John Paul Barajas named KSAT 12 weekend anchor

John Paul Barajas announced this evening that he has been promoted to KSAT 12 San Antonio weekend evening anchor from his reporting role.

"I’m honored to be stepping into the role of Weekend Evening Anchor," Barajas posted. "It’s a position that has been held by so many amazing journalists and KSAT greats. I'm excited about this next chapter and added responsibility which truly is a privilege. See you tomorrow at 5 and 10!"

Barajas fills the void left by Courtney Friedman, who was just promoted to weekday anchoring.

That means he and his brother, Bill Barajas, will anchor simultaneously in Texas, and only a few hours down I-10 from each other! Bill is the weekend anchor for Graham Media Group's sister station, KPRC 2 Houston, and he previously worked for KSAT. 

We've been talking about the Barajas television dynasty for years. So, to catch you up, Jon Paul and Bill are the sons of former FOX 26 KRIV evening anchor Mike Barajas. They are the cousins of ABC13 KTRK Houston evening anchor Erik Barajas.

John Paul Barajas joined KSAT 12 in June 2021 from KRGV 5 in the Rio Grande Valley, where he was an anchor and general assignment reporter.

Barajas got his start in television journalism through internships at KTRK and KSAT.

A Jack J. Valenti School of Communication graduate at the University of Houston, Barajas is known to wear red ties on Fridays in honor of the Cougar Red Friday tradition.  You might have seen him on this very blog cheering on the Coogs ahead of the NCAA Championship in San Antonio. 

Also, announced today is the departure of the KSAT 12 news director.

Two Barajas reporters at channel 2?

You are not hallucinating. There are two reporters named Barajas on KPRC 2 Houston at the moment.

The Channel 2 audience knows the recently engaged weekend anchor Bill Barajas, who has been here since 2019.  

But now, you also see his brother, John Paul Barajas, on Houston TV. He's here in Houston helping out after Hurricane Beryl from Graham Media Group's sister station KSAT 12 San Antonio, where Bill previously worked.

And guess who their father is?  That's right, former FOX 26 KRIV evening anchor Mike Barajas.

"Bill is a graduate of the University of Houston just like his old man and he is following in the broadcasting footsteps," Mike Barajas told mikemcguff.com back in 2013 when Bill Barajas started at KSAT 12.

And then some of you are yelling at me through the screen about ABC13 KTRK Houston anchor Erik Barajas.  Yes, Erik is Bill's and John Paul's cousin.

Isiah Carey called it in 2010. It's the Barajas Media Dynasty.

You can watch John Paul's reporting for KPRC 2 below.

Texas TV news and radio job moves May 2023

Send tips for the monthly Texas media job list here.

- 2023 Edward R. Murrow Award Texas winners

DALLAS - FORT WORTH

Meteorologist Ali Turiano celebrates nine years with FOX 4 KDFW.

WFAA 8 special hears from survivors of mass shooting in Allen.

92.1 Hank FM KTFW Ft. Worth Mid-day Host Erin Wilde leaving to join KETK's East Texas Live Tyler.

Sam Gannon renews her agreement as a sports anchor and reporter with KDFW in Dallas.

Former WFAA anchor Gloria Campos named chairperson of the Blanco County Democratic Party. 

10 Questions with...Al Farb of New Country 96.3.

KGGR-A-K295DA Dallas adds the nationally syndicated "Get Up! Mornings With ERICA CAMPBELL."

- Julie Fine to leave NBC DFW for Bloomberg
- Madison Sawyer returning to CBS News Texas
- Amelia Jones joins FOX 4 KDFW
- Meagan Harris named CBS DFW news director
- Julie Fine signs off NBC 5 DFW
- Natalie Haddad joins WFAA DFW

HOUSTON

Dave Ward honored at Men of Distinction luncheon.

Brian T. Smith: Covering sports for the Houston Chronicle has been a dream job, but England calls. 

They hosted a morning show at SportsRadio 610 KILT together years ago and now John Lopez joins Texans Voice Marc Vandermeer for a lively discussion.

Jim Nantz Is a Huge DeMeco Ryans Believer — Houston Texans’ New Coach Already Has Powerful Voices In His Corner.

FOX 26 KRIV is partnering with the Defender Network, which has been delivering news and information to the Black community in our area for more than 90 years.

"Pioneer Careers" interview with FOX 26 KRIV's Caroline Collins.

Mattress Mack's Gallery Sports website shuts down after less than a year.

CW39’s Adam Krueger makes the list of 100 coolest people in Houston.

The KPRC 2 Investigates true crime docuseries ‘The Evidence Room’ received national honors from the 44th Annual Telly Awards.

The Association of Alternative Newsmedia just released its finalists list for its national AAN awards and two writers for the Houston Press, Jessica Goldman and Jef Rouner, were named in the honors.

Tim Pandajis renews his agreement as a meteorologist with KHOU in Houston.

Houstonia welcomes Houston-based Emma Balter, who brings more than a decade of journalism experience to the role from Chron food editor and Houston Chronicle features reporter positions.

