Catsimatidis, pandas
(New York, NY) – While the Chinese government is recalling its pandas back home, 77 WABC owner-operator John Catsimatidis wants to see them take up residence in the Big Apple. Currently, just four pandas remain in the US — in Atlanta — after zoos in San Diego and Memphis already surrendered the ones they had on loan.
Catsimatidis says bringing the pandas to New York City’s Central Park Zoo on loan is a great idea, and he’ll make sure they have a ride, telling the New York Post: “I’ll even pick them up. Kids have nothing to look forward to in New York City right now. It will be a symbol of peace and culture.”
And while NYC has struggled to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in terms of tourism, Catsimatidis predicts the pandas could bring up to $10 million of business to the city. Foot traffic is down in Lower Manhattan, 33% below its pre-pandemic peak. The panda pursuit continues, and Catsimatidis says he’s in contact with the Chinese ambassador in order to try and make it happen.
