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COMCAST AND NBC UNIVERSAL: WHO BENEFITS? 

HEARING 

BEFORE THE

SUBCOMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS, 

TECHNOLOGY, AND THE INTERNET 

OF THE

COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND 

COMMERCE 

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 

ONE HUNDRED ELEVENTH CONGRESS 

SECOND SESSION 

JULY 8, 2010 

Serial No. 111–142 

( 

Printed for the use of the Committee on Energy and Commerce 

energycommerce.house.gov 


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(II) 

COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND COMMERCE 

HENRY A. WAXMAN, California 

Chairman 

JOHN D. DINGELL, Michigan 

Chairman Emeritus 

EDWARD J. MARKEY, Massachusetts 

RICK BOUCHER, Virginia 

FRANK PALLONE, JR., New Jersey 

BART GORDON, Tennessee 

BOBBY L. RUSH, Illinois 

ANNA G. ESHOO, California 

BART STUPAK, Michigan 

ELIOT L. ENGEL, New York 

GENE GREEN, Texas 

DIANA DEGETTE, Colorado 

Vice Chairman 

LOIS CAPPS, California 

MICHAEL F. DOYLE, Pennsylvania 

JANE HARMAN, California 

TOM ALLEN, Maine 

JANICE D. SCHAKOWSKY, Illinois 

HILDA L. SOLIS, California 

CHARLES A. GONZALEZ, Texas 

JAY INSLEE, Washington 

TAMMY BALDWIN, Wisconsin 

MIKE ROSS, Arkansas 

ANTHONY D. WEINER, New York 

JIM MATHESON, Utah 

G.K. BUTTERFIELD, North Carolina 

CHARLIE MELANCON, Louisiana 

JOHN BARROW, Georgia 

BARON P. HILL, Indiana 

DORIS O. MATSUI, California 

DONNA M. CHRISTENSEN, Virgin Islands 

KATHY CASTOR, Florida 

JOHN P. SARBANES, Maryland 

CHRISTOPHER S. MURPHY, Connecticut 

ZACHARY T. SPACE, Ohio 

JERRY MCNERNEY, California 

BETTY SUTTON, Ohio 

BRUCE L. BRALEY, Iowa 

PETER WELCH, Vermont 

JOE BARTON, Texas 

Ranking Member 

RALPH M. HALL, Texas 

FRED UPTON, Michigan 

CLIFF STEARNS, Florida 

NATHAN DEAL, Georgia 

ED WHITFIELD, Kentucky 

JOHN SHIMKUS, Illinois 

JOHN B. SHADEGG, Arizona 

ROY BLUNT, Missouri 

STEVE BUYER, Indiana 

GEORGE RADANOVICH, California 

JOSEPH R. PITTS, Pennsylvania 

MARY BONO MACK, California 

GREG WALDEN, Oregon 

LEE TERRY, Nebraska 

MIKE ROGERS, Michigan 

SUE WILKINS MYRICK, North Carolina 

JOHN SULLIVAN, Oklahoma 

TIM MURPHY, Pennsylvania 

MICHAEL C. BURGESS, Texas 

MARSHA BLACKBURN, Tennessee 

PHIL GINGREY, Georgia 

STEVE SCALISE, Louisiana 


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(III) 

SUBCOMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS, TECHNOLOGY, AND THE INTERNET

RICK BOUCHER, Virginia 

Chairman 

EDWARD J. MARKEY, Massachusetts 

BART GORDON, Tennessee 

BOBBY L. RUSH, Illinois 

ANNA G. ESHOO, California 

BART STUPAK, Michigan 

DIANA DEGETTE, Colorado 

MICHAEL F. DOYLE, Pennsylvania 

JAY INSLEE, Washington 

ANTHONY D. WEINER, New York 

G.K. BUTTERFIELD, North Carolina 

CHARLIE MELANCON, Louisiana 

BARON P. HILL, Indiana 

DORIS O. MATSUI, California 

DONNA M. CHRISTENSEN, Virgin Islands 

KATHY CASTOR, Florida 

CHRISTOPHER S. MURPHY, Connecticut 

ZACHARY T. SPACE, Ohio 

JERRY MCNERNEY, California 

PETER WELCH, Vermont 

JOHN D. DINGELL, Michigan (ex officio) 

FRED UPTON, Michigan 

Ranking Member 

CLIFF STEARNS, Florida 

NATHAN DEAL, Georgia 

JOHN SHIMKUS, Illinois 

GEORGE RADANOVICH, California 

MARY BONO MACK, California 

GREG WALDEN, Oregon 

LEE TERRY, Nebraska 

MIKE FERGUSON, New Jersey 


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C O N T E N T S 

Page 

Hon. Rick Boucher, a Representative in Congress from the Commonwealth 

of Virginia, opening statement ............................................................................ 1 

Prepared statement .......................................................................................... 3 

Hon. Steve Buyer, a Representative in Congress from the State of Indiana, 

opening statement ................................................................................................ 5 

Hon. Bobby L. Rush, a Representative in Congress from the State of Illinois, 

opening statement ................................................................................................ 6 

Prepared statement .......................................................................................... 9 

Hon. Anna G. Eshoo, a Representative in Congress from the State of California, prepared statement .................................................................................. 216 

WITNESSES

Hon. Maxine Waters, a Representative in Congress from the State of California ..................................................................................................................... 12 

Prepared statement .......................................................................................... 15 

Jonathan Jackson, Rainbow PUSH Coalition ....................................................... 34 

Prepared statement .......................................................................................... 36 

Will Griffin, President and Chief Executive Officer, Hip Hop OnDemand ......... 40 

Prepared statement .......................................................................................... 44 

Samuel R. DeSimone, General Counsel, Earthlink .............................................. 50 

Prepared statement .......................................................................................... 52 

Paula Madison, Executive Vice President, Chief Diversity Officer, NBC Universal ..................................................................................................................... 62 

Prepared statement .......................................................................................... 64 

Joseph W. Waz, Jr., Senior Vice President, External Affairs and Public Policy 

Counsel, Comcast Corporation ............................................................................ 74 

Prepared statement .......................................................................................... 77 

SUBMITTED MATERIAL

Letter of July 6, 2010, from CoLours TV to Mr. Boucher .................................... 217 

Comcast and NBCU’s Summary of Diversity Commitments ............................... 218 


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FIELD HEARING ON COMCAST AND NBC 

UNIVERSAL: WHO BENEFITS? 

THURSDAY, JULY 8, 2010 

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, SUBCOMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS, TECHNOLOGY, AND THE INTERNET, COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND COMMERCE, Washington, DC. 

The subcommittee met, pursuant to call, at 9:00 a.m., in Room 

2525, Dirksen Federal Building and Courthouse, 219 South Dearborn Street, Chicago, Illinois, Hon. Rick Boucher [chairman of the 

subcommittee] presiding. 

Members present: Representatives Boucher, Rush and Buyer. 

Also present: Representative Waters. 

OPENING STATEMENT OF HON. RICK BOUCHER, A REPRESENTATIVE IN CONGRESS FROM THE COMMONWEALTH 

OF VIRGINIA 

Mr. BOUCHER. Good morning to everyone. The Subcommittee on 

Communications, Technology and the Internet will come to order. 

Today, at the suggestion of our subcommittee colleague, Mr. 

Rush, we are in Chicago to conduct the subcommittee’s second 

hearing on the proposed combination of two of our nation’s largest 

media and entertainment companies Comcast and NBC Universal. 

I appreciate the outstanding contributions that Congressman 

Rush makes to the work of our committee. He is Chairman of our 

Subcommittee on Commerce and Consumer Protection, and in that 

role I’ve had an opportunity to work closely with him as we have 

together worked to fashion a set of privacy guarantees for internet 

users. And, of course, he is a member of this Subcommittee and 

makes a truly valuable contribution to our work. And I want to 

thank Congressman Rush and his staff for their excellent help in 

making the arrangements for today’s hearing. It’s truly been a 

pleasure for me to have the opportunity to be here. And I know 

that our focus today on the Comcast-NBC Universal Merger will be 

aided very much by the testimony that we receive from our witnesses this morning. 

Comcast is the nation’s largest multi-channel video program distributor, the largest retail broadband provider, and the third largest home telephone service provider, as well as the owner of numerous cable channels and regional sports networks. 

As measured by annual revenues, NBC Universal is the nation’s 

fourth largest media and entertainment company. It owns the NBC 

and Telemundo television networks, television broadcast stations in 


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some of the largest markets in the United States, cable channels, 

a movie studio, as well as an interest in the online video programming provider, Hulu.com. 

The key question for this Subcommittee, as well as for the FCC, 

and the U.S. Department of Justice who are reviewing this proposed combination is how the proposed combination will affect consumers. And, of course, both of these companies deliver a range of 

services, and the question is with regard to those services how will 

consumers be affected. 

Some combinations benefit consumers by enabling a more efficient delivery of new and better products and services, but there 

also is the potential for consumer harm due to a limitation of 

choices that are available to consumers, or by limiting competition 

in a way that makes services more expensive than they would be 

in an open market. 

In our previous hearing, we examined the potential harms that 

could arise if the merged company restricts the internet delivery of 

NBC Universal-owned programs that are offered off-line to the 

public for free today, to web portals that are available only to the 

Comcast broadband subscribers. We sought and we obtained commitments and assurances from the companies that access to those 

programs would not be so restricted. 

Today, we will focus on other potential effects of the merger, including how it will affect the company’s practices with respect to 

diversity and employment, procurement, media programming and 

philanthropy. 

I look forward to the testimony of our witnesses on these and 

other matters. And I want to thank each of our witnesses for taking time to join us here this morning. A number of them have traveled to Chicago for purposes of sharing their views with us, and I 

very much appreciate your doing so, and being here today. 

I’m going to recognize both members of the panel for their opening statements, and then we will turn to the testimony of our witnesses. And I’ll begin by recognizing the Republican member of our 

Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, and the Internet, 

the gentleman from Indiana, Mr. Buyer. 

[The prepared statement of Chairman Boucher follows:] 


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STATEMENT OF CONGRESSMAN RICK BOUCHER 

Subcommittee on Communications, Technology and the Internet 

Field Hearing on Comcast-NBC Universal Merger 

July 8, 2010 

The Subcommittee on Communications, Technology and the Internet will come to order. 

Today, at the suggestion of our subcommittee colleague, Mr. Rush we aTe in Chicago to 

conduct the subcommittee's second hearing on the proposed combination of two or our nations 

largest media and entertainment companies Comcast and NBC Universal. 

I appreciate the outstanding contributions that Congressman Rush makes to the work of 

our committee. He is Chainnan of our Subcommittee on Commerce and Consumer Protection in 

addition to his service on this Subcommittee. 

And I thank Congressman Rush and his stafY for their excellent help in making the 

arrangements for today's hearing. It is truly a pleasure to be here, and I know that our focus on 

the Comcast-NBC Universalmcrger will be aided by the testimony we w'ill receive this moming. 

Comcast is the nation's largest multichannel video programming distributor, largest 

residential broadband provider, lmd third largest home telephone service provider, as well as the 

owner of cable channels and regional sports networks. 

As measured by annual revenue, NBC Universal is the nation's fourth-largest media and 

entertainment company. It OW~lS the NBC and Telemundo television networks, television 

broadcast stations in some of the largest markets in the United States, cable channels and a 

movie studio, as well as an interest in online video programming provider Hulu.com. 

The key questions for this subcommittee, as wcll as for the agencies that are reviewing 

the proposed merger, the FCC and the Dcpmimcnt of Justice, is how it will alYect consmners of 

the many services the combined company will offer. 

Some combinations benefit consumers by enabling the efficient deployment of new and 

better products and services. But there may also bc the potential for combinations to halm 

conSUl11ers by limiting the choices available to them, or by limiting competition in a way that 

makes services more expensive. 
4 


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In our previous hearing we examined the potential harms that could arise if the merged 

company restricts the Internet delivery of NBC Universal aired programs that are offered online 

to the public for fi'ee today to web portals available only to Comcast broadband subscribers. 

We sought and obtained commitments and assurances from the companies that access to 

those programs will not be so restricted. 

Today, we will focus on other potential efTects of the merges, including how it will affect 

the companies practice's with respect to diversity in employment, procurement, media 

programming, and philantlu-opy. 

r look forward to the testimony of our witnesses on these and other matters and r thank 

each of the witnesses for taking the time to share their views with us this morning. 

I'll now recognize other members for opening statements. 
5 

OPENING STATEMENT OF HON. STEVE BUYER, A REPRESENTATIVE IN CONGRESS FROM THE STATE OF INDIANA 

Mr. BUYER. Thank you very much, Mr. Boucher. 

Welcome to Chicago, welcome to the Midwest. And, Bobby Rush, 

thank you for having us come here. 

I brought some Indiana folks with me last night, and I thought 

I would take in a White Sox game, and it rained. By my calculation, that was probably about an $80 beer, so we sipped it slowly 

and enjoyed it. And probably the best judgment of the night was 

during the clearing, we made a run for the taxi. 

Mr. RUSH. Mr. Chairman, if I may add, we do have rain checks 

in Chicago. 

Mr. BUYER. Oh, OK. All right. Rain check. 

I would also like to welcome Maxine Waters for giving up her 

time in sunny California to come to the Midwest. Thank you, also, 

for being here. 

When this joint venture between Comcast and NBC Universal 

was first proposed, I was most interested in the reaction, or, I 

should say, the lack of reaction not only by policy makers, but also 

stakeholders and others within industry. 

My initial reaction, personally, was about the—in our culture we 

have something that we don’t think about very often, but its silence 

can be interpreted as acquiescence or an admission. And it’s part 

of our culture. So, when this merger first came out, there was silence. And I was—my curiosity was I did not believe that the silence would be interpreted as an acquiescence to the merger. And 

my commitment has been to keep an open mind regarding this 

merger, and to allow the parties to be able to come together and 

address concerns. And I thank my friend, Mr. Boucher, for doing 

this. I brought this to him. He also is feeling the same way I was, 

and he said yes, we’re going to have some hearings on this, and we 

want to go into it, we want to dive into this. 

Now, the Chairman in his comments about concerns with regard 

to consumers, and he’s correct. And the Department of Justice will 

do their review on—because of anti-trust and the impact on competition, but we also need an over horizon view. 

The over horizon view, when you do the long view and you look 

at the data points that are out there, you have to be really careful 

about trying to define an image based on what we know today. The 

reason I say you have to be very careful, because as policy makers, 

we’ve done this before. And we’ve tried to define what we thought 

it looked like at the moment of calling, and got it wrong. And we’re 

in such a highly dynamic industry that we have to be really very, 

very careful. 

I decided to do my due diligence, just as, Mr. Chairman, you are 

doing yours, so since February, I’ve met with every industry representative out there from broadcasters, pay TV affiliates, non-affiliates, content providers, carriers. I’ve done big cable, small cable, 

satellite. I’ve met with all the stakeholders that I possibly could. 

But my take-away from all of these meetings is that, it came out 

of the hearing we had done in February, that there was a real need 

to define Comcast’s commitment to the network affiliated model of 

free over-the-air broadcasting, especially as it pertains to localism. 


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Also, protect the value of the network and preventing a cycling 

of key programming, and migration of this key programming. The 

other is prevent bypass of the affiliates for first call rights to competing platforms as it pertains to Comcast providing network programming. And, fourth, protect the integrity of the retrans consent 

process. 

And, primarily, my concern there lies with the small cable companies insuring that they not get lost by big cable in the retrans 

consent process leading to less competition and higher prices for 

consumers. 

I want to—also, as this began to unfold, I also watched how the 

non-affiliates began to work out their concerns. Rather than immediately rush to the FCC, they came together, the non-affiliates did, 

and then took their concerns to Comcast, and they were able to 

come together in the private marketplace agreement. 

And then not only was that done, but then Comcast-NBC Universal had come together with their own agreements on many diversity issues. So, it’s pretty good. They recognize that there’s federal oversight, not only by the FCC, by your Committee, Mr. Chairman, but also by DOJ, so there are a lot of eyes being placed on 

this. So, the private sector are proceeding, and my reading of both 

of these agreements that have been done in the private sector, actually, they go beyond what I was even thinking about and considering. So, I want to congratulate the parties for leaning forward 

and doing what I think is right. So, with that, I yield back. 

Mr. BOUCHER. Thank you very much, Mr. Buyer. Thank you for 

taking the time to take part during this hearing this morning. 

I, again, want to thank Congressman Rush and his staff for their 

excellent assistance in arranging for today’s hearing, and making 

sure that we could use the ceremonial courtroom here at the 

United States Courthouse. And Congressman Rush, I want to recognize you for your opening statement. 

OPENING STATEMENT OF HON. BOBBY L. RUSH, A REPRESENTATIVE IN CONGRESS FROM THE STATE OF ILLINOIS 

Mr. RUSH. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. And let me begin by 

thanking you so much for the outstanding cooperation and leadership which you have provided to the Subcommittee. And you have 

really gone beyond what would be normally expected in regards to 

this hearing. You’re in the middle of a tough campaign, and that 

you would take the time off to leave your district and come to Chicago to convene this hearing. I’m certainly grateful to be part of 

this. And it’s a pretty significant moment in the life of the city of 

Chicago, here on the eve of the LeBron era. And I will note that 

I am an eternal optimist. 

(Laughter.) 

But, Mr. Chairman, I want to welcome you again, welcome your 

colleagues and welcome Congresswoman Waters, and my colleague 

on the Subcommittee, Mr. Buyer from Indiana. I want to welcome 

each of you to this hearing, and to the city that I love so much. 

Mr. Chairman, on that day that Comcast and NBC Universal secure their last approval from federal and state regulators to combine their highly attractive, and lucrative, distribution and video 

programming assets, a very powerful and influential media and inVerDate Mar 14 2013 01:48 Mar 21, 2013 Jkt 077919 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 6633 Sfmt 6633 E:\HR\OC\A919.XXX A919

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formation colossus will be born. When that will happen, immediate 

power to determine what our nation watches, what we read, from 

where we get our news, and even on which electronic and communications devices those images and data will appear. 

The $28 billion joint venture between Comcast and NBC Universal will give Comcast, already the country’s largest cable and 

home broadband company, total say and control over the day-to-day 

operations of the NBC networks; the Telemundo network, NBC’s 

two dozen national cable network channels, including MSNBC, 

Bravo, CNBC, and partial interests in the Weather Channel, A&E’s 

History and Biography channels, NBC Network News, ‘‘The Today 

Show,’’ ‘‘NBC Sunday Night Football,’’ ‘‘Meet the Press,’’ and distribution rights to a library of more than 55,000 TV episodes, not 

to mention the Universal Pictures movie studio and distribution 

companies. 

Many of the purported benefits of this proposed combination 

have been framed in terms of when and where subscribers will realize benefits. Some of the more widely touted subscriber benefits 

put forward by the parties are that Comcast cable TV subscribers 

will be able to see movies more quickly after the first showing in 

theaters, or that because of this transaction TV shows will appear 

faster on subscribers’ cell phones, video-on-demand web sites, and 

other digital media platforms and devices. 

These ‘‘whens’’ and ‘‘wheres’’ are very important, absolutely very 

important. And I am concerned about these when and wheres, but 

I’m also equally concerned, however, about what cable television, 

broadcast TV, news, public affairs, religious and community programs, sporting events and movie content will not be made available to subscribers of Comcast’s competitors, or to the competitors 

of Comcast’s new affiliates. 

And will the same content that is offered to Comcast broadband 

subscribers be made available to all broadband users, regardless of 

whom they subscribe to for broadband service? 

Despite the critical importance of program access and the equitable carriage of network affiliates on Comcast’s cable systems, the 

most important issue of access, as far as I am concerned, the most 

important issue is minority ownership. 

As the largest media and information merger since AOL and 

Time Warner which, incidentally, disrupts community practices in 

cable and broadcast TV programming in so many markets, the significance of this transaction cannot be underestimated. 

This represents a real opportunity that minority businesses and 

investors must not miss. They must be fully engaged. And I am 

cognizant of the commitment that Comcast made publically last 

month for increasing diversity of ownership, and diversity in programming. Specifically, Comcast plans on adding these channels 

over the next three years. As you see, that half of these channels 

are minority owned or run represents an important and positive 

step for increased minority ownership. I am delighted with the developments. 

However, Mr. Chairman, I think that minorities can and will, 

and must have better seats at the boardroom table, and not just 

in the movie theaters and watching television in their living rooms. 


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8 

Mr. Chairman, this is an opportunity for us. And I would say 

during the course of the last few months, I am pleased and interested and somewhat delighted by the approach that Comcast and 

NBC have made towards satisfying our concerns. I’m still not satisfied. I’m still not there yet, but I want you to know that without 

any changes, we’re just going to end up at the same place. And, 

Mr. Chairman, with that, I yield back the balance of my time. 

[The prepared statement of Mr. Rush follows:] 


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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

July 8, 2010 

CONTACT: Sharon Jenkins 

(202) 225-4372 ote.; (202) 431-8191 mobile 

Sharon.Jenkins@maiLhouse.gov 

- or 

Stephanie Gadlin 

(773) 224-6500 ote.; (202) 286-9829 mobile 

Stephanie.Gadlin@mai!.house.gov 

Opening Statement by U. S. Rep. Bobby L. Rush 

at the 

Field Hearing of the House Subcommittee on Communications, 

Technology and the Internet 

on 

"Com cast and NBC Universal: Who Benefits?" 

Chicago - July 8. 2010 

CHICAGO "Thank you. Chairman Boucher. Good morning, Chicago. And good morning. 

to each of our witnesses. 

"On Ihat day, should Com cast and NBC-Uniycrsal secure their last approval from federal and 

state regulators to combine their highly attractiYe, and lucrative, distribution and video programming 

assets, a very powerfid and influclltiaimedia and information colossus will be born. If that day comes, 

this combined entity will have the immediate power to determine what our nation watches, what we 

read,ji'om where we get our news and. even. on which electronic and communications devices those 

images and data will appear. 

"The $28 billion joint venture between Comcast and NBC-Universal would give Com cast, 

already the country's largest cable and home broadband company, Iota! say and control over the dayto-day operations of the NBC network; the Telemundo network: NBC's two dozen national cable 

more 
10 


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-2 

network channels-including MSNBC, Bravo and CNBC-and partial interests in the Weather 

Channel, A&E's History and Biography channels; NBC Network News, 'The Today Show," "NBC 

Sunday Night Football," "Meet the Press," and distribution rights to a library of more than 55,000 TV 

episodes, not to mention the Universal Pictures movie studio and distribution companies, 

"Many of the purported benefits of this proposed combination have been framed in tenns of 

when and where subscribers will realize benefits. Some of the more widely touted subscriber benefits, 

put forward by the two parties, are that Corneas! cable TV subscribers will be able to see movies more 

quickly after the first showings in theaters, or that because of this transaction, TV shows will appear 

faster on subscribers' cell phones, video-on-demand web sites and other digital media platfonns and 

devices. 

"These 'whens' and 'wheres' are ahsolutely important. However, I am equal~v concerned 

about what cable television, broadcast TV, news, public affairs, religious and community programs, 

sporting events and movie content that willllot be made available to subscribers ofComcasfs 

competitors, or to the competitors of Com cases new affiliates. 

"And, will the same content that is offered to Comeast broadband subscribers, also be made 

available to all broadband users, regardless of whom they subscribe to for broadband service? 

"Despite the critical importance of program access and the equitable carriage of network 

affiliates on Comcas!'s cable systems, the most important issue of access, as far as I am concerned, is 

minority ownership. 

"I am cognizant ofthe commitments that Comeast made publicly, last month, towards 

increasing diversity of ownership and diversity in programming. Specifically, Comeas!'s commitments 

to distribute six cable network channels (over the next three years) and to see that half of those 

more 
11 


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channels are minority-owned or run represents an important and positive, initial step forward towards 

increased minority ownership. 

"But these commitments do not go far enough. 

"Minority owners and investors must have better seats at the board room table, nat just in the 

movie theaters wearing 3-D glasses or holding set-top box remote controls in their living rooms. 

"If this merger is truly going to be in the public interest, Comcast and NBC-Universal will have 

to do more.jiw and with minorities than what they have offered to do to date. Simply put, the 

economic stakes are high and we. as legislators. would be negligent on behalf of all taxpayers and 

others whom we represent if we fail to shine a bright light of openness and full disclosure on how 

Comcast and NBC. on the one hand, secure regulatory support lor thcir own corporate interests 

without ensuring that their interests arc not the only ones served by this transaction. 

"I look forward to hearing the testimony of the Ivitnesses. I hopc that our hearing will assist 

me, and others, in learning more about how minority owners of communications, media, and 

technology companies, minority holders of FCC Iicenscs. minority investors, and non-minority 

investors willing to invest in minority-owned companies and start-ups can playa bigger role as owners 

in this mammoth transaction and in the economic oppOliunitics that lie ahead. 

"Indeed. more room must be made Jor these entrepreneurs, investors. and business 

professionals to provide Comcasfs 24 million cable subscribers-about two million of whom are right 

here in the Chicago metropolitan area-and its 15 million high-speed Internet customers with high 

quality services, diverse perspectives and '"know-how." 

"Thank you, Mr. Chairman. for the time you 've accorded to me today. With that. I yield back 

the balance of my time." 

### 
12 

Mr. BOUCHER. Thank you very much, Congressman Rush. And 

we’re pleased to have joining us today a gentle lady from California, Ms. Waters. She is a senior member of the House Judiciary 

Committee, and while she does not serve on the Energy and Commerce Committee, we’re very glad to have her here. She has strong 

interest in the subject matter we’re examining this morning. And, 

in fact, was a leading participant in a hearing the House Judiciary 

Committee had on this subject in Los Angeles earlier this year. 

Ms. Waters, we’re glad to have you here, and I’m pleased to recognize you for your statement. 

STATEMENT OF HON. MAXINE WATERS, A REPRESENTATIVE 

IN CONGRESS FROM THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA 

Ms. WATERS. Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. I appreciate 

the opportunity that you’ve afforded me to come here today to be 

a part of this hearing. I’m especially appreciative to Congressman 

Rush for his assistance in making sure that I could participate as 

a panelist here today. And I’d like to thank all of my colleagues 

who are here today to participate in what I think is one of the most 

important hearings relative to media consolidation that we will 

have on this issue. 

Mr. Chairman, thank you for organizing this Field Hearing, and, 

again, allowing me the opportunity to participate. You’re right, I 

have been involved with this issue for quite some time now, and 

my interest was basically triggered on June 7th, 2010 when the 

House Committee on the Judiciary held a Field Hearing. Well, it 

was prior to that time, but I’ve been in two hearings to date on this 

issue, and I do have some concern. What I’d like to do is just take 

a moment and try and explain what those concerns are, and why 

I have those concerns. 

Over the past couple of months, I’ve been active in advocating for 

a process in the Federal Communications Commission’s review of 

this merger, the opportunities for minorities in media have been severely limited as a result of deregulatory policies, and large media 

consolidations. This has concentrated our media industry into the 

control of a mere handful of corporations, constraining opportunities for minority ownership of media licenses. 

While I’m not presently, and have not indicated direct opposition 

to the Comcast-NBC merger, I do recognize it as a critical opportunity for both companies to implement a plan of action to address 

their shortcomings with respect to minority inclusion within their 

programming, management, ownership, and advertising activities. 

Ultimately, these diversity considerations are taken into account 

within the FCC’s review proceedings. While both the FCC and DOJ 

have the statutory authority to review new mergers under our Federal Anti-Trust Laws, the FCC’s process allows for a more comprehensive public interest analysis, including a deeply rooted preference for preserving, and enhancing competition, and generally 

managing the spectrum in the public interest, in the public trust. 

Therefore, my concerns about this merger are based on the potential impact on diversity, competition, and whether consumers 

will enjoy diverse and alternative sources of news and entertainment. From what we have gathered about the companies’ organizational structures, both Comcast and NBC have a lot of work to do. 


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NBC Universal has 18 corporate executives, while two of the 18 

are minorities, including Ms. Paula Madison, who’s here today. 

Their primary responsibilities do not include managing networks, 

and producing content. Despite Ms. Madison’s efforts to work with 

the key executives to promote diversity throughout NBC Universal, 

the company continues to fall short in setting tangible benchmarks, 

and achieving results in increasing minority representation among 

its high-level management and executive positions. 

NBCU does not have any African American show runners over 

its prime time, daytime, or late night programming. This means African Americans are not in positions where they oversee budgets, 

and the hiring of actors, writers, co-producers, and technical employees. It is important to have diversity in these management positions, because they create employment opportunities for other 

producers, writers, directors, and actors. 

Similarly, NBC’s Universal Studios do not employee African 

Americans with the authority to decide which film projects are ultimately given the necessary support to make it to the big screen, 

that is green light. 

The President and COO of NBC Universal Studios is a white 

male. The President and Chairman of Universal Pictures and 

Focus Features also white. Of the 21 films NBC Universal Pictures 

released in 2009, only two simply had minority leads. The overwhelming majority of NBC TV content is produced by white individuals, or white- owned production companies. The Presidents of 

all 12 of the NBC cable networks are white. Ultimately, these individuals are influential in deciding what show runners are hired to 

produce the television shows that will air on these networks. 

Thus, it is important to have sufficient minority representation 

and programming to ensure diversity in content the network produces. 

Comcast Corporation also has problems with diversity and inclusion. Only one of Comcast’s 13 member Board of Directors is an African American. Only two of Comcast’s 28 corporate executives are 

African American. Comcast has 33 division executives, while three 

of these executives are minorities, there are no African American 

division executives listed on Comcast’s Web site who head 

Comcast’s programming group. 

When broken down further by each of Comcast’s individual cable 

networks, only one has an African American President, and that is 

the Style network. There is one Latino executive; however, he is responsible for advertising and sales, not programming. 

The barriers to ownership for minorities and women have been 

studied by various universities and non-profit organizations. Currently, TV One is the only United States cable network with significant black ownership. That is Video One, Alfred Liggins, President and CEO, owns 37 percent of TV One. While Comcast carries 

the network on its mostly widely distributed tier, it is worth noting 

that Comcast owns 33 states in TV One. In 2007, minorities owned 

just 3.2 percent of the United States television stations, despite 

comprising more than 34 percent of the population. 

In fact, of NBC’s more than 200 affiliated television stations, only 

one is black- owned. Ironically, while the National Urban League 

and its chapters, among the first of our nation’s Civil Rights groups 


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to support the merger, it, too, released a study in 2005 detailing 

the broadcast networks’ failure to have diverse guests on their Sunday morning news shows. The studies included that 60 percent of 

the Sunday morning talk shows feature no black guest at all, and 

that 78 percent of the broadcasts contain no interviews with a 

black guest. 

Therefore, when we discuss NBCU or Comcast’s lack of diversity, 

it is not merely isolated, or defined as the absence of minorities in 

front of the camera. Credible involvement of minorities start at the 

top, and trickles down through every job or position that is necessary to produce and distribute a television program, or motion 

picture. 

Therefore, it is imperative that NBC Universal and Comcast 

show its commitment to diversity, and negotiate, work with those 

groups to come up with a substantive plan that incorporates minorities in all aspects of its media programming and distribution 

activities. This begins with a strategy to extend opportunities for 

minorities in media ownership, management, programming, and 

advertising. 

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. And I yield back the balance of my 

time. 

[The prepared statement of Ms. Waters follows:] 


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COMCAST-NBCU FiElD HEARING BY THE HOUSE 

SUBCOMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS, TECHNOLOGY 

AND THE INTERNET: ilCOMCAST AND NBC UNIVERSAL: 

WHO BENEFITS?" 

Everett Dirsken Federal Building 

Room 2525, 219 S. Dearborn Street 

Chicago, Illinois 

July, 8, 2010 

FACTS ABOUT NBC UNIVERSAL 

PROPERTIES 

Prepared by the Office of 

Congresswoman Maxine Waters 

(CA-35) 
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fACTS ABOUT NBC UNIVERSAL PROPERTIES 

Summary: 

• NBC Universal (NBCU) has 18 corporate executives. While 2 of the 18 executives are 

minorities, they are not heads of divisions or departments responsible for managing 

networks and producing content. 

• NBCU owns 27 Broadcast Television Stations. None of the stations have African 

American general managers. 

• NBCU owns: Bravo, CNBC, MSNBC, NBC Sports, Oxygen, SyFy Channel, USA Network, 

Weather Channel, Chiller, Sleuth, Universal HD, and Shop NBC. None of their cable 

networks have minority presidents (who oversee network programming). 

• NBCU has partial ownership in the A&E Network, The Biography Channel, Crime & 

Investigation Network, The History Channel, The Biography Channel, and lifetime 

Network. None of these networks are headed by minorities or employ minorities in 

key decision-making roles. 

NBCU also owns NBC Television Network Universal Media Studios (which produces 

many NBC programs), Universal Pictures (produces and distributes about twenty films a 

year), Focus Features (a division of Universal Pictures producing several "art house" 

films a year like "Burn After Reading," "Milk," and "Traffic"). None of these divisions are 

headed by minorities or employ minorities in key decision-making roles. 

• Of the 21 films NBC Universal Pictures released in 2009, only two of the films had 

minority leads: one African American starring lead in "The Soloist," one Hispanic, and 

one biracial actor, both a part of the ensemble cast of "Fast & Furious." 

The 2010 NBC Fall line-up does not have any African American show-runners in 

prime time, daytime, or late-night. 

• Only one African American anchors an MSNBC News program. All of the other lead 

anchors and hosts on MSNBC flagship programs are white. While they employ several 

correspondents of color, none headline any MSNBC programming. 

• According to the Writers Guild of America's (West) 2009 Hollywood Writers Report, in 

2007, only 6.6 percent of its television writers were minorities and only 5.5 percent of 

its writers on motion pictures were minorities. 
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According to the Writers Guild of America's (West) 2009 Hollywood Writers Report, NBC 

Universal struggles to employ minority writers. No minorities currently write for their 

popular show "30 Rock." There are also no minority writers on the popular USA 

Network program "Monk" (NBCU owns the USA Network). There is only one minority 

writer (out of 14) on Law and Order: Criminal Intent (also airing on the USA Network). 

• According to the Writers Guild of America's (West) 2009 Hollywood Writers Report, 92 

percent of executive producers (industry-wide) during the 2007-08 season were white. 

During the 2007-08 season, 100 percent of Bravo's writers were white (owned by 

NBCU), 85.3 percent of NBC's writers were white, 96.9 percent of the SyFy Channel's 

writers were white (owned by NBCU), and 88 percent of the USA Network's writers 

were white. Of NBC's partially-owned networks, 90.9 percent of Lifetime's writers were 

white and 86.7 percent of the A&E Network's writers were white. 

NBC Universal does not have any African American show-runners. That is, African 

Americans are not in positions where they oversee budgets and the hiring of actors, writers, coproducers, and technical employees. While show-runners are commonly referred to as 

'executive producers,' not all executive producers are show-runners. It is helpful to make this 

distinction when commenting on NBC's productions. At any rate, it is important to have 

diversity in these management positions because they create employment opportunities for 

other producers, writers, directors, and actors. 

Similarly, Universal Studios (NBC Universal's film production and distribution company) 

does not have African Americans with the authority to "greenlight" films. The head of their 

motion picture studio is a Caucasian male. The overwhelming majority of NBC TV content is 

produced by white individuals and/or white production companies (NBC produces many of its 

television programs because it is cheaper than hiring outside independent producers). Of the 

21 films NBC Universal Pictures released in 2009, only two had minority leads (Jamie FOXK in 

'7he Soloist" and Vin Diesel (biracial) and Michelle Rodriguez (Hispanic) in "Fast & Furious"). 

Further, of the 21 films, only two had minority writers or directors: "The Fourth Kind," Nigerian 

director/writer: Olotunde Osunsanmi [ola-toon-de, o-soon-san-me} and Justin Lin (born in 

Taipei [ty-pay]), director of "Fast&Furious." 

The heads of all 12 of the NBC Cable Networks are all CaUCasian (MSNBC, CNBC, SyFy, 

Bravo, USA Network, NBC Sports, Oxygen, Weather Channel, Chiller, Sleuth, Shop NBC, 

Universal HD). None of NBC's 27 owned and operated Broadcast Stations have African 

American general managers. The 2010 NBC Fall Line-up does not have any African American 

show-runners In prlmetime (this time slot feature NBC shows such as "The Office" and "30 

Rock"), daytime (soaps and talk shows like "Days of Our Lives"), or late-night ("The Tonight 

Show" and "Last Call with Carson Daly"). There are literally a mere handful of African American 

producers, writers, and directors working on NBC Universal shows. The opportunities for 

African Americans across all NBC properties are scarce. Only 2 of NBC Universal's 18 executives 

are minorities (Paula Madison and Salil Mehta). However, none of these executives are 

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responsible for managing networks or producing content. While Paula Madison sale 

designation is the work with the key executives to promote diversity, this has not impacted the 

company's organization structure. A company's commitment to diversity begins with the top 

levels of management and trickles down through every position necessary to produce content. 

Therefore, when we discuss the NBC Universal's lack of diversity, it is not merely 

isolated or defined as the absence of minorities in front of the camera. Credible involvement of 

minorities starts at the top and trickles down through every job or position that is necessary to 

produce and distribute a television program or motion picture. Extending ownership, 

management, programming, and advertising opportunities to minorities will ensure diversity in 

our media and telecommunications industry. Moreover, more minorities in leadership 

positions will yield more minorities hired to: write a television series/film, produce a television 

program/film, direct a television program/film, cast a diverse cast for a television program/film, 

and score the music for a television program/film. NBC Universal must show its commitment to 

diversity in presenting a substantive plan that incorporates minorities in all aspects of media 

programming and distribution activities. This begins with a strategy to extend opportunities for 

minorities in media ownership, management, programming, and advertising. 

USA Network (highly rated cable network) 

(An example of an NBC Universal Network Program) 

Law and Order: Criminal Intent 

Cast (all white): 

Jeff Goldblum 

Saffron Bu rrows 

Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio (italian 

American) 

Vincent D'Onofrio (Italian American) 

Kathryn Erbe 

Eric Bogosian (white) 

Executive Producers (all white): 

Walon Green 

John David Coles 

Peter Jankowski 

There is an opportunity to increase minority participation in every aspect of media production 

and distribution. The show-runners oversee budgets and hire writers, directors, and producers. 

Since minorities are institutionally excluded from these positions and are not represented 

within the top levels of leadership, the opportunities for minorities are constrained. There 

must be individuals in key decision-making positions who can point out and remedy the 

absence of diversity in a project, both in-front and behind the camera. 

Liw and Order: Criminal Intent (above) is a popular show airing on the USA Network (NBCU 

property) and does not have any minority actors or executive producers. 
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NBC Universal Studios 

Ronald Meyer, President I Chief Operating Officer (white) 

(Oversees Universal Pictures, Focus Features, USA Network, and the SyFy Channel) 

NBC Universal Pictures 

Jimmy Horowitz, President of Universal Pictures (white) 

Adam Fogelson, Chairman of Universal Pictures (white) 

Focus Features (a division of Universal Pictures, also owned by NBCU) 

James Schamus, CEO (white) 

Andrew Karpen, President (white) 

2009 

1. The Unborn (co-production with Relativity Media, Rogue Pictures and Platinum Dunes) 

2. Coraline (co-production with Focus Features, Laika and Alliance Films) 

3. Duplicity 

4. Curia us George 2: Fallaw That Monkey! (co-production with Imagine Entertainment and 

Universal Animation Studios) 

5. Fast & Furious (co-produced with One Race Films, Original Film and Relativity Media) 

6. State of Play 

7. The Soloist (co-produced with DreamWorks, StudioCanal, Participant Media and Working 

Title Films) 

8. Drag Me to Hell (co-produced with Ghost House Pictures) 

9. Land of the Lost (co-production with Sid & Marty Krafft Pictures) 

10. Public Enemies 

11. Bruna (co-production with Media Rights Capital) 

12. Funny People (co-production with Columbia Pictures, Apatow Productions, and Happy 

Madison) 

13. Ing/ourious Basterds (co-produced with A Band Apart and The Weinstein Company) 

14. 9 (co-production with Focus Features) 

15. Love Happens (co-production with Relativity Media) 

16. The Invention af Lying (co-production with Warner Bros.) 

17. Couples Retreat 

18. Cirque du Freak: The Vampire's Ass/stant 

19. The Fourth Kind (co-production with Gold Circle Films and Dead Crow Productions) 

20. Pirate Radio (non-USA distribution; co-production with Focus Features, StudioCanal and 

Working Title Films) 

21. It's Complicated (co-production with Relativity Media) 

*Only two films in 2009 had a minority leads: Jamie Foxx in The Soloist and Vin Diesel (biracial) 

and Michelle Rodriguez (Hispanic) in "Fast & Furious" 

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NBC 

Jeff Zucker, CEO (white) 

Steve Capus, President, NBC News (white) 

Dick Ebersol, Chairman, NBC Sports (white) 

NBC News 

Steve Capus, President of NBC News (white) 

NBC News Programs: 

Early Today (aI/ white): 

Lynn Berry (news) 

Bill Karins (weather) 

Fred Roggin (sports) 

Today (diverse): 

Matt Lauer (lead co-anchor) 

Meredith Viera (lead co-anchor) 

Anne Curry, weather (born in Guam) 

AI Raker, news (block) 

MSNBC 

First Look 

Lynn Berry (white) 

Thomas Roberts (white) 

Way Too Early with Willie Geist 

Willie Geist (white) 

Morning Joe 

Joe Scarborough (white) 

Mika Brzezinski (white) 

Willie Geist (white) 

The Doily Rundown 

Chuck Todd (white) 

Savannah Guthrie (white) 

MSNBCLive 

Chris Jansing (white) 

Tamron Hall (black) 

Contessa Brewer (white) 

Jeff Gaspin Chairman, NBC Universal 

Television Entertainment (white) 

Brian Williams, Chief Anchor (white) 

Today (diverse co-hosts) 

Kathy Lee Gifford (white) 

Hoda Kotb (black) 

Meet the Press with David Gregory (white) 

NBC Nightly News: Brian Williams (white) 

NBC Nightly News: Lester Holt (black) 

Dateline NBC 

Anne Curry (born in Guam) 

Andrea Mitchell Reports 

Andrea Mitchell (white) 

The Dylan Ratigan Shaw 

Dylan Ratigan (white) 

Hardball 

Chris Matthews (white) 

The Ed Shaw 

Ed Schultz (white) 

Countdown with Keith Olberman 

Keith Olberman (white) 

The Rachel Maddow Shaw 

Rachel Maddow (white) 

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NBC Cable Networks (all the presidents are white) 

NBC News: Steve Capus (white) 

NBC Sports: Dick Ebersol (white) 

MSNBC: Steve Capus 

CNBC: Steve Capus 

Bravo: Frances Berwick (white female) 

FearNet: Diane Robina (white) 

Oxygen: Lauren Zalaznick (white) 

Syfy: Dave Howe (white) 

USA Network: Jeff Wachtel (white) 

Weather Channel: Michael J. Kelley (white) 

ShopNBC: Keith Stewart (white) 

A&E Network (partial): Abbe Raven (white) 

Biography Channel (partial): Bob DeBitetto 

(white) 

Crime & Investigation (partial): Nancy 

Dubuc (white) 

History Channel (partial): Nancy Dubuc 

(white) 

Lifetime (partial): Nancy Dubuc (white) 

Military History Channel (partial): Nancy 

Dubuc (white) 

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NBC Executive leadership 

JEFf ZUCKER 

President and Chief Executive 

Officer, NBC Universal 

MICHAEL BASS 

Senior Vice President, Strategic 

Initiatives 

Michael Bass was appointed Senior 

I. 'iNN CAI.PETER 

Executive Vice President and 

Chief Financial Officer, NBC 

Universal 

Vice President, Strategic Initiatives, in January lynn Calpeter was named executive vice president 

2008. In this position, Bass leads initiatives in and chief financial officer of NBC Universal in May 

support of the company's strategic priorities, 2004. She is responsible for overseeing NBC 

including content development, international Universal's financial planning and operations and 

expansion, cross-platform opportunities, and plays a key role in the company's strategic 

digital growth. He works closely with the senior business initiatives. She reports directly to Jeff 

leadership team to ensure continued progress Zucker, president and chief executive officer of 

toward the company's goals. Bass reports to Jeff NBC Universal. 

Zucker, President and Chief Executive Officer, NBC 

Universal. 

STEVECAPUS 

President, NBC News 

He is the No. 1 News Division 

executive and is responsible for all Marc A. Chini was named NBC 

aspects of America's highest-rated and most- Universal's executive vice president of Human 

watched network News division, as well as MSNBC Resources in February 2007. Chin; is a GE officer 

and NBC News Channel. Capus is also the arbiter of and has been with the company for more than 20 

issues involving ethics, style, standards, safety and years. He reports directly to Jeff Zucker, president 

other matters that affect the Division's journalistic and chief executive officer of NBC Universal. 

bearing. Capus reports to Jeff Zucker, president and 

chief executive officer of NBC Universal. 

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RICHARD COTION 

Executive Vice President and 

Genera! Counsel, NBC Universal 

DICK ESERSOl 

Chairman, NBC Universal Sports 

& Olympics 

Rick Cotton was named executive Ebersol has led NBC Sports for 20 

vice president and general counsel of NBC years. In December 2003, Ebersol agreed to a 

Universal in August 2004. He supervises the NBC nine-year contract to continue running NBC Sports 

Universal Law Department, which provides legal & Olympics through 2012. He assumed his current 

advice to all NBC Universal business units for their title as Chairman of NBC Universal Sports & 

ongoing operations and for new strategic plans and Olympics in May 2004 when NBC and Universal 

acquisitions. In addition, he oversees NBC merged. 

Universal's global regulatory and legislative 

agenda, including the company's worldwide antipiracy efforts. Cotton reports directly to Jeff 

Zucker, president and chief executive officer of 

NBC Universal 

JOHNECK 

President, NBCTV Network and 

Media Works 

JEFFGASPIN 

Chairman, NBC Universal 

Television Entertainment 

Eck continues his executive Jeff Gaspin has overseas all 

leadership over information technology and studio businesses, creative production, distribution and 

operations across NBC Universal's extensive marketing aspects of NBC Universal's 

television networks, owned stations, and digital entertainment television operations. He is 

media properties. He also has executive responsible for show such as "The Office," "30 

responsibility for the company's film and TV Rock," "The Office," "Heroes," "The Apprentice," 

production and post-production operations. The "The Tonight Show," "Saturday Night Live," and 

studio operations group is the fargest such the 

operation in North America, and is one of the top 

operations of its kind in the world. 

"Law and Order" franchise. 

AlliSON GOLLUST 

Executive Vice President, 

Corporate Communications 

She is responsible for 

MARK HOFFMAN 

President, CNBC 

Hoffman oversees the world's 

leading business news network, 

communications policies and strategic positioning He reports directly to Jeff Zucker, president 

of NBC Universal's global assets, content, and and chief executive officer of NBC Universal. 

executives. 

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SAUl-MEHTA 

President, Business Operations, 

Strategy and Development 

PAULA MADiSON 

Executive Vice President, 

Diversity, NBC Universal & 

Company Officer, General 

Electric 

In this role Mehta is responsible for 

leading NBCU's global business strategy and 

As the liaison between the company and key corporate 

national and local leaders, Madison also serves as identifying 

development activities, including 

industry trends and investment 

the diversity spokesperson for NBC Universal. opportunities and continuing to shift the 

Madison is responsible for working with the company's portfolio toward high-growth areas. He 

company's business executives to ensure the also has executive responsibility for the the 

organization is an industry leader in developing the company's Digital Media team. Salil reports 

programs and culture that will enable the company directly to Jeff Zucker, President and CEO, NBC 

to better reflect the makeup of its increasingly Universal. 

diverse, globally-based customers, clients and 

audiences. 

RON MEYER 

President and Chief Operating 

Officer, Universal Studios 

Uncler Mr. Meyer' 5 leadership, 

MICHAEl PilOT 

President, Sales & Marketing, 

NBC Universal 

Michael Pilot was appointed 

Universal has also produced such Oscar·winning President of Sales & Marketing in December 2006. 

box-office hits "Shakespeare in love:' Pilot has overall executive responsibility for all 

"Gladiator." and Nil, Beautiful Mind." He is the areas of the company's television networks 

longest serving chief of a major motion picture advertising sales and marketing efforts. He 

company in the history of Hollywood (he has been reports to Jeff Zucker, President and CEO of NBC 

COO since 1995). His current role as President and Universal. 

COO of Universal Studios includes oversight of 

Universal Pictures, Focus Features, Universal 

Television, USA Network, the SCI FI Channel, and 

Universal Theme Parks and Resorts. 

CORY SHIELDS 

Executive Vice President, Global 

Policy Strategies and Alliances 

Cory Shields was appointed 

executive vice president of Global Policy Strategies spearheading 

PHERSMITH 

President, NBC Universal 

International 

Smith ;s 

international 

responsible for 

business growth 

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and Alliances in June 2009. In this role, Shields opportunities for NBC Universal in partnership 

serves as a high-level communications professional with key leaders in each business. His role is 

dedicated to strategically and consistently focused on better leveraging NBCU's existing 

formulating public positioning and advancing NBC international business by coordinating efforts 

Universal's global intellectual property agenda. across all of the company's divisions to build 

Shields reports to NBC Universal's President and growth, scale and synergies. 

CEO Jeff Zucker and to Executive Vice President 

and General Counsel Rick Cotton. 

JOliN WALLACE 

President, NBC local Media 

John Wallace is President of the NBC 

Local Media Division. He oversees 

the group's ten owned-and-operated television 

stations; its online properties and digital out-ofhome division; the local lifestyle programming 

production company, LX.TV; and the in-house 

marketing and promotion company, Skycastle 

Entertainment. Wallace reports directly to Jeff 

Zucker, President and CEO of NBC Universal. 

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Facts About Comcast Corporation 

Today, Comcast Corporation has acquired massive reach and influence on its path to 

becoming the nation's largest cable company, whose first quarter profits this year reached 

$9.2 billion (In 2008, the company collected over $34.3 billion in revenue). Comcast owns 

multiple cable franchises in 39 states; it has 23.9 million customers; 15 million high-speed 

Internet customers, and 7 million voice customers. In context, Comcast has more customers 

than the number 2 and 3 cable operators combined: Time Warner has only 13.2 million 

customers and Cox Communications has 5.4 million customers. Essentially, for a Network or 

new cable channel to be competitive and viable, it must do business with Com cast because of 

the number of homes the company reaches. Under the merger agreement, Com cast stands to 

gain majority ownership and control of NBC Universal's two broadcast television networks (NBC 

and Telemundo), its 26 local owned-and-operated broadcast television stations, several 

national cable programming networks, a motion picture studio, an international theme park 

business, and NBC's online content businesses. 

Com cast has 13 members on its Board of Directors. Only one is African American -

Kenneth Bacon. Com cast has 28 corporate executives. Only two of their corporate executives 

are African American. Com cast has 33 Division Executives distinguished by "Com cast Cable," 

"Comcast Programming Group," and Com cast Interactive Media. Only 2 of Com cast's 22 Cable 

Division executives are black. There are no minority division executives who head Comcast's 

Programming Group (the executives respansible for the overseeing Comcast's network 

programming. Only one of Comcast cable networks has an African president - the Style 

Network. There is one latino who is responsible for advertising sales, but no minorities head 

the company's programming activities. 

A merged Com cast-NBC entity will have the unprecedented capabilities and Incentives 

to impede the success of independent programmers who offer consumers alternative sources 

of news and entertainment. As the owner of both content and the means of distributing that 

content, Com cast could undermine the many independent news, sports and entertainment 

channels that compete with the channels it owns. For example, Bloomberg is one of CNBC's 

direct competitors in cable. Once Comcast acquires CNBC, it will be in the position to 

disadvantage Bloomberg by offering the channel on a digital tier outside the reach of its target 

audience. Or, if conditions are not put in place, Com cast could exert an immense amount of 

leverage in negotiating carriage agreements with Bloomberg and other competing independent 

programmers (this is evident in Comcast's disputes with Wealth TV, the Tennis Channel, and 

the NFL Network). 

Since Com cast owns multiple cable franchises in 39 different states and has 23.9 million 

customers, independent programmers would ultimately be forced to negotiate with Com cast. 

In turn, Com cast could explicitly refuse to carry the channel, suppressing the network's 

opportunity to compete and deliver an alternative news or entertainment source to the 

American public. I don't believe the consumers want the nation's largest cable operator to be 

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the gatekeeper over what the majority of American households view online and on television, 

The Federal Communications Commission must ensure that Com cast is prohibited from using 

its dominance to stifle its programming competitors, 

The merged Comcast-NBC entity will also have the capabilities and incentives to 

increase the costs consumers pay for cable and satellite TV service, and undermine competition 

between video distributors, For example, in certain markets cable operators like RCN or 

Verizon FIOS compete with Comcast in providing Americans with an alternative cable 

subscription source, By combining NBC Universal's key programming assets (including 10 NBC 

local broadcast stations and numerous popular NBCU national cable networks) with Com cast's 

10 regional sports networks, this new programming entity will have unrivaled market power to 

demand higher prices from cable and satellite operators, Thus, as the new owner of NBC's 

"must have content" (NFL games, Bravo, ScFy Channel, MSNBC, the Weather Channel, and 

other NBC Universal content), Comeast could unfairly charge competing cable operators 

exorbitant rates to carry their content, These additional costs would likely be passed to 

consumers, increasing Internet and cable subscription rates, 

Comcast Cable Network Properties (only one network headed by a 

minority) 

.. Golf Channel: Page Thompson (white) 

.. *Style Network: Salaam Coleman Smith (African American, woman) 

.. Versus: Jamie Davis 

.. Big Ten Network: Mark Silverman 

E!: Ted Harbert (white) 

.. Comeast Entertainment Group: Ted Harbert (white) 

.. G4: Neal Tiles (white) 

.. Sprout: Sandy Wax (white) 

Comeast has 13 members on its Board of Directors, Only one is African American Kenneth 

Bacon, Comcast has 28 corporate executives, Only two of their corporate executives are 

African American, Comeast has 33 Division Executives distinguished by "Com cast Cable," 

"Com east Programming Group," and Comcast Interactive Media, Only 2 of Comeast's 22 Cable 

Division executives are black, There are no minorities who head Camcast's Programming 

Group and are respansible for the management of Camcast's network programming, There is 

one latina who is responsible for advertising sales, but no minorities head the company's 

programming activities, 

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Neil Smit 

President, Corneas! Cable 

Communications 

David N. Watson 

Executive Vice President 

Operations 

Comeast Cable 

Kenneth J, Carrig 

Executive Vice President 

Human Resources 

Corn east Cable 

John Schanz 

Executive Vice President, 

National Engineering and 

Technology Operations 

Corneast Cable 

David A, Scott 

Executive Vice President 

Finance and Adm inistration 

Corn east Cable 

Madison Bond 

Executive Vice President 

Content Acquisition 

David A. Juliano 

Executive Vice President, 

Marketing and Product 

Development 

Com cast Cable 

Tony G, Werner 

Executive Vice President and 

ChiefTechnology Officer 

13 
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Catherine Avgiris 

Senior Vice President ~nd 

General Manager 

Communications and Data 

Services 

Com cast Cable 

Mitch Bowling 

Senior Vice President and 

General Manager of New 

Businesses 

Comcast Cable 

Douglas Gaston 

General Counsel 

Com cast Cable 

Peter I<iriacoulacos 

Chief Procurement Officer & 

Senior Vice President 

Com cast Cable 

Officer 

Greg R. Butz 

Senior Vice President 

Product Development and 

General Manager Media 

Services 

Com cast Cable 

Rick Germano 

Senior Vice President 

Customer Operations 

Matthew Strauss 

Senior Vice President 

New Media 

Comeast Cable 

14 
30 


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Kevin M. Casey 

President 

Northern Division 

Com cast Cable 

John H. Ridail 

President 

Southern Division 

Com cast Cable 

William R. Stemper 

President, 

Com cast Business Services 

Com cast Cable 

(omcast Programming Group 

(No minorities monage network programming) 

Jeff Shell, President, Comcast 

William Connors 

President 

Eastern Division 

Com cast Cable 

Steve White 

President 

West Division 

Comeast Cable 

Charlie Thurston 

President 

Comcast Spotlight 

Com cast Cable 

Group 

Jeff Shell serves as President of Comcast Programming Group. In his role., Mr. Shell oversees 

Com cast's interests in its national content networks and investments, induding E! 

Entertainment Network, Style Network, G4, Golf Channel, VERSUS, TVOne, PBS KIDS Sprout, 

CNS, and a variety of regional sports network investments and other businesses, 

M. Financial Comcast 

Joe Donnelly serves as Chief Financial Officer of Programming Group. He oversees the financial 

matters concerning Comcast Networks, 

15 
31 


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president of television's only 24-hour network devoted to the sport of golf, P8ge H, 

Thompson is responsible for overseeing all GOLF CHANNEl interests, including programming, 

production and operations, consumer and affiliate marketing, promotional strategies, home 

video and merchandising, as well as new media applications, 

Ted Comcast Entertainment 

He recently was promoted the new position of President & CEO of Comcast Entertainment 

Group, with oversight ofthe company's West Coast properties, including E1 Entertainment 

Television, Style Network and the male-targeting G4 network. Today, Harbert leads an 

executive team that oversees the company's flagship network, EI Entertainment Television, 

available in 89 million homes; the rapidly growing lifestyle channel, The Style Network, in 43 

£11111ion homes; and G4 TV, now in;>9 million homes, He is also responsible for directing the 

activities of E! Online, 

Jamie VERSUS 

Jamie Davis joined VERSUS in September 2008 and oversees the network's day-ta-day 

programming, production, marketing, finance and sales operations, while directing and 

executing an overall strategic growth plan and vision for the network, With Davis at the helm 

VERSUS has become the fastest growing sports cable network in the country, led by the 

monumental success of the 2009 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs, 

David T. President, Comcast Network Sales 

Dave Cassaro oversees advertising sales for Comcasfs national networks 

Sandy President and General Manager, PBS KIDS Sprout 

Sandy Wax is President and General Manager for PBS KIDS Sprout, the first and only 24-hour 

on-air, all demand and online service devoted to preschoolers and their parents and caregivers, 

Jon D. President, Comcast SportsNet 

Comeast Sports Group President Jon D, Utner, 46, is responsible for the strategy, 

programming, and day-to-day operations a/the rapidly growing COll1cast Sports Group 

of 14 regional sports and news networks, 

Comcast 

As President of Comcast Emerging Networks, Diane Robina is responsible for developing new 

networks and also charged with cultivating and overseeing the conception, startup and 

operations of the newlv created networks, The first of those networks FEARnet a multiplatform network focused on horror films, launched fall of 2006, 

16 
32 


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Neal Tiles, "'"""",,'.u 64 Network 

Neal Tiles joined G4 in September 2005 as president of the network, G4, the fastest growing 

network on television for 2006, launched in ,!l,pril 2002 and is now available 59 million cable 

and satellite homes nationwide, The #1 podcasted cable network America and a leader in 

VOD, G4's programming includes breaking video game industry news, trends, reviews, the 

hottest games and gear, celebrity interviews and insider opinions, Targeting the male 18-34 

audience, G4 is the first and last word on games, sports, technology, animation, interactivitv, 

the Internet and broadband, 

Com cast Programming Group 

Jeff Shell Joseph M, Donnelly 

President 

Comcast Programming Group 

Chief Financjal Officer 

Comcast Programming Group 

David T, Cassaro 

PreSIdent, Com cast Network Adveliislng Sales 

Comc8st Content 

Ted Harber! 

