WBCQ (SW)
WBCQ is a shortwave radio station operating at Monticello, Maine, United States. The station is owned and operated by Allan Weiner, who also owns and operates WXME AM 780 kHz and WBCQ-FM 94.7 MHz at the shortwave site. The station transmits talk shows and other programs produced by commercial networks as well as former pirate radio broadcasters, including Weiner himself.
History
WBCQ began operation on September 8, 1998, on 7,415 kHz.
"WBCQ, Monticello, Maine, began testing August 20 and began programming September 8, only on 7415, on a 245° beam, which roughly crosses
Buffalo, Columbus, Evansville, Little Rock, San Antonio, Laredo, Durango, Tuxpan, across the Pacific to south of New Zealand."
Rotatable antenna and 500 kW transmitter
In 2018, WBCQ applied for a transmitter license associated with a rotatable antenna, later revealed to be a 500 kW transmitter for an Ampegon rotatable curtain antenna on a single mast.
In August 2020, it was reported that pending FCC approval, Weiner planned to purchase World [Harvest Radio International], the shortwave arm of the Family Broadcasting Corporation.
Frequencies
As of 2023, WBCQ broadcasts on 7.49 MHz from noon until midnight, including original programming in the late-afternoon and evening hours ; the remaining time is leased to R.G. Stair's Overcomer Ministry. WBCQ also broadcasts on 3.265 MHz, 6.16 MHz, 5.13 MHz, and 9.33 MHz
Notable shows
Radio Newyork InternationalLe Show with Harry Shearer