Hey guys! Ever wonder what happened to those familiar faces who used to deliver the news in Corpus Christi? You know, the ones who seemed like they were practically part of the family, sharing our mornings and evenings with the latest headlines? Well, let's dive in and catch up with some of the former Corpus Christi news anchors to see where their careers and lives have taken them. It's always fun to reminisce and discover what these media personalities are up to now!

The Iconic Anchors of Yesterday

Let's kick things off by remembering some of the iconic news anchors who graced our screens in Corpus Christi. These individuals weren't just reading scripts; they were storytellers, community figures, and voices we trusted. For many viewers, they were the face of local news, delivering information with credibility and warmth. Think about the way they presented the news – their tone, their demeanor, and their ability to connect with the audience. It's these qualities that made them so memorable.

Larry Petterson

Larry Petterson was a fixture on KRIS-TV for over two decades, becoming a household name in the Coastal Bend. Known for his calm demeanor and insightful reporting, Petterson covered countless major events, from hurricanes to local elections. His dedication to journalistic integrity and his commitment to the community earned him numerous awards and the respect of viewers and colleagues alike. Petterson's interviews were always well-researched, and he had a knack for asking the right questions, ensuring that viewers got a comprehensive understanding of the issues at hand. His presence on the anchor desk provided stability and reliability during times of crisis and uncertainty. Since retiring from KRIS-TV, Petterson has remained active in the community, lending his voice to various charitable causes and mentoring aspiring journalists. He often speaks at local schools and universities, sharing his experiences and insights with the next generation of media professionals. Petterson's legacy extends beyond his on-air accomplishments; he is remembered as a mentor, a leader, and a true advocate for the people of Corpus Christi. His contributions to local journalism have left an indelible mark on the city and its residents.

Kris Habermehl

Next up, we can not forget Kris Habermehl. As the lead anchor for KIII-TV, Kris Habermehl was known for her dynamic presence and sharp interviewing skills. Habermehl covered a wide range of stories, from political debates to human-interest features, always bringing a sense of energy and enthusiasm to her reporting. Her ability to connect with people from all walks of life made her a beloved figure in the community. Habermehl's commitment to accuracy and fairness earned her the trust of viewers and the respect of her peers. She was always willing to go the extra mile to get the story right, often working long hours to ensure that her reporting was thorough and comprehensive. Since leaving KIII-TV, Habermehl has transitioned to a career in public relations, where she uses her communication skills to help organizations tell their stories and connect with their audiences. She remains active in the community, serving on the boards of several local non-profits and volunteering her time to various causes. Habermehl's passion for storytelling and her dedication to serving the public continue to drive her work, making her a valuable asset to the Corpus Christi community.

John Thomas

Then there's John Thomas, another familiar face from KZTV. John Thomas served as a sports director for many years. John was deeply involved in local sports. He was not just an anchor but also a mentor to young athletes. His segment wasn't only about scores, instead it was about the spirit of the game. Since he left news anchoring, he continues to support sports journalism, offering his wisdom to budding reporters.

Where Are They Now?

So, what are these former Corpus Christi news anchors doing today? Let's find out!

Continued Media Ventures

Some of our beloved anchors have stayed in the media industry, although perhaps in different roles. They might be working behind the scenes, lending their expertise to production companies, or perhaps they've transitioned to digital media, hosting podcasts or creating online content. The world of media is ever-evolving, and many of these anchors have adapted to the changes, finding new and innovative ways to stay connected to their audiences. For example, some have started their own media consulting firms, offering their expertise to businesses and organizations looking to improve their communication strategies. Others have become freelance journalists, contributing to various publications and platforms. The skills and experience they gained as news anchors have proven to be invaluable in their new endeavors, allowing them to continue making a meaningful impact in the media landscape. Their years of experience have equipped them with a deep understanding of storytelling, audience engagement, and the importance of delivering accurate and reliable information. This knowledge has enabled them to thrive in their new roles, whether they are working behind the scenes or creating content for digital platforms. Their passion for journalism and their commitment to serving the public continue to drive their work, ensuring that they remain valuable assets to the media industry.

