WCIS (AM)

WCIS (760 AM), "Western Carolina Inspiration Station," is a radio station broadcasting a Southern Gospel Music format. Licensed to Morganton, North Carolina, United States, it serves the area. The station is currently owned by WFM Incorporated.

WCIS
CityMorganton, North Carolina
Frequency760 kHz
BrandingThe Cross
Programming
FormatSouthern Gospel Music
Ownership
OwnerWFM Incorporated
History
First air date
March 1988
Call sign meaning
Western Carolina Inspiration Station
Technical information
ClassD
Power3500 watts daytime only
Transmitter coordinates
35°47′40″N 81°43′12″W
Links
WebsiteWCIS website

History

In December 1985, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) granted a license to American Beacon Broadcasting, majority owned by Ernie Penley, Jr., station manager of WPTL in Canton, North Carolina. Sherrill Greene of Glen Alpine was the other owner. The plan was to play Contemporary Christian music by such artists as Amy Grant and Sandi Patti, with a target audience of 25 to 45.[1]

WCIS did not sign on until March 1988, and the format changed to Southern Gospel in January 1989. Many listeners were over 50.[2]

On February 1, 2008, the station's building was destroyed by fire. John Whisnant, Jr., who had won the Southern Gospel DJ of the Year award three times, said he believed the fire was intentionally set to cover up a burglary.[3] WCIS returned to the air on March 1 with automation and a backup transmitter, with plans to begin live broadcasts eventually. A new studio was planned on Highway 126. WMIT sent its chief engineer to get the station running again, and station employees were helping with construction of the new studio.[4]

References
  1. "Beacon Wins OK to Build Radio Station in Morganton; Christian Format Planned". The Charlotte Observer. 1985-12-18.
  2. Joseph Galarneau, "Religion Via Airwaves: More Listeners Tune in Christian Radio Stations," The Charlotte Observer, November 15, 1989.
  3. Price, Mark (2008-02-04). "Arson Blamed in Radio Fire". The Charlotte Observer.
  4. Chang, Julie N. (2008-03-05). "Station Rises from the Ashes with New Studio". Morganton Herald.


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