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Ken Bastida, a San Francisco native, was born and raised in the city’s Mission District. His passion for broadcasting began during high school at El Camino High in South San Francisco, where he got his first taste of the broadcast world in the telecommunications class. Fascinated by camerawork and sports coverage, he knew he had found his calling.
After high school, Ken pursued a Bachelor of Arts degree in Broadcast Communications from San Francisco State University, where he gained valuable skills and knowledge. During his college years, he secured an internship at KFRC Radio, which marked the beginning of his journey in the industry. He started from the mailroom and worked his way up, eventually finding his niche in radio news.
Throughout his career, Ken had on-air positions at various Bay Area radio stations, including KGO, KMEL, K101, and KCBS Radio. These experiences behind the microphone paved the way for his transition to television reporting.
In 1990, Ken joined KPIX 5, where he has remained a trusted Bay Area broadcast journalist for over three decades. His dedication and talent earned him several awards and accolades, including six local Emmys. He has covered significant news events, from the Loma Prieta earthquake to reporting from the Middle East during the Intifada and the building of Israel’s separation border.
Ken’s reporting has taken him around the world, covering events like Hurricane Iniki in Hawaii and the designation of the Mojave Desert as a National Park Preserve. He has been a steady and reliable presence during major news events and has anchored extensive live coverage, including September 11th, the San Bruno gas explosion, and the Oakland Ghost Ship fire.
In addition to his professional endeavors, Ken is a handyman and enjoys helping friends and family with home remodeling projects. He has a passion for classic cars and cooking. Family is important to him, and he cherishes spending time with his wife, two sons, daughter, and two cats named Bob and Sister. His grandchildren also bring him great joy.
Throughout his career, Ken has demonstrated a passion for storytelling and a commitment to providing accurate and informative news to the Bay Area community.