 WSGE began broadcasting on October 27, 1980 on the assigned frequency 91.7 FM, with an effective radiating power of 3,000 watts. The
station was part of Gaston College’s Broadcast Production and
Technology Department, and it provided practical training opportunities
for students. In 1997, The Board of Trustees voted to separate the
operation of the station from the academic sector. A year later, WSGE
became part of the Marketing Department. WSGE
received a construction permit from the FCC in 2002 to increase its
effective radiating power from 3,000 to 6,000 watts. In the same year,
WSGE received funding from the North Carolina Legislature to renovate
its studios and to acquire a new transmitter site. Approximately three
years later, the station held its first open house to showcase its
renovated studios. In March 2006,
the radio station was reassigned to Academic Affairs. It will again
partner with the Broadcasting and Production Technology Program to
enhance student experiences for the workplace. The
station’s application for an additional 1,500 watt power increase was
approved by the FCC on September 26, 2006. WSGE is now authorized to
broadcast at an effective radiating power of 7,500 watts and has the
potential of reaching 1.3 million persons in approximately 26 counties. Currently
WSGE is a volunteer-driven station that operates 24 hours per day. The
station is known for its eclectic programming, offering listeners a mix
of Americana, Blues, Beach, Shag, Big Band, Rock n’ Roll, Jazz, and
much more. It also serves as a source for local news and information,
as well as stimulating talk programming.
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A SERVICE OF GASTON COLLEGE
