Retiring KABC Reporter Bemoans ‘Computerization’ of News

By Andrew Gauthier 

Instant Riverside

Gene Gleeson says it was just the right time. Fifty years in broadcasting–the last 30 as a newsman at KABC-TV (Channel 7) in Los Angeles–seems to be enough. So the Riverside native has decided to call it a career, announcing that he will retire the end of this month.

The move follows the departure of Channel 7 Inland Empire bureau chief Bob Banfield who recently stepped down, ending a 43-year career at the station. It also comes the day before the retirement of Gleeson’s long-time friend, Mark Coogan, who is leaving KCBS-TV (Channel 2) on July 1.

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Gleeson says he and Coogan are getting together Friday and predicts that “some suds” will flow as they reminisce about current and past broadcasting careers. More…

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