August 5, 2025

Ed Burtner Engages Community Through WWKY Radio Show

News Summary

Ed Burtner, former city manager and mayor of Winchester, has taken on the role of host for ‘Mornings on Main’ on WWKY radio. The show covers local issues, fostering community engagement and communication. Burtner aims to connect with Clark County residents through informal interactions at local businesses. His commitment to improving community involvement is evident as the station plays a pivotal role in local news dissemination and emergency communication.

Winchester, Kentucky – Ed Burtner, former city manager and mayor of Winchester, continues to engage with the community through his role as host of “Mornings on Main” on WWKY radio. The show, which runs from 8 to 10 AM, covers a variety of local topics, including schools, government, sports, and religious life. Burtner’s arrival as host marks a transition from the previous host, Tim Smith, a retired Hall of Famer from the Kentucky Broadcasters Association.

Taking over the radio show after his tenure as mayor ended in December 2022, Burtner brings his commitment to improving community communication and involvement to the airwaves. He often prepares for his segments at local establishments like Dairy Queen and McDonald’s, allowing for informal interactions with Clark County residents. This approach helps him to stay connected with the community he has served for many years.

Burtner’s connection to Kentucky stems from his longstanding residency, originally hailing from Virginia. His passion for local engagement is evident in his work at WWKY, which is increasingly significant following the Winchester Sun’s transition to a twice-weekly publication. The station, which operates at AM 990/102.9 FM from its location at 138 North Main, resumed broadcasting after a hiatus that began in 1995. Burtner had expressed a desire to establish a radio station in Clark County when he first became mayor in 2007, which has now come to fruition.

The program produced by Burtner features roughly 480 shows annually and has already yielded over 750 episodes. A noteworthy segment of “Mornings on Main” is “Voices of Recovery,” where guests share personal experiences regarding addiction and recovery, providing invaluable insights and fostering community support.

Community members have voiced appreciation for WWKY as a source of diverse and valuable information. The station is recognized for its role in emergencies, as highlighted by its historical importance during events such as the 1974 tornado, and is seen as a lifesaving resource due to its effectiveness in communicating critical information to the public. Its collaboration with local organizations, including the Chamber of Commerce, educational institutions, and churches, further solidifies its position as a hub for community interests and events.

WWKY offers a platform for local news, sports commentary, and community engagement opportunities, serving as a vital part of daily life in Clark County. The commitment of Ed Burtner to remain deeply involved in the community is reflected not only in his radio work but also in his presence at local events and celebrations.

Jeff Ray, the general manager of Gateway Radio Works, which operates WWKY, emphasized Burtner’s deep-rooted love for the community. His dedication to providing a platform for local voices and issues resonates with listeners, ensuring that the station continues to play a crucial role in fostering community connections.

Overall, the combination of Burtner’s experience, passion for local issues, and the historical significance of WWKY radio makes “Mornings on Main” an important outlet for the residents of Clarke County, further bridging local governance and community engagement.