Planet CLE | Here's How You Can Help Protect Northeast Ohio As We Celebrate Earth Day 2022

Earth Day 2022 promises to be a busy day for WKYC Studios, as we launch a year-long station-wide effort to raise awareness about the urgent need to preserve our environment locally and globally.

On April 22, our “Planet CLE” campaign kicks off with our station broadcasting live from outdoor sites in Cleveland, and a team of reporters sharing stories about the biggest environmental challenges facing Northeast Ohio.

We’ll even partner with the TODAY Show during the 8 am hour and join with teams in other cities to help set a world record for the most plants watered simultaneously.

3News meteorologists Payton Domschke and Jason Mikell will be in Eastlake on Earth Day, helping the Western Reserve Land Conservancy plant trees along a stretch of property that was recently purchased by a public/private partnership in order to conserve it.

Our Earth Day coverage also includes an interview with Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb about his environmental agenda and why restoring the city’s parks has become a personal mission for him.

And tune into our What’s Next show at 11 pm on Friday to learn about the monthly “Planet CLE Challenges” we’ll be posing to our viewers in the coming year. For our first challenge, we will encourage our viewers to reduce the amount of driving they do by at least one car trip before May 30, and instead to walk, bike or take public transit.

A recently released United Nations report on climate change warned that nations must drastically change their energy policies and reduce dependence on fossil fuels or the resulting climate change will be catastrophic. The UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change concluded in its report that the world’s greenhouse gas emissions must peak no later than 2025 and then decline dramatically, in order to avoid extreme weather, rising sea levels and threats to water and food supplies.

Future Planet CLE challenges include participating in community or beach clean-ups, cutting down on use of single-use plastics, curbing water waste, and all sorts of other practices that help preserve the environment.

We hope that our viewers will participate each month and post pictures using the #PlanetCLE hashtag.

To learn more about what individuals can do to preserve our environment, check out our Planet CLE digital guide which offers way to celebrate Earth Day at home including tips for recycling, reducing use of plastics and cleaning up Lake Erie.

Our Planet CLE initiative will stretch far beyond Cleveland’s boundaries; it will share information vital to all our Northeast Ohio viewers. Click here for a calendar of Earth Day events happening across the region, including in Medina, Stark and Richland counties.

A Cleveland Icon: 3News' Leon Bibb Gets Street Renamed In His Honor

Special to the Director's Cut Blog

Leon Bibb on 3/25/22    

By Ryan Haidet, wkyc.com

CLEVELAND — It's a big day for 3News’ Leon Bibb.

City officials honored the Cleveland TV news legend Friday afternoon by dedicating “Leon Bibb Way” at East 105th Street and Parkgate Avenue.

Standing under the street sign bearing his name, Bibb recounted some of his childhood memories growing up at a home just down the street.

“My childhood home was just a comfortable walk from the shores of Lake Erie, which call my family and friends to its wide-sweeping magnitude and its beauty. It was a wonderful childhood on this street, which my parents called a street of dreams. I don’t remember much about moving here when we moved here because I was only 3 years old."

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A post shared by WKYC Cleveland (@wkyc3)

He did remember, however, arriving to the home in a taxi cab with his mother while his father traveled there in the moving truck because they did not own a car at the time.

"My folks selected this house on Parkgate down the street at 9122 because it was a quiet neighborhood with a good elementary school right across the street," he continued. "My father taught me about following the rules and sticking to what you want to do. My mother taught me about how to be kind. I think about the house on Parkgate Avenue, which was our home through all of my years until I reached the age of 18 and went off to college. I think not only of my blood family, but there was a brotherhood. There was a brotherhood that I shared with my friends here."

We streamed the entire street naming dedication ceremony live, which you can watch in the player below:

Chants of "Leon! Leon! Leon!" were heard in the moments before the street naming dedication began. Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb, a relative of Leon's, also said a few words.
“My cousin, Leon, is certainly a titan in the Bibb family and a titan in Cleveland," Mayor Justin Bibb said at the dedication ceremony. "When I think about the contributions he’s made to this state and this city, the biggest thing I think about is one word: Service. He served this country, like my father, in the Vietnam War. He was the first Black anchorman in the state of Ohio. He has always made sure that our family lived up to this legacy of service.”

The honorary designation of Leon Bibb Way was initially announced last October as 3News marked his milestone 50 years in television.

“For 17 years, that's where I grew up,” Bibb said after first learning of the honor last year. “From before kindergarten all the way until I went to college, we lived on that street. My parents bought that house and we lived on that street.”

Former 3News reporter Tom Beres was also there for the dedication.

“I never expected anything like this,” Bibb said. “You know, people say, ‘how did you last 50 years?’ And I say, one day at a time.

Congratulations! We are so proud of you!

Neil Fischer Joins WKYC Studios in April

Neil Fischer

By Frank Macek
@maceknewsnation

WKYC Director of Content Adam Miller has announced Neil Fischer is joining the WKYC family as a Multi-Skilled Journalist starting next month.

A St. Louis native, Neil will join WKYC Studios after the past two years at KAPP-KVEW in Kennewick (Tri-Cities), Washington where he worked as an MMJ, reporter and anchor, covering everything from the COVID-19 pandemic to social justice protests in addition to wildfires that plagued that region. 

Neil is a graduate of Lindenwood University with a B.A. in Communications and Broadcasting, where he hosted a radio show, serving play-by-play for a variety of sports and he also played on the men’s baseball team.

Neil’s natural curiosity, impressive work ethic and genuine passion for storytelling aligns well with the 3News team and our push to continue focusing journalistic efforts around what matters most.

We look forward to Neil joining WKYC Studios and embracing the Northeast Ohio community.

Job openings at WKYC Studios for 3/23/22

By Frank Macek

@maceknewsnation

WKYC Studios has these job openings if you are looking for a rewarding career experience with us at TEGNA Media's Cleveland location.

