WGN-TV likes to pride themselves on being “Chicago’s Very Own.” Taft Today recently visited the WGN-TV studios, and the station’s history was brought to our attention. According to a WGN-TV article, “WGN-TV History,” here is a timeline of WGN-TV and how it inspired Taft High School:
Starting all the way through the 1940s-1960s, on Channel 9, the “World’s Greatest Newspaper” aired at the studios in Tribune Tower. Starting as a primarily sports network, WGN-TV has covered the Chicago Cubs and White Sox baseball games since 1948. In 1957, WGN-TV made history by being one of the first local news stations to air color programs, but it was only for a limited time.
WGN-TV’s history continued in the 1960s with them becoming the first local news station to make the nightly newscast half an hour. They also began to show various sports broadcasts such as the Chicago Blackhawks and The Chicago Bulls.
In 1961, WGN-TV added their Bradley Place studio on the northwest side of Chicago. With the addition of the Bradley Place studio, WGN-TV introduced “Bozo’s Circus.” The premiere of “Bozo’s Circus” became one of the most popular locally produced children’s series.
“Bozo’s Circus” also created a “Young generation of Cubs fans,” due to the games airing right after the programs of “Bozo’s Circus.”
In 1966, the Chicago chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Science Board of Directors awarded Ward Quaal the governor’s award. The award was for running one of the best independent TV stations in the U.S.
Entering the 1980s, WGN-TV moved from their half-hour broadcast to an hour-long broadcast. They called it “The 9 O’Clock News.” Alongside this change came the well-adapted catchphrase, “Chicago’s Very Own,” solidifying WGN-TV as a pride and truth of Chicago.
This catchphrase solidified the station’s relationship with the community, showing their commitment to their philosophy.
At the end of the 80s, with the transition of the 90s, WGN-TV scored high with the Chicago Bulls. As they progressed to the 90s, the Bulls rose to fame with star player Michael Jordan. WGN-TV broadcasted the six NBA World Championships that Jordan competed and succeeded in.
Over its 77-year run, WGN-TV has been a key factor in the Chicago community and has owned its trademark, “Chicago’s Very Best.” They have won numerous awards and are proud of their innovations and contributions to Chicago.
WGN’s commitment to being a pillar to the community has inspired Taft Today to be one for their own.
Taft Today dates as far back as Oct., 1939. Back then it was referred to as TheTaft Tribune.
We continue to focus on the same issues. In the 2022-2023 school year, Taft reintroduced “hall guards,” known as “T-Birds,” who monitor the halls and wear their T-Bird jackets. We also continue to represent Howie the Eagle and our royal blue and silver colors.
Taft clubs and sports continue to help their community by organizing various fundraisers and drives to donate and give a hand to others. For example Hope for the Homeless organizes canned food drives to donate to homeless shelters, and Crochet for a Cause which crochets items to donate/give to people in need. Our Principal continues to recognize our clubs and sports for their success and commitment.
Our visit to WGN-TV studios inspired us to not be afraid of change, when there is constant change around us all we can do is progress.
