Sen. Ingalls to purchase MOO 92, Vermont radio stations

NEWPORT — Vermont State Senator Russ Ingalls is purchasing Vermont Broadcast Associates’ seven radio stations in a deal valued at $996,000, marking a significant shift in the region’s media landscape.

Bruce James, who built the radio group over 35 years into a market leader covering one-third of Vermont and northern New Hampshire, will stay on as a consultant and voice-over artist during the transition.

“I’ve loved the radio business for years and have watched Bruce grow his company into a tremendously respected radio group that truly serves the local communities it operates in,” Ingalls said. “I, too, am committed to serving the local communities in northeastern Vermont and northern New Hampshire, as I have done over the years as owner of Remax All Seasons Real Estate, to which I will continue to do in conjunction.”

The stations, which will operate under Ingalls’ Green Mountain Broadcasters, include WMOO, JJ Country and WIKE in Newport, Magic 97.7, Kix 105.5 and WSTJ in the St. Johnsbury area, and WMTK The Notch in Littleton, N.H.

Under a local marketing agreement, Ingalls will operate the stations while the sale is pending, paying $20,000 monthly toward the final purchase price. Such agreements allow buyers to manage stations before the official transfer of ownership is complete.

“I’ve known Russ for over twenty-five years and have seen him contributing to the area’s success and his involvement in the local communities,” James said. “Russ will continue the tradition of strong local radio.”

Current staff will remain under the new ownership.