There is a saying in the television business – old anchors don’t retire, they just become reporters. And, generally, that statement is true. But, of course, you can leave it up to me to be an exception to the rule.

After 7-plus years at WSEE, on May 31st, I’m going to the dogs – quite literally. I have been blessed with an opportunity to enter the nonprofit sector in an agency I formed from the ground up. It will give me a chance to bring therapy dogs to some of Erie's most needy - the elderly, the sick, or anyone who can benefit from a friendly pooch paired with a gracious volunteer ( http://www.therapydogsunited.org ). While I am thrilled by this opportunity, perhaps more importantly, there is nothing I look forward to more than returning home to my family. My youngest daughter was in the first grade when I started this journalism journey. Come fall, she enters high school. I can promise you one thing - she's not looking forward to my daily home cooked meals....

Please join me as WSEE welcomes in my new replacement. Although I am not at liberty to announce who she is – I can tell you - you will find her presence to be an outstanding addition to our anchor team and the WSEE family.

As always, I welcome your thoughts and comments...for the next few days, anyways. Email me anytime at pat.vanzandt@wsee.tv