Weather anchor Shima moves to KHNL

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Editor

Change is in the forecast for Sharie Shima, KITV-4's weather anchor since 1992. Her last weather report was Thursday on the ABC affiliate; she's moving to KHNL-8, beginning April 2.

"Sometimes you have to step out of comfort zone to grow," said Shima. "I was presented a great opportunity and a new challenge. I leave KITV with mixed emotions, but I look forward to reuniting with some friends."

At KHNL, Shima will join two former KITV colleagues, anchors Howard Dashefsky and Jodi Leong.

News industry folk regard Shima as the top-ranked certified meteorologist in the Hawai'i marketplace. Off-camera, she is married to KGMB sportscaster Dave Vinton. Asked about a rumored six-figure deal with the NBC affiliate, she cringed: "Oh, not for a weather person, but it's a great package."

She has a two-year contract.

Mike Rosenberg, KITV vice president and general manager, said Shima's contract had expired. Station personnel were told of her departure earlier this week; her name already has been removed from the station's Web site.

Ben Gutierrez, weekend weather anchor, will fill in at KITV and may emerge as Shima's full-time replacement, though Rosenberg said that other candidates will be considered as well.

"We are thrilled to have Hawai'i's premier meteorologist on News 8," said John Fink, KHNL vice president and general manager. "We look forward to her professionalism and expertise."

Shima will anchor weekday weather reports, filling a post that has been vacant for months. Kim Sheree is the station's weekend weather anchor.