Former Houston Chronicle fashion guy Clifford Pugh lands new gig

Banjo Jones reports on a Houston Chronicle employee who was one of many who recently exited the newspaper:

Of the recent casualties in the recent 27 percent purging of the Houston Chronicle newsroom, one of the biggest shockers was the axing of the newspaper's style critic, Clifford Pugh.

But the veteran scribe won't be on the mat for long.

The Examiner newspaper group, which produces weekly freebie papers in River Oaks, West University, Memorial and Bellaire, has hired Pugh as its newest columnist. READ THE REST

Here is the Pugh announcement from the Examiner Papers.  Here is his first article.

Rich Connelly of the Houston Press thought Pugh's departure was the most surprising of all.

CultureMap revamps editorial team

Arden Ward named editorial director and Steven Devadanam replaces Clifford Pugh as Houston editor

Arden Ward

December 4, 2017 (Houston, TX) — CultureMap.com, the leading digital provider of lifestyle content in Texas, has revamped its editorial department, announcing Arden Ward as statewide editorial director and Steven Devadanam as Houston editor.

“I am delighted to announce the promotion of Arden Ward to run editorial for CultureMap statewide,” said David Gow, CEO of Gow Media. “Arden has leadership qualities, strong editorial skills, and a deep understanding of the content that resonates with our audiences.”

Ward joined CultureMap in 2011, during its expansion to Austin. She served as executive editor in Austin before becoming network managing editor, where she played an integral role in the brand’s expansion to the Fort Worth and San Antonio markets.

Steven Devadanam

Devadanam brings a diverse set of experiences to his new role as editor of Houston. His background includes strategic roles at Village Voice Media, Modern Luxury, and NFL Network.

“We are excited to welcome Steven to the CultureMap team,” Ward said. “He is a champion of the brand and brings great enthusiasm for the city and its culture — which we look forward to sharing with our readers on a daily basis.”

Devadanam replaces Clifford Pugh, who served as editor-in-chief of CultureMap Houston since the company’s inception in 2009.

“Clifford has been instrumental in the development of CultureMap,” said Gow. “We are very grateful for his leadership and the mark he has made over the past eight years.”

Devadanam is just the latest in a series of strong additions to the CultureMap editorial team. In May, the company announced the hiring of Ken Hoffman, the longstanding popular columnist from the Houston Chronicle. And more recently, under Ward’s leadership, CultureMap hired Stephanie Allmon Merry as managing editor in Dallas, and Katie Friel as editor in Austin and Brandon Watson as food editor in Austin.

“We have been investing in the editorial team across the state,” said Gow. “With these additions, we are poised to extend our leadership position.”

About Gow Media
Gow Media, LLC is a leading sports media company founded in 2007 and based in Houston. The company owns two sports stations in Houston: ESPN 97.5 and SportsMap 94.1, as well as local sports website SportsMap.com. The company also owns one of the country’s largest sports radio networks, SB Nation Radio, which it runs in partnership with SBNation.com. SB Nation Radio provides 24/7 sports shows and sports updates to over 500 affiliate radio stations across the country, Sirius Satellite Radio, and mobile and digital partners. 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.

About CultureMap
CultureMap, founded in 2009 by Lonnie Schiller, Tod Eason, and other notable Houstonians, is the leading provider of lifestyle content in Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio. CultureMap was acquired by Gow Media in February of 2017. The company provides local intelligence on dining, events, arts, real estate, society, fashion, and more, as well as fun tidbits about what's happening around Texas.

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

Houston Chronicle society columnist Shelby Hodge exits

Richard Connelly of the Houston Press informs us that Houston Chronicle society columnist Shelby Hodge has left the newspaper!  How will I know anything about the balls, fundraisers and society gatherings of Houston's rich and famous:

If there was some outrageously "elegant" ball to help the beleaguered opera, she was there. If rich people threw a party to honor rich people, she got the details. If there was wacky fun to be had from a ball with a motorcycle theme, she relayed the laffs.

If there was any dirt that occurred at any of these events, and gossip that might pass as even halfway-interesting, it was safe with Hodge. There was never a bit of information that wasn't safely scrubbed and approved by the people she chronicled. READ THE REST

Hodge helped me keep up with the after work activities of my KTRK co-workers back in the day!

Connelly adds that Hodge is going to work for a new Web site called Culturemap.com. He also reports that former Houston Chronicle fashionisto and current Examiner fashion guy Clifford Pugh is also joining the Culturemap.com empire.

RELATED
- CultureMap Scores Top Talent: International Society Scribe Shelby Hodge Joins Team
- Former Houston Chronicle fashion guy Clifford Pugh lands new gig

Dave Ward named Houston media icon

I was honored when LCAHouston editor Ruchi Mukherjee asked me to write a profile on Dave Ward for the magazine's winter edition.

Then a little fear hit me when realizing I had to make this article different from my other Dave Ward interviews.

No problem there. Ward is always full of great stories.

Here is a sample of the piece.

Former abc13 KTRK anchor Dave Ward has been doing a great deal of looking back lately.

Not only is he producing a new Houston history segment for channel 13, but Ward is also re-examining his own life for an upcoming memoir co-written with Jim McGrath.

Arriving in April, the title is taken from the phrase heard at the beginning of every one of his newscasts through the last 50 years, “Good Evening Friends.” READ THE REST

Ward was featured in the society magazine's men of distinction cover story along with Gordon Quan, Kevin Murray, Dr. Waqar Khan, Shafik Rifaat and Travis Torrence.

