Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

WIAT

WIAT, branded on-air as , is a licensed to , , serving as a CBS affiliate for central . It is owned by , which provides certain services to sister station WCFT-TV (channel 33, a virtual affiliate licensed to Tuscaloosa) under a . The station's studios are located on Golden Crest Drive in Homewood (with a Birmingham mailing address), and its transmitter is based atop Red Mountain in Birmingham. WIAT signed on October 17, 1965, as WBMG, initially broadcasting a mix of and programming before becoming a full-time affiliate in 1970; the call letters changed to the current WIAT in 1998 upon acquisition by .

Early Development

Pre-launch efforts

The Birmingham Television Corporation was incorporated in the state of in March 1956 by brothers Harry Balaban and , prominent figures in the entertainment industry with roots in the Balaban and Katz theater chain. Channel 42 had been allocated earlier to the Company in December 1952 for WSGN-TV, but the permit lapsed without construction by 1954 due to equipment shortages and UHF viability concerns. The Balabans, who had experience in radio and television ownership through their H. & E. Balaban Corporation, sought to establish a new UHF station to serve the growing market, which already had three established VHF outlets. Following incorporation, the corporation promptly filed an application with the (FCC) for a construction permit on channel 42, an unused UHF allocation in designated since the early 1950s. The application process faced significant hurdles due to multiple competing bids for the channel, including one from the Winston-Salem Broadcasting Company, which had its application dismissed on November 26, 1956 (announced November 28), amid concerns over market saturation in a region dominated by VHF stations. These competitions, combined with broader FCC scrutiny of UHF viability in areas with limited television sets equipped for UHF reception, delayed final approval as the commission evaluated financial qualifications, technical feasibility, and public interest factors. The FCC ultimately granted the construction permit to Television Corporation on November 29, 1956, after earlier allocations had lapsed without , authorizing operations on channel 42 with a visual power of 16.6 kW and an aural power of 8.91 kW, and an antenna height of 770 feet above average terrain. To support the venture, the Balabans brought in financial backers, forming a joint ownership structure by 1960 with the Winston-Salem Company, which held a 50% stake alongside H. & E. Balaban Corporation. This partnership provided essential capital for pre-construction planning, though actual facility remained pending amid ongoing UHF challenges.

Construction and launch as WBMG

The construction of 's third commercial television station commenced following the FCC grant of the channel 42 construction permit to the Birmingham Television Corporation in 1956, after earlier allocations to other entities had lapsed without development. Led by local investment banker Bill DuBois in partnership with radio executives, the project encountered prolonged delays due to national shortages of television transmission equipment in the late and early 1960s. Physical build-out accelerated around 1963, with facilities established atop Red Mountain to leverage the site's elevation for signal propagation. The station's studios were adapted from the former WJLD radio site, providing space for production and operations, while the transmitter was equipped for analog broadcasting on UHF channel 42 at an () of 479 kilowatts (visual), later increased to 1,200 kilowatts in 1969. WBMG signed on October 17, 1965, marking the debut of television service in the market. The inaugural broadcast aired at 5:30 p.m. with NBC's documentary "The Capitol: Chronicle of Freedom," followed by a schedule limited to prime-time hours starting at 6:00 p.m. Programming consisted primarily of syndicated fare, such as movies, game shows, and off-network reruns, supplemented by select network content including lower-rated series and occasional offerings like "" that were not cleared by incumbent affiliate WAPI-TV. This mix positioned WBMG as a supplementary outlet for viewers seeking alternatives to the dominant VHF stations. From the outset, WBMG grappled with ratings challenges inherent to UHF broadcasting in an era when most television sets lacked compatible tuners, resulting in spotty reception beyond central and its immediate suburbs. The station's signal struggled to compete with established VHF competitors like WAPI-TV (channel 13), which retained higher-rated network programming despite WBMG's nominal . Early viewership remained low, with the newcomer capturing only a fraction of the audience share and relying on innovative local content, such as children's programming and sports broadcasts, to build identity amid the market's VHF dominance.

