[Senate Hearing 110-1226]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
S. Hrg. 110-1226
NOMINATIONS TO THE
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE
CORPORATION FOR PUBLIC BROADCASTING
=======================================================================
HEARING
before the
COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE,
SCIENCE, AND TRANSPORTATION
UNITED STATES SENATE
ONE HUNDRED TENTH CONGRESS
SECOND SESSION
__________
SEPTEMBER 17, 2008
__________
Printed for the use of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and
Transportation
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80-430 WASHINGTON : 2013
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SENATE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE, SCIENCE, AND TRANSPORTATION
ONE HUNDRED TENTH CONGRESS
SECOND SESSION
DANIEL K. INOUYE, Hawaii, Chairman
JOHN D. ROCKEFELLER IV, West KAY BAILEY HUTCHISON, Texas,
Virginia Ranking
JOHN F. KERRY, Massachusetts TED STEVENS, Alaska, Vice Chairman
BYRON L. DORGAN, North Dakota JOHN McCAIN, Arizona
BARBARA BOXER, California OLYMPIA J. SNOWE, Maine
BILL NELSON, Florida GORDON H. SMITH, Oregon
MARIA CANTWELL, Washington JOHN ENSIGN, Nevada
FRANK R. LAUTENBERG, New Jersey JOHN E. SUNUNU, New Hampshire
MARK PRYOR, Arkansas JIM DeMINT, South Carolina
THOMAS R. CARPER, Delaware DAVID VITTER, Louisiana
CLAIRE McCASKILL, Missouri JOHN THUNE, South Dakota
AMY KLOBUCHAR, Minnesota ROGER F. WICKER, Mississippi
Margaret L. Cummisky, Democratic Staff Director and Chief Counsel
Lila Harper Helms, Democratic Deputy Staff Director and Policy Director
Christine D. Kurth, Republican Staff Director and General Counsel
Paul Nagle, Republican Chief Counsel
C O N T E N T S
----------
Page
Hearing held on September 17, 2008............................... 1
Statement of Senator Hutchison................................... 19
Statement of Senator Inouye...................................... 1
Statement of Senator Nelson...................................... 2
Statement of Senator Pryor....................................... 10
Statement of Senator Stevens..................................... 18
Prepared statement........................................... 18
Statement of Senator Thune....................................... 20
Witnesses
Halpern, Hon. Cheryl Feldman, Member, Board of Directors,
Corporation for Public Broadcasting............................ 20
Prepared statement........................................... 22
Biographical information..................................... 23
Pryor, Hon. David H., Renominated to be a Member of the Board of
Directors, Corporation for Public Broadcasting................. 10
Prepared statement........................................... 12
Biographical information..................................... 13
Ramer, Bruce M., Member-Designate, Board of Directors,
Corporation for Public Broadcasting............................ 30
Prepared statement........................................... 32
Biographical information..................................... 34
Sembler, Elizabeth, Member-Designate, Board of Directors,
Corporation for Public Broadcasting............................ 3
Biographical information..................................... 4
Sutliff, Loretta Cheryl, Member-Designate, Board of Directors,
Corporation for Public Broadcasting............................ 41
Prepared statement........................................... 43
Biographical information..................................... 44
Appendix
Response to written questions submitted by Hon. Byron L. Dorgan
to:
All CPB nominees............................................. 51
Cheryl Feldman Halpern....................................... 52
Bruce M. Ramer............................................... 54
Elizabeth Sembler............................................ 54
Loretta Sutliff.............................................. 55
NOMINATIONS TO THE
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE
CORPORATION FOR PUBLIC BROADCASTING
----------
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2008
U.S. Senate,
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
Washington, DC.
The Committee met, pursuant to notice, at 10:30 a.m. in
room SR-253, Russell Senate Office Building, Hon. Daniel K.
Inouye, Chairman of the Committee, presiding.