Chris McDonald joins KPRC 2 as assignments editor.

Director Brandon Benton celebrates 15 years with abc13 KTRK.

Houston Landing appoints Angelica Arinze audience producer and Angelica Perez as civic engagement reporter.

- Anthony Antoine joins FOX 26 Houston as evening anchor
- Brittany Ford joins Atlanta News First
- Carrigan Chauvin talks new traffic duties
- Cristina Kooker leaves Great Day Houston
- Elyse Smith joining abc13 Houston
- Taisha Walker gets great sendoff from KPRC 2
- José Griñan to retire from FOX 26 Houston
- Art Rascon updates us on Ironman injuries
- Elissa Rivas celebrates 20 years with abc13 Houston
- “The Morning Bullpen With George, Mo and Erik" Wins 2023 ACM Radio Award
- Mark Berman to retire from FOX 26 Houston
- Houston TV anchors go high fashion for a cause
- Jay Michaels joins Mix 96.5 and 95.7 The Spot
- Matt Dougherty is engaged and we have the stunning photos to prove it
- Deevon Rahming joins KHOU 11 Houston
- Khambrel Marshall celebrates 24 years at KPRC 2
- Erica Simon leaves weekend mornings, going to 10pm?
- FOX 26's Gabby Hart reveals her abandoned baby story
- Where is Derrick Lewis?
- Maria Aguilera is married
- Tiffany Justice joins KRON 4 San Francisco
- Gina Gaston to leave the 10pm news
- Erik and Bill Barajas are dueling cousin anchors
- Elyse Smith officially announced for abc13
- Derrick Lewis apparently exits abc13 Houston
- 2 KPRC anniversaries

SAN ANTONIO

KENS 5 digital multimedia journalist Lexi Hazlett announces she is leaving the station and her "Neighborhood Eats" franchise.

Sara DiNatale takes a new job with the San Antonio Express-News as a reporter on the business team.

- Ashley Sutton promoted to FOX San Antonio morning anchor
- Ernie Zuniga to leave FOX 29 San Antonio
- Henry Ramos promoted to KENS San Antonio 10pm co-anchor
- Ernie Zuniga's touching goodbye video

AUSTIN

KXAN meteorologist Kristen Currie celebrates 10 years in the TV business.

Austin American-Statesman honored as Pulitzer Prize Gold Medal finalist for Uvalde coverage.

The Society of Professional Journalists, Fort Worth Professional Chapter recognizes four KXAN investigations with First Amendment Awards.

The Texas State Teachers Association honored KXAN’s investigation into mass educator resignations with a 2023 School Bell Award for Outstanding Television Multimedia Series.

City hall and local government reporter Luz Moreno-Lozano is leaving the Austin American-Statesman.

Matt Adams swaps NPR for Texas Tribune.

- Travis Sattiewhite named KVUE Austin news director
- KXAN Austin 1970s blooper
- Erika Lopez joins OTA Talent as TV agent

AROUND TEXAS

“Crash” Kelley named Director of Content for Townsquare Media’s four-station group in Victoria.

Bryan Broadcasting has closed on Country “103 The Bull” 103.3 KJCS Nacogdoches/Lufkin and flipped the station to Classic Country “Willy 103.3."

Angie Martinez, EP for KRGV 5 Rio Grande Valley has been promoted to assistant news director. 

Texas Intercollegiate Press Association relocates headquarters back to Baylor

Educational Media Foundation is acquiring “Free 105.3” KXXF Winnie/Beaumont.

Baron Wiley from Boerne Radio 103.9 FM KBRN was honored to be recognized by the Society of San Antonio Radio Broadcasters.

Several Texas radio stations change hands.

The Bryan College Station Eagle will soon only be delivered on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

The Niche Czech Radio Show That Still Reaches Listeners After Fifty Years.

- KCBD 11 Lubbock celebrates 70 years
- Kaci Koviak's message for KETK East Texas viewers
- Matt Lively leaves KCEN Waco
- Garrett Hottle joins KMID Big 2 News Odessa
- El Paso TV additions
- Lindsey Stiner joins Newschannel 10 KFDA Amarillo
- Drew Davis joins Hawaii News Now
- KFDX Wichita Falls has a snake in the newsroom
- Erika Castillo apparently no longer with KFOX El Paso

REMEMBERING

Former KLEE radio and KPRC 2 audio engineer Frank Hicks passes away at the age of 95.

Lance Blanks, who served as a college basketball analyst for ESPN and the Longhorn Network, dies.

Former KHOU 11 photographer Jay Remboldt has passed away.  I interviewed him in 2018.

- RIP John Nova Lomax

Erik and Bill Barajas are dueling cousin anchors

Gina Gaston announced she was leaving the abc13 Houston 10pm news Friday night, but that was not the only big event happening.  

"Crazy to think that my cousin Erik Barajas and I will be on the airwaves at the same time but for competing stations in the city we love," posted KPRC 2 weekend anchor Bill Barajas.

