Amaturo Sonoma Media Group (“ASMG”) and Redwood Empire Stereocasters (“RES”) announced today that ASMG will acquire two RES stations, KZST-FM and KWVF-FM, and other assets, in a sale expected to close in 3rd Quarter of this year. A Local Market Agreement (LMA), effective June 2, 2022, will permit ASMG to begin the operational obligations prior to FCC approval and closing.
Redwood Empire Stereocasters will continue to own and operate their stations KJZY, 106.3 FM and KBBL, 93.7 FM.
Lawrence Amaturo, co-founder and member manager of ASMG, LLC, commented: “With incredible care, Gordon Zlot created and developed KZST over 50 years ago and made it THE most listened-to station in Sonoma County. It remains just that even today. I am beyond thrilled that we can be the next torch-bearer for this great community gift”.
Gordon Zlot, founder and 50-year patriarch of KZST and the RES stations, said: “This was an agonizing decision, with over a half-century of creating and maintaining KZST with rating superiority in Sonoma County, but in my decision to step back in pace and work-life, I could not have found a better next-level operator-team than Lawrence Amaturo and Michael O’Shea. I will still be associated with all the stations, offering engineering and programming consultation, and pulling for them to the next level of success”.
Michael O’Shea, President of ASMG added: “I’m truly in awe of these great stations and the position they occupy in the hearts and ears of Sonoma County, and the brilliant leadership Gordon and his team have brought them, making radio so vital in the Northbay. I’m humbled at the thought of operating this combined great enterprise”.