Current WKYC Job Openings

• IT Specialist
• Visual Storyteller
• Reporter
• Executive News Producer
• Executive Producer
• Digital Content Producer
• Associate Producer
• News Intern
• Content Producer/Editor
• Host
• Director
• Multi-Skilled Journalist
• News Producer
• Editor
• Part-Time Editor
• Weekend Anchor/Reporter
• Director of Digital Content
• On Air Advertorial Host

You can also find other jobs within our parent company on the TEGNA Career Page. 

NOTE: You must applyvia the website. Mailed applications are not accepted.

Follow Frank Macek for new postings on Twitter @MacekNewsNation or on Facebook at fb/frank.macek

WATCH: "What Matters Most" February 2022 Campaign

By Frank Macek
@maceknewsnation

As I've mentioned in previous posts, WKYC Studios recently adopted the tagline of "What Matters Most" just in time for the 2022 Winter Olympics.

Check out some of the creative promos we have been running during February. These were created by our wonderful marketing and promotions department here at the station.

Let us know what you think? Please email me at fmacek@wkyc.com 

And thanks for watching 3News: What Matters Most.

"Hey Frank" for February 18, 2022

Frank Macek
@maceknewsnation

I put out the call, and you answered filling my inbox with emails for our first session of "Hey Frank." This gives you a chance to ask questions about the things you see on WKYC regarding our news  product, NBC programming, on-air talent or the station's community outreach programs.

Don't forget, you can email me your questions at fmacek@wkyc.com

So let's get started with our first edition...

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Hey Frank - "How are the ratings? Can you post them for the public to see? - Joseph

Hey Joseph - The station remains very competitive in all our news time periods. We are giving long-time news leader WJW a run for its money in the morning time slots and during the evening. I can not post specific ratings numbers due to Nielsen rules and regulations. Plus, I do not see the daily numbers or put much stock into them. We would rather see trends that develop over a period of time. 

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Hey Frank - "I noticed WKYC has changed the name of your newscast to '3News at 6' from 'What Matters Most." Are your other shows going to change their names too? - Don

Hey Don - The short answer is no. The station recently evolved our station branding to include the tag line of 'What Matters Most' to reflect our station's commitment to bringing our viewers the stories that matter most to them. W gave a new name to the 6 o'clock show to set it apart from that branding. All our other shows will keep their current names including GO!, What's New at 5p, Front Row at 7p and What's Next at 11p.

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Hey Frank - "What's it like when the Olympics are on WKYC. Does it make your life busier? - Josh

Hey Josh - Yes, the Olympics become a full station effort for two weeks. As you know, we do an additional Olympic Zone show at 7:30p Monday through Friday and 7p on Saturday leading into NBC's prime-time coverage. This show focuses on some of our local athletes and behind the scenes stories from Beijing from our partners at NBC. In addition, most of our 11p newscast get bumped to different time slots depending on that evening's scheduled coverage. This Olympics, we have started the late news anywhere from 10:30p until 12:30a. It's a very long two weeks, but we enjoy having the Olympics and get to do fun stuff at the station with employees including our own competitions to celebrate.

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Hey Frank - "Why so many job openings lately at WKYC? Are more people leaving the station?" - Jenny

Hey Jenny - Although some of our station folks have moved on to other stations which is a normal part of television, WKYC is actually in an expansion mode right now as we inch deeper into the streaming world. Many of the open positions are new positions that will be part of this new streaming venture. If you are looking for a new opportunity, WKYC is the place to be right now. Apply!

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Hey Frank - "Why does the station break from the TEGNA brand?  - Jason

Hey Jason - In 2019, the station decided we wanted to experiment with a new feel that was different from what other TEGNA stations were doing. This included new graphics that were built in-house and a new design to the our "3" logo. At the same time, our content shifted away from just hard news stories and became more of a mix of hard news and those that fit the lifestyles of those in Northeast Ohio. This brand continues to evolve as more and more people tell us what interests them, or "what matters most" to them.

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Hey Frank - "You keep posting about your weather tower being called the Al Roker tower. Why did you name it after him? - Mary Lee

Hey Mary Lee - It's all about history! As you probably know, Al Roker was a beloved weather man at WKYC during the early 1980s and still holds Cleveland very dear to his heart, although he now resides in New York and is a staple of NBC's Today Show. When he was in town last year, we decided to honor him by naming our weather tower after him. Hopefully when the weather turns more pleasant, we'll do a little fresh paint job on the tower and put his name (or mug) on the tower. 

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Hey Frank - "You've been doing your blog for many years. Does the station control what you say? - Dawn

Hey Dawn - No. The station has not kept me from posting stories when new talent are announced or other big station news breaks. However, I do not and will not post anything that is confidential to the station or keeps us from having an competitive advantage with other news outlets in town. 

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Thanks for this first batch of questions. Please keep them coming - Frank

WKYC Puts Its Mission Into Words: What Matters Most

Special to the Director's Cut Blog

By David Hrvatin

In late 2019, WKYC took a decidedly bold step and brought our 70-year-old TV station into the modern era. Our entire staff came together to rethink our approach to storytelling and created fresh content to keep up with the changing content preferences of audiences while maintaining the level of journalistic integrity Northeast Ohioans expect from us.

Then the world changed. The COVID-19 pandemic forced us all to take a step back. As a society, we gave a lot of thought to what truly matters most in our lives.

What Matters Most is different for everyone. Sometimes, what matters most is enough to compel change. Change for you, your family, your career, even your health.

For a while now, "What Matters Most” has been the name of our 6 p.m. newscast. But looking at the world around us, we realize those three words should apply to more than just one show. They should apply to everything we do at 3News. They will.

What Matters Most is recognizing real problems and showing practical solutions. What Matters Most is shared by all. The thrill of a win, the power of truth and the beauty of love.

Coinciding with the Opening Ceremony of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing, “What Matters Most” becomes more than simply a show title. It becomes a commitment to WKYC’s coverage and community involvement. Most importantly, it’s a dedication to listening to, and serving you. What’s important to you is what matters most to us.

For those wondering what this means for our 6 p.m. newscast, “What Matters Most”, that will now be known as “3News at 6.” For viewers who regularly record this newscast, you’ll want to update your DVR settings to record “3News at 6” when it appears on your program guide.

