80 years of CJOB
CJOB, one of Winnipeg's first radio stations, celebrates its 80th anniversary since its first broadcast on March 11, 1946.
CJOB, a historic radio station in Winnipeg, marks its 80th anniversary since its inaugural broadcast on March 11, 1946. The station was launched by then-mayor Garnet Coulter on the 10th floor of the Lindsay Building and was notable for being the first in Winnipeg to provide hourly news updates. Founded by Jack Oliver Blick, a veteran returning from World War II, the station's call letters 'JOB' not only represented his initials but also the employment it created for other veterans, showcasing a commitment to the community.
Over the decades, CJOB became an integral part of Winnipeg's media landscape, demonstrating resilience during significant events like the 1950 flood, when it maintained broadcasts from the rooftop of its transmitter facility. This commitment was further illustrated during the 1997 'Flood of the Century', when staff worked hard to protect the station’s equipment with sandbags to ensure continuous operations. By adapting and expanding its broadcast capabilities, including a transition to 680 AM in 1957, CJOB significantly broadened its reach across western Canada, reinforcing its slogan 'Working for Winnipeg' as a dedicated local news source.
As CJOB celebrates its 80 years, it reflects on its legacy of service and connection with the community, having evolved with technological advancements while staying true to its mission of informing and engaging listeners. This anniversary is not just a milestone for the radio station itself but also a celebration of community resilience and the important role local media plays in connecting people during challenging times.