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Press Release

January 30, 2024

Media relations
Fonda Berosini
Disney Entertainment, Networks
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UPDATE: ABC Owned Television Stations Present ‘Our America: In the Black’

The Special Aims To Raise Awareness of Financial Health and Wellness in the Black Community and Offers Insight Into How To Bridge the Wealth Gap Through Technology

A trailer for the episode can be viewed here.

ABC Owned Television Stations present “Our America: In the Black,” sponsored by Microsoft Corporation, beginning Saturday, Feb. 3. This thought-provoking documentary special chronicles the efforts of Microsoft Philanthropies specialist Darrell Booker in his national quest to raise awareness about building financial health and wellness in the Black community. In the series, Booker explores how technology can serve as a great equalizer to mitigate these disparities while engaging with individuals who are actively working toward financial literacy programs that pave the way for economic mobility and generational wealth creation. The documentary focuses on the stories of three individuals at different stages of their financial journey:

  • “Hannah” – Booker visits Los Angeles where he is introduced to Hannah, a young foster care youth, who dreams of attending Howard University and becoming a mechanical engineer. The episode also features the dean of the College of Fine Arts at Howard University, Phylicia Rashad. 
  • “Angel Mercedes” – From New York, Booker introduces viewers to the nonprofit RISE, a national charitable institution that educates and empowers the sports community to eliminate racial discrimination, champion social justice and improve race relations.
  • “Meagan Naraine” – Booker visits Atlanta for an opportunity to highlight the work he does with the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE), which leverages Atlanta’s unique position as a nexus of Black enterprise and innovation to pilot strategies that could serve as blueprints for economic racial equity across the nation.

“Our America: In the Black” airs on Hulu’s Black Stories Always hub and across the ABC Owned Television Stations’ streaming and digital platforms and linear on the following dates:

Saturday, Feb. 3
12:30 a.m. EST             6abc/WPVI-TV Philadelphia 
3:00 p.m. PST              ABC7/KABC-TV Los Angeles
8:30 p.m. PST              ABC7/KGO-TV San Francisco
11:30 p.m. CST            ABC13/KTRK-TV Houston
10:00 p.m. PST            ABC30/KFSN-TV Fresno

Sunday, Feb. 4
12:30 a.m. EST             ABC11/WTVD-TV Raleigh-Durham
11:00 p.m. CST            ABC7/WLS-TV Chicago

Monday, Feb. 5
8:00 p.m. EST              ABC Localish

Saturday, Feb. 10
5:00 a.m. EST              ABC7/WABC-TV New York

Monday, Feb. 12
8:00 p.m. EST              ABC Localish

“Our America: In the Black” is executive produced by Nzinga Blake, executive producer, Race & Culture, ABC Owned Television Stations; and produced by Luke Richards, senior manager, Content Development, ABC Owned Television Stations; Shako Liu, senior producer, ABC Owned Television Stations; and John Garcia, producer editor, Content Development, ABC Owned Television Stations. Post-production services were facilitated by Robeson Parks.

The documentary special is available on the 24/7 streaming platforms, 32 connected TV apps across streaming platforms Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV andRoku.

About ABC Owned Television Stations 
The eight owned ABC television stations are multiplatform leaders in local news and information. Collectively No. 1 across all U.S. television, reaching 23% of households and more than 34 million Total Viewers and 62 million digital visitors a month, with a record of 2.2 billion minutes streamed, the eight stations are comprised of WABC-TV New York, KABC-TV Los Angeles, WLS-TV Chicago, WPVI-TV Philadelphia, KGO-TV San Francisco, KTRK-TV Houston, WTVD-TV Raleigh-Durham and KFSN-TV Fresno. WABC-New York has remained the No. 1 station in the country for 19 years. 

More information about ABC Owned Television Stations streaming channels can be found here: ABC7/WABC-TV New York, ABC7/KABC-TV Los Angeles, ABC7/WLS-TV Chicago, 6ABC/WPVI-TV Philadelphia, ABC7/KGO-TV San Francisco, ABC13/KTRK-TV Houston, ABC11/WTVD-TV Raleigh-Durham and ABC30/KFSN-TV Fresno.

