3 local radio stations sold

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer

KUMU-AM/FM and KAHA-FM, three radio stations on the rise in the competitive local market, have been bought by Real Radio of America LLC of Georgia for an estimated $5.2 million.

"It was a pretty quick sale because we're one of the few operations making money," said Jeff Coelho, general manager of the stations.

Coelho said current owners Maverick Media LLC expect the sale to close in the first quarter of 2003, pending Federal Communications Commission approval.

"Everything should remain the same," said Coelho, about the formats and staffs of the three stations. "Real Radio is very committed to improving our facilities, to remain competitive in the marketplace. They are broadcast-friendly, not bean counters like most other Mainland (radio companies), and they recognize that our stations are moving in the right direction; that it's fun radio."

KUMU-FM, at 94.7, plays light rock; KUMU-AM, at 1500, delivers adult standards; and KAHA-FM, at 105.9, is dubbed The Big Kahuna, specializing in classic rock.

KUMU-FM was the No. 4-rated station in the summer Arbitron ratings and KAHA was making inroads in its key demographic: adult listeners who favor the oldies.

The stations employ 30 people, Coelho said.

Gary Roznek, president of Maverick Media, said "We want to congratulate Real Radio on their entry into Honolulu. We are very proud of our people and have seen dramatic growth in the last six months in terms of our ratings and revenues."