WYOU
{{Short description|Television station in Scranton, Pennsylvania}}
{{good article}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=March 2024}}
{{Redirect|WDAU-TV|channel 34 in Ozark, Alabama (1991–1995)|WDFX-TV}}
{{Infobox television station
| callsign = WYOU
| city = Scranton, Pennsylvania
| logo = WYOU 28 2023.svg
| logo_alt = The letters "WYOU" and "22" in gray, separated by the CBS eye in black
| logo_upright = 1
| branding = WYOU 22; 28/22 News
| digital = 12 (VHF)
| virtual = 22
| subchannels =
| translators = 25 (UHF) Waymart
| affiliations = {{ubl|22.1: CBS|for others, see {{section link||Subchannels}}}}
| country = United States
| airdate = {{start date and age|1953|6|7|p=y}}
| last_airdate =
| location = Scranton–Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania
| callsign_meaning = The word "you"
| former_callsigns = {{ubl|WGBI-TV (1953–1957)|WDAU-TV (1957–1986)}}
| former_channel_numbers = {{ubl|Analog: 22 (UHF, 1953–2009)|Digital: 13 (VHF, until 2020)}}
| owner = Mission Broadcasting, Inc.
| licensee =
| operator = Nexstar Media Group via SSA
| sister_stations = WBRE-TV
| former_affiliations = UPN (secondary, 1995–1998)
| erp = 30 kW
| haat = {{convert|471|m|ft|0|abbr=on}}
| facility_id = 17010
| coordinates = {{coord|41|10|58|N|75|52|25|W|type:landmark_scale:2000}}
| licensing_authority = FCC
| website = {{URL|www.pahomepage.com}}
}}
WYOU (channel 22) is a television station licensed to Scranton, Pennsylvania, United States, serving as the CBS affiliate for Northeastern Pennsylvania. It is owned by Mission Broadcasting, which maintains a shared services agreement (SSA) with Nexstar Media Group, owner of Wilkes-Barre–licensed NBC affiliate WBRE-TV (channel 28), for the provision of certain services. The two stations share studios on South Franklin Street in downtown Wilkes-Barre, with a news bureau and sales office in the Ritz Theater in downtown Scranton. WYOU's transmitter is located at the Penobscot Knob antenna farm near Mountain Top.
Channel 22 was the second television station built in Northeastern Pennsylvania and the first on air in Scranton, beginning broadcasting as WGBI-TV on June 7, 1953. A CBS affiliate from the start, the station was owned by the Megargee family alongside WGBI radio and shared its facilities on Wyoming Avenue. The station changed its call letters to WDAU-TV in 1957, after the Philadelphia Bulletin—owner of WCAU radio and television in Philadelphia—purchased a controlling stake which was later repurchased by the Megargees. In the 1970s, ratings began to slide for the station's newscasts as WNEP-TV catapulted into a dominant first-place position. The station's problems were compounded by a lack of investment during a three-year period in the early 1980s in which the station was forced to relocate to downtown Scranton.
Southeastern Capital Corporation acquired WDAU-TV in 1984 after another acquisition attempt failed. The new owners immediately set out to upgrade the station's outdated equipment and news department, as well as to establish a more regional image for the station. Two years later, Southeastern Capital sold channel 22 to Diversified Communications, which renamed the station WYOU in October 1986. Under Diversified, the news product improved and expanded with new equipment and a news helicopter, and at times the station eclipsed WBRE-TV for second place in local news ratings. In 1996, WYOU was the first station acquired by Nexstar Broadcasting Group, which cut costs by firing several on-air personnel. When WBRE-TV came up for sale shortly after, Nexstar acquired it and sold WYOU to Mission Broadcasting with a shared services agreement. Some of WYOU's operation, including news production, was integrated with WBRE over the course of 1998, while sales and programming remained separate. Over the 2000s, despite several attempts to change the format and an investment of nearly $1 million a year, WYOU's share of news viewership declined from 7% to 4%. In April 2009, WYOU discontinued its newscasts completely, and the combined operation laid off 14 employees; it aired no news programs for three years until the station began simulcasting newscasts from WBRE in 2012.
WGBI-TV and WDAU-TV: The Megargee years
=Construction and early operation=
When the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) ended a multi-year freeze on television channel allocations in 1952, it assigned three channels in the ultra high frequency (UHF) band for use in Scranton: 16, 22, and 73.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-3-television-channels/126172161/|date=April 14, 1952|pages=1, [https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-three-television-chann/126172195/ 5]|title=3 Television Channels Allotted Scranton by FCC|newspaper=The Scranton Times|first=J. Harold|last=Brislin|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214082006/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-3-television-channels/126172161/|url-status=live}} Scranton Broadcasters, the parent of radio station WGBI (910 AM), had already applied for channel 22 on September 7, 1951, and amended its proposal on June 27, 1952.{{Cite web|url=https://enterpriseefiling.fcc.gov/dataentry/api/download/attachment/e77604ee-325d-01a1-9263-7c5f45a109b8|title=History Cards for WYOU|publisher=Federal Communications Commission|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=November 26, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221126194505/https://enterpriseefiling.fcc.gov/dataentry/api/download/attachment/e77604ee-325d-01a1-9263-7c5f45a109b8|url-status=live}} With no opposition, the construction permit for WGBI-TV was one of the first two awarded for Scranton on August 14, 1952. WGBI announced that the TV station studios would be co-located with the radio station in the basement of what was then the Prudential Life Insurance Building (previously the International Correspondence School) on Wyoming Avenue, with a tower on Bald Mountain.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-two-television-station/126172080/|date=August 14, 1952|pages=1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-two-television/126172117/ 32]|title=Two Television Stations Authorized for Scranton|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081521/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-two-television-station/126172080/|url-status=live}} Construction on the Bald Mountain tower began in early November, at which time the owning Megargee family announced the station would be the CBS television affiliate for the Scranton–Wilkes-Barre area.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wgbi-telecasts-to-star/140842599/|date=November 3, 1952|page=3|title=WGBI Telecasts to Start By April on Channel 22|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081840/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wgbi-telecasts-to-star/140842599/|url-status=live}}{{efn|During this time, the Megargees attempted to sell the construction permit to MCL Telecasting Corporation, which was formed by the Megargees; Comerford Theaters; and the Lynett family, owners of The Scranton Times and radio station WQAN. The latter two parties had jointly applied for channel 16, which instead went to the Union Telecasting Corporation for construction as WARM-TV after they withdrew.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-mcl-telecasting-seeks/140842674/|date=December 29, 1952|pages=1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-mcl-telecasting/140842722/ 37]|title=MCL Telecasting Seeks Assignment of TV Permit|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081503/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-mcl-telecasting-seeks/140842674/|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-telecasters-rescind-bi/140842776/|date=February 19, 1953|page=3|title=Telecasters Rescind Bid for Channel 16|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081546/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-telecasters-rescind-bi/140842776/|url-status=live}} The FCC initially rejected the proposal{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-fcc-holds-up-application-of/140843096/|date=March 14, 1953|page=3|title=FCC Holds Up Application of MCL Company: City Corporation Must Clarify Plea In Proposed Merger|newspaper=The Tribune|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081508/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-fcc-holds-up-application-of/140843096/|url-status=live}} before designating it for hearing.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-hearing-set-on-tv-merger-3/140844080/|date=June 27, 1953|page=3|title=Hearing Set On TV Merger: 3 Commissioners Dissent on Plan|newspaper=The Tribune|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081443/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-hearing-set-on-tv-merger-3/140844080/|url-status=live}} The application was ultimately dismissed.{{r|hc}} The Lynetts sold the Megargees the television equipment already installed in the fifth floor of the Scranton Times Building.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-a-look-back-at-50-year/140963999/|date=July 19, 2003|pages=B1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-television-local-broa/140964025/ B2]|first=Rich|last=Mates|title=A Look Back at 50 Years of Local Television: Many things have changed since TV's golden age|newspaper=The Times-Tribune|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024}}}}
