Celebrating 70 Years of Local Broadcasting in Asheville

Celebrating 70 Years of Broadcasting in Asheville

Asheville, N.C. — Today is a remarkable day for the city of Asheville, as it marks a significant milestone in local history: the 70th anniversary of the first-ever broadcast by our very own television station! Can you believe it? It was on September 18, 1954, when the station officially went live, sending its very first signals from downtown Asheville with a transmitter perched high atop Mount Pisgah. This event not only transformed how we consumed news and entertainment but also became an integral part of the mountain community’s fabric.

A Storied Journey Through the Decades

Over these seven decades, the station has been a steadfast companion to the people of Asheville, capturing the essence of our city and the surrounding areas with its dedication to local news. From the exciting vibes of the annual Bele Chere festival, which has brought joy and celebration to locals and visitors alike, to the momentous Billy Graham Crusades that touched many lives, our station has always been there to relay the stories that matter most.

The stories haven’t all been light, of course. The blizzard of 1993 was a landmark event when our community found itself faced with intense snowy weather and the challenges it brought. And, more recently, we stood together to face the global pandemic, providing vital information to help our community adapt to these unprecedented times. Through it all, the station has continually bridged the gaps, keeping the residents informed and connected.

Honoring a Legacy

As we celebrate this 70-year journey, it’s essential to honor those who have contributed to this legacy. Recently, retired anchor Darcel Grimes was awarded the prestigious Order of the Long Leaf Pine, a notable recognition in North Carolina for her years of service and commitment to our community. This award is not just a nod to her, but a reflection of the heartfelt relationship built between the station and the residents during her tenure. It’s stories like these that remind us of the human connections we’ve nurtured over the years.

Looking Forward

With such a rich history behind us, we can’t help but feel excited about what’s to come in the future. The station has made it clear that it intends to continue being a reliable resource and a central part of Asheville’s community life for many more years to come. As technology evolves and new platforms emerge, the commitment to providing accurate news and engaging stories remains steadfast.

Community Connections

At its core, this 70-year celebration is about community. It’s about the way Asheville’s residents have come together, forming bonds, sharing stories, and creating memories. Whether it’s through recapping local events, sharing crucial weather updates, or simply providing entertainment, there’s no denying the impact that local broadcasting has had on our way of life.

So, here’s to 70 years of memories, stories, victories, and even challenges! Here’s to the shared experiences that have kept us all connected over the decades and will continue to do so in the many years ahead. As we take a moment to reflect on this incredible milestone, let’s celebrate the past and look forward to an even brighter future together in our beautiful city of Asheville!

Happy 70th anniversary to all of us who have made this journey possible!