Defining Outstanding

May31

Once in awhile, you meet someone who you just KNOW is going to be a star. There’s just something dazzling that radiates from them. They are THAT stunning, THAT talented, THAT well spoken, THAT inspiring. They are simply OUTSTANDING.

MISS NEBRASKA’S OUTSTANDING TEEN 2014 MORGAN HOLEN

(Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography)

This is my 4th blog post I’ve written about Morgan. I’m not a creeper (at least in this case), she’s just that incredible. Beauty inspiring nationally renowned photographer Jenn Cady to invite Morgan to South Carolina for a premiere fashion show and photo shoot. Talent and a gift for dance that earned Morgan a state championship this year with Elkhorn South High, the dance award at Miss America’s Outstanding Teen, and acceptance and scholarship into the American Musical and Dramatic Academy and Dance Program.

Sheer kindness and love for life.. rooted deeply within her family and now woven across our entire state.

What an outstanding young lady. Like so many in the Miss Nebraska Organization, I first met Morgan through her mom, Jodi, who was Miss Nebraska 1988.

Jodi, also a former Miss Omaha, was hands down one of the most welcoming, kindest people I met the night I was crowned Miss Douglas County and unknowingly entered this new and overwhelming world. At her side, and then at MY side asking for pictures, were two sweet, little girls.

Me and the Holen girls, shortly after the Miss Omaha/Miss Douglas County pageant, Fall 2001

Morgan has been attending the Miss Nebraska pageant with her mom for as long as she can remember. She decided to compete in this new version of Miss America for teenagers, Miss America’s Outstanding Teen, her freshman year of high school. (Click here to read about Morgan’s time as Miss Omaha’s Outstanding Teen!) One year later, just weeks (if not days!) after completing her sophomore year at Elkhorn South, Morgan was crowned Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen 2014.

Morgan’s crowning moment one year ago. CLICK HERE to read more.

Immediately, Morgan began preparations for Miss America’s Outstanding Teen, knowing Nebraska had never cracked the Top 12 at the national level. Morgan did.

“I am extremely honored and humbled!” said Morgan. “Then my competition mode just kicked in and I didn’t realize really what happened until it was over. I competed in the first area, fitness, and made the cut to the Top 10 where I was able to perform my talent one more time.”

As Morgan told me last summer, (click here to read more!), her talent was a self-choreographed tribute to her longtime dance instructor ‘Miss Kitty’ Dahlberg. Dahlberg passed away the summer before Morgan won Miss Omaha’s Outstanding Teen. Among those in the crowd was Dahlberg’s daughter and another of Morgan’s instructors, Diane Hansen. This dance, dedicated to Morgan’s friend and mentor, was nothing short of breathtaking. Watching the webcast from home, I was in tears. Someone in the audience tweeted ‘Morgan Holen just set a new standard for talent.’

“Then, after the evening gown competition, I was thrilled (and stunned) to be called out in the Top 5,” said Morgan. “Outside of Teresa Scanlan, who has been a role model, no other Miss Nebraska or Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen had ever placed that high, so to be standing there representing my state was in incredible honor and an indescribable experience.”

KETV: Omaha Teen Crowned Among Best In Country

Morgan finished 4th runner up, surrounded by a huge fan club who traveled to Orlando to support her, and the new friends she made while there.

“The friendships last long after the pageant,” said Morgan. “My roommate Page Mackenzie (Miss Pennsylvania’s Outstanding Teen) and I have visited each other in our home states. We bonded over the fact that by the time we left our hotel room, our feet could stick to the bathroom floor due to hairspray (pageant girl problems.) We remain very good friends today and talk at least once a week.”

“I also was very blessed to have the third or fourth largest crowd of supporters,” said Morgan. “My parents, sister, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, dance teacher, local and state directors, and Megan were all there to support me and of course, they were easy to spot since they help up big red Husker N’s. There really is no way to represent Nebraska without the Huskers! Other contestants even commented about it and were a little jealous.”

As for the last 10 months.. Morgan has simply been on the go NONSTOP. She’s on Elkhorn South’s state champion dance team, in addition to dancing competitively for Omaha’s Kitty Lee Dance; she’s also on the award-winning Elkhorn South competitive show choir squad.

Still, she’s been out across the state as Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen, not only taking part in EVERY local pageant this year, but volunteering and making appearances for various events. Morgan cares deeply about her platform Random Acts of Kindness, promoting good deeds and service to others, big and small. Last January, Morgan even created a ‘kindness calendar’ and shared it across social media, suggesting something different every day of the month you could do to pass on a random act of kindness.

Morgan volunteering with her big sister and best friend, Brittany Holen

“My one regret is that there aren’t enough hours in the day or days in the week!” said Morgan. “As a teen, you are obviously still in high school and the girls who compete for and win these state titles are involved in many activities inside and outside of school. I only wish I had been able to do more as Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen because there are many opportunities the title affords you, however, you still have to go to school and honor your other commitments.”

That’s part of the advice Morgan has for whoever she’ll crown in just five short days, Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen 2015.

“To the next MNOT I would say do everything you can, but understand that some days there are just not enough hours in the day and that is okay,” said Morgan. “I would also tell her to enjoy every minute because the year flies by and you will never have these moments back. It will be an awesome experience!”

And still, Morgan shows me even now how exceptional she truly is. As part of that message to her future MNOT sister, a reminder, and a sign of this young woman’s maturity, sense of self, and state of mind.

(Photo courtesy of The Mullers)

“Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen did not make me who I am,” said Morgan. “Lots of people have invested in me over my 17 years: parents, sister, family, friends, teachers, coaches, over the years shaped me into the person I am and for that I am grateful.”

Morgan asked me to note her gratitude to her local director Kelsey Joseph and her state directors Rachel Daly and Kayla Jacox, not only for what they have done for her, but for the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Program.

Morgan, I thank YOU. Thank you for being KIND. For sharing your incredible gift of dance. For filling me with hope thinking of the young people that will soon be the adults in our world. For showcasing our state and this program to people everywhere, and making them do double takes. You are simply outstanding.

And I think Morgan’s own words confirm that:

“I hope that I have represented all of you in a way that made you proud.”

(Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography)

Click here for a special feature on Morgan on the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Facebook page!

Click here for a special interview with Morgan by the nationally popular Pageant Junkies team!