WGBI-TV began broadcasting on June 7, 1953. Network programs were received directly from WCBS-TV in New York City by means of a large rhombic antenna at the Bald Mountain transmitter, while the station boasted a large studio for most programs and a secondary news studio in its Wyoming Avenue facility. In addition to newscasts hosted by news director Tom Powell, a newscaster for WGBI radio and the first face seen on the new station,{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-pioneering-anchorman-tom-pow/140872104/|date=February 25, 2004|page=C9|first=Borys|last=Krawczeniuk|title=Pioneering anchorman Tom Powell dies at 76: Newsman was first to hit local airwaves|newspaper=The Tribune|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081438/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-pioneering-anchorman-tom-pow/140872104/|url-status=live}} WGBI-TV produced a daily cartoon show and a western performer program in the early evening.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wgbi-tv-will-make-its/140843573/|date=June 6, 1953|pages=18, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-cream-of-crop/140921422/ 24]|title=WGBI-TV Will Make Its Debut Tomorrow As CBS Affiliate|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081718/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wgbi-tv-will-make-its/140843573/|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-news-director-radio-v/140921474/|date=June 6, 1953|page=27|title=News Director Radio 'Veteran': Tom Powell Soon to Be A 'Familiar Face'|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214082128/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-news-director-radio-v/140921474/|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-ge-experts-aiding-wgbi/140843384/|date=May 22, 1953|pages=3, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-ge-experts/140843408/ 4]|first=J. Harold|last=Brislin|title=GE Experts Aiding WGBI-TV In Race for June 7 Opening|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081518/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-ge-experts-aiding-wgbi/140843384/|url-status=live}} It originally broadcast with an effective radiated power of 178,000 watts,{{r|hc}} which was approved to be increased in 1955. At the time, the Megargees planned to construct satellite stations in Williamsport and Sunbury.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/scrantonian-tribune-wgbi-tv-to-be-first/140844280/|date=October 23, 1955|page=43|title=WGBI-TV to Be First Station Operating on Two Million Watts|newspaper=The Scrantonian|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081455/https://www.newspapers.com/article/scrantonian-tribune-wgbi-tv-to-be-first/140844280/|url-status=live}} Eventually, the link to New York was changed to a private microwave system after reception of the over-the-air signal from WCBS-TV degraded; still later, the station began taking a proper feed from AT&T to broadcast network shows in color.{{r|Time030719}}
In July 1956, Scranton Broadcasters began entering into negotiations with WCAU radio and television—the broadcasting stations of the Philadelphia Bulletin newspaper in that city—which sought to purchase the WGBI stations.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wcau-seeking-control-o/140844359/|date=August 1, 1956|pages=3, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wcau-seeking/140844436/ 22]|title=WCAU Seeking Control of WGBI: Deal Being Planned As Times Reported|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081455/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wcau-seeking-control-o/140844359/|url-status=live}} This resulted in a $650,000 deal for a 50-percent interest and voting control in WGBI-TV, while the Megargees retained full ownership of the radio stations.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-times-announcement-con/140844469/|date=August 3, 1956|pages=3, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-650000-deal/140844500/ 4]|first=Sid|last=Benjamin|title=Times Announcement Confirmed: $650,000 Deal Gives Philadelphia Bulletin Control of WGBI's Television Operation Here: Scranton Broadcasters Will Form New Firm For Radio Operations|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081522/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-times-announcement-con/140844469/|url-status=live}} The deal was approved that October,{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-sale-of-wgbi-tv-given/140844537/|date=October 18, 1956|page=31|title=Sale of WGBI-TV Given Approval|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081507/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-sale-of-wgbi-tv-given/140844537/|url-status=live}} and channel 22 changed its call sign to WDAU-TV on April 1, 1957, coinciding with the activation of a higher-power, 892,300-watt{{r|hc}} transmitter facility expected to double the station's service area.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wgbi-tv-to-become-wdau/140844800/|date=March 18, 1957|page=16|title=WGBI-TV to Become WDAU-TV on April 1|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024}} The Bulletin{{'s}} ownership of channel 22 was short-lived. The next year, it sold the WCAU stations in Philadelphia to CBS, retaining its interests in WDAU-TV and a Muzak background music service.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wdau-tv-control-to-be/140844568/|date=January 9, 1958|page=3|title=WDAU-TV Control to Be Sold If FCC Approves WCAU Deal|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024}}{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-fcc-gives-approval-to-phill/140844927/|date=July 25, 1958|page=3|title=FCC Gives Approval to 'Philly' Deal|newspaper=The Tribune|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215003056/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-fcc-gives-approval-to-phill/140844927/|url-status=live}} The Megargees bought back the newspaper's stake in 1959.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-wdau-sale-before-fcc-megarg/140845018/|date=April 22, 1959|page=3|title=WDAU Sale Before FCC: Megargee Family Offers $700,000|newspaper=The Tribune|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081945/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-wdau-sale-before-fcc-megarg/140845018/|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-fcc-okays-wdau-sale-to-megar/140845041/|date=May 28, 1959|page=13|title=FCC Okays WDAU Sale To Megargees|newspaper=The Tribune|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081536/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-fcc-okays-wdau-sale-to-megar/140845041/|url-status=live}} Again, the family pursued the possibility of constructing satellite stations of channel 22; in 1960, it proposed to reactivate the silent WBPZ-TV in Lock Haven for the purpose of rebroadcasting channel 22 for the Williamsport area.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-wdau-to-spend-180000-to-ad/57619627/|date=June 4, 1960|page=3|title=FCC Asked for Approval: WDAU to Spend $180,000 to Add Station, Build Micro-Wave System|newspaper=The Tribune|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215003054/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-wdau-to-spend-180000-to-ad/57619627/|url-status=live}}
=From dominance to third place=
For more than two decades, WDAU-TV's news department, headed by Powell, led news ratings in the Scranton area, while WBRE was the most-watched station in and around Wilkes-Barre. Under Powell, the station provided extensive coverage of local politics and coverage of local and national events including 1957 U.S. Senate hearings into racketeering and the 1959 Knox Mine disaster.{{r|Trib040225}} Most of the surviving aerial footage of the flooding brought by Hurricane Agnes was shot by channel 22; Powell arranged for the use of a helicopter owned by a coal businessman.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wyou-cameraman-jim-kee/140872568/|date=April 17, 2004|pages=B1, [https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-mates-wyou-cameraman/140872652/ B2]|first=Rich|last=Mates|title=WYOU cameraman Jim Keenan reflects on four-decade career|newspaper=The Times-Tribune|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215003057/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wyou-cameraman-jim-kee/140872568/|url-status=live}} WDAU-TV news commanded as much as 48 percent of news viewers in the market in the late 1960s and early 1970s.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-swings-in-local-rating/140849818/|date=April 15, 2000|pages=B1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-mates-top-rated-tv-st/140849805/ B2]|first=Rich|last=Mates|title=Swings in local ratings not unusual, experts say|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215002953/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-swings-in-local-rating/140849818/|url-status=live}}
This changed when the third-rated station, WNEP-TV (channel 16), began a top-to-bottom overhaul of its news department in the mid-1970s in the mold of the successful Eyewitness News format as used by WABC-TV in New York City. As a result, over a period of several years, channel 16 climbed to the top while channel 22 fell to the bottom in the Northeastern Pennsylvania market.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-anchors-aweigh-in-the/140868906/|date=February 20, 1978|page=11|title=Anchors Aweigh: In the Local Battle for TV News Ratings, the Gloves Are Off|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081454/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-anchors-aweigh-in-the/140868906/|url-status=live}} Though only slightly behind WBRE-TV, both stations combined had fewer viewers than channel 16's early evening news, which by 1981 commanded nearly half the audience{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-leader-wnep-news-tops-ratings/140869084/|date=March 20, 1981|page=3|first=Mark L.|last=Hoffman|title=WNEP news tops ratings|newspaper=The Times Leader|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081430/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-leader-wnep-news-tops-ratings/140869084/|url-status=live}} and in 1984 was the highest-rated early evening newscast in a three-station TV market in the country.{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1984/03/10/arts/local-emphasis-buoys-tv-station.html|title=Local Emphasis Buoys TV Station|date=March 10, 1984|work=The New York Times|first=William|last=Robbins|id={{ProQuest|424930455}} }}
File:Woolworth - Kresge Scranton PA vintage 78 Better Copy.jpg department store, as seen in this 1978 image.]]