For seventy-three years, WKYC has operated to serve in the public interest of Northeast Ohio. That will never change. What Matters Most is not for us to say; it is for us to share. Our new tagline is participatory. We encourage you to share your story ideas and what matters most to you by way of emailing whatmatters@wkyc.com. Messages sent to that address go directly into the inboxes of our content and creative leaders.

Submit your questions for a new feature called "Hey Frank"

By Frank Macek
@maceknewsnation

Ever wondered about something you see on the air at WKYC Studios?

Submit your questions and I'll do my best to answer them in an upcoming edition of "Hey Frank."

Keep in mind, I can not divulge station secrets or address rumors, but I will honestly try and answer questions about the programing and people you see on 3.

Please email me at fmacek@wkyc.com. (I will not publish your email addresses on the blog, but would appreciate you providing your first name that I will use as part of the feature format.)

Carmen Blackwell Joins the 3News Team

By Frank Macek

@maceknewsnation

The 3News team has grown a little bigger this week with the arrival of Carmen Blackwell as a weeknight reporter at WKYC Studios.

A New Orleans native, Carmen told us she’s ready to call the birthplace of Rock & Roll her new home and "bring a little taste of the Crescent City to the Land," according to 3News Director of Content Adam Miller.

Carmen Blackwell

Carmen joins our station from KSAZ-TV/Phoenix, Arizona, where she was most recently a weekday morning reporter. 

Graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Journalism from the University of Louisiana at Monroe and Carmen began her career as a weekday morning anchor, reporter and producer at KALB-TV in Alexandria, LA before moving to the FOX affiliate in Phoenix. 

When not reporting, Carmen enjoys spending time with her husband, one-year-old son and Mini Aussie Poo pup named Lola.

Look for Carmen on our evening newscasts beginning next week.

TEGNA Earns Perfect Score for LGBTQ+ Workplace Equality for Sixth Consecutive Year in Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s 2022 Corporate Equality Index

TEGNA Inc. (NYSE: TGNA) today announced that, for the sixth consecutive year, it has received a perfect score of 100 on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s 2022 Corporate Equality Index (“CEI”), the nation’s foremost benchmarking survey and report measuring corporate policies and practices related to LGBTQ+ workplace equality.

“It is an honor to once again receive a perfect score on the Corporate Equality Index and be designated a Best Places to Work for LGBTQ+ Equality,” said Grady Tripp, vice president and chief diversity officer, TEGNA. “We are proud of the work we are doing to build an inclusive workplace that welcomes employees from diverse backgrounds, perspectives and experiences, and we remain dedicated to supporting equality and equal rights for all.”

The 2022 CEI evaluated over 1,200 companies promoting LGBTQ+-friendly policies and practices including non-discrimination workplace protections, equitable benefits for LGBTQ+ workers and their families, inclusive culture and corporate social responsibility.

TEGNA proudly supports several diverse causes within the LGBTQ+ community and is an active supporter of NLGJA: The Association of Lesbian and Gay Journalists. TEGNA Foundation has supported students’ participation in the organization’s annual conference for more than six years. In 2021, the TEGNA Foundation provided a grant to support LGBTQ student journalists through Connect, the organization’s journalism training project, which was held during their two-day virtual convention. TEGNA also sponsored a workshop entitled “Reunited: Managing Newsroom Relationships After a Year of Remote Work,” where journalists and managers shared first-hand experience and facilitated discussions with attendees about how to manage, maintain, and grow employee-manager relationships after the pandemic. TEGNA also participated in the conference’s virtual Career Fair and spoke with candidates seeking employment.

The TEGNA Foundation has also supported the Washington AIDS Partnership since 1992, specifically the Health Corps program, a group of 12 recent college graduates who serve at local health care providers or social service organizations. The Foundation also partners with LGBTQ-focused nonprofits in TEGNA’s local markets. In Washington, D.C. the Foundation works with the Latin American Youth Center’s STRIPES program, an after-school education, leadership and awareness-building program focused on LGBTQ ally training and issues related to LGBTQ identity.

More information on TEGNA’s benefits, including parental leave, adoption and surrogacy assistance and mental health benefits is available at TEGNA.com/careers/benefits/.

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NOTE: TEGNA is the parent company of WKYC-TV. The above is a press release issued by TEGNA on January 27, 2022.

Tonight at 7p on 3: A Turning Point

Coming up tonight at 7p on 3, we'll present another edition of "Front Row: A Turning Point."

The belief that when blacks and Latinos move ahead, whites lose ground.

Author Heather McGhee calls it "zero-sum thinking."

We talk with the woman behind the New York Times bestseller "The Sum of Us."

You'll hear her theory as we explore solutions that allow all Americans to prosper together.

Join us tonight at 7p on 3 for our on-going series called "A Turning Point."

Director's Cut Blog EXTRA: 

Upon exploring some issues raised in The Sum of Us by author Heather McGhee, 3News hosted "A Turning Point" panel conversation on Tuesday afternoon connected to the concerns surrounding environmental racism and justice.

3News contributor Chris Webb moderated the discussion on how to be solution-oriented when it comes to diversity, equity and inclusion issues, climate justice and building an interracial coalition around environmental issues.

You can watch that panel discussion below from January 25, 2022, presented by wkyc.com:

For more of "A Turning Point," visit our special section on our website: wkyc.com/turningpoint

Evening Anchor Russ Mitchell Celebrates 10 Years at WKYC

By Frank Macek

@maceknewsnation

Congratulations to our own Russ Mitchell in celebrating his 10 year anniversary with WKYC Studios this month.

In December 2011, former WKYC VP/General Manager Brooke Spectorsky announced to the staff Russ would be moving from his role at CBS News to become weeknight Managing Editor and the 6 & 11P anchor on the station in January 2012.

He would replace Romona Robinson who left the station upon the expiration of her contract on December 16, 2011, following a 15 year stint with the station. Most of that time, Robinson was teamed with co-anchor Tim White who also exited in 2008.

