It’s been quite a 2023 for Bridge News LLC, the Vince Bodiford-led licensee funded by 5-Hour Energy creator Manoj Bhargava, who seeks to convert a digital multicast all-news network into an owned-and-operated entity.
This is happening at lightning speed, with Bridge News snapping up low-powered television stations left and right. Now, it is adding two facilities in the Buckeye State.
An asset purchase agreement signed on October 2 and filed for approval with the FCC on Friday sees Bridge News, owner of NewsNet, strike a deal with Image Video Teleproductions for both WIVX-LD 34 in Cleveland and W27DG-D in Millersburg, Ohio.
Millersburg is due south of Akron, in the heart of Ohio’s Amish Country. And, it is within the Cleveland DMA, ensuring NewsNet has over-the-air access across the whole market.
A $1.5 million purchase price has been agreed upon, with a 10% escrow deposit made by Bridge News.
At closing, a lease agreement will see Bridge News gain space on Image Video Teleproductions’ tower currently used by W27DG-D, at a monthly rate of $800 plus electricity consumed.
Serving as Bridge News’ legal counsel is Dan J. Alpert; serving as the seller’s legal counsel is Kathleen Victory of Fletcher, Heald & Hildreth.
