Lindsey Ragas announced she is joining FOX 10 Phoenix KSAZ after CBS Austin KEYE where she was a multi-media journalist (MMJ) for almost four years.
Here is what Ragas posted on Facebook for her FOX 10 Phoenix KSAZ hiring announcement:
"I’m so excited to share this life update.
You’re looking at the newest reporter/fill-in anchor for FOX 10 in Phoenix.
When I made up my mind to leave Austin, I had no clue where I was going next, but choosing FOX 10 couldn’t have been any easier after my first chat with the news director and first visit to the station.
I can’t wait to be a part of a team that has already welcomed me with open arms.
My first day is October 31."
Here is what Ragas posted on Facebook for her CBS Austin departure announcement:
"That’s a wrap! Today was my last day reporting at CBS Austin.
Austin, thank you for the last 3.5 years.
To the viewers, thank you for trusting me to tell your stories. I truly enjoyed every second.
I’m grateful for each person I’ve met while out on a story, and each friend I’ve made in this city. You made this experience one to remember.
Texas, it’s been a wild ride, but it’s time for this Californian to move closer to home.
I can’t wait to share what’s next."
Ragas, a Texas Press Broadcasters Association award winner, joined KEYE in May of 2019 from KTXS News Abilene where she was an weekend anchor/reporter/producer for three years.
The San Francisco State University Magna Cum Laude grad interned in San Francisco with Michael Finney of 7 On Your Side KGO and KRON 4.
*updated with Lindsey Ragas FOX 10 Phoenix KSAZ job hire
Moreno debuted on KXAN Austin in June 10, 2021 as the Nexstar station's 4:30pm, 5pm, 6pm, 9pm and 10pm newscast anchor taking the place of Sydney Benter who left in May.
Here is a transcript of what Moreno said on her last day on the air on CBS Denver (video embedded above):
"The only plausible reason [to leave her job] might be family, and that's exactly why we're leaving CBS4 and Colorado to move closer to my family in my hometown of Austin, Texas.
I'm going to try to get through this I'm sorry, on my last morning. I just want to thank all of you for being my extended family, because for the last eight years, you invited me into your homes every morning while you were getting ready for work or having breakfast, and you allowed me to emcee your events for those causes and those nonprofits closest to your heart.
So thank you so much for trusting me to share your incredible stories right here on the news. Over the past eight years together, we went through some of the lowest lows, enduring heartbreaking shootings and wildfires. But we've also experienced some great highs, like when the Broncos won the Super Bowl 50 championship and when Coloradans supported one another during this pandemic.
You all listened to the quiet voices of children in foster care and amplified our mission. With your help, 60 children who were featured in 'Wednesday's Child' were adopted. And I am so grateful for your support. You sent well wishes at the start of my marriage when we got our Colorado dog and had our Colorado baby (Weston).
And let me tell you, your messages propped me up when we came home from the hospital with the baby at the start of quarantine and the pandemic.
All of our family is out of state. And I truly never felt completely alone because I had all of you checking on me.
And lastly, I just want to thank the CBS 4 team. Gosh, you guys, this crew made me better professionally as I tried everyday to meet their journalistic standards. And personally, I've developed so many friendships working here. And, you know, I'm going to miss everybody so much. And here's the thing. Social media makes it really easy to stay in touch, right. So we can all stay connected there.
And of course, I'll be thinking of those perfect Colorado summers when we're down in the Texas heat. It's brutal, let me tell you. But I'll always carry a piece of my heart of you in Colorado in my heart, and I'll be thinking of you as we venture home, because, after all, that's what family does."
The 2019 Heartland Emmy winner for best "News Anchor" and 2017 recipient of the Colorado Broadcaster’s Association Award of Excellence, started with KCNC in March of 2013.
Before Denver, Moreno worked as a weekend anchor and night-side reporter for FOX10 KSAZ Phoenix, Arizona. TRIVIA: Which television reporter came to Houston from KSAZ and owns an athletic fashion line?
