Director's Cut Blog with Frank Macek

Gracie Honors Again: WKYC’s Sia Nyorkor, Lindsay Buckingham, and Jessica Miller Earn National Recognition

2026-03-23T19:20:00.001-04:00

By Frank Macek

WKYC continues to build on a remarkable run of national recognition, and this year is no exception. Three members of the 3News team—Sia Nyorkor, Lindsay Buckingham, and special projects producer Jessica Miller—have earned one of the most respected honors in the industry: a Gracie Award, widely considered the premier accolade celebrating the achievements of women in media.

The announcement was made Monday morning, placing WKYC once again among an elite group of storytellers recognized across television, streaming, radio, audio, and digital platforms. For a newsroom committed to impactful, community-focused journalism, the recognition reflects both the strength of the work and the people behind it.

Lindsay Buckingham and Jessica Miller were honored for the station’s “Heartstrings” series, a signature example of storytelling that connects deeply with viewers by highlighting personal, emotional, and often inspiring journeys. The series has become a cornerstone of WKYC’s commitment to meaningful content that goes beyond headlines and into the lives of the people we serve.

Sia Nyorkor earned her Gracie Award for her crisis and breaking news coverage surrounding the question, “Who’s the mayor in East Cleveland, Ohio?” It was a fast-moving, complex story that demanded clarity, persistence, and accountability—qualities Sia brought to the forefront while keeping viewers informed during a confusing and critical moment in local government.

The awards will be formally presented this summer on June 16 in New York City, where recipients from across the country will gather to celebrate excellence in media. The honor also marks the fourth consecutive year WKYC has been recognized by the Gracies, underscoring a sustained level of excellence that continues to define the station’s work.

In announcing this year’s winners, Alliance for Women in Media President Becky Brooks emphasized the broader impact of the honorees, noting that women’s stories don’t just reflect the world—they help shape and change it. That sentiment is evident in the work being done every day at WKYC, where storytelling is not just about reporting facts, but about making a difference.

For viewers who want to experience more of this award-winning work, extended episodes of “Heartstrings” are available weekday mornings at 9 a.m. on WKYC+, offering another opportunity to see the kind of storytelling that continues to earn national recognition.

A New Chapter for WKYC Under Nexstar

2026-03-20T21:25:17.971-04:00

By Frank Macek

A major shift in local television is now official. Nexstar Media Group has completed its acquisition of Tegna Inc., bringing Cleveland’s WKYC-TV under new ownership as part of the nation’s largest broadcast group.

The $6.2 billion deal, approved by federal regulators on Thursday, dramatically expands Nexstar’s reach, now touching roughly 80% of U.S. television households. For WKYC, it marks the end of its Tegna era and the beginning of a new corporate structure alongside sister stations already owned by Nexstar in Cleveland including WJW-TV/8 and WBNX-TV/55.

Supporters argue the move strengthens local stations by giving them greater negotiating power and resources in a rapidly evolving media landscape. Critics, however, warn that consolidation could reduce newsroom diversity and local editorial independence.

For viewers in Northeast Ohio, the branding may stay the same—but behind the scenes, the future of WKYC and its sister stations is entering uncharted territory. Stay tuned.

Here was the official announcement made by Nexstar Thursday evening:

IRVING, TX (Mar. 19, 2026)—Nexstar Media Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: NXST), today announced that it has closed its acquisition of TEGNA Inc. following approval of the transaction from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the United States Department of Justice (DOJ).

Nexstar’s Founder, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer, Perry Sook commented:

“This transaction is essential to sustaining strong local journalism in the communities we serve. By bringing these two outstanding companies together, Nexstar will be a stronger, more dynamic enterprise—better positioned to deliver exceptional journalism and local programming with enhanced assets, capabilities, and talent. We are grateful to President Trump, Chairman Carr, and the DOJ for recognizing the dynamic forces shaping the media landscape and enabling this transaction to move forward.”

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Read the FCC report: https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DA-26-267A1.pdf

A Day to Make a Difference: WKYC’s Fur-Get-Me-Not Telethon Is Today

2026-03-19T05:00:00.000-04:00

By Frank Macek

Update 3/20: WKYC and the Cleveland APL raised nearly $165,000 thanks to our generous viewers. You can still donate. See the QR code below.

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Today’s the day—and here at WKYC, there’s a real sense of purpose inside the studios.

Our “Fur-Get-Me-Not Telethon” benefiting the Cleveland Animal Protective League is officially underway, and from the early hours of this morning through tonight, we’re dedicating the day to helping animals across Northeast Ohio find care, comfort, and ultimately, a second chance. This isn’t just another broadcast. It’s one of those moments where local television truly connects with the community in a meaningful way.

We began bringing you live updates starting at 5 a.m., and that coverage continues throughout the day, with stories, interviews, and behind-the-scenes moments that highlight the life-changing work of the Cleveland Animal Protective League. You’ll see firsthand the impact your support can make—whether it’s providing medical treatment, safe shelter, or helping an animal find its forever home.

What stands out every year is the emotion. The stories of resilience. The volunteers who give their time. The staff who never stop advocating for these animals. And of course, the pets themselves—each with a story, each deserving of a better tomorrow.

If you’ve ever welcomed a pet into your home, you already know how powerful that bond can be. Today is about creating more of those moments.

Getting involved is simple. You can text “APL” to 44834, head to ClevelandAPL.org, or scan the QR code on your screen to make a donation. Every contribution—no matter the size—goes directly toward helping animals in need right here in our community.

Everything builds toward tonight’s big moment. At 7:30 p.m., we’ll come together to reveal our grand total.

Frank's Take: Why Local Journalism Still Matters More Than Ever in a Fragmented Media World

2026-03-18T20:06:15.142-04:00

By Frank Macek

WKYC's Russ Mitchell & Cle Mayor Justin Bibb

There’s no denying the numbers. Local television viewership isn’t what it used to be. The days when families gathered around the 6 p.m. newscast as part of a nightly routine have largely faded, replaced by streaming platforms, social media feeds, and an endless scroll of national headlines competing for attention.

The audience has splintered, habits have shifted, and the metrics we once relied on to define success have changed dramatically. But if you look beyond the ratings charts and into the real impact of what local journalism does every day, a different story emerges—one that underscores just how essential it remains.

At WKYC, that reality is visible in ways that can’t be measured solely by Nielsen or Comscore numbers. It’s in the phone calls from viewers who need help navigating a confusing situation. It’s in the tips that come in at all hours, often from people who don’t know where else to turn. It’s in the trust built over decades, one story at a time. Local journalism has never been just about viewership. It’s about service. And that mission hasn’t changed, even as the platforms delivering it have.

The decline in traditional TV viewing is often framed as a crisis, and in many ways, it is. Advertising models have been disrupted. Younger audiences consume content differently. The competition isn’t just the station across town anymore—it’s every app, every influencer, every algorithm curating information in real time. But what often gets lost is this: while consumption has evolved, the need for reliable, local information has not diminished. If anything, it has grown more urgent.

Consider the role local journalism plays during moments of crisis. When severe weather threatens Northeast Ohio, viewers aren’t turning to a national outlet for hyper-local forecasts. They rely on familiar faces like 3News meteorologists Betsy Kling, Mark Johnson, and Matt Wintz—people who understand Lake Erie’s impact, regional microclimates, and the communities most at risk. That level of specificity isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. When the stakes are high, people want information grounded in local expertise.

The same holds true beyond weather. When a major story breaks—a public safety concern, a school closure, a developing investigation—people want information that is immediate, accurate, and relevant. A national headline may tell you something happened, but local journalism tells you how it affects your neighborhood, your commute, your family. It provides the context that turns information into something actionable.

At WKYC, that responsibility is taken seriously every day. The investment in weather, investigative reporting, and community storytelling isn’t just about filling a rundown—it’s about fulfilling a promise. Whether it’s digging into issues that affect neighborhoods or amplifying voices that might otherwise go unheard, the goal remains the same: inform, empower, and connect.

What makes local journalism uniquely powerful is proximity. National outlets can cover broad trends, but they can’t sit in on a Parma city council meeting or track policy changes in Akron schools the way a local newsroom can. They don’t have the same relationships, institutional knowledge, or accountability. Local journalists live in the communities they serve. They experience the impact of the stories they report and feel the responsibility of getting it right.

That accountability builds trust, and trust is the currency that matters most today. In an era where misinformation spreads rapidly, local journalism serves as a counterbalance. It provides vetted, fact-based reporting people can rely on. At WKYC, that trust has been earned over generations—and it must be reinforced every day.

Trust, however, is fragile. It can erode quickly if standards slip or audiences feel disconnected. That’s why consistency, accuracy, and transparency matter. When mistakes happen—and they do—owning and correcting them is essential. Local journalism isn’t just about telling stories; it’s about maintaining a relationship built on credibility.

The challenge is reaching audiences where they are. The decline in TV viewership doesn’t mean people have stopped consuming news—it means they’re doing it differently. That’s why local journalism has expanded beyond television to digital platforms, streaming, and social media. At WKYC, that evolution is evident in WKYC+, mobile alerts, and a growing digital presence. The mission remains the same, but the delivery is more dynamic.

This shift has created new opportunities. Digital platforms allow for deeper storytelling, real-time updates, and direct engagement. Stories that once lived in a two-minute package can now become multi-platform narratives with video, text, and interactive elements. Local journalism is not shrinking—it’s expanding into new forms.

It also creates a more conversational relationship with viewers. Feedback is immediate. Questions can be answered in real time. Viewers can contribute through tips, photos, and firsthand accounts. In many ways, local journalism has become more collaborative, reflecting a community that is actively participating in the news.

Still, challenges remain. Monetizing digital content is difficult. Maintaining standards in a fast-paced environment requires discipline. Competing with the sheer volume of unverified information can make credible reporting harder to distinguish. But these are challenges worth navigating because the alternative—losing strong local journalism—comes with far greater consequences.

Communities without robust local news coverage are more vulnerable to misinformation, less informed about local issues, and less engaged in civic life. When fewer reporters cover local government, accountability suffers. Decisions that affect daily life can happen with little scrutiny. That’s not just a media issue—it’s a civic one.

Local journalism helps bridge that gap. It brings transparency to processes that might otherwise go unnoticed. It asks questions on behalf of the public. It ensures important issues don’t slip through the cracks simply because they don’t rise to national attention.

At WKYC, that role is woven into the newsroom. Investigative reporting isn’t just a segment—it’s a commitment. Whether uncovering inefficiencies or following through on viewer concerns, the goal is impact. And impact doesn’t always mean headlines. Sometimes it’s a small change that improves someone’s life.

What happened at Park 85 Apartments shows exactly why local journalism matters. When residents were living without water or heat and felt ignored, WKYC stepped in. Jay Crawford listened. Sia Nyorkor and photojournalist Bailey Lustic exposed the conditions and demanded answers. The result—city leaders acted and repairs began. That’s local journalism making a real difference and demanding the truth.

There’s also an emotional dimension to local journalism that often goes overlooked. It’s not just about hard news; it’s about storytelling in its fullest sense. Celebrating achievements, honoring milestones, and capturing defining community moments all matter. From high school sports to local festivals and Heartstrings features, these stories create connection.

That connection has long been recognized by broadcast professionals. As Walter Cronkite famously said, “Journalism is what we need to make democracy work.” That idea plays out every day at the local level, where the impact is immediate and personal.

Tom Brokaw echoed that responsibility: “It’s easy to make a buck. It’s a lot tougher to make a difference.” Local journalism is rooted in that difference. It’s not about filling airtime—it’s about doing work that matters.

Ask anyone in a newsroom like WKYC why they do the job, and the answer often comes back to impact. It’s about helping someone get answers, shedding light on issues, and being there when the community needs information most.

Even Ben Bradlee emphasized journalism’s core purpose: “The truth is, journalism is not about what you say, it’s about what you find out.” That discovery—of facts, accountability, and untold stories—is where local journalism proves its value every day.

In a fragmented media landscape, that purpose becomes even more important. National stories can inform, but local stories resonate. They reflect shared experiences and remind people they are part of a community.

The people behind those stories matter. Local journalists aren’t distant figures—they’re neighbors. They’re seen at community events, in stores, on the same streets. That visibility creates relatability and accountability that national outlets can’t replicate.

That connection also brings responsibility. It means understanding the community’s nuances, respecting its diversity, and reflecting its voices accurately. It means listening as much as reporting and recognizing that every story deserves care and context.

