March 24, 2024

Greetings:

Yet another busy week with lots of news.

There are TWO ND openings.

And there are FOUR new NDs to tell you about.

34 stations remain on our list of openings, with TWO of those openings among our SIX Paid Help Wanted ads. We have new ads this week for ND jobs in Kansas City and Albany, NY. And Sciline is offering a chance to learn more about the eclipse which is coming soon.

We have details on the passing of longtime ABC TV executive DON DUNPHY: we told you last week he had died but had few details. And we have obits for a groundbreaking female NBC news executive and the sudden passing this week of a Louisiana operations manager.

There are TWO GM moves listed below.

Also below, the FCC wants a New York city station to get a new owner, a former Utah VP News takes a new job, AP and two newspaper chains may be headed for a split, and a Louisville station says it’s going to quit sending out alerts via text.

As to basketball…I can proudly report that I have not made ANY incorrect picks in a tournament bracket.

Easy to say when you don’t fill one out.

Newly Named News Directors:

Duran

KCSO/KSNO-TV, Sacramento/Fresno, CA…CANDY DURAN will oversee both these Telemundo newsrooms. She’s currently an EP for the Univision station in Fresno, KFTV, a job she’s held since last October. More details in this story from Media Moves. Candy’s also worked in San Francisco and Midland, TX. She replaces ALDOLFO SEGURA who transferred to KUAN-TV in San Diego as VP/News last August.

Sutton

WVTM-TV, Birmingham, AL…KERRI SUTTON is joining this Hearst/NBC affiliate as its next news director. Kerri (then KERRI CAVANAUGH) most recently was ND for WFOR-TV (CBS owned) in Miami, leaving in August after a long personal leave. She’s also been an ND in Indianapolis, Ft. Lauderdale, and Grand Rapids and also worked for Magid. She replaces BAYLOR LONG who returned to Hearst’s Pittsburgh station, WTAE-TV after 2 1/2 years here.

Payne

WFXG-TV, Augusta, GA…CHRISTOPHER PAYNE will be the next news director for this Lockwood Broadcast Group FOX affiliate. This news release from the station has more, including the cities in which Chris has worked, but no details about his most recent position. He replaces MARK ROSEN who was ND here for three years…and has also been an ND at TWO other Augusta stations.

Corder

KPLC-TV, Lake Charles, LA…assistant news director JILLIAN CORDER is being promoted to news director for this Gray TV owned NBC station. She’a also been anchoring the 6:00 news. She first joined KPLC in 2015, coming from KNOE-TV in Monroe, LA. Jillian replaces LETITIA WALKER who left earlier this month to become ND for WBRZ-TV (ABC) in Baton Rouge, LA.

New News Director Openings:

Prywitch

KTVI/KPLR-TV, St. Louis, MO…our Monday UPDATE brought you news that AUDREY PRYWITCH will retire at the end of May, bringing to an end a 23 year career here, the last 16 as ND. GM KURT KRUEGER’s note to the staff provides lots of background. She joined KTVI in 2001 as Assistant News Director, having earlier worked for another St. Louis station, as well as in San Diego, Miami, Cincinnati and West Palm Beach.

Raffaele

WNYT-TV, Albany, NY…MICHAEL RAFFAELE is leaving this Hubbard Broadcasting owned NBC affiliate to return to Harrisburg, PA. Michael and his wife used to live there. Michael was at WNYT for three years. He’s been an ND in several other places, and began his career in newspapers. You can get all those details on his Linkedin page. And you can learn more about this opportunity by checking out the Paid Help Wanted AD just below.

Paid Help Wanted Ads:

News Director, WDAF-TV, Kansas City, MO:

Want to live in a vibrant, growing city that is home to the Super Bowl Champions?

Nexstar Inc. seeks an experienced, driven broadcast professional to serve as News Director for WDAF FOX4.

We are the news leaders in the Kansas City market with more than 70 hours of live news programming each week. You will lead and supervise all aspects of news, weather, and sports on FOX4 and all digital platforms.

We are looking for someone who has passion for the industry, the vision and willingness to innovate the news product, and the mindset to grow collaborative winning teams.

Apply here: Careers (myworkdayjobs.com)

News Director, WNYT-TV, Albany, NY:

NBC News Channel 13 in Albany, NY is looking for a News Director to help lead our news room operations.

WNYT-TV is owned by Hubbard Broadcasting-a premier family-owned mid-sized media organization.

In this role, you would be in charge of the news broadcasts as well as having a key role in the recruitment and training of news producers and on-air talent.

We are looking for someone who is passionate about objective journalism, believes in treating people with respect and dignity and wants to be an active member of their community. This is a rare opportunity at this 100-Year old legacy organization.

Albany, NY is the bustling capital of the Empire State. The seat of government for the fourth largest state in the country, there is no shortage of news stories-whether government focused, breaking news or investigative focused.

Only 2 hours to New York City or Boston, you are close to all of the amenities of these great cities without the high costs of living there. In Albany, you can be in the heart of the city in a top 60 market one moment and then be in the mountains or near a lake within a few minutes.

Come see why Albany is a great place to live and work!

To apply for this opportunity, please visit our career website: WNYT News Director.

Senior Director, CNN NewsSource, Sales and Affiliate Relations:

CNN NEWSOURCE SEEKS A SALES AND AFFILIATE RELATIONS SENIOR DIRECTOR.

Our new team member will focus on helping our local news affiliates tell their stories, leading new business generation and account service. Every great story hW

Check out the details here!

Assistant News Director, WBRZ-TV, Baton Rouge, LA:

WBRZ is seeking an innovative, energetic newsroom leader to join the journalism team as Assistant News Director.

This position mentors and coaches young journalists and works closely with MMJs and reporters on daily assignments and investigations. Previous experience as a reporter/MMJ or anchor is helpful.

This is a great opening for a reporter who is looking to move into a newsroom manager role. WBRZ owns investigative journalism and breaking news. This newsroom thrives on urgency.

Catapult your career by joining the WBRZ News management team. WBRZ prides itself on being authentically local and is the area’s only locally owned and operated TV news station. It has been so since signing on in 1955.

Send resume, brief cover letter and an outline of your news philosophy to Letitia Walker, Director of News, via email to lwalker@wbrz.com or mail to WBRZ-TV, P.O. Box 2906, Baton Rouge, LA 70821.

Pre-employment drug screening required. EOE.

Station Manager, KXXV/KRHD-TV, Waco/Bryan, TX:

KXXV/KRHD, the Scripps ABC stations in Waco, and Bryan, Texas, is searching for a Station Manager to lead local operations.

The Station Manager will report into and collaborate with the Regional VP/GM to oversee local market operations and execute local media strategic initiatives in an assigned station. Oversee department head leaders and manage day-to-day operations of the station while serving as a functional leader in own area of expertise.

WHAT YOU’LL DO:

Lead and implement the local media strategic plan, including the content & brand strategy, for assigned station.

Act as co-leader in generating ratings and revenue, including developing strategic plans and operational plans for the station’s growth in multi-platform content delivery and revenue generation.

In partnership with the Regional VP/GM, support development of and ensure responsible financial stewardship to the station operating and capital expense budgets.

Continue to serve as the leader and subject matter expert for one of the station’s functional areas, while overseeing a team of department head leaders of other functional areas.

Lead a culture consistent with Scripps values, with a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, and developing employees at all levels.

Responsible for all aspects of financial statements and ensuring station compliance with Scripps policies.

Enforcing all FCC, EEO, SOX and other appropriate rules and regulations.

Other duties as may be assigned.

Apply Here:

 

Senior Executive Producer, WINK-TV, Ft. Myers, FL:

The WINK Senior Executive Producer will oversee the development and training of producers and Executive Producers at Southwest Florida’s leading news operation.

WINK is looking for a leader capable of teaching and mentoring producers, as well as developing Executive Producers on our dayside team. Passion is important for this role, but more important is a sense of purpose.

The top candidate will be someone who demonstrates the ability to lead and teach. Creativity, strong news judgment, superb writing skills and excellent showcasing and production skills are a must.

The Sr. EP oversees all activities that go into the creation of the on-air product, which includes Executive Producers, Producers and Associate Producers.

Integrating social media into the newscasts is an emerging growth area in which the Sr. EP must embrace and lead by example. The Sr. EP must be able to step in and actually produce a newscast. The Sr. EP is the chief advocate for the practical execution of research strategies designed to meet audience expectations. This senior leadership position will help lead a team of experienced journalists that produce more than 70 hours of local news a week.

Click here to learn more and apply.

Southwest Florida is often praised as being one of the healthiest and happiest places in the world with miles of white-sand beaches and a dynamic community. Broadcast Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer and we are a drug-free and smoke-free environment.

