Red Apple Media has reached a deal to acquire News Talk Radio 830 WCRN in Worcester, Massachusetts, from Carter Broadcasting for $1.45 million — its first station in the state and a major expansion into New England.
Under the agreement, detailed in FCC filings, Red Apple will immediately begin operating WCRN through a local marketing agreement (LMA) while the sale awaits approval. The company will pay a monthly fee equal to 10% of the purchase price, with half of those payments credited toward the final $1.45 million cost.
The transaction is subject to FCC approval and standard closing conditions.Future programming plans for the station have not been announced. WCRN currently airs a news/talk format featuring syndicated conservative shows and local content. It remains unclear whether Red Apple will keep the existing lineup, simulcast its flagship WABC (770) from New York, or roll out new network programming.
The acquisition advances owner John Catsimatidis’ ongoing effort to build a larger regional spoken-word media platform centered on news, talk, and syndicated audio content.
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| WCRN 830 AM (50Kw, DA2) |
Red Apple Media was launched in 2020 when Catsimatidis purchased WABC New York from Cumulus Media for $12.5 million. The company has since expanded across the New York market by acquiring Long Island stations WLIR (107.1) in Hampton Bays — which simulcasts WABC — along with WLID (1370) in Patchogue and its FM translators.
Through its Red Apple Audio Networks division, the company distributes talk programming and long-form audio content to stations nationwide. Earlier this month, it launched the Worldwide News Network, a global audio news platform for real-time reporting and content distribution.
The Worcester purchase strengthens Red Apple’s Northeast footprint and opens opportunities to extend WABC personalities and network shows into additional regional markets.