Robert Springer to leave KHOU 11 GM role

Robert Springer tells me he is leaving his role as President and General Manager at KHOU 11 Houston. 

UPDATE: In October 2024, Springer announced he is joining PBS12 KBDI Denver, Colorado, as President and General Manager. 

"I have absolutely loved my time in Houston and with KHOU 11," Springer told mikemcguff.com.  "Just an amazing team and an incredible community."

Springer added that his last day with KHOU 11 will be Friday, April 12, 2024. I have asked him to keep us updated on his future plans.

When former KHOU GM Susan McEldoon announced her retirement in March 2018, Springer was hired to succeed her. He arrived the following August and took the job in January 2019 when McEldoon officially retired.

Springer came to KHOU and Houston from TEGNA's sister station, 9NEWS KUSA Denver, where he was director of advertising and promotion.

In addition to his KUSA duties, Springer worked with the TEGNA Marketing Leadership Team, collaborating with stations in markets 17-39. Additionally, he played a crucial part in successfully launching the Denver-produced daily news and entertainment program, "Daily Blast LIVE."

He transitioned to KUSA from another TEGNA station, KARE 11 Minneapolis, Minnesota, where he contributed to the news department, art department and was a promotions writer and producer. His contributions earned him regional Emmy awards, a Telly award, a Minnesota Broadcasters award, numerous Colorado Broadcasters Awards, a Promax BDA award, and the TVB Emma Award.

Springer holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Eastern New Mexico University.

Xavier Walton joins KHOU as morning anchor; Lisa Hernandez moves

Xavier Walton joins KHOU as morning anchor from WCNC Charlotte, North Carolina; Lisa Hernandez moves to weekend evenings

KHOU 11 has hired WCNC (TEGNA) Charlotte, North Carolina, weekend anchor Xavier Walton as its new #HTownRush morning anchor.

UPDATE SEPTEMBER 2022
Xavier Walton joins NewsNation

UPDATE AUGUST 31, 2022
Xavier Walton leaves KHOU 11

"We are excited to have him on board," KHOU president and general manager, Robert Springer, told mikemcguff.com.

Springer adds that Walton wants to move to Houston, to not only report the news, but also to make it a better place to live through his community involvement.

Here is Walton's TV news career highlight reel:

WCNC Charlotte, North Carolina Area
Anchor/ Multimedia Journalist
June 2015 – 2019

KTWO Casper, Wyoming Area
Evening Anchor/Reporter
June 2012 – June 2015

KUSA Denver
News Intern
June 2011 – August 2011

WSYX-ABC6 Columbus, Ohio
Intern
June 2010 – August 2010

According to his bio, Walton graduated from California Lutheran University and even played on the basketball team. He was the starting point-guard three out of the four years he played.

Walton will join the Houston CBS affiliate in mid-September.


When I keep writing about the name "Walton" in connection with the KHOU morning show, it takes me back to the days when Johnathan Walton worked those hours!

With the new Walton's arrival, comes the move of current #HTownRush anchor Lisa Hernandez.

Hernandez will be moving to weekend evenings alongside Ron Trevino who currently anchors alone in that time slot. Trevino will continue to solo anchor the Saturday morning news.

Springer tells me the station is working to expand its weekend coverage with Hernandez's addition.

In 2011, Hernandez arrived to channel 11 and Houston from abc7 KABC Los Angeles to replace Lucy Noland on the evening shift.

She might be in TV now, but Hernandez started freelancing for the LA Times while earning a political science degree at UCLA. Upon graduation in 2001, she refocused her career on TV news starting at KESQ Palm Springs. From there she went across the country to Charlotte, North Carolina's News 14 as a reporter and then returning to California joining KABC in 2004.

In 2016, Hernandez swapped the PM shift for the AM hours and became the station's morning anchor, replacing Lily Jang, with newly hired Russ Lewis who came from KGW Portland.

A few months ago in early June, Lewis left mornings for KHOU's revamped 4pm newscast.

Liz Roldan, Stuart Boslow and Randy Klein to lead KHOU 11

 Houston, TX – KHOU today announced that Liz Roldan, Stuart Boslow and Randy Klein have been appointed to lead the station’s journalistic and content efforts. Roldan was named News Director, Boslow was named Innovation Director and Klein was named Digital Director.

RELATED
- KHOU's Sally Ramirez to executive produce CNBC's “The News With Shepard Smith”
- Sally Ramirez to leave KHOU 11

 “We are thrilled to have experienced, passionate and innovative journalists of this caliber leading our team in Houston,” said KHOU president and general manager Robert Springer. “This incoming leadership team paired with the exceptional journalists at KHOU will allow us to serve the people of greater Houston in new and exciting ways.”

Liz Roldan News director

 Liz Roldan is a highly experienced and celebrated journalist and leader with nearly three decades in broadcast news. Most recently, Roldan served as news director for the owned-and-operated CBS station, WFOR in Miami, Florida. Roldan is a 12-time regional Emmy winner and was recently recognized with the Alfred I. duPont-Columbia University Award for Outstanding Investigative Reporting in the Public Interest, the National Edward R. Murrow Award for News Documentary and the National Emmy® for Outstanding News Documentary.  Roldan is also a popular speaker and panelist at the IRE (Investigative Reporters and Editors), NABJ (National Association of Black Journalists) and NAHJ (National Association of Hispanic Journalists) conferences. Roldan grew up in Houston, attended St. Vincent de Paul and St. Agnes Academy and is a very proud graduate of the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism.

Stuart Boslow Director of Innovation

 Stuart Boslow comes to KHOU from TEGNA station KARE in Minneapolis, MN where he served as director of content. A six-time regional Emmy winner and leader of a two-time duPont-Columbia University award winning team, Boslow is a highly accomplished journalist with over two decades of experience and is well regarded for his innovation, vision and strategy. Boslow has worked in leadership roles at a number of TEGNA stations including KENS in San Antonio and KSDK in St. Louis. Boslow is a native Texan, born and raised in Plano just north of Dallas.

Randy Klein KHOU Digital Director

 Randy Klein has been instrumental in shaping KHOU’s digital and social media strategy since 2018 in his role as digital strategist and regional digital director for TEGNA Texas. Klein has over 25 years of experience and prior to his time at KHOU he worked at TEGNA station WTSP in Tampa, FL as managing editor. Prior to Tampa, he spent 16 years as web manager at ABC station KTRK in Houston. Klein grew up in Houston, is a graduate of Sharpstown High School and has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication from the University of Houston.

