Charlie Boone, a staple at WCCO radio for more than 50 years, announced his retirement Friday.

He and former broadcasting partner Roger Erickson -- once one of the most powerful teams in Twin Cities media -- will reunite for his last show on Dec. 18. Boone and Erickson ended their program in 1998 but he continued to work the 6-9 a.m. Saturday shift.

"These almost 52 years have been a gift," Boone said. "I will always love 'CCO."

The station will honor Boone throughout the week. A special brunch will be held at the Old Log Theatre in April.

NEAL JUSTIN