Since this article was written for a society magazine, I even got a chance to attend a cover reveal party at the The Chanel Salon at Neiman Marcus! There I got a chance to finally meet Clifford Pugh and KPRC 2 meteorologist Justin Stapleton.

You can read about the party in Paper City.

RELATED
Dave Ward Media Excellence Award

View this post on Instagram

Check out my profile on media icon @davewardshouston in the 2018 Winter edition of @lcahouston magazine! The cover reveal was last night at #neimanmarcus #houstongalleria #daveward #davewardshouston #societywithruchi #Houston

A post shared by mike mcguff (@mikemcguff) on Dec 13, 2018 at 12:17pm PST

PICS: KTRK 13's Miya Shay & Gene Wu's engagement party

I told in April how KTRK 13's Miya Shay got engaged to Gene Wu. Wu is a prosecutor in the Harris County District Attorney’s Office and Democrat for Texas State Representative, District 137.

Friday night, the private wine cellar of Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak House was buzzing with a good bit of the Houston media crowd to celebrate the couple's engagement.

KHOU 11’s Courtney Zubowski (a bridesmaid) was there with her boyfriend Dr. Eric Haas. Channel 13’s Tom Koch and wife Brenda, Channel 2’s Mary Benton, Channel 8’s Ernie Manouse, Jackson Hearn, the reality family of Dr. Franklin and Erica Rose, Galveston Daily News’ T.J. Aulds and Culturemap’s Clifford Pugh rounded out the media heavy crowd.

About 80 people showed up in total. The whole affair was orchestrated by bridesmaid Kim Padgett and co-hosted by several of Miya and Gene’s friends.

Seems like the media wedding season is in full swing!




Jessica Michan, KTRK 13's Miya Shay and KPRC 2's Mary Benton (Photo: Roswitha Vogler)


KTRK 13's Brenda and Tom Koch (Photo: Roswitha Vogler)


Chau and Rob Todd (Photo: Roswitha Vogler)


KHOU 11’s Courtney Zubowski (a bridesmaid) with boyfriend Dr. Eric Haas (Photo: Roswitha Vogler)


Kim Padgett, Tom Flynn, KUHT 8’s Ernie Manouse, Jackson Hearn (Photo: Roswitha Vogler)


RELATED
- Houston media members dress up as toys

KPRC’s Andy Cerota, Fox 26 Rita Garcia and KHOU 11 Rekha Muddaraj celebrate moms

Auto Rickshaw, Mumbai Streets, Flower Wall! Bollywood Came to Town For LCA Houston International Mothers Day Soiree

Dr. Sippi Khurana, Andy Cerota KPRC Channel 2 Anchor and LCA Houston International Society News Editor and TV Host/ Founder of the International Mothers Day Soiree Ruchi Mukherjee 

Rita Garcia and Award Presenter Rohit Vyas he is the Senior News Director of TV Asia and the face of Indian American North American television. 

Rekha Muddaraj KHOU Anchor was one of our honoree this year. She walked the ramp with her two daughter Laxmi 5 and Lara 2.

The LCA Houston International Society News Magazine welcomed over 250 private guests to 2017 International Mothers Day Soirée held at the Asia Society Texas Center on May 11, 2017. Created and hosted by LCA’s Founder and Editor Ruchi Mukherjee, and now in its 5th year, the event highlights prominent and philanthropic mothers of Houston from various walks of life and ethnic backgrounds. The evening also saw the release of the 2nd edition of the LCA Houston print magazine.

KPRC’s Andy Cerota and Dr. Sippi Khurana served as the evening’s co-emcees. They introduced special guest, New York based TV Anchor Rohit Vyas who presented awards to the Honorees. Rohit Vyas is the longest serving Indian-American journalist in the US with 40 years of experience covering the entire gamut of international affairs, US politics, US-India relations, the infancy and growth of the Indian American community, and more. He serves as Senior Vice President, News Director, and English News Anchor for TV ASIA, and is a member of the United Nations Correspondents Association.

The night's honorees were some of Houston's most philanthropic wonder moms, often holding down full-time careers and society positions. all while raising kids and maintaining households. Each year the Soirée chooses a new set of women to honor, and to walk the ramp with their kids. This year's picks included:Merele Yarborough, Dr. Monira Kundi, Toni Tate, Denise O'Brian, Ishwaria Mohan Subbiah, Shabnam Shaikh, Jill Shull, Carrie Brandsberg Dahl, Brigitte Kalai, Jane Seam, Rekha Muddaraj and showstopper Y. Ping Sun.

LCA Houston also presented few special awards this year in celebration of their fifth year. Media Appreciation Awards were presented to Rita Garcia of FOX 26 and Clifford Pugh of Culturemap and special elite sponsors: Howard Tate, Rob Todd of Amplifies Solutions, Teresa Reading and Bashar Kalai of Amerapex Corporation.

Immediately after the Honorees walked the ramp, a very special surprise announcement stunned the crowd and the Host herself. Co-chair Shawntell McWilliams presented Ms Mukherjee with a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition from US Congressman Al Green honoring her, and LCA Houston, for Outstanding Service to the Community. Ruchi, a seasoned international journalist, has dedicated her career to social causes concerning women and the underprivileged.

