Bob Slovak leaves abc13 KTRK

After 22 years at abc13 KTRK, weekend sports anchor Bob Slovak says job is a casualty of COVID-19

Bob Slovak has announced he is leaving the abc13 KTRK sports department after more than two decades.

UPDATE JULY 2022

Bob Slovak returns to abc13 in a non-sports role

Here is what he posted on Facebook today:

The challenges of the year 2020 have been many but we keep our faith. My time at KTRK ABC13 will be coming to an end in a few weeks.

My job like so many others a misfortune of the Covid-19 pandemic. We move on with a lot to be thankful for.

I would like to thank ABC13 for an awesome 22 year run, so many great memories. I want to thank all of the ABC13 viewers for letting me come into your homes and living rooms for the last two decades plus to talk Sports.

I got into this business 34 years ago because of the passion and the way Sports makes us all feel. I got that from my Dad, I can still hear him yelling at the Cowboys games on the TV.

I've tried to present my Sports coverage in a fun way and I hope you enjoyed it with me. I want to thanks all of the Coaches and Players I have gotten to know in the Houston area over the years, thanks for letting me tell your stories. I move on to new opportunities and challenges if you have one for me let me know.

We keep moving forward. God has a plan. God Bless.

ALSO JUST HAPPENING AT ABC13 KTRK HOUSTON
- Collin Myers exits abc13 KTRK
- Deborah Wrigley to leave abc13 KTRK

One of the rare TV folks who eschews coffee for Diet Dr Pepper, Slovak joined KTRK in 1998 as the sports reporter alongside longtime Houston sports anchors Bob Allen and Tim Melton.

In 2013, when Melton suffered from a stroke and had to retire from the TV business, Slovak moved from sports reporter to weekend sports anchor.

RELATED
- Slovak celebrates 30 years> in broadcasting industry
- Houston TV sports reunion with Tim Melton as guest of honor
- Bob Allen has died after cancer battle

"People will ask me, you know, 'what's your favorite part of your job?' I'm like, 'well, I get in all the big sporting events for free' and they go, 'well, what's the worst part of your job?' 'Well, I'm working,' Slovak jokingly said in a recent interview.

Slovak has earned honors from the Edward R. Murrow, EMMY and Associated Press awards.

In this spare time, you might find Slovak rocking out at a concert by greats such as the Rolling Stones or Foo Fighters (at least back when you could attend shows).

Before channel 13 and Houston, Slovak worked at KNXV Phoenix, KOTV Tulsa, KFDM Beaumont and KTEN Ada, Oklahoma.

 

The Dallas native graduated from Stephen F. Austin University with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications, but don't think his DFW roots totally dictate his fan sensibilities when it comes to the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Texans.

"I grew up in Dallas...you know, Cowboys, Cowboys, Cowboys," Slovak once said. "Lived in Houston now 21 years, so I cheer for both. People say you can't do that. When they play each other, I kind of just say who wins is OK, but I'll I'll cheer for both of them."

And to show his love for sports, Slovak said if his television news sports career hadn't have happened, he would have been in some other form of athletics.

"I would probably be a coach on some level, high school or college coach," he said in the interview. "When I first got out of school, that was my backup plan. If I couldn't find a job in TV, I was going to go into coaching, football, coaching."

After his long career at channel 13, Slovak has done play by play for high school games on KUBE 57.  He also noted on his Twitter bio that he is serving as an adjunct professor at the University of Houston's Jack J. Valenti School of Communication.


SAY GOODBYE: Leave your memories and well wishes for Bob Slovak


* This post has been updated with information on what Slovak has been working on after he left abc13 KTRK channel 13 in Houston.

Bob Slovak returns to abc13 in a non-sports role

Bob Slovak is returning to abc13 KTRK Houston, but this time, it won't be in the sports department where he worked for more than two decades until 2020.

Here is what Slovak posted on Facebook:

"Big news to share… I’ve started my new job at ABC13 Houston. I’ve been hired as a Reporter/Content Creator in ABC13 Houston Programming/ Special Projects Department. 

I’m so excited to be back with the incredibly talented team.  

I’ll be working on the ABC13 Localish series as well as Big Events and Special Projects. Super pumped about this opportunity, can’t wait to tell your story. If you see me out and about please come up and say hello. #blessed"

The former KTRK weekend sports anchor/reporter left the station in September 2020 which he blamed on pandemic cuts.

Slovak joined channel 13 Houston back as a reporter in 1998 along side Bob Allen and Tim Melton.

He took over as weekend sports anchor in 2013, when Melton suffered a stroke.

The Stephen F. Austin University grad previously worked for ABC15 KNXV Phoenix, News on 6 KOTV Tulsa, KFDM Beaumont and KTEN 10 Sherman.

In between his times at abc13, Slovak did play by play for high school games on the old KUBE 57.  He also served as a University of Houston's Jack J. Valenti School of Communication adjunct professor.

Bob Slovak new KTRK abc13 weekend sports anchor

Bob Slovak now featured on weekend newscast open as sports anchor

I broke the news last week that Tim Melton had left KTRK abc13 and this weekend as of last weekend, it looks like sports reporter Bob Slovak is officially the new weekend sports anchor at the ABC owned and operated station because he is now on the newscast's open.

 Slovak has just been included in the intro with Tom Abrahams, Adela Uchida and meteorologist David Tillman.

Melton had not appeared on air since October 2011 when he suffered a stroke. Since then we've ween Eyewitness News sports staff members like Slovak and David Nuno fill in.

According to his bio, Slovak has been at KTRK since 1998. He was born and started working in TV at KTEN in Ada, Oklahoma and went on to work at stations like KFDM Beaumont, KOTV Tulsa and KNXV Phoenix. He is a graduate of Stephen F. Austin University and has won honors from organizations such as the the Associated Press, Emmys and Edward R. Murrow awards organizations.

Bob Slovak and Tom Tynan hit 30

A big congrats goes out to Bob Slovak and Tom Tynan

In December, we had some Houston broadcasters hit 30 years in the business! Congratulations to KTRK abc13 sports weekend anchor Bob Slovak and Home Show Radio's Tom Tynan!

Who were the Texas TV and radio mover and shakers of 2013?

Texas media job moves 2013

How did I spend the holidays? Going through my blog archives looking for instances of people moving jobs in the Texas media. Wow, I have quite the life don't I? The top of the post starts in January and goes down through December.

KHOU grabs Mike O'Neill for EP from KTRK
Big news in the world of Houston TV management. Longtime KTRK 13 producer Mike O'Neill (he is an original producer of the 4pm show) packed up his Mouse ears and moved over to KHOU 11 as an executive producer.

