NYC Radio: John Cats Awarded Distinguished Service Award

• “92% of the American people believed what Walter Cronkite said, and I think news has to get back to that situation and that’s what we're doing at WABC.”

John Catsimatidis, owner of Red Apple Media, made that bold statement when accepting the 2025 Distinguished Service Award for WABC Radio, New York, from the Fair Media Council Folio Awards Friday in New York City.

The Distinguished Service Award was presented to WABC Radio in recognition of a century of broadcasting leadership and its continued role as a vital force in American media. Since Catsimatidis purchased the station in March of 2020, WABC has reclaimed its leadership position in News/Talk. WABC Radio is #1 nationwide Nielsen-rated across the country, Adults 25+ AQH. (Source: Nielsen Fall 2024 National DMA Dataset Persons 25+, Mon-Sun 12 midnight-12 midnight)

John Catsimatidis

“John and Margo Catsimatidis’ passion and vision have transformed WABC Radio, driving it to the top of News/Radio and delivering unprecedented growth in record time,” said Chad Lopez, President of Red Apple Media and WABC Radio.

Catsimatidis has played a major role in revitalizing talk radio and been at the forefront of the Save AM Radio campaign to ensure public safety in times of emergency. He has prioritized local news coverage, expanded programming, and championed open discussion on key issues affecting the community.

“I am honored to accept the Distinguished Service Award on behalf of WABC Radio, Margo, Chad, and the entire team,” stated Catsimatidis. “We are committed to common sense, presenting all sides of a story, and letting the listeners decide.”

The Fair Media Council Folio Awards are the Gold Standard for the Modern Media Landscape. Due to FMC’s rigorous judging process, earning a Folio is a prestigious award that puts winners on the A-List with the best in the industry. The FMC Folio Awards luncheon brings together a legendary crowd for a buzzy celebration unlike any other media event in the country.