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WWTI ABC50 first signed onto the air as WFYF in December 1987. Until then, most North Country viewers relied on the over-the-air signal from WUTR in Utica for their ABC programming.
Putting WFYF on the air was a multi-million dollar investment for several partners, including David James Alteri, who served as General Manager, Steven Fox and Richard Kimball. The station turned out to be under-capitalized for the extended period necessary before advertising revenue could support its operations. The original ownership team dissolved and new station General Manager Shelly Markoff took control. Under Markoff, the station changed its call letters to WWTI. In the face of a national recession, however, it was still tough going for the fledgling station. In early 1991 the station dropped its local newscasts.
Greyhound Financial Services, an original investor in the station assumed control operating WWTI with ABC and syndicated programming for the next five years. In 1996 the station was purchased by Robert Smith who also owned television stations in Utica and Elmira, New York as well as in California and Alaska. Then the growth began!
In September of 1998 an agreement between WWTI , Warner Brothers and Time Warner Cable allowed WWTI to launch a cable-only Warner Brothers affiliate station, WBWT 31. Warner Brothers later merged with CBS to form the CW Network. The North Country CW as it is now known, is a full power over the air local CW affiliate.
The industry trend continued of larger broadcast ownership groups, and in March 2000, Mr. Smith sold the station to Ackerley Communications, which owned a chain of television and radio stations, extensive outdoor advertising, as well as the The Seattle Supersonics of the NBA and the Seattle Storm of the WNBA. David Males, then General Sales Manager, was promoted to General Manager.
Becoming a part of The Ackerley Group put WWTI on the cutting edge of technology and digital broadcast. The implementation of Digital Central Casting, controlling commercial and programming playback for many stations from one central location, began by placing a fiber connection between the 7 Ackerley owned TV stations, and WIXT in Syracuse as the central station. This system was later copied and implemented by a number of other broadcast groups as they attempted to steam-line operations and create greater efficiencies and synergies among its holdings.
In 2002 Ackerley sold its holding to an even larger company, media giant Clear Channel Communications. In 2009 Newport Television, purchased the television assets of Clear Channel Communications. After becoming a digital-exclusive station, Newport announced on July 19, 2012 that it would sell twelve of its stations, including WWTI, to the Nexstar Broadcasting Group. Mr. Males continues as General Manager today.
WWTI ABC50 and The North Country CW continue to bring cutting edge digital broadcast and interactive technology to Northern New York and Southern Eastern Ontario. The stations continue to be immersed into the local communities forming partnerships with The American Cancer Society, The Watertown Teen Center, The American Red Cross, The Fort Drum Chapter of the Association of United States Army,
The Greater Watertown North Country Chamber of Commerce and scores of other local Chambers of Commerce.
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The Justice Department charged two people with federal terrorism offenses on Wednesday for allegedly claiming they were intentionally trying to spread the coronavirus.
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Justice Department charged two people with federal terrorism offenses on Wednesday for allegedly claiming they were intentionally trying to spread the coronavirus. The charges…
Congress is working to keep people on the payroll during the COVID-19 pandemic.
U.S. researchers have opened another safety test of an experimental COVID-19 vaccine, this one using a skin-deep shot instead of the usual deeper jab.
WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. researchers have opened another safety test of an experimental COVID-19 vaccine, this one using a skin-deep shot instead of the usual deeper jab. The pinch should feel like a…
The stage is set for November. Barring unforeseen disaster, Joe Biden will represent the Democratic Party against President Donald Trump this fall.
The stage is set for November. Barring unforeseen disaster, Joe Biden will represent the Democratic Party against President Donald Trump this fall, the former vice president’s place on the ge…
The body of 8-year-old Gideon McKean was found on Wednesday.
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) — Authorities recovered the body of a grandson of former Maryland Lt. Gov. Kathleen Kennedy Townsend on Wednesday, two days after the body of the boy’s mother was found in…
What type of grilled cheese are you? Take the Grilled Cheese Personality Quiz for a chance to win a $100 gift card to The Sandwich Bar!
www.informnny.com/grilled-cheese-personality-quiz/
Father Looby at St. Anthony's and St. Patrick's Catholic Church is finding new ways to celebrate Easter Sunday Service during COVID-19:
WATERTOWN, N.Y. (WWTI) – Reverend Christopher J. Looby of Saint Anthony and Saint Patrick Catholic Parishes in Watertown is getting creative this year and finding new ways to celebrate Easter…
Linda Tripp, whose secretly recorded conversations with White House intern Monica Lewinsky led to the 1998 impeachment of President Bill Clinton, died Wednesday at age 70.