Despite the challenges, there is reason for optimism. The forces disrupting traditional viewership have also created new ways to engage audiences. Innovation is happening in local newsrooms every day. At WKYC, that innovation is guided by a simple principle: meet viewers where they are, but never compromise the journalism.

That means balancing speed with accuracy, depth with accessibility, and innovation with integrity. Technology may change, but the fundamentals of good journalism do not. The future of local journalism will look different, but its core purpose will remain. It will still inform the public, hold power accountable, and strengthen communities. Platforms will evolve, but the mission endures.

It’s easy to focus on what has changed—the decline in viewership, the rise of digital, shifting business models. But what hasn’t changed is the need for trustworthy, local information.

In the end, the value of local journalism isn’t measured by ratings. It’s measured by impact—the stories that lead to change, the information that keeps people safe, and the connections that bring communities together.

At WKYC, that impact is felt every day. The numbers may fluctuate, habits may change, but the need for strong, reliable local journalism remains constant. And as long as that need exists, the work will continue—on air, online, and wherever the audience chooses to engage.

Because in a world of endless information, what matters most isn’t just access to news. It’s access to news you can trust, news that understands your community, and news committed to serving it.

That’s the role local journalism plays. And that’s why it still matters—now more than ever.

**EDITOR NOTE: "Frank's Take" articles are the expressed written opinions of the blogger and not necessarily those of WKYC-TV or TEGNA Media.

New Face at the Story Desk: WKYC Welcomes Wil Steigerwald to the 3News Team

2026-03-16T16:50:00.000-04:00

By Frank Macek

Wil Steigerwald

The WKYC newsroom continues to grow, and it’s always exciting to see new talent walk through the doors at 1333 Lakeside. This week brings another welcome addition to the team, as Wil Steigerwald joins 3News as a story desk editor. For those of us who have spent years working in local television, there’s something special about the moment a new journalist begins their first day in a newsroom. It’s the start of a new chapter not only for that person, but also for the team they’re joining.

Wil arrives at WKYC after recently graduating from The Ohio State University, where he earned his degree in journalism and media production. Ohio State has long been a pipeline for talented journalists entering newsrooms across the country, and many broadcasters in Northeast Ohio got their start there. The combination of journalism training and hands-on media production experience gives young reporters and editors the kind of practical skills that translate well into the fast-paced environment of a modern television newsroom.

In his new role as a story desk editor, Wil will be part of the team responsible for helping coordinate news coverage, monitor developing stories, and support the newsroom’s daily editorial operation. The story desk plays a critical role behind the scenes. While viewers at home often see reporters and anchors delivering the news on air, it’s the editors, producers, and assignment teams who help keep the flow of information moving throughout the day. They are the people watching scanners, tracking breaking news, coordinating with reporters in the field, and making sure the newsroom stays on top of the stories that matter most to our community.

Another interesting part of Wil’s background is that he’s also a certified drone pilot. In today’s world of visual storytelling, drone photography has become an increasingly valuable tool for television newsrooms. From capturing aerial views of breaking news scenes to providing dramatic perspectives for feature stories, drones have expanded the ways journalists can tell stories. Having someone on staff with that certification adds another layer of capability to the newsroom’s toolkit.

Wil currently lives in Kirtland, which means he already has roots here in Northeast Ohio. That local connection can be a real advantage in journalism. Understanding the communities you cover — their history, their concerns, and their unique character — helps journalists tell stories with authenticity and context. For a newsroom like WKYC, which has served the Cleveland area for decades, that kind of connection matters.

The energy that new journalists bring into a newsroom is always refreshing. Every new hire represents new ideas, fresh perspectives, and the enthusiasm that comes from someone just beginning their career in the business. Veteran journalists know that the industry continues to evolve, and the next generation plays a big role in shaping what the future of local news will look like.

Today marks Wil’s first day with the team, and the entire newsroom is looking forward to having him on board. As anyone who has worked in television news knows, the newsroom quickly becomes a second family. Long hours, breaking news, and the constant pursuit of stories create a shared experience that bonds journalists together.

Hunter Bertram Joins the 3News Team at WKYC

2026-03-06T19:18:00.002-05:00

By Frank Macek

Hunter Bertram

WKYC Studios is welcoming a new journalist to its newsroom. Hunter Bertram will officially join the 3News team on Monday, March 9, bringing reporting experience, government communications insight, and Midwestern roots to Cleveland.

Bertram arrives in Northeast Ohio after working as a multimedia journalist at KXLY-TV in Spokane, Washington. At the station—known locally as “4 News Now”—he reported on a wide range of stories across eastern Washington and the Inland Northwest, covering local government, community issues, and public safety.

At WKYC, viewers will see Bertram working the nightside reporting shift, contributing stories and live reports for various editions of 3News.

Originally from Minneapolis, Bertram graduated from the University of Minnesota, where he completed a major in journalism along with studies in sociology of law, criminology, and justice. The combination of disciplines helped shape his interest in covering issues involving government, law enforcement, and the justice system.

Before stepping into television news full time, Bertram gained experience on the other side of the media relationship. While still in Minneapolis, he worked with county government officials handling media requests. The role provided a behind-the-scenes perspective on how public agencies interact with journalists and how information is shared with the public.

That experience later proved valuable when he moved into reporting.

Bertram joined KXLY in Spokane as a multimedia journalist, often referred to as an MMJ in the television industry. In that role he was responsible for shooting video, writing, editing, and presenting his own stories. His work frequently focused on regional government issues and how policy decisions affected local communities.

Now he’s preparing for his next chapter in Cleveland.

Bertram says he’s excited about the opportunity to begin reporting in Northeast Ohio and to explore the city and its surrounding communities. For someone with Midwestern roots, the move feels like a natural fit.

Cleveland’s television market is one of the most competitive in the Midwest, and WKYC’s newsroom covers a wide range of stories across the region—from breaking news to enterprise reporting that digs deeper into issues affecting local communities.

50 Years Ago Today: Remembering Russ Montgomery at WKYC-TV

2026-03-02T17:43:00.003-05:00

By Frank Macek

Fifty years ago today, viewers in Northeast Ohio were watching Russ Montgomery deliver the weather on WKYC-TV. To many, that’s the name they remember. In later years, he would be known professionally as Russ Minshew — but in the mid-1970s, “Montgomery” was a familiar presence at the Channel 3 anchor desk.

Montgomery followed a classic broadcast path of his generation, building experience in smaller markets before arriving in Cleveland. Those early years demanded versatility. Reporters wrote their own scripts, edited film, and often handled multiple roles in the newsroom. By the time he reached WKYC, he was polished and precise — a broadcaster who understood timing down to the second in the era of spliced film and manual cueing.

His delivery was calm and deliberate. In a decade marked by economic shifts and civic change in Cleveland, that steadiness mattered. Anchors were not celebrities; they were trusted narrators. Montgomery fit that mold perfectly.

A snapshot of his work lives on from March 2, 1976 — a broadcast featuring an exchange with longtime anchor Doug Adair. Adair’s commanding presence paired naturally with Montgomery’s composed cadence. Watching the two together reveals the professionalism and quiet chemistry that defined local news at the time.

Like many broadcasters of the 1970s, Montgomery’s style carried the influence of radio: tight copy, clean delivery, no excess. His use of the professional surname “Montgomery” during his WKYC years reflected industry norms of the period. Later in his career, he returned to his given surname, Minshew.

Russ Minshew passed away from cancer in Perdido Key near Pensacola, Florida, shortly after his 48th birthday and final broadcast in 1993. What remains clear is that his professional legacy is firmly rooted in Cleveland television history.

For longtime viewers, his broadcasts are tied to an era when the evening newscast felt like a daily ritual. There were no digital graphics packages or social media teases — just preparation, credibility and connection.

That March 2, 1976 clip captures it all. The pacing. The tone. The teamwork. It’s a reminder of how local journalism once looked — and how foundational those broadcasters were in shaping community trust.

You can watch that exchange now on the Director’s Cut Blog. Fifty years later, Russ Montgomery’s presence at the WKYC anchor desk still feels steady, confident and unmistakably Cleveland.

Job openings at WKYC Studios & TEGNA Ohio for 3/2/26

2026-03-02T16:00:00.000-05:00

By Frank Macek

WKYC Studios has these job openings available if you are looking for a rewarding career experience with us at TEGNA Media's Cleveland location. We've also now added opportunities for our sister TEGNA stations in Columbus and Toledo as well as other Broadcast Director openings across the country.

Current WKYC/Cleveland Job Openings

Current WBNS/Columbus Job Openings

Current WTOL/Toledo Job Openings

Current Broadcast Director Jobs Tegna Openings

Broadcast Director - KUSA/KTVD (Denver)
Broadcast Director - KARE (Minneapolis)
Broadcast Director - KARE (Minneapolis)
Broadcast Director - KPNX (Phoenix)
Broadcast Director - KSDK (St. Louis)
Broadcast Director - WGRZ (Buffalo)

You can also find other jobs within our parent company on the TEGNA Career Page. Please note, you must apply via the website. Mailed applications are not accepted.

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

25 Years at 13th & Lakeside: How WKYC’s 2001 Move Rewired Channel 3 for the Digital Age

2026-02-09T21:28:00.006-05:00

By Frank Macek

WKYC Studios Today at 13th & Lakeside Ave.

Twenty-five years ago, WKYC changed addresses. On paper, it looked like a straightforward relocation—from East 6th Street to 13th and Lakeside—but in reality it marked one of the most consequential transitions in the station’s history.

That move quietly redefined how Channel 3 would operate, adapt, and ultimately survive in an industry that was about to change faster than anyone imagined. I know that because I lived on both sides of it.

I walked into WKYC for the first time in June 1994, learning the craft of local television inside the old East 6th Street building. By then, the place already carried decades of history in its walls. You could feel it the moment you stepped inside. It wasn’t just a workplace; it was an institution. The building had character, quirks, and limitations that everyone learned to navigate. Floors creaked, equipment ran hot, and no two studios behaved exactly the same way. It was a space that demanded experience, intuition, and a certain toughness if you were going to make it through a breaking-news night without losing your cool.

East 6th was where many of us truly learned television. It was where timing became instinct, where communication often happened through glances and hand signals, and where problem-solving was a daily requirement rather than an occasional inconvenience. The technology was analog, the workflows were manual, and the margins for error were razor thin. You didn’t just do the job in that building—you adapted to it. The facility shaped the way we worked, and in many ways, the way we thought.

Former WKYC Studios at 1403 E. 6th Street

By the late 1990s, it was becoming clear that the industry was moving faster than the building could. News hours were expanding. Editing was shifting toward nonlinear systems. Graphics were growing more complex. Digital was no longer a buzzword; it was becoming the backbone of broadcast television. The East 6th facility had served WKYC well for decades, but it was increasingly obvious that no amount of retrofitting could fully prepare it for what was coming next.

When the decision was made to move, it wasn’t just about square footage or modern aesthetics. It was about survival and relevance. Building a new broadcast center at 13th and Lakeside was a statement that WKYC intended to compete not just in the present, but in a future that was still taking shape. For those of us in operations, the move wasn’t theoretical. It meant rethinking how we did our jobs and trusting that the disruption would be worth it.

January 2001 arrived, and with it came one of the most complex transitions a television station can undertake. Anyone who has lived through a station move understands that it’s equal parts excitement and anxiety. Careers, routines, and muscle memory are suddenly uprooted. The big question for many of us wasn’t whether the new building would be impressive, but whether it would still feel like home.

The first time I walked into the Lakeside facility, it was immediately clear that this wasn’t just an upgrade—it was a reinvention. The space was open, intentional, and built with production flow in mind. Control rooms made sense. Studios were designed for flexibility rather than workarounds. The newsroom breathed. For the first time in my career, the building felt like it was working with us instead of against us.

From a director’s chair, that difference is profound. At East 6th, you were constantly compensating for the building’s limitations, adjusting timing around equipment constraints, and relying on experience to navigate systems that had been layered on top of one another over decades. At Lakeside, the workflow itself became an asset. Communication improved. Access was quicker. The physical layout supported the pace and precision that modern newscasts demanded. It felt like the station had finally been given the infrastructure it deserved.

What stands out most in hindsight is how forward-looking that move really was. In 2001, social media didn’t exist. Streaming wasn’t part of the conversation. Most viewers still consumed news at scheduled times on traditional television sets. And yet WKYC built a facility designed to adapt—to scale, to evolve, and to absorb technological change without breaking. That foresight proved invaluable as the industry moved from tape to servers, from analog to high definition, and from linear broadcasts to digital platforms and streaming channels.

