBS News Texas KTVT DFW

Andy Adler has apparently left her sports anchor role with CBS 11 KTVT Dallas-Fort Worth, now CBS News Texas. 

UPDATE APRIL 2025
Adler releases her book Andy Pandy.

UPDATE
Briana Aldridge joins CBS News Texas

Adler's bio has been removed from the KTVT website. Her last social media posts on station accounts are from early April at the time of this post's publishing.

If this type of CBS 11 Dallas - Fort Worth post seems familiar, Metroplex TV watchers have recently seen the same disappearances with KTVT morning anchors Brooke Katz in November 2023, followed by Keith Russell in March 2024. UPDATE: Dominic Brown leaves CBS News Texas.

The station's 6pm newscast recently disappeared, too, for those keeping score.

Adler, also the co-host of the Dallas Cowboy's Pre & Post-Game Shows, joined KTVT in 2022 after leaving WPIX 11 New York in November of 2021. She had been with Pix11 since 2014 as lead sports anchor and host of Giants, Yankees and Jets pre-game shows. While in NY, she also hosted "One On One with Andy Adler" and collaborated with Sports Illustrated.

Before the Big Apple, Adler was on the opposite coast, hosting the Los Angeles Lakers pre- and post-game with James Worthy, Kurt Rambis, Robert Horry, and Spectrum SportsNet's "Access SportsNet."

Adler also worked for: 

- NBC 4 News KNBC LA 'Today in LA' weekend morning anchor/reporter and "Prime Time News LA" host following NBC's Sunday Night Football

- FOX 5 WNYW New York "Good Day New York" sports and fill-in news anchor and "Sports Extra" host

- "American Latino TV" host 

- CBS Local 2 KPSP Palm Springs, CA reporter and "Eye on the Desert" host

- KSBW Action News 8 Salinas, CA reporter 

While in college, the Stanford University honors grad worked as the news director/anchor for the school's TV station.  Adler also interned for KPIX 5 San Francisco and "The Late Show with David Letterman."

(Thanks Susan)

Adam Bennett leaves KHOU Houston for KVUE Austin

Adam Bennett is leaving his KHOU 11 Houston reporting position and returning to Austin to join KVUE, TEGNA's sister station.

Here is what Bennett posted on X:

"After 9 years, today is my last day at KHOU.

Starting April 29, I’m excited to join the team at our Austin station, KVUE, as Weekend AM Anchor/Senior Reporter!

Houston, THANK YOU for welcoming me into your wonderful city and helping me share your stories. Forever grateful."

Bennett will replace Dominique Newland, who left the KVUE weekend morning anchor position for FOX 10 KSAZ Phoenix last year.

Bennett joined KHOU in 2015 from CBS Austin KEYE where he was a morning reporter/multimedia journalist (MMJ).

He got his professional TV start with KAMR NBC 4/KCIT Fox 14 Amarillo as a reporter/weekend anchor/weekend producer.

The University of Texas at Austin grad interned with FOX 7 Austin KTBC and WFAA 8 DFW.

Speaking of North Texas, Bennett comes from a broadcasting family. Adam's father, Dan Bennett, is the Regional Vice President for Cumulus Media, covering the Dallas and Houston radio markets with more than 50 years of radio experience!  In fact, I cover Dan on this very blog.

On the same day of Bennett's announcement, KTXS News 12 Abilene weeknight co-anchor Farrah Walton said she's joining CBS Austin KEYE.  Trason Bragg is joining KHOU around the same time. 

After 9 years, today is my last day at @KHOU.

Starting April 29, I’m excited to join the team at our Austin station, @KVUE, as Weekend AM Anchor/Senior Reporter!

Houston, THANK YOU for welcoming me into your wonderful city and helping me share your stories. Forever grateful 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/UHN5dOUTYq

— Adam Bennett (@AdamBennettKHOU) April 19, 2024

(Thanks Shad and Taylor)

Shel Winkley to leave KBTX News 3 Bryan-College Station

Shel Winkley announced he is leaving his KBTX News 3 Bryan-College Station chief meteorologist in April of 2024.

UPDATE MAY 2024
Kayleigh Thomas joins KBTX's Brazos Valley This Morning.