Other News Management Openings:

ASSISTANT NEWS DIRECTOR:

WRC-TV, Washington, DC (listed 3/10/24)
KUSA-TV, Denver, CO (listed 2/4/24)
KOVR/KMAX-TV, Sacramento, CA (listed 2/11/24)
WFTX-TV, Ft. Myers, FL (listed 2/25/24)
WLTX-TV, Columbia, SC (relisted 3/24/24)
WSYR-TV, Syracuse, NY (listed 2/11/24)
KOAA-TV, Colorado Springs, CO (listed 2/25/24)

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER:

KNBC-TV, Los Angeles, CA (relisted 1/7/24)
WJLA-TV, Washington, DC (PM EP, relisted 1/14/24)
The Hill, Washington, DC (Rising Program, listed 1/21/24)
KHOU-TV, Houston, TX (listed 3/15/24)
WDCA-TV, Washington, DC (listed 3/15/24)
KPNX-TV, Phoenix, AZ (listed 3/15/24)
WFTS-TV, Tampa, FL (listed 3/3/24)
WTSP-TV, Tampa/St. Petersburg (AM EP, relisted 3/15/24)
KMGH-TV, Denver, CO (listed 2/24/24)
KUSA-TV, Denver, CO (relisted 3/15/24)
KATU-TV, Portland, OR (2 openings, AM and Digital, modified 2/4/24)
WTHR-TV, Indianapolis, IN (AM EP, relisted 3/15/24)
WXIN/WTTV, Indianapolis, IN (relisted 2/25/24)
WTVF-TV, Nashville, TN (listed 2/5/24)
KFMB-TV, San Diego, CA (Supervising Producer, listed 2/4/24)
KSWB/KUSI-TV, San Diego, CA (listed 3/15/24)
WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH (AM EP, relisted 3/15/24)
WTIC-TV, Hartford, CT (relisted 3/15/24)
WTNH-TV, Hartford, CT (listed 3/3/24)
WISN-TV, Milwaukee, WI (listed 2/4/24)
WTKR-TV, Norfolk, VA (listed 2/25/24)
WVEC-TV, Norfolk, VA (AM EP, (relisted 3/15/24)
WXII-TV, Winston-Salem, NC (listed 2/4/24)
WGRZ-TV, Buffalo, NY (listed 3/15/24)
WINK-TV, Ft. Myers, FL (Senior EP, listed 3/10/24, see ad above!)
KCCI-TV, Des Moines, IA (listed 2/4/24)
KETV, Omaha, NE (listed 2/4/24)
WHNT-TV, Huntsville, AL (Digital EP, listed 2/18/24)
KXXV-TV, Waco, TX (listed 2/25/24)
KVEO/KGBT-TV, Harlingen, TX (listed 3/3/24)
KOAA-TV, Colorado Springs, CO (Digital EP, listed 2/25/24)
KTSM-TV, El Paso, TX (listed 2/4/24)
WTAJ-TV, Altoona, PA (Digital EP, relisted 2/18/24)
KRIS-TV, Corpus Christi, TX (listed 2/25/24)
WMBB-TV, Panama City, FL (Digital EP, listed 1/21/24)

MANAGING EDITOR:

WXIA-TV, Atlanta, GA (listed 3/17/24)
WJYZ-TV, Charlotte, NC (listed 3/17/24)

More News Management Openings:

Listed 3/17/24:

WXIA-TV, Atlanta, GA (Director of Special Projects)
WTIC-TV, Hartford, CT (Digital Director)

Relisted 3/15/24:

WATN-TV, Memphis, TN (Director of Digital Content)
WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH (Director of Digital Content)

Listed 3/10/24:

KXXV/KRHD-TV. Waco/Bryan, TX (Station Manager, see ad above!)

Listed 3/3/24:

WJW-TV, Cleveland, OH (News Operations Manager)
KTVX-TV, Salt Lake City, UT (Assignment Desk Manager)

 

SciLine has an exciting media briefing, and several 1-on-1, Zoom interview opportunities with scientific experts over the next few weeks. Be sure to sign up and tell your colleagues on these beats.

SciLine Media Briefing: 

2024 solar eclipse: science and story ideas

Tuesday, March 26 (3-4 p.m. EDT) – Zoom

On April 8, thirteen U.S. states will experience a total solar eclipse—a chance to observe the moon passing in front of the sun, blocking its face from view. SciLine’s next media briefing will cover need-to-know essentials for reporters preparing their eclipse coverage, including what scientists can learn from eclipses, how people can view them safely, effects for birds and other animals, and the social science behind why these types of celestial events are so awe-inducing. Three scientists will make brief presentations and then take reporter questions on the record. SciLine Director Rick Weiss will moderate the briefing.

REGISTER NOW

More from SciLine:

Interview an expert (15 minute-slots):

  • Mar. 25 (1-3 p.m. ET): Childcare costs (Dr. Taryn Morrissey, American U.) – Only 1 slot left!
  • Apr. 1 (11 a.m.-1 p.m. ET): Pollinator gardens (Dr. Rachel Mallinger, U. of Florida)
  • Apr. 4 (3-5 p.m. ET): Cicadas (Dr. Chris Simon, UConn)
  • Apr. 10 (1-3 p.m. ET): Lead pipes (Dr. Mary Jean Brown, Harvard) – Only 2 slots left!
  • Apr. 16 (3-5 p.m. ET): Wildlife crossings (Dr. Nicki Frey, Southern Utah U.)
  • Apr. 17 (1-3 p.m. ET): Syphilis on the rise (Dr. Ina Park, UCSF)

Recent video (free for download and use in your stories):

SciLine, a philanthropically funded, free service for reporters, arranges 1-on-1, broadcast-quality interview opportunities with articulate scientists. Reporters can book 15 mins with them via Zoom or request a SciLine interview clip for your use. SciLine also runs a free expert matching servicethat connects reporters rapidly to scientist-sources on deadline.

Obituaries:

Dunphy

We have an obituary for DON DUNPHY, JR. whose passing we shared last week, albeit with few details. Don, who spent more than 40 years at ABC, may be best known to this audience as the head of affiliate news service ABC NewsOne. Don was also the son of legendary boxing announcer DON DUNPHY. More details on his life and career in this obituary.

Dukert

BETTY COLE DUKERT, who rose from a secretarial job to EP of NBC’s Meet the Press, died March 16th of complications from Alzheimer’s. She was 96. Despite her journalism degree from Missouri, she had to start as a secretary before moving to an associate producer position. This Washington Post obituary is worth your time, as is this appreciation of her written by another former MtP EP, BETSY FISCHER MARTIN.

Meche

Sad news from Lake Charles, LA, where longtime KPLC-TV (Gray/NBC) Operations Manager JULIE MECHE died suddenly this week at the age of 58. Julie worked earlier this week with no signs of illness. She began at the station as a camera operator and worked her way up to director and later operations manager. The station reported on her passing on air and on its website.

Names in the News (and other stuff):

Bodley

Longtime Salt Lake City broadcaster RENAI BODLEY is stepping down as President of KPCW-FM, to return to her home town of Roanoke, VA. She’ll be the chief advancement officer of WVTF-FM. Renai spent seven years as President and GM of KPCW. She started there as a reporter after a 16 year career as VP/News for KSTU-TV (FOX). She’s also worked in Richmond, VA, Washington, and Miami.

The FCC has ordered Mission Broadcasting to sell WPIX-TV in New York and fined it (and Nexstar, which operates WPIX). It’s complicated, of course, but here is a story from Broadcasting and Cable AND Nexstar’s response. If Nexstar were to buy WPIX, it would have to divest other stations to stay under the ownership cap.

Of note: Two major newspaper chains, Gannett and McClatchy, plan to dramatically cut back their relationships with the Associated Press. AP says the moves will not have a material impact. More from the NY Times.

Also interesting, Block Communications owned WDRB-TV (FOX) in Louisville says it will stop sending news alerts via text, blaming increased charges from phone companies. More here.

General Manager News and Notes:

JAMIE RICKS has been been promoted to General Manager of Fort Myers Broadcasting Company in (where else?) Ft. Myers, FL, which owns CBS affiliate WINK-TV along with radio stations and a magazine. He’s been the sales manager there. The man he’s replacing, JOE SCHWARTZEL, told the staff about the change in this email.

RAUL RODRIGUEZ returns to TV as Senior VP of the Entravision stations in Reno, NV.

