Veteran anchor Melissa Long has announced her impending retirement from TV news. Long is currently the evening anchor at Fort Wayne ABC affiliate WPTA, where she has worked since 1992. She started off as a freelance reporter before being promoted to morning co-anchor. Long has been the station’s evening anchor since 1995.
“Deciding to retire from a job and career I’ve loved for more than 30 years wasn’t easy, but I know in my heart it is the right time for me,” Long said in a statement. “I am tremendously grateful to the viewers who have given me a sliver of their time each day. I truly feel you are all part of my family.”
“I have so much respect and admiration for Melissa, it’s hard to put it into words,” said WPTA/WISE president and general manager Don Osika. “I’ve met many special people in my career, but there are those rare occasions when someone really makes an impact on you. For me, Melissa is one of those. She’s strong, dedicated and genuine. She will be missed.”
Long says she will retire at the end of the year.