OPENING STATEMENT OF HON. DANIEL K. INOUYE,
U.S. SENATOR FROM HAWAII
The Chairman. Good morning. This morning, we hold a hearing
with the five nominees for the Corporation for Public
Broadcasting Board of Directors.
And I am especially pleased to welcome our friend and
former colleague David Pryor back to the U.S. Senate, at least
electronically.
Since its creation in the 1967 Public Broadcasting Act,
public broadcasting has become a unique voice in our local
communities. Public broadcasting has provided educational,
cultural, and informational programming that takes creative
risks and serves traditionally unserved and underserved
populations.
Public broadcasting has become a forum for award-winning
documentaries, outstanding children's programming, and in-depth
news and public affairs programming that is not always found on
commercial stations.
As you may be aware, I am a long-time supporter of public
broadcasting. So I was very troubled when only a few years ago,
the Inspector General of the Corporation for Public
Broadcasting found that actions of the former Chairman of the
Board had violated the Public Broadcasting Act of 1967 as well
as the Director's Code of Ethics. Though this dark episode is
behind us, it cast an unfortunate shadow.
The nominees for the Board must understand that they occupy
a position of public trust. So, on behalf of the Committee, I
ask all of you to commit to the success of public broadcasting
and work to ensure that the future is bright.
This challenge is especially acute for public television
stations because only 5 months from today, this nation will
transform--transition from analog to digital signals. As Board
members, you will bear responsibilities for the digital
transition and be expected to help ensure success.
I would like to now call upon the Senator from Florida, Mr.
Nelson, for his remarks.
STATEMENT OF HON. BILL NELSON,
U.S. SENATOR FROM FLORIDA
Senator Nelson. Mr. Chairman, thank you.
And I want to say a word about David Pryor and Liz Sembler.
And David, you are joining us by teleconference. We all know
the enormous contributions that you have made to your country.
But perhaps the greatest contribution that you have made is
that you have sent us your son, Mark Pryor, who is our
colleague here in the Senate and one of my dearest personal
friends in the Senate. So thank you very much for that.
Senator David Pryor. Thank you, sir.
Senator Nelson. Mr. Chairman, I want to introduce to the
Committee, Liz Sembler, who has been nominated to serve on this
board.
For over 15 years, she has been deeply involved in the
efforts to support public broadcasting, and she has done that
in Florida, and throughout the country. She has served on the
board of directors of WEDU, which is the public broadcasting
station in the Tampa Bay area. And during that time, she has
been involved in what each of those public broadcasting
stations has to do, which includes raising money and doing
community outreach, as well as the station's efforts to prepare
for the transition to digital television, which is going to
occur next February.
She has also served on the Board of Directors of the
Association of Public Television Stations. And there, she
worked with both sides of the aisle to ensure the continuation
of support for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.
I want to point out that she is an educator. And as we look
at the future of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, it is
to ensure that public broadcasters across the country provide
programming that educates and inspires the children of America.
And Ms. Sembler understands what we need to do to adapt this
corporation to an Internet-based world. And so, I want to give
my recommendation that we approve her.
And Senator Pryor, just before you came, I had some
opportunity to comment that your father's greatest contribution
to the country is that he sent you here to the Senate.
So, thank you, Mr. Chairman, for sharing these remarks.
The Chairman. We have a lovefest here.
[Laughter.]
The Chairman. Well, with that introduction, I would like to
call upon the first nominee, Ms. Elizabeth Sembler. I have been
told that you have family members here. Would you like to
introduce them?
STATEMENT OF ELIZABETH SEMBLER,
MEMBER-DESIGNATE, BOARD OF DIRECTORS,
CORPORATION FOR PUBLIC BROADCASTING
Ms. Sembler. Thank you very much. And thank you, Senator
Nelson, for your comments.
I have sitting behind me my parents, Ruth and Leonard Mauer
from New York. And it is my father's 77th birthday today. So
this is very exciting that he is here.
