South Surrey meteorologist Russ Lacate has added television duties to an already busy weather-reporting schedule.
Since Aug. 9, Lacate, who had more than 20 years experience in the field and currently reports on radio for News 1130, has also appeared daily on Citytv’s Breakfast Television, which is hosted by Riaz Meghji and Dawn Chubai.
Lacate will juggle his new TV job with his News 1130 position, which he’ll continue.
“I have a radio mic set up just a few feet from my spot on (Breakfast Television),” he said, though he admitted he was a little nervous about his TV debut.
“It’s exciting, but a little nerve-wracking at the same time. But it’s good to get re-invigorated about your career from time to time.”
Born in Victoria, Lacate has lived in South Surrey the past 15 years and is one of a number of Vancouver TV and radio meteorologists to call the Semiahmoo Peninsula home, including Mark Madryga, Phil Reimer, Wayne Cox and Kristi Gordon – who was born at Peace Arch Hospital.
“Well they say White Rock is the sunniest place in the Lower Mainland,” Lacate laughed.
“When you’re driving back from the city, you see that little spot of sunshine on the horizon, so I guess that’s why all us weather guys decided to live here. The secret’s out, I guess.”
Though Lacate’s affable nature will no doubt translate well to television, he admits he was a little surprised to receive the offer in the first place.
“I said, ‘don’t you realize I’m a middle-aged man with a gut? Is that the way TV is going now?’ The Bachelor, it’s not,” he laughed. “But I do intend to make it a success, and I’m excited, and was pretty darn flattered to get the offer.”