Seen as a coup at the time by local media insiders who were shocked the station failed to renew Robinson's contract, Russ left his role as an anchor  and journalist at CBS News to head to Cleveland. 

While based at CBS in New York City since 1992, Russ held a number of roles at the network over the next 19 years including co-anchor of "Up To the Minute," original co-anchor of the "Saturday Early Show," news anchor for the weekday edition of "This Morning," weekend anchor of "CBS Evening News" and a primary weeknight substitute for Dan Rather, John Roberts, Bob Schieffer, Katie Couric and Scott Pelley on the "CBS Evening News"

Said Mitchell of the change: "I've been thinking about going back to local television for a few years... It's been a great run at CBS, but I miss the pulse of a local newsroom, and, being from the Midwest, I miss being part of a community. But I wasn't going to go just anywhere. Cleveland reminds me a great deal of the city where I grew up, and I'm looking forward to bringing my family because I think we're going to have a really good life there, " according to his bio on Wikipedia.

Mitchell was born in St. Louis and graduated with a BA in Journalism in 1982 from the University of Missouri.

Meet the Newer Faces at WKYC Studios

By Frank Macek

@maceknewsnation

As we kick off 2022 and the re-launch of the Director's Cut Blog, I wanted to share with you a few of the new faces you have seen lately on WKYC. Even though the pandemic has disrupted all of our lives, we have been working hard behind the scenes to put together the best team of people to bring you the news, weather and sports you've come to expect from WKYC.

With our team in place, all of us at WKYC Studios are now getting ready for the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing, The Super Bowl and NBA All-Star Weekend in the CLE. It's going to be a February to remember.

Let's take a look at some of the new people who have joined WKYC Studios in 2021.

Payton Domschke

Payton Domschke

Payton Domschke joined the 3News weather team in December 2021 as our 5th meteorologist.

After spending the last two years on the East Coast with our sister station WVEC - 13News Now, Payton was thrilled to return to her beloved Midwest. She was born and raised in the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois, and she is named after famous Chicago Bears running back Walter Payton.

Some of Payton’s other passions include health and fitness, photography, and so much more. She can’t wait to get to know NE Ohio!

Emma Henderson

Emma Henderson

Emma joined WKYC December 1, 2021, from our TEGNA station WTOL-TV/Toledo, Ohio. 

Emma is also an award-winning journalist proud to be reporting in her home state.

Born and raised in the Columbus area, she went to the University of Missouri where she got her start at KOMU 8 News graduating in 2016 with a Bachelor's of Journalism in Broadcast with a focus in Investigative Reporting.

Isabel Lawrence 

Isabel Lawrence

Isabel joined WKYC from NBC15 in Madison, Wisconsin, on November 15, 2021. 

She was a weekday morning anchor at the NBC affiliate before journeying to the CLE.

While Isabel’s 2:30 a.m. alarm will no longer sound five days a week, she'll still be waking up early on Sundays, when she’ll be anchoring GO! During the week, you can catch her reporting for What’s New and What Matters Most.

Jason Mikell

Jason Mikell

Jason joined us from TEGNA station KVUE-TV/Austin, Texas, on September 13, 2021. 

Jason previously worked in the Buckeye State at WLIO in Lima, Ohio, beginning in 2016 as weekend meteorologist and later that year promoted to Chief Meteorologist. 

His love for meteorology began at a very young age growing up in south Mississippi. A self-proclaimed foodie and huge music lover, travel is one of Jason's biggest interests. He looks forward to exploring the many hidden treasures of Northeast Ohio.

Lydia Esparra

Lydia Esparra

Lydia rejoined WKYC from WOIO-TV/Cleveland, Ohio, at the end of August 2021.

Lydia was born and raised in Youngstown, Ohio, and earned a BA Degree in Telecommunications from The Ohio State University. 

In 1997, she became the first Latina news reporter at a Cleveland television station. In 2012, Lydia received the Robert G. McGruder Diversity in Media Distinguished Leadership Award from Kent State University. In 2014, she was named the “Ohio Television News Anchor of the Year” by the La Voz Media Alliance and received the Coretta Scott King Award from the NAACP 34-AB.

Marisa Saenz

Marisa Saenz

Marisa joined WKYC in March 2021 from KFOX14-TV & KDBC-TV/El Paso, Texas. 

During her time there, Marisa covered international stories, including breaking news of asylum seekers crossing into the U.S. from Mexico, the devastating Cielo Vista Aug. 3 Walmart shooting that left 23 people dead, and the surge in COVID-19 cases in the Borderland that made international news.

While Marisa’s passion lies in telling stories across the board, she’s most passionate in telling investigative pieces that allow her to help solve problems Northeast Ohioans are facing.

Dominic Ferrante

Dominic Ferrante

Dominic Ferrante has lived his entire life on the east side of Cleveland. After a short time in Mayfield, he moved out to Chardon and has lived there ever since. Dominic is most supported by his mother and father, two younger twin brothers and an older sister.

After attending Chardon High school and graduating in 2016, Dominic continued his education at Bowling Green State University. In his free time Dominic loves spending time with his dogs and girlfriend, Morgan. If not there, Dominic can be found on the bike path or flying his drone. 

January Keaton

January Keaton

January Keaton joined WKYC Studios on January 25, 2021.

January is a Lorain native and Kent State University graduate who has worked for more than 15 years in various news markets, beginning behind-the-scenes as a producer right here in Northeast Ohio at both WOIO and later for WEWS' morning broadcast. 

January has also traveled the country as part of the touring cast of an acclaimed musical before eventually returning to her news roots in 2011 as an Anchor/MMJ for WTEN in Albany, New York.

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A special thanks to the writers at wkyc.com for providing the biographical information.

WKYC adds Jorge Ramos Pantoja as a producer of 3News GO!

Jorge Ramos Pantoja

By Frank Macek

@maceknewsnation

WKYC VP/GM Micki Byrnes has announced the hiring of Jorge Ramos Pantoja as a producer for 3News GO! weekday mornings from 4:30 a.m. to 7 a.m.