UPDATE 
Max Crawford promoted to chief meteorologist at KBTX Bryan-College Station

Here is what Winkley posted on Facebook: 

"After almost 15 wonderful, exceptional years at KBTX, my last day on-air in the Brazos Valley is April 25th.

From my intern days while at Texas A&M, to walking back in as an employee in 2009, to gaining your trust to lead the PinPoint Weather Team since 2013, this really has been a dream job that I honestly never imagined stepping away from. Know that it had to be an incredible opportunity to further the science of weather and climate that would take me out of your TV. This opportunity is exactly that.

I have grown so much both professionally and personally in my time at KBTX. I cannot say thank you enough for allowing me to earn your trust to cover the storms, hurricanes, historic temperatures, impacts of a changing climate, and just the day-to-day weather of Central and Southeast Texas. But also thank you for the conversations, the questions, and most importantly the support and friendships you have gifted me over this decade and a half.

We can talk about this new chapter and the work I will be doing at another time – but the good news is that I get to do it from right here in Bryan-College Station. While we may not see each other inside of an app or on-air anymore, please do say hello if you see me around town. 

My success as a meteorologist has come entirely from you. So sincerely…thank you, Brazos Valley."

Winkley joined KBTX in 2009 as its morning meteorologist.  He was promoted to chief meteorologist in August 2013.

"Going to miss working with this guy," morning anchor Karla Castillo posted.  "He’s so talented and passionate for what he does. Most importantly, he’s a wonderful dude and amazing friend."

He started his TV news career with KFDA NewsChannel 10 Amarillo as a weekend meteorologist and storm chaser.

The Texas A&M University grad interned with KBTX.  According to his LinkedIn, Winkley has been a meteorologist liaison with A&M since 2014 and a visiting lecturer since 2013.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Shel Winkley (@kbtxshel)

 

Farrah Walton joins CBS Austin

Farrah Walton is signing off KTXS News 12 Abilene as weeknight co-anchor. 

UPDATE: Walton announced she is joining Sinclair Broadcast Group's sister station, CBS Austin KEYE. On the same day, KHOU 11 reporter Adam Bennett announced he is joining KVUE Austin.

"It is very bittersweet for me to announce this is my final week at KTXS News," Walton posted on social media. "For the last almost three years, I have had the honor of being one of your news anchors and the privilege of telling your stories.  Thank you for welcoming me into your homes every evening and for making Abilene a home for me."

Walton was promoted to weeknights from weekend anchor in April 2022.

She joined KTX in July 2021.

The Pasadena, California native graduated from San Francisco State University.

Dave Ward presents award at Crime Stoppers Annual Houston’s Heroes Awards Luncheon

(Photo Credit: Quy Tran Photography)

The Crime Stoppers of Houston's annual Houston’s Heroes Awards Luncheon took place April 3, 2024, at the Royal Sonesta Hotel. 

Former ABC13 KTRK anchor Dave Ward presented his media award, and Deborah Duncan, host of KHOU Great Day Houston, served as the mistress of ceremonies with other media figures also earning honors.

The event recognizes outstanding community members whose remarkable efforts have significantly contributed to public safety.

The luncheon concluded with a poignant award presentation by Ward, who presented his Dave Ward Excellence in Media Award to Kim Nordt-Jackson, ABC13 Vice President of Programming and Community. This recognition highlighted her exceptional contributions to media and community endeavors.

(Photo Credit: Quy Tran Photography)

The following individuals were also honored:

The Johnny Klevenhagen Award – Larry Baimbridge, Spring Branch ISD Police Chief: Chief Baimbridge was recognized for his significant impact throughout his career in law enforcement. After serving 31 years at Houston Police Department, Larry Baimbridge now serves as the Chief of Police for the Spring Branch Independent School District where he works diligently to keep over 35,000 students in SBISD, as well as the faculty, families, and other officers safe. In creating solutions, he has called upon community partners, including Crime Stoppers of Houston Safe School Institute, to bring additional assets and tools to SBISD. His goal to keep all campuses safe and secure has been felt by all.

The Fenner Weller Award – Robert Arnold, KPRC CH 2: Robert was recognized for his significant contributions as an investigative reporter for over 24 years who has investigated everything from corruption to terrorism, to major storms, to gang violence, to our criminal justice system, to immigration and our southern border with Mexico. Over the years, Robert has worked closely with the Crime Stoppers’ team on countless cases and stories and with victims who need to tell their story or are in search of justice.