Media Contacts:
Fonda Berosini
fonda.berosini@abc.com

Ambir Sniezko
ambir.sniezko@abc.com

Press Release

October 24, 2023

Media relations
Fonda Berosini
Disney Entertainment, Networks
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Part Three of ‘Our America: Trouble on Tap’ To Begin Airing Oct. 28 press release title

‘Drilling into California’s Water Crisis’ Delves Into the Impact of California’s Extreme Weather Conditions and the Recent Influx of Water After Years of Drought

A trailer for the episode can be viewed here.

“Our America: Trouble on Tap” the thought-provoking three-part documentary series from ABC Owned Television Stations, ABC News and National Geographic draws to a close with the third episode in the series, “Drilling into California’s Water Crisis” beginning, Saturday, Oct. 28. Hosted by Emmy® Award-winning Action News anchor Dale Yurong, the episode delves into the emerging water crisis that is putting the security of the state’s water, food and economy at risk. With interviews with some of the leading experts working toward tenable solutions, the final episode of the series explores the following three key areas.

The Drought:
California leads the U.S. in food production with over $51 billion in revenue and is the fifth largest supplier of food in the world; but with a state that’s been dealing with a mega drought for decades, what does it mean for farmers? The episode examines the science behind California’s increasing droughts and the impacts it has on every California resident.

Sinking Groundwater:
California’s largest source of water is in danger of running out due to the overreliance on pumping groundwater. There are 5,300 wells which have gone dry throughout the state since 2014. If over-pumping continues, over 9,200 wells could go dry by 2040, putting the most rural, disadvantaged communities in peril and without the water they need. Additionally, over-pumping causes subsidence leaving many areas susceptible to flooding.

Flooding:
In 2023, California’s wet season saw 31 atmospheric rivers bringing a record year of rainfall and snow. Several communities throughout the state were displaced due to power outages and flooding. In addition, hundreds of thousands of acres of farmland were destroyed by flooding, putting Central California’s economy at risk and consumers seeing the impact at grocery stores throughout the country.

“Drilling into California’s Water Crisis” airs on ABC Owned Television Stations’ streaming and digital platforms and on linear on the following dates:

Saturday, Oct. 28
10:00 p.m. PDT           ABC7/KABC-TV Los Angeles
10:00 p.m. PDT           ABC30/KFSN-TV Fresno
11:00 p.m. CDT           ABC7/WLS-TV Chicago

Sunday, Oct.29
12:00 a.m. CDT           ABC13/KTRK-TV Houston
12:30 a.m. EDT            6abc/WPVI-TV Philadelphia 

Monday, Oct. 30
8:00 p.m. EDT             ABC Localish

Saturday, Nov. 4
8:30 p.m. PDT             ABC7/KGO-TV San Francisco

Sunday, Nov. 5
2:00 p.m. EST               ABC11/WTVD-TV Raleigh-Durham

Monday, Nov. 6
8:00 p.m. EST              ABC Localish

Sunday, Dec. 31
1:00 p.m. EST              ABC7/WABC-TV New York

“Our America: Trouble on Tap” utilizes data from ABC Owned Television Stations Data Journalism Unit to examine how the effects of environmental pollution, climate change and aging infrastructure are gradually eroding the ability of more and more communities across the United States to have access to free and potable drinking water.    

The first episode, “Life with Forever Chemicals,” looks at per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances contamination in North Carolina. This episode takes viewers to Cape Fear, North Carolina, often referred to as ground zero for PFAS water contamination or water polluted by toxic “forever chemicals.” For decades, the drinking water supply for more than 250,000 people was contaminated as a result of a chemical company dumping toxic PFAS into the Cape Fear River. Years after the contamination was first publicly revealed, the region continues to grapple with ongoing health concerns, multiple lawsuits and constructing costly water treatment plants as it struggles to cope with decades of chronic exposure. It is available to watch here.

The second episode, “America’s Lead Problem,” examines the lasting impact of the use of lead pipes and the water infrastructure in America. Nearly 40 years after being banned as a plumbing material by the federal government, lead-based pipes are still carrying water to millions of homes across America, including Chicago, which has one of the highest concentrations of lead pipes in the country. But cities like Newark, New Jersey, which experienced high levels of lead in the water, replaced its lead service lines and is often used as a model of success in combating this public health issue. It is available to watch here.

