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Posted: Tuesday, 06 January 2009 2:14PM

Al Hart's Last Madden Show on KCBS



It's been a Wednesday morning Bay Area radio tradition. "Ladies and Gentlemen, stand back and make room for the big man himself, Johhhhhnnnnnnnnn Madden! Good morning, John!"

You're used to hearing the golden voice of Al Hart introduce the Wednesday edition of the KCBS John Madden segment , one of the most popular programs on Bay Area radio. On January 7 at 8:15 am, Al Hart threw it to John Madden for the last time.

Since Al retired in 2000 from his full-time morning anchoring position after 34 years with KCBS, he has come to the station every Wednesday morning for the Madden show, always bringing a bag of freshly-baked snickerdoodles.

Al decided the time had come to sleep in on Wednesday mornings too. But he's not giving up on his membership on the KCBS bocce ball team, and he'll be involved with the station's centennial celebration this year and with other special events, including one of his favorites, the annual Madden barbecue.

The John Madden segment continues on KCBS Monday through Friday at 8:15 am, with morning anchors Stan Bunger and Susan Leigh Taylor and sports anchor Steve Bitker.

On this page, you'll find photos of Al and John, and audio clips from some of our favorite John Madden-Al Hart programs, and a place to leave a message for Al, John and the morning crew.


Copyright 2009, KCBS. All Rights Reserved.
 