I have my husband, Greg Sembler, who is with me, and three
of my four children--Jacob Sembler, Eve Sembler, and Benjamin
Sembler.
The Chairman. Happy birthday, Father. Please proceed.
Ms. Sembler. Mr. Chairman and Members of the Commerce
Committee, thank you very much for the opportunity to appear
before you this morning to discuss my nomination to the Board
of Directors for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. I
would also like to thank President Bush for having confidence
in me and honoring me with this nomination.
Fifteen years ago this month, I attended my first board
meeting as a new member of the Board of Directors of WEDU, my
local public television station in Tampa, Florida. When I was
asked to serve on that Board, I willingly agreed. As a viewer,
I appreciated the public affairs programming. And as the mom of
three very young children with a fourth on the way, I was
dependent upon the PBS show ``Barney and Friends'' for at least
a half an hour of calm each morning during the reigning chaos.
``Yes, of course, I will volunteer for this cause,'' I told the
board officer who recruited me. ``I love public television. I
need public television. Doesn't everyone?''
Over the past decade and a half, as my babies have grown
into the teenagers sitting before you today, so, too, has my
awe for what our nation's public broadcasters accomplish each
and every day.
I have witnessed firsthand, as a board member of WEDU, and
later as its chairman, the masterfully coordinated efforts of
station manager and producers, engineers and pledge drive VPs,
Ready To Learn outreach directors and capital campaign
fundraisers, underwriting salesmen and programmers, and, of
course, volunteers and board members, all of whom work together
to provide the finest television broadcasts available in our
country. Programming which, in my opinion, far surpasses the
offerings available on any other channel.
The more I learned at WEDU, the more determined I became to
ensure that the Federal Government continued to support our
efforts and continued to share the burden of our expenses. Year
after year, I traveled here to Washington to visit you and your
colleagues to remind you of the value of this national asset
and to convince reluctant supporters to step up and fund our
efforts.
In the process, I learned about the Association of Public
Television Stations and their efforts to organize us in our
outreach, and they learned about me. Four years ago, I joined
their national board of directors and now work with the finest
CEOs and station managers from around the country to help
educate you, the Members of Congress, on the critical issues
facing the public television community.
And as I know you are aware, there are critical issues.
Perhaps looming largest is the February 17, 2009, analog
shutoff date for television broadcasts. So many are hard at
work to ensure smooth transition to digital broadcasting, yet
just last week, the FCC reported concerns in early testing in
North Carolina. This is particularly troubling for public TV
broadcasters.
Of the estimated 25 million Americans who receive their
television programming over the air and who will need to do the
most to transition to digital reception, a significant number
are supporters and viewers of public television. The CPB and
its stations must work hard with commercial broadcasters and
Congress to ensure the success of the transition and ensure
that the audience for public television can find its
programming.
There are other critical issues for public broadcasters,
who must now compete for eyeballs and eardrums in an era of
channel proliferation and emerging media and distribution
platforms.
My children can send a text message on their phones while
they listen to their iPods, surf the Web, and flip back and
forth among several television shows simultaneously. Just the
thought of it gives me a headache, but this young generation is
adept and sophisticated in its use of technology. It behooves
us to keep up with their needs.
Additionally, public broadcasters must face these
challenges and accomplish their goals in an era of Federal
funding that, while now increasing, does not keep pace with
inflation. It is, indeed, a critical time for CPB and the
stations it supports.
I believe that my background will prepare me well, if I am
confirmed to serve on the CPB board, to help the Corporation
meet the challenges it now faces. My years of service as a
public television station board member, both locally and on the
APTS board, have provided me a front-row seat in the arena. I
am continually exposed to the flow of ideas and issues in the
world of public broadcasting, both television and radio.
Also, I am a schoolteacher and administrator by profession.