Compounding the station's fall was a protracted series of circumstances involving the Megargees' attempts to sell WDAU-TV between 1981 and 1984. That February, the Scranton Preparatory School—which had moved into the Wyoming Avenue building in 1963—gave WGBI and WDAU-TV a year to leave their basement studio so that it could alleviate overcrowding on its campus.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-space-needed-to-upgrad/140845570/|date=February 26, 1981|page=15|title=Space Needed To Upgrade Facilities: Prep Asks WDAU To Vacate Building|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081958/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-space-needed-to-upgrad/140845570/|url-status=live}} Three months later, channel 22 officially went on the market.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wdau-for-sale-deal-br/140845616/|date=May 26, 1981|page=3|first=Francis T.|last=DeAndrea|title=WDAU for Sale; Deal Brews|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215003021/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wdau-for-sale-deal-br/140845616/|url-status=live}} On September 17, Scranton Broadcasters agreed to sell the station for $12 million to a consortium of Robert Dudley, Charles Woods, and A. Richard Benedek. Under the deal, the new owners would construct a new studio facility for WDAU-TV so it could move out of the Scranton Prep building.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-scranton-broadcasters/140845743/|date=September 18, 1981|page=4|first=Joseph X.|last=Flannery|title=Scranton Broadcasters Reveal Sale of WDAU-TV|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081503/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-scranton-broadcasters/140845743/|url-status=live}} The transaction bogged down over the course of 1982 as the Dudley–Woods–Benedek group struggled to raise the cash necessary to make the purchase,{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-sale-of-wdau-runs-into/140845933/|date=April 21, 1982|page=3|first=Joseph X.|last=Flannery|title=Sale of WDAU Runs into Problems|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081530/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-sale-of-wdau-runs-into/140845933/|url-status=live}} requiring extensions of time from the FCC.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-group-planning-wdau-pu/140845946/|date=August 11, 1982|pages=3, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wdau-buyers-express-ho/140845972/ 8]|first=Joseph X.|last=Flannery|title=Group Planning WDAU Purchase Voices Optimism|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081901/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-group-planning-wdau-pu/140845946/|url-status=live}} In the meantime, as a result of the delays,{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-prospective-buyers-of/140845993/|date=August 31, 1982|page=3|first=Joseph X.|last=Flannery|title=Prospective Buyers of WDAU-TV Get Deadline Extension|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081505/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-prospective-buyers-of/140845993/|url-status=live}} Scranton Broadcasters acquired a former S. S. Kresge department store in the 400 block of Lackawanna Avenue downtown and began refitting it to serve as channel 22's new home.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-move-to-block-sale-of/140845903/|date=April 1, 1982|page=4|first=Joseph X.|last=Flannery|title=Move to Block Sale of WDAU|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081743/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-move-to-block-sale-of/140845903/|url-status=live}} The Dudley–Woods–Benedek transaction hit another snag in November, despite an amended payment plan and FCC approval, due to hesitancy from a bank to put up the money the buyers owed at closing.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wdau-tv-sale-is-put-on/140846048/|date=November 11, 1982|page=19|first=Joseph X.|last=Flannery|title=WDAU-TV Sale Is Put On Hold|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081542/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wdau-tv-sale-is-put-on/140846048/|url-status=live}} At the end of 1982, the buyers presented a last-ditch proposal to modify the deal accordingly,{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-last-ditch-bid-made-to/140846065/|date=January 2, 1983|page=B1|first=Joseph X.|last=Flannery|title=Last-Ditch Bid Made To Buy WDAU-TV|newspaper=The Sunday Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081447/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-last-ditch-bid-made-to/140846065/|url-status=live}} which was rejected; the Megargees sued for breach of contract.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-wdau-sues-byers/140846097/|date=January 22, 1983|page=8|title=WDAU Sues Byers|newspaper=Citizens' Voice|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081549/https://www.newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-wdau-sues-byers/140846097/|url-status=live}} Litigation involving the buyers, the Bank of New York, and a law firm stretched into 1985, when a judge ruled in favor of the Megargee family.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/scrantonian-tribune-court-fight-continue/140847145/|date=April 14, 1985|page=B1|title=Court Fight Continues Over Sale of TV Station|newspaper=The Scrantonian|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081529/https://www.newspapers.com/article/scrantonian-tribune-court-fight-continue/140847145/|url-status=live}}
Philip Lombardo came close to buying the station and engaged in talks throughout 1982 and 1983,{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wdau-tv-denies-sale-ag/140846465/|date=May 24, 1983|page=3|first=Joseph X.|last=Flannery|title=WDAU-TV Denies Sale Agreement Reached|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215003103/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wdau-tv-denies-sale-ag/140846465/|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-wdau-on-block-again/140846564/|date=October 27, 1983|page=11|title=WDAU On Block Again|newspaper=The Tribune|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081605/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-wdau-on-block-again/140846564/|url-status=live}} but the Megargees instead agreed to sell WDAU-TV to an affiliate of the Atlanta-based Southeastern Capital Corporation, a diversified holding company.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-atlanta-firm-agrees-to-buy-w/140846614/|date=November 16, 1983|page=3|first=Dan|last=Orr|title=Atlanta Firm Agrees to Buy WDAU-TV; Release Sought From Lombardo Claim|newspaper=The Tribune|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215003030/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-atlanta-firm-agrees-to-buy-w/140846614/|url-status=live}} The $10.2 million deal, approved in 1984, included a 15-year lease of the studio facility from Scranton Broadcasters.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wdau-tv-sale-provides/140846745/|date=June 7, 1984|page=18|title=WDAU-TV Sale Provides Owners Guaranteed Income|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081720/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wdau-tv-sale-provides/140846745/|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wdau-tv-sale-finalized/140846758/|date=July 26, 1984|page=13|title=WDAU-TV Sale Finalized; Verto, Workers Reach Pact|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214082121/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wdau-tv-sale-finalized/140846758/|url-status=live}}
{{Quote box
| quote = We stood stagnant, while Channel 16 went crazy.
