WWMT Anchor Judy Markee Stepping Down

Freedom Broadcasting of Michigan’s WWMT Grand Rapids (DMA 41) announced that its main anchor Judy Markee will not be renewing her contract and is leaving the station at the end of May.

Markee has been with WWMT for 22 years and she is currently a main anchor of the station’s 5, 5:30, 6 and 11p.m. newscasts. Her past television experience includes being a reporter/producer for WAOW Wausau, Wis., and anchor/reporter at WBAY Green Bay, Wis. Her last day at the WWMT anchor desk will be on May 27.

“I have been thinking about this for some time. My husband retired last summer and our planning was that I would leave Newschannel 3 at the end of my contract last year. Newschannel 3 offered me a new multi-year contract but I could not commit to that time frame. They asked if I would stay through May of 2011 and I agreed to extend my contract,” Markee said.

“It is not an easy decision for me to leave, however 22 years in one place is a long time so I felt it is the right time for a change. The time demands of this business and my schedule of working daily until midnight has made it difficult to get away for meaningful periods of time. So my husband and I intend to spend the next year traveling. Afterwards, there are things I want to do and other opportunities to explore. It’s been six years since I was diagnosed with breast cancer and I want to thank the community for all the support they have given me. I am doing great and I am excited and looking forward to the next chapter in my life. I will miss the daily interaction with my co-workers but I know we will be in touch.”

“Judy has been an important member of our news team for 22 years. While her reporting has won her numerous awards, her major contribution has been her leadership on a daily basis in shaping our newscasts. She will be greatly missed by everyone at the station.” said Jim Lutton, WWMT VP-general manager.