Our List of Open News Director jobs:

Here’s our list of open ND jobs as of Sunday, March 24, 2024:

It’s unofficial, there may be others that are open, and some of these may have been filled. If you know of any in either category, please let me know: rick@rickgevers.com

News 12 Bronx/Brooklyn, 930 Soundview Ave. Bronx, NY 10473
WFLD-TV 205 N. Michigan Ave. Chicago, IL 60601
KXTX-TV 4805 Amon Carter Boulevard, Ft. Worth, TX, 75155 **
WXIA-TV One Monroe Place NE Atlanta, GA 30324
KTVI/KPLR-TV 2250 Ball Drive St. Louis, MO 63146
WZTV 631 Mainstream Drive Nashville, TN 37228
KUTV 299 South Main Street, #150 Salt Lake City, UT 84111
WDAF-TV 3030 Summit Kansas City, MO 64108 (see ad above!)
WTIC-TV 285 Broad Street Hartford, CT 06115
WXIX-TV 635 W 7th. Cincinnati, OH 45944
WHP-TV, 2300 N Cameron St Harrisburg PA 17110
WBMA-TV 800 Concourse Pkwy Ste 200. Hoover, AL 35244
WOLF-TV 1181 Highway 315 Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702 (News Manager)
WNYT-TV 715 North Pearl Street, Albany, NY 12204 (see ad above!)
WZDX-TV 1309 N. Memorial Parkway Huntsville, AL 35801
WTOC-TV 1511 Chatham Center Dr. Savannah, GA 31405
KNVO-TV, 801 North Jackson Rd., McAllen TX 78501 **
WAND-TV 904 W. South Side Drive. Decatur, IL 62526
KLEW-TV 2626 17th St, Lewiston, ID 83501
KYTX-TV 2211 ESE Loop 323. Tyler, TX 75701
KNDU/KNDO-TV 216 W. Yakima Ave. Yakima, WA 98902
KHSL-TV 3460 Silverbell Rd. Chico, CA 95973
KDRV-TV 1090 Knutson Ave. Medford, OR 97504
KESQ-TV 31276 Dunham Way Thousand Palms, CA 92276
KXMB-TV 1811 N 15th St. Bismarck, ND 58501
KOSA-TV 4101 E. 42nd. Suite J-7. Odessa, TX. 79761
WTWO-TV 10849 N US Highway 41, Farmersburg, IN 47850
WDTV 5 Television Dr. Bridgeport, WV 26330
WTVY-TV 285 North Foster St., Dothan, AL 36303
WWNY-TV 120 Arcade St. Watertown, NY 13601
KGNS-TV 120 W. Del Mar Blvd. Laredo TX 78041
KGWN-TV, 2923 E. Lincolnway. Cheyenne, WY 82001
KYOU-TV 820 West 2nd Street; Ottumwa, IA 52501
KQTV 4000 Faraon St. Joseph, MO 64506

**: Spanish language station


March 17, 2024

Monday, March 18, 2024 UPDATE:

Greetings:

One of there longest tenured news directors in a large market will retire at the end of May.

Prywitch

AUDREY PRYWITCH is stepping down as ND for Nexstar’s KTVI/KPLR-TV (FOX/CW) in St. Louis. She’s been the ND there for the last 16 years, and first joined KTVI in 2001 as the Assistant ND. General Manager KURT KRUEGER shared the news with the staff with this morning’s email. Audrey earlier worked for KMOV-TV in St. Louis and KFMB-TV in San Diego, as well as in Miami, Cincinnati, and West Palm Beach.

Her departure means both of Nexstar’s two big markets inMissouri have openings: You learned last week that SEAN McNAMARA is leaving WDAF-TV (FOX) in Kansas City to take over as ND for Nexstar’s Denver duopoly, KDVR/KWGN-TV.

More in our full newsletter this weekend.

regards,

 

Rick Gevers

**** ***** ****

Greetings:

Another week with lots of news.

There are THREE ND openings.

And there are TWO new NDs to tell you about.

35 stations remain on our list of openings, with ONE of those openings among our FIVE Paid Help Wanted ads. We have new ads this week for a position at CNN NewsSource and for an Assistant ND job in Louisiana.

I’m told that longtime ABC NewsOne executive DON DUNPHY died this weekend but I haven’t been able to find any information on that online. When I do, of course, we’ll share it.

We do have an obituary for a former group head and major market GM, and the eulogy given yesterday at TOM BECHERER’s funeral in Louisville.

There’s a GM opening in Houston, two new news managers at stations in Orlando and Las Vegas (and one of those is a former Orlando news director), and plans for a DC memorial to fallen journalists take a step forward.

And we have links to TWO stories from TVNewsCheck.com, including a veteran manager who says many stations will actually LOSE money in 2025.

Newly Named News Directors:

McNamara

KDVR/KWGN-TV, Denver, CO…SEAN McNAMARA moves from one Nexstar station to another as he’ll be the next news director for this Fox/CW duopoly. He’s held the same job at WDAF-TV (also FOX) in Kansas City for the past 4 1/2 years. His LinkedIn page has his full career background. Sean replaces BRIAN GREGORY who left after six years here to become GM for Tegna’s WVEC-TV (ABC) in Norfolk,VA.

Gourley

WBRE/WYOU-TV, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, PA…another Nexstar station, another new ND as PAUL GOURLEY takes over. Paul most recently was the AND at WJLA-TV in Washington, DC. He replaces ERIC NAZARENUS who left to become ND for WFMZ-TV in Allentown, PA. WBRE (NBC) is owned by Nexstar, which provides services to Mission Broadcasting’s WYOU (CBS).

Talent Training Workshop

SATURDAY, APRIL 27, 2024 – 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
THE OMNI HOTEL-LAS COLINAS, IRVING TEXAS

We’re hosting a high energy, interactive workshop to help you or your team maximize storytelling impact and enhance viewer connection. Work with a team of experienced talent development experts to expand on-air performance and delivery, and off-air communication skills.

BONUS: All participants are given direct access to their workshop leaders for one month following the workshop for questions and support via email, texts, phone and video conferencing.

Great communication starts in the newsroom- let’s energize your team not newsroom leaders and invigorate the vision for your newscasts.

Maximum enrollment is 25. Lunch and snacks will be provided. Have a question about the event or would like to speak with our performance strategists on the agenda?

Email Gary Brown to set up a call and learn more.

Early bird registration: $495.00
After March 31st: $550.00

To Register: www.talentdynamics.com/dallas-workshop

New News Director Openings:

WXIA-TV, Atlanta, GA…this Tegna owned NBC affiliate is adding a news director who will report to Director of Content CAROL FOWLER.

WDAF-TV, Kansas City, MO……you learned above that SEAN McNAMARA is leaving this Nexstar owned FOX affiliate to head west on I-70 to Denver, where he’ll be the next ND for Nexstar’s KDVR/KWGN-TV. He’d been there more than 4 1/2 years.

Rosengard

WTIC-TV, Hartford CT…DANA ROSENGARD is leaving this Tegna owned FOX affiliate after less than a year as ND and less than two years at the station, where he started as the Assistant ND. He told the staff he may return to a college classroom: he’s alternated between stations and schools for much of his career, as you’ll learn when you check out his LinkedIn page.

One update: We reported last week that REBECCA JOHNSON is leaving KESQ-TV in Palm Springs, CA, but did not know why. We’ve since learned she’s moving to the East Coast to be closer to family.

Paid Help Wanted Ads:

Senior Director, CNN NewsSource, Sales and Affiliate Relations:

CNN NEWSOURCE SEEKS A SALES AND AFFILIATE RELATIONS SENIOR DIRECTOR.

Our new team member will focus on helping our local news affiliates tell their stories, leading new business generation and account service. Every great story hW

Check out the details here!

Assistant News Director, WBRZ-TV, Baton Rouge, LA:

WBRZ is seeking an innovative, energetic newsroom leader to join the journalism team as Assistant News Director.

This position mentors and coaches young journalists and works closely with MMJs and reporters on daily assignments and investigations. Previous experience as a reporter/MMJ or anchor is helpful.

This is a great opening for a reporter who is looking to move into a newsroom manager role. WBRZ owns investigative journalism and breaking news. This newsroom thrives on urgency.

Catapult your career by joining the WBRZ News management team. WBRZ prides itself on being authentically local and is the area’s only locally owned and operated TV news station. It has been so since signing on in 1955.

Send resume, brief cover letter and an outline of your news philosophy to Letitia Walker, Director of News, via email to lwalker@wbrz.com or mail to WBRZ-TV, P.O. Box 2906, Baton Rouge, LA 70821.

Pre-employment drug screening required. EOE.

Station Manager, KXXV/KRHD-TV, Waco/Bryan, TX:

KXXV/KRHD, the Scripps ABC stations in Waco, and Bryan, Texas, is searching for a Station Manager to lead local operations.

The Station Manager will report into and collaborate with the Regional VP/GM to oversee local market operations and execute local media strategic initiatives in an assigned station. Oversee department head leaders and manage day-to-day operations of the station while serving as a functional leader in own area of expertise.

WHAT YOU’LL DO:

Lead and implement the local media strategic plan, including the content & brand strategy, for assigned station.

Act as co-leader in generating ratings and revenue, including developing strategic plans and operational plans for the station’s growth in multi-platform content delivery and revenue generation.

In partnership with the Regional VP/GM, support development of and ensure responsible financial stewardship to the station operating and capital expense budgets.

Continue to serve as the leader and subject matter expert for one of the station’s functional areas, while overseeing a team of department head leaders of other functional areas.

Lead a culture consistent with Scripps values, with a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, and developing employees at all levels.

Responsible for all aspects of financial statements and ensuring station compliance with Scripps policies.

Enforcing all FCC, EEO, SOX and other appropriate rules and regulations.

Other duties as may be assigned.

Apply Here:

 

News Director, KESQ-TV, Palm Springs, CA:

A rare opportunity has come up to lead the news team for the top TV station group in the Palm Springs market, Gulf California Broadcast Company, a division of News Press and Gazette.