Education continues to be a core value of the public
broadcasting community. Indeed, the CPB's mission is to inform,
enlighten, and enrich the public. The Federal Act which created
the Corporation specifically underscored the use of public
media for instructional, educational, and cultural purposes.
I work with children every day in and out of the classroom,
and I understand the transformative power of education. If
confirmed by the U.S. Senate to serve on the CPB board, I will
draw upon the lessons I have learned from my classroom teaching
and from my association with WEDU and APTS to help me make
informed and reasoned decisions. I look forward to the
possibility.
Thank you again for this opportunity to appear before you
today. I am happy to answer any questions that you may have.
[The biographical information of Ms. Sembler follows:]
A. BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION
1. Name (include any former names or nicknames used):
Elizabeth Mauer Sembler, Liz Sembler
Maiden name: Elizabeth Mauer, Liz Mauer
2. Position to which nominated: Member of the Board of Directors,
Corporation for Public Broadcasting.
3. Date of Nomination: May 29, 2008.
4. Address (List current place of residence and office addresses):
Residence: Information not released to the public.
Office: 1775 Highland Avenue So., Clearwater, FL 33756.
5. Date and Place of Birth: April 27, 1962; West Hempstead, NY.
6. Provide the name, position and place of employment for your
spouse (if married) and the name and ages of your children (including
stepchildren and children by a previous marriage):
Spouse: Gregory Scott Sembler, CEO, The Sembler Company, St.
Petersburg, FL.; children: Jacob Mauer Sembler (18); Ezra
Eugene Sembler, (18); Eve Beth Sembler, (15); Benjamin Henry
Sembler, (14).
7. List all college and graduate degrees. Provide year and school
attended:
Syracuse University, B.A., 1984.
University of South Florida, M.A., 1989.
8. List all post-undergraduate employment, and highlight all
management-level jobs held and any non-managerial jobs that relate to
the position for which you are nominated.
Newspaper reporter, St. Petersburg Times, 1984-1986
Classroom teacher and school administrator, Pinellas County
Jewish Day School, 2000 to present.
I believe that my employment experience meshes beautifully with the
position for which I was nominated, member of the Board of Directors of
the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. As a journalist, I was trained
to appreciate and practice non-biased reporting and fairness, both
vital for the quality public affairs programming offered by non-
commercial public broadcasting. As a school administrator, a managerial
position, I supervise teachers, oversee a budget, work with clergy, and
cooperate with community leaders, all important communication and
supervisory skills that I can draw upon during my CPB Board service. As
a teacher, I work with young Americans daily in the classroom; I
understand the educational challenges our nation faces and the value
provided by quality public educational television for children.
9. Attach a copy of your resume: A copy is attached.
10. List any advisory, consultative, honorary, or other part-time
service or positions with Federal, State, or local governments, other
than those listed above, within the last 5 years: Not Applicable.
11. List all positions held as an officer, director, trustee,
partner, proprietor, agent, representative, or consultant of any
corporation, company, firm, partnership, or other business, enterprise,
educational, or other institution within the last 5 years.
Board Memberships:
Association of Public Television Stations, Washington, D.C.
WEDU: Florida West Coast Public Broadcasting, Tampa, FL.
The Florida Orchestra, St. Petersburg, FL.
William Davidson Graduate School of Jewish Education Board of
Overseers, Jewish Theological Seminary, New York, NY.
Congregation Bnai Israel, St. Petersburg, FL.
Partnership:
G & L Sembler Investment Partnership LP
12. Please list each membership you have had during the past 10
years or currently hold with any civic, social, charitable,
educational, political, professional, fraternal, benevolent or
religious organization, private club, or other membership organization.
Include dates of membership and any positions you have held with any
organization. Please note whether any such club or organization
restricts membership on the basis of sex, race, color, religion,
national origin, age, or handicap.
Congregation Bnai Israel, St. Petersburg, FL: 1986 to present.
Current Parliamentarian of the Board of Directors and
Executive Committee Member.