Bob Allen

Bob Allen scores with emotional goodbye; talks future plans
We got the shocker of the night when KTRK 13 sportscaster Bob Allen said he was leaving the station by the end of 2012 (KTRK recruited Greg Bailey from WCNC as his eventual replacement). Allen stayed with the station until January 2013 because the Houston Texans were actually winning.

KPRC 2 brings in Camille Williams from Fox 7 KTBC
Camille Williams moves from Fox 7 KTBC Austin to KPRC 2 Houston

KHOU names David Paul the chief meteorologist
KHOU 11 has named David Paul as the chief meteorologist for the Belo station.

Fox 26 KRIV snags Nancy Zambrano from KTBC FOX 7
Nancy Zambrano moves from Fox 7 KTBC Austin to Fox 26 KRIV Houston.

Three Houston radio departures announced the same day
Some big stories from the Houston radio world that broke.

Wendy Corona leaves WFAA, KPRC producer to WMAQ EP and more
It's time to see where TV folks in Houston and around Texas are getting new jobs!

Sam Malone joins 1070 The Answer KNTH
AM 1070 The Answer KNTH is Sam Malone's new Houston radio home.

Elizabeth Burpo named National Sales Manager, Fox 26 KRIV & My20 KTXH
Elizabeth Burpo has been named National Sales Manager for FOX26 and My20.

Houston Chronicle departures and new hires
Tank McNamara and creator Bill Hinds dropped from Houston paper.

Mix 96.5 KHMX moves Blake Hayes to mornings
Blake Hayes drops into Kidd Kraddick's former morning slot on Mix 96.5 KHMX.

Tom Doerr, Fox 26 KRIV news director to WFLD Chicago
Fox 26 KRIV News Director Tom Doerr moves to same job at WFLD Chicago Fox 32.

Chikage Windler new KEYE 42 chief meteorologist
Chikage Windler replaces Troy Kimmel as KEYE 42 chief meteorologist.

Keith Calkins of Fox 26 KRIV signs off from sports department
Keith Calkins, Fox 26 KRIV's weekend sports anchor, signs off.

Susan O’Donnell leaves 89.3 KSBJ
89.3 KSBJ loses morning show host Susan O’Donnell.

Ron Oliveira signs off KEYE Austin
Ron Oliveira, the main anchor of KEYE 42 and longtime Austin newsman, left the Central Texas TV airwaves after more than 34 years in the business.

Butch Alsandor to leave KHOU
Butch Alsandor calls it quits from KHOU 11.

Tania Ortega joins Fox 7 KTBC
Tania Ortega moves from KCEN to Fox 7 KTBC.

Mariza Reyes Mendoza, formerly of KPRC 2, joins KSAT 12
Mariza Reyes Mendoza joins KSAT 12 San Antonio.

Ryan McCredden is new 610 KILT & 650 KIKK PD
Ryan McCredden replaces Gavin Spittle at KILT-AM and KIKK-AM.

J.C. Corcoran, 93.7 The Arrow's new morning man
93.7 The Arrow KKRW gets new morning man J.C. Corcoran.

Dave Cody leaving Fox 7 KTBC
After 28 years, Dave Cody leaving Fox 7 KTBC Austin.

Brian Collister of WOAI replaces KTRK's Wayne Dolcefino
Brian Collister of San Antonio's WOAI replaces Wayne Dolcefino at KTRK abc13.

Brooks Garner joins KHOU 11 from WFLA 8
Brooks Garner joins KHOU 11's weather team from WFLA News Channel 8 Tampa.

Gianna Caserta makes KPRC 2 debut
Gianna Caserta joins KPRC 2 from WALB 10 Albany Georgia.

Adam Clanton joins SportsTalk 790 KBME
Adam Clanton announces his new radio home is SportsTalk 790 KBME.

Eric King jumps to KXAS from WLKY
Eric King joins KXAS NBC 5 DFW from WLKY Louisville, KY.

Amanda Perez joins KPRC from KFSN
Amanda Perez returns to KPRC 2 from KFSN 30 Fresno; she likes Whataburger more than In-N-Out Burger too.

88.7 KUHF to air new Houston talk show with Craig Cohen
Craig Cohen to host 88.7 KUHF talk show Houston Matters.

Bob Allen to KHOU 11
Bob Allen leaves KTRK abc13 in January, now joins KHOU 11.

Kyle Montgomery leaves KPRC 2
KPRC 2's weekend sports anchor Kyle Montgomery signs off for national footprint.

Jay Rodriguez joins Sunny 99.1 KODA mornings
KODA-FM SUNNY 99.1, Houston's Official At-Work Station, announced that Jay Rodriguez joined the station as its new Morning Show Co-Host.

Gene Norman to WIAT CBS42 Birmingham
Gene Norman, formerly of KHOU 11, heads to WIAT CBS42 Birmingham.

Mario Alberto takes over Mega 101 KLOL mornings
CBS Radio Houston announces that KLOL Mega 101 launches its new morning show “Mega in your mornings with Mario”, hosted by Mario Alberto Gonzalez.

Joe Pags off KPRC AM 950
KPRC AM 950 morning man Joe Pags has last show.

Walton and Johnson to KPRC AM 950 replacing Joe Pags
Walton and Johnson returning to Houston radio...again

Tim Melton off KTRK abc13 website
Tim Melton's bio is no longer on KTRK abc13's website.

Roseann Rogers 'The Buzz Lady' moves to KTRK abc13
Check This Out: "The Buzz Lady" Roseann Rogers relocates to KTRK abc13.

Jaymie Kosina becomes GSM of KBXX/KMJQ & Digital Sales Manager of Texas
Jaymie Kosina Joins Radio One Management Team in Texas - Veteran Sales Professional will be Digital Sales Manager of Texas and GSM of KBXX/KMJQ.

Bob Slovak new KTRK abc13 weekend sports anchor
Bob Slovak now featured on weekend newscast open as sports anchor.

Drew Shirley hired as KHOU 11 sports producer from KPLC
KHOU 11 hires KPLC Lake Charles sports director Drew Shirley as producer.

Bill Spencer joins KPRC 2 as investigative reporter from WXYZ
Bill Spencer from WXYZ Detroit joins KPRC 2 Houston as investigative reporter.

Alex Cadelago named Vice President/Director of Sales for CBS Radio Houston
Alex Cadelago Named Vice President, Director of Sales for KILT-AM, KILT-FM, KIKK-AM, KHMX-FM, KKHH-FM and KLOL-FM.

Nancy Zambrano leaves Fox 26 KRIV after months on the job
Fox 26 KRIV reporter Nancy Zambrano to leave the TV biz after a few months in Houston.

Kristi Powers' life after Fox 26 and other media job moves
Media job moves from Houston and across the state over the last month.

Samica Knight promoted as new KTRK abc13 anchor; Katie McCall to report
Samica Knight plays switch-a-roo with Katie McCall to become new KTRK abc13 weekend morning anchor.

