Salt Air Broadcasting is buying the heritage radio stations of CCB Media. The deal makes Salt Air the largest radio group on Cape Cod.
What We Know: Salt Air will add 99.9 The Q, Cape Country 104 and Ocean 104.7 to its lineup. Those stations join Cape Cod’s X on 102.3, 106.5 and 1240 AM, the Cape’s first licensed station. In addition, the group plans a Classical HD channel operating under a non-profit model. Pending FCC approval, the broadcast transition happens November 30, with headquarters staying in Brewster.
What They Said: Owner and CEO Gary Hanna, a longtime Brewster resident, frames the deal around hyper-local radio. “We still strongly believe in the power of local radio, particularly here on Cape Cod,” Hanna said. Similarly, CCB Media owner Greg Bone wanted a local buyer after 48 years serving the Cape. “We have found the best local home for our stations,” Bone said.
What Remains Unclear: However, the company hasn’t said when the Classical HD channel launches or which signal will carry it. Likewise, there’s no word on whether programming or on-air lineups will change. Also, Salt Air hasn’t disclosed a purchase price. Finally, Hanna talks about “bringing back local voices,” yet the company hasn’t named any new on-air hires.
What It Means: Ultimately, Cape Cod’s biggest radio group will answer to owners who live there. Salt Air keeps CCB’s sales and back-office staff, adds sellers and continues the annual November food drives. Meanwhile, CapeCod.com becomes a digital hub for local news, dining, events and tourism. Notably, the classical channel arrives months after CCB sold Cape Classical 107.5 to K-Love.
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