KESQ NewsChannel 3 and its sister stations KPSP CBS Local 2, KDFX Fox 11 and KUNA Telemundo 15 is seeking a News Director for its multi-language newscasts. The person who will take over this operation will work with a talented team of 50, many of whom have much local experience in the market.

We’re seeking an extraordinary journalist with experience in television newsroom productions – broadcast and digital – who excels with both breaking news opportunities and in-depth stories.

The successful candidate will be called upon to provide strategic direction for daily news coverage and work closely with the General Manager and other Department Managers on long-range planning, special news coverage and station projects.

Pay Range: $110k-$140k annually (includes bonus). Based on experience.

Aside from living and working in the beautiful Coachella Valley, Gulf California Broadcast Company offers employees a wide range of benefits consisting of medical, dental, vision, life and disability, holidays, PTO, and a generous 401k plan.

To learn more or apply online, click here.

All applicants must apply through the website. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of background and drug screenings. Finalists must furnish evidence of employment authorization and identification.

Gulf California Broadcast Co. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

 

Senior Executive Producer, WINK-TV, Ft. Myers, FL:

The WINK Senior Executive Producer will oversee the development and training of producers and Executive Producers at Southwest Florida’s leading news operation.

WINK is looking for a leader capable of teaching and mentoring producers, as well as developing Executive Producers on our dayside team. Passion is important for this role, but more important is a sense of purpose.

The top candidate will be someone who demonstrates the ability to lead and teach. Creativity, strong news judgment, superb writing skills and excellent showcasing and production skills are a must.

The Sr. EP oversees all activities that go into the creation of the on-air product, which includes Executive Producers, Producers and Associate Producers.

Integrating social media into the newscasts is an emerging growth area in which the Sr. EP must embrace and lead by example. The Sr. EP must be able to step in and actually produce a newscast. The Sr. EP is the chief advocate for the practical execution of research strategies designed to meet audience expectations. This senior leadership position will help lead a team of experienced journalists that produce more than 70 hours of local news a week.

Click here to learn more and apply.

Southwest Florida is often praised as being one of the healthiest and happiest places in the world with miles of white-sand beaches and a dynamic community. Broadcast Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer and we are a drug-free and smoke-free environment.

Other News Management Openings:

ASSISTANT NEWS DIRECTOR:

WRC-TV, Washington, DC (listed 3/10/24)
KUSA-TV, Denver, CO (listed 2/4/24)
KOVR/KMAX-TV, Sacramento, CA (listed 2/11/24)
WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH (relisted 1/7/24)
KVVU-TV, Las Vegas, NV (relisted 1/21/24)
WFTX-TV, Ft. Myers, FL (listed 2/25/24)
WACH-TV, Columbia, SC (listed 1/14/24)
WLTX-TV, Columbia, SC (relisted 1/7/24)
WSYR-TV, Syracuse, NY (listed 2/11/24)
KOAA-TV, Colorado Springs, CO (listed 2/25/24)
WCIV-TV, Charleston, SC (listed 1/14/24)
KBOI-TV, Boise, ID (listed 1/14/24)
WGXA-TV, Macon, GA (listed 1/14/24)
KVII-TV, Amarillo, TX (listed 1/14/24)
KBMT-TV, Beaumont, TX (relisted 1/7/24)
KTVO-TV, Kirksville, MO (also PM anchor, listed 1/14/24)

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER:

KNBC-TV, Los Angeles, CA (relisted 1/7/24)
WJLA-TV, Washington, DC (PM EP, relisted 1/14/24)
The Hill, Washington, DC (Rising Program, listed 1/21/24)
KHOU-TV, Houston, TX (listed 3/15/24)
WDCA-TV, Washington, DC (listed 3/15/24)
KPNX-TV, Phoenix, AZ (listed 3/15/24)
WFTS-TV, Tampa, FL (listed 3/3/24)
WSNN-TV, Sarasota, FL (listed 1/7/24)
WTSP-TV, Tampa/St. Petersburg (AM EP, relisted 3/15/24)
KMGH-TV, Denver, CO (listed 2/24/24)
KUSA-TV, Denver, CO (relisted 3/15/24)
KATU-TV, Portland, OR (2 openings, AM and Digital, modified 2/4/24)
WTHR-TV, Indianapolis, IN (AM EP, relisted 3/15/24)
WXIN/WTTV, Indianapolis, IN (relisted 2/25/24)
WTVF-TV, Nashville, TN (listed 2/5/24)
KFMB-TV, San Diego, CA (Supervising Producer, listed 2/4/24)
KSWB/KUSI-TV, San Diego, CA (listed 3/15/24)
WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH (AM EP, relisted 3/15/24)
WTIC-TV, Hartford, CT (relisted 3/15/24)
WTNH-TV, Hartford, CT (listed 3/3/24)
WISN-TV, Milwaukee, WI (listed 2/4/24)
WPEC-TV, W. Palm Beach, FL (listed 1/14/24)
KSNV-TV, Las Vegas, NV (listed 1/14/24)
WTKR-TV, Norfolk, VA (listed 2/25/24)
WVEC-TV, Norfolk, VA (AM EP, (relisted 3/15/24)
WXII-TV, Winston-Salem, NC (listed 2/4/24)
WGNO-TV, New Orleans, LA (AM EP, listed 1/28/24)
WGRZ-TV, Buffalo, NY (listed 3/15/24)
WINK-TV, Ft. Myers, FL (Senior EP, listed 3/10/24, see ad above!)
WRGB-TV, Albany, NY (listed 1/14/24)
KCCI-TV, Des Moines, IA (listed 2/4/24)
KETV, Omaha, NE (listed 2/4/24)
WHNT-TV, Huntsville, AL (Digital EP, listed 2/18/24)
KXXV-TV, Waco, TX (listed 2/25/24)
KVEO/KGBT-TV, Harlingen, TX (listed 3/3/24)
KOAA-TV, Colorado Springs, CO (Digital EP, listed 2/25/24)
WTVC-TV, Chattanooga, TN (relisted 1/14/24)
KTSM-TV, El Paso, TX (listed 2/4/24)
WJHL-TV, Johnson City, TN (relisted 1/7/24)
WCTI-TV, New Bern, NC (listed 1/14/24)
WTAJ-TV, Altoona, PA (Digital EP, relisted 2/18/24)
WJAC-TV, Johnstown, PA (listed 1/14/24)
WRDW/WAGT-TV, Augusta, GA (listed 1/14/24)
KRIS-TV, Corpus Christi, TX (listed 2/25/24)
WMBB-TV, Panama City, FL (Digital EP, listed 1/21/24)

MANAGING EDITOR:

WXIA-TV, Atlanta, GA (listed 3/17/24)
WJYZ-TV, Charlotte, NC (listed 3/17/24)

 

SciLine has an exciting media briefing, and several 1-on-1, Zoom interview opportunities with scientific experts over the next few weeks. Be sure to sign up and tell your colleagues on these beats.

SciLine Media Briefing: 

2024 solar eclipse: science and story ideas

Tuesday, March 26 (3-4 p.m. EDT) – Zoom

On April 8, thirteen U.S. states will experience a total solar eclipse—a chance to observe the moon passing in front of the sun, blocking its face from view. SciLine’s next media briefing will cover need-to-know essentials for reporters preparing their eclipse coverage, including what scientists can learn from eclipses, how people can view them safely, effects for birds and other animals, and the social science behind why these types of celestial events are so awe-inducing. Three scientists will make brief presentations and then take reporter questions on the record. SciLine Director Rick Weiss will moderate the briefing.

REGISTER NOW

More from SciLine:

Interview an expert (15 minute-slots):

  • Mar. 25 (1-3 p.m. ET): Childcare costs (Dr. Taryn Morrissey, American U.) – Only 1 slot left!
  • Apr. 1 (11 a.m.-1 p.m. ET): Pollinator gardens (Dr. Rachel Mallinger, U. of Florida)
  • Apr. 4 (3-5 p.m. ET): Cicadas (Dr. Chris Simon, UConn)
  • Apr. 10 (1-3 p.m. ET): Lead pipes (Dr. Mary Jean Brown, Harvard) – Only 2 slots left!
  • Apr. 16 (3-5 p.m. ET): Wildlife crossings (Dr. Nicki Frey, Southern Utah U.)
  • Apr. 17 (1-3 p.m. ET): Syphilis on the rise (Dr. Ina Park, UCSF)

Recent video (free for download and use in your stories):

SciLine, a philanthropically funded, free service for reporters, arranges 1-on-1, broadcast-quality interview opportunities with articulate scientists. Reporters can book 15 mins with them via Zoom or request a SciLine interview clip for your use. SciLine also runs a free expert matching servicethat connects reporters rapidly to scientist-sources on deadline.