Bob Morford upped to news director at Fox 26 KRIV
Bob Morford named Vice President and News Director of FOX 26; moved up from assistant ND.

Dave Froehlich named Fox 7 KTBC morning anchor from KRIS-TV
Dave Froehlich jumps from KRIS Corpus Christi to Fox 7 KTBC Austin.

Fox 26 KRIV loses two managers to other stations
Two Fox 26 KRIV managers move on to becomes news directors at other stations.

KPRC loses two staffers then grabs from KHOU, WFAA takes from KRIV
KPRC, KRIV, KHOU, WFAA swap and lose longtime employees.

Jeff McShan leaves KHOU for Harris County District Attorney's Office PIO gig
Jeff McShan gives up KHOU for the Harris County District Attorney's Office PIO position.

Is Houston big enough for two Kevin Quinn's?
There can only be one...Kevin Quinn on air in H-Town.

Houston-based syndicated radio host Chris X gets local weeknight show
Chris X can be heard on 60 stations across the US right here from Houston.

Gary Striewski leaves KPRC for NESN
Gary Striewski put a year in at KPRC 2 and jets off to New England's NESN.

Houston and TX TV & radio job moves while I was away...there are lots of them
A roundup of Houston and Texas TV moves and departures.

KPRC's Camille Williams Hepola & KHOU's Jeff McShan head to Harris County District Attorney's Office
KPRC reporter Camille Williams Hepola joins KHOU's Jeff McShan in the public information officer world at the Harris County DA's Office.

Lance Zierlein and Adam Clanton to replace Adam Wexler and Matt Jackson on 790 KBME
Adam Wexler and Matt Jackson off SportsTalk 790 KBME.

Christine Haas returns to Texas at Fox 7 KTBC
Former KHOU, KVUE anchor Christine Haas returns from San Diego to work at Fox 7 KTBC Austin.

Idolina Peralez replaces Mary Lee at KPRC 2
KPRC's Idolina Peralez was Idolina Walker at KIFI Local News 8/KIDK in Southeastern Idaho, Southwestern Montana and Northwestern Wyoming.

Shel Winkley replaces Bob French at KBTX 3
Shel Winkley, KBTX morning meteorologist, gets chief gig after Bob French's departure.

Bill Barajas joins KSAT from KRGV
Bill Barajas is heading to his cousin Erik's old station KSAT.

Breeanna Malik named Clear Channel Houston Vice President of Sales
Clear Channel Media and Entertainment Houston announced that Breeanna Malik has been named Vice President of Sales.

Rashi Vats moves to Fox 26 KRIV from KBTX 3
Rashi Vats to join Fox 26 KRIV from KBTX 3 in Bryan/College Station.

Jennifer Lindgren joins KTVT CBS 11 from WKYC Ohio
Jennifer Lindgren moves to KTVT CBS 11 from WKYC Northeast Ohio to marry an Aggie.

Jay Michaels named 102.1 KDGE program director
Clear Channel Media and Entertainment Dallas Names Jay Michaels Program Director for KDGE-FM.

Ruben Galvan joins KPRC 2 from XETV San Diego 6
Ruben Galvan to become KPRC 2 morning feature reporter from XETV San Diego 6 CW.

Paulina Sodi joins Telemundo Houston KTMD from TV Azteca
Telemundo Houston grabs Paulina Sodi from TV Azteca’s “Proyecto 40” in Mexico City.

Howard Dorsey named Fox 26 KRIV assistant news director
New Fox 26 KRIV assistant ND Howard Dorsey has strong resume.

Jace Larson joins KPRC 2 investigative team from KUSA 9News Denver
Award winning KUSA 9News Denver investigative reporter Jace Larson adds to growing KPRC Local 2 Investigates unit.

Scarlett Greyson joins FOX7 KTBC from KAMC Lubbock
Scarlett Greyson to anchor FOX 7’s “Good Day Austin Saturday” and “Good Day Austin Sunday."

News Director Denise Bishop exits News 92 FM KROI
News Director Denise Bishop, who helped sign on News 92 FM KROI, is gone.

Natalie Bomke to WFLD Chicago from Fox 26 KRIV
Fox 26 KRIV's Natalie Bomke heading to WFLD Chicago Fox 32.

Jennifer Kielman leaves KETK East Texas
Jennifer Kielman gives up the anchor chair at KETK East Texas, but will continue in television.

Crystal Kobza returns to KTRK abc13
Crystal Kobza back reporting at abc13 KTRK after nine month or so absence. She left at the end of the year.

Ex-AP & Chron editor Kit Frieden joins Androvett Houston
Associated Press Editor Kit Frieden Joins Androvett Legal Media & Marketing in Houston.

Houston Chronicle hires Nancy Barnes as new editor
Hearst Newspapers names Nancy Barnes editor and executive vice president for news at the Houston Chronicle - Under her leadership, the Star Tribune won the 2013 Pulitzer Prize for Local News.

Jane Slater & Mark Elfenbein off 105.3 The Fan KRLD's “Elf & Slater”
105.3 The Fan KRLD replaces “Elf & Slater” with Jane Slater & Mark Elfenbein.

Mary Lee to KING 5 Seattle after KPRC 2
Mary Lee heads to KING 5 Seattle after a European Vacation post KPRC 2.

Kyle Montgomery lands at Fox Sports' Prime Ticket hosting "Clippers Live" post KPRC
Former KPRC 2 sports anchor Kyle Montgomery to host "Clippers Live" for Fox Sports' Prime Ticket in LA.

KIAH 39 GM Roger Bare takes over KDAF 33 Dallas too
KIAH 39 General Manager Roger Bare Expands Responsibilities to KDAF 33 Dallas-Fort Worth.

Foti Kallergis, marketing expert & former KVUE anchor, joins abc13 as reporter
Foti Kallergis, marketing expert and previous KVUE fill-in anchor, joins KTRK abc13 as reporter.

Jenny Anchondo named new Fox 4 KDFW anchor
Jenny Anchondo moving to Dallas to anchor Fox 4 KDFW's "Good Day Saturday” and “Good Day Sunday.”

Michael Garfield joins WFAA 8 Dallas as tech contributor
High Tech Texan Michael Garfield joins WFAA 8 Dallas-Fort Worth as 4pm tech contributor.

Karla Barguiarena joins KTRK abc13 as reporter
Back from the pr/marketing world, former KHOU reporter Karla Barguiarena joins abc13 KTRK.

Houston TV & radio job moves plus more from around Texas
Here are television and radio job moves from Houston and around Texas.

Jane Slater lands at CBS 11 KTVT & TXA 21
After leaving 105.3 The Fan KRLD, Jane Slater tweets she lands at CBS 11 KTVT & TXA 21.

Ex-KETK anchor Jennifer Kielman heading to KOLR 10 in Springfield, MO
Jennifer Kielman is hitched and ready to move to KOLR 10 in Springfield, Missouri.

