David Tillman named Chief Forecaster for abc13 KTRK

abc13 KTRK weekend meteorologist David Tillman moves to Monday through Friday 11am and 4pm newscasts as Chief Forecaster

David Tillman has been named the abc13 KTRK Chief Forecaster according to a post on his Facebook page.

Hello friends! Some of you may have been wondering where I was this weekend. Well, my schedule and duties have changed a bit. After 18 years, I'm no longer going to be bringing you the weather forecast on the weekend. I'm now working Monday through Friday on the 11 A. M. and 4 P. M. editions of Eyewitness News. Additionally, I have a new title, Chief Forecaster for the weather team. That means Travis Herzog and I will share the Chief duties at ABC13. My duties will focus on forecasting and severe weather training for the team.

I'm excited about the change in hours since my wife and I have been on opposite work schedules for the entire 27 years that we've known each other. Believe me when I tell you, she endorses the change. I hope it doesn't mean more honey do's1 :). So to sum things up, Please join me from now on at 11 and 4, Monday through Friday. I'll see you there!

While it's great Tillman now gets more time with his family on Saturdays and Sundays, it's the end of an era for channel 13 weekend viewers who love his expertise and calming presence during rough storms for the last 19 years or so.

According to his bio, after graduating from Jackson State University in Jackson, Mississippi with a Bachelor of Science Degree in meteorology, Tillman began working at WAPT in the same city.

He then went on to work for the National Weather Network during the weekends and produced weather segments for 35 television stations and 45 radio stations across the United States.

Before coming to Houston, he worked for WMC in Memphis where he won an Emmy for weather coverage.

If you read my blog last week, then you saw that Travis Herzog announced he is the new abc13 KTRK chief meteorologist - replacing the outgoing Tim Heller on the station's evening newscasts. And Elita Loresca is moving from the daytime shift to replace Herzog on mornings.

While no formal announcement was made, Rachel Briers appears to have replaced Tillman on channel 13's weekend evening newscasts.

RELATED
Houston anchor desk replacements in 2019?




(Thanks Kevin!)

“abc13 Eyewitness News at 9 PM on CW39” debuts May 11th

IRVING and HOUSTON, TX – Nexstar Broadcasting, a wholly owned subsidiary of Nexstar Media Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: NXST), today announced that KIAH-TV (CW), the Company’s owned and operated television station in Houston, TX (DMA #8), will premiere its nightly 9-10 PM local newscast on Monday, May 11th. “ABC13 Eyewitness News at 9 PM on CW39,” will be exclusively produced for KIAH-TV by KTRK-TV ABC13 and will air Monday through Sunday. The broadcast will also be available via livestream on ABC13.com and CW39.com.

UPDATE JULY 2026
KHOU 11 to provide CW39 9pm newscast

“During times of uncertainty, having a reliable and trusted source of news and information is crucial for the communities we serve,” said Tim Busch, President of Nexstar Broadcasting. “KIAH-TV’s commitment to providing additional local programming to Houston viewers will come to fruition through our association with ABC13 Eyewitness News, a well-known news resource serving Houston area communities and viewers for more than 65 years. Nexstar and ABC believe this partnership, which offers our viewers a choice for news in prime-time, is more important than ever before.”

RELATED
Other ways Houston TV stations are teaming up

Powered by ABC13’s #1 award winning news team including anchors Tom Abrahams and Elissa Rivas and Chief Forecaster David Tillman, each newscast will include the very latest on the coronavirus (“COVID-19”) pandemic and its impact on the community, the day’s other top stories, weather, and positive profiles of the people and places that are uniquely Houston.

ABC13 Eyewitness News Anchor Tom Abrahams is an Emmy and Edward R. Murrow Award winning journalist who’s covered some of the biggest stories of our time including Hurricanes Harvey and Katrina, 9/11, and the current COVID-19 crisis. Tom also covers national politics, the space program and stories that relate to energy, the environment and the economy.

ABC13 Eyewitness News and Traffic Anchor Elissa Rivas is a national RTDNA Edward R. Murrow Award winning journalist, whose passion for education and literacy led to the Adult Reading Center creating the “Elissa Rivas Scholarship Fund.” The fund annually awards scholarships to adults needing assistance for continuing education.

ABC13’s Emmy Award winning Meteorologist and Chief Forecaster David Tillman has more than two decades of experience accurately predicting severe weather and tracking tornadoes, storms and hurricanes. Mr. Tillman and the ABC13 Eyewitness Weather Team make keeping the community safe and informed their top priority.

RELATED
KTRK GM Granato: "TV is seeing a huge resurgence"

KIAH-TV’s partnership with KTRK-TV is modeled after Nexstar’s successful relationship with ABC in Philadelphia, where WPVI-TV (ABC) produces “Action News at 10pm on PHL 17” for Nexstar’s WPHL-TV (MyNet).

Leading into “ABC13 Eyewitness News at 9 PM on CW39,” will be popular CW Network prime time programming such as All American, Bat Woman, Super Girl, and Riverdale. Immediately following the newscast will be proven comedies led by Two and a Half Men, Mom, and Last Man Standing.