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The Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Pageant will take place June 5, 2015 in North Platte. Click here to visit the organization’s website or the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Pageant on Facebook and on Twitter.

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PREVIOUS.. Miss Kearney Crane Festival’s Outstanding Teen 2015 Merrilee Prill

NEXT.. Miss Nebraska 2014 Megan Swanson

To read more about the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Class of 2014, click on the ‘There She Is’ link at the top of the page.

Sister, Sister

May28

I am the oldest of three, with two ‘little’ brothers. ‘Little’, because now they could crush me if they wanted to, but in a way, I’ll still always be their big sister.

I’ve never longed for a sister, in part, because I am blessed to have such dear friends who have always filled that role for me beautifully.

But to be a woman and have a sister must be a beautiful thing; sharing secrets, dreams, frustrations, CLOTHES. To have their support when you need them most, and to help you fly even higher when you soar.

The young woman you’re about to meet has shared a bond with her twin sister since the moment they arrived in the world, a journey now inspiring her individually as one of the state’s most outstanding teenagers.

MISS KEARNEY CRANE FESTIVAL’S OUTSTANDING TEEN 2015 MERRILEE PRILL

(Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography)

“I was born at Children’s Hospital in Omaha as a micro preemie weighing in at 1 pound 7 ounces and I had a 10-percent chance of survival!” Merrilee told me recently. “At 2 years old, [my twin sister and I] were featured on the Children’s Miracle Network telethon. So, I am Children’s Miracle Network!”

Merrilee and her sister, Mariclaire, spent four months in the hospital as newborns. Many deemed them miracle babies since they later only underwent surgery for ear tubes and had no other developmental problems. This personal story inspired Merrilee’s platform of service ‘Believe the Impossible: Miracles Happen.’

“Because I have experienced this miracle in my own life, I want to inspire others to believe that miracles can happen in their own lives no matter what the circumstances,” said Merrilee. “This piece of the Miss Nebraska system holds a very special place in my heart!”

One piece of many for not just Merrilee, but the entire Prill family.

Merrilee’s big sister, Lianna, was Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen 2012, and just last year, competed for the title of Miss Nebraska (click here to read my profile of Lianna during her time as Miss Crane Festival 2014). Merrilee’s twin, Mariclaire, was Miss Sandhills’ Outstanding Teen 2013.

“I first got involved in the Miss Nebraska program because my sisters were titleholders,” said Merrilee. “I experienced challenges while competing for [local titles]. Consequently, winning did not come as quickly for me as it did for my sisters. Now as I come to the close of my reign as Miss Kearney Crane Festival’s Outstanding Teen, I have been able to sharpen my public speaking and stage presence skills. These parts of the competition used to terrify me. Now, I comfortably speak to a crowd of insurance professionals as a keynote speaker, address a crowd of community members at an outdoor festival and convey encouragements to patients at Children’s Hospital.”

And those visits to Children’s are among Merrilee’s favorite moments as Miss Kearney Crane Festival’s OT.

“My signature project for this program has been decorating over 400 colorful place mats for patient meal trays,” said Merrilee. “Seeing the smiles on the kids’ faces during craft hours just makes my job as a titleholder so gratifying because that makes me feel like I am making an impact by encouraging them that miracles can happen in their lives as it did in mine.”

Among Merrilee’s other top memories this past year include signing nearly 400 autographs for the annual Daddy-Daughter Banquet in Kearney and spending time with her sister queen Miss Kearney Crane Festival 2015 Allison Tietjen (click here to to learn more about Allison!).

“I know the importance of being a positive local role model for young girls,” said Merrilee. “It was a bonus during my year to share this event and many others with Allison!”

Merrilee is also looking forward to connecting with a few other ‘sisters’.. her fellow outstanding teens from across the state. She sent me this picture, taken the last time many of these girls were together, at the Crowns and Gowns weekend in North Platte.

Merrilee striking a pose with Miss Douglas County’s OT 2015 Steffany Lien and Miss Scotts Bluff County’s OT Grace Heggem.

A year’s worth of moments and memories, all leading up to one amazing night. So many ‘sisters’, biological or otherwise, that will no doubt be in Merrilee Prill’s mind and heart during those moments she takes the stage alone in North Platte.

“I have to say that walking in my evening gown is the most fulfilling part of the competition for me, because that’s the point when I feel the most confident and I feel like I’m on top of the world,” said Merilee. “Very few teenagers get to do this on such an awesome stage!”

Only 11, in fact, this year. And of those outstanding girls, one will be crowned Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen. Will it be Merrilee Prill? Just ask the once 1.5 pound miracle who defied all odds at birth; ANYTHING is possible.

Follow Miss Kearney Crane Festival’s Outstanding Teen 2015 Merrilee Prill on Instagram.

To contact Merrilee for appearances and events, visit the Miss Kearney/Miss Tri-Cities Pageant on Facebook.

Click here for a special feature on Merrilee on the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Facebook page!

For more information about how to become a contestant, email Director Megan Goeke at megan@hellobeautifulbridal.com.

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PREVIOUS.. Miss Northwest’s Outstanding Teen 2015 Cherokee Purviance

NEXT.. Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen 2014 Morgan Holen

To read more about the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Class of 2014, click on the ‘There She Is’ link at the top of the page.

Hammer Time

May25

This weekend, my incredible volleyball skills will be on display in Papillion. And by incredible I mean TERRIBLE. Softball was always my game; I love all sports but I could never do much more than the solid bump from the backfield, occasionally breaking out a trademark move I’ve called THE HAMMER. Basically clenching both hands together above my head and smashing the ball as hard as I can to protect myself, endlessly embarrassing my husband in the process.

Good thing that this time around, I’m playing for four AMAZING people where effort triumphs over talent and skill.

Meet Kyle and Melissa Frans, and their sweet boys Tanner and Kraig. You know their hands are full when they have to hand off the camera to take dual pictures so everyone is included! Missy is my husband’s cousin, but close enough to be a sister to him and sister-in-law to me. She spoke at our wedding, and is our Evan’s godmother. Kyle is funny, kind and welcoming to friend and stranger alike, and just an awesome all-around guy!

Kyle has also battled Crohn’s Disease for 15 years. Officially, Crohn’s is described as a chronic inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract. Simply put, Crohn’s is intense abdominal pain. Frequent hospital stays and surgeries. Inability to eat when or what you want.. often leading to weight fluctuation, diarrhea, bleeding, fatigue and other issues. This is a CHRONIC illness, it lasts for life. There is no standard treatment, and no cure.

