KLKN celebrates 20 years on air
Posted By: Channel 8 Eyewitness News
8@klkntv.com
April 1, 1996 was KLKN’s very first newscast, and April 1, 2016 is KLKN’s 20th anniversary.
A lot of work went into starting up the station, inside The Old Black Coach restaurant. Workers had to hook up new equipment, build the set, and add the 300 foot tower behind the station. The tower sent the signal to a 1500 foot one west of town.
KLKN was the first station to sign on as an ABC affiliate in 46 years. For owner Phil Lombardo, it was a dream come true.
“It’s very rare, everything had to be ordered put into place. Make sure it worked. It’s what I’ve been praying for,” Lomardo said.
It was a time to celebrate, but also a time to get right to work and cover the news of eastern and central Nebraska.
One story that stands out is the 9-11 terror attacks, and how the community came together to help. The community was there to donate blood and stop by the station during a huge fundraising event that KLKN held to help the Red Cross.
Another story that stands out is when the F-4 tornado leveled Hallam. At the time, it was the widest tornado on record. Channel 8 was on the air the entire night, warning residents what was heading their way.
One of Channel 8’s main priorities from the beginning was to be involved in the community, and to this day, Channel 8 is proud to be associated with many charities and non-profits.
Anchor Rod Fowler says one thing he’ll never forget is how viewers welcomed the station with open arms when they first went on the air.
Citadel Communications President Ray Cole was at KLKN on day one and has one final thought.
“Where does the time go? We signed on the air pledged to be Lincoln’s own ABC and over the past 20 years, we’ve worked hard to deliver on our promise. It’s been gratifying to how viewers in Lincoln have responded. We are especially looking forward to the next 20 years, as we try to build on a proud record of programming and community service,” Cole said.