Watch: A drone's eye view of WKYC Studios today

If the station had remained at East 6th, I’m not sure how we would have kept pace. The Lakeside facility gave WKYC the physical and operational flexibility to grow into the newsroom it needed to become. It allowed engineering to innovate, production to expand, and journalism to reach audiences in new ways without being constrained by the walls around us.

Now, twenty-five years later, what strikes me most is the passage of time—and my place within it. I am still here. There are only a handful of us left who worked in the East 6th building, helped usher in the Lakeside era, and continue to put shows on the air today. When the building opened, it was the future. Today, it’s the place where new generations of journalists and producers begin their careers, many of them unaware that WKYC ever operated anywhere else.

I’ve directed newscasts across two distinct eras of television inside the same station. I’ve watched technology transform nearly every aspect of production while the mission remained the same. Through all of it, this building has been the constant backdrop—a space that enabled growth rather than resisted it. Walking its halls, I’m often reminded how rare it is to have that kind of continuity in an industry defined by change.

Buildings don’t make television—people do. But the right building makes it possible for those people to do their best work. Every smooth breaking-news broadcast, every complicated show that hits cleanly, every successful launch of something new carries a trace of the decision made in 2001 to move to 13th and Lakeside. It was an investment not just in concrete and steel, but in the people who would spend their careers inside it.

Today, the address no longer feels new. It feels lived in, tested, and proven. East 6th taught me how to do the job. Lakeside gave me the space to grow with it. Being one of the few still here from the building’s earliest days is a perspective I don’t take lightly. It’s a reminder of how far the station has come and why that move, twenty-five years ago, mattered so much.

WKYC didn’t just change locations in 2001. It gave itself room—physically and philosophically—to evolve. A quarter century later, that decision continues to pay dividends, and I’m grateful to have had a front-row seat for the entire journey.

Watch: Our first in house broadcast on Super Bowl Sunday before our main studio launch the following day with weekend anchors Scott Newell, Kristen Anderson, Eileen McShea and Chuck Galeti (January 31, 2001):

Watch: Our first night 7p special with Romona Robinson, Tim White, Mark Nolan and Jim Donovan (February 1, 2001):

Frank's Take: Why TEGNA’s Producer-in-Residence Program Matters More Than Ever

2025-12-29T17:45:00.000-05:00

By Frank Macek

As newsrooms across the country continue to juggle relentless deadlines, evolving platforms, shrinking margins, and rising expectations, one truth remains constant—strong producers are the backbone of local television news. They are the conductors of the daily symphony, balancing editorial judgment, logistics, storytelling, and leadership, often under extraordinary pressure. That is why TEGNA’s Producer-in-Residence (PIR) program is not just a training initiative, but one of the most important long-term investments the company makes in the future of local journalism.

As the Producer-in-Residence program gears up for a new year, WKYC will welcome two Producers-in-Residence. The addition is notable not only for the newsroom as a whole, but particularly for producing teams navigating the demands of a fast-paced, multi-platform environment.

The Producer-in-Residence program is designed with one core mission: to identify, develop, and support the next generation of broadcast news producers. These are early-career journalists who show strong editorial instincts, leadership potential, and a hunger to learn the craft at a high level. Rather than placing new producers into high-pressure roles without adequate preparation, the PIR program emphasizes structured mentorship, hands-on experience, and time to grow—an increasingly rare approach in today’s newsrooms.

Producers-in-Residence learn the job by doing the job. They work alongside experienced producers, executive producers, and newsroom leaders, observing how newscasts are built from the first editorial meeting to the final rundown. They shadow producers through breaking news, long-term planning, and daily deadline pressure, gradually taking on more responsibility as their skills develop. Just as importantly, PIRs learn directly from on-air talent—gaining insight into how anchors, reporters, and meteorologists prepare, collaborate, and communicate—developing a deeper understanding of the teamwork required to deliver a successful newscast.

At its best, the program benefits every level of the newsroom. Producers-in-Residence gain real-world experience without being overwhelmed on day one. Veteran producers gain fresh perspectives and additional collaboration. News managers and executive producers are able to develop talent deliberately and consistently. Viewers ultimately benefit from stronger, more confident storytelling across platforms.

At WKYC, the impact of the program is already evident.

Most recently, the Producer-in-Residence program brought Josh Bailey and Mea Griffin to the station. Both quickly distinguished themselves through strong work ethic, curiosity, and a willingness to absorb feedback. Over time, they grew into the role of producer with increasing confidence and editorial judgment. Following the completion of their residencies, both were elevated to full-time producer positions at WKYC, underscoring the effectiveness of the program as a pipeline for long-term newsroom talent.

Looking ahead, the next two Producers-in-Residence joining WKYC in 2026 are Jeff Jones and Allyson Ritchey.

Jeff Jones will begin the program ahead of the rest of the cohort. A graduate of Howard University, Jeff earned a major in journalism and a minor in political science, a combination that supports both strong editorial decision-making and a broader understanding of public affairs. While at Howard, he produced newscasts for the Howard University News Service, gaining hands-on experience with rundown construction, story prioritization, and deadline-driven production. He also served as a sports reporter for The Hilltop, writing weekly sports articles that strengthened his writing discipline, storytelling range, and newsroom collaboration skills.

Allyson Ritchey will join the program later as part of the 2026 Producer-in-Residence class. She will graduate in May with a Master’s degree in media and communications from Bowling Green State University, after earning her undergraduate degree from Shippensburg University in Pennsylvania. At Bowling Green, she has served as a graduate assistant for marketing and evening planning, overseeing social media accounts for the Center for Faculty Excellence, while also acting as an executive producer for BG Falcon Media. Allyson has also gained professional newsroom experience through freelance work with the Toledo Free Press and the Associated Press and will begin the program on June 22.

More broadly, the Producer-in-Residence program addresses a growing industry challenge. As experienced producers retire, shift roles, or leave the industry, fewer early-career journalists are entering broadcast news with long-term ambitions to produce. Without intentional development, that gap continues to widen.

The PIR program responds directly to this challenge by emphasizing mentorship, repetition, feedback, and accountability. It reinforces a culture of teaching within newsrooms, ensuring institutional knowledge is passed forward rather than lost.

Equally important, the program helps establish consistent standards of excellence across stations. Producers-in-Residence are introduced to best practices, shared values, and clear expectations that elevate storytelling across the TEGNA group. When PIRs complete the program and move into full-time producing roles, they carry that foundation with them—strengthening not just individual stations, but the company as a whole.

For WKYC, the arrival of Jeff Jones and Allyson Ritchey represents continuity and forward planning. It reflects a deliberate approach to developing talent while investing in the long-term health of the newsroom.

That is exactly why the Producer-in-Residence program matters.

**EDITOR NOTE: "Frank's Take" articles are the expressed written opinions of the blogger and not necessarily those of WKYC-TV or TEGNA Media.

NBC Nightly News Comes to Cleveland as Tom Llamas Visits WKYC on Nationwide Affiliate Tour

2025-12-12T21:28:00.005-05:00

By Frank Macek

UPDATE: 12/25

Due to the weather and breaking news, NBC has canceled Tom's visit to Cleveland today.

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NBC Nightly News will have a distinctly Cleveland backdrop on Monday, December 15, as anchor Tom Llamas brings the network’s flagship evening newscast to the city for a live broadcast at 6:30 p.m. The visit includes time at WKYC Studios and is part of Llamas’ broader effort to tour the country and connect directly with NBC’s local affiliates.

Llamas’ Cleveland stop places Northeast Ohio squarely on the national stage—something the city continues to earn through its relevance to stories shaping the country. From economic reinvention and health care to climate resilience and the evolving media industry itself, Cleveland offers a real-world lens on national issues. Broadcasting live from the city reinforces NBC News’ commitment to grounding its reporting in the communities where those stories live.

The visit to WKYC carries particular weight. Channel 3 has long been a proving ground for journalists, producers, and directors who understand the value of strong local storytelling. By spending time inside the Lakeside Avenue newsroom, Llamas highlights the vital connection between network news and the local stations that serve viewers every day. It’s a reminder that national journalism does not exist in a vacuum—it is built on the foundation of trusted local reporting.

Llamas’ appearance in Cleveland is also part of a larger tour that has taken him across the country to meet teams at NBC-owned and affiliated stations. The effort reflects a hands-on leadership style and a recognition that the future of broadcast news depends on collaboration across markets. For local staff, these visits are more than symbolic; they affirm the importance of their work within the national news operation.

Since taking the anchor chair at NBC Nightly News, Llamas has leaned into location-based broadcasts that add immediacy and authenticity to the program. Rather than delivering the news exclusively from a studio, he brings viewers into the places where national stories unfold. Cleveland becomes part of that visual and editorial narrative—not just a dateline, but a setting.

Behind the scenes, a live network broadcast from Cleveland is a high-wire operation. Technical crews, producers, correspondents, and local partners coordinate to deliver the same polish viewers expect every night, this time with a distinctly Cleveland backdrop. It’s the kind of moment viewers may take for granted, but industry insiders recognize as a showcase of precision and teamwork.

For audiences at home, the broadcast offers something familiar yet different. The tone and authority of NBC Nightly News remain, but the local setting adds texture and perspective. Cleveland isn’t just watching the news—it’s helping tell it.

When Tom Llamas signs on live at 6:30 p.m. Monday, December 15—after visiting WKYC Studios as part of his nationwide affiliate tour—Cleveland will once again step into the national spotlight, reinforcing the enduring link between local journalism and the national stories it powers.

WKYC+ Scores Exclusive Streaming Partnership with the Cleveland Crunch

2025-12-05T15:41:00.003-05:00

By Frank Macek

The Cleveland Crunch are entering a new chapter in their modern revival, thanks to a new partnership that will bring all of their home games exclusively to WKYC+. Beginning January 10, 2026, every match played at the Wolstein Center will stream live on the platform, giving fans across Northeast Ohio a direct and convenient way to follow the team. It’s a move that reflects both the Crunch’s growing momentum and WKYC Studios’ continued expansion of its digital footprint.

For the Crunch, the agreement is more than a broadcast arrangement. It signals the team’s commitment to reconnecting with longtime fans while introducing indoor soccer to a new audience.

The Crunch hold a nostalgic place in Cleveland sports history, dating back to their championship years in the National Professional Soccer League. Since the franchise relaunched, the organization has focused on rebuilding its identity and reestablishing indoor soccer as a staple of Cleveland’s sports culture. A consistent streaming home helps accelerate that effort.

WKYC+ is an ideal partner at a time when streaming has become the primary way younger viewers watch live sports. The platform already offers a growing mix of local programming and live events, and adding the Crunch strengthens its lineup with a fast-paced, high-energy sport that translates well on screen. For fans, it removes the guesswork.

Every home game is in one place, accessible on smart TVs, mobile devices, and tablets, creating a reliable rhythm that helps support and build the fan base. The Wolstein Center atmosphere has become part of that identity, blending family-friendly entertainment with a passionate supporters’ section that continues to grow. Bringing that energy to WKYC+ opens the door for new viewers who may later decide to attend in person.

The broadcasts will be hosted by Kevan Arnold, production director and producer at ESPN Cleveland, and Gianluca DiGiacomo, a Cleveland-based sports broadcaster according to wkyc.com.

2026 WKYC+ Streaming Schedule (Home Games)

Jan. 10 vs. Cincinnati Swerve
Jan. 24 vs. Detroit Waza Flo
Feb. 7 vs. Muskegon Risers
Feb. 21 vs. Cincinnati Swerve
March 7 vs. Detroit Waza Flo
March 21 vs. Pittsburgh Hotspurs

Where Are They Now: Jennifer Lindgren’s Journey From WKYC to the Anchor Desk at Coastal TV

2025-12-05T14:00:00.001-05:00

By Frank Macek

Jennifer Lindgren (via LinkedIn)

When Jennifer Lindgren walked into the WKYC newsroom in August 2010, she arrived with the energy of a journalist who knew exactly where she wanted to go. She had already put in the mileage—working in Columbia, South Carolina at WLTX and later in Jacksonville at WTLV—but Cleveland became the city where she sharpened her voice, tested her limits, and proved just how versatile a reporter could be. For those of us who remember her time at Channel 3, Jennifer wasn’t just a reporter on the roster. She was a one-woman production house, a journalist who could do it all before “MMJ” became an industry buzzword.

