Byline: Steve Bornfeld Television/radio writer
So, Johnny Carson entertained a nation of insomniacs for 30 years.
A mere pup.
So, Walter Cronkite was America's uncle for just as long.
A network neophyte.
Neither can match the broadcast stamina of the Man from Watervliet.
"I've been in commercial broadcasting for 47 years, and it's so fresh in my memory," says 66-year-old Ernie Tetrault, who, in a volatile and shifting business, has remained an unshakeable constant at WRGB, Channel 6, informing several generations of local viewers.
"Things like being the announcer for Governor Dewey when he would do his State of the State address. He was such a marvelous host, so nice to this little kid who couldn't even set the microphone up."
The Siena College alumnus with the grandfatherly warmth has come a long way since then. His impressive career will be honored Friday at a "Celebrate Ernie" party at the Desmond hotel in Colonie.
Is he the longest-tenured anchorman in the nation, as WRGB likes to say? "We've been claiming that for three or four years, and no one has ever disputed it," Tetrault says, a trace of pride in his voice. "I don't think there's any question about it."
Friday's shindig is also a fund- raiser for the Empire State Aerosciences Museum. Tetrault, a licensed pilot, has a lifelong love of airplanes.
In keeping with a '50s theme (Tetrault began at WRGB in July 1951), there will be sets evoking such '50s conventions as a malt shop, an old-time diner and a drive-in movie.
A special half-hour edition of "NewsCenter 6" will originate from the party at 7:30 p.m.
And, no, Tetrault is not retiring - yet. "They made it worth my while to stay," Tetrault says, noting that he signed a new …
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