So yes, two members of the Barajas TV Dynasty were on the air against each other!  Bring in Bill's brother, John Paul, from KSAT San Antonio, put him at his dad, Mike's former station of FOX 26 KRIV, and then you have the Barajas media triumvirate!

Gina Gaston to leave the 10pm news

Gina Gaston announced on May 26, 2023 this would be her last time anchoring the abc13 KTRK 10pm newscast, but don't worry Gaston fans, she's still anchoring the 6pm news.

Here is a transcription of what Gaston said on "13 Eyewitness News at 10PM":

"Well, a personal news item tonight, but one that also affects you. This is my final appearance anchoring Eyewitness News at 10. 

Now, I'm not leaving. I'm just shifting to dayside. 

Twenty-one years it's been that I've been anchoring the news at 10:00, and it has been my great honor. 

Some of you work atypical hours, either early in the morning or perhaps late at night. And so you know that it can be tough missing out on simple things like dinner with your family or friends. So in this next chapter of my life, I want to make more space for my own health and well-being and my family and close friends. And this company is accommodating my wishes for which I am unbelievably grateful. 

So again, I am not retiring. Not retiring, not retiring. I'm not leaving. You will still see me at 6 p.m. and of course, I'll be filling in on other newscasts as well. 

I certainly appreciate all of the years that you've shared with me here at 10 p.m., including the people I saw tonight at Cleburne Cafeteria.  And I hope that you'll continue to watch my friends here at this time slot before you go to bed. 

So we'll see you next week, but in the early evening. And you gentlemen have been a pleasure to work with, along with those who have preceded you."

So, about last night… @abc13houston pic.twitter.com/x0GhVV1ruk

— Gina Gaston (@GinaGaston13) May 27, 2023

"Well, congratulations on this next chapter of your life," responded co-anchor Erik Barajas.   "You've been holding down the ten for many years here. Been through so many different versions of the 10 p.m. team. And you've always been the bright, shining, bright spot."

As I blogged earlier this week, Erica Simon announced last Sunday morning that she was moving to "Monday through Friday in the evenings." As I said before, multiple sources told me that Simon was heading to the 10pm.  No announcement was made on Gaston's final 10pm show on who would be taking over her anchor seat on the late news.  Will it be Simon as I have heard?  Stay tuned as we find out together.

Gaston has been been anchoring the 6pm and 10pm news since the early 2000s.

Spending most of her time with abc13, she started with the station in 1992 as a morning anchor, eventually leaving for MSNBC in 1999.  In June 2001, she returned to KTRK, first as a weekend anchor, then to anchor the debut of Eyewitness News at 4pm newscast with her former morning partner, Tom Koch.

Before Houston, Gaston worked as an anchor/reporter for ABC27 HTM Harrisburg, Pennsylvania and then 10 Tampa Bay WTSP in Tampa, Florida.

The University of Southern California grad started her TV career at KLTV 7 Tyler.

Gaston is married to Houston Rockets legend and NBA champion, Mario Elie. They are proud parents of triplets.

- Gina Gaston's triplets featured on KPRC

It's been a pleasure anchoring the 10 pm show with Gina Gaston. After more than 20 years on the show, she's stepping away from the 10, but staying on the 6. Yay Gina! pic.twitter.com/GpIXItAbLq

— David Tillman (@TillmanWeather) May 27, 2023

Bill Barajas promoted to KPRC weekend anchor

Bill Barajas just announced he has been promoted to KPRC 2 Houston weekend anchor.

UPDATE
Syan Rhodes to leave KPRC 2

Here is what Barajas posted to Facebook:

"Big news! Happy to announce that I’ve been promoted and given a wonderful opportunity as a weekend evening anchor at KPRC.

I’ve been back in Houston for almost 4 years now and It’s a dream come true to anchor in my hometown.

Make sure to check us out Saturday’s at 6pm and 10pm and Sundays at 5pm and 10pm."

Barajas takes over the spot left by Jonathan Martinez who was hired to be evening anchor for News 4 San Antonio WOAI in 2021.

RELATED
- Cathy Hernandez and Brittany Jeffers new KPRC 2 weekend morning anchors

Barajas joined KPRC 2 from Graham Media Group sister-station KSAT 12 San Antonio in 2019. 

As I have written many times, the Barajas name is a big one in Texas TV.  

"Bill is a graduate of the University of Houston just like his old man and he is following in the broadcasting footsteps," former FOX 26 KRIV evening anchor Mike Barajas told mikemcguff.com back in 2013 when Bill Barajas started at KSAT 12.

Mike Barajas' former co-anchor, now FOX 26 KRIV morning anchor Melissa Wilson, commented on my Facebook post that Mike was very excited about Bill's weekend anchor promotion and is "having a blast being a granddad."  Bill added in the comments that his dad has been enjoying retirement. 

Then there is his cousin, Erik Barajas, who is an abc13 KTRK evening anchor.

Bill's brother, John Paul Barajas, now works for KSAT San Antonio.