President & CEO 

Camcasl Entertainment Group 

Page Thompson 

President 

The Golf Channel 

Jamie Davis 

President 

VERSUS 

17 
33 


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Sandy Wa.x 

President 

PBS !(IDS 

Jon 0, Litner 

Presidel1t, Comcast SPDrtsNet 

Comcast Interactive Media 

Amy 8anse 

President, Corncast Interactive Media & 

Senior Vice President, Comcast Corporation 

N •• ITiles 

President 

G4 

18 
34 

Mr. BOUCHER. Thank you very much, Ms. Waters. Appreciate 

your statement this morning. 

We now will recognize our panel of witnesses, and they are here 

by invitation. The witnesses are here by invitation only. 

Mr. FELDMAN. Mr. Chairman, I had submitted to your office a request to speak here. 

Mr. BOUCHER. Sir, you’re out of order. We are recognizing our 

witnesses at the hearing at this time. 

Mr. FELDMAN. I ask you, please, to reconsider. I have testimony 

that I—— 

Mr. BOUCHER. Sir, I’m sorry. The witnesses are here by invitation only. And we will now recognize our panel of witnesses. 

Mr. Jonathan Jackson is the national spokesperson for the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, and is speaking today on behalf of that coalition. Mr. Will Griffin is President and Chief Executive Officer of 

Hip Hop OnDemand. Mr. Samuel DeSimone is the General Counsel 

for EarthLink. Ms. Paula Madison is Executive Vice President and 

Chief Diversity Officer of NBC Universal. And Joseph Waz is Senior Vice President for Comcast Corporation. 

We welcome each of you, and without objection, your prepared 

written statements will be made a part of the record. We would 

welcome your oral summaries. And in the interest of time, because 

we only have this room until 11:00 today, we would ask that you 

try to keep those oral summaries to approximately five minutes. 

That will leave for us ample time to take questions. 

Mr. Jackson, we will be happy to begin with you. 

STATEMENT OF JONATHAN JACKSON, RAINBOW PUSH COALITION; WILL GRIFFIN, PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE 

OFFICER, HIP HOP ONDEMAND; SAMUEL R. DESIMONE, GENERAL COUNSEL, EARTHLINK; PAULA MADISON, EXECUTIVE 

VICE PRESIDENT, CHIEF DIVERSITY OFFICER, NBC UNIVERSAL; JOSEPH W. WAZ, JR., SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS AND PUBLIC POLICY COUNSEL, COMCAST 

CORPORATION 

STATEMENT OF JONATHAN JACKSON 

Mr. JACKSON. Thank you, Chairman. My name is Jonathan Jackson. I’m the spokesperson for the Rainbow PUSH Coalition here in 

my father’s behalf, Reverend Jesse Jackson. 

First I’d like to say good morning, Mr. Rush, Ms. Waters and 

other members of the panel. I welcome this opportunity to speak 

to you today concerning the proposed merger between Comcast and 

NBC Universal. 

In the context of economic emancipation, I ask what is Comcast’s 

return on investment in assisting the economic empowerment of 

African American communities, and the underserved communities? 

In other words, why is it good business for Comcast to address 

two of the nation’s most important challenges; one, creating jobs, 

and, two, helping to connect every American, especially people that 

are marginalized in our country today, to vitally needed news, information, and broadband internet services? 

With this proposed merger comes a rare, and perhaps the last 

opportunity to address critical issues in the global communications 


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35 

landscape. Therefore, we take the following positions as this merger is considered. 

An opportunity exists to create a new global media platform now. 

The opportunity exists to create a new minority-owned venture 

that can be empowered to create sustainable opportunities now. Diversity should be a top down priority in every aspect of the merger. 

The merger should not hinder new media, but help support it by 

creating new, more easily accessible technological platforms. 

On to the point of ownership. There are three minority owners 

in the Chicago market, controlling a total of three stations, or less 

than 5 percent of all of the commercial radio stations in Chicago; 

WJOB–AM 1230, is controlled out of Hammon, Indiana-based 

Vasquez Development, a Latino-female-owned company; WLTH– 

AM 1370, controlled by WLTH Radio, an African-American-owned 

company; and WVON–AM 1690, controlled by Chicago-based African American-owned Midway Broadcasting Company. 

In a city that’s over 40 percent African American, there’s a 

dearth of media ownership happening in Chicago today. What was 

old media—what is new media is looking more like more of the old 

media. I encourage you to let’s create the opportunity now, that the 

ship has now left the station, so to speak. And what we’re experiencing now is less diversity than ever before. 

I can recall growing up when we saw an African American leading the news on CNN, we saw them at the White House years ago, 

and today it’s none. In the City of Chicago, we have two, five, 

seven, nine, CLTV, what local networks that say you’re proud to 

service the African American community. 

We know the power of images on television. Until those persons 

that have the power assume the responsibility to project positive 

images, how can a community develop and sustain itself? 

Some people need to be held accountable today. If we look at the 

music industry, we look at the film industry, I see that there’s too 

much blame fixing on the children, and on the parents. Those corporate titans that have the power to shape the images, to shape 

the culture are not being held responsible for the music that’s 

being produced, and the music that is being distributed. Some people would say they’re only fulfilling the current need, that if people 

didn’t like it, they wouldn’t buy it. Well, if people don’t have a 

choice, they succumb to whatever is left before them. 

That is what I would encourage you to do. Let’s create opportunities today. We’re going through, if you will, the third evolution, 

now into the fourth evolution of wireless technology. This Committee has missed it all. We have food banks for over 600,000 people do not have adequate supply of food in the City of Chicago. 

That’s a major issue. We have broadband deserts where people cannot register online cannot take classes online, cannot look up information online. In the heart of Englewood, where we’ve seen something very tragic happen just yesterday of another officer being 

killed in as few as two months. So, gentlemen and ladies of the 

Committee, I ask you to have that in your consideration. I yield the 

rest of my time. 

[The prepared statement of Jonathan Jackson follows:] 


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Congressional Hearings on the 

Comcast-NBC Universal Merger 

Testimony from the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. 

President and Founder 

Rainbow PUSH Coalition 

July 8, 2010 

Good morning. I welcome this opportunity to speak to you today concerning the proposed merger between 

Comcast and NBC Universal. 

In the context of economic emancipation, I ask what is Comcas!'s Return On Investment (ROIl in assisting in 

the economic empowerment of African American and underserved communities? 

In other words why is it good business for Comeast to address two of the nation's most important challenges: 

creating jobs and helping to connect every American, especially people of color, to vitally needed news, 

information and broadband internet services?" 

With this proposed merger comes a rare -- and perhaps the last -- opportunity to address critical issues in the 

global communications landseape. Therefore, we take the following positions as this merger is considered: 

- An opportunity exists to create a new global media platfonn now . 

. The opportunity exists to create a new minority-owned venture. 

- Diversity should be a top down priority in every aspect of the merger. 

- The merger should not hinder new media, but help support it by creating new, more easily accessible 

technology platforms. 

- Minority ownership and control must be a top priority. 

- Representation in high level executive positions which ultimately affects programming, hiring within and onair. 

- Hire more people of color in senior level/decision making positions. 

- Comcast / NBC Universal must focus recruitment by attending HBCUlMlllticultural Career Fairs. 

- Training programs must be developed and enhanced to increase minorities in leadership roles. 

- Minority mentoring programs must be developed to encourage students and young adults to aspire to work in 

the telecom industry. 

- Spend 25% of all advertising and marketing dollars with minority-owned firms. 

- Spend 25% of all vendor dollars with minority-owned firms. 
37 


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While the scrutiny of the merger transaction has primarily focused on the implications on national media and 

communications outcomes, this deal would be responsible for significant consequences in individual local 

markets. 

For example, the Chicago area is the nation's third-largest radio and television market. Despite being a large 

market, Chicago is dominated by a handful of media companies. The proposed ComcastlNBC Universal merger 

will make this even worse. Ifthis deal goes through, nearly a quarter of Chicago's commercial cable chatmels in 

the most popular cable package will be owned by Comcast. 

Already, just four companies control neat'ly two-thirds of the Chicago area's local news market. The owner of 

the Chicago Tribune, WGN-AM 720 and WGN-TV, controls nearly one-fifth of the local news market forthe 

entire Chicago area. 

Television 

Large conglomerates, such as Trihune Co., ABCIDisney, NBC/GE and Rupert Murdoch's News Corporation 

dominate the Chicago TV market. ABCIDisney and News Corporation together control nearly forty percent of 

the revenue in the market. News Corp., NBC/GE and Univision each own two stations (Hduopolies"), 

accounting for nearly half of the full-power commercial stations in the market. After the merger, Comcast - who 

already controls much of the cable and Internet service in the city - will also control one ofthese duopolies. 

Only two ofthe 13 full-power commercial TV stations in Chicago are locally owned and operated (WlYS, an 

independent affiliate owned by lavon Broadcasting and WCIU, an independent affiliate owned by Weigel 

Broadcasting). lovan's WlYS is the only commercial TV station owned by a racial or ethnic minority in the 

{;hicago market. There are no full-power commercial stations in the greater Chicago area owned hy women. 

Radio 

Clear Chrumel, CBS, Tribune Co. and Bonneville International are four national conglomerates that dominate 

the Chicago radio market, with CBS owning seven atld Clear Channel owing six stations. Together, these four 

companies control nearly sixty percent of the revenue share in the Chicago market and capture over half of the 

entire Chicago radio audience. Nationwide, Clear Channel owns over 800 radio stations, CBS owns 130, and 

Bonneville owns 28. Non-local owners control over two-thirds of Chicago's commercial radio stations. 

Ownership 

There are three minority owncrs in the market, controlling a total of three stations, or less than 5 percent of all 

the commercial radio stations in Chicago: WlOB-AM 1230, controlled by Hatlunond, Indiana-based Vasquez 

Development, a Latino- female-owned company; WLTII-AM 1370, controlled by WLTH Radio, an Afi"icanAmerican-owned company; and WVON-AM 1690, controlled hy Chicago-hased and African-American-owned 

Midway Broadcasting. Vasquez Development, WLTH Radio and Midway Broadcasting each own just a single 

station. 

Media ownership in Chicago doesll't reflect the diversity of its population. Racial and ethnic minorities are 37 

percent of the population in the Chicago TV market; 38 percent of population in the Chicago radio market; and 

nearly two-thirds ofthe population in the city of Chicago. However, racial and ethnic minorities own less than 4 

lercent of Chicago's full-power commercial radio and television stations. Women own just 6 percent of 

Chicago's full-power commercial radio and television stations, despite comprising over half the population. 

We want to make sure that independently owned and controlled minority cable networks don't find it harder to 

gain carriage if this deal happens. 
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Back in the late 1960s and early 1970s, the civil rights community held out great hope that the emerging cable 

industry would be reflective of communities of color in programming, ownership and staffing. Our community 

hoped to not only own cable networks but cable franchises as well. But this simply hasn't happened. 

Comcast is by far the biggest cable company in the country. One out of every four cable subscriber is a Comcast 

customer. 

The FCC must make sUte that there's a fair and enforceable process that ensures Comcast carries independent 

networks and programs and that there is a way for these networks to gain carriage or to resolve carriage 

disputes. The process must also ensure that Comcast won't favor their own programming and networks over 

their competitors. 

Comeast must commit to making at least 10 percent of all of its networks on the basic tier - owned and 

controlled by people of color. 

In addition, we want Comcast to make public the percentage of people of color employed by NBC News, 

MSNBC and CNBC and set aggressive benchmarks to ensure they reach parity in staffing. 

We also want to make sure that entertaimnent programming owned by Comcast-NBC is also reflective of 

society and that the percentage of people of color in front and behind the camera also reaches parity. We want 

to see aggressive benchmarks to make this a reality. 

But to set aggressive benchmarks, it's critical we have the data on the diversity in staffing at Comcast and NBC. 

'viost importantly, any agreement that is reached with Comcast to increase diversity must be enforceable. 

Comeast must amend their license application to include these agreements so tlmt the company is accountable to 

the promises they make. 

Finally, there is the increasing control that Comcast will have over access to broadband Internet service. 

Citizens who are shut out of the online world are less able to become educated, gain critical job skills, manage 

their own health and that of their family members, and engage in even the most basic commercial activities and 

transact.ion.,;;. 

Without access to broadband, marginalized groups are ill equipped to contribute to the nation's economy, and 

they increasingly face lives of diminished opportunity. 

With people of color projected to become the majority of the U.S. population before mid-century, the rates at 

which poorer minority communities gain access to broadband have implications that go well beyond matters of 

simple fairness and equity and into the realm of strategic national importance. 

It is imperative the Comcast NBC Universal merger support the following objectives: 

1. Create Jobs. The relationship between capitol investment and job creation is key to crealing high-tech jobs 

that are sorely needed . 

. Invest in and partner with minority-owned businesses. Create new opportunities through investment in 

new technologies that support broadband and wireless technology. 

3. Broadband Adoption. Establish sustainable broadband adoption efforts that aligned with key areas such as 

education, healtheare and employment that improve quality of life for African American consumers. 
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4. Employment. Reinforce policies to hire, retain and promote African Americans. 

Thank you. 
40 

Mr. BOUCHER. Thank you very much, Mr. Jackson. 

Mr. Griffin, we’ll be happy to hear from you. 

STATEMENT OF WILL GRIFFIN 

Mr. GRIFFIN. Thank you, Mr. Chairman and members of the 

Committee, Congresswoman Waters, nice to see you again. Congressman Rush. Thank you for the opportunity to appear before 

you today to discuss the proposed combination of Comcast and 

NBC Universal, and who benefits from it. 

By way of background, I have seen the inner workings of most 

of the major media companies. While in law school, my faculty advisor was current Deputy Commerce Secretary, Dennis Hightower, 

who was the first African American President of Walt Disney Television. As the Director of the Harvard Consultation Project, I was 

advised by former Motown Chairman, Clarence Avant, who opened 

the door of access into the CEOs of the major record labels which 

started my career in the media industry. 

Subsequently, at McKinsey & Company’s entertainment and 

media group, I worked on project at Time Warner during its postmerger integration with Turner, and I remember a discussion with 

AOL and Time Warner the same discussion, which was lack of 

broadband access, lack of diversity, and it was going to be the end 

of life as we knew it for all media companies, and it didn’t work 

out for AOL for all practical purposes. I think all those intentions 

didn’t come to pass. 

But, subsequently, I joined News Corporate in the Strategy and 

Marketing Group, and for the past 10 years I’ve been an entrepreneur in African American media producing film with Reuben 

Cannon and Bishop TD Jakes, and ultimately running a film and 

television production company in partnership with Russell Simmons and Stan Lathan, where we created and launch Hip Hop 

OnDemand on Comcast five years ago. 

These experiences have led me to support this joint venture with 

Comcast as the controlling partner for two overwhelming reasons. 

First, Comcast has the best Infrastructure of Inclusion to build 

upon in the media industry. And, two, African American consumers 

and policy makers have more potential leverage over Comcast than 

any other media company. I do not come to this conclusion lightly, 

because there is no doubt that the history of African Americans 

and media consolidation creates a visceral negative reaction to any 

merger or consolidation. 

When I watch Congresswoman Waters’ hearings or Congressman 

Rush president over the legislation for Wall Street reform to insure 

the Side Streets and main street are protected from the excesses 

of Wall Street, I applaud. Likewise, I applauded the field hearing 

in June in Los Angeles, and I believe this hearing is vitally important, because I remember sitting in my dorm room in 1992 when 

Bill Cosby expressed his desire to buy the NBC network, a network 

that he turned around with African American programming, and 

was told it was not for sale. It begged the existential question, 

‘‘Why?’’ 

Many African Americans remember when Fox launched with a 

focus on African American programming. They had iconic shows 

like Queen Latifah in ‘‘Living Single,’’ ‘‘Martin,’’ ‘‘Roc’’, ‘‘New York 


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41 

Undercover.’’ Then through a series of acquisitions, mergers, stock 

swaps and expansions into Fox News, the company has morphed 

into the monstrosity that we see today. From Queen Latifah to 

Glenn Beck. Why? 

More recently, when Viacom’s UPN and Time Warner’s the WB 

merged, the first casualties were the African American shows, 

‘‘Girlfriends,’’ ‘‘Eve,’’ ‘‘All of Us,’’ ‘‘Everybody Hates Chris,’’ that 

made up the bulk of UPN’s line-up. Why? 

Here’s my answer; because advertisers have only been willing to 

pay for a limited amount of African American impressions, and will 

not pay for every African American view generated. It is why African American icons like Chicago’s legendary Johnson Publishing 

with Ebony/Jet are in decline, and it should be the subject of future 

hearings. We are just a few blocks from many of the companies 

that control the main source of revenue in the media industry, and 

I think that they should be held accountable. That’s necessary if we 

are to remove the primary barrier to growth and sustainability in 

minority media companies. Your intervention and oversight of the 

advertising industry is sorely needed. 

This is true of my own experience with Hip Hop OnDemand. At 

about the same time that we launched on Comcast, three other African American channels also entered into long-term distribution 

agreements with Comcast, Video OnDemand, Quincy Jones III’s 

channel, and TV One. Two of the other companies quickly folded 

because they couldn’t secure advertisers. Fortunately, we had General Motors, the Coca Cola Company, and Reebok as charter sponsors. Then foreign-owned Adidas acquired Reebok and zeroed out 

their African American marketing budget. Then GM experienced 

their problems, came to Congress to bail them out, and re-emerged 

to profitability, and they have not come back to our channel, despite the fact that we have experienced viewership growth in each 

and every quarter. If my company was paid for every one of the 

500 million potential ad impressions generated, I could have made 

my own run at NBC. 

The root of the problem is this, advertisers’ unwillingness to allocate minority marketing budgets in proportion to viewership ratings, which brings me to why I supposed this transaction. 

Comcast has the best Infrastructure of Inclusion to build upon in 

the media industry. Some of the very systems at the core of the 

Comcast media empire were birthed by African American media 

owners. The Washington D.C. cable system was founded by Bob 

Johnson, and funded by Herb Wilkins and Syncom. Syncom in Chicago, along with John Johnson and George Johnson, founded the 

forerunner of Comcast’s current Chicago Cable System. When the 

question is posed, ‘‘who benefits,’’ I think this history is important 

to note. This effort is all the more significant that a city founded 

by African Americans was the first to put broadband access within 

the reach for so many African Americans. Chicago was the first of 

the Comcast markets to go all digital. Analog boxes were able to 

be traded in for digital boxes at no additional cost to the consumer. 

This is particularly relevant to African Americans, because 

broadband access was considered an additional expense. When the 

digital boxes came in, it became easy to buy broadband access as 


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42 

part of a bundle, which I believe has contributed to helping increase broadband access in Chicago. 

Chicago is very unique in the United States in that respect in 

terms of the digital divide and the ability to use cable to get 

broadband access into African American homes. As more cable 

boxes are rolled out in other markets it will help bridge the digital 

divide. 

So, I think this history of Comcast corporate structure with African Americans is important, because I liken this corporate family 

tree to the Thomas Jefferson/Sally Hemming descendents, it’s in 

your DNA, you might as well embrace it. 

I believe they have. I listened with great interest at the Field 

Hearing on June 7th, and I also listened with great interest to 

Congressman Rush’s Opening Statement in a March hearing with 

FCC Chairman on the National Broadband plan and its omission 

of potential benefits to Small and Minority-owned businesses. 

In 2007, when Comcast allowed all of its Chicago analog subscribers to trade in their boxes, I believe they started going in the 

direction of what you were asking them in terms of the National 

Broadband plan. True, it’s only a start, and more can be done, but 

I think this will be a big help in that direction. 

In minorities, there are substantial minorities in management 

positions among its tens of thousands of minority employees in 

Comcast. Moreover, in each of the last five years, that number has 

continued to grow at a rate greater than that of whites in the corporate structure. The minority composition is vastly superior to any 

other media company, and is eons ahead of the advertising, telecommunications, and financial services industries. That context is 

extremely important when we evaluate Congresswoman Waters’ 

numbers, because what she’s saying is true. But I think if you 

begin to look in terms of the direction of where Comcast is going, 

it’s headed in the right direction. 

I’d also like to highlight some examples of how having thousands 

of minorities in leadership positions at Comcast has been invaluable to me as an African American media owner. 

When we launched along with three other channels, it was because Comcast Corporate Vice President, Payne Brown, came to 

dozens of African Americans in the creative community to educate 

us on the video on demand platform, and the multi-billion dollar 

investment that Comcast was making to become the industry leader in VOD. When we saw the ability to get distribution and programming directly to our core viewers, we were one of the few who 

actually raised the capital, and secured the advertisers to pursue 

the opportunity. Once we were on the platform, we began to market our channel and get support from the African American General Managers, who run the cable systems here in Chicago, Washington, D.C., Houston, South Florida, and the entire Western Region of the United States, are run by African American General 

Managers at Comcast. It is no coincidence in the markets with the 

larger African American populations, and African American GMs 

are our top performing markets. As part of our ongoing process of 

making viewers aware of our channel, we have supplied information to Comcast’s customer service teams, who are largely African 

American, and supervised by an African American female Senior 


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43 

Vice President, it helps when explaining our channel to subscribers. 

The result is that according to a study conducted by Starcom 

Media Group, African Americans are more than twice as likely to 

use VOD than any other demographic. 

Mr. BOUCHER. Mr. Griffin, you have exceeded your allotted time. 

Now, if you could just wrap up, we would appreciate that. 

Mr. GRIFFIN. Sure. 

Mr. BOUCHER. We will come back to you for questions. 

Mr. GRIFFIN. Sure. Well, I was reading the pages, but I believe 

the proposed Comcast-NBCU joint venture is a step in the right direction. Thank you. 

[The prepared statement of Mr. Griffin follows:] 


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WRITTEN TESTIMONY OF 

WILL GRIFFIN 

CHAIRMAN AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER 

HIP HOP ON DEMAND 

TO THESUBCOMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS, TECHNOLOGY 

AND THE INTERNET 

UNITED STATES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 

HEARING ON 

"COMCAST AND NBC-UNIVERSAL: WHO BENEFITS?" 

July 8, 2010 
45 


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Mr. Chairman, and Members of the Committee Congressman Rush, thank you for the 

opportunity to appear before you today to discuss the proposed combination of Comcast and 

NBC-Universal and who benefits from it. 

By way of background, I have seen the inner workings of most of the major media companies. 

While, in law school, my faculty advisor was current Deputy Commerce Secretary Dennis 

Hightower, who was the first African-American President of Walt Disney Television. As the 

Director of the Harvard Consultation Project, I was advised by fomler Motown Chairman, 

Clarence Avant, who opened the door of access into the CEO's of the major record labels which 

started my career in the media industry. Subsequently, at McKinsey & Company's entertainment 

and media group, I worked on projects at Time Warner during its post-merger integration with 

Turner, and then later joined News Corp. in the Strategy and Marketing Group. For the past ten 

years, I have been an entrepreneur in African-American media producing film with Reuben 

Cannon and Bishop TD Jakes, and ultimately running a film and television production company 

in partnership with Russell Simmons and Stan Lathan, where we created and launched Hip Hop 

OnDemand on Comcast five years ago. 

These experiences have led me to support this Joint Venture with Comcast as the controlling 

partner for two overwhelming reasons: 1) Comcast has the best Infrastructure of Inclusion to 

build upon in the media industry, and 2) African-Americans consumers and policy-makers have 

more potential leverage over Comcast than any other media company. I do not come to this 

conclusion lightly, because there is no doubt... 

THE HISTORY OF AFRICAN-AMERICANS AND MEDIA CONSOLIDATION CREATES A VISCERAL 

NEGATIVE REACTION TO ANY MERGER OR CONSOLIDATION 

When I watch Congress Rush preside over the legislation for Wall Street reform to ensure the 

Side Streets and main street are protected from the excesses of Wall Street I applaud. Likewise, 

I believe this hearing is vitally important because I remember sitting in my dorm room in 1992 

when Bill Cosby expressed his desire to purchase NBC (a network that he turned around with 

African-American programming) and was told it was not for sale. And it begged the existential 

question "Why?" 

Many African-Americans remember when Fox launched with a focus on African-American 

programming. They had iconic shows like Queen Latifah in Living Single. Martin. Roc. New 

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York Undercover. Then through a series of acquisitions, mergers, stock swaps and expansion into 

Fox News, the company has morphed into the monstrosity that we see today. From Queen 

Latifah to Glenn Beck. Why? 

More recently, when Viacom's UPN and Time Warner's The WB merged. the first casualties 

were the African-American shows --Girifriend5, Eve, All of Us, Everybody Hates Chris-- that 

made up the bulk ofUPN's line-up. Why? 

Here's my answer: because advertisers have only been willing to pay for a limited amount of 

African-American impressions and will not pay for every African-American view generated. It is 

why African-American icons like Ebony/Jet are in decline and should be the subject of future 

hearings if we are to remove the primary barrier to the growth and sustainability of minority 

media companies. Your intervention and oversight of the advertising industry is sorely needed. 

This is true of my own experience with Hip Hop OnDemand. At about the same time that we 

launched on Comeast, three other African-American channels also entered into long-term 

distribution agreements with Comcast: Vi be OnDemand, Quincy Jones TTl's channel, and TV 

One. Two of the other companies quickly folded because they could not secure advertisers. 

Fortunately we had General Motors, The Coca Cola Company, and Reebok as charter sponsors. 

Then foreign-owned Adidas acquired Reebok and zeroed out their African-American marketing 

budget. Then GM experienced their problems, came to Congress to bail them out, and reemerged to profitability, and they have not come back to our channel - despite the fact that we 

have experienced viewership growth in each and every quarter. If my company was paid for 

every one of the 500 Million potential ad impressions generated, I could have made my own run 

atNBC! 

The root of the problem is this: advertisers' unwillingness to allocate minority marketing 

budgets in proportion to viewership ratings which brings me to why I support this transaction. 

COMCAST HAS THE BEST INFRASTRUCTURE OF INCLUSION TO BUILD UPON 

IN THE MEDIA INDUSTRY 

Some of the very systems at the core of the Com cast media empire were birthed by AfricanAmerican media owners. The Washington DC cable system was founded by Bob Johnson and 

funded by Herb Wilkins and Syncom. Syncom, along with John Johnson of Johnson Publishing, 

founded the forerunner of Comcasts' current Chicago Cable System. When the question is posed, 

"who benefits", I think this history is important to note. This effort is all the more significant that 

a city founded by an African-American was the first to put broadband access within reach for so 

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many of its African-American residents. I liken this corporate family tree to the Thomas 

Jefferson/Sally Hemming descendents _. it's in your DNA, you might as well embrace it. 

I believe they have. I listened with great interest to Congressman Rush's Opening Statement in a 

March hearing with FCC Chairman Genachowski on the National Broadband plan and its omission of 

the potential benefits to Small and Minority-owned businesses. In 2007 when Comcast allowed all of its 

Chicago analog subscribers to trade in their analog for digital boxes at no addition fee it opened the 

door to broadband internet access to all of its inner city and suburban cable subscribers. It was an 

industry first that has accelerated broadband adoption in Chicago's minority communities. In its 

official response to this committee's questionnaire, Comcast has quantified its thousands of 

minorities in management positions and its tens ofthousands of minority employees. Moreover, 

in each of the last five years, that number has continued to grow at a rate greater than that of 

whites in its corporate structure. This minority composition is vastly superior to any other media 

company and is eons ahead of the advertising, telecommunications, and financial services 

industries. That context is extremely important. But I'd like to highlight some examples of how 

having thousands of minorities in leadership positions at Com cast have been invaluable to me as 

an African-American Media owner. 

When we launched along with three other African-American channels, it was because a Comcast 

Corporate Vice President, Payne Brown, came to dozens of African-Americans in the creative 

community to educate us on the video on demand platform and the multi-billion-dollar 

investment that Comcast was making to become the industry leader in VOD. When we saw the 

ability to get distribution and programming directly to our core viewers, we were one of the few 

who actually raised the capital (from Syncom and Pacesetter Capital Group) and secured the 

advertisers to pursue the opportunity. Once on the platform, we began to market our channel and 

get support from the African-American General Managers who nm the cable systems in Chicago, 

Washington, DC, Houston, South Florida and the entire Western Region of the United States. It 

is no coincidence that the larger markets with African-American GMs are our top performing 

markets. As part of our ongoing process of making viewers aware of our channel, we have 

supplied information to Comcast's customer service teams who are largely African-American 

and supervised by an African-American Female SVP. [t certainly helps when explaining our 

channel to subscribers. 

The result is that, according to a study conducted by Starcom Media Group, African-Americans 

are more than twice as likely to use VOD than any other demographic. 

Finally, when our channel had trouble securing sponsors, Comcast packaged our channel along 

with some of their properties and was able to secure sponsors for us, which subsequently decided 

to advertise directly with us because of what we were able to deliver. 

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Moreover, Comcast has served as our syndicator and secured us distribution on Cox, Insight, 

Bresnan and other cable systems, almost doubling our distribution reach -despite the fact that 

Comcast has no equity position in our company. 

This brings me to my second reason for supporting this transaction ... 

AFRICAN-AMERICAN CONSUMERS AND POLICY MAKERS HAVE MORE POTENTIAL LEVERAGE 

OVER COMCAST THAN ANY OTHER MEDIA COMPANY 

As a result of its origins in urban population centers, the bulk of Com cast's early and current 

subscribers are African-American -- the estimates range from twenty to twenty-five percent of 

Comcast's subscriber base. If Comcast fails to live up to its Voluntary Commitments to add more 

independent channels, promote African-Americans into leadership positions, or allow minority 

media owners to purchase assets they divest, these consumers could be mobilized and have a 

direct impact by switching service providers. 

This is far more direct and immediate market leverage than minorities have over other media 

companies through the indirect impact of boycotting advertisers of networks. 

A second layer of leverage unique to Com cast is that in each of its markets, Com cast must get is 

franchises renewed and many of these major markets are run by African-American and Hispanic 

state representatives, mayors, city councils and directors of cable franchising commissions at 

both the state and local levels. If Comcast fails to live up to its commitments, we can prevail 

upon these officials to act and apply greater conditions upon renewals of cable franchise 

agreements. 

This leverage is effective and even more potent when combined with the Hispanic influence at 

the state and local level in the Western and Southern regions that represent the core sources of 

Comcast's future growth plans. 

Now some have called for Congress and the FCC to exercise regulatory leverage at the federal 

level by mandating that Comcast set aside twenty-five channels for African-American media 

owners, defined as 100% African-American owned. It is not that the demand is too high, it is that 

the demand is unworkable for a couple of reasons. 

If you define African-American Media Ownership at 100% , that undercuts the long-standing 

and important work that Congressman Rush and Rev. Jackson with his Rainbow PUSH Wall 

Street Project have fought for for years -- namely, getting Public Pension funds to invest in 

minority asset managers who in turn invest in minority media firms like Radio One and Hip Hop 

On Demand. Although we control the voting equity (and in our case almost all of the equity), we 

are still not considered African-American owned by some. This untenable definition may explain 

why we have not received an invitation, call, email. or even a Facebook friend request to join the 

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Coalition of African-American Media Owners. The definition creates a coalition that is so 

exclusive that there is nobody there. The idea that the Company that Cathy Hughes founded and 

she and Alfred Liggins built that reaches tens of millions of African-Americans each day through 

Tom Joyner, Roland Martin and thousands of African-American employees is not Black enough 

almost disqualifies someone from a serious discussion of African-America media ownership. 

This line of racial purity in public policy almost cost us a chance at American History. Our 

President is Black enough. And so is TV One and so is Hip Hop On Demand. 

This proposed myopic approach attempts to measure African-American media ownership with a 

protractor, when what is truly needed is a compass. The True North is heading in the direction of 

greater distribution access on more platforms, increased leadership inside of media companies, 

and combining our influence to secure our fair share of advertising dollars. True North is also 

exercising our potential leverage by staying connected to our viewers and communities and 

working together to develop the next generation of African-American media owners to the travel 

along the trails we blaze today. 

For all the reasons stated above, I believe the proposed Comcast-NBCU Joint Venture is a step in 

the right direction. 

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Mr. BOUCHER. Thank you very much, Mr. Griffin. 

Mr. DeSimone. 

STATEMENT OF SAMUEL DESIMONE 

Mr. DESIMONE. Good morning, Chairman Boucher, Chairman 

Rush, Representative Waters. Thank you for inviting me to testify 

today on behalf of EarthLink. 

EarthLink is one of the national’s largest, oldest independent 

internet service provider. And by independent, we’re not affiliated 

with facilities-based provider of telephone, cable, or satellite services. We serve nearly 2 million customers nationwide with dial-up, 

broadband, and other internet services, and frequently receive 

awards for our customer service innovation. 

I appear today to urge that the approval of the proposed merger 

between Comcast and NBC be conditioned on Comcast’s entering 

into contractual arrangements with independent ISPs, like 

EarthLink, for wholesale, non-discriminatory broadband access, 

services at reasonable rates and terms. 

Since EarthLink’s founding in the dial-up in the mid-1990, our 

mission has always been to provide consumers a fast, unfiltered direct connection to the content of the entire World Wide Web. 

EarthLink is one of the only ISPs out of thousands that offered 

dial-up access business that has been competing in the broadband 

market during the last decade. 

As we look at the emerging broadband services and the proposed 

merger, we believe independent ISPs can and should play an important role in the broadband marketplace. The proposed merger 

would significantly change the US media and internet landscape. 

A dramatic increase in the scope and scale of Comcast’s control 

over the programming and content, combined with its dominant 

gateway control of the broadband network raises the risk that this 

will result in less competition, less consumer choice, decreased information diversity, reduced broadband investment and higher cost 

for consumers. 

The merger will create even broader economic incentives for 

Comcast to deny wholesale broadband access to competing ISPs. 

These enhanced incentives will flow from Comcast’s need to protect 

the incumbent cable and anything you have to protect the growth 

of online video. It is reasonable to expect the push for Comcast to 

address these online stresses and formulate a business strategy, 

such as, one, tying consumer access to online content to a cable TV 

subscription so that the two can either break the bundle or cut the 

cord. Two, engage in broadband network practices that discriminate against competing online video distributors. Three, withhold 

information involving rivals from Comcast and NBC affiliated programming and content. Four, enforcing conceptual description of 

the current cable carriage agreements that prevent video programmers from offering further linkages to other online competitors. 

Five, increasing the slice of broadband access especially in areas 

where it’s the only high-speed provider to discourage its use for online video. 

Whether distinctly or in combination, these strategies would 

harm consumers by forcing them to purchase bundles of services 

they do not need or want, and at higher prices for Wholesale 


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Broadband Access Service. U.S. consumers would have more 

choices of broadband providers to access this new generation of 

internet services. 

In these difficult economic times, this choice would give consumers the option to break the bundle and purchase only the services they need. Independent ISPs will have strong incentives to 

bring consumers independent video without bundling of services 

that dominates the market today. In such an environment, a diverse array of independent video programmers will also benefit because independent broadband ISP will have no incentive to restrict 

access to their programming. The resulting competition for content 

diversity will help keep cable prices in check. 

These arrangements should be modeled on our successful arrangement with Time Warner Cable. Our original agreement with 

Time Warner arose from conditions imposed by the FCC on the 

AOL–Time Warner merger in 2000, under which Time Warner 

grants us the right to provide our award-winning service to consumers over their cable network, and in exchange we pay a mutually agreed upon fee to Time Warner. This agreement was renewed 

in 2006, and continues to be mutually beneficial today. We have 

found that bringing consumers a valuable, competitive alternative 

helps drive broadband adoption and usage. 

EarthLink’s recommended solution is simple, narrow, low-cost, 

easy to implement, and has already proven to be effective in the 

marketplace. EarthLink believes competition would help U.S. consumers fully realize the power of diversity, and the possibilities of 

the internet. Thank you, and I look forward to your questions. 

[The prepared statement of Mr. DeSimone follows:] 


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SUBCOMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS, TECHNOLOGY AND THE INTERNET 

OF THE COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND COMMERCE 

UNITED STATES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 

TESTIMONY OF SAMUEL R. DESIMONE, JR. 

GENERAL COUNSEL AND SECRETARY 

EARTHLINK, INC. 

REGARDING 

COMCAST AND NBC UNIVERSAL: WHO BENEFITS? 

,JULY 8, 2010 

Good morning, Chainnan Boucher, Chairman Rush, other members of the Committee. 

thank you for inviting me to testify today on behalf of EarthLink. 

My name is Samuel R. DeSimone. Jr. and I am General Counsel and Secretary of 

EarthLink, Inc. EarthLink is one of the nation's largest independent' Internet Service Providers 

(ISPs), with approximately 750.000 broadband and 900,000 dial-up Internet access subscribers. 

Since the dawn of retail broadband in 1998. EarthLink has actively pursued the rollout of 

broadband Internet access services to Americans throughout the country, building value-added 

consumer offerings that utilize wholesale broadband transmission inputs from Broadband 

Providers. Today, EarthLink delivers broadband to hundreds of thousands of American 

consumers, who enjoy EarthLink's nationally-recognized and award-winning broadband Internet 

I An "independent" ISP is a provider of Internet access and related services that is not affiliated with a 

facilities-based provider of telephone, cable or satellite services. 
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access services.' EarthLink has the experience and history promoting broadband innovation and 

choice for consumers that few, if any, companies can rival. For years, EarthLink has been at the 

forefront of the effort to ensure that consumers have the opportunity to experience innovative. 

affordable and competitive ISP services. 

1. INTRODUCTION: STAKES ARE HIGH FOR CONSUMERS AND THE 

GROWTH OF THE INTERNET. 

The proposed combination of Comcast-NBCU would create a communications and 

information behemoth that will alter the American media landscape. The "new" Comcast would 

control a vast swath of the media, including the nation's largest cable network, numerous cable 

channels, broadcast programming, national, regional and local programming networks, major 

market broadcast stations, interactive video services, video on-demand and pay-per-view 

services, online video distribution, online interactive services and programming guides, theatrical 

motion picture production and content, wireless Internet services, and substantial Internet 

content. 

The dramatic increase in the scope and scale of Comcast's control over programming and 

content, combined with its dominant gateway control over the broadband access network. raises 

the risk that the transaction will result in less competition. diminished choice, decreased 

information diversity, reduced broadband network investment, and higher costs for consumers. 

At a time when broadband-driven online platforms are beginning to usher in a new era for 

, Among EarthLink's awards are: Highest in Customer Satisfaction Among Dial-Up Imernet Senice 

Providers, J.D. Power and Associates, in 2007 and 2008; Top Three in C!lltomer Sati.lfaction Among DSL 

Providers. East and West Regions, J.D. Power and Associates, 2008; Highest in Customer Satisfaction 

Among Residential Internet Senice Providers, West Region, J.D. Power and Associates, 2009; Top Three 

in Customer Satisfaction Among Residential Internet Service Providers (lied with Verizon). South Region, 

J.D. Power and Associates, 2009. 

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consumers to view, share and interact with innovative video programming, there is a serious risk 

that this promise could be cut short. 

In economic terms, as explained in the attached report of Projessor Simon Wilkie, the 

proposed combination has both vertical and horizontal impacts upon competition that undermine 

the public interest. 

II. THE MERGER COULD HARM CONSUMERS IN AT LEAST THREE WAYS 

1. Reduced Internet Services Available to Consumers 

The merger will create even stronger incentives for Comcast to deny wholesale 

broadband access on reasonable terms to competing TSPs, which can offer consumers a choice of 

Iriterrietpfovidets:- Theseenhancedeconbfiilc incentives to block ISP competitionflowfrbffi 

Comcast's needs to protect its incumbent cable revenues as well as NBC revenues from the 

threat of the Internet. Today, consumers have very jew choices when it comes to the broadband 

pipe into the home. Unfortunately, the merger will only make it worse for consumers who want 

a different choice -- and some competition -- of ISPs. 

The last-mile high-speed Broadband Access Service market today is characterized by a 

lack of competition, high entry barriers, and high end-user switching costs. FCC data 

consistently show that Broadband Aecess Service is overwhelmingly offered and provided only 

by either the incumbent wireline telephone carrier or the incumbent cable company, presenting a 

classic economic case of duopoly, with market control by just two dominant providers.' The 

most recent data of the FCC confirms that, while approximately two-thirds of residential highJ See, e.g., FTC v. H.J Heintz, 246 F.3d 708, 724 (D.C. Cir. 2001) ("In a duopoly, a market with only two 

competitors, supracompetitive pricing at monopolistic levels is a danger."); United States Dept. of Justice 

Antitrust Div. and Federal Trade Commission, 1992IIorizontai Merger Guidelines, 57 Fed. Reg. 41552. 

§ 0.1 (1992) ("where only a few finns account for most of the sales of a product, those firms can exercise 

market power, perhaps even approximating the performance of a monopolist. .. "). 

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speed connections are at 3 Mbps or higher, only the cable and incumbent telephone companies 

offer such services, with little evidence that mobile data offerings offer a competitive alternative 

at this time.4 The FCC's National Broadband Plan also found that this market is substantially 

non-contestable: "Building broadband networks--especially wireline--requires large fixed and 

sunk investments. Consequently, the industry will probably always have a relatively small 

number of facilities-based competitors, at least for wireline service.,,5 

The U.S. Department of Commerce's NTIA agrees that consumers frequently have 

limited, and often no, choice among broadband access providers.6 The U.S. Department of 

Justice has further concluded that consumers seeking to use the most bandwidth-intensive 

applications may have only a single viable choice of broadband access provider.7 Importantly, 

and as the FCC described in its National Broadband Plan, the current broadband duopoly is 

receding to a monopoly market, as approximately 75% of U.S. consumers "will likely have only 

one service provider (cable companies with DOCSIS 3.0-enabled infrastructure) that can offer 

very high peak download speeds."s Further, the significant switching costs associated with this 

market, including long-term contracts with consumers, the bundling of voice and video services, 

specialized CPE that must be installed to change providers all lend advantages to the early-on 

legacy entrants and limit consumer choice. 

4 See High-Speed Services for internet Access: Status as of December 3 I, 2008, FCC Report, Chart 11, 13 

and Table 6 (reL Feb. 2010). 

5 Federal Communications Commission, Connecting America.' The National Broadband Plan at p. 36, 

ON Dkt. 09-51 (reL Mar. 16,2010) ("National Broadband Plan"). 

" See Letter from Lawrence Strickling, Assistant Secretary for Communications and lnfonnation, Dept. of 

Commerce, NTIA, to Julius Oenachowski, Chainnan, FCC, at 3, ON Ok!. 09-51 (filed Jan. 4, 2010) 

("NTIA NBP Letter"); id, at 6 (broadband is at best a duopoly in many areas ofthe country). 

7 See Ex Parle Submission of (he Department of Justice to FCC. at 14, ON Dkt. 09-51 (filed Jan. 4. 2010). 

8 National Broadhand Plan at p. 42. 

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For consumers, this has meant that even as broadband providers' deployment costs 

continue to fall,9 consumer prices have increased,1O with the greatest increases in markets where 

only one broadband provider offers service." 

Com cast's refusal to offer EarthLink wholesale services in the majority of its footprint 

has essentially excluded EarthLink and other independent ISPs from providing consumers a 

choice of competitive broadband services in many markets where Com cast is the only highspeed option. EarthLink's current contractual arrangement with Comcast is limited 

geographically in scope to the Boston, Seattle, and Houston markets, as well as a few other 

relatively small metropolitan areas, which represent only a small fraction of consumers passed by 

Comcas!. Moreover, the pricing of this limited arrangement renders the wholesale service 

uneconomic for consumers. As a result, competition and consumer choice is further constrained. 

2. Reduced Access to Online Content 

The growth of broadband Internet usage is converging traditional television and online 

video, creating new platforms for video programming distribution. No longer limited to the 

traditional linear video programming from broadcasters and multichannel video program 

distributors (MVPDs), consumers are increasingly turning online to enjoy a wide range of "over9 See Costs of Providing Broadband Dropping, Broadband DSL Reports (May 4. 2009). available at 

http://www.dslreports.com/shownews/Cost-Of-Providing-Broadband-Dropping-l 02253 (noting, tor 

example, an 18% drop in Time Warner Cable's costs of providing service from 2008 to 2009). 

10 See Saul Hansell. As Costs Fall, Companies Push 10 Raise Internet Price. New York Times (Apr. 19, 

2009). available at http://www.nytimes.eom/2009/04/20/business/20isp.html?J~1 (while it costs 

Comeast an average of $6.85 per home to double Internet capacity within a neighborhood, its upgraded 

higher speed services are priced at over three times existing 8 Mbps services). 

" See John B. Horrigan, Home Broadhand Adoption 2009, Pew Research Center Publications (Jun. 17, 

2009), available at http://pewinternet.org/Reports/200911 O-Home-Broadband-Adoption-2009/3-

Connections-costs-and-choicesf5-Choice-and-price.a,pxoF I. ("Among broadband subscribers who 

report that one company serves their area, the average monthly hill is $44.70. Among broadband 

subscribe[r)s who report that more than one company serves their area, the average monthly bill 

is $38.30."). 

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the-top" video, including user-generated content, web-originated entertainment, educational 

programs, and news, political, religious, and public affairs programming. Online video program 

distributors (OVPDs) and other online video programming sources like MUZU TV, Vimeo, 

Veoh, Vudu, Sony, YouTube, blip.tv, Netflix and a growing number of others offer a range of 

content, choice and interactivity that is often superior to linear television. The consumer impact 

is already beginning to be felt: 800,000 households have dropped their cable television 

subscription entirely in favor of online options and this number is expected to grow to 1.6 

million by 2011. 12 

For the public, the evolution of online video is increasing innovation, facilitating user 

interaction, sharing and creation of video, enhancing consumer experiences, and driving greater -" ~- ---,,-,- -- -- ~ 

broadband adoption and usage. In addition to accessing professional video. online users can also 

tap into amateur videos on an enormous range of topics when choosing what to watch. Users are 

also able to upload their own responsive videos to what they see on the OVPD services (e.g., 

responding to political programming with a different opinion, or uploading a "sequel" to 

professional programming); post instant commentary and reviews of programming; share content 

with others; and integrate video into other online content such as social media, web forums, and 

other online communities. 

The costs and ease of market entry in the OVPD market substantially enhances diverse 

and minority viewpoints. Since online video runs "over the top" of an existing broadband 

network, it does not require the massive expenditure of technology, capital, and time typical to 

provide MVPD services. Barriers to entry are lowered further by elimination of prolonged 

12 Erick Schonfeld, Estimate: 800,000 u.s. Households Abandoned Their TVs for the Web, TechCrunch 

(Apr. 13,2010), available at http://techcrunch.com/201 0104/13/800000-households-abandoned-tvs-web/. 

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placement negotiations with program networks and broadcast stations, and/or MVPOs. Further, 

since the content is online and publicly-available, the OVPO market has low service switching 

costs for consumers. OVPOs can also help free consumers from the service bundles commonly 

encountered with MVPO service. 

It is reasonable to expect the post-merger Com cast to formulate business strategies and 

actions tbat address these exciting but threatening online developments. Com cast makes 

significant revenues from the operations of its traditional cable television business. Moreover, 

both Com cast and NBCU earn significant revenues from payments for programming carriage 

from MVPOs. In short, Comcast's economic incentives are such that it fares far better by 

ensuring that online video does not develop as a substitute for cable television service. 

Post-merger, Com cast has the ability to take a number of actions to address the growing 

online threat, including; (i) tying consumers' access to online content to retention of a cable 

television subscription so that consumers can neither "cut the cord" nor "break the bundle;" (ii) 

engaging in broadband network practices that block. degrade, or discriminate against online 

traffic to or from OVPO competitors and consumers; (iii) setting the capacity of bandwidth 

allocated to its Broadband Access Service at such a low level, or engaging in similar network 

configurations (while reserving capacity for its affiliated IPTV offerings), so as to effectively 

foreclose unaffiliated OVPO services; (iv) withholding or raising OVPO rivals' costs of access 

to Com cast and NBCU affiliated programming and content; (v) obtaining contract restrictions 

from providers of unaffiliated video programming as part of cable carriage arrangements that 

prevent unaffiliated video programmers from offering programming to OVPO competitors; and 

(vi) increasing the price for standalone broadband access service, especially in areas where it is 

the only feasible high-speed provider, to discourage its use fbr online video. 

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Whether singly or in combination, these actions may significantly harm consumers and 

impede broadband adoption and use. Further, with fewer online outlets available, these actions 

could also have negative impacts on independent programmers, and the diversity of information 

sources and perspectives available to the American public. With fewer voices, and fewer OVPD 

channels for expression, local, minority and underrepresented groups in the U.S. will be 

particularly harmed. 

3. Higher Prices and Less Choice for Consumers 

In these difficult economic times, consumers are looking to reduce costs by using an 

attractively-priced, standalone broadhand Internet service rather than subscribing to a more 

expensive bundle offered.by.incumbentproviders such .. as ComcasLThis trend wilLincrease .. as 

online video develops further. Moreover. the resulting competition and content diversity of 

broadband video could help to keep cable prices in check and support innovation and investment 

by all broadband content and service providers. helping to drive broadband deployment, 

adoption, and competition. 

Unfortunately, for the reasons discussed above and in Professor Wilkie's attached report, 

the merger may increase Comeasi's incentives to offer only the bundle and to prevent 

independent ISPs from offering a standalone broadband alternative. This will mean that 

consumers cannot "break the bundle" of high priced offerings when consumers only want or 

can only afford - one or two services in the bundle. Comcast will also have an even greater 

incentive to stop customers from "cutting the cord" - choosing online video rather than a cable 

television subscription -- to save on cable television subscriptions that consumers may no longer 

be able to afford. 

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lII. A SIMPLE AND LOW-COST STRUCTURAL SOLUTION: WHOLESALE 

STAND-ALONE ACCESS FOR ISPs 

EarthLink believes there is a simple, cost-etTective, and proven remedy to address several 

of the potential harms reSUlting from the Comcast-NBCU merger. Federal regulators should 

condition approval of the transaction upon the provision by Comcast of nondiscriminatory 

wholesale standalone Broadband Access Service to at least four independent ISPs across the 

Comcast broadband territory at reasonable rates and terms. This condition would use the 

successful broadband access condition adopted by the FTC in the AOL-Time Warner merger 

approval as a model, as it has proven to be a success for broadband consumers and an efficient 

nudge toward market-based arrangements that meet consumer needs. Notably, this wholesale 

accesscoiiditiori would also pay -C6rric-a:.~fareasoriabk fee foiuseofils bioadbiiIaacc-ess 

service, thus expanding Comcast's network to new users that cannot afford Com cast bundles and 

enhancing broadband adoption on terms that are commercially reasonable for both Comcast and 

the independent ISP. Consumers, however, are the greatest beneficiary - they will have a choice 

oflSP, and have the chance to save money by choosing just broadband access service. 

Further, such a condition mitigates Comcast's strong incentives to pursue a strategy to 

prevent unaffiliated OVPDs from establishing a foothold, and would nudge Comeast toward an 

open model. At the same time, the condition will allow unaffiliated ISPs to support the market 

for online progranlming and content by providing an independent avenue for distribution. 

Additionally, competitive broadband alternatives increase the incentives of all broadband 

providers to offer better services in order to compete. Over time, the success of independent 

ISPs will contribute to reducing Comcast's incentives to tie the availability of online content to a 

cable subscription, benefiting all consumers. Further, independent broadband access providers 

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will increase the ability of consumers to "cut the cord" by eliminating cable television service. 

This, in tum, will restrain Com cast from raising cable prices in order to retain consumers. 

Additionally, the condition will also increase the diversity of information sources, a basic 

tenet of communications policy. Ensuring that independent voices have distribution options 

outside of Comcast, including through unaffiliated OVPDs and ISPs, increases the diversity of 

viewpoints and independent programming for all consumers. This is especially important for 

underserved minority and disadvantaged populations who rely on the Internet to distribute their 

messages. The emergence of online video and development of unaffiliated OVPDs has the 

potential to allow independent voices to reach large and diverse audiences. 

IV. CONCLUSION 

Thank you again for the opportunity to testify today. I look forward to answering any 

questions you may have. 

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Mr. BOUCHER. Thank you very much, Mr. DeSimone. 

Ms. Madison, we’ll be happy to hear from you. 

STATEMENT OF PAULA MADISON 

Ms. MADISON. Thank you. Chairman Boucher, Representatives 

Rush, Buyer, and Waters, it’s a pleasure to be here today in Chicago to discuss the Comcast-NBC joint venture. 

As the home of two iconic African American-owned media businesses, a professional and personal friend and hero of mine, the 

late, great Vernon Jarrett, the Dean of Black Journalism, the 

windy city is a fitting backdrop for today’s hearing. 

My written statement discusses in great detail the consumerand innovation-related benefits of the deal, so I’d like to use my 

opening statement to highlight another important issue, the positive impact that this transaction will have on diversity. 

Although I currently serve as the Chief Diversity Officer for 

NBCU, and report directly to our President and CEO, Jeff Zucker, 

my career with the company began more than two decades ago in 

the newsroom as an Assistant News Director at WNBC, our flagship station in New York City. 

As I rose through the ranks of NBCU to become the first African 

American female President and General Manager of KNBC in Los 

Angeles, I experienced first-hand the company’s commitment to diversity. During those years, I also made it a personal and professional priority to recruit, cultivate, and promote talented executives 

of color, so when Jeff Zucker approached me in 2007 about leaving 

the helm of KNBC to assume the role of Chief Diversity Officer, it 

was an opportunity that naturally complemented my career in the 

company. 

I decided to take on the new challenge, not because I needed to, 

but because I believe in NBC Universal, and remain deeply committed to helping people of color, both new hires, and existing executives succeed in the media and entertainment industry. 

One powerful example of the diversity issue within our company 

is my dear friend, Celia Chavez, the dynamic President and General Manager of WSNS Telemundo here in Chicago, who’s here 

with us today. A 22-year veteran of the television business, Celia 

joined Telemundo in 1995, and has served in senior leadership 

roles in several major markets across the country, including Los 

Angeles, San Antonio, Los Vegas and Denver. 

Since joining WSNS here in Chicago, Celia has launched several 

new programs, including Hablando Claro, Speaking Clearly, a public affairs show focused on helping Chicagoans improve their daily 

lives. This city, NBC Universal, and Telemundo are all lucky to 

have Celia on their team. 

On the issue of diversity, enormous progress has been made in 

the five months since Mr. Zucker and Mr. Roberts testified at 

length before this Committee. Through a longstanding ongoing 

open dialogue, we’ve made real progress in addressing important 

issues raised by organizations representing communities of color, 

as well as some concerns members of Congress, as you heard here 

today. 

In early June, as an outgrowth of these talks and our own internal discussions, Comcast-NBCU announced a comprehensive series 


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of formal joint diversity commitments covering a wide range of 

areas, workforce recruitment and career development, supplier diversity, media ownership, programming, and community investments and partnerships. 

In recent weeks, these important careers have been supplemented by an agreement among Comcast-NBCU, and several 

prominent organizations, including the National Council for La 

Raza, the Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility and the 

National Hispanic Media Coalition. 

I’d like to take a minute to draw your attention to some key details of the joint diversity commitments, which are attached in full 

to Joe Waz’s testimony. Although I hope you’ll have an even closer 

look at these documents, which I have here with me in order to 

better understand the depth and breadth of the commitments, let 

me point out some of the highlights of this document. 

At their core, these commitments not only build upon the success 

of past efforts at NBCU, but break new ground. Whether it’s the 

establishment of four new external diversity councils to advise senior management, or the commitment to increase diversity among 

executive ranks with the assistance of professional search firms 

with proven track records of success, or the continued expansion of 

the geographic footprint in original programming budgets at 

Telemundo, or the significant increases in minority procurement 

and community philanthropic investments. These deals include 

concrete and tangible benefits for those who, like me, care deeply 

about diversity. 

As a veteran of the broadcast news business, I also want to mention the positive impact the Comcast-NBC new joint venture will 

have on free over-the-air broadcast television and news. By permitting to invest going forward in Telemundo and NBC News owned 

and operated stations, Comcast is clearly demonstrating its willingness to support this important industry, which millions of families, 

a disproportionate percentage of whom are low-income and minority, continue to rely on for their news, weather, sports, and entertainment programming. 

This deal does not resolve all of the unanswered questions, or 

solve every problem industry faces, but one thing is clear. It is an 

important and significant step in the right direction. As Vernon 

Jarrett famously said in his last column before retiring, the struggle goes on. And just as I have for the past 20 plus years, I remain 

committed to continuing an open dialogue with anyone and everyone who is willing to work collaboratively and productively with 

NBC Universal, and the industry as a whole, as we take positive 

strides forward in advancing the cause of diversity. I look forward 

to answering the Subcommittee’s questions. Thank you. 

[The prepared statement of Ms. Madison follows:] 


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HOUSE ENERGY & COMMERCE SUBCOMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS, 

TECHNOLOGY AND THE INTERNET 

FIELD HEARING 

CHICAGO,IL 

WRITTEN TESTIMONY OF 

PAULA MADISON 

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, DIVERSITY, NBCU 

VICE PRESIDENT, GE 

,JULY 8,2010 

Chairman Boucher, Representative Rush, Members ofthe Committee, and Members of 

Congress: Thank you for the opportunity to appear at this hearing on the proposed sale ofNBCU 

to a joint venture between Comcast and GE. 

I began my career as a reporter and worked as a professional journalist and news 

executive for more than 30 years. In 1989, ljoined WNBC - NBC's flagship station in New 

York City - as the assistant news director. I then became Vice President and News Director in 

1996. In that year, WNBC's newscast was ranked number one in every day part for the first time 

in 16 years. In 2000, I became the President and General Manager of KNBC in Los Angeles as 

well as the regional GM for both of Telemundo's LA stations. I also took on the role of NBC's 

Senior Vice President, Diversity. For my last two years as the GM of KNBC (2006-2007), 

KNBC led NBC's owned and operated stations in profitability for the first time in the Division's 

history. In May 2007, NBC Universal President and CEO Jeff Zucker announced that diversity 

would be one of his five strategic priorities for NBCU and asked me to work on diversity full 

time and to serve as the company's Chief Diversity Officer reporting directly to the CEO. 1 

appear before you today as a 21-year NBC veteran who now serves as Executive Vice President, 

Diversity, for NBCU and as a GE Vice President. 

NBCU has a long association with the City of Chicago. Our two Chicago stations, 

NBC 5 and Telemundo, together employ more than 302 people in this city. We are proud of the 

quality they offer: the Illinois Broadcasters Association has repeatedly named NBC 5 Station of 

the Year, and together, these stations have tied for or won more Emmy's than any other Chicago 

station the past two years. The relationship between NBC 5 and Telemundo, which is led by my 

friend Celia Chavez, has resulted in a bilingual, co-located news operation. The stations are fully 

integrated and share many functions, while at the same time they maintain a strong individual 

voice. 

NBC Universal's movie division is also no stranger to Chicago. We have made four 

movies in Chicago over the last four years: "Little Fockers: Meet the Parents 3"; "Public 

Enemies"; "Couples Retreat"; and "The Express." These four films injected over $50 million 

into the local economy, including paying some 8,000 local workers almost $27 million in wages. 
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These examples illustrate the importance of Comcast's commitment to grow all the NBCU 

businesses: a thriving NBCU means more investment and more jobs for reporters, actors, 

writers, truck drivers, caterers and drycleaners in Chicago and all over the United States. 

