Founded in 1967 by David Wagenvoord, WGNO (originally launched as WWOM) came into being to provide an alternative to the major network channels in Louisiana. The idea sparked when Wagenvoord, a local broadcaster, decided to create an independent television station that could air movies, cartoons, and local programs that the big national networks weren't showing. Although the station struggled early on, it was bought and rebranded in 1969 to better serve the community. Today, the station is owned and operated by Nexstar Media Group. Today, WGNO is run by a team of local anchors and reporters and is mainly focused on local news, weather, sports (especially the Saints), and entertainment. They are based in New Orleans, Louisiana, and have made a name for themselves by focusing on the unique, vibrant culture of the city rather than just crime and politics. One interesting fact: A unique fact about WGNO is the hidden meaning in its name. The call letters WGNO were chosen specifically to stand for "W Greater New Orleans," signaling their commitment to covering the entire metro area, not just the city center. Additionally, their signature phrase "News with a Twist" isn't just a slogan—it refers to their unique style of ending newscasts with positive, quirky stories about New Orleans culture instead of negative headlines.