Long-time WZZM 13 anchor, Lauren Stanton, announces she is leaving the station after 18 years as co-anchor of the morning news.
She is stepping away from the camera in May and following her entrepreneurial spirit. Lauren and her significant other, John, launched Retro Boat Rentals in Saugatuck last summer.
They have a fleet of classic vintage runabout boats, which cruise the waterways around Saugatuck. The business has been so successful they are adding more boats this summer and looking to expand their business.
“It’s been a wonderful 18 years at WZZM. I met my best friends here, and loved working with my friends and amazing coworkers, and I’m so thankful to the viewers for their friendship and support over the years,” Lauren said.
Lauren graduated from Central Michigan University and worked two stints in Lansing, where she was an award-winning reporter, before coming to Grand Rapids in 2000. “Viewers have come to love Lauren’s distinctive laugh, her genuine love for people, and her ability to ‘keep it real,’” said Janet Mason, WZZM 13 President & General Manager. “We will all miss Lauren, but understand her desire to not wake-up at 2:30 a.m. any longer, and the excitement of starting a new chapter in her life.”
For 18 years, Lauren has brought something special to morning news viewers. Lauren has worn many hats at WZZM 13. Her Try It Before You Buy It reports have become must-see shopping guides for people who are hesitant to spend their hard-earned cash on the latest gadget without knowing how well it works. We could count on her highlighting all the cool things to do in the area on My West Michigan, which she co-hosted with Jennifer Pascua and Catherine Behrendt. Lauren also anchored the noon news for several years before moving to the 9 a.m. show.
Please join us on the morning of May 11 as we re-visit some of Lauren’s most memorable moments and say good-bye and best wishes to our friend, colleague and one of the best in the business.
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