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Friday, November 21, 2025

SportsTalk 790 announces “The Morning Drive with Dan & Cole”

Houston, TX — November 21, 2025 — iHeartMedia Houston’s SportsTalk 790 (KBME), Houston’s Home for Houston Sports, announced today the debut of the new “The Morning Drive with Dan & Cole,” beginning Monday, November 24. The new morning show featuring live and local programming will broadcast weekdays from 6:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

- Sean Salisbury exits SportsTalk 790 after iHeart layoffs

Hosted by Houston natives Dan Mathews and Cole Thompson, “The Morning Drive with Dan & Cole” is a fast-paced, hyper-local sports show centered on all things Houston. Each morning, the duo will break down the latest on the Astros, Rockets, and Texans, while also tackling major college matchups and the biggest national sports headlines. The show blends sharp analysis, insider access, and the hosts’ signature passion for their hometown, delivering energetic and opinionated coverage to start each weekday.

“We’re thrilled to add Cole to mornings, alongside Dan,” said Chris Gordy, Program Director for SportsTalk790. “Both guys eat, sleep and breathe all things Houston sports, and bring a passion and enthusiasm to kick off each morning right.”

Cole Thompson has covered Houston sports for the past decade, with stops in Austin and San Antonio. Over the past year, he has produced “The A-Team” on SportsTalk790 and hosted "The Night Cap." A graduate of the University of Alabama, Thompson previously hosted “Just Sayin It” for three years on SportsMap Radio and also hosts shows for “SEC Unfiltered.” A college football junkie known for his energetic, out-of-the-box on-air style, Thompson is an instinct-first, numbers second personality who brings a fresh perspective — and isn’t afraid to challenge the stats when the eyes tell a different story.

Dan Mathews, a proud St. Thomas High School graduate, has covered Houston sports since 2009. He began his career as an on-air host in Houston, covering the Rockets, Texans and Astros before moving to Atlanta, where he worked for both 92.9 The Game and 680 The Fan, serving as a host, reporter and play-by-play broadcaster. During his time in Atlanta, Mathews broadcast games for Mercer University, covered the Atlanta Braves and University of Georgia, and served as Executive Producer of "The Chuck Oliver Show," covering all things college football. Mathews returned to Houston in 2023, producing for “The A-Team” and hosting "The Night Cap," before joining "The Sean Salisbury Show" in morning drive. He also regularly hosts SportsTalk 790 pre-game and post-game shows for the Houston Astros and Houston Rockets.

The full SportsTalk 790 (KBME ) programming line-up:

The Morning Drive with Dan & Cole from 6:00 a.m - 10:00 a.m.

The Matt Thomas Show with Ross from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

The A-Team with Adam Wexler and Adam Clanton from 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

The Night Cap with Josh Jordan from 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

In addition to delivering live and local programming from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., SportsTalk 790 serves as the flagship home of the Houston Astros and Houston Rockets, Texas Longhorn football and basketball as well as LSU football. The station is a sister station to KPRC 950AM, the flagship home for Houston Cougars football and basketball.

Friday, May 12, 2023

Mark Berman to retire from FOX 26 Houston

Mark Berman announced on Twitter, where he releases many of his Houston sports scoops, that he is retiring from FOX 26 Houston KRIV after 37 years with the station on the same day as he started.

UPDATE JUNE 2023
Mark Berman signs-off FOX 26

ALSO HAPPENING
José Griñan to retire from FOX 26 Houston

"Some personal news to share: June 12 will be my last night on FOX 26 News at Nine.
I’m retiring after 37 years on the job (43 in Houston).
Growing up in my hometown of Hempstead I dreamed of being a sportscaster on television in Houston. FOX 26 helped make that dream become a reality.
Working for FOX 26 General Manager D'Artagnan Bebel has made it that much more special. He's a leader, mentor and father figure all rolled into one.
What a privilege it's been to cover sports in the great city of Houston and to work at FOX 26, a great Houston television station."

Watch the above mini-doc to get an idea of what goes into a day in the life of Berman. Most media folks know that he's one of the hardest, if not the hardest, working news/sports journalists in the Houston media.

I mean, how many times do you hear on ESPN or another sports network, "FOX 26 in Houston has learned" or "Houston sports anchor Mark Berman found out..."

"I wake up in the morning, and my first thought is ‘What can I do to separate myself from the pack?’" Berman told retired Houston Chronicle columnist David Barron in 2011. "And when I go to bed at night, my last thought is ‘What can I do tomorrow to separate myself from the pack?’"

When social media became a thing, Berman dominated it. When I was tracking Houston TV social media metrics, Berman was always at the top of engagement for members of the H-Town media.

"Mark Berman has been one of my closest friends for more than 40 years," tweeted former Houston Chronicle sports columnist John McClain. "It’s the end of a Houston journalism era. Mark is the best reporter and hardest worker I’ve ever seen. His competitors will celebrate!"

Here is a Berman anecdote in a 2022 Ken Hoffman column for SportsMap:

"Several years ago, I was playing a neighborhood pickup basketball game with Steve Patterson, then the Houston Rockets general manager. I asked him, “How come you give all your scoops to Mark Berman at Channel 26? Don’t the other TV stations get mad at you?”
Patterson answered, “I don’t play favorites. I don’t call Berman and give him Rockets stories. He’s the only TV guy who stops by my office every day and asks what’s up? If someone in the media asks what’s going on, I’ll tell them. Berman just happens to be the only one who does that.”
To be fair, none of the current batch of local sports anchors was around when Patterson told me that. The others have upped their game, and by that I mean they actually show up for games and work the beat. What a concept!"

Berman has worked with channel 26 for 37 years. He started as the stations' weekend sports anchor on June 12, 1986 and moved to sports director in 1988.

Born in Hempstead, the University of Houston grad started as a weekend anchor/reporter for CBS7 KOSA Odessa, then returned to Houston as 95.7 KIKK's sports director.

His daughter Jessica, is a television news producer who now works for FOX 26.

