Jonathan Martin joins FOX 26 as evening anchor

Al Jazeera America correspondent Jonathan Martin joins FOX 26 KRIV as evening anchor

Jonathan Martin

Jonathan Martin joins FOX 26 as evening anchor, announced station Vice President and News Director, Robert Morford. Effective May 9, 2016, Martin will co-anchor the weekday 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. newscasts, alongside Melinda Spaulding.

UPDATE APRIL 2023
Jonathan Martin leaves FOX 26 Houston

In making the announcement, Morford stated, “Jonathan is an accomplished storyteller, a charismatic partner for co-anchor Melinda Spaulding, and will undoubtedly be a prime leader in the editorial life of our newsroom.”

Most recently, Martin served as a national correspondent for Al Jazeera America. Previously, he was a weekend anchor and general assignment reporter for WSMV in Nashville. Prior to that, Martin was a weekend evening anchor and daily reporter for WRDW in Augusta, GA. Before that, he served as a News Reader for WFXA-FM Radio in Augusta, GA. Martin began his career as a field reporter intern for WSB in Atlanta.

A graduate of Auburn University, Martin holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Broadcast Journalism.

Martin added, "I’m thrilled to join a station that truly values creative storytelling and is located in an awesome city with lots of news to cover.”

KRIV is part of the FOX Television Stations, one of the nation's largest owned-and-operated network broadcast groups, comprising 28 stations in 17 markets and covering over 37% of U.S. television homes. This includes seven duopolies in the top 10 markets: New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas, San Francisco, Washington, D.C. and Houston; as well as duopolies in Minneapolis, Phoenix, Orlando and Charlotte.


(This post was taken from a release sent to me by FOX Television Stations)

RELATED
Don Teague suddenly exits FOX 26 KRIV

Jonathan Martin to leave FOX 26 Houston

Jonathan Martin tells me he is leaving FOX 26 KRIV Houston after seven years as an evening anchor.

UPDATE JUNE 2023
Jonathan Martin joins 11Alive WXIA Atlanta

UPDATE MAY 2023
Anthony Antoine joins FOX 26 Houston as evening anchor

VIDEO UPDATE
Jonathan Martin signs off FOX 26 Houston with touching speech

"Leaving FOX 26 is incredibly tough," Martin told mikemcguff.com.  "I fell in love with this community and after seven years, I truly feel like a Houstonian. The station and my colleagues have been so supportive. But I’m looking forward to growing and pursuing some other professional and life goals."

Martin signs off FOX 26 next week, but assures mikemcguff.com readers he will still be around to emcee events in Houston through May and June. 

Here is what Martin posted to socials:

"My heart swells with gratitude as I share this...

After 7 incredible years, I'll be leaving FOX 26 Houston at the end of this month.

Oh what a privilege it has been. In 2016, FOX GM D'Art Bebel took a chance on me...hiring 'the young guy' to be the station's primetime anchor. He gave me space to grow into the role, and many of you rooted for me along the way.

From Hurricane Harvey to George Floyd's funeral, 3 World Series, a Super Bowl and a Pandemic...We navigated so much together. It was an honor and responsibility to tell your stories.

I'm most proud of the work we did together in the community. My "Beyond The Game" tour and SWEAT TX program was only a success because of so many who supported me.

H-town has shown me love in a way I could never have imagined, and I'lll forever be grateful.

I've always trusted God's timing for my life, so I'm eager to stretch and grow. What's next? I'll be sure to share more soon, but for now I'm taking time to rest and recalibrate."

Martin joined FOX 26 in May 2016 to work with then co-anchor Melinda Spaulding.  He would later be joined by Kaitlin Monte and now Rashi Vats.

While in Houston, Martin worked to inspire students with his "Beyond the Game" initiative.  He would also hype Houston viewers with his dance moves!  

Before Houston, Martin previously worked for Al Jazeera America as a national correspondent.

His previous local TV jobs were as: 

- weekend anchor and general assignment reporter for WSMV 4 Nashville, Tennessee

- weekend evening anchor and daily reporter for WRDW 12 Augusta, Georgia

- news reader WFXA-FM Radio Augusta, GA

The Auburn University grad interned for WSB Atlanta.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jonathan Martin (@jmartintv)

*Post corrected with who Martin now anchors with and his arrival date had a typo.

 

Jonathan Martin joins 11Alive WXIA Atlanta

(Photo courtesy of Jonathan Martin)

Jonathan Martin tells mikemcguff.com exclusively that he is joining 11Alive WXIA Atlanta as a weekday anchor staring in August 2023.

“I was born and raised in Atlanta, and returning home as an anchor has long been my career goal," Martin told mikemcguff.com. “I’m just grateful everything aligned and I’ll get the chance to soak up a lot more time with family.”

Martin, who signed off from the evening anchor desk of FOX 26 KRIV last April, had one last big Houston celebration Thursday night at the The Ivy House to celebrate the city and friends he made since coming to H-Town in May 2016.

Former channel 26 co-anchors Melinda Spaulding and Kaitlin Monte were in attendance as well as former reporter Maria Salazar. Also seen were current FOX 26 reporters Damali Keith and Natalie Hee. Newly named abc13 weekday anchor Erica Simon was also there to toast Martin. 

Mayor Sylvester Turner was also present to declare June 8, 2023 “Jonathan Martin Day” in Houston. Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, and now Houston mayoral candidate, also made an appearance.

Jonathan Martin is inspiring Houston's youth with "Beyond the Game"

FOX 26 News anchor Jonathan Martin is touring Houston high schools with the goal of inspiring young people to dream beyond sports


FOX 26 KRIV 5pm and 9pm anchor Jonathan Martin has created a valuable community initiative called "Beyond the Game."

