As we approach our 50th anniversary at NBC 7, we’re thinking about the events and people that have shaped our TV station. Few people I’ve known have been as unique as Stan Hay.
He transformed from a life of crime on the streets of Oakland to become a leader for improving the neighborhoods of San Diego.
Our general manager in the early ‘90’s, Neil Derrough, saw something special in Stan and brought his powerful voice to the television audience.
Stan worked with producer and photojournalist John Detarsio to tell stories of empowerment in the inner city.
They created several powerful documentaries, including one that chronicled Stan’s fight with cancer that ultimately took his life in 1999.
This clip is from my favorite of their documentaries. “A Town of Hope” followed Stan and dozens of others at Camp Anytown, a unique educational experience conducted by the National Conference for Community and Justice focused on teaching teens to overcome prejudice. It was emotional, funny, and thought-provoking.
Stan was a good friend. He left a legacy to be remembered in San Diego. I’m proud that NBC 7 was a part of it.
Local
Greg Dawson has been Vice President of News of NBC 7 San Diego since 2002. He began his career in San Diego television in 1989.