The Leiv Platou Award – Griselda Castillo, Grizzy Hood News: Known as Grizzy from “Grizzy’s Hood News” is a Houston native doing enormous things. After falling into the wrong crowd, circumstance took her though the criminal justice system in 2003 and eventually led her to serving a prison sentence. Coming from a great home and a wonderful community, she decided to focus her efforts on volunteering in a way that brought justice to crime victims and uncovered criminal activity. “Grizzy’s Hood News” was born in 2019 and comprised of Grizzy simply showing – literally everywhere as criminal activity was breaking. Today, her “Hood News” platform’s philosophy is for the community to “love one another”, bring unbiased coverage on pressing issues to the community and engage her massive following for solutions and good.

The Corporate Citizen Award – Aramco Americas: Recognized for their philanthropic commitment and support of many community causes. Through their corporate citizen program, they partner with others to enhance STEM education, the environment, and vital social needs. Their spirit of service extends to each employee who shows up willing to volunteer and serve. Crime Stoppers has seen this firsthand through this Houston Heroes luncheon but also through Aramco’s commitment to expand the reach of the Crime Stoppers Safe School Institute. Ultimately, the reach of Aramco goes beyond what any of us can fathom and we remain deeply thankful for their culture, their values, their service, and commitment to Houston.

The Safe School Award – Wendy Dawson – CEO Spectrum Linx, Michelle Heinz – Crime Stoppers of Houston Board Member and Colleen “Coach” Russo – ED The HUB Houston:

As parents and teachers, Wendy, Michelle and Colleen “Coach”, have made an incredibly significant contribution to keeping all kids, now including neurodiverse students, safe in all situations. The three came to Crime Stoppers of Houston last year with a dream and a plan and because of them, the NEEDS Program was created. With a mission to champion the safety, well-being, and empowerment of the neurodiverse community, they brought issues, solutions and a powerful team behind them. Of course, their passion comes from their heart as mothers and teachers.   

The Women Who Shape Houston Award – Joy Sewing, Houston Chronicle: Recognized for her incredible contributions throughout her career in journalism. Joy has served as Houston Chronicle’s culture columnist and fashion editor, interviewing everyone from Oscar de la Renta to Beyonce. Named Houston Chronicle’s First Black Woman News Columnist, her focus is to cover social justice issues who has a long-standing relationship with many charities including Crime Stoppers of Houston.

Partner of the Year Award – Astoundz: Steve Winter and Leisa Holland-Nelson were recognized for their dedication, commitment, and significant contributions to our city and communities. They have helped Crime Stoppers shape their web and digital footprint to better serve and reach our community with the latest safety information, news, free programming, events and more that regularly come out of the organization. Two years ago, they stepped up to help Crime Stoppers create a website for The Glenda Gordy Research Center to provide Houstonians a user-friendly hub for real time crime analysis. 

“Such a special event honoring some of Houston’s finest! This year’s honorees were truly a reflection of the many men, women and institutions who share a common goal to make Houston the best place to live, work and play. We were thrilled to honor all of the Houston Hero honorees and look forward to continuing to work together," Crime Stoppers CEO Rania Mankarious said. "It was also absolutely moving to see so many familiar faces in the room as well as an array of Houston City Council Members, Harris County Commissioners, Harris County Judges, the Harris County District Attorney, Chief of Police and others in attendance."

Notable guests include Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg; Harris County Commissioners Leslie Briones and Tom Ramsey; Harris County Judge Erika Ramirez, Harris County Constable Alan Rosen, Houston City Council Members Twila Carter, Mario Castillo, Mary Nan Huffman, Amy Peck, Julian Ramirez; Houston Police Department Chief Troy Finner, Assistant Chief Adrian Rodriguez, and Commander Jim Dale; Katy Police Chief Noe Diaz, Houston Independent School District Chief of Police Shamara Garner, and command staff of Texas Rangers.

Among supporters were Crime Stoppers Chairman Lindsay Aronstein, Jim McIngvale ‘Mattress Mack’, Laura Ward, Ilona Carson, Barnet Gershen, Sam Gershen, Amy Leibman, Brenda Love, Genny McIntyre, Melanie Meeks, Maria Moncada Alaoui, Mayte Weitzman, Tena Lundquist Faust, Tama Lundquist, Larry and Linda Levy, Cora Robinson, Patricia Ritter, Ricardo Nazario, Wendy Baimbridge and many more.

www.crime-stoppers.org

Sara Donchey saved by Brock Purdy?

