KGW

KGW: A Beacon of News in Portland, Oregon

Imagine a television station that has been a constant presence in the heart of Portland for over six decades. That’s KGW (channel 8), a beacon of news and entertainment in the city. Located on Jefferson Street in southwestern Portland, this NBC-affiliated station has not only survived but thrived through various changes and challenges. Let’s dive into its fascinating journey.

The Early Days: A Spark Ignited

Can you imagine a time when KGW was just a spark waiting to ignite? In 1922, the radio station went on air as part of The Oregonian newspaper’s ownership. Fast forward to 1956, and KGW-TV signed on the air as an ABC affiliate before switching to NBC in 1959. This transition marked a significant milestone for the station, setting it up for its current role.

From Fire to Flourishing: A Resilient Journey

A fire in 1943 destroyed KGW’s original studios, but this setback only fueled their determination. The station quickly rebuilt and expanded, eventually moving into a new broadcast center at 1501 SW Jefferson Street in 1964. This location has served as the heart of KGW ever since, providing a robust base for its operations.

Ownership Changes: A Kaleidoscope of Business

The ownership of KGW has been like a kaleidoscope, constantly changing colors and patterns over the years. In 1992, King Broadcasting merged with The Providence Journal Company, leading to KGW becoming part of Belo Corporation in 1997. Then, in 2013, Gannett announced its acquisition of Belo but instead sold KGW to Sander Media, LLC. Despite these changes, KGW continued to serve the community faithfully.

Technological Advancements: Embracing the Future

How does a station keep up with the rapid pace of technological change? KGW has shown remarkable adaptability by embracing HD broadcasts and digital transitions. In 2008, KGW began broadcasting local newscasts in high definition, updating its studio and logo to reflect this shift. The station also provided a 24-hour weather forecast service until Estrella TV launched in September 2009.

Local Programming: A Community Hub

KGW has always been more than just a news channel; it’s a community hub that brings people together. The station airs NBC network schedule, local programs such as Hello Rose City and The Good Stuff, and some Seattle Kraken games. Original local programming included Evening, Open Line, On the Spot, and The Money Game. These shows have helped shape the identity of Portland.

News Operations: A Continuous Effort

How does a station maintain its commitment to providing 40+1⁄2 hours of locally produced newscasts each week? KGW has been relentless in its pursuit of excellence. On January 21, 2008, KGW began broadcasting local newscasts in high definition. The station updated its studio and logo, shortened its brand to ‘KGW NewsChannel 8,’ and debuted a new music package. In November 2008, the news helicopter was retrofitted with an HD camera.

Subchannels and Beyond: Expanding Horizons

KGW has also ventured into subchannels to cater to diverse interests. The station activated subchannel 8.4 for Quest on January 16, 2018, offering viewers a wider range of programming options. KGW conducted tests to determine viewer readiness for the digital transition and began broadcasting on its digital channel in early 2009.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Service

KGW has been more than just a television station; it’s a cornerstone of Portland’s media landscape. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a leading NBC affiliate, KGW has consistently provided high-quality news and entertainment to the community. As it continues to evolve, one thing remains clear: KGW will always be at the forefront of serving the people of Portland.