Her role at WKYC was, in many ways, ahead of the curve. Jennifer wasn’t simply reporting the news. She was shooting it, editing it, writing it, producing it, and then standing in front of the camera to deliver it. On her official WKYC profile at the time, she described herself as “a wearer of many hats,” and she wasn’t exaggerating. She’d haul a camera through a blizzard to get the shot, record interviews on the fly, then race back to the station and cut a full package under pressure—all without complaint. It was clear early on that Jennifer wasn’t afraid of hard work or tough assignments. She approached everything with an almost old-school sense of duty and a new-school adaptability that made her invaluable during a period of big changes in local news.

Lindgren at WKYC-TV

Her work paid off quickly. During her time at WKYC, Jennifer earned a regional Edward R. Murrow Award for writing—one of the most respected honors in journalism. That recognition wasn’t surprising to anyone who worked with her. Jennifer put enormous care into storytelling, especially stories involving ordinary people caught in extraordinary circumstances. She had a calm, steady delivery and an ability to make complicated issues feel approachable. It was the kind of writing that reflected not just skill, but empathy—something viewers sensed and connected with.

Cleveland audiences got to know her as a reporter who could shift effortlessly from breaking news to community features. One day she’d be covering winter storms along I-90, and the next she’d be profiling local organizations or knocking on doors for neighborhood-level reporting. Jennifer understood the heartbeat of the city quickly, and viewers responded to her work with genuine appreciation. There was never anything superficial about her reporting. She took the time to learn the story, understand the people, and bring clarity to whatever she covered.

But like many journalists driven to grow, Jennifer also knew that each stop in the business builds toward the next. And in 2013, she made a major leap—one that anyone in the industry would recognize as a milestone. Jennifer left WKYC for KTVT CBS 11 in Dallas–Fort Worth, one of the largest television markets in the country. It was a move that made perfect sense for a rising journalist: a top-five DMA, massive breaking news environment, and a chance to expand her reach far beyond Northeast Ohio. She took everything she’d learned in Cleveland—the self-sufficiency, the writing discipline, the ability to handle pressure with grace—and applied it on a bigger stage.

Her years at CBS 11 strengthened her further. Dallas is a fast, competitive market, and Jennifer fit right in. She anchored, reported, adapted to new workflows, and continued building a skill set that had already proven remarkably robust. Her time in Texas solidified her reputation as a reliable, polished, and thoughtful broadcast journalist. She’d gone from hauling gear in lake-effect snow to covering major stories in one of the busiest news regions in the country.

But what’s most interesting about Jennifer’s career—and what makes her “Where Are They Now” story particularly compelling—is what came next. According to her public LinkedIn profile, Jennifer is now an anchor with Coastal Television Broadcasting Group, a company known for its regionalized, multi-market news operations. That means Jennifer is back where she shines best: behind the desk, on-air, delivering the news to viewers across multiple communities. The role of “Regional News Anchor,” as she lists it, suggests she’s anchoring broadcasts that air across several markets within Coastal Television’s footprint—a model increasingly common in today’s media landscape.

And in many ways, it feels like a full-circle moment. After years of reporting from the field and working in some of the country’s most active markets, Jennifer has returned to the part of journalism she always had the strongest natural instinct for: connecting with viewers directly. Anchoring has always required more than reading words on a screen. It demands presence, warmth, steadiness, and the ability to guide audiences through everything from breaking news to daily headlines. Those qualities were visible in her earliest days at WKYC, and now, in her current role, they define her work once again.

Lindgren at Coastal Television Broadcasting Group

Her move to Coastal Television Broadcasting Group also reflects a broader trend within the industry. Many journalists are gravitating toward organizations that offer fresh models for delivering news, especially at a time when traditional legacy newsrooms face constant financial and operational challenges. Companies like Coastal TV are reshaping how regional news is produced and distributed, and anchors like Jennifer are bringing credibility and experience to those efforts. For viewers in those markets, having someone with her background at the desk is a serious asset.

For anyone who worked with Jennifer at WKYC—or watched her reports during her time in Cleveland—seeing where she is today feels both fitting and earned. She left a strong impression here, even though her time at the station was only a few years. She was young, determined, and incredibly driven, but she also had the rare ability to adapt to whatever the job required. When you watched her work, you could tell she was learning fast, absorbing every experience, and turning it into a stepping-stone. Cleveland was one of the most important stops in her climb, and she has carried those lessons with her ever since.

Today, as an anchor with Coastal Television Broadcasting Group, Jennifer Lindgren is still doing what she has always done best—communicating with clarity, anchoring with steady confidence, and bringing professionalism to every broadcast. She’s no longer the MMJ hauling gear through Ohio winters, but the foundation she built here has shaped everything she’s done since.

Her journey is a reminder of how dynamic journalism careers can be. Reporters become anchors. Local markets lead to major markets. Major markets sometimes lead to new models of broadcasting altogether. Along the way, the strongest journalists take pieces of every stop with them—skills, relationships, lessons, and the resilience that only this business can teach.

Jennifer Lindgren may no longer be at WKYC, but the spirit of the journalist she was here—the one-woman crew, the storyteller, the Murrow Award winner, the Cleveland reporter who never backed down from a tough assignment—still shows in the anchor she is today. Her path is proof that great journalists don’t just move around the map. They evolve. They grow. And they find new ways to do meaningful work wherever they go.

Frank’s Take: Why People Are Leaving Local Television

2025-12-03T17:22:00.000-05:00

By Frank Macek

The great unraveling of the local television broadcasting workforce didn’t happen in one dramatic moment. It didn’t arrive with a corporate memo, a breaking-news ticker, or a major newsroom shakeup. It happened slowly, quietly, and then all at once.

Over the last decade—especially in the last five years—I’ve watched the industry I love lose people at every level and from every corner: producers, directors, photojournalists, anchors, engineering veterans, editors, creative staff, and digital teams who once saw broadcasting as a lifelong career. The exits are no longer surprising. They’re expected. And more than that, they’re telling us something we’ve been reluctant to confront.

Why are so many people walking away from an industry once defined by loyalty and longevity? In my view, the answer isn’t simple, but it is unmistakable: local TV no longer looks like the business many of us signed up for. The job changed, the expectations changed, the economics changed, and in many places, the culture changed. When the ground moves under you long enough, eventually you stop trying to balance and start looking for a place that feels steady.

Let’s start with the obvious: burnout. Not the buzzword version—real burnout that affects sleep, health, focus, and emotional well-being. I’ve seen producers responsible for twice as many shows as before, but with half the staff. Reporters tasked with shooting, writing, editing, posting, livestreaming, and updating multiple platforms in a single shift. Directors who used to work with full teams now isolated in control rooms running automation systems that consolidate multiple jobs into one. Engineers stretched so thin they’re effectively responsible for systems once handled by entire departments.

All of that is happening while wages remain stuck in place. Few industries demand as much while offering as little in return financially. Young journalists—bright, ambitious professionals who should be the future of local news—can barely afford rent in many markets. The promise that low pay is simply “part of the journey” is outdated and unfair. A mission is not a paycheck. And more than ever, people know their worth.

The pay gap inside stations also matters. Anchors may be the faces viewers know, but the producers feeding the show are the ones struggling. Engineers who keep stations legal and on the air can often double their salary by stepping outside broadcasting. Creative teams are routinely asked to deliver entire campaigns on shoestring budgets. Too often, the loudest praise from corporate comes with no meaningful raise attached. That disconnect chips away at morale.

Then there’s consolidation—the elephant in every newsroom. When station groups become bigger and more centralized, local identity gets diluted. Decisions that once reflected community knowledge now come from people hundreds of miles away. Newsrooms that once thrived on local instincts find themselves following corporate playbooks instead. And when the people on your own newsroom floor feel sidelined by group-mandated strategies, it’s hard to feel ownership in the work anymore.

Automation, while necessary, accelerated some of these issues. The idea that systems like ELC, Ignite, or Overdrive would “empower” the remaining staff sounds good in a boardroom. But in practice, it often leaves one director responsible for executing what used to be handled by an entire crew—and if anything fails, the blame sits squarely on one pair of shoulders. That takes a toll. Technology should support people, not replace their sense of teamwork.

On top of that, the competitive landscape has shifted faster than leadership can adapt. A generation ago, local news was the primary source of community information. Today, everything is fragmented. TikTok, YouTube, independent digital outlets, podcasts, Twitter/X, and streaming platforms have chipped away at the monopoly local stations once held. Ratings reflect that. Under pressure, stations chase “viral” stories because they track well online. But journalists don’t enter this field to chase shock value. They want to tell stories that matter. When your work becomes dictated by algorithms, it’s easy to lose your passion.

The result of all these pressures is a talent pipeline that flows in the wrong direction. Producers go into corporate communications. Photographers go freelance and make more with better schedules. Reporters pivot to public relations or government roles where the hours are predictable and the pay is better. Editors leave for creative agencies. Digital journalists transition to tech. And engineers—possibly the biggest crisis of all—are nearly impossible to replace.

Engineering is the backbone of any station. Without RF specialists, transmission experts, IT engineers, and systems operators, you don’t have a broadcast. Yet the pool of people who understand hybrid analog/digital environments is shrinking. Colleges aren’t training them. Many stations aren’t retaining them. And younger engineers can earn far more by stepping outside broadcasting. Every time one leaves, the station loses knowledge that can’t easily be replaced.

And it’s not just the technical side. When seasoned journalists or producers leave, newsrooms lose history, mentorship, and standards. When photographers leave, storytelling suffers. When directors leave, newscasts become less resilient. When creative staff leave, branding weakens. When anchors leave, viewer loyalty erodes. These departures compound across departments and weaken stations from the inside.

Another key factor behind the exodus is the shrinking ladder of opportunity. Consolidation eliminated many middle-management roles. The path upward is narrower than ever. Promotions are infrequent. Raises are incremental. Some of the most dedicated workers in the building hit a ceiling early with no clear way to advance. Ambitious professionals eventually realize they’re waiting for opportunities that simply don’t exist.

Work-life balance—long dismissed as “not part of the news business”—is no longer something people are willing to sacrifice endlessly. Early mornings, late nights, rotating schedules, missed holidays, canceled plans, on-call weekends, emergency call-ins, and breaking-news disruptions are staples of the job. But after a while, they take something from you. People with families, caregiving responsibilities, or even basic personal needs find the schedule demands unsustainable.

The new generation entering the workforce views employment differently than those who came before. They value transparency, support, mental health, time off, predictable schedules, and workplaces where communication flows both ways. Broadcasting has been slow to shift culturally, and it shows. Younger employees want to feel valued—not just as workers, but as people. When they don’t get that, they walk.

Another undeniable factor: the emotional toll of the stories themselves. Local journalists witness trauma constantly—violence, fires, fatal crashes, tragedies, and human suffering. They carry those images with them. Over time, it’s heavy. Without strong newsroom support systems, the emotional weight becomes yet another reason to leave.

The truth is, people aren’t leaving because they don’t care. They’re leaving because they care so much that staying in a system that no longer supports them becomes too difficult. They’re leaving because the passion they brought into this industry was slowly eroded by the realities of the job. They’re leaving because they want stability, growth, respect, and the ability to have a life outside the newsroom.

But despite everything, I still believe in this business. I still believe in the mission of local television: service, connection, community, accountability, and truth. The people who remain aren’t staying because they have nowhere else to go. They stay because something about this work still matters to them. Something still feels essential. Something still feels worth fighting for.

But belief alone won’t fix what’s broken. The industry has to change. It must rethink how it treats its people. It must invest in its workforce, not just its equipment. It must pay competitive wages. It must restore local control. It must rebuild teams instead of trimming them. It must create an environment where journalists feel supported, engineers feel valued, and creativity is encouraged rather than squeezed into templates.

Because at the end of the day, the heart of local television has never been technology, or ratings, or corporate strategies. It’s people. The people who stay late to fix a graphic. The people who get up at 2 a.m. for morning show prep. The people who stand in the cold for live shots. The people who direct shows with precision. The people who edit stories on impossible deadlines. The people who keep the transmitters humming. The people who care enough to try again tomorrow, even after a rough today.

If the industry wants to stop the bleed, it has to remember that.

People aren’t leaving because local TV stopped being important. They’re leaving because local TV stopped being sustainable.

And unless something changes, the exits will continue—one talented, passionate person at a time.

That’s my take.

**EDITOR NOTE: "Frank's Take" articles are the expressed written opinions of the blogger and not necessarily those of WKYC-TV or TEGNA Media.