Today I would like to address two subjects - first, the overall benefits of this transaction, 

and second, the impact and benefits this transaction will have on diversity, a subject that 

members of this Committee asked about on February 4 and have continued to address since then. 

The heart of this deal is about joining Comcast's world-class technological distribution 

capabilities with NBCU's world-class content production. Comcast is committed to investing in 

NBCU to support and enhance both the quality and the quantity of our content and to exploring 

ways to generate more options for consumers to enjoy that content. That new investment by 

Comcast is critical. It will benefit the content production community generally - as well as the 

audiences who love NBCU programming and films. And as Comcast has explained, it will use 

its advanced platform to deliver the benefits of the "anytime, anywhere" delivery options that 

today's consumers demand - not only for our terrific NBCU content, but for content from 

producers large and small, black and white and brown. In such a competitive and dynamic 

industry, this deal will make both partners better and more vibrant competitors. 

At the time this deal was announced, we believed strongly that the whole of our 

combined entities would be greater than the sum of its parts, benefiting consumers, viewers, 

communities, our companies and the broader entertainment industry community. Since we last 

appeared before this Subcommittee, that belief has only been strengthened by recent 

developments. We are also proud that a growing number of others have also reached the same 

conclusion. For example, we have reached an agreement with the NBC affiliates that provides 

them assurances that Comcast's commitment to the broadcast business is strong and meaningful, 

and they have given their support for the transaction. Given the critical importance of our 

partnership with our broadcast affiliates, this is a very significant and welcome development. 

Similarly, Comcast has reached an understanding with the non-NBC affiliates that assures them 

about the separation and integrity of retransmission consent negotiations following the deal's 

closure. 

Beyond these affiliate agreements, we have also made progress in other areas since our 

last appearance before you. Specifically, in light of the focus by many Members of Congress on 

diversity issues, Comcast and NBCU have made an unprecedented series of commitments on all 

aspects of diversity within the two companies. Ranging from diversity in programming and 

news to diversity in procurement, workforce development and philanthropic investment, these 

commitments demonstrate the high priority we place on these issues and the seriousness of 

purpose we bring to improving diversity in both companies following the transaction. (The 

companies' commitments on diversity issues are described more fully later in the testimony and 

in the attached summary, "Comcast and NBCU's Summary of Diversity Commitments".) It is 

important to recognize that these commitments are the result of many months of extensive 

conversations with leaders of some of the most influential diversity organizations in the country. 

Lastly, the growing number of voices that have expressed their support for the transaction gives 

further evidence of its broad appeal and the wide array of benefits it would bring to consumers 

and the public. Hundreds of letters in support of the transaction have been filed, ranging from 

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Members of Congress and governors all the way to grassroots organizations, citizens, 

stakeholder groups and local officials -- including one from Mayor Daley. These statements of 

support reinforce our view that this transaction will be good for our consumers, for our 

companies, for greater diversity within our companies, and for the communities where we work 

every day. 

I. Benefits o(the ComcastlNBCU Joint Venture 

On February 4, this Committee heard from our President and CEO, Jeff Zucker, and 

Comcast's CEO, Brian Roberts, on the many benefits of the proposed transaction. Let me briefly 

outline the benefits this transaction will bring. 

A. Investment in NBC and Content Production 

Comcast's support for investment in the new NBCU's content creation will benefit 

consumers by assuring and expanding the supply of high quality content. In tum, this support 

also benefits the broadcast, cable and film production communities. Importantly, this support 

also extends to local and diverse programming. This much-needed investment will preserve and 

create sustainable media and technology jobs, benefiting the content production community 

generally. 

i. Broadcast 

The NBC broadcast network has been an iconic brand for more than 75 years. Over that 

entire time span, NBC has been committed to producing high quality, desirable and popular 

programming for the American viewer. 

The broadcast side of our business has faced significant challenges in recent years, as 

stations have come under increasing financial pressure and have searched for additional revenue 

streams to remain viable. As part of this transaction, Comeast has committed to maintaining 

NBC's free, over-the-air broadcast service through our stations and local affiliates across the U.S. 

This commitment is an enormous benefit of the transaction, in our view, and it has been 

greatly underappreciated. Because a significant proportion of diverse communities continue to 

rely heavily on broadcast for their television viewing, Comcast's commitment to free over-the-air 

television will be particularly important to these communities. And it will also give NBCU the 

resources it needs to keep free over-the-air service, including local news, available and of high 

quality. 

Comcast's commitment to NBC's broadcast business has critical importance for our 

broadcast production. In this upcoming season, NBC has commissioned 20 new pilots, more than 

either CBS or Fox. As we strive to offer quality programming that will attract large audiences, 

we welcome Comcast's commitment to invest in and sustain production of our programming. 

Comcast has also committed to work to find a sustainable business model for 

broadcasting. In particular, Comcasl has expressed a willingness to playa constructive role in 

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the retransmission consent negotiations between broadcast stations and MVPDs. As everyone 

recognizes, broadcast stations have struggled to survive on advertising revenue alone. These 

retransmission consent negotiations have the potential to provide broadcast stations with a 

second stream of revenue to reinvigorate that business. Com cast's support for this evolution as 

embodied in this transaction gives us optimism that the struggling broadcast business can 

develop a new and sustainable business model for the future. 

As tangible evidence of Comcast's commitment to sustain broadcast television, Comcast, 

NBCU, and our affiliates entered into negotiations designed to demonstrate that commitment in 

tangible terms for our affiliates. We are pleased that those negotiations concluded in an 

agreement with the affiliates. Those commitments include assurance to the affiliates that 

(l) many major sporting events will continue to be broadcast on the NBC broadcast network, and 

Comcast will not migrate them to cable channels; (2) retransmission consent negotiations and 

affiliate agreement negotiations will be conducted separately and without influence on one 

another; and (3) NBC's program schedule will remain competitive with the other three networks. 

These critical commitments, along with other key provisions of the agreement, reinforce the 

value of Comcast's commitment to the broadcast business. 

ii. Cable Production 

NBCU's cable networks have increasingly commissioned original programming, which 

will result in expanded production of cable television content. In today's struggling economy, 

this represents an opportunity for much needed growth in a signature American industry, with 

obvious benefits for the many people in the production business. With Comcast's partnership, 

NBCU will be able to further expand and enhance our content production and development. It is 

often said that a rising tide lifts all boats, and that saying rings true here. 

iii. Film Production 

Another important aspect of our content development and production is Universal 

Studios. Comcast has been a leader in developing On Demand distribution of films and has 

stated its ambition to accelerate the ease with which consumers can access film content. 

Comcast's support for continued investment in top quality film content, as well as its interest in 

expanded distribution of that content, will provide opportunities to the entire content production 

community while at the same time benefiting consumers in the new "anywhere, anytime" digital 

world. 

iv. News and Local Programming 

Comcast's commitment to preserve NBC News' journalistic independence is vital. NBC 

News has an unmatched reputation for integrity and excellence. On the local level, Comcast's 

commitment to the vitality of the broadcast side of the business will foster local newsgathering 

and news programming. NBCU and Comcast have voluntarily made significant commitments to 

strengthen local and public interest programming. (See attached ComcastfNBCU Transaction 

Public Interest Commitments.) Indeed, as part of this transaction, we have committed that 

NBC's owned-and-operated stations alone will collectively produce an additional 1,000 hours a 

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year of local news and information for local market distribution. In short, the joint venture with 

Comcast will preserve and enrich the output oflocal news, local public affairs and other public 

interest programming. 

v. Telemundo 

Particularly close to my heart, NBCU and Comeast are also committed to investing in 

and expanding their diverse programming. NBCU owns Telemundo, which is not only a major 

Spanish language broadcast network, but has also become - through NBCU's leadership - the 

second largest Spanish-language content provider in the world. As a leader in producing original 

content made by Hispanics for Hispanics, Telemundo is a proud member of the U.S. Hispanic 

community. 

GEfNBCU acquired Telemundo for $2.7 billion in 2002, followed by an additional $900 

million to acquire stations and create Telemundo Studios and Telemundo International to 

develop and produce original programming. NBCU created Telemundo's hugely vibrant 

Spanish-language production facilities in the United States. Today, Telemundo produces more 

than 3,000 hours of original content a year. Telemundo Studios provides hundreds of creative 

and production jobs to talented Hispanics, developing diverse talent in front of and behind the 

camera. We are also proud that Telemundo today has more Hispanic executives in its senior 

executive leadership than at any other time in the history of the company. In 2002, when NBCU 

bought Telemundo, 33% of Tel em undo's leadership team was Hispanic; today, Hispanics 

constitute more than 80% of Telemundo's senior executive leadership. This team leads 

approximately 1,400 full-time employees, 85% of whom are Hispanic. 

Furthering its commitment to the Hispanic community, Telemundo owns and operates 

mun2, the bilingual lifestyle cable network for today's culture connectors (C2s) - bicultural 

Hispanics 18-34. As the fastest growing cable network for young Hispanic Americans, mun2 is 

culturally grounded and reflects the best of both worlds. mun2 reaches more than 34 million 

U.S. households and is the only national bilingual cable network measured by Nielsen NTI. 

Mun2 is proof positive that NBCU and Telemundo recognize the importance of the bicultural 

Hispanic audience and want to serve them with quality content. 

The proposed joint venture will enhance Telemundo's service to the Spanish-language 

audience in various ways. For example, within twelve months of closing the transaction, 

Telemundo will launch an entirely new Spanish-language multicast channel on the digital 

spectrum of Telemundo's owned and operated local stations and offer that channel to all 

Telemundo affiliates. 

B. Expanded Content Distribution and Delivery Innovation 

As discussed above, Comcast's support for investment in content creation promises to 

enhance both the quality and the quantity of our programming, which will expand our audience 

and improve our ability to compete within the industry. In turn, by offering NBCU's enhanced 

and expanded programming on Comcast's cutting edge "anytime, anywhere" delivery platforms 

for viewers, Comcast and NBCU can better meet consumer demand while at the same time 

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exploring new and innovative ways to deliver entertainment value to current and new consumers. 

Broader distribution of our content will benefit NBCU and expand our audience, and the ability 

to offer more and better content on more platforms will enhance Comcast's ability to serve its 

consumers and its incentive to continue to innovate to meet ever-changing consumer demands in 

this vibrant and competitive industry. 

The combined entity will be best positioned to provide the delivery innovation that 

today's consumers demand. As Brian Roberts observed in separate appearances before four 

different Congressional committees in explaining this transaction, Comcast operates in an 

intensely competitive and dynamic environment. We are moving into a world in which 

consumers are enjoying unprecedented options for how they get the content they want from 

legitimate sources. No one can predict or dictate the business model that will succeed in the 

future of such a fast changing and technology-dependent industry. With this joint venture, 

Comcast will have a solid footing in both the content production and distribution worlds - as the 

company's leaders have stated, content and distribution work well together, and create more 

opportunities to innovate. As distribution models evolve, Comcast and NBCU together will be 

better prepared to find new models to better serve all audiences. 

II. Diversity Initiatives 

At the first hearing that this Committee held on the proposed transaction back in February 

in Washington, D.C., Members of this Committee, including Mr. Rush, expressed great interest 

in how the proposed joint venture would affect diversity. Motivated in large part by your interest 

and that of the diverse communities with whom we work daily, we have declared our goal of 

building on our current diversity records through a series of concrete commitments and 

initiatives on diversity that the two companies are prepared to undertake following the close of 

the transaction. r am pleased to attach "Comcast and NBCU's Summary of Diversity 

Commitments." I will note that these commitments have evolved over many months based on 

extensive conversations with leaders of some of this nation's most influential diversity 

organizations. 

NBCU has a strong track record of being committed to the principles of diversity 

throughout the company, and we have made significant progress. But we also recognize that 

there are many areas where we can and must do more. We are focused on diversity issues on 

multiple fronts, including programming, procurement, philanthropy and community investment, 

and the development of our workforce. Following the proposed transaction, Comcast and NBCU 

will retain and strengthen their commitment to diversity. 

A. NBeU Diversity Initiatives 

As the Chief Diversity Officer ofNBCo - and as an African American woman - I want to 

express my appreciation to our CEO Jeff Zucker who has made diversity one of his top five key 

strategic goals for the company and has supported me in our very substantial diversity efforts. 

As the Committee well knows, the efrort to bring diversity to corporate America must be a 

continuous one. I helieve we have shown strong leadership in this regard. Let me tell you some 

of what we do today and some of our post-transaction plans. 

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i. Diversity In The Organization 

NBCU is committed organizationally to diversity. I am proud to serve as the Corporate 

Diversity Officer for a media company with a wide range of initiatives designed to increase 

diversity in our workforce. In addition to my role as the Corporate Diversity Officer, NBCU has 

established an NBCU-wide corporate Diversity Council, which I chair. This Diversity Council 

consists of the heads of each division within NBCU and reports directly to the CEO. Each 

division also has an individual business Diversity Council that sets goals at the division level and 

reports directly to each division head. 

Under Jeff Zucker's leadership, the diversity of our U.S. full-time employee population 

has increased from 24% to nearly 30%. Including Telemundo, our diverse full-time employees 

constitute more than 35% of our staff population. Women and minorities combined represent 

over 60% of our full-time workforce. Minority and women executives constitute roughly 40% of 

our executive ranks. 

iL Benchmarking 

In order to make progress toward our diversity goals, NBCU is committed to 

benchmarking. We set annual diversity goals at both the corporate level and at each business 

unit level. We report annually to a coalition of four organizations (the National Association for 

the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), American Indians in Film and Television, the 

National Asian-Pacific American Media Coalition, and the National Latino Media Council) on 

our corporate diversity efforts, with particular emphasis on programming/content, procurement, 

and our pipeline programs. I also consult with each of the four groups individually on diversity 

issues on a quarterly basis. These efforts to benchmark our progress are important drivers of our 

company behavior. 

iii. Procurement 

NBCU commits significant resources to supporting supplier diversity. This support is 

reflected in NBCU's procurement track record. In 2009, NBCU spent $100 million with womenowned businesses and $140 million with minority-owned suppliers. This $240 million total 

represents more than a ten-fold increase in our spending with women and minority-owned 

businesses since 2000. NBCU has also pledged that following the deal closing we will increase 

this spending 20 percent per year over the next two years. And with the investments and 

resources that Comcast will bring to the joint venture, we are committed to maintaining and 

expanding our strong network of diverse suppliers. 

iv. Philanthropic Investment 

NBCU also supports diversity initiatives through its philanthropic and community 

investment. In 2009, NBCU committed approximately $3.5 million to philanthropic efforts, 

including its support ofNBCU Foundation programs. Approximately half of these donations and 

grants benefited community-based youth and family organizations, most of which have a strong 

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presence in diverse communities. We support initiatives geared toward improving middle and 

secondary school achievement, and the majority of the groups we support serve racially diverse, 

underserved communities. We plan to expand this commitment by at least 10% annually for the 

next three years. 

We are also proud to be one of the largest supporters of the Emma L. Bowen Foundation 

for Minority Interests in Media. The Emma Bowen Foundation is dedicated to preparing 

minority youths for careers in the media industry. In addition to providing internships and 

financial support, NBCU has welcomed the Emma Bowen Foundation into our DC offices, 

where we provide pro bono administrative support to the program. A significant number of the 

students supported by the Emma Bowen Foundation have taken positions at NBCU, Comcast 

and elsewhere in the industry. 

v. Entertainment Programming 

Perhaps some of the best evidence ofNBCU's commitment to diversity in programming 

can be found in the shows we have selected for NBC's fall lineup and our summer reality shows. 

Three of the most widely anticipated pilots scheduled to air in the fall feature diverse actors in 

significant roles: Undercovers has two diverse leading roles, the lead character in Outlaw is 

diverse, and The Event will feature a diverse actor playing the President of the United States, I'm 

proud to say, emulating real life. And, of our seven summer reality shows, three have diverse 

hosts. All seven have diverse contestants. 

More generally, NBCU continues to increase diversity in front of and behind the camera. 

Over just the past year, NBC increased its use of minority actors (31 to 33%), writer/producers 

(12 to 14%) and directors (9 to Il %); USA increased minority actors (19 to 23%) and 

writer/producers (14 to 18%); Syfy increased minority writer/producers (4 to 10%). Minority 

talent already represents 37% of the talent in front of the camera at the Oxygen network. Our 

efforts to identify diverse talent are aided on the television side ofthe business by fact that the 

casting department is headed by a diverse executive. 

NBCU believes that attracting and retaining the best, most diverse talent provides a 

significant advantage in the media and entertainment industry. NBCU develops diverse talent 

through its Diverse Writers Program, Directors Fellowship Program, and other Professional 

Development Programs. Through the Directors Fellowship Program, NBCU offers diverse 

participants opportunities to shadow a Directors Guild of America (DGA) director, as well as to 

gain exposure to other aspects ofNBCU Television Studios production. Through the Diverse 

Writers Program, NBCU has funded a writer from a minority group for three years for each 

scripted series on the NBC broadcast network and for NBC's three late night programs. This 

program has added at least 100 diverse writers to the creative community. Following the closing 

of the joint venture, NBCU will not just continue this program but will expand it to cover 

scripted series on our cable networks. 

Additionally, NBCO's Professional Development Programs offer hands-on experience in 

programming development and management, and other areas of our business through our other 

pipeline programs, including the Entertainment Associates program, the Universal Pictures 

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Leadership Program, and our Internship Programs. NBCU also builds diverse relationships by 

hosting two formal networking events each year to create employment opportunities for diverse 

directors, writers, and directors of photography. Through these networking events, NBCU brings 

diverse talent together with our senior executives in the feature, broadcast, cable and digital 

divisions ofNBCU (at the president, executive vice president, senior vice president and vice 

president levels). NBCU will double the number of these events to one per quarter as part of the 

new joint venture. 

vi, News 

NBC News, Telemundo and both NBC's and Telemundo's owned-and-operated stations 

have made diversity in news gathering a priority. NBC supports diversity in news programming 

through recruitment outreach to minority journalists, as well as through its Professional 

Development Programs. Specifically, the Diversity Leadership Program for mid-career diverse 

producers and associate producers is an 18-month program designed to train and develop them 

for executive producer roles. The NBC News Summer Fellowship Program sponsors paid 

internships every summer for diverse candidates selected jointly with trade associations 

representing diverse journalists, and the News Associate Program identifies aspiring journalists 

who bring diverse backgrounds to news production and news coverage. Finally, NBC recruits 

every year at the annual conventions of trade associations representing diverse journalists, and 

we participate in career fairs, networking events, and other outreach to minority journalists. 

vii. Diversity in Ownership 

r know the question of diversity in media ownership and production is of particular 

concern to Mr. Rush. Earlier r mentioned a number of ways that the transaction will help to 

diversify media ownership and production opportunities, including the creation of new linear and 

On Demand distribution. There is another important way in which we believe this transaction 

will add media ownership diversity. 

NBCU is in the process of divesting its ownership interest in KWHY-TV, an independent 

Spanish-language broadcast station in Los Angeles. This presents a key opportunity for minority 

ownership in one of the nation's top two largest media markets. To facilitate this opportunity, 

NBCU has established a process to identify potential buyers and has selected the Minority Media 

and Telecommunications Council ("MMTC") as co-advisor for this transaction. MMTC has had 

demonstrable success in identifying qualified minority buyers in similar divestitures. 

Conclusion 

Although Comcast's and NBCU's records on diversity are solid, and in many key 

respects are among the best in the industry, we are always looking for ways to improve. 

Comcast and NBCU have both witnessed the benefits of successful diversity programs to the 

business. That is why we are committed to developing and refining best practices for diversity, 

and we will always welcome your input on our progress. The combined entity will build upon 

and strengthen both NBCU's and Comcast's commitment to diversity as a corporate value and to 

promoting diversity throughout all levels of the organization. Comcast and NBCU will also 

9 
73 


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create an integrated organizational structure to promote the values and goals of diversity in the 

combined entity. 

NBCU's support of diversity initiatives has been well recognized. As the Emma Bowen 

Foundation noted in a recent letter, "NBC executives have continuously served on the 

Foundation's Board of Directors to help guide the growth and development ofthe Foundation's 

program." Through its sponsorship of the Foundation, NBC has helped to launch the media 

careers of diverse young professionals. 

Additionally, the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) recently recognized 

NBCU's diversity efforts with respect to news gathering by awarding NBC News and NBC Local 

Media its highest honor for a news organization: the Best Practices award. As stated by NABJ's 

Vice President-Broadcast Bob Butler, "According to NABJ's annual survey of broadcast news 

management, NBC Universal contains the most African-American Vice Presidents, General 

Managers, News Directors, Senior and Executive Produces in its Network News Division and in 

its owned-and-operated stations than any broadcast or cable network in the country." 

And last year, NBCU was proud to receive the Congress of Diversity Executives 

Leadership in Diversity Award for Leadership From The Top, in recognition of our innovation, 

creativity, courage and leadership in addressing diversity and inclusion. 

I am proud to lead NBCU's strong diversity efforts, and I am excited by the possibilities 

of the proposed joint venture. I look forward to answering your questions. 

JO 
74 

Mr. BOUCHER. Thank you very much, Ms. Madison. 

Mr. Waz. 

STATEMENT OF JOSEPH WAZ 

Mr. WAZ. Chairman Boucher, thank you, and thanks again for 

the opportunity to be here with you and your colleagues this morning. 

You presented the topic of this hearing in the form of a question: 

‘‘Comcast and NBCU Universal: Who Benefits?’’ I appreciate the 

opportunity to answer that question. 

I believe that the benefits of this transaction will promulgate to 

the nation’s economy, to all subscribers, multi-channel video services, whether for Comcast or our competitors to all who rely on 

over-the-air broadcasting, to independent programmers, to creators 

of color, and to many, many others. I’d like to use my time to summarize some of these benefits. 

By bringing together content and distribution in this transaction, 

we see significant opportunities to grow our businesses, and to preserve and grow jobs in this sluggish economy. As our Chairman 

and CEO, Brian Roberts, has said on a number of occasions, ‘‘This 

transaction is a bet on America at a time when few such bets are 

being placed.’’ 

Consumers will benefit because this transaction will accelerate 

the anytime, anywhere digital video future the consumers want 

and demand. All consumers will benefit because as Comcast becomes more innovative, our competitors in satellite, phone company, and other video providers need to innovate, too. 

As Ms. Madison explained, this transaction will benefit households that rely primarily on over-the-air broadcast TV, which are 

disproportionately minorities, senior citizens, and low or fixed income. Although broadcasting is a challenged business, we have 

committed to invest in NBC and Telemundo to make them stronger 

and to make the services continue to meet the needs of over-theair viewers, and all viewers. 

Independent content providers will also benefit. We can never 

possibly serve the needs of all viewers solely with the content that 

this company will own. This transaction will help open up new opportunities on our OnDemand and online platforms, as well as our 

traditional cable platform, that we’ll be pleased to discuss. And we 

hope that this will make possible many more success stories like 

those of Will Griffin and other independent content creators and 

entrepreneurs. 

In addition, we committed to add 10 new independently owned 

and operated cable networks over the next eight years, and we will 

dedicate most of those new opportunities to channels that are already owned and controlled. Moreover, as NBCU divests one of its 

Los Angeles television stations, it has committed to do its best to 

insure that a minority owner will acquire this station. And in the 

event that any future divestitures of broadcast or cable assets, we 

will take special steps to seek minority purchasers. 

Diverse communities across America will benefit. We have set a 

series of diversity goals in procurement, employment, governance 

and philanthropy to build on our current records, to help implement and monitor these initiates. As Ms. Madison mentioned, we 


smartinez on DSK6TPTVN1PROD with HEARING
75 

will establish a joint diversity council to work collaboratively with 

our combined companies. The joint council will comprise councils 

representing the African American, Hispanic, and Asian Pacific Islander communities, and a fourth council to include representatives 

of veterans, the LGBT community, and people with disabilities, 

among others. 

Labor unions and guilds who produce creative content will benefit. We have reached out to them to convey our commitment to 

honor existing collective bargaining agreements, and we are grateful for the favorable comments on our joint venture for the Teamsters and the Directors Guild of America. Also benefitting in the 

transactions and parents and care givers, minority entrepreneurs, 

and new technology, and many others. And I hope to be able to say 

more about this during question time. 

Many of the public interest benefits I described flow organically 

from this transaction. Others are the result of discussions we’ve 

had over the last six months with responsible organizations and 

leaders who have thoughtfully raised their concerns, and worked 

with us in good faith to address them. For example, as Mr. Buyer 

has noted, we had discussions with NBC network affiliates and 

non-NBC affiliates. They wanted to ensure that our commitments 

were sincere and we have reached a firm that they believe that. 

We’ve also met with diversity leaders, independent producers, and 

many others. We have reached a number of mutually satisfactory 

agreements with various stakeholders, and hope to announce more 

in the coming weeks. 

I think this shows how Comcast has always approached our business and our public interest responsibilities through a willingness 

to have open dialogue with reasonable people about legitimate concerns. And we always sought resolutions that are good for all sides. 

Mr. Chairman, I’d like to close by noting the massive record of 

support for transaction at the FCC. As of last Friday, over 860 organizations and leaders, including 84 members of Congress, eight 

governors, over 115 state legislators, over 40 mayors, and countless 

Chambers of Commerce, civil rights, civic and community organizations have filed supportive comments. More than 100 of these filings came from Greater Chicago, and, Mr. Chairman, with your 

permission, I’d like to ask that they be made part of the record. 

Mr. BOUCHER. Without objection, that will be included in the 

record. 

Mr. WAZ. Thank you, sir. 

Mr. BOUCHER. Does that conclude your testimony? 

Mr. WAZ. One last comment, if I may. 

Mr. Chairman, I’m also pleased to share with you, with Mr. 

Rush’s and your acquiescence a letter that our Executive Vice 

President and Chief Diversity Officer, David Cohen, has sent to 

Congressman Rush. The letter summarizes some further refinements of our diversity commitments that were brought up in our 

discussions with Congressman Rush. We also continue to discuss 

certain concerns that Congresswoman Waters has and were 

brought to our attention, as well. 

And we’ve very excited about this transaction. Thank you for the 

opportunity to share our views, and now I do look forward to your 

questions. 


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[The prepared statement of Mr. Waz follows:] 


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WRITTEN STATEMENT OF 

JOSEI'll W, WAZ, JK 

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT 

EXTEHNAL AFFAIRS AND PUBLIC POLICY CO{JNSEL 

COM CAST CORPORATION 

AND 

PRESII>ENT 

COMCAST FOlJNDATION 

TO Tin: 

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON ENERGY ANt) COlVIME!<CE 

SUBCOMMITTEE ON COMMlJNICATIONS, TECIINOLO(;Y, AND TIlE INTERNET 

J1I LY 8, 2010 

Mr. Chairman and Members Dr the Subcommittee, I am pleased 10 join you here in Chicago to 

discuss Comcast Corporation's (,'Corneas!") proposed joint venture with General Electric 

Company ("OF") to jimn a new NBC Universal ("NBCU') 

rhc topic of this hearing takes the f(mn of a question: "Comeas! and NBC Universal: Who 

Benefits?" The beneficiaries include the nation's economy, everyone who subscribes to 

multichannel video services whether from Comcasl or our competitors as well as viewers 

who rely on broadcast televisioll, the independent programming and production community. 

cOllllllunities of color, and many more. 

Comcasl customers will benefit because this transaction advances the "anytime. anywhere" 

digital video future they want and demand. Over-I he-air IT viewers wili benefit because 

Corneas! is committed to maintaining Iree, over-the-air broadcast television, through NBC's and 

Tc\cmllndo's owncd-and-operatcd stations and in partnership \V'ith NBCs and Tdcnmndo's local 

affiliates throughout the natiOlL Dilwse populations will bcnefit because Comcast has 

committed 10 expand its diversity eCforts in five critical areas: governance, workforce 

recruitment kmd career development, procurement. programming. and community invcstment and 

partnerships. Local and rural communities wil! benefit fl'Ol1l a stronger NBC network, strong 

10ca.1 affiliates, and our commitment not only to maintain news ami inf(mnation programming, 

but also to add 1 ()On hours of local news and information programming. Parents and kids will 

bendit because we have committed to expand programming choices available to children and 

families on our broadcast, cablc, On Demand, and online platfonns. and help parents make more 

informed choices about the content their children watch. Indepi!ildent producers of film and 

television, as well as independet1l programming ne!Works. will bend!! because Comeas! has 

cOlllmitted to expand its digital line-up by adding lIIore independently-owned and -operated 

channels. The f!.uifdl· and unions that help to produce creative content will bcnelll because 

Comeas! has committed to honor all or'iBCU's existing collective bargaining agreements. The 
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empl()'~es of Comcasl and N!3CU will beneJit because. despite challenging ecollumic times, 

COl11cast is working hard to sustain and grow its husinesses in order 10 provide gain fiJI 

employment. The US. ecollomy will benefit because by bringing together content and 

distribution, in this primarily vertical transaction, we see signillc<lnt opportunities to grow our 

businesses, and to preserve and create jobs; and. through this transaction. UE will bt~ able to 

rel(K~llS investment in its core businesses. And !inall), COnlflClilioil will ccrtainly bCl1e!it 

because Comcasl's and N13CU's innovation and experill1~ntation with new husiness models and 

investment in cutting-edge programming delivcry platfonns and services will spur our existing 

and new competitors to follow suit. 

I will expand on these and other heneilis illl110re delail in this statement. 

Since (omeast and GL announced the );BCU joint venture on Decemher 3, 2009, we have had 

the opportunity to discuss the signilicant public interest benefits of this transaction at several 

congressional hearings bc/l)re both the Commerce and the Judiciary Committees or the United 

States Senate and House or Repn:sentatives. This is our sixth such hearing. In the intervening 

months, we have had very productive discussions about Llur plans with MC'mbers of Congress, 

(rovernors. state and local officials, other media and conlt11lmicatiom; col11p,mics, network 

amliates, diversity and (;oJlummity-bascd organizations, labor unions, the regulatory bodies who 

lirc ullimatdy responsible j()r reviewing and appnwing our joint v.:nlure. and many others. \Vc 

have communicated freely, readily, and expansively with a wide range of stakeholders. 

As Brian Roberts, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of COl11casL and Jeff 7ucker, 

and Chief Executive Officer of !'JBCU described to Ihis Subcommittee on February 

Altachment II 1), this transaction will benefit consumers and will 

investment and innovation in tbe media and communications sectors. 

First, the new venture will lead to increased investment in NIlCC hy putting its content assets 

under tbe control of a company that is focused exclusively on the ClImmunicatioJ]s and 

enlertainment industries. This will toster enhanced investment. in both content development and 

delivery, enabling the new NBCU to become a more competitive and innovative player in the 

turbulent and ever-changing media world. This investment and innovation will also preserve and 

create sustainable media and technology jobs in the U.S. 

Second. the venture will promote the kind of innovatioll, diversity of content. and new tonm of 

delivery that consumers want and demand. The parties h,rve made signi!icant commitments in 

the arcas of local news and infhrmation programming, enhanced programming for diverse 

audiences. and more quality content ihr children and families, including educational content in 

broadcasting, on cable. On Demand, and online. 

And linally, CO!11cast's commitment to preserve and improve NBClfs over-the-air hroadcasting 

service, and to sustain and invest in the NBC and Telcmundo broadcast networks, will promote 

and enhance quality news, sports. and diverse programming in communities across America. 

We discuss these specific and vcriliabk public in1erest commitments later in this statement; for 

summary of all of Ollr vollllllUry commitments, please sec Attachment 
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Sillce the Fehruary 4th hearing, we have also cbrified, enhanced, and supplemented our 

commitments with respect 10 diversity of programming, ownership, supplier, and workplaet; 

opportunities, We discuss these unprecedented and spccil1c diversity commitments later as well. 

and you will find thelll snmmarized at Atla<:hmem hereto, 

rile NBClJ transaction takes place against the backdrop of a communications and entertainment 

marketplace that is highly dynamic and competitive, and becoming morc so every day NBCUtoday and post-transaction Llces competition from a large and growing roster of content 

providers, There arc literally hllndrcci;; of national television ner\vorb ami scores of regional 

networks, representing phenomenal growth in diversity of viewpoints and services over the past 

two decades. These cahle networks compete f'Jr programming, for viewer attention, and for 

distribution on various video plati(lfms, not only with each other hut also with countless other 

video choices, 

In addition, content producers increasingly have alternative outlets availahle to distribute their 

works, Today, NHCU has powerful marketplace incentives \0 purchas~ Ihe nest availabk 

programs, regardkss of source, and to distrihute its networks as vvidely as possible, COJ]1casl has 

powerful marketplace incentive, tll distribute Ihe best availahle networks, rcgardkss of source, 

NBCU and C01l1cast will continue to have every incentive 10 provide the highest quality content 

to consumers, and post-transaction, the new l\ BeU will have the financial resources to more 

effectively do so as it competes with other strong content providers such as Disney! ABC, Time 

Warner, Viacom, and l\ews Corp. 

At the same time, because competition is liercc among distributor" the new company will have 

no ability to restrict competition or otherwise harm the public interest Today, consumers in 

every geographic area have multiple choices among three, ((lUI', or more Illultichannel video 

programming distrihutors C'MVPDs") and can also obtain video content hom many nonMVPDs, 1n addition to the local cabk operator, consumers can choose from two t\,1YPDs 

otTcring direct broadcast satellite ("DBS") service DirccTV and Dish Network which arc 

now the second and third largest MVPDs in America, respectively, Vcrizon and AT&T. along 

with other wirclinc ovcrbuilders, arc strong, credible competitors, on(~ring a rourth MYPD 

choice to tcns of millions or American households and a nfth choice to somc, Indeed, as 

competition among MV!'Ds has grown, Comcas(s nationwide share of :vlVPD snbscribers has 

steadily decreased (it is now kss than 25 percent. a shan: that the FCC has repeatedly said is 

insufficient to allow an MVPD to engage in conduct), Moreover, current markct 

dynamics an: more telling than static measures market shares; over the past 1 wo years, 

Comeast lost morc thall 1.2 million net video subscribers while its competitors continued to add 

subscribers - DirccTV, Dish Network, AT&T, and Yerizoll added more than 7,6 million net 

video customers over the same time period, These facts mean that NBCU will be compelled to 

seck wide distribution of its content, including from COl11cast's competitors, Ihey also mean 

that no cable or satellite op"rator can wield bottleneck power. 

Consumers can also access high-quality video content from myriad other somecs, Some 

household~ continue to receive their video through over-the-air broadcast signals, which have 

improved in quality and increased in qnantity as a result of the hroadcast digital television 

transition, Millions of households purchase or ren! digit,!l video discs ("UVDs") from one or 
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thousands of national, rcgionui, or local retail outlets, including WalMan and Blockbuster, as 

well as NetJ1ix, Red Hox, MovicCfllzy, Calc DVD, and llthers who provide DVDs by maiL 

High-quality video content also is increasingly available from a rapidly growing llumlwr or 

online sources that include Amazon, Apple TV, Blinkx, Blip,1v, Boxcc, Clickcr.coll1, Crackle, 

Hulu, iRed, il unes, Netilix, SezmL SlashControl, Sling, Vevo, Vimen, VUDU, VU/e, YouTubc 

and many mOTe, These sites oller consumers historically unprecedented quantities of 

professionally-produced and user-generated eonwnt that can be accessed irom a variety or 

devices, including complltcrs, Intcmet-c.quippcd televisions, consoles, Blu-ray DVD 

players, and mobile devices. Tn addition, there is u huge 

including professional and quasi-professional content One popular online video service 

currently receives and slores an entire day's wonh of video content for its viewers evet:]: lIIil1l1fc. 

And there arc no significant barricrs to entry to online video distribution. Thus, consumers have 

a staggering variety of sources of video eontcnt beyond COl11east and its rival MVPDs, 

As the United States Court of Appeals fllr the D.C. Circuit obSCl'YCd last year. the video 

marketplace truly has no gatekeepers" 

The combination of i'JBCU am! COlllcast's content assets under the new NBCC -"- eoupkd with 

management of the new NBC\! hy ComeRS!, an experienced, committed distrihution innovator 

will enable the creation of new pathways i(Jr delivery or content to consumers on a wide range of 

screens and platf0t111s. The> companies' limited shares in all rdcvant markels. fierce competitioll 

al all levels of the distribution chain, and ease of entry for cabk ilnd oniine programming ensure 

that the risk of competitive harm is insignificant. Moreover, the fCC's rules governing program 

access, program carriage. and retransmission consent provide funllcr safegnards for consumers, 

as do enlorceable public interest and diversity commitments thal Com east and NBC! J have made 

and expanded upon. 

***** 

The transaction's public interest benefits particularly liJI' tbe puhlic interest goals o[ diversity, 

localism, competition, and innovation arc substantiaL By marrying i\BClJ's programming 

with Comcasfs multiple distribution platforms (cahlc, online, VOD), the transaction will create 

strong new incentives to increase the amount, quality, variety, and availahility of content, thus 

rromoting diversity, This includes content of specific inl(;'fcsl to diverse audicnc(;'s, children and 

familics, women. and other key audience segments. The new venture will also be able to provid(~ 

more and better local programming, including local news and information programming, thereby 

advancing localism. The new NBClJ and COl11cast will he more innovative and clTeetivc players 

in video programming and distribution, spurring other content producers and distributors to 

improve their (1wn services, thus enhancing compelitiol1. Combining \lBCli's 

assets with Comcast's multiple distribution platforms will make it casier for tbe 

to experiment with new business models that will better serve consumers. thus promoting 

innovatiol1. 

Comeas! and NBClJ have puhlicly aftlrmed their continuing commitment 10 over-t!w-air 

hroadcast television still an important if not [he primary source or news, infonnatiol1 and 

entertainment for many pcopk, including signiticant l1umoers of AJiican American, Hispanic, 
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Asian-AmcricmL and low-income households. Despite a challenging business and Icdmological 

environment, the proposed transaction has po\en1ial to invigorate NBCl)" 

broadcasting business and expand Ill" important interest benetlts it provides to consumers 

across this country. NBC'. Tclcmundo. their local O&Os, and their local broadcast al1iliatcs will 

benefit by having the ltlil support of Comcas1. company that is !\lCused cntirely 011 

entertainment, information. and communications and that has strong incentives and the ability 

-- to invest in <lnd grow the hroadeast husinesses it is acquiring, in partnership with the local 

affiliates. 

In addition 10 the commitment to continue to provide ovcr-thc-air broadcasting, mentioned 

previollsly, the companit.'s have committt.'d that following the t!'ansaclion. the l'lBC 0&0 

hroadcast stations will maintain the same amount of local news and information programming 

they currently provide I,n' thrce years i(lilowing the dosing of the transaction. !vlorcm <:r. the 

company will produce an additional 1,000 hours pcr year of local news and information 

programming fi.lr distrihution on various platt(nms. The combined entity will maintain NBCITs 

tradition of independent news and public affairs programming and its commitment to promoting 

a diversity of viewpoints. supporting the joumalistic Inl.:grity and independence of NBCU's 

news operations. 

Our commitments to preserve and enhance local programming arc real, and the best evidence of 

that is the fact that the local NBCU aUiliate stations -, those most diwctly afj'cctcd by our 

commitments have filed C@1ll1ents with the FCC expressing conditional wpport of this 

transaction. We have met with local broadcasters and worked out the details of the' 

commitments. We have agreed to maintain the NBC Network, and to devote sutlicient rCS(1urecs 

to program development to ensure that the NBC Network's program schedule remains 

cllmpe1ilive. We have also agreed, with limited qualifications. not to migrate major sporting 

events to any lincar programming channel in which ('omeas! has an ownership interest. And we 

have agreed to keep Comcast's retransmission consent negotiations separate from NRC 

Network's negotiations with NBC local atliliates, We have reached a separate agreement with 

ABC, CBS and Fox affiliates to, among other things, engage in arms· length, good faith 

negotiations of retransmission consenl agreements. 

The companies also have committed that, within 12 months of closing the transacti(ln, 

Tclcmundo will launch 11 new Spanish language digital broadcast dmnnel drawing on 

programming from Telcmundo's library. Additionally, Comc:ast will usc its On Demand and On 

Demand Online plalflmns to increase programming choices availabk to children and families, as 

well as to audiences for Spimish-languagc programming. Within three years of closing the 

transaction, Comeas! has committed 10 add 1,500 additional programming choices appealing to 

children and families and 300 additional programming choices from Telemundo and llmn2 

(MunDos) to its von platforms. Comcast also will continue to provide lfec or at no additional 

charge the same number of VOD choices that it now provides, and will make availahle within 

three years of closing an additional 5,000 VOD choices over the cOllrse of each month that arc 

available free or at no additional charge. 

Since filing OUl' Public lmerest Statement and rdakd commitments with (he FCC. we have 

clarified, enhanced. and, in some instance_ supplemented our initial commitments pl'lll11oting 

tangible and meaningful opportunities for minority participatioJl in thc' media business. III this 

5 
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regard. this transaction oflCrs unprecedented (lpportunities to people of color in broadcasting. nn 

cable, On Demand, and online. 

In broadcasting, NBCU is interest in KWllY-TV. an 

independent Spanish-language Los Angeles. the secondlargest media market in America. As part of this sale, NBCli has estahlished a 

process to identify potential buyers and has selected the "'·1inority Media and 

Telecommunications Council (MI'v1TC) as CO-<lcl\'jsor j()r this transaction. 1\1MlC 

has had demonstrable success in identifying minority bllyers in similar 

divestitures. This process prcsc.nls a key opportunity for minority ownership in 

one of the nation's top two largest media markets. 

In the event these efit)r\s do no! result in the sale or KWllY-TV. the station 

license and assets \vill he placed in a divestiture trust at the closing of the 

proposed transaction. If this becomes necessary. MMTC will work with the 

trustee to effectuate the sale to a qualified third part)'. On May 17. 20lO. an 

application was filed seeking FCC consent for the assignment of KWHY-TV to a 

divestiture trust. The prop<)sed trustee, Bahia Honda LLC. has as its sole memher 

Jose Cancela. the principal of m~dia consulting firm Hispanic USA. NIlCU and 

M;>.,1TC will remain adivdy engaged in effortS to sell KWllY-TV while the 

application for assignment to the divcstitun: trust is pending. 

On cable, Comenst had originally committed thaI once it has completed its digital 

migration company-wide (anticipated to be no latcr [ban 201l). it would add [WI) 

new independently-owned and -operated channels to its digital linc-IIp each year 

[ll!' the next three years 011 customary terms and conditions. Independent 

programmers would be defined as networks that (i) arc not cun-cntly carried hy 

Com cas! Cable. and (ii) are unafliliatcd with Comeasl, NBCl:, or any of the lOp 

15 owners or cable networks. as mC(1sured by revellues. For purposes of this 

commitment, we will now give panicular consideration t.o the carriage of 

networks that are owned hy or afilliated with people of color. as highlighted in the 

Summary of Diversity Commitments in Attachment #3 to my testimony. 

Specifically, we have cOIllt11itk,d to launch ten new independently-owned and 

operated programming services over the next eight years following the closing of 

this transaction, with specified targets ami timetahles for adding minority-owned 

networks within this framework, 

• 011 [Jemalld alld online arc dynamic and innovative platlhmls and we intend to 

help prornotc ownership diversity on them as wdl. These platforms present 

substantial new opponunitics t(1r independcnt, minority, and ['cma1e owners. and 

Comras! is proud to he a trailhlazer in this area. 

As Comcast makes advances in video delivery technologies, the availahility of more On Demand 

capacity will increase opportlmities fbI' minority and independent programmers and producers. 

Comcast is making progress in reclaiming analog handwidth through OUl' cable :;ys!cm 

digitization pnJjcct called "Project Cavalry" By making more bandwidth availabll:. we arc 

creating direct opportunities for minority alld independent programmers to reach viewers. 

COlllcast is using this exciting technological advancement to expand the number of mo\ic 
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choices offered On Demand by adding nearly lJ.OOO movie: tilles. This \\ il! bring more thall 

11,000 tolal movie choices to cll,jomcrs monthly, featuring thousands of movies from e\'cry 

genre including comedy. action. drama. illdepc~ndcm, classics and documcntaries with 3J)OO 

available in I lJ), This expanded movie is jmt one example of the current and future 

opportunities for diverst;' content owners, 

Much or our On Demand programming will target diverse audiences, Corneas! Cable recently 

launched Black Cinema On Demand, a VOD service that celebrates black films. mmmakers, and 

actors past, present and future, it)cHsing on the wide range accomplishments, and 

points-()j~view of black America a~ expressed thruugh the medium of mm, We me 

excited thllt Black Cinema On Demand has enjoyed initial .,ueeess. and we arc 

modd to launch additional diwrsc content This fall, C(\mcas! Cable will launch 

On Demand. which will feature films from across the Asian Pacific Islander 

pcnnanent platfonn will allow Comcast Cable t(\ work with Asian Paei!)c Islander Englishlanguage content dewlopcrs and will be prograll1med by expelis in A,ian Pudic Islander lilms. 

In addition, within 12 months of the transaction closing, we also will launch llispanic Cinema 

On Demand featuring Latino-themed movies, 

On Demand affords independent and minority owners of content an unparalleled opportunity to 

reach niche audiences in a dirccl way and with scheduling directed by the viewer's time 

preference. A perfect example is H20 (flip llop on Demand), a music service created by Russell 

Simmons, Will GriiTin, and their partners and launched in 2006, As ('omeas] expands this nextgeneration digital platform in the next several years, we will be looking to independent and 

minority owners of content to be important and aclive participants. 

Our commitment to diversity is certainly not new. COl1lcast is, and always bas be,"n, committed 

to diversity in all faccls of our business. We have emhraced diversity because il is the right thing 

to do and because it is good business. Over the past several years, we have made remarkable 

strides with regards to diversity in programming, community outreach, supplier diversity. and 

employment diversity. And our recent and ongoing discussions with diversity leadership 

organizations renee! our abiding commitment (0 promote diversity in n;spl)nsiblc WU)S, 

With respect to programming, (omeas! is keenly aware or the importance or providing 

programming thut appeals to diverse audiences, and we have worked hard 10 increasc the 

programming options such that they speak to all or our subscrihers, Our customer base is 

increasingly divers", so we need to provide programming that is compelling and 

variety of diverse communities. In the past eight years, C(\mcast has licensed a 

amount of content for diverse audiences. expanding from carriage agreements with 20 broadcast 

and cable networks to over J 30 sllch networks that serve minority communities. And we feature 

hundreds of hours of On Demand programming that deliver a variety of TV entertainment and 

music choices fnll1l various networks geared toward divo:rsc and ethnic audiences, 

Our eflort in this area is quite cxtcnsiw, For instam~e, COlllcast ",as instrumental in the creation 

of TV One one of the most meaningful advancements ofmiJlority ownership in cable tekvision 

history. In 2003, Comcast recognized thaI there was a need 10r another entertainment channel 

targeting the African American community, We pm1ncred with an experienced African 

American radio programmer. Radio Onc, to create TV One. all allernativc 10 the Black 

7 
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Entertainment Television network (IlEI). foday, the network is available to ovcr 50 million 

subscrihers, Comeas! carries a total of I J cabk nClworks that specifically target the African 

American community, As r nokd earlier, in 200(i, Comcast launched Hip Hop On lkmand 

(H20) and other VO!) services from various networks, artists and programs that target African 

American audiences, Between 2006 and 2009, the amount of H20 views Oil Comcas( has 

increased hy more than 500 percent In 2009, Comells1 launched a package that 

curn;ntly delivers more than 58 ! lispanie cable networks on the of Comcast Cable 

systems, This package of Hispanic cahle programming, when coupled with local Hispanic 

broadcast stmions, exceeds 60 channels in maior Hispanic markets, It is by tar the largest 

lJispanic programming offering provided by any MVPD in the country, And Comeast carries a 

variety of Asian content from a number of providers including SFT Asia (SONY), STAR India 

PLUS, Zce TV, Bollywood Ilits On Demand, STAR One, STAR India GOLD, VUA Y, tvK24, 

GMA Pinoy TV, OMA Lile, The Filipino Channel, Phoenix Info News, Phoenix North 

American, eTl-Zhong Tian, SBN, and others, In alL Comcast carries 25 cable networks geared 

toward the Asian American community, 

1n addiJion, Com cast regularly cooperates with broadcast stalions to add independent- and 

minority-owned multicast streams to our systems, For Hispanic viewers, we have added 

mllilicasts of V -Me, Estrella TV, and LATV in severa! major markets, and we also carry several 

Asian multicasts in Northern Caiili)J'!1ia from independent Asian channels, 

While Corneas! has one of the mo,( diverse programming channel line-ups in the industry, I\(' 

recognize that there is still room for improvcmell1, We remain committed 10 expanding the 

amount, quality, and diversity of national and local programming l'or Cllstl)l1lCrS annss all 

platforms, as evidenced by public intcrest and diversity commitments, and our strong 

relationship with diversity leadership organizations across the cOHmry, many of which have liIed 

supportive letters of this transaction at the FCC, 

**-**:t 

Notwithstanding our growth sincc the 2003 AT&T Broadband acquisition, which transformed 

Comcast into the Fortune 100 company that it today, Comcast remains at heart n family business 

-- built town-by-town, providing a local service to COllsumers, Over the many years. Corneast has 

developed strong relationships with the communities that we serve, As a result, localism and 

diversity arc mC3ningilll parts of the way wc conduct our business, \Vc reach out extensively to 

the communities 'lit; serve, with a particular focus on engaging with communities or color 

through a variety of mean;;, incluJing civic participation, mcntorship opporlunitks, educational 

opporlunilie" and public service campaign" 

Through the ('omeast Foundation, we have invested significantly in community organizations 

throughout our l(xltpril11 over the past nine years, Our diverse I1l)!1-proJit partners include thl; 

National Urban League (Nt! L)' and over 30 local chapters, tbe National Black Chamher of 

Commerce, the National Council of La Raza (NCLR), the League or United Latin American 

Citizens (Ll!LAC), the tLS, Hispanic Chumber of Commercc, the Asian American Justice 

Center, and the Organization of Chinese Americans (O(;A), Other ml\jor national partners 
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serving diverse clienteles include United \Vay. Boys & Girls Clubs, Bii;! Brothers Big Sislers, 

City Year. and mallY local community organizations, 

Eaeh year. Comeast employees and their !1lmiiies, friends, and neighbors eome together on 

COl11cast Cares Day. one of Ill..: largest single-day corporate volunteer efforts in the country, 

Comcast Cares Day is the cornerstone event of OUT year-long commitment to our communities. 

and our volunteers serve nationwide, in neighborhoods. lowns, and cities or every Si/,(, and 

demographic, This annual event began in 200 I with 6.1 (JO volunteers at ncnTly 110 projects, 

This year. we had 60,557 volunteers contrihuting 363,342 bours of service al 560 sites, \Ve are 

proud of our work with these and many other community organization" To date. more than 

290,000 volunteers have contributed over I. million hours of service at nearly 3,O()O project 

sites in local communities, 

In Chicago, our community involvement docs no! end with providing llnaneial support to \clcal 

community organizations, CO!11cast employees are part of the community fahric More than 

4.900 Comeast employees. families and I'riends volunteered for over 60 community projects in 

Comcast Cares Day this year. COlllcast recently awarded 235 scholarships to high-school 

students throughout the Greater Chicago Region as parI of \lllT I caders & Achievers program, 

And all K-12 schools in our service areas receive complimentary basic cahle and a ComcaSl 

J Ugh-Speed Internet Connection at no cosl. We have approximately R,OOO complimentary 

school and government accounts in the region, 

Nationally. COlUcast has partnered with the One Economy C(lrporation to create the Comcast 

Digital Connectors program, This program idenlities talented young people in umier,erved 

communities. provides immcrsive technology training, and helps them huild tbdr leadership and 

workplace skills to enter the 21 ,t cenlury eCt)l1omy, As part of the program. Digital Connectors 

engage in community service by helping their neighhors to adopt and utilize broadband, 

Through this program, young people gain knowledge that helps them in school. prepares them 

for employment. and instills the pride of knowing they have made a difference in their 

communities, In 200\),14 Connectors programs launched across the country, Of the 235 

participants in the Comcast COllllectors programs 10 date, approximately 68 pncent are 

AIl'icim American, COll1cast expects to buneh 20 additional program sites by the end of 2010, 

Of the 11 sites that have launched this year. approximately 57 percent of the Digital Connectors 

participants arc African American, 

Here in Chicago, COll1cast and Onc Economy will launch a new Digital Connectors site in 

partnership with the Ncw Covenant Missionary Haptist Church this falL NelV Covenant Church 

has identified the education and mcntoring of youth as critical mission and has rixused its 

resources on creating programs and opportunities (0 improve literacy skills programs as an 

alternative to violene,". The Digital Connectors program will otTer opportunities to promote 

academic achievement mentor youth (0 create media and train their community memhers to use 

technology efTectively. and to create media content The first class of Digital Connectors 

participants will graduate in Junc 201 

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In 2003, COIllcast's acquisition of AT&T Broadb.,nd cause:d us to expand OUl rdiancc on divcrse 

suppliers and to grow our internal employee base, We arc vcry proud of (lUI' record in each of 

these areas since that timc, 

We strive to facilitate nondiscriminatory business oPPOliunities ll)!' small and minority· owned 

businesses, Since 200}. the of spend attributed to diverse suppliers has grown from 

7.4 percent in 2003 to 11.9 percent 20(J9; actnal dollars gn:w jfom $322 million to $627 

million, an increase or94.7 percent. WhiIG total procuremcnt related spending has decreased in 

recent years, we continue to successfully increase the amount spent with div"rsity owned 

vendors. This Sllccess is due to our committed leadership and an organizational structure with 

detailed melrics and robusl communication. We also aUribu!<; this strength in procurement to our 

strategic partnerships with leading organizations like the National Minority Supplier 

Development Council (Nl'V1SDC): the Women's Business Enterprise National Council 

(WBENC); the Walter Kaitz Foundation; the National Veteran Owned Business Association 

(NaVOBA); and various diverse cbambers of commerce. We believe strongly in providing equal 

opportunities to all qualified suppliers who partieipate ill the hid process. 

Regarding employment diversity. Corneast is committed to developing a workforce where 

leadership diversity is rellective or the employee base and clistomer demographics. Almost 6D 

percent of Comeast employees are women and people of color; 40 percent of our total workl(lrCC 

consists of people of color; and 20 percent of our managers me people of colo!'. 'rhese dl'lrts arc 

reflected in numerous accolades, including our listing in Black Enterprise magazine's "Top 4() 

Companies for Diversity" and inllispanic Business' "I'op 60 Companies j(11' Hispanics:' 

We arc proud of the growing diversity among our executives. Ten percent of our corporate 

officers arc peopic or wlor. Steve White recently became COlllcast's tlrst African American 

division president, responsible for $9 billion in revenue and nearly 22.000 employees, Our 

Corporate Senior Vice President of Investor Relations and the Regional Senior Vice President 

llll' the entire South Florida Region are Hispanics. Our Senior Vice President of Finance and 

Accounting and our Chief Software Architect are Asian Americans. And we have senior women 

leading Comcast Interactive Media, Investor Relations, Corporate CommunicDtions, Comeasl 

University, Community Investment, and OIl<: of our programming networks (Salaam Coleman 

Smith. President of Style). i\ third of Comeast Cable's 21 regions arc led by women or a person 

of eojor (three women. (WO African Americans. and (wo anJ each of our two largest 

regions. each of which serve over two million suhseribers, run by a diverse leader. Three of 

the largest regions by numbers of subscribers are run by women (lwo) or African Americans 

(onc), We want to build on these successes, Our goal is !.O increase leadership diversity by 10 

percenl in 2010 at the viet' president level and above. 

In the arca of recruiting, Comeas! recognizes its responsibility to relkct the diversity of our 

cllstomers, employees. and business partners. Our business SHceess hinges on preserving our 

community roots with decentralized management and reflecting the unique identity of the 

thousands of communities we serve across tbe nation. Comcast continues to be diligent in 

diversity initiatives und in benchmarking accomplishments, To further enhance diverse 

rt'CHliling, Comcast has partnered with orgunilalions such as the Hispanic Association on 

Corporate Responsihility. National Society of Black Engineers, the National Black MBA 

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Association. the National Association or Asian Americml Professionals (\:AAAP), National 

Society of Ilispanic 'viDAs, the Kational Black MBA Association. the Kational Association for 

l\i11lti-Ethnicity in Communications (NA'vllC), and Women in Cabl" Telecommunications 

(WlCT). 

Comcasl has also developed internship programs to increase div.:rsily in the cntry-level ranb 

and provide opportunities to diversc students. For example, ('omeas( is the premier industry 

spoJlSor of the Emma Bowen Foundation targeting students in the fields of communications. 

journalism, broadcusting, and media & cntcrtainll1t;llt (coincidentally. thc other It;ading sponsor 

tor lUlmy ycars has been NBCU). This unique five-year internship program provides minority 

students with tht; opponunity to work for partner companies. such as Comens!, during summers 

and school breaks from thc summer following their junior year in high school until they graduate 

Ii-OlD college. In 2009. Comcast provided 68 students of color "ilh paid summer internships and 

matching scholarship funds to work in Comeast facilities aewss the country. Upon completing 

the progrmn, Emma Bowen students move into Comcast's recl1litmcnt pipelines. loday. 

Comcast employs six Emma Bowen students as lilli-time employees and Illany others bave gOlle 

on to work in the media industry. 

Since the announcement of the 'JBClJ joint vemure, we have continued to explore how we call 

fUl1hcr improve our record on diversity, and bave made additional commitments in iilrlberanee 

or our goals. As with our existing diversity philosophy and cfl1Jrts. Ihese additional 

commitments touch on many aspects of our business: governance, workJ(.lfce recruitment and 

career development, supplier diversity, media ownership, programming, and community 

investments and partnerships. 

We believe that diversity starts at the top. Accordingly. to heller inform our highest levcl 

employees about diversity issncs. we have committed to establish four external Diversity 

Advisory Conncils which will collectively be known as the "Joint Council" representing the 

interests of African American, Latino, Asian Pacific Islandcr. and othcr diverse communities. 

These groups will help us facilitate open C()mmllllicalhm on the development. monitoring, and 

evaluation of diversity initiatives. The Joint Council will advise senior executive teams at 

Comeast and NBCU regarding the companies' dcvclopmelll and implementation of a strategic 

plan to improve diversity practices. COlllcast wiil benchmark and provide on!!oing intemal 

reporting so that we are constantly reassessing our diversity initiatives. 

We aim to be an industry !cader in workiorce diversity. We believe that our proposed el10rts will 

help llS to identify more diverse talent. and enhance the promotional potential of these qualilied 

individuals from entry-level. (0 mid-level, to senior management. Our enhanced workforce 

diversity initiatiws will include developing a diversity lomm and action plan to increase 

director-level representatiolJ of minorities; creating minority focus groups with the objectives of 

gaining insight. creating opportunities, and identifying high-potential employees: implementing 

a boot camp program for mid-level vice president candidates; and, in cooperation with the Joint 

Council. identit)'ing ,carch Jinns with track records of successfully recruiting diverse pools of 

talent to partner with the company ill identifying diverse leaders. 

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Comeasl has also committed to enhance its already successful supplier diversity initialive, and 

will increase the amount spellt with diwrsc business partners, including minmily,mvncd 

enterprises. To enhance the utilization of minority,owned cn!crprises. we will partner with 

diverse organi,catiol1s, including minority-led chamhers or commerce and other minority,led 

business organizations, at the national. regional, and local levels. The Joint Council \vill assist us 

in identifying opportunities for spending with minority-owned suppliers. 