LCA Houston’s Founder, and the event’s host, Ruchi Mukherjee focused on a Bollywood theme for this year’s Soirée. The Asia Society was adorned with Indian elements including an auto-rickshaw photo space and a wall size image of the streets of Mumbai. Guests were treated to Indian street foods and a Bollywood-inspired dance by the Sunrise International Dance Company. Sari-clad models, a live henna station, spinach and feta samosas were a few of the things that filled the upstairs lobby of Asia Society for the perfect Indian-inspired evening. Kiran's Restaurant, Raja Sweets, Ginn’s Gourmet, and Radio Milano were the food and drink sponsors for the evening and kept guests full with a number of East-meets-West concoctions. Every guest in attendance came dressed to impress, many even sported their finest Indian regality while others came in stylish cocktail attire.

Since it first began in 2013, the International Mother's Day Soirée has become a staple of the Houston society event scene. Decked in the finest Bollywood looks were: Staci and Quan Henderson, Sobi Qazi, Ella Markovsky, Kanchan Singh, Logan Lester, Rebecca Brinkley, Sameera Faridi and Anas Ahmad, Farida Abjani, Dr. Vanitha Pothuri, Dinah Lin, Keith and Shawntell McWilliams, Mehrnaz Gill, Donatella Bendkenstein, Mika Rao, Robert Tijerina, Rita Garcia, Janine Iannaelli, Mario Gudmundsson, Maha Rasheed Khan, Yasmine Haddad, Sharron Melton, Shaila Patel, Anika Jackson, Michael Pearce, Melissa Rascon.

(This post was taken from a release sent to me by LCA Houston)

Snyder leaves KXAS, KIAH and KDAF makeover?, plus Chronicle layoffs

Mike Snyder retiring as NBC5 KXAS anchor today
I told you in the past that longtime NBC 5 KXAS anchor Mike Snyder was retiring July 1st. From this article we know he is not ready to leave the news business though.

Tribune stations like KIAH 39 and KDAF 33 are getting makeovers
The Chicago Tribune is told: "It will help bring us into the 21st century in terms of what (viewers) see and hear," Lee Abrams, Tribune Co.'s chief innovation officer, said in an interview Tuesday. "It's elevating us and escaping the grip of the 1970s television playbook that seems to be what every station in America is addicted to."

More layoffs at the Houston Chronicle
Former Houston Chronicle fashion writer Clifford Pugh blogs that when layoffs occurred at the Chron last week, no one outside the paper noticed. He adds either layoffs everywhere have become commonplace — or the plight of newspapers is old news.

Texas TV and radio job moves December 2017

DALLAS - FORT WORTH


ALEXA CONOMOS FAREWELL from WFAA Marketing on Vimeo.
D-FW's list of 2017 TV newsroom exits.

WFAA investigative reporter Brett Shipp resigned to run for the United States Congress as a Democrat.

Veteran reporter Joel Thomas has ended a 14-year career at D-FW’s CBS11.

Jack Highberger from Minneapolis’ Fox-owned KMSP-TV is the latest addition to Fort Worth-based NBC5 KXAS’s reporting staff.

WFAA 8 is adding Jonah Javad to its sports staff as a reporter and fill-in anchor.

Fox O&O KDFW Dallas (DMA 5) hired Alberto Romero as a meteorologist.

Allie Spillyards joins KXAS in Dallas as a freelance reporter. Most recently, she was a reporter and weekend anchor at WIS in Columbia.
- Napoli Management Group

HOUSTON

Former FOX 26 KRIV reporter Kristine Galvan has joined KRGV 5 in the Rio Grande Valley as a reporter. Galvan tells mikemcguff.com she is in training to go in a management role.

Forty year Houston radio veteran John Wesley Downey returns to 740 KTRH. He first worked with the station back in 2002. According to his bio, in his long radio career, Wesley has anchored news and traffic, been a movie reviewer, hosted talk shows, and been a public affairs director for several Houston stations.

Grace White renews her agreement as a reporter with KHOU in her hometown of Houston.
- Napoli Management Group

Larry Seward renews his agreement with KHOU in Houston as a general assignment reporter.
- Napoli Management Group

Chip Brewster leaves KPRC 2.

Rita Garcia leaves FOX 26 KRIV for FOX 11 LA.

CultureMap revamps editorial team: Arden Ward named editorial director and Steven Devadanam replaces Clifford Pugh as Houston editor.

After 10 years, abc13 KTRK consumer reporter Patricia Lopez quits abc13 KTRK.

FOX 26 weekend morning anchor Sally MacDonald named morning anchor after Rita Garcia moves to LA.

TSU Basketball set to be broadcast on AT&T Sports Network Southwest with Butch Alsandor and former TSU Lady Tigers head coach Cynthia Cooper-Dyke.

Rick McFarland retires from KPRC 2 after almost 40 years.

Who left or joined the Houston media scene in 2017?

Top mikemcguff blog posts for 2017 by your clicks.

SAN ANTONIO

KENS-TV anchorwoman Karen Grace, a station vet of 12 years, has resigned.

KABB met Shaun Stevens bids farewell to his job of 12 years.

KENS reporter Natassia Paloma leaves for an anchor job in El Paso's KTSM NewsChannel 9.

Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. announced that Dean Radla has been named to General Manager of WOAI (NBC) in San Antonio, Texas. He will continue to be the General Manager of KABB-TV (FOX 29) and retain oversight of Sinclair's provision of services to KMYS-TV (CW 35) under a joint sale agreement. Mr. Radla has served as General Manager for KABB (FOX 29) and has been responsible for oversight of Sinclair's provision of services to KMYS (CW 35) under a joint sale agreement since 2012. Prior to that, he served as Director of Sales at the same stations since 1999. From 1997 until 1999, he was the Local Sales Manager for KABB (FOX 29). Mr. Radla has over 35 years of sales and management experience, including 27 years in the television industry in the San Antonio market where he began his television career in 1990 at KMOL-TV (now WOAI-TV). During his career with Sinclair, Mr. Radla has been involved in numerous corporate wide projects focusing on inventory management and revenue strategies. In addition, he has also performed the duties of Regional Sales Consultant, with oversight in Sinclair Broadcast's Oklahoma City market. Mr. Radla received a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations and Advertising from Texas State University.

Houston native Niku Kazori has joined KENS 5 as a multi-skilled journalist. She previously worked at WVLT Knoxville, Tennessee; WCBD Charleston, South Carolina and KCBD Channel 11 Lubbock.

AUSTIN

Top 10 Austin TV/radio posts of 2017.

AROUND TEXAS

Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. announced that Matt Kaplowitz has been promoted to General Manager of KFOX (FOX) and KDBC (CBS) in El Paso, Texas. Mr. Kaplowitz has been the Director of Sales at KFOX-TV (FOX) in El Paso, Texas since 2013. He began his career in television sales working for the ABC affiliate in El Paso, Texas. Mr. Kaplowitz moved to KFOX in 2001 where he worked as an Account Executive until 2009. In 2009, he moved to Reno as a Local Sales Manager working for KRXI and KAME for three years before being promoted to Local Sales Manager of WPXI-TV in Pittsburgh. In 2013, Mr. Kaplowitz moved back to El Paso to assume the role of Director of Sales for the now Sinclair-owned KFOX-TV and KDBC-TV. Mr. Kaplowitz holds a degree in media arts from the University of Arizona.

Marco Revuelta is leaving his job as an MMJ/weekend anchor at KGNS Laredo for KWTX Waco/Temple/Killeen.

Jasmine Styles jumps 129 markets to become weekend anchor and reporter at WFTS in Tampa. Previously, she was a primary anchor at KBTV in Beaumont.
- Napoli Management Group

Daniela Pardo jumps over 70 markets to become an MMJ at KXTV in Sacramento. Most recently, she was a reporter at KTSM in El Paso.
- Napoli Management Group

REMEMBERING

Robert 'Bassman' Washington of Majic 102.1 and 97.9 the Box passes away.

Top Houston media moments of 2009

2009 was a wild year in the Houston media world. We saw top anchors leave television stations and big time radio DJs jump ship! I went through my blog to showcase some of the moments I thought were worth remembering. Click on the links to read the posts.

Where is KPRC's Wendy Corona?

Sam Malone of KRBE, KHMX talks to Mike McGuff

950 KPRC gets Chris Baker back, Walton and Johnson to 93.7 The Arrow KKRW

Mike McGuff's web sections win first and second place in the Texas AP awards

New Houston TV anchors...sort of

Where is Darby Douglas on Channel 11 KHOU?

Valet of KPRC Channel 2 skips out of Houston

Zakk United leaves 94.5 KTBZ The Buzz in Houston

Houston Chronicle layoffs coverage

CBS Radio in Houston appoints Purdy as VP/Market Manager

Giff Neilsen leaves Channel 11 KHOU

KLOL and KHMX are with CBS

Former Houston Chronicle fashion guy Clifford Pugh lands new gig

Mike McGuff wins an Emmy part 2

Dean and Rog on The New 107.5 The Eagle KGLK

Moving on from abc 13

Tom Doerr named Fox 26 KRIV news director

Pat Gray leaving Houston's 700 KSEV for Glenn Beck

KPRC and KIAH's Keith Northon and Ray Fisher leave their respective channels

Jack is dead at 103.7 FM in Houston

KTRK 13 Houston reporter Eric James carjacked/kidnapped

Lanny Griffith leaves Fox 26 KRIV Houston

Mike McGuff talking social media on Houston 8 KUHT PBS

KHOU 11 announces new early morning newscast at 4:30am

KPRC 2 Launches 4:30am newscast

KTRK 13 quietly debuts 4:30am show

Mike McGuff's 4am show pitch to Houston TV stations

39 KIAH Houston adds new newscasts

KPRC 2 and KRIV Fox 26 to share helicopter

Fox 26 KRIV adds more morning news

Mo' Bounce leaves Hot 95.7 Houston for Z100 New York

John Lopez leaves 790 KBME The Sports Animal, joins 610 KILT mornings

Will Dr. Phil return to Houston TV after 2011?

Houston Chronicle society columnist Shelby Hodge exits

Darby Douglas' near death experience, plus life after KHOU 11

KHOU 11 makes Net news for Wii traffic remote

KPRC Local 2 reporter Elizabeth Scarborough exits

Texas Tribune to debut in realm of nonprofit journalism

Houston is now on the Culturemap - Web site that is

KIAH 39 reporter Dennis Spellman leaves station

KTRK 13 reporter missing from TV

610 KILT's Matt Jackson and Adam Wexler are new 790 KBME morning show

KPRC 2 reporter Alana Gomez Dong leaves Houston for new job

Houston is now on the Culturemap - Web site that is

I told you in October how Houston Chronicle society columnist Shelby Hodge left the newspaper for a new Web site called Culturemap.com (former Chron fashionisto Clifford Pugh is also there).