 
01/06/2009 5:58PM
Your Message to Al
Post your comments for Al Hart
01/06/2009 6:25PM
No matter what they say, Al....
You're not too skinny. We know you weren't born in 1909. The Minnesota Gophers are worth routing for. There's nothing wrong with your diet. You're tough as nails. And we're going to miss you Wednesday mornings.
01/06/2009 8:50PM
Farewell Al
You will be missed. Oh well, guess I can sleep in on Wednesday mornings as well.
01/06/2009 9:20PM
enjoy the sunsets
the mighty sun goes down in the evening on the best and worst of days...may you shine for the rest of us til night falls...
01/06/2009 10:18PM
Go Gophers!
As a University of Minnesota grad, and former resident of St. Paul, I love hearing your references to Powderhorn Park, and your loyal support of our Golden Gophers. I'll miss hearing you on Wednesday mornings, and wish you the best in your retirement. Marilyn Doud Stockton, CA
01/06/2009 11:17PM
Thanks!
Al, with computer technology we can tune into the "best of" segments with your wit and generous umor, but they won't be quite the same as the real thing, though.bquqv Here's wishing you the best! A fan
01/07/2009 7:00AM
You are the Man, Al
It's just not going to be the same. I think back to all the mornings in the 70's, getting up early to listen to you with my dad on the radio in the kitchen. A lifelong love of the news, and the radio, grew. A huge page turns. Cheers and be well. Thanks.
01/07/2009 7:02AM
Al will be missed
I have been a regular early morning listener to KCBS for 45 years. Al has always been a favorite of mine, and I will certainly miss his voice and good humor. Best of luck going forward, Al.
01/07/2009 7:10AM
Keep on Singing
I still look forward to hearing you croon and will hopefully share a stage with you again. Much Love. Kathy Moehring (Alameda)
01/07/2009 7:47AM
Thanks So Much Al
Al, you always brought that personal twist to the morning show. I appreciate your style and hope you will continue to perform from time to time with the CBS band and your own gigs. I expect to hear your Bocce accomplishments from Madden on the morning show. The Madden Show is my 'link' to sports and the Golden Gophers. Best Wishes. A fan, Clayton
01/07/2009 7:51AM
The New Guy
Having listened to KCBS with Owen Spann, Dave McElhatton and Friendly Clyde, etc. and into the all-news format, I always considered Al "The New Guy." Well, I guess not now. Missing you already, Al.
01/07/2009 7:55AM
cookie baker & pumpkin carver
your wonderful niceness will be missed...all the best to you!
01/07/2009 8:06AM
Farewell, Al, and GodSpeed
I'm feeling very old (at only 60) hearing that you're retiring. I grew up listening to you, and not having you there on a regular basis will be a real "downer". My best wishes for fair winds and following seas (an old sailing toast) as you continueon in this great adventure called life.
01/07/2009 8:15AM
Fifi in Paris With Al
My favorite was when you were in Paris and standing on the balcony of your hotel and on the phone talking to John in the states. You asked John to hold on for just a moment as thanked dear Fifi for the croissants and coffee and then she returned in a fewseconds and you interrupte John again to have another intimate chat with Fifi dear.
01/07/2009 8:16AM
Happy Days Ahead
You have given joy to us for so many years, may we wish you joy in your years ahead. Thanks for so many wonderful years. Pam, Benicia
01/07/2009 8:21AM
Thank You to our friend Al
Al, through the years, listening to you and John and the CBS guys is like meeting my friends over the back fence every morning. The day doesn't begin until after I listen to you guys. The banter between you and John makes us all feel so warm, like you are our neighbors. Nobody can get John Madden going like you can. Thank You so much. I hope you surprise us with many visits. -joe Oakland
01/07/2009 8:24AM
Love That Voice!
I have been missing you since 2000; at least I had Wednesdays! Best of luck to you, Al. I'll always remember seeing you in the California Symphony Fashion Show last year -- who knew that modeling was also one of your many talents!
01/07/2009 8:42AM
Thanks Al!
I grew up listening to KCBS and Al Hart - about 40 years. Professional, honest, and a joy to listen to. I will miss his voice and soul over the airwaves.
01/07/2009 8:42AM
Thank you!!!!!
Al, I started listening full time when you and Lois Melkonian were a team. I have enjoyed you and will truly miss the Wednesday mornings with John Madden. Again, thank you. Roberta
01/07/2009 9:00AM
Happy Retirement
Al, I have been a big fan and faithful listener for years. Will miss your voice. My big highlight was the privilege of sitting at your table at one of Narsai's Valentine Day Dinners.
01/07/2009 9:25AM
What a great life! We're jealous!
My husband and I have been listeners to you and KCBS for many years. We missed you when you retired (appreciated your honest perspectives and sharing of "history"). We enjoyed listening to you "chat" with John Madden and the many stories you shared (and thanks to the internet, we will continue to have access to the fun times). Take care and keep on singing! Nell & James in Milpitas
01/07/2009 9:32AM
Thanks Al
Al, always enjoyed hearing you. Wish you all the best, and hope you visit the studio again to say hello. Hope to see you around Lafayette etc. Kevin
