Friday, March 3, 2006

FCC Sez No to Translator Application

The FCC dismissed an application for a translator on 95.5 last week. The applicant, Edward A. Schober, a New Jersey Broadcast Engineer has many applications pending. 

Congress visited this week by NJ Broadcasters

Broadcasters carry two major radio issues and one major TV issue to Congress this week. The radio issues are: protection of the present audiences to existing radio stations. Most NJ Radio Stations have significant audience outside their protected contours. Therefore, we are lobbying to change the law in New Jersey only to expand the protected contour several miles. The other major effort is getting co-sponsors in the House for the local radioprotection bill. This bill would forbid local broadcasting by XM and Sirius satellite radio. Both services were licensed, as a national service and this would make sure they stay national. In TV, the major issue is Multistream must carry. The cable companies want the ability to not carry all six digital TV signals and to down convert them to analog. Allowing Cable to get away with all of these schemes would prevent consumers from enjoying their full investment in HDTV. Broadcasters want the cable companies to pass through the digital signals, as broadcast over the air, to their cable customers. 

Rehr Urges Broadcasters To Get The Order

David K. Rehr, President & CEO of the NAB, this week urged broadcasters when they visit their Congressman to “Get The Order”. Rehr addressed the opening session of the NAB Leadership Conference earlier this week in Washington, DC.

This was Rehr’s first major NAB meeting since he assumed the top job at the Association. As one of Washington’s top lobbyist, he reminded delegates of the need to get a commitment from a legislator. It’s important to know whether they are with us or against us. The meeting, which was held at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, featured many members of Congress that have jurisdiction over the committees that deal with broadcast issues. Luncheon speaker Terry Moran of ABC’s Nightline discussed the job broadcast journalist’s have to do to bring a story to air. All twelve members of the House and New Jersey’s two Senators heard from New Jersey Broadcasters delegates. By splitting up into 3 teams broadcasters were able to cover the entire delegation in one day.  

Essential Personnel Cards Needed Now

With another major weather event forecast for this weekend, should the Governor declare a state of emergency, the only card that will permit travel on New Jersey roads is the essential personnel card.  NJBA Members can get cards for their personnel from the NJBA office. Just download the form from our website, fill it out and send it in. This is a member only benefit at no charge. 

Get your Best of the Best entries ready.  Memo and entry form have been mailed.  The dealine is April 14th.

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