Ericka Miller joins KEYE Austin
Ericka Miller becomes KEYE Austin weekend anchor after WXII 12 in Winston-Salem, NC.

Adam Wexler joins CSN Houston's Rockets Coverage
Veteran Houston Sports Radio Host Adam Wexler Joins Network as Rockets Digital Reporter.

Patricia Lopez moves to KTRK abc13 mornings
Patricia Lopez moves Stretch Your Dollar and 'much more' to KTRK abc13 mornings.

Classical 91.7 KUHA eliminates DJ staff; goes syndicated
Classical 91.7 KUHA gets rid of 8 full time positions and goes with programming service Classical 24.

Guy Rawlings joins CBS 11 KTVT and TXA 21
Guy Rawlings, formerly with WGCL Atlanta, comes to CBS 11 KTVT and TXA 21 as sports anchor.

Shannon Wolfson to replace Leslie Rhode at KXAN Austin
KXAN Austin investigative reporter Shannon Wolfson to replace longtime anchor Leslie Rhode in December.

Ned Hibberd leaves Fox 26 for WJZY-WMYT Fox Charlotte
Reporter Ned Hibberd takes off from Fox 26 KRIV to become assistant news director at Fox Charlotte WJZY-WMYT.

Ken Molestina joins CBS 11 KTVT from WUSA
Ken Molestina heads to DFW's CBS 11 KTVT from WUSA Washington.

Steve Simon expands NewsFix to KDAF from KIAH
Steve Simon leaves Houston's KIAH to expand NewsFix format to KDAF Dallas.

Rita Garcia promoted to Fox 26 KRIV morning anchor
Fox 26 KRIV weekend anchor Rita Garcia moves up to mornings.

Lauren Freeman is new KPRC 2 4pm anchor
Lauren Freeman ditches the 2:30am alarm for the KPRC 2 4pm newscast; Rachel McNeill moves to mornings from 4pm.

Bruce Logan takes over CBS Houston as Vice President of Programming and Operations Manager
CBS RADIO Houston today announced that Bruce Logan has been named Vice President of Programming and Operations Manager for the six-station cluster which includes KHMX-FM (Hot adult contemporary), KIKK-AM (sports), KILT-FM (country), KILT-AM (sports), KKHH (Top 40), and KLOL-FM (Spanish). He will also have day-to-day programming responsibilities for The Bull, KILT-FM; and Hot 95.7, KKHH.

Bernice Kearney named KSAT news director
Bernice Kearney named KSAT San Antonio News Director following retirement of Jim Boyle.

Jacqueline Crea joins KHOU from KTSM El Paso
Weekend anchor Jacqueline Crea moves from KTSM El Paso to KHOU Houston as reporter.

Chris Stipes now Fox 26 KRIV weekend anchor, plus other changes
Fox 26 morning anchor Chris Stipes moves to weekends, plus other reporter changes for 2014.

Kristi Powers' life after Fox 26 and other media job moves

Media job moves from Houston and across the state over the last month

This last month has been crazy in terms of the amount of Houston TV and radio moves (I'm also adding in other Texas city media moves too).

Kristi Powers

The first one I'm bringing you is a big one and I'm totally late to the game on it. Former Fox 26 KRIV morning meteorologist Kristi Powers has dumped the TV weather chroma key wall for the PR world.

Powers is now a Public Relations Account Executive at Love Advertising in Houston. She started last March I just found out. She's already made appearances on KHOU 11's Great Day Houston representing clients.

You might remember Powers parted ways with Fox 26 last June. Caitilin Espinosa took over for Powers last October.

KRBE assistant PD leaves
For six years he has been assistant program director and afternoon host at 104.1 KRBE in Houston and now Mat Mitchell is leaving for Clear Channel Phoenix.

KVIA's Jorge Torres leaving for Albuquerque
Officials at KVIA announced via the station's Facebook page that weekday morning meteorologist Jorge Torres is leaving at the end of the month.

Telemundo Names VP of Sales for Houston Station
Telemundo Station Group has named Robert Sarabia vice president of sales for its Houston station KTMD.

Nancy Zambrano leaves Fox 26 KRIV after months on the job
Fox 26 KRIV reporter Nancy Zambrano to leave the TV biz after after a few months in Houston. She talks about the move.

Drew Shirley hired as KHOU 11 sports producer from KPLC
KHOU 11 hires KPLC Lake Charles sports director Drew Shirley for new sports producer position.

Alex Cadelago named Vice President/Director of Sales for CBS Radio Houston
Alex Cadelago named Vice President, Director of Sales for KILT-AM, KILT-FM, KIKK-AM, KHMX-FM, KKHH-FM and KLOL-FM.

Bill Spencer joins KPRC 2 as investigative reporter from WXYZ
Bill Spencer from WXYZ Detroit joins KPRC 2 Houston as investigative reporter.

Jenelle Shriner leaves KVUE and lands at KPRC 2 as the Executive Producer for KPRC's Morning News.

Ray Fisher, former KIAH 39 sports weekend anchor, has left his job as the Digital Content Manager for Fox Sports Houston and is now the Social Media Community Manager at the Shell Oil Company.

CW33's Daniel Novick latest to join PR parade
Reporter Daniel Novick, who survived CW33’s transition to the comedy-infused 9 p.m. Nightcap (“A Different Kind of Newscast”), has decided to make a career change.

General manager at KFOX, John Witte, retires
KFOX Channel-14 General Manager John Witte, who has been at the station's helm for 11 years, retired.

I reported that KTRK abc13 contributor Erin Libranda, (aka "the Super Saver") left the station. Now it appears that Live Well Network Deals host Katishia Cosley is replacing her with a new segment according to her tweet. (Thanks @HOUcheap)

Michael S. Moore is now Assistant Chief Photojournalist at KVUE-TV according to his LinkedIn account.

Roseann Rogers 'The Buzz Lady' moves to KTRK abc13
Check This Out: "The Buzz Lady" Roseann Rogers relocates to KTRK abc13

Bob Slovak new KTRK abc13 weekend sports anchor
Bob Slovak now featured on weekend newscast open as sports anchor

Jaymie Kosina becomes GSM of KBXX/KMJQ & Digital Sales Manager of Texas
Jaymie Kosina Joins Radio One Management Team in Texas - Veteran Sales Professional will be Digital Sales Manager of Texas and GSM of KBXX/KMJQ

Rick Gevers reports that Karen LaFleur is joining KPRC 2 as Director of News Operations from NBC. She was at KHOU from 1987 to 2005.

Dave Crockett is staying Houston but moving his radio imaging skills have signed with MIX TALENT (www.mixtalent.com) in Miami. Now Crockett can really rock it!