More News Management Openings:

Listed 3/17/24:

WXIA-TV, Atlanta, GA (Director of Special Projects)
WTIC-TV, Hartford, CT (Digital Director)

Relisted 3/15/24:

WATN-TV, Memphis, TN (Director of Digital Content)
WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH (Director of Digital Content)

Listed 3/10/24:

KXXV/KRHD-TV. Waco/Bryan, TX (Station Manager, see ad above!)

Listed 3/3/24:

WJW-TV, Cleveland, OH (News Operations Manager)
KTVX-TV, Salt Lake City, UT (Assignment Desk Manager)

Obituaries:

Boaz

JAMES BOAZ died February 28th at the age of 90. He covered a lot of places during his career, including heading the Paramount Televsion Stations Group. He earlier served as a GM in Philadelphia and Houston, a station manager in Washington, and was part of the team that launched WXXA-TV in Albany, NY. Much more details about his rise from humble beginnings in this obituary.

Becherer

Louisville anchor JOHN BOEL gave a eulogy yesterday (March 16 in Louisville) at the funeral for longtime newsman TOM BECHERER. As you know, Tom died March 2nd. He was 84. John posted his eulogy on his Facebook page. If you take a minute to read it, you’ll see why Tom was so beloved by his many friends and co-workers.

Names in the News (and other stuff):

Hyvonen

Former Cincinnati News Director STEVE HYVONEN is returning to Florida, this time as the Managing Editor for Cox Media’s WFTV (ABC). He’s a former ND at WKMG-TV in Orlando, among other places . We told you a few weeks ago that Steve was leaving Gray’s WXIX-TV (FOX) for a soon to be announced new opportunity. Cincinnati columnist JOHN KIESEWETTER has more on Steve’s new job and his impact in The Queen City.

Gray’s KVVU-TV (FOX) in Las Vegas has a new Assistant News Director. It’s JAFFA KING, who’s spent the last 2+ years as an EP for Cox Media’s KIRO-TV (CBS) in Seattle. She’s also worked in Los Angeles, San Diego, and Palm Desert, CA.

Plans for the Fallen Journalists Memorial in Washington have taken another step forward. A Chicago based architecture firm has been chosen to design the Memorial, which will be build on The National Mall.

Finally, two columns of note from TVNewcheck.com:

Longtime GM and consultant HANK PRICE observes that some local stations may actually LOSE money in 2025, something unheard of in the past.

And former Scripps news executive SEAN McLAUGHLIN has some thoughts about the important job of improving local news content. While his suggestions are worthy, I won’t be holding my breath waiting for stations to enact them.

General Manager News and Notes:

Springer

KHOU-TV (Houston/Tegna/CBS) General Manager BOBBY SPRINGER has left the station after more than five years as GM. He earlier spent more than 15 years at sister Tegna-station KUSA-TV in Denver.

Our List of Open News Director jobs:

Here’s our list of open ND jobs as of Sunday, March 17, 2024:

It’s unofficial, there may be others that are open, and some of these may have been filled. If you know of any in either category, please let me know: rick@rickgevers.com

News 12 Bronx/Brooklyn, 930 Soundview Ave. Bronx, NY 10473
WFLD-TV 205 N. Michigan Ave. Chicago, IL 60601
KXTX-TV 4805 Amon Carter Boulevard, Ft. Worth, TX, 75155 **
WXIA-TV One Monroe Place NE Atlanta, GA 30324
WZTV 631 Mainstream Drive Nashville, TN 37228
KUTV 299 South Main Street, #150 Salt Lake City, UT 84111
WDAF-TV 3030 Summit Kansas City, MO 64108
WTIC-TV 285 Broad Street Hartford, CT 06115
WXIX-TV 635 W 7th. Cincinnati, OH 45944
WHP-TV, 2300 N Cameron St Harrisburg PA 17110
WVTM-TV 1732 Valley View Dr. Birmingham, AL 35209
WBMA-TV 800 Concourse Pkwy Ste 200. Hoover, AL 35244
WOLF-TV 1181 Highway 315 Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702 (News Manager)
WZDX-TV 1309 N. Memorial Parkway Huntsville, AL 35801
WTOC-TV 1511 Chatham Center Dr. Savannah, GA 31405
KNVO-TV, 801 North Jackson Rd., McAllen TX 78501 **
WAND-TV 904 W. South Side Drive. Decatur, IL 62526
KLEW-TV 2626 17th St, Lewiston, ID 83501
WFXG-TV, 3933 Washington Rd., Augusta, GA 30907
KYTX-TV 2211 ESE Loop 323. Tyler, TX 75701
KNDU/KNDO-TV 216 W. Yakima Ave. Yakima, WA 98902
KHSL-TV 3460 Silverbell Rd. Chico, CA 95973
KDRV-TV 1090 Knutson Ave. Medford, OR 97504
KESQ-TV 31276 Dunham Way Thousand Palms, CA 92276 (see ad above!)
KXMB-TV 1811 N 15th St. Bismarck, ND 58501
KOSA-TV 4101 E. 42nd. Suite J-7. Odessa, TX. 79761
WTWO-TV 10849 N US Highway 41, Farmersburg, IN 47850
WDTV 5 Television Dr. Bridgeport, WV 26330
WTVY-TV 285 North Foster St., Dothan, AL 36303
KPLC-TV, 320 Division St., Lake Charles, LA 70601
WWNY-TV 120 Arcade St. Watertown, NY 13601
KGNS-TV 120 W. Del Mar Blvd. Laredo TX 78041
KGWN-TV, 2923 E. Lincolnway. Cheyenne, WY 82001
KYOU-TV 820 West 2nd Street; Ottumwa, IA 52501
KQTV 4000 Faraon St. Joseph, MO 64506

**: Spanish language station


March 10, 2024

Greetings:

Lots of content this week!

There are TWO ND openings.

And there are TWO new NDs to tell you about.

That means 34 stations remain on our list of openings, with ONE of those openings among our THREE Paid Help Wanted ads. The other ads inlcude a Station Manager job in Texas and a Senior EP ad in a desirable place to live.

We also welcome the return of Octopus which will be exhibiting at next month’s NAB convention. Check out its ad just below.

We have details about services for former news executive TOM BECHERER whose passing we reported last week.

A longtime anchor turned ND turned GM is retiring. We have details AND some photos he shared from his career. And Telemundo is expanding duties of some GMs, putting them over stations in multiple markets.

In Names in the News, an Iowa anchor loses discrimination lawsuit. New jobs for TWO managers at NBC owned stations. A veteran ND and GM is OUT of two hospitals after a six week stay, and a news director turned author has a new book.

Newly Named News Directors:

Vogel

WHEC-TV, Rochester, NY…AARON VOGEL has been named ND for this Hubbard Broadcasting owned NBC affiliate. Aaron’s spent the last 5+ years as ND for KHSL/KNVN-TV in Chico, CA. He’s also been an ND in Decatur, IL, and has worked in several other markets. At WHEC, he replaces DAVE OVERACKER who left in November after more than four years as ND and 31 years at his hometown station.

Brown

KBJR-TV, Duluth, MN…PAUL BROWN has been promoted to news director at this Gray TV owned NBC/ABC operation. He’s been anchoring there for the past two years, and earlier served as news director and anchor for KTXS-TV in Abilene, TX, where he also worked for Spectrum. Paul replaces MATT McCONICO who left the station earlier this year after not quite two years as ND.

And apologies to new KBLR-TV (Las Vegas/Telemundo) News Director JOHALI CARMONA and Telemundo’s new EVP/News GEMMA GARCIA. We managed to misspell both their last names last week.


Talent Training Workshop

SATURDAY, APRIL 27, 2024 – 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
THE OMNI HOTEL-LAS COLINAS, IRVING TEXAS

We’re hosting a high energy, interactive workshop to help you or your team maximize storytelling impact and enhance viewer connection. Work with a team of experienced talent development experts to expand on-air performance and delivery, and off-air communication skills.

BONUS: All participants are given direct access to their workshop leaders for one month following the workshop for questions and support via email, texts, phone and video conferencing.

Great communication starts in the newsroom- let’s energize your team not newsroom leaders and invigorate the vision for your newscasts.

Maximum enrollment is 25. Lunch and snacks will be provided. Have a question about the event or would like to speak with our performance strategists on the agenda?

Email Gary Brown to set up a call and learn more.

Early bird registration: $495.00
After March 31st: $550.00

To Register: www.talentdynamics.com/dallas-workshop

New News Director Openings:

KHSL-TV, Chico, CA…you learned above that AARON VOGEL is leaving this Allen Media Broadcasting owned CBS/NBC operation. He’d been there more than five years.

KESQ-TV, Palm Springs, CA…this News Press & Gazette operation is looking for a new news director. KESQ is the ABC affiliate, and the company also runs CBS/FOX/CW and Telemundo affiliates on digital sub channels. REBECCA JOHNSON has been ND here since late 2016. You can learn more about this opportunity in the Paid Help Wanted ad below.

Paid Help Wanted Ads:

Station Manager, KXXV/KRHD-TV, Waco/Bryan, TX:

KXXV/KRHD, the Scripps ABC stations in Waco, and Bryan, Texas, is searching for a Station Manager to lead local operations.