Park Communications Era

Ownership acquisition and operations

In 1973, Park Communications acquired WBMG, the CBS-affiliated television in , from DuBois Broadcasting for $5.5 million. This purchase marked a significant in the station, which had been operating since 1965 as Birmingham's third commercial outlet. Under Park's ownership, WBMG underwent notable expansions to enhance its operational capabilities and market presence. The company erected a new broadcast tower in 1974 on Red Mountain, substantially boosting the station's signal strength and coverage across central Alabama. Staffing levels were also increased to support programming and production needs, with key hires including Thom Gossom as lead news anchor to elevate the professionalism of on-air content. These improvements aimed to position WBMG more competitively in the market, building on its established role as the city's affiliate. By 1970, prior to the acquisition, WBMG had solidified as Birmingham's primary CBS affiliate after WAPI-TV (channel 13) secured an exclusive affiliation, allowing channel 42 to assume full responsibility for programming without shared clearances. This shift ended a period of secondary status for WBMG, where it had supplemented content with select shows, and enabled a more focused alignment with the network's schedule. During the 1970s and , Park's management strategy emphasized a mix of network programming, syndicated fare, feature films, and sports to attract viewers. The station aired popular syndicated series in key time slots, such as evenings when local news was limited, and featured classic movies hosted by local personality Neal Miller as "Sergeant Jack," a long-running children's program that ran into the early . Sports coverage included 's national broadcasts, supplemented by local sports anchoring from figures like Tommy Charles, who delivered reports on regional college and professional events. This approach helped maintain steady operations despite competitive challenges in the market.

Programming affiliations and shifts

Upon its launch on October 17, 1965, WBMG operated as a secondary affiliate sharing and programming with the market's dominant VHF station, WAPI-TV (channel 13), which prioritized higher-rated shows from both networks due to WBMG's limited UHF reach. This dual affiliation arrangement continued until May 31, , when WAPI-TV signed an exclusive contract with , allowing WBMG to become the full-time affiliate for . Park Communications acquired WBMG in 1973 for $5.5 million, renewing its long-term affiliation agreement shortly thereafter and focusing on bolstering the station's operations under the 's umbrella. However, the station's UHF channel 42 transmission faced inherent limitations, including a weak initial signal that restricted coverage primarily to central and immediate suburbs, as well as widespread lack of UHF tuning capabilities in consumer televisions during the era. These factors contributed to ongoing challenges in securing stable viewership and programming commitments, often forcing WBMG to supplement content with local and syndicated fillers to maintain schedule balance. In the 1980s, amid intensifying competition from VHF rivals and emerging stations like (channel 21), WBMG shifted toward a more hybrid schedule by incorporating syndicated and programming to boost audience appeal. This evolution included preempting select lower-rated offerings in favor of popular syndicated fare, such as game shows and off-network reruns, which were sometimes cleared by competitors instead. A pivotal event occurred in 1982, when low ratings prompted the station to suspend its early evening local newscast entirely, replacing it with syndicated programs at key slots like 5:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. while limiting news to brief hourly updates. This temporary suspension, lasting until 1987, further tilted the programming balance toward non-network content, aiming to counteract the UHF signal's persistent disadvantages in attracting advertisers and viewers.

Media General Acquisition and Relaunch

Purchase and call sign change to WIAT

In early 1997, completed its acquisition of Park Communications, the parent company of WBMG-TV in , for $710 million, marking a significant expansion of Media General's broadcast holdings in the Southeast. This purchase included WBMG, a long-struggling affiliate that had faced persistent low ratings under Park's ownership, providing Media General with an opportunity to revitalize the station amid a competitive market reshaped by recent network affiliation shifts. Following the acquisition, initiated a comprehensive effort, culminating in the station's change to WIAT-TV on February 5, 1998. The new callsign stood for "It's About Time," a designed to underscore the station's renewed commitment to programming and timely local coverage, aiming to reposition WIAT as a stronger contender in the market. Under the leadership of new general manager Eric Land, who brought extensive experience in management, the station assembled a fresh team to drive operational improvements. As part of the overhaul, invested in facility upgrades that enabled WIAT to launch the first broadcast in the market, enhancing technical capabilities and preparing for the transition to high-definition programming. This strategic push was particularly targeted at challenging the market dominance of , the former ABC affiliate that had switched to in during a wave of realignments, thereby intensifying competition for audience share in Alabama's largest .

News relaunch as 42 Daily News

Following the acquisition by Media General and the subsequent call sign change to WIAT, the station relaunched its news operation with an innovative format designed to revitalize its market position. "42 Daily News" debuted on February 5, 1998—the same day the Winter Olympics began—with a fast-paced, no-frills style modeled after cable news channels like CNN Headline News. The format emphasized anchor personalities over traditional reporting, eliminating on-air field reporters in favor of studio-driven segments that prioritized quick updates and direct delivery. Key anchors, including those hired specifically for the relaunch, anchored the broadcasts to build viewer connection through consistent on-screen presence. The structure featured continuous 15-minute blocks from 5:00 to 9:00 a.m. and during evening hours, each ad-supported to enable frequent commercial interruptions while maintaining a seamless flow of headlines, weather, and sports. Technical innovations included a complete overhaul of , , and logo, creating a modern, efficient look that supported the high-tempo delivery. The relaunch yielded immediate ratings gains, positioning WIAT as a competitive force and earning the station its first in 1999. By the mid-2000s, key newscasts regularly topped local Nielsen ratings. In October 2005, under continued Media General ownership, "42 Daily News" expanded to produce a 9:00 p.m. newscast for low-power WTTO (channel 21), utilizing the same anchors and set; this seven-day-a-week program aired until 2006.