The panel of Houston leaders, from all areas of expertise, exists to inspire young people to dream beyond professional sports.

Martin, who is a former high school varsity athlete himself (basketball and track and field in his hometown of Atlanta, GA), realizes sports is a passion for many, but not something everyone can make a career.

The Houston tour launched last night Booker T. Washington High School. On November 6th, it continues at Yates High School and November 8th at Worthing High School.

I caught up with Martin to find out more about "Beyond the Game."

Mike McGuff: How did you come up with the idea for this program?

Jonathan Martin: After visiting several high schools, particularly in Houston’s urban areas, I repeatedly met young men whose sole career goal was to play professional sports. As a former athlete, I know sports can be rewarding. I also realize only a tiny percentage of athletes reach the elite level. By exposing Houston’s young men to great leaders and other possibilities, I’m hoping fewer will limit their dreams to the basketball court or football field.


Was it hard to recruit the big names who are speaking with you?

All of the panelists were eager to participate. Each of them agreed this conversation is worth having. I reached out to men in our community who are inspiring, successful, and relatable. Each panelist has a unique story that I hope will empower the students!

The panel consists of former professional athletes, like LeMarcus Newman, James Ihedigbo and Ralph Sampson III. I’ve also included business leaders like music executive Mathew Knowles, Fox 26 Vice President & General Manager, D’Artagnan Bebel, and Exclusive Furniture owner, Sam Zavary.

During the hour-long conversation at each high school, the panelists will speak candidly about their road to success, their mistakes, and encourage the young men to think bigger than “the game.”

Talk about the tagline, "beyond sports." Why is that included?

The goal of the tour is to exposure students to various paths to greatness. We’re not discouraging anyone from pursuing a career in sports. We just hope to inspire them to think broader. They can be creators, writers, or business leaders. They can own a restaurant or lead a tech company.

As my general manager D’Artagnan Bebel told me, if this tour inspires just one young man in Houston, then it’s all worth it.

What is the future of the tour?

Since I announced the tour, dozens of school leaders and teachers have reached out from surrounding districts, asking us to visit their schools. Our plan is to reach as many students as we can in Houston ISD, before expanding to others.

The following schools will be our first stops (Madison was originally on the flyer, but is being rescheduled due to testing)

Oct 31- Booker T. Washington High School
Nov. 6- Yates High School
Nov. 8- Worthing High School

Jonathan Martin can move!

FOX 26 KRIV anchor Jonathan Martin shows off dance moves

It’s Friday...Freaky Friday! Had fun making this! #DancingAnchorMan pic.twitter.com/T5DfCij3hs

— Jonathan Martin Fox26 (@JMartinTV) January 11, 2019

Yesterday, we learned a Houston news reporter qualified for Boston Marathon, now we see an anchor who is winning dance contests.

If FOX 26 KRIV main anchor Jonathan Martin wants to ever leave the TV news biz, I think he's already declared a second career on social media!

Check out his amazing dance video he posted on Twitter. Wow! #DancingAnchorMan indeed.

Last year, Martin won "Dancing with the Houston Stars," an annual fundraiser for the Urban Souls dance company.


You can read all about Martin's fitness routine here.

Jonathan Martin signs off FOX 26 Houston

Jonathan Martin officially signed off FOX 26 KRIV Houston on April 27, 2023 with the above video.

UPDATE JUNE 2023
Jonathan Martin joins 11Alive WXIA Atlanta

UPDATE MAY 2023
Anthony Antoine joins FOX 26 Houston as evening anchor

Here is the transcription of the touching words Martin said on his final Fox 26 newscast:

"Well, after seven years, tonight is my final broadcast at Fox 26. 

My pastor often says people don't have to be kind to you, so when they are, always say thank you. And I want to thank you, all of you, for embracing me since the day I started here as a clean shaven young man, just eager and a bit nervous to take on this role in such a big city from Hurricane Harvey, a pandemic, three World Series. You know, we've been through a lot of ups and downs together. 

And truly, with so many options every night that you choose to stop and watch our newscast, it is a privilege. 

If you know me, you know, I've always believed in being anchored to my community and not just anchored to this news desk. So to everyone who opened doors and created spaces for me to serve in this community, I thank you. 

I must also thank my Fox 26 general manager here, D'Artagnan Bebel, who believed in me and hired me for this role and my colleagues, many you never get to see the producers, the photographers, the editors, so many, they are the nucleus of our newsroom. 

You know, this week it's been so touching. I've received hundreds of messages from many of you and a lot of you have said, 'Jonathan, you're like family. We consider you a Houstonian.' 

And for someone who moved here with no friends or family, that means more than you know. 

So next for me, some rest. I'm going to chill out a little bit and then start a new chapter that I'll be sure to announce soon. But honestly, truly, serving this city will always be one of the honors of my life."

"Leaving FOX 26 is incredibly tough," Martin told mikemcguff.com last week.  "I fell in love with this community and after seven years, I truly feel like a Houstonian. The station and my colleagues have been so supportive. But I’m looking forward to growing and pursuing some other professional and life goals."

The day before he signed off, Martin acknowledged this three co-anchors during his time at channel 26 -  Melinda Spaulding, Kaitlin Monte and Rashi Vats.

Martin joined FOX 26 in May 2016.

Jonathan Martin holds brunch for new Houston TV hires

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jonathan Martin (@jmartintv)

FOX 26 KRIV evening anchor Jonathan Martin held a brunch to welcome the new Houston TV anchors and reporters who have been recently hired.

"Organized a brunch to welcome Houston’s newest TV journalists," Martin posted to Instagram. "The market has never been more diverse. Every network is hiring more minorities in front of and behind the camera."

New Houston TV hires in attendance included Kimberly Davis, Brittany Ford, Briana Conner and Cory McGinnis.

