FCC's First Localism Hearing Scheduled for Charlotte, N.C.

The first of the FCC's six public hearings on localism in media will be held Wednesday, Oct. 22 in Charlotte, N.C. from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Charlotte-Mecklenberg Government Center Meeting Chamber, 600 E. Fourth St. The purpose of the hearing is to gather input from consumers, civic organizations, business and industry on how broadcasters serve their communities. The hearing will begin with an exchange between FCC commissioners and several invited panelists, then conclude with an "open mic" segment where members of the audience can "register their views," according to the FCC.

The hearings are part of a localism initiative set forth by FCC Chairman Michael Powell following the public outcry over relaxed media ownership regulations. More information about the hearings is available online at http://www.fcc.gov/localism, or by phone at 202-418-7777, or via email at localism@fcc.gov.