TSO brings holiday power to WKYC+ with an exclusive concert event this Friday evening

2025-11-24T21:06:00.006-05:00

By Frank Macek

WKYC viewers are in for a true holiday treat this Friday, Nov. 28, as we unwrap one of our biggest seasonal streaming events yet. Immediately following Front Row Friday, our streaming app WKYC+ will present an exclusive broadcast of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s stunning “Christmas Eve and Other Stories Live” concert — streaming only on our platform from 7:30 to 9 p.m.

This holiday classic, known for its mix of rock, orchestra, storytelling, and dazzling production, has become a benchmark of the season for fans across the country. Now, viewers can enjoy the full experience from home, free and on demand.

The Trans-Siberian Orchestra has long been a powerhouse of holiday entertainment, blending soaring guitar riffs with sweeping symphonic arrangements in a way that makes their music instantly recognizable. “Christmas Eve and Other Stories,” their debut album and one of the bestselling Christmas records of all time, laid the foundation for what their live shows would become: a captivating blend of energy, emotion, and theatrical spectacle. This concert performance captures every bit of that magic, bringing the arena experience directly into your living room.

For WKYC, this exclusive stream represents another step forward in expanding what our digital platforms can offer. Over the past year, our team has worked hard to grow the WKYC streaming app into a destination for local programming, community storytelling, live specials, and unique events you won’t find anywhere else. Adding a nationally recognized brand like TSO to that lineup underscores our commitment to giving viewers more ways to watch, on more devices, whenever they want.

Whether you're decorating for the holidays, hosting friends, or simply settling in for a cozy night at home, this concert makes the perfect soundtrack to kick off the festive season. TSO’s mix of hard-driving rock, classical influences, and emotional narratives has resonated with audiences for decades, and this special presentation is ideal for longtime fans and newcomers alike.

You can stream the full show for free by downloading the WKYC app on Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple TV. Once installed, simply open the app Friday evening and look for the TSO concert featured prominently on the homepage.

Don’t miss this exclusive holiday event — a one-night-only performance available only on WKYC’s streaming platforms. It’s the perfect way to start your weekend and celebrate the magic of the season.

NBC Brings MLB Back to Broadcast in 2026, with Games Airing on WKYC

2025-11-20T17:46:00.005-05:00

By Frank Macek

Major League Baseball’s new media agreement with NBC marks one of the most significant shifts in the sport’s national broadcast landscape in years, restoring a legacy partnership while reshaping how fans will watch many of baseball’s biggest moments. Beginning with the 2026 season, NBC returns to MLB coverage with a package that blends historic broadcast presence and modern streaming strategy, placing select games on both the NBC broadcast network and Peacock.

For longtime fans who remember NBC’s iconic baseball coverage through the 1990s, the move represents both a nostalgic return and a strategic adjustment for today’s multiplatform audience. Here in Northeast Ohio, all NBC-network MLB broadcasts will air locally on WKYC, Cleveland’s NBC affiliate.

Under the agreement, NBC regains rights to several high-profile MLB events. Among the most notable additions is Sunday Night Baseball, which NBC will air during weeks without network conflicts. ESPN still retains its longstanding Sunday night package, but NBC’s involvement adds a second marquee national game, broadening exposure and giving fans a new destination for Sunday night matchups. For NBC—and affiliates like WKYC—the move strengthens the network’s position as a major home for live sports alongside the NFL, Olympics, Premier League, and Big Ten coverage.

NBC will also air a primetime Opening Day game, placing baseball in a national spotlight during one of the most anticipated days in sports. Special event matchups, including showcase games and ballpark celebrations, will also appear on NBC, creating opportunities for the network to highlight Major League Baseball’s best storylines. For Cleveland-area viewers, WKYC becomes a direct, free, over-the-air source for these premier national broadcasts.

One of the most impactful elements of the agreement is NBC’s acquisition of the Wild Card Series, which will now air on broadcast television each postseason. With early postseason rounds often limited to cable, NBC’s national reach dramatically increases accessibility. Fans in Northeast Ohio will be able to watch Wild Card games directly on WKYC, reviving a broadcast tradition that mirrors the widely accessible playoff coverage of past decades.

NBC will also play a large role in All-Star Week, broadcasting the Futures Game and televising the first hour of the MLB Draft, which will be simulcast alongside Peacock. These events highlight baseball’s next generation, and NBC’s involvement elevates their presentation on a national stage.

Meanwhile, Peacock expands its role as a streaming home for MLB. Its dedicated Sunday Leadoff package returns with 18 exclusive early Sunday games. Peacock will also stream Sunday Night Baseball when NBC isn’t carrying the game and offer a daily “game of the day” for subscribers outside the competing teams’ home markets. This dual-network structure ensures baseball remains accessible regardless of viewing preference.

For NBC, the deal strengthens summer programming and reconnects the network with a sport it covered for decades. For MLB, the partnership restores a major broadcast platform. And for fans—especially here in Cleveland—the agreement means far more baseball available on free television, backed by flexible streaming options through Peacock.

Starting in 2026, MLB’s return to NBC creates a new era of national baseball coverage, combining tradition, accessibility, and modern digital reach—all with WKYC serving as the local broadcast home.

Holiday Flashback: Rare WKYC ‘Values Magazine’ Photos from the Early ’90s

2025-11-19T17:23:00.002-05:00

By Frank Macek

WKYC is unwrapping a bit of holiday nostalgia with a look back at our Holiday Values Magazine, a seasonal tradition that once showcased the station’s community spirit and promotional flair in the early 1990s. These rare vintage photos, recently shared with us by former Director of Advertising & Promotion Dan Klintworth, offer a vivid window into an era when WKYC’s branding, events, and on-air talent were captured in festive, magazine-style spreads delivered to viewers each winter.

Klintworth, who served at WKYC from 1984 to 1995 during both NBC and Multimedia ownership, preserved these images for decades. His generosity in sending them back home to WKYC gives us an invaluable look at the station’s creative legacy—a time defined by bold graphics, spirited promotions, and a newsroom buzzing with holiday energy.

These photos not only celebrate our past but also remind us how deeply WKYC’s traditions continue to resonate today. Enjoy a trip to the past.

Channel 3 News RTA Bus Queen Board Promotion with Dawn Stensland, Judd Hambrick, Amy Hasten, Jim Donovan and Tom Brokaw

Holiday Values Magazine Cover with Connie Dieken, Judd Hamrick, Amy Hasten and Jim Donovan

Holiday Values Magazine Promoting our Talkback 3 Line with GM Bill Scaffide

Holiday Values Magazine with Judd Hambrick, Dawn Stensland, Amy Hasten & Jim Donovan

Holiday Values Magazine featuring Talkback3. Talent (Top Row L-R: Jon Loufman, Jodine Costanzo, Ron Jantz, Bill Scaffide, Steve Miles, Kim Wheeler, Tom Beres, Chuck Galeti. Bottom Row L-R: Kate Laurie, Paul Orlousky, Eileen McShea & Cory Thompson)

Holiday Values Magazine with Meteorologist Amy Hasten. (Top Row L-R: Dick Feagler, Connie Dieken & Jim Donovan)

Cleveland Magazine Article on WKYC

Beloved Meteorologist Mark Johnson Joins WKYC, Returning to Cleveland Airwaves

2025-11-10T09:53:00.002-05:00

By Frank Macek

One of Northeast Ohio’s most familiar faces is returning to local television. Veteran meteorologist Mark Johnson will join WKYC Channel 3 as a meteorologist beginning Monday, Nov. 10, bringing his trusted voice, decades of forecasting experience, and deep connection to the community back to viewers across the region. Johnson will deliver weather updates weekdays during WKYC’s 5, 7, and 11 p.m. newscasts, adding his expertise to one of Cleveland’s most respected weather teams.

For those who grew up watching him interpret lake-effect snow, spring storms, or summer heat waves, his return marks the homecoming of a beloved broadcaster whose calm authority has guided viewers through some of Northeast Ohio’s most unpredictable weather moments.

Mark Johnson is more than just a forecaster — he’s part of Cleveland’s television history. A lifelong Northeast Ohio resident, Johnson first stepped onto the Cleveland airwaves in 1993, launching a career at WEWS-TV that would span over three decades. Through those years, he became a daily companion to viewers navigating the region’s notoriously changeable weather. His trademark mix of accuracy, energy, and accessibility turned him into one of the most trusted figures in local broadcasting. Whether tracking blizzards along the I-90 corridor, severe thunderstorms over Summit County, or quiet summer evenings on Lake Erie, Johnson’s commitment to precision and clarity became his signature.

Over the years, his dedication to the craft earned him multiple Emmy Awards for excellence in weather broadcasting, solidifying his reputation as both a scientist and a storyteller. His work reflected an unwavering focus on keeping the public safe and informed — qualities that made him one of the most respected meteorologists in the business. In 2024, his contributions to broadcasting were formally recognized when he was inducted into the Broadcasters Hall of Fame, a milestone that highlighted his long-standing influence and his role in shaping how Northeast Ohio understands its weather.

WKYC’s newsroom leaders say Johnson’s addition strengthens an already dynamic weather team that serves viewers across TV, streaming, and digital platforms. “We are excited to welcome Mark to the WKYC weather team,” said Julie Flynn, WKYC’s news director. “His broadcast experience, accuracy in forecasting, and popularity throughout Cleveland speak to both his expertise and his genuine dedication to serving the region. We look forward to the positive impact he will continue to make, both in our newsroom and across the communities we serve.”

For Johnson, the move represents both a continuation and a renewal — a chance to bring his deep knowledge of Northeast Ohio’s meteorology to a new audience while working alongside a team known for its innovation and community-first storytelling. “I’ve spent my life forecasting Northeast Ohio’s ever-changing weather, and I’m thrilled to be back doing what I love most in the community I call home,” Johnson said.

His longevity in Cleveland television stems from a blend of technical mastery and approachable style. Over the years, he has navigated the region’s full spectrum of weather extremes — from record snowfalls to wind-driven lake storms and springtime tornado warnings. His calm explanations during breaking weather events earned him the trust of viewers who turned to him for clarity when skies turned gray and conditions worsened. Behind the scenes, colleagues have long praised his mentorship and enthusiasm for meteorology. Known for his humor, warmth, and ability to make complex science easy to understand, Johnson brings a blend of authority and personality that resonates with audiences across generations.

A graduate of Kent State University, Johnson also holds a Meteorology Certification from Mississippi State University, blending academic rigor with years of hands-on forecasting in one of the nation’s most challenging microclimates. His technical expertise and lifelong familiarity with the quirks of the Great Lakes region make him particularly adept at explaining the forces that drive Cleveland’s unique weather patterns — from sudden lake-effect snow squalls to dramatic shifts in temperature that can swing 30 degrees in a day.

For WKYC, Johnson’s arrival reinforces the station’s ongoing commitment to comprehensive, reliable weather coverage — a vital service in a region where weather touches nearly every part of daily life. From morning commutes to Friday night football, from lake-effect snow to summer humidity, Northeast Ohioans rely on trusted meteorologists to make sense of it all. Johnson’s return is poised to strengthen that trust. His move also underscores a broader truth about local television: the bond between broadcasters and their communities runs deep.

Johnson’s reappearance on Cleveland’s Channel 3 is more than a career move — it’s a reconnection between a familiar face and the viewers who have invited him into their homes for decades. His return represents continuity in a constantly evolving media landscape, reminding viewers why local broadcasters remain essential. As WKYC continues to expand its reach across digital platforms and community initiatives, Johnson’s experience and steady presence align perfectly with the station’s mission of telling “Your Voice, Your Stories.”

After 30 years of guiding viewers through sunshine and storms, Mark Johnson’s next forecast will come from a new studio — but for Clevelanders who’ve followed his career, it’s clear that his heart has never left home.

Frank's Take: The Unsung Heroes Behind the Lens and in the Edit Bays at WKYC

2025-11-03T16:42:00.001-05:00

By Frank Macek

In every newsroom, there are the familiar faces viewers see each day—the anchors, the reporters, the meteorologists guiding us through another unpredictable Cleveland forecast. But the real heartbeat of a station like WKYC lies with the people you rarely see: the photographers and editors. They are the unsung heroes who make the stories come alive, the ones who quietly transform chaos into clarity and turn everyday news into something that connects us all.

At WKYC, the photographers are often the first to hit the road and the last to come back. When the rest of Northeast Ohio is tucked inside avoiding the blinding snow, these men and women are out there—battling the elements with cameras slung over their shoulders, trudging through drifts and ice to capture the story for the evening newscast. The cold cuts through layers of clothing, the wind howls across the lakefront, and yet, they stand firm, focused on getting the perfect shot that will help viewers understand the conditions for themselves. Their batteries die faster in the freezing air, their lenses fog and freeze, and tripods seize up like rusted machines. But they find a way. Because they know that when a viewer turns on 3News, they deserve to see what’s really happening out there, not just hear about it.