Kyle, only in his early 30’s, has already made several trips to the Mayo Clinic and back. He’s undergone multiple surgeries. He’s faced countless trips to the ER. This couple has dealt with this challenge while working and taking care of two little boys. If you’ve ever gotten a big doctor’s bill in the mail, even WITH insurance, you know how quickly procedures can add up. Multiply that by the dozens, if not hundreds of tests, stays, and visits the Frans family has gone through.. and it’s hard to imagine what they are dealing with financially, let alone physically and emotionally.

THIS SATURDAY, their friends, loved ones, and more will join together to raise money to help and to show Missy and Kyle they are not alone. Organizer Joe Dolezal said it best on the event website: ‘Knowing Kyle and Melissa would, and do, go out of their way to help their friends, we’re going out of our way to help give them a little relief from all the costs that have been piling up over the years.’

CLICK HERE for more information about the CROHN’S SUCKS: FRANS FAMILY BENEFIT SAND VOLLEYBALL TOURNEY. $20 gets you at least four games of volleyball, a drink ticket, and a chance to bid on LOTS of great raffle items. Better yet, if you have a group of friends looking for a volleyball tournament.. or just a group of friends who want to hang out.. sign up your team! Visit the Facebook event link above or email FriendsofFrans@gmail.com. This will all take place SATURDAY MAY 30th at Sinnott’s Sand Bar in Papillion.

I’ve said before.. and posted right here on this blog.. I don’t know why things like Crohn’s happen to such good people. Not just Kyle, but my good friend and co-anchor Rob McCartney also suffers from this terrible disease. Rob often reaches out to other patients, especially kids, to compare stories about what they are going through, forming a support network in a club they never wanted to be part of. Nebraska native, now Phillies baseball player Jake Diekman went public with his battle with Ulcerative Colitis this year, promoting research through the sale of ‘Gut-It-Out’ t-shirts and gear nationwide. Guys like Jake, Rob and Kyle rise above their challenges; they fight, they stay positive, they inspire the rest of us to roll up our sleeves and do better.

This Saturday, I’ll be with my Team Paparazzi softball squad, as our team trades gloves and bats for sand and volleyballs to support our superstar catcher and friend Missy Frans and her family. I would LOVE to see hundreds of people there to support them! Regardless, I have a favor to ask of all of you who are reading this.. please learn more about Crohn’s. It’s a terrible, terrible disease. More awareness, means a bigger push for answers, meaning more fundraising and hopefully, bring us one step closer to finding a cure. CLICK HERE to learn more about Crohn’s Disease at the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America website. CLICK HERE to learn more about Jake’s story, and his work with the Gut-It-Out campaign.

And if you pray, please say a prayer for these guys, especially my friend Kyle. For a huge showing of support Saturday, for the financial boost the Frans family needs right now, and for a cure so one day this wonderful family of four can have a volleyball game for no other reason than to teach Kraig and Tanner THE HAMMER.

Loved ones have also established a GoFundMe account to help Kyle Frans and his family. CLICK HERE for more information.

Most Likely To Shine

May23

When you look back at your years in high school, do you remember who won the senior superlatives in your class? Most outgoing, best personality, most likely to succeed, most school spirit.

In my class, one of the ‘superlative’ winners was my good friend Jake Ozanne, named Most Outgoing. He could have also been coined ‘Most Popular’, ‘Most Inclusive’, ‘Most Welcoming’, or just “Mr. All American Monarch.” Jake was a starting varsity football player, who also has a sensational voice and was one of the star’s of PLHS’s sold-out presentation of Grease. He did it all and was friends with EVERYONE along the way, no matter what clique, group, or friendship circle you were part of. PAPIO LOVED JAKE, and we still do.

Lincoln Southwest High arguably has SEVERAL contenders for the title.. THREE Silver Hawks will be competing this summer for the title of Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen. One of these young ladies is the Queen of Superlatives.. because after my reporter research, I question if there is anything this beauty CAN’T do.

MISS GERING’S OUTSTANDING TEEN 2015 EMMA KEIFER

(Photo courtesy Jenn Cady Photography)

Emma is an actress, a singer, a competitive speaker, and a dancer. She not only takes part in all of these activities at Lincoln Southwest High, she’s an award winner in many of them..

The sophomore is a member of the top ranked Ambience competitive show choir, of which Emma posted on Facebook: “What a year with so many amazing people including these inspiring girls that I am blessed to call my best friends.”

Emma is also an active member of Lincoln Southwest High’s theater program, named Freshman of the Year and cast in this year’s production of White Christmas, chosen to be part of the 2015 International Thespian Festival Showcase.

Emma’s also a national speech qualifier and a member of the Lincoln Southwest Emeralds Dance team.

In case you had any doubts, I looked up ‘does it all’ with Merriam Webster and Emma’s picture accompanies the definition. HOLY COW! Still, she added to her resume this year, competing for and winning the title of Miss Gering’s Outstanding Teen.

Emma, alongside Miss Western Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen 2015 Allison Baird. Emma posted on Facebook: “What a great way to start fall break! A big congratulations to every girl who competed in teen and miss for achieving so much by getting on the stage and sharing God’s talents to the judges.”

Emma was crowned in early October, and despite her incredibly demanding activity schedule at school, Emma gave of her time as Miss Gering’s OT at least once every month, often times more.

In October..

“Trick or Treat so Kids Can Eat! Had a great time collecting food cans with my school theatre troupe as Cruella De Vil! We collected over 2,100 pounds of food for the Lincoln Food Bank!”

In November..

“I was able to meet with the president of the Lincoln Animal Ambassadors to donate to their Pet Food Bank. I am so thankful to all my friends who helped me collect over 50 bags of cat and dog food during our Post Halloween Movie Night!”

“I spent time with other volunteers wrapping over 600 presents for the non-profit Boxes of Love. These presents have been presented to many different organizations and families throughout the holiday season and I was very happy to help!”

In December..

“I was able to meet with over 50 girls at Scott Middle School in Lincoln to promote my platform, Girl Talk. Each girl showed interest in growing in the three pillars of the organization, building self-esteem, learning leadership skills and the importance of community involvement! Every Thursday I get to talk and mentor a group of the most talented, sweetest, inspiring and beautiful girls I have ever met at Girl Talk! Everyone knows how hard Middle School can be so I am so happy to be the Girl Talk girls guide through life and their shoulder to lean on! Not only am I teaching them leadership skills, community involvement, and to be drama free, but they are teaching me and making me a better person!”