"A legendary run," posted morning anchor Sally MacDonald. "We call him 'scoop' because he is always in the know before anyone else. A passion and work ethic that are unmatched. When I got to be on the sidelines at a game with Mark I found myself watching him work sometimes more than I watched the field. Always hustling. Enjoy the rest and family. You’ve earned it."

Congratulations on a legendary career, @MarkBermanFox26! pic.twitter.com/yl5INx4hnF
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) May 12, 2023

Some personal news to share: June 12 will be my last night on FOX 26 News at Nine. I’m retiring after 37 years on the job (43 in Houston). Growing up in my hometown of Hempstead I dreamed of being a sportscaster on television in Houston. FOX 26 helped make that dream…” pic.twitter.com/cGCKun6mxo
— Mark Berman (@MarkBermanFox26) May 12, 2023

Mark Berman @MarkBermanFox26 has been one of my closest friends for more than 40 years. He announced his retirement today effective June 12. It’s the end of a Houston journalism era. Mark is the best reporter and hardest worker I’ve ever seen. His competitors will celebrate!
— John McClain (@McClain_on_NFL) May 12, 2023

(Thanks Shad!)

Wednesday, February 09, 2022

Vanessa Richardson and Paul Gallant replace Charlie Pallilo at ESPN 97.5

Charlie Pallilo is being replaced at ESPN 97.5 Houston KFNC's 10 to noon slot by former KPRC 2 sports reporter/anchor Vanessa Richardson and Paul Gallant.

UPDATE SEPTEMBER 26, 2022
Vanessa Richardson joins Houston Rockets TV

"We're excited to announce a new addition to the ESPN 97.5 & 92.5 Weekday Lineup, Vanessa & Gallant," ESPN Houston posted to Facebook. "We're thrilled to have this dynamic duo joining the team. Tune in next Monday at 10am (February 14, 2022) to hear their first show!"

Pallilo, who has been doing sports talk for more than three decades, has also worked for 740 KTRH, Sportsradio 610 KILT, Sports Talk 790 KBME, 1560 KGOW and SportsMap 94.1 FM (both were owned by Gow Media which also owns KFNC).

Most things have a shelf life.
My tenure hosting daily at 97.5/92.5 is finished.
Please wake me when the Astros' season starts.
Or May 1, whichever comes first.
— Charlie Pallilo (@Pallilo) February 8, 2022

In May 2022, Pallilo wrote about his departure in a column on KFNC (Gow Media) owned Sportsmap:

"It’s not quite an elephant in the room, but one paragraph on why you are reading me on SportsMap Houston but not hearing me on ESPN Houston 97.5 FM.
Essentially, an outside consultant was given license to make some changes. Replacing me was one of his changes.
I wasn’t pleased with how it went down, but life happens. Fortunately, having had some success long enough to not have to do anything I don’t want to do, I am happy to restart this SportsMap Houston column to share some sports thoughts (primarily Astros these next few months). Thanks for clicking/reading."

Richardson left KPRC in December 2021. No stranger to radio, Richardson has hosted segments on syndicated radio "The Bob & Tom Show" and for University of Indianapolis's 88.7 FM WICR. She most recently worked as an analyst for NBC Sports’ coverage of the 60th Rolex 24 At Daytona endurance race at Daytona International Speedway.

Gallant returns from Seattle. He left Houston in 2019 to work mornings for 710 KIRO ESPN Seattle. In Houston he hosted “Gallant at Night” on SportsRadio 610 KILT. He also has a podcast called "Gallant Says."

Tuesday, January 04, 2022

Texas TV news and radio job moves December 2021

Friday, December 03, 2021

Texas TV news and radio job moves November 2021

Send tips for the monthly Texas media job list here.

TAB Launching Statewide Broadcast News Awards Program - Successor to Texas AP Awards, Entry Window Opens Jan. 3.

2021 Lone Star EMMY winners
Texas 2021 NAB Marconi Radio Awards Winners

DALLAS - FORT WORTH

Univision promotes Calixto Gonzalez to vice president of news at KUVN Dallas from assistant news director role at Univision’s KWEX San Antonio.

Anchors at FOX 4 KDFW celebrated getting new duratran backgrounds on its 15-year-old set.

How WFAA’s Marc Istook Does the Holidays.

KCBI/Dallas-Ft. Worth Taps Sonny Delfyette For PM Drive.

CUMULUS MEDIA Signs New Deal With Mark “Hawkeye” Louis, Longtime DFW Morning Personality on New Country 96.3/KSCS-FM.
- KSCS (New Country 96.3)/Dallas' Mark 'Hawkeye' Louis Will Host New Podcast, 'Hawkeye On Hawkey

Former TV anchor Brendan Higgins among 9 suing over alleged priest sex abuse.

DFW teacher moonlights as online journalist hoping to inspire his students.

Audacy Makes Alternative Lineup Changes In Dallas & Kansas City As Klein & Ally Go Back To Los Angeles Only.

Former DFW radio host indicted on sexual assault charge from New Year’s Eve party.

North Texas Radio Host Gets 3 Life Prison Terms for Targeting Listeners in Scheme.

D Magazine Booted off Grocery Store Magazine Rack.

Nick Starling joins CBS 11 KTVT DFW
Natalie Solis leaves FOX 4 KDFW
David Goins joins NBC 5 KXAS
Kalee Dionne to leave WFAA Dallas
WFAA 8's Chris Lawrence interviews Santa Claus

HOUSTON

Freddy Cruz Exits Middays At KRBE/Houston After 21 Years.

Hulu Pulls abc13 KTRK ‘Astroworld: Concert From Hell’ Documentary After Backlash

Mitchell Zevallos joins Telemundo Houston KTMD as an MMJ.

KPRC 2 sports journalist Alex Radow leaves to join the Angleton School District as their Multimedia Coordinator.

Landry Locker Takes Something From Everyone.

VMG Announces Sale of the Houston Press.

Cox Media Group Houston Names Melissa Rivera Integrated Sales Manager.

Former abc13 KTRK reporter Foti Kallergis becomes Director of Public Relations and External Communications at Comcast from Director of Communications and Public Relations for Houston Airports, the City of Houston's Department of Aviation.