 Springer added, “In addition to being great leaders and journalists, I’m pleased that all three have deep Texas ties. Living and working in Houston is personal, and I know that passion will shine through in everything we do at KHOU.”

 Roldan and Boslow begin their new roles in January 2021. Klein’s promotion is effective immediately.

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

 

VIDEO: KHOU 11 gives us a look at its new studio and newsroom

KHOU 11 announced it will begin occupying its new space at 5718 Westheimer beginning February 10. The station’s first newscasts from the new location are expected on February 17.

“We are delighted to be moving into our new home. All of us look forward to taking advantage of everything our new building and the Galleria district have to offer,” said Robert Springer, president and general manager, KHOU. “We are excited to share ‘the new KHOU’ our viewers and wish to thank the numerous partners who’ve helped us during this transition.”

Unless you have been living under a rock, you know that the KHOU studios on Allen Parkway near downtown Houston were destroyed thanks to five feet of water flooding the building during Hurricane Harvey. Since then, the staff has been broadcasting from Houston Public Media's building.

Next time your driving on Westheimer and Chimney Rock... 😊 #KHOU11 #HTownRush pic.twitter.com/6J5VP2cW3B

— Sally Ramirez (@SallyKHOU11) February 2, 2019

The new channel 11 at 5718 Westheimer near Bering is 43,000 square feet of space with two large studios. Trust me, this is way more space than the tiny confines of its former and now demolished Allen Parkway location.

"This is more space than we have ever had," anchor Len Cannon said in the video.

The news desk that Cannon showed us is one where the anchors stand, not sit behind. This news studio is directly next to Deborah Duncan's Great Day Houston studio.

Like KPRC 2's new newsroom, the KHOU one will also be next to a huge bank of windows where lots of light will brighten the dark days of breaking news.

There will also be a newsroom set for the anchors to use.

In the same room is also a lounge area next to the desks.

"This is like the hippest lounge in town...it's a lounge minus the drinks I guess," joked Cannon.

Believe it or not, not too far away, Univision 45 also has a lounge, but KXLN's looks like an actual club. As I have blogged before, the Univision Uforia Lounge is used for radio station concerts and live TV productions.

RELATED
- KHOU Avenida Studio in downtown Houston debuts
- KHOU 11 debuts new logo - 2018
- KHOU 11's new set 2016

I should also note that anchor Shern-Min Chow tweeted that this was the last day for KHOU general manager Susan McEldoon.

Chow posted a video of McEldoon talking to the staff where she said on her final day champagne was served in the department head meeting.

"It's just been such a privileged to be your GM," an emotional McEldoon said in the video to the newsroom. "There just aren't words, so thank you all for making me feel so special."

As I blogged last March, McEldoon postponed her retirement due to Hurricane Harvey's destruction of the station's old building. Later in July, owner Tegna announced Bobby Springer, the director of advertising and promotion at 9NEWS KUSA Denver would replace her.

Best and 🙏🏼🙏🏼 to our @KHOUSusan, the first female general manager of a #Houston tv station. She delayed her retirement for more than a year after #Harvey flooded us, to shepherd us thru 18 months of temporary facilities & into a new building. #EarnedHistory #KHOU11 @TEGNA pic.twitter.com/Sm0UBKRxxr

— Shern-Min Chow 🙋🏻 (@ShernMinKHOU) February 1, 2019

* This post was updated on February 8, 2019 to include information from a press release KHOU sent me with new move date information.

Xavier Walton starting on KHOU Monday with a possible surprise

New KHOU 11 #HTownRush morning anchor Xavier Walton says he is starting this Monday, but may make a surprise appearance ahead of time

When I was looking around for information concerning Lisa Hernandez being absent from KHOU 11's airwaves, I stumbled on some info about her successor on the morning newscast #HTownRush.

UPDATE SEPTEMBER 2022
Xavier Walton joins NewsNation

In early August, KHOU told me Xavier Walton was joining the TEGNA station as morning anchor from sister-station WCNC Charlotte, North Carolina.

Well Walton is in the channel 11 building now, learning their systems and shooting promos, according to his Facebook page...he even tried Whataburger.

Unfortunately Imelda will prepare him for life as a journalist in Houston.

Walton commented that he's starting on the morning show next Monday, but may make a "surprise appearance on the show Friday."

"We are excited to have him on board," KHOU president and general manager, Robert Springer, told mikemcguff.com in early August.

Springer added that Walton wants to move to Houston, not only to anchor, but to make the city a better place to live through his community involvement.

RELATED
KBMT Beaumont broadcasting from KHOU due to flooding

Shern-Min Chow to leave KHOU 11 Houston

Shern-Min Chow will leave her KHOU 11 Houston anchor position on February 9, 2026.

UPDATE: WATCH Chow sign-off from KHOU

Chow is a veteran anchor and reporter at KHOU 11 Houston, anchoring the station’s midday and 4 p.m. newscasts has also worked for KPRC 2 and ABC13 Houston. 

"Shern-Min, welcome to the other side of TV," former KHOU 11 anchor Jerome Gray (now of HCTRA) told mikemcguff.com.  "You should be very proud of your work and longevity in the business. Congratulations."

“Every time I think of Shern-Min, I can’t help but smile. She made the KHOU newsroom better just by being there," former KHOU 11 news director Sally Ramirez (now senior vice president of news for NBCU Local Chicago) told mikemcguff.com. "She brought heart, curiosity, and quiet confidence to her work every day. I have nothing but admiration for Shern-Min, and I’ll never forget the kindness she showed me during my time in Houston.  I wish her all the very best in a well-deserved retirement!” 

“I had the pleasure of working with Shern-Min during my tenure at KHOU11 (2018-2024)," former KHOU 11 general manager Robert Springer (now president & GM of Colorado Public Television) told mikemcguff.com.   "I have often described Shern-Min Chow as an icon.  Someone who, through consistent hard work, commitment, and integrity, has earned a place of trust and authority in the hearts and minds of Houstonians.  Her devotion to the Gulf Coast community is something of a rarity in this business; she was never a 'tourist' looking to grow her career in a large market and then move on, but rather a passionate and versatile professional with a deep sense of purpose to inform the community and ultimately to empower her fellow Houstonians.  I kept a short list of colleagues who I knew could get anyone on the phone at any time, and Shern-Min shared space on that list with other icons: Len Cannon, Mia Gradney, Ron Treviño, and Deborah Duncan.  It’s a notable distinction, and one that can only be earned by doing the work and doing it well. While her retirement is a loss for the journalism community, I hope the road ahead brings her much happiness and that her career can serve as an example for others in the industry.”   