On to January..

“Spent my night volunteering at the Alzheirmer’s Association Gala! I even got to model a prom dress for the Black Swan during the live auction. I had such a fun time for such a great cause.”

Ending February..

“I bet you can guess who is ecstatic for June!”

And just recently, in April..

“I judged a prelim for the Cinderella Pageant. (I have never seen so many talented and adorable girls! It was so tough being on the other side.) I packaged/prepared meals for Kids Against Hunger with Youth Leadership Lincoln. I met with the wonderful Teresa Scanlan and discussed the future and importance of my platform.”

And in May, Emma turned 17. Yea, Emma Keifer IS A SOPHOMORE; SHE JUST TURNED 17 YEARS OLD.

I am exhausted just reading all of this! I’m also checking to see if Lincoln Southwest is sharing their secrets to success in teaching and training such outstanding young women. Each of the groups Emma belongs to, whether they be drama, choir, speech, or dance, may have a different superlative for Emma. Who knows what title she could end up with in her senior yearbook.

Emma Keifer may capture a title long before that. She’ll take the stage in North Platte in just two weeks, ready to compete for the title of Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen.

(Photo courtesy Julie Carter Photography)

Follow Miss Gering’s Outstanding Teen 2015 Emma Keifer and contact her for appearances and events on the Miss Western Nebraska/Miss Gering Pageant on Facebook.

Click here to follow Emma’s platform, Girl Talk!, on Facebook.

Click here for a special profile on Emma posted on the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Facebook page!

For more information on becoming a contestant, contact Director Kyla Ansley by phone at 308-631-0938 or by email at kyla_ansley@hotmail.com.

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PREVIOUS.. Miss Chadron 2015 Tosha Skinner

NEXT.. Miss Omaha’s Outstanding Teen 2015 Chelsea Arnold

To read more about the Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Class of 2014, click on the ‘There She Is’ link at the top of the page.

2014: Year In Review

Dec29

I mean, really, what’s the point of having a blog if you can’t hand out imaginary awards that are voted on by only YOU?

I’m a big believer in recognizing the POSITIVE things going on in our world. In news, we certainly see the bad. A lot of it. Day in and day out. But I think KETV does a great job of also highlighting the GOOD. The students who vote for a special needs friend for Homecoming King. The community rallying around a family in their darkest hour. A business finding incredible success through simple hard work and dedication to their craft.

As we close out on 2014, here are my Year In Review Local News awards.

(Thank you for continuing to read though you are probably doing so while laughing.. not with me, just AT me..)

2014 KETV REPORTER OF THE YEAR

KRISTYNA ENGDAHL

This lady is just FANTASTIC. I don’t have enough adjectives for her. Beautiful. HILARIOUS. Sharp. Well spoken. Fearless. Respected. Kristyna’s stories are well written and solid; if she tells you something, you know it to be true and researched. Kristyna’s live presence is just AWESOME. She’s articulate, she gets to the point at a scene, she shares what viewers want and need to know. When Kristyna’s in our newsroom, our coverage is GREAT. We have so many incredible journalists on our team here at KETV, but for me, Kristyna is our 2014 reporter of the year. Now, as a person.. SHE. IS. AWESOME. My day is truly brighter when I come in to work and see that beautiful smile, then hear her joking at her desk. (Then I usually snort coffee up my nose laughing, because she is HANDS DOWN the funniest person in our newsroom!) Like I said, I don’t have enough adjectives for Kristyna. I do have a message to her: THANK YOU for being you!

Kristyna’s work in 2014:

First interview with Nebraska Governor-Elect Pete Ricketts

$100 Reward offered for return of Baby Jesus

Survivor recalls Sunday morning crash

Follow Kristyna on Facebook and on Twitter!

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2014 KETV PHOTOJOURNALIST OF THE YEAR

DAVE HYNEK (photo courtesy Jodi Hoatson, CHI Health)

Again, we have so many, SO MANY, incredibly talented photojournalists here at KETV. Still, for me, Dave Hynek is THE BEST OF THE BEST. Not just at KETV, but arguably, one of the best in the country. Dave FEELS what he shoots–he captures moments with his eyes, his ears, and all of his senses. I’ve been honored to share some INCREDIBLE stories this year and in 3/4 of those stories or more, Dave was the man behind the camera and in the edit bay, trying to piece together a vision I had written down on paper. A brave, young woman speaking for the first time about the night her ex-boyfriend shot her in the face; Dave put the story together. Our chronicle about Baby Lawrence, multiple stories spanning several months; Dave put the stories together. Cassidy Collier, a teenager facing lifelong challenges after a terrible car crash; Dave put her story together. The paralyzed bride who walked down the aisle, the Plattsmouth teenager who died from a mysterious illness, our one-on-one interview with former Nebraska football coach Bo Pelini–DAVE HYNEK was the man behind the scenes in each and everyone of these stories. When we aren’t fighting over Dave in news, he’s also part of our sports team, often traveling with Andy to Nebraska football road games to shoot on the sidelines; AND he has his own production business, shooting weddings and special events. Dave helped me put together my audition tape for the College World Series this year (singing, not playing baseball), asking nothing in return. Dave may be one hell of a photographer, but he’s an even better FRIEND. Dave listens, works hard, he is KIND. Hands down, he is THE BEST. (And a SUPERSTAR shortstop on the Team Paparazzi softball team!)

Dave’s work in 2014:

Cassi’s message

Saving Baby Lawrence

New mother battling terminal cancer

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2014 PRODUCER OF THE YEAR, ANDREW BEIN

No picture of Andrew, our Executive Producer in charge of our 10pm newscasts.. and that’s the way he likes it. Andrew is always behind the scenes, plugging away at his computer or up in our master control booth, and the DUDE IS A MACHINE. Andrew could hands down be working in any big market or network outlet in the country; his writing in concise, accurate, and entertaining. The numbers show it–with Andrew in control, KETV has not only the #1 10pm newscast in Omaha.. but one of the most popular newscasts in the country. Rob and I TRUST him. We know his scripts don’t have typos that could trip us up. We know he’ll guide us through breaking news, weather coverage and an ever-changing environment where situations turn in a heartbeat. Producers don’t often get the credit they deserve in our business–they don’t get their faces and names on our stories and coverage when things go great. Andrew deserves it–he’s one of the best, and we are VERY lucky to have him on the KETV team!