Ownership Transitions Since 2006

Sale to New Vision and LIN Media

In 2006, sold WIAT-TV, along with CBS affiliate KIMT in , to New Vision Television for $35 million to comply with (FCC) ownership limits following 's acquisition of NBC affiliate WVTM-TV in the same Birmingham market. The transaction, announced on August 1 and completed on October 12, allowed to maintain its expanded presence in Birmingham while divesting the CBS duopoly asset. Under New Vision's ownership from 2006 to 2012, WIAT continued as a affiliate with operational stability, producing under the established "CBS 42 News" branding that had been in place since its 1998 relaunch. Minor enhancements included the introduction of a new news set in June 2008, designed by Chris Mitchell, which refreshed the studio presentation without altering the core news format or staff significantly. On May 7, 2012, LIN Media announced its acquisition of New Vision Television's portfolio of 13 stations, including WIAT, for $330.4 million plus the assumption of $12 million in debt, with the deal closing on October 12, 2012. This move integrated WIAT into 's growing network of network-affiliated stations across multiple markets, enhancing 's footprint in the Southeast. WIAT's operations remained consistent post-acquisition, with continued emphasis on local news production and programming, as focused on streamlining management and digital synergies across its properties in preparation for future industry consolidations.

Media General merger and Nexstar acquisition

In March 2014, announced a $1.6 billion merger with LIN Media, the owner of WIAT since 2012, effectively reuniting the station with its former owner after had divested it in 2006 to comply with ownership regulations. The deal, structured as a cash-and-stock transaction valued at approximately $27.82 per LIN share, aimed to form the second-largest pure-play local TV broadcaster in the U.S., reaching about 26.5 million viewers across 71 stations. The merger closed on December 19, 2014, following regulatory approvals, including divestitures required by the U.S. Department of Justice to address antitrust concerns in overlapping markets; notably, sold its duopoly partner WVTM-TV to for $3.1 million to retain WIAT. Post-merger, the combined company implemented operational synergies across its portfolio, including centralized for news production, sales, and digital operations among sister stations to reduce costs and enhance content distribution efficiency. These efficiencies allowed WIAT to benefit from group-wide resources, such as unified advertising platforms and cross-promotional opportunities with other outlets, while maintaining local focus in . The integration bolstered WIAT's competitive position in the market without immediate changes to its on-air operations. In January 2017, Nexstar Broadcasting Group completed its $4.6 billion acquisition of in a cash-and-stock deal, transforming the entity into and making it WIAT's current owner as the nation's second-largest TV station operator with over 170 stations. The transaction, approved by the FCC after required divestitures in select markets, expanded Nexstar's footprint in the Southeast and enabled further scale in and capabilities. Under Nexstar ownership, WIAT has pursued digital expansions, including the launch of NextGen TV (ATSC 3.0) on December 5, 2022, in collaboration with other Birmingham stations to deliver enhanced video quality, interactive features, and improved mobile reception to over 70% of U.S. households by that year. No major structural or operational changes to the station have occurred since, with focus remaining on local news and CBS affiliation amid steady group-wide investments in streaming and OTT platforms.

News and Programming

Historical news formats

WBMG-TV, the predecessor to WIAT, launched on , 1965, as Birmingham's third commercial but initially operated without a dedicated department, focusing instead on limited prime-time programming as a primary affiliate with secondary ties. The station's first bulletins emerged in the late , gradually expanding into more structured evening newscasts during the that typically aired at 6 p.m. and 10 p.m., emphasizing community stories and regional coverage amid competition from established VHF outlets like and WAPI. These early formats prioritized straightforward reporting with minimal production resources, reflecting the challenges faced by UHF stations in building viewership. By the early 1980s, persistent low ratings—often placing WBMG third or lower in the market—led Park Communications to significantly reduce operations in 1982 as a cost-cutting measure, dropping full newscasts and replacing them with syndicated programming during traditional slots while retaining 30-second breaks, network feeds, and hourly cut-ins for updates. This hiatus in full newscasts lasted five years, during which the station's overall programming leaned heavily on entertainment to attract audiences, but voids contributed to further erosion in relevance. In response to competitive pressures and a desire to reclaim , Park reinstated the department in January 1987, launching " Birmingham" featuring weeknight editions at 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. hosted by anchors like Barbara Bolding, who described the team as "scrappy and creative" despite lacking advanced technology like satellite trucks. The 1987 format adopted an aggressive, viewer-focused style with emphasis on investigative pieces and live reporting, yet struggled against dominant rivals, achieving ratings typically in the single digits and rarely exceeding 10 share in evening slots through the early . This period saw incremental additions like weekend broadcasts and weather segments, but overall viewership remained stagnant, hovering around third place behind and WVTM. The pre-1998 era thus represented a cycle of cautious expansion and financial restraint, setting the stage for a major overhaul upon Media General's 1998 acquisition.