WASHINGTON (AP) — Linda Tripp, whose secretly recorded conversations with White House intern Monica Lewinsky led to the 1998 impeachment of President Bill Clinton, died Wednesday at age 70. Her dea…
St. Lawrence County Public Health announced the county’s first death related to coronavirus today.
ST. LAWRENCE COUNTY, N.Y. (WWTI) – Since the coronavirus epidemic hit the North Country, 78 positive cases have been confirmed in St. Lawrence County. St. Lawrence County Public Health announ…
Carthage students received a nice gift from a distance today from local educators who are missing their students and wanted a way to connect with them while maintaining a safe social distance.
CARTHAGE, N.Y. (WWTI) – Carthage students received a nice gift from a distance today from local educators who are missing their students and wanted a way to connect with them while maintainin…
In the days leading up to LouAnn Dagen’s death from COVID-19, the nursing home patient repeatedly asked her Amazon Echo Show for help.
CEDAR SPRINGS, Mich. (WOOD) — In the days leading up to LouAnn Dagen’s death from COVID-19, the Metron nursing home patient repeatedly asked her Amazon Echo Show for help with her pain. Dagen, 66, …
On April 26, the Oswegatchie Educational Center in Croghan is hosting the 26th Annual AdironDuck Race online for the first time.
CROGHAN, N.Y. (WWTI) – On April 26, the Oswegatchie Educational Center in Croghan is hosting the 26th Annual AdironDuck Race online for the first time. As an alternative to canceling the even…
The victim was left with serious injuries that required extensive facial reconstruction.
LEWIS COUNTY, N.Y. (WWTI) – 25-year-old Roger J. Cecconi of Glenfield, NY was arrested on April 2 for Assault in the 2nd Degree, a Class D Felony, following an investigation into an assault t…
We’ll be waking up to rain tomorrow. There is a cold front coming through and the wind will pick up, which could cause a transition from rain to snow.
WATERTOWN, N.Y. (WWTI) – We are getting a couple breaks of sunshine today. Temperatures will be around 40 degrees overnight with mostly cloudy skies. We’ll be waking up to rain tomorrow. Th…
On March 17, New York was rated the 4th most aggressive state against coronavirus. Less than one month later, the state was ranked the most aggressive on April 7.
(WWTI) – Amid the coronavirus epidemic, many states are taking the CDC’s advice and have enforced social distancing. Gatherings have been banned, non-essential businesses have been clos…
LIVE CORONAVIRUS UPDATE: The coronavirus has now killed more people than the 2009 H1N1 pandemic as the US grapples with its deadliest day yet. Watch your daily live coronavirus update now: bit.ly/2RkJ4Wq
“The reality is, our miracle families can’t wait for the curve to flatten or an economic boost,” said Kristin LaClair, Director of CMN. “Our families need us now more than ever – no matter what that support looks like. We are all in this together.”
WATERTOWN, N.Y. (WWTI) – As the North Country’s local Children’s Miracle Network hospital, the staff at Samaritan Medical Center remains on the front lines of caring for the community&#…
“This is a catastrophe,” said tomato grower Tony DiMare. “We haven’t even started to calculate it. It’s going to be in the millions of dollars. Losses mount every day.”
PALMETTO, Fla. (AP) — Mounds of harvested zucchini and yellow squash ripened and then rotted in the hot Florida sun. Juicy tomatoes were left to wither — unpicked — in farmers’ fields. Thousa…
Cuomo said that on 9/11, there were 2,753 people who died at the World Trade Center. Coronavirus has already taken 6,268 New Yorkers.
ALBANY, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) — New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo started his daily coronavirus briefing on Wednesday saying that the day was full of mixed emotions. He says the good is that what…
Lewis County has developed a list of resources which residents can refer to and offer as additional support.
LEWIS COUNTY, N.Y. (WWTI) – Lewis County is encouraging residents to take five minutes out of each day to call a friend, loved one or acquaintance who may be alone and feeling isolated during…
Governor Cuomo will give his daily coronavirus update today at 12:30pm. Click below to watch live.
UPDATE: Governor Cuomo just tweeted that the briefing will now be at 12:30 p.m. UPDATE: I will be giving my #Coronavirus briefing at *12:30PM* ET. Andrew Cuomo (@NYGovCuomo) April 8, 2020 ALBANY, N…
The American Cancer Society is making its Hope Lodge facilities available for health care workers on the front lines of the fight against COVID-19.
