LIVE BLOG: Ioka is Auctioned Off

12:25 p.m. We're working on a video of the Ioka sale and will post soon.

12:23 p.m. The buyer intends to keep the Ioka's trademark marquee, according to Aten.

12:19 p.m. Ioka buyer remains a mystery. It's not Dan Brown, according to Carol Aten, who said she represents the buyer. Another rep. said the buyer is being represented by the Kensington Investment Co., a Boston, Mass.-based group.

11:38 a.m. The buyer intends to turn the Ioka back into a community theater for movies, plays, etc. His name was not released. A representative called him a philanthropist from the Seacoast.

11:29 a.m. Ioka auctioned off for $600,000 – nearly double its assessed value.

11:26 a.m. Bidding goes past $450,000.

11:25 a.m. Bidding goes past $280,000.

11:22 a.m. Bidding goes past $150,000.

11:21 a.m. The old bar area is included in the sale, according to auction officials.

11:14 a.m. Auction starting now.

11:09 a.m. Still waiting for auction to start.

11:08 a.m. Buyer must give a $10,000 deposit, according to the terms of the auction.

11:07 a.m. Among people in the crowd is the owner of the Stone Church over in Newmarket.

11:02 a.m. Crowd getting bigger. About 75 people, including town officials like the fire chief and town manager.

10:58 a.m. The Ioka is valued at about $350,000.

10:57 a.m. The building's owner, Immer Besser, was by its bank for failing to pay its mortgage on the property. The company also owes Exeter nearly $5,000 in taxes.

10:56 a.m. The bidding is expected to start at 11 a.m.

10:55 a.m. Potential buyers are being let in to view the building.

10:50 a.m. There are about 40 people gathered here.

10:45 a.m. And we're live here at the Ioka for its public auction!