There are several specific areas that we have commiHcd to improving in the supplier diversity 

arena. We ollTen!iy have a "second tier" procurement designed to encourage top 

suppliers to purchase goods and services li'om vendors. Comeast will build 

upon this program to create additional opportunities, including expanding of second tier 

rcpOlting to encompass more as well as automation of the reporting process. We will 

grow tile diversity of our investment banking and banking through our minority banking 

program and through the development and expansion or with minority investment 

filll1s. In]O I 0, COlllcast hecame a lbunding partner in the Initiativ(', a collaborative 

cl'fort among several publicly held corp<Jrations designed to increase significantly bll.lincss 

opportunities for law firms owned by diverse individuals. The overall for this initiative is 

$30 million, of which COlllcast has committed $1 million. As part Inclusion Initiative, 

Comcast will use its hest efforts to retain minority·owned law lirms that participate in the 

Initiative. In eonjullction with NBCU, we hav" made the additional commitment tbal. in 2011. 

following the close of the transaction, the two companies jointly will devote at least an additiOlwl 

$7 million to spending on advertising with minority,owned mcdia. 

Lastly, COl11cast has committed to increase its philanthropic efforts to support even more 

minority· led and minority-serving institutions and 1.0 estahlish more specific henchmarks for it.s 

investment activities in minority cOlllmunities in consultation with the Joint Council. Upon 

closing of the transaction, we afe prepared to increase our eommunity investment spending on 

minority,led and minority-serving institutions by ! 0 percent year for each of the next three years. 

Our enhanced investment in diverse communities and partnerships with diverse organizations 

will include increasing outreach to diverse students and schools for our Comeast Leaders and 

Achievers Scholarship Program; increasing our support of several programs that provide 

educational and mentorship opportunities including the Emm8 Bowen Foundation intcmship 

program and similar programs: and expanding our Comeast Cares Day focus to add more 

organizatiolls led by diverse boards andlor that service diverse bencliciaries. 

***** 

We arc gratelltl to note that. as of June 30, 20] O. over 860 community rartncrs, including 

organizations serving communities of color, mayors. chambers of commerce, public libraries, 

local and regional af1iliates of national organizations, and many other community organizations 

and supporters (including 84 U.S. Senators and !louse Members. eight Uovcrtlors, over 40 

Mayors, and over 115 other state and local otlieials) have tiled suppoltive comments at the FCC 

(See List of Supportive I ,eHers at Attachment #. 4). I strongly douht that any other combination 

previously reviewed hy the FCC has received such slrong endorsement from 

representing literally lens of millions of Americans. From Chicago alone, more than i 30 letters 

from a diverse group of community organizations and local leaders arc already on the record: 

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[rom 1vlayor Daley, the Chicago Southland Chamber or COHlmct'ce and the l\'ational Forum l(lr 

Black Administrators. to the Otis Wilson [\lundation, the Boys & <Tirls Club of Chicago, and the 

By the I land Club for Kids, among many others. 

rhc:;c arc organizations and individuals who kno,"" COllleas( and NIlCU Jirs(,hand, many of 

whom partner with the two companies year in and y('ar out to meet the needs of loeal 

communities and serve the public interest We arc honored by tlJeir expressions 

In conclusion, the joint venture between Comcast and NBCU presents extraordinary bcncflts j(,f 

a wide range of stakeholders most importantly, consumers. Through this transaction we have 

been exploring new opportunitks to utilize our resources so that no one is let! behind. 'This 

transaction is ah(mt bringing more to the communities we serve more programming. more 

career opportunities, more procurement opportunities. am! more community outreach. Based on 

our solid record and the voluntluy commitments we have offered in connection with the 

transaction. we bdievc that the public interest will benefit from the proposed Comcast/l\BCI; 

joint venture. 
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,JOINT WRITTEN STATF:MENT BY 

B1UAN L. ROBERTS 

CHAm MAN AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER 

COMCAST CORI'ORATJON 

ANn 

,IEHZIJCKER 

PIU;:SWENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER 

NBC tlNIVERSAL 

TO THE 

HO{]SE COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND COMMERCE 

SUBCOMMITTEE ON COMMT.'N!CATIONS, TECHNOLOGY, AND THE INTERNET 

February 4, 20W 

Mr. Chairman, and Memhers of the Suhcommittet.:. we are plea~ed to appear before you 

loday to discuss Comcast Corporation's C'Comcasr') planned joint venture with General Electric 

Company ("GE"), under which Comcasl will acquire a majority interest in and management or 

NBC llniversal (""1BO),,), As you know, the proposed transaction will combine in a new joint 

venture the broadcast, cahle programming, movit: studio, theme park, and online content 

businesses of NBCU with the cable programming and certain online content businesses of 

Comcast. This cOl1tcnt-focusedjoint venture will retain the NBCU name. 

The new NBCU will benefit consumers and will encourage much-needed investment 

and innovation in the important media sector. How will it benefit consumers? First, the nev\ 

venture will lead to increased investment in NBCU by putting these important content assets 

under the control of a company that is focused exclusively on the communication and 

entertainment industry. This will foster enhanced investment in both conwnt tkvclopmenl and 

delivery, cnabling NBCU to become a more competitive ilJ1d innovative player ill the turbulent 

and ever changing media world. Invc,tmcnt and innovation will also pn~serve and create 

sustainable media and technology jobs, Second, the transaction will promote the innovation, 

content, and delivery that consumers want and demand. The parties have made signillc3nt 

commitments in the arcas of local news and information programming, enhanced programming 

for diverse audiences, and more quality educational and other content for children and families. 

And finally, CO!llcas('s commitment to sustain and invest in the NBC broadcast network 

will promote the quality nevI'S, spons, and local programming that have made this network great 

over the last 50 years. We discuss these specific and verifiable public interest commitments Imcr 

in this statemem, and a summary is attached, 

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The lWW NBC\! will advance key policy goals or Congress: diversity, localism, 

innovation, and competition. With Comcast's demonstrated commitment to investment and 

innovation in communications, enteliainmcnl, and information, the new NBCU wil! be able to 

increase the quantity. quality. diversity, and local !(lCUS of its content, and accelerate the arrival 

of the multiplatlorm, "any1imc, anywhere" future of video programming that Americans wanL 

Ciiven the intensely competitive markets in which Comcast and 1\BO) operate, as well as 

existing law and regulations. this essentially vertical transaction will benefit consumers and spur 

competition, and will nOl present any potential harm in any marketpiDce, 

NBClf. currently majority-owned and eontwllcd hy GE, is an American icon a media, 

entertainment, and communications company with a storied past and a promising ftlture, At the 

heart of NBCU's conlent productioll is the National Broadcasting Company ("NRC"), the 

nation's lirst television broadcast nlOtwork and home or one o1'th( Cr(]Vdl jewels ofl\BCL, l\BC 

News. NBCU also has two highly regarded cah!c news networks, Cl\BC and I'vlSNBC. In 

addition, NBCU owns Telclllundo. the nation'5 second largest Spanish-language broadcast 

network, with suhstantial Spanish-language production flldlilics located in the United StHtes. 

NBCtl's other assets include 26 local broadcast stations (! 0 NBC owned-and-opemted stations 

("O&Os"), 15 Tclemundo 0&05, and one indepmdent Spanish-language stalion), numerous 

national cablc programming networks, a motioll piclnrc studio with a library of several thousand 

liIms, a TV production studill with a library of television series, and an international theme park 

business. 

COlllcasL a leading pr(wider of cable television, high-speed Internet, digilal voice. and 

other communications services to million$ of cllstomers, is a pioneer in enabling consumers to 

watch what they want, when they want, where they want, and on the dcvkes they wanL 

Comeast is primarily a distributor. offering its customers multiple delivcry platiomls for content 

and services, Although Comcast owns and produces some cable programming channels and 

online content, COll1cast owns rclativdy few national cable networks. HOlle of which is among 

the 30 most highly rated, and, even including its local and regional networks. COl1lcast accounts 

for a tiny percentage of the content indus!TY. Ihe majority of these contcnt businesses will be 

contributed to the joint venture. The distribution side of ('omcast (referred to us "Comcast 

CabJe") is not being contributed to the new "'BCli and will remain under Corneas!', t)wnership 

and controL 

The proposed transaction is primarily a l'crrica! combination of NBCC's cOlltent with 

Comcasfs multiple distribution platforms, Antitrust law, competition experts, and the FCC have 

long recognized that vertical combinations can produce significant benelits. Experts and the 

fCC also have ()und that vertical combinations with limited horizontal issues generally do not 

threaten competition. 

The transaction wkes place against the backdrop of a communications and entertainment 

marketplace that is highly dynamic and competitive. and becoming more so every day. NBCU 

today and posl-transaction faces competition Ii-om a large and growing rosier or content 

providers, There are literally hundreds of national television networks and scores of regional 

networks. These networks compete not only with each other but also with countless olher video 

choices both lor COllSlllllcrs' attention and lor distribution on various video platforms. In 

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addition, content producers increasingly haw alternative outlets availahle to distribute their 

works, fh:e from any purported "gat,okceping" nctworh or distributors. In this universe of 

content producers, with competitors such as Disney/ABC, Time Warner. ViacollL and News 

Corp., the new NBC!) will have the incentive and fimncial resources to give CnllSlIl1lerS the 

high-quality programming they wallt and no incentive or ahility to restrict competition or 

otherwise harm the publk intcrcsl. 

Competition is fierce among distrihutors as well. Consumers in every geographic orca 

have multiple choices of multichannel video programming distrihutors ("MVPDs") and can 

obtain video content from many non-J\1VPDs as well. ]n addition to the local cable operator, 

consumers can choose from 1\\10 J'v1VPDs offering direct broadcast ,alellitc C'DBS") service: 

Din~cTV and Dish Network. "hich arc now the second and third largest \·lVI'Ds in America, 

respectively. Vcrizon and AT&T, along with other wirclinc overbuildcrs. a1'l~ strong, credible 

competitors, ollering a fourth MVPD choice to tellS of millions of American households and a 

fifth choice to some. Indeed, as competition MVPDs has Comeast's l1utionwide 

share ofMVI'D subscrihers has steadily decreased is now less 2~ pcrc<:lll. a share that the 

FCC has repealedly said is insuflicient to allow Lln MVPD to cnga"e in anticompctitivc 

conduct). Moreover. cuncn! market dynamics arc more telling (han static measures of market 

shares; over the past two years, COll1cast lost 1.2 million net video sllh;;crihers while it;; 

competitors continued to add subscribers. (DirecTV, Dish Network. /\T&T. and Vcrizoll have 

added 7,6 million net video cnstomers over the same time period.) 

Consumers can also ac(:css high-quality video content from myriad other sources. Some 

hOllseholds continue to receive tbeir video through over-thc-air broadcast signal;;, whiGh have 

improved in quality and increased in qmmtity as a result of the hroadcast digital television 

transition. Millions of households purchase or rent digital video discs ("DYDs") from (Jnc of 

thousands of national, regional, or local retail outlets, including Walmart, Dlockbustcr. and 

! lollywood Video, as well a;; Nctllix, Y!ovicCrazy, Calc DVD, and others who provide DVDs by 

mail. ! ligh-quality video content also is increasingly available from a rapidly growing number 

of online sources that include Amazon, Apple TV, Blinkx, Blip.!v, Boxec, ClickcLco!l1, Crackle, 

Eclcctus, I lulu, iRed, iTunes, Nctllix, SczmL SlashControl, Sling, Vcoh. Vcvo, Vimco, VliDU, 

Vuze, Xbox, YouTube and many more. These sites ofTer previously unimaginable quantities 

of professionally-produced content and user-generated content that can be acc'csscd from 

variety of devices, including computers, Intemet-equipped televisions, vidcogamc boxes, Blu-ray 

DVD players, and mohile devices. In addition, there is a huge supply of user-generated video 

content, including proii;ssional and quasi-professional conlent. YOllTubc, for example, which is 

by far the leader in the Ilascent online vidco distrihution busine;;s, currently feceives and stores 

virtually an entire day's worth of video content fi)f its viewers ev~ry minute. And there are no 

significant barriers to cntry to online video distribution. Thlls, consumers have a staggering 

variety of sources of video content beyond COl11cast and its rival MVPDs. 

The combination ofNHCU ami Comcast's content assets under the new l\BCll coupled 

with management of the new NBCll hy ('omea;;t, an experienced, commillcd distrihutioll 

innovator will enable the creation of new pathways j()r delivery of content to consumers on a 

wide range of screens and pIWI'0I111S. The companies' limited shares in all relevant markels. 

fierce competition at all levels of the distribution chain, and case of entry for cable and onlinc 

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programming ensure thai the risk of competitive harm is insignificant. [\1oreovcr. the FCC's 

rules governing program access, program carriog<~, and retransmission consent provide further 

safeguards for consumers as do the additional puhlic interest commitments made by the 

companies 10 thc FCC. 

At the samc time, the transaction's public interest benellts particularly for the public 

interest goals or diversity, localism. compctition, and innovation arc substantial. 

expanded access to outiets, increased investment in outlets, and lower costs. the new vcnture 

be able to increase the amount. quality. varicty, and availability of content more than either 

company could on its own. thus diwrsi/y. This includes content of specific interest to 

minority groups, childrt'n and women, and other key audience segments. rhe n..:w 

venture will also bc able to provide more and better local programming, including local news and 

information programming, thereby advancing localism, NBCLJ and Comenst will be more 

innovative and cfl~ctivc players in video programming and distrihution, spurring other contcnt 

producers and distributors tel improve their own services, thus compctiliorl. MalTying 

NBCC's programming assets with Comeast's multiple distribution will make it casier 

for 1110 combined entity to experiment with new business models that will better sene 

consumers. thus promoting illl/Ovatiol1. 

In addition. Comcast and NBCU have publicly aflinned their continuing commitment to 

free. over-thc-air broadcasting. Despite a challenging business and technological environmenL 

the proposed transaction has significant potentia! to invigorate NRCLJ's broadcasting business 

and expand the impOl1ant public interest henclits it provides to consumers across this country. 

NBC, Telemundo, their local O&Os, and their local broadcast affiliates will benefit by having 

the full support of Comeast. a company that is Jocuscd entirely on entertainment. information. 

and communications and that has strong inecntiw;; and the to invc;;t in and grow the 

broadcast businesses it is acquiring, in partnership with the local 

Moreover, combining ComcasCs expertise in multiplatflwnl content distribution with 

NBCU's extensive content creation capabilities and video libraries will not only result in the 

crcation of more and beller programming it will also encourage investment and innovation that 

will accckratc tbe arrival of the tlluitipl(ltionn, "anytime, anywhere" future or video 

programming that Americans wan\. This is because the proposed transaction will remove 

negotiation friction that c\lITemly inhibits the ability of Comeast t'l impkmcllt its pro-consumer 

vision of multipiatfClrm access to quality video programming, PosHransaction, Com east will 

havc access tl) more content that it cun make <Jvuijabk on m,)!'e outlets, including the new 

'JBCU's national and regional networks and Comcast's cable systems. videO-OIl-demand 

("VOD") plal!()flll, and online platform. This increase in the value of services otlered to 

consumers by the new company will stimulate compc:titors including l1on-at1ijiatcd networks, 

I1ol1-afTiliatcd M VI'Ds, tmd the llumerous other participants in the video marketplace to 

improve what they offcr to consumers. 

The past is prologue: COl11cast 

could not collvince studio distributors 

distrihuted on an emerging. unproven plutform 

caLllioll, though understandable in light of 

I(ll' years to develop the VOl) business, but it 

reluctant to permit their movies to be 

compelling l'onlcnt for VOl). This 

slowed the growth 0 f an 

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innovative and extremely col1sumer-fhendly service. Comcast llnally was able 10 ovcrcume the 

contractual wrangling and other industry resislance to an innovative business model when it 

joined with Sony to acquire an ownership interest in MClro-Cioldwyn-Maycr ("MUM"). This 

allowed Comcast to "break the ice" and obtain access to hundreds of studio movies that Comcast 

could offcr l(ll' free on von. Thanks to COl11cast's cxlcl1siw efforts to foster tbe grO\vth of this 

new technology, VOl) has gone on to become extremely popular. ComCQst cllstomers have nmA 

used Comcast's VO]) service more than 14 billion limes. By championing tbe gl'llwth ofVOll, 

Comea,l has becn able to bencHt not only its customers but also program producers, and it has 

stimulated other MVP])s to embrace the VOD model. 

The fonnation of the new NBC\) will remoV<.~ impediments by pl'llvidillg 

Comcasl with control of a rich library and extensive production capabilities that 

ComeaSl can use to develop novel products and services that wiH be otkrcd to consumers 

across an array of distribution platforms. There is every reason to helieve that the transaction 

proposed here will create a pro-consumer impetus for making major motion pictures available 

sooner for in-home, on-demand viewing and for sustainable online vidt:o distribution which, as 

the FCC has observed, will help to drive broadband adoption, another key congressional goal. 

As noted above, the risk of competitive harm in this transaction is insignificant. Viewed 

from every angle, the transaction is pro-competitive: 

First, combining Comcast's and 'J!3CU's programming assets will give rise to no 

cognizable competitive han11. Comens!', national cable programming networks aCcollnt il)r onl) 

about three percent of tolal national cable network advertising and afliliate revenues. While 

NBCU owns a larger number of ndworks, those assets account {<'I' only about nine percent of 

overall national cable network advertising and affiliatc revenues. In total. the new NBCU will 

account for only about 12 percent of ovcwll national cable nelwork advertising and af11liate 

revenues. The new NBCU will rank as the fi.)urth largest owner of national cable networks, 

behind Disney/ABC Time Warner, and Viacom whicb is the sam(;' rank that NBC\] has joday. 

Becausc both the cable programming market and the broader video programming market will 

remain highly compditive, the proposed transaction will not reduce competition or diversity, nor 

will it lead to higher programming prices to ivlVPDs or consumers, or higher advertising price,. 

Even aftcr the transaction, approximately six out of every seven channels carried by COl11cast 

Cable will be unaffiliated with Comcast or the new NBCU. 

Second, Comcast'" management and ownership interests in NBCU's broadcast pl'{lperlics 

raise no regulatory or c<)mpetitive concern. While C\)mcasl will <)wn both cable systems and a 

stake in NBC owned and operated broadcast slat ions in a small number of Designated Market 

Areas ("DMAs"), the FCC's rules do not prohibit sucb cross-ownersbip, nor is there any policy 

rationale to disallow such relationships. The prior prohibitions have heen 

repealed by actions of Congress, the courts, and the FCC. any new prohibition, or 

allY transactioll-speci lie restriction, on c3Qlcibroudcast cross-ownership is even weaker today, 

given the increasingly competitive market !lJ[' the distribution of video programming and robust 

competition in local advertising. And, importantly, eacb of the major DM!\s in question has a 

significant number of media outlets, with at leas I sewn l1on-NRCU broadcast stations in each 

DMA as well as other media outlets, including radio. Thus, numerous divc'r,e voices and a 

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vibrantly competitive local advertising environment will remain following the combination of 

NBctJ's broadcast stations and Comcns; cable systems in each of the over/ap DMAs. 

Third, the wmbination of Comcasfs and NBCU's Internet similarly poses no 

threat to competition. There is abundant and growing competition online video content. 

Although Comclls! operates a video site, calkd Fancas!, and NBCU hold, 32 percent. noncontrolling interest in I lulu, a site that provides access to cel1ain online video contcnt, the leader 

in online viewing (by far) is Googlc (through YouTubc and (lthcr sites it has built or acquired), 

\,ilb nearly 55 percent of onlinc video viewing. This puts Googic well ahead of Microsoft. 

Viacom. and Hulu (all of which arc low- or mid·singk digits) ancl c'ven farther ahead of 

Fancast (currcntly well below one percent). There arc countless otll"r sites that provide robust 

competition and near-infinite consumer choice. i-:vcn if olle restricts the analysis to 

"professional" online video content, the combined entity will still have small share and face 

many competitors. On the Internet, content providers essentially control their OW11 destinies 

since then: ar~ muny third-party portals as well as seli~dislriblltion options. i-:ntry is easy. Thus. 

the transaction will not hann the marketplace for online video. 

Finally, II vt'rtical combination cannot have anticompctitive elfeets unless the combined 

company has substantial market power in the upstream (programming) or downstream 

(distribution) market. and such circumstances do not exist here. As noted, the video 

programming, video distribution, and Internet businesses arc fiercely competitive, and the 

proposed transaction does not reduce that cllTnpetition. The recent history or technology 

demonstrates that distribution platforms arc multiplying, diversifying, and increasingly 

rivalrous. Wired sm-vices have been challenged by both satellite and tCl1'cstrial wireless 

services. Cablc has brought voice competition to the telephone companies; the tckphnne 

companies have added to the video competition that cable already faced; and both cablt: and 

phone companies arc racing ill deploy and improve broadband Internet. Static descriptions of 

markets haw repeatedly failed to capture advances in distribution technologies. In this highly 

dynamic and increasingly competitive environment. sp.:;culativc claims about theoretical 

problems arising from any particular combination should be subject to searching and skeptical 

scrutiny. given the accelerating pow,"r of tedll101ogy to disrupt, conlinuoll:;ly, all existing market 

structures. 

In any event, there is a comprehensive regulatory strncture already in place, cllmprisill~ 

the FCC's program access, program carriage, and retransmission conscnt rules, as well as an 

.;slablisiJcd body of antitrust law that providl~s further safeguards against any conceivable vertical 

harms that might be presented by this transaction. 

Although the competitive marketplace and regulatory safeguards prolect against the risk 

of anticompctitive conduct, the companies have offered an unprccedclllcd sd of commitments to 

provide assural1l;cS that competition will remain vibrant. !'vlorcover, the companies have offered 

concrete and verifiahle commitments to ensure cCliain pro-consumer henefits of the transaction. 

In addition to the commitment to conti nne to provide free, ovcr,the-air broadcasting, mentioned 

previously, the companies have committed that Jbllowing the transaction, the NBC 0&0 

broadcast statiom will maintain the salllC' amount of local news and inilJflllation programming 

they currently provide. and will produce an additional U)OO hours per year of local news and 

information programming for various platillnYls. The combined entity will maintain NBC{]'s 

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traditinl1 of independent news and 

a diversity of viewpoints, 

news operations. 

affairs programming and its commitment to pmmoting 

the joumalistic integrity nnd independence of "1BCU's 

Comenst will commit voluntarily to extend the key components of the FCC's program 

access niles to negotiations with MVPDs for retransmission rights to the signals of NBC and 

Tclemundo 0&0 broadcast stations for as long as the FCC's current program access rule;; 

remain in place. Of particular note, Comeast will be prohibited in retransmission consent 

negotiations from unduly or improperly influencing the NBC and Telcmundo stations' decisions 

about whether to sdl their pmgramming, or the tenns and conditions of sale, to other 

distributors. It would also adopt the "burden-shifting" approach to proof of discriminatory 

pricing. And the companies would accept the live-month "shot clock" that the Commission 

applies to program access adjudications. 

The companies also have commi1ted that Comcast will use its On Demand and On 

Demand Online platfonns to increase programming choices available \0 children and families, as 

well as to audiences for Spanish-language programming. Within threc years of closing the 

transaction, Comcast has committed to add 1,SOO additi<ll1al programming choices appealing to 

children and families and 300 additional programming choices from Telemundo ami mun2 to its 

VOD platforms. COll1cast also will continue to provide free or at no additional charge the ;;ame 

number of von choices that it now provides irec or at no additional charge, and will make 

available within three years of dosing an additional 5.000 VO!) chokes over the course of 

month that arc available free or alno additional charge. 

As Comcast mab;;s rapid advances in video delivery technologics, more channel capacity 

will become available. So Comeas! will commit that, once it has completed its digital migratioJl 

company-wide (anticipated to be no latcr than 2011), it will add two new independently-owned 

and -operated channels to its digital linc-up each year fllr the next three years on customary terms 

and conditions. Independent programll1ers would be ddined as networks thal (1) arc [Jot 

currently carried by Comcast Cahle, and (2) me unamliatcd with Comcast. NBCU. or any of the 

top J 5 owners of cable networks, as measured by revcnues. With respect to public, educational, 

and governmental ("PEei") channels, ('omeas! has affinnfllively committed not to migrate PEG 

channels to digital delivery on any Comcast cable system until thc system bas convened to alldigital distrihution, or until a community otherwise agrees to digital PEG channels, whichever 

comes III'S\. 

We have proposed that these commitments be included in any FCC order appnning the 

transaction and become binding on the parlics upon completion of the transaction. A summary 

of the companies' commitmcnts is attached to this statement. 

In the cmL the proposed transactioJl simply transfers oWllership and control of NBCU 

from (iE. a company with a very diverse portiolio of interests, to Comcast, a company with an 

exclusive focus on, and a commitment to investing its fl'sonrccs in. its communications. 

entertainment, and information assets. "fhis transJcr of control, allll1g with the contribution of 

Comcast's complementary content assets, will enable (he ncw ~BCU to bclter serve consumers. 

rhe new NHClJ will advance key policy goals: diversity, localism, competitioll. and 

innovation. Competition. which is pCfvasiyc in everyone of the businesses in which the 

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new N!3CL and Comeast Cable will operate, provides abundant assurance that consumer 

;velfare will be not only safeguarded hut increased. Comeast and NBCU will succeed by 

competing vigorously and fairly. 

We intend to use the eombined assets to accelerate and improve the range Df choices that 

American consumers enjoy fl.)r entcrtainmcnt inlorfnatiol1, and communications. We would 

welcome your SUpp011. 

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COMCASTfNBCU TRANSACTION 

rtmUC Il'<TEREST Co.MMITMENTS 

Comcast, (fE, and NBC Universal take seriously their as corporate citizens and 

share a commitment to operating the proposed venture in a way that serves the pubic interest. To 

demonstrate their commitment to consumers and to other media partners, the parties have made a 

set of speeille, written commitments as part of their public interest filing with the Federal 

Communications Commission. Corneast, (IF. and NBCU nrc committed 10 expanding consumer 

choiet.:, ensuring the future or over-thc-air broadcasting. enhancing programming opponunilics. 

ensuring that today', highly competitive marketplace remains so, and maintaining journalistic 

independence for NBCs news properties. I he parties' commitment to these principles will 

ensure that consumen; arc the ul1imatc beneficiaries of the proposed COl\lcast!\iBCU transaction. 

Local Programming 

Commitment #1. The combined entity remains committed to <:onlinuing to provide free overtbe-air television through its 0&0 broadcast slations and through loc'al hroadcast alTHiate, across 

the nation. As Comeast negotiates and renews agreements with its broadcast aJ1iJiatcs, Comcast 

will continue its cooperative dialogue with its afliliates toward a business model to sustain free 

over-thc-air service that can be workahle in the evolving economic and technological 

environment. 

Commitment #2. Comcasl intcnds to preserve and enrich the output of localllcws, local public 

affairs and other public interest programming on NBC 0&0 stations. Through the usc of 

Comcasfs On iJcmand and On Demand Online platforms, time slots on cable channels, and use 

of certain windows on the 0&0 schedules, eomeast helieves it can expand the availability of all 

types of local and public interest programming. 

• For three years following the closing of the transaction. NBC's 0&0 stations will 

maintain the same amount of local news and infoTInation programming that they 

currently provide. 

• NBCs 0&0 stations collectivdy will produce an additional l.OO() hours a year of local 

news and information programming. This additional local conlent will he made C\vailahlc 

10 consumers using 11 combination of distribution plat/'1mls. 

Commitment #3. Comeas! will usc its On Demand and On Demand Online platfbnns and a 

portion of the NBC O&Os' digital broadcast spectrum to speak to kids. Cmncast intends to 

ucvelop additional opportunities to teature children's content on an available platfom1s. 

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« Comcast will add SOO VOD programming choices appealing (cl children and families to 

its central VOD storage facilities within 12 months of dosing and will add an additional 

l,OOO such VO!) choices (for a total of 1,500 additional VOD choices) within three years 

of closing, (The majority of Comcast's cable systems will be connected to COIm:asl's 

central VOl) storage facilities within 12 montbs of and substantially all will he 

connected within three years of closing,) Comcast. also make these additional 

cboiccs available online to authenticated subscribers to the extent thai Com cast has the 

requisite online rights, 

For three years j()llowing closing, each of NBC's 0&0 st8tiollS will provide one 

additional hour per week or children's educational and infhmlatiooal programming 

utilizing one of the station's multicast channcls, 

Commitment #4. Comeast reaHirrns its commitment to provide clear and understandahle on, 

screen rv Ratings information for all covered programming across ail networks (broadcast and 

cablc) of the combined company, lUld to apply the cahlc industry's best'practice ,(anelards for 

providing oil-screen ratings information in terms of size, frequency and duration, 

• NBCU ""ill triple the time that progmm ratings remain on the air aner each commercial 

break (from 5 seconds to ! 5 seconds), 

• NJ3CU will make program ratings infomwtion more visible to vic\\crs by using a larger 

fonnaL 

Commitment #5, In an effort to constantly improve the tools and infomlatioll available fhr 

parents, Comeast will expand its growing partnership with COIn mOll Sense Media ("C5\'1"), a 

highly respected organization ot'iCring enhanced information to help guide family viewing 

decisions, Corneas! will work to creatively incorporate CS:VI infonnu(ion it its emerging On 

Demand and On Demand Online piatfonns and other advanced platfonlls, and will look for morc 

opportunities for CSM to work with NBCU. 

• COlllcast currently gives CSM content prominent placement on its VOD mentIS, ('omens! 

and thc new NBCL will work with CSM to cany across their distribution platforms more 

extensive programming infonnation and parental tools as they are developed by CSM, 

Comcas1 and NBCU will explore cooperative effOlis to develop digital literacy and media 

education programs that will provide parents, teachers, and chi Idrcn with Ihc tools and 

information to help them become smart. safe, and responsible users of broadband, 

Upon closing and pursuant to a plan to be developed wilh CSM, Comea;;! will dcv(ltc 

millions of dollars in media dis1rihution resources to support public awareness el10rts 

over the next two ycors to further CSM's digital literacy campaign, The 0iBCU 

transaction will create the opportunity Il)r CSM and Com east to work with NBClJ's 

broadcast networks, local broadcast stations, and cable networks [0 provide a targctcd and 

efTectivc public education campaign on digilalliteracy, largl'ting underserved areas, those 

with high concentrations of low,income residents and communities of color, as well as 

target Latino ulmmunilies wilh specifically tailored Spanish,language materials, 
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Programming for !livers., Audiences 

Commitment #6. Corneas! intends to expand the availability of over-tlw-air programming to the 

Hispanic community utilizing a portion of the digital broadcast spectrum of Tdcmundo's O&Os 

(as well as offering il 10 TeJemundo amliatcs) to enhance the current programming of 

Tclc11lundo and mun2. 

• Within 12 months of the transactioll, Tclemundo will launch a new Spanish 

language channel using programming fTOm Telemundo's library that has had limited 

exposure. to be broadcast by each of the Tclcmumlo 0&0 stations on one of their 

multicast channels. The Tclemulldo network alsu will make this new channel available to 

its alTiliated broadcast stations on reasonable commercialterrns. 

Commitment #7. Comcast will usc its On Demand and On Demand Online plati'l)11ns to feature 

Telemundo programming. 

Commitment #8. COll1cast intends to continue expanding the availability or mun2 on the 

Comcast Cahle. On Demand, and On Demand Online plaltonns. 

" Comeast will increase the number of VOD choices !rom Tckmundo and mnn2 available 

on its central VOD storage facilities 11'0111 approximately 35 today, first III 100 choices 

within 12 months of closing and then 10 a total of 30n additional choices within three 

years of closing. Comeast will also make these additional choices availahle online to its 

subscribers to the extent that it has the requisite online rights. 

Expanded Video On Demand Offerings At No Additional Charge 

Commitment #9. Com cast currently provides approximately 15,000 VOD programming 

choices free or at no additional charge over the course of a month, ('omcast commits that it will 

continue to provide at least that number of VOD choices free or at no additional charge. In 

addition, within three years of dosing the proposed tnmsactiol1, Comcast will make available 

over the course of a month an additional 5.000 von choices via its central von storage 

facilities j()r free or at no additional charge. 

Commitment #10. NBCU broadcast content of the kind previously mad..: available at a perepisode charge on Comcast's On Demand sen'icc and currently made available at no additional 

charge to the consumer will continue to be made availabk at no additional charge j(lr the threcyear period alter closing. 

I'ublic. Educational. and Governmental ("PEG") Channels 

Commitml'Dt #11. With respect 10 PEG channels. Comeast will not migrate PEG channels to 

digital delivery un any COll1cast cable system until the system has converted to ali-digital 

distribution (i.e. until all anal()g channels have been eliminated). or until a community otherwise 

agrees to digital PEG channels, whichever comes !Irs!. 

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Commitment #12. To enhance localism and strengthen educational and govcmmcntal access 

programming, Comensl will also develop a platl()rm to host PLG content On Demand and On 

Demand Online within thrce years of closing. 

Comcast will select five locations in its service area to tes1 various approaches to placing 

PEG content on VOl) and onlinc. CO!l1cast will sckct these locations to ensure 

geographic, economic and ethnic diversity, with a mix of rural and urban communities. 

and will consult with community leaders to determine which programming public, 

educational and/or governmental wOllld most bcnelit local residents by being placed on 

VOD and online. 

.. Comcasl will liIe annllal reports to infoml the Commission of progress on th" trial and 

implementation of this initiative. 

Commitment #13. As Corneas! makes rapid advances in video delivery technnlogies. more 

channel capacity will become available. So COl11cast will commit tilat, once it has completed its 

digital migration company-wide (anticipated to be no later than 20 II). it will add two new 

independently-owned and -operated channels to its digital Ene-lip each year for (he next three 

years on customary terms and conditions. 

New ch(ll1nels are channels not ClllTentiy carried on any COll1eas! Cable system. 

Independent programmers are entities that are not affiliated with ('omeas!, NBCC:. or any 

of the top 15 owners of cablc networks (measured by revelllle). 

Expanded Application of the Program Access Rule Protections 

Commitment #14, Comeasl will commit to voluntarily accept the application oCprogram access 

rules to the high definition lHD) feeds of any nelwork whose stundard dellnition (SO) feed is 

subject to the program access rules for as long as tbc Commission's current program access rules 

remain in place. 

Commitment #15. Com cast will commit to voluntarily extend the key components of the 

FCC's program access rules to negotiations with l'vfVPDs jt)r retransmission fights tu the signal:, 

of NBC and Tekmundo 0&0 stations Ii.)r as as the Commission's currcnt program access 

rules remain in place. 

Comeas! will be prohibited in retransmission consent negOtiatIOns from unduly or 

improperly influencing the NBC and fclc!l1undo 0&0 stations' decisions about the price 

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or other terms and conditions on which the stations Inakc their programming available \n 

unaffiliated MVPDs. 

• The "burden shifting" aflproach to proof of discriminatory 

rules will be applied to complaints regarding 

involving the NBC and Tclcmundo 0&0 stations. 

in the program access 

consent negotiations 

The five-month "shot clock" applied to program access adjudications would apply to 

retransmission consent negotiations involving the :'>JBC (md Telemundo 0&0 stations. 

Commitment #16. The combined entity will continue the policy of journalistic independence 

with respect to the news programming organizatiolls of ali NBClJ networks and stations. and 

will extend these policies 10 the potential inl1uence of each of the owners. To ensure such 

independence, the combined entity will continlle in effect the position and lluti1nrity of the NBC 

News ombudsman 10 address any issues that may arise. 

Labor-Management I~elatiolls 

Commitment # 17. COl11cast respects NBCU's existing labor··management rdationships and 

expects them to continue f(J\Jowing the closing of the transaction. Cmncas! plans to honor all of 

NBCU's collective bargaining agreements. 

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~ 

NBC' UNIVERSAL 

''-../ 

COMCAST Al'iD NBCU's 

ComeDot Corporation (,TOll1UL,C) and "BC trnivcrsni C'NBCC") have mack" seric., (,I' 

commitments to diverse commllnith:s in connection with venture hctwccn Comcast and 

(lcl1craJ Electric relating 10 T\BClj. indic;;1tcd, all ofth(;:-;c commitments 

arc nc\v or upon current commitments by the 

business with respect 10 career 

development, supplier media programming. and community and panncrship 

invC'stment. 

l. Existing Initiatives and Commitments 

the interests of various 

diversity commilrn~llts. including those 

bet\veen ~BC and d coalition representing 

in the year 200(t to the extent the 

commitments remain relevant commitments will hc ext0nJcd to the programming assets that 

ComcaSl will contribute to the nc\\-ly formed Coml:<ls.t Entertainment timur upon closing of the joint 

venture. 

2. Governance 

Comens! alld NBCU: New !::\"ferllal Diversity Advbwry Councils. COnlcast and 1\BCll will 

establish four external Councils (collcl..'tiyc:l) called the "Joint Council") 

Asian Pacitlc Islander. and other diverse communitJcs, 

The Aci'visory Councils will prodde advic~ to the senil)r executive teams at Comcast and NBCU 

regarding the compani~s' development and implementation ora strategic to 

practices. Comcasl will <l strategic plan, with adYlcc from the 

critical "Focu~ Areas" related to governance. workforce recruitment and can:cr 

development, sllpplkr diversity. programming, and community invcstrn(:n1 and partnerships, 

·1· 
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(comcast NBC UNIVERSAL 

Corneast: Benchmarkilt}? and O!1Koillg Report/nt(. Comcast will conduct hl:nchmark study of the 

dlversity initiatives in these Focus Areas which it will urdatc annuall) 10 facilitate input and 

recommendations from the Joint Council for strategies to improve pt::rfonnance in the five Focus 

An.:as. Comcust \\ill diversity data h) th ... ; Advisory Councils related to lhe llve 

that the data will be mcd 

Council. 

NBCU: Coalitioll Reporting. NDCU will continue to report annually on its corporate diversity 

efforts, \vith particular emphasis on and pipeline programs. to a 

('oalilion consisting nfthe follo\\'ing (~oalition"): 

\lational Association fin' the Advm1CCn1Cnt of'(:o!{)rcd People, Jne. ("1\/\;\(~P"): 

American Indian:; in Film and Television~ 

Natitmal Asian-Pacifk American Mcdia Coalition: and 

National I.u1ino l\;1cdia Council. 

1\BCtj's ChicfDivcrsity Oniccrwill t:()J1!:mlt 4Uarh)rly wlth each ofnH.:se ~BCt; CoaliilPn members 

un diversity issues. 

Comcust and NBCU: Dil'ersi(r Oversight. Comcast ami NBClJ each \\iill continue to support their 

internal Divcrsily Council:,. Each also \\iill annual fermts to the 

Council analyzing Sllccess in achieving objcclives ofTcring recomnlc!Hlatlol1s H)f 

improvement 

3. Workforce Recruitment & Career lleve!opmcnt 

Camca.vi lIud lVBCU: increased illinoril)' Representation: Com cast and NBC( i arc committed to 

be industr) leaders in the arena of \.\'orkforce diversity. Both orgrmizations commit that will 

increase minority reprcst.:ntati\lll at all levels of their respective and will and 

retain more minorities so that their \vorkforccs more accurately 

Comcast anti NHCU: Joint Council btput Oil Recruitment and Leadership Development. 

('omenst and NBCU \-vill seck the adyice orthe Joint Council in J"t:vic\ving and s.clcc:ting executive 

leadership de\ clopmcnt recommendations H)f minoTity~o\Vncd executive ~earch firms that 

may be hclpthl in finding retaining diverse talent, and assistance in the development <11' 

intcrnsbir rrograms aimed at exposing co!kgc and l..miv.:rSll}-!cv!;l students to career opportunities. 

Comcast and IVRCl/: Career Path Programs. Comcast and NBCU wi!! continue to develop carccrpath programs, including dl'!-1igned to enhance the promotion potentiai of 

identified diverse talent moving from entry-level. to mid-leve], to senior manag(,nlcnt 

COIIIL'U.<t and rYDer;: /I1illori(1' 11llemsilip "nd SdlOlarship Prow'allls, COlllcas( and NBl'U will 

increase SUpp0l1 fDr focllsing on the growth and dcvcloprncnl of minorities, such as the 

Emma L, I~owen for )"·1inority Interests in \..kdia ("l~rnmu Bov./en l"oundatlofl") and 

~imilar internship and scholarship programs focusing (111 diverse communities (see fur1her discussion 
105 


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(comcast NBC UNIVERSAL 

ofhmma Bowen Foundation nnder Progr(lmming and Cnmnnmity Investment and Par1ner~hips 

bdow). 

Comcm:l: fVor~l()rce Diversity Initiatives. In addition; CnmcDst will implement the follov·,'ing 

\\orkforcl' diversity initiatives: 

Oiversity Forum. Dcvdpp a diversity forum and action plan 10 increase djrector~lcvc! 

representation of minorities; 

Focus Groups. Creuk 

opportunities: and identifYing 

with the oL-:ICl'ti\ l'S or gaining insight, crc:aling 

employees: 

Boot ('amp. Implement u boot camp for mld~leve! vice president candidates which 

will include not ks.s than gO~/n diverse CH11(JlOa\CS: and 

Search Firms. \Vith the cI)opcralion oflhe AdvIsory Council:,. identify search firms with 

track records of succe~5rully recruiting di'versc pools of talent to partner with the company in 

identifying diverse leaders. 

Cumcas(: Senior POSitiON CamJidate Poob;. Comca::::t \vilJ enhance minority representation in t11(;' 

leadership ranks of the u divcr)t; pool of candidates for all hires at the: vice 

president level and above, tu hav~; at !cast om: person of color on every 

slate for all such hires. 

l\'BCV: Diverse Senior Level J:.:"ecutives. NBCU will focus on hiring onnOliUlli!ics for diverse 

~eni()r level cx(;cutivcs in development. production, casting. marketing, amlirs, and 

distribution. 

Comcas/ alld NBClJ: Workplace Diversity Trainillg Programs. i30th Comens! and 1\BCU have 

active workplace diversity that include training on diversity i::::su(:s, B()th arc 

committed to exploring which 10 their including, examplt\ 

in the case or NBCl J. by n)r its regular empl(lYcc 

base, 

4. Su rrlier Divcrsitv 

Comeasf and NBCU: increm,'ed ,-\~pefld Oil DhN!rs·e Supplier." Comcast and -~<RCl.! win enhance 

diva~ity in their procuremcnt and services and 

increasing the amount spent on business partners, 

a nationwide basis, C(nneas! and NB(~( l will strive to incrcas~ the 

\v1th minority~O\vned vendors to be on par \vith the percentage 

communities they serve. 

diversity activities. 

l1\1110IntV-O'.v1l1,d enterprise;;;. On 

of business conducled 

l11on!,'-01NnJ::1 husincsses in the 

Comcasl and NBClh lllcrett'w!d PaftnershipJ with DiveJ:'1e Orxanizati(ms. Comcast and NBCU 

wilt par1ncr with divers~ organizations to enhance the utilization of millority-o\-vned enterpris~s, 
106 


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(~omcast 

minority-led L'hamhers of Gommcrce rmd/or other mir;~)j'it:y-kd bu.:;incss organi/ation;;::, til 

regional, and local levels, 

COlncas/and NRCU, Joint COlillcil Tnpul Oil MhlOri~V Suppliers. Comcast and NHCLI will seel; 

advice from the Join! Council to idcntit)i opportunities fiJr spending Vor'ith minority-owned suppliers 

in agreed-upon categoric:;. 

Comeal" llnd /\'BCU: Second Tier Procurement Programs. Comcast and NBCU have "second 

tier"' procurement programs designed to encourage their suppliers to 

from minority-O\vned vendors. As pali of thest: programs~ and 

largest vendors to rermi quarterly on their ~pcnding v.'irh ~inc",·itc.m.,n,,,l 

~BCU ,,,ill expand their programs to crl..!a!l' additional and an even 

including expanding of second lier n.:porting to encompass 1110!'(' suppliers as 

the r('porling procl.:Ss. 

Comeast ami NRCU: Bonlting. Comeas! \viB grow the diversity of it:" investment banking and 

banking partners through its minurity bunking and through the and expansion 

of relationships with minority inves1mcnt firms. the NIJCC pnrticipatc il1 

ComcasCs minority ini!iatin\ Comcast has relatll)l1ships ,,·:ith 

Ilumerous minority-owned institutions and has included them the c~Dtion and 

syndication of numerous credit f~H.:ilities. \Vhere practicahle, 0iBCU will be a dt!posilor in these 

instilutic'lOs. 

COnlcast and NRev: Advertising Spend. In 20 II. iollowing the close of the transaction. Como",t 

and NBC! ljoin11y will commit at least an additional $7 million in ,)pending on advertising \-vith 

minority-o\\ncd media. 

Contrast and NBCU: taw Firm.". In :::010, Comcast became a founding partner in the Inclusion 

Initiative, a collaboratiyc dtllrt among several puhlic!y held corporation~ cksigncd to increase 

,i",,,iti"eTltlV business for law firms owned by diverse individuals. The overall 

initiative is SJO of which ('om east has committed $1 million. A:-; pClrt of the 

Initiative, ('omcast \\"illuse its hest efforts to retain minority-owned tm\ firms that 

Initiative. Further, NBCU commits to expand its business with mi'n",itv.mv",',j law 

firms. NBC{ i will cgtabli~h a \vith one or more minority finns in at lc-ust tbree 

cities where it has headquarters Cit)\ Los a~d D.C In 

addition, NBClJ will commit to have its {Jeneral Connsel meet with the 

orinc \fational Association of Minority and \Vomen (hVl1Cd Law Finns 

senior executive of the National Bar Association 10 rcv!e\'v \JBClj's ()uln~ach efforts to 

mvned law firms and rcvicv.: its t:ffbrls to expand the mnount of busincss th<lt NBCt j docs \-\'ith 

minority-owned finns< 

5. Media OWllership 

ComellJI: New IlldepeJIdelllly-Owned and .Operated ('able Networks. 11 is COJ11C1""S intention to 

ensun: that there arc suhstantial opportunities for Jiverse programmers to benefit hom iIs 

commitment to aJd len I1c\y indcpcndcntly-mvn.:d and ~opcratcd cahlc ne!wurks to its sy~tcms over 
107 


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(comcast NBC UNiVERSAL 

the next eight) cars after the close j)1' the transaction with NBCtL Chis or the commitment appearing in the Federal Communication Commission 

~tatcmcn1 of January 28, 2010. 1'0 that end) Comcast commits that at least 

to be add~d to its system:. to thb eight-year pledge \,,'ill he networks 

of the ten nClwork~ 

which minorities 

hav~ a majority 0\\ ncrship 

NBCU: L.A. Statioll Divestilllre. NBCl! has to dive,[ i" ownership interest in K\VIIY·TV. 

an imiepelldent broad~ast in Los Angeles. This procc~s pr~senLs a k~:y 

opportunity Cor in one of 111'0 nation's lOp two largc.st media rnarkc!~, ~DCU has 

committeu to use its Dest crfiJris to ensure that this station is sold to min(1rit)~controiled o\\,nership 

group. To facilitate this NBCU has established a process to 

and ha.s selected the and Tckcommunications Coum.:il us 

demonstrable success in identifying qualified minority buyers in 

similar divestitures. 

In the event these cHorts do not resuit in the sale of K WII'{·TV. the station license and assets will be 

placed in a divestitun; trust at the transaction. Iftbis becomes l1t::cessary, 

MMTC will work with the trustee to sale to a qualitied third On Ma) 17,20111. 

an application was filed seeking FCC consent ttJr the a:;signmcnt to a Divestiture trust 

NBCV and vlMTC will remain engaged in cl1(wls to sell KWIlY·TV while the application 

for assignment 10 the divestiture trust pending. 

Comcast and NBCU: Minori~~' Bu.vt!r.')'/or Il·ledia Assets. no additional olvcsrlturc or 

media assets is contemplated in connection with the NRCli Comcas1 is committed tv 

an appropriate sensitivity to o\,\'TH-.~rship issues in the event media assets. arc divested 

including involvement to identify minority huyers for any futun: 35S('1 

sales, 

6. Programming 

COtnCa5;( and NBCU: ExpansioJl of Minority Programming. Comcast Cahle and NBClJ are 

committed to expanding minority~focused and v>,/ill have discussions with the external 

Diversity Advisory Councils representing minority community annut measures that can be 

taken to achieve this objective for their resp-:ctive communiti~s. 

Comcast and NReD: Enhancing Diversity in Programming. COlTIcas1 and ;\B(,11 [lTD committed 

to expanding the of minorities hoth in front of and behind the cameras, In furtherance of 

this commitment. and ;\"ilCC commit to build on previous and current cl10rts to iocrcas,;; 

and improve the presence of minorities throughout Bll its programming, including cntertaillll1cnt 

news, spons, and public affairs programming, 

COItlC(ut: l:.):panded Servic!!.f,' mId Competitive j>ricillg. ('omens! Cable is commitled to maintain 

and improve its track record in diverse to its subscribers_ Moreover, CUl11cast 

Cable remains committed to \'idc() sCf\'ic~s to its .customers, 

-5-
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NBC "UNIVERSAL. 

~ 

of it,.., regular meetings ""hh the extC'rnal AJvisl)ry 

and packaging of its minority-oriented programming. 

Cmncast: Expansion (~rniver,se Video On Demand r'{VOD'J Content. On Demand and On 

Demand Onlim: arc dynamic and innovati'vc and Corneast intends to 

for owner':i of diverse content to utilllc them. Demand aff()rds illd~pcndent 

io reach niche audiences in a direct way and 

time preference. As Cmncast On Demand and On 

to ensure lhat indc:pendent minority owners oC content can 

-PC'lle,I'Mlnn ComcHst Cahlc also will continue to work v,'ith 

content on its online Fancast Xflnity platform. 

African American Contcnt. Comcast Cable f(:ccntiy launched Black Cinema On Demand, 

a von channel that celt'hmtes blu(.:k films. filmmakers, and actors past, present and future, 

focusing on the \vide rang0 of t'xpcrielll':~$, and potnts-()C-vic\v of bla(:k 

people as c>..pres3cd through the artistic medium In addition. Comca~l Cahlc fcatures 

On Demand that delivers a variety oftdevish'n, entertainment, and mllsic 

that An'ican '\mcricnn audicI1<:cs, 

(BET). (Hip !lop Onllemanci), and ,.eccntl~ 

Asian Contcnt. This tall, ('omeas) Cable will launch Asian Cinema On Demand that will 

feature films from across Ihe Asian Pac!11c Islander diaspora that 

accomplishments. and puints-of'-vit:w ofLhis community as 

medium of film. This platfixm will allow Comcast 

Pm.:ific Islander dcvl'lop~rs and \'!, ill be n,.",",.,"",,1<'" 

fhis challnd will he hours a 

be refr~shcd up to 1 OO~'O a month hut no less than 

plan (kveloped 10 promott' the offering. 

Latino Content. Within twelve months of the transaction dosing. Comcast Cahlc 

launch Hispanic Cinema On Demand Latino~themt.'d l11ln.ies. fn addition. 

Cable will usc its On Demand and On Online platforms to Ii:aturc relcmundo 

programming and to continue. expanding. the availability of NBClJ's mun2 (]\'1unDos). 

Comeast Cable \vi11 usc these platforms to increase choices available t\\ 

children and families, as well as 10 audiences f(w \Vithin 

three years of closing the transaction, Comcilst has additional 

programming choices appt:aling to children and families and 300 additional programming 

choices fmm Tdcmundo and mun2 to its On Demand platform, 

ComClH,'t: Continued Reliance Oil Vnaffiliated Content, There is no 

transaction with GE and r\BCU will diminish Comcasfs rcliancl: on 

consummation of the 

to provide the vast 

on 1\'BCt' contc-nL 

transaction. Comeast will continue 10 I'd) on othLf content providers 

of its video content COmCQSl \\'ill not rely cxclu!;oive!; or even primarily 
109 


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(comcast ,~ 

NBC' UNIVERSAL 

~ 

.1VBClJ: Entertainment Programming. \Vith re:;pect tl.1 entertainment protLramming, '-.;B( '{ make.., 

the following commitments: 

Building Diverse Re-laiionships. ~BCU cpmmits 10 double (from \\\0 to !()Ur) thl..~ number 

of f(mmll nely\"orking events hosted each yt'ur to 

opportunities for diverse directors, writcr~, and 

executivcs (at the pn .. ~sidcnt, cxecutin~ vice 

president levels) in the fcatun.'. broadcust, 

Ilh'crsc \"ritcn PrHgram. 1'0 promote diversity among its writers. NBCt; cnmmi1s to 

continue to timd diversity \\Tltcr ffJl' three y~ars, selected hy the showrunncr;produccL ror each of its series on th1..; NBC broadcast network und for each of 

NBC's three late night programs, addition, ~BCt: cnmmits to this to 

fimd a div~rsl' writer position on t!ach scripted series on NBCl ", 

• Directors Fellowship Program. NBCl: \"'ill contimw to 

program, \\'hich offers divcrs(: participants a dC'ici':lPrne'l1ai 

as well as exposure to o1her aspccls ofNRCU 

Casting (TV and Film). NBCt; will commit [0 use its influcnce In encourage 

among the freelance casting directors hired in connection with 1he production 

programming. In addition. )JBCU will create a as:-;.odutcs for TV and film 

with an emphasis on diversity in what \\()uld h~ a ti,)f the 

Professional Development Programs. l'\BCU 1,-vill continue to support the followh1g four 

pipeline development programs offering hands-on experience in d~vcIojlmcm 

and management. and mller !]fens nfNBCU's husincss: Entertainment "'''''·W'''. 

KReU/Canada Fellowships, tl1'-' Universal Pictures Leadership PrograIlL and multiple NBCU 

Internship Programs. 

the 

seri(.;'s. also 

Coalition mt:mbcr to seek input on 

".U.UC,,'d.UU" in GaLh category. 

Diversity ~md Award .Programming. NBClJ plans to co-produce and air a primetimc 

nCl\vork Latino-1hcmed a\vards entertainment speciaL 

NBClJ: IVews Programming. 'Vith n:spect 10 ne\\'s programming. NBCU makes the following 

commitments: 

-7-
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(¢omcast 

• News ASlsnciatc Pro~ram! is a 

bring 

NBC UNIVERSAL 

program that idclllifics {)lltstan~ing 

nc\vs proJuctilH1 and nc\vs coverage. 

also include the NBC~owncd and 

l'xpallsilH1 annually fmm six to 

\''1111 ~xpanJ thi~ prognml 

stations' n~~\Vs departments, 

l\C\v,S Associates. 

n;>'crsity LeuM .. ,hil' Program. l'\BC1' will explore ways to expand its DiversilY 

l.eadership Program, through \\hleh NBC News opL:rah~s a mid-career program designed to 

train diverse producers and a.ssociate f{x executive producer roles. The program 

lasts for 18 months and involves busine:;s. and finance sl'mimlrs, 

",I""\,,,,',n," days \\'jl!1 key st.:nior executives, menloring, and prcscntJtion skills 

program ellrolls eight to t..-:n high pO((:Blial journalists clh'ry 1 X months. 

Recruitment Outrca(~h to J\liuorit:y .Journalists. NBC recruits 

conventions of the National Association of Black Journalists 

uf Hispanic Journalists ("NAI U"}, Asian-American Journalists C'i\/\JA·'). 

National Leshian & (jay JoumaIis1s AssociatlDn, :.iutivc :\mcTican Journalists Association 

("NAJA"), and South Asian Journalists Association. Represcntatiw;s of~1iC News, ~13C 

Sports. i ,ocal Media, and Tclcmundo contribute Oil all k\cis to seminars. can:cr fairs~ and 

student events, resulting in the and hiring of diverse candidates. NBCt; 

wiII explore- ways which this recruitment can he expanded, 

• !Vlcetings \vith Congressional C~n)(·uscs. I"\BCU commits to annual rncl~tlngs hClwccn the 

President of NRC News and the 0;f3C News D.c' Bureau Chief with the Congressional Black 

Caucus, the Congressional I Iispanie Caucus. and the ;\:,j3n~/\mcrican Caucus, to discuss 

diversity practices as they affect the Nev.'s DiVision, 

NBC News Summer Fellowship Program. NBCU will explore 

Summer Feli()\vship Program, under \vhich NBC 

summer for nomint:cs from each of three MOanlJailorlS: 

six (6) paid intems un~ 

'\!ews. NBCl: will expand its nt'ws 

internships annually with l'\;\BJ, i\1\1IJ, i\I\JA (Ihree each lear 

also seeking to extend the program to '!,;AJA. 

journulists. 

lVBCU: Programming LeudenihifJ Dh't'rsity. NBCC commits that it wlJl t,;lHltinut;' to take steps to 

increase the dh'ersity of its exec:utivt':s in each of the areas: ~tclcvision and 

mm): (lclevision and IiIm); and and IiImJ. will work 

to ensure that key sla!cs for ~xl:cuti\'c include diverse candidate~ identified either 

intt:rnal succession plans or external sources. such as 

have strong and track records in identifying diverse candidates within tlwse as 

needed or uppropriate. 
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(comcast NBC UNIVERSAL. 

NllCU: TelefflUlldo Newscasts, Teiemundo just introduced a (olnm'(h"nsiv( 

enhance and expand its news con!cnt across multiple 

local nc"\.v~casts at the T clcmundn statioll~. This will 

oj" local 

llcWSl';Jsts in the communities \-vherc ;;tatlons are located. Further. a result vcotur('. 

NBCL \\i!l not reduce the lllunhcr or cunc-nt local Tclcmundo newscasts and will cll!1.sidcr 

eA"panding local Tekmundo ne\v~cast~. '!'\BCt' \\"m continue to expand 1m'al content in Tclcmundo 

station TII'\\ scasts. 

NBCV: Emma Bowen Foumlatiol1. NHC{ J is one of the largest 

Foundation, a preeminent organization dedkatcd 10 preparing 

of the Emma Bow~n 

n)r can:crs in the 

media industry. NBCU has more than 100 students, a nurnbcr of whom han' 

taken positions at NBCl' 

industry leader in this 

sponsoring at least 50 

Foundation in its \:Vashington, 

on a pro bono basis. 

-:\JBCl! commit~ to cnntinuing as an 

in and support of the prngm111 hy 

for the next years, as \\/(,11 as to house the 

and providing administrative support to organization 

7. Community Investment & Partnerships 

ComClIJt and l'lBCV: Ten Percent Increase itt Communi(v bU'l!stmef1t. COnlcast and NBCU 

commit to increase their philanthropic cfiorts to support lllinority~ied and m;nm;tv-sprnnn 

institutions and to establish more benchmarks for tlwlr investment ill 

communities in consultation \\lith Joint Council. Upon of the transaction. Com cast 

to increase its community inve:-;tmcnt spend on and minoritY--Sel-virle 

HYVll per yeHr for each of the next thrct: years, Similarly, NBCU incrcJ':'-c its 

lunding hy rer fbr each of the next three in the areas or community-hased 

philanthropic organizations that serve and i:unily in l,.mdCf-SCf\cd communities and 

community engagement organi'l:ati()n~ with broad missions of serving diverse cOIlmlUnilics. 