01/07/2009 10:04AM
"Thanks for the Memories"
Al, what more can be said than you'll be missed. These past few years,we've planned our Wednesday mornings around your visit with John and the KCBS morning crew. Thank you for the smiles you brought into our lives. May the road rise to meet you, May the wind be at your back, And may your plate be filled with Snickerdoodles - thanks for the recipe. Wishing you all the best.
01/07/2009 10:33AM
POWDERHORN PARK
I'll also miss your references to Powderhorn Park! I lived on Powderhorn Terrace: Remember that street? Andrew
01/07/2009 10:51AM
God Bless You Al
Thank You Al for all the years of service being in Broadcasting with KCBS Radio. I remember listing to you back in 1988 when I was with the CBS Records. You are great an individual, a credit to your profession, a real professional. We will miss you greatly. We wish you the best of luck and May God Bless You. From Down and Out in Tracy Al Galaviz
01/07/2009 10:53AM
Sorry to see you go, Al
Al,I'm sure I'm not alone in saying that I feel like I know you and I look forward to the Wednesday morning Madden segments because I enjoy hearing you. So I am going to miss you. Here's wishing you well.
01/07/2009 11:29AM
Nothing to add
At 63 and having been a died in the wool, KCBS fanatic since the '60s... If I'd allowed myself to grow up, then I'd have grown up listening to Al. All the other good things I could say have already been said (over and over) by those who have already posted. We love ya Al... you'll be missed. Jack - Pittsburg, CA
01/07/2009 1:05PM
Thanks, Al
Have really enjoyed you, Al, for many, many years, but especially your comments with Coach. Thanks so much and know you'll be missed.
01/07/2009 1:41PM
Enjoy sleeping late
Add an "l" and an "e" and you are All Heart. God bless.
01/07/2009 1:51PM
Another Thank You
When I got married I had to give up my radio station and move over to KCBS. For 25 years I have enjoyed hearing you. I cried in 2000 when you retired and I cried again today. The best to you. Much thanks. T.
01/07/2009 1:57PM
Thank you
Al, there was nothing like coming back to The City after an assignment and hearing your voice. I knew I was Home. Thank you!
01/07/2009 1:58PM
By Charlie the Checker
Good Bye Charlie The Checker. I will miss Bay Area legend Al Hart. Thank you for your professional dispatch of your duties in October 1989. I held a battery radio above my head while the Marina burnt. A crowd gathered around to listen to Al Hart provide vital information. A news man ! Hart, what an exciting and important career.
01/07/2009 3:09PM
Bye Al
I've never written to any radio personality in my life - But you my friend, are a legend, and after listening to you for the last 30 years, I am really, really going to miss you. Your voice is one in a million, along with your heart.....We love you Al Hart!!
01/07/2009 3:13PM
Thank You for a Great Run
Al i'm 48 and got hooked on news radio when I was about 10 with Dave McElhatton,Don Wiegant and you. And of course later the afternoon cooking show was a must. Thank you for helping make the news fun and interesting. I will miss hearing you but wish youa well deserved rest! Take Care Frank in Stockton
01/07/2009 3:40PM
One Of A Kind
Radio has never been better ... these Wed mornings listening to the 8:15 gathering has always been a "do not miss" moment. Thank you!
01/07/2009 3:49PM
Will Miss You, Al
I've been listing to KCBS and Al sine 1979 when I moved to the Bay Area. Al's always been the same "wonderful" Lucy Washington
01/07/2009 3:52PM
happy wednesdays
I always look forward to wed. am guess the rest of the crew will have to get skinny with no more snickerdoodles?? We will still adore the gophers until they appear in our yard.. go minny
01/07/2009 3:55PM
Thank You Al
You have brought a smile to my face many mornings listening to you and John. Thanks for the memories. God bless. Ann in Concord
01/07/2009 4:01PM
God Bless you
Hey Al, I began listening to CBS radio in 1959 during commute to Oakland in the mornings, So I bet I heard your first broadcast. Your voice has been part of our life all these years. God Bless you
01/07/2009 4:11PM
Something About You
There's something about you that makes you a loveable guy. I think it's Midwestern charm and attitude. But I am prejudiced since I grew up in Chicago and went to college in downstate Illinois. But I know it when I see it - that something about you that makes everyone smile and respect you at the same time with self-deprecating wisdom added.
01/07/2009 5:09PM
Until We Hear YOU Again
Al, At 79 I have had a lifetime with you, your voice, your wonderful sense of humor and frequent updates of Bay Area challenges. I always enjoyed Charlie the Checkers viewpoint on life and sports. God bless you....continue to live your life to the fullest.
01/07/2009 5:15PM
Al is the Bay Area
You are a part of history that will go on forever. Al,you're charm from the upper mid-west became a part of our lives and we thank you for your selfless and caring demeanor. You are a benchmark for class.
01/07/2009 5:18PM
Good Luck
You have been a wonderful addition to the morning show for more years than I can remember. Your voice is warm and kind, just like you. Enjoy retirement! Best of luck!
01/07/2009 5:19PM
3 Generations Of Al