Current programming and affiliations

WIAT has maintained its primary affiliation with CBS since 1970, carrying the network's national programming including primetime dramas, daytime soaps such as and , and morning shows like . The station supplements this with syndicated fare, featuring entertainment programs like and Access Daily with Mario & Kit in morning slots, alongside local news inserts to provide Birmingham-specific content. Under the CBS 42 branding, WIAT airs extensive coverage, including the CBS 42 Morning News from 4:30 a.m. to 6:00 a.m., followed by an evening lineup with newscasts at 4:00 p.m., 5:00 p.m., 6:00 p.m., and 10:00 p.m. Weekend programming includes dedicated news blocks, such as morning and evening editions, focusing on regional updates from central . These broadcasts emphasize weather, traffic, and community stories, with meteorologists and reporters providing real-time inserts during network shows. WIAT produces special local programming centered on and events, such as the 2025 series highlighting school preparations, supply drives, and student safety tips across Birmingham-area districts. Sports coverage includes and highlights, as well as features on local teams like the , integrated into news segments and community calendars. Additional initiatives cover events like the hosted in in 2025, with live reports and promotional spots. The station maintains a news share agreement with CW affiliate (channel 21), simulcasting select CBS 42 newscasts on WTTO's schedule since 2005 to extend local coverage to a broader audience. This partnership allows WIAT to produce and air content across both outlets, enhancing visibility for evening and weekend blocks without altering its core CBS affiliation.

Technical Facilities

Analog-to-digital transition

WIAT began its analog-to-digital transition with the commencement of full-power digital testing broadcasts on UHF channel 30 (mapping to 42) in 2002, aligning with early FCC efforts to phase in capabilities ahead of the mandated nationwide deadline. This initial digital operation allowed the station to experiment with high-definition programming while maintaining its original analog signal on UHF channel 42, which had operated since the station's launch as WBMG in 1965 with a 5000 kW () at 421 meters (HAAT). The (FCC) established a comprehensive for the transition to recover analog for other uses, requiring full-power stations like WIAT to file for construction permits by May 1, 1998, complete by May 1, 2002 (later extended to 2006 for non-compliant stations), and cease analog operations by February 17, 2009 (postponed to June 12, 2009). WIAT met these requirements ahead of schedule by launching its in 2002 and obtaining its license for channel 30 with 1000 kW at 426 m HAAT. On June 12, 2009, WIAT terminated its analog broadcast on channel 42 as part of the nationwide full-power transition, shifting exclusively to transmission. The transition had minimal impact on signal coverage in the area, with FCC analyses indicating no net change in the station's service contour, preserving access for viewers across central centered on Red Mountain. However, viewer access required adaptation: households relying on over-the-air antennas needed digital tuners or converter boxes for older analog televisions, though and subscribers experienced uninterrupted service. This shift enhanced picture and for digital-equipped viewers without altering the geographic reach established by the analog era.

Subchannels and broadcast details

WIAT broadcasts its primary affiliation on virtual subchannel 42.1 in . As of November 2025, the station's digital subchannels include on 42.2, on 42.3, on 42.4 (all in standard definition), and on 42.5 (virtual 21.1 in ), providing additional programming options for viewers in central . The station's transmitter is located atop Red Mountain in at coordinates 33°29′2″N 86°48′21″W, with a (HAAT) of 426 meters (1,398 feet). It operates with an (ERP) of 1,000 kilowatts in the digital UHF band on physical channel 30, enabling broad coverage across central , including , Tuscaloosa, and surrounding counties. This setup was established following the analog-to-digital transition, which enabled the addition of subchannels. Under Nexstar Media Group's ownership since 2017, WIAT has undergone several adjustments to optimize its digital offerings, including the introduction of entertainment and classic TV networks on its subchannels to complement the main feed and expand audience reach. These changes reflect Nexstar's strategy to leverage capacity for diverse content distribution in the market.

