Will Rogers Memorial Commission Chairman Jim Hartz, who co-hosted NBC’s “Today Show” in the 1970s, helped celebrate the shows 55th birthday.
His career started in Tulsa radio and than at KOTV in Tulsa before he was called to New York to anchor the 6 and 11 p.m. newscasts. His birthday tribute included reminiscences of his nearly four years co-hosting the “Today” program, with Barbara Walters, before returning to covering news and Tom Brokaw became the host.
In semi-retirement, he lives in Arlington, Va., where he consults with major corporations concerning communications issues and produces video documentaries.
Hartz, who has served as a volunteer under four Oklahoma governors, visits Claremore often and was last here in December when he served as master of ceremonies for a roast honoring Claremore Progress Publisher Dave Story and chaired a Commission meeting.