Longtime click2houston.com web producer Amanda Norwig is following the lead of her former boss Lyn Stewart and moving on from the station. Norwig works for the Houston Independent School District on its website now.
- Amanda Norwig of KPRC talks web producing

Ryan Crowe left the web department of KTVT CBS 11.

Photojournalist Robert McMurrey moved from Austin to Dallas from KVUE to Fox 4 KDFW.

Jay Rodriguez joins Sunny 99.1 KODA mornings
KODA-FM SUNNY 99.1 announced Jay Rodriguez joined the station as its new Morning Show Co-Host with Dana Tyson weekdays from 5am-9am.

Tim Melton off KTRK abc13 website
Tim Melton's bio is no longer on KTRK abc13's website
- Tim Melton opens up to Bob Allen about stroke and recovery (VIDEO)

Joe Pags off KPRC AM 950 and replaced by Walton and Johnson.

As I've said before, I'm not clairvoyant. Please let me know of any other personnel changes hitting the Houston media scene.

Interested in working in Texas TV news? Go to my Texas TV jobs page.

Collin Myers: Where was his abc13 goodbye?

 

We have seen three popular abc13 KTRK personalities leave this month, two received on-air goodbyes, but one did not.

Earlier in September, longtime reporter Deborah Wrigley got a big send off to retirement including  "Deborah Wrigley Day," a channel 13 car parade and a news story.

This week, departing weekend sports anchor Bob Slovak had multiple times to say goodbye to viewers on air, plus a news story.

Today, former weekend morning meteorologist Collin Myers took to his Facebook page and his 91,000 followers to deliver his dismay that he was not given an opportunity by KTRK to say goodbye to them on television.

Here is what he posted for those of you not on social media:

"I wanted to wait until after all recent events to share more of my personal thoughts with you. After three years, my time at KTRK-TV has come to an end. Although I had hoped for the opportunity to say goodbye to you on-air, it was not in the cards. I was surprised by the station’s decision making and surprised by no “goodbye” from anyone, but respect it in all class, and trust in God. 

It is through a lens of pride that I view my last three years here at 13. From covering catastrophic storms like Tropical Storm Imelda, to competing on Millionaire in Las Vegas, while representing Houston. it’s hard to believe it all happened in just three years!

I’ve made some lifelong friends here and I had to post this to finally give them credit. My people, from Chauncy Glover, Mayra Moreno, and Erica Simon, to David Tillman and our Tornado chasing days. Erik and Ilona, you’ve always been a joy to see for the 4pm show. Art and Mel, I’ve enjoyed our laughs together, mostly on the air at 11am! And who doesn’t laugh at jokes from Tom and Samica? I’ve appreciated every early morning with you and Katherine. And yes, I still keep up with Tim Heller. Tim, I appreciate the faith you had in me from the start. I’ll text you soon. 😉

I’m thankful for some of my closest producers and directors. Jeff, I don’t know if I’ve ever seen you take a day off, ever. Robert, our serious talks were always welcomed. Mike, I’m still jealous of your Jeep. And Felix, no matter what, I’ll still always be bitter about my Chiefs’ loss to your Pats in the ‘18 AFC Championship. 

I’m also proud to have been a major part of our weather team in America’s fourth largest city. David, Elita, Travis, and Rachel, stay in touch. (Just don’t forget to update the web text post when you read this! 😅)

Here’s the harder part. I’m most thankful for you. Thank you for waking up so early with me in the mornings. When offered a shift change, I still don’t know why I didn’t take evenings. Haha!

I’m ready for change (and vacation). I couldn’t be more excited. I’m excited to once again have the freedom to embrace my future. You CAN continue to follow me on all social media, as I am keeping them for my next adventure.

•Joshua 1:9 { “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” }

‭‭Collin"

I've certainly received an angry earful from the Myers faithful about his sudden departure. Then again, it seems some channel 13 viewers aren't happy about Bob Slovak being off air either.

Houston media members affected by COVID-19

Rucks Russell has passed away 

May 12, 2021

John "Rucks" Russell, former KHOU 11 reporter, has died at the age of 55.

Courtney Fischer recovering from COVID-19
February 2021
Courtney Fischer announced right before our Texas arctic blast that she is battling COVID-19 but feeling better.

Keith Garvin and Christine Noël recover from COVID-19 

January 15, 2021

KPRC 2 anchors Keith Garvin and Christine Noël announced on social media  they have both recovered from COVID-19 in the last weeks.

Art Rascon, and son Jacob, battling COVID-19

January 15, 2021

Longtime abc13 KTRK anchor Art Rascon and his son, KPRC 2 anchor Jacob Rascon, took to Facebook to publicly talk about their family's battle with COVID-19.

Courtney Zavala and Darby Douglas dealing with COVID-19 

January 08, 2021

Courtney Zavala's husband, Orlando, is battling COVID, while former KHOU 11 morning traffic anchor Darby Douglas has tested positive.

Dominique Sachse tests positive for COVID-19

January 07, 2021

Dominique Sachse posted to YouTube about her battle with COVID-19.

David Nuño returns after COVID-19
DECEMBER 25, 2020
David Nuño, the abc13 KTRK weekend sports anchor, took to Twitter to say his COVID-19 battle made him feel like Baby Yoda.

Melanie Lawson returns to work after COVID-19
DECEMBER 11, 2020
abc13 KTRK anchor Melanie Lawson and others report on their COVID-19 quarantine or positive test.

Britta Merwin returns after COVID
DECEMBER 7, 2020
KPRC 2 morning meteorologist Britta Merwin announced her return after a COVID quarantine.

Bob Slovak leaves abc13 KTRK
SEPTEMBER 09, 2020
abc13 KTRK weekend sports anchor Bob Slovak says his job is like so many others - a misfortune of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Janel Forte requests prayers for her grandmother
AUGUST 19, 2020
KHOU 11 reporter Janel Forte tweets that her grandmother has sadly passed away at age 96.

abc13 KTRK hosts 'COVID-19 and Our Schools' town hall
JULY 28, 2020
ABC13, Houston’s news leader, presents, “COVID-19 and Our Schools” a two-night town hall.

Astros TV's Todd Kalas to miss beginning of season after positive COVID-19 test
JULY 24, 2020
Todd Kalas, Houston Astros TV play-by-play broadcaster, posted on Twitter he will be missing the start of the 2020 season due to a positive COVID-19 test result.

Lily Jang's father dies of COVID-19
July 9, 2020
Former KHOU 11 morning anchor Lily Jang posts that after a hard fought battle that began with COVID-19 nearly five weeks ago, her beloved father has passed away.

Taniya Wright reveals why she had to put her health first
JULY 08, 2020
Former KPRC 2 morning anchor Taniya Wright reveals what it was like to have a hospital procedure during COVID-19.