(WWTI) – The American Cancer Society is making its Hope Lodge facilities available for health care workers on the front lines of the fight against COVID-19. The housing is being offered at no…
Sen. Bernie Sanders ended his presidential bid on Wednesday,
WASHINGTON (AP) — Sen. Bernie Sanders, who saw his once strong lead in the Democratic primary evaporate as the party’s establishment lined swiftly up behind rival Joe Biden, ended his presidential …
Congressional Democratic leaders proposed Wednesday adding hundreds of billions of dollars to $250 billion in fresh emergency aid President Donald Trump wants to help small businesses weather the coronavirus epidemic.
WASHINGTON (AP) — Congressional Democratic leaders proposed Wednesday adding hundreds of billions of dollars for health care, state and local governments, and food stamps to $250 billion in fresh e…
DAILY CORONAVIRUS UPDATE: U.S. officials record highest death toll in a single day. The death toll is now nearly 13,000.
Today is cooler than yesterday, with temperatures around 50 degrees and mostly cloudy skies.
WATERTOWN, N.Y. (WWTI) – Today is cooler than yesterday, with temperatures around 50 degrees and mostly cloudy skies. Tomorrow will be a rainy day, with temperatures in the 40s and the possi…
“Amid all of the stressful news that we are all dealing with, I hope that this can bring a smile to some of your faces!”
MIAMI (AP) — Providing exactly what’s needed in these trying times, Zoo Miami has shared images of two clouded leopard cubs. The male and female have been secluded in a den with their mother,…
Claudia Whitmire of Community Action Planning Council of Jefferson County spoke with ABC50’s Alex Hazard about how they are operating during the pandemic, remaining committed to families and those in need in the community.
WATERTOWN, N.Y. (WWTI) – Amid the coronavirus epidemic, some everyday resources are becoming harder to get. Claudia Whitmire of Community Action Planning Council of Jefferson County spoke wit…
A new survey shows the percentage of people in each state who admit to drinking while working from home during the coronavirus pandemic.
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (WDAF) — A new survey shows the percentage of people in each state who admit to drinking while working from home during the coronavirus pandemic. Alcohol.org conducted a stud…
There’s no question the coronavirus pandemic is hitting many businesses hard, but an act of kindness is helping one continue to serve and give back to their community.
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – There’s no question the coronavirus pandemic is hitting many businesses hard, but an act of kindness is helping one continue to serve and give back to the community…
Just weeks ago, cities and even states across the U.S. were busy banning straws, limiting takeout containers and mandating that shoppers bring reusable bags.
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Just weeks ago, cities and even states across the U.S. were busy banning straws, limiting takeout containers and mandating that shoppers bring reusable bags or pay a small fee…
Made in Northern New York Minute: Amy Mitchell, Vice Principal at Immaculate Heart Central, has been doing the morning announcements online every weekday since students have been home.
WATERTOWN, N.Y, (WWTI) – Classrooms are empty across the North Country and throughout the nation during the coronavirus epidemic. Students have transitioned to distance learning while they ar…
John Prine died Tuesday at the age of 73.
John Prine, the ingenious singer-songwriter who explored the heartbreaks, indignities and absurdities of everyday life in “Angel from Montgomery,” “Sam Stone,” “Hello in There” and scores of other …
A federal judge in New York on Tuesday denied R&B singer R. Kelly’s request for release from jail in Chicago because he was concerned he could contract the coronavirus while behind bars.
NEW YORK (AP) — A federal judge in New York on Tuesday denied R&B singer R. Kelly’s request for release from jail in Chicago because he was concerned he could contract the coronavirus whi…
Small business owners hoping for quick help from the government’s emergency $349 billion lending program were still waiting Tuesday amid reports of computer problems at the Small Business Administration.
NEW YORK (AP) — Small business owners hoping for quick help from the government’s emergency $349 billion lending program were still waiting Tuesday amid reports of computer problems at the Small Bu…
The motorcyclists who died were members of the Jarheads Motorcycle Club, a New England group that includes Marines and their spouses.
CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — A truck driver charged in a crash that killed seven motorcyclists had fentanyl, morphine and a chemical found in cocaine in his system that day, and told authorities he often w…
A mayor whose wife violated the a stay at home order by partying at a bar during the coronavirus epidemic said he told the police chief she doesn't get special treatment and to treat her like he would anyone else violating the order.
ALTON, Ill. — The wife of an Illinois mayor is being cited for allegedly violating the state’s stay-at-home order by attending a party at a downtown bar. Alton Mayor Brant Walker said h…
Many say they are keeping up with their daily routines but others are letting certain personal hygiene practices go.
A new survey shows that those working remotely due to COVID-19 tend to neglect personal hygiene and beauty habits.