“Our America: Trouble on Tap” is produced in partnership with Tracy J. Wholf, coordinating producer of the climate unit at ABC News, and Justin Allen, executive producer with ABC Owned Television Stations and National Geographic. ABC30/KFSN-TV, Central California’s ABC television station’s Tim Sarquis, Brandon Ridge, Jacqueline McLean and Ricky Courtney serve as executive producers for part three in the series “Drilling into California’s Water Crisis.”

Episodes are available on the 24/7 streaming platforms, 32 connected TV apps across streaming platforms Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV andRoku.

About ABC Owned Television Stations 

The eight owned ABC stations are multiplatform leaders in local news and information. Collectively No. 1 across all U.S. television, reaching 23% of households and more than 34 million Total Viewers and 48 million digital visitors a month, with a record of 3.1 billion minutes streamed, the eight stations are comprised of WABC-TV New York, KABC-TV Los Angeles, WLS-TV Chicago, WPVI-TV Philadelphia, KGO-TV San Francisco, KTRK-TV Houston, WTVD-TV Raleigh-Durham and KFSN-TV Fresno. WABC-New York has remained the No. 1 station in the country for 19 years.

More information about ABC Owned Television Stations streaming channels can be found here: ABC7/WABC-TV New York, ABC7/KABC-TV Los Angeles, ABC7/WLS-TV Chicago, 6ABC/WPVI-TV Philadelphia, ABC7/KGO-TV San Francisco, ABC13/KTRK-TV Houston, ABC11/WTVD-TV Raleigh-Durham and ABC30/KFSN-TV Fresno.

Media Contacts:
Fonda Berosini
fonda.berosini@abc.com

Ambir Sniezko
ambir.sniezko@abc.com

Wendy Granato is president and general manager of ABC13/KTRK-TV, in Houston, Texas where she has overall management responsibility for ABC13 and all of its ancillary businesses.

As the general manager at ABC13, Granato spearheaded the launch of KTRK’s 24/7 news stream, featuring the most live, local coverage in the Houston market.   She was recently selected as a 2023 Top Local TV Leader by Radio + Television Business Report.   Under her leadership, ABC13 produces 75+ hours of community specials and events each year and recently won both a regional and nation Edward R. Murrow Award in Excellence in Diversity Equity and Inclusion for its piece “Taking Back Gulfton.” She has led the station through numerous emergencies and big breaking news events such as the recent Texas drought and uptick in wildfires, the impeachment and acquittal of Attorney General Ken Paxton, and the Santa Fe and Uvalde school shootings. As a leader who is passionate about innovation and investing in skills of the future, Granato is a founding director of OTV-University, an educational program for all eight ABC Owned Television Stations.

Press Release

September 30, 2021

Media relations
Fonda Berosini
Disney Entertainment, Networks
Share this release

ABC13 Anchor Art Rascon Announces He’s Leaving the Station After More Than 20 Years

Rascon Legacy Continues With Son Jacob Joining the Team

Photos Courtesy of ABC13/KTRK-TV Houston

Art Rascon, who joined ABC13/KTRK-TV Houston as an anchor in 1998, will leave the station at the end of the year, announced Wendy Granato, president and general manager of KTRK. Rascon has co-anchored the midday and 5:00 p.m. newscast for 23 years. He looks forward to pursuing personal life endeavors that include religious and community service projects.

“KTRK ABC13 has been home to many iconic journalists through the years, and Art Rascon is certainly in that elite club,” said Granato. “He is passionate, fearless, unique and authentic – and KTRK is a better station because of Art’s many contributions to our viewers and to our communities.”

Rascon joined KTRK after working as a national correspondent for CBS News and reporter for ABC-owned station ABC7/KABC-TV Los Angeles. He has reported from more than 70 countries and five continents, and news coverage in nearly every state in the United States. He’s covered numerous stories that include Haiti’s civil unrest, Mexico’s guerrilla wars, conflicts in Central America, Peru’s hostage standoff, Cuba’s downing of U.S. planes, as well as national airline disasters, numerous hurricanes, the Oklahoma City bombing and a variety of other stories. As a reporter for KABC-TV in Los Angeles, he covered notable events such as the O.J. Simpson case, Rodney King trial, Los Angeles riots, Branch Davidian standoff, as well as earthquakes, fires and floods. 