WKYC Photojournalist/Editor George Pyamjis

You’ll find them on overpasses filming long lines of stranded cars during a blizzard or hiking into neighborhoods after a storm to document the damage left behind. They are part journalist, part technician, part problem-solver—and always part storyteller. They frame every shot with intention, capturing emotion and detail in ways that words alone could never express. A father shoveling snow off a car, a nurse walking through sleet to reach the hospital, the moment sunlight breaks through after the storm—it’s the photographer who sees those moments, who understands instinctively that those are the images that make a story human.

And when breaking news hits, their jobs demand everything. Fires, floods, crashes, protests—whatever happens, they’re the first out the door. They make split-second decisions under pressure, navigate dangerous situations, and somehow maintain the composure to capture footage that tells the truth without sensationalism. There’s no script in those moments—only instinct and experience. And through it all, they work side by side with reporters and producers, finding the visuals that best illustrate the facts, the emotions, and the impact on our community.

While the photographers are out in the field, there’s another group back at WKYC working just as hard to bring those stories to life—the editors. They are the quiet artists of the newsroom, sitting in the soft glow of their monitors, headphones on, piecing together raw video into something powerful and polished. They work in the background, long after others have left, timing every shot, cleaning up every sound bite, and weaving words, images, and emotion into one cohesive story. When a photographer returns with hours of footage, it’s the editor’s job to find the magic inside it—the perfect shot, the sound of children laughing, the sigh of relief after tragedy avoided, the brief pause that tells you everything.

Photojournalist/Editor Bailey Lustic

Editors have an extraordinary sense of timing and rhythm. They know when to cut, when to linger, and when to let the natural sound breathe. A good editor can take a routine story and turn it into something unforgettable simply through pacing and tone. They can feel when a story should make you smile, when it should make you think, and when it should make you stop and just listen. They are part artist, part psychologist, and part engineer.

The pace they work under is intense. The 6 p.m. show doesn’t wait for anyone, and a story that breaks at 5:15 might be on-air by 5:45—polished, captioned, and clean. That’s possible because the editors thrive under pressure. They think fast, move fast, and execute flawlessly. And even after the newscast ends, many stay behind to re-edit pieces for the web, digital streaming, or social media—because storytelling doesn’t stop when the lights go down on the set.

What ties both the photographers and editors together is their shared dedication to the craft. Neither expects applause. Their work isn’t about recognition—it’s about doing the job right. They find fulfillment in the moment a story airs, knowing they helped shape it. They’re the ones who take pride in the shot that made someone feel something, or the sequence that perfectly captured the heart of a moment.

At WKYC, collaboration is everything. The photographers and editors are in constant sync with producers, reporters, and engineers, forming a team that functions like a finely tuned machine. Communication, trust, and respect drive every decision, from how a shot is captured to how a story is cut. When the newsroom is buzzing before deadline, and tension fills the air, it’s the calm focus of these behind-the-scenes professionals that keeps everything on track. They are the glue that holds the storytelling process together.

And make no mistake—what they do comes at a personal cost. The long hours, unpredictable shifts, and missed family moments are part of the deal. News doesn’t take weekends off or wait for the weather to improve. Photographers head out in freezing rain on Christmas Eve. Editors stay late reworking a story because the facts changed at the last minute. They do it not because someone told them to, but because they care deeply about the integrity of the work. They know the people watching at home are counting on WKYC to get it right—and they take that responsibility seriously.

There’s something humbling about watching a photographer frame a perfect sunrise over downtown Cleveland or seeing an editor tighten the last seconds of a story before air. You can see the pride in their faces—the quiet kind of satisfaction that comes from knowing their work helps the community stay informed and connected. It’s not glamorous. It’s not easy. But it’s essential.

Every story you watch on Channel 3—every piece that moves you, teaches you, or inspires you—has their fingerprints all over it. They’re the ones who turn a jumble of video and audio into something that feels real and alive. They’re the reason WKYC continues to deliver powerful, visual journalism that reflects the heart and spirit of Northeast Ohio.

So, the next time you tune in and see a beautiful wide shot of snow falling over Public Square, or a tight close-up that captures the emotion of a family reunited, take a moment to think about the person behind that camera and the one sitting in the edit bay, bringing it all together. They are storytellers in the truest sense of the word. They are artists who translate reality into understanding. And they are a vital part of what makes WKYC the station it is today.

In this business, the spotlight will always fall on the faces you see on screen—but it’s the people behind the lens and behind the keyboard who make television what it is. Their work is often invisible, but its impact is undeniable. Without them, there would be no story to tell.

At WKYC, we are lucky to have some of the very best photographers and editors in the industry—people who give their all every single day to ensure that every frame, every sound, and every story is done right. They might not get the credit they deserve, but their dedication is seen and felt in every broadcast we put on the air.

That’s why, for me, this “Frank’s Take” isn’t just about giving them credit—it’s about reminding everyone that great storytelling is a team effort. The faces you see on camera may represent WKYC, but the people behind them define it. They are the backbone of this newsroom, and without them, there is no show, no story, and no connection to the community we serve.

So here’s to the photographers who brave the snow and rain to bring us the truth, and to the editors who shape that truth into something powerful. They may work in the shadows, but their work shines every single day.

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**EDITOR NOTE: "Frank's Take" articles are the expressed written opinions of the blogger and not necessarily those of WKYC-TV or TEGNA Media.

Happy Birthday WKYC: 77 Years of Legacy of Innovation, Storytelling, and Cleveland Spirit

2025-10-31T08:10:00.010-04:00

By Frank Macek

Old WKYC building at E. 6th Street

October 31 isn’t just Halloween in Cleveland—it’s also the day Channel 3 first lit up the airwaves. On October 31, 1948, WKYC—then known as WNBK—signed on as Cleveland’s second television station, following WEWS-TV. Seventy-seven years later, that pioneering NBC signal from Parma has evolved into a multimedia powerhouse that continues to inform, inspire, and connect Northeast Ohio.

When WNBK first went on the air, television itself was still new and experimental. Only a few hundred Clevelanders owned TV sets, and most programming came live from NBC’s studios in New York. The local station filled the schedule with community shows, live news, and sports, all broadcast from a modest downtown facility. Those early engineers, announcers, and producers were true trailblazers, figuring out the technology and storytelling in real time.

In 1954, the station relocated its transmitter to Parma and moved from Channel 4 to Channel 3 to improve signal coverage and reduce interference. The switch strengthened NBC’s presence across Northern Ohio—from Sandusky to Youngstown—and gave Clevelanders the Channel 3 identity that endures today.

Courtesy: Cleveland Classic Media

Then came one of the most unusual chapters in American broadcasting. In 1956, NBC traded its Cleveland station to Westinghouse Electric Corporation in exchange for a Philadelphia property. Under Westinghouse, the station’s call letters were changed to KYW-TV. The swap created years of confusion and legal wrangling between the two companies. After nearly a decade, the Federal Communications Commission reversed the deal in 1965.

When NBC regained control, it needed a new call sign—but Clevelanders had come to know the Westinghouse “KYW” identity. To maintain viewer familiarity while signaling a fresh NBC start, the network chose WKYC-TV, preserving the “KY” and “W” from KYW as a nod to the station’s Westinghouse past while adding “C” for Cleveland.

NBC owned and operated the station for much of the 20th century before selling it to the Gannett Company, which later became Tegna Inc., WKYC’s parent company today. Under Tegna, the station continues to evolve as a modern, multi-platform newsroom—one that serves audiences on air, online, and on every screen imaginable.

Current WKYC Studios in Cleveland

Throughout its 77 years, WKYC has been defined by its ability to adapt. It was among the first in Ohio to broadcast in color, one of the earliest to produce news in stereo, and a pioneer of high-definition newscasts. That spirit of innovation continued with the station’s transformation into WKYC Studios—a state-of-the-art facility on Lakeside Avenue designed to unite television, digital, and streaming storytelling under one roof in early 2001.

WKYC’s cameras have been there for the biggest moments in Cleveland history. The station covered the Cuyahoga River fire of 1969, the Kent State shootings of 1970, and the economic revival that reshaped the city’s skyline. It has told stories of heartbreak and hope—from the Browns’ playoff droughts to the Cavaliers’ 2016 championship parade, from factory closures to the rebirth of neighborhoods once written off.

For more than seven decades, Channel 3 has chronicled not just the news, but the spirit of Northeast Ohio.

That legacy lives through the people who have passed through its newsroom—anchors, producers, photographers, editors, and technicians whose dedication and craft have built one of the strongest journalistic traditions in the Midwest. Names like Tom Haley, Doug Adair, Del Donahoo, Romona Robinson, Tim White, Russ Mitchell, Christi Paul, Jim Donovan, Maureen Kyle, and Jay Crawford represent generations of trusted faces who helped shape WKYC’s on-air legacy. Each one carried the same mission: to tell the truth, reflect the community, and do it with heart.

But it’s the people behind the scenes who keep the heart of Channel 3 beating. The photographers and editors who battle the elements to capture the perfect shot, the engineers who maintain the transmitter and streaming systems, the producers who juggle breaking stories and deadlines—all of them are the invisible backbone of WKYC. Their work is what allows the rest of us to see Cleveland’s story unfold every day.

For WKYC, innovation has always gone hand in hand with storytelling. The station has launched countless local programs that mirrored the region’s energy—from early magazine-style shows like “Montage” to contemporary community features like “What Matters Most” and “Your Voice, Your Stories.” Each new effort has carried the same goal: to give Northeast Ohioans a voice and shine a light on people making a difference.

As technology evolved, WKYC kept pace. When streaming emerged, the station embraced it early—launching full newscasts and special content on YouTube, Roku, and the WKYC+ app. As social media became part of daily life, the newsroom transformed again, sending push alerts, live updates, and instant weather warnings directly to viewers’ phones.

This transition hasn’t diluted WKYC’s journalism—it has strengthened it. The station has participated in Tegna’s VERIFY project, a fact-checking initiative that was dedicated to cutting through misinformation and providing viewers with clarity. In a digital world overflowing with noise, WKYC remains a trusted local voice—grounded in accuracy, transparency, and community trust.

Inside the newsroom, the pace is faster than anything those early WNBK pioneers could have imagined. Reporters shoot, write, and edit their own stories; producers craft television and digital versions simultaneously; and editors turn raw video into powerful visual storytelling in minutes instead of hours. But the spirit is still the same. When the red light goes on, a team of professionals—from studio techs to field crews—work together to bring Clevelanders the truth.

And when the weather turns fierce, that teamwork truly shines. WKYC’s weather team has long been among the most respected in the region—from Wally Kinan and Dick Goddard’s legendary forecasts to Betsy Kling’s leadership as Chief Meteorologist today. Whether it’s a severe thunderstorm or a full-blown blizzard, viewers know Channel 3 will be there with clear, calm, and dependable Weather Impact coverage.

Over time, WKYC has become woven into the daily rhythm of Cleveland life. Families have shared breakfast and dinner with its anchors. Kids have watched its school closings scroll across the screen on snowy mornings with Tom and Del. Generations have turned to Channel 3 not just for news, but for connection—because WKYC has always felt like part of the family as you "Turned to 3."

Cleveland itself has transformed in the same way. Once an industrial powerhouse and now a city of health care, technology, and culture, Cleveland’s evolution mirrors WKYC’s—resilient, adaptive, and hopeful. When the city has struggled, Channel 3 told those stories with honesty. When the city has triumphed, it’s been there to celebrate. When crisis has struck, it’s stayed on air to serve.

Every October 31, as trick-or-treaters fill the streets, there’s a quieter moment inside WKYC’s newsroom—a shared realization among staff that they’re part of something historic. Seventy-seven years of telling Cleveland’s story is no small feat. The cameras, clothes, and control rooms may have changed, but the mission hasn’t: show up, tell the story, and serve the viewer.

That dedication is what keeps WKYC relevant. From the flicker of black-and-white in 1948 to the crystal clarity of streaming in 2025, the station’s goal has always been the same—to keep Clevelanders informed, connected, and proud of where they live.

So here’s to WKYC—Cleveland’s Channel 3—for 77 years of innovation, resilience, and heart. To the anchors and producers who’ve guided viewers through the big stories. To the photographers and editors who made them unforgettable. To the engineers who kept the signal alive through blizzards, lightning strikes, and power outages. And to the viewers—millions of them across generations—who’ve made WKYC part of their lives.