Comcasl: Community Investment and Partnership Program.\', Comcasl \vil! enhance its 

investment in divC'rse communities and its rnrtnershiJls wilh diverse Grgani/.ations hy taking the 

fol!owing steps, 

" Corneas! Leaders and Achicvf.'rs Scholarship P·rogram. COlncast will increa~c outreach 10 

diverse students Hnd ,c;chools for The Cnmcast I ,cadcrs and Achievers Scholarship rrogmnL 

Internship and Sdwlar1>lhip P,"ugrams. Comcast remains the largest supporter ofHw 

E.mma Bov.·en Foundation internships. C0111cast ''''iii increuse its for this program 

and similar and scbolarship prog:rams and will seck to of 

programs. In addition, Comca~t \vill \:vork with 

Resoun:es 10 ensure that graduates or these programs arc being cnns]lkrcd for 

entry level 

Beyond School Walls Program, Throllgh the Big Brothers Big Sisters Beyond School 

\VaJls. program. COll"tCast will cnsUl'-:: that school <1.:-signmcnis in diverse communities. 
112 


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(comcast 

Comc3st Cares Dav. Corncast will expand its Corneas! Can.:s 

organizations hcing ~served in diverse n;mmunitics and to increase 

organizations that serving din'rsl' h ... :ncficiaric.". 

.~ 

NBC' UNIVERSAL 

!"')l'US to add 

numhcr nl' 

Comcnst Uig,i1al Connfciors Progranl. Comeast \\lm ensure that locations of its rrogram:-; 

through the Comcas1 Digital Connectors program (in partnership with One Economy) nrc in 

di\TfSC communities. 

Promotion fJf Diverse Partnerships. Comcasi v·;i1l pmmmc and connmmicatc the positive 

work and impact of its diverse Illchlding imTcases in public ~ervice annuuncements, 

socia! media communications. and media placement botb locally and national1:y. 
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L 

3. 

4. 

5, 

6, 

7, 

It 

9, 

10, 

lL 

12. 

13. 

14. 

15. 

16. 

17. 

18. 

19. 

20, 

21. 

n. 

24, 

25. 

26. 

27. 

28. 

29, 

30. 

3!. 

32, 

33. 

34. 

List ofSuppOI'!ivc Leiters Heceived by the federal Communications CommissiOll 

(as of.Tuly 1, 20Hl) 

Atlanta Interfaith Broadcasters, Inc. 

Cemer j()[ the lIomelcss 

Brian .I. Ladouceur, .lr. 

Phil Bryant, Lieutenant Governor, Mississippi 

Nuestra Tde Noticias (:"Tl\24) 

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the fiJinois Capital Region 

Don Moyer Boys & Girls Club 

Gerald Van Woerkom, Slate Senator, Michigan 

Jon Switalski. Slate Representative, Michigan 

Roger Kahn, State SenatC1r, Michigan 

Grange Coffin, Mayor, Mcggctt South Carolina 

Leominster Access Television LATV 

Celebrity Serics of Boston 

Paul Cohen, Town fvlanager, Chehnsf(Jrd, Massachusetts 

Family Shelter Service 

Ann Arbor's Teen Center - The NDutrallonc 

Vince DcCarin. Chainnan of Board of Sup Dr visors, Deny Township, Pennsylvania 

EI Pueblo 

McFarlane Media 

Knoxville Opera 

Chamber of Commerce. Salishury, V""""",·.,, 

Alexander Bennett Mayor, Baldwin, Pennsylvania 

Ed Clemente, State Representative, Michigan 

George & Laura Landry 

Children's Services Coullcil of Broward County 

Chamber of Commerce, Middlesex, New Jersey 

W ()od-To-Wonderflll 

New Spiritual Light tvLB. Church 

:"aperville, Illinois Tdcvision 17 

Roy \Vallace, Com cast Employee 

Big Brothers Big Sisters 

United Way of MetropoJitan Chicago 

East Metro Economic Alliance 

Opportunity Works 

35. Denny Doyle, Mayor, Beaverton, Oregon 

36, Chamber ofC(lmmcrcc. yfcrccr, New Jersey 

37, James H. Round, Director oflnfonnation Technology, l{"1'l"""j,,,, Massachusetts 

38. The Rosie Fund 

27 
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39. Rockford Symphony Orchestra 

40. Scott Christianscn, Chairman, Winnebago County. lllinois 

41 Kathy !\ngerer, State Representative, 

42. Chamber of Commerce, Naperville, Illinois 

43. George Gaulrapp, Mayor. Freeport, Illinois 

44. Cameron Brown, Stale Senator, Michigan 

45. Larry Means. State Senator. Alllbama 

46. Sallie Clark, Commissioner, 1'1 Paso County, Colorado 

47. United Way ofCen(ra! I!lilll'is 

48. Michael Flaheny, Former City Councilman, Boston 

49. Bruce Patterson, State Senator, :Vliehigan 

:;0. Artists' Ensemble Thealer 

51. Rockford MELD 

52. Chamber of Commerce, Whiting Robclisdale. Indiana 

53. Governmental League, Will COUllty, Illinois 

54. Richard LeBlanc. State Representative, Michigan 

55. Ron Jelinek, State Senator, Michigan 

56, Mike Nofs. Slate Senator, Michigan 

57. ChamherofCommercc, American Arab 

58, Chamber of Commerce. Dearborn. Michigan 

59. West ('(;ntral Municipal Conference 

60. Mike Mason, ('omcasl Employee 

61, Mayors and Managers Conference, DuPage. llIinois 

62. Career & Technical Center, Porter County, Indiana 

63. Betly Critchley 

64. Boys & Girls Club of Decatur, Illinois 

65. South Hills Area Council of Governments 

66. Gilllill. former City Councilman, Detroit 

67. Chamber of Commerce, Asian Pacific American 

68. Victor J .oomis, Mayor, East Michigan 

69. Tim Davlin, Mayor, Springfield, lllinois 

70. Chris Coons, County Executive, Nt;w Castle, Delaware 

71 Uniled Way of Decatur & Mid-Illinois 

72. John Gleason. State Senator, Michigan 

73. Maryland llall for the Crentivc Arts 

74. William Flanigan, Mayor, Fall River. Massachusetts 

75. fred Durhal. Slate Representative, Michigan 

76. Boys & Girls Cluh of So 11th ern Maryland 

77. Gail & Stove Murphy 

78. Michele & Scott Goodwin 

79. Siobhan & Tom Orant 

SO. Phyllis Towle 

81. The Atheneum 

28 
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82. Natcon Properties 

83. Girls Inc. 

84. YMCA, Danvers, Massachusetts 

85. Flint Memorial Lihrary 

86. A.lan Cropsey. State Senator, Michigan 

87. Michigan State \ :niversity \111SeU1l1 

88. Cristo Rcy Community Ccntcr 

X9. Michele Manke. Clerk, Leoni Township, Michigan 

90. Michigan City Senior Cenler 

91. Vinccnt [)con. Supervisor, Northampton TO"'11Shi~\ i'clln.lyivHnia 

92. Joseph CllrtatOI1C, \1ayor, Somerville. MassadlUsctts 

93. Lennies Gutlcncz, COlllcast EmplllYcc 

94. Amhrosc Rncca. Manager. Franklin Park, Pennsylvania 

95. Breakthrough Cambridge 

96. Jnhn Bell, FOlmer Mayor, Gloucester, Massachusetts 

97. WMCT·TV, Marlborough, Massadillsetts 

98. Scott Sanlimi, COIncasl Employee 

99. Jim Samaha, Comcast Employee 

100. t-,1arli Coley. Slate Representative. Florida 

101. Dong lIolder, State Rcpr<.'scntalivc, Florida 

102. Charles Crowley, Mayor. Taunlon, Massachusetts 

1 OJ. John DeStefano. Mayor. New Haven, Connecticut 

104. John Peyton, Mayor, Jacksollville, Florida 

105. Sandra Beaudroin. Director of Recreatioll Depal'lmcllt, Seabrook, New Hampshire 

106. Mark Jansen, Stale Senator. Michigan 

107, Reginald Tate. Slalc Senator. 'renDesscc 

108. Pam Byrnes, State Representative, Michigan 

109. Jay Barrows, State Representative, Massachusetts 

110. Anthony Terrez..:a, Mayor, Union Township, :';lew Jersey 

J 11. Kiwanis Day Care Center 

112. Jill T. Thompson, Corneasl Employee 

113. Sam Ng, Comcasl Employee 

114. Curl Henninger. COIneas! Employec 

115. Ivliehael Ross, City Councilman. Boston 

11 (,. Bill Linchan. City Councilman, Boston 

117. Jazz Education, Inc. 

liS. AIVllkids Jacksollville 

119. Ernie Siollag, Director, Communications Department, Springtleld. Illinois 

120. John Proos, State Rcprescntmive. Michigan 

121. Comite Culmrall'viexicuno de Cicero 

122. tv'lark \Vhcr!cy, Station Manager, Adams County TV 

123. Tom Landis. Treasurer. Adams County TV 

124. Ronald Shultz. Board Memher, Adams Counly TV 

29 
116 


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125. Ronald llarris, President. Adams County TV 

126. Carol Newhart, Secretary. Adams Coullty TV 

127. Wharton Center for the PCrl(11111ing Arts 

128. John Critchley 

129. Adria Cilley 

130. James Tatum Foundation for the Arts 

131. Robert Earky 

132. Terri l.and. Secretary or State, Michigan 

133. Stephanie Rockafellow 

134, Eight "vii Ie Boulevard Association 

135. Francis.l. Powers, Former Captain. Boxborough District Minllteman Company 

J:l6, Monica Fineis 

D 7, Karen Dunigan, Mayor. Jackson, 

1 JR, United Way of Pioneer Valley, rVlassachusetts 

139, Daisy Lynum, Commissioner. Orlanuo, Florida 

140. Habitat for Hllmanity, Atlantic Beach, Florida 

141. Pennsylvania League of Cities & Municipalities 

142, Community Unit School District 203. Naperville. lIIinois 

143. Small Business Association of Michigan 

144. Methuen Community TV (McrV) 

145, Brian Brown 

146, Sue & Joe Amhrose 

147, Chamber or Commerce, Chicago Korean American 

J 48. Boys & Girls Club of Troy, Michigan 

149. Operatioll Bootstrap 

ISO. Ron Khoury 

151. John Ruckelshaus 

152. John Davis, Manager. Doylestown, Pennsylvania 

153. Christopher 13. Burke Engineering 

154. Thc Home for Little Wanderers 

155. Clare & Fran Maher 

156. Renac & Bob Tuily 

157. Citizens Schools of Massaehusetts 

158. Bill Kandler 

159. Gary Reed 

160. Chamber of Commerce, Orand Rapids. Michigun 

161. Joe llaveman, Slale Representative. Michigan 

! 62. Chamber of Commerce, Greater Springfield, lllinois 

163, Walter Burnett, Alderman. Chicago, Illinois 

164. Chicago Neighbors United 

165. Urban League of Battle Creek. Michigan 

166. Mark Minasian 

167. BrctMarT 

30 
117 


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16R. Capital Area Literacy Coalition 

169. Community Action Partnership of CeI11rallllinois 

170. DOllnalce Lozeau. Mayor. Nashua. Nevv Hampshire 

171. Colleen McNamara 

172. Thomas Sheehan 

173. Chamber of Commerce. New Britain, Connecticut 

174. Matthew Groen 

175. (jrossc Pointe War :'v1cmorial Association 

176. Chamber of Commerce, Plymouth. i'vlassacilusetls Area 

177. Yankee Doodle Homecoming 

178. Easlcl11 Illinois Foodbank 

J 79. Christine Miller-Betts, Director. Lucy Craft Laney IVluseum of Black Ilistory 

) 80. Disability Advocates of Kent County, Michigan 

181 Adrian Cazal 

182. Cann I Ierman. Executive Dirt'ctor, Barbara Olson Center of Hope 

183. Midway Village Museum 

184. Rockj()1d Arca Art, Council 

185. Cara Maher 

186. Lindsey Ambrose 

187. Joseph Ambrose 

j 88. Feeding America West Michigan Food Bank 

J 89. Janet & Mike (luenct 

! 90. Fran & Amanda Maher 

191 Debra Boothby, Treasurer, Benton Charter Township. Michigan 

192. Sarah Bryant, Comcast Employee 

193. Bernie Herpin, Councilman, Colorado Springs, Colorado 

194. Melissa Huena 

195. G. Wayne Davis 

196. Easter Seals Joliet. Illinois Region 

197. Boys & Girls Club of Greater I Jolyokc, \1assachusctts 

198. Gregory Cary. Former Sllpervisor. Iloney Brook Township, Pennsylvania 

199. Pearl Buck Center 

200. .lenni IeI' Catalano, Comcast Employee 

201. James Sayer, Com east Employee 

202. Denis Fraine, Administrator. Bellingham, tv1assachusctb 

203. Barry flydc, State Representative, Arkansas 

204. LarTY Eldridge, Comcast Employee 

205. ;v!nlor City Blight Bust,'I's 

206. I lany Tindell. State Representative, Tennessee 

207. Gerald Brown. Mayor, Trenton, Michigan 

208. Wendy Mizulani, Com cast Employee 

209. Family Building Blocks 

210. Maryland Food Bank 
118 


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211. 

212, 

211. 

214, 

215, 

216, 

217, 

2UL 

219, 

220, 

221. 

222. 

:2:2J, 

224, 

22~. 

226. 

227, 

228, 

229, 

230, 

231. 

232, 

233, 

234, 

235. 

236. 

237, 

238. 

239, 

240, 

241. 

242, 

243, 

244, 

245, 

246, 

247, 

248, 

249, 

250, 

251. 

Jim Bcnsbcrg, Commissioner. EI Paso County, Colorado 

Nancy Richard, Executive Director, PACTV 

Ed lIonea, Mayor, Marana, Arizona 

Alice Kessler, Com east Employee 

Christopher Rose, Manager, Raymond, New lIampshire 

Chamber ofCo!11!11crcc, Greater POl1smouth, New Hampshire 

New America Media 

William Wild, Mayor, Westland, Michigan 

Mark Triliro, Chair, Shawshccn Valley Technicallllgh School, Shawsbccn, 

Massachusetts 

Chris Mason, Mayor, Harriman, Tennessee 

Robcli Ficano, Executive. Wayne County. Michigan 

Theresa Kail-Smith, City Councilwoman, Pittsburgh 

Brian O'Neill. Councilman, Philadelphia 

Kathleen Donovan-Maher 

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bucks County, Pennsylvania 

Colina Foundation 

Wayne Smith, Mayor. Irvington, New Jersey 

Public Schools Lducation Foundation. Carroll County, Maryland 

Anita Alvarez, State's Attomey, Cook County, lllinois 

Chamber of Commerce. Greater Dallas Hispanic 

Urban I ,e.agllc of /V'liddk Tennessee 

Marcelo Llorente, State Representative, Florida 

Urban League of Springflcld, llIinois 

SomosTV 

Ron Calderon, Slate Senator, Califomia 

Boys & Girls Clubs of Los Angeles 

Ivlichael Head, President, Organization for Chinese l'unericans, Sacramento 

Knowledge Institute 

FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties, New Jersey 

Denver Public Schools Foundutiol1 

W. Burrell Ellis, CEO, DeKalh County, Georgia 

Chamber of Commerce, Central Delaware 

Chamher of Commerce, California Asian Pacific 

Ceasar Mit\'he!l, City Coullcil President, Atlanta 

Asian Paci fie Islander American Public Affairs Associati(\ll 

Urban League of Atlanta 

Point Breeze PerfDrming Arts eenrer 

New Covenant Missionary Baptist Church 

Young Scholars' Institute 

Pennsylvania Rnral Partners 

VivaKi 

252, John Seibert, Director, Department of Parks & Recreation. Valparaiso, Indiana 

32 
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253, Urban League oflludson County. New Jersey Inc, 

254, United Way ofChcstcr County. Pennsylvania 

255. United Way of Central Maryland 

256. Gary Klingman, Manager, Township of Findlay. Pennsylvania 

257. Western Utility Contractors 

258. 1h,' Partnership of Drug-Free America 

259. The Literacy Council 

26(), Regional Business Coalition 

26], Tech Council of Maryland 

262, Joa11 M, Menard, State Scnator, Maryland 

263, :--1ichael Tryon, State Representative, llIinois 

:?64, Krcg !3atllcs, Stale Representative, Indiana 

265. Kenneth Dunkin. State Rqm:sentativc. rllinois 

266, Cynthia Solo. State Representative, California 

267, Rrian Patrick Kennedy, State Representative, Rhode Island 

268. Suzannc "Suzie" Bassi, State Representative. !llinois 

269. Starcom MediaVest Group 

270. Special Olympics :--1ussachuscHs 

271. South Suburban Mayors and Managers Association 

272. Davc Buchcwicz, Chairnlull. Homd of Supen Isors. South Park Township, Pennsylvania 

273, Ilardie Davis, State Senator, Georgia 

274, Alex Padilla, Slate Senator, California 

275. ChamberofCOl11mercc, San Francisco 

276. Rodney Street Tennis & Tutoring Association 

277, One Economy Corporation 

278. Robert Andrews, John Adler. l,conard r .anee, Frank oRiondo. 

Steven Rothman. Alhio Sires, Christopher Smith, Congressmen. '\ew Jer,;cy 

279, P. Eric Turner, State Representative, Indiann 

280, Robert Matzie, Stale Representative. Pennsylvania 

281. i\latt Smith, Slalt' Rcprcscntatiw, Pennsylvania 

282, Maria Sachs, State Representative, Florida 

28J, Rebuilding Together. Valparaiso, Indiana 

284, RHl Entertainment Inc. 

::'85, Chamber of Commerce. Pittshmgh Area Jjispanic 

286, Pennsylvania Cable Network 

287. Partnership fill' a Drug-Free New Jersey 

2RR, Otis Wilson 

289, Open Meadow Altemativc Schools 

29(), United Way. Northwest Suburban 

291, Community Dcvdopmcnl Corporation. Nicc\OWll. Pennsylvania 

292. Nationalllrbun League 

293, National Conlcrcncc of Democratic /v1ayors 

294. Naked New York, LI.C 
120 


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295. Community College Foundation, Moraine Valley, lllinois 

296. Mindsharc "-I.A. 

297. Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, Mayor, Baltimore 

298. Gavin Newsom, Mayor. San Francisco 

299, lVlaryland Humanities Council 

300. Manuel Sanchez 

301. Maryland Economic Devciopment Association 

30:!. Lorena Hernandez, Comcas! Employee 

303. Life Pieces To Masterpieces 

304. Leadership Greater Washington 

305. Latino '\1<:mphis 

306. Latin American Youth Center 

307. Latin American Association 

J08. Kennedy Krieger InstitulC 

309. Junior Achievement of Eastern Massachusetts 

310. Joseph A. Moore, Alderman, Chicago 

311. New Hampshire Business & Industry Association 

312. Jersey Access Group 

313. .lame's Francisco, Retired Comcasl Employee 

314. Robert Behning, State Representative, Indiana 

315. David Frizzell, State Rcprcscntativ(~, Indiana 

316. Cleo Duncan, State Representative, Indiana 

317. Images of flope, Inc. 

318. Brandon Phelps, State Representative, llIinois 

319. flyde Square Task Force 

320. Chamber of'Cofl1mcrcc of Hispanic Cenlral Pennsylvania 

321. Jack MarkelL Governor, Delaware & Bill Ritter, Governor, Colorado 

322. Rohert F. McDonnell, Governor, Virginia 

323. Gads Ilil! Center 

324. Plaza Community Services, Los Angeles 

325. John Eaves, Fulton Counly Commission Chainnan, Fulton County Georgia 

326. DC Onice of Cable Television 

327. Elijah Cummings Youth Program in Israel 

328. rd~vard J. O'Malley, Chairman, New krsey's Governor's Council on Voluntccrism 

329. Comcast Community Advisory Board 

330. Economic Devdopmcnt Council of Tallahassee/Leon County, Inc. 

331. Fast Tennessee Historical Society 

332. Chicago land Apartment Association 

333. Convention & Visitors Burean, Chicago Southland 

334. Chamber of Commerce, Chicago Chinatown 

335. Ccnter for Possibilities 

336. Capital Region Coullcil ofOovcmmcnts 

337. Boys & Girls Clubs or Central Virginia 

34 
121 


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:n8. Big Broth<.:r$ Big Sisters uf C~ntral Illinois 

339. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Essex. New Jersey 

.140. Directors (illild of America 

341. Denver Melro Chamber r .cadcfship Foundation (D1\lCLl') 

342. Chamber of Commerce. District of Columbia 

343. Daviu Fay. President &. CEO. The Bushnell Center for Performing Arts. Hartj()f(l, 

Connecticut 

344. Coullcil for Quality Growth 

345. City Y car of Washington, DC 

346. Douglas I!. Palmer, Mayor, Trenton, New Jersey 

347. Mike Bodkcr, Mayor, Johns Creek, Georgia 

34~. Thomas J. Aspeil, City Manager, Concord. New Hampshire 

349. Richard Daley, Mayor, Chicago 

350. John W. llickcnlooper. Mayor, Denver 

351. Alfonso BarreraiHispanicl'ro.com 

352. Ray Suarez, Alderman. Chicago. Illinois 

353. Alice l'aullnstitutc 

354. ARRIS Group Inc. 

355. Jamie Woouson. State Senator. Tennessee 

356. Lane Metro Partnership 

357. Urban League Tri-Collnt)' Inc. 

358. RcliefNursery. Inc. 

359. Michigan Community Service Commission 

360. Westside Ministers Coalition 

361. Unitcu Way o[Chittcnden County, Vermont 

362. Teni J. Austin. SWte Representative, indiana 

363. South Jersey Field of Dreams 

364. Antonio Villmaigosa, Mayor, l.os Angeles 

3<15. Elizabeth A. MUlTi.l)', Comcast Employee 

366. Jimmy Palronis. Sta1t~ Representative. Florida 

367. Friends oflhe DuPage TheatH' 

368. Frontline Communications 

369. Community Development Corp., Fuller Park. lllilWis 

370. Chamher of Commerce. Greater North Fulton. Georgia 

371. Chamber of Commerce, Greater Tallahassee 

372. Cable Council, Greater Waterhury, Connecticut 

373. Jewish Life TV 

374. Life Center Church of God in Christ 

375. Mark Sanhorn 

376. Chamber ofCol11mercc, Latino North Berwyn Park District, 

377. Chris Lauzcn, Slate Senator, llIinois 

378. Boys & (lids Clubs of Greater Peoria, illinois 

379. !\sian American Journalists !\ssociation (AAJA SF&SAC chapters) 

35 

Illinois 
122 


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380. rony Samuel, Comcast Customer 

381. fnrgctCast (em 

382. John Fielder 

383. Tyler Lopez 

384. r~rct Saunders 

385. Catherine Head 

386. Mary Ihckn 

387. Thomas J. Noel 

388. Steven Weil 

389. Pennsylvania State Association of Boroughs 

390. Jane 1'\'1. Francisco, C01l1cast Lmploycc 

391. Frederick AI!],mce for Youth 

392. Forever j:umily 

39J. Public Fdllcalion & Business Coalition. Denver, Colorado 

394. Cynthia Cusack 

395. Paul LaFlamme, Former State Representative. New Hampshire 

396. Joseph Stemhcrgcr. Mayor. Elmer, New Jersey 

397. Big Brothers Big Sislers of Greater Chattanooga 

398. Alternatives in Action 

399. John Millner, Slate Senator. Illinois 

400. Lillle Angels 

401. Boys & Girls Club of Cape Cod, Inc. 

402. l\cw Hampshire Division of Eeol1omie Development 

403. New .krscy Parent Teacher Associatioo 

404. Fiesta Edueativa, Joe. 

405. Inspiration Networks 

406. James I\IclTitt, State Senator, Indiana 

407. Juan·Carios Planas, S1Dlc Representative, Florida 

408. Prevent Child Abuse Vermont 

4()9. Community Media Center, Cape ('od 

410. YMCA of Reading & Berks ('ounty, Pennsylvania 

411. School District of South Burl ington, V crmont 

412. Chamber of Commerce, New Castle County, Delaware 

413. Centers for Youth & Families. Boston 

414. AgeOptions 

415. Tom Worley, Comcast Employee 

416. Chamber of Commerce, Bolingbrook, !!Iinois 

417. Cham her of ('ommcree. C1reater Bostol1 

41 R. Barry Krumstock, Assistant City Manager, Rolling Meadows, llIinois 

419. Arthur Lclehas, Mayor, Alpharetta. Georgia 

420. Southwest Conterence of Mayors 

421. Rutgers Center for American Women and Politics 

422. Metrol lartftml Alliance 

36 
123 


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423. Larc School 

424. Connecticut Public BWDdcas(ing Network 

425. Randy Thurston 

426. Nationaillispanic Caucus of State LcgislatlJrs 

427. Boys & Girls Cluhs of Ddawarc 

428. Boys & Girls Cluhs of Chicago 

429. Urban League ofSpringftcld. Massachusetts 

430. Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh 

431. True Rock Ministries 

432. hi-County Community Action Agency. Inc. 

433. Eligio W. Goodwin. Cowtowll Events Inc 

434. Volunteer USA Foundation 

435. United Way of Greater Mercer County, '\;e\l' Jersey 

436. Chamber of Commerce. U.S.-Mexico 

437. Spanish Theatre Repertory Co. Ltd. 

438. National Association tt\!· Multi-cllmicity in Communications (NAlvllC) 

439. Cuhan American National Council 

440. National Forum for Black Publie Administrators 

441. FlIen Cohen, Stale Representative, Texas 

442. Sean Eberhart, Slale Reprt:scntative. Indiana 

443. Uarrett Richter. State Senator. Florida 

444. Chamber of Commerce, Paulding, Georgia 

445. Pamela R. Lampitl. Assemblywoman, New Jersey 

446. Stephen 1\1. Sweeney, Senate President, New Jersey 

447. New Jersey State Library 

448. National Black MBA i\,sociation Boston Chapter 

449. l.ouis D. Oreenwald. (,eoeral Assemblyman, New Jersey 

450. Literacy Advance of Houston 

451. Jim Romanek. Executiw Director of Kankakee Valley Park District, Kankakee, 1I1inois 

452. Calc Media 

453. Judy K. Hodgdon, Comcast customer 

454. James V. Brown Lihrary 

455. Cordoba Corporation 

456. fifth Ward Enrichment Program, inc. 

457. Chip Mackridcs, Supervisor, Edgmont Township, Pennsylvania 

458. Discovery Green 

459. Woody Thompson, County Commissioner. Cohh, (icorgia 

460. Jeffrey Rca. Mayor. Mishawaka, Wisconsin 

461. Citizens League 

462. Casa Puehla 

463. Boys & Girls C1uhs ufMetro Atlanta Inc. 

464. Boys & Girls Clubs in New Jersey 

465. Chamber or Commerce, Beawr County, Pennsylvania 

37 
124 


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466. y~C((~ Bowden. l'rcsici~nt. Piedmont Park Conservancy, Piedmont. Georgia 

467. American Conference on Diversity 

468. Chamber of Commcr~e, Ilisp8nic Greater San Jose 

469. National Hockey League 

470. Ken Steele. Mayor, Fayetteville. Georgia 

471. La Casa Norte 

472. Michael Nutler, Mayor, Philadelphia 

473. August Wilson Center fLJr African Amerkan Culture 

474. The Salvation Army 

475. PirTano Construction Company Inc. 

476. United Teen Equality Center 

477. Maria Antonia Berrios, Slale' RepresentatiVe., lllinois 

418. Ronald L. Ramsey, I -ieutenant Governor, Tennessee 

479. Darlene \:1. I farris. City Council President, Pittshurgh 

480. Child Advocates 

481. USC Mexican American Alumni Association 

482. Thomas O. Varnell 

483, Shelby Residential & Vocational Scrvkcs, Inc. 

484. Music anci Art SchooL Los Angeles 

485. l.iteracy Works 

486. Gustavo A. Bu.ianda 

487. Chamber of Commerce. Cireater Pueblo, Colorado 

488. Hope House 

489. United Way of Warren County, New Jersey 

490. Kirk Wilson. lVlayor. Carlisle. Pennsylvania 

491. Quinn Broadcasting Co. 

492. Literacy Mid-South 

493. Chamher of Commerce, Fayette Coumy, Georgia 

494. Duffey-Petrosky 

495. Communities in St;hools of Lakewomt Washington 

496. Curry Todd. State Representative, Tennessee 

497. William Snyder, State Representative, Florida 

498. Luke Ravcnstahl, l'v!ayo[, Pittsburgh 

499. Michael McGlynn. Mayor. Medford. Massachusetts 

SOO. Neighborhood Center. Inc., Boston Chinatown 

501 BerksTAl.KLINE 

502. /\ppcl Farm Arts and \illSic Center 

503. Community Development Corporation. Woocilallll, New Jersey 

S04. Crime Stoppers olTlouston 

50S. City 'Year 

506. David Clark. Speaker (lethe House, Utah 

S07. The College of New Jersey 

50S. Gary Herbert, Governor. Utah 

38 
125 


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509. Franklin Sands, State Representative. Florida 

510. Barry Loudcnnilk. State Representative. Georgia 

511. George llartwick. Commissioner. Dauphin County. Pennsylvania 

512. Clay Ford. State Representative. Florida 

513. Community Services. :V!artha's Vineyard, IVlassachusclts 

514. Public Policy Foundation of Georgia 

515. Luis Garcia. State Representative. Florida 

516. Crossroads for Kids 

517. The Salvation Army of Chattanooga, Tennessee 

518. lVlark Hamilton. State Representative, Georgia 

519. Paula Garis, Special Events Supervisor. South Bend Parks ,md Recreation, South Bend, 

Indiana 

510. Minncsota-Urban Mass Media OWllplBMA ~etworks 

521. Chamber of Commerce. Maryland 

522. Georgia Lynne Riley. Commissioner. fulton County, Georgia 

523. Communities In Schools 

524. Jeffrey \'1. Poehnert, PubliclFducationlGovcnllncnl Television Manager, Nashua, Nc\v 

Hampshire 

525. Lyda Thomas, Mayor. Galveston, Texas 

526. Steve LeBlanc. City tvlanager, Galveston, Texas 

527. Workforce Development Agency. Atlanta 

528. Chamher of Commerce of Greater Bethesda-Chevy Chase, Maryland 

529. Gary W. Lightcap, Comeas! Employee 

530. Stacey 1'. Pickering. Siate Auditor, Missis$ippi 

53 J. Chamber of Commerce, Florida 

53], Project ItO.M.E. 

533. Bobby Moak. State Representative. Mississippi 

534. Boys & Girls Club, Vcnnont 

535. Rebecca [3ro\\-11, Corneas! Employee 

536. Dawn Staley Foundation 

537. Para Los Ninos 

53H. Trine! Communications 

539. Chumbcro[Commercc, Georgia 

540. Rotary D7510 

541. Tom Powell, President. Kid Lift Foundation 

542. Daniel S. P(Kck. Mayor. Bedford. Ohio 

543. Teamsters Local 399 

544. Teamsters Joint Council 42 

545. Pearl S. Buck Intemational 

546. Oakland Parents Literacy Project 

547. HOPE 

548. Boys & Girls Cluh of Trenton. New Jersey 

549. YMCA. Muskegon Family 

39 
126 


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550. School District of Clreensburg Salem, Pennsylvania 

551. Urban League. Inc., Tallahassee 

552. Philip Gunn. State Representativc, Mississippi 

553. Animal Rescuc League or Western Pennsylvania 

554. Women in Cable Telecommunications (WICT) 

555. United Way of Lebanon County, Pennsylvania 

556. Mike Hubbard, State Rcprcsentmive, Alabama 

557. Bill Trcvarthen, Fxcculivc Director, Michigan Ouvcl11mcnl Tdcvision (M(jTV) 

558. Kelly Johns. Comcast Employee 

559. Rhonda Calhoun, Executive Director, League of Citics. Broward, '·lorida 

560. Urban League ofl'ortland 

561. Troy fraser, State Senator, Texas 

562. Economic Council of Mississippi 

563. James C. IJum, COllncilman. Clarksburg. West 

564. Schoolhouse Supplies 

565. Women's 1'\ctworking Community 

566. David Casiano, Mayor, Parker. Colorado 

567. Gerald Bennett, Mayor, Palos Hills, Illinois 

568. Chamber ofCommcrce, Hispanic San Matco County. CaliComia 

569. Chamber of Commerce, Cambridge, Massaehus,'Hs 

57(). Dave Reed, State Representative, Pennsylvania 

571. Kevin Witkos, State Senator, Connecticut 

572. J. Walter Micbd, State Senator, Mississippi 

573. Deborah Katz, Vice-President. Miracle Leaguc, Bucks County. PCllllsylvania 

574. Juan C, 7apata, ChainmtJl, Board of Hispanic Caucus Chairs 

575. lnleriilith Action 

576. United Way. Trident. South Carolina 

<,77. Frank DiCicco, City Councilman, Philadelphia 

578. Vide! Camlichael, State Senator, Mississippi 

579. Jeremy Yancey, State Senator, Mississippi 

580. YMCA, Old Colony, Massachusetts 

581 Hands On Greater Por!lalld 

582. The Center for ramily Resources 

583. John FOlliara. State S.::nator. Connecticut 

584. Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center 

585. Mas Enterprises and Marketing 

5R6. Children's Museum Florida 

587. Michael Watson, State Scnator. Mississippi 

588. Camp Fire USA Portland Metro Council 

589. Tribcca Enterprises 

59(). Social Capital Inc. 

591. Ken Legler. State Representative, Texas 

592. Rolary Club of Tren(ol1. New Jersey 

40 
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593. Linda Trubiano. Comcas! Employee 

594. Legacy Community Health Services, Inc. 

595. Chamber ofComrncrcc, LawTence County, Pcrlllsyivania 

596. Urban League, Knoxville Area 

597. Kiwanis Club Little Havana 

59R. Chamber of Commerce, Greater Colorado Springs, Colorado 

599. Center for Training & Careers 

6()(), Carol Murray, Com cast Employee 

601. Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County, Florida 

602, Boys & Girls Cluhs or Central Mississippi 

603, Boys & Girls Cluh of Gn:atcr Flint. Michigan 

604, Borough of Green Tree. Pennsylvania 

60S, Boys & Girls Club of Wareham, Massachusetts 

606. Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield, Massachuse11s 

607. A. Pomerantz & Co. 

608, WTL Comrmlllicntiong, Inc. 

609. SeaChange international 

610. League of C1[i"s, Miami·Uade County. Florida 

611. ChfUl1her of Commerce. iV!etTO SOllth, Massachusetts 

612. Napks Botanical Garden 

611. Jamie Ison, State Rcpn.'scntativc, Alabama 

614. Catholic Chmitics Boston 

615. Bruee Shaak, Corneas! Employee 

616. The National Conference of Black Mayors 

617, The National Association of Black County Officials 

618. Friends of the Children, Portland 

619. Chamb"r of Commerce, Cambridge, Massachw,etts 

620. Cindy Todd, Marketing 1)ir"elor, Tennessee Aquarium 

621, Calvin Smyre, Slate Representative, Georgia 

622. Jim Marshall, State Representative, Pennsylvania 

623, National Organization of Black. Ekcted Legislative Women 

624. l.a Rosa Family Services 

625. Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council 

626, United Way, Lycoming County, Pennsylvania 

627, Laurjt~ Shipley, Comcast Employee 

628. Anthony G, Mastrangelo, Mayor, New Castle, Pennsylvania 

629. Scan Logan, State Senator, Pennsylvania 

6,0. NOlih Bay Leadership Council 

631, Police Athletic l,cague of Philadelphia 

632, Mission Kids 

633. Coconut Grove Arts Festival 

634. Aurora Economic Development Council 

635. The Second Mile 

41 
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636. VcmlOnt Public Television 

637. Carol Alvarado. State Rcprl~~entativc, Texas 

63R. National Black Caucus of State Legislators 

639. James Kenney, Councilman-al-l.arge. Philadelphia 

640. American Cancer Society 

641 The Enterprise Center 

(,42. David Casas. Stale Representative, Georgia 

643. National Conference of Hispanic Legislators 

644. l.eague of United Latin American Citizens 

645. Career and Recovery Resources. Inc. 

646. Asian Pacific American Leadership Institute 

647. Self-Help for the EIdcrIj 

648. Communities in Schools 

649. John DeBerry, State Representative, Tennessee 

6S0. Spirit of Springl1c1d, Ma,sachusetts 

651. Val de Garcia. State Senator, Michigan 

652. Tim Burchett, State Senawr, Tennessee 

653. Chamber of Commerce, Redwood City, California 

654. Chamber ofCommerct:, Old Saybrook, Connecticut 

655. United Way ofMiddksex. Conndicul 

656. Martha Stott. Stale Senator. Michigan 

657. Marin Services for Women 

658. Chamber ofCommercc, Lake Champlain, Vennont 

659. Habitat fl.)r Humanity of Greater Pittsburgh 

660. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Twin Cities 

661. Adam Salina, Mayor, Berlin, Connecticut 

662. Joe Sedlak. Assistant Manager, Monroeville, Pennsylvania 

663. Perfonning Arts DeVelopment Corporation ofSpringfidd, Massachusetts 

664. Better Business Burean of South em Colorado 

665. Community Food Bank of Greater Pimburgh 

666. Vermont Business Roundtable 

667. Stephen R. Wise. State Senator, I· lorida 

668. Carey Baker, State Senator. Florida 

669. Steve PrccoUll, State Representative, Florida 

670. Pennsylvania Association of Latino Organizations 

671. ! .eague or Cities, Miami-Dade County. Florida 

672. Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County 

67.1. Boys & Girls Clubs of the TCIU1essee 

674. l.atino Community Foundation 

675. Andrew D. Gillul11, Commissioner. Tallahassee, Florida 

676. Timothy 1. Roger. Manager, Shaler Township, Pennsylvania 

677. Oscar Goodman, Mayor, Las Vegas 

67X. Bobby DuBose, City Commissioner. Fort Lauderdale. Florida 

42 
129 


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(,79. Vance J"unk, Mayor. Newark, Delaware 

680. Engaging Loveland 

681. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County. Florida 

682. Chamber of Commerce, Pittsburgh Airport Arca 

683. Here's Help, Inc. 

684. Leonard Scarcella, Mayor. Stafford, rexas 

685. Our Family Place 

686. Score a Goal in the Classroom 

687. SOS Outreach 

688. Reverend Al Sharpton, President. National Action Network 

689. Arnold Schwarzencgger, Governor, California, David Paterson. Governor, Nt:w York & 

Ed RenddL Governor, Pennsylvania 

690. Alan Williams, Slate Representative. Florida 

691. Gary SipJin, State Senator. Florida 

692. Haley Barbour, Governor, Mississippi 

693. Volunteer Broward 

694. Center for Family Services, Inc. 

695. National Black Chamber of Commerce 

696. WRLR 98.3 nv! Rondaradio, Inc. 

697. Urban League of Broward County, Florida 

698. Chamber of Commerce. U.S.lIispanic 

699. City Year of Miami 

700. Voice ofthc City 

701. Housing Building Association of Colorado Springs 

702. Illinois Policy Institute 

703. Pillsburgh Technology 

704. Chamber of Business and Industry, Chester County, Pennsylvania 

705. Chamber of Com mcree, Delaware County, Pennsylvania 

706. Neighborhood Development Corporation, Montclaic New .lerst')' 

707. United Way of (,realer Union County, New Jersey 

708. SPCA, Delaware County, Pennsylvania 

709. Graham Memorial Community Church of God in Christ 

710. Spanish Community ('"nkr of Joliet, Illinois 

711. Boys and Girls Club, Springfield, Massachusetts 

712. Scott Trainor, City Manager, Fountain, Colorado 

713. Mia Jones, State Representative, Florida 

714. Billy L. Jean, City Commissioner, Apopka. Florida 

715. Audrey Gibson, State Representativc, Florida 

716. John C. Curran, Town Manager, Billerica, lIiinois 

717. Curt CarveL Villilge Administrator, Invcrness, llIinois 

718. Terry Wells, Mayor. Phoenix. Illinois 

719. Boston Public Library 

720. Bryan Pratt, Speaker Pro TClTl of the Missouri House of Rcprcscntativcs, Missouri 

43 
130 


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721, Public l.ibrary, Montgomery COlll1ty-~orristown, Pennsylvania 

722. Chamber of Commerce. Lansing, :'v1ichigan 

723, Chamber of Commerce, Montgomery COUllty, Pennsylvania 

724, Humane Society, Kankakee County, Illinois 

72S. Agency on Aging, Detroit 

726. United Way of Monmoulh County, l\ew Jersey 

727, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association of Chicago 

728, Latin American Business Association 

729. Chamber of Comll1t;rce, Hispanic South Florida 

730. Chamber of Commerce, National (Jay & Lesbian 

731, Hays & Girls Club orNew Britain. Connecticllt 

732. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Miami 

7 JJ. Athletes Against Drugs 

734. Public Schools FOllndation, Albuquerque 

735. Boy Scouts of America. Coastal Carolina Council 

736, Chuck 1\,1a1'tin, State Representative. Cicorgia 

737, Janet Taylor. N!ayor, Salem, Oregon 

738, Paul Kaniorski, State Representative, Pennsylvania 

739, Mike Doyle State Representative. Pennsylvania & 

hed lipton, State Representative. Michigan 

740, Joyce Dickerson. Councilwoman. Richland County. South Carolina 

741. United Way of Miami-Dade 

742, Matrix Communication Services 

743. Bob \Valkup, Mayor. Tucson, Arizona 

744. National Conference of Slate Legislatures 

745, Delher! Iloscmann, Secretary of State. Mississippi 

746. Jason Altmire, Rob"r! Brady. Christopher Carney, Kathy Dahlkempcr, Charles Dent, 

Chab Fattah, Jim Gerlach. Tim lloldcn, Patrick r'viurphy. Tim Murphy. Jos.:ph Pitts. 

Todd Platts. Allyson Schwartz. Bill Shuster. Glenn Thompson, Memhers of Congress, 

Pennsylvania 

747. ~AACP. Memphis Branch 

748. Arlen Specter & Rob Casey. Senators, Pellnsylvania 

749, Police Athletic League. Greater Norri,town, Pennsylvania 

750. Buddy Dyer, Mayor, Orlando. Florida 

751. Builders Association or SOllth Florida 

752. GollY 

753. Forcsll'rcscrvc District of Will County. Illinois 

754, JelTCogcn, Coullty Chair, Multnornah County, Oregon 

755, Amigos fill' Kids 

756, Mara Candelaria Reardon, State Representative. Indiana 

757, t\ialiin Lihrary Association 

758, IVlark !lammond. Secretary of State, South Carolina 

759. Flltur.: Cable Electronics, LLC, 

44 
131 


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760. Chamber of Commerce. Chicago Southland 

761. Condista 

762. YWCA, Silicon Valky 

763. HARe 

764. American Red Cross. Connecticut Chapter 

765. The Salvation Army National Capital Area Command 

766. National MS Society 

767. YMCA of Philadelphia & Vicinity 

768. United Way of Southeastern Pennsylvania 

769. Urban League. Inc. of Greater Washington 

770. Italian American llLiman Relations Foundation 

771. Equality Forum 

772. Junior League of San Jose 

773. Sitar Arts Ccntcr 

774. National Capital Coalition to Prevent Underage Drinking 

775. Youth Job Center of Evanston, Inc 

776. l'l'larch for Babies Foundation 

777. Communities In Schools of Greater Tarrant Counly. Texas 

778. Chamber ofColllmcrec, Fremont, California 

779. LA Tan 

?RO. AIDS Foundation, San Francisco 

781. American Red Cross Connecticut Blood Services 

782. Special Olympics Connecticut 

783. Petit Family Foundation 

784. Whitman-Walker Clinic 

785. Silicon Valley FACES 

786. 100 Black Men of Greater Washington DC 

787. United Neighborhood Organization 

788. San Jose Holiday Parade 

789. Lou Sherman, Mayor, SIeger, lllinolS 

790. Christmas in the Park, San Jose, Calif()t'nia 

791. American C[ulcer Society, Connecticut 

792. Salvation AmlY oi'DallaslFoft Worth 

793. erhan League of Greater Hartt<Jrd. COlUlccticllt 

7Y4. International Detroit Black Expo 

795. Tech'vluseum 

796. By the Hand Club 1<'1[ Kids 

797. Youth Conservation Corps 

798. Special Love 

799. Catholic TV 

800. Reclz Cbannel 

80 I. Palos Bank and Trusl 

802. Arts COLIllcil of Greater Lansing 

45 
132 


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80). Centro llispano Spanish American Civic Association 

804. Boys & Girls Club of Dundec Township, Illinois 

805. Adams Community Television 

806. Muscular Dystrophy Association 

807. Chinese Mutual Aid Association 

80S. Castalia CommuniCaTions Corporation 

809. Abraham Lincoln Centre 

810. Association House of Chicago 

811. Manchester Craftsmcn's Guild 

812. Stephen Acropolis, Mayor, Brick Township, "lew Jersey 

813. Richard Reinbold, Mayor, Richton Park, lllinois 

814. Gary BlInka, Mayor, Allen Park. Michigan 

815. Lyda Ann Thomas, lv1ayor, Galveston, Texas 

816. Beacon Thcrapeutie Diagnostic and Treatment Center. Chicago 

R 17. Special Olympics Vermont 

818. Boys & Girls Club of Hartford 

H 19, Children's Medical Cenler, Connecticut 

820. Council of Boy Scouts o1',"Il11crica, Georgia-Carolina 

821. Y;vlCA. "lew Jersey 

X22. PENCIL Foundation 

823, Sheila Klinker, Stale Representalivc, Indiana 

ll24. Prevention First 

825. Square One 

826. Hope House, Inc, 

827. Antonia Pollack. Commissioner, Boston Parks and Recreation Dept. 

828. Skye Cable xm 

829, North Star Cable Construc1ion 

830. Mary Ellen McNaJly, Community Lcadcr, Colorado Springs, Colorado 

831. Valparaiso Community Festivals & Events 

832. MacMcdia 

833. Chamber of Commerce, Jackson County, IV!ichigan 

834. Chamber of Commerce, Wayne, Pennsylvania 

835. City Year Washington, DC 

R:j(,. NcighoorScapes 

837. Junior Achicvcmcnillf Westem Pennsylvania 

838. Outdoor Channel 

839, Joe Armstrong, State Representative, Tcnnessee 

840. Patricia Harless, Stale Representative. Tcxas 

841. Chamber of Commerce, Gateway 

842. IndyVision TV 

843. EI Mundo 

844. Communities in Schools ofSpokallc 

845. Craig 10hmon, \!Iayor, Elk (Jrove Village, Illinois 

46 
133 


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846. Dave Cheatham, State Representative, Indiana 

847. Phil GiaQuinta, State Representative, Indiana 

84R. Chamher of Commerce, Greater Elkhart. Indiana 

849. A. Philip Randolph Institute, Tacoma. \Vashing1o!1 Chapter 

850. Big Brothers Big Sisters, Nutmeg, Connecticut 

851. Network of Victim Assistance 

852. Lee Gonzalt:s. State Representative. Michigan 

853. Republican IV!ayors and Local Officials Coalition 

1154. WRCT York. Pennsylvania (PEG slation) 

855. Latin American Economic Development Association, Inc. 

856. Cheyenne Village. Inc. 

857. Ar<lb Community Center f(Jf Economic and Social Services 

SSg. Association or Black OrganiLations. Detroit 

859. Tejano Ccnter for Community Concerns 

860. BiB Nicklas, City Manager, Sycamore, lllinois 

R61. YMCA, Middlesex, Connecticut 

862. Inclusion Ccnter for Community and Justice 

863. Centro de la F,mlilia de Utah 

864. Tyrone EIIis, Maiority Leader urlhe Mississippi Ilotlse of Reprcsenlathes. Mississippi 

865. Sylvester TUlTIer, State Rcpresentativc, Texas 

R66. Urban LCClgue, Tacoma 

867. Urban League, \\emphis 

47 
134 


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The HOl'lOl::able Julius Genachowski 

Chairman 

Federal Com.'11\micati ons Commi.5sion 

445 12th Street, SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

Re: MB Docket No. 10-56 

Dear Chairman Genachowski: 

March of Dimes 

Birth DefeCti FOl,lndation 

Northern Illinois Division 

5411 East St<tte Street, liS 

Rockford, Ulinois 611013 

Telephone (815) 397·0097 

Pa< (615) 397-8763 

marchofdimes,cam/iUlnDis 

---IUi....u.---

.. vo~~rop.flHE ..... THYAM.EfllClt 

As the Northern Division Director of the Illinois March of Dimes, I support 

Comcast and its proposal to partner with NBC Universal. I can attest to 

Comcast's commitment to the March of Dimes and to its investment in our 

communities. 

At the March of Dimesl our mission is to improve the health of babies by 

preventing birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality. \'Je count on 

corporate partners like Comcast to help us sustain our work and reach ne~, 

diverse audiences. 

Comcast is an invaluable corporate partner. Its dedication to IDcal issues 

helps to raise the March of Dimes' public profile, generating support and 

aNareness. For example, the annual Comcast SportsNet A.wards draws Illinois' 

philanthropic community to honor the professional athletes ~ho exemplify what 

it means to contribute to their respective teams and communities. Every 

year, the popular banqL1et benefits the March of Dimes, raising thousands of 

dollars to support our mission. 

On behalf of the Illinois Division of the March of Dimes and the families and 

children whose lives we impact, I support the proposal to join Comcast and 

NBC Universal and I ask that the FCC do the same. 

Sincerely" 

Northern Division Director 

March of Dimes 
135 


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MATRIX 

COMMUNICATION SERVICES 

Be a leader •••• (Jf be left beltind!! 

May 3, 2010 

The Honorable Julius Genachowski 

Chairman 

Federal communications CommISsion 

44512th Street, SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

Dear Chairman Genachowski. 

RE: MB Docket No. 10·56 

In light of Comcast's long-standing support for diversity and for the organization I oversee, Matrix 

communication ServIces, Inc., I am writing to express my support for Comcast as it enters into 

new business ventures. 

As the President of Matrix Communication ServiCes, Inc., I have lirst-hand knowledge of 

Comeasrs commitment to diversity. Matrix Communication Services is Minority owned business 

and we have been fortunate enough to work directly for Corneast in various business ventures. 

Comeast has been a valuable community partnllf and has supported us in many ways including 

providing us with the invaluable opportunity to be a guest on CotnOa$! Newsmakers in order to 

spread awaraness throughout Chicago about our organizations' mission. 

I am confident that a combined Comcast and NBC will continue both companies' commttmenllo 

diversity and to the community. 

ANHlcrh 

132 Allen Avenue, Suite B - Grayslake, IL 60030 

Office Phone # (847) 548-5110 Office Fax # (847) 543·1587 
136 


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ReceIved & InspecteC 

JUN 'I 5 ZOIO 

fCC .. ,vn Haam 

sa<1QA CENTER. 2 ON THE LAKE' WASHlNGTON PARK' MiCHllJAN CITY. IN 46360 • (219) B73-1504 • fAX (219) 673·1407 

The Honorable Julius Genachowski 

Chairman 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street, SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

Re: MB Docket No.1 0-56 

Dear Chairman Genaehowski, 

June 8, 2010 

Given Comeasl's investment in and support fOf local communities, I am writing 10 endorse 

Comcast's acquisition of NBC Universal. 

As a member of our Michigan City Parks and Recreation Commirtee, and I have witnessed firsthand improvements to our parks and Washington Park Zoo thanks to Comcast's support. 

Parks and recreation are no small marter here. OUf !own sits on Lake Michigan. fewer than 60 

miles from downtown Chicago, where residents and visitors swim, fish, hike, picnic, camp, and 

play team sports like volleyball and softball. In the winter, we snowshoe and cross~ountry ski in 

our parks. The Washington Park Zoo, founded io 1928, encompasses 15 acres on a hilly sand 

dune close to the lake, and it is home to more than 200 animals, 

Here in Michigan City, Comeast truly demonstrates the significance of a national company with 

local presence. In 2008, the company awarded a substantia! grant via its Corneas! Cares Day 

program to our parks and recreation department. There could be no stronger indication that 

Comeast knows us and is an integral part ofthis community than its decision to support our parks. 

Furthennore, Comeast volunteers have done wonderful things keeping our Zoo clean and 

welcoming to the pUblic. 

Comcast's history of active engagement with local communities in Northwest Indiana is 

something I deeply appreciate. I suspect this commitment will only increase as a result of 

Comeast joining with NBC Universal. Therefore, I encourage the FCC to move to approve this 

venture. 

Thank you for the opportunity to write on behalf of this merger. 

~~~ Tara Miller 

Director - Michigan City Senior Center. 

Michigan City, IN 
137 


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ROCKF9!l!2 MEw 

.~ Tne Honorable Julius Genachowski 

Chairman 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street, SN 

Washington, DC 20554 

June 11,2010 

Re: MB Docket No. 10·56 

Dear Chairman Genachowski and Commissioners: 

Retetvell & Inspected 

JUN 212010 

r:cc Mmi Room 

J70J N. Maln s.r_I#I07 

Roddord, IL ~IIO) 

p:815.6ll.6lS3 

f. 815.63l.8709 

'" rneld@TOCkIordmeId."'l 

'w: rocf<k>nImeId.O'l 

On behalf of my organization, Rockford MELD, thank you for giving me the opportunily to 

express my strang support for the pending union of Corncast and NBC Universal. Corneast is 

one of our most supportive program partners and ~ assists us in providing resources and 

guidance to IIUnois' young familiss. 

MELD is an organization devoted to helping young families grow and thrive by providing 

education. social services and housing. A$, yoU can imagine. thiS is a eos1ly and large scale 

undertaking. Last year, we had 10 turn away 243 young mothers and children because our 

Shelter was filled. 

A$, Director of Development. it has been my pleasure to WOlX c;losely with Comcasl. We host 

the Tailgate, Tackle and Touchdown sports celebmy event and \tie July 'I'" Classic Memorial 6K 

Run, 2 Mile Run and Fun Walk as our primary funcjraisers. Corneast annually supports t!>lese 

Itvents by donating airtime. public selVice announcements and interviewa for our leadership. 

This is II tremendously significant benefit for us as we now have greater visibility and a larger 

donor base as a result 01 Corneas!'s support. 

COOICast he. alsO promoted aUf programs on its local public access chann,1 lor the Pasl1 0 

years. WHh this suppolt, Corneast is enabUng young famiNes to grow and succeed. They and we are gra1elul. If more companies were as generous as Cornca~lI. we would not have 10 tum 

anyonea_y. 

Comeast has been and canllnues 10 be a wonderful local partner 10 Rockford MELD and we support any opportunity tot the company to succeed. I hope the FCC will keep our perspective 

in mind upon reviewing the Comeast and NBC Universal partnership proposal. 

~~. 

~~~ Director of Development ~ a~ubliC ~'Ialions Rockford MELD 

OUR MISSION ••• TO STRENGTHEN FAMILIES 
138 


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Re: MB Docket No. 10-56 

Midway Village Museum 

----:A!AfJJrJ:! --- HISTORY MUSfUM 

'DIe Honorable Julius Genachowski 

Chaimlan 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street, SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

June 15,2010 

Received & Inspected 

JUN 222010 

FCC Iviall Room 

Dear Chainnan Genachowski: 

In my role as president of the Midway Village Museum of Rockford, Illinois, I have had 

the pleasure of establishing a partnership on behalf of my organization with ComeasL This 

partnership has exceeded all of our expectations. With this in mind I ask the FCC to approve 

Comcast's proposal to join with NBC Universal. 

Midway Village Museum was organized in 196& by the Swedish, Harlem and Rockford 

Historical Societies for (he purpose of collecting, preserving and interpreting the history of the 

Rockford area. It began with a donation of land by a local family, and has continued to grow 

with the support of other donors. Comeast has been a supporter of OUT efforts for a number of 

years, providing funding and volunteer support to us even during these tough economic times. 

We commend Comeast for helping us to enrich our community, so that its history will be 

preserved for our future generations. 

1 feel very fortunate that Rockford has Corneas!' s support in preserving its legacy through 

the work of the Midway Village Museum and I sincerely hope the FCC will approve Comcast's 

proposal to join with NBC Universal. 

6799 Guilford Road. Rockford, Il61107· 815.397.91 12' Fax: 815.397-9156a~~~~b9$iff~- .1""\\ROCKFnRD ~ ..4.. 

,¥)Plli\i\tisfflt:T RQ.£!<..f:0IW . 
139 


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Moraine Valley 

Community College Foundation 

tlOARDOF 

DIRECTORS 

PresIdent 

DaVid C, Heide 

Vice President 

Noreen Uglno-Kubir!ski 

Treasure; 

PIlr.ipT. Foster 

$ecrelolY 

Margaret Lehner, Ed,Q _!>OO<Joon 

FronkR Bone 

Keolllobb 

Hen frere H. fl,'CXfle 

Vemon Oo'Wley, D.Ed. 

Maria DeCoprio-$unto 

iXn"J\"tl!Jernoni.Ca.ALA 

BaIlYGoW 

PelGf R Hughes 

Katie Male1 

Enr;n J. Menker 

""'," , IMUlphy 

OmarNa,ijb 

nrur:::e G. Naworo, CJ!A. 

Flan);. Poc\go 

OickPosf 

Dem!sSllannon 

carolyn \live/ito 

Sondra Wagner 

JonWeglofL 

Cheryl Wilson 

Executive Director 

Sue Linn 

June 21, 2010 

The Honorable Julius Genachowski 

Chairman 

Federal Communicetions CommlssJon 

445 12th Streot, SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

Re: MB Docket No. 10-56 

Dear Chairman Genachowskl: 

9000 West CO/lege Parkway 

Palos Hills, Illinois 60465·0937 

[708) 974-5740 

\'(WIN,mofolnevolley,edU/fOLJooollon/ 

AS the Executive Director of the Moraine Valley Community College Foundation, I am 

writing to express my genuine enthusiasm for Comeast end its employees and to pledge 

my support for its proposed union with NBC Universal. 

Moraine Valley is the second largest community coJlege in the state of Hlinois. 

Approximately 46,000 students are enrolled annually, 34 pe",enl of whom qualify for 

financial aid. 

Our Foundation provides philanthropic financial support for Moraine Valley Community 

College and Its students so they can realize their future goals and viSion. 

Comcast's Government Affairs Manager Noreen LiginO-Kubinsk.i currently serves as. the 

Vice President of our Board of Directors. She is an invaluable resource and conSistently 

fends the board her leadership and expertise. Noreen has chaired multiple special event 

committees and plays an instrumental role overa!!. She adeptly secures interest and 

support, and promotes the mission of the Foundation. 

Comeast is also a key sponsor of OUI annup! fundraislng events such as our Fire & Ice 

Gata and Annual Golf Outing. With its support, the Foundation raises awareness and 

ensures that students have access to a quality. affordeble education, 

Comcast is our partner in the effort to provide affordable education and has, time and 

again, committed itself tD promoting and sustaining Moraine Valley Community College 

and the thousands 01 stuctents that pass through our doors. Corneast invests IDeally and 

improves the communities it touches: please consider supporting its proposed partnership 

with NBC Universal. 

