Ann Marie LaFlamme: "I'm sad to be leaving a job I worked so hard for." (Photo: Facebook)
Ann Marie LaFlamme is leaving WXYZ on Friday after five years as a reporter. And she's apparently not happy, suggesting on social media that it's a management decision.
Full-time TV reporters normally work under contract, which stations can opt not to renew.
"I may not understand their business decision but I trust and respect it and I know this will truly be for the best," she said in a Facebook post that draws over 1,200 comments in half a day.
"While I’m sad to be leaving a job I worked so hard for, more than anything I want to thank all of you.
"I grew up watching WXYZ and it was my dream to someday be part of the station that inspired me to become a journalist. It has been a tremendous honor and privilege to be welcomed into your homes every morning on TV and for that, I am incredibly grateful.
"I can’t even begin to describe the appreciation I have for my amazing coworkers, family and friends who have been by my side with unwavering love. The relationships I have been fortunate enough to build are priceless and irreplaceable.
"Thank you all for your loyalty, for seeing who I truly am, for accepting me and allowing me to become a part of your families. I can’t wait to share with you what’s next, God is faithful and his plan is always perfect."
The Detroit News hadn't heard back yet after requesting a comment from the station.
A WXYZ bio said earlier:
Ann Marie LaFlamme is back home! Born and raised in Rochester Hills, Ann Marie is incredibly excited to be part of the 7 Action News morning team, joining the station in March 2015.
She comes to Detroit from Grand Rapids, where Ann Marie was a reporter and anchor at FOX 17. During her time there she launched "West Michigan's Most Wanted" -- a series helping local and national law enforcement track down and apprehend dangerous criminals. Ann Marie will continue this work with 7 Action News through “Detroit’s Most Wanted.”
Her career started at 9&10 News in Cadillac, where she was a general assignment reporter before being promoted to anchor.
Ann Marie is a graduate of Central Michigan University, where she high jumped for the women’s track team. She was recently awarded Orchards Children’s Services Champions for Children Advocate Award for her work helping recruit foster parents and finding loving families for foster children in Michigan. She is also a passionate volunteer with Special Olympics Michigan, The Miracle League, Humane Society and is a loving dog mom to her rescue, Jacob