EXCLUSIVE: Dr. Fauci explains what's next for the U.S. in the coronavirus battle.
Convicted former drug company CEO Martin Shkreli, known as “Pharma Bro,” wants to get out of prison so he can help research a treatment for the coronavirus, his lawyer said Tuesday.
NEW YORK (AP) — Convicted former drug company CEO Martin Shkreli, known as “Pharma Bro,” wants to get out of prison so he can help research a treatment for the coronavirus, his lawyer said Tuesday.…
Pastor Aaron Goetzinger spoke with us to clear up some confusion after postcards from the church were mailed to North Country households inviting them to Easter Sunday Service.
WATERTOWN, N.Y. (WWTI) – Amid the coronavirus epidemic, some churches have come into the spotlight for not following social distancing guidelines and encouraging parishioners to gather for se…
"If your not going to stay away from crowds. then please get yours and your kids burial policy paid up and get your heart right with God," he stated.
CHOCTAW COUNTY, Okla. (KFOR) – An Oklahoma sheriff has a warning for those not taking the COVID-19 pandemic seriously. Choctaw County Sheriff Terry Park is vocal on his page abou…
Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin says the Trump administration will seek an additional $250 billion to support a program designed to bolster small businesses to keep them from laying off workers.
WASHINGTON (Nexstar/AP) — President Trump and members of the White House coronavirus task force held a briefing Tuesday to discuss the latest efforts to slow the spread of coronavirus in the …
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Congress is working to keep people on the payroll during the COVID-19 pandemic.
LIVE CORONAVIRUS UPDATE: The coronavirus has now killed more people than the 2009 H1N1 pandemic as the US grapples with its deadliest day yet. Watch your daily live coronavirus update now: bit.ly/2RkJ4Wq
DAILY CORONAVIRUS UPDATE: U.S. officials record highest death toll in a single day. The death toll is now nearly 13,000.
What type of grilled cheese are you? Take the Grilled Cheese Personality Quiz for a chance to win a $100 gift card to The Sandwich Bar! www.informnny.com/grilled-cheese-personality-quiz/
EXCLUSIVE: Dr. Fauci explains what's next for the U.S. in the coronavirus battle.
LIVE CORONAVIRUS UPDATE: Wisconsin holds primary despite public health concerns, New York records largest single-day increase in deaths as US death toll tops 11,000. What you need to know now in your live afternoon update: bit.ly/2UOJFlt
DAILY CORONAVIRUS UPDATE: U.S. officials have warned this will be the worst week yet. The death toll is now more than 11,000. https://bit.ly/2Rke74L
COVID-19 isn't stopping Amy Mitchell at Immaculate Heart Central & Immaculate Heart Academy from doing the school's morning announcements. Here's why:
EVENING CORONAVIRUS UPDATE: See what lawmakers are doing to make sure coronavirus relief money gets to the right people.
Christopher Bradley, PharmD, RPh, MBA of Carthage Area Hospital tells ABC50's Alex Hazard that the best way to keep teens from smoking or vaping is to lead by example. Learn about prevention and tobacco cessation in this segment of Health Beats. For more Health Beats, check out www.informnny.com/health-beats/
LIVE CORONAVIRUS UPDATE: Americans warned to avoid grocery stores, pharmacies for next 2 weeks as pandemic reaches deadly apex. What you need to know live now: bit.ly/2JL8wjS
The experts at Blue Heron Realty give great advice on what to expect for both buyers and sellers when it comes to the important topic of home inspections. For more expert tips, visit their Ask the Expert section on InformNNY.com at www.informnny.com/ate-blue-heron-realty/
DAILY CORONAVIRUS UPDATE: U.S. death near 10,000 as officials warn of hard week ahead. Watch your daily coronavirus update live now. https://bit.ly/34enUi1
CORONAVIRUS Q&A: A panel of the nation’s top doctors are back with Art Franklin to clear up confusion about COVID-19. Comment with a question for our medical experts. https://bit.ly/2JGGqWE
CORONAVIRUS Q&A: A panel of the nation’s top doctors have joined Art Franklin to give you information you can trust about COVID-19. Comment with your most pressing questions. https://bit.ly/2JGGqWE #NexstarNation #CoronavirusHouseCalls
CORONAVIRUS Q&A: A panel of the nation’s top doctors have joined Art Franklin to give you information you can trust about COVID-19. Comment with your most pressing question. https://bit.ly/2JGGqWE #NexstarNation #CoronavirusHouseCalls
New CDC recommendations on face masking but President Trump says he’s not wearing one, the New England Patriots deliver the masks they got in China, the nationwide battle for PPE escalates, and other updates from around the country #coronavirus #FactsNotFear
