After more than four decades in local television, NewsChannel 9’s Don Welch announced on Monday of his plans to retire. Mr. Welch’s last day on the air will be Wednesday, April 23.
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Mr. Welch started his television career at WRCB in Chattanooga in the early 70s. He joined WTVC in
1975 as the station’s weatherman alongside news anchor Bob Johnson and sports reporter Darrell Patterson. During the 198’s, his career path included stops at WDEF, WGOW radio and WTVF in Nashville. In 1990, he returned to WTVC to host a weekday morning show called Good Morning Don, which soon became Good Morning Chattanooga. Since 2006, he has been the host and associate producer of This N’ That with Don Welch, a weekday talk show highlighting local events and happenings in the Chattanooga area.
“Don has had an outstanding on-air career in broadcasting and with NewsChannel 9,” said General Manager Mike Costa. “His talent and on-air presence have been tremendous assets to both the station and the community. He is one of the original pioneers.”
“The best part of this business – the part I’ll miss the most – is the people, the viewers at home,” said Mr. Welch, “Whether it was drawing on a weather board in the 70s or hosting This N That today, the folks at home graciously invited me to be a part of their day. For that I am very grateful. As I look back, I realize it’s all been good.”
The station will air a special, extended edition of This N’ That on April 23, to celebrate Don and his outstanding career with the station.
To see video by Brent McDonald, of Mr. Welch's announcement, click here.