CBS has officially taken ownership of WLNY and launched a three-phase transition that will result in new newscasts and high definition programming at Long Island station.

As part of the merger with WCBS, the CBS O&O in New York City, Betty Ellen Berlamino has been named vice president and station manager of WLNY. She is a former general manager of WPIX, the CW-affiliate in New York.

• Related, FishbowlNY: WCBS Unveils Plans for WLNY with New Morning and Primetime Newscasts

“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the New York market to create a new TV station,” WCBS news director David Friend said. Read more

In a move that was announced last month, Chris Wragge returned to the WCBS anchor desk on Tuesday night, where he is co-anchoring the CBS O&O’s weeknight 6 p.m. newscast for the time being in addition to hosting “The Early Show.”

Although Wragge’s return represents a significant shakeup to the station’s on-air roster, WCBS was reserved in welcoming him back during last night’s newscast.  As FishbowlNY points out, there was no mention of Wragge’s return until the veteran anchor referred to it himself in throwing to Otis Livingston‘s sports segment.

“My first night back, you going to lead with the Giants?” Wragge, an apparent football fan, joked with Livingston.

To which Dana Tyler, Wragge’s new 6 o’clock co-anchor, said, “Come on, it’s not all about you.” Read more