Our Story
In 1979, a small, abandoned airport hangar on the west side of Lima became the unlikely birthplace of a vision. When founder Ron Mighell first stepped into the empty 70x80 ft. hangar at 1844 Baty Road, he didn’t see crumbling concrete or cold steel—he saw a future broadcast center that could carry the Gospel across Ohio. Volunteers from across the region joined him, transforming the former airfield into a television studio with determination, prayer, and countless hours of labor.
In 1980, American Christian Television Services (ACTS) was officially formed, and the station received its call letters: WTLW — “Witnessing the Living Word.” The board expanded to represent believers from multiple churches, signaling that this mission belonged to the wider Christian community.
On June 13, 1982 at 3:30 PM, after seven years of obstacles, setbacks, and unwavering faith, WTLW signed on the air for the very first time. Ron looked into the camera and spoke a single word that summed up the journey: “Finally.” The years that followed brought growth, new programming, and new leadership under Bob Placie.
In 1997, Kevin Bowers became General Manager, guiding the ministry through expansion. In 2010, ACTS launched the West Ohio Sports Network (WOSN) to highlight local student-athletes and promote character through sports.
To strengthen long-term mission support, the ACTS 44 Foundation was established in 2017. In 2021, the ministry launched ACTS Character Academy to bring Bible education to public school students during the school day in Allen County. In 2023, the ministry embraced a new name—ACTS Ministries—reflecting a broader, unified mission that continues to grow today.
Broadcast Schedule
WTLW broadcasts three channels: 44.1 WTLW (Christian), 44.2 WOSN (local sports) and 44.5 Newsmax2. Check your local cable listings or stream using an app below on your favorite device.