Sara Donchey leads a life filled with adventure, and now, San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy claims to have rescued the CBS News Bay Area KPIX anchor from a perilous situation!

"We're shooting this commercial on a hill on the outside of the city," Purdy said on The Pat McAfee Show. "I see this thing trotting by that has a big tail. I was like, 'That looks like a mini wolf.' No one else was gonna scream, so I screamed, 'Yo, there's a coyote!' That thing went running off. It could've been an ugly day on the shoot, but we saved her (referencing Donchey)."

Donchey featured the commercial shoot on a newscast in February (watch below). 

"I was walking my dog when this happened," Donchey said on-air. "I was watching from Bernal Heights Park when I suddenly heard Brock scream, 'Coyote!' I turned around and saw the biggest coyote I've ever seen sneaking up behind me and my dog. ... When I walked down the hill, one of the film crew guys said, 'Hey, Brock Purdy saved your life.' Not exactly, but it's a good story to tell next season."

This isn't the first time the news anchor was near danger.

She was working for KPRC 2 Houston while in Hawaii during an errant missile strike warning. Later, as an anchor for KCAL9 Los Angeles, Donchey was live on the air during a 7.1-magnitude earthquake.

Donchey left KPRC 2 in 2018, but still has love for H-Town.

Ashley Paredez starts at FOXSA 29 Puro San Antonio

Ashley Paredez is now on-air with FOXSA 29 Puro San Antonio. Evening co-anchor Ryan Wolf and chief meteorologist Alex Garcia kicked off her arrival with an interview.

As I wrote in March, Paredez is returning to her hometown roots and stepping into anchor FOX News at Nine on KABB San Antonio.

A native of San Antonio, Paredez will take over the anchor position previously held by Camilla Rambaldi, who bid farewell to FOXSA 29 Puro San Antonio in January 2024.

Paredez has been a nightside news reporter at ABC 15 KNXV Phoenix since December 2020. Before her stint in Phoenix, she was a familiar face to viewers in the Dallas-Fort Worth area as a morning reporter for FOX 4 KDFW's "Good Day" morning newscast from 2018 to 2020.

Before her time in the DFW Metroplex, Paredez worked as the weekend evening anchor for FOX 7 KTBC Austin. Her journey in Texas media began in Amarillo, where she worked as a morning anchor, reporter, and executive producer for KFDA NewsChannel 10.

Paradez has family in San Antonio, Boerne and Helotes.

And like Rambaldi, Paredez will also anchor the 6pm and 11pm news for sister station WXLV ABC 45 Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

Texas 2024 NAB Crystal Radio Award Winners including one from Houston

93Q Country KKBQ Houston was one of 10 winners of the 37th annual NAB Crystal Radio Awards held by the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB).

"I'm unbelievably proud right now," Travis Moon, Radio-One Houston Director of Operations, told mikemcguff.com. "Our community in Houston deserves our local best every day. I'm blessed with a fantastic team that lives this focus 24/7."

Another honoree from Texas is Candy 95 KNDE College Station. This was Candy 95’s 9th time as a finalist, with wins in 2012, 2016, and 2019.

Winners were announced at the 2024 NAB Show in Las Vegas and were chosen from 50 previously announced finalists.

The NAB Crystal Radio Awards have recognized radio stations' exceptional year-round commitment to community service since 1987. 

To see a complete list of winners, click here.

Gloria Walker joins KRGV 5 Rio Grande Valley

Gloria Walker signed off 12News KBMT Beaumont as a reporter/fill-in anchor on April 5, 2024, and announced on May 16th that she is joining KRGV 5 Rio Grande Valley.

"Even though I shed lots of tears yesterday, I am so proud of all my progress," Walker posted on Instagram. "I am thankful for all the wonderful journalists whose paths I have crossed with. And I have a feeling this is just the beginning."

Walker joined the 12News team in November 2021.

The University of Houston grad, who was also raised in Houston, previously worked with the Astros as an "Astros Pre-Game Show" host.  She also worked in promotions for 104.1 KRBE.

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