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Larry Rollins
Larry was one of the three stockholders of Citrus Belt Broadcasters, Inc., the original owners of Winter Haven’s WSIR when it was built and put on the air in 1947. The others were Jack Brandstetter and Fred Allman. Their idea of building a radio station was conceived toward the end of World War II when the three were discussing a post-war business venture. Based on his earlier Associated Press reporting for the citrus industry, it was Larry’s idea to locate the station in Winter Haven and he is also credited with coming up with the call letters, “WSIR.”
After Brandstetter and Allman sold their interests in the station, Larry’s business partners included longtime station bookkeeper Nellie Barber, chief engineer Orden Craig, Mutual radio network personality Tom Moore, and Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Silvert. By 1960 he had become majority stockholder and eventually developed a desire to pursue other business interests. In 1975 he sold WSIR to Randall E. Jeffery, president of Cypress Central Communications, Inc.
Larry is now deceased.
Station History
1947 - 1975 Other Polk County Stations (Management)
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