Well the new site debuts today and it looks...well different. I don't know what to think of it yet. I've never seen a site like it. They are calling it a "mapazine" which aptly describes it. There is a freakin' huge map in the middle of a page. Click on an article photo and it shows a point on the map where the story takes place with a link to read more. BTW, now we know what U2's Bono was up to while in Houston.

Here is what the inaugural Culturemap.com email blast said:

Everyone wants to know what's going on. We want the inside scoop on the latest, the newest, the greatest. But in a world of non-stop information, it's often confusing to know where to turn.
We're here to change that.

More than a year and a half ago, a group of Houstonians talked about creating a digital media company that would sort through the clutter and offer a place for lively, intelligent discussion. That idea has evolved into CultureMap, which debuts today. It's Houston's—and we believe the nation's—first "mapazine," with all sorts of interesting features.

Our definition of "culture" is all encompassing, from high-brow events to pop culture happenings that dominate conversations. We'll concentrate on food, fashion, the arts, music, real estate and society. But just about anything Houstonians are talking about is fair game.

I actually was in talks to be a contributor for the site. It all went south while we were eating lunch at Tony's and I asked for the mustard instead of the Grey Poupon. I never got a call back. :)

http://culturemap.com

RELATED
- New On The Web! More Party Pics and Coverage of Rich People!
- Houston Chronicle society columnist Shelby Hodge exits

Texas TV & radio job moves November 2017

DALLAS - FORT WORTH

Former KTRK abc13 intern and WXIX anchor Kara Sewell is heading to WFAA morning desk.

NBC5 KXAS has hired former network anchor/reporter Vinita Nair as a “special assignments” reporter sources have confirmed to unclebarky.com.

WFAA 8 hires Cleo Greene and Matt Howerton.

HOUSTON

PBS announced the results of its recent Board elections following its first Board meeting of fiscal year 2018. Four Professional Directors who were elected by the PBS membership in August took their seats at the meeting including Houston Public Media associate vice president and general manager, Lisa Shumate. She was elected to a second term. Shumate was elected as Professional Vice Chair. She will serve alongside Afsaneh Beschloss, founder and CEO of the global investment and advisory firm The Rock Creek Group, who was elected as General Vice Chair.

Houstonia Magazine managing editor Katharine Shilcutt leaves for a job as a Media Relations Specialist at Rice University.

Houston Public Media News 88.7 KUHF news anchor/reporter Ed Mayberry has announced his retirement to take place in February 2018.

- Hottest Houston social media stars November 2017
- Atom Smasher returns to morning radio
- Erica Simon joins abc13 KTRK
- VIDEO: 2017 Texas Radio Hall of Fame inductee acceptance speeches
- Fmr. Houston anchor Phillip Mena debuts on NBC
- Anoushah Rasta leaves KPRC 2
- Lance Zierlein reunites with John Granato on ESPN 97.5
- Chip Brewster leaves KPRC 2
- Rita Garcia leaving FOX 26 KRIV for FOX 11 LA
- Arden Ward named editorial director and Steven Devadanam replaces Clifford Pugh as Houston editor at CultureMap


SAN ANTONIO

KENS' Sarah Lucero has anchored her last newscast in San Antonio.

KENS Reporter Alicia Elena Neaves has signed off from the station.

Karen Grace's mysterious absence the latest in many changes at KENS.

AUSTIN

Tina Shively departs KVUE for new gig.

AROUND TEXAS

After 18 years at KTXS, longtime anchor George Levesque is leaving.

Meteorologist MATT HOLINER moves to mornings at KRGV in the Weslaco-Brownsville market. - Steve Swienckowski at DCA Talent.

KGBT CBS 4 hires Marybel González as weekend anchor.

Former abc13 KTRK sports anchor and KXXV Waco news anchor Bruce Gietzen to serve as director of student publications at Baylor University.

What are they hiding in Ventura County from Sean Mireskandari?

KHOU 11 and CultureMap team up

Previously CultureMap Houston teamed up with KTRK 13's website abc13.com in a content sharing agreement. However today, I received this release from KHOU 11 about teaming up with Culturemap:

KHOU 11, the CBS affiliate in Houston, and CultureMap, Houston’s daily digital magazine, announced today that they will embark on a content sharing partnership spanning television, web, digital and social media platforms.

“We are very excited to kick-off this collaboration with CultureMap,” said Susan McEldoon, KHOU 11 President and General Manager. “We are always looking for fresh, new ways to better serve our local audience. This relationship provides both of our organizations the opportunity to enhance our product with quality content that is relevant, unique and local.”

“CultureMap is pleased to work with KHOU 11 on such a dynamic partnership with such a great partner,” said Stephen Newman, CEO of CultureMap. “Our goal as Houston’s daily digital magazine is to provide the most up-to-date news and information on Houston culture, lifestyle and quality of life. As a result of this partnership, we will heighten our audience experience of the site, providing deeper insider intelligence and a platform for discussion.”
Starting immediately, KHOU 11 will feature CultureMap content in live programming, including the “CultureMap Moment” in newscasts and segments on its morning talk show Great Day Houston. KHOU 11 will also expand its digital offerings by linking to CultureMap content.

