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Well-known broadcaster dies

MARTINSBURG, W.Va. — A longtime businessman and broadcaster in West Virginia’s eastern panhandle has died.

Rick Wachtel, founder and previous owner of radio station WRNR in Martinsburg died Thursday.

Watchtel and his brother owned radio stations over the years before selling the operation in 2015.  Wachtel was a member of the West Virginia Broadcasters Hall of Fame.

He was a 1963 graduate of Martinsburg High School and in addition to his duties as a broadcaster and station owner, Wachtel also served as chairman of the Eastern West Virginia Regional Airport Authority.

He was credited with helping secure millions in federal funding for aviation services and projects to support them in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia.

His death was unexpected.  Funeral arrangements are pending.





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