The event was held at the Turkey Leg Hut before the restaurant was in the headlines last the weekend.

Jonathan Martin drawn by Nigerian artist

FOX 26 KRIV Houston evening anchor Jonathan Martin was inspiration for Nigerian artist Oscar Obiorah.

"Humbled that this young artist in Nigeria would even take the time to do this...using only a charcoal pencil," Martin posted on Facebook. "You’re incredibly talented Oscar Obiorah-art. One day I’ll make it to Nigeria to thank you."

Obiorah says the 22 by 27 inch drawing took seven days to draw.

FOX 26 KRIV debuts 6pm newscast

FOX 26 KRIV to debut “The NewsEdge Early Edition” at 6pm - Kaitlin Monte to Anchor 6 p.m. Newscast; Rashi Vats Promoted to Anchor of “The FOX 26 News at 5 p.m.”

Kaitlin Monte

HOUSTON – FOX 26 Houston will debut “The NewsEdge Early Edition” at 6 p.m. on September 14th, announced station Vice President and News Director, Susan Schiller. The half-hour, weekday newscast will follow “The FOX 26 News at 5 p.m.” and precede “TMZ.” With this addition, FOX 26 will produce 10 hours of live, local news each weekday and 60 hours of local news per week, more than any other local television station in the market.

RELATED
Kaitlin Monte is teasing us with "9.14.20"

In making the announcement, Schiller stated, “Following the success of the 10 p.m. edition of ‘NewsEdge,’ we recognized there was a desire for this kind of hyper-local, interactive newscast and wanted to expand the franchise into the earlier hours, where it may resonate with more of our viewers.”

Anchored by Kaitlin Monte, “The NewsEdge Early Edition” will provide a fast-paced roundup of the most critical news of the day, highlighting key local stories. This non-traditional newscast will be conversational and follow the format of the station’s “NewsEdge at 10 p.m.,” which launched in August 2017. Meteorologist Dr. Jim Siebert will provide weather updates throughout the program, and local attorney and former judge, Charles Adams will be a contributor with a segment called ‘Making the Case.’

Monte added, “Our biggest priority with this program is to avoid wasting anyone’s time. We pack a lot in to get Houstonians ahead on the topics impacting them before they’ve even attracted mainstream attention.”

 

Rashi Vats

In addition, Rashi Vats has been promoted to anchor of “The FOX 26 News at 5 p.m.,” alongside Jonathan Martin. She will also contribute segments to “The NewsEdge Early Edition,” “The NewsEdge at 10 p.m.,” as well as “The FOX 26 News at 9 p.m.” Vats previously served as a reporter for the station’s morning newscasts, “Houston’s Morning Show” and “WakeUp! With Sally Mac and Lina” since 2013. Monte will continue her role as co-anchor of the “FOX 26 News at 9 p.m.” with Jonathan Martin.

Regarding the promotion, Schiller added, “Rashi’s reporting and anchoring have always reflected how much she cares about the people here, since she is one of them. We know she’ll bring her trademark high energy to evenings.”

Vats stated, “I am humbled by the opportunity to anchor the evening news in my hometown and hope to particularly make the Indian community proud. I’m the same Rashi you’ve seen in the mornings, just at a different time!”

FOX Television Stations owns and operates 29 full power broadcast television stations in the U.S. These include stations located in nine of the top ten largest designated market areas (DMAs), and duopolies in 11 DMAs, including the three largest DMAs (New York, Los Angeles and Chicago). Of these stations, 17 are affiliated with the FOX Network. In addition to distributing sports, entertainment and syndicated content, our television stations collectively produce nearly 1,000 hours of local news every week. These stations leverage viewer, distributor and advertiser demand for the FOX Network’s national content.

(This post taken from a release sent to me by FOX Television Stations)

Jonathan Martin gets Houston ready for World Series

Been known to dance for special occasions Well, the #WorldSeries starts tonight!
Let’s go @astros ⚾️ 🤘🏾@FOX26Houston #LevelUp pic.twitter.com/niV7yaaeWl

— Jonathan Martin Fox26 (@JMartinTV) October 28, 2022

Jose Grinan honored by Houston Association of Black Journalists

FOX 26 KRIV morning anchor Jose Grinan honored at 2019 Houston Association of Black Journalists (HABJ) Media Masquerade Ball

FOX 26 KRIV morning anchor Jose Grinan was honored by the Houston Association of Black Journalists Saturday night at its 2019 Media Masquerade Ball themed: “Eyes Wide Open, Mouths Never Shut" held at the Groovey Grill Mansion in Historic Third Ward.

Grinan was honored for his commitment to excellence in Houston media, leadership and community support.

The KRIV anchor has been with the FOX Television Station since 1993.

Before Houston, Grinan was an anchor/reporter for KDFW in Dallas - Fort Worth in the early 90s. In fact his bio says he was one of the first reporters on the scene at the Branch Davidian siege in Waco, Texas. He also worked as a correspondent and host for Crime Watch Tonight and as a freelance correspondent for CNN.

From 1984 until 1990, Grinan worked for WTVJ Miami. Before that he worked as an anchor for the Satellite News Channel from 1982 to 1983.

Grinan was at Miami's WCKT (now WSVN) from 1978 to 1982.

He got his start at KTSM AM-FM-TV El Paso in 1975 as a reporter and weekend anchor.

As I've written here before, Grinan also appeared in the 1972 movie The Daredevil with George Montgomery.

Grinan attended the University of South Florida.

Other Houston journalists who received special recognition included honorees include Melanie Lawson, Isiah Carey, Jonathan Martin, Deborah Duncan, Khambrel Marshall, Brandon Walker, Shannon Lanier, Sharron Melton, Phyllis Bailey, Kathy Sapp, Jerome Solomon and Charles Hudson.