Sincerely, 

Sue Linn 

Executive Director 

Moraine Vaney Community College Foundation 

CC: Commissioner Michael J. Copps 

Commissioner Robert M. McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith Attwelf Bak.er 
140 


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Nina Menis, Oirec!orofCommunity Relations 

Class 

NAPERVILLE COMMUNITY UNIT SCHOOL DISTRICT 203 

Administrative Center I 203 W~t Hillside Road I Napel'\'Ule, nlinois 60540-6589 

June 14,2010 

The Honorable Julius Genachowski 

Chairman 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street, SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

Re: MB Docket No. 10-56 

Dear Chairman Genachowski: 

I FA)(6J0I4l0-1066 

ReceIved & fM$p~ett:;d 

JUN 2 S ZOW 

FCC .".,,11 Room 

As the Director orCommunity Relations fDr Naperville Community Unit School District 203 and liaison to the 

Naperville Education Foundation in Naperville, Illinois, I am writing you to advocate for the partnership proposal 

to unite Corneas! and NBC UniversaL I strongly believe that Corncasl improves the communities in which it 

operates and gives the students of Naperville and Lisle, Illinois, increased opportunities for advancement 

The Naperville Education Foundation (NEF) was organized in 199210 encourage creativity, innovation, and 

excellence in our schools. The mission of the NEF is to seek financial resources through fund raising and 

community partnerships to SUppOIt program goals. We are focused on encouraging cre~tivity, providing 

opportunities for learners, and assuring that all students have the opportunity to maximize their individual and 

collective potential. 

Comeast is committed to NEF and to Study Skills Academy, an initiative designed to cultivate solid study habits 

among elementary-level students who need exira help outside of the classroom. Corneast has sponsored this 

program in all five of Naperville's junior high schools and initiates complimentary cahle in the classroom to 

ensure that our students are prepared for high school and beyond. Corneas!'s commitment is producing incredible 

and important results for our young people - and we are deeply appreciative. 

The Naperville Education Foundation is in favor ofthe joining or Comcast and NBC Universal. r hope the FCC 

wit! keep Comcast's Chicago-area commitments in mind when reviewing this transaction. 

Sincerely. 

Nina 

{~~ Menis, Director of Community Relations, Naperville School District 203 

Naperville Education Found.tion 

CC: Commissioner Michael J. Copps 

Commissioner Robert M. McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith A ttweJl Baker 
141 


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. .,.ellghlJl()r . .... '. . . .... ..' 

" relf~~ ./..an.~ZJ4~~'63.~' ·i··wWw.i'\ei~hDo'~~pes.9rg 

•.. " . SERVICE FOi(iciuRNEIGHUORHOQD .' 

Th~Hqn~rable)UilUSG.milChQ\Vskl· . . '. 

Chairman' .. 

Federni Q,mmtillicat.ions C6innilss!oIi . . 44Sizth Str~eti SW . . . . Was\Jington; DC20~l;.{. 

R~:~~ ':,"", ~ocketNo.l~-5i5 ..... , 

InZO{)8,1 {~nn~d a ~onpr6fi~ !le!gh\>~rhil<i~ se~i\"es o~ani;"ti~nin tile .South.' 

Sub",bs of Chicago o"lled' NeighborScapes, .1'0 <la~,,; Wei have helped cOllnde'.s: .. 'yoiing'p(ople deveI6p'job s!<jllsandleadersb!p .qualities byprovld!ng landscaping; 

:s~.9w:.r~tp~V'al,:bas~m.e~t' ari~.~~ge ~l~~~~P~rt~ail and .~tertng s~~ce_s~.· ',babysftting'ailtl(,qdJQbi:lnour'nejgtiborhood~ Comcast has supported our .' 

p'fograms,<\nd groWt;h since ourformatim,,:· No";.I :w.ouldlike to S~ppqrt Comcast.as 

. 'thecompimy pursues a partnership.yJth NBC Universal: . 

. ···t:i>~~a;t ha~ been i!IDrumencilin OIl~successf41lauilch ill tWo~dyS.Fj~~ t.nJ\priI 

2009 more. than 10i):f;9mCaSt'el)iployee$ hel»~d'iJs pl,ntcommullity gardens, build. 

'. ~ snwlme\ropol!uritree farm aiJd, co.nst.:uct'l ~OmpoStlngfucility. I.n<l,ddition; . . 

. Comcast ratse(j ourprofJIeltitl1~ ,o~munityOY.featul'ingonr.work o!, itS local 

NeWSma.keT;S pr.o/frarnandth..oughPSAs. 'mat att~lipon.madl"us"rear' amOng. 

ele~t.~ ?ffii:iak; ahiliothercommnnio/pal1nernand hasbeena:major.help to US.in 

fOrmlngstr'ategic)Jaitnei:ship~wii:hlleighborfi"qds; miinlCipalitie.s, falth:baiied 

InSti.rutJons ana"clyk groups: . . . . .' .... . . 

'-"':"',-' " >', .' ->"'\"" "': .. >,, . ':,,: 

At .Nei&hb9rsc~pesiweii.elieve i!i;w,,;it wo/~lith.e "g-adle-through"<>Ilege covenan't 

oleare' "-that is; the strength of olir ciunmunlties l~ dependent on.3 ~on9ctj~e . 

comlriltin~nt U?our yoilligpeople from ~irthuntiI theyar\'i equipp~ ;yithin. skiiis,. resources, and :<upporrtosuc~ess{Ul)y ,tta\lS\fionto.atliiJw!)od,·Jtis gooq to know .. 

..that in CQmea.stweh'av~.paruie,w.ho stiar~siiit~js g,mmitmelit' ,. 
142 


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04115/2010 20:37 7087473978 JAV REAOEV 

please approve Comcast's partnership with NBC Universal. 

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CC: Commissioner Michael J. Copps 

Commissioner Robert McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith Attwel! Baker 

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143 


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The Honorable Julius Genachowski 

Chairman 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street, SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

Re: MB Docket No. 10·56 

April 28, 2010 

Dear Chairman Genachowski: 

I am Miting you today to express my support for Corneast Corporation and its venture with NBC 

Universal. Corneast has had a significant impact on the economy here in Chicago and across 

illinois. We at LA Tan have worked with Corncast over the last 3 years and truly value our 

business partnership with Comcast. 

With hundreds of facilities and thousands of employees 1hroughout minois, Corncast's ef'fect on 

our local economy is tremendous. In the past decade, Comeasthas invested in technology and 

infrastructure in our community. In addition, Corncast's provision of high-speed broadband 

allows our small businesses and famities to stay connected and successful in the 21 st Century. 

A1; you consider Comcast's merger with NBC Universal, I trust that you will take into account 

the contributions Comcast has made to LA Tan and others throughout Illinois as an employer 

and "business partner. 
144 


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Chairman Julius Genachowski 

Commissioner Michael J. Copps 

Commissioner Robert M. McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker 

Re: MB Dockett 10-56 

Dear Chairman and Commissioners: 

I take great pleasure in writing this letter of support to you on behalf of Comcast. 1 understand that 

Comcast has placed a bid to purchase a controlling interest in NBC-Universal from General Electric. I am 

writing to you, on behalf of the citizens of the City of Mishawaka, in support of Comcast and their 

employees from the Greater Chicago Region. Our community is appreciative to Comcast and their 

employees for being a good community partner to the City of Mishawaka. 

Locally, Comcast is active in our St. Joseph County Chamber of Commerce and civic/service groups. 

Comcast supports our local events and festivals and provide over $lK in scholarships to local high school 

seniors. Our City along with many other local municipalities and nou-profits receive free air-time on their 

Comcast Newsmakers. Each year Com cast organizes a national day of community service called Comeast 

Cares Day. On this day Comcast provides the materials and supplies, as well as lots of manpower, to 

create a partnership event with a local non-profit to benefit our community. Past community partners 

have included: Hannah's House, St Margaret's House, YMCA, Habitat for Humanity of St Joseph County 

and La easa de Amistad. This year Comcast teamed up with The Center for Homeless, Blue Star Mothers 

ofSt Joe Valley and Miller's Vets to perform outreach programs to local veterans living in the area iu need 

of assistance. 

If you have any further questions, please fuel free to call me: at (574) 258-1601. 

Sincerely, 

Jeffrey L. Rea 
145 


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NORTH BERWYN PARK DISTRICT 

The Honorable Julius Genachowski 

Chairman 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Stree!, SW 

Washington. DC 20554 

lune 18. 2010 

Re: MB Docket No. 10-56 

Dear Chairman Genachowskl: 

As the executive director of both the Berwyn Latino Chamber of Commerce and the North 

Berwyn Park District in Illinois. I have had the pleasure of working closely with Comcast for 

many years. I fully support Its proposal to join with NBC Universal. 

The Berwyn Latino Chamber of Commerce represents and serves the growing number of 

Latino businesses in our community. Corneas!, a member of the chamber. is a strong 

proponent of diverse organizations and minority owned and operated businesses in the 

Berwyn area. Our members benefit from Com cast's active participation In our events and 

its commitment to working with local and diverse suppllers. 

The North Berwyn Park District is an autonomous governmental entily established by our 

residents in 1976 to provtde outdoor recreational areas and leisure service opportunities 

that foster community growth. family values. and enhance the quality of Ufe here. Comcast 

has long supported our work. and notJust with funding. but with the full force of its 

employee volunteer corps. We were the proud beneficiary of Com cast Cares Day in 2008. a 

beautitlcatlon effort that turned out hundreds ofComcast volunteers and uplifted our local 

parks. 

Comcast Is a good corporate citi1.en In Berwyn and throughout llIinols. ! urge the FCC to act 

in its favor. 

CC: Commissioner Michael}. Copps 

Commissioner Robert M. McDowell 

CommiSSioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker 

1619 WESLEY AVENUE BERWYN. IlliNOIS 60402 • I'HoNE:708.749.4900 • FAX: 708.749.4966 • WEIlSITE: NorD'l-I'UN.OIlG 
147 


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The Iionorahle .luiius (Jenachowski 

Chairman 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street. SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

RE: :vm D,'CKct "10.10-56 

April 16.2010 

Dear Chairnlan Genacho\v.ski~ 

3388 N. Avondale Ave. 

Chicago, IL 60618 

Tel: 773-463-0797 

Fax: 773-463-0709 

In light ofComcasl's long-standing support for diversity and for North Star Cahle Con,truclion 

(\Jonh Star). ! <:lm \~ riling tt) t'xpress my support for Cnnlcas! as it cl1l1.'rs into !1C\\ htlSlneSS 

\\:,ntur~s. 

As the i'rcsidentiownerofNorth Star, I have llrst-hand knowledge of Com cast's commitment to 

diwrsity. North Star is both a WBE and MBE certified company ilnd provides employment Ii" 

many members of the: community. COI1)(;as! has ~Iways been a valuable partner and has 

supported us in many ways throughout the years. 

I am confident that a combined COlllcast and Nl3C will continue both companies' commitment to 

diH~rsit~ <lnd to til,.; cOl11munity. 

Sincere!) . 

II / - r • 

, Ilf I fV fl_' /( (' \.---' v L--Gf- '- -I" L_ 1,. __ J 

('hrlslin(' 1,('(': Prcsid(,IH 
148 


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The Honorable Julius Genachowski 

Chairman 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street, SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

April 14, 2010 

Re: MB Docket No. 10-56 

Dear Chairman Genachowski, 

Generated by Foxit PDF Creator © Foxit Software 

http://www.foxilsoftware.com For evaluation only. 

As Co- Director of Our Family Place in Hammond, Indiana J understand the 

importance of investing in both education and the local community. As such, I am 

writing to express my support for the Comcast partnership with NBC Universal and 

to let you know of the much needed local support Comcast has provided my 

organization in accomplishing its goals. 

Our Family Place is the beneficiary of a great deal of Comcast volunteer support in 

2010 as a result of the Comcast Cares Day program. Comcasfs contributions to our 

organization have increased our ability to provide education support to the children 

of our community. 

While it may be a national company, Comcast has demonstrated an understanding of 

and support for the young people of Hammond, Indiana. 

Please keep Comcasfs support for Our Family Center in mind as you review the 

proposal before you. 

Regards, 

Rev. Todd Forrest 

Co-Director 

Our Family Center 
149 


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."".;.,~" <1 

.. - , 

The Honorable Julius Gcna<:howski 

Chainnan 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street, SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

June 17, 2010 

Re: MB Docket No. 10-56 

Dear Chairman Genachowski: 

J am writing the FCC to address the proposed p~rtnership of Comeast and NBC UniversaL 

As CEO of the Otis Wilson Foundation in Chicago, Illinois, I have worked extensively with ComeRst as a 

supporter of my program and a community partner to other philanthropic organizations. Comeast 

does a great deal of good in Chicago, and I endorse its proposed venture with NIlC UniversaL 

The mission of my foundation is to help at-risk kids who do not have much opportunity. I teach them 

about exercise, good nutrition and tty to instill solid study habits. These skills have done a great deal for 

me in my life and ~areer as a fanner Chicago Bear, and by teaching them to others I believe I am making a 

difference. Comcase has shown that it agrees. not just in words. but in actions. with these efforts. 

I partner with Comcast every year to support the Otis WiJson Foundation. Additionally, I work closely 

with the Metro Chicago United Way and have seen how Comeast's dedication and generosity makes a 

difference to that organization. It means a Jot to see a company exemplify its comminnent to the 

community on so many levels as Comcast does. Another example is Comcast Cares Day. I have 

greatly enjoyed learning about Comcast on this inspirational and fun experience that turns out 

thousands of volunteers and makes some incredible things possible all across the Chicago. 

Last but not least, Comcast has also featured me on its Newsmakers program. giving me an opportunity 

to bring our foundation'S message of fitness and diSCipline to those srodents we can't work with in 

person. 

! bclievededication and hard work pays off and forComcast I truly hope that results in the FCC's 

approval of a partnership with NIlC Universal. 

Si]Jcerc!y. 

(l"V" \ : . ~ . j W;/"'" 

US n: 

CEO, Otis Uson Foundation 

CC: Commissioner Michael]. Copps 

Commissioner Robert M. McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith AttweU Baker 
150 


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OFFICE OF THE MAYOR 

GERALD R. Bf:NI'iETT 

MO.l'Of 

The Honorable Julius Genachowski 

Chairman 

FE;~leral Communications Commission 

44512'" Street, SW 

Washington, PC 20554 

RE: MB Pocket No. 10--56 

Pear Chairman Genachowski, 

June 9, 2010 Received & Inspected 

JON 152010 

fCC , .... Ii Room 

As the Mayor of Palos Hnls, Illinois, I write on behalf of my 17,500 constituents to 

support the partnership proposal of Comeas! and NBC Universal. My role as Mayor and 

as the President of the Southwest Conference of Mayors in Cook County has afforded 

me the opportunity to work with Comcas! and its dedicated employees, and I commend 

them for their commitment to the betterment of southwest suburban Cook County. 

Comeast offers Palos Hills' residents access to broadband, pro\liding the latest in 

technology to ensure that we ha\le the fastest access to the Intemel. Comcast also 

frequently offers local officials the opportunity to appear on its Newsmakers and Political 

Update series. These local programs aUow us to more effectively exe<;ute the duties of 

our offices by speaking directly to our constituents. 

Th<~ Southwest Conference of Mayors represents twenty-one communities. Comcast's 

active participation as an ASSOCiate Member illustrates its commitment to Cook County. 

Our membership counts on Comcast's leadership, expertise and philanthropic 

commitment to ad\lance our mission and better serve the people of lIIinois. 

The residents of southwest suburban Cook County consider Comeasl a visible, integral 

part of our community, and we suggest that the FCC approve its partnership proposal to 

join with NBC Uni\lersal. 

co: Commissioner Michael J. Copps 

Commissioner Robert M. McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker 

Sincerely, 

b~p-/ Mayor, Palos Hills, IIHnois 

President, Southwest Conference 

Of Mayors 

10335 Soutb Roberts Rond • Palos Hills, IIlillois 60465' Telephone (708) 598-3400 
151 


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The Honorable Julius G-enachowski 

Chairman 

Federal Communications Commission 

~ : 

445 12" Street, SW __ 

Washington, DC 20554 

June 16, 2010 

Re: MB Docket No. 10-56 

Dear Chairman Genachowski: 

On behalf of PlrTano Construction Company, Inc" t am writing to express support for jOining of Comcast and NBC 

Universal. My company is proud to work alongside Comeast and can attest to the company's community commitments 

and ties to the vUlage of Addison, Illinois. 

PlrTano Construction Company, Inc. is a locally owned and operated business that employs over 300 residents of 

Addison and its surrounding communities. We perform installation and construction work on Com cast's behalf around 

the region. Approximately 200 of our employees perform Comcast-related work on a regular basis. 

:IjrTano Construction deeply appreciates the relationship Wi! have developed with Comcast and the steady and reliable 

work It provides to our employees. We have grown because Comeast has grown, and in turn has grown its commitment 

to working with us. This is in part a result of the advanced technology Com cast makes avaitable to our local households 

and businesses and the demand that exists for these services. The high speed Internet and cable, as well as 

telecommunications offerings are state-of-the~art, 

Comcast is committed to eKcelience and tha.t shines through in everything the company does. PirTano sincerely enjoys 

working with Corneast because we know we are always facilitating the provision of a high quality product. 

Comcast is an ideal business and community partner; it reinforces and upholds PirTano's commitment to quality$ 

customer service and most importantly, local growth and investment. We're fortunate to count it among our clients, 

and happily support its effort to join in partnership with NBC Universal. 

SinC;;#:~ ~~~_ ck Horn 

Treasurer, PirTano Construction Company, Inc. 

cc: Commissioner MichaelJ. Copps 

Commissioner Robert M. McDowell 

Commissioner Migon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker 
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The: HOl1Ol3ble Julius Gcnacbowski 

CbaiJ1l1aD 

Fedcml Communications Commission 

44S 12tb Street, SW 

Washington. DC 20554 

M: MB Docket No. 10-56 

JIJIIe 8, 2010 

Dear Chairman Genathowski and FCC CommissiollClS, 

The purpose of this ICUer is to voice my support for the joint venture of Corneast and NBC Universal. 

Comcasl is. local partncrtbal has made significant contributions 10 the Poner County Career aDd Technical 

Center aDd our commwrity in Valpantiso, Indiana. 

~ dim:lor of career and t«hnical education for Porter County schools, I administer approximately J ,000 

students enrolled in 35 counes, 10 of whk:b are at our Career Center and the remainder spre!ld across 12 

other sites tbrouJlbout the county. I also serve as the principal oCtile Porter COIIIIIy Career and Technical 

Cc$cr.oo iU staff of IS ~ ad.approximately 450 studenls. My job requires extensive 

COllllDlJlicaliOD and ~wiIIl_ businesses, labor unions, employers, students, and parents. 

It is In this role that I wilncssed fInt-lllDd Comcast's commitment to the Valparaiso cOllllllUllily. 

Cornea" hu doaated valuable production equipment for _ in our studenl trainilli- Our pr{)f!llllllS empower 

young people to make !DCIIIingfu1 and appropriate _ choices, and I believe that !be economic and 

cultural bealth of our communities i. SIm" because of companies like Corneast that reoogni ..... the value 

of our wod: and bdp 1lS in Preparinll students for tile workplace. 

Bolb Comcasl and \IIBC Univmal bave a history of active etlIPliCIMIlI with local communities and the 

orpnizations that servo those communities. In fact, CNBC bonored on. of Porter County's students 

rec<ll1ly for video production excell-.:. 

I am bappy to vocalize my support for two companies that have maintailled a solid, local commitment in 

Porler CouDly. I balicve it i,likely thai in Ibeir joiDi .... Comcast and NBC Universal wiu be better suited 

to do even more for the people and commmities of Indiana. 

Sincerely, 

...-.JMt~ JonGroIh 

Principal, Porter County Curccr and Technical Cerller 

Dim:lor, Porter County Caner & Technical Educalion 

--- '~.;. I:'; Capit' '_w ........... ...,..._ 

.. ;: "BeDE 
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The Honorable Julius Genaehowski 

Chail'm(l.11 

Fcderu.:tl CommuniealiOlls Commission 

445 12th SLl'Cel,SW 

WashingLon, DC 2055fo 

.June 9,2010 

Re: Mil Docket No. 10·56 

ncar- ChaifTIUtn GenadlOwski: 

POWER OPENING DOOI(S FOR WOMEN' 

As the founder and President of POWER: Opening Doors Cor Women, it is my pleasure to endorse 

COlllcast as a superior eOJ'poJ'ate pat'tnel" and champion (hI" diversity. J believe Com<:asl's eommil~ 

menLLo diversity will flourish .(W,. its proposed partnership with NBC Universal. 

With Comeast's support, POWEH Chicago is able to bring it., message to a large scale audie!)ce, en· 

sur'ing that OUI' mission to promote aud develop women leaders is met with enthusiasm and SllCC($S. 

Comcast's NcwsmakCl'S series have rcaUH'(~d POWEn, helping us expand Out' reach and generate 

new inLeI"st and support. With Comeast's hdp, POWLm Chicago has grown from 250 local partici· 

pants t.o mOl" than 3,500 women from aeross the country. This ycar, POWI.;R will also expand to 

Allalll.a~ O(!II'Oil and San I,'randsco. 

Com east. parlners wilh a bf'Oad I'angc of eornmunity groups) and iL'i d(~dieation 1.0 diversity initiatives 

is unrnat~~h(~d. The eompany is a pow(~rrul community anehOl~; it helps POWgn and ol.her orgallizaliollS huild capacity, and it lends support for their wot'k and errorl~" to promote diversity across a 

lal'gc cross~sedion of American w()t>k and life. 

T encourage the FCC to endors(~ Comcasi.'s efforts to join with NRC Universal and T look fOl'ward to 

the contilluation of POW1.;R's pa"u"""hip wit.h COllle"s!.. 

Sineerely, 

@~}~~, ("'UI~( res elll 

POWI~11.: OpcningQ9Zrs Cor Women 

cc: Commission,,!' Michael J. Copps 

Commi",ioncr Robert. M. McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner' Meredith Att.well naker 

:!..):~ S.mdl WariH'I' Drive, Suite ()/)oo 

The \\'omel)'" ;-';"lwOl'king Lommunity i,;;, 

1',,)\~·~·r(tf~\>O))WIl~nN\\'()rh.;I)gen!l1mnn;\y.;lr.t1 

b~ dt"hH'U,rI "" "hw'i!i\hk \'()nH':Il\llii)n~ 1111' inc'1!lw t;l;>, 
154 


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April 14,2010 

FCC Chairman and Commissioners: 

Chairmal11ujiu5 Genachowski 

Commissioner Michael 1. Copps 

Commissioner Robert M, McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith Anweil Baker 

Federa! Communications Commission 

445 121h Street, S. W. 

Washington, DC 20554 

RE: MB Dockell0-56 

Dear Chairman and Commissioners; 

Received & Inspected 

APR 282010 

FCC MaHRoom 

'Jt 

PREVENTIO~IRST 

I am writing to provide you with information about the invaluable contributions of Came .. ! as a supponer of our 

community program. as It relates to the propowdjoint venture between Comcas! and NBC Universal. Corneas! has been 

more than. panner in name to Prevention First for over seYen year •. Corneas! continually demonstrates that it believes in 

the mission of our organization and actively seeks to engage in activities that will forward our mission to provide 

statewide leadership in promoting healthy, drug· free communities. 

On a nationalltvel, Corneas! has donated millions of dollars in air time for public service messages educating parents and 

teens about how to prevent drug use, which helps us reach those audiences in a way we otherwise could nol do. Here in 

Illinois, Comeasl has provided us with numerous opponunit'es to creale awareness for our educational messages through 

appearances on the Corneasf Newsmakers and Community Conneclion television programs. They helped us launch a major 

middle school drug abuse prevention program, including providing free cable access and upgraded technology to some of 

the participating schools. And they have activelY sought to connect us with influential business people and like-minded 

non profits that have supported our work. We see Ihe potenllal of this type of valuable outreach expanding with NBC 

Universal. 

We 1001< forward to continuing our partnership wilh Come." and the possibilities through NBC Universal as well. 

Sincerefy~ 

Karel Ares 

Executive Director 

2800 Monhale Drh'e 

Sprmgfield. H. 62704 

'Illm/e" 217.19.3.13D 

{i1I1~jhr{'. 300.252JIY5 J 

/,IX 217.79).7).54 

(,M W, Chicago Ave" Suife 200 

Chicul!.l1, tL 606H 

[,/rum! J 12:liC8AM6 

fl1l1-jrl!l!' HOI),57l.~3It~ 

fit". JI2.9RA,70Q6 

>1<).01 00pIte 1UG'lf 0 tj _ ustASCOE 

PI et ent;tln. ", 't! 
155 


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Received & lnspecteO 

JUN 222010 

FCC Mali Room 

Shumway Mark.et Building 

713 ~as.tState!itteetThe Honorable Julius Genachowski RockJord, JIItJJ(li~ 61104 Chairman 

FaK:t1::::t:::: Federal Communications Commission 

www"""o",,.,,!)'o,..<om 445 12th Street. SW 

Oellnj~H0f10n. 

Prf.'lidf!nl 

Jim Barbilg~Uo 

viCE'P{eJid~{1t 

Jim(ronauer 

fl'eawrer 

Beth Howilrd 

5euet<lf)' 

Angela larson PdstPrejidf.'fl! 

Elaine Dt('ck 

Tom Budd 

J\~na Co~onC3 

JamiHO'lkins. 

friklew/s. 

IllnUnnabary 

OilvidKase 

l1eather~a!tis 

Stephon!e Quinn 

ScottSaporiti 

E¥Offi(lQ 

Alderman John Beck 

CityofRorkforrJ 

Stacy Kiejko RocUord ;l.rffi ('orlVf'flffon a 

Visi~8ureau 

Staff 

Anne E. O'Keefe 

PresidentS-CEO 

Washington. DC 20554 

June 15,2010 

Re: MB Docket No. 10·56 

Dear Chairman Gcnachowski: 

As President and CEO oft"e Rockford Area Arts Council in llIinois, I 

would like 10 express my support for the partnership of Com cast and 

NBC Universal. Comeast has been a committed partner to my 

organization over the years. 

The Rockford Area Arts Council supports, promotes, and develops 

the arts for everyone in the Nortbern Dlinoi. region. We are guided 

by the vision of. community in which everyone enjoys and participates 

in the arts· and a community in which successful artist and arts 

organizations contribute to the vitality of the economy and quality of life. 

Comcasl has shawl! that it shares our visioll by supporting our annual 

programs and providing us thc opportunity to raise aWllreness about our 

mission through appearanees on its Newsmakers program. To us, 

Com<:ast is not a nameless, faceless corporate entity, but a vital partner. 

We arc gl".tleful for the support it has provided us. 

I am confident Corneas! will prove to be as excellent a partner to NBC 

Universallhat it has been to the Rockford Area Arts Council. I hope the 

FCC will approve this union. 

Sinterely. 

fJ, :' ~..I ~! ( \ 1"- '. . Ii e E. . 

President and \CEO ,h .. o" Nesbit·Dav;' Rockford Area Arts Council EdU(dtll:>nfOUtreiKhDirenar 

Ann·Margret Naber Adrmm"$tratlllf! ASsIStant 

TrishaBlassage 

BusmessManIJgt!f 

1004 Recipie"t of PresIdents' 

Am Itiendly Community Award To support promote and develQP the arts for everyone 
156 


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ROCKFORD YOUTH INITIATIVE, INC. 

The Honorable Julius Genachowski 

Chainnan, Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street, SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

June 11,2010 

Re: MB Docket No. 10-56 

Dear Chainnan Gcnachowski and Commissioners: 

On behalf ofnCenter in Rockford, Illinois, it is my pleasure to write the FCC in support of the 

pending union of our good friend Comcast with NBC Universal. 

I am deeply grateful for Comcast, which has played such a vital roll in establishing and 

maintaining the nCenter. The nCenter concept was developed by the City of Rockford as a way 

to help at-risk youth by providing an alternative to the culture ofthe streets. The nCenter is not a 

community center - it is a controlled environment for teens only, offering entertainment, 

enrichment and recreation. Teens who participate in onr programs can earn nBucks good for 

"purchasing" time in our open pool, fitness center, Internet services lab or open gym. To obtain 

an nCenter id card, teens must submit a detailed application and agree to abide by our rules. 

I do not know how we would have been able to accomplish all this without Comeast. Comeast 

wired our building and has donated video and Internet services. It endowed our computer center, 

which bears the Comcast name. Impressed by the growth of the nCenter and the diversity of the 

students we serve, Comeast gcncmusly gave us another grant to purchase more computers and 

expand our capacity. Currently, Comcast is collaborating with us on a student-created video and 

will broadcast the finished product on its local public access channel. 

Comeast is a model of what every company should be. By investing in our youth, Comeast has 

chosen to use its stature for the greater good in Rockford. I strongly urge you to approve its 

proposal to join with NBC Universal. 

Sincerely, 

Gerald Lott 

Executive Director 

220 S. Madison St., Rockford, IL 61104- (SiS} 969-7408 - (815) 9697486 fax 
157 


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"PROGIlESS11IJlV PARTIClJ'ATlON" 

June 18, 2010 

Chairman Julius Genachowski 

Commissioner Michael J. Copps 

Commissioner Robert M. McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street, S.W. 

Washington, DC 20554 

RE: MB Docket 10-56 

Dear Chairman and Commissioners, 

Since 2002, Comca.'lt has served well the City of Rolling Meadows, Illinois. Comeast is quite 

accessible, easy to work with, and cooperates with the City on a variety ofm"tters. 

In particular, Comcast is " supporter of PEG access for mUltiple users in the community. The 

City, along with schools and other governmental units, are able to broadcast their programs via 

Comcast. 

Based on my current experience with Comcast, I would encourage you to consider approval of 

Comcast's proposed partnership with NBCU. 

Sincerely, 

8CVv-[S~ Barry Krumstok 

Assistant City Manager 

City of Rolling Meadows 

3600 IGrchoff Road 

Rolling Meadows, IL. 60008 

,{)oo KIRCIlOrr RO·\D .IWU INC, Ilff \l)()\\'~. Il6001l8' PI"IONE (847) 194·8500' (847) 483·0361 
158 


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Aprl114.2010 

To the FCC Chairman: 

Julius Genachowski 

Chairman 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street S.W. 

Washington D.C. 20554 

Re: MB Docket 10-56 

Dear Chairman Genachowski. 

'----------PAltKS AND RE(:REATtON 

lA, Imufll ut ,,.,{I<JJ ... 

This letter is to confirm tha! Comeast has been heavily involved in the local 

communities the Round Lake Area Park District serves. As a provider of parks and 

recreation services for over 56,000 residents, many of our facilities and programs 

benefit from support from outside agencies. ComCas! has been one of those 

supporting agencies exemplified by a ComCast Cares Community Day in 2009 in which 

they helped repaint a 50,000 square foot facility. completed many clean-up and 

landscaping projects and cleared multiple acres of invasive plants for nalural area 

management enhancement. We are glad to have Com Cas! as a community partner 

and look forward to their continuing support of our mission. 

Sincere~tV 

:?ti" Executive Director 

Round Lake Area Park District 

JNldp 
159 


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p,"'~e\~e(1 & Inspected 

'. A' L Z ZOU} 

;;cc Mail Room 

May 1,2010 

WRlR 98.3 FM 

Round lake Radio 

To the FCC Chainnan and Commissioners: 

Chainnan Julius Genachowski 

Commissioner Michael J. Copps 

Commissioner Robert M. McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith Altwe!l Baker 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12'h Street S.W. 

Washington, DC 20554 

RE: ME Docket 10-56 

Dear Chaimlan and Commissioners: 

I am pleased to share with you how a family owned business like Corneas! does things 

that continue to reflect its core family and community values. 

Through Comcast Care Days (now in it 8th year) Corneas! quickly established itself as a 

good corporate neighbor almost day one they set foot in our community. It was Corneas! 

who approached the villages iii OUf area (and not the other way around) in seeking to give 

help where there wa. a need. 

Seven yearS ago Comeast kicked offthe first of many Camcast Care Days in our area 

with 400 volunteer Corneas! employees descending on Round Lake Area School District 

116 to spend a day painting and fixing up three schools. 

At the time, then District 116 Chief Executive Officer Dennis Stonewall was quoted in 

local newspapers commenting on the work performed by Comeast's anny of volunteers, 

"My heart is not big enough to thank all of you, but the hearts of over 6,000 Round Lake 

area students, 650 staff members and the 50,000 people in the community have hearts 

that thank you,'" 

One of the local mayors similarly was impressed with what Comcast Cares Day had 

done. "It is difficult to keep lears of happiness away knowing that many of our kids will 

be coming back to freshly painted classrooms," said Round Lake Park Mayor I1a Bauer. 

"Both leaming and self-esteem are enhanced by attractive surroundings."! 

I Round Lake News. October 10, 20.03·· 'Thank you , is not "no ugh 

Rondaradlo, Inc .• P.O. Box 98 • Round Lake, lL 60073 

Studio: 847·546-WRlR (9757) • Office / Fax: 847-546-1559. WebSite: www.wrtr,fm 
160 


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Ben Rosenfield, longtime principal of one school said, "This is incredible. I have been in 

this building for 15 years and have wished and hoped for something like this."l 

Five years ago Corneast Care Days also carne to the aid ofWRLR 98.3 FM, then our 

community's new upstart radio station, when Comcast corporate manager Frank Deuel 

reached out to the station to see how they could help out. Half a decade later Comcast 

still cares enough to provide Internet and cable television services gratis - thereby 

allowing WRLR the connectivity to stream its broadcasts, monitor news and weather 

feeds, conduct research, and a multitude of other uses. 

Most recently Corn cast partnered with the Round Lake Area Park District to build a Large 

playground from scratch, injust II day. Truly amazing. 

The greater Round Lake Area is home to a Jarge minority, blue collar base, and as such 

has a higher ratio of overall needs for the families living here. Comeast Cares Days are a 

big deal and is one way that generates positive attitude in the lives ofthose it affects. 

Comcast is attuned to being a model corporate citizen. It still adheres to its founders' 

beliefs that giving back to the community is a worthy line item whose returns are 

immeasurable to the human spirit. 

L1~~,~rIt~ 8ish J. Krywko 

President and Chainnan 

WRLR 98.3 FM 

RONDARADIO, INC. 

P.S.: Member Illinois State Finance Authority - Round Lake Area School District 116 

1 Round Lake News- October 10, 2003 'Thank you , is not enough 
161 


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The Honorable Julius Genachowski 

Chainnan 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street, SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

Re: MB Docket No. 10-56 

April 28,2010 

Dear Chainnan Genachowski: 

I am writing you today 10 express my support for Comea.'lf Corporation and its venture with NBC 

Universal. Comeast has had II significant impact Oil the economy here in Chieago and across Illinois. We at Palos Bank have worked with Corneas! over the last 2 years and truly value our 

business partnership with Corneas!. 

With hundreds offacilities and thousands of employees throughout Illinois, Comcast's effect on 

our local economy is tremendous. In the past decade, Corneast has invested in technology and 

infrastructure in our community. In addition, Comcast's proVision of high. speed broadband 

allows our small businesses and families to stay oonnectcrl and successful in the 21" Century. 

As you consider Comcasl'S merger with NBC Universal, I trust that you will take into account 

the contributions Comeas! has made to Palos. Bank and others throughout Illinois as an employer 

and business partner. 

Sincerely, 

Erik J. Devine J 

Infonnation Technology Officer 

Palos Bank and Trust 
162 


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SOl)THBEND _____ _ 

PARKS & RECREATION 

DEPARTMENT--------

Chairman Julius Genachowski 

Commissioner Michael J Copps 

Commissioner Robert M. McDowell 

Commssioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meridith Attwell Baker 

Federal Communications Commission 

44512ih Street, S.W. 

Washington, D.C. 20554 

RE: MD Docket 1 D-56 

Dear Chairman and Commissioners: 

June 14, 2010 

The City of South Bend, indiana has a population of approximately 110,000 citi2:9ns and the South Bend 

Parks and Recreation Department, as a municipal branch of the CUy, serves that community as weI! as 

providing leisure, fitness and recreational services 10 the greater region surrounding our city-limits With a 

demonstrable impact on a quarter of a mittion regular users. " 

Dating back to 2003, Comeast has been a strong sponsor of our'efforts to provide this area with free, 

family entertainment and cultural events. 

Corneas! has been a premier sponsor of our SUl7;lmer In the Clly Festival which annually drew 

over 150,000 attendees. They brought in the Country Music Television {CMT) event bus and 

used it as a booth for kareoke contests, a background for photos of festival goers as if they were 

on the cover of CMT magazine and a traveling museum of country music memorabilia; 

• Comeast has supported our free-to-the-public outdoor concerts series at Potawatomi Park and 

Seltz Park (10·12 concerts at each Site annually). Their donation to the East Race series allowed 

us to include children's entertainers in addition to quaUty tocal bands and fireworks at the end of 

the night! 

• Their sponsorship of 1V and radio spots that focused on 'Newsmakers' included information on 

our Potawatoml Park and Seitz Park concert series, the Fall Family Festival at Rum Village Park 

and the December Holiday activities. This exposure helped increase the number of people 

aUending the concerts and festival; 

Corneast has contrtbuted to the City's Downtown for lhe Holidays Christmas events; and 

• Comeast has been a generous contributor to the Fall Family Fun Fair at Rum Village Park. 

The Comeast Cares Day annual events have also substantially benefitted the many non-profit 

organi<:atlons each of whom playa key role in building and maintaining our community through their 

individual endeavors. Comcast involvement in our community has had a positive impact. 

Sincerely, 

~(U~ -lJo/1/0 

Paula Garis 

Special Events Supervisor 

South Bend Parks and Recrealion 

321 E Walter St., South Bend, IN 46614 

(574) 299-4768 ext 239 
163 


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e S",lngfleld - Urban League, Inc. 

June 21, 2010 

Chairman Julius Genachowski 

Commissioner Michael J, Copps 

Commissioner Robert M. McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

Re: MB Docket No. 10-56 

Dear Chairman Genachowski and Conuuissioners: 

1

100 North Uth Street 

Springfield ll1ino's 62703 

2177890830 

2177899838 

www.sprjn9t:ieldyl,org 

Empowering Communities. 

Changing Lives. 

Thank you for your time and consideration of public comments regarding the 

proposed venture between NBC Universal and Comeas!. I am submitting comments 

today on behalf of the Springfield Urban League, Inc. of Springfield, Illinois, a 

nonpartisan civil rights and community-based movement that serves nearly 6,000 people 

armually. 

Our organization provides direct services, research and policy advocacy to assist 

primarily African Americans, Hispanics, and other members of emerging ethnic 

populations and communities in reaching their fullest potential. Comeast shares our 

commitment towards closing equality gaps for people at ail economic levels and stages of 

life. Through sustained commitments of support lind shorter-term volunteer opportunities 

like Comcast Cares Day, together, the Urban League IlIld Corneas! have been able to help 

thousands of Americans overcome countless challenges in civil and hwnan rights. 

Our support for Comcast in this proposed ventll1'C is based on our experience 

parmering with the complllly IlIld seeing what they do to advance a diverse workplace, 

support diverse programming, and aid the local community. I look forward to the 

exciting new initiatives that wUl result from combining with NBC Universal, and I am 

confident that Comeast's commitment to community outreach will remain as strong as 

ever. 

Thank you again fol' your time and consideration of these comments. 

Sincerely yours, 

i\J~t~ Nina M. Harris 

Springfield Urban League, Inc. 
164 


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SOUTH SUBURBAN MAYORS & MANAGERS ASSOCIATION 

Blue Island 

Bumham 

Calumet City 

Calumet Park 

Chicago Heights 

Country Cfllb Hilfs 

Crete 

Dixmoor 

Dotton 

East Hazel Crest 

flossmoor 

Ford fieights 

Glenwood 

Harvey 

Hazel crest 

Homewood 

lansing 

Lynwood 

Markham 

Matteson 

Mfdlothian 

Mokena 

Monee 

NewlenOK 

Oak Forest 

Olympia Fields 

Orland Hills 

Orland Park 

Palos Heights 

Park Fores.t 

Phoenix 

Posen 

Richton Park 

Riverdale 

~obblns: 

S.uk Village 

South Chicago Heights 

South Holland 

Steger 

Thornton 

TInley Park 

University Park 

1904 W. 174th Street 

June 16,2010 

The Honorable Julius Genachowski 

Chairman 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12'" Street, SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

Re: MB Docket No. 10·56 

Dear Chairman Genachowski: 

Reeeivetl is< 1\151l\:eted 

JUN ~ttO\O 

FCC \{Iali \1()llffi 

On behalf of the South Suburban Mayors and Managels Association of Illinois, I am 

writing to express our support for the proposed joining of Comeast and NBC 

Universal. Comcast is an important corporation operating in our communities and! 

am pleased to endorse this partnership on behalf of our members. 

Created in 1978, the South Suburban Mayors and Managers Association (SSMMA) 

is a not-far-profit intergovemmental agency providing technical assistance and joint 

services to 42 muniCipalities in Cook and Will Counties. SSMMA members wor\( 

cooperatively on a variety of issues to enhance the quality of life for our citizens. 

SSMMA has taken a keen interest In technology issues and improving the access of 

our constituents to the communications services they want in order to live happily 

and more productively in our fast-paced society. Comeast has been an important 

partner in this pursuit. 

On behalf of the SSMMA, I respectfully ask that you and your fellow Commissioners 

approve the joint partnership of Corneas! and NBC Universal. 

Sincerely, 

~LJjJ~ Edward W. Paesel 

Executive Director 

EWP/rak 

cc: Commissioner Michael J. Copps 

Commissioner Robert McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker 

East Hazel Cre,t, Illinois 60429 www.ssmma.org 
165 


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Jlll1e 9, 2010 

Chairman Julius Genachowski 

Commissioner Michael J. Copps 

Commissioner Robert M. McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith AttwelJ Baker 

Federal Commlll1ieations Commission 

445 12th Street, SE 

Washington, DC 20554 

RE: MB Docket No. 10-56 

Empowering Communities. 

Changing Uves. 

Received & In5pected 

JUN i 7 ZOlO 

FCC ,,,,,,, Room 

311 S. Ma!;MhlJf Hlghw~y 

Peorfl't1l 6160s-.3S92 

Telt 309.673.747'1 fax! 3{l9,612,4366 

Wdqfte;~OOt 

Dear Chairman Genachowski and Commissioners: 

The Tri-Cowlty (Peoria, IL) Urban League, Jnc., is a SOl (e) 3, not-for-profit agency, 

dedicated to improving the education, social, and economic opportunities for individuals 

in Peoria, Tazewell, Woodford and Mclean Counties in the Central Illinois area, Our 

services and programs are provided at minimal or no cost and we focus on providing and 

improving critically needed educational, counseling and employment services for our 

diverse residents. 

I am writing to you today to aCknowledge the invaluable support provided by one of our 

corporate partners, the Comcast Corporation. An organization like ours depends on 

commlll1ity involvement and Comcast has again and again generously reached au! witb 

grant funding that allows us to help those who most need assistance. At a time when 

many businesses rutd individuals are struggling just to scrape by, Comcast bas never let 

up its commitment to the neediest among us. For that, all of us at the Tri-Colll1ty Urban 

League are extremely grateful. 

It's not merely the financial aid that distinguishes this corporation, but ratber, wbere we 

have been most impressed is in !he positive character of so many Com cast employees. 

Each year on Comcast Cares Day, Corneas! employees, family and friends give their time 

and labor to help make a positive impact on their comrnUllity. They bave painted in our 

building to insure the environment is a positive one for our clients. By helping us 

achieve our goals, the people of Corneas! prove that hard times are no match for the 

generous spirit of neighbor helping neighbor. We have also been pleased to see 

Comcast's work in helping educate our young people about the power of technology. 

When a company goes above and beyond like Corneas!, there's no shortage to what we 

can all accomplish together. 

No, 0; Cop:~8 rOO·d_.O:t:/--

Conlrlbntio •• 10 Ihe Urban League are /"" dedJlC/ible Us! ABCOF. 
166 


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I know you are facing an important task in evaluating this complicated multi~faceted 

transaction. However, I just hope you will take a moment to recall what we have seen 

Comeast do here in Peoria. 

Best of luck with your work, 

(;f~~~.. . Lamine 

President 

E. Bryson '" ~ 
167 


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April 16, 2010 

Chainnan Julius Genachowski 

Commissioner Michael J. Copps 

Commissioner Robert M. McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

RE; MB Docket No. 10-56 

Dear Chairman Genachowski and Commissioners: 

The United Neighborhood Organization (UNO) is the largest Hispanic organization in the greater Chicago area, serving 

nearly 20,000 children and adults annually through programs in education, leadership training, immigration, health care, 

parent involvement, and economic development. Since 1984, we've sought to build grass-roots leadership within 

Chicago's Hispanic neighborhoods to address local issues such as prevalent street violence and overcrowding in schools. 

Comeasl supports UNO's Youth Leadership Development Program - a critical neighborhood-based initiative 

specifically designed around UNO's Metropolitan Leadership Institute, au adult program whose graduates now serve as 

mentors and guest speakers for our youth participants. Additionally, Comcast has helped us maintain a wide variety of 

other programs, making UNO the s""ond largest charter holder in the state, 

Comeasfs commitment to diversity aud educational opportunity could not be more evident. Consider that UNO serves 

a nearly 100% minority student body with 90% of students qualifying for low-income lunch programs. We're 

convillced that Com cast understands our vision and respects the aspirations of our community. As Comcast moves 

forward with its proposed NBC Universal joint venture, we wish the company all the success in the world and look 

forward to discovering new ways to partner with this dynamic couunitled company during the days, weeks, months and 

years ahead. 

We hope you will take our positive experience into account as you consider the public-interest aspects of your important 

transactional review. 

Sincerely, j 

Juan Rangel 

Chief Executive Officer 

United Neighborhood Organi?Jltion 
168 


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Recml/ell & IIl~pllCttlll 

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fCC i.:,Jii Room 

Chairman Julius GenacOOwsl<i 

CommiSSioner Michael J. Copp$ 

Commissioner Robert M. McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredilh Attwell Baker 

Federal Communications CommiS$ion 

445 12th SIr .. 1 SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

RI'!: MB Docket No. 10-56 

Dear Chairman GenachOW$kl and CommiSSiOners: 

UnltedW., 

of Centl"llllWnois 

Our mission at the Unked Way of Central Illinois is to inspire the nm 

generation 01 ccmmunky leader. - young people who will one day inspire Change 

In Ihe world around them by Craaling a collaborative atmosphere responsive to a 

grand diversity of voices. We fIIIlularly encourage involvement lrem toeal 

leadership, including businesses In anchround our community. One cI our most 

reliaGle sUppMllrs is Com-'. Co_Sl's caGle, voice and Interne! services - and 

its dedicated communky yolunteers - are an important part of our lives in Central 

lltinois and its ~rd auccoss is an inspiration lor lhe many future 

business leaden that we teach. 

Comeasl:. cutlUIII of communky involvement in$pires aU aspects cI iIs 

business. whelhel' il i. dllIId In .... tmtnt in local inillalive •• providing the lalest and 

greatest technology lIIr custOl1*8, or en<:Ouraging emplOyee. 10 become active 

volunteers and IQcaI COl'lIlibutors. Right here In Cenlral Illinois, Comcas1 

employee. ptedged over 511,000 during 2008 and 2009 to our local United Way 

organization. In addition, we _e II'Ie recipients of Corneas! Foundation grants 

over the las!1WO years. These grants are Importanl as they allow us to expMd our 

effort. and invas! In new initiative. to belter MIV8 IamHles in need. Corneas! also 

helped us 10 prOduce II segment for its Newsmakers PfOiIIlIm, which airS on a loat 

cable channel. The NtwImakers Ngment WIIS an excePtional opportunity enailling 

us to reach inta a large runbe, of hou8eholds and dlreGIIy introduce our services. 

Thanks ta Corneas!, apnsadlng (loj/' _. has_r been easier. 

Corneast'. iMovatlvt programs and M!'ViCea ..,. lin indispensible toot for 

many area conaume ... and it'. the company's employ ... remain an inspiration for 

the children we serve. I am confident Comcasl will continue 10 be a successful and 

valUed partner for the communities of Central IUinois. I hope you will cons.,., 

Comeasl'. lOng positive tI"IIc:k record as evidence that the company's civic 

leadership will conUnue in partnership with NBC Universal. 

MobiU.lng R.SOUfte.lo M .. tCommunity Noed .. " ...... 
169 


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GIVE. ADVOCATE. VOLUNTEER. 

NORTHwEST SUSURBA" 

U"ITEOWAY 

.11 mcmberoJUnlfell WaylJfMetmpclfron Chlalgo 

LIVE UNITEo.lla P05tOffire BoX.:294 B 

Mount Prospect, mlno!s 60056 

847.768,1074 'B 

The Honorable Julius Genachowski 

Chairman 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street, SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

Re: Mil Docket No. 10'56 

Dear Chairman Genachowski: 

As the Chief Professional Officer for the Northwest Suburban United Way.l am keenly aware of Comcast's 

important contributions to the diversity of the Chicagoiand and the United Way network. As such I support 

Comtast's effort to join with NBC Universal. 

Com cast's com mitment to diversity is especlaUy important to our community. In Mount Prospect. a 

Chicago suburb, the Latino population has nearly doubled in the span of a singie decade, increasingto 

over 6,000 residents, Of12 percent of the population. The surrounding townships have experienced 

similar change and growth, and we expect this trend to continue. 

Corneast has embraced the growth of our ethnic neighborhoods. Recently they have expanded their 

programming tiers to include a diverse range of independent, foreign, and non-English programmers. In 

oarticuiarthey have greatly expanded their Hispanic programming tier. Comcases employer diversity also 

!flects our community since they hire from our community. This may seem {ike a tittle thing~ but jobs are 

(he foundation ofany community and we greatly appreciate this. Lastly. Comcast's commitment to 

diversity can be seen through their support of community organizations such as ours and their gene.rosity 

in providing public: schools and community (enters with complimentary broadband and cable. 

Comcasfs commitment to diversity extends to their employees. Here in Cook County. the Northwest 

$uburbiln Unit.:d Way is fortunate to count on the leadership of Com cast's Richard Ruggiero~ who offers 

his time and know~how to govern the Executive Board. Comcasfs Joe HiggIns also supports our 

Marketing Advisory Board. 

The Northwest Suburban United Ways mission to support the lives of people in need mIrrors the core 

tenants of Comcast's commitment to local communities like Mount Prospect. We're proud to include 

Comcast in Qur efforts to improve Chicagoiand and encourage you to favorably consider Its proposal to 

join with NBC Universal as NBC Universal will only benefit from this partnership. 

Sincerety, 

lV',i d " ,,'., (>'1 I~"I 'J ......... ~---.... !)~'ll1~ ... ~.~ 

Marcia McMahon 

Chief Professional Officer, Nol1hwestSuburban United Way 

cc: Commissioner Michaetj~ Copps 

Commissioner Robert M. MeDoweU 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker 

NORTHWt5T SU9-tJJI;BAN UNITED WAY 5liRVES filE COMMU/IIllles or 

uwnortl1west.org WJ 

~It~ 

Executive Board 

Gregory P. 6uarrine 

P11!5ident 

Richard RUggij!:1O 

'lsi Vice President 

lame:sTansor 

2~d Vice Presidl!n! 

GaryA.CtJj!:no 

Treasurer 

leon6opon 

Secretary 

Mich<let5. Abruuioi 

Past President 

Directors 

Richan:ll. Casey Barbara ferguson 

AnthonyHanington 

DeJlnis Huebner 

Terence P. Kennedy 

JeffroyW.fCfj!:ye 

Satlsh Kumar Diane laUa 

lohn Lockerby 

Davld Mamyorth Frank Moriarty 

jan Olsmwski 

Wendi PhiUips 

RegiJloSchtamp 

DfantlSmusz 

Jannt Simblan 

Charles W. Vande Veil 

OfCounssi 

Susan L DaW50n 

~ 

Marcia McMahon 

ChlefPror~5S1onal OlJlcer 

USif M. frey Senior Dewiopment Manager 

Raymond Alldair 

Development MOlJoger· 

MajotGitts 

Melissa Kast 

Development Manager 

PennI Jess 

Program MCll1.r'Jger 

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LlNCOUlWOOO, MORTON GROVE, MOUnT PRosPtel'.lillES. PALATalf, PARI( R\OG~, PIWRIE Vuw. PROSP£CT H(IGIiTS. f!.oUING MtADOws. ROSEMOP-lt. SCHAUMBURG. Sj(QKlF.,. StE£PVHouow, 

S)1l.fA.MwaaD. We.... ,DIlHf}fE AND WH£El/tIG 
170 


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1. SPANISH 

:' 

~ Uni'edW,yof 

.~_,..'.~ WillCOllnty 

March 23, 2010 

fl6ceived & Il1speeted 

r.rt< 2 J fOlO 

FCC ivi"ii Room 

The Honomble Julius Genachowslci 

Chainnan 

Federal Communications Commission 

44512'" Street, SW 

Washington, Dc 20554 

RE: MB Docket No. 10-56 

Dear Chainnan Genachowski: 

Dedicated to the progress of the community. 

309 N. Eastern Avoouo • JOliet, Illinois 60432-2370 

Offices: 815.727.3683. Day Care: 815.727.6343 

Fax: 815.727.9459' WWW.spanishcenler.org 

In light of Comeast' s long-standing support for diversity and for the organization 1 

oversee, the Spanish Community Center of Joliet, I am writing to express my support for 

its proposed venture with NBC Universal. 

As the Executive Director of the Spanish Community Center of Joliet, an organization 

that provides essential services to the immigrant population of Will County, minois, I 

have first hand knowledge of Com cast's commitment to diversity. 

The Spanish CommWlity Center Center's primary goal is to assist immigrant and 

disadvantage residents in assimilating to American society and becoming productive and 

contributing members of our society. A key component of that work is promoting 

litemcy among our children and providing English as a Second language (ESL) classes In 

collaoomtion with Joliet Junior College, where I served as an Associate Vice President 

before joining the Center. 

A generous Comeast Foundation grant to my organization provided vital support for our 

work promoting literacy among a diverse and disadvantage population. Thanks to the 

help form Comeast and other sponsors and partners, during the past 3 years we have 

provided free ESL instruction for 280 people, including 76 who have progressed through 

the intermediate and advWlced levels. 

As the leader of an agency that serves people from all walks oftife-about 70 percent of 

those we serve are Hispanic, while one-quarter are African-American and about 5 percent 

are white. I value Comcast's similar commitment to diversity through its partnerships 

with leading federal, state and local policy organizations and government agencies, I also 

appreciate Comcast's leading role as a supporter of minority-owned businesses. 

No. 01 Copies f$C'd 0 t ..3 

UsIABCDE 
171 


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I am confident that a combined Comcust and NBC partnership will continue both 

companies' commitment to keep our communities not just entertained, but infonned and 

engaged. 

Sincerely, 

~:J~ Andy Mihelich 

Executive Director 

Spanish Community Center 

J 
172 


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Aprill!,2010 

Chaionan Julius Genaehowski 

Commissioner Michael J. Copps 

Commissioner Robert M. McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street, S.W. 

Washington, DC 20554 

RE: MB Docket 10-56 

Dear Chairman and Commissioners: 

Ken Mundy 

Mayor' 

Candy Smith 

City Cled< 

Bill Nkk!as 

City Manager 

As a municipal leader in the City of Sycamore, Illinois, I often have the opportunity to interact 

with Comeast and its representatives. I have found that Comcas! has abided by its commitments; 

supported community events; and cooperated with the city on a variety of issues. 

Based on my experience with Comcast, I would encourage YOll to consider approval of 

Comcast's proposed partnership with NBCU. 

~ 

Sincerely, , 

Bill Nicklas 

City Manager J 

JOSWestState Str/,!et Sycamore.ll 60178 8151895·4515- Fax BI5!B99~2.054 W"t'o"W;dtyofsycamor4:.com 
173 


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The Honorable Julius Genacllowski 

Chainnan 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th SttceI, SW 

WashingtOn, DC 20554 

RE: MB Docket No. 10-56 

June 15, 2010 

Dear Chaitmsn Gcnadtowslti and FCC Commissioners, 

The pmposc of 1his Ictter is to voice my support for the joint v"lltlw of Comeas! and 

NBC Universal. Comeast is a local partner thaI has continually COIlIn'bu1Cd to the _ 

of the Valparaiso Community Festivals and Events (VCFB) ~ and Ihe Popcorn 

Festival. 

The VCFE. is a not-for-profit, volunteef ~ that i. dedicated to JllIIaiIIins!be 

vitality of downtown Valpataiso, 1ndiaDa. ~ sponsonI1ipi have direetIy impacted 

Ibis initiative and improved area evcma fOl visillm and Valparaiso midalis. 

Both Comcast and NBC Univcnal have ahiJtQry of active ~t with IoeaI 

communities and the organizalions !bat IIlIVC 11loiii COImIIIIIIi" I am ~ 10 vocalize 

my support fortwo comp.mc:.'!hat lavemailllaiDad IIIOlid, IoeaI ~ in Ihe 

Northwest Indiana region. 1 bollmr it is libIyllutt in their joining, c-t and NBC 

Universal will bc bettct suited to iIii~",,"1br tht:~10 IIiId c\'lmlmiIiitiR of 

Indiana. 

~i"-::1' JI. t:J.-- Tfn:'su.ubin 

DireCtor, Valpm:aiio C~ti= Festiy ..... 1!IId EmlIa:, 

m 

~. of CoDies ree" II. U 

I.istABCoe ~ 
174 


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PltESIDENT 

101m A, T.atoo!cs 

nOAIID OFTltlJSTEES 

RusseU P. Fi~ton 

Ricb3«f C. GilUa,ll:her 

Palriein D. lcdv-inl:l 

hnice M, ·Sfremcl 

'nm~lhy ~ Tiedje 

JohnR.WilUs 

CLERK 

Oi-me C. ~l;las 

BUILDING AND ENGINEERIIIIG 

'4713511-7960 

Fax 1l47/358~1207 

WEBADDltESS 

www.villttgeofin\·l..me!)s.org 

'l!i{fage of'lnverness 

April 12,2010 

l~OO Billtlwin Rond 

}l47/35.8·7140 

Chainnan Juli\!S Genachowski 

Coinmissioner Michael J. Copps 

Commissioner Robert M. McDowel.l 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith Auwell Baker 

Fedei'iiI'CoiJifu'inllCjlnons Commi$iiion 

445 12th Street, S.W. 

Washington, DC 20554 

RE: MRDocket 10-56 

Dear Chaimlan and Commissioners: 

In'ftn\eso&.llHnois 60067 

Fnx S4,!35S~ggSS 

Received & Inspected 

APR 192010 

FCC Mail Room 

r am writing tb!s',lelter in support of the Cqmcast-NBCt)niversa! Joint Venture. 

As tbe Village Administrator of Inverness; !Ilinois, I can state that our community 

bas been well-1Ierved by ComCl1Si over tbeyears. ]nverne$8. is a quiet, stable 

reSidential community with a population of almost 7;500. Locilted northwest of 

Chicago, Inverness has been served by Corneast siru;e 2002, when the company 

assumed' control of the franchise to provide oiible ti)levision services within our 

Village. 

0omcB>lt.nas ~ntil1uaUy,st?ved toenhill1cefiW:'Pt~!lcts.and to provide .~ng 

castomer Service to ou~ .. rcsldents. ' TlXlliy,.,.Cpml;l$t ·provldes Invem-ess' citizens 

with high'sp¢ed~nl\lrnet a_ ·iJrtd ~hl~;t¢l.~yi~)Pusel'\1i¢s.Vfhich fil)w include 

digital channels, RD, On Demand pro~ni&,.arid24i7.custnllterserv.ice. 

Comcilst has abided by its ~minitm'1lltsJP me V.iUage, llionsider the .coIUpi)nya 

strong business member of ~ecommunity, Again, UWlournge you to approve its 

partnership with NBCU. '. 