Because when you strip away the lights, the logos, and the decades, one truth remains constant: WKYC has always been—and will always be—Cleveland’s station.

WATCH: Channel 3's 75th Anniversary Celebration

NBC Unwraps a Star-Studded 2025 Holiday Lineup Filled with Music, Magic, and Tradition

2025-10-29T17:03:15.359-04:00

By Frank Macek

WKYC's & NBC’s 2025 holiday lineup sparkles with music, nostalgia, and tradition.

The season begins with Wicked: One Wonderful Night, a star-studded musical celebration featuring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande.

Thanksgiving brings Countdown to the 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the parade itself, and the beloved National Dog Show Presented by Purina. December shines with Christmas in Rockefeller Center hosted by Reba McEntire, followed by Christmas in Nashville.

Animated favorites return, including How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Frosty the Snowman, and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Holiday fun continues with the Password Holiday Special, A Motown Christmas hosted by Smokey Robinson and Halle Bailey, and Jimmy Fallon’s Holiday Seasoning Spectacular. Classic films and faith close the season with It’s a Wonderful Life and the traditional Christmas Eve Mass, before the 137th Rose Parade ushers in the New Year.

Here's a preview of what you are in store for this holiday season:

WICKED: ONE WONDERFUL NIGHT
When: Thursday, Nov. 6, 8-10 p.m.
What: A thrillifying once-in-a-lifetime musical event celebrating the upcoming cinematic release of Universal Pictures’ film “Wicked: For Good.” The film’s stars, including three-time Academy Award®-nominated Cynthia Erivo and Academy Award®-nominated Ariana Grande, will lead the two-hour special featuring electrifying performances alongside their “Wicked: For Good” co-stars – for an unforgettable night of reimagined musical arrangements, cast interviews, behind-the-scenes moments, exclusive surprises and maybe even a sneak peek at what’s to come in the next chapter of Oz.

COUNTDOWN TO THE 99TH MACY’S THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE®
When: Wednesday, Nov. 26, 8-9 p.m. and simulcast on Peacock
What: Broadcast live from the famous starting line on the eve of the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, viewers will get an exclusive first look at the incredible stories behind the floats, balloons and bands as they prepare to make their way through the streets of New York.

A SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE THANKSGIVING
When: Wednesday, Nov. 26, 9-11 p.m.
What: The iconic late-night program will highlight memorable Thanksgiving-themed sketches.

99th MACY’S THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE®
When: Thursday, Nov. 27, 8:30 a.m.-12 p.m. (encore at 2 p.m.) and simulcast on Peacock
What: The 99th edition of the world-famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade® brings its one-of-a-kind magic to New York City spectators and a national television audience with its exciting array of balloons, floats, marching bands, celebrities and more in America’s most watched entertainment telecast of the year.

NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA
When: Thursday, Nov. 27, 12-2 p.m. and simulcast on Peacock
What: NBC’s Thanksgiving Day tradition is hosted by John O’Hurley, former “Seinfeld” star and winner of “Dancing with the Stars,” along with expert analyst David Frei. Mary Carillo will offer a behind-the-scenes account of the competition.

CHRISTMAS IN ROCKEFELLER CENTER
When: Wednesday, Dec. 3, 8-10 p.m. and simulcast on Peacock
What: Hosted by Reba McEntire, the dazzling display of musical talents, star-studded surprises and the lighting of the world’s most famous Christmas tree remains one of the holiday season’s most anticipated events.

CHRISTMAS IN NASHVILLE
When: Wednesday, Dec. 3, 10-11 p.m.
What: Celebrate the season Nashville-style! Ring in the holidays with dazzling performances and a night of music, magic and merrymaking straight from Music City.

HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS
When: Thursday, Dec. 4, 8-8:30 p.m. (encore on Dec. 25 at 8 p.m.)
What: The classic animated tale of the curmudgeonly Grinch who’s hoping to remove the joy from Christmas but, ultimately, has a change of heart.

FROSTY THE SNOWMAN
When: Thursday, Dec. 4, 8:30-9 p.m. (encore on Dec. 9 at 8 p.m.)
What: The cherished original holiday special about how Frosty, everyone’s favorite snowman, came to life one day.

RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER
When: Friday, Dec. 5, 8-9:15 p.m. (encore on Dec. 11 at 8 p.m.)
What: The classic animated special offers the perspective of Rudolph, who’s told he couldn’t play in any Reindeer Games due to his glowing nose. Rudolph sets out on a fantastic journey where he meets Hermey the elf, prospector Yukon Cornelius and a host of Misfit Toys, all while trying to hide from the Abominable Snow Monster.

PASSWORD HOLIDAY SPECIAL
When: Monday, Dec. 8, 10-11p.m. (encore on Dec. 18 at 8p.m.)
What: “Password,” hosted by Keke Palmer and starring Jimmy Fallon, returns to NBC primetime to ring in the holiday season with a very merry, special holiday episode. Celebrity guest Jonathan Groff spreads good cheer, pairing up with contestants to compete against Fallon and his teammate in a festive edition of the iconic celebrity word game.

SHREK THE HALLS
When: Tuesday, Dec. 9, 8:30-9 p.m. (encore on Dec. 17 at 8 p.m.)
What: This half-hour animated special debuted in 2007 and features a Christmas twist on the original “Shrek” characters.

A MOTOWN CHRISTMAS
When: Tuesday, Dec. 9, 9-11 p.m. (encore on Dec. 17 at p.m.)
What: Hosted by Smokey Robinson and Halle Bailey, this special will feature performances by Motown legends and today’s hottest stars celebrating iconic Hitsville U.S.A classics and their favorite holiday songs.

NBC 2025 YEAR IN REVIEW PRESENTED BY ACCESS HOLLYWOOD
When: Thursday, Dec. 11, 9:15-10 p.m. (one-hour extended version airing Dec. 17 at 10 p.m.)
What: “Access Hollywood’s” Mario Lopez and Kit Hoover host NBC’s primetime special, recapping the most talked about entertainment stories and buzzworthy headlines of the year.

JIMMY FALLON’S HOLIDAY SEASONING SPECTACULAR
When: Wednesday, Dec. 17, 9 -10 p.m.
What: Jimmy Fallon searches for the holiday spirit in New York, exploring a surreal and magical apartment building where behind every door a different celebrity joins him for a performance from his festive holiday album, “Holiday Seasoning.” The star-studded lineup of guests includes Meghan Trainor, Cara Delevingne, Dolly Parton, JB Smoove, Jonas Brothers, Justin Timberlake, LL Cool J, The Roots, “Weird Al” Yankovic and more.

A SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE CHRISTMAS
When: Thursday, Dec. 18, 9-11 p.m. (encore on Dec. 22 at 9 p.m.)
What: The iconic late-night program will highlight memorable Christmas-themed sketches.

IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE
When: Wednesday, Dec. 24, 8-11 p.m.
What: NBC again presents this Frank Capra classic starring Jimmy Stewart. An angel is sent from heaven to help a desperately frustrated businessman by showing him what life would have been like if he had never existed.

CHRISTMAS EVE MASS
When: Wednesday, Dec. 24, 11:30 p.m.-1 a.m.
What: Viewers will be able to watch the Pope Leo-led mass from St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS
When: Thursday, Dec. 25, 8:30-11 p.m.
What: On the outskirts of Whoville, there lives a green revenge-seeking Grinch who plans on ruining the Christmas holiday for all of the citizens of the town.

137th ROSE PARADE PRESENTED BY HONDA
When: Thursday, Jan. 1, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. ET / 8-10 a.m. PT and simulcast on Peacock
What: The streets of Pasadena, Calif., are lined with thousands of parade fans as gorgeous rose-covered floats and marching bands partake in their annual New Year’s holiday festivities.

Award-Winning Investigative Producer Silas Tsang Joins WKYC’s 3News Team, Strengthening Station’s Commitment to Accountability Journalism

2025-10-27T15:58:00.000-04:00

By Frank Macek

Silas Tsang

WKYC Studios has added a new name to its award-winning 3News team, as journalist and producer Silas Tsang joins as Investigative Producer. Tsang comes to Cleveland from WTOL in Toledo, where he spent the past several years producing some of Ohio’s most notable investigations and earning recognition for his commitment to transparency and public accountability.

While at WTOL, Tsang worked closely with lead investigator Brian Dugger to build the station’s 11 Investigates brand into a recognized source of hard-hitting reporting. His work has been praised by colleagues and management alike for its depth, accuracy, and impact. WTOL’s news director said “his dedication and drive have left a lasting mark” on their newsroom — a sentiment that reflects his relentless pursuit of truth and commitment to ethical journalism.

Among his many accomplishments, Tsang was the first to uncover a critical court document that kick-started the investigation into Cedar Point’s police department — a story that would grow into a statewide collaboration involving multiple Tegna stations, including WKYC. His reporting exposed more than two dozen sexual assault complaints within Cedar Point’s employee dorms over a five-year period, earning him and his team a National Edward R. Murrow Award — the first ever won by journalists in Northwest Ohio. The story also led to Cedar Point’s police department being stripped of its policing powers and sparked a successful lawsuit before the Ohio Supreme Court that affirmed the public’s right to access records from private entities with law enforcement authority. WTOL’s work on the story was recognized with the prestigious First Amendment Award from the Ohio Associated Press — the only time a television station has ever received that honor.

Tsang’s investigative range extends well beyond Cedar Point. He led a months-long investigation into the City of Toledo’s Fire Escrow Account, revealing that city officials withheld nearly $1 million in insurance funds owed to homeowners after fires. His “Blight” series exposed systemic failures in property enforcement and uncovered how the city had been issuing citations and misdemeanor charges against deceased property owners. By cross-referencing thousands of public records, Tsang and his team identified the extent to which outstanding property tax debt was tied to individuals who had long since passed away — a finding that sparked policy reviews and local reform.

In 2024, Tsang produced a critical investigation into Ohio’s controversial turnpike tolling system, highlighting billing errors and customer complaints that prompted a public apology from the agency’s executive director and a six-month grace period for affected drivers. At the start of this year, he co-produced a five-part crime series on the murder of two Toledo teenagers, a case involving more than ten suspects. The series aired across five consecutive days and was also released in its entirety on WTOL+, accompanied by an interactive timeline that organized evidence, interrogation videos, and court records in a way that helped viewers grasp the case’s complexity.

Most recently, Tsang produced an in-depth series on the Ohio Elections Commission, an effort that marked his second statewide collaboration with colleagues at WTOL, WBNS, and WKYC. That partnership foreshadowed the kind of multi-market journalism he hopes to expand in his new role as Investigative Producer for 3News.

At WKYC, Tsang will not only contribute to the station’s signature investigative projects but also play a central role in its daily story mix, bringing his investigative skills to bear on breaking news and enterprise stories that require fast research, fact verification, and source development. He has expressed a commitment to launch one major investigative story each quarter in partnership with Tegna’s Ohio stations — WTOL, WBNS, and WKYC — an ambitious goal aimed at combining newsroom resources and expertise for projects with statewide impact.

Tsang’s arrival signals a renewed focus on in-depth journalism at 3News, continuing the station’s long-standing tradition of pursuing stories that inform and empower viewers. His experience in data analysis, records research, and narrative storytelling will enhance WKYC’s ability to tackle complex subjects and deliver them in a way that is both accessible and impactful. Colleagues who have worked with him describe him as meticulous, driven, and collaborative — a producer who builds trust and inspires excellence in those around him.

Silas Tsang’s body of work reflects a deep understanding of how investigative reporting can make a difference in people’s lives — whether by exposing systemic failures, returning money to citizens, or holding public officials accountable. His move to Cleveland brings that same passion for public-service journalism to a larger stage, where he will collaborate with reporters, producers, and editors to tell stories that matter most to Northeast Ohio. His hire underscores 3News’s commitment to expanding its investigative footprint and continuing to serve as a trusted source of truth for its viewers.

Silas Tsang officially joins the 3News team today (Monday, October 27), bringing with him a proven track record of fearless journalism and a reputation for turning complicated stories into meaningful change. With his arrival, WKYC further strengthens its investigative unit — and its promise to deliver reporting that goes beyond headlines to serve the public interest.