| author = Jack Scannella
| source = longtime WDAU-TV/WYOU cameraman, on how the station fell to third place as WNEP-TV surged{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-leader-tuning-in-to-tv-35-yea/140848362/|date=March 5, 1988|pages=Business & Industry 32, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-leader-tv/140848331/ 37]|first=David|last=Bender|title=Tuning in to TV: 35 years ago, three stations raced to be the first on the airwaves|newspaper=The Times Leader|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215003046/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-leader-tuning-in-to-tv-35-yea/140848362/|url-status=live}}
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The lengthy sale process further deferred investment and attention in the station as its ratings continued to decline. Vacancies were left unfilled so that new managers could make hires; as a result, WDAU-TV had only three full-time reporters on its news staff by February 1984 compared to seven at WBRE-TV and nine at WNEP-TV, and its total news staff had shrunk by a third.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-local-stations-face-pe/46683960/|date=February 17, 1984|page=21|first=Jim|last=Hennigan|title=Local Stations Face Personnel Changes|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215003601/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-local-stations-face-pe/46683960/|url-status=live}} The station's equipment was outdated, another matter expected to be handled by new owners.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-the-comings-goings-of/140846028/|date=November 9, 1982|page=3|first=Joseph X.|last=Flannery|title=The Comings, Goings of TV People|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081537/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-the-comings-goings-of/140846028/|url-status=live}} Alarmed by slumping ratings for the CBS Evening News and fearing that WDAU-TV's poor image weighed down its entire lineup of shows, CBS made two overtures to WNEP-TV within 18 months, in 1981 and again in 1983, in hopes of inducing an affiliation switch; channel 16 refused, remaining with ABC.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-channel-16-refuses-cbs/140846144/|date=February 2, 1983|page=3|first=Joseph X.|last=Flannery|title=Channel 16 Refuses CBS Offer To Shift Network Affiliation|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 14, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240214081533/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-channel-16-refuses-cbs/140846144/|url-status=live}}
Southeastern Capital ownership
Southeastern Capital Corporation took control of WDAU-TV on July 26, 1984, and began implementing a series of changes to update the station under general manager Gene Bohi, who arrived in Scranton from WGHP in High Point, North Carolina. These included improvements to the station's picture quality,{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-new-owners-tune-in-to/140846899/|date=July 27, 1984|page=8|title=New Owners Tune in To WDAU; To Reorganize, Update Station|newspaper=The Scranton Times|first=Jim|last=Hennigan|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215003543/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-new-owners-tune-in-to/140846899/|url-status=live}} as well as a new set for the newscasts.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-leader-dunleavy-barnd-will-be/140846931/|date=October 29, 1984|page=10D|first=Jean|last=Torkelson|title=Dunleavy, Barnd will be co-anchors: WDAU-TV to broadcast from new set|newspaper=The Times Leader|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215003602/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-leader-dunleavy-barnd-will-be/140846931/|url-status=live}}
The new ownership led to changes in personnel. Kent Westling, the sportscaster, was fired the day before the new set debuted.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-leader-1984-station-sell-outs/140846999/|date=January 4, 1985|page=7D|first=Jean|last=Torkelson|title=1984: Station sell-outs and soap sweeps|newspaper=The Times Leader|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215003602/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-leader-1984-station-sell-outs/140846999/|url-status=live}} In January 1985, Powell—by this time a news director and editorialist—was fired after more than 31 years{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-tom-powell-leaves-post-with/140847019/|date=January 19, 1985|page=9|title=Tom Powell Leaves Post With WDAU-TV|newspaper=The Tribune|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215003549/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-tom-powell-leaves-post-with/140847019/|url-status=live}} and replaced with Larry Stirewalt, who had been WGHP's news director.{{r|Time850120}} Debbie Dunleavy, the station's main female anchor, was briefly suspended at the same time for having her hair done without station permission;{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wdau-debbie-dunleavy/140847049/|date=January 20, 1985|page=A-4|title=WDAU, Debbie Dunleavy Feuding|newspaper=The Sunday Times|first=Joseph X.|last=Flannery|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215003603/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wdau-debbie-dunleavy/140847049/|url-status=live}} she published a statement in support of Powell.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-debbie-dunleavy-praise/140847067/|date=January 21, 1985|page=3|first=Joseph X.|last=Flannery|title=Debbie Dunleavy Praises Powell In News Director Flap at WDAU|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215003605/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-debbie-dunleavy-praise/140847067/|url-status=live}} Powell filed a complaint of age discrimination and reached a settlement with WDAU-TV in April 1986.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-powell-tv-station-set/140847171/|date=April 17, 1986|page=7|first=Joseph X.|last=Flannery|title=Powell, TV Station Settle Legal Battle|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215003623/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-powell-tv-station-set/140847171/|url-status=live}}
WDAU-TV hired Gary Essex, who had been one of the anchormen behind WNEP-TV's rise to number one in the 1970s,{{r|Time780220}} away from KUSA in Denver to anchor its newscasts in 1985.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-gary-essex-to-anchor-n/140847455/|date=September 9, 1985|page=3|title=Gary Essex To Anchor News for WDAU|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215004119/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-gary-essex-to-anchor-n/140847455/|url-status=live}} The local sales staff was expanded. That fall, the station began drafting plans to move its transmitter from Bald Mountain to Mountain Top to join the other area stations and give WDAU-TV much-needed signal parity with its competitors.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-dau-aims-to-improve-it/140847501/|date=September 13, 1985|page=21|first=Jim|last=Hennigans|title=DAU Aims To Improve Its Ratings|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215004120/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-dau-aims-to-improve-it/140847501/|url-status=live}} Seeking to shed an image as Scranton-centric, it opened a news bureau in Wilkes-Barre, changed its corporate name from Scranton Broadcasters to Keystone Broadcasters, and rolled out an image campaign titled "The Pride of Pennsylvania".{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-leader-now-that-his-mission-at/140847583/|date=October 24, 1985|page=9D|first=Jean|last=Torkelson|title=Now that his mission at WDAU is over|newspaper=The Times Leader|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215004102/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-leader-now-that-his-mission-at/140847583/|url-status=live}} News ratings edged up slightly; the Arbitron survey showed WDAU-TV tying WBRE-TV for second place at 6 p.m.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-at-wdau-the-news-is-go/140847759/|date=December 13, 1985|page=23|title=At WDAU The News Is Good|newspaper=The Scranton Times|first=Jim|last=Hennigan|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215004103/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-at-wdau-the-news-is-go/140847759/|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-new-wdau-chief-wont-set/140847956/|date=December 21, 1985|page=55|first=Geri Anne|last=Kaikowski|title=New WDAU chief won't settle for second best|newspaper=Citizens' Voice|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215004039/https://www.newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-new-wdau-chief-wont-set/140847956/|url-status=live}} Between November 1984 and November 1986, the station increased its audience share for the 6 p.m. news from 10 to 15 percent, tying WBRE-TV but far from the 51-percent share of viewers watching WNEP-TV.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-leader-please-stay-tuned-for-a/140848179/|date=March 7, 1987|pages=Boom Town 11, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-leader-please-stay-tuned-for-a/140848179/ 12]|first=Trout|last=Pomeroy|title=Please stay tuned for A tour of TV land|newspaper=The Times Leader|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215004051/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-leader-please-stay-tuned-for-a/140848179/|url-status=live}}