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2014 ROOKIE OF THE YEAR

ALEXANDRA STONE

By ‘Rookie’, I mean new to us here at KETV, but certainly not new to this thing we call journalism. This young woman is POISED, professional and quickly building a reputation in Omaha and beyond as a trusted journalist you can turn to for the story. I recently put together a story with an interview Alexandra had conducted; she spoke with the mother of a young man who had been shot and killed. These interviews are SO incredibly difficult. What can you ask? What can you say? Alexandra was compassionate, caring, she asked the questions that we and our viewers wanted to know, but with tact and professionalism. It was a lesson in how to conduct yourself in such a tough situation, to remember you are a fellow human being. It was also Alexandra who, after 13 years in TV news, led me to CRY on air for the first time I can remember after seeing one of her stories. Alexandra and photojournalist Matthew Lathan showed a young man with cerebral palsy, surprised on the field when his coach put him into the game for the first time all season. It was just BEAUTIFUL story telling, and perhaps, a small glimpse of what incredible things this girl is capable of.

Alexandra’s work in 2014:

Bellevue football player receives sidelines surprise

Omaha native makes dream job reality

Women’s center helps immigrants escape domestic violence

Follow Alexandra on Facebook and on Twitter

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I wish I had an ‘in’ with a trophy maker so I could hand out a few more awards. To photojournalist Tyler White for editing not one, not two, but nearly ALL of my Throwback Thursday Huskers stories (some of which required deep digging into the KETV archives, converting countless forms of video, and piecing it all together with my less-than-stellar knowledge of football). To KETV’s official EVERYTHING Josh Gear, who produces, shoots, edits.. OK, the guy just does anything and EVERYTHING asked of him, literally, working every shift we have at KETV, with no complaint. To legendary directors Tom Rock and Ruth Behrens, who are not only PHENOMENAL at what they do, but are always putting on a pot of coffee or bringing in made-from-scratch chili, because they are just KIND, WONDERFUL people. We’ve just got a really, REALLY great team here at KETV.

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2014 STORY OF THE YEAR

For this one, I am completely, entirely, TOTALLY biased. Because this one is very personal for me. The story I will remember most from 2014..

THE PARALYZED BRIDE WHO WALKED DOWN THE AISLE

Gina Giaffoliogne-Springhower stunned her wedding guests and 1.65 MILLION viewers by doing what so many brides take for granted, walking down the aisle on her father’s arm. The KETV team (myself, photojournalists Dave Hynek, Ashley Nodgaard and Tyler White, and Assistant News Director Vonn Jones), along with the Giaffoliogne family and CHI Health’s Jodi Hoatson, spent weeks planning and working to share Gina’s story. Gina spent YEARS preparing for this one moment, an instant that brought me to tears and inspired millions of people around the globe. Gina’s story was shared by E! Online, People Magazine, Dr. Oz, CNN, ABC World News and World News Now, Good Housekeeping, Huffington Post, Courier Daily, and the NY Daily News, among others. Gina–THANK YOU for sharing your story. Your message, smile and spirit have no doubt changed lives, showing anyone facing a challenge that ANYTHING is possible. You have given people hope. To have any role in sharing your story is a blessing I can never say thank you enough for. The world is at your fingertips, Gina–you are simple incredible.

My blog post previewing Gina’s piece: A Cinderella Story

KETV, Paralyzed bride walks down the aisle

KETV, Millions share paralyzed bride’s story

KETV, Paralyzed bride invited to Dr. Oz

Gina hopes to continue to speak across the Midwest and the country sharing her story and her inspiring message. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION!

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I have many goals for 2015. I want to finish (and in some cases, START!) my boys’ Shutterfly books for each year of their lives. I want to pick up again on one of my favorite hobbies, scrapbooking. I want to FINALLY get back to XXX and lose all of my baby weight. I want to be a GREAT wife, mother and friend.

Here at KETV, I just want to tell good stories. Stories that inspire. Stories that matter. Stories that make us think.

It’s been a great ride, 2014. Happy New Year.

Brothers In Blue

Sep10

I was very lucky a few years ago (OK, MANY years ago..) to become friends with a guy named Jeff Nathan. I was the only student from Papio-La Vista at speech nationals, and for whatever reason, Jeff and his teammates from Millard North ‘adopted’ me and let me hang out with them. As fate would have it, Jeff and I had a broadcasting class together in college at UNL and again, his close circle of friends took me in like they’d known me for years. I remember one night in particular, Jeff asked if I wanted to come to their intramural softball game on campus; all the players were his friends from Millard North. If you follow me on Twitter, you know I LOVE softball, and was totally game. When I showed up, the guys were already on the field practicing, including THIS guy.

Thanks to Nebraska Athletics for the photo!

My first thought, “holy crap!! That’s Pat Ricketts!”

My second thought, “ummmm.. is he allowed to play intramural softball?”

Yes. Yes he was. And their team DOMINATED everyone they played against.. mostly because of Jeff’s Cy Young quality pitching. (You’re welcome, Jeff.)

In the early 2000’s, Millard North was well-represented not only on the softball field, but at Memorial Stadium. Eric Crouch, Mike McClaughlin, Judd Davies and Pat Ricketts.. they all played together in high school, were recruited together to come to Nebraska, and played together as Huskers.

“It was really neat to go from high school to college, to bring that work ethic,” Ricketts told me in a recent interview. “We had a lot of pride, and still do have a lot of pride, as Millard graduates and especially as Mustang graduates.”

Check out KETV’s Throwback Thursday Husker feature on Pat Ricketts!

Each player made an impact during his time at Nebraska (Crouch going on to win the Heisman Trophy), and Ricketts was no exception. The cornerback was a Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week his junior year in 2002, and as a senior, was part of the defense that set a school record, leading the nation with 32 interceptions. One of those in 2003 was by Ricketts against rival Colorado.

Still, Ricketts’ favorite moment as a Husker came off the field.

“My sophomore year, I earned a Blackshirt,” said Ricketts. (Blackshirts are an iconic symbol awarded to members of Nebraska’s defense for strong performance and leadership.) “That was the first Blackshirt I was able to earn, it was right after practice. It was a complete surprise.”