Also present was GRAMMY-nominated rapper and VH1 reality star YoYo.

Honoring our Fox26 legend ⁦@JoseGrinanFOX26⁩ at ⁦@HoustonABJ⁩ Masquerade. ⁦@FOX26Houston⁩. Congrats Jose!!! pic.twitter.com/NrLqDztiyn

— Jonathan Martin Fox26 (@JMartinTV) November 3, 2019

Thanks @HoustonABJ for the amazing award & recognition for journalistic work in the community! I am so honored! What a great way to celebrate this year’s Masquerade Ball ! And my colleague @MrShannonLanier got one too! Great night for @CW39Houston “Morning Dose”! #habj pic.twitter.com/72twBkjpDg

— Sharron Melton (@sharronmelton01) November 3, 2019

View this post on Instagram

Shout out to rapper YoYo @yoyofearless for coming to the Houston Association of Black Journalists convention! YoYo's iconic song and video with Ice Cube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_rJe2tOS90E

A post shared by Isiah Carey (@isiahcareyfox26) on Nov 3, 2019 at 7:14am PST

HABJ is a nonprofit organization of media professionals from the Houston area with members in every facet of print and broadcast media. Part of HABJ’s mission is to provide professional development, honor excellence in journalism, cultivate young journalists and ensure accurate coverage of the minority community. Consistent with its mission, HABJ provides scholarships, future workforce development and summer training opportunities for college students majoring in communications. Additionally, HABJ presents community outreach programs, seminars and town hall forums free for community groups and communication professionals.

Texas TV news and radio job moves April 2023

Send tips for the monthly Texas media job list here.

Broadcasters from all over Texas came to Austin on Saturday, April 15 to celebrate the winners of TAB's Second Annual Texas Broadcast News Awards.

- Best TV News Bloopers April 2023

DALLAS - FORT WORTH

The Dallas Morning News honors 18 staff members as 2022 Journalists of the Year.

NBC 5 Investigates Wins 2023 Walter Cronkite Award for Streaming Series ‘Against All Enemies.'

NBC DFW KXAS sports anchor/reporter Pat Doney celebrates 10 years with the station.

"How a workout injury revealed my rare heart condition and saved my life" by WFAA 8 reporter Matt Howerton.

Dallas Morning News hires Mel Fronczek as a graphics reporter.

Matt Houston joins WFAA Dallas
FOX 4's Shannon Murray is married
Nicolette Perdomo joins Spectrum News 1 Texas
Dylan Federico joins FOX 4 KDFW DFW
Ariel Plasencia leaves WFAA 8

HOUSTON

Houston Chronicle named Texas' 'Newsroom of the Year' for fifth straight year.

"Houston Matters" celebrates 10 years on Houston Public Media's News 88.7 KUHF.

Jim Nantz reflects on career after last Final Four game.

Astros reporter Julia Morales gets birthday cake surprise from Pirates on live TV during game.

Houston Chronicle Astros Beat Reporter Chandler Rome joins The Athletic on the same beat.

KHOU 11 News Director of Sales Lori Clark was presented the 2023 Silver Star of Excellence at the Media Alliance of Houston Star Awards Gala. 

COVID catches Ken Hoffman: CultureMap's columnist chronicles his case after a 3-year dodge.

Rick Lovett leaves SUNNY 99.1 afternoons.

90.1 KPFT debuts new schedule.

KPRC 2 Assignment Editor John Steiger announced his upcoming retirement. Congrats on his 40 years with channel 2!

Producer Erica Young promoted to KPRC 2 Manager of Special Projects & Producer Development.

Monroe Trombly joins the Houston Landing as a public safety reporter.

Tim Carlin joins the Houston Landing as a civic engagement reporter.

89.3 KSBJ Houston Fill-in Announcer and Traffic Reporter Lisa Marie interview.

KHOU 11 10pm newscast executive producer Molly Baker Cuculich leaves the station after eight years.

Programming Executive Producer Laura Berryhill Taglialavore celebrates 5 years at abc13 KTRK Houston.

SuiteRadio’s “Gallo Go Round” and “The Rowdy Ride Home” sign up a pair of new affiliates. KJVC-FM 92.7 Mansfield/Shreveport, Louisiana, and “Caribbean Country 93.5” WVVI-FM in Christiansted on St. Croix Island (U.S. Virgin Islands.) Both shows will debut on Monday 5/1/2023. 

Caroline Brown is engaged
Denise Middleton returns to FOX 26 Houston
Rita Garcia returns to abc13 Houston after maternity leave
Roula Christie wins a 2023 Gracie Award
Bill Barajas promoted to KPRC weekend anchor
Rachel Briers returns to abc13 KTRK after maternity leave
Syan Rhodes to leave KPRC 2
Tiffany Craig leaves KHOU 11 Houston
Houston Cox radio stations to be sold to Urban One
"Dana Tyson in the Morning" changes at SUNNY 99.1 KODA Houston
Katelyn Maida returns to 93Q mornings from maternity leave
Made in Texas Radio goes syndicated
Frank Billingsley emcees Alzheimer's Association Houston gala with special guest Maria Shriver
Casey Curry running for Houston City Council At-Large Position 1
Former KHOU ND Sally Ramirez goes to NBC Chicago
Tessa Barrera guest co-hosts "Houston Life"
Cathy Hernandez and Brittany Jeffers make it official
Madd Hatta named KTSU operations manager
“Outlaw Radio with Outlaw Dave” on SuiteRadio
Jonathan Martin to leave FOX 26 Houston
Praise 92.1 KROI Houston sold to Spanish Broadcasting System
Adam Krueger appearing on NewsNation
Jessica Willey runs the 2023 Boston Marathon
Telemundo Houston names new sales managers
Houston country radio stations honored in Academy of Country Music Awards
Taisha Walker to leave KPRC 2
Owen Conflenti goes Wes Anderson
Jonathan Martin signs off FOX 26 Houston
Bill Balleza honored with Dave Ward "Excellence in Media" award
Dominique Sachse talks about new podcast
Candace Burns named KPRC 4pm anchor

Justina Latimer joins KPRC 2

SAN ANTONIO

KENS 5 morning anchor Sarah Forgany celebrates 13 years with the station.