The Station Manager will report into and collaborate with the Regional VP/GM to oversee local market operations and execute local media strategic initiatives in an assigned station. Oversee department head leaders and manage day-to-day operations of the station while serving as a functional leader in own area of expertise.

WHAT YOU’LL DO:

Lead and implement the local media strategic plan, including the content & brand strategy, for assigned station.

Act as co-leader in generating ratings and revenue, including developing strategic plans and operational plans for the station’s growth in multi-platform content delivery and revenue generation.

In partnership with the Regional VP/GM, support development of and ensure responsible financial stewardship to the station operating and capital expense budgets.

Continue to serve as the leader and subject matter expert for one of the station’s functional areas, while overseeing a team of department head leaders of other functional areas.

Lead a culture consistent with Scripps values, with a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, and developing employees at all levels.

Responsible for all aspects of financial statements and ensuring station compliance with Scripps policies.

Enforcing all FCC, EEO, SOX and other appropriate rules and regulations.

Other duties as may be assigned.

Apply Here:

 

News Director, KESQ-TV, Palm Springs, CA:

A rare opportunity has come up to lead the news team for the top TV station group in the Palm Springs market, Gulf California Broadcast Company, a division of News Press and Gazette.

KESQ NewsChannel 3 and its sister stations KPSP CBS Local 2, KDFX Fox 11 and KUNA Telemundo 15 is seeking a News Director for its multi-language newscasts. The person who will take over this operation will work with a talented team of 50, many of whom have much local experience in the market.

We’re seeking an extraordinary journalist with experience in television newsroom productions – broadcast and digital – who excels with both breaking news opportunities and in-depth stories.

The successful candidate will be called upon to provide strategic direction for daily news coverage and work closely with the General Manager and other Department Managers on long-range planning, special news coverage and station projects.

Pay Range: $110k-$140k annually (includes bonus). Based on experience.

Aside from living and working in the beautiful Coachella Valley, Gulf California Broadcast Company offers employees a wide range of benefits consisting of medical, dental, vision, life and disability, holidays, PTO, and a generous 401k plan.

To learn more or apply online, click here.

All applicants must apply through the website. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of background and drug screenings. Finalists must furnish evidence of employment authorization and identification.

Gulf California Broadcast Co. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

 

Senior Executive Producer, WINK-TV, Ft. Myers, FL:

The WINK Senior Executive Producer will oversee the development and training of producers and Executive Producers at Southwest Florida’s leading news operation.

WINK is looking for a leader capable of teaching and mentoring producers, as well as developing Executive Producers on our dayside team. Passion is important for this role, but more important is a sense of purpose.

The top candidate will be someone who demonstrates the ability to lead and teach. Creativity, strong news judgment, superb writing skills and excellent showcasing and production skills are a must.

The Sr. EP oversees all activities that go into the creation of the on-air product, which includes Executive Producers, Producers and Associate Producers.

Integrating social media into the newscasts is an emerging growth area in which the Sr. EP must embrace and lead by example. The Sr. EP must be able to step in and actually produce a newscast. The Sr. EP is the chief advocate for the practical execution of research strategies designed to meet audience expectations. This senior leadership position will help lead a team of experienced journalists that produce more than 70 hours of local news a week.

Click here to learn more and apply.

Southwest Florida is often praised as being one of the healthiest and happiest places in the world with miles of white-sand beaches and a dynamic community. Broadcast Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer and we are a drug-free and smoke-free environment.

Other News Management Openings:

ASSISTANT NEWS DIRECTOR:

WDCW-TV, Washington, DC (listed 2/11/24)
WRC-TV, Washington, DC (listed 3/10/24)
KUSA-TV, Denver, CO (listed 2/4/24)
KOVR/KMAX-TV, Sacramento, CA (listed 2/11/24)
WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH (relisted 1/7/24)
KVVU-TV, Las Vegas, NV (relisted 1/21/24)
WFTX-TV, Ft. Myers, FL (listed 2/25/24)
WACH-TV, Columbia, SC (listed 1/14/24)
WLTX-TV, Columbia, SC (relisted 1/7/24)
WSYR-TV, Syracuse, NY (listed 2/11/24)
KOAA-TV, Colorado Springs, CO (listed 2/25/24)
WCIV-TV, Charleston, SC (listed 1/14/24)
KBOI-TV, Boise, ID (listed 1/14/24)
WGXA-TV, Macon, GA (listed 1/14/24)
KVII-TV, Amarillo, TX (listed 1/14/24)
KBMT-TV, Beaumont, TX (relisted 1/7/24)
KTVO-TV, Kirksville, MO (also PM anchor, listed 1/14/24)

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER:

KNBC-TV, Los Angeles, CA (relisted 1/7/24)
WJLA-TV, Washington, DC (PM EP, relisted 1/14/24)
The Hill, Washington, DC (Rising Program, listed 1/21/24)
WFTS-TV, Tampa, FL (listed 3/3/24)
WSNN-TV, Sarasota, FL (listed 1/7/24)
WTSP-TV, Tampa/St. Petersburg (AM EP, relisted 1/7/24)
KMGH-TV, Denver, CO (listed 2/24/25)
KUSA-TV, Denver, CO (relisted 1/7/24)
KATU-TV, Portland, OR (2 openings, AM and Digital, modified 2/4/24)
WTHR-TV, Indianapolis, IN (AM EP, relisted 1/7/24)
WXIN/WTTV, Indianapolis, IN (relisted 2/25/24)
WTVF-TV, Nashville, TN (listed 2/5/24)
KFMB-TV, San Diego, CA (Supervising Producer, listed 2/4/24)
WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH (AM EP, relisted 1/7/24)
WTIC-TV, Hartford, CT (relisted 1/7/24)
WTNH-TV, Hartford, CT (listed 3/3/24)
WISN-TV, Milwaukee, WI (listed 2/4/24)
WPEC-TV, W. Palm Beach, FL (listed 1/14/24)
KSNV-TV, Las Vegas, NV (listed 1/14/24)
WTKR-TV, Norfolk, VA (listed 2/25/24)
WVEC-TV, Norfolk, VA (AM EP, (relisted 1/7/24)
WXII-TV, Winston-Salem, NC (listed 2/4/24)
WGNO-TV, New Orleans, LA (AM EP, listed 1/28/24)
WINK-TV, Ft. Myers, FL (Senior EP, listed 3/10/24, see ad above!)
WRGB-TV, Albany, NY (listed 1/14/24)
KHON-TV, Honolulu, HI (listed 1/28/24)
KCCI-TV, Des Moines, IA (listed 2/4/24)
KETV, Omaha, NE (listed 2/4/24)
WHNT-TV, Huntsville, AL (Digital EP, listed 2/18/24)
KXXV-TV, Waco, TX (listed 2/25/24)
KVEO/KGBT-TV, Harlingen, TX (listed 3/3/24)
KOAA-TV, Colorado Springs, CO (Digital EP, listed 2/25/24)
WTVC-TV, Chattanooga, TN (relisted 1/14/24)
KTSM-TV, El Paso, TX (listed 2/4/24)
WJHL-TV, Johnson City, TN (relisted 1/7/24)
WCTI-TV, New Bern, NC (listed 1/14/24)
WTAJ-TV, Altoona, PA (Digital EP, relisted 2/18/24)
WJAC-TV, Johnstown, PA (listed 1/14/24)
WRDW/WAGT-TV, Augusta, GA (listed 1/14/24)
KRIS-TV, Corpus Christi, TX (listed 2/25/24)
WMBB-TV, Panama City, FL (Digital EP, listed 1/21/24)

MANAGING EDITOR:

KHON-TV, Honolulu, HI (listed 1/28/24)

SciLine has several 1-on-1, Zoom interview opportunities with scientific experts coming up in the next few weeks:

Recent video (free for download and use in your stories):

SciLine, a philanthropically funded, free service for reporters, arranges 1-on-1, broadcast-quality interview opportunities with articulate scientists. Reporters can book 15 mins with them via Zoom or request a SciLine interview clip for your use. SciLine also runs a free expert matching service that connects reporters rapidly to scientist-sources on deadline.

More News Management Openings:

Listed 3/10/24:

KXXV/KRHD-TV, Waco/Bryan, TX (Station Manager, See ad above!)

Listed 3/3/24:

WJW-TV, Cleveland, OH (News Operations Manager)
KTVX-TV, Salt Lake City, UT (Assignment Desk Manager)

Relisted 1/7/24:

WATN-TV, Memphis, TN (Director of Digital Content)
WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH (Director of Digital Content)

Obituary:

Becherer

Funeral and memorial services will be held next weekend for longtime newsman TOM BECHERER whose passing we first reported last weekend. Tom died Saturday, March 2nd, at the age of 84. He’d suffered from a series of small strokes over the past few years. Tom was an ND in several major markets and ran CONUS for many years. Details about his funeral, memorial services, and more about his life in this obituary.

Names in the News:

Sonya H.

