FCC Commissioner Jonathan Adelstein Talks To WAMC President Alan Chartock

ALBANY, NY (03/26/2008)(readMedia)-- Commissioner Jonathan Adelstein presented a 25-minute speech to over 50 attendees, including media executives and representatives, defining what he sees as the trend toward media consolidation in America today, at The Linda, WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio. Among the topics he discussed were media mergers, internet based media, and the move from analog to digital television. "I'm afraid in February of 2009, when the transition is scheduled to take place, we could have a bit of a meltdown," he said. "Nothing in America makes people madder than their televisions going dark."

Unanimously confirmed twice by the U.S. Senate to be a member of the Federal Communications Commission and a life-long public servant, Jonathan Adelstein has dedicated his career to fighting for the public interest. As a Commissioner, his approach is guided by the key principle that the public interest means securing access to communications for everyone, including those the market may leave behind.

“We are all very gratified that Commission Adelstein chose WAMC as the place to make his important remarks about the state of contemporary communications policy. His kind words about all we do underline the esteem in which this station is held nationwide.”

To hear the speech and the conversation with Alan Chartock in its entirety, tune into WAMC or listen live at www.wamc.org today at 1 PM during Speaker’s Corner or anytime at Linda.org/artsarchive.html.