On-Air Personnel

Notable current staff

WIAT's on-air team in 2025 features a mix of anchors, meteorologists, and reporters delivering local news, weather, and sports coverage for central Alabama. Among the anchors, Sherri Jackson serves as an evening news anchor, co-hosting broadcasts that focus on breaking stories and community issues. Carly Laing anchors evening newscasts alongside Jackson, contributing investigative reports on regional topics. David Lamb, a veteran morning anchor, leads the CBS 42 Morning News, providing consistent coverage since joining the station. Andrea Lindenberg anchors morning segments, emphasizing traffic and lifestyle updates. Kristen McIntosh handles traffic reporting and anchoring duties during morning shows. The Storm Team includes Chief Meteorologist Dave Nussbaum, who was promoted to the role in 2023 after serving as a meteorologist since 2021; he oversees coverage for the area. Michael Haynes, a native of central , provides weekend forecasts and tracking. Other meteorologists include Alex Puckett and Charlie Goldstein, who contribute to daily updates and special segments. Reporters such as Avery Boyce cover general assignment stories, including and local events. Sidney Spencer focuses on and consumer issues, while Maddie McQueen reports on and features from . Amy Hybels and Charlize Ramos handle investigative and community reporting, and Scott Minshall contributes to political and government coverage. In sports, Scott Griffin leads reporting on local teams like the and athletics. The team is supported by photographers Jacob Morris and Ronald Gaines. Behind the scenes, Rob Martin serves as News Director, managing the overall news operation under Nexstar Media Group ownership.

Notable former staff

Art Franklin served as a co-anchor for WIAT's evening newscasts from 2016 until his departure in April 2022, when he left to relaunch his entrepreneurial pursuits, including a men's clothing line launched in 2021 through Treś' Fine Clothing. During his tenure, Franklin, a multiple Emmy Award-winning journalist with over 35 years in broadcasting, contributed to the station's coverage of local issues and was recognized as the first Black man to anchor primetime news in Birmingham. Bill Bolen was an early on-air staple at WIAT's predecessor station WBMG, joining in 1965 as a street reporter and anchor, where he helped establish the station's initial news presence amid Birmingham's evolving media landscape. He departed for in 1969, anchoring evening and morning newscasts there for over four decades until retiring in 2010 at age 81, and passed away in 2018. Doug Bell held the role of sports director at WIAT from 1988 to 2001, covering key local and regional sports events during the station's transition under ownership, including a period of news department overhaul in the late . Following his exit, amid reported contract disputes with , Bell transitioned to radio, joining WJOX-AM as a sports anchor and reporter, where he continued providing hourly updates and play-by-play commentary. Lee Hedgepeth worked as an investigative reporter at WIAT from 2021 to 2023, focusing on digital stories about local environmental and social issues during the Nexstar era. He resigned citing management challenges but quickly advanced to a reporting role at Inside Climate News, where he covers Alabama-specific environmental topics like and .

