Posted at 3:36 p.m., Wednesday, August 1, 2007
KHON vet Ron Mizutani joins Hawaiian Telcom
By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer
"This has certainly been one of the most difficult decisions that I have had to make," Mizutani said in a statement released today. "I have established incredible relationships here at KHON2 and I will miss my second family immensely; but I am excited and grateful about this new challenge and opportunity."
Mizutani is the second anchor to depart Channel 2 this year. Leslie Wilcox left the station March 2 to become president and CEO of PBS Hawai'i. TV insiders feel the latest move is linked to the sale of KHON by Montecito Broadcast Group to New Vision Television Group of Los Angeles — the second time this year the local station was sold to a Mainland buyer.
"I'll be the last one holding off the Indians at Fort Apache," anchor Joe Moore quipped about Mizutani jumping ship.
"Ron has dedicated himself to the KHON2 News team and the loyal viewers of Hawaii for more than 20 years," said Joseph McNamara, KHON president and general manager. "Ron's passion for news was always evident as he gave 110 percent of himself to researching, writing and delivering news to the people of Hawai'i. Ron is the consummate news professional."
Mike Ruley, Hawaiian Telcom's chief executive officer, said Mizutani will be an asset in the company's communications team. "His experience in high-profile cases, complex financial transactions and the challenging issues that face our community make him an excellent choice to help tell our company's story," said Ruley.
Reach Wayne Harada at wharada@honoluluadvertiser.com.