Tom Zizka enters into a new contract with FOX 26 KRIV.

Click2Houston.com wins EPPY Awards.

According to social media, Moriah A. Ballard leaves abc13 KTRK to go across the street to KPRC 2 to become a digital producer.

SportsMap Radio Launching 'Fred Nation.'

Kyle King joins 104.1 KRBE as part-time on air talent.

Daniella Guzman rejoins KPRC 2
Patrina Adger joins abc13 KTRK
Dave Froehlich joins KHOU 11
Addison Green leaves KHOU 11
Tom Koch shaves his mustache!
Rilwan Balogun joins KPRC 2
Justin McKee is HPM's New Director of Creative Services
Kevin Lightfoot joins WCBS NY as assistant news director
Brian Shannon returns to Houston at KHOU
Houston's SuiteRadio racking up affiliates
Laurie Johnson-Ramirez promoted to HPM news director
Dave Strickland & Rod Ryan honored by Houston Children’s Charity
Fmr. Houston TV producer talks hyperlocal news
89.3 KSBJ Recognizes Outstanding Service with Community Impact Awards
Dave Ward honored by Houston Police Foundation
Houston TV getting ATSC 3.0 December 2021
Maggie Flecknoe is married
Charly Edsitty in “Our America: Indigenous and Urban”
Vida Unida to debut on 91.7FM Houston
Broadcast Bulletin TV News podcast launches in November
Tom Abrahams is in the top 10!
Former KPRC reporter talks "Disrupting The News"
Houston TV traffic anchors battle over METRO buses
Larry Weidman: From KPRC 2 to NBC News

SAN ANTONIO

Emily Baucum is officially the permanent Sunday evening newscast anchor for News 4 SA WOIA and FOX 29 KABB.

Morgan Burrell announces she is leaving News 4 San Antonio and KABB FOX 29 News San Antonio where she has worked as multimedia journalist for the last two years.

Why KENS 5's Vinnie Vinzetta makes helping foster children a priority.

Leigh Munsil, an editor at CNN Politics, has been named the next editor-in-chief of the nonprofit San Antonio Report, succeeding founding Editor Robert Rivard.

Alek Halverson named PD, KJ97/San Antonio.

Deborah Knapp steps back from KENS 10pm, anchors 5pm
Sarah Forgany talks KENS 5 career and baby life
Audrey Castoreno named KENS 5 noon and 4pm anchor
Leigh Waldman joins KSAT San Antonio
Alanna Sarabia is married
Sarah Duran joins KENS 5
Ryan Shoptaugh joins KENS 5 San Antonio

AUSTIN

KXAN's Britt Moreno, Robert Hadlock discuss journalism with Nightly News' Lester Holt.

Stef Manisero leaves Spectrum Austin, where she was a sports anchor and MMJ, returning to New York as a Spectrum NY1 MMJ.

“Texas Standard’s” Joy Diaz turns the page on her journalism career to start a new season of public service.

Christopher Nunley, Ph.D. joins KVUE Austin
Dominique Newland joins KVUE
Daranesha Herron promoted to KVUE anchor
Tori Larned leaves KVUE Austin
Kelly Saberi joins FOX Austin
KVUE Austin gives thanks

AROUND TEXAS

400 Consecutive Football Broadcasts for "Voice of the Baylor Bears" John Morris.

Fidel Moreno-Meza joins KDBC CBS 4 El Paso as morning reporter.

Diana Maldonado joins CBS4/NBC23 KVEO Rio Grande Valley as assistant news director after working in newspapers for nearly 15 years.

KCEN 6 News' Kris Radcliff named best local TV personality.

KCEN Holds Veterans Day Fundraiser For Fort Hood USO.

CBS19 KYTX in Tyler Sports Director Johnny Congdon returning to Alabama to work for ABC 33/40 WBMA as a Sports Reporter Birmingham.

CUMULUS MEDIA Appoints Nadia Cowart as Digital Sales Manager for Beaumont/Lake Charles.

CBS7 KOSA Odessa’s Joshua Skinner has been promoted to weekday anchor.

Tyler, TX AM-Translator Combo Sold.

Trevor Thompson joins KTSM 9 News El Paso
Texas Country Reporter host Bob Phillips celebrates 50 years
Texas TEGNA stations make major changes November 2021
WTAW College Station celebrates 100th anniversary of first play by play US broadcast
Stephania Martinez joins KMID
Amanda Atwell to leave KVEO Local 23/CBS 4 RGV
Greg McAlister named GM KCBD-KLCW Lubbock
DeJonique Garrison leaves 12News KBMT Beaumont

REMEMBERING

KUT/Austin Weekend Host, Veteran Commercial And Sports Producer Bill Harwell Dies.

Monday, August 03, 2020

Texas TV news and radio job moves July 2020

Send tips for the monthly Texas media job list here.

- 2020 Lone Star Regional Sports EMMY Nominees announced
- The Texas Radio Hall of Fame class 2020

DALLAS - FORT WORTH

Longtime Texas Newsman Derik Lattig named Manager of Spectrum Cable News Office in Dallas Texas. Derik, whose official title is Planning Manager will be overseeing 10 MMJ's covering DFW for Spectrum's new venture which signs on in Dallas Sept 1st. Derik is a CBS Newspath Alum and has worked at stations in Dallas and Houston and across Texas during his 30-year career.

NBC 5 KXAS News Director John Stone adds KXTX Telemundo ND duties.

Cumulus Media hit with round of layoffs in Dallas.

It’s no ‘Last Dance,’ but documentary on SportsRadio 1310 The Ticket's Mike Rhyner will be riveting.

KCBI Dallas listeners respond to 'Feed Your Neighbor' outreach.

Dallas Moring News union organization
- Journalists of The Dallas Morning News and Al Día Dallas announce union organizing campaign
- Dallas Morning News declines to recognize union
- Inside the Dallas Morning News Union Fight

- CBS Stations Group of Texas to pay Tammy Dombeck $215,000

HOUSTON

Congrats to Houston-based syndicated host Michael Berry (740 KTRH) who makes the 2020 Talkers Heavy Hundred list.

