Viviana Páez Named Regional News Director for Univision Northern California

Posted on May 27, 2026 by jimjakobs

Viviana Páez Named Regional News Director for Univision Northern California

By Roberta Gonzales

There’s a new chapter underway at Univision Northern California.

Viviana Páez has been named Regional News Director, overseeing newsroom operations across both the Bay Area and Sacramento. It’s a role that reflects not only her leadership experience, but her deep roots within the organization and the communities it serves.

Páez is no stranger to Northern California audiences. She has been working in the Sacramento market as both an anchor and executive producer, bringing a strong editorial voice and a clear understanding of the region’s diverse communities. Her promotion signals a continued investment in local storytelling and bilingual journalism at a time when trusted, community-focused news remains essential.

She steps into the role following the departure of Vladimir Araya, who led the region for just over a year before leaving in March.

Leadership transitions like this one are always pivotal moments for a newsroom. For Univision Northern California, Páez’s appointment represents both continuity and forward momentum, elevating someone who already understands the audience, the mission and the evolving landscape of local news.

As the Bay Area and Sacramento markets continue to grow and diversify, the role of regional leadership becomes even more critical. Páez now takes the helm at a time when local newsrooms are navigating rapid change, while also reinforcing their commitment to serving multilingual audiences with accuracy, relevance and heart.

KTVU weekend anchor Cristina Rendon announces June departure

Posted on May 21, 2026 by jimjakobs

KTVU weekend anchor Cristina Rendon announces June departure

By Roberta Gonzales

Weekend anchor Cristina Rendon has announced she will be leaving KTVU in June after several years with the station.

Rendon shared the news with viewers this week, saying she plans to return home to Texas to be closer to family.

During her time at KTVU, Rendon has been a trusted presence on the weekend desk, guiding viewers through major breaking news, severe weather coverage, and stories that matter most to Bay Area communities.

Colleagues describe her as a dedicated journalist and a valued member of the newsroom, known for her professionalism, warmth and commitment to storytelling.

“Cristina has been an important part of our team and we are grateful for her contributions to KTVU and the communities we serve,” station leadership said in a statement.

Rendon’s final broadcast is expected in June. She says she is looking forward to the next chapter and spending more time with loved ones back home.

KTVU wishes Cristina all the best in her next journey.

A Life of Passion and Purpose: Honoring Rosemary Roach

Posted on May 5, 2026 by jimjakobs

A Life of Passion and Purpose: Honoring Rosemary Roach

By Roberta Gonzales

It is with heavy hearts we share the passing of Rosemary Roach, a woman whose passion for her commitment to community left a lasting imprint on Bay Area journalism.

For more than two decades at KPIX-TV, Rosemary helped shape the voice of Public Affairs. Her impact reached far beyond her title. She had a gift for recognizing the stories that mattered most, the ones informing, uplifting and contributed to bringing communities closer together.

Rosemary understood something essential about journalism: it’s not just about delivering information, it’s about building trust. And she did that with grace, intention and a deep sense of responsibility.

Those who worked alongside her remember a thoughtful leader, a passionate advocate, and someone who believed wholeheartedly in the power of media to make a difference.

Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched, the conversations she helped shape, and the standard she set for public service journalism.

At this time, no final arrangements have been released. We will be sure to pass them along as soon as they are received.

San Francisco Chronicle Wins Pulitzer for Powerful Wildfire Insurance Investigation

Posted on May 5, 2026 by jimjakobs

San Francisco Chronicle Wins Pulitzer for Powerful Wildfire Insurance Investigation

By Roberta Gonzales

The San Francisco Chronicle has been awarded the Pulitzer Prize for explanatory journalism recognized for its deeply reported and impactful series “Burned.”

Led by reporters Megan Fan Munce, Susie Neilson, and Sara DiNatale, along with a dedicated team of journalists, the series took a closer look at what happens after the flames are out and uncovered a critical issue affecting wildfire survivors across California.

Through clear, compelling storytelling, the reporting revealed how many homeowners who believed they had full insurance coverage were left without enough to rebuild, highlighting complex industry practices in a way that informs and empowers the public.