Ryan Chase tests positive for COVID-19
June 29, 2020
104.1 KRBE "Roula and Ryan Show's" Ryan Chase tested positive for COVID-19 he revealed on Twitter.

Bill Barajas tested positive for COVID-19
June 28, 2020
KPRC 2 reporter Bill Barajas announced Sunday night on Facebook that he has returned to work after testing positive for COVID-19.

Houston Public Media experiences staff cuts due to COVID-19 budget shortfalls
June 23, 2020
Current reports that Houston Public Media (News 88.7 KUHF/Houston PBS 8 KUHT) is among the latest public broadcaster cutting staff due to budgetary shortfalls stemming from the coronavirus pandemic.


ABC13 President and GM shares warning after contracting COVID-19 from young daughter
June 22, 2020
KTRK abc13 is reporting that its own President and General Manager, Wendy Granato, has tested positive for COVID-19.

abc13 KTRK Virtual Town Hall discusses COVID-19 impact in Houston Asian American Community
May 24, 2020
Hosted by ABC13’s Eyewitness News reporter Miya Shay, the town hall coincides with the observation of Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month and will discuss the disparate challenges of COVID-19.

KUBE 57 High School Sports Zone cancelled
May 20, 2020
Todd Freed's High School Sports Zone show on KUBE 57 has been cancelled due to economic factors stemming from the Coronavirus.

"Producer Hoss" in hospital with COVID-19
May 17, 2020
Radio producer/on-air talent Adrian ‘Producer Hoss’ Perez for Cox Media Group Houston is battling COVID-19.

KLOL's Dayna Steele starts podcast
May 14, 2020
While quarantining from home, the Texas Radio Hall of Famer and former Rock 101 KLOL DJ has been reaching out to her vast network and landing some great interviews.

The future of TV news work after COVID-19
May 12, 2020
TV stations have been forced to jump technologically thanks to the coronavirus, so when this is over, do we fully return to normal operations?

97.5 FM KFNC hosts Raheel Ramzanali and Barry Laminack out
May 6, 2020
The duo reportedly lost their jobs because of the economic downturn associated with the COVID-19 pandemic the station said.


abc13 KTRK holds virtual town hall to address COVID-19 & communities of color
May 06, 2020
ABC13 anchor Chauncy Glover, who battled COVID-19 and has since recovered, will moderate the discussion, featuring U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, entrepreneur and community activist Tina Knowles-Lawson and other community and medical leaders.

Univision cancels some weekend newscasts, announces job cuts
April 28, 2020
Univision layoffs and furloughs announced, cancellation of Saturday newscasts


Houston film critics review "Movies on Lockdown" free for broadcast
APRIL 24, 2020
With movie theatres shuttered, the Houston Film Critics Society is now posting at home viewing suggestions on its website to help movie fans endure lockdown, while offering free access to movie reviews from select Society members to broadcast stations across the US and Canada (the critics will also appear live).

KPRC 2 went bananas and then this happened
APRIL 23, 2020
On a story about Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo’s mandatory mask order and $1000 potential fine, the NBC affiliate accidentally wrote you can wear "homemade masks, scarfs, bananas."

VIDEO: Randy McIlvoy talks sports broadcasting during COVID-19
APRIL 23, 2020
KPRC 2 sports director Randy McIlvoy talks to the High Tech Texan Michael Garfield for "The Quarantine Chronicles."

Familiar Houston radio voice battled COVID-19; family still in quarantine
Apr 17, 2020
Marc Sherman's voice is familiar to many Houston radio listeners. He spent years on sister station Sunny 99.1 with Dana Tyson. And like thousands of people in the Greater Houston area, Sherman fought a battle he never expected to; one with COVID-19.


EXPLAINED: How KPRC 2 decides how long to keep a press conference running on live television
April 17, 2020
Why do you always cut off the President of the United States in the middle of his televised speech and why don’t you cut off President Donald Trump when he is giving an obvious campaign stump speech?

New York Times Best-Selling Author Shea Serrano Raises $31,000 for the Houston Press
April 13, 2020
Last week, we ran an appeal to readers as part of our recent campaign to attract donor/members to help support the continuing work of the Houston Press.

KTRK GM Granato: "TV is seeing a huge resurgence"
April 13, 2020
abc13 KTRK president and general manager Wendy Granato: "We thought we'd lost the 20-something year olds, we thought we lost them to social media, we haven't."


Mia Gradney to anchor CBS Weekend News Easter weekend
April 11, 2020
KHOU 11 5, 6 and 10pm anchor Mia Gradney anchoring for CBS News' weekend newscasts

Carlos Robles using augmented reality weather graphics from home
April 10, 2020
Telemundo Houston KTMD chief meteorologist Carlos Robles is using augmented reality weathercasting in his living room.

KPRC 2, KHOU 11, FOX26, CW39 join forces for COVID-19 PSA
April 9, 2020
Channels 2, 11, 26 and 39 come together to show Houston TV solidarity during coronavirus pandemic.

Houston churches to air on local TV Easter Sunday
April 8, 2020
While you can't physically attend Easter Service, Houston churches and television stations are joining forces to help you celebrate without leaving your house.

TEGNA, owner of KHOU and many Texas stations, announces furloughs
April 6, 2020
TEGNA, owner of Texas stations like KHOU Houston, WFAA Dallas, KENS San Antonio, KVUE Austin, KCEN Waco, KAGS College Station, KYTX Tyler, KIII Corpus Christi, KBMT-KJAC Beaumont, KXVA Abilene and KIDY San Angelo has announced week long furloughs to come this month.

Nick Natario takes stay at home studio to next level
April 5, 2020
abc13 KTRK multi-media journalist (MMJ) Nick Natario builds awesome home studio, while channel 13 tests emergency broadcast location

Former KHOU photographer John Shaw loses wife to COVID-19
April 1, 2020
Shaw tells his former station that he recently lost his wife to COVID-19 after being with her for more than 50 years.


Chauncy Glover discusses experiencing COVID-19
March 31, 2020
Chauncy Glover goes live with his 3pm co-anchor, Mayra Moreno, about his condition.

Morning Dose returns to CW39 Monday away from studio
March 29, 2020
After being off the air Friday, CW39 KIAH's Morning Dose returns Monday.

FOX 26 KRIV tests remote broadcasts
March 29, 2020
Weekend anchor Tom Zizka posted photos on Facebook of FOX 26 KRIV conducting broadcasting tests from its transmitter location.

COVID-19 pandemic forces sports media to adapt
March 27, 2020
With a lack of sporting events for the foreseeable future, media outlets have pivoted in attempts to fill a content void for their audience.

Chauncy Glover tests positive for COVID-19
March 26, 2020
Chauncy Glover, 3pm and 6:30pm anchor for abc13 KTRK, announced today he has tested positive for coronaviurs and is self-quarantining.