"Shern-Min Chow is a Houston TV legend. Period," former KHOU 11 anchor Brandi Smith (now Rice University and Houston Moms) told mikemcguff.com. "Working alongside her for seven of her many years at KHOU 11 offered me a front-row seat to something rare in local television: true adaptability. At a time when many veteran reporters struggled with the industry’s rapid shifts, Shern-Min leaned in. When the job demanded new skills, she learned them (from shooting video on an iPad to embracing the role of a multimedia journalist) with resolve. Watching her meet those challenges was quietly inspiring and a firm reminder that experience is not a finish line; it's a foundation. Her willingness to evolve underscored a career defined not just by longevity, but by relevance and it set an example that growth and excellence can continue at every stage."

The legendary Houston anchor released the news in a social media video (WATCH BELOW):

"After nearly 30 years at KHOU, my last day at channel 11 will be on February the 9th. 

There have been some other projects that I wanted to do but can't. While a full-time employee here, I'll have more on that later. 

But right now I just want to take a moment to say thank you. Thank you for tuning in all of these years. When I started, it was just on TV. Now it's on social media. It's digital and online. It has been a privilege to meet many of you in person. Many of you online, and to share your stories. I hope you'll keep in touch here on the Insta face. I really love hearing from you all and social media is a great way to do that. Right now though, I just want to take a second to say thank you. 

Reporting has been truly a great joy of my life, and I want to say thank you to you for allowing me the chance to do that. So for now, ciao. And as always, stay tuned."

Chow joined KHOU in July 1996 as a weekend anchor from KPRC.

The Yale University graduate also worked for KENS 5 in San Antonio and began as a stringer for Newsweek.

When she began her television news career, Chow was the only Asian American broadcaster in San Antonio and later in Houston.  She says she is encouraged by how much the industry has evolved since then.

Over a career spanning more than three decades, she has reported from the center of some of the nation’s most significant events — standing in the eye of hurricanes Andrew, Harvey, and Katrina, covering the Loma Prieta and Northridge earthquakes, enduring Winter Storm Uri, and reporting on historic floods, fires, and wildfires. Her work has taken her inside Mexican prisons, into the O.J. Simpson media compound, and into neighborhoods impacted by violent crime — often arriving unannounced and leaving with compelling, impactful stories.

Her notable coverage includes the Robert Durst trial, the Andrea Yates murders, Yao Ming and the Houston Rockets in China, election-night victories for presidential and gubernatorial races, and the James Beard Chefs’ Roundtable series. Chow has interviewed presidents, cabinet secretaries, scientists, celebrities, criminals, and serial killers. Her energy and engagement are especially evident during major sports moments, including the Astros’ playoff runs, World Series championships, and victory parades from 2017 to 2023.

Chow’s work has been recognized with numerous honors, including a Houston Press Club Award for Best Series, a Texas Associated Press Award for Best Spot Newscast-Producer, and an Emmy Award for the documentary Hong Kong Under the Dragon. The project was a career highlight, in part because her father, Ken Chow, an engineer, joined the production as a field producer and translator.

Chow speaks conversational Mandarin and Shanghainese and has studied Spanish, French, and German. She routinely uses Spanish in the field.

Deeply committed to the Houston community, Chow has made hundreds of community appearances and currently serves on the advisory boards of the Asia Society and the Chinese Community Center. She has previously served on the boards of SpringSpirit Baseball, the Bo & Stacey Porter Self Foundation, the YWCA, Houston Ballet, and The Bayou City Medical Center.

Chow grew up in Northern California with her brother, the children of Chinese immigrants. Her mother, Helen Chow, went from stay-at-home parent to entrepreneur, founding her own real estate company and earning recognition as an “Influential Woman.”

Shern-Min Chow is married to her college sweetheart, and they are the proud parents of two sons, graduates of Rice University and MIT. 

SAME DAY AT DFW TEGNA SISTER STATION
Marc Istook to leave WFAA 8 DFW

SAME DAY AT KHOU
News director Kathryn Bonfield has left KHOU 11 Houston

Jennifer Reyna joins KHOU 11

Jennifer Reyna is returning to television at KHOU 11 mornings bringing 15 years of Houston traffic experience.

Reyna joins the channel 11 morning show with Chita Craft, Stephanie Simmons and Kimberly Davis on November 1st.  Not mentioned in the official press release is the name "#HTownRush," so maybe that will change too.

“I am pleased to join KHOU 11 and do my part to engage and inform my fellow Houstonians," Reyna said in the press release.   "I’ve had the opportunity to spend time with the team and they are talented, dedicated and fun. I’m sure our viewers will appreciate the time they spend with us every morning.”

Reyna leaves KPRC 2 in 2019

I thought all along that Reyna would most likely end up at channel 11. Much has changed in the Houston morning television ratings world since Reyna departed KPRC 2 in October 2019.  It will be interesting to see what happens from this point.

Since leaving KPRC two years ago, Reyna has pretty consistently stayed in the top 5 of my most popular posts as clicked on by readers. 

"We are excited to welcome Jennifer Reyna to the KHOU 11 team and her return to morning television,” added Robert Springer, General Manager KHOU 11. “In addition to her extensive knowledge and understanding of Houston’s traffic, Jennifer cares deeply about the Houston community and it comes through in every interaction you have with her.  

"As we seek to better serve the people of Houston and help them get out the door in morning, they can rest assured Jennifer Reyna is on the case, working closely with Chita Craft, Kimberly Davis and Stephanie Simmons.”

RELATED
Houston Internet blows up over the Jennifer Reyna and Chita Craft

The Houston native starts in broadcasting at 101 KLOL

Reyna started in the broadcasting business in 2003 at the legendary Rock 101 KLOL while appearing on the Outlaw Dave show.

She moved to Los Angeles after that working for ABC 7 KABC behind the scenes on shows Eye on LA and Vista LA.