References

  1. [1]
    WIAT-4 - Wechsler Individual Achievement Test | Fourth Edition | Pearson Assessments US
    ### Key Information about WIAT-4
  2. [2]
    Evaluation of the Wechsler Individual Achievement Test-Fourth ... - NIH
    May 22, 2022 · The Wechsler Individual Achievement Test (WIAT-4) is the latest iteration of a popular instrument that psychologists employ to assess academic achievement.
  3. [3]
    Wechsler Individual Achievement Test--Second Edition - APA PsycNet
    The WIAT®–II is a rich and reliable source of information about an individual's academic skills and problem-solving abilities that can be used to guide ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  4. [4]
    [PDF] after less than 3 months - World Radio History
    ... Grant. For Birmingham, Ala., Ch. 42. BIRMINGHAM Television Corp., owned by Harry and Elmer Balaban, was granted ch. 42 in the Alabama city last week by the.
  5. [5]
    [PDF] DIRECTORY OF TELEVISION STATIONS IN THE U.S.
    Permàttee Birmingham Television Corp. Ownership Owned Jointly by H & E Bala- ban Corp. and Winston-Salem Broadcasting Co. For other interests see listings ...
  6. [6]
    WIAT - Wikipedia
    WIAT, channel 42, is a television station in Birmingham, Alabama, United States, affiliated with CBS and owned by Nexstar Media Group.
  7. [7]
    [PDF] B ROADCASTI N G - World Radio History
    ... 42; power -16.6 kw visual, 8.91 kw aural; antenna height -770 feet above average terrain, 589 feet above ground. Permittee: Birmingham Television Corp ...
  8. [8]
    WBMG 42 - Bhamwiki
    Oct 1, 2015 · WBMG 42 was, until changing call letters to WIAT in 1998, the CBS-TV affiliate for the Birmingham/Tuscaloosa/Anniston market.Missing: 1956 | Show results with:1956
  9. [9]
    On this day in Alabama History: WBMG 42 debuted its first broadcast - Alabama News Center
    ### Summary of WBMG Details
  10. [10]
    CBS 42 celebrates 60 years on the air
    Oct 17, 2025 · On this day 60 years ago, this television station went on the air. What is now WIAT began as WBMG, Birmingham's third commercial television ...Missing: construction timeline 1963-1965
  11. [11]
    FADED SIGNALS — Birmingham's WAFM-TV signed on in 1949 as ...
    Jan 26, 2013 · WBMG-TV Channel 42 signed on in 1965 as a CBS affiliate, but the network allowed WAPI-TV to continue airing its higher-rated programming ...
  12. [12]
    [PDF] Broadcast i n o c - World Radio History
    Oct 23, 1972 · Park's. $5.5 million purchase of WBMG -TV (ch. 45) Birmingham, Ala. Major stockholder of the CBS affiliate's present licensee,. Birmingham ...
  13. [13]
    Miscellaneous unorganized material/WIAT
    On April 5, 2010, the FCC granted WIAT a construction permit for a digital fill-in translator on their pre-analog allotment Channel 42. The translator ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  14. [14]
    TV Technical Profile: WVTM - The Alabama Broadcast Media Page
    In the late 60's both WAPI and WBHG had "CBS/NBC" as their affiliation. . This came to an end around 1970, with channel 13 going NBC and channel 42 going CBS.<|control11|><|separator|>
  15. [15]
    The Sergeant Jack Show - Bhamwiki
    Oct 12, 2015 · The Sergeant Jack Show (originally The Dick Tracy Show Starring Sgt. Jack) was a children's television show which aired on WBMG-42 from 1965 to the early 1980s.
  16. [16]
    [PDF] 1970-BC-YB.pdf - World Radio History
    National Broadcasting Co. Executives & Staff. E -14. NBC Radio and TV Networks ... WAPI -TV Birmingham, Ala., ch. 13, NBC (CBS). WBMG(TV) Birmingham, Ala., ch ...
  17. [17]
    [PDF] FEDERAL REGISTER - GovInfo
    construction permit. 1. Birmingham Television Corp. (WBMG), one of five competing appli cants in this proceeding, has petitioned for the addition of six ...
  18. [18]
    [PDF] Television/RadloAge - World Radio History
    Feb 4, 1985 · 28. 24. 7. 4. 5. 7. 8. 4. 4. 5. 4. 5. 7. 4. 2. 2. Birmingham ( 47). WBRC-TV/A. 34 33. WVTM/N. 28 29. WTTO/I. 12 13. WBMG/C. 11. 8. 25. 34. 26.
  19. [19]
    [PDF] Television/RadloAge - World Radio History
    Jul 26, 1982 · more news is WBMG(TV) the CBS affil- iate in Birmingham, which dropped its early evening half hour altogether, and contents itself with five ...
  20. [20]
    Media General Sets Accord To Acquire Park Acquisitions - WSJ
    Jul 23, 1996 · Media General Inc. has definitively agreed to acquire Park Acquisitions Inc., parent of Park Communications Inc., for $710 million.
  21. [21]
    WIAT 42 - Bhamwiki
    Apr 24, 2023 · WIAT 42 is the CBS-TV affiliate for the Birmingham/Tuscaloosa/Anniston market. It is a UHF television station licensed to Birmingham on analog channel 42 ( ...Missing: permit transfer 1963
  22. [22]
    Experience at Ohio University and WOUB helped prepare Eric Land ...
    Apr 13, 2022 · When Eric Land came to Ohio University as a student in 1969, he already had a great deal of experience in broadcast radio and television.
  23. [23]
    WIAT - TV Stations Wikia - Fandom
