WWJ/Detroit Reaches Century Mark
• Entercom’s venerable WWJ-AM (News Radio 950)/Detroit today reached an amazing milestone — it’s 100th anniversary as America’s first continuous broadcasting commercial radio station. The station launched on August 20, 1920 and celebrated its centennial anniversary with special on-air programming, including appearances by Entercom Chairman, Pres./CEO David Field, FCC Chairman Ajit Pai and former Detroit Police Chief Ike McKinnon, along with highlights of the past 100 years and special commemorative messages from listeners.
On-air veterans who have been with WWJ for more 25 years, including morning anchor Roberta Jasina, Auto Reporter Jeff Gilbert, City Beat reporter Vickie Thomas and Business Reporter Murray Feldman were also singled out for commendation. WWJ News Radio 950 will also be saluted tonight during a one-hour special following the local CBS News.
> Pictured, left, WWJ News Director Rob Davidek holding the official proclamation from State Senator Peter J. Lucido, and yes, sharp-eyed readers will no doubt recognize “Radio’s Best Friend,” (and fellow Michigan resident) Art Vuolo (right), who was on hand for the socially-distanced celebration.
“WWJ has served as an important news source for Detroiters for 100 years and continues to provide the most credible and comprehensive multiplatform news coverage relevant to our city,” said Debbie Kenyon, SVP/Market Manager, Entercom Detroit. “We look forward to honoring our station’s rich history by reflecting on key moments with integral talent and welcoming distinguished guests to celebrate with us. I congratulate and thank the hardworking staff of WWJ and look forward to another 100 years as Detroit’s go-to news source.”
• WWJ News Radio 950 launched on August 20, 1920 and was the first radio station to broadcast election returns on August 31, 1920, aired the first sportscast on September 1, 1920, the first missing person report on March 15, 1922 and featured the very first Detroit Tigers’ play-by-play broadcast on April 19, 1927.