LIVE CORONAVIRUS UPDATE: Coronavirus peak coming, some health officials advise public to wear face masks, and why Dr. Fauci says all of US should be ordered to stay at home. Watch live now: bit.ly/2V3ZbIW
DAILY CORONAVIRUS UPDATE: U.S. payrolls drop 701,000 in March, the first jobs decline since 2010. Watch your daily coronavirus update live now. https://bit.ly/2UEyHyL
President Trump took a second COVID-19 test today, the New England Patriots help by taking a round trip flight to China, businesses everywhere are stepping up to make critical PPE, and other updates from around the country. #coronavirus #FactsNotFear
LIVE CORONAVIRUS UPDATE: US unemployment claims soar to new record as pandemic continues, Democrats delay convention, & Dr. Fauci gets security after death threats. Watch live now: bit.ly/2xMHx4o
DAILY CORONAVIRUS UPDATE: Coronavirus devastates the U.S. job market as more than 6.6 million Americans file for unemployment. https://bit.ly/2R5S4i7
Tim Greening of SPCA Jefferson County told us about the Life Savers initiative, which allows people to donate easily online. As an added bonus, Rudds Town and Country sends each adopted pet home with a free gift! https://www.informnny.com/fur-friend-facts/
Congress is working out details on phase-four of the economic aid package, another state makes the decision to close schools for the rest of the year, and other updates from around the country. #coronavirus #FactsNotFear
What type of grilled cheese are you? Take the Grilled Cheese Personality Quiz for a chance to win $100 to The Sandwich Bar! Enter here> https://www.informnny.com/grilled-cheese-personality-quiz/
LIVE CORONAVIRUS UPDATE: A grim prediction - experts warn up to 240K Americans could die from coronavirus, even with social distancing, and how are hospitals coping with intense surges and the equipment shortage? Watch now to find out: bit.ly/2w55tj8
DAILY CORONAVIRUS UPDATE: More than 4,000 people in the U.S. have died from COVID-19. Plus, should you wear a mask? What the U.S. Surgeon general is now saying. Watch your daily coronavirus update live now. https://bit.ly/2yrsH3R
We spoke with Watertown City School District Superintendent, Patti Labarr about some of the ways #NNY schools are helping in this time of need!
A federal agency stepping in to create more beds for Coronavirus patients. Plus, details on an executive order aimed at helping those struggling financially, and other updates from around the country. #Coronavirus #FactsNotFear
Robbins Family Grain and North Harbor Dairy produces more than 10,000 gallons of dairy a day!!!! Learn more in this #MadeInNNY Minute:
FACTS NOT FEAR: US coronavirus death toll eclipses China's official count, but when will we see the peak? Tune in now to find out: bit.ly/3bEGKRR
ABC50 and Bella Bridal & Tuxedo Junction are congratulating North Country couples who have announced their engagement or wedding. If you would like to announce yours with us, submit the details here and we'll share it online and on TV! https://www.informnny.com/newlywed-news/#/gallery
DAILY CORONAVIRUS UPDATE: More than 3,000 people in the U.S. have died from COVID-19. Plus, U.S. officials fight to stop the spread of false reports about the coronavirus. https://bit.ly/2UPlFxj
Lawmakers are already working on the next coronavirus relief bill, tips on how to enjoy time outside while following social distancing and updates from around the country. #Coronavirus #FactsNotFear
LIVE CORONAVIRUS UPDATE: COVID-19 cases top more than 700K globally, President Trump extends social distancing guidelines & more on that stimulus check coming your way. Watch live now: bit.ly/2WV4HQE
DAILY CORONAVIRUS UPDATE: President Trump extends social distancing guidelines. There are now over 138,000 cases in the U.S., and at least 2,000 deaths. Watch your daily coronavirus update live now. https://bit.ly/2UPmtCa
CORONAVIRUS Q&A: A panel of the nation’s top doctors are back with Art Franklin to give you the answers you need about COVID-19. Comment with a question for our medical experts. https://bit.ly/3dB9CfO #NexstarNation #CoronavirusHouseCalls
CORONAVIRUS Q&A: A panel of the nation’s top doctors have joined Art Franklin to answer your most pressing questions about COVID-19. Comment with what you’d like to see discussed. https://bit.ly/3dB9CfO #NexstarNation #CoronavirusHouseCalls
Economic relief is on the way for Americans as a two-trillion dollar economic rescue package was signed through. Another state activates the national guard. We have updates from around the country as a historic week closes. #Coronavirus #FactsNotFear
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