The Austin native graduated with honors from St. Stephen's High School and double majored in communications/Spanish at Trinity University in San Antonio.
*this post updated with Moreno's KXAN 36 Austin debut date and anchor shift
Michael Lewis has been named Senior Vice President and General Manager of the FOX duopoly in Phoenix, which consists of KSAZ FOX 10 and KUTP FOX 10 Xtra, announced Jack Abernethy, Chief Executive Officer of FOX Television Stations.
Lewis assumes this position effective January 2023, reporting directly to Abernethy. The current Senior Vice President and General Manager of the FOX Phoenix duopoly, Mark Rodman, who has been with the FOX Television Stations for 24 years, announced his retirement today.
In making the announcement, Abernethy stated, “We would like to thank Mark for his dedication to FOX and congratulate him on a seasoned career of consistent success across multiple markets. It is always fortunate when succession planning allows for the best candidates to come from within, and Mike is a longtime FOX leader who will build upon the tremendous strength of our Phoenix duopoly.”
Mark Rodman has served as Senior Vice President and General Manager of KSAZ and KUTP, the FOX-owned duopoly in Phoenix, since 2011. Prior to this, he spent 3 years as the Vice President and General Manager of KTBC, the FOX-owned station in Austin. Earlier in his career, Rodman held sales and management positions in Providence, New York, and Salt Lake City. Before transitioning to the business side of the industry, he began his career in broadcasting as a reporter and news producer. A graduate of Brown University, Rodman holds a Bachelor’s degree in Semiotics. In addition, he holds a Master’s degree in Journalism from Columbia University.
Rodman added, “The past 24 years with FOX Television Stations have been the highlight of my career. I am especially grateful to have worked with an extraordinary group of people under the leadership of Jack Abernethy. I know I am leaving the station in the right hands by passing the torch to Mike, whom I trust to continue the tradition of excellence, just as he did in Austin.”
Lewis has been with the FOX Television Stations for 20 years. Most recently, he has served as Senior Vice President and General Manager of KTBC, the FOX-owned station in Austin since 2011. Prior to that, Lewis was Vice President and Sales Manager at KRIV/KTXH, the FOX-owned duopoly in Houston, and before that he served in the same role at WHBQ in Memphis. Earlier, Lewis was a local and national sales manager at WTTG FOX 5 DC. He is a member of the National Association of Black Journalists. In 2016, Lewis was named General Manager of the Year by Broadcasting & Cable magazine. A graduate of The College of Saint Rose, he holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration.
Lewis added, “It was an honor to lead the incredible team at KTBC and it is now a dream come true to be named the new General Manager of these powerhouse Phoenix stations. I can’t wait to get started.”
(This post taken from a release sent to me by FOX Television Stations)
"I am motivated by many things to stay healthy," Okolie said in HFR. "For one, when I look in the mirror I like to see a strong me. I see my fitness not only through my exterior but my interior as well. What is a strong body, without a strong mentality? I strongly believe health is wealth and it starts in your mind. My happiness is fed by living a healthy life. I am also motivated by a fitness community always striving to be better."
That love and passion for working out, led the journalist to take classes on clothing design at LabelHorde while in Phoenix where she had worked for Fox 10 KSAZ.
"I wanted a black V-neck fitted crop top and like a poly nylon blend," Okolie told the In My Humble Opinion podcast. "And I couldn't find that anywhere. You know, I wanted a jumpsuit, that's like ankle length. I wanted leggings with, like, a mesh only on...it's like things that I was looking for I could never find. So I'm like, 'I'm yeah, I feel good in these, like, solid black lulu leggings and, you know, crop white shirt.' But I'm like, 'I want to elevate myself.'"
Back in 2018, that desire and classes led her to use her Croquis fashion sketchbook to start working on what would become Solely Fit.
