Former KTVO (and KBIZ Radio) General Manager Alvina Britz has died at the age of 89. Alvina was found dead Monday morning of apparently natural causes at her apartment in Duluth, Minn.
Alvina began her broadcasting career in 1947 and in 1968 she was named General Manager of KTVO television, a position she held until 1984.
Alvina then began a new career in radio with KIRX/KRXL/KTUF radio stations in Kirksville, from which she formally retired in 1999.
Alvina's many achievements and honors include an honorary degree of doctor of letters from the Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2000 and the President's Leadership Award from Truman State University in 2003.
Alvina was the first female member of Kirksville Noon Rotary which recognized her as a Paul Harris Fellow.
Alvina also served as president of the Iowa Broadcasters Association and treasurer of the Missouri Broadcasters Association.
Art's Note: I worked for Ms. Britz in the 70's at KBIZ-AM in Ottumwa, IA. They were co-owned with KTVO, which had moved it's main studio to Kirksville by then. I remember her as VERY smart, and didn't realize at the time what a groundbreaking woman she was in Missouri & Iowa broadcasting. My personal condolences to her family.