Jorge was born and raised in the southwest corner of Puerto Rico and graduated from Universidad del Sagrado Corazón in San Juan majoring in Communications with a minor in Business Administration. 

After moving to New York City, he used his journalism skills for New York University's Global Program. He also worked as a breaking news reporter/anchor for NY1 News and was a producer at News 12 in the nation's largest television market.

More recently, Jorge worked at WOIO-TV since October 2018 where he started and anchored the first Spanish newscast in the market called "Cleveland Al Dia." 

"Engaging with people and seeing firsthand the amount of progress that can be made to reach equality in our society, inspires Jorge to continue working as a journalist and giving a voice to the voiceless," he posts on his LinkedIn profile.

Besides his passion for news and content creation, Jorge enjoys getting sun-kissed by the beach, traveling, stage performances, CrossFit, and a sweet yet strong cup of cafecito cubano he shares.

Aside from his show producing duties for GO! at WKYC, we are told Pantoja will also help produce additional content for all shows and platforms for WKYC Studios including wkyc.com, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram.

Welcome to the WKYC family Jorge!

January Keaton joins the 3News Team this month

By Frank Macek

@maceknewsnation

WKYC Studios has announced the addition of  January Keaton to the 3News family.

The Lorain native is returning to her Cleveland roots as a new dayside reporter at WKYC says 3News Director of Content Adam Miller.

January Keaton

A Kent State graduate, January has worked for more than 15 years in various news markets, beginning her career here in Northeast Ohio behind-the-scenes as a producer at both WOIO and later for WEWS' morning broadcast. 

January also has traveled the country as part of the touring cast of an acclaimed musical before eventually returning to her news roots in 2011 as an Anchor/MMJ for WTEN in Albany, NY. 

From Albany to Cape Coral, Florida as a Traffic Anchor and from the Sunshine State to anchoring evening newscasts in Macon, GA and most recently, working in the Atlanta market, January brings her infectious energy and genuine passion for reporting and storytelling to her beloved hometown.

January recently told us, "What I love most about working in media is the power to affect change, pull together a community or save a life...I like to engage the viewing audience through fresh perspectives and a little humor here and there."

January joins the station later this month of - January.

TEGNA Updates Station OTT Streaming Apps on Roku, Announces Plan to Launch on Amazon Fire TV

Tysons, VA – TEGNA Inc. (NYSE: TGNA) today announced it has completed an update of its stations’ over-the-top (OTT) streaming apps on Roku, enhancing the experience for viewers. TEGNA also announced it is planning to launch OTT streaming apps for its stations on Amazon Fire TV by the end of 2020. When the rollout on Amazon Fire TV is complete, TEGNA stations’ local news and other programming will be available to consumers on the two dominant OTT streaming media players, which comprise 70 percent of the U.S. market.

TEGNA’s OTT station apps offer streaming viewers free, ad-supported access to live news and the most recent news broadcasts, breaking news and weather forecasts, in addition to VERIFY fact-checking reports and TEGNA’s live entertainment program, Daily Blast LIVE. A new “Watch” feature has also been launched on stations’ websites and mobile apps in order to create a unified video consumption experience across all consumer digital platforms.

TEGNA’s True Crime Network app is also now available on Roku, after an initial launch on Amazon Fire TV and other platforms in August. True Crime Network, which features premium curated and original content for true crime fans, further expands TEGNA’s offerings for news and entertainment consumers on the most popular streaming services.

“TEGNA is capitalizing on the growing popularity of streaming and over-the-top services by expanding our offerings across digital platforms, driving audience growth and diversifying digital revenue streams,” said Adam Ostrow, chief digital officer, TEGNA. “Our latest rollout of station apps and the True Crime Network app, as well as new features on web and mobile, gives consumers even more ways to watch local news and entertainment programming.”

TEGNA stations have significantly increased digital viewership in 2020, achieving a record audience across platforms and setting records in key metrics such as visitors, video plays, and monthly active users in the first half of the year. The new True Crime Network and station OTT apps, along with broadcast, web, social media and mobile apps combine to deliver a complete, multiplatform experience for viewers however they consume news and entertainment content.

Christina Flowers To Become Executive Producer of 3News "What's Next" at 11p this December

By Frank Macek

@maceknewsnation

Christina Flowers is joining the WKYC Studios family as an Executive Producer. 

Christina Flowers

Originally from Pittsburgh, Christina is an award-winning journalist joining us from TMJ4 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Throughout her career, Christina has been recognized for her high-quality, impactful work - winning multiple regional Emmy awards for "Best Newscast" & "Best Spot News" covering an attack inside a Nashville area theater. 

          

At TMJ4, Christina famously brought debates back to television after 15 years and used her leadership skills for coverage on everything from the abduction of Jayme Closs to civil unrest & racial tensions in Milwaukee, Wauwatosa and Kenosha, Wisconsin.

Christina is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, a volunteer with Miracle League Milwaukee, an organization that gives children of all abilities an opportunity to play organized sports, a volunteer with Milwaukee Junior Achievement, a young professionals board member of Boys and Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee, and an active member of the National Association of Black Journalists.

Christina graduated with a double major in Communications and Rhetorical Studies and African American Studies from Marquette University.

When not in the newsroom, Christina says she loves to read, dance and "SHOP" in all caps! She also enjoys yoga, boxing and the great outdoors.

We so look forward to Christina joining us later in December as the new Executive Producer of "What's Next" at 11pm, replacing Denisha Thomas who left WKYC to become News Director at our Tegna station at WATN-TV/Memphis.

Award-Winning Journalist Allison Girvin Joins the 3News Team

By Frank Macek

@maceknewsnation

WKYC Studios announces Award-Winning Journalist Allison Girvin has joined the 3News team as Executive Producer of Innovation.

Allison's career has taken her from local news stations in North Carolina & Tennessee to New York City where she worked for ABC News, HuffPost Live, NBC News, The American Independent & Bloomberg Television. 

