Downtown Broadcasting Company

The **Downtown Broadcasting Company** is an American publicly traded television broadcasting company based in Saranac Lake, New York and Blakeville, Wagnerland. Founded by James Wagner, the company owns 66 television stations across the country, in markets as large as Boston, Massachusetts, and as small as Helena, Montana.

## History

### The Early Years (1960s-1970s):

In the tumultuous decade of the 1960s, James Wagner, a visionary entrepreneur with a passion for broadcasting, embarked on a journey that would eventually lead to the creation of the Downtown Broadcasting Company. Born and raised in Saranac Lake, New York, Wagner started his career as a radio DJ in his hometown, where he quickly gained a reputation for his charismatic on-air presence and deep connection with the community.

In 1963, James Wagner's dream began to take shape when he secured a small loan and founded a local radio station, WKDT. WKDT became an instant hit in Saranac Lake, and its success allowed Wagner to expand his media empire. By the end of the decade, Wagner had acquired several radio stations across the North Country of New York, forming the foundation of Downtown Broadcasting Company.

### Television Expansion (1980s-1990s):

The 1980s marked a pivotal moment in Downtown Broadcasting Company's history as it ventured into the world of television broadcasting. Wagner's ambition knew no bounds, and he saw television as the future of media. In 1982, the company acquired its first television station, WMGC-TV (now WIVT) in Binghamton, New York.

The stations they bought quickly became regional powerhouses, offering locals a diverse range of programming. The station's success encouraged Wagner to continue expanding, and throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Downtown Broadcasting Company acquired numerous television stations across the United States, including major markets like Boston, Massachusetts.

### Becoming a Publicly Traded Company (2000s-2010s):

As the new millennium dawned, Downtown Broadcasting Company underwent a significant transformation. In 2003, the company went public, offering shares on the stock market for the first time. This move allowed Wagner to secure the necessary capital to further expand the company's reach and invest in cutting-edge broadcasting technology.

Under Wagner's leadership, the company continued to grow, expanding into new markets and embracing digital media platforms. Downtown Broadcasting Company became known for its commitment to local news and community engagement, even as it competed with larger national networks.

### The Legacy of James Wagner (2020s-Present):

In 2021, tragedy struck when James Wagner passed away at the age of 87. His legacy, however, lived on in the company he had built from the ground up. His vision of bringing quality programming and local news to communities of all sizes continued to be the driving force behind Downtown Broadcasting Company.

Today, Downtown Broadcasting Company operates 66 television stations across the country, serving diverse communities from coast to coast. Its headquarters remain in Saranac Lake, where it expanded into the world of broadcasting. The company remains publicly traded and continues to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of media and technology, all while honoring the pioneering spirit of its founder, James Wagner.

## Stations owned

List of TV stations owned by Downtown Broadcasting Company