In Des Moines, SONYA HEITSHUSEN has lost her age discrimination suit against WHO-TV and its owner, Nexstar Media Group. Sonya had anchored at the station for 17 years when the station did not renew her contract. She sued, claiming a pattern of age discrimination. Nexstar said it was due to a reduction in work force. Details in this story from competitor KCCI-TV.

TVNewsCheck is back following what was apparently a successful subscription campaign. Details here.

Sean M.

And it introduced a new columnist, recently departed Scripps SVP of Local News, SEAN McLAUGHLIN. It’s called Reinventing Local News.

Changes for TWO managers at NBC owned stations:

JAMIE NOVOGROD has been named the Assistant ND for KNBC-TV and KVEA-TV (Telemundo) in Los Angeles. Details about his new job..and his old one…in this post from the station.

And WRC-TV (Washington, DC) News Director MATT GLASSMAN has been named VP of Regional Editorial for NBC News. This article explains what that means. WRC VP/News MIKE GOLDRICK tells me the station is hiring an Assistant ND to replace Matt.

Vann

Old friend LES VANN checked in to report that he’s out of the hospital following a six week stay at two different facilities to battle appendix issues. Regular readers will also remember that Les has been battling Parkinson’s Disease. He’s a former GM and ND in multiple markets. Here’s his note to me, which included good wishes for something that’s already happened. (There is NO bandwagon I can not jump on.)

Former ND turned author ANTHONY KNOPPS shared that his new book, The Roofus Rules, is coming out this month. Anthony says the book contains 12 ways to better live your life through the eyes of a … chihuahua. More details in his email to me, which includes a way to buy the book.

General Manager News and Notes:

Audas

Anchor turned News Director turned several time General Manager LARRY AUDAS will retire late next month. He’s currently the GM for TWO Tegna stations, WFMY-TV in Greensboro, NC, AND WZDX-TV in Huntsville, AL. Larry sent me the note he sent to both of his staffs and also included a number of photographs from different states of his career. Check them out here.

MediaMoves reports that Telemundo has broadened the job duties of TWO general managers, putting them in charge of several stations.

Our List of Open News Director jobs:

Here’s our list of open ND jobs as of Sunday, March 10, 2024:

It’s unofficial, there may be others that are open, and some of these may have been filled. If you know of any in either category, please let me know: rick@rickgevers.com

News 12 Bronx/Brooklyn, 930 Soundview Ave. Bronx, NY 10473
WFLD-TV 205 N. Michigan Ave. Chicago, IL 60601
KXTX-TV 4805 Amon Carter Boulevard, Ft. Worth, TX, 75155 **
KDVR/KWGN-TV 100 East Speer Blvd. Denver, CO 80203
WZTV 631 Mainstream Drive Nashville, TN 37228
KUTV 299 South Main Street, #150 Salt Lake City, UT 84111
WXIX-TV 635 W 7th. Cincinnati, OH 45944
WHP-TV, 2300 N Cameron St Harrisburg PA 17110
WVTM-TV 1732 Valley View Dr. Birmingham, AL 35209
WBMA-TV 800 Concourse Pkwy Ste 200. Hoover, AL 35244
WBRE/WYOU-TV, 62 S. Franklin St. Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701
WOLF-TV 1181 Highway 315 Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702 (News Manager)
WZDX-TV 1309 N. Memorial Parkway Huntsville, AL 35801
WTOC-TV 1511 Chatham Center Dr. Savannah, GA 31405
KNVO-TV, 801 North Jackson Rd., McAllen TX 78501 **
WAND-TV 904 W. South Side Drive. Decatur, IL 62526
KLEW-TV 2626 17th St, Lewiston, ID 83501
WFXG-TV, 3933 Washington Rd., Augusta, GA 30907
KYTX-TV 2211 ESE Loop 323. Tyler, TX 75701
KNDU/KNDO-TV 216 W. Yakima Ave. Yakima, WA 98902
KHSL-TV 3460 Silverbell Rd. Chico, CA 95973
KDRV-TV 1090 Knutson Ave. Medford, OR 97504
KESQ-TV 31276 Dunham Way Thousand Palms, CA 92276 (see ad above!)
KXMB-TV 1811 N 15th St. Bismarck, ND 58501
KOSA-TV 4101 E. 42nd. Suite J-7. Odessa, TX. 79761
WTWO-TV 10849 N US Highway 41, Farmersburg, IN 47850
WDTV 5 Television Dr. Bridgeport, WV 26330
WTVY-TV 285 North Foster St., Dothan, AL 36303
KPLC-TV, 320 Division St., Lake Charles, LA 70601
WWNY-TV 120 Arcade St. Watertown, NY 13601
KGNS-TV 120 W. Del Mar Blvd. Laredo TX 78041
KGWN-TV, 2923 E. Lincolnway. Cheyenne, WY 82001
KYOU-TV 820 West 2nd Street; Ottumwa, IA 52501
KQTV 4000 Faraon St. Joseph, MO 64506

**: Spanish language station


March 3, 2024

Greetings:

There are several ND changes this week, but lots of Names in the News and the obituary of a former ND who held ND jobs in several major markets.

There’s just ONE ND opening, that in a small southern market.

And TWO new NDs to tell you about.

Those changes leave 34 stations on our list of openings,

But there’s more!

Yet another Scripps GM has left the premises, while Sinclair promotes a GM who goes from California to Tennessee.

We have only a few details about the death this weekend of TOM BECHERER, who’d been a ND in Detroit and Baltimore among other places.

And lots of items in Names in the News…including a change at top of the news divisions of Scripps and Telemundo, and a new survey examines burnout in news (and what to do about it). We also have a link to a story that forecasts big pay cuts for cable news stars. And THREE veteran newspeople are honored by their stations as they retire.

Talent Training Workshop

SATURDAY, APRIL 27, 2024 – 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
THE OMNI HOTEL-LAS COLINAS, IRVING TEXAS

We’re hosting a high energy, interactive workshop to help you or your team maximize storytelling impact and enhance viewer connection. Work with a team of experienced talent development experts to expand on-air performance and delivery, and off-air communication skills.

BONUS: All participants are given direct access to their workshop leaders for one month following the workshop for questions and support via email, texts, phone and video conferencing.

Great communication starts in the newsroom- let’s energize your team not newsroom leaders and invigorate the vision for your newscasts.

Maximum enrollment is 25. Lunch and snacks will be provided. Have a question about the event or would like to speak with our performance strategists on the agenda?

Email Gary Brown to set up a call and learn more.

Early bird registration: $495.00
After March 31st: $550.00

To Register: www.talentdynamics.com/dallas-workshop

Newly Named News Directors:

Carmona

KBLR-TV, Las Vegas, NV…JOHALI CARMONA has been promoted to news director for this NBC/Telemundo owned station. She’s worked there since 2016, most recently as an executive producer and earlier as a producer. She also worked in Colorado and Venezuela. At KBLR, she replaces MARIALCY CARRENO who left in January: she’d been there since 2018.

Walker

WBRZ-TV, Baton Rouge, LA…LETITIA WALKER returns as ND for this Manship family owned ABC affiliate as she continues her tour of Louisiana TV markets. She’s been the ND for Gray’s KPLC-TV (NBC) in Lake Charles since 2022, had been an ND for KATC-TV in Lafayette, LA, and worked as an AM EP for WWL-TV in New Orleans. She started at WBRZ as a production assistant. Letitia replaces JONATHAN SHELLEY who resigned in December after about 15 months as ND.

SciLine has several 1-on-1, Zoom interview opportunities with scientific experts coming up in the next few weeks:

Recent video (free for download and use in your stories):

SciLine, a philanthropically funded, free service for reporters, arranges 1-on-1, broadcast-quality interview opportunities with articulate scientists. Reporters can book 15 mins with them via Zoom or request a SciLine interview clip for your use. SciLine also runs a free expert matching service that connects reporters rapidly to scientist-sources on deadline.

 

New News Director Opening:

KPLC-TV, Lake Charles, LA…we told you above that LETITIA WALKER is leaving this Gray TV owned NBC to be the next ND for WBRZ-TV (ABC) in Baton Rouge.

