WBKO: Serving South-Central Kentucky with Trusted News and Community Engagement

In the rapidly evolving landscape of media and journalism, local news stations play a pivotal role in keeping communities informed, engaged, and connected. One such vital institution in South-Central Kentucky is WBKO, the region’s leading source for local news, weather, and sports.

WBKO has earned the trust of its viewers through decades of reliable broadcasting, a commitment to community storytelling, and responsive coverage of both routine and breaking events. Whether it's severe weather alerts, high school sports, or public safety issues, WBKO stands as a beacon of trusted journalism in Bowling Green and beyond.

A Brief History of WBKO

Origins and Growth

WBKO, an affiliate of ABC, FOX, and CW, began its journey in 1962 as WLBJ-TV before rebranding in the late 1970s. Broadcasting from Bowling Green, Kentucky, it has grown into a multimedia powerhouse serving over 30 counties in South-Central Kentucky and Northern Tennessee.

What started as a modest television station is now a full-service digital platform, encompassing on-air broadcasting, website news coverage, mobile apps, and active social media engagement.

Timeline Highlights

• 1962: Station launches as WLBJ-TV.

• 1970s: Becomes WBKO and switches to ABC affiliation.

• 2000s: Expands to include FOX and CW digital subchannels.

• Present: Operates under Gray Television, one of the largest broadcasting groups in the U.S.

WBKO News Operations (Table Format)

Below is a snapshot of WBKO’s current news and media operations:

Trusted News for South-Central Kentucky

Delivering Local Coverage that Matters

WBKO’s strength lies in its hyper-local news coverage. With a focus on Bowling Green, Glasgow, Russellville, and surrounding communities, WBKO provides coverage of:

• Local government and education news

• Public health announcements

• Crime reports and court updates

• Human interest stories and community heroes

• School closings and severe weather alerts

Their team of journalists, anchors, and meteorologists consistently delivers timely, accurate, and balanced reporting.

WBKO Weather Team: A Community Lifeline

Weather is often a critical concern in Kentucky, with frequent tornadoes, floods, and winter storms. WBKO’s First Alert Weather Team is one of the most trusted sources for weather information in the region.

Key Features:

• Live Doppler Radar

• Storm tracking tools

• Daily and weekly forecasts

• Weather app alerts

• Severe weather live coverage

During high-risk events, WBKO often provides continuous live coverage to keep residents safe and informed.

WBKO’s Role in Education and Community Engagement

Promoting Local Schools and Youth Initiatives

WBKO regularly highlights educational success stories and school programs. Their “Class Act” segment showcases exceptional students, while partnerships with local schools ensure coverage of events like:

• High school graduations

• Academic competitions

• Teacher appreciation weeks

• Career and technical education initiatives

Community-Focused Programming (List Format)

WBKO is not just a news station; it’s a committed community partner. Here are some of the initiatives and special programs the station supports:

1. Hometown Hero – Honoring individuals making a difference in their communities.

2. Stuff the Bus – Annual school supply drive for underprivileged children.

3. WBKO and United Way Partnership – Promoting charitable efforts and disaster relief.

4. Local Business Spotlights – Featuring local entrepreneurs and innovators.

5. Season of Giving – Holiday campaigns to support families in need.

Sports Coverage: Local and Collegiate Pride

Sports are a big part of Kentucky life, and WBKO delivers robust coverage of:

• High school football and basketball from across the region

• Western Kentucky University (WKU) athletics

• Special features on local athletes and coaches

Their Sports Connection program offers in-depth analysis, interviews, and highlights that foster community pride and promote youth athletics.

WBKO's Digital Evolution

Keeping Pace in a Digital World

As audiences increasingly consume news online, WBKO has significantly expanded its digital footprint:

• Website: WBKO.com provides breaking news, videos, and interactive content.

• Mobile App: Offers weather alerts, news notifications, and livestreams.

• Social Media: Active presence on Facebook, Instagram, and X, engaging with the community in real-time.

These platforms allow WBKO to serve not only traditional viewers but also younger and tech-savvy audiences who seek news on-the-go.

Awards and Recognition

WBKO’s commitment to journalism excellence has been acknowledged with several awards, including:

• Associated Press Kentucky Awards for breaking news and continuing coverage

• Emmy nominations for investigative and feature reporting

• Best Local Newscast in various regional media polls

These accolades reflect the station's dedication to high editorial standards and impactful storytelling.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Like all local news stations, WBKO faces challenges such as:

• Competing with national news giants

• Adapting to changing media consumption habits

• Maintaining funding in a fragmented advertising landscape

However, its deep roots, strong local relationships, and trusted reputation position WBKO for long-term success.

Conclusion: More Than a News Station

WBKO is a pillar of South-Central Kentucky, delivering much more than just headlines. It is a trusted source of information, a weather safety net, a champion of local stories, and a supporter of community causes. In an age where local journalism is under threat, WBKO stands out as a powerful example of the impact and value of regional news media.

Whether you’re tuning in for breaking news, checking the weekend forecast, or watching your child’s basketball game highlights, WBKO remains a vital part of daily life in Kentucky.