“Offering informative, live local news, weather and sports as an alternative to the entertainment programming being provided in prime-time gives KIAH-TV a unique platform from which to connect with both viewers and advertisers,” said Mr. Busch. “We’re pleased to be working with KTRK-TV to deliver additional high-quality local content to CW39 viewers.”

For more than 65 years, KTRK-TV has been Houston’s News and Community Leader. Owned by the ABC Television Network, a subsidiary of the Walt Disney Company, the station produces 42 hours of local news each week. ABC13 also produces compelling multi-platform content celebrating Houston’s rich diversity and cultures, including major live events like the Chevron Houston Marathon, Pride Parade, July 4th Freedom Over Texas, and Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo Parade.

“Our KTRK ABC13 team is looking forward to launching this new venture with KIAH-TV,” said Wendy Granato, President and General Manager of KTRK-TV. “As Houston’s News Leader, we welcome the opportunity to serve a wider audience with this strategic partnership. We know that viewers need accurate information in real time to help them make smart decisions and protect their families. We welcome the opportunity to serve audiences in an even bigger way.”

About Nexstar Media Group, Inc.

Nexstar Media Group is a leading diversified media company that leverages localism to bring new services and value to consumers and advertisers through its traditional media, digital and mobile media platforms. Nexstar owns, operates, programs or provides sales and other services to 196 television stations and related digital multicast signals reaching 114 markets or approximately 38% of all U.S. television households (reflecting the FCC’s UHF discount). Nexstar’s portfolio includes primary affiliates of NBC, CBS, ABC, FOX, MyNetworkTV and The CW. Nexstar’s community portal websites offer additional hyper-local content and verticals for consumers and advertisers, allowing audiences to choose where, when and how they access content while creating new revenue opportunities. Nexstar also owns WGN America, a growing national general entertainment cable network and a 31.3% ownership stake in TV Food Network, a top tier cable asset. For more information please visit www.nexstar.tv.

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

Houston anchor desk replacements in 2019?

UPDATE JULY 09, 2019
Taniya Wright joins KPRC 2 as Rachel McNeill replacement

OK, 2019 is officially here so let's get down to business again.

Lots of Houston TV viewers are hitting me up wanting to know who will replace the now former KPRC 2 morning anchor Rachel McNeill?

McNeill's departure is Houston's loss and Phoenix's gain. Will she start anchoring in The Valley of the Sun?

"In 2019, my prime focus will be on my family during this transition," McNeill told mikemcguff.com when she announced her channel 2 departure.

I cannot imagine that management at Phoenix TV stations will not realize a talent like NcNeill is now living in their market and not try to recruit her for their anchor desks. What could delay her Phoenix TV debut is that she truly is not interested in returning to TV at the moment or the stations have to wait till they have a position to offer her.

But more important for us, who will replace McNeill at channel 2!

I originally heard that new KPRC hire Christine Noël was hired to anchor the station's 4pm newscast, but why can't this Denver morning anchor take over for McNeill? That is my best guess right now. Of course there could always be an in-house candidate about to be named.

By the way, here is Noël's goodbye video from KUSA a few days ago (click to watch Rachel McNeill's goodbye video).

Christine Noël

But wait, there's more!

Other H-Town news viewers are asking me who will replace the soon to be retiring abc13 KTRK chief meteorologist Tim Heller?

I think based on what I am hearing - Travis Herzog is the replacement. But KTRK has a secret weapon with longtime meteorologist David Tillman in that weather department - so you never fully know.

Over the years, KTRK has pretty much told us Herzog is the replacement by moving him to high-profile newscasts and making fancy TV promos about him.

Also, since Elita Loresca has morning newscast experience at KNBC Los Angeles (TV market number 2), I fully expect her to take over channel 13's AM weather gig.

What do you think? TELL ME HERE. You might have better educated guesses about who is replacing who than I do!


UPDATE JULY 09, 2019
Taniya Wright joins KPRC 2 as Rachel McNeill replacement


UPDATE
So if you are reading this far, let's see how well I predicted. Pretty well so far!
- Travis Herzog new abc13 KTRK chief meteorologist; Elita Loresca to mornings
- David Tillman named Chief Forecaster for abc13 KTRK
- Travis Herzog takes the Chief Meteorologist reins from Tim Heller

RELATED
- The changing faces of Houston TVnews 2018
- Houston anchor desk replacements in 2019?

David Tillman to the rescue!

Not only is David Tillman a fantastic meteorologist, but the abc13 KTRK Houston chief forecaster is also a great weather department team member!

The changing faces of Houston media 2019

The comings and goings of the Houston media world 2019.

