Al Kaprielian’s Y Story

If you’ve been in the area for a long time, you would likely recognize Al Kaprielian from his television days. A longtime meteorologist on WNDS Channel 50, Al became a local icon, not just for his weather forecasts but also for his signature voice and charismatic personality.

Al, a Y member since November, grew up in Natick, MA, spending his summers at camp before earning his degree in meteorology from Lyndon State College in 1983. Shortly after, he moved to Derry, NH, and launched his decades-long career on TV. While the station he worked at for over 25 years is no longer in syndication, Al continues to share his meteorological expertise on the radio and hasn’t fully embraced retirement just yet.

A Merrimack resident since 2000, Al joined the Y to stay active and break up his routine. Before semi-retiring, he felt too busy to commit, but now he prioritizes his health. Every day, he walks at least three miles on the indoor track, a habit that helps strengthen his hips after undergoing two hip replacements—the most recent just two years ago. Walking has become essential to his well-being, keeping him fit and mobile. While he looks forward to trying the pool someday, he appreciates the year-round convenience and safety of indoor walking.

Now that he’s semi-retired, Al values the Y not only as a place to exercise but also as a refreshing change of scenery. “This is my work now. I think the Y is very important. I feel different when I leave here, like a weight has been lifted.”

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