“KHOU 11 digital users will have immediate access to the latest information from CultureMap, including what’s hot on the social scene, the best in local cuisine, home & design, fashion – the list goes on. Headlines will be updated daily and available with a click on KHOU.com and by downloading the KHOU 11 app for smartphones and iPad,” added Christine DiStadio, KHOU 11 Director of Digital Media.
Likewise, CultureMap will feature the latest news and featured videos from KHOU 11 on its homepage and throughout the site. Plus, breaking news from KHOU 11 will be updated instantaneously on CultureMap as it happens. Culturally relevant content from the TV station will appear on the site in other areas such as fashion, art, sports and food/drink.

“Our highly regarded editorial team and contributors will work closely with KHOU 11’s award-winning news teams to report on stories, places and people that matter in the greater Houston area,” said Clifford Pugh, Editor-in-Chief of CultureMap. “Our goal is to establish a network of information sharing that is mutually beneficial to both news organizations.”

“We both know Houston and are dedicated to telling compelling stories about this great city,” said KHOU 11’s Executive News Director Philip Bruce. “It’s really like two old friends coming together to share things they’ve learned about a place they love. And the great thing about it is that we’ll never run out of stories to tell.”

Houston media shutdown Arturo's Uptown Italiano

Friday night, The Roundtable, a group of Houston journalists and political types, closed down Bill Sadler's Arturo's Uptown Italiano in Uptown Park.

For media lovers who read this blog, those in attendance included Bob & Carol Martin "The Accountant to the Stars," Fox 26 KRIV reporter Isiah "Factor" Carey AKA The Insite, former KTRK abc13 investigative reporter Wayne Dolcefino, KPRC 2's Phil Archer, KTRK abc13 reporter Miya Shay and husband Democratic State Representative Gene Wu, KHOU 11's Doug Miller, former KPRC 2 reporter Mary Benton, Dan Zindler, Lori Freese and Dr. Richard Murray. I even got to meet KPRC 2 anchor Bill Balleza's brother, Walter. Walter used to work with his brother at channel 2 as a photojournalist!

And I was told that former Former President George W. Bush's brother Neil was there. CultureMap's Clifford Pugh also reported that former Texas Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst was in attendance.

Tthe Houston Business Journal reports the folks behind Max's Wine Dive and The Tasting Room will open a Tex-Mex restaurant called Añejo in the current Arturo space. As for Sadler who has behind places like River Café, Café Noche, Beso, the Moose/Blue Agave, the future is wide open.

RELATED
Isiah Factor|The Insite coverage

'Downton Abbey' after show 'Manor of Speaking' season finale photos

"Downton Abbey" after show "Manor of Speaking" wraps up season

“Manor of Speaking” host and producer, Ernie Manouse, pictured with season finale special guest, Joanne King Herring. (Photo: Jonathan Sandys)

On the set of Houston Public Media’s “Manor of Speaking” during the season finale. (L to R) Special guest Evan Turner, Helen Mann, the butler “Mr. Rodgers,” Ernie Manouse, special guest Joanne King Herring, and St.John Flynn. (Photo: Jonathan Sandys)

John Dascouilias and CultureMap Houston’s editor-in-chief, Clifford Pugh, pose for a photo with the “Downton Abbey” upstairs characters at the “Manor of Speaking” season finale. (Photo: Jonathan Sandys)

Here are photos from the “Manor of Speaking” season finale taping that aired Sunday night on Houston Public Media TV8 KUHT.

Host Ernie Manouse and his trusty manservant “Mr. Rodgers,” lead a studio audience, a rotating cast of super fans and cultural experts through the world of “Downton Abbey" immediately following the hit PBS show's airing.

The Houston-based show has been picked up on other PBS stations across the country.

http://manorofspeaking.org/

Lucy Noland, Nov. sweeps ratings, The Angry Stripper and more!

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NOVEMBER 2013 SWEEPS TV RATINGS
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- KPRC 2 wins morning news in key demo for November 2013 sweeps
- Univision 45 KXLN declares victory in November 2013 sweeps war
- Fox 4 KDFW November 2013 sweeps results
- KSAT news almost sweeps in S.A.

WFAA8 reporter Steve Stoler leaving after 11 years for Plano public relations post
Uncle Barky reports WFAA reporter Steve Stoler has decided to take a position as director of media relations for the City of Plano.

KTVT Takes Pride In Its History, Tradition
Every TV station has a legacy of people, characters, shows, programs and events that has meaning to the people who live in that market. At the Dallas CBS O&O, a new promo campaign reminds people that KTVT has a story to tell about its history and contribution.

Host comings and goings on CW33's Eye Opener
Out is Sean Dowling, who left in mid-October. In is Alex Wehrley, a former 2009 Miss Wisconsin USA.

Dallas: Jolly holiday spending on TV
High demand from retailers is driving up prices

NBC 5 Donates Historical Film Library to University of North Texas
Texas' First Television Station Offers Look at Newscasts of the 1950s, 60s & 70s

Jennifer Reyna's car accident
KPRC's Jennifer Reyna posted on Facebook a few weeks ago: "Good morning and a heartfelt thanks for your genuine care and concern regarding my accident last weekend. No major injuries thankfully. Of course, I'm still sore. I've become good friends with "ICE." Also, no I was not texting and driving, just slick roads...I should have better compensated. Again, thanks everybody! Your messages/calls/texts/tweets made me feel very loved."