Both of the Barajas brothers previously worked for KRGV 5 Rio Grande Valley.

I've said it before, Isiah Carey called the Barajas media dynasty back in 2010.

A TV Barajas makes "The Rock" laugh in San Antonio

It wasn't Mike Barajas, Erik Barajas or Bill Barajas, but KSAT 12 reporter John Paul Barajas who made Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson laugh in San Antonio last weekend during the XFL Brahmas’ season opener.

Let me point out I've been covering the Barajas media dynasty since 2010 when Isiah Carey coined the term!

Barajas explains below. 

The Pebble! 🪨
I remember this moment the other night. Fun stuff brother. Thanks for the laugh. Rocky Maivia baby! 😊👊🏾#XFL #HowBoutDemBrahmas 🤘🏾@XFLBrahmas https://t.co/XdDyN3xnrf

— Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) February 22, 2023

 

John Paul Barajas joins KSAT

John Paul Barajas is leaving KRGV 5 Rio Grande Valley as an anchor/reporter to be a general assignments reporter for KSAT 12 San Antonio starting June 26th mikemcguff.com can confirm.

Television viewers in both San Antonio and Houston will recognize the famous Barajas TV news name.  

John Paul is the son of former Fox 26 KRIV anchor Mike Barajas.  He is also the younger brother of current KPRC reporter (and former KSAT 12/KRGV reporter) Bill Barajas. 

He is also the cousin of abc13 KTRK anchor Erik Barajas.

"Erik worked at KSAT before moving up to KTRK," Bill Barajas told mikemcguff.com in 2013. "He always talked about the first rate station that they run there."

John Paul has been with KRGV since 2017.

He is a graduate of the Jack J. Valenti School of Communication at the University of Houston.  

According to his bio, Barajas wears red ties on most Fridays in honor of the Cougar Red Friday’s tradition.  

While in school he participated in UH's Coog TV.  He also interned in Houston at abc13 KTRK, FOX 26 KRIV and in San Antonio at KSAT 12.

So after KSAT, any guesses on which Houston TV station John Paul will join in the future?  I joked in the past, it has to be KHOU 11, so the Barajas television dynasty can add another station to their list! 

abc13 KTRK hosts 'COVID-19 and Our Schools' town hall

ABC13, Houston’s news leader, presents, “COVID-19 and Our Schools” a two-night town hall highlighting how school districts are preparing to welcome back students amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The event is hosted by ABC13’s Eyewitness News anchors Gina Gaston and Erik Barajas.

As COVID-19 infections surge across southeast Texas, concerns are mounting about how the pandemic could affect classes, sports and extracurricular activities, STAAR testing and college admissions. In attempt to find solutions for Houston communities, ABC 13’s investigative team surveyed 125 school districts that are home to about 2.5 million students to understand what fall will bring and to give viewers the most complete back-to-school picture possible.

Gaston and Barajas are joining school superintendents and medical experts to address the issues Texas school systems and students are facing, as well as answer your questions about what to expect as Houston and Harris county health officials order schools to delay in-person learning and uncertainty mounts as families are navigating the start of the school year with online learning.

Wednesday’s town hall


Panelists for Wednesday’s town hall include the following:

• Dr. Grenita Lathan, Houston ISD superintendent

• Dr. LaTonya Goffney, Aldine ISD superintendent

• Dr. Rodney Watson, Spring ISD superintendent

• Dr. Umair Shah, Harris County Public Health executive director

• Zeph Capo, Texas Federation of Teachers president

Thursday’s town hall


Panelists for Thursday’s town hall include the following:

• Dr. Charles Dupre, Fort Bend ISD superintendent

• Dr. Greg Smith, Clear Creek ISD superintendent

• HD Chambers, Alief ISD superintendent

• Zeph Capo, Texas Federation of Teachers president



(This post was taken from a release by KTRK-TV)

Chauncy Glover adds 6:30pm news duties

Chauncy Glover is a news anchor on the rise. We've watched him start the 3pm newscast and now he is also anchoring the 6:30pm newscast.

UPDATE NOVEMBER 2024
Glover has passed away

UPDATE JULY 2023
Chauncy Glover leaves abc13 Houston

"HAPPY NEW YEAR FRIENDS! New Year, New time slot! Kicking of 2020 with my new partner in crime ABC13-Ilona Carson. Catch us Monday-Friday on ABC13 at 6:30. (Yes, I’ll still be on at 3 getting your afternoons started) God is so good! I pray hard, work hard, show up ...and HE does the rest! Love you Houston!"

I told you this was coming way back in 2018 when Glover debuted the channel 13 3pm newscast:

What I can guess is that news director Wendy Granato has high hopes for the Glover and Moreno anchor team. Considering the attention, that especially Glover has been receiving, are we seeing the future main anchors move up through the Eyewitness News ranks? The 3pm today, the 6pm and 10pm news in the future?

OK, I didn't say 6:30pm, but I was close!

So, does this mean that now 6:30pm anchor, Erik Barajas, will move to the 6pm show with Gina Gaston and still continue to anchor the 10pm too?