KHOU 11 anchor Ron Trevino celebrates his 38th year with the station.

abc13 KTRK chief meteorologist Travis Herzog celebrates 14 years of service with the station.

KHOU 11 morning meteorologist Chita Craft celebrates nine years with the station.

KPRC 2 assistant news director Aaron Fernandez-Wische celebrates eight years with the station.

Reporter Cathy Hernandez celebrates five years at KPRC 2.

Ken Hoffman pitches 10 hard-hitting questions to Astros reporter Julia Morales.

Houston Chronicle nabs third place in Society of Features Journalism Awards.

There was a FOX 26 KRIV Isiah Carey Day celebration in downtown Houston where participants helped feed the homeless and prepare them for the pandemic.

Washington’s NFL name change will save Houston Chronicle copy editors a headache.

KPRC 2 Director of Digital and Enterprise Content David Arkin leaves station.

FCC Fines Gow Media's KFNC/Houston $5200 over contest.

Houston Public Media Communications Manager Victoria Cordova has left broadcasting and joined the Harris County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) as a media specialist.

This radio station has served blind Texans for more than 50 years.

FOX 26 KRIV producer Ellie Holmes tweets she started three months ago with the station. The last time she was physically at the station was when she interviewed for the job back in March. She previously worked for KSAT and KENS, both in San Antonio.

- José Santos leaves Telemundo Houston
- Shannon LaNier is a descendant of Thomas Jefferson
- Trey Serna leaves CW39 KIAH
- Houston Radio Platinum is now Classic Hits
- CW39's Morning Dose adds another hour
- Taniya Wright reveals why she had to put her health first
- Dayna Steele's "The Woman in the Mirror" debuts
- Shannon LaNier gets ripped in #CutUpCovidChallenge
- Deneige Broom returns to WFTV 9
- Video shows what led to Wayne Dolcefino's arrest in court
- Re’Chelle Turner joins KPRC 2
- Houston TV has most famous bug in mouth reporter...but there are others
- Addison Green appears on the "Joe & Joe Weather Show" podcast
- Taniya Wright talks about surgery recovery
- Steve Campion does weddings
- Astros TV's Todd Kalas to miss beginning of season after positive COVID-19 test
- Darren Lyn reports internationally on Hurricane Hanna
- SportsMap Radio launches from SB Nation Radio

SAN ANTONIO

David Flores, who wrote sports for KENS5 since April 2009, has retired. He worked for many years at the San Antonio Express-News and the Kingsville Record-News before that.

Congrats to KENS 5 producer Tara Moore who welcomed baby Trinity Grace into the world on July 29.

- KENS 5's Audrey Castoreno announces baby news
- Breanna Barrs leaves FOX 29 KABB

AUSTIN

The Austin American-Statesman signs lease, will relocate to Southeast Austin site next year.

- KVUE Austin shifts Bryan Mays and Mike Rush
- Erika Lopez interviewed by GMA's Ginger Zee
- KOKE Austin's Bob Cole recovering from COVID-19

AROUND TEXAS

Texas newspaper editor Carlos Sanchez battled COVID-19.

KBTX employee retires after nearly 50 years - Todd Carroll started his television career at KBTX in 1973.

Townsquare Lubbock And Odessa OM Dave Dunaway resigns.

Joey Parker is the new news director at KTEN Sherman.

Nexstar Media Charitable Foundation and KFDX-TV 3 donate $10,000 to “THE Kitchen” Of Wichita Falls, TX.

- Big changes at KRIS 6 Corpus Christi
- KGNS Laredo reports 8 COVID-19 staff cases
- Newscenter25 KAVU's announces new anchor lineup
- KAVU Victoria has new leadership
- Faith Woodard joins KVEO Brownsville
- Mary Kate Hamilton joins KOSA Midland-Odessa market
- Bailey Vaughn joins KTEN 10

REMEMBERING

Former WBAP Country Cowboy, Bill Mack, Dead at 88.

Former WFAA Channel 8 general Manager and sales manager Jerry Michael Blancett passed away.

CBS 4 KVEO Rio Grande Valley morning anchor Dan Joseph, 47, loses battle with cancer.

The parents of late Fox News 29 San Antonio KABB anchor Karen Martinez, die of COVID-19 within days of each other.

- Pioneering Texas TV anchor Judy Jordan dies (KDFW, KLTV, KYTX)
- Lily Jang loses her father
- Former TV photographer German Cortez has died
- KHOU 11 legal analyst Gerald Treece has died
- Former KSAT 12 San Antonio anchor Rosenda Rios has died

Monday, July 27, 2020

SportsMap Radio launches from SB Nation Radio

SportsMap Radio officially launched Monday morning - July 27, 2020 - transitioning from SB Nation Radio.

Owner Gow Media says it is the country’s largest national sports radio networks providing a 24/7 lineup and sports updates to more than 500 stations.

Wake Up Call with Tony Desiere and Ronn Culver was the debut program.

The daily lineup will include shows from Scott Ferrall, Tony Bruno, Jake Asman, Scott Wetzel, Matt Perrault, Anthony Pepe, Gabe Morency and Eytan Shander.

Craig Larson, SportsMap Radio Program Director and Gow Media COO, said the launch was extremely successful.

“We have been overwhelmed by the tremendous response to this exciting endeavor," Larson said. "With a solid infrastructure in place, and led by a dynamic innovator in David Gow, SportsMap Radio is well positioned to be an industry leader for many years to come.”

“What we have now with SportsMap Radio is not only our own brand, but the chance to have more partnerships and more relationships in the sports media industry and a better lineup of
total content," Chairman and CEO of Gow Media, David Gow said on The Jake Asman Show.

Gow has owned the network for over ten years, originally acquiring the assets of Sporting News Radio. The network was re-branded as Yahoo Sports Radio for five years and then SB Nation Radio for four years.

“We have more talent top to bottom than we ever had in the history of our network," Gow told Shander. "We really could not be more delighted with our lineup!”

Founded in 2007, Gow Media, LLC is a multi-platform media company based here in Houston.

In addition to the SportsMap Radio Network, Gow also owns ESPN 97.5 KFNC and CultureMap.