RELATED
Top Houston media stories 2019

January 2019

- Grego joins 95.7 The Spot KKHH

- Cheryl Mercedes joins KHOU 11

- Ryan Korsgard is leaving KPRC 2

- Travis Herzog new abc13 KTRK chief meteorologist; Elita Loresca to mornings

- David Tillman named Chief Forecaster for abc13 KTRK

- Craig Roberts remembers times at KPRC 2

- Mark Medici Promoted to President of the Houston Chronicle

- Former KPRC 2 anchor Sara Donchey joins KCBS 2 and KCAL 9 in LA

- Vincent Crivelli joins KPRC 2


February 2019

- Brooks Garner gone from KHOU 11

- Doug Harris aka Jr. Mintz elected Houston Film Critics Society president

- Mike McGuff appears on KPRC 2's Houston Newsmakers with Khambrel Marshall

- Brian Rogers to depart from the Houston Chronicle

- Former KHOU GM Susan McEldoon to offer professional coaching

- Lisa Vaughn back on air at KHOU 11

- Brheanna Berry joins abc13 KTRK

- Suzi Hanks exits 106.9-107.5 The Eagle

- Christine Noël starts at KPRC 2


March 2019

- Butch Alsandor working Houston Astros and Rockets coverage

- Christine Dobbyn ‏to leave abc13 KTRK

- Denise Middleton joins FOX 26

- Stephen Morgan promoted to FOX 26 weekend morning weather anchor

- Leti Aguilera named General Sales Manager CMG Houston


April 2019

- Anchor Denise Middleton and meteorologist Stephen Morgan to work FOX 26 KRIV weekend mornings

- KHOU 11 assistant news director Josh Hubbard is leaving Houston for the same job with Disney/ABC Television Group owned KGO San Franciso

- Former KPRC 2 features reporter Ruben Galvan joins KHOU 11

- Deilia Ray Williams named KTRK abc13 Marketing Creative Director

- Steve Riley named Houston Chronicle Executive Editor

- David Arkin to lead digital at KPRC 2

- KTRK GM Henry Florsheim announces retirement


May 2019

- Deilia Ray Williams named KTRK abc13 Marketing Creative Director

- Steve Riley named Houston Chronicle Executive Editor

- 91.7 NGEN debuts new lineup May 13, 2019

- Darby Douglas enters next chapter

- Michael Berry renews agreement with 740 KTRH

- Kelly Ryan Joins Dean & Rog on 106.9-107.5 Houston’s Eagle


June 2019

- Russ Lewis to anchor KHOU 4pm newscast

- Reporter/fill-in anchor Mycah Hatfield joins abc13 KTRK as reporter/MMJ from KJRH Tulsa, Oklahoma


July 2019

- KVOA Tucson, Arizona weekend sports anchor Ari Alexander joins KPRC 2

- Levi Ismail exits KHOU 11

- After John Walton's death, the "Walton and Johnson" show will continue with Ken Webster Jr. as Steve Johnson's co-host

- WNCN Raleigh's Taniya Wright joins KPRC 2 as morning anchor

- Brooks Garner joins FOX 31 Denver

- Rich Lord and Mike Meltser exit SportsRadio 610 KILT

- WLWT Cincinnati reporter Vanessa Richardson joins KPRC 2 sports team

- Remembering 99.9 FM KSHN Liberty

- Patricia Buchanan named Vice President of Sales Telemundo Houston KTMD

- Telemundo Houston KTMD reporter Eduardo "Yusnaby Pérez" Rodriguez leaves for Telemundo 51 Miami WSCV

- Emily Akin retires from FOX 26


August 2019

- Deneige Broom leaves FOX 26 KRIV

- Josh Marshall to leave KHOU 11

- Wendy Granato named KTRK President and General Manager

- Ryan Korsgard joins Million Air Austin

- Janet Shamlian joins CBS News as Houston-based correspondent

- Xavier Walton joins KHOU as morning anchor; Lisa Hernandez moves

- Lee Meier named FOX 26 KRIV assistant news director

- Lainie Fritz to leave KPRC 2

- TX Radio Hall of Famer on new Houston online station

- Chris Costa joins KHOU 11

- Leslie Adami named KIII Corpus Christi evening anchor

- "Red, White & Blue" and "Party Politics" return with new co-hosts

- John Donnelly to leave FOX 26

- Natasha Barrett joins the Memorial Hermann Health System

- Roxann Fisher joins KAVU Victoria as news director


September 2019

- Rehan Aslam named abc13 KTRK news director

- Tiffany Justice joins FOX 26 KRIV

- GM David Loving exits KXLN Univision 45

- Mike Glenn leaves Houston Chronicle for Washington Times

- abc13 anchors celebrating some big anniversaries

- Lainie Fritz appears on WDSU New Orleans


October 2019

- Melissa Wilson celebrates 19 years at FOX 26 KRIV

- Cynthia Cisneros announces retirement from abc13 KTRK

- MaryAnn Martinez joins KPRC 2

- Chelsea Edwards joins FOX 26 KRIV

- Caitlin “CJ” Johnson joins The New 93Q KKBQ

- John Hannon named President and General Manager of Univision 45 Houston KXLN

- KPRC legendary anchor Bill Balleza to retire

- Jennifer Reyna is leaving KPRC 2

- Jennifer Reyna breaks silence after leaving KPRC

- Lindsey Henry leaves FOX 26

- Tom Abrahams celebrates 20 years at abc13 KTRK


November 2019

- KiTiRik - Houston's greatest TV host?

- Famous media HISD graduates

- Bo Corona launches Puro Tejano Fierro 101.1 HD2

- abc13 KTRK anchors switch schedules


December 2019

- Addison Green joins KHOU

Rachel Briers joins abc13 KTRK

Rachel Briers joins abc13 KTRK as a meteorologist after NewsWest 9 KWES Midland-Odessa in December 2018.

