Gladding, Berghorn Acquire WKZE-FM in Salisbury CT

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, January 13, 2025

WKZE-FM/Salisbury

AAA WKZE (98.1 FM)/Salisbury CT (Red Hook) has announced its sale to new independent owners, Andy Gladding and Katie Berghorn, a couple from Brooklyn with extensive experience in radio and marketing, reports timesunion.com. The station, known for its commitment to "Celebrating Musical Diversity," will continue its tradition under the new ownership without major changes. This decision comes three and a half years after the passing of station founder Will Stanley and is led by his widow, Barb Stanley, the current owner.

Barb Stanley emphasized her commitment to maintaining the station's independent spirit, choosing not to sell to larger corporate entities. "No matter what, I wasn't going to sell out," she remarked. WKZE offers a diverse programming mix, including world music, folk, jazz, blues, and rock, serving listeners across the mid Hudson Valley, northern Harlem Valley, and northwestern Connecticut.

Andy Gladding, the new co-owner, who also serves as chief engineer for WRHU at Hofstra University, stressed the importance of local presence. "There will be no wrecking ball here," he said, highlighting the reciprocal respect between the station and the community.

Katie Berghorn, a graduate of Marist College with a background in digital marketing and publishing, joins Gladding in this new venture. The couple, who have historical ties to the region and own a home in Walden, plan to leverage WKZE as a training ground for college students aspiring to enter broadcast media.

The price remains undisclosed, but Barb Stanley noted it was half of what could have been obtained from a corporate buyer, underscoring her dedication to the station's ethos and its role within the community.

In addition to maintaining the existing staff and programming format, the new owners aim to enhance WKZE's engagement with advertisers and establish collaborations with local colleges to nurture future radio professionals.