San Antonio Biz Journal hires Zoe Gottlieb as energy and tech reporter.

Kyle Mahnke announces his departure from the San Antonio Express-News.

Ariel Rivera-Vázquez promoted at Telemundo 60 San Antonio
Larry Ramirez becomes KSAT San Antonio sports director

AUSTIN

KVUE's Jenni Lee, Dennis Thomas awarded Texas Medical Association Anson Jones Award.

Texas Monthly Is Nominated for Two 2023 Media Awards by the James Beard Foundation.

Erin Quinn-Kong is new managing editor of Texas Highways Magazine.

KUTX Austin Celebrates 10th Birthday With Limited Edition Vinyl.

Thanks to KXAN Austin and CW39 Houston
Pamela Comme of KVUE Austin is engaged
KXAN Austin returns to channel 36.1
Britt Moreno returns to KXAN Austin
Emily Chavez leaves CBS Austin

AROUND TEXAS

106.7 FM and 1390 AM KULP El Campo celebrates 75th anniversary.

Gray Television recognizes KGNS Laredo Chief Meteorologist Richard Heatwave Berler for his commitment to forecasting in the community for over 40 years.

Tyler Morning Telegraph earns 15 awards in North and East Texas Press Association Better Newspaper Contest.

Paige Ellenberger announced she is leaving the 15 ABC KRHD Bryan - College Station Good Morning Texas anchor gig to be a reporter and other duties.

James Duncan, host of KMHT Radio 103.9 FM Marshall's “World Famous Swap Shop,” retired on his 84th birthday. I wonder if Richard and Sal ever called in?

Skylar Soto joined KTSM-9 News El Paso as a Multimedia Journalist. She had been a KLBK Lubbock MMJ since July 2021.

Recent Texas Southern University grad Karina Hollingsworth joins KTXS 12 News Abilene as a multimedia journalist.

Soon to be University of Texas at Austin grad Madeline Salinas has been hired as a 3 News KIII Corpus Christi multimedia journalist. 

Brenda Medina leaves KTSM El Paso
"Hello, South Texas!' KIII Corpus Christi song
KDFX 3 Wichita Falls celebrates 70 years
CBS19 KYTX Tyler celebrates 19 years on air
Rusty Garrett declared cancer free
Jeremiah Wilcox leaves NBC 23 KVEO RGV
Chris Jacobs leaves CBS 4 KGBT Rio Grande Valley
Clara Benitez joins KRIS 6 Corpus
PJ Heussner promoted to FOX 44 KWKT Waco weekend anchor
Estela Casas joins KTSM 9 El Paso
Natassia Paloma and Trevor J. Thompson's baby is here
Samantha Smerechniak and Karsen Buschjost leave ABC Big 2 News KMID Odessa/Midland
El Paso TV news anchor jailed on criminal mischief charge

REMEMBERING

Frank Masling Hicks, who worked 46 years in broadcasting at KLEE radio and KPRC 2, died at age 95.

Dallas Morning News sportswriter Chuck Carlton passes away at 64.

Jonathan Martin debuts on 11Alive WXIA Atlanta

Jonathan Martin revealed he was joining 11Alive WXIA Atlanta to me on mikemcguff.com back in June 2023.

Last week, he made his A-Town TV debut.

The former FOX 26 KRIV Houston anchor signed-off the station in April. 

Dr. Jim Siebert leaves FOX 26 Houston

Dr. Jim Siebert announced on the early evening FOX 26 KRIV newscasts that today is his last day as chief meteorologist after 15 years with the FOX owned and operated station.

UPDATE JUNE 2022
- Mike Iscovitz promoted to chief meteorologist for FOX 26 Houston
- Remeisha Shade joins FOX 26 weather

UPDATE APRIL 2022
Dr. Jim Siebert joins WeatherNation

"Today is my last day here at Fox. We love everybody here. My family has grown up and they've moved out west and my wife and I are going to head out west and kind of hook back up with our family again. So tonight's my last night. It's a little bittersweet. Don't like that very much at all.

RELATED
- FOX 26's Dr. Jim Siebert could be in the next 'Partridge Family'
- Dr. Jim Siebert of Fox 26 KRIV gets down!

So we'll be moving out there to the West. You know, that's where we that's where we grew up, and that's where all of our kids have gone. And so Dr. Debbie and Dr. Jim are going to head out in that direction."

And aside from his outstanding weather credentials, Dr. Jim's penchant for colorful holiday outfits came up during his goodbye on the 5pm newscast.

"Just when we thought Jim could never step it up," said anchor Jonathan Martin. "He always, every holiday, never ceased to amaze us."

"Seriously, just a man of many colors, if I had time, I would have made you a coat of many colors to go with it, Jim," added anchor Kaitlin Monte. "But you have been such an incredible part of so many Houstonians lives, if for nothing else than you have always been such a great friend to all of us. You've always been so straightforward and honest and kind in your reporting. And as a friend to all of us here on set and I know those watching can feel it as they watch you. So we're thrilled for you."

"And for me, along with sitting here during Hurricane Harvey and the Winter Storm, getting our viewers through so many moments, what sticks out to me is the love that you have for God and your family and just the way you just live life," continued Martin.  "You're just a fun guy."

Thanking the FOX 26 anchors for their kind words Siebert talked about the complexities of Houston weather.

