Contacts Stories of Arizona Pressroom KAET Pressroom KAET Web site Susan Soto

Press Materials and Images Bill Close: Broadcast pioneer airing August 5, 2002 Windows: Right-click on the image and select "Save Picture As . . " from the pop-up menu. Macintosh: Click-hold on the image and select "Save This Image As . . . " from the pop-up menu. Bill Close: Broadcast pioneer airing August 5, 2002 One of the pioneer broadcasters in Phoenix, Close set the tone for journalistic integrity. He began his career in radio but became the most popular and respected anchorman in Phoenix during his 27 years on KOOL-TV. Close's life reflects not only the growth of the Valley of the Sun, but the changing mood of a nation. He has fought being disabled (he is a double amputee), becoming a leader in the news room, and even confronted a deranged gunman during the five hours he was held hostage on a news set. Close is also known for his collection of hundreds of bola ties. Through his efforts, the bola tie was named Arizona's official neckwear in the 1970s. Stories of Arizona, a series showcasing the people and history of Arizona, premieres as a special feature of HORIZON June 3, 2002 at 7 p.m. on Channel 8. New episodes will air every Monday through September. These images may be used only in conjuction with the direct publicity or promotion of Stories of Arizona. No other rights are granted. All rights reserved.

  KAET-TV/Channel 8 is a part of Arizona State University.

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