Sincerely, 

I~,~' Curt Carver :. " ' >, ~ ; ~ 

Village Administrator 
175 


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YILL.'A.(j'E OJ P2-fO'E:NIX 6.'13 :EAST lSI'" STRfiT - P:HO:E:N1X, IL. 50426 

Tewyfiane 708-331-2636 :f'ax 708-331-2642 

www.vi{(ageojpfioenix.com 

ReceIved & Inspected 

APR 28l01O 

April 15,20[0 FCC •. _'" Room 

'I'hll HUllom!>lc .lulins Oenoohow"ki 

Ch!>;r"",n 

l-biel'II" COmmunications COmmiosioo 

445, 12"' Stroot, SW 

WII~hington, IX) 20(>54 

H,,; MB Doclwt No. I()'f>ll 

IX1II1'Chltu'IDlm OClloolIowshl: 

'YIli5t[i:E 'P'JI:ESI1JVI'J 

Terry 1l. )V.a; 

1'1 li.7llj15 CLE'RX 

]ofinni, :N, ,Lane 

'YIli.7l~:E 

5t1J'MI:N1ST1tJl.TO:R. 

1JOyotfty Carter 

YILL.7lIjI T.RUS-TEES 

YJ.lliert Xirlian 

YJ.l-titur To 2lurton, Jr. 

.:MP,rtina. .:MaIuiffey 

'ECrzafiet-fi. £.oggi11S 

)ViiI'", .:MM Smitli 

'Ernestine 'Proctor·j-{arris 

f am writing YOIl t"'lll.y to elCpl'(",,", my sUl'!""t for O)m~Mt Corporation ll1Id it, ventu", with NBC 

lTllivm'fm.J. 

As on" or tho le,uliog providers of Ilholle, video all~ internet senico in l'hoonix, (hmell.! plays" 

key ,,,)0 in tho lives of tho m!idellt~ of my community. When (;"In"'lSt took cont.1'01 of tl", 

fnmchiso in Phoo"ix in 2002. they immediatAlly invested in tho inf1'!l8tructUJ'O in our community 

to imT'''''" tho ."rvice delivery to mu residents. (hme" .. t, hoo oontinned ill; involvement in 

l'hOOllix over ti", yoal's and IlIlve '''WOrt .. l ""1' "rimury "ommllnity ovent, ·Phoenix N."t" ovor 

tlm lllst Ii Y"",/; t.h,,'oglI spotlsol'Shil' ~uPl"'rt. (\,m!>lllt ullJO hold" (hmr;u;t Citro; volllnme. eVlmt. 

in Phoenix wh",,,, in partum'Ship with local residents they helped scvam) deserving SlmiOI'S with 

nll",h noodoo muh.tcnUJlco work Oil thoil' properties. 1 am IWllrtcllOO by (hmr>lBt'. commitment to 

snl'IJOrting the 1<"".1 <~'mmunities th"t they ""rve nnd in fOl'ging looo.lllllrtncl'Ilhips. 

n,m,",,1 IU'8 alSl' grn.ciolL,ly pnwided me the OJlportunity to IIrh'll "UllOtiOll to issues affecting 

I'hooll;" to " wideI' IIl1dimlCo through their NOWSDJJikflI'll pl'OgrlLlu: 

N))' "mmp'u.y j,h,,1 h"" II. very It1l.'ge lIatiorml JJm;cn"~ COlnr1ll\! h'IS'remained rommit.ted to ' 

sUPI.,rting u.nd scrving the loot! communities it serves IUId has !)C('" a good r1)llJol'8te citizen in 

my community. 

(Jiven lily JlO"it;v" m'l""'ioncc in dooling wit,h this ooml"'''Y, r encoul'age you to "1'Provo Cot~e,\St's Illtrt.lUu'Ship with N.BCIJ. 

CD (;"mmissionel' Michael.l GIPl'S 

GlIIuniBllronor Hobert McDowrU 

U,mm;",;oller Mill non Clyburn 

Commissioller Meredith Attwoll III,km' 
176 


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RICHARD REINBOLD 

Vitlage President 

CYNTHIA SUTI.ER 

Village Trustee 

VALERIE BABKA 

ViHago Trustee 

SHARON D. KRIHA 

Village Trustee 

HARRY OLSON 

Village Trustee 

JULIAN ALEXANDER 

Village Trustee 

JENNIFER ARTIS 

VIP_ge Trustee 

MARY E. PIERCE 

VUlage Clerk 

Received & Inspected 

Villa~e of ______ !!H~Aii)lY !II-~3 ~20iiilO- - ';} FCC Maii Room 

-~ic~tOIJ par~--- April 16, 2010 

The Honorable Julius Genachowski 

Chainnan 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12" Stree!, SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

Re: MB Docket No. 10-56 

Dear Chainnan Oenachawski, 

COpy 

I am writing to express my support far Comeas! as it enters into a new 

business venture with NBCU. 

When Corneas! assumed control of the franchise to provide cable television 

services within our Village in 2002, they immediately upgraded the 

infrastructure within the Village in nrderto provide advanced services to our 

residents, This wasn't Comeast's only investment in our community. 

Comeast held its fll'St Corneast Cares volunteer event in the South Suburbs in 

Richton Park in 2004. On this day, representatives from Comcas~ their 

families and friends partnered with village staff and residents in cleaning up 

one of the parks in town. Comcast's spirit of partnership and community 

involvement was refreshming and noted by the Village Board and residents. 

Over the years, Corneas! has also provided sponsorship assistance for various 

community events in Richton Park. When the Village organized its fIrst 

Blues Festival. Comeas! provided much needed publicity assistance. 

Corneast has also graciously provided us the opportunity to bring altention to 

issues affecting our communities and region to a wider audience tbrough 

appearances on their Newsmakers program. 

Corneas! has abided by its commitments to the Village and we are pleased 

witn the partnership that has been established. 

As the Mayor of a community that has been well-served by Comeas!, J 

encourage you to approve its partnership with NBCU. 

Richard Reinbold 

Mayor 

Village of Richton Park No. of Copies rec'd'_-l-I __ _ UstABCDE 

4455 SAUK TRAIL' RICHTON PARK, ILLINOIS 60471-1197' 708-481-8950 • FAX 708-481-8980 • www.richtonpark.org 
177 


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CC: Commissioner Michael J. Copps 

Commissioner Robert McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn ./ 

Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker 

Yohan Fernando, Government Affairs Manager/Comeast 
178 


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VILLAfiE OF STEfiER 35 W. 34th STREET . STEGER, ILLINOIS 60475 

(708)754-3395 . Fax: (708) 7S4·1913 

www.villageoIsteger.com 

toms SHERMAN 

Villag' Pm;"'., 

Carmen S. "Tory' Recupito,Jr. Conrad R. Klehles 

Village Qerk Vil/oge AdmhtiJl"'t"r 

t'rt'rupitO@yUlagC'()i'slegcr,org {'kieJ)Jc~,@\'i!la~t'ofste~tr org 

Board of Trustees ---------------------~--= Tom Seehausen • Mark Kozy . Ken Peterson, Jr .• Elizabeth HOllea • Andrew t. Banicki • Ernie Lopcz.Jr 

April 20, 2010Received & Inspected 

APR 282010 

FCC [..1uii Room 

The Honorable Julius Genachowski 

Chainnan 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street, SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

Re: MB Docket No. 10-56 

Dear Chairman Genachowski, 

I am writing to express my support for Comeas! as it enters inlo a new business venture 

withNBCU. 

Corneas! has been a good corporale citizen and has served the Village of Steger well. 

When Comcas! assumed control of the franchise to provide cable television services within 

our Village in 2002, they immedialely upgraded the infrast:lUl:lure within the Village in 

order to provide advanced services to OOf residents. A,. such, the residents of our 

community are able to experience the same products and services as the residents of some 

of our larger neighboring communities. Comeast's investment in upgrading their 

infrastructure in our community has allowed us to attract potentia! businesses that look for 

the availability of high-speed connectivity when choosing where to relocate its facilities. 

Over the years, Comeast has also provided sponsorship assistance for various community 

events in Steger, especially the very popular "Chili Festival.~. Corneas! has also 

graciously provided us the opportunity to bring a1tention to issues affecting our 

communities and region to a wider audience through appearances on their Newsmakers 

program. 

As the Mayor of a community that has been well-served by Comcast, I encourage you to 

approve its partnership with NBCU. 

Sincerely, 

Lou 

~s~- Shennan 

Mayor 

No. 01 CcpiOO rac'd_arL 

LlstABCOE 

"Where Progress is a Fact, Not A PromiJe" 

---
179 


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The Honorable Julius Genachowski 

Chainnan 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street, SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

June 15, 2010 

Re: MB Docket No. 10-56 

Dear Chairman Genachowski: 

Comcast has been instrumental in helping the residents of Porter County, Indiana. 

Comcast's investment in our communities is one reason why I believe you should approve 

its request to join with NBC Universal. 

Since 1991>. my organization, Rebuilding Together - Valparaiso, has brought together 

thousands of volunteers to help the elderly. disabled and those with low incomes. Last year 

alone. more than 600 volunteers - from church groups to university students to Valparaiso 

city employees - came together to help rehab 35 homes and nonprofit facilities. From 

landscaping and yard work to plumbing and electrical systems and roof and floor 

replacement, nO job is too big or too small for our volunteers. We are part of the largest 

volunteer home rehabilitation organization in the United States; there are Rebuilding 

Together chapters in 865 cities and towns in all 50 states. Nationwide. more than 1.8 

million volunteers have donated over 20 million hours to help revitalize more than 63,000 

houses and nonprofit facilities. 

This year, our volunteers are using equipment and supplies purchased with a sizable 

donation from Comcast Without the support of Comcast and others who support 

Rebuilding Together. we would not be able to have such a big impact on our community. 

Rebuilding Together is not the only organization that benefits from Comcast's local 

commitment in Valparaiso. Through my work in the community and with other non-profit 

organizations. I am aware that other charities, schools and libraries. and local governments 

benefit from Comcast's philanthropic donations and in-kind contributions. All of that 

activity strengthens this city and provides a better quality oflife for those who need help. 

Valparaiso's future is brighter thanks to Comcast's local commitments, and I encourage you 

to approve its proposal to join with NBC. 

Sincerely, 
180 


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Director 

Rebuilding Together - Valparaiso 

CC: Commissioner Michael I_ Copps 

Commissioner Robert M. McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Oyburn 

Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker 
181 


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voiceofthecity 

Building community through mal<ing art and teaching art, 

May 20, 2010 

Chaiman Julius Genachowski 

Commissioner Michael 1. Copps 

Commissioner Robert M. McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

RE: MB Docket No. 10-56 

Dear Chairman Genachowski and Commissioners: 

It is my understanding that you are undertaking a process of review in regards to the proposcd 

ComcastlNBC Universal Merger. As you perform this review I want to make you aware of the 

impact Comcast has had in the communities they serve. 

Voice ofthe City is an arts alliance that unites the finest Chicago artists with local residents. As 

an arts alliance, Voice of the City unites the finest Chicago a!1ists with each other and with the 

residents of Logan Square -- connecting quality arts experiences to community. Comcast has 

partnered with us in sponsoring our Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival, a free three-day festival 

that celebrates the rich culture of OUf community of Logan Square, showcasing local artists. 

It is the generous support of good corporate citizens like Comcast that enables us to do continue 

to provide for the needs of the communities we both serve. 

We hope that you share our enthusiasm for this merger as we believe it will be beneficial to the 

communities where Corneas! has already shown their support. 

Sincerely, 

Dawn Marie Galtieri 

Executive! Artistic Director 

J 

3429 West Diversey Avenue, Suite 208, Chicage, IL 60647 773.182,9471 fax 773.782.9478 voiceofthecHy,org 
182 


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June i J. 2.010 

flt:\:t:1YtlU & 1f!~Pt:\:ttl(J 

JU~! 2 : 20fO 

FCC i hy,i fioom 

The- HOO{pnsbJ~ Julila Gcn8Chowski 

Choim .. " Yr::deral CommuniCi!tiollS Commission 

44' lZIII StreeI,SW 

Washington, OC 2OS.54 

R<: M1Hlocket No. 14).56 

iWICIMICI 

WIST CENtRAl, MUNlCI~AL c.ONn.aINCE 

rooom ........ 9uIIdi1iN ,.,.Gmw,.llflO11t 

",,1Il8I4S»100""1OII45>411l1 

-.~ 

As 1M Ex~utive Dir«:lor of the West Cenual Municipal ConfctmCf. r am writing you to support 

ComQlSt lind iu p81Ultnhjp proposal 'With NBC UniVttSaJ. In west Coot County, JUinois, we value 

Comcast's in\lmnlcnt in oor communities,. 

The Wrn Cc:nfnJ Municipal CoofCf'tDC¢ (WCMC) WflS. founded: In t 980 to serve 10QlJ munieipaJities. 

TodDy, 37 wmmtmities Joc:ated in Cook COUtu)' pwtipat~ and oor aurtllt populatiort of r'IlQl'C than 

5'0.000.is: divCf$C: tnd growing, O!.Jr mission is to fO$:1g" ml.lnil:lptll ~tion DJtd ooMmuniQlUon. 

devc-Iop SONtiooJ. Md I:ldv~tc cDmmon intemu at the county, stlte and fcdcrnl levels of 

gonmmenl.. 

Comcast ;1 a longtime Affilia.lC Member of the: WCMC. Comtast $ijP9Of1$ our oonual initiatives. 

spoIIsors ch.ariuable ~eJ1U: - aU of wbkb positively impact the quaUIjI of Hrc ill the communities we 

lep«Smt. 

Furth,rmorc. Comc.ut stands out 11$ a membd' of 1he business ~mUSlity in w~ Cook County. The I:Qmpany employs hundred3 of loeel n:sidans. proviik1 valuable serYtce5 sudl as higb-~eed Inteme1 

lb_ k;cp out busine53CS eompttltivr: .and ~CICd. and plays an active ro1c in SUpporthlg aI«1 

srowingth<: intruuuctu ... rwest CooltC ... ty. In (0<1.111. <ompany bas inv<Slcd billions oJl around 

tbc state oflflinoi3 to improve m- a)OJmunicalioM infrutru~ and publi1~ (.t:(;'hnology offerings. 

At die WCMC, our focus is tI1e futurt. Quite simply. 00f objcttivc is to provide a mccllnnism by 

whil;h communities CM coaJc::su and coopcn1lc in the: pubJi(: mwRSl Comcast is. iJutl'umenta! in lhis 

vi3ion. We flrmty believe that CornRA", proposal to join with NBC Universal wiU funhcr s1rmgthen 

Wesl Coot. County and tbc people of llHnois.. Therefore. we II$k dIe FCC lQ approve lhe prop;PSa1 

bef ... you. 

Ex~tive 

West Central Direetor 

~~ Municipal Confc:re:ncc 

cc: Comm.iss.joner Michael J. CopP.S 

Commissioner Robc:" M. McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Oybom 

Commissjoner Meredith Auwe:J1 Mer 
183 


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WESTERN UTILITY CONTRACTORS, INC. 

2565 Palmer Avenue 

University Park, IL 60466 

Telephone: 700-235-1400 

Facsimile: 700-235-1410 

The Honorable Julius Genachowski 

Chainnan 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street, SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

April 30, 2010 

Re: MB Docket No. 10-56 

Dear Chairman Genachowski: 

I am writing in support of Com cast's proposed partnership with NBC Universal, 

currently under review by the FCC. As President of Western Utility Contractors 

Inc., located in the Chicago area, i am familiar with Comcast's role as an 

economic generator, jobs provider and leader in telecommunications. 

In the past decade, Comcast has invested billions of dollars in technology and 

infrastructure here in Illinois. These investments have changed the Internet 

experience for millions of customers by providing super fast speeds, reliable 

service, enhanced security, and expanded online content. As a result, high speed 

broadband service is available throughout Comcast's footprint in the state, 

helping to connect communities of all sizes and providing small and midsize 

businesses the competitive internet service necessary to compete in our 

technology driven economy. 

Comcast has also created new and convenient ways for customers to access the 

communications tools, entertainment and content they want, when and where 

they want it. The company provides superior On Demand and integrated DVR 

services as well as an excellent HD experience with many programming 

choices. 

Building for the future, TODAY! 
184 


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• Page2 

IfComcast brings the same type of dynamic change to its partnership with NBC 

Universal, I am confident the company will find ever more ways to improve the 

telecommunications industry in this ever evolving marketplace. I urge your 

approval of this important venture. 

Sincerely, 

)j!;;:f~ President E ~s 

CC: Commissioner Michael J. Copps 

Commissioner Robert McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker 
185 


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WESTSIDE 

wMc 

MINISTERS COALITION Rev. Dr. Lewis Flowers Chairman. Dr. Phafcse Binion President. Blalre Wallace. Director 

The Honorable Julius GenachowskJ. 

Chairman 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street, SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

June 18, 2010 

R,,; MB Docket No. 10·56 

Dear Chainnan Genachowski: 

As the Chairman of the Westside Ministers Coalition in Chicago, Illinois, 

I am writing to express my support for the partnership venture of Comcast 

and NBC Universal, two well-respected organizations with deep ties to our 

City. 

Established in 1978, the Westside Ministers Coalition (WMC) collaborates with 

a network of organizations and service providers to improve the Westside 

communities of Chicago. Our focus areas include affordable, safe housing, 

community and economic development and the educational advancement of our 

young people. 

Comcast is an esteemed partner and has invested its resources to support the 

young men and women of the Westside. For example, it offers our youth the 

opportunity to gain valuable work experience, and provides comprehensive job 

training to prepare them for placement in the field. Young people work alongside 

Comcast employees, who mentor and train them. The teenagers learn new skills, 

build self-confidence and develop strong bonds with their mentors. 

WMC is grateful for Comcast's investment in our youth. Comcast understands 

that our approach to problem solving is hands-on, and it provides the resources 

and opportunities for WMC to fulfill its mission. 

The Westside Ministers Coalition recommends the prompt approval of the 

partnership proposal to join these two admirable companies. 

Sincerely, 

Rev. Dr. Lewis Flowers, Chairman 

Westside Ministers Coalition 

CC: Commissioner Michael J. Copps 

Cowmissioner Robert M. McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker 

5308 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60651 Phone (773)261-0207 Fax 773)261-0214 

"Making A Better Community For All People" 
186 


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ChainDaa 

Fedcr.I Commllllkati .... Co_ 

+45 12th Stmt, SW 

Wasl!lngton. DC 20554 

1"",11,2010 

Rc: MB Docket No. 10.56 

Dear ChaInn;m Genachows\d: 

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WhIIiJl& IDdioDa.Is be"", of the annual i'IeroeI.FesIInI. Comcast bas SlIjIpOrted our festIm s1m. 

2002. I admire ill support (or l-' COIIIIIIUIJl!les, aod I hope,..,.. w!U approve its request to join 

wIIh NBC Un/lloruI. 

Our PiI!f08l FO$IIval aJlmw us to cdebnte our Polish heritage wIUh! paldna a lillie rue at ourselves. 

We 

~ 

haft women drem:d up libour grlllldmolhers (busllas. as we say) In housocoats and La __ brlpde stnIttl!roup toWllwith Wldais aDd SO/::bollllke our dads. W. 

£Yell have WIIl1clD& lalldq pasuleS; IfnIIR& danclna dump!lqs; aDd • Polish Prillcess wIIo puts 

CInd<Tell .. snow WhIte and 51"",11& IIenty all III sllallle. 

But tile Plerost Festival Is \'Dllrethan JIDOd run; It also brIDJs more than 200.000 visltorlto 

WhItIDa'. retail d/mkt. TIle fooctMIlIas pllMlllllat10nal visibility for Wltitlq. aDd lias beeII 

ratured 011 tha Foed Natwo'*o th.1'rawl ChaIIlIoI and fnlveIodty_ 0pnIh WfJlft<ey aI$o has 

taken note - raDldllll tile fosmral amoaatllt To" SeYea Pest1Y1lsofFoed la 2008 - and tilt Lab 

Collll\Y Co_I1011 " VlslIOl'IIIuru" II ... twtce named tile Pletoal PesIi¥a\ tile Event o/tile Year. 

Comcast's $uppoft lias been _1IaI formIC S\lII8 tills fallvalrlrry year. bri"llna ruI>ust _mil: acUvII,y and Iote of eoocIl'uII to ___ Ity. Co_r. SII"port of our festival mows tllattllt tOmpanytlllnks of itseIf2ll1 mmllmnf the WIIIIIDa -iI)'. 

I ellCOurap you and your reuow <OlIIIIlisslollm to Ij>pra ... COmast's requestlD join with NBC 

UnI ... noI, beca ... tills". company wIIose S\IIXtIS pays dIvIdlHlds hi. the tOmm"all1es In ,..bleb it 

~busIneso. 

CC: Commissioner Mithael J. CGpps 

CollUlllsslonor Robert M. McDowdI 

ColllmlSSlcII.or ),11 ..... 11 ClyWrJI 

CommlsslOMr Meredltll Attwall Bake' 
187 


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<h(lU(l Will County Governmental league 

WCGL 3180 Theodore Stree~ Suite 101 • Joliet. Illinois 60435 

I'rel#dent: 

JOE COOK 

Ch;:llnnai1on 

Vice Pr •• ldettt 

ROGER CLAAR 

Bolingbrook 

.... ,.."'Y wtlUAM BORGO 

Man~1tlln 

TreasuIW 

MICHAEL TURK 

joliet 

Dinctors: 

JIM HOllAND 

Frankfon 

JOHNNOAK 

Romeovelle 

lAWRENCE: WALSH 

County of WllJ 

ROBERT BARBER 

Beecher 

KURT CARROll 

Shorewood 

'fHnbers: 

Aurora 

Beocher 

Bofingbroolc 

Bra_ 

Ch~on 

Cual CIty 

Cres\HIIl 

Crete 

DiamDOtI 

Elwood 

Frankforl 

Homer Glen 

JotLCt 

lemonl 

Lockport 

Mant\al1an 

MlOOOka 

Mokena 

Mon .. 

Napel'vdfe 

NewletlOx 

Ol1andPark 

Peotone 

Plamfleld 

Rockdate 

Romll'o',,'dle 

Shornwood 

StogtW 

Tmle)l Par1t 

Unl'olersityPark 

WilmlOglon 

WoodrIdge 

County ofWtJt 

June 1O,2(}1O 

The Honorable Julius Genachowski 

Chairman 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street, SW 

WashinslOA, DC 20554 

Re: MB Docket No. 10-56 

Dear Ch.irm ... Genachowski: 

Received & Irnspected 

JUN 212010 

FCC w:Jii Room 

On behalf of the members of the Will County Governmental League (WeGl), I am 

writing to provide my support of the Comeas! and NBC Uni.ors," partnership proposal 

and to~ommend Corneas! for its long-time eommitmentlo oor organiulion .nd Will 

County, Illinois. 

WCGL isacooneil or go" emmen! comprised 002 municipalities and the County of 

Will, Illinois. WCGL provides a forum for members to discuss and resolve regional 

issues, such as transportation, lesislation~ and intergo"Jcmmental relations... 

As the Executive Director of WCGL, I am fortunate to work closely with Comeasl', 

Noreen Ligino-Kubinski and Tony SignoreUa, whose expertise and dedication enhance 

our membership. CorneaS! .Iso 'PORSOrs our evenlS throughoutlhc year and actively 

supports fundraising activities, public works projects and the ,",n-profit programs that are 

importantto residents throughout Will County. 

CorneaS! has played. role in the suce." of Will County and WCGL is encouraged by 

what a partnership oftwo SUch highly regarded organiutions as Comcastand NBC 

Universal could achie"e. We therefore recommend that the FCC approve the proposed 

union ofComc.51 and NBC Universal"" expeditiously as possible. 

SinCerelY'~ 

/ ' 

Ste.e~igIeY. Exec::ve Direct. 

Will County Governmental League 

Jolie~ Illinois 

ceo Commissioner Michael J. Copps 

Commissioner Robert M. McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker 

.----. ---.. --_. __ .... _-----_._-- ._--_._ .. --- P: 815-729·3535 F: 
188 


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Youth Conservation Corps 221 North Genesee Street 

Waukegan, IL 60085-4221 

Phone: (047) 623-11900 

Fax, {847} 623-11909 

www.youthconservatlon.org 

A 

YouthBuild 

I GI I 

Challenging Youth .•. Changing Perceptions 

April 16, 2010 

To the FCC Chairman: 

Julius Genachowski 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12"' Street, S.w. 

Washington DC 

RE: MB DOcket 10·56 

Dear Chairman Genachowsld: 

Youth Conservation Corps is grateful for pes! contributions and support from Corneas!. 

Funding from Comeas! has allowed VCC to beller serve its youth and provide 

opportunities for their development. 

YCC supports the joint venture bel\Vlren Comeas! and GE to acquire NBC Universal. 

yee fully supports the further development of Corneast as a company that provides 

qualHy services to "5 customers, while supporting the communities which H Is a part of. 

Comeast has provided over $50,000 In grants for YCC, which has allOwed YCC to provide addillonal computers, GED software, and classroom audio visual equipment to 

strengthen the current GED program. Additionally, Ihese fUnds haveassiSled in 

developing a leadership curriculum and materials and supplies for leadamhip training. 

CorneaSl also provided thousands of dollars worth of advertlslilg for vee by including us 

on their local newsmakers broadcast. This support nas nad a si!lnllicant impact, since 

yeC attained Hs hignestoutcomes in Us history wHhln the past year. 

Youth Conservation Corps (Vee) is a non profit service agency thai serves young edults 

in Lake County by offering life sklHstreinlng and educatiOn, community service 

opportunities, counse~ng, leadership development, construction lrainlngand follow up 

services. 

We hope for a continued partnership with Comcast and wish you the best in your recent 

business endeavors. 

"?'ft.;J! (0 --'J B~~\ Executiva DJI'I~ctor 
189 


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,ROOF 

utRECTORS 

EXECUTIVE 

COMMITTEE 

JamesKaul'lnan Pm,""" 

TQfTlHa!let1 

Karen HUl1t 

Soon HtJl'wl'tz 

R"""Se9>ll 

MEMBERS 

MarianneBrad\ey 

MaP! Cla~ 

JeffCoiJflY 

RodooyOanieb. 

NlrwDollnelly 

J"",phFOIlalJB" 

Aaam Goodman 

Daniell"'lolr,<ell 

Ann Jenoott _Kamlll 

JolInKoonedy 

0<. __ V ..... G-.><iI1g -Stiiemlan 

Amy-

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G!tniS~ 

NanqTra'lef """,- (lSORV 

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WilffamJ. Banis ._- i'I:n.Altul_ 

Gajleea-n 

John Chapman 

F_GwgeClm>n!s 

RichamOIlY 

OonnaDowdie 

MarSooOlJnIle<t< 

Phft~F."", 

MarlaFelchM 

Wl!Ia"'F<Ied~ndeI 

Oa ..... ~ 

BOIHIUfgeIing 

callerineHa~ """"",""J_ 

Tenenal Jmkm 

f'aggJt<i>g 

PaulA LelllMn 

Willarn1.ogan 

BomtieL,.. 

--.<redM:Oougal 

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--

F""'"""", _B.P_ 

J,e,PrftzlU)f 

HonE"'Y"Radon 

HonJ_~ 

r"roIlt!eSalrert 

.CUTlVE DIRECTOR 

S><ollaSml~.M.S. 

"ie 

VQuth. Jol:) center 

April JO.2010 

To lite FCC Chairman: 

Julius Genacbowski 

Chairman 

Federal Communications Commission 

44$ 12" Street. S.W. 

Washington. DC 20554 

no: MB 00<1<011(1..56 

Dear Chainnon Genachowski: 

of Evanston In< 

'" UnHoo Wall AgeOl;V 

A Nol·fol-Pwfit Employmcnl .... g.ency 

I am writing litis letter in support afllte proposed Comcast-NBC Universal joint ventU/l!. W. have partnered 

with Comeast for tbe pas14 years i •• variety of wnys and have always found them to be a strong supporter of 

our organization and advocale for issues relating to youth employment. I am confident that a joint venture 

between Comcast and NBC Universal would only enhance their abiliti .. to support not-for-profit 

organizations such as too Youlh Job Center of Evanston. 

Comoast bas demonstrn1ed lIteir support in • variety of ways. Initially. !hey supported lite Y JC's summer 

tutors program; a program for 14-15 y .... o!<h woo work ... teacber..,istants in Evanston School District 65's 

>UmmeI'school program_ They lItan provided. lit .... year gntnI, ''''aling $45,000. to support our Strategic 

Corporale Alliances program. The SCA program serves the most diffi.uft to employ population: 18-Z5 year 

olds willt one or mo ... harrier to employment including lock of. OED, challenges willt literacy. being a single 

parent, having a criminal record and more. seA enrolls panicipants in an intense, ) .. week job readiness 

program which teaches both hard and soft job-readiness skills. After "grn<iualing" the three-week class. SCA 

clients work willt • job counsel ... to find living wnge employment with be""fits. Y IC job counselo", continue 

to mentor seA clients tOr up to a year after they are placed in jobs. 

In addition to providing much needed finoncialsupport, Comcast bas also nssisled too YJC willt its annual 

gala. Last yeOT, • Comc .. ! employ •• served on lite planning committee adding. great deal to !he planning 

process including securing our keynote speaker and several silent auction items. Comcast elso has been s 

financial supporter of our aM .. 1 eVent .ud has filled tabl .. willt Corneast employees. 

~use we are a )'outh-servingjob placement organiz:ation~ Comcast has. also provided us with job leads at a 

variety of love Is. And r ... Uy, Corneast has invited YJC staff to appear on lIteinelevisio. program. 

Community Maners. This provided US- with an excellent opportunity to promote our organization to a wide 

range ofviewcrs. 

Than!< you for tha opportunity 10 express my ,upport aftha Comcast-NBC Uoivmal joint venture and. 

specifically, 10 expound upon the support !hat bas already been provided by ComC3S1_ Please call or e-mail me 

willt addilio questions. Thonks. again. 

