WWMT Brings Tom Van Howe Out of Retirement

Freedom Broadcasting's CBS affiliate WWMT Grand Rapids, Mich., announced that veteran WOOD Grand Rapids news anchor Tom Van Howe will be anchoring WWMT's 5, 6, and 11 p.m. newscasts with Judy Markee, and the 10 p.m. newscast on Freedom's digital CW affiliate.

Van Howe has agreed to help out while Jeff McAtee is serving active duty as a commander in the Navy. Van Howe retired two years ago after 20 years of reporting and anchoring at WOOD.

"It's terrific that Tom has agreed to interrupt his retirement to pitch in and help. He will make a major contribution to our political coverage, since no one knows West Michigan like Tom," said Jim Lutton, WWMT vice president and general manager.

Prior to his 20 years at WOOD-TV Van Howe reported at WHAS Louisville, Ky., and WKBW Buffalo, N.Y. He has newspaper experience as well, with the Miami Herald, the Louisville Times and a Martha's Vineyard, Mass., newspaper.