After a storied 41 year career with Golden West, Al Friesen, long time Morning Show host and Western Association of Broadcasters (WAB) Hall of Fame inductee, is retiring.

Friesen says the outpouring of support from people he's connected with over the years is another reminder of who he has been serving over the years.

"We recognize once again that what we do on this side of the radio is important to people," Friesen says. "We connect with people, they share with us, we are a part of their family whether it's in the car or around the breakfast table. It's been real affirming to know that in a small way we can be a positive influence, maybe get them off to a good start each and every day."

Looking back on his career, Friesen says it's been an exciting region to serve and watch grow over the past four decades.

"This is an exciting part of the country, all sorts of things are happening," Friesen says. "Communities are growing substantially. And I think we've had a part in pulling the region together."

While Friesen is more used to shining the spotlight on community members, he says it has been humbling to be the centre of attention as friends, colleagues and community members take the time to thank him for his work.

        
        
"I was blown away this week by all the people who have replied in one way or another," Friesen says. "Past morning show guests, or those who've worked here, or those I've bumped into at various things and have said, "you made a difference and you've touched us," and it's been touching."

Friday was Friesen's last day after 20 years as a Morning Show host, and over 40 years with Golden West. Friesen was inducted into the WAB Hall of Fame during a ceremony in Banff, AB earlier this month.