"Designing it is one thing, but then you have to like, construct it to go on the human body," she told the podcast. "So you need to know every single measurement. And there's probably, per a garment, there's probably 22 measurements that you need."
Okolie said in the interview that she has learned a lot through this project including patience.
So if I ever encounter a breaking news scene and Okolie is filing a report, I am stopping to ask for a discount code!
Before Fox 10 KSAZ Phoenix, Okolie worked for News 3 WTKR Norfolk, CBS 12 WPEC West Palm Beach, Florida and WRBL Columbus, GA.
Also, check out the In My Humble Opinion podcast (embedded below) to hear how Okolie had a "controversial" moment in her journalism schooling and how abc13 KTRK anchor Chauncy Glover helped land her channel 13 job!
Early last week, KTSM/KDBC (and KVEO Browsville) anchor Phillip Mena officially signed off the El Paso stations, had some cake and left for new opportunities.
Phillip Mena
Friday evening, we learned on his Facebook page that Mena is heading to Houston and KPRC 2. Mena will be co-anchoring the weekend news with attorney Irika Sargent.
"While I'm saddened to leave my hometown of El Paso, I'm excited about living in Houston and working for such a storied station at KPRC," Mena told mikemcguff.com. "I look forward to becoming very involved in the Houston community and telling its stories. I'm also excited that I'll be arriving just in time for the crawfish boils and the Astros games."
According to his bio, while attending Arizona State University, Mena wrote sports articles for The Arizona Republic and worked at the local ESPN radio affiliate as a producer. During summer breaks, he would also write sports stories for The El Paso Times. He interned at FOX 10 KSAZ-TV in Phoenix. After college, Mena continued to write for The Arizona Republic and worked as a producer for a sports show on Fox Sports Radio in Phoenix.
In April 2010, Mena returned to El Paso as a TV news reporter.
Mena says he starts at KPRC 2 April 23rd.
The El Paso TV world (Market 91) is full of people making big market jumps. A quick scan of my blog shows that three KFOX El Paso TV folks made big jumps in the last few years - KNBC 4 Los Angeles' Jacob Rascon, Hema Mullur of KDVR in Denver and Derek Shore of Sacramento's CBS owned KOVR. As for the big move from El Paso to Houston, the only other person that comes to mind is KTRK 13 anchor Elissa Rivas who also came from KFOX.
The lesson here is: College TV journalism majors, go work for KFOX. It is either a really good station or there is something in the water there.
TV news is a unique world full of quick deadlines and adrenaline rushes. While the latter might not be as potent in the corporate world (that's what energy drinks are for, I guess), skills learned while in the news trenches can continue helping journalists make a living in a post-broadcast life.
Today, we look at some Houston anchors and reporters who successfully left the television news world and are using the many skills they have learned in their new careers.
In the case of Comcast Houston, the public relations office is comprised of familiar abc13 KTRK and KPRC 2 faces.
Instead of working sources, these former journalists are now the sources for news departments as media relations for the cable and internet provider. Breaking news for them is now managing it in a crisis communications role. Writing stories now comes as a press release to help the company's public relations and external communications across Texas.
As for social media, that might be the same for both journalists and PR pros...I'm guessing a burden.
Foti Kallergis joined ABC13 KTRK in September 2013 as a reporter/fill-in anchor. The four-time Emmy Award and 13-time Texas Associated Press Broadcasters Award winner started his TV journalism career in 2005, working for KFDM 6 Beaumont and then Austin stations KVUE 24 and FOX 7 KTBC.
When the University of Houston grad left Channel 13 and the Houston TV news in 2018, he moved into the PR world, first working for a marketing/advertising firm, then as Director of Communications and Public Relations for the Houston Airport System. In 2021, he joined Comcast as Senior Director of External Communications and Public Relations.
Kallergis recently hired former KPRC 2 reporter Taisha Walker and his former ABC13 colleague, anchor Ilona Carson, because of what they bring to this new form of corporate storytelling.