Returning to Houston, in 2006, Reyna joined KPRC 2 as the morning traffic anchor.  She later added traffic duties at 89.3 KSBJ in addition to her TV work.

In 2011, Reyna also started to anchor KPRC 2 newscasts in addition to her traffic role. 

Reyna, who was born and raised in Houston, is a graduate of the University of Houston.  She supports non-profits like the Lone Survivor Foundation, Houston Association of Hispanic Media and the Muscular Dystrophy Association. 

“Houston’s growing traffic issues are top of mind with viewers,” said KHOU 11 news director Elizabeth Roldan. “Jennifer’s knowledge will help our audience in their everyday life. That’s standing for Houston.”

Why am I covering Denver on a Texas TV blog?

Denver TV news is becoming quite the topic on my blog lately!

I have noticed over the last months that Denver and Texas are swapping television journalists left and right and more and more Colorado-area folks are reading my blog.

Sure, we've seen Houston and Denver TV stations swap personnel over the years.  

We've watched Sally Mamdooh and Christine Noël join KPRC from the "Mile-High City." KHOU 11's general manager Robert Springer came here from Denver.  On the flip side, we saw KHOU 11 reporter Jacqueline Crea take off for Colorado.

At the same time we have to remember that Houston TV constantly hires and loses talent from/to all over the country at this point. 

But less than a month ago, practically on the same day, we saw:

- Britt Moreno leave CBS 4 Denver KCNC and join KXAN Austin

- Katie Orth, of ABC Big 2 News KMID/KPEJ Midland, join KWGN 2 Denver 

That was quickly followed a couple of days later by KVUE Austin reporter Luis de Leon joining 9News KUSA.

And finally this week, just because he still has a lot of fans writing in from his time at KHOU 11, I wrote about meteorologist Brooks Garner leaving FOX 31 KDVR - KWGN Denver for FOX 35 WOFL Orlando.

Sally Ramirez to leave KHOU 11

UPDATE AUGUST 24, 2020
KHOU's Sally Ramirez to executive produce CNBC's “The News With Shepard Smith”

Executive News Director Sally Ramirez to leave KHOU 11

Executive News Director Sally Ramirez will leave KHOU 11 at the end of the summer 2020 according to an internal memo from channel 11 President and General Manager Robert Springer obtained by mikemcguff.com:

This was a difficult headline to write and I am sure it is equally difficult to read.

After 22 years at TEGNA, Araceli (Sally) has decided to leave KHOU.

In the four-plus years she has led our journalistic efforts, she has left an indelible mark on KHOU.

While she will be forever remembered as one of the leaders who carried the station through the upheaval of Hurricane Harvey, our time at Houston PBS’ facilities that graciously gave us a temporary home and the triumphant move into a brand-new state of the art facility – I firmly believe Araceli’s greatest contribution to our news operation is the culture she fostered as our leader. It is this legacy that she should be most proud of.

The KHOU newsroom is much, much stronger today as a result of Araceli’s leadership.

We have a culture of innovation and the courage to try new things thanks to Araceli.

We have the technology and tools in our operation thanks to Araceli’s vision for how we could best cover all the incredible stories of the Houston region.

Araceli has offered to continue leading the newsroom through COVID and hurricane season, until I hire our next news director.

We will find ways celebrate and thank Araceli over the course of the summer. In the meantime, reach out to her and share your memories and gratitude, I know she would love to hear from you.

Bobby

HAPPENING THE SAME DAY
KHOU 11 4pm anchor Russ Lewis to retire

No doubt that Ramirez just happened to come work for KHOU at one of the most difficult time in the Houston CBS affiliate's history.

In 2017, she had to evacuate the staff during Hurricane Harvey. Then setup a new KHOU workspace at Houston Public Media. Then find a new studio and have that designed and built.

RELATED
- KHOU 11 reveals what happened during Harvey evacuation
- KHOU ND Sally Ramirez gives "Wisdom from women who run newsrooms"
- KHOU 11's video tribute to ND Sally Ramirez

In 2016, Ramirez came to KHOU from sister-station TEGNA’s KGW Portland where she was assistant news director.

During her Ramirez's time at KHOU, the station won various awards including multiple Regional Edward R. Murrow Awards.

In 2019, Ramirez took home "TV News Director" of the year from the Media Alliance of Houston.

Ramirez is married to KHOU 4pm anchor Russ Lewis who is retiring from broadcasting. They have two daughters.

Ramirez started her television news career as a producer at KTSM El Paso.

Her producing career took her to KVOA Tucson, Arizona and WRC Washington, DC.

She later worked as an executive producer at WGN Chicago and a special projects producer at KCRA Sacramento, California.

Ramirez joined KGW in 1998 as an executive producer working her way up to management.

A Chicago native, Ramirez graduated from DePaul University.


UPDATE JULY 17, 2020
Russ Lewis tells Kristi Turnquist of the The Oregonian that while he is retiring, his wife, Sally Ramirez is not:

“As anyone who’s worked with Sally can tell you, she has journalism in her blood. She is committed and passionate and the hardest-working person I’ve ever known. She feels so badly about leaving during a pandemic AND hurricane season that she resigned, and then offered to stay another three months to lead her staff through the most dangerous stretch of storm season. That’s the type of person she is. So, she’ll probably stay in Houston a bit longer than me. Yes, she will stay in the news business. Sally gets lots of unsolicited calls and opportunities. Once the right fit comes along, she’ll be ready to conquer the next challenge.”

KHOU 11 awards $88,000 to help 8 Houston-area nonprofit organizations

TEGNA Foundation and KHOU 11 Award $88,000 to Help Eight Houston-Area Nonprofit Organizations


The TEGNA Foundation, the charitable foundation sponsored by TEGNA Inc. (NYSE: TGNA), and KHOU 11, TEGNA’s CBS affiliate in Houston, announced today they will award eight area nonprofit organizations with community grants each totaling $11,000. The community grants in Houston address pressing needs, including education, infant and childhood hunger, support for at-risk youth and aim to make a difference in communities in the region.

Among the grant recipients are:
Bo’s Place. The grant will provide free grief and mental health support to children in both English and Spanish.

Camp For All Foundation. The grant will support a week-long camp experience at eight Houston area hospitals to serve children and youth with challenging illnesses or special needs.

Lunches of Love. The grant will help fill the gap for children living in food insecure homes.