Allison Girvin

Allison spent more than 10 years at ABC News in New York in a variety of roles from assignment editor to field producer. She has interviewed everyone from presidents and princesses to astronauts in space. She spent the bulk of her time at Good Morning America, where she served three years as head writer for Diane Sawyer and Robin Roberts. 

Her last role at ABC News was running the Early Morning News Division where she oversaw World News Now and America This Morning. While at ABC News, Girvin was honored with an Emmy Award for the 2008 election coverage, and an Edward R. Murrow Award for the breaking news coverage of the death of Osama Bin Laden.

Allison was part of the original team to create and launch The Huffington Post’s online network HuffPost Live. In her three years at HPL, her team interviewed 25,000 people from 100 countries and garnered 2 billion video views.

While at NBC, Girvin was the Unit Chief overseeing business, technology and media coverage for NBC News and MSNBC. She led a team of 30 reporters, producers, writers and researchers in three news bureaus across the country. They covered everything from Russian Twitter trolls and big pharma to tax reform and trade wars for all broadcast, cable, digital, social media, and OTT platforms in the NBC News portfolio.

Allison is a passionate advocate of women prisoners and served as the Chairwoman of the Junior Board of the Women’s Prison Association, which focuses on helping ex-offenders reenter society. She is a frequent guest lecturer on new media and women in leadership and has spoken at numerous conferences and universities.

A San Diego native, Allison has as a Master of Science in magazine writing from Columbia University and a Bachelor of Journalism in broadcast news from the University of Missouri.

Adam Miller, 3News' Director of Content, selected for '40 under 40' list by Crain's Cleveland

Adam Miller

Special to the Director's Cut

from wkyc.com

A big congratulations to Adam Miller, who is the director of content here at 3News. He was just recently selected for the “40 under 40” list by Crain’s Cleveland Business.

Adam and the other honorees are being recognized for the difference they make in leading their companies and their communities here in Northeast Ohio.

"Chosen by our editorial team to represent a range of businesses and backgrounds, these 40 are committed to the future of Northeast Ohio," Crain's declares. "They range from professionals to entrepreneurs to community servants. And in a year that has been like no other with the COVID-19 pandemic, many have stepped up in immeasurable ways."

Adam, we thank you for your leadership at wkyc studios!

He joined 3News after previously working as Senior Producer at NBC’s TODAY where he was responsible for programming, launching and developing series content for the fourth hour with Kathie Lee Gifford and Hoda Kotb.

See the full list of the latest "40 under 40" honorees HERE.

Congrats, Adam!

Danielle Wiggins named co-anchor of "GO!" at 4:30a on 3

WKYC has announced that Danielle Wiggins will be adding more coffee to her morning routine as she takes on an expanded role with "GO!" on 3.

In addition to her regular traffic reporting duties, Danielle will become co-anchor of the station's 4:30 a.m. half hour broadcast along with morning meteorologist Hollie Strano.

Dave Chudowsky and Maureen Kyle will keep getting your day off to a great start from 5 to 7 a.m. on "GO!"

Danielle will also begin anchoring morning news updates across all WKYC's social platforms and reporting uplifting stories of hope that our viewers have come to enjoy between 4:30 a.m. and 7 a.m.

As WKYC Director of Content Adam Miller said, "We couldn't be happier that Danielle's Emmy-award-winning contributions will continue to shine all morning long on WKYC as she has a true gift for connecting with viewers in our community."

Danielle is a graduate of Bedford High School and holds a bachelor's and master's degree in journalism and mass communication from Kent State University. She began her career as a paid intern for NPR’s afternoon newsmagazine show “All Things Considered.” She then went on to work at the CBS and ABC affiliates in Cleveland.

TEGNA’s Justice Network to Relaunch as True Crime Network, Creating the First 24/7 True Crime Broadcast Network

TEGNA Inc., parent company of WKYC, announced that Justice Network, TEGNA’s leading multicast television network featuring crime and investigative programming, is undergoing a comprehensive rebranding and on July 27 will relaunch as True Crime Network. Justice Network is beginning an on-air promotional campaign today to inform viewers of the upcoming True Crime Network rebrand.

True Crime Network will offer a unique entertainment experience for true crime fans, integrating the 24/7 multicast network with a free, on-demand streaming service and high-quality true crime podcasts from TEGNA’s VAULT Studios. True Crime Network’s new on-demand streaming service, which will launch this summer, is dedicated exclusively to true crime content and programming.

The service will include free, ad-supported on-demand episodes that will be available via web, mobile and connected television apps. The service will initially launch with hundreds of hours of on-demand content from the network’s library. True Crime Network will also include original programs developed from TEGNA stations’ vast library of true crime and investigative content.


“True Crime Network capitalizes on the rapid growth of several distinct segments of media and entertainment: over-the-air television viewing, on-demand and binge streaming, podcasting and the true crime genre,” said Brian Weiss, president and general manager, TEGNA’s entertainment multicast networks.

“Our audience has spoken passionately about their desire to binge true crime mystery content. True Crime Network serves our highly-loyal, growing audience of true crime enthusiasts, while our streaming service will offer a free, easily-accessible and exciting experience for all true crime fans.”

The network will also continue to air its popular BeSafe Safety Tips. Hosted by Atlanta Police Sergeant Ralph Woolfolk, the segments provide helpful tips to keep viewers’ families and neighborhoods safer.

True Crime Network’s website, www.truecrimenetworktv.com, and app will also host true crime news powered by TEGNA stations and podcasts produced by TEGNA’s VAULT Studios, in partnership with True Crime Network.

The True Crime Network will air on WKYC Channel 3.2

WKYC adds Meteorologist Matt Standridge to the 3News Weather Team

Matt Standridge (Courtesy: KFSM-TV)

By Frank Macek

@maceknewsnation

WKYC has announced Matt Standridge will join the 3News Weather Team beginning in September.

Most recently at our TEGNA sister station, KFSM-TV/Fort Smith/Fayetteville, Arkansas, Matt is currently the weekend morning meteorologist and host of "Arkansas Adventures" where he showcases exciting scenic life in the great outdoors.