Cleverley Stone puts show on hold
March 21, 2020
CBS SportsRadio 650 KIKK "Cleverley Food Talk" radio host Cleverley Stone posted the following: "Due to the Coronavirus issue and my illness (I’m fighting stage 4 uterine cancer with chemotherapy treatments), we are putting The Cleverley Show on hiatus for now."

From the Houston Chronicle editor: During coronavirus crisis, we’re working for you
March 20, 2020
A word about newspaper delivery during these troubled times: We have no indication from health authorities that the coronavirus can be spread on newsprint. But in an abundance of caution, we have provided gloves to all our press workers and delivery agents. And we are aggressively sanitizing our facilities daily.

TV anchors broadcast from home
March 20, 2020
Houston news anchors are staying home, but still delivering the news on TV.
- Houston TV helps the kids online

VIDEO: New ways TV news crews are working during COVID-19
March 19, 2020
Many Houston TV news stations are not letting their field crews (reporters/photographers) come into the station unless absolutely needed. Many are now staging from home and going to the story in their own vehicles. Some stations pair teams together to work strictly away from the station.

The Houston Press Not Immune to These Hard Times, Needs Help
March 19, 2020
As the Houston Press has documented for you over the last several days, these are hard times for our city. We’ve gone out of our way to detail the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic, especially for those in the arts, music and restaurant/bar communities, as well as relaying important public-health news and updates.

abc13 KTRK reporter Miya Shay and photographer Mario Segura confronted during live shot
March 13, 2020

I’m just going to assume this guy dropped a bunch of F bombs on me this morning because his wife sent him for toilet paper too early. #jobhazard#Coronavirus #COVID19 is serious. We are not hyping it. #abc13 https://t.co/fWUjPZUbWc pic.twitter.com/9zMhcP46xp

— Miya Shay (@ABC13Miya) March 13, 2020

Houston Chronicle news staffers could have been exposed to coronavirus
March 10, 2020
Four Houston Chronicle journalists attended a conference last week where a participant has had a presumptive positive test for novel coronavirus.

Former abc13 KTRK photographer Jaime Zamora's daughter is blogging for KPRC 2 on what it is like on lock down in Spain
March 9, 2020 and ongoing
Isabella Zamora, a Houston native and Maddie Wharton, of Portland, Oregon, were teaching in Spain together when Madrid went on lockdown over the coronoavirus. They will share their experiences on click2houston.com to provide a real-life view of what life is like right now in Spain.

KPRC 2′s Eric Braate under self-quarantine after returning from trip to Asia
March 9, 2020
KPRC 2 meteorologist Eric Braate just returned from a two week trip to Asia and has been asked to self-quarantine as a precautionary measure. Braate says he was not anticipating having to self-quarantine because when he left for the trip, the situation had not grown to what it is now. He feels fine and is healthy and said had he known how the coronavirus crisis would play out, he would have reconsidered his two-week trip.
- UPDATE 3-17-2020: ‘I’m on a 14 day quarantine. This is what it’s like.’

Houston reporter's FB post causes controversy, Things TV News Got Wrong In April and more

MORE VIDEO
- David Paul's hiccups heard around the world
- Things TV News Got Wrong In April
- Baby has memorable TV debut
- KVUE anchors get the giggles
- Reporter Shows Grit During Dusty Live Shot: ‘I Want This To End’
- Metallica plays National Anthem
- Outdoorsman And TV Host Bill Dance Has A Spectacular Blooper Reel
- Watch Howard Kurtz Offer a Brutally Awkward Mea Culpa on His Own Show
- 20 of Paul Harvey's popular OTR "The Rest of the Story" commentaries

DFW radio/TV simulcast and marriage proposal
D-FW TV news notes, featuring Mark Davis, Debbie Denmon.

Dallas dentist Richard Malouf sues more WFAA reporters and Curbed.com
Dr. Richard and Leanne Malouf are suing to keep the media — and their own neighbors — off their property.

NBC 5 / Dallas-Fort Worth Investigates Team Wins Top National and Regional Honors
The Society of Professional Journalists has honored NBC 5 as a national winner of 2012 Sigma Delta Chi Award for excellence in journalism, and The Radio Television Digital News Association has awarded NBC 5 four regional Edward R. Murrow Awards.

The Dallas Morning News’ paywall is getting a makeover to try to capture digital-only readers
Publisher Jim Moroney says the paper will be adding a “greatly improved, metered paid-access model that is much more consumer friendly in every way.”

KVIL Dallas Turns Out The Lite
CBS’ 103.7 KVIL Highland Park-Dallas has dropped its “103.7 Lite-FM” moniker in favor of its call letters.

After 9 years, a fond farewell
Columnist Loren Steffy signs off from the Houston Chronicle.

FOX 26 Reporter: Stop Sex Slavery! Let’s Randomly Search Your Houses!
97.9 The Box reports on how FOX 26 news personality Damali Keith is taking some heat with viewers after she said she’d support random house searches for sex slaves after three women who were missing for nine years were found Monday night in Ohio.

Less Sports, More Boobs
Guy Talk and the De-Evolution of Houston Sports Talk Radio.

Houston Press loses food critic
Katharine Shilcutt signs off from the Houston Press and follows her co-workers to Houstonia Magazine.

The Texican
Craig Hlavaty launches new Houston Chronicle blog and then gets Ted Nugent as a guest blogger.

School board candidate claims Katy ISD restricts free speech by limiting placement of campaign signs
One of three candidates running for Position 1 trustee in the Katy Independent School District has filed a complaint with KISD claiming that limiting placement of campaign signs at early voting sites violates the freedom of speech. Wayne Dolcefino, who is challenging 24-year incumbent trustee Joe Adams, raised the issue in a school board forum.

KOLD Meteorologist Chuck George: I Suffer From Severe Depression
Fomer KPRC 2 meteorologist (and currently KOLD met) Chuck George, who has been on a leave of absence from the Tuscon CBS affiliate since last month, has revealed that he suffers from severe depression.

Media outlets reflect Houston's diversity
Houston's diversity is reflected in the dozens of print, television, radio and online outlets that provide entertainment and information to the nation's fourth largest city.

COPS Will Soon Be Filming Mulleted Ne'er Do Wells in Beaumont
COPS, now in its 86th season, will soon be filming in Beaumont.

News 12 Good Day starts on FOX 12
News 12 Good Day with anchor Heather Sahr and meteorologist Megan Krannig starts on Fox 12.3 KXII.

London Broadcasting Company adds
London Broadcasting Company, Inc., the owner and operator of Texas-based media properties, announced today that Matthew C. Hupfeld will join the Company as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer effective July 15, 2013.

MOVING

I just reported last week that KTRK abc13 contributor Erin Libranda, (aka "the Super Saver") left the station. Now it appears that Live Well Network Deals host Katishia Cosley is replacing her with a new segment according to her tweet. (Thanks @HOUcheap)

Michael S. Moore is now Assistant Chief Photojournalist at KVUE-TV according to his LinkedIn account.

