I have a new found respect for those who hire.  It is tough work!

I am currently leading KKTV's efforts to find a new Weekend Sports Anchor/Reporter.  Josh Earl is leaving KKTV in mid-February to pursue other interests on the east coast.  He will be tough to replace.  Josh and I have worked together for two years building what I believe is the best local sports coverage in Southern Colorado.  He leaves behind big shoes to fill which is why we opened up a nationwide search for his replacement.

Over the last two weeks I have received well over 100 tapes from candidates from every corner of America.  From Oregon to Florida, Hawaii to Vermont, and everywhere in between this job has created a ton of interest.  Which, is truly exciting but overwhelming too.  I spent 9.5 hours over the weekend watching demo reels from all applicants until my eyes were ready to pop out of my head.  There is a huge talent pool from which to pick and I want to hire the best person available.  Southern Colorado deserves that!  We owe it to you, the viewer, to bring aboard somebody who has a ton of passion for our local sports scene.  Not somebody who will turn KKTV Sports into a "mini-ESPN."

As I walked into my office this morning, I had a pretty good idea who the top candidates would be.  I had seen all the resume' tapes and was ready to present my finalists to management.... and guess what greeted me the moment I turned on the light?  26 NEW RESUME' TAPES SEALED IN ENVELOPES sitting on my desk waiting to be viewed.  Guess what I'm doing tonight?

Truth be told... It has been a very fun experience getting to hand pick a new colleague.  I feel a bit like Simon Cowell (except my criticism isn't on display in front of millions).  However, I promise you this... He/She will continue to bring you the best of what the Southern Colorado sports scene has to offer each night on KKTV 11 News.

Look for an exciting announcement soon! -- Jesse Kurtz, KKTV Sports Director