"I’m honored to have such a well-respected, award-winning team with nearly 50 years of combined journalism experience," Kallergis told mikemcguff.com. "Taisha and Ilona are passionate journalists who have earned the trust of the southeast Texas community. As a part of the Comcast Texas communications team, Taisha and Ilona get to continue doing what they love -- telling stories that make a difference. We know the media landscape is changing, and it's important to have a communications team that understands the needs of the ever-changing modern-day newsroom. This perspective helps us to be a more effective partner to local news organizations, which ultimately helps to better serve viewers, community partners and customers alike."
Walker was hired by KPRC 2 in 2018 after her tenure with KMBC 9 in Kansas City, Missouri. Upon earning a degree from Clark Atlanta University and a master's from Syracuse University, she also reported for WCHS 8 in Charleston, West Virginia, and KOTA Territory TV in Rapid City, South Dakota.
She left Channel 2 in May 2023, quickly joined Comcast, and is now a Public Relations Manager.
"I’m thrilled I get to continue telling stories – ones that are centered around Comcast’s network expansion efforts," Walker told mikemcguff.com. "Internet connectivity is essential in this digital world, in every industry, including the news business. Comcast is doing so many wonderful things in our own backyard, and I get to help bring those stories to life while also finding balance in my own life following an amazing career as a journalist."
Carson joined ABC13 KTRK in 2005 to take over the 4 p.m. anchor duties from a newly promoted Gina Gaston. The University of Pennsylvania graduate would also take on additional newscasts at the 6:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. timeslots.
A winner of a Lone Star EMMY, National Headliner award, and a Gracie award, Carson previously worked for FOX 10 KSAZ Phoenix and KAMR Local 4 News Amarillo.
In June 2021, Carson left Channel 13 to escape "the daily whirlwind of live news" and focus more on her family.
"When I departed from ABC 13, I thought I was retiring," Carson admitted to me. "While it was a much-needed sabbatical, I learned a lot about myself and the importance of finding a new challenge, the next step in my career. The opportunity at Comcast was simply the right fit — not just for my own professional development but also for the flexibility that my family needs. Everyday, I get to do some amazing work for one of the nation’s biggest technology and media companies. I still get to tell impactful stories and share them with Houston area viewers - which will always be in my DNA. There really is a wonderful life after news!"
I should add that former abc13 KTRK multi-media journalist Steve Campion recently left Comcast Houston for a new role as director of public relations at the company's West Palm Beach, Florida office.
So, for those wondering about life after TV news, here are examples of successful converts to what journalists jokingly call the PR "dark side."
It is anything but for some media types ready to move to regular hours and potentially better pay.
And if you're a Comcast or NBCUniversal employee, you get resort and theme park discounts to Universal properties! Hey Foti, are you hiring?
KBXX Taps Jillian 'JJ' Simmons For Midday
RADIO ONE Top 40/Rhythmic KBXX (97.9 THE BOX)/HOUSTON PD TERRI THOMAS adds JILLIAN "JJ" SIMMONS as the new midday personality. JJ replaces DEVI DEV who left in SEPTEMBER to pursue a career in television and satellite media.
KBXX The Winner In Houston
A 4 month deadlock for dominance has been broken in Houston. Radio One Top 40/Rhythmic KBXX (7.3) bested Clear Channel AC KODA (2nd place with a 6.2) for the top rank.
Journalist comes to work unprepared?
Opinion writer takes Katherine Kisiel of KTBC-TV's "Good Day Austin" to task over WWE wrestler CM Punk interview.
"TV gypsy" Katie Couric laughs, sniffles and charms on her day in the spotlight with M.D. Anderson
The old Katie Couric — the one of the playful, endearing personality of the Today Show that earned her the title America's Sweetheart — was back in full form on Tuesday. As she chatted with CNN's Dr. Sanjay Gupta on stage at the Hilton Americas-Houston, there was little evidence of the dour-faced Katie of the CBS Evening News desk.
