By Frank Macek In an age when trust in the media feels like it’s collapsing under its own weight, local television news still manages to stand tall. National networks are often viewed through partisan lenses, and social media has become a noisy, confusing stream of half-truths and hot takes. Yet when a storm rolls in, when a city council vote affects taxes, or when there’s an emergency unfolding down the street, viewers still turn to their local newscast. That quiet, enduring trust may be local TV’s greatest remaining asset — but it’s also one that needs careful protection if it’s going to last. The numbers tell a revealing story. Surveys over the past year show that local television remains one of the most trusted news sources in America. Roughly three-quarters of viewers say they trust their local news stations — a significantly higher rate than national outlets or digital-only brands. Studies from the Television Bureau of Advertising (TVB) and the Radio Television Digital News ...
By Frank Macek Brandon Simmons WKYC Studios is proud to announce that Brandon Simmons has been promoted to Assistant News Director, marking an important milestone in a career built on hard work, innovation, and leadership. His journey at WKYC has been one of steady growth, defined by versatility and a deep commitment to excellence across every platform. Brandon joined WKYC in 2010 and quickly made an impression. He started as an intern, eager to learn the fast-paced world of television news, and moved through the ranks to become a key member of the assignment desk. There, he developed a sharp sense for breaking stories and a deep understanding of how a newsroom operates. His ability to stay calm under pressure and think strategically made him a trusted teammate early on. When he transitioned into reporting, Brandon’s storytelling skills and technical understanding came together seamlessly. He brought empathy and professionalism to every story, connecting with audiences while breaking d...