A new, strategically important chapter in his business career in the media sector is being opened by expatriate billionaire John Catsimatidis , who is making yet another dynamic investment in American airwaves.
According to an official application filed with the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) , his company, Red Apple Media , is now in the process of acquiring radio station WCRN-AM , which is based and broadcasts in Worcester , Massachusetts .
This is a pivotal business move, as the deal, which was closed for $1.45 million with Carter Broadcasting , marks Red Apple Media’s first expansion outside of New York .
Until now, Mr. Catsimatidis’ group had focused its attention exclusively on the New York market , building its influence with the historic and extremely popular radio station WABC as its flagship. With this move, the company clearly shows its intentions to create a broader network in the northeastern United States.
Currently, WCRN-AM has a strong news/talk profile , offering its listeners a consistent mix of local programming, select subscription content, and purchased airtime. Its influence in the local community is enhanced by established hosts, such as Hank Stoltz and Ben White , who anchor the daily morning show “Talk of the Commonwealth.” Meanwhile, the midday zone is dominated by Frankie Boyer , a radio personality with a long, successful, and highly recognizable career in the greater New England area.
Regarding the procedural and operational aspects of the transfer, Red Apple Media will not wait for the final, bureaucratic approval of the acquisition to get to work. The relevant documents reveal that the company will immediately take over the reins of the station through a Local Marketing Agreement . This practice ensures a smooth transition to the new ownership reality, without disrupting the daily operation of the radio station.
The big question now looming in the local media market is future programming plans . For now, both John Catsimatidis and his company executives are keeping their cards close, avoiding clarifying whether they will keep the existing informative format intact or whether they will proceed with radical content changes to imprint their own brand. The only thing certain is that the multifaceted expatriate, utilizing the strong liquidity from his activities in Energy and retail , is demonstrating his determination to establish himself as a strong player in traditional, but always influential, American radio.
