Ruiz leaves Channel 4

Michele Ruiz, anchor of the "Channel 4 News" at 6 p.m., announced today she is leaving the station, according to TV Week. She came to KNBC in 1998 from KTLA. She has been missing from her chair alongside Chuck Henry due to surgery, and issued a statement saying, "As I look ahead, I need to make a change to accomplish my goals." KNBC president and general manager Paula Madison also put out a comment: "Michele Ruiz is leaving to pursue opportunities KNBC cannot offer her. During her tenure here, Michele has distinguished herself by her award winning work, including numerous exclusives. We wish her the very best in her future endeavors."

Speaking of TV news: John Beard was voted the best Fox 11 anchor by readers of Ron Fineman's On the Record.