Lucy Noland takes off from KNBC
Former KHOU 11 anchor Lucy Noland has left KNBC Los Angeles.
- Lucy Noland shows off sex appeal in photos

Ex-stripper Sarah Tressler quits the San Antonio Express-News
Reporter Sarah Tressler [writer of the Diary of an Angry Stripper blog] was fired from Hearst’s Houston Chronicle last year after it was discovered that she was moonlighting as a stripper. She filed an EEOC complaint and landed at the San Antonio Express-News — another Hearst paper — as part of her settlement.
- Angry Stripper Sarah Tressler talks to KHOU 11's Shern-Min Chow

#6 Houston-Galveston TX
November 2013 Portable People Meter (Updated: 11-25-13)
- Research Director, Inc. Presents Exclusive Nov. PPM Analysis For Houston
- KILT improves in November radio ratings, but still down from 2012

CBS/Houston VP/Programming Mark Adams Resigns
With an eye toward another, soon-to-be-announced programming opportunity, CBS/HOUSTON VP/Programming MARK ADAMS has announced his resignation after six years in the market. His last day is DECEMBER 6th.

Dave Ward, Houston news anchor, gave life lessons, direction of news
Dave Ward, Channel 13 KTRK-TV news anchor, gave Sam Houston State University students career advice about how to make it big in the journalism world and life in general.

Astros owner sues Drayton McLane, Comcast and NBC claiming fraud
Jim Crane’s Astros ownership group filed a state court lawsuit Thursday afternoon against former Astros owner Drayton McLane, Comcast and NBC Universal, accusing all the defendants of fraud and negligent misrepresentation and McLane’s corporation that owned the Astros of breach of contract in conjunction with Crane’s purchase of a 46 percent interest in the parent company of Comcast SportsNet.
- Comcast, NBC Universal wish to take Crane lawsuit to federal court

New Houston Chronicle editor Nancy Barnes hopes to boost newsroom
CultureMap’s Clifford Pugh provided some nice coverage of the Houston Chronicle‘s new editor, Nancy Barnes, who was the guest of a group of female Houston leaders.

Getting around town John Donnelly style
Congratulations to Fox 26 reporter John Donnelly who’s pushing a new 2014 Toyota Camry LE.

Is Josh Innes’ future in Houston?
It’s public knowledge that Josh Innes’ contract with Sports Radio 610 is up in November. Over the last four years, Josh has been vocal when he is about to re-up but this time; Houston Media Watch noticed he’s been silent.

Texan Fans Rejoice! CBS' Dan Dierdorf To Retire At Season's End
Texan fans have one less mustache to kick around on Twitter.

S.A. anchorwoman gives birth early
The KENS-TV anchorwoman was supposed to have a Thanksgiving baby, instead, Sarah Lucero of the 6 and 10 p.m. news gave birth to her fourth child a week early.

JB Hager gone from Mix 94.7 morning show
JB Hager, one half of the long-running “JB and Sandy Morning Show” on 94.7 KAMX-FM, has departed the station after almost 18 years on the air.

YNN to be rebranded as Time Warner Cable News
YNN is getting an extreme makeover. Next month, Time Warner Cable’s 24-hour local news channel will begin rolling out a new name and a new on-air look.

Signing off in Waco
KXXV (Waco) Morning Anchor and Reporter Noel Brennan is working has worked his last shift.

Former KWBU producer has healthcare program on public television
Three and a half years after Waco public television station KWBU shut down, former KWBU producer Joani Livingston finds her work airing on a Central Texas public television station.

West Texas Radio Group names local VP
West Texas Radio Group recently announced the promotion of John Moesch to Vice President of its Odessa-Midland broadcast stations KHKX-FM, KMCM-FM and KQRX-FM.

Texas Reporter Acted as Press Agent for Event He Also Covered
Brett Crandall, a reporter and weathercaster for KGBT in Harlingen, TX, has a side job as the public affairs director for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Who’s Footing the Bill for Investigative Journalism?
If you want to get rich in journalism, one way—maybe the only way—is to host droning conferences and symposiums to debate the fate of the news industry. That’s where the fat money in the news business is. Just launch another roundtable and let the Cassandras, Thomas Malthus acolytes and Chicken Littles have at it.

MOVING

Jason Spencer announced on LinkedIn he has left HISD as General Manager, Communications and Media Relations and is now working for Aldine ISD as Assistant Superintendent for Communications and Government Relations.

Former science and medical reporter at KPRC and KHOU, Susan Starnes, has been hired as News 92 FM KROI's weekend editor (producer in TV speak). She's been doing some reporting as well.

ENGAGED

Congrats to KHOU 11's Doug Delony who is engaged!

Appreciation of BOOTED NEWS WOMEN Blog
- Rita Garcia Is Staying Hot In Houston
- SUPER BOOT BATTLE IN HOUSTON!!!!
- Jennifer Reyna Is Helping Bring Joy To All The Boys And Girls
- Cindy Burbano Kicks Her Feet Up
- Bellacosa's Brown Leather Monday
- Fox 7's Keri Bellacosa and Celebrity Fashion Stylist Laurie Graham
- Alex Wehrley Is Kickin It Classic On Eye Opener
- Bellacosa's Back In Brown
- Loriana Hernandez Is Somebody We Can Count On
- Big time Texas battle
- Loriana Hernandez Salsa Dances In Black Leather Boots!!!
- Jenny Anchondo's Box Top Boots

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
- Sunny 99.1 KODA launches Christmas music this week
- Travel host Rick Steves jetting to Houston
- Who is the biggest Houston media turkey 2013?
- Ken Molestina joins CBS 11 KTVT from WUSA
- Comcast releases statement concerning Houston Astros lawsuit
- Steve Simon expands NewsFix to KDAF from KIAH
- Rita Garcia promoted to Fox 26 KRIV morning anchor
- Lauren Freeman is new KPRC 2 4pm anchor

Houston media job moves 2017

Who left or joined the Houston media scene in 2017?

