Don Alhart retiring after 58 years at 13WHAM News

Rochester, N.Y. — 13WHAM News anchor Don Alhart has announced his retirement effective later this year. He will anchor his last official broadcast on June 6, which marks the 58th anniversary of beginning his record-breaking career at 13WHAM ABC.

Alhart’s longevity as a broadcast journalist at one TV station is unprecedented. After working as a news reporter for Channel 13 during the summer of 1965, he joined the station full-time in 1966, following his graduation from Ithaca College and four years after the station launched as WOKR-TV. He went on to become the community’s most well-known and respected source of news and information as anchor of the highest-rated local news broadcast.

In commemorating Alhart’s uninterrupted career at 13WHAM, Guinness World Records recently recognized him for “longest career as a television news broadcaster.”

“I am grateful for the loyal viewers who allowed me to pursue a lifelong career passion while also serving a community I love,” Alhart said. “I would never look back and wish that I had done something else. The ability to say that may be one of the greatest gifts of all.”

Alhart’s impact as a journalist spans across seven decades, including multiple days reporting on location during the 1971 Attica prison uprising. He has been honored five times with the prestigious Edward R. Murrow Award for excellence in television news, which included honors both for writing and for best newscast. In 2010, he was inducted into the New York State Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame.

In addition to his career achievements, Alhart remains influential in the community through a range of volunteer activities. He is an active member and past president of Rochester Rotary Club and served Rotary International as a district governor. His devotion to service is also reflected in his work with organizations like the Jordan Health Center, the Al Sigl Community of Agencies, and the ARC of Monroe. He is the author of Sibley’s Christmas Adventure, a children’s book with all proceeds supporting the ARC of Monroe.

“Don maintains the highest possible standards in all aspects of his life and career,” said Chuck Samuels, 13WHAM vice president and general manager. “His commitment to quality journalism is reflected in generations of broadcasting professionals that follow and have benefited from his example and mentorship. It remains a significant part of his legacy.”

Alhart met his wife, Mary, when Channel 13 sponsored the Miss Rochester Pageant in 1968. They were married in 1970 and are the proud parents of three children and six grandchildren.