Photo courtesy of John Peterson Photo/Hail Varsity Magazine

Ricketts’ advice to current players is to have a good time, because it goes by way too fast. In a way, he always knew that, and knew what path he would take when his playing days came to an end.

“I worked in several financial institutions, and with the family starting TD Ameritrade in town, that’s what I grew up around,” said Ricketts. He worked hard in the classroom at Nebraska, landing on the Honor Roll nearly his entire college career. Today, he is President and CFO of Vintage Financial Group offering investment advice to both his clients and the public as a frequent guest on KETV First News Weekend.

Ricketts married his college sweetheart, Kirstin (who also came to those softball games!), now a fellow Vintage associate; together they have three children.

Ricketts also remains committed to the school district that helped shape him as a kid. He is currently President of the Millard Public Schools Board, playing a key role in guiding the future of 23,000 students. He hopes to someday see some of those kids wearing red ‘N’ jerseys (maybe even his own boys!)

family in front of stadium

“It’s extremely important to get those in-state kids down to Lincoln, down to the University,” said Ricketts. “Those are bonds across the state of Nebraska, those small towns to large towns, to know that’s their boy down at the University. It’s fun; they’ve watched that kid grow up, and to be able to go on to college, that creates that fan base that is unique to Nebraska. It’s important that Nebraska keeps that tradition going.”

Ricketts says this fall, like every other year, he’ll be watching Nebraska’s Blackshirts, a group he calls a fraternity. I’m guessing once or twice, he’ll catch a game with his other brothers, his longtime friends from Millard North.

Here’s to a great season, and to friendships that stand the tests of time, change, and intramural softball.

Learn more about Pat Ricketts via Nebraska Athletics or on Vintage Financial Group’s website.

***

CLICK HERE to Throwback to the Classes of 2004 & 2007, Barrett & Bo Ruud

Next week’s Throwback Thursday Husker.. Class of 2007, Corey McKeon

Going The Extra Mile

May4

Two of my coworkers ran marathons this morning.

I’m going to give you a minute to let that sink in…

TWO OF MY COWORKERS RAN MARATHONS THIS MORNING. Yea, as I was prying my booty off the floor to get a second cup of half coffee/half Coffeemate, Alex Hoffman and Amanda Crawford were RUNNING MARATHONS. 26.2 miles.

Beauties, I bow down to you!! AMAZING!!!

These women are just magnificent. As athletes, as journalists, as PEOPLE.

Alex is our fantastic First News anchor with John Oakey, and if you haven’t checked them out, IT’S AN ABSOLUTE MUST. DVR them if you’re not up that early. Their energy is contagious–they deliver the days news with a smile and positive attitude, despite getting up around 2am (or earlier!) to get to work on time for that early morning shift. Check out Alex’s Facebook page; you can truly see how much they enjoy their jobs and working together.

Everything I just said about Alex… DITTO FOR MISS AMANDA! Amanda is our First News Weekend Anchor with David Earl, and she ALSO is articulate, stunning, and energetic despite pulling into the Newsplex before some of us even go to bed for the night. Amanda always has a way of making ME smile at home; no easy task before coffee on an early weekend morning 🙂

Both of these young women can also DELIVER when it comes to serious news. When the International Nutrition building exploded and collapses, Alex anchored our continuous coverage while Amanda reported from the field. They were incredible. Folks, it is no easy task to just talk.. for hours.. not knowing what will happen next. They presented the story without any added drama or superlatives, so important as journalists on such a tragic day. They were articulate and informative, trustworthy and empathetic. They made me very proud to be part of the same team.

Outside the Newsplex, I just love these ladies. Alex and I play softball together (and FYI.. just 36 hours before she ran this half-marathon, SHE SMACKED A DOUBLE past the outfielders heads Friday night..), and have a love/obsession with Miss America. Amanda and I had bond over country music and gymnastics. We love them.. maybe a little too much 🙂

These women are just incredible. They run MARATHONS for crying out loud (Amanda reported every few miles during hers!! How is that possible?!?!?)

***

Now, I’d like to introduce you to two other incredible women you may not know. The ‘cheerleaders’ if you will, here at KETV.

Producers Kelly Shoff and Renee Ludvik

These women ‘make the magic happen’ so to speak. All day they are busy gathering information, making phone calls, and writing the newscasts we present to you at night. When something bad happens behind the scenes, it’s their job to rearrange all the pieces so you at home never know. 9 times out of 10, you don’t; they’re that good.

Perfect example: Thursday afternoon, something within our system crashed and we lost all of our commercials. Technology isn’t perfect–it happens. Did you have any idea?? PROBABLY NOT, because Renee rearranged her newscast, kept Melissa and Adrian in the loop through their earpieces as to what was going on, while Kelly managed a team to quickly find other stories from our sister stations around the country to fill the time void. It was truly incredible to see these ladies in action. SEAMLESS.

Renee started out just like me here at KETV–an intern who worked her tail off and earned a full-time job. She’s worked literally every shift we have here at KETV and has become an incredible producer. When breaking news happens, Renee is A SEA OF CALM, confident, she gets it DONE. And when someone calls in sick or takes vacation, Renee is often the one who steps up to the plate to fill in someone else’s shift.

When that horrible day at Von Maur happened in December 2007, Kelly stepped into the producer’s box. I don’t have any idea how many hours she was up there, with no break, producing our coverage on air. She handled phone interviews, live reporters, video, new information… EVERYTHING.

But there’s more to Kelly and Renee then their loyalty and incredible work ethic here at KETV. Look at their smiles in those photos–their INNER beauty just shining through. These women are ALWAYS the first to tell coworkers that they look nice. That they enjoyed their story the night before. They take the time, even when they are crazy-busy, to watch video of your kids doing something cute. They LISTEN. These are the people who make a day worthwhile, the cheerleaders who make you take a breath and say ‘it’s going to be a good day.’

***

I am in AWE of the amazing accomplishments I see in my coworkers everyday here at KETV. But I am equally blown away by, and am SO grateful for, positive energy and just plain KINDNESS. As great as it is to feel a sense of accomplishment, it is WONDERFUL to get a compliment on that, whatever it might be.

SO THANK YOU Alex, Amanda, Kelly and Renee. For inspiring me to run a little further (or at all!) and to go the extra mile to try to make a difference in someone’s day.