Wednesday, July 15, 2020

SB Nation Radio to become the SportsMap Radio Network

Gow Media Announces Rebrand of Sports Radio Network

Gow Media, owner of one of the country’s largest sports radio networks, announced it will now operate the network under its own brand, SportsMap Radio.

Gow has owned the network for over ten years, when it acquired the assets of Sporting News Radio.

Shortly thereafter Gow re-branded the network through partnerships to become Yahoo Sports Radio for five years and then SB Nation Radio for four years.

Effective July 27th, 2020, Gow will continue to provide the same shows and sports updates to affiliates across the country but will now do so with its own name.

“We have benefited from brand partnerships with great companies such as Yahoo and SB Nation but have ultimately concluded that we no longer want to be subject to the fate of another brand. Strategically, it is important to build our own brand,” said David Gow, CEO of Gow Media. “For our sponsors, we maintain our large audiences, with a network of over 500 affiliate stations. For our affiliates, our strong lineup remains. What is different, though, is that by operating as SportsMap, we can partner with multiple entities (vs. a single brand partner) in the development of new content and the expansion to digital platforms,” added Gow.

In the past 90 days, Gow has already tapped into partnerships that have enhanced its 24/7 lineup. The company added top industry talent such as Scott Ferrall through Sportsgrid and Tony Bruno and Eytan Shander through Jakib Media.

“Top to bottom our lineup has never been stronger. We have gotten great feedback from our affiliates,” said Craig Larson, Program Director of the SportsMap Radio Network. “We have recognized that we don’t need to create every show ourselves. Through partnerships, such as Sportsgrid and Jakib Media and others soon to come, we can assemble a lineup that is best-of-breed,” said Gow.

About Gow Media
Founded in 2007, Gow Media, LLC is a multi-platform media company based in Houston. The company owns one of the country’s largest national sports radio networks, now called the SportsMap Radio Network, which provides a 24/7 lineup and sports updates to over 500 stations across the country. Additionally, Gow owns a couple of radio stations in Houston, and a portfolio of digital content sites.

CultureMap.com is the leading online destination for lifestyle content in Texas, with localized sites in the five major cities of Texas. SportsMap.com is a leading Houston sports site, and InnovationMap.com covers stories of innovation in Houston. Late last year Gow launched AutomotiveMap, positioning the company with four content sites under a common “map” identity.

Gow Media, LLC is backed by a private investment group with significant experience in media ownership. The investor group includes Steve Webster, co-manager and co-CEO of Avista Capital; Patrick Dugan, vice president and general counsel of Nortex Corporation; and David Gow, chairman and CEO of Gow Media, LLC.

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

Wednesday, October 23, 2019

AutomotiveMap launched by Gow Media

New Digital Media Outlet to Become a Leading Source for Automotive Content

(Houston, TX) — Gow Media, a large multi-platform media company with sports radio properties ESPN 97.5 FM and SB Nation Radio and leading online destinations CultureMap, SportsMap, and InnovationMap, announced today the launch of its newest outlet, AutomotiveMap (www.automotivemap.com).

The new site will cover industry news, provide auto reviews, feature the Houston auto scene, showcase innovation, and serve as a thoughtful guide to consumers.

“We are excited to add AutomotiveMap to our portfolio of media platforms,” said David Gow, CEO of Gow Media. “We now have four content categories — culture, sports, innovation and automotive — all under the ‘map’ brand identity. And we love that each of these categories taps into the passions of our audiences.”

Gow Media has tapped Eileen Falkenberg-Hull to become editor of AutomotiveMap.

Falkenberg-Hull brings 10 years of digital publishing experience to her new position. She has covered the automotive segment exclusively for five years, with regular bylines in Trucks.com, U.S. News & World Report, and American City Business Journals. She
is a co-host of Let’s Talk Wheels on SB Nation Radio.

In her new role, Falkenberg-Hull will report to Arden Ward, vice president of editorial for Gow Media statewide.

“Eileen is an outstanding addition to our team,” said Ward. “Her enthusiasm for the auto industry is unmatched, and, as editor, she blends her extensive knowledge with an approachable voice that connects to our readers.”

“I am thrilled to become part of Gow Media,” said Falkenberg-Hull. “I have been impressed with the creative energy, professionalism, and commitment to storytelling that the team has. AutomotiveMap will be both informative and highly engaging; it will educate consumers and delight enthusiasts.”

AutomotiveMap is the latest addition to Gow Media’s ever-growing portfolio. Since acquiring CultureMap, Texas’ leading online destination for lifestyle content, in February of 2017, Gow has launched SportsMap; InnovationMap; and GiftingMap, an ecommerce
site.

“Our other site launches are going very well — we are experiencing tremendous audience and revenue growth — enabling us to step out again with AutomotiveMap,” said David Gow.

(This post was taken from a release sent to me by David Gow)

Friday, March 01, 2019

Texas TV news and radio job moves February 2019

DALLAS - FORT WORTH

John Treviño out as Telemundo Dallas GM position eliminated.

FOX 4 KDFW Dallas has hired Samantha Gannon who will report, co-host and produce on Free4All, the station’s live, weeknight 10:30 p.m. program, alongside Mike Doocy.

HOUSTON

After 46 years of chronicling Houston's sports scene, Dale Robertson is retiring from the Chronicle sports staff.

Cathy Hernandez renews her agreement as a reporter with KPRC.

abc13 KTRK weekend morning anchor Erica Simon has been elected to The Houston Association of Black Journalist Board. She is VP of Multimedia. KTRK Senior/Executive producer Kevin Lightfoot was elected as the new VP of Broadcast.

This is old news from August, but I just found out former KHOU 11 reporter Lauren Tostenson joined WBTV Charlotte, NC.