Paid Help Wanted Ad:

No paid ads again this week. If you want to highlight your news management opening to the most targeted audience available, let me know via email: rick@rickgevers.com

Other News Management Openings:

ASSISTANT NEWS DIRECTOR:

KNBC/KVEA-TV, Los Angeles, CA (relisted 1/7/24)
WDCW-TV, Washington, DC (listed 2/11/24)
KUSA-TV, Denver, CO (listed 2/4/24)
KOVR/KMAX-TV, Sacramento, CA (listed 2/11/24)
WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH (relisted 1/7/24)
KVVU-TV, Las Vegas, NV (relisted 1/21/24)
WFTX-TV, Ft. Myers, FL (listed 2/25/24)
WACH-TV, Columbia, SC (listed 1/14/24)
WLTX-TV, Columbia, SC (relisted 1/7/24)
WSYR-TV, Syracuse, NY (listed 2/11/24)
KOAA-TV, Colorado Springs, CO (listed 2/25/24)
WCIV-TV, Charleston, SC (listed 1/14/24)
KBOI-TV, Boise, ID (listed 1/14/24)
WGXA-TV, Macon, GA (listed 1/14/24)
KVII-TV, Amarillo, TX (listed 1/14/24)
KBMT-TV, Beaumont, TX (relisted 1/7/24)
KTVO-TV, Kirksville, MO (also PM anchor, listed 1/14/24)

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER:

KNBC-TV, Los Angeles, CA (relisted 1/7/24)
WJLA-TV, Washington, DC (PM EP, relisted 1/14/24)
The Hill, Washington, DC (Rising Program, listed 1/21/24)
WFTS-TV, Tampa, FL (listed 3/3/24)
WSNN-TV, Sarasota, FL (listed 1/7/24)
WTSP-TV, Tampa/St. Petersburg (AM EP, relisted 1/7/24)
KMGH-TV, Denver, CO (listed 2/24/25)
KUSA-TV, Denver, CO (relisted 1/7/24)
KATU-TV, Portland, OR (2 openings, AM and Digital, modified 2/4/24)
WTHR-TV, Indianapolis, IN (AM EP, relisted 1/7/24)
WXIN/WTTV, Indianapolis, IN (relisted 2/25/24)
WTVF-TV, Nashville, TN (listed 2/5/24)
KFMB-TV, San Diego, CA (Supervising Producer, listed 2/4/24)
WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH (AM EP, relisted 1/7/24)
WTIC-TV, Hartford, CT (relisted 1/7/24)
WTNH-TV, Hartford, CT (listed 3/3/24)
WISN-TV, Milwaukee, WI (listed 2/4/24)
WPEC-TV, W. Palm Beach, FL (listed 1/14/24)
KSNV-TV, Las Vegas, NV (listed 1/14/24)
WTKR-TV, Norfolk, VA (listed 2/25/24)
WVEC-TV, Norfolk, VA (AM EP, (relisted 1/7/24)
WXII-TV, Winston-Salem, NC (listed 2/4/24)
WGNO-TV, New Orleans, LA (AM EP, listed 1/28/24)
WRGB-TV, Albany, NY (listed 1/14/24)
KHON-TV, Honolulu, HI (listed 1/28/24)
KCCI-TV, Des Moines, IA (listed 2/4/24)
KETV, Omaha, NE (listed 2/4/24)
WHNT-TV, Huntsville, AL (Digital EP, listed 2/18/24)
KXXV-TV, Waco, TX (listed 2/25/24)
KVEO/KGBT-TV, Harlingen, TX (listed 3/3/24)
KOAA-TV, Colorado Springs, CO (Digital EP, listed 2/25/24)
WTVC-TV, Chattanooga, TN (relisted 1/14/24)
KTSM-TV, El Paso, TX (listed 2/4/24)
WJHL-TV, Johnson City, TN (relisted 1/7/24)
WCTI-TV, New Bern, NC (listed 1/14/24)
WTAJ-TV, Altoona, PA (Digital EP, relisted 2/18/24)
WJAC-TV, Johnstown, PA (listed 1/14/24)
WRDW/WAGT-TV, Augusta, GA (listed 1/14/24)
KRIS-TV, Corpus Christi, TX (listed 2/25/24)
WMBB-TV, Panama City, FL (Digital EP, listed 1/21/24)

MANAGING EDITOR:

KHON-TV, Honolulu, HI (listed 1/28/24)

More News Management Openings:

Listed 3/3/24:

WJW-TV, Cleveland, OH (News Operations Manager)
KTVX-TV, Salt Lake City, UT (Assignment Desk Manager)

Relisted 1/7/24:

WATN-TV, Memphis, TN (Director of Digital Content)
WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH (Director of Digital Content)

Obituary:

Becherer

I’m sorry to report the death of TOM BECHERER. Tom died yesterday in Louisville. He’d been in poor health after a series of small strokes. Tom spent much of his career with Conus, a long since shuttered satellite news operation but had been an ND in several markets. His entertaining Linkedin page is worth a read (check out his ‘best job’. hint: it involved overnights.) And while I’ve known Tom for years, I only learned tonight that he hosted AA meetings at some RTDNA conventions. I hope to have more on Tom’s life next week.

Names in the News:

O’Brian

Lots of items today.

Our UPDATE earlier in the week shared that KATE O’BRIAN has been named President of News for Scripps. More here. She’s a former ABC and Al Jazeera America executive who’s been with the company since 2021, first hired to oversee Newsy and Court TV.

Sean M.

That means SEAN LcLAUGHLIN is leaving Scripps, where he had been Senior Vice Presdient of Local News. More in this post from Sean on LinkedIn. He first joined Scripps about ten years ago from his job as ND for KMOV-TV in St. Louis. He’s also been an ND in Tulsa (two stations) and Springfield, IL, and has also worked in Minneapolis and Austin, MN, where he worked as a weekend anchor and producer.

GEMMA GARCIA joins Telemundo as Executive Vice-President of News. It’s a return to Telemundo for Gemma.

We’ve all heard a lot of talk about burnout in news, and now one of the largest surveys on the topic…and possible solutions…is out. It was conducted by the Reynolds Journalism Institute at the University of Missouri, working with SmithGeiger. Details…and the entire project…are available here.

Mediate looks at possible pay cuts in the future for the highest paid cable tv stars.

The retirement section:

Several veteran newspeople have stepped down and their stations paid tribute either on-air or online…or both.

After 26 years at Hearst’s WTAE-TV in Pittsburgh, where he began as an investigative reporter, JIM PARSONS has retired.

Also retiring is BRAD RINEHART after 44 YEARS at WFMZ-TV in Allentown, PA. More here.

Finally, it was four decades in news, mostly at Miami’s WPLG-TV (ABC) for KERRY WESTON, who is calling it quits.

Best wishes to all for along and happy retirement.

General Manager News and Notes:

After 31 years with Scripps, the last six as GM of WRTV (ABC) in Indianapolis, LANA DURBAN is leaving the company. A memo to the staff said it was due to family reasons. She’d been a regional news executive before taking the GM role.

JIM DOTY moves within Sinclair from GM for KERO-TV in Bakersfield, CA, to the same job at WCYB/WEMT-TV in Tri-Cities, TN.

Our List of Open News Director jobs:

Here’s our list of open ND jobs as of Sunday, March 3, 2024:

It’s unofficial, there may be others that are open, and some of these may have been filled. If you know of any in either category, please let me know: rick@rickgevers.com

News 12 Bronx/Brooklyn, 930 Soundview Ave. Bronx, NY 10473
WFLD-TV 205 N. Michigan Ave. Chicago, IL 60601
KXTX-TV 4805 Amon Carter Boulevard, Ft. Worth, TX, 75155 **
KDVR/KWGN-TV 100 East Speer Blvd. Denver, CO 80203
WZTV 631 Mainstream Drive Nashville, TN 37228
KUTV 299 South Main Street, #150 Salt Lake City, UT 84111
WXIX-TV 635 W 7th. Cincinnati, OH 45944
WHP-TV, 2300 N Cameron St Harrisburg PA 17110
WVTM-TV 1732 Valley View Dr. Birmingham, AL 35209
WBMA-TV 800 Concourse Pkwy Ste 200. Hoover, AL 35244
WBRE/WYOU-TV, 62 S. Franklin St. Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701
WOLF-TV 1181 Highway 315 Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702 (News Manager)
WHEC-TV 191 East Ave, Rochester, NY 14604
WZDX-TV 1309 N. Memorial Parkway Huntsville, AL 35801
WTOC-TV 1511 Chatham Center Dr. Savannah, GA 31405
KNVO-TV, 801 North Jackson Rd., McAllen TX 78501 **
WAND-TV 904 W. South Side Drive. Decatur, IL 62526
KLEW-TV 2626 17th St, Lewiston, ID 83501
WFXG-TV, 3933 Washington Rd., Augusta, GA 30907
KYTX-TV 2211 ESE Loop 323. Tyler, TX 75701
KNDU/KNDO-TV 216 W. Yakima Ave. Yakima, WA 98902
KDRV-TV 1090 Knutson Avenue Medford, OR 97504
KBJR-TV 246 S Lake Ave, Duluth, MN 55802
KXMB-TV 1811 N 15th Street Bismarck, ND 58501
KOSA-TV 4101 E. 42nd. Suite J-7. Odessa, TX. 79761
WTWO-TV 10849 N US Highway 41, Farmersburg, IN 47850
WDTV 5 Television Dr. Bridgeport, WV 26330
WTVY-TV 285 North Foster St., Dothan, AL 36303
KPLC-TV, 320 Division St., Lake Charles, LA 70601
WWNY-TV 120 Arcade St. Watertown, NY 13601
KGNS-TV 120 W. Del Mar Blvd. Laredo TX 78041
KGWN-TV, 2923 E. Lincolnway. Cheyenne, WY 82001
KYOU-TV 820 West 2nd Street; Ottumwa, IA 52501
KQTV 4000 Faraon St. Joseph, MO 64506

**: Spanish language station