Pamal to Acquire Galaxy’s New York Radio Stations
Two New York-based broadcasters have swung a deal. Pamal Broadcasting is acquiring the 10 radio stations owned by Galaxy Media in the Syracuse and Utica markets. The stations – including sports talkers WTLA “ESPN Syracuse” and WRNY/W243DY “ESPN Utica/Rome” – will begin being operated by Pamal tomorrow (10/1) 
under an LMA. The deal is contingent upon FCC approval. The sale of Galaxy’s stations comes a little more than a month after Galaxy founder and CEO Ed Levine announced his plans to retire at year’s end. Levine says, “I have been fortunate to live out a lifelong dream of mine for the past 36 years. Time and life march on. While I will miss Galaxy and Syracuse/Utica, I could not be
happier to hand things off to Pamal Broadcasting.” Pamal is owned by founder James Morrell and he tells Syracuse.com, “With this addition, Pamal stations cover an enormous geography ranging from New York City, Long Island and Northern New Jersey, through the entire Hudson Valley to the Capital District, up to Lake George and now out through Utica and Syracuse. It truly is a great opportunity for us all.” See the Syracuse.com story here.
WIBX has been cancelled by corporate. As a result, my last day with Townsquare Media was today, although I was told I could apply for other positions that might be available with the company outside the market. Based on what I’ve seen happening throughout the radio industry nationwide, I knew a day like this could eventually come, although I certainly didn’t expect it to happen today. I’m extremely thankful for the nearly 13 years I’ve spent at the Marcy studios, and especially grateful for the people I’ve had the privilege of working with over the years. These are some of the most talented people in the industry, and many of them have become very close friends.” WIBX has not announced its longterm plans for the morning drive program.
Partners in 1990 with a single radio station operating out of a diner in Utica, New York. Over the next 36 years, he built the company into a 15-station broadcasting firm operating in Central and Upstate New York. Levine says, “It’s been a wonderful ride over the past 36 years. It’s hard to believe I was 33 when I started the company, and now I’m 70. Where did the time go? As the years have passed, my priorities have changed. A year ago, I was blessed with a beautiful grandson, and my daughter and son-in-law live just minutes from us in Charlotte, North Carolina. Spending more time with my family has become increasingly important, and I know this is the right time to begin a new chapter.”
You’d be joining a dynamic and high-achieving team that likes to play as much as they win.