As he ends his illustrious career to pursue personal life endeavors, he passes his legacy to his son, Jacob Rascon, who joins ABC13 as a new anchor and reporter at the start of 2022.

“Like his father, Jacob Rascon epitomizes quality journalism. His experience as a national correspondent covering the biggest stories around the world brings a unique perspective,” said Granato. “Jacob is committed to pursuing stories that make a difference in our community and amplifying the voices of the underrepresented. His love for his hometown of Houston is an extra bonus that makes him an excellent anchor and reporter. ABC13 is thrilled the Rascon legacy will continue.” 

Jacob Rascon is an Emmy© and Edward R. Murrow-winning journalist who joins ABC13 as an anchor and reporter with an impressive portfolio traveling the world covering groundbreaking international stories as an NBC News correspondent and as a local news reporter for KNBC-TV Los Angeles, KFOX-TV El Paso and KPRC-TV Houston.

“I remember visiting the station as a kid and meeting Dave Ward, Deborah Duncan, Wayne Dolcefino and Marvin Zindler,” said Jacob. “The fact that I’m now following in their footsteps and my father’s, who is the consummate journalist and an even better person, makes me immensely proud.”

In an excerpt from an email from Art Rascon to ABC13 staff:

“My dear friends, after 36 years of reporting the world, and more than 28 years with the ABC/Disney company, it’s time to pursue other opportunities … Thank you for such an incredible and rewarding journey. You know how to cover news and every day you bring amazing stories to life … You have my most sincere gratitude for your hard work and incredible insight into producing award-winning stories. It has been such a blessing to witness history in a remarkable way. Truly, I have had the best job in the world. I’m not leaving yet—I will still be around until the end of the year, but I wanted to give you this early notice. Of course, I would be remiss if I did not thank my television partner of more than 23 years, Melanie Lawson …”

About ABC13/KTRK-TV Houston
For over 50 years, ABC13 has been Houston’s news leader from sign-on to sign-off. Broadcasting 49 hours of locally produced newscasts each week, ABC13 is the top-rated and most-watched news station among the Houston-area viewers. ABC13 also leads the market in its digital media efforts, with top rankings for its website, abc13.com, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. ABC13 delivers live and streaming content on Roku, Fire TV, Amazon and AppleTV in the ABC13 Houston App. ABC13 is deeply invested in the Houston community, spotlighting Houston’s diversity with community affairs programs covering issues that affect different segments of the population – from local town halls to ABC13+. The station also hosts several community projects throughout the year including Share Your Holidays, an annual food drive benefiting the Houston Food Bank; and our E-cycle Drive, a collection/recycling effort for outdated electronic equipment in conjunction with Earth Day. ABC13 is also known for broadcasting the city’s major events including the annual July 4th Freedom Over Texas celebration, The Chevron Marathon, Houston Pride and The Houston Rodeo Parade. 

Twitter:https://twitter.com/abc13houston
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/abc13houston/
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/abc13Houston/

Press Release

July 22, 2021

Media relations
Fonda Berosini
Disney Entertainment, Networks
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ABC13/KTRK-TV Houston Names Texas Native Rita Garcia As New Weekday Morning Anchor

Rita Garcia Joins Station From KTTV-TV Los Angeles

Photos courtesy of ABC13/KTRK-TV Houston

ABC13/KTRK-TV Houston President and General Manager Wendy Granato named Rita Garcia to co-anchor its weekday morning newscast and appear on-air on Monday, July 26.

Garcia joins the morning Eyewitness Team from 4:30-7:00 a.m. with co-anchor Samica Knight and meteorologist Elita Loresca. She replaces Tom Koch who retired from broadcasting after 39 years.

“We are so excited to have Rita return home to Texas!” exclaimed Granato. “Rita is an experienced journalist who understands our Houston area communities, our commitment to serving them, and how to provide fast-paced, accurate and timely information to help our viewers start their day. She is also a lot of fun and will be a great addition to ABC13’s quick-witted, high-energy morning team.”