WKYC Director of Content Adam Miller says Matt will become the station's weekend evening meteorologist for "3News: What Matters Most" at 6p and "3News: What's Next" at 11p joining Lynna Lai, Andrew Horansky and Sports Anchor Nick Camino.

Born in Oklahoma, Matt eventually moved to upstate NY where he fell in love with a concept called "Lake Effect Snow." He graduated from Valparaiso University with a Bachelor of Science in Meteorology with a minor in Digital Media.

Matt's career even took him to North Dakota where he held a Radar Meteorologist position that involved directing air traffic control. A Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM), Matt brings his forecasting skills, creativity & passion to Cleveland just a week after this wedding.. Talk about life changes!

Matt is very active on social media and has over 200,000 following him and millions "liking" his content on TikTok. Be sure to check him out @weathermanmatt.

WKYC Studios General Manager Micki Byrnes named SME Cleveland 2020 Business Executive of the Year

Special to the Director's Cut Blog
By Dave "Dino" Denatle, wkyc.com

Sales & Marketing Executives Cleveland (SME Cleveland) has bestowed its 2020 Business Executive of the Year award to our own Micki Byrnes, President and General Manager of WKYC Studios.

The award acknowledges excellence in sales and marketing achievement and is based on the demonstration of the highest business, professional and ethical standards. It will be presented at the 59th annual Distinguished Marketing and Sales Awards gala banquet on Thursday evening at Executive Caterers at Landerhaven.

WKYC Studios VP/General Manager Micki Byrnes

“I’m truly honored,” Micki says “I came up on the marketing side of the business so to receive this particular honor from SME was truly special to me.”

Micki joined 3News in 1997 as Director of Marketing and was named Vice President, Advertising and Promotion in 2000, and Station Manager in 2014.

She has held broadcast management positions in Boston, San Francisco, Atlanta and Orlando. Byrnes is a past Chair and Director of PROMAX, International, the television industry’s premiere marketing association. She has also served on the marketing advisory boards of CBS Television, ABC Television and Fox Broadcasting and is the past Chairperson of the NBC Affiliate Promotion Committee.

Byrnes is only the second woman to ever win the SME Cleveland Business Executive of the Year and is proud of helping to continue the growth of women as leaders of business and industry.


The award will be presented on Thursday evening at Executive Caterers at Landerhaven.

“I’m old enough in this world and in this career that I have been ‘the only’ in many ways,” Micki explains. “There’s more that has to happen to open doors to get women into senior leadership. Personally, I just went for it and didn’t let the fact that I was ‘the only’ in a room hold me back.”

Micki has also distinguished herself in community service. She was a member of the 2005 class of Leadership Cleveland and continues to serve on their Selection Committee. She helped create the US Marshal of Northern Ohio’s Posse for Community Outreach and was a member of the FBI Citizen’s Academy class of 2012.

Micki currently serves as a board member of the Cuyahoga Community College Foundation, In Counsel with Women, the Greater Cleveland Chapter of the American Red Cross, The Cleveland Leadership Center, Destination Cleveland, the Ohio Association of Broadcasters and Coats for Kids.

Micki has won numerous regional Emmy, Telly and Addy Awards. She was inducted into the Cleveland Association of Broadcasters’ Hall of Fame in 2013 and was named a 2016 YWCA Woman of Achievement and a 2016 Crain’s Woman of Note. She was also named 2016 General Manager of the Year by Broadcasting & Cable magazine.

RELATED: Micki Byrnes – WKYC’s 70th Birthday Celebration 10.31.18
RELATED: WKYC holds first Women's Community Briefing
RELATED: WKYC President Micki Byrnes receives YWCA Women of Achievement Award

Classic WKYC Promos: Channel 3 News in 1986

By Frank Macek

@maceknewsnation

Check out these classic promos featuring the Channel 3 News Team featuring the main talent of Leon Bibb, Doreen Gentzler, Shane Hollett and Kevin Mackey from Cleveland State University from 1986.

How many of these do you remember on the air?

Our special thanks to David Hrvatin at WKYC for digitizing these promos here at WKYC Studios.

3News' Jim Donovan celebrates 35 years at WKYC

Special to the Director's Cut Blog
from wkyc.com

Cheers to 35 years!

On Thursday's What's Next, WKYC Studios paid tribute to one of our own. The month of February marks Jim Donovan's 35th year at WKYC.

Growing up in South Boston, Jimmy had a love for sports, especially the Bruins, watching games alongside his father. Jimmy graduated from Boston University in 1978, shortly after taking jobs in Vermont and Minnesota.

In 1985, as a curly haired sportscaster, he began his journey here in Cleveland. Jimmy arrived in Cleveland and never looked back.

His life was hectic, covering all areas of Cleveland Sports from the Browns, Cavs and Indians to the Cleveland Marathon and even Soap Box Derby. His work eventually landed him a job with the NBC Network, travelling all over the country calling NFL games every Sunday.

In 1999, Jimmy was named the "Radio Voice of the Cleveland Browns." As he prepares for his 22nd season, think about this: the browns have had 10 full time head coaches, dozens and dozens of starting quarterbacks, but only one voice.

It's a job Jimmy cherishes and doesn't take lightly for the most loyal fan-base in all of sports.

Boston may be home, but Cleveland is where his heart is.

It's been a wild ride for our colleague and friend, let's take a look at Jim's continuing incredible ride in the player below:

Exciting changes for WKYC Studios: Sara Shookman brings fresh Insight & new addition Laura Caso joins 3News

WKYC Studios’ President and General Manager Micki Byrnes announced exciting updates to the 3News evening lineup.

“As WKYC continues to explore new ways to engage with the audiences of Northeast Ohio, we are excited to share that Sara Shookman will be joining Jim Donovan as co-anchor of Front Row,” said Byrnes.

Front Row, weeknights at 7 p.m., gives viewers a closer look at the news makers and taste makers that are shaping our Northeast Ohio community. Then, Sara will continue her co-anchoring responsibilities with Russ Mitchell at 11 p.m. on Cleveland’s top rated “What’s Next.”

