FCC Deregulation: Michael Copps Interviewed By Daniel Sheehan (KPFK, May 26)

<p><img border="0" src="http://atlanta.indymedia.org/local/webcast/uploads/metafiles/piratepowell.gif" width="160" height="186"></p>
<p>Under the chairmanship of Michael Powell (son of General Colin Powell) the FCC
is racing towards massive deregulation of media ownership restrictions. 
There are five voting commissioners on the FCC.  Two -- Michael Copps and
Jonathan Adelstein -- have been holding informal hearings across the country.</p>
<p>Chairman Powell has seen to it that the details of the proposed ownership
restriction changes will not be made available for public review prior to the
vote.  Thus far, Chairman Powell has refused to delay the vote in spite of
the fact that more than 200,000 Americans have sent post cards, email and
letters demanding the commission take more time for a formal period of public
review and comment -- a process that would be in keeping with FCC
tradition.  At least 150 members of Congress have also asked for a vote delay. 
Opposition to a rushed vote cuts across partisan lines, including
media activists from the left to the National Rifle Association.</p>
<p>There are many ways you can make your voice heard.  Consumers
Union, MoveOn and other
groups have organized petitions.  You can also contact the FCC
directly.  Click here for
commissioner email addresses, phone numbers and more.  While it's easy to
be cynical and conclude that Chairman Powell will continue to ignore public
outcry for a vote delay, perhaps a rush of complains in the week leading up to
the June 2nd vote might have an impact.  It takes less than two minutes to
write a short letter.  Take the time.</p>
<p><b>Additional Resources and Information on Media Consolidation</b></p>
<ul>
<li>FCC hearing in Atlanta last week:  Audio,
organized by speaker</li>
<li>Additional current info from Atlanta
IMC</li>
<li>Reclaim The Media</li>
<li>Daniel
Sheehan bio</li>
<li>Michael Copps bio</li>
<li>Picture credit:  Michael Powell, the pirate, from Reclaim The Media</li>
</ul>