Music Editor Chris Gray Getting Even Better
Houston Press Music Editor Chris Gray, who has been hospitalized since he collapsed at a Metro light rail station on his way to work, suffering an apparent heart attack, has improved enough that doctors are talking about sending him to a rehab facility.
- A Houston Press Benefit for Chris Gray
Public TV, radio execs reassigned
John Proffitt, CEO of Houston Public Radio stations KUHF (88.7 FM) and KUHA (91.7 FM), and John Hesse, station manager of KUHT (Channel 8), will leave their jobs as part of the reorganization of the three stations into a new umbrella organization called Houston Public Media, to be headed by KHOU (Channel 11) executive Lisa Trapani Shumate.
First livestream for Austin City Limits
It's the 37th season for the popular PBS television show, "Austin City Limits," but the first-ever live streaming of the program online happens Friday night, well before it will be shown on the popular KLRU show in January.
Former KLOL DJ 'Crash' Collins, 69, has died
On the day of the Texas Radio Hall of Fame 2011 inductions, we get the sad news that former Rock 101 KLOL and Z107.5 KZFX talent Maurice "Crash" Collins, 69, has died (Crash was inducted in 2010).
Remembering the men who made the calls
Gordon McClendon established the Liberty Radio Broadcasting System network in 1948 and began broadcasting daily games of Major League Baseball in the 1940s and 50s.
MOVING
KIAH 39 photographer Mike Sellers is leaving for a job with Lone Star Community College. His last day will be November 11.
Kim Wynne joins CBS Affiliate KGAN as a General Assignment Reporter. KIM who is a graduate of both the University of Southern California and Virginia State University previously worked at the ABC Affiliate in Waco KXXV.
Stefania Okolie has apparently left her reporter position with abc13 KTRK as her bio is no longer on the ABC/Disney owned station's website.
In addition to television journalism, Okolie also founded her own athletic fashion line called Solely Fit which just launched a partnership with DICK’S Sporting Goods at the end of 2021.
"For nearly 4 years here in Houston, you guys have trusted me as a voice for the voiceless, a voice to bring truth, stories of triumph, stories of heartbreak that would force action, stories of impact, and change. I don’t take for granted the platform I have been given as a journalist for the last 9 years of my life.
So I owe it to you to let you know that I no longer will be serving the Houston community through ABC 13. In fact I will be taking a final step away from this industry. When I am ready to share the reasoning and story behind my sudden departure and a proper farewell I will do so on my personal Instagram @stefaniaokolie - so please feel free to continue following my journey there as I will not be using this account. There is much pain and heartbreak and fear enduring a change and life transition like this. Right now, I will be, and have been taking some time to myself to slow down my life, cater to my mental wellness and enjoy the things people that bring me happiness. I hope if you’re struggling or carrying weight that feels too heavy, you do the same. Talk to someone. Take care of yourself above anything else. Love you all. And thank you from the bottom of my heart. Houston truly you changed my life."
And as I already told you, Ted Garcia comes back to The Alamo City as the new KABB weekend anchor. He was being a big TV star in LA when not working for KTLA.
Leaving a job in TV news?Moving stations? Let me know what you are doing next [email].For all positions
"Houston has been my home for years, and every day I'm reminded what an honor it is to be part of this incredible community," Carson said. "It's a true privilege to be welcomed into your home, share your stories, and help you start your day."
It's an ABC13 KTRK reunion, but the duo never actually worked at the station together at the same time. As Jacob noted on the morning newscast, Carson and his father, Art Rascon, worked together.
Carson will join the KHOU morning newscast on July 28, 2025, and stay on for the KHOU 11+ streaming portion until 9am.
Stephanie Simmons will be moving to the dayside schedule. If I had to guess, Simmons will fill the 4pm newscast vacancy left by Rekha Muddaraj.