UPDATE DECEMBER 2025
Rachel Briers leaves ABC13 Houston

She left KWES in early October after a little more than two years.

"In true West TX fashion, my husband and I will be moving to Houston to continue my husband’s career in the oil business," Briers posted on Facebook at the time. "We are so excited to see what the future holds for us and I will definitely update you all on what life brings!"

Before KWES, Briers worked at KLBK in Lubbock as the weekday evening meteorologist.

The Plano native graduated from Texas A&M with a degree in Atmospheric Sciences.

She interned at WFAA DFW and KBTX Bryan-College Station.

* While no formal announcement was made, Briers appears to have replaced newly named Chief Forecaster David Tillman on channel 13's weekend evening newscasts. In his new role as of January 2019, Tillman now works on the station's weekday 11am and 4pm Eyewitness News newscasts.



*This post has been updated with new information.

Houston TV anniversaries decades in the making!

Here are three big Houston TV anniversaries that I've happened to catch over the last months via social media...at times while I was not blogging...so here we go now!

FOX 26 KRIV "What’s Your Point?” host Greg Groogan (36 years in TV as of January 2021)

"I have been at this now 36 years. Thank you Juan Campos numero uno." Groogan posted to Facebook at the time.  "I have served under 14 news directors including former colleague Carolyn Mungo. One factor that I believe always helped my longevity was an absolute disinterest in anchoring. Never, ever asked, to their collective relief. Which, of course, renders this current gig the ultimate irony. That said, I am proud of how this Sunday morning show has evolved into a genuine asset for my community. Watch the conversation and judge for yourself. No harm, no foul if you disagree. The skin toughens substantially after three and half decades."

abc13 KTRK Chief Forecaster David Tillman (20 years at channel 13 as of October 2020)

"Can you believe it?  I've been working at the best television station in the nation for 20 years," Tillman posted to Facebook  at the time.  "Today is my 20 year anniversary. It's been a blast. Let's see if I can make it another 20 years."

KHOU 11 investigative reporter Jeremy Rogalski (20 years at channel 11 as of January 2021)

"Today I celebrate my 20th anniversary at KHOU," Rogalski posted to Facebook at the time.  "A former colleague once told me working in this biz is like having a front-row ticket to life. That is so spot on. Allison, Enron, 9/11, Columbia STS-107, Katrina, Rita, Ike, Harvey and COVID-19 are just some of the major events I covered. And over the past 20 years, our investigations exposed corruption, wrongdoing, taxpayer waste and abuse. We held the powerful accountable and gave a voice to the voiceless. I'm so very grateful for having this front-row seat to tell your stories. Now it's back to work on a Monday!"

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.

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.

UPDATE SEPTEMBER 2026
Collin Myers returns to Houston at KPRC 2

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.

Texas TV news and radio job moves February 2024

Send tips for the monthly Texas media job list here.

- TAB Salutes 2024 News Award Winners and Finalists
- Texas 2024 Crystal Radio Award Finalists

DALLAS - FORT WORTH

WFAA wins NPPA Station of the Year, reporter Jobin Panicker wins Reporter of the Year.

Steve Brown retiring from Dallas Morning News after 47 years.

The Dallas Morning News hires Nick Wooten to cover real estate.

Legendary broadcaster Verne Lundquist announces he'll retire after calling 40th Masters.

Dallas Morning News turns to crowdfunding to pay reporters.

Dr. Phil's new Dallas-Fort Worth network hires Nancy Grace.

Feature Aircheck KLTY Dallas.

Radio host explains why he got a Texas Rangers' World Series box score tattooed on his back.

Dallas online radio station Deep Ellum Radio would love to make you a DJ.

Defunct Dallas Magapaper Makes Cameo in Old 97’s Video.

- Shannon Murray reveals unborn daughter's heart condition
- Dominique Sachse tours new Dallas home
- Marvin Hurst joins CBS News Texas
- Dawn White joins CBS News Texas
- Does Cynthia Izaguirre look like she's from 'The Flying Nun' TV show?
- Dominique Sachse introduces co-host Fanchon Stinger
- Dallas TV reporters welcome baby!
- Ken Kalthoff leaves NBC 5 DFW

HOUSTON

In Her Hometown of Houston, KKBQ and KILT Welcome Beyoncé’s Country Songs.

Fresh Listen: KILT (The Bull) vs. KKBQ (93Q) Houston.

KHOU’s Continuous Coverage Of Houston Post Office Failure Wins Praise.

ABC13 Weather Now and Houston Chronicle highlights Chief Forecaster David Tillman's historic career.

Houston’s new face: Anthony Antoine’s impact as news anchor.

Michael Berry Doesn’t Want to Be All Serious All the Time.

Oldest person in the US previously worked for abc13 KTRK.

Houston-based ABC News producer Gina Sunseri to receive the 2024 RNASA Space Communicator Award.

Gow secures Houston FM Translators For ESPN Radio.

“Connor and Beard” exit middays at ESPN Houston 97.5 KFNC. 