Joining from Fox 11 in Los Angeles, Garcia was an anchor on “Good Day LA” where her most memorable coverage includes the Notre Dame Cathedral fire in Paris, the 2009 and 2011 NBA Finals, the death of Los Angeles Lakers’ star Kobe Bryant, the Woolsey Fire in California, the Oscars® and Emmy® red carpet events, NFL Super Bowl LI, Hurricane Harvey, the 2017 and 2018 MLB World Series, and the death of Michael Jackson.

Garcia returns to familiar roots as a Texas native where she previously served as a weekday morning anchor in the Houston market. She began her television career in the Rio Grande Valley in South Texas at ABC (KRG – CH. 5) as bureau chief in Cameron County. While at the station, she reported on a number of international border stories.

“I’m thrilled to return to Houston and join the ABC-owned family,” said Garcia. “It’s truly a privilege to be invited into viewers’ homes every morning, and I can’t wait for us to begin our day together, sharing the stories that matter the most to them.”

Garcia graduated cum laude from Texas State University in San Marcos with a degree in electronic media.

About ABC13/KTRK-TV Houston
For over 50 years, ABC13 has been Houston’s news leader from sign-on to sign-off. Broadcasting 49 hours of locally produced newscasts each week, ABC13 is the top-rated and most-watched news station among the Houston-area viewers. ABC13 also leads the market in its digital media efforts, with top rankings for its website, abc13.com, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. ABC13 delivers live and streaming content on Roku, Fire TV, Amazon and AppleTV in the ABC13 Houston App. ABC13 is deeply invested in the Houston community, spotlighting Houston’s diversity with community affairs programs covering issues that affect different segments of the population – from local town halls to ABC13+. The station also hosts several community projects throughout the year including Share Your Holidays, an annual food drive benefiting the Houston Food Bank; and our E-cycle Drive, a collection/recycling effort for outdated electronic equipment in conjunction with Earth Day. ABC13 is also known for broadcasting the city’s major events including the annual July 4th Freedom Over Texas celebration, The Chevron Marathon, Houston Pride and The Houston Rodeo Parade.

Twitter:https://twitter.com/abc13houston
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/abc13houston/
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/abc13Houston/

KTRK-TV

About ABC13/KTRK-TV Houston

For over 50 years, ABC13 has been Houston’s news leader from sign-on to sign-off. Broadcasting 49 hours of locally produced newscasts each week, ABC13 is the top-rated and most-watched news station among the Houston-area viewers. ABC13 also leads the market in its digital media efforts, with top rankings for its website, abc13.com, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. ABC13 delivers live and streaming content on Roku, Fire TV, Amazon and AppleTV in the ABC13 Houston App. ABC13 is deeply invested in the Houston community, spotlighting Houston’s diversity with community affairs programs covering issues that affect different segments of the population – from local town halls to ABC13+. The station also hosts several community projects throughout the year including Share Your Holidays, an annual food drive benefiting the Houston Food Bank; and our E-cycle Drive, a collection/recycling effort for outdated electronic equipment in conjunction with Earth Day. ABC13 is also known for broadcasting the city’s major events including the annual July 4th Freedom Over Texas celebration, The Chevron Marathon, Houston Pride and The Houston Rodeo Parade.

Wendy Granato is president and general manager of ABC13/KTRK-TV, in Houston, Texas where she has overall management responsibility for ABC13 and all of its ancillary businesses.

As the general manager at ABC13, Granato spearheaded the launch of KTRK’s 24/7 news stream, featuring the most live, local coverage in the Houston market. She was recently selected as a 2023 Top Local TV Leader by Radio + Television Business Report. Under her leadership, ABC13 produces 75+ hours of community specials and events each year and recently won both a regional and nation Edward R. Murrow Award in Excellence in Diversity Equity and Inclusion for its piece “Taking Back Gulfton.” She has led the station through numerous emergencies and big breaking news events such as the recent Texas drought and uptick in wildfires, the impeachment and acquittal of Attorney General Ken Paxton, and the Santa Fe and Uvalde school shootings. As a leader who is passionate about innovation and investing in skills of the future, Granato is a founding director of OTV-University, an educational program for all eight ABC Owned Television Stations.

