Retiring KABC Reporter Bemoans ‘Computerization’ of News

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.

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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