i 

Development 

~injJ.;~ Director, Youllt Job Center of Evanston 

1114 Church 

Evanston, IL 60201 

Khoopingamer/1i)youthiQbcei!lllf.&l8 

847-864-5627 

~~~::;" 1114 Church Street Evanston. Il 60201 • 847·864-5627 • FAX 847-<164-3098. www.youlhjobcenler.org 
190 


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COMMITlrrs· 

CHA lRPERSON: 

lHO·TGCHNO!'oCY 

V!CrzCHAfRPERSON: 

lNfRASTRUCTURE 

~tEMBER: 

EXECUTIVE 

INSURANCE 

INTERNATIONAL TRADE & COMM.ERCE 

MASS TlMNSIT 

MARIA A. "TONI" BERRIOS 

STATE REPRESENTATIVE 

The Honorable Julius Gcnachowski 

Chairman 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street, SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

June 16, 2010 

Rc: MB Docket No. 10·56 

Dear Chairman Genachowski: 

39TH DISTRICT 

o 290·SSTRAJ'Tl1N nIH! DING 

SPRfNcrmLD,IL62706 

PH: 217-55li !O32 

FAX; 217-558-7112 

o 21lSH N. \·vESTFRN AVL 

C'HlCACO, H ll01147 

rl!: 773"23.5-3939 

EI\X; 77)·278·254! 

111 the midst of the worst recession in 50 years, I am always pleased when a company continues 

to prosper in the Chicago area. As a State Representative in Chicago, I am \\~'iting in support of 

Comcast, which has made 11 strong impact on the Chicago area, and request that you permit 

Comca.~t to join with NBC Universal. 

Corneast has opened several large caU centers in the Chicagoland area. In addition to paying 

property taxes and payroll taxes, our City and State benetit from the excellent salaries Comeas! 

pays its employees and their SUppOl1 of our many minority cOlllmunities. 

ComeaSl has shown ilselfto be a comlllunity palmer that becomes involved in the life of (Jur city, 

The Yancey Boys and Oirls Club in the Englewood area of Chicago recently reopened and has 

become a magnet Ihr young people in the neighborhood. The building had been abandoned some 

years ago and was in need of refurbishment. Only a lew weeks ago, on Comeast Cares Day, 150 

COllleast volunteers helped completely rehabilitate the building. Some scraped paint and prepped 

jnt~rior and exterior walls, while others painted, landscaped and planted l1owers. 

COnleast also enabled the !Joys and Girls Club to sel up a computer lab. COnlcast techs wired the 

building for cable, phone and internet services. Further, Comeast atlI10unced that it will provide 

free service and computers for the Club. This is consistent with Comeast's longstanding support 

of the urca's minority communities. 
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We in Chicagoland view Comcasl as a corporate friend that conlributes to the city and its 

residents, while providing excellent entertainment and broadband services for its subscribers. J 

urge you to approve its plan to join with NBC UniversaL 

Maria Antonia.Berrios 

IL Stale Representative, 39th District 

CC: Commissioner Michael J. Copps 

Commissioner Robert M. McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clybnrn 

Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker 
192 


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SPrtINGFlE.LD OFF1CE: 

1 OJA STATE HOUSE 

Sf'RINGFlfW, IlUN01S 62706 

PHONE: 217nS2-0052 

FAX: 2171782-4079 

ILLiNOIS STATE SENATE 

CHRIS LAUZEN 25TH SE:'IIA TE DISTkIti 

June 18,2010 

The Honorable ,Julius Genachowski 

Chairman 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street, SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

Re: MB Docket No. 10-56 

Dear Chairman Genachowski: 

DISTRICT OfflCE: 

52 W DOWNER PL, STE 20 I 

AURORA, ILLINOIS 60560 

PHONE: 6301264-2334 

FAX: 6301264-1566 

ADMIN@LAUZEN.COM 

In recent years, I have heard and seen much hand ringing and nay saying about the 

increasing concentration of media in our country and the consequent risks to free 

speech. They have got to be kidding us. 

We have never had access to more information from more different sources than we 

have today, On our televisions, cable systems and on the Internet there are near 

limitless voices, hundreds of channels espousing every possible permutation of political 

view, social perspective and moral imperative. On any cable system nearly every religion 

known to man has a forum to profess their beliefs. Every political persuasion has a 

voice, sometimes reasoned, occasionally shrill and episodically absolutely irrational. 

Nothing in the proposed Comcast and NBC merger will diminish this diversity of voices 

and it wi11likely lead to greater distribution of many voices over the airwaves than now 

exists. 

I urge you to approve the Com cast and NBC merger as it is in the public interest. 

CC: Commissioner Michael J, Copps 

Commissioner Robelt M. McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker 

Very sincerely, 

Christopher 

~~ .r. Lauzen 
193 


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IrAL ASSEMBLY 51'ATE 'OF' Il.UNOIS 

COMMITTEES: 

CHAIRPERSON, 

AGRICULTURE.& CONSERVATION 

AFFORDABLE ALZHEIMER'S SERVICES 

ELECTRIC GEN.ERATlON & COMMEnCE 

ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY 

HEALTH CARE LICENSES 

LASOR 

VETERANS.' AffAIRS 

Received & Inspected BRANDON W. PHELPS 

JUN Z 4 ZOIO 

FCC ",,,II Room 

The Honorahlc Julius Genachowski 

Cl1aimlan 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street, SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

June 15,2010 

Re: MB Docket No. 10·56 

Dear Chairman Gcnachowski: 

STATe REPRESENTATIVE 

11 S""" PISTRtCT 

SPRINGFIELD OFFlCE: 

2.75*S STRATTON BLOG 

SF'R1NGFIELo. IL 62.706 

2\7/762-5131 

217/SS7-0521 FAX 

DISTRICT OFFICE: 

2. N, VINE: STREET. 5TH FLOOR 

HARRISBURG,IL 62.946 

6t8/25,3·4IB9 

518/2S3-3136FAX 

With great pride, I serve in the Illinois House of Representative on behalf of the people'l11 the 

118'h legislative district - a district that encompasses a large area of downstate Illinois. Like 

other parts of the state and the country, we are battling our way out of the recession. Internet 

technology is more important here than ever, which is why f support rhe partnership between 

Com cast and NBC Universal. 

Quire simply, access to broadband is critical for our residents and businesses. The internet 

facilitates connection to vital reSOUrces like business to business information,job listings, 

employment training programs and more. Comcast understands this. The company has invested 

billions of dollars to upgrade infrastructure including in communities that are far removed from 

lIlinois' major metropolitan areas. Broadband access now connects ll1inois residents to the 

resources and business opportunities necessary (0 survive in today's economy 

To further demonstrate hs commitment to better the communities it serves, Comeast provides 

schools and libraries with cotlrtesy inteme! service. The company also invests in digi!alliterac), 

initiatives in order to close the digital divide for young people in our communities. 

nttVCLEO PAPER, SOVtlEAN INKS 
194 


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For these reasons, I encourage you to approve the pannership proposa! eurrently before your 

panel. The union of these two well-respected, innovative organizations will no doubt be positive 

tor TlIinois and our country. 

Sincerely, 

Brandon W. Phelps, 

IL House of Representatives 

liSth Legislative District 

CC: Commissioner Michael 1. Copps 

Commissioner Roben M. McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker 
195 


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June 15,2010 

The Honorable Julius Genachowski 

Chairman 

(.")l&edtM~ 

Objcl~rur~lD .. "b,o 

~ 

Received & Inspected 

JUt-! 21 ZOla 

FCC 1 .... 11 Room 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th StIHt, SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

Re: MB Docket No. 10·56 

Dear Chairman Genachowski: 

It is with great pride that I serve as Mayor of the City ofSpringlield, Illinois. In that capacity, 

I am writing to urge your support for the proposed joinl partnership between Comeasl and 

NBC Univcnal, based on Comcast's impressive history of innovating new technologies, 

providing jobs ami revenue, and dedicating ilselfto meaningful involvement in our 

communities. 

Comcast's efforts have helped Springfield take advantage ofthc: latest broadband technologies 

shaping the global economy, which are key when battling back from the recession. In the past 

decade. Comcast bas made significant infrastructure investments throughout tIK: state, 

committina billions of dollars to faeilitate the latest technologies. Those investmcllts have 

brought high speed broadband service throughout Illinois, enabling small businesses in 

Springfield to 5U¢ceed in an increasingly competitive marketplace. In short, Comcast has 

delivered on its promise of system upgrades, better cable service, and ever-improving 

broadband inlettlet scMce. 

Additionally, Comcast has II demonstrated Reord of outstanding corporate eitizenship. As 

bead oflbl! Illinois Municipal Leasue. I ean attest to the fact that Comcast has consistently 

lived up to tho commitments it makes to support local organizations and clwities here in 
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Page 2 

Chairman Gcnaebowski 

Springfield and in other communities across the state. Comcast also gives back to local 

communities by investing hundreds ofiliousands of dolllllli each year in courtesy service to 

libraries, municipal buildings and schools. Providing internet service to libraries and schools is 

of particular importance. It is II significant step towards closing the digital divide that stands 

between many children in underprivileged communities Ilnd a successful future. 

I am hopeful you will make tOO right choice by approving this venture. 

Sincerely. 

~9[}~ 

Tim Davlin 

Mayor 

cc: Commissioner Michael J. Copps 

Commissioner Robert M. McDowell 

Commissioner Migncn C{vbum 

Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker 
197 


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M;lym 

~ J.: \It; It JOHNSON 

Village Trustees 

Village Gerlt 

IUnITll :-'1. I\fH;AN 

VillaGe Manage.r .... 

NA:-lCY J. ClAI';-'IX 

I'A11U;-' L. FmClITER 

JEFFREY C FRANKE 

SAMUH. L LISSNER 

JMII" 1\ PfTRI lVWr\H);-.IP R, RWvlMEL 

April 14,2010 

Chainnan Julius Genachowski 

Commissioner Michael J. Copps 

Commissioner Robert M. McDoweH 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street. S.W. 

Washington. DC 20554 

RE: MB Docket 10·56 

Dear Chaimlan and Commissioners of the FCC: 

(:HI'US rROCH>-1() 

Electronically Submitted 

1 am the Mayor of Elk Grove Village, Illinois. We are a large and prosperous community 

located in Northwestern suburban Chicago. 

1 want to take this opportunity to advise you of Comcast's strong presence in Elk Grove Village. 

illinois and encourage you 10 favorably consider Comcast's partnership with NBCU. 

Elk Grove has been served by Comeas! since 2002, when the company assumed control of the 

franchise to provide cabie television services within our Village. Comeast also provides high 

speed data and IP based telephone services in the community. 

Overall. Comcast is a strong and desirable corporate citizen. They continually strive to enhance 

their products and services in our community. Likewise, Comcast had committed !o provide 

strong customer service to our residents and businesses. Moreover, Comcasl is committed to 

assisting the community in many differenl fCi"ets. 

Notably, Comcast has been a strong supporter of EGTV, our community PEG channel. EGTV 

creates over ! 50 original programs each year and produces hundreds of hours a f original 

programming each year, including important meetings of the community. which are carried 

exclusively by Comcast. 

Comcas! also supports many important community activities including: 

Contributing active supporter of the Alexian Brothers' Tour of Elk Grove event, which is 

America's premiere international cycling race; 

YOI WEIUNGTON AVENUE' ELK (;ROV1, VILLAGE. UJ.lNOlS' 60007·~'Pf Capite rac'd-L 

TELEPHONE (H'7\ • .\')·J900' FAX (Rn .\)7·,()44' Tn!) (R47) 3S7"mMS! ABCDE ' 

ww\\',dkgrl)vc·')]"t~ 
198 


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Federal Communications Commission April 12, 2010 

• When our community lost 4 soldiers to the war on terror, Comeas( stepped forward to 

support our loeallieart of a Marine Foundation, which is dedicated to assisting injured 

soldiers and their families from all branches of the U.S. armed forces. 

• Comeast annually provides several $1,000 college scholarships to college bound senior 

high school students in our community; and 

• Comeast volunteers have assisted in cleaning local forest preserves, creeks, and parks in 

the community. 

Comcast is continually a strong member of the community. We have found that they operate 

with a high degree of integrity; the company abides by its commitments. With that in mind, we 

believe Comeast's partnership with NBCU will produce positive benefits, and r would certainly 

encourage you to favorably consider approving Comeast's partnership with NBCU. 

c: Board of Trustees 

Village Manager 

J 

be: Chris Nelson, Manager of Government Affairs, Comeast 
199 


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79TH orSTAtGT 

$TATE CAPITOL 

P,O. BOX :)0014 

I..ANSING, MI olB!i(J!H'5)4 

PIiOJiE 15t7) 313·1403 

TOll·fREE: (681'\) a56-007g. 

fAX. 1517) 37J-3652 

MICHIGAN I-lOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 

JOHN M. PROOS 

E·MA.ll. ionnprOOs@OOoSQ,mi.gov 

ONJ~~~ WI1'~~itr~·COOVprotJS.him 

The Honorable Julius Genachowski 

Chainnan 

federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street, SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

Re: MB Docket No. 10-56 

Dear Chainnan Genachowski: 

STATE REPRESENTATIVE 

APPRDPRIAT10NS COM':r..tTfl;e 

SUOOOMMJnEES' 

CORRECTIONS 

IMINOR)"r, IIICE. CHAIFr] 

HUMAN $E~""ICE$ 

JO!NT CAPITAL OUllAV 

ENERGY A.NO 'TECMNOlOGY 

/Is the representative of Michigan's 79'" State Legislative District, I am writing to express my support for the 

proposed partnership of Corneas! and NBC Universal and to encourage FCC approval of the union. Servicing over 

1.2 million Michigan residents, Comeast is no! only a significant force in our business community but a good 

corporate citizen of OUT state. 

As former Vice Chairman and curren! member of the State Energy and Technology Committee, I am well aware of 

Corneast's commitment to Michigan and its role in the economy of our slale, Comeast is one of our largest 

c-mpioyers and taxpayers - contributing over $300 million in wages, heallh care benefits and payroll taxes in 2008 

alone, Corneas! has also made major technology Il,nd infrastructure lmprovements in Michigan, totaling over $2,-(') 

billion to date. Now, more than ever, Michigan needs businesses like Corneas! to continue growing, thriving and 

innovating, 

I am also highly impressed by Comeas!', charitable nature. The company provides local libraries, schools and 

municipal buildings with courtesy Internet service - something th.1 not only keeps our people connected but keeps 

coslS down for our institutions. Additionally, Corneas! provides public service announcements to important causes. I 

have personally filmed one such spot, promoting childhood rending programs and initiatives within my home 

district. 

For all of the above reasons, I would again like to express my strong suppon for the partnership of Comcast and 

NBC Universal. 

~resentative John 

~~ PrODS 

79 Legislative District 

Michigan House of Representatives 

NOATHERN a.RRIEN COUNTY AREAS REPRESENTED: --------~----___ _ 

cmt:$: BENTON HARBol'l 6F\IOGMAI';, COlOMA. SAINT JOSEf'f-4. WATI:RVlJET 

TOWnSHIPS: tlAIIHIR"(lG£. £IENTON CHflnrEQ, COlOMA CHAHrEA HM.a.R LAKE CHARlO!., UNCOUoj {;HAATEn • .ROYAUON, SM!ljT XlSr:rH C!iM'lTER SDOVS. WAtERVLIET 

VILlAGES: SHOnfHAM. Srr\ll;NS"I~I.E 

,~, 
200 


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Ilucelved & Inspected 

,:";;'1 Z 4Z010 

FCC \1,\.,,1 Roum 

COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT 

CITY OF SPRINGfIELD, ILLINOIS 

The Honorable julius Genachowski 

Chainnan 

Federal Communications Commission 

44512thStreet,SW 

Washington,DC20554 

June 18,2010 

Re: MB Docket No. 10-56 

DearChainnan Genachowski: 

ERNIE SLOTI' AG 

DIRECTOR 

As Communications Director of the City of Springfield, illinois, I am Integrally involved in the operation of 

our government and public access channels. I appreciateComcast's investment in and support ofourcommunity, and I am hopeful that you will grantComcast's requesttopartnerwith NBC Universal. 

Springfield is the center of illinois pOlitical activity. Notonlyis Springfield the Illinois state capital, but the 

city, hometo more than 120,000 residents,also serves as the seat of Sang am on County government. 

Com cast not only provides Springfield the channel capacity for our local governmentand public access stations butalsoprovides the capital supportto purchase state-oHhe-artproduction equipment. Furthermore, 

Comcastis responsive and helpful when we run into production or system challenges, and weare very 

grateful for itsregularassistance with trouble shooting. 

In Springfield, we believe public a ccess programming is a critical means for communicatingwith our constituents, Com cast' s support demonstrates that the company has the interests of our community in mind. 

1 encourage the FCC to approve the Comcastand NBC Universal union. Thank you for the opportunity to 

weigh In on thismatter. 

Si~, 

d~~- E~g Communication Director 

CC: Commissioner Michael}. Copps 

Commissioner RobertM. McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner MeredithAttwell Baker 

315 MUNICIPAL CENTER EAST • SPRINGFIELD. IWNOIS 62701 • (217) 789-2235. (217) 789-2422 

l'b. (ll GGpl~i r~-'O·d .. Jlli __ U~t {,Be DE 
201 


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ITY ~CIL OFC AGO 

COutliC 1,;- SER 

WALTER BURNETT, JR. A).Dt.F1M,o,I-!. 27TI-I WARD 

1463 W, CHIC-'QO Avnolue 

CH1CAOO. IU.lNO!S 60(J22 

TEll'lPl-\O",et 312~432~le95 

FAX; 312~43Z-1Q.49 

E~M"'!L: wbumottOeltyotchlcago.org 

Junel4,2010 

Chairman Julius Genachowski 

Commissioner Michael J, Copps 

Commissioner Robert M. McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith At1well Baker 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12'" Street SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

RE: MB Docket No.1 0-56 

CIT .... HAL\., RoCJM 300 

121 NORTH L..,s...I.I.,t'S'I'nI:ET 

CHIc,A.GO, tl.L!Ntll$ 60&02 

TELI!PHOfoII1: 312"~744-e124 

F.oJ(: .312~14~~64e9 

Dear Chairman Genachowski and C()mmissioners: 

COMMmEE MEMBERSHIPS 

1Sl",IlQlAI. Evl'I'fTtII ",NO CUI.TURI" ... AI"I"I\.IRI!!II 

(Ct1AIR.M"'~) 

BUU.-1J1N"o5 

HE<>.lTH 

POliCE AND FllHi 

f understand that you are reviewing the proposed Comcast NBC Universal joint venture and as part of that 

review are seeking input on how these companies operate in the community. 1 want to Jet you know that 

as a Chicago Alderman representing over 65,000 peop!et Corn east has proven to be a strong corporate 

partner. They have assisted with funding and materiels for my annual Stay In School Picnic and have 

supported our local lob Fairs with funding and sending HR recruirers. 

Comcasfs commitment to the constituency that we both serve has b~en consistent and much appreciated 

over the years. 

As Comcast completes this proposed NBC Un iversal joint venture, we look for.vard to our continued 

partnership with them as we continue 10 have 11 positive impact in the community. 

i appreciate you taking the time to consider the viewpoint ora local official familiar with Comcast's 

commitment to my community as you consider the local impact of this proceeding. 

Most sinc.erely, 

Alderman, 

~t~~ 27": ~;"d U 

Will/b. 

Q; Copts. rec'd W. 

ABGDE -. -
202 


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Forest Preserve District of DuPage County 35580 Napervlflc Road • Wheaton, JL 60189-8761 . 630,9317200 • Fax 630.933.7204 • TIV BOO.526.0Ss7 

June 14, 2010 

The Honorable Julius Genachowski 

Chairman 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street, SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

Re: MB Docket No, 10-56 

Dear Chairman Genachowski: 

On behalf of the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, Illinois, I submit this 

letter endorsing the proposed partnership between Com cast and NBC UniversaL 

Corneas! is our partner in the effort to preserve and maintain the forest preserves 

for future generations to experience and enjoy. Established in 1915, the Forest 

Preserve District of DuPage County is 25,000 acres of individual forest preserves, 

rivers and streams and over a hundred miles of trails. OUf mission is to acquire 

and preserve lands capable of being restored for the citizens of DuPage County. 

Comcast's commitment to the Fares! Preserve District of DuPage County is multifaceted. I have personally appeared on Comcas! Newsmakers to spread the word 

about our mission and our work. We are proud to partner with Comcast each year 

for their annual day of volunteerism - Comeast Cares Day. Together, we have 

mobilized hundreds of volunteers to beautify and improve our parks, farms, and 

forest preserves. On April 24, 2010, volunteers worked to plant flowers, spread 

mulch, pain! sheds, pick-up debris and clean trails. Comcast is the ideal corporate 

and community partner. Its support through volunteerism, media and charitable 

works are woven into the fabric of our communities, 

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County requests the FCC approve the 

plan to join Comeast and NBC Universal. Comeas! is an exemplary community 

partner that improves the communities it touches; DuPage County is among them. 

CC: Commissioner Michael J. Copps 

Commissioner Robert M. McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith Altwe!! Baker 

Halling Ad<Jress: P.O, Box 5000 * Wheaton,!L 60189·876! • wlNW,dupageforest,org 
203 


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League of United Latin American Citizens 

LULAC Council 5218 Aurora LULAC Council of Allrora Foundation 

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De/I, ClIainMn Oeo.chow"";: 

Thank JI<lU for this oppoltllllity to ofll:t my views on C'~IlC!l.llUld its I'ropoliCdjoml "<mIU~ 

with NBC Vn,v""",," I anlwoosly supportiv~ OfCOfflO1l$l's ~roJ>O"llI dOl: to '1$1""8 hlst<J<y 

of'tlfII!O!Ii"8 the Hi"",,,!. communily, its commilmOllt tQ community survice, and its 

willingness (I' higlllll;\htlh. many po.itive oonb-ib~tiOils of O<glll1w.Iltions such •• tile 

l..~ag\1. o(Vn.;1<d Lalin Amerioon Cili_. (LVLAC) . 

A. YOIl lItlIy know. LULAC i. the lalJlC.'IIa"o QId<:m Hispanic org/lllizotioll in lhe United _. We work til advance lb. tlOOOOIItio condition, w,,,,,,(;oo.1 ~t .. inroonl, politicol 

influence. healtl1 and civil rigbts orlU"PM'. Americ.ns thmugb lXlInmunily·based 

program. """mling,,! more than 100 LULAC councils ... tionwide, I ",pTe!<.'ntlb<; UJV.C 

co~nc1J in Aurora~ lUinQIs. The oTgQolwtion involves {uld serves an Hispank: nationality 

group'. 

C-omc.st cogag ... po,ili ... ly wilh tb~ IiisPM;" oommunlty through its supl'm! for LULAC 

""d II .. ,w-ork..t wilh u. to highlight i","o, and .'''MlS tllal "'" impoMlt1 to OUT oommunily, 

Come .. t is • dive,,", <mp!oy<>' whoso cml'!o~ are part ,,[the LULAC family. ComCII$I 

emplo)"", also .cliv.ly parlidpate in our e"'plers in Au,,,,,, and Elgin, C<>Mcasl '"'" alS<) 

been. critical.upponer of 00' scho!a,sbip oflbr4 which i$l;$>')nli.ll(l cn$uring "I"al 

__ 111 higher educ.tioo for utillo >1lwleot.. We II.". 01,., been "I."".ro by C"""",st', 

willingJIc!S to us<>'15 public and ."mmullity affairs programming ({) mise .... ...,...,.,.. of 

LUl.AC's effort.' arul '""nls, 

! wwld also 001. tillIteonw",,' '"'" strongly supponed ollt ,"'Ils fUfll-""'ICrdiv .... il}' and 

iQcali.", in progr.",miag. h.,'ing launci.ed " p«leDge of SpiIlli,h wogung<t ."",,nel. in a 

numher ilfLlllillO nwkels nIIIinnwWe. including b<;r. in Aurom, ",. COOlpany has I'kdged 

to "><lend and """"glhen thi. oomrnitrnm. once th" Comc..,c·N Be J"!""ersbip is l'IlP""",t 

I Am bopcflll Iblll the Comm,ssion will vi""" the ComcaSl-NllCU joint venlure .. p"'ilh'ely 

.. we ha." "i",vcd <lUr rdm,ooship with Cornealll Olf>.;\lgh th. Y.""'. TJllUIk you for yoor 

consioomHou ofthe,,1fe -Vlt:Yl'--S. 

Rcspe<:tfully, 

t2·"7A.,,,v tJ4:)-tr-~.zo/ 

AlIImr Velosquez 

"residellt, LULAC C"ullcil 5218, Au""", llIinoi. 

"A.1I for one - 00. for all" 

P.O. Box 7442, Au ........ , IL 605117 - 63t}~~9·5490 

r..VI.AC Coul4~il QrAjirr)f"~1 FQItmw{ion is a §J(U (C)(]j Ir.cMJ·J'!F'(~/u COtp.,w(ukw. i:4mati<1f,ls {/nt lax~cI.:dMctih/e. . .... 
204 


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Abl7lham Lincoln Centre 

3858 S, Cottage Gro\'~ Avenue 

Chicllgo, IL 606:53 

773-2S5~1390 

Fax 773"373·6602 

TTY 773-9334'111 

utww,abelink,Qrg 

Officers 

Maurice Gr.ant 

Chairman 

Many Young 

TNft$Urer 

KateyAssem 

Secretary 

Barbara E. Pinder Vice CbRirm~n 

Zirl S. Smith 

PresIdent & CEO 

Trustees 

Lester Dlatr 

Carla Cnrstens 

George F. Galland 

Valerie: H. Grace 

Willlam H. Jones 

CaJvin A. Lyons 

Keith McGregory 

Vilnessa Smith McTier 

Philip J. O'Keefe 

S.mder Posto! 

Walter H. Sobel 

AdvIsory Co-mmittce 

John Peck 

Cordell Reed 

M.ichael S. Reeves > Wilma], Sutton 

Member of the United Way of 

Chicago 

Accredited by the Commission <m 

Accre:litatioo orRehabilitatiQn 

Facilities (CARF) 

Mcredited by the National 

Association for 

lhe Education ofYOWlg Children 

(N.'EYe) 

.:!.<Just Opportunity Employer 

Chairman Julius Genachowski 

Commissioner Michael J. Copps 

Commissioner Robert M. McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street SW 

Washington, DC 20554 

RE: MB Docket No. 10-56 

Dear Chairman Genachowski and Commissioners: 

April 23, 2010 

I recognize that you are in the process of reviewing a proposed joint venture 

between Comeast and NBC Universal. As part of that review, I am sure that you 

will be taking interest in learning how these companies partner with the local 

communities they serve. We feel that NBC-Universal believes in the mission of our 

organization and has improved the lives of children in Chicago through 

volunteerism as well as offering support that will help our youth develop and thrive 

The Abraham Lincoln Centre, located on Chicago's South Side provides needed ' 

social services to over 7,000 children and families per year. We know that NBCUniversal shares the goals of our organization. The company has supported onr 

educational effOlts and commitment to our youth over the pa,t year. If it were not 

for NBC-Universal, we wonld not be able to share our message wilh such a 

widespread audience. 

We feel that Comcast's partnership with NBC Universal will also be beneficial to 

the community through providing new and additional opportunities to support 

children and education. 

We hope you will join us in support and look torward to a flourishing partnership 

titat will continue to benetit the Abraham Lincoln Centre. 

Sincerely, 

Ellyn Harris 

Director of Development 

Abraham Lincoln Centre 
205 


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June 7,2010 

To the FCC Chairman and Commissioners: 

Chainnan Julius Genachowslti 

Commissioner Michael J. Copps 

Commissioner Robert M. McDowell 

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn 

Commissioner Meredith A\twell Baker 

Federal Communications Commission 

445 12th Street, S.W. 

Washington. DC 20554 

RE: MB Docket 10-56 

Dear Chairman and Commissioners, 

My name is Maria Eugenia Ayala - Gallegos. I am the President of Mas Enterprises And 

Marketing Inc. 

Mas Enterprises and Marketing, Inc. is a professional and ethical Advertising. Promotions and 

Marketing Company that strives to produce all services and special events located in Chicago. IL. 

My business includes a print publication: Mas Magazine, an entertainment SpaniSh language 

magazine that serves and represents smaH and local businesses in the Chicago area. 

I am writing you today in support of the Comcast acquisition of NBC Universal. 

Over the past siX years I have worked closely wiII1 Tetemundo Chicago and have become 

exceptional business partners. Tefemundo Chicago is constantly and consistently in support of 

the Hispanic community. this has helped business owners such as myself to grow. 

I believe the pending acquisition will provide Telemundo Chicago win provide the men and 

women of Telemundo with broader career opportunities. I also believe Telemundo will benefit 

with more investment in content and better distribution. This will help secure and generate more 

professlonal Jobs for hundreds of Hispanics and provide the Hispanic community with high quality, 

relevant original content. 

As a member of the Chicago business community I support and encourage you 10 approve the 

pending acquisition. 

rdS ~L() :> /}.~ .. a ugenia Ayala 

President 

Mas Enterprises and Marketing Inc. 

Sl8lS. .......... Aooa--.1IL1&MIl2 -mas ma", avafa@vaho<>.com "17081752-5029 
206 

Mr. BOUCHER. Mr. Waz, thank you very much. And thanks to 

each of our witnesses for sharing your views with us on the matter 

this morning. 

I have just a couple of questions. Mr. Waz, I know that Comcast, 

as part of its voluntary undertaking on diversity matters has committed to add at least two independently owned channels to its 

lineup in each of the next three years. And it’s also committed that 

at least half of those channels will have substantial minority ownership interest. Is it your intent to put those independently owned 

channels on all the Comcast cable systems, or only on part of 

them? 

Mr. WAZ. Mr. Chairman, first of all, let me begin by just updating the commitment as we continue to have discussions with our 

diversity organizations, and the agreement we have reached with 

the Hispanic Leadership organizations. 

We plan to enhance the commitment so that we’re now prepared 

to add 10 independently owned and controlled channels over a period of eight years. We intend for four of those to be owned by the 

Latinos. And per the letter that we were sharing with Mr. Rush 

this morning, we have also committed to make a minimum of four 

of those channels, channels that are owned and controlled by African Americans. We intend to give them substantial carriage according to what I’ll call customary terms and conditions in the industry. Each new network needs an opportunity to establish itself, and 

we’ve worked with—I’ll give you an example of a network in which 

we had an ownership stake, and that is TV One. 

I think TV One stands out as, actually, exactly the sort of opportunity that Congresswoman Waters and others are pointing to, 

which is what can a company, a significant media company do to 

help promote media ownership, media distribution opportunities for 

African American programming? And I think as he was alluding in 

his testimony in Los Angeles, he stated how important and how 

sincere the Comcast commitment was to help them grow that effort. 

Even that network at conception did not appear on all Comcast 

systems. And even today, we continue to add it on Comcast systems. So, I would anticipate in each case with each of these networks that we talk with, we will reach terms and conditions for appropriate levels of introduction of these new networks in markets 

as appropriate across the country. 

Mr. BOUCHER. Well, I guess my question is, have you determined 

what markets are appropriate, and what assurance do we have 

that while the commitment you have independently come to, for example, minority ownership interest in a number of these channels, 

new channels added, that we are given to understand that there 

are actually going to be carried on a very large majority of your 

cable systems. Can we get that assurance? 

Mr. WAZ. I can assure that we intend to work with each independently owned channel, just as we work with several other new 

independently owned channels, more than a dozen of whom I believe have put letters on the record with the FCC saying that it’s 

independently owned and operated channels. They work very successfully with Comcast in order to do this. 


smartinez on DSK6TPTVN1PROD with HEARING
207 

Mr. BOUCHER. OK. Let me ask you another question. As was indicated by Mr. Jackson in his testimony earlier, there is a notable 

lack on major networks of prime time programming with a minority presence. And we don’t have anything on any of the big four 

networks today that remotely resembles the ‘‘Cosby Show,’’ for example. 

I’m wondering if the diversity commitments that you have voluntarily made, which I view as extensive, would serve to increase diversity programming on prime time network programming, in your 

opinion? 

Mr. WAZ. I’m hopeful that that will be among the many salutary 

results of—if I may, if I can defer to Ms. Madison, who will offer 

her opinion. 

Mr. BOUCHER. Ms. Madison, do you care to comment on that? 

Ms. MADISON. Yes, Mr. Chairman. 

We entered into an agreement back in 2000 with four external 

watchdog groups, and we’ve been reporting up to them annually, 

and quarterly, actually, for the past three years. In that time period, we have continued to add diversity both up front and behind 

the counter. There’s no question that the industry has a long way 

to go, and this is not a situation that’s limited to just NBC Universal. But having said that, and specifically regarding the ‘‘Cosby 

Show,’’ we have at NBC Universal increased the numbers of oncamera actors who are diverse year over year, so much so that this 

season coming up beginning in September, we have our most highprofile new drama called ‘‘Under Cover,’’ which has two blacks as 

the leads in the show. There’s a cast of four people, of that cast, 

two are leads, one is also African American, who is also in that 

cast, and there’s one white male. We also have the President of the 

United States cast as an African American in a lead role in another 

program called ‘‘The Event.’’ And we also have a famous actor, 

Jimmy Smits cast as a former Supreme Court justice in another 

one of our major dramas that’s called ‘‘Outlaw.’’ So, we are moving—— 

Mr. BOUCHER. So your answer is, the trend is positive. 

Ms. MADISON. Yes, it is. 

Mr. BOUCHER. And we would see this confirmation on the voluntary commitments that it entails as, perhaps, accelerating that 

trend? 

Ms. MADISON. Yes. I think that’s reasonable. 

Mr. BOUCHER. Mr. Griffin, let me ask a question of you. As I’m 

sure you’re aware, NBC, you, and Comcast have made a number 

of voluntary commitments respecting diversity in the areas of corporate governance, employment, procuring programming, et cetera. 

You support the confirmation. Is it your view that these voluntary 

commitments might encourage other media companies to step up 

and follow suit? Could we expect this to become an example that 

other media companies might be expected to follow? 

Mr. GRIFFIN. Yes. I think that’s the secondary benefit, but I 

think the primary benefit would be among advertisers and private 

equity and venture capitalists, because they will step up and say 

there is a distribution commitment to this type of programming. 

And then they will come into the market and say if it’s over a decade, and we know we can invest our client’s money into these comVerDate Mar 14 2013 01:48 Mar 21, 2013 Jkt 077919 PO 00000 Frm 00213 Fmt 6633 Sfmt 6633 E:\HR\OC\A919.XXX A919

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panies and then they will get support, that’s a direct benefit to the 

industry and the programming. 

Mr. BOUCHER. All right. So that level of investment would increase the volume of independent programming that might encourage, entice some of the other media companies, but select the programming they think is the most attractive and appealing. You 

have more volume and more companies might be willing to accept 

your content. Would that be a fair conclusion? 

Mr. GRIFFIN. Supply and demand. 

Mr. BOUCHER. Mr. Jackson, would you care to comment on these 

letters? 

Mr. JACKSON. Well, yes. I’d like to share with you that I tried 

to purchase Eye on Media this past December when they were in 

bankruptcy. I went in with a hedge fund to purchase the debtor in 

possession paper. The current management had offered $150 million. Our package was $250 million, at which time we went 

through appeal, and went through the courts in the New York 

area, and there were aggressive bankruptcy practices issues that 

they had. And we were unsuccessful. 

But here’s another case where minorities, and I was leading the 

group, showed up with more money than the current organization 

that failed in its operation of 64 radio and television stations, but 

we could not have equal access. So, I’m just a little bit concerned 

about the conversation that’s happening now, because I’m not really concerned talking about diversity, I’m talking about equal opportunity in that access to stations that affect the public interest. 

What I’m talking about is equal opportunity, not diversity. I 

think it would be too much of a burden to place upon the owners 

of Comcast and NBC to have, to be able to select philanthropy. I 

think there’s enough entrepreneurs in the community that like to 

shape our own destiny without having someone else that needs to 

work up the bottom line for their company to be concerned about 

how they will diversify. If we had access to ownership, we can diversity ourself. We can hire, and we can reverse diversity where 

blacks can hire Caucasians, or not necessarily Caucasians have to 

put blacks in front of the screen. I think that’s very important. 

And I will tell you that in Chicago, a community that’s over 50 

percent female, there’s less than 6 percent ownership in television 

and radio by females. So, in order to move America forward, I 

think women and children have to have a place on the agenda. So, 

it’s not about getting a black on the screen, or whatever. It’s also 

effecting what the demographics are. 

I’ve seen more fictitious programming on a child that was not in 

a balloon, dealing with CNN and everybody running their programming that over 50 million Americans facing hunger, more than a 

million American students going to school that are technically described as homeless by the Department of Education, so where’s 

the real news, where’s the real content coming from, not just the 

window dressing. So, I would like the conversation to be about opportunity, not philanthropy, not about just diversity, but about the 

divestiture, so we can have equal opportunity, and equal access to 

create more. 

Mr. BOUCHER. OK. Thank you very much. My time has expired. 

The gentleman from Indiana, Mr. Buyer, is recognized. 


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Mr. BUYER. Mr. Jackson, you kind of pulled me in. Do you want 

me to believe that minority ownership directly relates to minority 

programming? Is that what you want me to believe? 

Mr. JACKSON. That minority? Say it again, I’m sorry. 

Mr. BUYER. Minority ownership directly relates to minority programming. 

Mr. JACKSON. Could you further explain? 

Mr. BUYER. No, is that the statement that you want me to believe based on your statement? 

Mr. JACKSON. Yes. Correct. 

Mr. BUYER. And in order to achieve that, are you saying that 

we’re to ignore economics principles? 

Mr. JACKSON. No. 

Mr. BUYER. OK. And if we say no, then how is it achieved? It’s 

almost like with Mr. Griffin, your testimony. I was following you 

all the way up to where you made your comment, ‘‘If my company 

was paid for every one of the 500 million potential ad impressions, 

I could make my own run at NBC.’’ Well, that’s if everyone would 

buy every widget every manufacturer made in my congressional 

district, they’d make a lot of money. I mean, I don’t know how— 

I know I followed you all the way up until you made that statement, I want you to know. 

I also want to put this on the record, Mr. Griffin. I want to congratulate you. I think you’ve had an extraordinary career. And I 

read your statement last night. I’ve also followed you, so I want 

publicly to say, and I wanted to take the opportunity to say it personally, that I respect you, and congratulate you on your career. 

Mr. GRIFFIN. Thank you. 

Mr. BUYER. Your statement with regard to some of the programming with regard to—that fell out, ‘‘Girlfriends,’’ ‘‘Eve,’’ ‘‘All About 

Us,’’ ‘‘Everybody Hates Chris,’’ there is something else in the marketplace, is there not, Mr. Griffin, that the total audience reach 

must be great enough to cover the cost of production. Isn’t that a 

basic in your business? 

Mr. GRIFFIN. Yes. 

Mr. BUYER. Yes. And if it doesn’t work, they’re going to cancel 

the show. That happens a lot, doesn’t it? 

Mr. GRIFFIN. Well, yes, but there are three parts of this. One 

part is the cost of the programming. The other part is the availability of distribution, and then the third is revenue generate, or 

here’s the profit. 

Here’s the problem. When you have a success, like when you 

have a ‘‘Seinfeld,’’ you make a—if there are 10 million viewers, advertisers will pay you for all 10 million viewers. If you have ‘‘A Different World,’’ which was as big as ‘‘Seinfeld,’’ but it was on and 

10 million viewers, advertisers were only paying you for 8 million, 

because the African American budget stops at a certain amount, so 

the minority budgets at advertisers are smaller, which means their 

money runs out, so you don’t get paid the same. So, you’re actually 

being paid less money per viewer than you would for a white 

household because the budgets are smaller. And what that means 

is there’s a defect in the market. 

Now, when there are market defects, it creates opportunities for 

some people to take advantage of. What we’re trying to say, what 


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we’ve been saying to Comcast, at least on the OnDemand platform, 

what should be independent areas, and what independent is, there 

is an opportunity now to capture more of that market because of 

the defect, but in order to solve the defect, we have to go to advertisers and get them to commit to pay us for every view or impression generated. I mean, what you’re saying is a textbook argument, 

which is hey, not enough money, cancel the show. Yes, but the 

issue, you know, I think Congresswoman Waters said it, why isn’t 

there enough money. Because Coca-Cola, General Motors, Johnson 

& Johnson will not pay for every African American impression. 

That’s the bottom line. There’s a defect in the market. It’s not 

working efficiently, so that creates an opportunity for Comcast and 

Universal to go capture it. 

Mr. BUYER. Mr. Waz, in the non-affiliates agreements—first of 

all, let me also take the opportunity, once again also compliment 

what you did in the marketplace. 

Mr. WAZ. Thank you, sir. 

Mr. BUYER. I got a lot of these different companies together, 

what I thought was going to happen, even those outside the nonaffiliates would attach their concerns into the non-affiliates consortium, but you can’t get everybody in the same room. And not everybody, necessarily, agrees, so you end up with sort of a, even though 

we have a non-affiliates agreement that made it to the table, those 

three only brought issues which were of consensus. So, even though 

there’s a piece of paper in front of us, I believe that there’s still 

work yet to be done. That’s just my own personal sensing from this. 

And you have to believe that, too. 

Mr. WAZ. As with all the agreements that we have reached, or 

hope to reach, I’m sure there will be continued discussions about 

this. 

Mr. BUYER. Is broadcasting still relevant in the new media environment? 

Mr. WAZ. Broadcasting is still the way to attract mass audiences. 

It’s the place where special events in America, where America still 

gathers collectively to watch major events: sports, inaugurations 

and other events. So, we believe broadcasting absolutely has a 

place, and we’re investing to try to make broadcasting in the form 

of NBC and Telemundo stronger and sustainable in the future. And 

working with the affiliates today. 

Mr. BUYER. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. 

Mr. BOUCHER. Thank you very much, Mr. Buyer. 

The gentleman from Illinois, Mr. Rush, is recognized. 

Mr. RUSH. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. 

Let me, first of all, begin by asking Mr. Jackson a question. In 

your exchange with my colleague from Indiana, Mr. Buyer, what is 

your counsel for the need to have more minorities to own networks, 

media, and you said that if the minorities owned the media, then 

the possibility, or the proclivity, or reason for this conversation that 

more minority ownership would mean higher ads and there would 

be more minority programming. Is that correct? 

Mr. JACKSON. Yes, sir. 

Mr. RUSH. Now, that’s very important, and I agree with you. But 

would you limit your ownership, or limit those same results to— 

let me put it like this. If an African American owned a station that 


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was aimed at say a mostly white market, would that African American be successful owning that station, or is it just limited to an 

African American market to have to provide media opportunities 

and media services to the African American community? 

Mr. JACKSON. That’s a great question. It would speak to the local 

demographics, that the NBA can be majority owned by Caucasians, 

and predominantly having the players to be African American. 

They can have an international market appeal. Well, that speaks 

to the demographics as it relates to basketball. 

The same thing would happen, if you’re in a rural area being 

mostly Caucasian, naturally, you would adjust the programming. 

And the same thing would happen here in the City of Chicago, 

where the local content and news, we have very pressing issues, 

could reflect the community interest. 

Mr. RUSH. Just because it’s African American owned network 

does not mean that that network should be, or has to be geared toward an African American demographic. Is that right? 

Mr. JACKSON. Correct. And I would cite the example of Motown, 

and the music that it created. There are general markets that we— 

I don’t know if Mr. Buyer was asking me a question, or made a 

statement, but I would say that as far as local, about African 

American ownership and content, that I would look at—I don’t 

know if it was denied, or if it was an oversight, for the first time 

my son saw the word ‘‘hate’’, and asked me could I share with him 

how it was a bad word. He was looking at an outdoor billboard, and 

the billboard read ‘‘Everybody Hates Chris.’’ And he’s a young African American male child, and he sees ‘‘Everybody Hates Chris,’’ 

but ‘‘Everybody Loves Raymond.’’ So, if we had access to opportunity for ownership, we could help shape that imagery ourselves. 

And I would refer you to the FCC document that Mr. Griffin 

was—— 

Mr. RUSH. No, you’re on my time. 

Mr. JACKSON. Sorry, sir. 

Mr. RUSH. I’m being charged with it, so let me move on. 

Mr. BUYER. Mr. Rush? 

Mr. RUSH. Yes. 

Mr. BUYER. Will you yield to me an extra minute? 

Mr. RUSH. Yes. 

Mr. BUYER. I just want to touch this, because you referred to 

something that I would make comment on. 

The reason I had made that perhaps as a statement, I wanted 

to get a sense of what you’re urging not just us, but people to believe based off your testimony. OK? Well, I can agree with you that 

you say a minority owner can increase minority programming, I do 

not believe that a minority owner would say that that only means 

minority programming. I don’t believe that, because it’s economics. 

You’re a businessman. That’s why I compliment Mr. Griffin. You’re 

going to follow the dollar. You’re going to also follow the eyes. 

You’re going to also follow the advertising. You’re also an artist, 

and you can build things, and want to be creative. You want to deliver into the marketplace. And that’s what’s important, especially 

capturing the new wave on the delivery of video services. And 

that’s what Mr. Rush—— 


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Mr. RUSH. I’m reclaiming my time, Mr. Chairman. I know my 

timing and I do have some very important questions I want to ask. 

First of all, I want to—after listening to, and discussing and 

sometimes heated exchanges with a number of interested stakeholders, Mr. Chairman, I want to ask for unanimous consent for 

this Committee to accept additional information in the form of a 

letter, as mentioned by Mr. Waz earlier as to the agreement that 

Comcast submitted to the FCC that outlines their specific plan for 

including the minorities in a more robust and regular basis. 

Mr. BOUCHER. No objection. 

Mr. RUSH. All right. And a little more with the letter just entered 

into the record. Can you expound more on, if you will, on the Venture Capital Fund that you have included in terms of this letter? 

Can you expound more on that? What—can you give us more of the 

details, and what problems are you attempting to solve going forward? 

Mr. WAZ. Mr. Rush, thanks for the opportunity to talk more 

about it. I’ve been a friend of David Honig, the Minority Media 

Telecommunications Council for probably three decades now, and 

he has fought and tried for many years to try to create more opportunities for minority ownership, pursuing policies such as tax certificates, which have been supported on a bipartisan basis at various points and other efforts to support minority ownership in traditional media. 

Over the last few years, he and I have been talking a lot about 

what are the opportunities in new media and in technology for minorities, and this is an excellent time to be moving forward to ways 

that in an internet-based world where frankly there are fewer barriers, fewer distribution barriers, that there could be more innovation, more opportunities for minority entrepreneurs. 

I know that Commissioner Clyburn of the FCC has mentioned on 

a couple of occasions that she knows someone, an African American 

who started a very successful Web site for, I believe the number 

is $256, that may be on the high side, those numbers she cited, but 

it was—you can do a lot with a little in this market. 

What we think would be beneficial is to create more opportunities specifically to seek attractive young talent, people who would 

be interested in moving into the new technology fields from the minority community, and coming up with appropriate funding base to 

get them started. So, the notion we’ve laid out in the letter to you 

this morning says that we are prepared to make $20 million of investment capital available through a new program within Comcast 

that will look exactly to those sort of opportunities, and work with 

a diverse leader of that fund effort to identify funding opportunities. 

Mr. RUSH. Will you address and expound upon, or you have in 

your letter divestiture of 40 assets and minority ownership. What 

do you mean by that, and what is that aimed at? 

Mr. WAZ. In connection with this transaction, the only anticipated divestiture of asset is the Station KWAY in Los Angeles. 

That station is currently owned by NBCU–Comcast until its closing 

and what happened at KWAY. But NBCU has made a special effort, in fact, has hired an NTC, which has a brokerage business, 

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chasers for radio, and cable and TV stations over the years to create that ownership opportunity there. 

In the event of any other cable divestiture, or broadcast divestiture in the future, which would be required out of this transaction, 

we will be similarly creative, and similarly destructive in looking 

for minority ownership opportunities. 

Mr. RUSH. Mr. Chairman, I yield back. 

Mr. BOUCHER. Thank you very much, Mr. Rush. Ms. Waters. 

Ms. WATERS. Well, thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. I would 

like to preface my remarks by saying that my colleague was correct 

about this merger being under the radar screen, being very quiet, 

not being talked about until I requested and received from the FCC 

an extension of the comment period. I got 45 extra days for the 

comment period because it had been very quiet. And I also requested of the FCC to hold hearings, and one will be coming up. 

And I got the Chairman of the Judiciary Committee, Mr. Conyers, 

to hold a hearing, and I’m very appreciative for this hearing. 

Why is all of this important? It is important because neither 

NBC, nor Comcast, made any of these moves that they’re describing until all of this began to unfold. Since we have been highlighting this merger, and talking about the lack of diversity, then 

we’re finally getting some people coming forward to talk about 

doing some things. 

As a matter of fact, the Latino that was placed on the board of, 

what is it, NBC or Comcast? Comcast plans to add a Latino Board 

member amid proposed NBC deal. This happened in the past few 

weeks. The proposal that you just alluded to that you’re giving to 

Mr. Rush today, I’m glad we’re having this hearing, so that you can 

give it to him, because we’ve not heard about that until the last 

few days. 

The Memorandum of Understanding that you have with the 

Latino group came about in this period of time that we created to 

have more comment, and to have hearings. So, we have to keep up 

the pressure, because despite the fact that both NBC and Comcast 

talk about their commitment to diversity, it has not been evident. 

You don’t have diverse companies. I don’t know how many years 

you’ve been working at this, but you’ve not been successful. So, 

we’ve got to help you. We’ve got to help you to be successful. 

It is absolutely unacceptable. We’re talking about some programming, and I think the Chairman asked a significant question, because the devil is in the details, about whether or not you create 

channels and opportunities. We’re talking about distribution and 

carriage, and there’s no commitment to that. He questioned you 

very closely, and you did not give him a specific commitment to distribution and carriage. 

Let me just go to another aspect of this that bothers me. Let’s 

take a look at NBC News. Early today, Glen Berry, Bill Cowan, 

Fred—all white. Today we have some diversity, Matt Lauer, Meredith Vieira, Ann Curry who I guess is going to be gone, along with 

Al Roker, MSNBC, First Look, all white, Glen Berry, Thomas Roberts, Way Too Early with Willie Geist, all white. My friend, Morning Joe, Joe Scarborough, Mepa, Rasinski, Willie Geist, all white. 

All of this is MSNBC. The Daily Rundown, Chuck Todd, white. Savannah Guthrie, white. MSNBC Live, Chris Jansing, Tamron Hall, 


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one black, Andrea Mitchell Reports, white. Hardball, Chris Matthews, the Ed Show, my friend Ed Schultz, all white. Countdown 

with Keith Olbermann, like him a lot, all white. The Rachel 

Maddow Show. Well, what is that? 

When you sit here and you talk about this vast audience that 

you have, that’s depending on the news, you’ve got to ask yourself 

why, why don’t we have more diversity in the news that’s reporting 

from African American, Latino, Asian perspectives on what’s going 

on. This can’t continue. And if this merger takes place, if this consolidation takes place, and we don’t have a way of enforcement by 

which we can force you to live up to commitments for diversity, we 

end up in a democracy with consolidation that does not serve the 

best interest or the images of all of the people who deserve, as citizens of this country and this democracy, to be served. 

I could go on, and on, and on about all of NBC shows. When the 

Chairman first came to the Judiciary Committee, Mr. Zucker told 

me that they didn’t have any African American shows in the new 

season because he couldn’t find any producers and directors. And 

I said I know a lot of them, let me help you. 

I don’t understand how this business works. And we have staff 

full-time working to discover exactly how you do work, and what 

you have, and what you don’t have. And I want you to know you 

have failed miserably. I yield back the balance of my time. 

Mr. BOUCHER. Thank you, Ms. Waters. 

I want to say thank you to the witnesses for joining us here 

today. Ms. Madison, to you, in particular, congratulations on your 

long career, and commitment to diversity issues. To all of the witnesses, thanks for the constructive comments that you’ve made. 

You have made this hearing a success, and I very much appreciate 

the commentary you have shared with us today. 

Mr. Rush, did you want to say a word? 

Mr. RUSH. Yes, Mr. Chairman, before we adjourn. I just would 

like to state for the record that as we proceed down this path, I’m 

not sure what is being filed. I’m not sure whether the FCC, what 

their final ruling will be. I’m not sure what the Justice Department’s final ruling will be. My colleague from California, Ms. 

Waters, made some very profound statements. And one of the 

things that I know is that this is, or can be, or should be if the 

stakeholders, the affected parties, Comcast and NBCU, we can 

begin to rewrite the sordid history, particularly over the last eight 

years, continuing the trend in media ownership. 

I sat on this Committee for 15 or more years now, and the last 

eight years have been the most horrendous eight years that I’ve 

seen in terms of the FCC. Although the Chairman, who is the outgoing Chairman, always had a receptive ear, making empty promises and pledges that he was going to look for new ownership, he 

never engaged not one millisecond in pursuit of media opportunities for ownership for black people in media ownership. That day 

is over, and that time has past. He is gone. This is a new day, new 

time, new opportunity. And we have a new administration, new 

members of the FCC. We will work vigorously in terms from an 

oversight perspective, and also from an activist perspective to ensure that, whatever you are promising, it’s those promises that you 

make. 


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Whenever you return back before the appropriate authority and 

that you’re going to be dragged through the mud and the world will 

know that you have broken your promises. So I want to know that 

these were just not being done in the back room. 

I hope that this is the beginning of the something meaningful 

and important, and we can try to level the playing field as it relates to minorities and media ownership. Mr. Chairman, with that, 

I yield back the balance of my time. 

Mr. BOUCHER. Thank you very much, Mr. Rush. I’m going to ask 

unanimous consent to insert into the record a letter signed by 

Tracy Jenkins Winchester, the President of the Multi-Cultural Network. Without objection, this will be made part of the record. 

Our witnesses have done a great job today. Our thanks to you, 

our thanks to members of the panel for their decisive questions, 

and this hearing stands adjourned. 

[Whereupon, at 11:52 a.m., the Committee was adjourned.] 

[Material submitted for inclusion in the record follows:] 


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Statement of Representative Anna G. Eshoo 

"Comcast and NBC Universal: \\/ho Benefits'?" 

Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, and the Internet 

House Committee on Energy and Commerce 

Everett Dirksen Federal Building, Room 2525 

Chicago, Illinois. 

July 8, 2010 

Thank you, Chairman Boucher for convening this field hearing in Chicago, Illinois on the 

proposed ComcastiNBCU merger. This is our second opportunity to weigh-in on the 

effects this transaction will have on consumers and local marketplaces. 

I've raised my strong concern in the past with these types of monopolistic mergers and 

the negative impact they can have on consmner choice and innovation in the marketplace. 

The topic of to day's hearing goes to the heart of the issue ... "Who Benefits?" 

The FCC and the Department of Justice are in the process of reviewing this proposed 

transaction. I applaud both Comcast and NBC Universal for working with the agencies 

and the recent moves by both companies to expand their cOlmnitments to diversity in 

" ... workforce recruitment and career development, supplier diversity, media ownership, 

programming, and community and partnership investment," according to their Statement 

of Diversity Principles. 

These moves aside, I remain concerned about what this merger will mean to the 

continued free flow of information on the internet and the potential chokehold this megacompany will have on what content customers can access and from whom. 

I'm concerned the new ComcastlNBCU will havc the incentive and the means to 

withhold content from independent Internet Service Providers and other competing video 

programmers by reserving its best programming for its own offerings. 

Should this transaction be approved, it has the potential to stifle innovation in the 

competitive online video distribution services marketplace. If competing ISPs are even 

allowed on the Comcast network, the price may be non-competitive and there are not any 

guarantees that ComcastlNBClJ will provide the sanle video transmission quality to its 

competitors as it does its ovm content. 

If this merger results in reduced competition and increased pricing power for Comcast, it 

may have less incentive to invest in more broadband capacity. This would stine 

economic gro\'lth at a time when individuals and businesses have become increasingly 

reliant on high-speed broadband to execute innovative applications such as exchanging 

medical records online and collaborating with colleagues around the world. 

We need to ensure when we ask the question "who benentsT' from these types of 

mergers, that the answers are "consumers" and "innovation." 
217 


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July 6, 2010 

The Honorable Rick Boucher 

Chairman, Subcommittee on Communications, 

Technology and the Internet 

Committee on Energy & Commerce 

United States House of Representatives 

Washington, D.C. 20515 

RE: Comcast/NBC Universal Acquisition 

Dear Mr. Chairman: 

CoLours TV is a national, multicultural television network. We feature programming that profiles 

African, Asian, Latin, and Native Americans. We are in 17 million cable and satellite television 

households across the country and can be viewed 24 hours, seven days a week. Established in 

1999 as a non-profit television network, our board members include active civil rights 

organizations such as the NAACP, Black United Fund, the Urban League, and the Greater 

Denver Ministerial Alliance. Our corporate office is located in Denver, Colorado. 

We come before you unsolicited by the Comcast Corporation to voice our support of their 

proposed acquisition. We are, as the Chairman of British Petroleum (BP) likes to call us, the "little 

people" and we are just one example of the thousands of untold stories in the United States 

where Comcasl, the corporation, works to be responsible when no one is looking. 

Before I became Presid.ent/CEO of CoLours TV, I met Brian Rober!s in 1985 when he was 26 and 

I was 30. He interviewed and supported me for a fellowship in the cable industry among over 100 

applicants. I had just graduated from Georgetown Law School after working on Capitol Hill for 

Senator Edward W. Brooke, and the late Congressman JulianC. Dixon. He remembered me four 

years later when I interviewed with his company in Philadelphia, Mr. Roberts was in 1985, as he 

is twenty- five years later, a businessman sincerely interested in giving people of color an 

opportunity to succeed. 

In 1999, Com cast delivered on a Denver cable franchise promise to give African Americans and 

Latinos an opportunity to create cable television networks. Denver's African American community 

received $500,000 from Comcast to build that dream and we are still standing today. We also 

have a national corporate agreement with Comcast to go out and get distribution among their 

systems. 

Comcast is made up of "little people" starting with Brian Roberts. The deal we received in 1999 

did not come from Mr. Roberts; it was negotiated by Comcast's Denver operations. At CoLours 

TV, we have found that same sense of responsibility from Comcast people across the country, to 

assist others in their efforts to succeed. 

Their management style epitomizes the ideal profile of an American corporation. We support their 

efforts to acquire NBCU and we implore Congress to approve this acqUisition. 

Sincerely, 

Tracy Jenkins Winchester 

President/CEO 

200 Quebec Street Building 60Q, Suite 209 Denver, Colorado 80230 Phone 303.326.0088 ; Fax 303.326,0087 www.colourstv.org 
218 


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,~ 

@omcast NBC ,FrUNt\(ERSAL 

COMCAST AND NBCU's 

SUMMARY OF DIVERSITY COMMITMENTS 

'--.-/ 

Com cast Corporation ("'Comeast") and NBC Universal ("NBCU") have made a sedes of 

commitments to diverse communities in connection with the joint venture between Corneast and 

General Electric ("GE") relating to NIlCU. Except as otherwise indicated, all of these commitments 

are new or expand upon current commitments by the companies. These commitments span the 

organizations' business practices '''ith respect to govemance, v\"orkforce recruitment and career 

development. supplier diversity. media ownership, programming. and community and partnership 

investment. 

1. Existing Initiatives and Commitments 

Comcast and NBC1J will honor their respective existing diversity commitments, including those 

contained in the diversity memorandum of understanding between NBC and a coalition representing 

the interests of various minority organizations rcached in the year 2000, to the extent the 

commitments remain relevant. Those commitments will he extended to the programming assets that 

Comcast will contrihute to the newly formed Corneast Entertainment Group upon closing of the joint 

venture. 

2. Governance 

COl1lcast and NBCU: New External Diversi(v Advisory Councils. Com cast and NBCU will 

establish four external Diversity Advisory Councils (collectively called the "Joint Council") 

representative of African American, Latino. Asian Pacific Islander, and other diverse communities. 

to facilitate open communication on the development~ monitoring. and evaluation of the companies' 

diversity initiatives. Comcast wlil appoint up to nine (9) memhers to each Diversity Advisory 

Council with input from national minority leadership organizations. The Joint Council and each 

Advisory Council will meet at least two times per year with Comcas!'s and NIlCU's internal 

Diversity Councils, including an annual meeting with Comcast's Chairman and Chief Exceutive 

Officer. In addition, the Diversity Councils \viII interact throughout the year on diversity issues \'lith 

representatives of Com cast and NBCU. 

TIle Advisory Councils will provide advice to the senior executive teams at Comcast and NBCU 

regarding the companies' development and implementation of a strategic plan to improve diversity 

practices. Comcast will develop a strategic plan, with advice from the Joint Council. to address five 

critical "Focus Areas" related to diversity - governance, workforce recruitment and career 

development, supplier diversity. programming. and community investment and partnerships. 

Comeas!: Benchmarking alld Ongoing Reporting. Comeast will conduct a benchmark study of the 

diversity initiatives in these Pocus Areas which it will update annually to facilitate input and 

recommendations from the Joint Council for strategies to improve performance in the five Focus 

Areas. Annually, Comeast will provide diversity data to the Advisory Councils related to the five 
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Focus Areas. subject to a non-disclosure agreement and the understanding that the data will be used 

only for internal discussions and development of progress repOlis by the Joint Council. 

NBCU: Coalitillll Reporting. NBCU will continue to report annually on its corporate diversity 

efforts, with particular emphasis on programming/content. procurement, and pipeline programs, to 

Coalition consisting of the following four organizations ("'NBCU Coalition'"): 

National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. [ne. ("'NAACP'"); 

American Indians in Film and Television; 

National Asian-Pacific American Media Coalition; and 

National Latino Media Council. 

NBCU's Chief Diversity Officer will consult quarterly with each o[these NBCU Coalition 

011 diversity issues. 

Comcast and NBCU: Diversity Over';gfll. Comeost and NBCU each will continue to support their 

respective internal Diversity Councils. Each organization also will provide annual reports to the 

Joint Council analyzing success in achieving diversity objectives and offering recommendations for 

improvement. 

3. Workforce Recruitment & Career Development 

Comeast and NBCU: Increased Minori(J' Representation: Comcast and NBCU are committed to 

be industry leade .. s in the arena of workforce diversity_ Both organizations commit that they will 

increase minority representation at all levels of their respective organizations and will recmit and 

retain more minorities so that their work forces more accurately retlect the communities they serve. 

Contcast and NBCU: Joint Council Input 011 Recruitment (lnd Leadership Development. 

Comcast and NBCU will seek the advice of the Joint Council in reviewing and selecting executive 

leadership development programs, recommendations for minority-owned executive search firms that 

may be helpful in finding and retaining diverse talent. and assistance in the development of 

internship programs aimed at exposing college and university-level students to career oPPOltunities. 

Contcast and NBCU: Career Path Programs. Comcast and NBClJ will continue to develop careerpath programs, including mentoring programs, designed to enhance the promotion potential of 

identified diverse talent~ moving individuals from entry-level, to mid-Ievel~ to senior management. 

Comeast and NBCU: Minority Internship and Scholarship Programs. Comeast and NBCU will 

increase support for programs focusing on the grO\vth and development of minorities. such as the 

Emma L. Bowen Foundation for Minority lnterests in Media C'Emma Bowen FDundation") and 

similar intemship and scholarship programs focusing on diverse communities (see further discussion 

of Emma Bowen Foundation under Programming and Community Investment and Partnerships 

below). 

Comeast: Workforce Diversity Initiatives. In addition. Comcast will implement the following 

workforce diversity initiatives: 

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• Diversity Forum. Develop a diversity forum and action plan to increase director-level 

representation of minorities; 

Focus Groups. Create minority focus groups with the objectives of gaining insight, creating 

opportunities. and identifYing high potential employees; 

Boot Camp. Implement a boo! camp program for mid-level vice president candidates whieh 

will include not less than 80% diverse candidates; and 

Search Firms. With the cooperation ofthe Advisory Councils, identify search firms with 

track records of successfully recruiting diverse pools of talent 10 partner with the company in 

identifying diverse leaders. 

Comcast: Senior Position C:andidate Pools. Comeast will enhance minority representation in the 

leadership ranks of the organization by requiring a diverse pool of candidates for all hires at the vice 

president level and above. including the commitment to have at !cast one person oCcolor on every 

slate for all such hires. 

NBCU: Db.'erse Senior Level Executives. NBCU will focus on hiring opportunities for diverse 

senior level executives in development, production, casting, marketing, legal/business affairs, and 

distribution. 

Commst (lnd NBCU, Workplace Diversity Training Programs. Both Comcast and NBCU have 

active workplace diversity progmms that include training on diversity issues. Both organizations arc 

committed to exploring ways in which to expand their respective programs, including, for example, 

in the case ofNBCU, by offering a new online diversity training module fol' its regular employee 

base. 

4. Supplier Diversity 

Comcast and NBCU, Increased Spe!ld 011 Diverse Slipplier.<. Come.s! and NBCU will enhance 

diversity in their procurement of goods and services and company-wide supplier diversity activities. 

increasing the amount spent on diverse business partners, including minority-owned enterprises. On 

a nationwide basis, Comcast and NBCU will strive to increase the percentage of business conducted 

with minority-owned vendors to be on par \vith the percentage of minority-owned businesses in the 

communities they serve. 

Comcasf and NBCU: Increased Partnerships with Diverse Organizations. Comcast and NBCU 

will partner with diverse organizations to enhance the utilization of minority-owned enterprises, 

specifically minority-led chambers of commerce and/or other minority-led business organizations. at 

the national, regional, and local levels. 

C011lcasf and NBCU, Joint COUllcil Illput Oil Minority Suppliers. COl11cast and NBCU will seek 

advice from the Joint Council to identitY 0ppOliunities for spending with minority-O\vned suppliers 

in agreed-upon categories. 
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Comc(lst and NBCU: Second Tier Procurement Programs. 

tier" procurement programs designed to encourage their top suppliers to purchase goods 

from minority-owned vendors. As part of these programs. CaIncast and NBeU encourage 

largest vendors to report quarterly on tbeir spending with minority~owned vendors. 

NBCU will expand their programs to create additional opportunities and an even greater 

including expanding of second tier reporting to encompass more suppliers as \;\lcll as 

the reporting process. 

Comcast and NBCU: Banking. Corneast will grow the diversity ofits investment 

banking partners through its minority banking program and through the development and 

of relationships with minority investment finns. After the closing~ NBCU \vill participate 

Comcast's minority hanking initiative. Comcast has established banking relationships with 

numerous minoritv-owned financial institutions and has included them in the creation and 

syndication of nUl~erol1S credit facilities, Where practicahle, NI3ClJ will be a depositor in these 

institutions. 

Comcast and IVBCU: Advertising Spend. In 20 It, following the close of the transaction, Com cast 

and NBCU jointly will commit at least an additional $7 million in spending on advertising with 

minority-owned media. 

Comcast and NBCU: Law Firms. In 20 I 0, Comcast became a founding partner in the Inclusion 

Initiative, a collaborative effort among several pubJicly held corporations designed to increase 

significantly business opportunities for la",' firms owned by diverse individuals. The overall goal for 

this initiative is $30 million, of which Comcast has committed $1 million. As part of the Inclusion 

Initiative, Comcast will use its best efforts to retain minority-owned law firms that participate in the 

Initiative. Further, NDCU commits post-close to expand its business with minority-owned law 

firms. NBCU will establish a working relationship with one or more minority firms in at least three 

cities where it has headquarters operations - New York City. Los Angeles, and Washington. D.C. In 

addition, NBCU will eommit to have its General Counsel meet annually with the executive director 

of the National Association of Minority and Women Owned Law Firms ("'NAMWOLF") and the 

senior executive of the National Bar Association to revie,v NBCU's outreach efforts to minorityowned law firms and review its efforts to expand the amount of business that NBCU does with 

minority-owned finns. 

5. Media Ownership 

Comcasl: New Jfldependent~}'~Owl1ed and ~Oper(ltetf Cable Networks. It is Comcasfs intention to 

ensure that there are substantial opportunities for diverse programmers to benefit trom its 

commitment to add t\VO new independently-ovmed and -operated cable networks to its systems for 

each of the next three years starting in 20 II. To that end. Com cast commits that at least half of the 

six networks to be added to its systems pursuant to this three-year pledge will be networks in which 

minorities have a substantial ownership interest. 

NBCU: L.A. Station Divestiture. NBC\) has agreed to divest its ownership interest in KWHY-TV, 

an independent Spanish-language broadcast station in Los Angeles. This process presents a key 

opportunity tor minority· ownership in one of the nation"s top two largest media markets. To 

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facilitate this opportunity, NBCLJ has established a process to identify potential buyers and has 

selected the Minority Media and Telecommunications Council ("MMTC") as co-advisor for this 

transaction. MMTC has had demonstrable success in identifying qualified minority buyers in similar 

divestitures. 

In the event these efforts do not result in the sale of K WHY-TV, the station license and assets will be 

placed in a divestiture tmst at the closing of the proposed transaction. If this becomes necessary, 

MMTC will work with the trustee to effectuate the sale to a qualified third party, On May 17,2010, 

an application \vas tiled seeking FCC consent for the assignment of KWHY ~TV to a divestiture trust. 

The proposed trustee, Bahia Honda LLC, has as its sole member Jose Cancela, the principal of 

media consulting firm, Hispanic USA, NBCLJ and MMTC will remain actively engaged in ctJorts to 

sell KWHY -TV while the application for assignment to the divestiture trust is pending, 

Comcast and NBCU: Minority Buyersfi>r Media Assels. Although no additional divestiture of 

media assets is contemplated in connection with the NBCU transaction, the companies are 

committed to having an appropriate sensitivity to minority ownership issues in the event media 

assets are divested in the future, including involvement of specialists to identify minority buyers for 

any future asset sales. 

6. Programming 

COUlcast: Expanded Service~' and Competitive Pricing. Corneas! Cable is committed to maintain 

and improve its track record in bringing diverse programming to its subscribers. Moreover, Comcast 

Cable remains committed to providing competitive and affordable video services to its customers~ 

including its minority customers. As part of its regular meetings with the external Advisory 

Councils, Comcast will review the pricing and packaging of its minority-oriented programming. 

Comcast: Expansioll ofDi"erse Vitleo On Demand ("VOD") COlltent_ On Demand and On 

Demand Online are dynamic and innovative platforms, and COl11cast intends to help opp0l1unities 

for owners of diverse content to utilize them. On Demand affords independent and minority owners 

of content with an unparalleled opportunity to reach niche audiences in a direct way and with 

scheduling directed by the viewers' time preference. As Comcast expands On Demand and On 

Demand Online, it will focus on ways to ensure that independent and minority owners of content can 

take advantage of these next-generation platforms. 

• African American Content. Comeast Cable recently launched Black Cinema On Demand. 

a VOD channel that celebrates black films, 1iImmakers, and actors past, present and future, 

focllsing on the wide range of experiences, accomplishments, and points-of-view of black 

people as expressed through the artistic medium of film. In addition. Comcast Cable features 

On Demand programming that delivers a variety oftclevision, entertainment, and music 

choices from various networks and programs that target African American audiences, 

including Black Entertainment Television (BET). H20 (Hip Hop On Demand), and recently 

acquired Soul Train content. 

• Asian Coulent. This fall, Comeas! Cable will launch Asian Cinema On Demand that will 

feature films from across the Asian Pacific Islander diaspora that highlight the experiences, 

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accomplishments. and points~of-view of this community as expressed through the atiistic 

medium of film. This permanent platform will allow Comeast Cable to work with Asian 

Pacific Islander English-language content developers and ,vill be programmed by experts in 

the Asian Pacil;c Islander tilm space. This channel will be available 24 hours a day, 365 

days a year; contain 20 hours of content; be refreshed up to 100% a month but no less than 

50%; and will include a specific marketing plan developed to promote the offering. 

• Latino Content. Within twelve months of the transaction closing, Comcast Cable 

launch Hispanic Cinema On Demand featuring Latino-themed movies. In addition. 

Cable will use its On Demand and On Demand Online platforms to feature Telemundo 

programming and to continue expanding the availability of NBC U's mun2 (MunDos). 

Corneast Cable will usc these platforms to increase programming choices available to 

children and families, as well as to audiences for Spanish-language programming. Within 

three years of closing the transaction, Comcast Cable has committed to add 1,500 

programming choices appealing to children and families and 300 additional programming 

choices from Telemundo and mun2 to its On Demand platform. 

Comcast: COlltillued Reliance on Unaffiliated COlllelll. There is no prospect that the 

transaction with GE and NBCU will diminish Comcasfs reliance on unaffiliated content. 

consummation of the proposed transaction, Com cast ,vi![ continue to rely on other content providers 

to provide the vast majority of its video content. Comcast will not rely exclusively or even primarily 

on NBCU content. 

NBCU: Entertainment Programming. \\lith respect to entertainment programming, NBCU makes 

the following commitments: 

• Building Diverse Relationships. NBCU commits to double (from two to four) the number 

offormal networking events hosted each year to provide information on employment 

opportunities for diverse directors. writers, and directors of photography vl"ith its senior 

executives (at the president, executive vice president, senior vice president, and vice 

president levels) in the feature, broadcast. cable, and digital divisions ofNBCU. 

• Diverse Writers Program. To promote diversity among its writers. NBCU commits to 

continue to fund diversity writer positions for three years, selected by the 5howrunner/producer, for each of its scripted series on the NBC broadcast network and for each of 

NBCs three late night programs. In addition, NBCU commits to expand this program to 

fund a diverse writer position on each scripted series on NBClJ's cable networks. 

• Directors FeJlowship Program. NBCU will continue to sponsor this important shadowing 

program, which offers diverse participants a developmental opportunity with a DGA director, 

as well as exposure to other aspects ofNBCU Television Studios production. 

Casting (TV and Film). NllCU will commit to use its influence to encourage diversity 

among the freelance casting directors hired in connection with the production ofNBCU 

programming. In addition, NBCU will create a casting associates program for TV and film 

with an empbasis on diversity in what would bc a model for the 

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• Professional Development Programs. NBCl! will continue to support the following four 

pipeline development programs offering hands~on experience in programming development 

and management, and other areas ofNBCU's business: Entertainment Associates, 

NBClJICanada Fellowships, the Universal Pictures Leadership Program. and mUltiple NBCU 

Intemship Programs. 

• Benchmarking and Reporting. NBC\) commits to report annually to the Joint Council on 

the diversity of: (i) on~camera talent in regular, recurring, and guest roles in both scripted 

and reality TV programming, as well as to continue annual reporting in those areas to the 

members of the NBC\) Coalition; and (ii) produclion executives (directors, writers) in 

primetime TV programming, NBCU will expand this annual repolt by including the 

diversity of the producers and executive producers of prime time TV series. NBC also 

commits to continue quarterly meetings with each NBCD Coalition member to seek input on 

ways for NBC to increase diverse participation in each category. 

NBeD: News Programmillg. With respect to news programming. NBCU makes the following 

commitments: 

• Nell'S Associate Program: NBC's News Associate Program is a highly competitive 

program that identifies outstanding aspiring journalists who bring diverse backgrounds to 

news production and news coverage. NBCU wlll expand this program beyond NBC News to 

also include the NBC-owned and -operated stations' ne\vs departments. This means an 

expansion annually from six to twelve News Associates. 

• Diversity Leadership Program. NBCU will explore ways to expand its Diversity 

Leadership Program, through which NBC News operates a mid-career program desjgned to 

train diverse producers and associate producers for executive producer roJes. The program 

lasts for 18 months and involves monthly workshops, business, and finance seminars, 

"shadowing" days with key senior executives, individual mentoring, and presentation skills 

training. The program enrolls eight to ten high potential journalists every 18 months. 

• Recruitment Outreach to Minority Journalists. NBC recruits every year at the annual 

conventions of the National Association of Black Journalists ("NAB]'"), National Association 

of Hispanic Journalists ("NAH],,), Asian-American Journalists Association ("AAJA"), 

National Lesbian & Gay Journalists Association, Native American Journalists Association 

("NAJA"). and South Asian Journalists Associalion, Representalives of NBC News, NBC 

Sports, Local Media, and Tclemundo contribute on alllcveis to seminars, career fairs, and 

student nChvorking events. resulting in the tracking and hiring of diverse candidates. NBCD 

will explore ways in \vhich this recruitment outreach can be expanded. 

• Meetings with Congressional Caucuses. NBCU commits to annual meetings between the 

President of NBC News and the NBC News D,C. Bureau Chiefwith lhe Coo"ressional Black 

Caucus~ the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. and the Asian-American Caucu~ to discuss 

diversity practices as they affect the News Division. 

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• NBC News Summer Fellowship Program. NBC{J will explore ways to expand its News 

Summer Fellowship Program, under which NBC sponsors two (2) paid internships every 

summer for nominees from each of three organizations: NABJ, NABJ, and AAJA. These 

six (6) paid interns are selected jointly every year by the individual organizations and NBC 

Nev,'s. NBCU will expand its news internships and increase to a minimum of nine paid 

internships annually with NABJ. NAHl. and AAJA (three each year per organization). while 

also seeking to extend the program to NAJA. to foster the careers of aspiring diverse 

journalists. 

;VBCU: Programming Leaders/tip Diversity. NBCU commits that it will continue to take steps to 

increase the diversity of its executives in each ofthe fol1o\ving areas: development (television and 

film); production (television and mm); and marketing (television and mm). NBCU will work 

diligently to ensure that key slates for executive openings include diverse candidates identified either 

through leveraging internal succession plans or using external sources. such as recruiting finns that 

have strong expertise and track records in identifYing diverse candidates within these fields. as 

needed or appropriate. 

NBCU: Emma Bowen Foundation. N BCU is one of the largest supporters of the Emma Bowen 

Foundation. a preeminent organization dedicated to preparing minority youth tor careers in the 

media industry. NBCU has sponsored more than 100 students. a signiticant number of whom have 

taken positions at NBCU and else\vhere in the industry. NBCU commits to continuing as an 

industry leader in this program and will expand its participation in and support of the program by 

sponsoring at least 50 students annually for the next five years. as well as continuing to house the 

Foundation in its \Vashington, D.C. offices and providing administrative support to the organization 

on a pro bono basis. 

Comeasl and NBCU: Expansion ~r Minority Programming. Com cast Cable and NBCU are 

committed to expanding minmity·focused programming and will have discussions \vith the external 

Diversity Advisory Councils representing each minority community about measures that can be 

taken to achieve this objective for their respective communities. 

7. Community Investment & Partnerships 

Comeast and NBCU: Ten Percent Increase in Community investment. COl11cast and NBCU 

commit to increase their philanthropic et1'ort5 to support minority-led and minority~serving 

institutions and to establish more specific benchmarks for their investment activities in minority 

communities in consultation with the Joint Council. Upon closing of the transaction, Comcast is 

prepared to increase its community investment spend on minority-led and minority~serving 

institutions by 10% per year for each of the next thrcl! years. Similarly, NI3CU will increase its 

funding by 10% per year for each of the next three years in the areas of community-based 

philanthropic focused organizations that serve youth and family in under-served communities and 

community engagement organizations with broad missions of serving diverse communities. 

Comctlst: Community Investment and Partnership Programs. Comcast will enhance its 

investment in diverse communities and its partnerships with diverse organizations by taking the 

following steps. 

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• Comcast Leaders and Achievers Scholarship Program. Comcast ,viII increase outreach 

diverse students and schools for The Com cas! Leaders and Achievers Scholarship program. 

Internship and Scholarship Programs. Comcast remains the largest supporter ofihe 

Emma Bowen Foundation internships. COtnCllst \vill increase its supp0l1 for this program 

and similar internship and scholarship programs and will seek to enhance participation of 

minority students in these programs. 1n addition, Comcast \vill work with its Human 

Resources Department to ensure that graduates of these programs afC heing considered for 

entry level positions. 

• Beyond School Walls Program. Through the Big Brothers Big Sisters Beyond School 

Walls program, Com cast ,viII ensure that school assignments are in diverse communities. 

• Corneast Cares Day. Comeast will expand its Comcast Cares Day focus to add 

organizations being served in diverse communities and to increase the number of 

organizations that are serving diverse beneficiaries. 

.. Corncast Digital Connectors Program. Comeast will ensure that locations of its programs 

through the Com cast Digital Connectors program (in partnership with One Economy) are in 

div'crse communities. 

• Promotion of Diverse Partnerships. Comcast \vilt promote and communicate the positivc 

work and impact of its diverse partners, including increases in public service announcements, 

social media communications, advertising. and media placement, both locally and nationally. 

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COMC4..STINBCU TRANSACTION 

PUBLIC INTEREST COMMITMENTS 

Camcas!, GE, and NBC Universal take their as corporate 

citizens and share a commitment to operating the venture in a way that serves 

the puhic interest. To demonstrate their commitment to consumers and to other media 

partners, the parties have made set of wTitten commitments as part of their 

public interest filing with the Federal Communications Commission. Comcast, GE, and 

NBCU are committed to consumer choice, ensuring the futurc of over-the-air 

broadcasting, enhancing programming that today's highly 

competitive marketplace remains so, and independence for 

NBC's news properties. The commitment to will ensure that 

consumers arc the ultimate beneficiaries of the proposed ComcastiNBCU transaction. 

The combined remains committed to continuing to provide free 

through its 0&0 broadcast stations and ilrrough local broadcast 

affiliates across the nation. As Corncast and renews agreements with its 

broadcast affiliates, Comeast will continue its dialogue with its affiliates 

toward a business model to sustain free over-the-air service that can be workable in the 

evolving economic and technological environment. 

Commitment #2. Comcast intends to preserve and enrich the output oflocal news, local 

public affairs and other public interest programming on NBC 0&0 stations. Through the 

use of COlucast's On Demand and On Demand Online platforms, time slots on cable 

channels, and use of certain windows on the 0&0 schedules, Comeast believes it can 

expand the availability of all typcs of local and public interest programming. 

.. For three years following the of the transaction, NBC's 0&0 stations will 

maintain the same amount of local news and information that they 

currently provide. 

made available to consumers 

an additional 1,000 hours a year of 

This additional local content ",':ill be 

of distribution platforms. 

Commitment #3. Comcast will use its On Demand and On Demand Online plat/arms 

and a portion of the NBC 0&05' digital broadcast spectrum to to kids. Comcast 

intends to develop additional opportunities to feature children's content on all available 

platforms. 

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.. Comcast will add 500 VOD choices appealing to children and 

families to its central VOD storage within 12 months of closing and will 

add an additional 1,000 such VOD choices (for a total of 1,500 additional VOD 

choices) \vithin three years of closing. (The of Comcast's cable systems 

will be cOlmeeted to Comcasfs central VOD storage fat,i1ities within 12 months 

of closing and substantially all will be connected lNithin three years of dosing.) 

Comcast will also make these additional choices available online to authenticated 

subscribers to the extent that Comcast has the requisite online rights. 

.. For three years each of NBC's 0&0 stations will provide one 

additional hour per week children's educational and infonnational 

programming one ofthe station's multicast chrumels. 

9l!ill!ill!lli:&~' Corncast reaffinns its commitment to clear and understandable 

infonnation for all covered programming across all networks 

(broadcast and of the combined company, and to the cable industry's bestpractice standards for providing on-screen information in tenns frequency, 

and duration. 

co NBCU will triple the time that program remain on the air after each 

commercia! break 5 seconds to 15 

.. NECU will make program ratings information more visible to viewers by using a 

larger fonnal. 

In an effort to constantly 

for parents, Comcast will expand its 

("CSM"), a highly respected guide 

family viewing decisions. Comcast will work to incorporate CSM infonnation 

it its emerging On Demlmd and On Demand Online platforms and other advanced 

platfOlTI1s, and \'lilliook for more opportunities for CSM to work with NECU. 

.. Comcast currently CSM content prominent on its VOD menus. 

Comcast ruld the new NBCU will work with CSM to earry across their 

distribution plattbnns more extensive programming information and parental 

tools as they are developed CSM. Comcast and NBCU will explore 

cooperative efforts to develop and media education programs that 

\vill provide parents, teachers, and children the tools ruld information to help 

them become smart, safe, and responsible users of broadband. 

co Upon to a plan to he with CSM, Comcast \viII 

devote millions dollars in media distribution resources to support public 

awareness efforts over the next two to further CSM's digital literacy 

campaign. The NBCU transaction create the opportunity for CSM and 

Comcast 10 work with NBCU's broadcast networks, local broadcast stations, and 

cable networks to provide a targeted and elIective public education campaign on 

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digital literacy, targeting underservcd areas, those with high concentrations of 

low-income residents and communities of color, as weH as target Latino 

communities with tailored materials. 

the of over-the-air 

~~~~~~t~o~; community a portion of the digital broadcast 

spectrum Telemundo's 0&05 (as well as it to Telemundo affiliates) to 

enhance the current programming of Telemundo and mun2. 

.. Within 12 months of the transaction, Telemundo will launch a new 

Spanish language channel programming from Telemundo's library that has 

had limited exposure, to be broadcast by each of the Telemlmdo 0&0 stations on 

one ofthe!r multicast channels. The Telemundo network also will make this new 

channel available to its affiliated broadcast stations on reasonable commercial 

terms. 

Comcast will usc its On Demand and On Demand Online platforms to 

=====:.!!.!~. Comeast intends to continue eXlxUlldulg of mun2 on the 

Demand, and On Demand piBlttorms. 

e Comcast will increase the mmlber of VOD choices from Telemundo and mun2 

available on its central VOD storage facilities from 35 today, first 

to 100 choices within 12 months of and then to a total of 300 additional 

choices within three years of Comcast will also make these additional 

choices available online to its subscribers to the extent that it has the requisite 

online 

Comcast provides 15,000 VOD programming 

or at no additional charge over the coursc of a month. Corn cast commits that 

it will continue to provide at least that number of VOD choices free or at no additional 

charge. In addition, within three years the transaction, Com cast will 

make available over the course of a month an additional 5,000 VOD choices via its 

central VOD storage facilities for free or at no additional charge. 

NBCD broadcast content of the kind 

on Comcast's On Demand service and 

additional charge to the consumer will continue to be made 

charge, for the three-year period after 

13 

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at no additional 
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With respect to PEG channels, Comeast will 

l:lll!IUlIt:l~ to on any Comeas! cable system until the 

to all-digital distribution until all channels have been or until a 

community otherwise agrees to PEG whichever comes first. 

l1l;;11"Ul1OH educational and governmental 

access Comcast will also a to host PEG content On 

Demand and On Demand Online \\lithin three years 

., Comcast will select lIve loeations in its sef\iice area to test various approaches to 

placing PEG content on VOD and online. Comcast will select these locations to 

ensure geographic, economic and ethnic with a mix of nrral and urban 

communities, and wi!! consult with leaders to determine which 

programming - educational andlor would most benefit 

local residents by on VOD and online. 

.. Comcast will me annual reports to inform the Commission 

and implementation ofthi;; initiative. 

on the trial 

As Comcast makes rapid advances in video 

more capacity will become available. So Comcasi will commit once it has 

completed its digital migration to be no later than 2011), it 

will add two new and channels to its each 

year for the next three years on cuslomary terms and conditions. 

.. New chmmels are channels not ~nrTP"."V carried on any Comeas! Cable system. 

.. Independent programmers are entities that arc not affiliated with Comeast, 

NBCU, or any of the top 15 owners of cable networks (measured revenue). 

!d!.!!!!!ll~£!!!L!~. Comcas! will commit to voluntarily 

access to high definition (HD) feeds of any 

(SD) feed is subject to the program access rules fl.)r as 

program access rules remain in 

the application 

whose standard 

as the Commission's current 

Comcast will commit to extend the components of 

"'",!',V'"'''''''''' with MVPDs 1'01' retransmission to 

14 
231 


smartinez on DSK6TPTVN1PROD with HEARINGInsert graphic folio 239 77919A.199

the of NBC and Telemundo 0&0 stations for as long as the Commission's 

current program access rules remain in 

Comcast will be in retransmission consent ne:gotlutlOflS from unduly or 

llUlProperl} int1uencing the NBC and Te!emundo stations' decisions about 

or other terms and conditions on which the stations make their 

programming available to unaffiliated MVPDs. 

" The "burden chi,.. ••• ,." in the program 

retransmission consent 

"'''''''UllO'' 0&0 stations. 

access rules 

negotiations 11'n",""'''''' 

.. The five-month "shot clock" 

to retransmission consent HCI~v'ml,'ViJ," 

stations. 

~:~~~-!~. The combined entity it respect to lhe news 

networks and stations. and will extend these to 

access would apply 

the NBC and Telemundo 0&0 

of journalistic 

of all NBCD 

the owners. To ensure such the combined will continue in effect the 

position and authority of the NBC News ombudsman to address any issues ihat rnay 

arise. 

Corneast 

agreements. 

15 

o 

lat!Or,·rn;amrgcrn":l1t relationships 

transaction. Corn cast plans to