Tony Hamilton

Tony started out pursuing studies as an electrical engineer but flunking that route he proceeded on to the field of journalism where he graduated in the first class on the subject at University of Florida. He returned to Tampa where he worked part-time at WTVT under news director Joe Laughlin and sold office supplies during the balance of his work week. WFLA-TV was the first station to have a full time opening and Tony jumped right on it. He was hired by Channel 8 news director Bill Henry in 1962, where he remained until 1979. His unique British accent set him apart from other newsmen and a creative writing and camera style made him one of the more standout news personalities.

Tony covered all types of stories and later served as news producer, assignment editor and director of photography. Active in the Tampa Jaycees, he was director of the Miss Tampa Pageant for ten years. He solicited contestants, held rehearsals, and generally produced the pageant programs. In addition, he guided a number of title holders on to place in the Miss Florida Pageant. In 1979, he joined the staff of General Telephone Company as a reporter/producer in their in-house production facility. From there he went on to GTE's public relations department and finished his career with the company as Director of Media Relations, working out of the corporate office in Stamford, Connecticut. He continued to serve as a paid consultant to the company until July 1, 2001, when GTE turned into Verizon. Tony now lives in south Tampa where he heads a homeowners' group to be sure developers and government doesn't screw up the neighborhood.