- KHOU 11 gives us a look at its new studio and newsroom
- Mike McGuff appears on KPRC 2's Houston Newsmakers with Khambrel Marshall
- Brooks Garner gone from KHOU 11
- Houston author's love advice leads to 'Steve Harvey' appearance
- Collin Myers contestant on 'Millionaire'
- Doug Harris aka Jr. Mintz elected Houston Film Critics Society president
- Media Alliance of Houston 2019 Star Awards Gala winners
- Former Houston TV anchor opens up about depression battle
- Pooja Lodhia appears on "Jeopardy!"
- SportsMap 94.1 merges into ESPN 97.5 KFNC
- Brian Rogers to depart from the Houston Chronicle
- Former KHOU GM Susan McEldoon to offer professional coaching
- Erica Simon has her baby
- Lisa Vaughn back on air at KHOU 11
- VIDEO: The brand new SkyEye13
- Sweet 96.1 in Sugar Land signs off
- Brheanna Berry joins abc13 KTRK
- Suzi Hanks exits 106.9-107.5 The Eagle
- Christine Noël starts at KPRC 2
- Sally Mamdooh is engaged
- Melanie Lawson talks living with multiple sclerosis

AUSTIN

KEYE reporter Sarah Navoy announced on Twitter she is leaving the TV biz.

KEVIN CLARK joins the team at KXAN-TV in Austin as Investigative Reporter (from WFOX, Jacksonville).
represented by Steve Swienckowski at DCA Talent. http://www.dcatalent.com.

KEYE Austin is losing a number of key players.

AROUND TEXAS

KBMT-12 News sports director Lance Edwards has been terminated.

KSWO Lawton announced the firing of meteorologist Mandy Bailey after receiving complaints that the brain teaser she showed on air was inappropriate and racially insensitive.

KVII Amarillo News Director Amy Rasico-Ahn Sullivan is leaving for KGBT Harlingen.

Former Beaumont sports reporter J Russell has joined CW Phoenix KASW as a Multimedia Journalist.

KMID Midland Reporter Haylee Brooks is headed to Little Rock's KARK.

REMEMBERING

Former KCEN Waco, Temple and Killeen talent, director Tony Hennes passes away.

Thursday, February 14, 2019

SportsMap 94.1 merges into ESPN 97.5 KFNC

As of Februrary 1st, Gow Media stopped leasing the 94.1 K231CN translator station and has moved all of the SportsMap 94.1 FM programming to ESPN 97.5 KFNC.

So that means Charlie Pallilo and the other 94.1 sports crew will now be heard on 97.5.

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Gow Media radio GM Todd Farquharson tells mikemcguff.com the company wanted to centralize its sports radio offerings to just one station. Farquharson says they are working on a booster signal to give 97.5 wider coverage around the Houston listening area. He says that 94.1 was a short term lease.

So what about the SB Nation Radio syndicated programming produced by Gow Media that aired on 94.1? In Houston, you can now listen to that online via the website (click the "Listen Live Now" link) or app.

This now leaves Houston with sports programming on ESPN 97.5, Sports Radio 610AM KILT, SportsTalk 790 KBME and CBS Sports Radio 650AM KIKK.

Don't worry...SportsMap the website is still in operation.

The 94.1 FM licensee has returned the station to a Spanish-language format. The station is now branded as 94.1 Radio Luz which airs Christian programming.

SportsMap 94.1 FM took to the airwaves on October 1, 2017. The new station moved the 1560 AM KGOW programming to the FM band. Around that time, the Sportsmap.com website also launched. This site was to compliment the recently Gow Media purchase of culturemap.com.

ALSO SEE
InnovationMap launches from Gow Media

(Thanks Andy)

* this post was updated to address where to listen to SB Nation Radio programming in Houston.

Saturday, January 05, 2019

The Favourite Wins Top Houston Film Critics Society Award

HOUSTON, TEXAS (January 4, 2019) — The Favourite – director Yorgos Lanthimos’ irreverent look at the life of Britain’s Queen Anne in the 18 th century – won top honors at the Houston Film Critics Society’s 12 th Annual Movie Awards presented January 3 rd at a
ceremony at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH).

The Houston Film Critics Society (HFCS), also recognized Rachel Weisz as Best Supporting Actress for the film as well as Deborah Davis and Tony McNamara for its screenplay.

“We are thrilled to honor such a creative and entertaining film,” says Joshua Starnes, President of the organization. “The Favourite uses a broad visual approach, and a deep appreciation for its characters, to rethink the costume drama. Who would have thought a
movie about royals could be so fun?”

A near capacity crowd in the MFAH’s Brown Auditorium Theatre braved unseasonably cold weather to enjoy an evening that included a live performance of the five nominated songs and a dramatic presentation of the HFCS’s Award for Best Foreign Film.

Consuls general, representing each of the five countries whose films were nominated in this category, were on hand to deliver greetings in the language of their respective nations to an audience that included movie fans, local filmmakers, studio representatives and HFCS members.

Other highlights of the evening included a passionate acceptance speech by Outstanding Local Cinematic Achievement honoree Damir Catic and expressions of gratitude to the prestigious body of film journalists received from award winners Toni Collette (HFCS Best Actress winner for Hereditary) and Paul Lambert (HFCS Best Visual Effects winner for First Man).

Roma also received three awards from the Society including Best Foreign Language Film and two honors for Alfonso Cuarón, Best Director and Best Cinematography, a rare double distinction for a movie maker.

The Society named Christian Bale Best Actor for his memorable interpretation of Vice President Dick Cheney in Vice, Toni Collette as Best Actress for her striking turn in the thriller Hereditary and Mahershala Ali as Best Supporting Actor for his rich portrayal of
a pianist touring the South in Green Book. Wes Anderson’s Isle of Dogs was named Best Animated Film and Won’t You Be My Neighbor won Best Documentary.

“For the Houston Film Critics Society, the annual awards presentation culminates our year-long commitment to interpret and review achievements we experience on the screen,” continues Starnes. “This year’s Oscar-style awards presentation celebrated the achievements of the year in the manner those honors deserve. The evening was Houston at its best.”

Included in the awards each year are honors for films shot in Texas, with The Standoff at Sparrow Creek receiving the Texas Independent Film Award (TIFA) as the best feature made in the state and filmmaker Andrew Bujalski receiving the TIFA Visionary Award
for Support the Girls.