"I've loved forecasting here," Dr. Jim said.  "You want to talk about a challenge to forecast here where we get everything with the weather comes from all directions and it's been a wonderful part."

Dr. Jim Siebert joined FOX 26 in March 2007. 

Up until KRIV, Dr. Jim had actually been on a break from TV weather and working as Director of Meteorological Operations for Weather Insight.

Before Weather Insight, Dr. Jim was chief meteorologist for KVBC Las Vegas, Nevada.

On his first break from TV, Dr. Jim was teaching Meteorology, Climatology and Geography at the University of Nevada Las Vegas.

Prior to UNLV, Dr. Jim was a weekend meteorologist/weekday reporter/anchor for KOB 4 Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Dr. Jim's first three TV met jobs were all in Texas.  He worked in the weather departments at KXXV 25 and KCEN 6, both of which serve Waco/Temple/Killeen.  His first job was at KZTV 10 Corpus Christi.

Dr. Jim earned his meteorology/earth science degree from Baylor University, a communications degree from Brigham Young University and science education degree from the University of New Mexico. 

Anthony Antoine joins FOX 26 Houston as evening anchor

Anthony Antoine joins FOX 26 Houston as evening anchor, taking over Jonathan Martin who left last week. 

"It’s go time, brother," Martin tweeted.  "Excited for you and I know #Houston will embrace you just as they did me!"

The station tells me effective July 2023, Antoine will join the evening news team of Rashi Vats, Caroline Collins, and meteorologist Remeisha Shade.

"Since migrating to the United States from Trinidad and Tobago, I've always chased my version of the American dream," Antoine said in a statement. "Ascending to this position, in such an amazing and diverse city feels like a dream come true. For Houstonians, I hope to be a calming and reassuring voice during difficult times, and when appropriate, I look forward to laughing and enjoying the positive stories in this great community."

"Anthony will be a perfect addition to the FOX 26 team as he shares our commitment to journalistic integrity and cares deeply about the communities he serves," FOX 26 KRIV Vice President and News Director Susan Schiller added.

Antoine comes from early morning news anchor duties for WWBT 12 Richmond, VA and then later mornings for WRLH 35. 

- See which other FOX 26 personality worked for WWBT

Before that, he spent six years at WCIA3 Champaign, IL, where he started as a camera operator and was promoted to reporter and then anchor.

Antoine holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Telecommunications from Bowling Green State University.

🚨BREAKING PERSONAL NEWS:

After five incredible years, my time at NBC 12 is coming to an end. I have accepted the evening anchor position at FOX26 in Houston, Texas.

Richmond, my heart is filled with immense gratitude. It's been my honor and privilege to… pic.twitter.com/SQp5oPZrml

— Anthony Antoine (@AnthonyNBC12) May 1, 2023

KIAH 39's NewsFix worries TV anchors, Jonathan Novack talks and more

KIAH-TV's plan to air anchorless news has NYC anchors wondering where bond with viewers has gone
Word that KIAH 39 Houston is considering anchorless news called NewsFix has TV anchors wondering whether this is the next wave of TV news or just a stunt to draw attention by a station with low ratings.

The Bachelor Pad Weatherman reveals all: Jonathan Novack spills on his tell-all, his comedy career and Ali
Jimmy Kimmel and everyone else may refer to him as "The Weatherman" but we still think of Jonathan Novack as our hometown heartthrob.

Call former KENS 5 anchor 'Judge Marrou'
Maybe KENS-TV should launch a new afternoon show called "Judge Chris," considering the station's most popular anchorman in San Antonio history just added that title to his resume.

Russ Martin Scores Early
Russ Martin returned to the North Texas airwaves on July 12, and in the first three days, he brought in some big numbers for KEGL 97.1. In the 18-to-34 demo, during the 6 to 10 a.m. slot, he took the station from No. 15 to No. 3.

Fox News' Digital Divide
Dominant cable news net’s site lags rival CNN.com. Why?

Who is spending money on Houston radio
The #1 radio advertiser in Houston last week was Gallery Furniture with 855 spots. Coming in #2, was Verizon with 801 ads, while Chase was #3, up from #67, with 635 commercials.

Six reasons to watch local news project TBD’s launch
Washington DC television station WJLA and parent company launch new kind of news website.

Fox bets on BlogHer
Twentieth Century Fox is betting that BlogHer -- the world's largest conference for social networking women -- is on its way to becoming the new Comic-Con.

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



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

2018 Lone Star Awards announced by Houston Press Club

It's that time of year again! The Houston Press Club has announced the 2018 Lone Star Awards winners.

If you were a big winner, click here to learn how to get your award.

RADIO

Radio Use of Sound

First Place 2018
Jack Morgan
Texas Public Radio
“Beethoven Maennerchor Sings The Praise of Being German Americans”

Second Place
Jack Morgan
Texas Public Radio
“San Antonio Remembers, Sings Praises For Alameda Theater”

Third Place 2018
David Martin Davies
Texas Public Radio
“Rebuilding After Harvey: A Rockport Fulton Christmas Carol”

Radio Talk Show

First Place 2018
Jill Ament, David Brown, Rhonda Fanning, Leah Scarpelli, Casey Cheek
Texas Standard
“Sexual Harassment At Texas Capitol”

Second Place 2018
David Martin Davies, Kim Johnson, Jan Ross Piedad
Texas Public Radio
“After Sutherland Springs, How Do We Cope With The Trauma Of Another Mass Shooting?”