UPDATE Rumor is Stephanie Simmons will anchor the noon newscast, and Shern-Min Chow will move from 12 p.m. to the 4 p.m. news with Ron Treviño. I asked KHOU for verification of this, but have not heard back.
Speaking of Muddaraj, back in April when I posted that she was leaving KHOU, I wrote:
"Sources tell mikemcguff.com that KHOU is hiring another new morning co-anchor. In fact, I am aware of one notable Houston TV anchor that has tried out. Stay tuned. This could get very interesting. I've been telling people in the TV industry that when new KHOU GM David Loving was hired in May 2024, given that he had already run the top-rated station in Houston a few years ago, he was going to hit the ground running and shake up the ratings. Stay tuned."
The person I was referencing was Ilona Carson, who auditioned at Channel 11 many months ago.
Last year in an interview, Carson told me she left the TV biz to escape "the daily whirlwind of live news" and focus more on her family since she is a mom to three busy kids in elementary, middle, and high school.
"When I departed from ABC 13, I thought I was retiring," Carson told mikemcguff.com in 2024. "While it was a much-needed sabbatical, I learned a lot about myself and the importance of finding a new challenge, the next step in my career. The opportunity at Comcast was simply the right fit — not just for my own professional development but also for the flexibility that my family needs. Everyday, I get to do some amazing work for one of the nation’s biggest technology and media companies. I still get to tell impactful stories and share them with Houston area viewers - which will always be in my DNA. There really is a wonderful life after news!"
Carson left ABC13 after 16 years in June 2021 and was one of the many departures around that time. She joined Channel 13 in 2005 as anchor of the 4 p.m. newscast. Over time, she expanded her role to include the 6:30 p.m. news and eventually the 10 p.m. newscast.
Before making the move to Houston, Carson worked at FOX 10 KSAZ in Phoenix. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, she also spent part of her early career at KAMR in Amarillo.
Over the course of her career, Carson has been recognized with numerous honors, including a Lone Star EMMY, a National Headliner Award, and a Gracie Award.
"Ilona brings exceptional experience and an authentic connection to Houston that our audience will immediately recognize," said David Loving, KHOU 11 President and General Manager. "Her proven track record of guiding our community through challenging moments with facts, compassion, and perspective makes her an incredible asset to our team."
"Ilona is a hands-on anchor and solution-focused journalist who combines extensive experience with a relatable style that connects with viewers and reflects her love for Houston," said Kathryn Bonfield, KHOU 11 News Director. "Her ability to deliver news with both professionalism and heart makes her the perfect addition to the KHOU 11 family."
CBS 11 KTVT Dallas—Fort Worth, AKA CBS News Texas, announced Monday that it will start a new morning newscast on July 8, 2024.
The reason for CBS News Texas announcing a new talent roster is that the DFW station has gone through many changes concerning its AM news in the last year. Dominic Brown, Keith Russell, Alexis Wainwright, and Brooke Katz departed.
Traffic anchor Madison Sawyer, who has been anchoring, remains in that role with traffic still in the mix. New hire Carmen Blackwell is joining as co-anchor. As I previously blogged, new reporter Lacey Beasley is also joining the show.
And chief meteorologist Scott Padgett leaves evenings to return to mornings. He joined KTVT in September 2013 on the morning newscast and moved to the evening chief job in 2016.
Padgett said that this will be the first time a chief meteorologist has worked in the mornings on North Texas TV. In Houston, Mike Iscovitz is the chief meteorologist for FOX 26 KRIV, and he works the morning shift.
Blackwell comes from WKYC 3 Cleveland, Ohio where she has been an anchor since 2022. Before that, she was a morning anchor for FOX 10 Phoenix KSAZ
The University of Louisiana at Monroe grad started her professional TV with News Channel 5 KALB Alexandria, Louisiana.
"God has opened a door for me in the city I have longed to be in, with a team I’ve longed to be a part of," Okolie wrote on Facebook. "This week I join Houston’s legacy and leading news team #ABC13."