Barajas has been hanging out in LA with late night ABC host Jimmy Kimmel (Baba Booey) as of late.

Here is my plea to Barajas, no matter how much Kimmel tells him using broadcast tones in his story is a good idea, DON'T DO IT!

If Barajas moves to the 6pm, the Glover domino effect also puts Art Rascon on the 11am and Live at Five only? Right?

Stay tuned my friend.

Bill Barajas joins KPRC 2

Bill Barajas, KSAT 12 San Antonio anchor/reporter, joins KPRC and now I need to draw up a family tree!

KSAT 12 San Antonio's Bill Barajas is joining Houston sister-station KPRC the anchor/reporter posted on Facebook. From what I hear he will be a reporter at KPRC.

"In what might be the worst kept secret I’m happy to announce that after almost 9 years I’m going HOME," Barajas wrote over the weekend. "I have accepted a job a KPRC Channel 2 in Houston. I have one week left at KSAT and while I’m beyond excited to start the new gig I will forever love SA and the friends/co-workers that have become like a family to me."

Now, you might say Barajas...that name sounds familiar to me. There is a reason for that.

You can go read my 2010 post TV anchors named Barajas taking over Houston and Texas to get the full picture. I even wrote, "It's a Barajas TV news world in Houston - you and I just happen to watch it." Then in my more fun loving days, I listed six things that Barajas anchors could do if they worked at every Houston TV station. Go ahead and read it. I'll wait here for you to finish and then we can continue together.

I've been covering Bill Barajas since he was a reporter for KRGV 5 in the Rio Grande Valley. The reason...he is the son of former FOX 26 KRIV anchor Mike Barajas.

"Bill is a graduate of the University of Houston just like his old man and he is following in the broadcasting footsteps," Mike Barajas told mikemcguff.com back in 2013 when Bill Barajas started at KSAT 12.

You may also know his cousin, Erik Barajas, who anchors for abc13 KTRK.

"Erik worked at KSAT before moving up to KTRK," Bill Barajas told mikemcguff.com in 2013. "He always talked about the first rate station that they run there."

In reality, the Barajas clan is now playing catch up in the Houston television news family dynasty world.

While Erik and Bill are now working for KTRK and KPRC respectively, both of those stations also employ Rascons!

Yes, longtime abc13 KTRK anchor Art Rascon's son, Jacob, joined KPRC from NBC News just a few years ago.

Maybe John Paul Barajas, Mike's other son, can go work at KHOU one day just so the family can claim another station in its dynasty! John Paul has been with KRGV 5 since 2017.



(Thanks Taylor!)

Why Ilona Carson is no longer on the 10pm news

Ilona Carson has left the abc13 KTRK 10pm news

After five years, Ilona Carson has left the abc13 KTRK 10pm newscast.

UPDATE JUNE 2021
Ilona Carson leaves abc13 KTRK news department
   
And now you might be saying, "McGuff, this happened back in September, why are you telling us this now you way behind hack!?"

Well, lately I've been getting viewer emails and tips that Carson had departed "13 Eyewitness News at 10PM" and just found out the longtime anchor had posted about it in early September!

Celebrating my last late night with the fabulous 10pm team! I’ve been on the late shift for 5 years and I’m so excited to be making a small change. I’ll be headed home in time for homework, dessert and story time! You’ll still see me at 4 and 6:30pm, and on our fun new 3pm show starting Monday as well. In the meantime, keep tuning in to my newsroom BFFs ABC13-Gina Gaston and ABC13-Erik Barajas at 10pm every night!

I checked the date of her post, September 5th, and recall my sorry state at the time. That was the week I was high on cold medicine and not really checking the internet.

Last week, I tuned in on Halloween I believe and saw Carson which confused me. Well, she was just filling in.

So there you go, sorry for missing this, but I'm sure Carson's family is happy to have her home in the evening.

Eric Braate honored in 2018 HAIRRY Awards

KPRC 2 meteorologist Eric Braate is runner up for Texas in 2018 HAIRRY Awards: "The HAIRRY-Awards are the most prestigious awards in local news. Yes, Emmys are nice to have, but you haven’t made it until you’ve received a HAIRRY."

Everyone makes fun of me when I post about the TV news HAIRRY Awards, but then it is usually a popular post.

Can you beat the marketing department that gives the awards the url getgoodhead.com?

It also gives us regular folks the chance to vicariously live through those TV stars with luxurious locs.

This year, Houston did not have a winner that made the cut, but we had a runner up which is good enough for me.

And the runner up is...

...KPRC 2 meteorologist Eric Braate!

It turns out I was the lucky one to break the news to Braate of the tremendous honor.

"Thanks for bringing this to my attention, this is too funny," Braate told mikemcguff.com. "After forecasting weather for nearly two decades, I’m FINALLY recognized...by getgoodhead.com! And, to be clear, the award is for having good HAIR, right? All I can say is that I’m honored and, in some strange way, I feel like my life is now complete."