    WIAT, virtual channel 42 (UHF digital channel 30), is a CBS-affiliated television station licensed to Birmingham, Alabama, United States.
  24. [24]
    Media General to Expand In Southeast With Purchase
    Jul 23, 1996 · Park Acquisitions, a private company owned by Gary Knapp of Lexington, Ky., and Donald Tomlin of Columbia, S.C., bought Park Communications in ...Missing: 1997 WIAT
  25. [25]
    Media General Completes Sale of CBS Stations - TVTechnology
    Oct 19, 2006 · Media General Inc. has sold its CBS television stations WIAT in Birmingham, Ala., and KIMT in Mason City, Iowa to New Vision Television LLC ...
  26. [26]
    https://www.bizjournals.com/birmingham/stories/2006/04/03/daily20.html
  27. [27]
    LIN Buying New Vision Stations For $342M - TV News Check
    ... New Vision in 2006 by buying the stations in Birmingham and Mason City from Media General in 2006 for $35 million. The key deal was with Montecito in 2007 ...
  28. [28]
    New Vision Television Announces Agreement To Sell Broadcasting ...
    May 7, 2012 · For a purchase price of $330.4 million and the assumption of some debt, LIN Television Corporation will acquire the assets of New Vision's owned ...Missing: WIAT | Show results with:WIAT
  29. [29]
    LIN Media Completes Acquisition of Stations from New Vision ...
    Oct 15, 2012 · LIN Media has completed its acquisition of the 13 television stations it agreed to purchase in May from New Vision Television. ... WIAT (CBS) in ...
  30. [30]
    Parent of Birmingham's NBC-13 to acquire parent of CBS-42 - AL.com
    Mar 21, 2014 · Media General Communications, which is the parent company of Birmingham's NBC-13, will acquire LIN Television, the parent of the city's ...
  31. [31]
    Media General, LIN Media Announce $1.6B Merger - Deadline
    Mar 21, 2014 · RBC Capital Markets has agreed to provide $1.6 billion in total committed financing to Media General in support of the transaction. ... WIAT ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  32. [32]
    Justice Department Requires Divestitures in Media General Inc ...
    Oct 30, 2014 · Justice Department Requires Divestitures in Media General Inc. Acquisition of LIN Media LLC. Thursday, October 30, 2014. For Immediate Release.Missing: WIAT | Show results with:WIAT
  33. [33]
    Media General to buy LIN Media for $1.6 billion - Reuters
    Mar 21, 2014 · Media General Inc said on Friday it would buy LIN Media LLC for $1.6 billion to create the second largest local TV broadcast company in the ...Missing: WIAT | Show results with:WIAT
  34. [34]
    TV Station Mega Merger: Media General, LIN Set $1.6 Billion Deal
    Mar 21, 2014 · The deal unveiled Friday calls for Media General to acquire LIN with $763 million in cash and the remainder in stock. With LIN's roughly $1 ...Missing: WIAT | Show results with:WIAT
  35. [35]
    Nexstar Broadcasting Group Completes Acquisition of Media ...
    Jan 17, 2017 · Nexstar Broadcasting Group completes acquisition of Media General creating Nexstar Media Group, the nation's second largest television broadcaster.Missing: Park | Show results with:Park
  36. [36]
    Nexstar Completes $4.6B Acquisition Of Media General - Deadline
    Jan 17, 2017 · Nexstar Broadcasting completed its $4.6 billion cash-and-stock acquisition of the TV station owner today, just 10 days shy of the one-year anniversary.Missing: WIAT | Show results with:WIAT
  37. [37]
    Major Broadcasters Launch NextGen TV on Seven Local Television ...
    The leading television stations serving the Birmingham television market today began broadcasting with NextGen TV, a revolutionary new digital broadcast ...
  38. [38]
    WIAT | Nexstar Media Group, Inc.
    Since signing on the air on October 17, 1965 (as WBMG) the station has had a longstanding commitment to serving the viewers in the Birmingham area.Missing: first | Show results with:first
  39. [39]
    Celebrating 60 years of CBS 42
    the same building ...Missing: permit transfer 1963
  40. [40]
    CBS PRODUCER'S HIDDEN AGENDA - The Washington Post
    Jan 11, 1998 · WBMG-TV in Birmingham fired all of its 18 anchors and reporters before Christmas after the newscast's ratings sank lower than reruns of ...
  41. [41]
    WIAT HDTV TV Schedule Tonight - Listings Guide
    WIAT HDTV TV Schedule ; 4:00 pm. New CBS 42 News at 4pm ; 5:00 pm. New CBS 42 News at 5pm ; 5:30 pm. New CBS Evening News. 11-12-2025 - Season 2025, Episode 231 ; 6 ...
  42. [42]
    TV Schedule for CBS (WIAT) Birmingham, AL - TV Passport
    6:00 AM CBS42 Morning News at 5AM New News coverage to start the day. 7:00 AM CBS42 Morning News at 6AM New News coverage to start the day.
  43. [43]
    CBS 42
    CBS 42 · 1 killed in Jefferson County crash by school · Local News / 3 hours ago. Planned lane closures on I-20 in St. Clair County · Trussville Tribune / 1 day ...
  44. [44]
    Back to School 2025 - Birmingham - CBS 42