Prior to Arizona, the Miami native worked for WTKR News 3 in Norfolk as a reporter.
Okolie was also an editor-photographer for WPEC CBS 12 in West Palm Beach, Florida.
She got her start in the TV biz right after college as a reporter or WRBL in Columbus, GA.
Okolie graduated with honors from The University of South Carolina in December of 2013 with a degree in Journalism.
The new H-Town reporter is excited to be in Space City because her twin sister lives here!
"Perhaps the greatest blessing in ALL of this...for the first time in my professional career life, my EMERGENCY contact will be in the same state as me," Okolie added. "I am beyond ecstatic to share life in Houston with one of the best immigration attorneys in town... my idol, my best friend, my twin... my SISTER: aokolielegal. Houston, I am here for you. To work for you. To get you answers. To tell your stories, with love."
Adam Bennett is leaving his KHOU 11 Houston reporting position and returning to Austin to join KVUE, TEGNA's sister station.
Here is what Bennett posted on X:
"After 9 years, today is my last day at KHOU.
Starting April 29, I’m excited to join the team at our Austin station, KVUE, as Weekend AM Anchor/Senior Reporter!
Houston, THANK YOU for welcoming me into your wonderful city and helping me share your stories. Forever grateful."
Bennett will replace Dominique Newland, who left the KVUE weekend morning anchor position for FOX 10 KSAZ Phoenix last year.
Bennett joined KHOU in 2015 from CBS Austin KEYE where he was a morning reporter/multimedia journalist (MMJ).
He got his professional TV start with KAMR NBC 4/KCIT Fox 14 Amarillo as a reporter/weekend anchor/weekend producer.
The University of Texas at Austin grad interned with FOX 7 Austin KTBC and WFAA 8 DFW.
Speaking of North Texas, Bennett comes from a broadcasting family. Adam's father, Dan Bennett, is the Regional Vice President for Cumulus Media, covering the Dallas and Houston radio markets with more than 50 years of radio experience! In fact, I cover Dan on this very blog.
On the same day of Bennett's announcement, KTXS News 12 Abilene weeknight co-anchor Farrah Walton said she's joining CBS Austin KEYE. Trason Bragg is joining KHOU around the same time.
“I’m thrilled to be joining a news organization with such a profound commitment to family and community,” Romero said in a release. “It is an honor to represent KENS 5 on the evening anchor desk and continue their legacy of excellence.”
San Antonio viewers will recognize Romero from her long anchor tenure with San Antonio competitor KSAT 12.
The Romero and KENS 5 connection
Phil Anaya, Romero’s husband is the co-anchor with Alicia Neaves of KENS 5’s weekend newscasts.
"Big news!! My best friend and better half is coming to KENS 5," Anaya posted to Facebook.
“KENS 5 always has been part of our family’s story,” Romero added. “Over the years, our family has gone through blessings and challenges, and KENS 5 has supported us through it all. The station has a culture of caring, where you are truly treated like family.”
“Isis has a great connection with the people of San Antonio, and as a station with deep roots in the community, we believe she’s found a great home in KENS 5,” said Tom Cury, KENS San Antonio's president and general manager.
“We are happy to welcome Isis to KENS 5,” said Jack Acosta, the station’s news director. “She brings a great deal of experience and passion for this city. We can’t wait for her to get started!"
"We’re so happy to welcome Isis Romero to the KENS5 family," posted longtime KENS 5 anchor Deborah Knapp. "She will begin June 6 anchoring our 6 and 10. I really admire her dedication to journalism and community. So touched by this KENS 5 viewer. I will continue to anchor our 5 pm newscast and Sharon Ko will continue as one of our main anchors."
Romero's TV news resume
Romero anchored for KSAT from 2010 to the summer of 2021. Before San Antonio television news, Romero worked for FOX 10 Phoenix KSAZ, Arizona and KZTV Action 10 News Corpus Christi.
