The party was held last Saturday, but today's the anniversary CFRY signed on in Portage la Prairie, in 1956.

It was at 1570 on the AM band, and broadcast out the basement of the Portage Hotel.

CFRY was owned by the Hughes family at that time, and continued under their guidance until 2000, when it was purchased by Golden West Broadcasting. Golden West founder Elmer Hildebrand was here on Saturday, and says support from the community is strong.

"CFRY really has been, over the years, a community radio station. They have given back to the community, they have reported for the community, they have hired in the community, they're just part of the fabric of the community, and we're so proud of it."

Elmer Hildebrand at Saturday's celebration

At Saturday's celebration, Portage resident Joan McAllister talked to us about the station's impact.

"It's local. We're a small town, and it's all about our town. It's community, and I enjoy that all the time. I know the events going on, and just really enjoy it."

CFRY Station Manager Paul Harland talks about the station's longevity.

"If you look back, it's kind of an historic radio station. And you quickly realize, after being here for five or six years as station manager, how many people rely on the station, and embrace the station. We could tell that by the turnout we had on Saturday night."

John Aune, Howard Barker, and Wayne Campbell being honoured Saturday