Paul Gallant Show ends, but Gallant says he is staying with ESPN Houston 97.5 KFNC. 

Jessie Watt, co-host of the Sarah Pepper and Jessie Watt Morning Show on Mix 96.5 KHMX, is a Radio Ink "Women to Watch."

Sean Pendergast of SportsRadio 610 KILT is a guest on the VanderPod.

Chief photographer Francisco Barragan celebrates 10 years with abc13 KTRK.

Weekend anchor Cheryl Mercedes celebrates five years with KHOU.

Photographer Michael Barbagallo leaves KHOU 11 for abc13 KTRK.

KJIC founder GM Bob Vaughn retires.

Compass Media and Rowdy Yates announce SIX new affiliates for “The Original Country Gold.”  The nation’s #1 country music request show is now heard on KTPK/Topeka, WFFN/Tuscaloosa, WUQQ Chattanooga as well as KRAN/Cheyenne plus KSDZ/Gordon and KDJL/Kilgore, both in the Corn Husker State of Nebraska.   Yates celebrates his 20th year in broadcast syndication this August.

The Centennial State and The Volunteer State go with Gallo!  SuiteRadio’s Dan Gallo adds two new affiliates.  Gallo will occupy the morning drive at Country KBVC-FM “Eagle Country 104.1” in Buena Vista, Colorado, beginning March 4th, and is now being heard middays in all of Middle Tennessee on Country WJZM-FM “105.1 The Wolf”  in Waverly. More at www.SuiteRadio.net.

- Madd Hatta joins Majic 102.1 KMJQ Houston
- Former FOX 26 reporter interviewed by KPRC 2
- Tim Heller a guest on Weather Insights Podcast
- "Runaway Radio" 101 KLOL documentary release is this month!
- Miya Shay celebrates Lunar New Year with TV guests
- KHOU 11 Super Bowl ad 2024
- KPRC 2 new 2024 studio - standing room only (sometimes)
- Brittany Begley joins KPRC 2
- Erica Simon gives birth to baby #2
- Randy Wallace Day February 13, 2024
- 101 KLOL "Runaway Radio" doc trailer!
- Chris Pruitt leaves CW39 Houston as General Manager
- KPRC 2 2024 studio - photos and more details
- Houston's first televised Downtown Rodeo Parade in 1959
- KPRC shows life in 1972 Houston through Black journalists' perspective
- KLOL doc talk with Michael Garfield
- Houston TV anchors getting ready for first rodeo
- Christine Noël gives birth
- Jonathan Mejia joins FOX 26 Houston
- Travis Herzog deserves the Oscar!
- Tuttle and Kline reunite on new podcast

SAN ANTONIO

News 4 San Antonio WOAI anchor Mandy Noell brings a fresh perspective to the news.

Hearst newspapers declines to voluntarily recognize Express-News, MySA union.

San Antonio sports personality faces blowback for saying the city is poor.

- Mia Montgomery is married, Sarah Duran, too
- Max Massey to leave KSAT San Antonio

AUSTIN

KVUE to dedicate newsroom to Carole Kneeland, former News Director and VP of News.

Former KGSR Austin Program Director Jay Michaels joins “96.3 Jack-FM.”

The Texas Tribune makes Semifinalists list for the 2024 Goldsmith Prize for Investigative Reporting.

Texas Monthly Is a Finalist for Two National Magazine Awards.

Texas Monthly Reporter Russell Gold and the Long Game of Journalism.

- David Yeomans leaves KXAN Austin
- Carlo Falco left FOX 7 Austin

AROUND TEXAS

Morning anchor John-Thomas Kobos celebrates 13 years at 3News KIII Corpus Christi.

Jaxie Pidgeon leaves KLBK Lubbock for WKRN Nashville.

Chantale Belefanti joins KXXV 25 Waco-Temple-Killen as a reporter from Wichita Falls.

Waco DJ continues legacy of Black radio broadcasters.

Stephen Mosley owns 96.9 The Breeze Radio in Port Arthur. The station offers a jumping off point for aspiring DJs.

Former CBS19 KYTX Tyler weekend meteorologist/MMJ Colleen Campbell named new Weekend Evening Meteorologist at WTSP Tampa, FL.

Joel Burke Takes Six Signal Market Manager Role In Texas.

The El Paso County Commissioners Court recognizes KTSM as ‘great partner,’ cites ‘Small Town Spotlight’ shows.

- KCEN 6 Waco anchor changes
- Alex Del Barrio leaves KRGV Rio Grande Valley
- Leslie Adami says 'KII-I Do'
- Luis Carlos Mendoza to anchor InvestigateTV+ en Español
- Stephanie Shields leaves KTSM 9 El Paso

REMEMBERING

San Antonio mourns KTSA host Duane Charping.

Renowned Radio Programmer Buddy Scott passes away.

- Bobbie Wygant has passed away
- FOX 26 Houston producer Maggie McKethan passes away

Houston media honored at NABJ Sneaker Ball Scholarship Gala

Houston media stars were honored last Saturday, December 2, 2023, at the historical Eldorado Ballroom in Third Ward for the Houston Association of Black Journalists Sneaker Ball Scholarship Gala.