The Pulitzer Prize honors journalism that not only explains complicated issues, but makes a meaningful difference. “Burned” does exactly that, bringing transparency to a system that touches thousands of lives and entire communities.

It’s a powerful reminder of the role journalism plays in holding institutions accountable and helping people better understand the world around them.

Here is a link to the prize announcement with links to the winning work.

Celebrating Excellence: Inside the Vision Behind the 55th NorCal Emmy Weekend

Posted on April 15, 2026 by jimjakobs

Celebrating Excellence: Inside the Vision Behind the 55th NorCal Emmy® Weekend

By Roberta Gonzales

Planning the biggest party weekend for television professionals is no small feat. It requires time, vision, and a touch of creativity and for the dedicated team behind the 55th Northern California Area Emmy® Awards, it’s truly a labor of love.

“Our small but mighty team brings all three,” said Brooks Jarosz, President of the SF/NorCal Chapter of NATAS. “We’re committed to honoring excellence, while creating memorable moments for hundreds.”

That commitment is evident as the San Francisco/Northern California Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences prepares to return to Sacramento for a second consecutive year. After overwhelmingly positive feedback from last year’s celebration, the decision to come back felt both natural and exciting.

“We’re thrilled to return to Sacramento for a second year, especially after the overwhelming positive feedback from last year’s event,” Jarosz said. “This 55th anniversary celebration will build on that momentum.”

This milestone year carries added significance. The 55th anniversary is more than just a number, it’s a reflection of decades of storytelling, innovation, and the tireless work of journalists, producers, photographers, and creatives who bring stories to life every day.

At the heart of the weekend is a clear and meaningful purpose:

“Our mission is to create an unforgettable weekend that recognizes and elevates the very best in the industry,” Jarosz added.

From the excitement of the awards ceremony to the meaningful connections made throughout the weekend, every detail is thoughtfully designed to celebrate those who dedicate their lives to television and media.

New this year, the celebration expands even further. For the first time, the prestigious Gold & Silver Circle honors will be fully integrated into the weekend’s festivities, offering an additional moment of recognition for those whose careers have made a lasting impact.

“New this year, we are incorporating the Gold & Silver Circle awards into the weekend’s festivities, with a special brunch scheduled for Sunday morning at the Hyatt, just across from the convention center,” Jarosz said.

It’s these thoughtful additions and the passion behind them, continuing to elevate the Emmy weekend experience. As colleagues reunite, new connections are formed, and achievements are celebrated, one thing remains clear: this is more than an awards show. It’s a tribute to excellence, a celebration of community, and a reminder of the powerful role storytelling plays in our world.

Some important dates coming up include:

Emmy® Nominations
Monday, June 15, 2026 at 7pm

Emmy® Awards Gala
Saturday, August 22, 2026
SAFE Credit Union Convention Center
1401 K St, Sacramento, CA 95814

Through the Lens and Into the Storm: Celebrating KTVU’s Tony Hodrick

Posted on April 7, 2026 by jimjakobs

Through the Lens and Into the Storm: Celebrating KTVU's Tony Hodrick

By Roberta Gonzales

After four and a half decades in the television business—most of them at KTVU—legendary photographer Tony Hodrick has hung up his camera for good.

No more hauling that bulky gear on his shoulder.

No more ribbon cuttings.

No more early alarms before the crack of dawn.

For Tony, it was never just about showing up—it was about how he showed up.

Behind the lens, Tony had a quiet brilliance. He didn’t just capture moments… he understood them. Whether it was breaking news, community stories, or everyday life across the Bay Area, Tony had an instinct for framing not just the shot—but the story.

And if you were lucky enough to be assigned to work with him, you knew one thing for sure:

If the forecast called for rain… Tony knew assigned to me, we were getting drenched!

Tony had a way of leaning into the elements, never backing down from the story—no matter the conditions. There are countless memories of standing side by side in the pouring rain, soaked to the bone, chasing the perfect shot and the right moment. He wouldn’t have it any other way.

Because for Tony, the story always came first.