WYOU: Diversified Communications ownership
In June 1986, Southeastern Capital Corporation agreed to sell WDAU-TV to Diversified Communications of Portland, Maine, for $22.5 million.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-to-maine-firm-channel/140847188/|date=June 3, 1986|page=3|title=To Maine Firm: Channel 22 Sold For $22.5 Million|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215004124/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-to-maine-firm-channel/140847188/|url-status=live}} Coinciding with the activation of the new Mountain Top transmitter on Penobscot Knob, the call letters were changed to the current WYOU on October 9.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-channel-22-becomes-wyo/46150790/|date=October 9, 1986|page=22|title=Channel 22 Becomes WYOU, Increases Broadcast Power|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215004118/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-channel-22-becomes-wyo/46150790/|url-status=live}} In 1986 and 1987, the station debuted a news helicopter, "Chopper 22"; a satellite newsgathering truck, "SpaceLink 22"; a new news set;{{r|Time870307}} a 5:30 p.m. newscast, 1st News;{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-anchors-away-other-loc/140848225/|date=July 11, 1987|page=55|first=Geri Anne|last=Kaikowski|title=Anchors away & other local TV staff changes|newspaper=Citizens' Voice|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215004620/https://www.newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-anchors-away-other-loc/140848225/|url-status=live}} and a 6:30 a.m. newscast, News 22 Daybreak.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/scrantonian-tribune-wyou-begins-early-mo/140941755/|date=November 30, 1987|page=10|title=WYOU begins early morning newscasts today|newspaper=Scranton Tribune|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215004621/https://www.newspapers.com/article/scrantonian-tribune-wyou-begins-early-mo/140941755/|url-status=live}} During this time, WYOU began moving ahead of WBRE-TV in early evening news ratings, though channel 28 continued to bounce back at 11 p.m. owing to the strength of NBC's prime time lineup.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-rerun-local-ratings-sto/140942284/|date=June 15, 1989|page=B13|first=Geri Anne|last=Kaikowski|title=Rerun: local ratings story remains the same|newspaper=Citizens' Voice|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215004616/https://www.newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-rerun-local-ratings-sto/140942284/|url-status=live}}
Diversified explored selling WYOU and most of its other television stations as early as 1993{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wyou-owners-selling-th/140848540/|date=August 7, 1993|page=C-3|first=Michelle|last=Solomon|title=WYOU Owners Selling the Station|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215004625/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wyou-owners-selling-th/140848540/|url-status=live}} and reached a deal with Vision Communications, a firm consisting of Scranton-area investors including channel 22's general manager, to purchase WYOU as well as WPDE-TV in South Carolina and WABI-TV in Maine.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-area-investors-to-buy/140848556/|date=November 13, 1993|page=C-3|first=Michelle|last=Solomon|title=Area Investors To Buy WYOU-TV|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215004625/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-area-investors-to-buy/140848556/|url-status=live}} When the economic outlook for the television industry improved and revenues rose, Diversified instead opted to retain control of the three stations.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wyou-not-being-sold/140848578/|date=July 9, 1994|page=C3|first=Michelle|last=Solomon|title=WYOU Not Being Sold|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215004625/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wyou-not-being-sold/140848578/|url-status=live}}
After carrying Star Trek: Voyager, the station added UPN as a secondary affiliation in June 1995. UPN programming ran primarily on weekends.{{cite news |last1=Flint |first1=Joe |title=UPN extends affil reach |url=https://variety.com/1995/tv/features/upn-extends-affil-reach-99126762/ |access-date=March 17, 2020 |work=Variety |date=June 26, 1995 |language=en |archive-date=July 9, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709182408/https://variety.com/1995/tv/features/upn-extends-affil-reach-99126762/ |url-status=live }} UPN programs moved to the new WQPX-TV (channel 64) in 1998.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-braxton-on-the-move/140868374/|date=October 1, 1998|page=4|first=Geri Anne|last=Kaikowski|title=Braxton on the move|newspaper=Citizens' Voice|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215004626/https://www.newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-braxton-on-the-move/140868374/|url-status=live}}
Nexstar ownership and operation
The market for TV stations grew so hot that, by January 1996, Diversified was regularly receiving unsolicited offers of interest in WYOU from other companies. As a result, the company began exploring a potential sale of the station.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-wyou-exploring-sale/140848602/|date=January 18, 1996|page=4|first=Geri Anne|last=Kaikowski|title=WYOU exploring sale|newspaper=Citizens' Voice|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215004628/https://www.newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-wyou-exploring-sale/140848602/|url-status=live}} In June, Diversified announced the sale of WYOU to a new company, Nexstar Broadcasting Group, which would be headquartered in Scranton and led by Pennsylvania native Perry Sook. Sook founded Nexstar with ABRY Partners to buy major network affiliates in midsize markets.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-wyou-tv-sold/140848682/|date=June 18, 1996|page=7|first=Geri Anne|last=Kaikowski|title=WYOU-TV sold|newspaper=Citizens' Voice|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215005125/https://www.newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-wyou-tv-sold/140848682/|url-status=live}} It marked his return to broadcast station ownership; he formed Nexstar just days after closing on the sale of two TV stations in Oklahoma and Kentucky to Sinclair Broadcast Group.{{cite news|url=https://www.nexttv.com/news/sook-builds-broadcast-powerhouse-105694|work=Broadcasting & Cable|first=Melanie M.|last=Clarke|date=January 23, 2005|title=Sook Builds Broadcast Powerhouse|access-date=December 12, 2021|archive-date=March 3, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210303055227/https://www.nexttv.com/news/sook-builds-broadcast-powerhouse-105694|url-status=live}}