“Our employees are driven by our strongly-held purpose to serve the greater good of our communities and to make a difference in our work, our company and our communities,” said TEGNA president and CEO Dave Lougee. “We’re very proud to partner with our local stations to help address important community needs and support the well-being of our neighbors.”

“In our commitment to serve and celebrate with our community, we are thrilled to award these grants that will go towards making Houston a better place to live,” said KHOU 11 president and general manager Robert Springer. “We received grant applications from over one hundred and forty organizations. This was such a tough decision because we have so many deserving nonprofits doing great work in our community.”

TEGNA Foundation Community Grants support the diverse needs of the communities where TEGNA does business, with the majority of distributed grants falling into four of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal Categories: Good Health and Well-Being, Quality Education, No Poverty, and Zero Hunger. Grants are vetted by a committee of employees at each station, including the station general manager, and approved by the TEGNA Foundation Board of Directors. For information on how to apply for Round Two of the TEGNA Foundation Community Grants, click here.

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

KHOU 11 and Houston Public Media Announce Mayoral Debate

KHOU 11 and Houston Public Media are teaming up to host a live broadcast of a mayoral debate on Monday, October 21 at 7 pm.

The debate will be broadcast live from KHOU 11’s studios in the Galleria area and will be simulcast on Houston Public Media’s News 88.7, as well as streaming platforms.

The joint effort will reach a large Houston audience on the first day of early voting. During the hour, candidates will have equal time to introduce themselves, and then a panel of journalists will pose questions to the candidates about their backgrounds and their plans to serve the city.

“Houston is shaping up to be the country’s third-largest city and is already recognized as one of the most vibrant, diverse metropolitan areas in the nation,” said Lisa Trapani Shumate, general manager of Houston Public Media. “It’s critical that voters planning to head to the polls during early voting tune in to hear from candidates vying to be the city’s chief executive.”

KHOU 11’s president and general manager agrees. “As broadcasters, this is one of the most important functions we serve,” said Robert Springer. “We look forward to providing the people of Houston the opportunity to hear directly from the top mayoral candidates.”

Candidates who have been invited to participate in the debate include:

Kendall Baker
Dwight Boykins
Tony Buzbee
Bill King
Mayor Sylvester Turner

The mayoral election will be held on November 5, 2019.

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

KHOU 11 dominates 10pm February 2021 TV sweeps

KHOU 11 NEWS AT 10 P.M. DOMINATES HOUSTON - 10 p.m. is Houston leader in key demographics

Houston, March 4, 2021 – KHOU announced today that its 10 p.m. newscast dominates late news in the market, growing 52 percent over January 2021 in A25-54 shares and out-delivering its nearest competitor by 39 percent during the February 2021 ratings period (source: Nielsen, Houston DMA, PAV, M-F 10pm News, Live+SD). 

The 10 p.m. newscast also leads in key demographics, including:

(UPDATE FROM MCGUFF: Univision Houston KXLN has notified me that KHOU is number one in English-language only.  Nielsen ratings numbers provided to me show Univision Houston 45 has higher ratings in Persons 18-49, Persons 25-54, Females 25-54, Males 25-54 and Persons 35-64.)

• #1 with Adult 25-54 shares

• #1 with Women 25-54 shares

• #1 with Men 25-54 shares

• #1 with Adult 18+ shares

• #1 Adult 18-49 shares

• #1 with Adult 35-64 shares

“It’s gratifying to see our trusted local journalism connecting with Houstonians, and knowing they are getting the information they need to make informed decisions in their lives,” said KHOU 11 President and General Manager, Robert Springer. “We ‘Stand for Houston’ and are committed to ensuring all of our newscasts are time well spent for our viewers.”

KHOU also saw notable growth in its early evening newscasts. KHOU11 News at 4 p.m. grew its share by 48 percent in Adults 25-54, and the KHOU11 News at 5 p.m. saw 28 percent share growth in Adults 25-54. 

On digital platforms, KHOU and the KHOU app reached 10.1 million visitors in February, up 94 percent year-over-year while the station’s YouTube site saw 11.4 video plays, a year-over-year increase of 337 percent. (source: Google Analytics February 2021)

“We are proud to serve the Houston community, especially during these unprecedented times,” said KHOU 11 News Director, Elizabeth Roldan. “Our team works every day with passion and dedication to serve our community and keep Houston informed and safe. It is a great responsibility, and we’re honored KHOU has earned the trust of our community.”

I truly believe @KHOU does local journalism the right way. The reporting is ethical and has one goal - help the people of Houston. Glad to see people are responding! #KHOU11 #Houston #localnews pic.twitter.com/HVLVMkqwM7

— Mike Rosenhouse (@mikerosenhouse) March 4, 2021

About KHOU 11
KHOU is a top-rated CBS affiliate in Houston, Texas and has been a leader in local news, information and community involvement for more than six decades. We Stand for Houston by serving and celebrating our community, delivering relevant, trusted content, telling empowering stories, conducting impactful investigations and providing creative and unparalleled solutions for advertisers. KHOU is owned by TEGNA Inc. (NYSE: TGNA), an innovative media company that owns and operates 64 television stations in 51 markets. To learn more about at KHOU please visit www.KHOU.com.

(This post was taken from a release sent to me by KHOU 11)

Russ Lewis to retire from KHOU

UPDATE AUGUST 24, 2020
KHOU's Sally Ramirez to executive produce CNBC's “The News With Shepard Smith”

KHOU 11 4pm anchor Russ Lewis to retire

As I told you that Executive News Director Sally Ramirez is leaving KHOU 11, her husband and channel 11 4pm anchor, Russ Lewis, is retiring.

The announcement was made to the station's staff in an internal memo obtained by mikemcguff.com from KHOU 11 President and General Manager Robert Springer:

After 32 years in journalism, 22 of them with TEGNA, Russ Lewis has informed me he will be retiring from broadcasting at the end of his current contract.

Russ has had an amazing career that comes full-circle here in Texas. Russ began his reporting and anchoring career in El Paso and went on to work in Tucson, Sacramento and Portland, Oregon prior to returning to Texas and joining KHOU in Houston in 2016.