The critics also poked fun at the year’s lesser achievements by naming The Happytime Murders as the “best worst film” of 2018. Actress Dona Speir, a fixture in a series of 1990 action movies produced by Andy and Arlene Sidaris, traveled to Houston at the invitation of the HFCS to participate in this playful “non-salute”. Following the awards ceremony, HFCS members and industry notables toasted the
evening’s winners at reception in the Monarch Terrace at the Hotel ZaZa.

All HFCS winners are selected by working film journalists on television, radio, online and in print who reach millions of people each week across the United States with their commentaries on film.

Here is a full list of award winners:

2018 Houston Film Critics Society Award Winners
Best Picture: The Favourite
Best Director: Alfonso Cuarón, Roma
Best Actor: Christian Bale, Vice
Best Actress: Toni Collette, Hereditary
Best Supporting Actor: Mahershala Ali, Green Book
Best Supporting Actress: Rachel Weisz, The Favourite
Best Screenplay: Deborah Davis and Tony McNamara, The Favourite
Best Cinematography: Alfonso Cuarón Roma
Best Animated Film: Isle of Dogs
Best Documentary: Won't You Be My Neighbor?
Best Foreign Language Film: Roma
Best Score: Nicholas Britell, If Beal Street Could Talk
Best Song: Shallow, A Star Is Born
TIFA Feature: The Standoff at Sparrow Creek
TIFA Visionary Award: Andrew Bujalski, Support the Girls
Best Poster: BlacKkKlansman
Best Visual Effects: First Man
Best Worst Film: The Happytime Murders

The consular corps members present for the announcement of the Best Foreign Film Award were:

Takeshi Sugiura, Vice Consul, Consulate-General of Japan in Houston
Ggochnim “Nim” Bak Consul of the Korean Consulate in Houston.
Imanol De la Flor, Consul General of Mexico in Houston
Robert Rusiecki, Consul General, Consulate General of the Republic of Poland
Astrid Marklund, Consul General of Sweden in Houston.

Members of the HFCS are working film journalists on television, radio, online and in traditional print. Together, they reach millions of people each week across the United States with their commentaries on film. The organization also actively promotes the
advancement of film in the Houston community.

The 12 th Annual Houston Film Critics Society’s Movie Awards were underwritten by The Courtright Family Companies with promotional assistance from Gow Media’s ESPN 97.5 FM and SportsMap 94.1 FM. The Texas Independent Film Award (TIFA), an HFCS exclusive, was funded in part by Balcones Distilling, the award-winning whisky distiller based in Waco, Texas.

(This post was taken from a release sent to me by the Houston Film Critics Society)

Thursday, November 15, 2018

InnovationMap launches from Gow Media

New Digital Media Outlet Covers Stories of Innovation in Houston

November 15, 2018 (Houston, TX) – Gow Media, a leading multi-platform media company that includes ESPN 97.5FM, SB Nation Radio, CultureMap and SportsMap, today launched a new digital media platform, Innovationmap.com. The content site will cover innovation spanning startups, tech, health, energy, social impact and more, and immediately becomes the leading online destination for stories of innovation in Houston.

“Houston is on a great trajectory,” said David Gow, CEO of Gow Media. “The efforts of many are coming together to develop a strong entrepreneurial and innovation economy. We think the time is right for a media outlet that focuses on innovation in Houston. We also want to highlight the vision of our presenting sponsor, BBVA Compass, a longtime leader in developing the innovation economy in Houston.”

“BBVA Compass has made its way to the front of the financial industry's digital revolution on the strength of its technology and its vision,” said BBVA Compass Houston CEO Mark Montgomery. “We embrace disruption, innovation and unique approaches that elevate vibrant cities like Houston. Highlighting these ideas through this new endeavor aligns perfectly with our mission.”

Gow Media has tapped Natalie Harms to serve as Houston Editor of InnovationMap.

Harms is a native Houstonian, graduate of the University of Houston, and worked for several years at the Houston Business Journal. In her new role, Harms will report to Arden Ward, Vice President of Editorial for Gow Media statewide.

Gow also announced that joining him on the board of InnovationMap will be Patrick Schneidau, a highly-regarded software executive and current chair of the Talent Committee of Houston Exponential; Jarred King, CEO of Swagger Agency and President of Entrepreneurs’ Organization in Houston; and Brad Deutser, President of Deutser LLC, a management consulting firm, and Deutser Clarity Institute, a think tank and learning lab, and author of the book Leading Clarity.

The new site launches with a strategic group of sponsors who have been leaders in developing Houston’s innovation economy. In addition to BBVA Compass as the presenting sponsor, other sponsors include Baker & Botts, Briggs & Vaselka, Accenture, Tony’s Restaurant, Murrah and Killough, Acme Party and Tents and others.

“We are grateful to these sponsors who have joined us here at the launch,” said Gow.

InnovationMap is the second recent addition to Gow Media’s ever-growing portfolio.

Last month, the company launched Giftingmap.com, a new ecommerce site, that is being marketed aggressively by Gow’s media platforms.

“With the growth of GiftingMap and SportsMap, and the impressive success of CultureMap, we are now in a position to launch InnovationMap. With InnovationMap, we are leveraging our digital platform, editorial approach, and our cross-platform promotional power to establish the leading voice for innovation in Houston,” said Gow.

About Gow Media
Gow Media, LLC is a multi-platform media company founded in 2007 and based in Houston. The company owns CultureMap, the leading online destination for lifestyle content in Texas; SportsMap, a leading sports site in Houston; GiftingMap, a new ecommerce site for gift-giving; two Houston sports stations, ESPN 97.FM and Sportsmap 94.1FM; and one of the country’s largest national sports radio networks, SB Nation Radio, which it runs in partnership with SBNation.com. Gow Media, LLC is backed by a private investment group with significant experience in media ownership. The investor group includes Steve Webster, co-manager and co-CEO of Avista Capital;
Patrick Dugan, vice president and general counsel of Nortex Corporation; and David Gow, chairman and CEO of Gow Media, LLC.

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

Thursday, November 01, 2018

Texas #TVnews and radio job moves October 2018

DALLAS - FORT WORTH

Alisha Laventure apparently is out at WFAA 8.