Nexstar assumed immediate operational control of WYOU upon the announcement of the sale and instituted a staff shake-up. Three top managers were fired and a fourth departed.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-nexstar-cans-wyou-execs/140848739/|date=July 9, 1996|pages=A3, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-nexstar-three-fired/140848758/ A8]|first=Rich|last=Mates|title=Nexstar cans WYOU execs|newspaper=The Tribune|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215005128/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-nexstar-cans-wyou-execs/140848739/|url-status=live}} In August, citing a cash shortage and overstaffing, Nexstar dismissed three anchors, including Debbie Dunleavy, who had spent nearly 20 years with channel 22; Sook moved the husband-and-wife team of Kevin Daniels and Valerie Amsterdam to anchor the 6 and 11 p.m. newscasts.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-leader-its-anchors-away-at-ca/140848830/|date=August 15, 1996|pages=1A, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-leader-wyou/140848822/ 20A]|first1=Van|last1=Rose|first2=Bob|last2=Hocek|title=It's anchors away at cash-short WYOU|newspaper=The Times Leader|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215005052/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-leader-its-anchors-away-at-ca/140848830/|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-its-anchors-away-at-wyo/140848788/|date=August 15, 1996|page=4|first=Geri Anne|last=Kaikowski|title=It's anchors away at WYOU|newspaper=Citizens' Voice|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215005105/https://www.newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-its-anchors-away-at-wyo/140848788/|url-status=live}} WYOU unveiled a new logo and graphics and expanded its local morning newscast.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-major-changes-at-wyou/29577943/|date=August 24, 1996|page=C5|first=Rich|last=Mates|title=Major Changes at WYOU Behind the Scenes|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215005138/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-major-changes-at-wyou/29577943/|url-status=live}} The license transfer received FCC approval in late September.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-the-team-stays-at-wyou/140848856/|date=October 3, 1996|page=4|first=Geri Anne|last=Kaikowski|title=The team stays at WYOU|newspaper=Citizens' Voice|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215005118/https://www.newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-the-team-stays-at-wyou/140848856/|url-status=live}}
In response to her dismissal, Dunleavy sued Diversified Communications for unjust termination in 1998.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-dropped-anchor-files-l/140848907/|date=August 12, 1998|page=3|first=Rich|last=Mates|title=Dropped Anchor Files Lawsuit|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215005054/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-dropped-anchor-files-l/140848907/|url-status=live}} The case was settled out of court in 2001.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-former-newscaster-wins-m/140848969/|date=February 23, 2001|page=6|first=Ray|last=Flanagan|title=Former newscaster wins money award|newspaper=Citizens' Voice|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215005054/https://www.newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-former-newscaster-wins-m/140848969/|url-status=live}}
=Consolidation with WBRE-TV=
As Nexstar was making staff changes at WYOU, WBRE-TV—the second-rated station in Northeastern Pennsylvania—was reluctantly put on the market. A group of limited partners successfully forced the managing partner in WBRE-TV's owner, Northeastern Television Limited Partners, to offer channel 28 for sale so they could receive a return on their investment.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wbre-tv-executive-not/140944056/|date=August 15, 1996|page=12|first=Rich|last=Mates|title=WBRE-TV Executive 'Not Happy' with Plan for Sale|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024}} Officials from ABRY Partners—Nexstar's capital backer—as well as Sook toured WBRE-TV.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-ready-for-a-sale/140849020/|date=March 13, 1997|page=4|first=Geri Anne|last=Kaikowski|title=Ready for a sale?|newspaper=Citizens' Voice|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024}} In April 1997, Northeastern Television announced the $47 million{{r|Time970426}} sale of WBRE-TV to Nexstar. At the time, duopolies were not permitted, so Nexstar opted to sell WYOU to Bastet Broadcasting of Columbus, Ohio. Bastet, in turn, would enter into a shared services agreement (SSA) with Nexstar.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-nexstar-buying-wbre-selling/140849103/|date=April 18, 1997|page=A11|first=Rich|last=Mates|title=Nexstar buying WBRE, selling WYOU|newspaper=The Tribune|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024}} Under the SSA, the stations could pool many operating functions and save on costs. Bastet was a sister company to Mission Broadcasting, which owned UPN affiliates in Greensboro, North Carolina, and Nashville, Tennessee;{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wyou-wbre-may-pool-re/140849142/|date=April 26, 1997|page=C5|first=Rich|last=Mates|title=WYOU, WBRE May Pool Resources Following Sales|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024}} both stations were run by other local broadcasters through local marketing agreements.{{Cite news|pages=12–14|title=Meters an instrument of discord|work=Mediaweek|first=Claude|last=Brodesser|date=February 23, 1998|id={{ProQuest|213647687}} }}{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115407018/tv-stations-to-share-programming-roof/|date=February 24, 1996|page=1E|first=Bill|last=Carey|title=TV stations to share programming, roof|newspaper=The Tennessean|location=|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=December 29, 2022|archive-date=December 29, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221229224550/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115407018/tv-stations-to-share-programming-roof/|url-status=live}}{{cite news|id={{ProQuest|1505564857}}|url=https://worldradiohistory.com/Archive-BC/BC-1996/BC-1996-03-18.pdf|work=Broadcasting & Cable|date=March 18, 1996|page=39|title=Changing Hands|access-date=January 6, 2023|archive-date=December 29, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221229224551/https://worldradiohistory.com/Archive-BC/BC-1996/BC-1996-03-18.pdf|url-status=live}} A correction listing Mission, not Sullivan, as the buyer ran on March 25, 1996, p. 51, {{ProQuest|1505604488}}.
The sale closed in December 1997 and became effective on January 5, 1998, leading the way for work to begin on the shared services plan between the two stations. The only departments that would not be shared were sales, programming, and accounting.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/press-enterprise-rival-tv-stations-team/140849330/|date=December 19, 1997|pages=1, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/press-enterprise-team/140849308/ 18]|first=Patrick|last=Lester|title=Rival TV stations team up: WBRE, WYOU hope to beat top channel|newspaper=Press Enterprise|location=Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024}} Eight WYOU employees lost their jobs in May 1998 as the news operation moved from Scranton to Wilkes-Barre, where both stations would be overseen by the WBRE-TV news director.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wyou-wbre-marriage-o/140868046/|date=April 11, 1998|page=C5|first=Rich|last=Mates|title=WYOU-WBRE 'Marriage' Off until June|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024}}{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-making-the-move/140849426/|date=May 21, 1998|page=4|first=Geri Anne|last=Kaikowski|title=Making the move|newspaper=Citizens' Voice|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215005621/https://www.newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-making-the-move/140849426/|url-status=live}} Shortly after the move, in July, the WYOU newscasts were rebranded as ActioNews, with a faster-paced format and emphasis on stories over reporters.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wyous-news-package-ge/29425021/|date=June 27, 1998|page=C3|first=Rich|last=Mates|title=WYOU's News Package Getting New Wrapping|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215005622/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wyous-news-package-ge/29425021/|url-status=live}} Frank Andrews, a former WNEP-TV anchor, was hired to anchor WYOU's evening newscasts in January 1999.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-andrews-drops-anchor-with-fo/140849578/|date=January 21, 1999|page=A5|first=Rich|last=Mates|title=Andrews drops anchor with former rival WYOU|newspaper=The Tribune|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215005720/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-andrews-drops-anchor-with-fo/140849578/|url-status=live}}