Press Release

February 1, 2021

Media relations
Fonda Berosini
Disney Entertainment, Networks
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Houston’s Longtime Broadcast Anchor Tom Koch Leaves Lasting Legacy at ABC13/KTRK-TV Houston

Tom Koch, who joined ABC13/KTRK-TV Houston in 1982 as a reporter before becoming the co-anchor of Houston’s No. 1 morning newscast, will celebrate his last day on air Friday, May 28, 2021, announced Wendy Granato, president and general manager, KTRK. As co-anchor of the morning newscast, Houstonians have started their day with Koch for 33 years. He also co-anchored ABC13’s top-rated 4:00 p.m. news for eight years.

“Tom embodies everything you’d want in a journalist and local news anchor,” said Granato. “He’s compassionate and curious with an amazing ability to elevate everyone around him. I’ve had the privilege of working side by side with Tom on many projects throughout the years and he is truly one of the ABC13 greats!”

From the beginning, Koch immersed himself in serving Greater Houston, covering some of the most compelling stories that shaped the city. He co-anchored many of the station’s live special events and parades including the July 4th Freedom Over Texas, Chevron Houston Marathon, Houston Symphony Concerts, Mayor’s Holiday Lighting, the Dedication of the Bush Library, the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo Parade and many more.

“For nearly 40 years, I’ve been honored and humbled that so many people welcomed me into their homes every day,” said Koch. “It’s been a dream come true for a small-town Wisconsin kid to be part of this incredible station and truly great city of Houston. But I’ve decided it’s time to step aside, turn off that early morning alarm and wake up to a new adventure.” 

A respected and award-winning journalist, Koch has extensive experience telling thousands of stories – from trailing hurricanes across the Gulf Coast to covering Houston City Hall to NASA to the State Legislature and political conventions. His international reports include the election of new popes at the Vatican, the ‘90s oil boom in the former Soviet Republic of Azerbaijan, earthquakes in Central America, and American astronauts launching into space from Kazakhstan.

“Tom’s incredible broadcasting career spanning nearly 40 years is beyond measure,” said Rehan Aslam, vice president of News, KTRK. “He has led our coverage through some of Houston’s best times and hardest times. He did it all with leadership, professionalism and an authentic devotion to this city. He has traveled across the country and around the world to bring us memorable stories from a Houstonian’s perspective. A great colleague, friend and committed member of our communities, Tom is ABC13 and he will be missed.”

The week of May 24, ABC13 plans to host an on-air celebration featuring Koch and his many achievements, with a final send-off on Friday, May 28, 2021.

Koch adds:“A giant thank you to our viewers for supporting me, staying with me, being part of this incredible journey and making this dream come true. I hope in some small way I’ve touched your life by keeping you informed, prepared for the day ahead and sending you off with a smile. To my colleagues and management at ABC13, thank you for believing in me, always having my back and making me shine. To my wife and two daughters, words can’t describe your love, support and inspiration or your forgiveness for sometimes long hours away from home and grouchiness because of 2:30 a.m. wake-up calls. I love the phrase ’make your own adventure.’ I have done just that with all of Houston behind me. Wish me well on my new journey.”

Editor’s Note:
Photos courtesy of ABC13/KTRK-TV Houston*
*Top Row 3rd Photo: Tom Koch and Samica Knight co-anchor desk/Photo credit: Al Torres Photography

About ABC13/KTRK-TV Houston
For over 50 years, ABC13 has been Houston’s news leader from sign-on to sign-off. Broadcasting 49 hours of locally produced newscasts each week, ABC13 is the top-rated and most-watched news station among the Houston-area viewers. ABC13 also leads the market in its digital media efforts, with top rankings for its website, abc13.com, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. ABC13 delivers live and streaming content on Roku, Fire TV, Amazon and AppleTV in the ABC13 Houston App. ABC13 is deeply invested in the Houston community, spotlighting Houston’s diversity with community affairs programs covering issues that affect different segments of the population – from local town halls to ABC13+. The station also hosts several community projects throughout the year including Share Your Holidays, an annual food drive benefiting the Houston Food Bank; and our E-cycle Drive, a collection/recycling effort for outdated electronic equipment in conjunction with Earth Day. ABC13 is also known for broadcasting the city’s major events including the annual July 4th Freedom Over Texas celebration, The Chevron Marathon, Houston Pride and The Houston Rodeo Parade. 