#TeamKETV

Calling Jackie Wilson

Apr27

“You learn to ignore it as much as you possibly can, but everyone’s human. Its going to affect you a little bit.”

–Nebraska Football Coach, Bo Pelini

Part of me thinks it’s kind of ridiculous to think I have ANYTHING in common with a guy like Bo Pelini. But when he said this in our interview recently, and especially when I later listened to our interview and really thought about these words, I thought, ‘PREACH, COACH!’

Much like Pelini, many of us in TV News understood and tried to accept that by putting ourselves out there every night.. or morning.. or weekend morning.. we would encounter criticism, and a lot of it. After 13 years in this business, I feel like my skin is FINALLY thick enough I don’t take home, or take to heart, the insults about my lipstick, hair, etc… and I’m so grateful that we have a great deal more WONDERFUL viewers who boost our egos with amazing compliments. However, there are days, like today, when it’s too much.

An anonymous, insulting email about a coworker. Hurtful comments about the people I interview, willing to put themselves out there to share their stories.

I drove home for dinner tonight FURIOUS. I think my blood was truly boiling. I cranked up my stereo, rolled down my windows, and tried to breathe.

I also reached a conclusion, a solution. One that won’t stop the negatives.. because in this world of Facebook, Twitter, emails, chatboards… it will NEVER stop. But maybe, MAYBE this will help. Even a little bit.

I’ll fight the negative, with positive.

MELISSA

If we could clone people, I would clone Melissa Fry. She is AMAZING. MAGNIFICENT. I don’t have enough adjectives. She is smart, SUCH a hard worker, and just an incredible person. Melissa is a fantastic anchor, a truly caring and gifted storyteller, and she lights up our entire newsroom when she is here. She just GLOWS. In a business where it’s so easy to be competitive, to make enemies and develop rivalries, I think it’s truly special and representative of her character to say she is arguably my best friend here. We are SO very lucky to have Melissa Fry on our team.

KRISTYNA

I. Heart. Kristyna Engdahl. She makes me laugh every single day. She is a GREAT reporter and writer. She works fast but her work isn’t sacrificed in the process. She’s succinct and articulate when she’s live, her stories are compelling and well done. And in person, did I mention she makes me laugh every single day? One of the funniest people I have ever met. The energy she brings to our newsroom is contagious. And, (THIS IS SO SILLY TO WRITE, BUT I WILL…) she has the most beautiful hair. I’m trying to find out her secrets 🙂

ADRIAN

My apologies, Adrian.. it had to be shared. Papio-La Vista High, 1998. BOOM. We’ve been friends THAT LONG. And I am so very proud of this guy. Adrian is just a freaking awesome journalist. He has no fear. He wants the truth, and that’s what he presents. No gimmicks, no tricks–just incredible journalism, the way it was supposed to be. He’s a gifted public speaker, so naturally a fantastic anchor and live reporter as well. Again, such an INCREDIBLE asset to the KETV team, and it’s pretty awesome getting to work with your friend every day! #MonarchsForLife

ROB

Remember that whole ‘I don’t have enough adjectives’ line? DITTO HERE. Rob is a man of honor. A man of integrity. A good listener, a great friend, an OUTSTANDING journalist–Omaha’s best, hands down. Rob never settles–he is constantly asking more questions, pushing to make his work and all of ours better. But he does it in a way that lifts us all up and makes US better in the process. I tried to sum this all up here when Rob was named as a Face on the Barroom Floor at the Omaha Press Club. He’s just THE MAN.

The ‘other guy’ in the picture with Rob is one of our most important people here at KETV.. 6pm producer Jay Roberts. Jay should give classes in how to just be an awesome, nice guy. The world needs more of Jay. He is always smiling, always stopping by my desk to just say hi and ask how I’m doing–and that means everything on rough days. KINDNESS.. whatever happened to that?!?! His little boy, Everett, is also one of the cutest babies EVER, and anytime I can see videos of his sweet face: INSTANT HAPPINESS 🙂

***

Ok. I’m done for now, but this is only PART ONE of this installment. Forget the haters.. forget the negativity. In order for the Ghostbusters to finally defeat Vigo and save Baby Oscar.. they didn’t fight hate with hate. They played Jackie Wilson, made the Statue of Liberty strut her stuff to Higher and Higher, and inspired New York City to hug and sing until that dude imploded.

Yeah, I went there. We could all use a little more Jackie Wilson 🙂

If I Could Be Like Mike

Sep8

Remember the commercials? The jingle? “I wanna be, I wanna be like Mi-ike!”

(Clearly, I am a child of the 80’s)

Why did we idolize Michael Jordan? Other than the fact he was arguably the best basketball player of all time..

As my boys grow up, I know they’ll have any number of role models they admire and want to be just like. It’s easy to look up to amazing athletes, superstar celebrities, and the rich and powerful. There are qualities that don’t always get the same attention that are, in my opinion, so important, so valued, so WONDERFUL, and if a few more people tried to showcase those attributes, this world could be such a better place.

I’m blessed to work with a few people who showcase those qualities every, single day.

Melissa Fry

Stunning. HILARIOUS. Beautiful on the inside and out. And so very, very kind.

Melissa Fry is ONE-OF-A-KIND. This girl is the life of the party in our newsroom and when we are out having fun together. You can turn to her for anything–an ear to listen, a caring friend, a person who will always make you laugh. She is as down to earth as they come, despite the fact she could model in New York or LA.. she’s that gorgeous.

Here’s what you may not know about Melissa–she is one of the HARDEST WORKING PEOPLE I know. She was an intern here at KETV just like me, and applied here 8 different times before she was hired. She was DETERMINED to work hard and keep trying to return to her hometown. That drive and passion earned Melissa a spot in our 5pm newscast–in addition to reporting everyday and landing some of the biggest interviews in Omaha news. She’ll come in early to shoot an interview. She’ll stay late. She’s worked just about every shift we have here at KETV. And through it all, SHE NEVER, EVER COMPLAINS. This is the kind of work ethic you want your kids to have. She’s the kind of coworker you want on your team. She’s the friend you want in your corner. I’m so lucky I’ve got her in mine 🙂

Jeremy Maskel

Melissa and Jeremy sit in the same corner of our newsroom. Maybe that’s it.. an aura of AWESOME that circles that area.. because Jeremy is also in a whole different league when it comes to genuinely amazing people.