Colleagues describe him as steady, dedicated, and deeply respected—a photographer who made everyone around him better. He was the kind of teammate you could count on without question, the one who showed up ready, focused, and all in.

Over the years, Tony didn’t just document history—he became part of the fabric of this newsroom. His work helped shape how stories were told, how moments were remembered, and how viewers connected to the world around them.

And while the camera may now be set down, his legacy is anything but.

It lives on in the countless stories he captured, the journalists he partnered with, and the moments he preserved for all of us.

Congratulations, Tony, on an extraordinary career.

And here’s hoping retirement brings a little less rain… though knowing you, you might just miss it.

ABC7 Weather Anchor explains his recent absence

Posted on March 8, 2026 by jimjakobs

ABC7 Weather Anchor explains his recent absence

By Roberta Gonzales

When someone we admire steps away from the anchor desk, viewers notice. But behind the scenes, there are often deeply personal chapters unfolding. Our colleague Spencer Christian recently shared a health update with his community. Through his own words on fb, we are sharing his words here, a reminder of resilience, gratitude and the extraordinary support system that surrounds those in our television family.

“Greetings and happy end of February to all of my Facebook friends. Those of you who live here in the Bay Area may have noticed my absence from ABC7 Eyewitness News over the last 3 weeks, so here’s my “life update.” On February 9, I underwent open-heart surgery to repair my mitral valve and tricuspid valve, correct arrhythmia, and install a pacemaker. After a 6-day stay in the hospital, I was discharged, and I am now recovering in the comfort of home. Assuming no complications, I will return to work in early April. My strength, energy, and appetite are improving slowly but surely; and the next 2 to 3 weeks are expected to bring more rapid gains. In fact, I am already doing light-to-moderate exercises at home to rebuild my strength, stamina and flexibility.

Meanwhile, I want to express my profound gratitude to family members, friends, and colleagues whose outpouring of support has been uplifting and overwhelming–in a positive way! I have never felt more loved, or more blessed than you have made me feel with your heartwarming expressions of love, concern and well wishes. And, of course, I thank God for sustaining me through this challenging time–and for blessing me with this amazing support group whose “positive vibes” are a vital and deeply appreciated component of my daily recovery.

THANK YOU! I LOVE YOU”

An Outpouring of Remembrances for KOVR 13 Photojournalist Kathy Newell

Posted on February 12, 2026 by jimjakobs

An Outpouring of Remembrances for KOVR 13 Photojournalist Kathy Newell

By Joyce Mitchell

A difficult article to write. Coworkers are flooding Sacramento’s “Lucky 13” Facebook page with memories of Photojournalist Kathy Newell. Not only was she well liked and respected in the KOVR 13 newsroom, she was a stellar news and feature photographer.

Newell died February 5, 2026 at the age of 67-years-old after a decade long battle with cancer. Throughout those years, she remained positive and upbeat, fighting hard for her life, staving off the dreadful disease for as long as she good. Eventually, cancer won.

Former Channel 13 News Anchor Jennifer Whitney said Newell was exceptionally good at her craft. “It wasn’t easy for Kathy, especially as a woman in a male dominated field. Still, she excelled.”

Newell tackled cancer like she did everything else – with all of her might. That was evident in her assignments at CBS13. Nothing in Newell’s life was ever mediocre. She wanted her stories and long-format pieces to be exceptional. She connected with her producers and reporters and was a great travel companion.

Former Stockton Bureau Chief and Reporter Craig Prosser said she was great to go places with because of her easy-going attitude. Not everyone got smiles, though. You had to mean business. “I had a lot of respect for her,” said Stan Pechner, a former KOVR 13 news photographer. “She was one of the first female camera ops I worked with back in the day. A strong force and good shooter.”

The KOVR camera operators were some of the very best – anywhere. Dennis Marin was among them. “Kathy was a talented photographer and held her own in the male testosterone photo department,” said Marin.