Community Involvement

Many former news anchors have dedicated their time to giving back to the community. They might be involved in local charities, non-profit organizations, or community initiatives. Their visibility and credibility often make them effective advocates for various causes. Having spent years reporting on the issues facing the community, these anchors have a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that exist. This knowledge, combined with their passion for making a difference, motivates them to get involved and contribute their time and resources to various organizations. They often serve on the boards of local charities, volunteer at community events, and lend their voices to advocacy campaigns. Their presence and involvement not only raise awareness for important causes but also inspire others to get involved and make a difference. The relationships they built during their time as news anchors have also proven to be invaluable, allowing them to connect with community leaders, business owners, and other influential individuals who can help support their efforts. Their commitment to giving back to the community reflects their deep connection to Corpus Christi and their desire to create a better future for its residents.

New Career Paths

Of course, some anchors have chosen to embark on entirely new career paths. Perhaps they've always dreamed of being entrepreneurs, and they've used their skills and experience to start their own businesses. Or maybe they've decided to pursue a passion that they've always had, such as teaching, writing, or art. The possibilities are endless! After spending years in the fast-paced and demanding world of news, some anchors may feel the need for a change of pace and a new challenge. They may be drawn to careers that offer more flexibility, creativity, or personal fulfillment. For example, some have become real estate agents, leveraging their knowledge of the local community and their communication skills to help people find their dream homes. Others have pursued careers in education, sharing their knowledge and experience with the next generation of students. Some have even become artists, writers, or musicians, pursuing their creative passions and sharing their talents with the world. Whatever path they choose, these former news anchors bring with them a wealth of experience, a strong work ethic, and a desire to make a positive impact. Their years of experience in the public eye have also equipped them with valuable skills in communication, networking, and problem-solving, which can be applied to a wide range of industries and professions. Their willingness to embrace new challenges and pursue their passions is a testament to their resilience and adaptability, making them successful in whatever they choose to do.

The Impact They Left Behind

No matter where they are now, these former Corpus Christi news anchors have left a lasting impact on the community. They were the voices we trusted, the faces we recognized, and the storytellers who kept us informed. Their contributions to local journalism and their commitment to serving the public will always be remembered.

A Legacy of Trust

One of the most significant legacies of these anchors is the trust they built with the community. In an era of increasing skepticism and misinformation, these anchors were seen as reliable sources of information. They upheld journalistic ethics, strived for accuracy, and always put the needs of the community first. This trust was earned through years of consistent and responsible reporting. They understood the importance of their role in informing the public and took their responsibilities seriously. They were always willing to go the extra mile to verify information, correct errors, and provide context to complex issues. Their commitment to transparency and accountability earned them the respect of viewers and the trust of the community. This trust extends beyond their on-air accomplishments; it reflects their character, their integrity, and their genuine concern for the well-being of the people of Corpus Christi. Their legacy of trust continues to inspire journalists and media professionals today, reminding them of the importance of ethical and responsible reporting.

Inspiring Future Journalists

Many aspiring journalists in Corpus Christi were inspired by these anchors. They saw them as role models and were motivated to pursue careers in media because of their influence. The impact of these anchors extends beyond their on-air accomplishments; they have also played a crucial role in shaping the future of journalism in Corpus Christi. By mentoring young journalists, speaking at local schools and universities, and sharing their experiences and insights, they have inspired a new generation of media professionals to pursue careers in journalism. Their passion for storytelling, their commitment to accuracy, and their dedication to serving the public have set a high standard for aspiring journalists to follow. Their influence can be seen in the work of young reporters, producers, and editors who are now working in the Corpus Christi media market. These former news anchors have not only left a legacy of trust but have also played a vital role in shaping the future of journalism in the Coastal Bend.

Connecting the Community

Beyond just delivering news, these anchors helped connect the community. They shared stories of local heroes, highlighted important issues, and provided a platform for diverse voices to be heard. They understood the power of media to bring people together and used their platform to foster a sense of community.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it! A glimpse into the lives of some of the former Corpus Christi news anchors who once graced our screens. While they may have moved on to different ventures, their impact on the community remains. It's always heartwarming to reflect on the people who helped shape our local news landscape. Keep an eye out; you never know where these familiar faces might pop up next! Remember that time they interviewed the mayor, or when they reported live during that crazy storm? Good times! Seriously, though, these anchors were more than just talking heads; they were part of the fabric of Corpus Christi. We wish them all the best in their future endeavors!