Big Changes Coming to WKYC: New Noon Newscast, Updated Morning Start, and Expanded Streaming Options Begin October 20

2025-10-17T19:10:00.001-04:00

By Frank Macek

Great things are happening at WKYC starting Monday (October 20), and viewers are going to notice. The station is rolling out a refreshed lineup, new faces in new time slots, and expanded streaming options — all designed to make it easier to stay connected with the stories that matter most to Northeast Ohio.

The biggest headline is the debut of 3News at Noon, a brand-new midday newscast airing from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday on Channel 3 and streaming live on WKYC+. On Fridays, viewers can catch a shorter, half-hour version of the noon broadcast before the always-entertaining “Ultimate Cleveland Sports Show.”

Anchors Brissa Bradfield and David Greenberg will team up to bring viewers the latest news, weather, and stories happening around the community — the perfect way to get caught up in the middle of your day.

This new addition fills a big gap in the local lineup and gives Clevelanders a fresh option for midday news. Whether you’re taking a lunch break, working from home, or scrolling headlines on your phone, 3News at Noon is designed to fit your day — quick, informative, and focused on what’s happening right now in Northeast Ohio.

There’s also a change for early risers. Starting Monday, the morning news will now begin at 5:00 a.m. instead of 4:30 a.m. That means a little more sleep for everyone — but rest assured, when breaking news or severe weather hits early, the 3News team is ready to jump on the air at 4:30 a.m. if needed. It’s a move that better matches how viewers are watching while keeping that same reliable morning energy Cleveland has come to expect.

And for those who like to stream, WKYC is taking things up a notch with a new 6:30 to 7:00 p.m. streaming newscast on WKYC+. This half-hour recap will highlight the day’s top stories, trending topics, and weather — an easy way to stay in the know after work or while making dinner. It’s local news on your schedule, whether you’re watching live or on demand.

As part of this refresh, WKYC is also simplifying its show names to make things easier to follow. “GO!” becomes 3News at 5A and 3News at 6A, while “What’s Next” becomes 3News at 11. The only show name staying the same is “Front Row Friday,” which remains the perfect start to the weekend with Mike Polk and Sia Nyorkor. The cleaner, more consistent titles make it easier to find your favorite shows — and strengthen the 3News brand across every platform.

All of these updates are about one thing: making WKYC easier and more enjoyable to watch, no matter where or when you tune in. Adding a noon newscast gives viewers more chances to catch local stories throughout the day, the adjusted morning start better matches today’s viewing habits, and the expanded streaming lineup means you can watch 3News whenever it fits your schedule.

The new lineup officially launches Monday, October 20. So whether you’re catching the first 3News at Noon, starting your day with 3News at 5A, or streaming the new 6:30 p.m. update on WKYC+, there’s something new waiting for you. It’s all part of a refreshed, reenergized WKYC — still rooted in Cleveland, still focused on you, and ready for what’s next.

Frank’s Take: I’ve seen WKYC grow and evolve over the years, but this next chapter feels especially exciting. The new noon newscast fills a need that’s been missing locally and gives viewers another chance to catch up with what’s happening around them. The expanded streaming options show how committed WKYC is to meeting viewers where they are — whether that’s watching on TV, a phone, or a tablet. And the simpler show names? That’s just smart branding. It keeps things clear, clean, and consistent. Overall, this feels like a modern, viewer-friendly update that keeps Cleveland at the heart of everything WKYC does.

Frank's Take: Why Local TV Still Earns The Trust That Others Have Lost

2025-10-16T01:12:00.002-04:00

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 Association (RTDNA) show that, even as overall skepticism deepens, local news consistently outperforms national cable channels and online platforms when it comes to credibility. People still see their hometown anchors and reporters as part of their community — individuals who live among them and understand their concerns. That familiarity, born from decades of shared history and face-to-face accountability, helps maintain a bond few other forms of media can replicate.

You can see that dynamic clearly here in Northeast Ohio. WKYC — Channel 3, the NBC affiliate — is one of several stations nationwide affiliated with The Trust Project, an international consortium that promotes transparency and accountability in journalism. On its website, WKYC discloses details about how its stories are produced, how corrections are handled, and how viewers can reach the newsroom directly to challenge inaccuracies. It’s a quiet but important gesture — one that tells audiences, “We know trust isn’t automatic; it’s earned every day.” That kind of initiative helps preserve the connection between newsroom and viewer, especially in a market where residents still care deeply about the city’s institutions.

So why does local TV hold on to this “trust premium” when so many others have lost it? The reasons are surprisingly human. Viewers often know the people on screen, or at least feel like they do. The morning meteorologist might shop at the same grocery store. The evening anchor may live two neighborhoods away. That proximity matters. When a viewer spots a familiar face delivering news about their own community, it feels more personal, more grounded, and therefore more believable. National stories can seem distant, even abstract. But a report about a water main break near your kid’s school or a new park in your neighborhood instantly connects to your life. Local relevance breeds reliability.

Then there’s the factor of immediacy in moments of crisis. When the weather turns violent or a breaking event unfolds, people don’t scroll social media first — they flip on their local TV station. During emergencies, local broadcasters become a lifeline. Clevelanders saw this repeatedly in recent years — from coverage of lake-effect snowstorms to severe flooding along the Cuyahoga River. Stations like WKYC, WEWS, and WJW often become a virtual town square during those moments, delivering vital information as it happens. Trust is built through repetition, and nothing reinforces credibility like getting people the right information when it matters most.

Still, this kind of trust isn’t guaranteed to endure. It can erode quietly, especially if local stations underestimate how fast audience expectations are changing. Younger viewers, for instance, consume news almost entirely through digital feeds. For them, “local” may not mean a broadcast channel at all — it could be a neighborhood Facebook group, a TikTok creator covering City Hall, or a Reddit thread sharing real-time updates. Surveys show that while older generations still view local TV as highly credible, younger audiences are more skeptical. They might not distrust television outright, but they don’t see it as uniquely trustworthy either. To them, a reporter’s Instagram story and an independent creator’s post may carry equal weight. That’s a troubling shift for an industry built on authority and verification.

Ownership consolidation and editorial influence also threaten that trust. When large station groups centralize operations, automate control rooms, or push national segments into local newscasts, that distinctive hometown flavor begins to fade. Viewers notice when coverage feels less about Cleveland and more about generic talking points. It’s why local relevance — coverage that reflects this community — still matters most.

A good example came earlier this year when WKYC aired an investigative segment on tension between Cleveland’s City Council and Mayor Justin Bibb’s administration. The dispute involved the firing of a city staffer who accessed confidential data through a public records portal. The story was straightforward, sourced on-camera, and fair to both sides — a reminder that trust is built not just on what’s covered, but on how it’s covered. When a station handles politically charged stories without sensationalism, it reinforces that credibility.

Cleveland’s history also provides perspective. Few reporters have embodied the balance between watchdog and showman like Carl Monday, the veteran investigative journalist who became a household name in the market. His ambush-style reporting from the 1990s and 2000s — sometimes controversial, often viral before “viral” was a thing — reflected both the power and risk of local journalism. Viewers respected his determination to hold people accountable but debated whether his methods occasionally crossed a line. That tension — between pursuit of truth and preservation of trust — is something every newsroom still navigates today. Monday’s legacy endures as a reminder that investigative storytelling, when done with fairness and integrity, is one of the strongest trust-builders local TV can offer.

To keep that trust intact, stations need to do more than rely on nostalgia. They have to actively show audiences how journalism works. That means publishing corrections clearly, explaining decisions, and inviting feedback instead of avoiding it. Some newsrooms have started “behind-the-story” segments where producers walk viewers through how a report was verified or what hurdles they faced. Others are holding community Q&As with anchors and reporters. WKYC’s “Verify” franchise and its interactive explainers have been local examples of that approach — using clarity and transparency as engagement tools. When audiences see the process, they’re more likely to believe the product.

Digital strategy also plays a major role in maintaining credibility. Too many local stations still treat their social and streaming platforms as dumping grounds for clips, rather than extensions of the broadcast. Yet that’s where future trust will be won or lost. A station’s TikTok, YouTube, or Instagram page shouldn’t chase trends for clicks; it should uphold the same standards of sourcing and tone found on-air. No vague headlines, no context-free clips. The goal is to bring the values of traditional local news — accuracy, empathy, and accountability — into the digital spaces where the next generation lives.

Part of that modernization also involves storytelling itself. Local TV doesn’t need to mimic influencers, but it should experiment with form. Short-form video explainers, podcasts, and community-specific newsletters can coexist with the 6 p.m. broadcast. Many Cleveland stations have begun creating spinoff brands or digital-only series highlighting culture, food, and neighborhood revitalization — areas where authenticity shines. Those pieces may not always draw big ratings, but they do something equally valuable: they show that local stations are still listening to the community.

Transparency about ethics and sponsorship is another essential layer. Stations should make their editorial boundaries visible. WKYC’s “About Us” page does exactly that, explaining how the station verifies information and separates advertising from news content. When viewers understand those guardrails, they can relax and trust the message. It’s the same principle that made local newspapers credible decades ago — and it translates perfectly to television.

Meanwhile, physical presence still counts. Nothing builds trust like being seen in the community. Cleveland stations have long understood this — from Channel 3 anchors hosting the Rock Hall Induction Week coverage to 19 News reporters volunteering at local schools or moderating city forums. When journalists show up in real life, not just on screens, they stop being abstractions. They become neighbors. And that neighbor-to-neighbor connection might be the truest foundation of trust there is.

Ultimately, the story of local TV’s credibility isn’t about nostalgia — it’s about adaptation. The “trust credit” stations still hold is real, but it’s not permanent. It must be earned, day after day, through accuracy, humility, and openness. In a fragmented media world where everyone is shouting for attention, the quiet reliability of a well-produced local newscast remains powerful. Viewers don’t expect perfection. They expect honesty — a sense that when something important happens, their station will be there, explaining it clearly and without spin.

If Cleveland’s stations can keep that balance — staying transparent, staying local, and staying human — they won’t just survive the age of misinformation. They could lead it. Trust, after all, isn’t built by algorithms or flashy graphics. It’s built by people looking each other in the eye and telling the truth. And in this town, that’s something local TV still does better than anyone else.

Citations

1. TVB: Local TV News Remains Valuable to Viewers, Advertisers — TVTechnology, 2025
2. RTDNA/Magid: Trust and Younger News Consumers — RTDNA, 2025
3. WKYC Trust Partner Page — The Trust Project, 2025
4. Cleveland City Council Says Mayor Bibb’s Admin Wrongfully Fired Staffer — WKYC.com, 2025

5. Carl Monday — Biography and Career Summary — Wikipedia, 2025
6. About Us: WKYC Studios Transparency Statement — WKYC.com, 2025

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**EDITOR NOTE: "Frank's Take" articles are the expressed written opinions of the blogger and not necessarily those of WKYC-TV or TEGNA Media.

Brandon Simmons Named Assistant News Director at WKYC Studios

2025-10-10T16:29:00.000-04:00

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 down complex topics in ways that were easy to understand. But even as a reporter, he recognized that journalism was changing. He understood that audiences were no longer just watching TV — they were consuming news on phones, tablets, and streaming platforms. That awareness would define the next phase of his career.

As Digital Director, Brandon helped lead WKYC’s transformation into a true multiplatform newsroom. Under his leadership, the station’s digital and streaming presence — including wkyc.com, social media, and WKYC+ — saw significant growth. He worked to integrate digital strategy directly into daily coverage, ensuring every story was optimized for every platform. His forward-thinking approach helped WKYC become a model for how local news can thrive in a digital world.

Beyond his leadership roles, Brandon is known throughout the newsroom as one of WKYC’s “kings of tech.” Whenever a system crashes or technology misbehaves, he’s often the first to step in and fix the problem. His combination of technical expertise, newsroom knowledge, and teamwork has made him an indispensable part of the operation.

In his new role as Assistant News Director, Brandon will work closely with newsroom leaders to shape daily coverage, deciding how stories should be told and where they’ll have the greatest impact — on air, online, on social media, or streaming on WKYC+. His calm leadership, creativity, and ability to connect with both colleagues and audiences will guide the newsroom as it continues to evolve.

Brandon’s promotion is also a testament to WKYC’s dedication to developing homegrown talent. His rise from intern to Assistant News Director shows what’s possible when talent, determination, and opportunity come together. Few people understand the heartbeat of WKYC — its people, its mission, and its community — as deeply as he does.

Brandon Simmons’ promotion reflects not just his own achievements, but the future of WKYC Studios: a newsroom that’s innovative, connected, and focused on serving audiences wherever they are. His leadership and vision will continue to shape how WKYC tells stories that matter most to Northeast Ohio.