WQRM 850 AM off air due to fire

Early Sunday, August 8th, a passerby at the VCY America radio station WQRM 850 AM in Duluth, reported a fire at the transmitter site. The Duluth Fire Department responded quickly and rapidly extinguished the fire, but remained on the scene for approximately three hours addressing hot spots.

At this time it appears the transmitters are completely destroyed and the building endured significant damage as well. A cause of the fire is not known at this time.

Jim Schneider, Executive Director of VCY America, stated “We are grateful for the quick response and effective action of the Duluth Fire Department, Duluth Police Department, and Minnesota Power. While this is a troubling event, we rejoice that God works all things together for good. While our AM signal will take a while to rebuild, we know the many listeners who have contacted us over the years to share how much they appreciate the Biblical teaching and sacred music will be looking forward to hearing WQRM return to the air.  We ask for your prayers that God will guide us through the rebuilding process.”

WQRM, Quality Radio for Minnesota, was the first Christian radio station in the Twin Ports of Duluth and Superior, signing on in 1963 as WWJC. Operating with up to 50,000 watts, it was the most powerful AM station in the Twin Ports, covering over 100 miles in all directions. Since 2014, WQRM has been a member of the VCY Radio Network. VCY can also be heard in Duluth on 97.7 FM and in Washburn on 105.9 FM.

Image from Duluth Fire Department

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