I've been covering Braate's career for a decade on this blog. He joined channel 2 in 2007. Then left for mornings at sister-station WDIV in Detroit.

I would like to think he realized everything is better in Texas, and got back down here in 2012.

According to his bio, Braate landed his first TV job at WXVT Greenville, Mississippi. After earning his degree, he joined WJXT Jacksonville, Florida and then WITI Milwaukee before his first stint in H-Town.

The Texas winner of this year's hair raising award is KXAN Austin investigative reporter Josh Hinkle.

The Bayou City usually represents well.

KTRK abc13 anchor Erik Barajas took top hon-hairs in 2016. KHOU 11's Darby Douglas was the runner up that year. Former FOX 26 KRIV movie critic Jake Hamilton also won that year for Illinois.

In 2017, current WFAA anchor/reporter and former KTRK abc13 reporter Sonia Azad won for Texas.

Last year when I posted Azad's news, social media lit up with comments that "this is a sexist award." Little do people realize the HAIRRY Awards honor both sexes, just not at the same time.

Now excuse me.

All this good hair talk makes me feel like I should go put on a big hat.

Does anyone remember when punk rockers would use Elmer's Glue to style a mohawk? I just thought of this as I was typing. That could be a cool sweeps stunt this May! Any station looking to get that extra .1 can contact me and I will personally deliver my kids' glue container.

Sonia Azad wins award for best hair in Texas

My Dallas - Fort Worth readers already know how great Sonia Azad is doing since she left Houston's abc13 KTRK and joined WFAA in the mighty Metroplex.

Today, she is doing even better.

Why?

She won a HAIRRY award from the site getgoodhead.com. This means the site has determined Azad has the best hair of a female TV journalist in Texas.

Guess she pushes her Lone Star EMMY statuette aside and replaces it with this prestigious TV News award.

"Another line to add to the resumé 😜🤣 I won a HAIRRY," Azad posted on Facebook. "I dedicate this award to all the stylists at Drybar Dallas & my girl ERIN at Lure Salon for keeping me on point."

So how do TV reporters and anchors win?

The HAIRRYs celebrate fabulous hair and the people who have it.

There are no nominations, no voting, and no turning back.

As hair experts, we scour multiple images and video from all of our potential winners. Then we consult with other stylists and creatives in the field to eventually narrow it down to one HAIRRY Winner and one HAIRRY Runner-Up.

Here is the listing for Azad's honor:

Sonia’s hair is beyond spectacular. Like, once we saw a sunset in Hawaii where dolphins jumped and splashed on the horizon while parrots flew in the pink sky, and Azad’s hair is way better than that sunset.

This perfect brunette has full and voluminous hair that wonderfully shapers her face and makes her eyes pop with light! If you’re looking for #hairgoals – look no further than Sonia Azad. Just understand that you won’t be able to have hair as good. Sorry. 😉

Sonia Azad is a reporter (and occasional anchor) for ABC 8 in Texas. In addition to being a HAIRRY-Award, Azad is also an EMMY-Award winner. So, basically, Azad wins a lot.

When it comes to channel 13, there must be something in the water that causes fantastic follicles.

In 2016, KTRK abc13 anchor Erik Barajas, was honored with a HAIRRY: Local Newsmen With The Best Hair award.

Erik Barajas wins 2016 HAIRRY: Local Newsmen With The Best Hair

2016 HAIRRY: "Emmys are nice. They really are. We’re not trashing the Emmys – they do fine work. But the HAIRRYs? They showcase the true talent that lives within these United States of America!"

This is what we missed during the Thanksgiving holiday break. I apologize for just getting to it, but it's been a little "hairy" around here.

KTRK abc13 anchor Erik Barajas, or you might say "a real life Superman," has been honored with a 2016 HAIRRY: Local Newsmen With The Best Hair. That means website getgoodhead.com, the folks who are behind the coiffure award, believe the Houston newsman has the best TV news hair for the entire Lone Star State!

"Decades of trial and error," Barajas wrote on Facebook. "Hundreds of gallons of pomade and gel, that have been applied and shampooed out. Patiently instructing all my hair stylists over the years and finally, finally someone takes notice. This is mine. I earned it."

Here is how the HAIRRY folks describe Barajas:

Erik Barajas is a real life Superman. At least, he sure looks like one. Erik’s hair is so impeccably stylized and slick, there was no question as to whether he should win first prize for Texas.

When you’re reporting for KTRK-TV’s 13 Eyewitness News, or flying through the sky looking for villains to rain justice down upon, your hair has got to be gelled to the tee. Some hair just looks flat and wet when styled with gel, but Erik’s is voluminous and shiny; perhaps he’s found the perfect product – GIVE US YOUR SECRETS!

So just how are the winners chosen for this hair-raising award? Here are the criteria:

The HAIRRYs celebrate fabulous hair and the people who have it. There are no nominations, no voting, and no turning back. As hair experts, we scour multiple images and video from all of our potential winners. Then, we consult with other stylists and creatives in the field to narrow it down to one HAIRRY Winner and up to two HAIRRY Runner-Ups.