Nexstar and Bastet considered consolidating WBRE and WYOU's advertising sales operations by way of a joint sales agreement in 1999. In May, the U.S. Department of Justice initiated an investigation of the stations' operations and those of other local media in response to the proposal{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-federal-officials-prob/140849670/|date=June 12, 1999|page=A3|first=Rich|last=Mates|title=Federal Officials Probing TV Deal|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215010842/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-federal-officials-prob/140849670/|url-status=live}} and to a similar plan by the companies to consolidate the ad sales of two TV stations in Wichita Falls, Texas.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-merger-of-tv-stations/140849628/|date=May 9, 1999|page=B1|first=Rich|last=Mates|title=Merger of TV Stations Raises Antitrust Concerns|newspaper=The Sunday Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215010839/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-merger-of-tv-stations/140849628/|url-status=live}} Citing the resources needed to respond to the Department of Justice, the companies abandoned the plan in July.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-leader-2-stations-not-to-merge/140849704/|date=July 23, 1999|page=1C|first=Brian|last=Young|title=2 stations not to merge for ad sales|newspaper=The Times Leader|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215010841/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-leader-2-stations-not-to-merge/140849704/|url-status=live}} At the end of 1999, WYOU vacated 415 Lackawanna Avenue and moved its sales and programming offices, as well as a Scranton news bureau for the WBRE–WYOU news operation, next door to smaller space on the third floor of the Oppenheim Building at 409 Lackawanna.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wyou-keeps-its-offices/140849896/|date=January 8, 2000|page=C1|first=Rich|last=Mates|title=WYOU Keeps Its Offices In Scranton|newspaper=The Scranton Times|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215011734/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wyou-keeps-its-offices/140849896/|url-status=live}}{{efn|415 Lackawanna was then demolished to make way for a new headquarters for regional energy company Southern Union.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-city-making-room-for-progres/140849938/|date=September 30, 2003|page=A3|first=Stephen|last=Daily|title=City making room for progress: Demolition starts downtown at future site of Southern Union HQ|newspaper=The Tribune|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215011733/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-tribune-city-making-room-for-progres/140849938/|url-status=live}}}}
The arrangement failed to create the improvements that were sought. In May 2000, WBRE-TV had 18 percent of the early evening news audience and WYOU another 7 percent; WNEP-TV commanded 42 percent.{{Cite news |last=Mates |first=Rich |date=September 11, 2000 |title=High ratings, low rates |url=https://www.nexttv.com/news/high-ratings-low-rates-85532 |access-date=February 14, 2024 |work=Broadcasting & Cable |language=en |archive-date=May 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230528131000/https://www.nexttv.com/news/high-ratings-low-rates-85532 |url-status=live }} In 2000, Nexstar shifted to differentiating WBRE and WYOU by their regional focus; the former emphasized Luzerne County and Wilkes-Barre, while the latter emphasized Lackawanna County and Scranton.{{cite news|title=Wilkes-Barre, Pa.|pages=21–30|work=Mediaweek|first=Eileen|last=Davis Hudson|id={{ProQuest|213648000}}|date=May 13, 2002}} Two years later, the stations debuted combined morning and midday newscasts, Pennsylvania Morning and Pennsylvania Midday, presented by a mix of WBRE and WYOU personnel; evening newscasts remained separate.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-wbre-wyou-to-present-co/140873657/|date=August 24, 2002|page=5|first=Geri Anne|last=Kaikowski|title=WBRE, WYOU to present combined newscasts|newspaper=Citizens' Voice|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215011726/https://www.newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-wbre-wyou-to-present-co/140873657/|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wbre-wyou-planning-ne/140963397/|date=September 21, 2002|pages=B1, [https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-mates-stations-shoot/140963404/ B2]|first=Rich|last=Mates|title=WBRE, WYOU planning new look for morning|newspaper=The Scranton Times, The Tribune|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215011726/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wbre-wyou-planning-ne/140963397/|url-status=live}} In 2003, Nexstar split oversight of news for the two stations and elevated Andrews to the role of news director for WYOU;{{cite news|work=Broadcasting & Cable|page=36|date=June 9, 2003|id={{ProQuest|225241010}}|first=Dan|last=Trigoboff|title='Shared' News Director Goes Solo}} Andrews left WYOU in March 2006 while preparing a run for the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. He won election that November, using his on-air and real last names as Frank Andrews Shimkus.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-wyou-anchor-andrews-off/140955657/|date=March 10, 2006|page=7|first=Boris|last=Krawczeniuk|title=WYOU anchor Andrews off the air until he decides about election|newspaper=Citizens' Voice|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215011727/https://www.newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-wyou-anchor-andrews-off/140955657/|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-wnep-boss-finds-replacin/140955759/|date=November 9, 2006|page=38|first=Geri Anne|last=Kaikowski|title=WNEP boss finds replacing Kim Supon is no easy task|newspaper=Citizens' Voice|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215011723/https://www.newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-wnep-boss-finds-replacin/140955759/|url-status=live}}
In 2006, WYOU revamped its evening newscasts again, this time adopting an interactive format incorporating viewer emails and phone calls, as well as contributions from local weather spotters. Candice Grossklaus, previously the weekend anchor for WBRE, was teamed with Eric Scheiner, who came from a similar nontraditional newscast at WNDS-TV in Derry, New Hampshire.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wyou-tv-names-new-co-a/140890873/|date=August 12, 2006|page=C3|title=WYOU-TV names new co-anchors|newspaper=The Times-Tribune|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215011714/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wyou-tv-names-new-co-a/140890873/|url-status=live}} The new newscasts eschewed regular sports coverage on weeknights.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-wbre-resurrects-the-i-te/140890965/|date=August 24, 2006|page=42|first=Geri Anne|last=Kaikowski|title=WBRE resurrects the I-Team while WYOU 'kills' sports reports|newspaper=Citizens' Voice|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215011726/https://www.newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-wbre-resurrects-the-i-te/140890965/|url-status=live}} The shared Pennsylvania Morning and Pennsylvania Midday shows were discontinued in January 2008; on WYOU, this resulted in its replacement with syndicated morning show The Daily Buzz.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-newswatch-16-finally-n/140956123/|date=January 30, 2008|page=15|first=Gerianne|last=Kaikowski|title='Newswatch 16' finally names full-time news director|newspaper=Citizens' Voice|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024}} The WYOU early evening news lineup was revamped again in June 2008 to consist of First at Four, a 4 p.m. early evening newscast; WYOU Interactive at 6 p.m.; and a new WYOU News at 7.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-new-broadcast-lineup-ann/140961558/|date=June 8, 2008|page=A3|title=New broadcast lineup announced for WYOU|newspaper=The Sunday Voice|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215012313/https://www.newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-new-broadcast-lineup-ann/140961558/|url-status=live}}
=End of separate newscasts on WYOU=
