ORLANDO, FLA. —
Bob Opsahl, veteran anchor for Cox Media Group Orlando’s Channel 9 Eyewitness News, announced his plans to retire at the end of May after nearly 38 years with the station. Opsahl’s last day anchoring the 5 and 6 p.m. news will be Friday, May 27, 2016.
“I cannot believe how quickly time has gone by, and I am so grateful to our viewers, who have been watching for so many years,” said Opsahl. “I am very fortunate to have had such a long run, in such an honorable place as WFTV. So many people work all their lives so they can retire in Central Florida, and I was lucky enough to have been here my entire career.”
Opsahl’s tenure in broadcasting spans decades of history-making events. Some of the major stories he has covered include the Challenger & Columbia space shuttle tragedies, the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew, in South Florida, the presidential inauguration of George H.W. Bush, Florida’s 2000 presidential election and recount fiasco and the Casey Anthony trial.
“He’s an invaluable leader, coach and friend to everyone in the newsroom,” said Matt Parcell, news director for Channel 9 WFTV. “Bob Opsahl has set a very high bar and he will be missed!"
“Retirement has been on my mind for a few years. But until now, I couldn't bring myself to leave my home-away-from-home and my amazing Channel 9 work family,” added Opsahl. “I do have mixed emotions about it. However, time has a way of catching up with you.”
New Beginnings
Greg Warmoth, co-anchor of Channel 9 Eyewitness News at 4 and 11 p.m., will join Martha Sugalski at 5 and 6 p.m. on May 30, 2016.
"It speaks volumes to the depth of talent at WFTV Eyewitness News that we have someone of Greg Warmoth's stature to immediately step forward as Bob's replacement,” added Curran. “His transition will be seamless because he himself is a market institution having delivered news to Central Florida on WFTV for 30 years. Greg is a trusted brand and our commitment to serving our community won't miss a beat.”
Jorge Estevez, co-anchor of Eyewitness News at 10 p.m. on WRDQ TV-27 will join anchor Vanessa Echols on Channel 9 Eyewitness News at 4 p.m. on May 30, 2016.
“This is an exciting time for Greg, Jorge and the station,” said Parcell. “We’ll be working hard to maintain Channel 9’s number one position and history of excellence in Central Florida. We will remain a strong community leader and build for the future as our industry continues to evolve.”
More on Bob Opsahl’s Career
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