Our Criteria For Great Hair

When choosing our recipients we look for the following characteristics:

thick
full volume
well styled
limited/no receding hairline

The Texas runner ups included another Houston newscaster - KHOU 11 traffic anchor Darby Douglas!

With a styled salt-and-pepper ‘do that’s as enticing as they come, our bet is that co-runner up Darby Douglas won’t be a runner-up for long. Look out Erik and Brandon, next year’s HAIRRY might just belong to Darby Douglas and KHOU.

WFAA 8 Dallas reporter Brandon Hamilton shares the runner up honor with Douglas.

Now Barajas wasn't the only winner you've heard of.

Former FOX 26 KRIV movie critic Jake Hamilton, won for the Prairie State:

Jake Hamilton, Emmy-award winning reporter, Good Day Chicago, and we theorize, time traveling Norse god, is the clear HAIRRY winner for Illinois. (And Trump better not tweet this Hamilton asking for an apology for his amazing hair!)

Jake has that dreamy viking look going on: striking light blue eyes, and incredibly fair blonde hair – we’re surprised he wasn’t imported directly from Iceland. Unlike a real viking, Jake’s hair is immaculate; lengthy and slicked back with product, keeping his fringe bouncy and full up top.

Rebecca Spera returns from maternity leave

KTRK abc13 afternoon traffic anchor Rebecca Spera returns from maternity leave with videos exploring post pregnancy life

Rebecca Spera

At the end of December, afternoon KTRK abc13 traffic anchor Rebecca Spera announced the arrival of little Gray James.

Now that March is here, Spera has returned to work and is creating some nice videos about her post birth thoughts and dealing with baby weight gain.

Hi Friends! Today was my first day back at work. Here's what I learned. 󾌴 #mondaymotivation
Posted by Rebecca Spera on Monday, March 21, 2016

Hey Everyone! Today was my first day back on the air, and while I've made a lot of progress getting back in shape, I only fit in 1/3 of my work dresses. So to make me feel more confident, I have eight tricks to look thinner. Which will you try?!
Posted by Rebecca Spera on Tuesday, March 22, 2016

Yay! Rebecca is back from maternity leave! ABC13-Ilona CarsonABC13-Erik Barajas
Posted by Casey Curry on Tuesday, March 22, 2016

(Thanks Robin)

KTRK abc13 and Univision 45 KXLN present runoff candidates in live Houston mayoral debate

Univision 45/KXLN-TV and ABC-13/KTRK-TV have joined to co-host the Houston Mayoral Debate, streaming it live from the University of Houston-Downtown at One Main Street, Houston, Texas at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, December 2nd.

The Houston Mayoral Debate will feature runoff candidates Bill King and Sylvester Turner and will be accessible live on-air on KTRK-TV abc13 and online at www.abc13.com and www.univision45.com.

Simultaneous Spanish-language translation will be available on Univision 45’s website and will air the same day at 10 p.m. The debate will be presented in partnership with the University of Houston-Downtown and Mi Familia Vota.

ABC-13’s Erik Barajas and Univision 45’s Rebecca Suarez will moderate the debate. The audience will be by invitation only; however, Houston voters are encouraged to submit their questions in English or Spanish by posting them to twitter using #HOUSTONVOTE.

“We look forward to working with Univision 45 to bring this most important and newsworthy event to Houston in Prime Time so that voters have the opportunity to hear from the candidates, one of whom will be the next mayor,” said Henry Florsheim, General Manager of KTRK ABC-13.

“We are excited to partner once again with ABC-13 to present this mayoral debate. This is an important opportunity for the candidates to present their plans and answer key questions about the future of our city,” said David Loving, General Manager of Univision Houston.

Rebecca Suarez is an award-winning broadcast journalist. She has been a member of the Univision 45 news team since 2011, working as a news anchor and reporter. She is a native Houstonian with expertise in covering local and statewide elections. Erik Barajas has served as a respected 13 Eyewitness News anchor for seven years. A true Texas journalist, he’s worked as a reporter and anchor in several cities across the state.

(This post was taken from a release sent to me by KTRK abc13)

KTRK abc13 and Univision 45 live webstream Houston mayoral debate

Univision 45/KXLN-TV and ABC-13/KTRK-TV have joined to co-host the Houston Mayoral Debate, streaming it live from Hobby Center’s Zilkha Hall, 800 Bagby St. at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 10.

The Mayoral Debate will feature the top seven announced candidates and will be accessible exclusively online at www.abc13.com and www.univision45.com. Simultaneous Spanish-language translation will be available on Univision 45’s website.

ABC-13’s Erik Barajas and Univision 45’s Rebecca Suarez will moderate the debate. The audience will be by invitation only; however, Houston voters are encouraged to submit their questions in English or Spanish by posting them to twitter using #HOUSTONVOTE.

The Houston Mayoral Debate’s direct to web live stream will be the first of its kind for a local debate (FOX 26 KRIV previously held Mayoral debates in the past). ABC-13 will telecast the debate that same night at 10:35 p.m.

