DURHAM (WTVD) -- On the anniversary of his last broadcast, we named our Durham studio after Larry Stogner Friday.
"We said from the beginning that Larry will ALWAYS be a part of the ABC11 family. Now he will also be a part of our studio! We're so happy to celebrate his amazing legacy," said ABC11 General Manager Caroline Welch.
A new plaque on the studio door reads: "Celebrating Larry as the patriarch of the Eyewitness Newsroom and the heart of North Carolina."
It finishes with Larry's signature "Thanks for the company", which is how he signed off on each newscast.
Larry has been a fixture in the Triangle for several decades, and he retired after 39 years at ABC11. When announcing his retirement, Larry also shared with his viewers and colleagues that he was battling ALS.
Since Larry's announcement that he's living with ALS, he's been on a public crusade to fight the disease..
READ MORE: Larry Stogner takes fight against ALS to Washington
Although Larry is retired, he has been busy. In the last year, he has....
Been honored at an ALS event in Raleigh
Cleaned up a Durham nature trail
And had that trail named after him!
Larry received a lifetime achievement award in Sanford, cut the ribbon at the ALS Walk in Raleigh, received a special honor from Durham Mayor Bill Bell, and much more.
Larry even takes time to update his cherished viewers on his battle with ALS.
Here at ABC11, we can't believe it's been a whole year since Larry retired. We wish you all the best, Larry. Stop by and see us, sometime!