Radio Hard News Feature

First Place 2018
Carson Frame
Texas Public Radio
“Closed Doors & Toxic Fumes”

Second Place 2018
Alan Stephens
Texas Standard
“Blowback”

Third Place 2018
Paul Flahive
Texas Public Radio
“Remote Workers Vulnerable In Disputes With Company, Says Employees”

Radio Politics/Government

First Place 2018
Ryan Poppe
Texas Public Radio
“Texas’ First Medical Cannabis Dispensary Set To Open In December”

Second Place 2018
David Martin Davies
Texas Public Radio
“Questions Rise About Manuel Medina’s Many Roles In Bexar County Democratic Party”

Radio Series

First Place 2018
Joey Palacios
Texas Public Radio
“Rebuilding After Harvey”

Second Place 2018
Joy Diaz
Texas Standard
“Help Wanted – Get Out”

Third Place 2018
David Martin Davies
Texas Public Radio
“Lead Poisoning In San Antonio Zip Codes”

Radio Soft News Feature

First Place 2018
Michael Marks
Texas Standard
“Operation Longhorn”

Second Place 2018
Carson Frame
Texas Public Radio
“A Swan Song For Some Military Bands: Budget Cuts Stop The Music”

Third Place 2018
Paul Flahive
Texas Public Radio
“San Antonio’s Last Traveling Typewriter Repairman”

Radio Journalist Of The Year
Joey Palacios
Texas Public Radio

INTERNET

Internet News Feature Story

First Place 2018
Ernie Manouse, Matthew Brawley, Shannon Harrison
Houston Public Media
“Bufkins Christmas Wonderland”

Second Place 2018
Stacey Welsh
KENS5.com
“Keep Going: Texas Veteran Marks 75th Anniversary Of Bataan Death March”

Third Place 2018
Ron Kabele, Curtis Craven, Eliot Stone, Susan Shore, April Garner
Texas Historical Commission Texas Time Travel Website
“Marcelino Serna, A World War 1 Hero”

Internet Collaborative News Reporting

First Place 2018
KENS Staff
KENS5.com
“Team Coverage: The Sutherland Springs Church Massacre”

Second Place 2018

KENS Staff
KENS5.com
“Ingram Square Fire: A hero dies, a suspected arsonist speaks”

Internet Opinion

First Place 2018
Elizabeth Fordham
Energy Marketing Conferences
“Ghostwriting: The Very Apparent Fork In The Road”

Second Place 2018
Elizabeth Fordham
buffythebitchyblogger.com
“More Than 13 Reasons Why”

Third Place 2018
Nathan Cone
Texas Public Radio
“No One Is Innocent: Revisiting “Fire Walk With Me””

PUBLIC RELATIONS

Public Relations Annual Report

First Place 2018
Roy Prichard, Dwight Andrews, Darla Brown
McGovern Medical School, UTHealth
“McGovern Medical School Year In Review”

Second Place 2018
Doris Huang, Rebecca Hall
Houston Methodist Institute For Academic Medicine
“Houston Methodist Institute For Academic Medicine Annual Report”

Third Place 2018
Roy Prichard, Dwight Andrews, Darla Brown
McGovern Medical School, UTHealth
“Institute of Molecular Medicine IMMPact Report”

Public Relations Corporate Video

First Place 2018
Daniel Villarreal
Harris Co. Department of Education
“HCDE Tax Rate”

Second Place 2018
Gordon Williams, Jonathan Tippett, Tyler Hargraves, Edward Long, Johnny Lively
LUTV Productions
“Lamar University Department of Theater & Dance”

Third Place 2018
Daniel Villarreal
Harris County Department of Education
“Mayor GoPublic Message”

Public Relations Feature Article

First Place 2018
Ronda Wendler
MD Anderson Cancer Center
“To Treat Or Not To Treat”

Second Place 2018
Ronda Wendler
MD Anderson Cancer Center
“A Recurring Nightmare”

Third Place 2018
Carol Vaughn
Harris County Department of Education
“Overcoming Grief and Anger with Harris Co. Dept. of Education’s Help”

Public Relations News Release

First Place 2018
Mike Emery
University Of Houston-Downtown
“UHD Professor Teaching Criminology Using Comics”

Second Place 2018
Rob Cahill
UTHealth Website
“UTHealth/Harris Health physician performs emergency brain surgery during Hurricane Harvey”

Third Place 2018
Elizabeth Fordham
Newswire
“Three steps for developing a system-wide access strategy”

Public Relations Publication

First Place 2018
Michael Clark, Ronda Wendler, Andy Olin
MD Anderson Cancer Center
“Conquest Magazine”

Second Place 2018
Mike Emery, Sheryl Taylor, Thomas Shea, Elisa Crossland
University of Houston-Downtown
“UHD Magazine Winter 2017”

Public Relations Communicator Of the Year

Rob Cahill
UT Health Website

NEWSPAPER/PRINT

Newspaper – News or Feature Story

First Place 2018
Mike Hixenbaugh, David Hunn, Mark Collette
Houston Chronicle
“Fifty-one Inches”

Second Place 2018
Maria Recio
Austin-American Statesman
“An Austin company is among bidders for Trump’s border wall”

Newspaper – General Commentary/Criticism

First Place 2018
Lisa Falkenberg
Houston Chronicle
“We shouldn’t accept ‘new normal’ of mass shootings in America”

Second Place 2018
Arnold Wayne Jones
Dallas Voice
“Appreciation: Rene Moreno”

Print Photography

First Place 2018
Cody Duty
TMC Pulse
“Scar Stories: Portraits Of Survival”

Second Place 2018
Lindsey Sanders
Harris County Department of Education
“Focus”

Third Place 2018
Arnold Wayne Jones
Dallas Voice
“North To Vancouver”

Print Journalist Of The Year

Mike Hixenbaugh
Houston Chronicle

TELEVISION

TV Hard News Feature

First Place 2018
Kyle Porter, Grace White
KHOU
“Battle For The Border”