Twitter:https://twitter.com/abc13houston
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/abc13houston/
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/abc13Houston/

Press Release

January 26, 2021

Media relations
Fonda Berosini
Disney Entertainment, Networks
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ABC13/KTRK-TV Houston Addresses Vaccine Concerns in Black and Latino Communities in a Two-Day Virtual Town Hall Series

‘COVID-19 Vaccine and Our Communities of Color’ Streams LIVE on Jan. 27 and 28 (7:00-8:00 p.m. CST) atABC13.com, ABC13 news app and ABC13’s connected TV apps on Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV and Roku

ABC13, Houston’s news leader, continues its vaccine town hall series with “COVID-19 Vaccine and Our Communities of Color,” a two-day virtual town hall that will stream live on WEDNESDAY AND THURSDAY, JAN. 27 and 28 (7:00-8:00 p.m. CDT). ABC13 Eyewitness News anchor Mayra Moreno will host Wednesday’s town hall, addressing the Latino community’s vaccine concerns. Chauncy Glover will host Thursday’s town hall, in partnership with the Xi Kappa Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. of Missouri City, and address vaccine concerns in the Black community.

With COVID-19 infections on the rise across southeast Texas, ABC13 continues to find answers and expert advice to address viewers’ numerous questions around the vaccine.

This month, ABC13 held a town hall with Mayor Sylvester Turner, Houston leaders and experts to address growing concerns over the vaccine distribution. In the upcoming “COVID-19 Vaccine and Our Communities of Color” town hall, Moreno and Glover will join local Latino and Black leaders in their respective town halls. The panel will provide vaccine safety and efficacy information, have a candid conversation about how the virus has disproportionately impacted communities of color, the community’s fears, misconceptions, and why they plan to get vaccinated.

In the Jan. 27 town hall hosted by Mayra Moreno, panelists include the following:

  • Armando Walle, state representative of Texas
  • Laura Murillo, Ph.D., president, Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
  • Dr. Joseph Varon, chief medical officer, United Memorial Medical Center
  • Sheriff Ed Gonzalez, Harris County

In the Jan. 28 town hall hosted by Chauncy Glover, panelists include the following:

  • Ron Reynolds, state representative of Texas
  • Addie Heyliger, Fort Bend ISD Board president
  • Grady Prestage, Fort Bend County commissioner
  • Dr. Jacqueline Johnson-Minter, Fort Bend County Director of Health & Human Services
  • Pastor Timothy Sloan, The Luke Church
  • Casondra Burkley, licensed social worker

Viewers can submit their questions for the panel on ABC13.com and the ABC13 news app for possible inclusion in the town halls.

About ABC13/KTRK-TV Houston  
For over 50 years, ABC13 has been Houston’s news leader from sign-on to sign-off. Broadcasting 49 hours of locally produced newscasts each week, ABC13 is the top-rated and most-watched news station among the Houston-area viewers. ABC13 also leads the market in its digital media efforts, with top rankings for its website, abc13.com, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. ABC13 delivers live and streaming content on Roku, Fire TV, Amazon and AppleTV in the ABC13 Houston App. ABC13 is deeply invested in the Houston community, spotlighting Houston’s diversity with community affairs programs covering issues that affect different segments of the population – from local town halls to ABC13+. The station also hosts several community projects throughout the year including Share Your Holidays, an annual food drive benefiting the Houston Food Bank; and our E-cycle Drive, a collection/recycling effort for outdated electronic equipment in conjunction with Earth Day. ABC13 is also known for broadcasting the city’s major events including the annual July 4th Freedom Over Texas celebration, The Chevron Marathon, Houston Pride and The Houston Rodeo Parade. 

Twitter:https://twitter.com/abc13houston
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/abc13houston/
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/abc13Houston/