Nexstar and Mission announced on April 3, 2009, that WYOU would cease airing newscasts, with the final newscasts airing that night; they would be replaced by syndicated programs. This resulted in the layoffs of 14 personnel. The station saved nearly $900,000 a year from closing down its news department.{{cite news|url=http://www.timesleader.com/news/WYOU_ceasing_news_broadcasts.html|title=WYOU ceasing news broadcasts|last=Seder|first=Andrew M.|date=April 3, 2009|work=Times Leader|access-date=April 3, 2009|archive-date=April 7, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090407081248/http://www.timesleader.com/news/WYOU_ceasing_news_broadcasts.html|url-status=dead}}{{cite web |url=http://www.broadcastingcable.com/article/191255-WYOU_Scraps_News.php?rssid=20065 |title=WYOU Scraps News |date=April 3, 2009| work= Broadcasting & Cable |access-date=April 4, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120927032757/http://www.broadcastingcable.com/article/191255-WYOU_Scraps_News.php?rssid=20065 |archive-date=September 27, 2012 }} Dennis Thatcher, the chief operating officer of Mission Broadcasting, noted that many efforts to attract viewers with new formats, talent, or sets had failed despite the investment.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-wyou-tv-pulls-plug-on-lo/140891621/|date=April 4, 2009|pages=2, [https://www.newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-wyou-television-schedul/140891649/ 15]|first=Stacy|last=Brown|title=WYOU-TV pulls plug on local newscasts|newspaper=Citizens' Voice|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 15, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215012327/https://www.newspapers.com/article/citizens-voice-wyou-tv-pulls-plug-on-lo/140891621/|url-status=live}} In the last Nielsen ratings prior to the closure, WYOU's weeknight 11 p.m. newscast only garnered a 4% share,{{Cite news|last=Brown|first=Stacy|url=http://thetimes-tribune.com/articles/2009/04/10/lifestyles/sc_times_trib.20090410.c.pg1.tt10mrmedia_s1.2435883_fea1.txt|title= Relive Channel 22 news history|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090413062901/http://thetimes-tribune.com/articles/2009/04/10/lifestyles/sc_times_trib.20090410.c.pg1.tt10mrmedia_s1.2435883_fea1.txt |archive-date=April 13, 2009|work=The Times-Tribune|date= April 3, 2009}} and sitcoms on WOLF-TV had better ratings than the 6 p.m. report.{{r|Citi090404}} Even with the ending of its separate news department, WYOU struggled to receive even a 3% share of the ratings for the syndicated programming that replaced the newscasts.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wnep-tv-sweeps-ratings/140961971/|date=June 19, 2009|page=C1|first=Stacy|last=Brown|title=WNEP-TV sweeps ratings|newspaper=The Times-Tribune|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215012336/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-wnep-tv-sweeps-ratings/140961971/|url-status=live}}
Local news programs returned to WYOU on April 2, 2012, coinciding with a switch to high-definition news production for WBRE-TV. On that date, dedicated Eyewitness News newscasts at noon and 7 p.m. were added to WYOU's schedule, and the station began to simulcast WBRE's weekday morning and nightly 6 and 11 p.m. newscasts.{{Cite news|url=http://www.tvnewscheck.com/article/2012/02/10/57397/wbre-wyou-to-launch-hd-newscasts|title=WBRE, WYOU To Launch HD Newscasts|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220414213038/https://tvnewscheck.com/uncategorized/article/wbre-wyou-to-launch-hd-newscasts/ |archive-date=April 14, 2022|work=TVNewsCheck|date=February 10, 2012}}
In 2018, Nexstar announced it would acquire Tribune Media. Tribune had been the operator of WNEP-TV through a services agreement since 2014. Nexstar elected to retain WBRE, as well as its agreement to operate WYOU, and sold WNEP-TV to Tegna Inc. in 2019.{{Cite news|url=https://www.citizensvoice.com/news/nexstar-plans-to-sell-wnep-tv-1.2439902|title=Nexstar plans to sell WNEP-TV|last=Allabaugh|first=Denise|work=Citizens' Voice|language=en-US|access-date=February 1, 2019|archive-date=February 2, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190202042019/https://www.citizensvoice.com/news/nexstar-plans-to-sell-wnep-tv-1.2439902|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://tvnewscheck.com/article/top-news/232391/nexstar-selling-19-tvs-in-15-markets-for-1-32b/|title=Nexstar Selling 19 TVs In 15 Markets For $1.32B|work=TVNewsCheck|publisher=NewsCheckMedia|date=March 20, 2019|access-date=March 20, 2019|archive-date=March 20, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190320194359/https://tvnewscheck.com/article/top-news/232391/nexstar-selling-19-tvs-in-15-markets-for-1-32b/|url-status=live}}
WYOU's archive of newsfilm is the most extensive in the market. WBRE-TV lost all of its footage in 1972 because of Hurricane Agnes, which flooded the station's basement, while WNEP disposed of significant portions of its archive.{{Cite news|url=https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-time-is-now-to-preserv/140872220/|date=July 26, 2003|pages=B1, [https://newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-take-steps-to-save-our/140872254/ B2]|first=Rich|last=Mates|title=Time is now to preserve local television archives|newspaper=The Scranton Times, The Tribune|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215012314/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-time-is-now-to-preserv/140872220/|url-status=live}}
Technical information
=Subchannels=
The station's signal is multiplexed:
| class="wikitable"
|+Subchannels of WYOU{{cite web |url=http://www.rabbitears.info/market.php?request=station_search&callsign=WYOU#station |title=TV Query for WYOU |website=RabbitEars |access-date=April 4, 2018 |archive-date=April 5, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180405152810/https://rabbitears.info//market.php?request=station_search&callsign=WYOU#station |url-status=live }} ! scope = "col" | Channel ! scope = "col" | Res. ! scope = "col" | Aspect ! scope = "col" | Short name ! scope = "col" | Programming |
| scope = "row" | 22.1 |
|---|
| scope = "row" | 22.2
| rowspan="3"|480i || Mystery || Ion Mystery |
| scope = "row" | 22.3
| GetTV || GET |
| scope = "row" | 22.4
| Cozi || Cozi TV |
WBRE and WYOU began airing digital signals simultaneously in December 2002.{{Cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-get-hbo-without-shelli/140874965/|date=December 7, 2002|page=B2|first=Rich|last=Mates|title=Get HBO without shelling out on channels you'll never watch|newspaper=The Scranton Times, The Tribune|location=Scranton, Pennsylvania|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=February 14, 2024|archive-date=February 15, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215012325/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-tribune-get-hbo-without-shelli/140874965/|url-status=live}} Both stations ceased analog broadcasts on the original digital transition date of February 17, 2009,{{Cite news|url=https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna29245267|agency=Associated Press|title=List of TV stations ending analog broadcasts|date=February 17, 2009|work=NBC News|access-date=March 20, 2023|archive-date=January 6, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230106052115/https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna29245267|url-status=live}} with WYOU continuing to broadcast on VHF channel 13.{{Cite web |date=May 23, 2006 |title=DTV Tentative Channel Designations for the First and Second Rounds |url=http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-06-1082A2.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130829004251/http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-06-1082A2.pdf |archive-date=August 29, 2013 |access-date=August 29, 2021 |publisher=Federal Communications Commission}} It was repacked to channel 12 in March 2020 as a result of the 2016 United States wireless spectrum auction.{{Cite web|url=http://data.fcc.gov/download/incentive-auctions/Transition_Files/Phase_Assignment_Closing_PN.csv|title=FCC TV Spectrum Phase Assignment Table|format=CSV|website=Federal Communications Commission|date=April 13, 2017|access-date=April 17, 2017|archive-date=April 17, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170417160749/http://data.fcc.gov/download/incentive-auctions/Transition_Files/Phase_Assignment_Closing_PN.csv|url-status=live}}
=Translator=
- {{FCC-LMS-Facility|73325|3=WYOU (DRT)}} 25 Waymart
WYOU and the other major Scranton–Wilkes-Barre stations maintain secondary transmitters at Waymart, where the operation of the Waymart Wind Farm interferes with the reception of television signals from Mountain Top. In 2004, the FCC authorized the construction of a tower on Moosic Mountain.{{Cite news|work=The Wayne Independent|location=Honesdale, Pennsylvania|title=TV Tower Okayed For Wind Farm Neighbors|date=October 11, 2004|first=Thomas M.|last=DiStasio}} FPL Energy (now NextEra Energy Resources), owner of the wind farm, built the facility to provide the signals of the major networks.{{Cite news|title=Wind farm neighbors safe for digital TV, says FPL|date=December 16, 2008|first=Steve|last=McConnell|work=The Wayne Independent|location=Honesdale, Pennsylvania}}
Notes
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References
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External links
- [http://www.pahomepage.com/ PAHomepage.com] – Official WYOU/WBRE-TV Website
{{Scranton/Wilkes-Barre TV}}
{{Binghamton TV}}
{{CBS Pennsylvania}}
{{NXST TV}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Wyou}}
Category:1953 establishments in Pennsylvania
Category:Get (TV network) affiliates
Category:Ion Mystery affiliates
Category:Television channels and stations established in 1953