Al, 3 generations of our family have been listening to you & KCBS for 30 years! You are the most decent person we have had the privlege to hear. Thank you so very much for all the good you have brought to everyone, especially to the poor & disadvantaged.You will be sorely missed. God Bless You, Al.
01/07/2009 5:20PM
You are an old friend
We arrived in SF at the same time, and I became a fan at once. Do you remember the story about how to prevent baldness? You were laughing so hard, Dave McElhatton had to read the news at the top of the hour. I will miss your wit and wisdom. Thank you.
01/07/2009 5:25PM
Thanks to Al Hart
Al, I was choked up this morning. You have been such a key daily and finally only on Wed. morning's with Stan and the morning crew, part of my life during my 15 years here in the Bay Area. You will always be held in my eyes as our greatest Radio personality ever. What a wonderful man you are. All the best, Pat Nevins
01/07/2009 5:29PM
Going to miss you, Al
I have listened to this show for a number of shows and love it. There are so many funny lines between you and the others. I always get a laugh or two to start my day. Happy sleeping in!!!
01/07/2009 5:39PM
It was the voice
It was always great listening to what you had to say. You made even a mundane story sound important. Thanks for filling the airwaves with you intelligences and humor.
01/07/2009 5:47PM
Class transcends time
Al, You brought an element of class to every production you ever participated in over the years. I was privileged to be in your audience over the years.
01/07/2009 6:11PM
Go Gophers
Al: In 1966, I was a sophmore at St. Cloud State. After graduation, I moved to SF, I became hooked on the personalities at KCBS and have listened ever since. We once met at the WashBag after I recognized you and interrupted your lunch. Surely you remember. You will be missed. Go Gophers Bob Lupient - San Carlos
01/07/2009 6:45PM
Take Care Al
Always looked forward to listening to you. Stay well. WW.
01/07/2009 6:56PM
We'll MISS YOU AL!
You are the CLASS of KCBS. Thank you for all the great years!
01/07/2009 6:57PM
Thanks Al
Thanks Al. We'll all miss you.
01/07/2009 7:08PM
We will miss you Al
Al, Thank you for being on with Madden every Wednesday -we've looked forward to these shows and enjoyed them. You are a classy guy with a big heart. -San Rafael, CA
01/07/2009 7:25PM
You brightened so many mornings
I moved to the Bay Area in 1983, and I quickly learned to schedule my commute times to allow me to listen to you as often as possible. Even on the most hectic days, you made me smile and helped me keep my perspective as I headed into work. And the leather jacket/attitude exchange with Madden remains one of the most genuinely funny things I have heard in my 56 years. Without you in the mornings, I might as well give up my car commute and start riding BART. I will miss you very much. -Bo Phillips (Lafayette)
01/07/2009 7:41PM
Say it ain't so, Al!
But, as long as it is, can I have the Voice? Been listening for over 30 years. I still want you job when I grow up. I'll miss you in the morning. You made even bad news sound good. Happy trails to one of the last, best guys in radio.
01/07/2009 7:51PM
You're the best
I awoke a little sad today, because my brother died 2 yrs ago of ALS. THen I listened to the 815 KCBC, and you were saying Adios. Never missed that Wed. show. It surely won't be the same. Good luck from another old fogey(sp?). Louise in Danville
01/07/2009 7:52PM
Goodbye, Al
You're the best
01/07/2009 8:16PM
Enjoy sleeping in!
I'm sure you will have plenty to do. Al Hart (and DAve McElhatton) are the reason I became a regular KCBS listener when I came to Berkely as a grad student in the late 60's. You will be missed but we are all lucky to have `known' you.
01/07/2009 9:43PM
A Class Act
I met you and your lovely wife Sally at a Narsi David event at Sonoma Mission Inn several years ago. Thank you for adding to the enjoyment of that evening - I felt like I was talking to an old friend. I will miss you.
01/07/2009 10:02PM
Al: "Thank you, Sandy!"
Al, all the best in your many years to come. I still hear you say "Thank you, Sandy" at the end of the Stardate broadcasts at 9:53 AM. I rarely missed your morning newscast show. All of today's reporters should learn the trade from you!
01/07/2009 10:28PM
I will miss you on Wednesdays
I generally forgot when it was Wednesday, so I was always surprised and pleased when you introduced John Madden. After all these years, you deserve to sleep in.
01/07/2009 11:49PM
Best Wishes
I listened this morning and I just looked at the pictures ... what a great party for a great guy! Congrats on a superb career in journalism. Thank you.
01/07/2009 11:59PM
Thank you for making the Bay Area a home for me
I came here in June 1968 and my friends thought I was a news junkie. I told them that man Al, on KCBS has the true and honest voice. I have enjoyed listening to you and co anchors over the years and your talks with John Madden. You two were a real team, and of course Bunger ecking you on. WILL MISS YOU AND THANK YOU AND BEST OF LUCK AND LONG LIFE.
01/08/2009 8:33AM
truck driver
I've been listening to you for 20 yrs. Enjoy your retirement. Also enjoyed the Wed. morn. with John Madden.
01/08/2009 1:02PM
THE VOICE