Rucks Russell leaves KHOU 11

Sophia Beausoleil joins KPRC 2

Drew Karedes to exit KHOU 11

Jacqueline Crea to exit KHOU 11

Brandi Smith joins KHOU

Jillian “JJ” Simmons leaves 97.9 The Box KBXX

Chase Murphy new Mix 96.5 KHMX program director

Samantha Ptashkin leaves KPRC

Dean & Rog celebrate 20 years in Houston

Chrisdyann Uribe joins Fox 26 KRIV

Dave Ward and his emotional goodbye from KTRK abc13

Brett Buffington joins KHOU 11

Ken Hoffman leaves Houston Chronicle for CultureMap

Lily Jang joins KPRC 2

Dayna Steele running for Congress

Crystal Ayala joins Martin Berlanga as co-anchor of Noticiero Telemundo Houston

Anne Elise Parks joins CBS 11 KTVT

Paulina Sodi leaves Telemundo Houston

Rebecca Suárez leaves Univision Houston; returns to HISD

Jason Cage joins Mix 96.5 KHMX afternoons

Angela Chen is leaving FOX 26 KRIV

Lance Zierlein leaves SportsTalk 790 KBME coverage

'The Buzz Lady' Roseann Rogers' new title

Josh Innes moves to mornings on SportsTalk 790

Jennifer Bauer leaves KPRC 2

Rose-Ann Aragon joins KPRC 2

Michelle Choi joins KHOU 11

Post KHOU 11, longtime Houston anchor Greg Hurst WREG News Channel 3 Memphis, TN

Former Houston Chronicle reporter, columnist and editor Alan Bernstein is going to work for Mayor Sylvester Turner

Charlie Pallilo's new radio home announced

Former KPRC 2 freelance reporter Janelle Bludau shows up at KHOU 11

KTRK abc13 reporter/multi-media journalist Tracy Clemons joins HISD press office as PIO

Former KHOU 11 reporter Leigh Frillici joins KPRC 2

Former KPRC 2 sports reporter Gary Striewski joins "morning dose"

Deneige Broom joins FOX 26 KRIV

Ron Trevino marks 35 years at KHOU 11

Cartoonist Nick Anderson let go from Houston Chronicle

James Doughty joins KAVU Victoria, Texas

Stephen Morgan joins FOX 26 KRIV

Alex Sanz named AP deputy director of newsgathering for the U.S. South

Laura Diaz leaves Telemundo Houston

Recent Houston Chronicle departures in 2017

KPRC Production Manager Andy Patterson, engineer Bill Bremer and Chief Operator and Maintenance Engineer Mike August are retiring from KPRC-TV

Dale Forbis leaves NewsRadio 740 KTRH for San Antonio

Collin Myers joining KTRK abc13

Jennifer Broome to leave KPRC's Houston Life

Kaitlin Monte new FOX 26 anchor

Jacob Rascon joins KPRC

CoCo Dominguez named FOX 26 Traffic Reporter and Lifestyle Correspondent

Jimmy Barrett joins 740 KTRH's Houston Morning News

Melinda Spaulding leaves FOX 26 for TSU

Suzanne Boase Honeycutt joins KSBJ

Mario Diaz joins KPRC

New hires at Houston Chronicle for August 2017

Nick Natario joins KTRK abc13

abc13 KTRK meteorologist Casey Curry is no longer with the station.

Is Casey Curry co-hosting KPRC 2's Houston Life permanently?

Casey Curry does weather on FOX 26 KRIV

Where is Casey Curry going to work?

Ubaldo Martinez has been promoted to lead sports anchor at Telemundo Houston KTMD

Reporter Kaitlin McCulley leaves KTRK abc13 for WHDH 7News Boston.

Radio One Houston announced Pamela B. McKay as its new Vice President, General Manager.

Ivory Hecker to join Fox 26 KRIV as a reporter from KARE-TV Minneapolis.

After being off air since July, meteorologist Lisa Vaughn made her return to FOX 26 KRIV.

Over at KPRC 2, chief meteorologist Frank Billingsley is celebrating 35 years on the green screen.

Here is a list of the former Houston journalists who were called back from the reserves to help out during Hurricane Harvey coverage.

Joe Gazin hits 40 years at KIII Corpus Christi

Courtney Zubowski working for CBS News

Jacob Rascon debuts as anchor on KPRC 2

Former KPRC anchor Courtney Zavala returns to channel 2 as Houston Life host.

Hottest Houston social media stars November 2017

Atom Smasher returns to morning radio

Erica Simon joins abc13 KTRK

VIDEO: 2017 Texas Radio Hall of Fame inductee acceptance speeches

Fmr. Houston anchor Phillip Mena debuts on NBC

Anoushah Rasta leaves KPRC 2

Lance Zierlein reunites with John Granato on ESPN 97.5

Chip Brewster leaves KPRC 2

Rita Garcia leaving FOX 26 KRIV for FOX 11 LA

Arden Ward named editorial director and Steven Devadanam replaces Clifford Pugh as Houston editor at CultureMap

Patricia Lopez leaves abc13 KTRK

Sally MacDonald named FOX 26 morning anchor

Rick McFarland retires from KPRC 2 after almost 40 years