As Carol Silva said her goodbyes to the staff in the News 12 Long Island newsroom, she was proud to announce who will be taking over her anchor chair -- reporter Erin Colton.

Colton has been reporting in the mornings for over 10 years, and now she'll sit beside Elizabeth Hashagen at the desk. She started her career at News 12 Long Island as a production assistant in 2004. She worked her way as a writer, producer, morning sports anchor and then reporter. And she says she has only worked the mornings!

"Nobody can replace Carol. But I’m ready to bring my energy and passion for informing Long Islanders every morning, to the anchor desk. And no, I have not done my last snow angel!” says Colton of her new role. 

Silva announced her retirement over the summer. She signed off the air Friday, Dec. 20, surrounded by her family, friends and co-workers - past and present.

While announcing Colton as the new anchor, Silva said she knows the chair will be in good hands - and that she'll be watching from home!