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10 Questions with ... Melissa Torres
August 12, 2012
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
Does recording myself in a tape recorder when I was 9 count? Seriously, I have been in the Vegas Market for most of my career. I worked full-time at Metro Traffic (now Clear Channel/Total Traffic) as a radio traffic reporter from (2008-2009). Then decided to really get up early- worked on the news at KLAS-TV Las Vegas as Morning Traffic Anchor. (2009-2010) Moved on over to have some country fun at Beasley Broadcasting The Coyote , KCYE. Started on weekends for a month and then went full-time to Middays. I have been here for almost 3 years now.
1) Hi Melissa-are you loving working at the Coyote! How did you score such a great gig and how long have you been there now?
Yes, I truly do love it! I get paid to talk at people and listen to good music, plus I'm constantly learning and doing new things. I had always wanted to be a radio DJ, so when I heard about an opening, I auditioned and made the transition from TV to radio and never looked back! I celebrate my 3rd year doing middays in November.
2) You worked at Metro Traffic prior to joining KCYE and also had TV experience-tell us about that.
When I was a kid, my parents would see me holding up random objects and talking to myself. It took them awhile to figure it out. Turns out I was imitating actresses I saw on TV. From there I started modeling and acting in local commercials. In college I almost majored in theater- but I realized that I was actually WAY better at acting like myself then someone else! I got my bachelor's in broadcast media. I then got my first real on-air job as a radio traffic reporter, did that for awhile and then got a job on the news doing the same thing.
3) Do you continue to do TV work?
Yes. Media is such a fast paced and evolving industry that I try and keep my hands in all facets of it. I do freelance work for our local news FOX affiliate. I also report on special events for different local shows. Last year I hosted a weekly sports betting show. In 2010, I did a 60-sec spot for CMT when the ACM's were out here.
4) Why did you move to Las Vegas initially?
I moved out here to go to college. I wish I had a more interesting answer. I thought Vegas would be a great place to continue my studies. More importantly, I figured I wouldn't find a better place to make memories than at a state known for it's never ending hours of drinking and all-you-can eat buffets! Needless to say, after I graduated I didn't want to leave so I didn't.
5) So, where does a nice girl like you hang out in Sin City? What do you like to do for fun?
If you asked me that question 5 years ago I would probably say wherever has the best happy hour specials. (KIDDING!) There is definitely never a shortage of entertainment in this city. I go to as many concerts as I can. I also love trying new food. Las Vegas truly has some of the most unique restaurants and food stops around. I'm always looking for new places to try. And during the summer, I'm such a water baby, when I'm not working I am usually hanging out at the pool trying to fight the heat!
6) You grew up in Maui, correct? Our apologies on growing up in such a brutal place to live-what was growing up there like?
Maui is an amazing and beautiful place. I am very grateful that I was raised there. Truth be told, there's not a day that goes by that I don't envy my family and friends who still live there! Unfortunately though, in order to pursue my passions I knew it was best to spread my wings and head over to the big city. I know home will always be there for me when I'm ready to go back.
7) What is your dream job? Aside from working with Cadillac Jack at the Coyote?
How much money did he pay you to say that?! Actually, Cadillac has been a great mentor and Beasley Broadcasting has been such a wonderful company to work for and start my radio career in. We're all a big family here. As far as a dream job goes, I would love to be syndicated. It would be an energetic and fun show and something different where I can really get the listeners involved. I'm always coming up with quirky ideas.
8) When did you start listening to Country music?
Technically, when I was 8 years old. My next door neighbor's mom LOVED country music especially Billy Ray Cyrus. She used to play the same album over and over with Achy breaky heart on it. I still know every word to that song. I got into country music again in college. I had always liked songs by Shania Twain and Keith Urban and started to tune in to more as I heard it. Also, any excuse to wear boots and a cow boy hat made me happy!
9) What other types of music do you like, in addition to Country?
I really love all types. It just depends on my mood. Anything that makes me want to get up and dance is usually what I have on. If I need a mental boost I'll crank up some old rock tunes. If I'm wanting to relax I'll turn on Jazz.
10) It says in your bio that a pet peeve is, "People who are unaware of their surroundings" please explain.
I'm pretty easy going. But some people just don't get it. I kinda think as a society, we've all lost our manners. If someone holds a door open for you, it's OK to say "thank you." And if you're in a theater watching a movie, it's probably NOT a good idea to start a conversation with your friend.
Bonus Questions
1. Pizza or Sushi and why!
Sushi. 2 words: Spicy Mayo.
2. On your bio you said that you'd like to be a 'lilac' or a 'rose' and NOT a tree- so you hate trees?
I hate being normal. It's kinda boring. So I thought I would rebel and pick a flower. Also, being from Hawaii I miss being surrounded by nature. A lilac flower looks good AND smells good!
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