Al has THE VOICE. What a sound! Couple that with a curious reporter's attitude and a straightforward and honest style, and you have one in a million. Listening since my arrival to the Bay Area in '85, I was very sad to see you go in 2000. I'm sad aginthat you're leaving the Wed morning Madden talk. Thanks so much Al, for your many years of professional, heartfelt service on the radio. You are missed!
01/08/2009 2:17PM
BEST GUY OUT THERE
AL...YOU ALWAYS MADE ME SMILE. WHAT A GREAT CAREER YOU HAD. FROM MARTIN IN BURLINGAME
01/08/2009 2:43PM
Apricots
Al, If you want large, very sweet, fresh, apricots this summer, I will bring you the best "cots" you have ever eatin. tom klein Patterson, CA. "The apricot capitol of the world" 2098922454
01/08/2009 2:47PM
Thank you !
Al, I have a special bond with you. At the time of your wife's death my dad was suffering with A.L.S. Last January, my 62 year old brother also died of it. I have enjoyed listening to you for many, many years. Enjoy your next many years !
01/08/2009 3:44PM
Good luck, Al
I not only knew you as a radio personality, but as an employer. You and Sally were great! You are a really good human being. Enjoy your retirement, you deserve it. Yvonne in Montclair
01/08/2009 4:32PM
Thanks for the memories
I've been listening to you during my morning commute since 1992. You have always been a class act! Thank you and best wishes.
01/08/2009 4:35PM
Thanks for the memories!
I moved to the Bay Area in 1986, and immediately began listening to KCBS for the traffic reports on my commute. You have been a part of my life since then. I miss your banter on the news, and I know I will miss your head-to-heads with John Madden. My best wishes to you in the future - you will be missed! God Bless! Mary in Napa
01/08/2009 5:59PM
Thanks for the joy
Al and crew, when I switched to public transit, the thing I missed the most was my morning laugh with you all. Thank goodness, I could listen on the podcasts. I know the other commuters thought I was crazy when I burst out laughing so hard I cried which happened every time a Wednesday show available. Thank you so much for all you have done. You are the best!
01/08/2009 10:24PM
Take Care
Al - I started listening to you when I was at SF State in the 90's and was sad to hear you go in 2000 and will miss listening to your buddy time with John and the gang on Wednesdays. I will also try your snicker doodles. Best wishes to you.
01/08/2009 11:00PM
There is a hole
First, radio without you. Now, Wednesdays without you. There is a hole in my heart. I will surely miss every aspect of you. Thank you for everything you have given to all of us. Happiness to you always.
01/14/2009 9:06PM
Ilegal!!!
Shpuld be a law banning radio stations from making their audience cry......as my family and I did the morning of the 7th......but it was worthed!!!! KCBS will never be the same without Mr Hart. But we will keep listening....
01/16/2009 2:32PM
Please Don't Rule Out Guest Appearances!
My husband and I were driving to work wiping tears from our eyes! We'll miss you on Wednesdays. Pleae come and buy your veggies at Orchard this spring so we can say "Hi!" and I hope to see you singing at the Rheem Theater later this year!
01/16/2009 2:57PM
SS
Al...you're too young to leave! For years I listened to you and enjoyed your stories ... we'll all miss you.
01/16/2009 4:49PM
Thank you!
My family & I have been big fans of the John Madden morning show for many years, especially all the special Wednesdays. The dynamics and chemistry among Al Hart, Coach Madden and the entire morning team are priceless. We won't forget Al's singing of the fight song of the University of Minnesota and all the Happy Birthday & Irish Lullaby songs for Coach Madden & his mother. Thank you Al Hart and KCBS for all the precious mornings! We are going to miss Al, his singing and the teasing about the Golden Gophers. Best wishes to Al!
01/17/2009 8:25AM
Warm Thanks.
I wrote my first fan letter to you in 2000. And here is my second. A million thanks for giving so much of yourself to the KCBS audience. Do return now and again as a special guest. We'd all love it! Jane
01/17/2009 3:04PM
Still Miss You in the A.M.
Seems to me you've done this before! I've enjoyed hearing you and John, but it's not like the old days. You'll always be my favorite! Best wishes, Ann Sebastian, your "old" AFTRA Rep.
02/28/2009 3:52PM
Good seeing you, Al
at the pianobar party and at Forli's. Keep singing those great old standards - my favorite kind of music! Cheers, Stan Fong
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The Best of John and Al on KCBS
The Best of John and Al #1
John discovers Al in a newspaper ad. (1999)
The Best of John and Al #2
Jack Hammerin' John. (1999)
The Best of John and Al #3
Al and his yo-yo (1999)
The Best of John and Al #4
Not easy being a Gophers fan. (2002)
The Best of John and Al #5
Al's dad, Charlie the snapper. (2001)
The Best of John and Al #6
Coach Artie Gigantino spies Al at a singing gig. (2005)
The Best of John and Al #7
Al watches Cal cream Minnesota. (2006)
The Best of John and Al #8
Al's fedora (2007)
The Best of John and Al #9
Is it Chubby the Checker or Charlie the Checker? (2008)
The Best of John and Al #10
Al sings for John's mom's birthday. (2008)
The Best of John and Al #11
John, Al and the 7-man sled (2001)


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