At KHOU, Russ has distinguished himself as a part of the KHOU morning team and most recently as an Anchor and Producer of our 4pm newscast The 4-1-1. Working alongside Fallon Davenport, Erika Lopez, Rachel McCubbin, and Rekha Muddaraj they started with some innovative ideas and have seen our audience grow as a result. Russ shared with me that his experience starting and growing The 4-1-1 has been one of the highlights of his career.

Russ’ next move will take him back to Oregon to expand his role in the family business, developing property with his Dad.

Please join me in thanking Russ for his efforts on behalf of KHOU and congratulate him on his new adventures. Russ’ last day with KHOU will be Friday, August 28th.

Bobby

Lewis arrived at KHOU a few months after Ramirez in 2016. He came from TEGNA sister-station KGW Portland where he had been a morning anchor for 15 years.

He started his TV news career at KTSM El Paso.

Later Lewis worked as a reporter/anchor for KVOA Tucson, Arizona and KTXL Sacramento, California before heading to KGW.

He is a New Mexico State University grad.

Ramirez and Lewis have two daughters who recently graduated high school.

Anastasiya Bolton is part of TEGNA's Deep Dive team in Houston

Anastasiya Bolton's bio just popped up on KHOU's page.

She arrived in Houston from TEGNA sister station 9News KUSA in 2018 and continued working for the company executive producing a show on Facebook Watch and other TEGNA digital properties called "An Imperfect Union."

Since September 2019, according to LinkedIn, Bolton was a Houston-based investigative reporter for TEGNA.

"Here I work as a part of TEGNA’s Deep Dive team, producing deeper investigative-type stories to air in 11 Texas cities where TEGNA owns TV stations," Bolton wrote in her bio. "We have the ability to reach more than 80% of the state."

As I said before, prior to coming to Houston and working out of KHOU, Bolton was the crime, courts and investigative reporter at KUSA Denver for 12 years.

Before Denver, she was a reporter for ABC 33/40 WABM Birmingham, AL and KETK Tyler.

She has a BA in broadcast journalism from Southern Methodist University.

UPDATE
Bolton is married to KHOU 11 president and general manager Robert Springer.

KHOU 11 and TEGNA Foundation Award $88,000 in Community Grants

KHOU 11 and the TEGNA Foundation, the charitable foundation sponsored by TEGNA Inc., have awarded 8 area nonprofit organizations community grants totaling $88,000.

Community grants in Houston are aimed at alleviating community concerns such as education, unemployment, homelessness, at-risk youth, autism, etc.

Among the grant recipients are:

• A 2nd Cup: The grant will support Brazen Table a holistic culinary and job skills

training program operating as an extension of the mission and operations of A

2nd Cup. A 2nd Cup is Houston's only non-profit coffee shop dedicated to ending

human trafficking through community education and awareness, partnering with

other anti-trafficking organizations, and investing in aftercare for survivors of

trafficking.

• Community Family Centers: The grant will be used for CFC’s afterschool program

which improves academic achievement and increases student attendance and

interest in school. The program primarily provides services to Hispanic youth in

the Austin High School feeder pattern in Magnolia Park and Second Ward, in

Houston’s East End.

• Love Fosters Hope: The grant will help cover the cost of uniquely designed

summer camps for children and teens in foster care. The camps create a safe

environment where the children can escape and play.

“We are thrilled to award these grants to eight organizations who stand for Houston by uplifting and empowering our neighbors,” said KHOU 11 president and general manager Robert Springer. “This is such a deserving group of nonprofits and we look forward to seeing how they use these funds to improve our community and the lives of the people they serve.”

“We are proud to support KHOU 11 as they serve those in need in Houston,” said Dave Lougee, president and CEO, TEGNA. “Our stations’ commitment to investing in their local communities is core to our purpose of serving the greater good. We are proud that we were recently named one of the 50 most community-minded companies in the United States for the third consecutive year and the Telecommunications Sector Leader by The Civic 50 by Points of Light.”

The TEGNA Foundation Community Grants program addresses the diverse local community needs in communities served by TEGNA. Most grants awarded fall into one of the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goal Categories: Good Health and Well-Being, Quality Education, and Zero Hunger. Other goals supported include Decent Work and Economic Growth, Reduced Inequality, No Poverty, Life Below Water, and Life on Land. 

Community Grants are vetted by a committee of employees at each station, including the station general manager, and approved by the TEGNA Foundation Board of Directors.

 Stations also amplify the impact of the TEGNA Foundation’s charitable contributions through reporting and employee volunteerism. For information or to apply for a TEGNA Foundation Community Grant, click here.

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

David Loving named KHOU 11 President and General Manager

David Loving will be president and general manager of KHOU 11 Houston and KTBU 55 starting May 20, 2024.

ANNOUNCED WITHIN THE SAME WEEK
Humberto Hormaza named CW39 Houston VP and GM

He takes over for Robert Springer, who left KHOU in April.

"Returning to Houston, one of the greatest cities in the U.S., fills me with immense excitement," Loving said in a statement.  "Teaming up with the outstanding professionals at KHOU, I am eager to reconnect with Houston’s vibrant community and valued clients and celebrate the rich diversity that makes the city truly exceptional."

Loving was most recently president and general manager of TEGNA sister stations WOI 5 and KCWI 23 Des Moines, Iowa, since 2020.

He was previously the Univision Houston KXLN President General Manager Houston Univision for nine years. He not only oversaw KXLN but also KFTH and Univision's Houston radio portfolio.

"Univision Houston is a leader in TV and radio nationally, regardless of language, and we deliver the best news coverage, radio shows and everything in between to the community that we’re proud to serve," Loving told mikemcguff.com in 2016. "We attract top talent by staying true to our mission of informing and empowering Hispanic America and to our goal of delivering best-in-class content day in and day out."

That Loving quote came from an article I wrote called "The rise of Houston Spanish-language TV."

Before his time with Univision Houston, Loving ventured west to assume the broadcasting company's position of Senior Vice President and Regional Director of Northern California. In this role, he oversaw Univision/Unimas operations in San Francisco, Sacramento, Fresno, Bakersfield, and Salt Lake City.

Starting with the company in 1994, the Texas A&M University grad worked his way up the Univision ladder from an account executive with San Antonio's KXTN/KROM/KCOR radio.

In 1998, he transitioned to television, assuming the role of national sales manager for KWEX San Antonio.

By 2002, Loving relocated to Austin and took on the role of general sales manager for KAKW and KBVO. He was later promoted to vice president and general manager for both stations in 2004.

