Barney Lerten

Digital Content Director

Barney Lerten has worked at KTVZ News for over 20 years, bringing a wealth of journalism experience and a deep commitment to keeping Central Oregonians informed and up to date, however they get their news.

Barney's journalism career started his senior year with Pacific University, interning at the United Press International bureau in downtown Portland.

After graduation, Barney took a UPI vacancy in their San Francisco bureau, first working on a regional 'Comcenter' desk to rewrite and condense newspaper copy for broadcast use across the West, then as a reporter.

After returning to Portland's UPI bureau, when the wire service closed, Barney moved to Central Oregon with wife Debbie in 1991 to take a reporter position at The Bend Bulletin.

Barney spent nine years at The Bend Bulletin on a variety of beats, before transitioning to a new role at Bend.com and as it branched out into print, The Bugle.

Barney joined KTVZ in early 2005, initially serving as assistant news director and reporter. He later became KTVZ's assignment editor and then digital content director.

Outside of the newsroom, Barney has always enjoyed exploring the latest technology and its potential, while dealing with the challenges and frustrations they inevitably present.

Barney considers himself blessed to still be with his ever-patient wife of more than 40 years, Debbie, and their two cats, Buddy and Oreo.