"The night was about giving flowers to those who deserve it - those who are making things happen but don’t ask for pats on the back because they are just doing what they love," Nakia Cooper, HABJ president told mikemcguff.com. "We tapped into every genre and generation and danced the night away in fly footwear but the most important thing for us was honoring our dear (forever) mayor Sylvester Turner and thanking him for an outstanding eight years."

Mistresses of ceremonies Alexis "Fly" Jones and abc13 KTRK 10pm anchor Erica Simon celebrated special honorees Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, NABJ President Ken Lemon and KPRC 2  host/producer of "Houston Newsmakers, weekend morning meteorologist Khambrel Marshall.

That was followed by the "Legends" honorees including abc13 KTRK chief forecaster David Tillman, MAJIC 102 KMJQ 's Uncle Funky Larry Jones, 93.7 The Beat KQBT's Jerrel ‘Hardbody Kiotti’ Brown, FOX 26 sports analyst/reporter Nate Griffin, KTSU 90.9 Program Director Donna Franklin and "African American News & Issues" Publishers Shirley and Roy Malonson.

The "Trailblazer" honorees included Houston Astros Vice President of Communications Gene Dias, NAMI Greater Houston Executive Director Angelina Hudson, Sisters Network Inc. Founder/CEO Karen Jackson, WFAA 8 Dallas Traffic Reporter/Anchor Tashara Parker, Houston Chronicle columnist Joy Sewing and Houston City Council member Tarsha Jackson. 

"Rising Stars" included KHOU 11 Executive Producer Taylor Berry, KPRC 2+ Streaming Manager Raybin Dockery, Reality TV Producer and Director Nawara Blue and Kindred Stories Bookstore Founder Terri Hamm. 

- SEE PHOTOS FROM EVENT

Houston Texans players score on radio and TV

David Barron has an article ont how Houston Texans players are appearing on radio/television and could be prepping for a second career like CBS analyst Spencer Tillman and others have:

Some players take a more carefree approach. Wide receiver David Anderson, who appears on KGOW (1560 AM) and KPRC (Channel 2), is as apt to discuss reality TV as football. Last week, he and KGOW staffer Raheel Ramzanali crooned a Backstreet Boys song in tribute to injured Texans tight end Owen Daniels, who has his own weekly air time on KFNC (97.5 FM).
"David is more about levity than about sports," said KGOW host Sean Pendergast. "We’ll do a segment about football, and then he’ll take the headset off and say, ‘We’re going to talk about the Lakers in the next segment, aren’t we?’ " READ MORE

Gina Gaston to leave the 10pm news

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

— Gina Gaston (@GinaGaston13) May 27, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

- Gina Gaston's triplets featured on KPRC

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

— David Tillman (@TillmanWeather) May 27, 2023

Travis Herzog takes the Chief Meteorologist reins from Tim Heller

Tim Heller retired from abc13 KTRK Friday, that means today is the dawn of a new era for channel 13's weather department (see video above). As I blogged before, we have two new chiefs at 13 - Chief Meteorologist Travis Herzog and Chief Forecaster David Tillman. And Meteorologist Elita Loresca moves from afternoons to mornings to replace Herzog.

Here is the press release KTRK sent me Friday evening to signal the change:

KTRK-TV ABC13 today announced Travis Herzog as the station’s new Chief Meteorologist.

Travis has been part of ABC13’s Eyewitness News Weather team since July of 2006. In that time, Travis has earned "Broadcaster of the Year" honors from the National Weather Association, "Best Weathercast in Texas” from the Associated Press, and “Top On-Air Personality” from the Media Alliance of Houston. Travis earned his meteorology degree from Texas A&M University, is certified by the American Meteorological Society and has earned the National Weather Association’s Seal of Approval.

“Chief Meteorologist Travis Herzog,” says Wendy Granato, VP of News/Digital Content, “represents what’s most important to our entire KTRK Weather team--- commitment to viewers and the community, knowledge and experience navigating our ever-changing Gulf-coast weather conditions. And, he happens to be one of the nicest, most caring media professionals I’ve ever known. Travis also understands the importance of informing and interacting with viewers the way they need…on TV, on their computers, and, on their phones.”

Born and raised in Texas, Travis has covered every kind of weather hazard we face in Southeast Texas and along the Gulf Coast. From hurricanes and tornadoes to floods and ice storms, Travis presents weather forecasts that are informative, educational, and easy to understand so viewers can protect their loved ones and themselves. As a weather safety advocate, Travis frequently gives weather safety talks at local schools to help empower young people to make wise choices during dangerous weather and help ease storm anxiety.

When severe weather strikes, you can trust Travis Herzog to provide you with timely weather updates and potentially life-saving information on air and online. Travis will assume his new role as Chief Meteorologist beginning January 14 th as he takes over ABC13 Eyewitness News weathercasts Monday-Friday at 5pm, 6pm and 10pm.

Texas TV news and radio job moves September 2024

Send tips for the monthly Texas media job list here.

