Butler Radio History by Jason M Bowen Butler PA

Butler Radio is a locally-owned and operated radio station serving Butler County, Pennsylvania, and the surrounding areas. The station has been a fixture of the local community for more than 70 years, providing news, information, and entertainment to its listeners. In this blog post, we will take a look at the history of Butler Radio and its importance to the community.

Early Years Butler Radio was founded in 1947 by a local businessman named Frank O. Pinney. Pinney saw an opportunity to bring radio to Butler County and purchased an AM radio station, which he named WBUT. At the time, the station had a limited broadcast range and a small staff, but it quickly gained a following among local residents who enjoyed its mix of news, sports, and music.

Expansion and Growth In the years that followed, WBUT continued to expand its coverage area and its programming. In the 1960s, the station began broadcasting in stereo, and in the 1970s, it added FM radio to its lineup. The station also increased its focus on local news and events, becoming a trusted source of information for the community.

In 1981, Pinney sold WBUT to Butler Radio Network, a local broadcasting company owned by Bob Cupp and his wife, Mary. Under their leadership, the station continued to grow and thrive. In 1999, the Cupps launched a new FM radio station, WBUT-FM, which provided an even broader range of programming and music.

Community Involvement One of the key factors in the success of Butler Radio has been its strong connection to the local community. The station has always been dedicated to covering local news and events, and it has also been involved in a wide range of community initiatives and charitable causes. Over the years, Butler Radio has sponsored numerous events and programs, including charity walks, concerts, and festivals. The station has also been involved in disaster relief efforts, raising funds and awareness for victims of natural disasters such as hurricanes and floods.

In addition, Butler Radio has provided a platform for local businesses and organizations to promote themselves and their services. The station has a loyal following among local residents, and its advertising packages have helped many businesses to grow and succeed. Looking to the Future

Today, Butler Radio continues to be a vital part of the community. The station is still locally-owned and operated, and it remains committed to providing high-quality programming and news coverage. In recent years, the station has expanded its digital presence, offering live streaming and online content to listeners around the world.

As Butler County and the surrounding areas continue to grow and evolve, Butler Radio will no doubt play an important role in keeping the community connected and informed. With its long history of service and dedication to the local community, the station is sure to remain a beloved institution for many years to come.