Tom Tolar, who was president and general manager of WRCB-TV for 35 years, announced Thursday he will retire on Jan. 9 from the parent company of Channel 3 where he has served as its chief operating officer.
Tolar began his 40-year career with the Indiana-based Sarkes Tarzian as general manager of WATI Radio in Indianapolis and came to the company's NBC affiliate in Chattanooga, WRCB-TV, in 1981. Tolar has served as president of Sarkes Tarzian Television and chief operating officer for the past three years.
"Tom has been the best friend and colleague one could wish for," said Tom Tarzian, chairman and CEO of Sarkes Tarzian, Inc. "I will miss working with him on a daily basis. Fortunately for our company, Tom will continue to be involved as a consultant and board member. His experience and expertise will continue to serve the mission of our company."
Tolar and his wife, Nancy, live in Hixson. They have two grown children and three grandchildren.
An announcement about Tolar's replacement as chief operating officer will be made soon, Tarzian said.
- Compiled by Dave Flessner