One of Houston Press Best Bets this week is Wednesday's screening of "Runaway Radio," the 101 KLOL documentary! BUY TICKETS (with KLOL cast Q&A)

- 2024 Lone Star EMMY Nominations
- Best TV News Bloopers September 2024

DALLAS - FORT WORTH

Morning anchor "Good Day" Lauren Przybyl celebrates 15 years with FOX 4 KDFW.

NBC 5 KXAS morning anchor Laura Harris celebrates six years. 

CBS News Texas KTVT reporter Caroline Vandergriff celebrates 5 years with the station.

James Hartley leaves the Fort Worth Star-Telegram after 5 years.

Mesquite ISD’s radio station reaches 40th year.

UT Dallas Student Journalists Strike, Allege Retaliation for Palestine Encampment Coverage.

- Ed Werder to join WFAA’s coverage of the Dallas Cowboys’ 2024-2025 season
- Dallas Mavericks and TEGNA Announce New Multi-Year Broadcast Rights Agreement
- CW33 DFW changes local schedule
- Erin Moran gives birth to baby #2
- Jason Allen promoted to CBS News and Stations news hubs
- WFAA 8 DFW celebrates 75 years
- FOX 4 KDFW announces "The Ten"
- Laura Harris says yes to officiating TV wedding
- Briana Aldridge joins CBS News Texas
- DFW TV rides the State Fair of Texas live!
- Dallas sports fans victims of TV streaming wars
- Payton May joins FOX 4 KDFW
- FOX 4 KDFW "The Ten" debut delayed

HOUSTON

Why Did Houston Public Media Kill an HISD Podcast?

KPFT simulcast opens another chapter in Galveston's colorful radio history.

FOX 26 KRIV weekend anchor Tom Zizka celebrates 26 years with the station.

abc13 KTRK director Jeff Davis celebrates 25 years with the Disney station.

It’s the 6th anniversary of FOX 26 KRIV's "WakeUp! With Sally Mac and Lina." 

Meteorologist Caroline Brown celebrates 4 years with KPRC 2.

Free bilingual newspaper launches in Denver Harbor to civically engage Latino community.

Samir Becic, Houston’s renowned Fitness Czar, achieved a historic milestone by receiving the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition (PCSFN) Hero Award in Washington D.C.

Houston Landing hires eight journalists, launches strategic vision.

Texans snag comeback win moments before KHOU goes haywire.

Alison Young joins the Houston Landing as Associate Editor for Investigations.

Hanna Holthaus joins the Houston Landing as City Hall reporter.

Josh Innes, who has hosted shows at three different Houston sports radio stations, lost his gig on St. Louis radio in August and says he’d love to find a new spot back in Houston.

Producer Erica "Young" Cook leaves KPRC 2 after two decades.

Former KPRC 2 executive producer Louis Lochte joins HCA Florida Healthcare as Division Director of Media Relations.

KPRC 2 Assignment Editor Erika Ramirez joins the Houston Police Department as Public Information Officer.

Lucila Decia joins FOX 26 KRIV as a producer for weekend morning newscasts from CW39 KIAH.

Andy Katsafanas has been promoted to Local Sales Manager at Space City Home Network.

Sports Radio 610 KILT Settles Into Its New Home.

Wonderful World of the Cork - KHUL-FM, 1965.

- Mike Carr named ABC13 Houston KTRK president and general manager
- Premiere Networks adds “The Michael Berry Show” to national lineup
- Idolina Peralez returns to CW39 Houston...for now
- RaJan Monroe joins NGEN Radio
- KSAT San Antonio's ‘SA Live’ moves to 10 a.m.
- 13 Alert Radar network expands to College Station
- 100.3 The Bull gives away $20,000 to buy a horse
- Jennifer Reyna returns to KHOU 11
- Is abc13 Houston getting a new studio set?
- Justina Latimer leaves KPRC 2
- Deborah Duncan has pizza named after her
- Liz Roldán to leave KHOU 11 Houston
- Jonathan Novack returns to Houston with CW39
- FOX 26 anchor in fake AI video in 50 Cent video
- Caroline Collins hosts with her sister Lexi...who is who?
- Two former Houston TV reporters laid off from CBS News
- Abigail Dye victim of AI deep fake
- David Tillman to the rescue!

SAN ANTONIO

1200 WOAI and The Joe Pags Show News Anchor Cari Laque Reveals Cancer Diagnosis.

James Andrew ‘DJ Felli Fel’ Corrine debuts a new syndicated show on Univision Hip Hop “98.5 The Beat” KBBT.

 Zann Fredlund moves to Program Director of “Now 96.1” KXXM San Antonio and “96.7 Kiss-FM” KHFI Austin.

- 'SA Live' celebrates 10 years on the air
- RJ Marquez's KSAT San Antonio journey from digital to morning anchor
- Sarah Acosta is pregnant

AUSTIN

Restaurant Critic Patricia Sharpe to Retire After Fifty Years at Texas Monthly.

Jeremy Campbell is the Sr. News Director at Spectrum News Texas. For the past three months, he has been filling in as Interim Director. Larissa Cartwright left the position earlier this year. 

How FOX 7’s Tierra Neubaum Became the Top TV Personality in Austin.

Evening anchor Rebecca Thomas celebrates 9 years with FOX 7 KTBC.