Sara Shookman

"Like any long suffering Browns fan, Jimmy's voice has gotten in my head,” said Sara. “Now I'm thrilled to sit next to him and give you a Front Row seat to all that's important, interesting, impactful and happening in our community. We want to connect you with the news makers, our community critics and cheerleaders, and ask your questions."

Sara is one of 3News' go-to storytellers, covering local, national and international news. Sara is a thought leader in the community and uses the 3News platform to make sure the voices of powerful women and girls are being heard loud and clear.

“Sara has always had a gift for identifying the most compelling and newsworthy stories and people,” said Director of Content Adam Miller. “We’re excited for Sara to give a “Front Row” seat to viewers as she shines a light on Cleveland’s best and brightest.”

“3News is also very happy to announce that journalist Laura Caso will be joining the 3News family as co-anchor of What Matters Most at 6pm,” Byrnes said. “Laura is an award-winning journalist who will be joining the team from WAVY-TV in Norfolk, where she currently anchors multiple evening shows.”

Laura Caso (Photo: Courtesy: WAVY-TV)

“Laura’s inherent desire to sincerely connect with people and immerse herself in a community, seeking out the stories that matter most – is a strength uniquely suited for our mission here at 3News,” added Miller. “We’re thrilled to welcome Laura to Northeast Ohio and know that viewers will quickly welcome her with open arms.”

Laura began her career by way of Elmira, NY where she anchored the morning news for WENY-TV. After exploring the Twin Tiers, she moved to Jacksonville, FL where she served as weekend anchor and reporter for TEGNA on First Coast News. The next step in her journey took her to WAVY-TV in Hampton Roads, Virginia where she contributed to the launch of two new evening newscasts. Laura is beyond thrilled to return to TEGNA and focus on what the company does best, hard-hitting journalism.

"Sharing stories that matter, not simply scratching the surface of a topic but delving deeper, that is why I choose this career,” said Caso. ”I am so proud and excited to be joining the WKYC team, a station with an impeccable reputation that understands the significant impact local news can have on a community."

3News’ Evening News Lineup:

5 p.m.: “What’s New” with Betsy Kling & Jay Crawford
6 p.m.: “What Matters Most” with Russ Mitchell & Laura Caso
7 p.m.: “Front Row” with Jim Donovan & Sara Shookman
11 p.m. “What’s Next” with Russ Mitchell & Sara Shookman

More about Laura Caso

Laura is an Emmy-nominated journalist for her report on breaking News Coverage and throughout her career has been honored with several awards at local and state levels. Most recently, she was awarded by the Associated Press for Best Coverage of a Spot News Story. She also received an award for Best Newscast at a Large Television Market by the Virginia Associated Press Broadcasters.

While in Virginia, Laura covered the arrival of President Trump and Vice President Mike Pence on two separate occasions and contributed to team coverage of several high-profile stories including the tragic mass shooting in Virginia Beach. She has anchored wall-to-wall coverage during tornadoes and hurricanes in Virginia, North Carolina and beyond. Yet, it is the more human accounts that touch Laura the most and hold a place in her heart forever. Laura's continuing coverage in 2019 of a young boy's battle with cancer allowed him to find the life-saving liver he needed – allowing Laura to experience first-hand the life-changing positive impact her work can have.

Laura is a proud alumna of University of Miami where she majored in Music and Broadcast journalism. A Massachusetts native, Laura’s love for music was woven throughout her childhood - singing at a Boston Red Sox game with her school choir remains a cherished memory. Laura began creating children’s stories at a young age as well, and this is undoubtedly where her passion for journalism and writing blossomed. In the fifth grade, Laura’s book entitled “Chicken Pox Explosion” was published and her first book signing remains one of her proudest moments. She continues reading to children along the east coast and whether it is hard news copy or a fairy tale, Laura thrives on telling a good story. Laura is an advocate of children's literacy and over the last several years, has also supported Alzheimer’s and AIDS awareness, suicide and drug addiction prevention and of course childhood cancer awareness.

When Laura is not in the studio or reporting on a story, you will find her exploring Cleveland and its delightful and diverse neighborhoods. She and her husband love to travel and spend time with their pup, Sadie. Her deep Italian roots have instilled in her the importance of family, friends and of course, food. Laura enjoys cooking and baking and hopes to one day master her mother’s homemade pistachio cake. She is thrilled to serve Northeast Ohio and looks forward to getting to know the amazing people who call it home.

More about Sara Shookman

Sara’s anchoring, and in particular her strengths in the field, won her a 2017 Emmy for talent. She’s won five regional Emmy awards and a regional Edward R. Murrow Award. Cleveland Magazine named Sara one of the city’s most interesting people.

Sara's become a vocal advocate for cancer research, since losing her father in 2015. She's spearheaded Team WKYC's efforts in Cleveland Clinic's Velosano ride, and raised more than $150,000 with her family's team, Spreading Scott's Smile. She volunteers alongside a variety of nonprofit organizations through events, station initiatives and personal visits. She's served on the Northern Ohio chapter of Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Board of Trustees, the Board of Directors for Towards Employment, and as part of the capital campaign committee for Stewart’s Caring Place, a cancer care center in Akron. She’s also passionate about volunteering with The Boys & Girls Clubs of Cleveland and the SeriousFun Children’s Network’s Flying Horse Farms in Mt. Gilead.

Sara grew up in Akron. She’s a proud graduate of Manchester High School and lover of the Portage Lakes. She’s glad to be back at 3News, where she first worked as an intern during her college years at Ohio University. She graduated summa cum laude from the E. W. Scripps School of Journalism. Prior to 3News, Sara was reporting and filling in at the anchor desk at WVLT in Knoxville, Tennessee. Sara got her start in television at WOUB in Athens, Ohio.

When she's not at work, Sara wants to get outside and on the water. She enjoys standup paddle boarding, gardening and cycling in the summer, and cross-country skiing in the winter! She and her husband love to travel and try new restaurants in the CLE. They're expecting their first child in May 2020.
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