In 2006, he returned to San Antonio to lead KWEX and KNIC.

"Among a deep pool of candidates, David stood out for his understanding of what it truly means to ‘Stand for Houston,’" said Brad Ramsey, senior vice president, media operations, TEGNA. "His previous experience in Houston is invaluable, and I’m excited to see all that he and the talented KHOU team can accomplish together."

Texas TV news and radio job moves March 2024

Send tips for the monthly Texas media job list here.

- TAB Salutes 2024 News Award Winners and Finalists
- The complete list of winners of the 2024 Gracie Awards
- Best TV News Bloopers March 2024

DALLAS - FORT WORTH

WFAA and Greenspace Dallas to build nature trail in celebration of WFAA’s 75th anniversary.

Producer Kaitlin N. Griffin leaves NBC 5 KXAS.

Seth Bodine joins DBJ to cover Greater Fort Worth.

Producer Katherine Griffith leaves KBTX 3 Bryan-College Station for FOX 4 KDFW.

Cumulus Media’s New Country 96.3 and 99.5 The Wolf Raise $260,000 for Cook Children’s Medical Center at Third Annual Texas Independence Jam at Billy Bob’s Texas.

- Dale Hansen talks 3 biggest stories of WFAA career and why he retired
- WFAA 8 DFW at Five (broadcast 3/5/1980)
- Dia Wall arrives at WFAA
- From DFW to Austin, TV love is in the air
- Nick Starling leaves CBS News Texas
- Haddie Djemal joins Dr. Phil's Merit Street Media
- Shannon Murray gives birth
- Mike Doocy celebrates 30 years at FOX 4 KDFW
- Keith Russell of CBS News Texas apparently no longer with DFW station

HOUSTON

Miya Shay named one of Houston's 50 Most Influential Women of 2023 by Houston Woman Magazine.

Former KPRC 2 anchor Larry Audas to retire from TV.

Former KHOU 11 reporter Johnathan Walton profiled in New York Times.

Manny García, Angel Rodríguez announced as new top editors at Houston Landing.

Houston Landing’s CEO voluntarily recognizes newsroom union, signs agreement with NewsGuild

Advertising account executive Sandy Colwell celebrates 30 years with abc13 KTRK.

KPRC 2 executive producer Debbie Strauss leaves TV to join the Infrastructure Division at Office of Commissioner Lesley Briones, Precinct 4.

Rowdy Yates and his “Rowdy Ride Home” can now be heard weekday afternoons in Fresno, California on One Putt Broadcasting’s KWDO “105.5 The Legend.”  -and through the miracle of technology his “Ridin’ with Rowdy” show is now heard weekday mornings on Delta Radio Network’s  WDTL “Delta Country 105.7” in Indianola, Mississippi.

Houston TV veteran Kim Gagne shares message for Women’s History Month.

- Mike McGuff on KPRC 2's "Houston Life" talking "Runaway Radio"
- Dominique Sachse is going on tour
- Modern Storyteller's podcast
- Caroline and Rashi show
- Houston Celebrity Dairy Goat Milking Contest 2024
- Rowdy Yates launches podcast talking to Houston radio greats
- Stevens and Pruett as Hudson and Harrigan on 610 KILT in 1976
- Natalie Hee leaves FOX 26
- FOX 13 Utah reviews my "Runaway Radio" 101 KLOL doc
- Marcus Sullivan joins KTSU 90.9 and The Vibe
- Houston Matters features my "Runaway Radio" 101 KLOL doc
- Sofia Ojeda almost falls victim to scam
- Dayna Steele interviews Mike McGuff about "Runaway Radio"
- Dominique Sachse talks Dr Phil news launch
- Caroline Brown is married
- Mike McGuff Talks About His Documentary 'Runaway Radio' with FanboyNation
- Robert Springer to leave KHOU 11 GM role
- Judy Lakin named Audacy Houston General Sales Manager
- KPRC 2's Sofia Ojeda and Brittany Taylor go head to head in a camel race
- abc13 KTRK to debut "First at 4AM"
- Ralph Cooper celebrates 55 years on-air in Houston
- Former Houston TV journalists thriving in post-media life
- Anita Martini, the first female TV sports anchor in the US
- Lauren Freeman talks Christian parenting with Keith and Lisa Garvin
- Tim Heller is training TV meteorologists as far as Africa

SAN ANTONIO

KSAT 6 PM News Sees Ratings Uptick Due To Focus On San Antonio Neighborhoods.

KSAT’s Jessie Degollado honored by Catholic Television of San Antonio.

KSAT reporter Jessie Degollado wins 2023 Aguila Lifetime Achievement Award.

Old News 4 WOAI building caught fire.

- Ashley Paredez joins FOXSA 29 Puro San Antonio
- Ashley Sutton gives birth

AUSTIN

After over forty years of branding as “KASE 101, " the iHeartMedia Country station is rebranding as “KASE 100.7."

Syndicated “The Woody Show” returned on “101X” KROX.

David Yeomans leaves KXAN for new job.

Erin Hogan joins ESPN 102.7's "Game Time" with Nick Hadja.

Jasper Scherer, who covered state government and politics for the Houston Chronicle and the San Antonio Express-News since 2021, joined The Texas Tribune as a politics reporter.

- KVUE Austin dedicates newsroom in honor of Carole Kneeland

AROUND TEXAS

Longtime KGNS-TV chief meteorologist Richard ‘Heatwave’ Berler recognized and celebrated with a new meteorological station dedicated Tuesday, March 26 at 11:30 a.m. at Texas A&M International University (TAMIU).

KGBT tower in La Feria decommissioned safely.

One Longtime Broadcaster Is Trying To Save A Small Texas AM.

Ruben Juarez renews his agreement as the sports director with KVEO in Rio Grande Valley.

Executive producer Trenton Hooker leaves KXXV 25 Waco-Temple-Killeen.

Carly Smith signed a second contract with KIII Corpus Christi to remain the weekday morning meteorologist.

- KFOX14 and CBS4 El Paso get new reporters
- Lauren Linville leaves KFDX 3 Wichita Falls
- Zack Owen exits WACO 100 mornings
- Carney Porter promoted to KFDX Wichita Falls weeknight co-anchor
- Hannah Burbank joins WIS 10 Columbia, South Carolina
- Colin Deaver leaves KTSM 9 El Paso

REMEMBERING

Arch Yancey, a Country Radio Hall of Famer, has died at 88.