Morning anchor John-Carlos Estrada celebrates five years with CBS Austin KEYE.

Tony Catalina joins the Austin American-Statesman as Texas A&M Beat Reporter.

“Vibe 93.3” KGSR adds the “Dana Cortez Show” for mornings and Jonathan ‘Snupe’ Daniel for afternoons.

Longtime Austin radio station gets city proclamation for KOOP Day.

Austin radio host launches podcast that goes to dark places.

- Austin TV hosts are expecting
- Jessica Cha joins KVUE Austin
- Mike Rush leaves KXAN Austin
- Kristen Currie addresses viewers questions about Hurricane Helene coverage

AROUND TEXAS

Big 12 Conference Launches 24/7 FAST Channel In Partnership With Raycom Sports.

“Power 108” KWPW Waco flips to Classic Country "107.9 The Bull."

iHeartMedia has announced a trio of leadership appointments in Texas.

Erika Navarijo Is Leaving Z95 Corpus Christi.

- Max Preston joins KAMR Amarillo
- Reagan Burke joins KLST San Angelo
- Fox 4 Beaumont launches new ARC local show
- Diamond Dickson joins KRIS 6 Corpus Christi
- Alejandro Sanchez joins Telemundo 40 Rio Grande Valley
- Carter Vandrasik joins KRBC Abilene
- Sonya Hill joins KNWA Northwest Arkansas
- Liz Dueweke leaves KFOX14 El Paso
- Bryce Brauneisen leaves CBS19 KYTX Tyler
- Brenda Matute leaves 12News KBMT Beaumont
- Darby Brown leaves KWTX 10 Waco
- Erika Harris returns to KFDM Beaumont

REMEMBERING

Donald "Don" Edward Peterson, 77, of League City, TX passed away.  He sold and managed radio stations for over 40 years in numerous markets, including Houston.  

Friends and former colleagues remember Dallas radio legend Sam Putney who was part of the top-rated Skip Murphy and Company Morning Show on K-104 FM in the 1990s and 2000s.

Remembering 3NEWS editor Terry Files.

- Chris Chicago of NGEN Radio has died

KTRK 13's 10pm news hijacked by technical problems

Wouldn't you know it...things break on holiday weekends. KTRK 13's usual Eyewitness News at 10pm was delayed a full hour Saturday night because of 'gremlins' in the equipment. Here is more from the KTRK 13 twitter account:

Wondering where the 10pm news is? We're experiencing technical difficulties. Stand by & we'll have the news up soon! Thx for your patience.

The anchors must have been waiting in the studio for a longtime for the problem to be fixed. At least according to a tweet from anchor Adela Uchida:

Tom and I are sitting in the studio, thinking we will be able to start the news at 11- just 6,7 minutes. Stay with us...

Forget the late news, the 'later' news finally came on around 11pm.

Hey guess what... THE NEWS IS ON!

TV stations having technical troubles is nothing new. I remember years ago when I worked at KTRK, the audio board went out right before the 10pm news. The production crew still got the news on anyway. A few months ago, KTRK didn't have any audio in its 4pm newscast for the first 20 minutes or so. That also happened to a 9pm newscast I served as a reporter on for KIAH 39.  At least in channel 13's case, the audience apparently noticed and sent warm wishes to the station on Facebook.

So what did KTRK run instead of the news while things were being repaired? Cold Case...which normally airs after the newscast on Saturday nights. Many Houston viewers probably wanted to call the HPD cold case unit when tuning in and not seeing anchors Tom Abrahams, Uchida, meteorologist David Tillman and sports anchor Tim Melton.

Glad to see @ktrkhouston has a human voice tweeting on it again. Not sure that has happened much since I left in 2009.

Doppler Dave Speelman celebrates 25 years with KVIA El Paso

Doppler Dave Speelman, the chief meteorologist at ABC-7 KVIA El Paso, celebrated his 25th anniversary on December 4, 2024.

ALSO HAPPENING
Stephanie Valle to leave KVIA El Paso

"To me, it's all about being happy and comfortable where you live," Speelman told mikemcguff.com.  "El Pasoans have been very warm and welcoming over the years and KVIA management has always given me the tools I need to tell the daily weather story."

Starting with ABC-7 in 2000, this achievement makes him the longest-serving chief meteorologist in KVIA history.

Outside of television weather, Speelman is a part-time farmer in Anthony, NM, where he grows pecans, alfalfa, and giant Bermuda grass.

Before The Sun City, Speelman was the morning and noon meteorologist for KAMR 4 Amarillo from 1996 to 1999.

His introduction to broadcasting was working for the National Weather Network (now called Weather Vision), forecasting and voicing radio weather reports for stations nationwide. He also covered weather for both the Florida and Louisiana State Radio Networks. 

Around this time, he started transitioning into TV by delivering weather reports to stations around the United States. He also anchored weekends for WAPT 16 Jackson, Mississippi. Houston readers will know one of his co-workers back then—that's right, ABC13 KTRK chief meteorologist David Tillman. 

The Oak Park, Illinois-raised meteorologist has a bachelor's degree from Anderson University and a Master of Science from Murray State University.