The South Texas native, who grew up in Robstown, graduated from the The University of Texas at Austin.
Active in the community, Romero is a member of the San Antonio Association of Hispanic Journalists and mentors young journalists along with her other non-profit work.
In 2021, Romero won a Lone Star EMMY Award for her work as host in "Special Event Coverage" of the Day Of The Dead River Parade.
“Being able to stay in San Antonio is a blessing,” Romero said. “I am honored to be able to continue serving the people of San Antonio and South Texas.”
Hello from San Marcos where last night I screened my documentary "Runaway Radio" at First Tuesday. By the way, you can watch the KLOL doc on streaming or DVD
This week, I will be focusing less on Houston, since many there have no power or internet signal to read my blog anyway. When I return today, I probably won't have power yet either.
Therefore, I am scheduling content for you during the rest of the week, since I might not be able to post anything once back home. The storm even took down internet and cable TV for parts of Texas away from Houston!
The big news this week is in Austin where KXAN evening anchor Brit Moreno signed off Monday, July 8, 2024.
"Our sweet girl is joining our family in September, and now I find myself at a professional/personal juncture.
Dreams are malleable, and as I’ve learned in the almost two decades of doing live TV, “the dream” evolves when you start a family and when that family grows.
It was my dream to report in my hometown here in Austin and candidly, I have been agonizing over how to do that and be a parent.
For now, I am stepping back from full time anchoring to be the mom I’ve always wanted to be to our three children. I am so excited to see my family more, but I am sad to leave the news desk."
"You know those people you just click with the first time you meet? That was my experience when I met my co-anchor Britt Moreno, and it's been nothing but a privilege delivering the news alongside her these last few years," added co-anchor Daniel Marin.
In May, Moreno announced she is pregnant with her third child, a baby girl.
She gave birth to Bexley in January 2023, returning to KXAN in April.
Before moving to Denver, the six-time EMMY nominee and multiple winner, was a weekend anchor and night-side reporter for FOX10 KSAZ Phoenix, Arizona.
An Austin native, she graduated with honors from St. Stephen's High School and double majored in communications and Spanish at Trinity University in San Antonio.
WFAA beats KTVT in 10 p.m. news slot
WFAA/Channel 8 edged out KTVT/Channel 11 for a win in the 10 p.m. news race during the November sweeps period, which began Oct. 27 and ended Wednesday.
Anchor Lily Jang leaving KCPQ for Houston
Lily Jang, an anchor at Seattle Fox-affiliate KCPQ, is leaving the station after seven years. She's moving to Houston to take care of her parents but could we see her on Houston TV? Inquiring minds want to know.
Ursula Pari Shifting to Earlier Newscasts on KSAT
Ursula Pari, an evening anchor on San Antonio ABC-affiliate KSAT, is making the move from anchoring the 10 p.m. newscast to anchoring the 4, 5 and 6 p.m. newscasts in order to spend more time with her kids.
Crane's era begins as Hamilton's winds down
David Barron reports Milo Hamilton's 28th season with the Astros and 57th behind an MLB microphone conceivably will be his last.
'Luck' led journalist to exclusive on JFK assassination film
WFAA also played a role in the world seeing the Zapruder film. It was a Channel 8 employee who contacted the local Kodak film processing center to get the film developed in the hours following the assassination.
KXXV's Seth Kovar joining WDBJ
Seth Kovar debuted as WDBJ‘s new morning anchor on Monday. Kovar comes to WDBJ from KXXV in Waco, where he also worked as a morning anchor.
EVENTS
- Join Houston SPJ Dec. 1 for program on blogging in Houston with Mike McGuff [more]
- Come celebrate Texas Watchdog with Mike McGuff Dec. 3 [more]
Ken Lindner is out there talking about its recent client moves. I'm spotlighting the Texas portion which is all centered in San Antonio.