NBC 5 KXAS Names John Stone Vice President of News.

Where's Izzy Izaguirre? (Don't worry, she's coming back!)

Monica Hernandez, who has been a reporter and fill-in anchor for WFAA/Channel 8, is leaving the station.

Fox 4 KDFW Dallas is adding Kylie Capps as its weekend morning meteorologist.

Alanna Autler joins KTVT in Dallas as an I-Team investigative reporter. She recently left WSMV where she was also an investigative reporter.
- Napoli Management Group

Jennifer Lindgren renews her agreement as an anchor and reporter at KTVT in Dallas-Fort Worth.
- Napoli Management Group

KLIF Imports Tino Cochino Radio.

HOUSTON

Bart Enis to host pregame and postgame for Rockets radio broadcasts on KBME (790 AM)
- Houston staple Bart Enis out at AT&T SportsNet Southwest.

Deputy Managing Editor/Investigations Steve Riley will take over as acting editor of the Houston Chronicle and Sunday/Enterprise Editor Tony Freemantle will assume the role of acting managing editor.

Former FOX 26 KRIV reporter Angela Chen joins News Channel 3 in the Morning as co-anchor.

KHMX (Mix 96-5)/Houston Ups Jason Cage To MD.

Former NewsFix producer Fallon Davenport moves to KHOU.

Former NewsFix digital manager Nakia Cooper is now media specialist for the United States Census/Denver region.

Former NewsFix producer John Brewer becomes Media Content Producer for Dolcefino Consulting.

Former NewsFix and KHOU producer Erin Garza becomes Executive Producer of Evening News at CBS Austin KEYE.

The Houston Business Journal's Natalie Harms joins the soon to be launched InnovationMap - sister site to CultureMap and SportsMap.

The Houston Business Journal's Jen Para becomes editor of Community Impact Newspaper's Katy edition.

Alex Cadelago, Cumulus Media Houston Market Manager profiled.

- Leigh Frillici signs off from KPRC 2
- Greg Bailey returns to KTRK...again
- Erica Simon is pregnant
- Michelle Margaux will serve as in-game reporter for Houston Rockets games
- Foti Kallergis leaves abc13 KTRK for PR role
- Darby Douglas gets a new grandson
- Houston Chronicle editor Nancy Barnes named NPR's SVP of News and Editorial Director
- CW 39's Maggie Flecknoe is a survivor
- Alejandro Mendoza joins Telemundo Houston KTMD
- KHOU 11's Ron Trevino is married!
- Sharron Melton returns to Houston TV on CW 39 KIAH
- Adam Clanton and Theresa from The Buzz have a baby
- TJ Parker joins abc13 KTRK

SAN ANTONIO

KSAT (San Antonio) Anchor Myra Arthur has been missing from the air for weeks and she has finally told viewers why.

AUSTIN

Michelle Vargas moves to KEYE in Austin as a reporter and fill-in anchor. She leaves KGBT in Harlingen where she was a morning anchor.
- Napoli Management Group

Tom Miller returns to KXAN as an anchor from KCRA 3.

Courtney Schoenemann is promoted to weekday morning breaking news anchor at KEYE in Austin. She’s been a general assignment reporter at the station for the last two years.
- Napoli Management Group

AROUND TEXAS

Mike Wright, the general manager of KBTX-TV, has resigned.

PAULO SALAZAR moves to Evening Anchor at KRIS-TV on the beach in Corpus Christi.
- Steve Swienckowski at DCA Talent

KXXV 25 weekend anchor-MMJ moves to WAVE Louisville in the same role.

REMEMBERING

Beloved KPRC employee passes away - Hank Subotnik who retired in 2015.

Funeral services scheduled for Lamesa radio legend Don Sitton.

(Thanks Susan Farb Morris)

Thursday, July 05, 2018

Texas #TVnews and radio job moves June 2018

[I am on a blog break right now, but there will be posts coming while I am away. Keep checking back for new posts!]

NPPA winners.

DALLAS - FORT WORTH

Kaley O'Kelley heading back to Phoenix

Reporter Ashley Paredez joining Fox4's Good Day

WTHR sports anchor Jason Spells leaving Indianapolis for Dallas

HOUSTON

ESPN 97.5 & SportsMap 94.1 Houston Consolidate Lineups

Sports talk radio host Adam Clanton to return to 610 AM as fill-in host

Sean Salisbury joining SportsTalk 790 KBME

Houston Chronicle's Vernon Loeb tapped as politics editor at The Atlantic

KSBJ/Houston Names Drew Wilson APD

KSBJ Educational Foundation Welcomes Joe Paulo as New President, General Manager

- Kevin Quinn leaves KTRK 13, joins Harris County Precinct 1
- KHOU 11's Melissa Correa opens up about her mental health
- Director of social media production
- Jake Reiner leaving KPRC 2
- Darby Douglas exits KHOU 11
- 2018 Lone Star Awards announced by Houston Press Club
- Colorado Securities Commissioner Gerald Rome
- KPRC's Sara Donchey is expecting
- KLOL would get ratted out by the Houston Chronicle in the 1970s
- Thanks to KPRC 2 for covering my mom's Alzheimer's story
- Jennifer Reyna is not leaving KPRC 2; has a new Facebook page
- KPRC 'Houston Life' changes coming
- Charly Edsitty joins abc13 KTRK

SAN ANTONIO

Veteran morning anchor Leslie Bohl announces departure from News 4 San Antonio

Ashlei King moves to KLRT Little Rock as the morning anchor WOAI-KABB

Former KENS Anchor Sarah Lucero Focuses on Fitness After News

AROUND TEXAS

KIII Corpus Christi ND Oscar E. Garcia has apparently left

Anchor Seth Kovar leaves KXXV 25 Waco-Temple-Killeen

Eddie Flores is back in the anchoring game: he joins KMID-TV in Midland as Primary Anchor.
- Flores is represented by Steve Swienckowski at DCA Talent.

Makenzi Henderson joins 3News KIII Corpus Christi

REMEMBERING

Former KTRK abc13 reporter Gene Apodaca has died

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