Scripps Blows Up KC Station

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On the verge of the May book, Scripps owned KSHB has decided to blow up their main newscasts with big changes.

The station has decided to part ways with their married anchor team of Rhiannon Ally and Mike Marusarz (pictured).

Their last day is this Friday.

They will replace their 5p, 6p and 10p newscasts anchors with Christa Dubill and Kevin Holmes.

KHSB News Director Carrie Hofmann sent out an email to the staff, showing them that the station has officially entered desperation mode.

FTVLive obtained a copy of said email:

We have some comings and goings to tell you about. So read through it all as there are new opportunities we’ll soon be posting.

Rhiannon and Mike are departing. They are taking an opportunity that works better for their family. Look for details later when they can share. We know they have a bright future ahead of them and we appreciate the work they have done with us. Their last day in the newsroom will be April 12th.

We are excited to say we didn’t have to look far to find the next team to lead us into the future. Kevin Holmes and Christa Dubill will co-anchor our 5, 6pm, 6:30p and 10pm shows. Both Kevin and Christa are born storytellers and strong newsroom leaders. We believe they will help us continue the great momentum we have.

Our 4pm show will continue to be anchored by Christa. Eventually, we will post for a 4pm anchor with the hope of having someone hired by mid-summer. The 4pm role will continue to be someone who reports daily and anchors the show.

Some changes for our morning time period as well.

Meredith Albair is leaving the business. Her last day was April 9th. She has done great work on the 6am and we are sorry to see her go.

We are moving Alyssa Salcido to Monday-Friday 6am show. We are going to pair Alyssa up with a new partner.

We will soon be posting for a “Senior Producer” role. This person will be an experience producer who will put the finishing touches on our 6am show and then work with the team to develop content for the next morning. The shift is 3am to 11:30am. This position will be posted this week.

We have hired Alexis Reese to be producer after her JCP term ends in June. She is filling the position left open by Devona’s departure.

We have promoted Whitney Beiler into a Lead Producer role that works Wed-Sunday. She will take on the challenge of helping us grow our JCP producers. She will produce the weekend shows, until the JCP’ers are ready to produce on their own. She will also be approving their work during the week and weekends.

We are also creating a new Specials Photographer/Producer position. This person will work with our anchors on ensure we continue to turn stories continuously. You will be required to adjust your schedule, potentially daily to meet the needs of the stories. You will be asked to assist anchors with setting up interviews, researching topics, and logging tape. Will need to be drone operator (or get your license within 3 months)

We have also filled the content coordinator position with Joseph Kisluk. He is moving here from Houston. He has his own company where he does graphic work, video editing and camera work. He also has his drone license. He starts April 22nd.

Lots of exciting changes that will continue to help us win! If you have questions, please let us know.

Thanks,
Carrie