Newell held her own because she was driven. When CBS13 News Anchor Stan Atkinson retired, Newell was assigned to photograph and edit the one-hour farewell newscast. From interviewing Governor Jerry Brown to former State Treasurer B.T. Collins, to multitudes of news people, Newell told stories like she was Stan’s best friend. The light shined and the one-hour broadcast was exceptional.

Living with cancer, Newell remained very private, living in the foothills of Northern California. Still, she sparingly let in a few people, speaking and visiting with former colleagues.

Former Channel 13 Director Kathyanne Thompson Tucker admires the courage Newell put forth. “I deeply respected her,” Tucker said. “She carved a path for women in the workplace. May she rest in peace.”

Veteran Emmy Award-winning Bay Area television news reporter Jim Vargas passes away

Posted on January 18, 2026 by jimjakobs

Veteran Emmy Award-winning Bay Area television news reporter Jim Vargas passes away

By Kevin Wing

Jim Vargas, a veteran Emmy Award-winning Bay Area television news reporter for more than 40 years, died Jan. 14 in Marin County. He was 78.

Vargas died at Marin General Hospital in Marin County, according to KTVU reporter and consumer editor Tom Vacar, a longtime friend and colleague.

Vargas worked at KGO-TV in San Francisco from the early 1970s until 1993. After leaving KGO-TV, he worked at KRON and KTVU, the latter of which he retired from in 2011.

In 2011, Vargas was inducted into the Silver Circle of the San Francisco/Northern California Chapter of The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences for his more than 25 years in contributions to Bay Area and Northern California television.

Vargas covered many of the biggest stories in the Bay Area during his career, including the Patty Hearst kidnapping in 1974, the assassinations of San Francisco Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk in 1978, the AIDS crisis in the 1980s, the Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989 and the Oakland Hills firestorm in 1991, among many.

Vargas’ family said it was covering the political action and riots of the late 1960s and early ‘70s that cemented his goal of becoming a journalist.

A San Francisco native, Vargas is survived by his sister, Mali Trower, a sister-in-law, Bobbie Vargas, and 11 nieces and nephews.

There will be a viewing at 5 PM, Feb. 5, at St. Brendan’s Church, 29 Rockaway Ave., San Francisco. A funeral mass will be held at 10 10 AM, Feb. 6, also at St. Brendan’s Church.

Two longtime newsroom employees from KXTV during its Eyewitness News and News10 eras have died

Posted on January 15, 2026 by jimjakobs

Two longtime newsroom employees from KXTV during its Eyewitness News and News10 eras have died

By Dan Adams

Jan Minagawa who was hired in the late 1970s at the then CBS affiliate in Sacramento died December 24 at a Seattle hospital. His brother reported that Minagawa suffered a heart attack at home earlier Christmas Eve and never regained consciousness. Jan was a well known general assignment reporter in Northern California from the 1970 to mid 1980s. He eventually moved from the field to become the producer for News10‘s early evening newscasts. He was producing the 5:00 show on October 17, 1989 when at 5:04, the Loma Prieta earthquake hit and he stayed in the booth for hours during nonstop live news coverage. His brother posted that a celebration of Jan’s life will be held on Friday, January 23rd at 6 pm at the Marriott Hotel at 11315 NE 12th Street, Kirkland WA. Anyone planning on attending is asked to confirm at rahnminagawa@gmail.com.

On Thursday, January 15, friends of Hugh McChord reported that the former News10 photographer died earlier in the week. Friends say he apparently suffered a heart attack. In 1983, McChord, a stage and screen actor, began his TV news career as a photographer for KMPH in Fresno. Two years later he was hired by News10 in Sacramento as a videotape editor before becoming a fulltime news photographer. According to IMDb, after leaving KXTV, McChord became the director of photography for “The Legal Edge,” a nationally syndicated show for which he received two Emmys. By 2005, he relocated to Los Angeles where for nine years he was the primary entertainment videographer for Fox. In 2014, IMDb reports he moved to Florida where he was hired as the primary cameraman for the NFL‘s coverage of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He is survived by his wife and two daughters. He was 68-years-old. A GoFundMe account has been established to help cover the costs of a funeral and provide support for his family.

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Viviana Páez Named Regional News Director for Univision Northern California