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While farm radio network ABN (Agri Broadcast Network) has a new home, its owners say they will continue its long-running focus on producer-oriented communication.

ABN will maintain a strong emphasis on farm news and commodity markets, according to Andy Vance and Lindsay Hill, owners of AdVance Broadcast and Communication, which recently took over the network's operations. The DeGraff, Ohio couple expects the acquisition of ABN to complement the Buckeye Ag Radio Network (BARN), which they also operate.

"With bringing both networks in-house, we plan to focus our efforts with the BARN on a wider range of programming of interest to the rural audience, with more of a farm-to-table approach," Hill said.

Vance explained that the two stations will allow the company to serve both farm and non-farm listeners.

"ABN has a rich history dating back to its founder Ed Johnson so it only makes sense to continue that tradition," Vance said. "However, as city dwellers migrate to the country and become land owners, there is a growing interest in rural issues and a need for the programming we'll offer in the BARN."

Vance and Hill, who both got their start at ABN, said their listeners can continue to expect a full schedule of live broadcasts at county fairs, the Ohio State Fair, Farm Science Review and other ag-related meetings and events. They will also continue to offer blogs, podcasts and news on their Web site as well as a service that allows subscribers to receive commodity market updates via text messaging to their cell phones.

The move will expand the company's programming reach from 15 stations to more than 65. The couple will deliver news for both networks from the Hill family farm in DeGraff.

"Our listeners identify with us because we are passionate about sharing the farm story," Hill said. "Delivering farm news from the farm is only fitting."

Caption: Andy Vance and Lindsay Hill will operate ABN from the Hill family farm in Logan County. Photo courtesy AdVance Broadcast