    Community · Back to School 2025 · All About Alabama · Pros Who Know · Birthday Club · Living Local · Brand Builder · Community Calendar · Hispanic Heritage ...
  45. [45]
    Community Calendar - Birmingham - CBS 42
    High School Sports · Athlete of the Week · Alabama · Auburn · UAB · Samford · College ... Back to School 2025 · All About Alabama · Birthday Club · Living Local ...
  46. [46]
    Birmingham 2025 World Police and Fire Games schedule released
    Jun 25, 2025 · The schedule for the 2025 World Police and Fire Games was released Wednesday. First responders from around the world will be in Birmingham for a 10-day event.
  47. [47]
    WTTO - Wikipedia
    ^ "APPLICATION FOR CONSENT TO ASSIGNMENT OF BROADCAST STATION CONSTRUCTION PERMIT OR LICENSE". CDBS Public Access. Federal Communications Commission. August ...
  48. [48]
    WTTO - Bhamwiki
    May 21, 2012 · The station prospered with popular syndicated programming such as movies and older sitcoms. In 1991 WTTO became Birmingham's Fox affiliate ...
  49. [49]
    [PDF] Alabama - World Radio History
    ... WIAT (30); WJSU-TV (9);. WPXH-TV (45); WTJP-TV (26); WTTO (28); WUOA (6); ... 2002. High Definition. Began analog operations: October 17, 1965. Ceased ...
  50. [50]
    None
    **Summary of WIAT Information from Birmingham, AL DTV Transition Report:**
  51. [51]
    TV Station WIAT - Station Information - FCC Public Inspection Files
    WIAT BIRMINGHAM, AL. Virtual Channel 42; Frequency 566.0; RF Channel 30; Facility ID 5360.
  52. [52]
    WIAT BIRMINGHAM, AL - RabbitEars
    DTV Transition: Certification : Analog channel 42. Digital channel 30. Elected Round 1 : Elected channel 30. (Approved).Missing: signal | Show results with:signal
  53. [53]
    Stations - Nexstar Media Group, Inc.
    Nexstar owns America's largest local television broadcasting group comprised of top network affiliates, with more than 200 owned or partner stations in 116 U.S ...WCIA · KXAN · WOOD · WFLA
  54. [54]
    Meet the Team - CBS 42
    Meet the Team. November 14 2025 11:59 pm. Anchors. Sherri Jackson. Evening Anchor. Carly Laing. Evening Anchor. David Lamb. Morning Anchor ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  55. [55]
    https://www.cbs42.com/author/sherri-jackson/
  56. [56]
    WIAT Birmingham Promotes Dave Nussbaum To Chief Meteorologist
    Sep 28, 2023 · Nexstar's CBS affiliate WIAT Birmingham, Ala., today promoted Dave Nussbaum to chief meteorologist. Since joining WIAT 2021, Nussbaum has served ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  57. [57]
    Michael Haynes | Meteorologist - CBS 42
    Michael is a Central Alabama native, born and raised in the Anniston area and is proud to call himself an Alexandria Valley Cub.
  58. [58]
    Scott Griffin | CBS 42
    Later while in college, he utilized a summer to intern at WBMG (former name of WIAT CBS 42) and helped in sports coverage there. Soon he was shooting video and ...<|separator|>
  59. [59]
    Contact Us | CBS 42
    News Director – Rob Martin | rmartin@cbs42.com. Chief Engineer – Gary Watkins | gwatkins@cbs42.com. Production Manager – Dave Holland | dholland@cbs42.com.
  60. [60]
    News anchor Art Franklin leaving CBS 42; will pursue business ...
    Mar 15, 2022 · WIAT CBS 42 announced Monday that Art Franklin, veteran television journalist and co-anchor of the CBS 42 evening newscasts will step down ...
  61. [61]
    Alabama TV anchor Art Franklin makes entry into fashion world
    Feb 28, 2022 · Franklin, an anchor with Birmingham's WIAT-TV CBS 42 since 2016, launched his collection in November 2021 through Treś' Fine Clothing.<|separator|>
  62. [62]
    Art Franklin, first Black man to anchor primetime news in ... - CBS 42
    May 2, 2022 · Leaving CBS 42 behind, Art Franklin said he still wants to have an impact in Birmingham. What form that takes, he said, isn't set in stone.Missing: leaves | Show results with:leaves
  63. [63]
    Classic TV personalities who made their marks in Birmingham - al.com
    Feb 10, 2021 · Here's a look at 11 key figures who lit up our TV screens in the past, making indelible marks on Birmingham's TV history.Missing: syndication | Show results with:syndication
  64. [64]
    https://blog.al.com/scenesource/2010/01/fox_6_luminary_bill_bolen_to_r.html
  65. [65]
    Veteran TV sportscaster Doug Bell joins WJOX-AM - Birmingham ...
    Dec 13, 2001 · Doug Bell, former sports director at CBS42 WIAT-TV (http://www.wiat.com) and most recently anchor of a weeknight cable television sports show, ...
  66. [66]
    Why I left CBS 42 - Tread by Lee Hedgepeth
    Mar 7, 2023 · Lee Hedgepeth was an investigative reporter for Birmingham's WIAT CBS 42 news for nearly two years. Why did he leave?Missing: notable | Show results with:notable
  67. [67]
    In a 'Disheartening' Era, the Nation's Former Top Mining Regulator ...
    Oct 29, 2025 · Lee Hedgepeth is Inside Climate News' Alabama reporter. Raised in Grand Bay, Alabama, a small town on the Gulf Coast, Lee holds master's degrees ...Missing: WIAT | Show results with:WIAT