This guy goes out of his way to be nice to people. And he truly means it!! My son used to LOVE watching Jeremy on weekend mornings (before Team Umi-Zoomi and Paw Patrol beat him out..) and I truly think it was because he emits this positive energy that is just contagious. I wish we could bottle it and sell it as a perfume or something just to make everyone a little happier in the world.

Jeremy makes me want to be a better person. THAT is one of the qualities I hope my kiddos pick up on.. what a positive impact you can have on others when you smile, treat people kindly, and truly care.

And did I mention that he’s one of the best reporters we have here at KETV? Brilliant out in the field, an incredible writer, a true team player. Jeremy was just promoted to our weekend evening anchor position, and I couldn’t be happier for him–AWESOME.

I could go on and on about our people here at KETV..

Directors Tom Rock and Matt Brown

Photojournalist Dave Hynek

Our sports team, Andy Kendeigh and Thor Tripp

They’re just awesome people to be around. They make our team better. They make you want to run faster and jump higher, just like Mike.

Why am I telling you all this? Why did I devote an entire blog post to KETV shout-outs?

Because Thursday I got my first snarky message from a viewer since I returned from maternity leave. I’ve certainly received them before, and I’ll absolutely receive them again. Still, it stings-even if for just a second. And that stinks–that you can be surrounded by so much good, and yet it’s the bad that seems to reverberate. So this blog is just as much for me as it is for my readers (and THANK YOU for reading, by the way!!)

A reminder to all of us.. we are surrounded by ‘Mikes’. And I’m so thankful for that.

***

You Say Goodbye, I Say Hello

Aug27

I’m BAAAA-AAAACK!

(That was meant to sound scary.. like Carol Anne’s warning on Poltergeist..)

WOW.. the last 12 weeks have certainly flown by! For any of you wondering ‘where the heck did that crazy blonde go?!?’ my husband and I welcomed our son, Evan, at the beginning of the summer. I am now back in the Newsplex after a wonderful maternity leave at home with our sweet boys 🙂

Thank you so much to EVERYONE who sent us messages of well wishes! I’m slowly trying to respond to everyone, but it’s hard to focus when you’re looking at a face this cute! 🙂

While I was gone.. something happened here at KETV.. everyone disappeared!! Our team has lost some incredible journalists in the last few weeks. We’ve also welcomed some new fantastic reporters, people I am excited to get to know better and I hope you tune in to see on KETV every night! Still, I really want to share a little bit about each of the journalists and friends we’ve said goodbye to this summer.

Ryan Luby

Luby was my ‘desk buddy’.. he sat next to me here in the newsroom and we often worked the same shift. My heart sank when I found out he was leaving KETV.

I can’t say enough about this guy’s talent. Luby is ambitious, well-spoken, confident, and DEDICATED–so very dedicated to this thing we call journalism. You will be hard-pressed to find a guy who cares more about our business and the stories he brings his audience. The sky is the limit for Luby–I wouldn’t be surprised to see him in New York or DC in a few years if that’s where he wants to be. Right now, he’s setting up shop as the newest investigative reporter at KOB-TV in Albuquerque, New Mexico. They are so very lucky to have him on their team because he is not only a fantastic journalist, he’s an incredible guy who ALWAYS made me laugh and who truly cares about the people around him. Lubes–I MISS YOU SO MUCH ALREADY!

Nichole Berlie

The first thing I want to say about Nichole is pretty obvious… GORGEOUS. Just stunning.. inside and out 🙂

I LOVED hearing ‘BP!’ when we’d bump into each other at a station shower or party, and I wish we could have worked together more! (John Oakey and those First Newsers kept her awesomeness all to themselves on the morning shift 🙂 Nichole is just a natural–a wonderful presence on air who makes anchoring the news look easy. Both times I was out on maternity leave, I woke up to John and Nichole every single morning–and looked forward to it!! She’s just such a kind, beautiful person–and it truly shows 🙂 If you need any more proof.. check out her send-off on First News.

Nichole is heading to KSDK (News Channel 5) in St. Louis to be a morning anchor/reporter. She is truly, truly missed by all of her coworkers here at KETV.

Natalie Glucklich

Another heartbreaking loss for me 😦 I ADORE Miss Natalie.. hands down one of the kindest, coolest people you could ever hope to meet. And again.. STUNNING. Just an absolute BEAUTY with a face made for TV and talent that makes her one of the best. I LOVE watching Natalie’s work–her writing is so creative it just pulls you in and takes you along for the ride. She lets people and their stories shine in her work, and here at KETV you could tell just in how she delivered the news that she truly cared.

Off camera.. Natalie’s aura–her style, the way about her, her kindness–just leaves you in awe. She’s just AWESOME, no other way to say it. Natalie has gone back to her home state of Oregon, hired as the main anchor at KOBI-TV in Medford. I know Miss Natalie will ROCK her new gig and will love being closer to her family and to her beloved ocean, but I MISS HER DEARLY .Natalie.. it’s very lonely knowing I’m destroying the ozone alone here at KETV with my Redken-23 🙂

Todd and I go WAAAAY back.. even playing basketball after school with my husband when they were in junior high together in Millard 🙂 Todd and I first met through Omaha news legend and UNL professor Trina Creighton.. she paired us up together for a mock newscast back in 2003. I was one of her students, Todd was one of her Master’s program classmates at UNO. This is another person that was put on earth made for TV–between the Brokaw-esque voice, the intelligence and the awesome hair, Todd was meant to be a TV News Anchor 🙂 From Star City News, to First News Weekend, to an occasional evening newscast, Todd and I anchored together for several years here in Omaha. He is truly a man of honor and a gentleman.

Todd is taking on an entirely different type of journey than Ryan, Nichole and Natalie–he is the new Communications Director for Omaha Public Schools. A HUGE responsibility, and a role that Todd will no doubt excel in. OPS–you’re in great hands!! Todd, we miss you but know we’ll probably talk to you soon.. a lot.. and often 🙂

***

The KETV Newsroom is a different place now than it was when I left back at the end of May. I miss those smiling faces–I miss the inside jokes, the laughs here in the ‘plex, and the good times outside the newsroom. BEST OF LUCK to each of you, my friends. I wish you all the best–you will always have a place in KETV history 🙂

I end with a funny goodbye… Natalie, this one’s for you 🙂