“We are thrilled with our partnership with ABC-13. By co-hosting this mayoral forum, we are providing a great service to our community. The top mayoral candidates will have an opportunity to convey their respective visions and plans for the city of Houston,” said David Loving, General Manager of Univision Houston Local Media.

“We’re delighted to collaborate with Univision and co-host Houston’s Mayoral Debate. It is an exciting opportunity to use our digital platforms to deliver information to Houstonians in new and innovative ways,” said Henry Florsheim, General Manager of KTRK ABC-13.

The Houston mayoral candidates include Chris Bell, Stephen Costello, Adrian Garcia, Ben Hall, Bill King, Marty McVey, and Sylvester Turner.

Rebecca Suarez is an award-winning broadcast journalist. She has been a member of the Univision 45 news team since 2011, working as a news anchor and reporter. She is a native Houstonian with expertise in covering local and statewide elections. Erik Barajas has served as a respected 13 Eyewitness News anchor for seven years. A true Texas journalist, he’s worked as a reporter and anchor in several cities across the state.

(This post was taken from a release sent to me by KTRK abc13)

Who's in The Harris County Media Honor Roll 2015?

Three Houston journalists get props from the Harris County Department of Education

Bill Spencer

Some Houston journalists are being honored for their contributions to providing valuable education information to the community, as well as fair and balanced reporting.

The Media Honor Roll 2015 award is issued by Harris County Department of Education (HCDE) on behalf of the Texas Association of School Boards.

And the winners are?
- KPRC 2 reporter Bill Spencer
- African American News & Issues staff writer Rebecca Jones
- KIAH 39 NewsFix assignments editor Michael Carl. You might recognize Carl as a former KTRK abc13 producer/photographer/editor who left the station a few years ago. He's changed TV careers and has been on the KIAH desk for less than a year and already winning.

Last year's winners included KXLN Univision 45 community affairs director Grace Olivares, KTRK abc13 anchor Erik Barajas and FOX 26 KRIV anchor Sally MacDonald.

An awards presentation will be held at the HCDE Board of Trustees meeting Tuesday, Aug. 18, 1pm at 6300 Irvington on the 4th floor.

What is that Houston TV anchor wearing?

Tie Me Up! Tie Me Down!: Houston TV anchors revive the classic tie bar

Erik Barajas & Ilona Carson

He first noticed former FOX 26 reporter/anchor Ned Hibberd wearing them. Then the characters on AMC's Mad Men. Now Bob Martin aka "The Accountant to the Stars" is spotting tie bars on multiple male anchors across the Houston TV dial.


"When I was growing up, we called them 'tie clips'", Martin told mikemcguff.com. "The tie clips served a great function. One of my first jobs was as a manager of a restaurant. I was required to wear a tie which was always getting in the way and getting soiled in the kitchen. My dad gave me some of his tie clips which were very helpful in keeping my ties out of harm's way."

Houston anchors must be trying to keep their ties from being soiled from breaking news now. Martin has spotted abc 13 KTRK anchors Erik Barajas, Chauncy Glover and FOX 26 KRIV weekend anchor Chris Stipes with the fashion accessory.

"Tie bars are not a new accessory in menswear," Houston menswear consultant and former Chron.com blogger David Yarbrough explained to mikemcguff.com. "It's function in keeping the tie in place becomes even more practical when two-button jackets are being worn vs. three-button. It also attracts the eye toward the man's torso, which can highlight an athletic figure."

Fashion experts will tell you the tie bar has actually been around since the 1920s and like any trend comes and goes through the years.

Ashley Martini, styling consultant and founding member of Martini Fashions, LLC, says this timeless piece can be worn by a man of any age.

"Let a tie bar show a little bit of your personality off," Martini, who also interned with Jennifer Lopez’s fashion company Sweetface/JustSweet/JLO told me. "There are so many different shapes, designs and textures out there. Opt for a tie bar in a metal that matches your current accessories. For example, if you wear a gold watch and gold cuff links you should complete your look with a gold tie bar rather than mixing metals.

"Make sure your tie bar fits your tie appropriately. Also keep in mind it should be placed between your third and fourth buttons of your shirt. Avoid a tie bar if you have an oval body shape so you don't accentuate your midsection."

So did Martin keep any of his father's tie bars?

"Unfortunately all of my tie bars and those that belonged to my dad were sold long ago in garage sales," he said. "Now that I’m seeing the revival of them, I’m regretting that I did not keep a few of them for my TV interviews."

And as for this Houston TV anchor fashion trend...

"If male anchors are going to wear accessories, tie bars are much safer for their careers than wearing something like earrings," Martin added.

Chris Stipes

Chauncy Glover

I just use it to keep my tie straight. Nice article @mikemcguff http://t.co/zW94CU5eil @abc13houston #mensfashion pic.twitter.com/I2MkNxEv0L

— Erik Barajas (@ErikOnTV) March 11, 2015