Second Place 2018
Greg Groogan, John Heads, David Lanier, Ray Williams, Matt Matejka
KRIV
“11 Voices of Suffering On The San Jacinto”

Third Place 2018
Mario Diaz, John Barone, Jon Hill, Bill Carruthers, Allen Reid Aaron Wische
KPRC
“Harvey Emissions”

TV Investigative Series

First Place 2018
Greg Groogan, John Heads, Aprille Meek, Ray Williams, Matt Matejka
KRIV
“Toxic Trouble”

Second Place 2018
Rose-Ann Aragon
KPRC
“Series: Generation Under Fire”

TV Soft News Feature

First Place 2018
Laura Lucas, Matthew Brawley, Shannon Harrison
Houston Public Media
“Eco-Artist Grant Manier”

Second Place 2018
Oscar Margain, Jose Sanchez
KENS
“Mowing Man”

Third Place 2018
Daniel Gotera, Mike Orta, Justin DeYoung
KHOU
“A Storyteller’s Story”

TV Documentary or Public Affairs

First Place 2018
Rachel McNeill, Allen Reid, Dawn Campbell, Robert Grant
KPRC
“Saving Madagascar”

Second Place 2018
Karen Loke, Ron Kabele
Texas Parks & Wildlife Television
“In Memory of Jacob”

Third Place 2018
TV Documentary or Public Affairs
Daniel Gotera, Mike Orta, Justin DeYoung
KHOU
“The Program: Pearland Oilers”

TV Editing

First Place 2018
Matthew Brawley
Houston Public Media
“Bufkins Christmas Wonderland”

Second Place 2018
Michael Humphries
KENS
“A Glimpse Into Heaven”

Third Place 2018
Tammy Griffin
KRIV
“EaDo Street Art”

TV Feature Photography

First Place 2018
Michael Humphries
KENS
“A Glimpse Into Heaven”

Second Place 2018
Matthew Brawley
Houston Public Media
“Unbelievably Cool Easter Eggs”

Third Place 2018
Matthew Brawley
Houston Public Media
“Eco-Artist Grant Manier”

TV Sports Feature

First Place 2018
Daniel Gotera, Mike Orta
KHOU
“Maggie’s Second Chance”

Second Place 2018
Daniel Gotera, Mike Orta
KHOU
“Fishing With An Angel”

Third Place 2018
Vinnie Vinzetta, Marcus Floyd, Jason Eggleston
KENS
“Loveable Losers: The Saga of the San Antonio Gunslingers”

TV Journalist Of The Year
Dillon Collier
KSAT

TV Photojournalist Of The Year
Kyle Porter
KHOU

MAGAZINES

Magazine Column

First Place 2018
Britni Riley
TMC Pulse Magazine
“Curated: The Intersection of Arts And Medicine”

Second Place 2018
Kristopher Sharp, John Wright
OutSmart Magazine
“The Deadly Consequences of Texas’ House Bill 3859”

Third Place 2018
Shanley Chien Pierce
TMC Pulse Magazine
“On the Side: How TMC Employees Spend Their Spare Time”

Magazine Layout

First Place 2018
Maggie Galehouse, Alyssum Klopp
TMC Pulse Magazine
“TMC Pulse March 2017”

Second Place 2018

John Wright, Blase DiStefano, Alex Rosa, Ashkan Roayaee, Staff
OutSmart Magazine
“Harvey’s Heroes: OutSmart October 2017”

Third Place 2018

Staff
Houstonia Magazine
“February 2017 Issue”

Magazine Article

First Place 2018
Shanley Chien Pierce
TMC Pulse Magazine
“Twin Skin: 3 TMC Doctors, 2 Identical Sisters and 1 Extraordinary Transplant”

Judges Comment: Adeptly balances the personal story of two sisters in sync with the larger, life and death drama surrounding them.

Second Place 2018
John Wright, Alex Rosa
OutSmart Magazine
“Harris County DA Kim Ogg Is America’s Top Gay Cop”

Third Place 2018
Roxanna Asgarian
Houstonia Magazine
“Family In Transition”

STUDENT CATEGORIES

Student Print Sports Story

First Place 2018
Nathan Keil
The Baylor Lariat
“Baylor football shows signs of life”

Second Place 2018
Karisa Norfleet
Lamar University Press
“Worst to first”

Third Place 2018
Nathan Keil
The Baylor Lariat
“West Virginia stuns Baylor on overtime free kick”

Student Print Photography

First Place 2018
Shane Proctor
Lamar University Press
“State Fair Carousel”

Second Place 2018
Liesje Powers
The Baylor Lariat
“Bonfire marshals”

Third Place 2018
Matt Beadle
Lamar University Press
“Cards demolish Falcons”

Student Print News or Feature Story

First Place 2018
Dani Yan
The Review
“Deliverance: How a father-son duo decided to brave Harvey’s waters … ”

Second Place 2018
Sophie Caldwell
The Review
“Culture of Silence: How a lack of consent education harms high school students”

Third Place 2018
Dani Yan, Emily Chen, Sophie Gillard
The Review
“Locked Down: Campus security changes prove vital”

Student TV & Radio News or Feature Story

First Place 2018
Jessica Babb
The Baylor Lariat
“Board to vote on task force recommendations”

Second Place 2018
Brooke Kirchhofer
LUTV News
“Dream Still Alive?”

Third Place 2018
Jessica Babb
The Baylor Lariat
“Trump inauguration”

Student TV & Radio Sports Story

First Place 2018
Elisabeth Tharp
The Baylor Lariat
“NCAA volleyball first round”

Second Place 2018
Brooke Kirchhofer
LUTV News
“Raising Steers”

Third Place 2018
Jennifer Yacuta
LUTV News
“Knocking Out Addictions”

Best Student Newspaper

Baylor Lariat Staff
The Baylor Lariat