Roseann Rogers 'The Buzz Lady' moves to KTRK abc13
Check This Out: "The Buzz Lady" Roseann Rogers relocates to KTRK abc13

Bob Slovak new KTRK abc13 weekend sports anchor
Bob Slovak now featured on weekend newscast open as sports anchor

Jaymie Kosina becomes GSM of KBXX/KMJQ & Digital Sales Manager of Texas
Jaymie Kosina Joins Radio One Management Team in Texas - Veteran Sales Professional will be Digital Sales Manager of Texas and GSM of KBXX/KMJQ

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
- Houston media members don feather boas and are ready to serve
- KHOU launches EP Mike O'Neill movie review segment
- 5 Houston TV anchors with baby bumps
- Houston & Dallas TV anchors ice the competition

Tim Melton talks about his stroke with Bob Allen on KHOU

UPDATE
Tim Melton opens up to Bob Allen about stroke and recovery (VIDEO)


Bob Allen conducts first interview with Tim Melton about his stroke Monday @ 10pm on KHOU 11

Tim Melton

Tim Melton, former channel 13 weekend sports anchor, will give his first TV interview about the stroke he suffered in October of 2011 to his friend and former colleague Bob Allen this Monday night on channel 11.

"I think you'll find it interesting and encouraging," Allen told mikemcguff.com. "The man is handling a tough situation in an amazing way."

Allen says this will be the first time Melton has even talked about the stroke publicly and how he's been coping since.

I broke the news on this very blog last month that Tim Melton left KTRK abc13, where he had worked since 1981.

And just last weekend, I broke the news that KTRK abc13 officially made sports reporter Bob Slovak Melton's replacement in the weekend sports chair.

As for Allen, he quit KTRK in January and started working at KHOU in April.

UPDATE
Tim Melton opens up to Bob Allen about stroke and recovery (VIDEO)

Dave Ward's funeral service was a touching tribute to a Houston icon

ABC13 Houston KTRK Anchor Emeritus Dave Ward was laid to rest today, starting with his funeral service at St. Martin's Episcopal Church on Sage. 

Ward, 86, died Saturday evening after several years battling medical challenges culminating in a bout of pneumonia.

I was asked to be an honorary pallbearer for the service, which meant a lot to me.

Many in the crowd felt this day marked the end of an era for television news, but even amid the sadness, the palpable celebration of a man who had impacted Houston in so many ways was evident.

The touching ceremony began with biblical readings from his stepdaughters, Rachelle Rowe and Corey Flores, with an additional reading from his granddaughter, Sarah Heatley.

Three emotional eulogies were offered by friends of Ward's who all saw a different side of the iconic Houston journalist: Dave Strickland, his former producer and eventual news director; Jim McGrath, his biography's co-author; and restaurant magnate, Houston Rockets owner, and current United States Ambassador to Italy Tilman Fertitta.

A surprise recording Ward made a year ago played through the church's speakers as the anchor's last goodbye. Hearing that familiar booming voice echo through the sanctuary was as close to an in-person goodbye as attendees could get.

The white gloved pallbearers were Dr. Mohammed Attar, Jim McGrath, Jeff Bagwell, Jim McInvale, Gary Becker, Dan Pastorini, Anthony Buzbee, Dave Strickland, Tilman Fertitta, and Houston Mayor John Whitmire.

Honorary pallbearers included Tom Abrahams, Ted Oberg, Mike McGuff, Elvin Bethea, John Mubarak, Wayne Dolcefino, Don Nelson, Tony Gracely, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, Tim Heller, Dr. Tom Sawyer, Bob Jackson, Justin Sternberg, Don Kobos, Bob Slovak, and Tom Koch. 

The Rev. Dane E. Boston and The Rev. Lisa R. Neilson oversaw the funeral.

The funeral was aired live on Channel 13 and live-streamed on ABC13+. You can watch the service with the additional KTRK coverage here.

- Dave Ward honored at ABC13 and Crime Stoppers

KFDM 6 Beaumont anchors: Where are they now?

KFDM 6 Beaumont just moved into its new studios, and is looking back to its past of 69 years to see where some of its previous anchors have gone to. 

Weeknight anchor Aaron Drawhorn interviewed some of the previous anchors, meteorologists, and hosts that made up the station's past.

"And there was just a culture about KFDM television that you just assimilated and you learned and you...you fit in. And we were able to attract great talent," former anchor and general manager from 1974 to 2011 Larry Beaulieu said in the report. "KFDM had a reputation. It was a...had some of the highest news shares of any television station in the United States."

Other on-air KFDM talents included:

Cecile Burandt 

Albert Zipp

Sally Rieger (anchor 1984 to 1997)

Meteorologist Bob French (went on to KBTX 3 Bryan - College Station)

Leeza Gibbons PM Magazine host 1979 to 1980 (went to Entertainment Tonight)

Kerry Andersen (anchor 1994 to 1996)

Bill Leger

Liz Wiggins (anchor 1995 to 2002)

Jackie Simien (anchor 1994 to 2007)

Kelli Phillips (anchor 2002 to 2015 went on to Texas Country Reporter)

Scott Lawrence (anchor 1985 to 1988, now a KFDM Executive Producer)

And look what I found on this old Facebook post! It features ABC13 KTRK Houston's Bob Slovak from his time at KFDM.

KTRK 13 hires fmr. KVUE sports dir. Hugh Lewis

Hugh Lewis courtesy of KTRK's airwaves

It's big news when KTRK channel 13 makes a change of any type to its sports department. After all, sports director Bob Allen has been with the Houston ABC owned and operated station since 1974, Tim Melton since 1981 and Bob Slovak since 1998.

That's why it's getting attention that a new face in the Houston TV sports scene is now filing sports reports for KTRK. That face belongs to Hugh Lewis who started appearing on channel 13's airwaves over the past few days (watch one of his reports below).

However Lewis is well known in other parts of Texas and even the nation. In fact Lewis was KVUE 24 Austin's sports director back in the 80s and early 90s. According to Austin blogger Jim McNabb, in his post TV life, Lewis worked at KVET-AM (Austin), partially owned and managed Austin's Indoor Professional Football Team and put time in at HDNews TV (a former New York based network).

Recently Lewis has been a blogger with his son at bonafidesports.com (listen to Lewis talk sports on DayBreak USA)

It is now becoming more obvious to Houston viewers that Tim Melton has not appeared on the KTRK 13 airwaves since mid-October (Melton's bio is still on the station's site). The station has offered no official explanation that I am aware of for Melton's absence. That has forced the station's viewers to come and ask me for answers. We can only assume that Mr. Lewis has been hired to fill the void in the station's sports department until Melton returns.