Joyce Slocum, CEO of Texas Public Radio, dies at 66.

Lori Hawkins, veteran Statesman business reporter, died Thursday night. She was 57.

- Fred Faour has died

Chris Henao joins KHOU 11 as assistant news director

KSAT 12 San Antonio assistant news director Chris Henao joins KHOU 11 in the same position


KHOU 11's news assistant news director Chris Henao is a familiar name for some in the hallways of the now TEGNA owned station. For almost a decade, back in the Belo days, Henao helped bring a ton of awards to the station, including a Peabody Award, as an investigative photographer and then producer in the Anna Werner days and beyond to the Jeremy Rogalski era.

UPDATE MARCH 2025
Chris Henao exits KHOU 11 from Assistant ND role

"I'm very excited to be coming home to KHOU and Houston," Henao told mikemcguff.com. "Excited for all the new possibilities at the new KHOU."

When Henao left the station more than a decade ago, it was still at the Allen Parkway location, so it will be a new world for him at 5718 Westheimer.

"Chris Henao worked at KHOU from the late 1990s through the late 2000s as an Investigative Photojournalist and Producer," Robert Springer, KHOU President and General Manager, told mikemcguff.com. "Chris’ knowledge of Houston and his experiences around the country will be a tremendous addition to an already-strong leadership team in news."

In the last five years, he has been the assistant news director to one of San Antonio's top rated stations, KSAT 12 (sister-station to KPRC).

In between KHOU and KSAT, Henao worked as the executive producer for investigations for KCTV 5 News in Kansas City, Missouri. He then went on to work for almost three years as an investigative producer for KNBC in Los Angeles.

Before his time at channel 11 in Houston, the University of Texas grad worked as a photojournalist for WXIA Atlanta, KXAN Austin and KGBT Harlingen.

Henao starts at KHOU July 15th.

He takes over for Josh Hubbard who left for KGO San Francisco.

Grace White leaves KHOU 11 Houston

Grace White announced she's leaving her Consumer Investigative Reporter position with KHOU 11 Houston after nearly a decade.

Here is what White posted on Instagram.

"Some big news to share! I never thought I would leave KHOU this year, but sometimes unexpected doors open. In August, our family will be moving to Canada for my husband’s job.

First, I want to say thank you Houston and @khou11 for so many wonderful years. It’s hard to believe it’s been almost a decade! I still remember what it felt like when I walked into Allen Parkway in 2014. I was thrilled to be working in my hometown. 

From covering dozens of cold cases and launching our “Missing Pieces” series, to in-depth coverage on Harvey and now Beryl, and most recently taking on consumer investigations - it’s been an incredible ride! The cases we have covered and the families we have worked with will always be close to my heart. 

For this next chapter, we’re excited to live in Calgary and give our kids ages 8, 5 and 3 the chance to explore beautiful Banff and the mountains! Hellooooooo snow ☃️ We do plan to eventually return to Houston, this will always be home."

White has been with KHOU 11 since October 2014 as a reporter. 

Since then, we have watched her family grow to include three children.

When Tiffany Craig left Channel 11 in 2023, White was promoted to her Consumer Investigative Reporter role. 

White joined KHOU 11 from News 4 San Antonio WOAI where she was an anchor/reporter. 

Before that, she worked as a reporter for WEAR ABC 3 Pensacola, Florida, and KLFY NEWS 10 Lafayette, Louisiana.

The native Houstonian graduated from Memorial High School and the University of Mississippi and interned with competitor ABC13 KTRK, Houston City Hall, and the White House.

KHOU 11 has had many job moves recently.  We've seen departures from Stephanie Whitfield, Kimberly Davis, Adam Bennett, Matt Musil and Robert Springer.  Then we've seen arrivals from Trason Bragg, David Loving and Luis Ortiz.

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A post shared by Grace White (@gracewhitekhou)

KPRC 2, KHOU 11, FOX26, CW39 join forces for COVID-19 PSA

Channels 2, 11, 26 and 39 come together to show Houston TV solidarity during coronavirus pandemic


April 9, 2020 – HOUSTON – A group of four Houston broadcast media outlets have joined forces for a one-of-a-kind effort encouraging Houstonians to work together to fight the spread of COVID-19 in our communities.

In a gesture of community solidarity, television stations KPRC 2, FOX 26, KHOU 11, and CW39 Houston collaborated on “In This Together,” a public service campaign addressing the act of social distancing in the battle against COVID-19.

“We’re all fighting the same fight alongside our fellow Houstonians,” says Jerry Martin, KPRC 2 VP/General Manager. “This unique effort gives a clear, unified message to our community, “We’re in This Together.”

RELATED
FOX 26, KPRC 2 and KHOU 11 donate airtime to Houston churches for Easter

The locally produced public service announcements, aimed at delivering a positive note of encouragement to our friends and neighbors, will begin airing later this week across Houston airwaves.

“CW39 Houston is very proud to join arms with our Houston broadcast brethren to promote this timely effort and come together as one to combat our current challenges,” says Harvey Saxer, CW39 Houston station manager.

The three :30 PSAs feature a who’s-who of familiar Houston news anchors, including KPRC 2’s Owen Conflenti, Taniya Wright, Dominique Sachse and Kris Gutierrez; KHOU 11’s Jason Bristol, Mia Gradney, Len Cannon, Ron Trevino and David Paul; FOX 26’s Kaitlin Monte, José Griñan, Melissa Wilson and Jonathan Martin; and CW39 Houston’s Sharron Melton, Shannon LaNier, and Maria Sotolongo.

“This collaboration is so much more than just a promotional campaign; it’s about Texans coming together to help Texans. We are a vital public service and recognize that this crisis requires the unprecedented effort to maintain staff safety, while keeping viewers informed. Putting aside our competitive nature for the greater good is what Texans do.” says D’Artagnan Bebel, SVP/General Manager Fox 26 & My 20.

“Houston has a dedicated journalism community. For everyone who is tuning in, regardless of what channel you choose, we want you to know that we’re all working together and committed to delivering all critical information about COVID-19 while at the same time sharing the stories of hope and inspiration from our fellow Texans,” says Robert Springer, KHOU 11, President and General Manager.

You can watch “In This Together,” public service campaign here.



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