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‘See ya!’: Watch Vanessa Echols sign off from Channel 9 for the final time after 30 years

ORLANDO, Fla. — Anchor Vanessa Echols signed off from Channel 9 for the final time Friday evening after 30 years at WFTV Channel 9 and 40 years in the broadcast journalism industry.

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Watch her sign off for the final time in the video above, and watch other stories about Echols’ retirement below, and read a special farewell message from Echols below:

Read: Channel 9 highlights some of Vanessa Echols’ best moments on WFTV

Hello y’all!

Since I’m moving to Alabama, I’m practicing my y’all. 🙂

I had a chance to say goodbye on air tonight at 6:00. But I wanted to take this moment to say a heartfelt thank you to all of you. I’ve had the privilege of delivering the news to you here in Central Florida for three decades. We’ve been through a lot together, celebrating the good times and also navigating some heartbreaking situations.

I want you to know how much I appreciate your support throughout the years. Thank you for watching. Thank you for inviting me to be part of your events as an MC or guest speaker. Thank you for saying hello when you saw me out and about in the community.

As you may know, I’m moving back to Alabama to be more available to my parents. My father celebrated his 90th birthday in April. I am truly blessed.

Retiring is a difficult decision, but also the right decision. But I want you to know that Central Florida will always have a special place in my heart. That’s because of your support, love and kindness. I leave you with a grateful heart.

Vanessa

Read: ‘She’s a survivor’: Vanessa Echols beat breast cancer & helped others do so, too

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Read: ‘We’ve set a standard’: Vanessa Echols calls on the next generation to ‘rise to the occasion’

Jason Kelly

Jason Kelly, WFTV.com

Jason Kelly joined WFTV Channel 9 in 2014. He serves as the station's Digital Executive Producer.