Former Ritual Committee Chair.
Former Pre-School Head Search Committee Chair.
Congregation Beth Shalom, Clearwater, FL: 2007 to present.
Young Israel-Chabad of Clearwater, FL: 1986 to present.
Jewish Educators Assembly, 2002 to present.
Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, 2006 to
present.
Hadassah, Life member, 1987 to present.
Jewish Federation of Pinellas County, FL: 1987 to present.
Former Board Member.
Former General Campaign Chair.
Former Women's Division Campaign Co-Chair.
Former Leadership Development Chair.
WEDU: Florida West Coast Public Broadcasting: 1993 to present.
Current Board Member
Former Board Chair (2001-2003)
Republican Jewish Coalition, President's Council, 2002-2006.
13. Have you ever been a candidate for and/or held public office
(elected, nonelected, or appointed)? If so, indicate whether any
campaign has any outstanding debt, the amount, and whether you are
personally liable for that debt: Not Applicable.
14. Itemize all political contributions to any individual,
campaign, or organization, political party, political action committee,
or similar entity of $500 or more for the past 10 years. Also list all
offices you have held with, or services rendered to, a state or
national political party or election committee during the same period.
I have not held any office with, or rendered services to, any
political parties. I have made the following political contributions:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1999 Bush for President, Inc. $1,000
2003 Bush-Cheney 2004 (Primary) Inc. $2,000
2004 Mel Martinez for Senate $2,000
2005 Charlie Crist Florida $500
Gubernatorial Campaign
Rick Baker St. Petersburg $500
Mayoral Campaign
Robb Pitts Fulton Co., GA $1,000
Commissioner
2006 Friends of Joe Lieberman $1,000
Congressman Bill Young Campaign $2,100
Committee (Primary)
Congressman Bill Young Campaign $2,100
Committee
Calvin Harris Pinellas Co., FL $500
Commissioner
Florida Victory 2006 $10,000
Angelo Cappelli Campaign $500
2007 (Norm) Coleman for Senate 2008 $2,300
Mel Martinez for Senate $2,300
(Mitch) McConnell Senate $2,300
Committee 2008
Vernon Jones for Georgia $2,300
Republican Party of Florida $1,000
Mitt Romney for President $2,300
Charlie Dean for Florida Senate $500
2008 (Eric) Cantor for Congress $1,000
John McCain 2008 Inc. $2,300
John McCain 2008 General $2,300
Election Compliance Fund Inc.
Burrell Ellis, DeKalb Co. GA $1,300
Commissioner
Andrew Jones Campaign $500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
15. List all scholarships, fellowships, honorary degrees, honorary
society memberships, military medals, and any other special recognition
for outstanding service or achievements.
New York State Regents Scholarship (merit based)
University Scholar and Class Marshal, Syracuse University Class
of 1984
Edward N. Ludin Young Leadership Award, Pinellas County Jewish
Federation
16. Please list each book, article, column, or publication you have
authored, individually or with others. Also list any speeches that you
have given on topics relevant to the position for which you have been
nominated. Do not attach copies of these publications unless otherwise
instructed.
In Chaucer's Pilgrims: An Historical Guide to the Pilgrims in
The Canterbury Tales, edited by Laura C. Lambdin and Robert T.
Lambdin, I contributed Chapter 12: ``A Franklyn Was in His
Compaignye'' (1996: Greenwood Press, Westport, CT).
17. Please identify each instance in which you have testified
orally or in writing before Congress in a governmental or non-
governmental capacity and specify the date and subject matter of each
testimony: Not Applicable.
18. Given the current mission, major programs, and major
operational objectives of the department/agency to which you have been
nominated, what in your background or employment experience do you
believe affirmatively qualifies you for appointment to the position for
which you have been nominated, and why do you wish to serve in that
position?
I have been nominated to the Board of Directors of the Corporation
for Public Broadcasting, a position I believe I am well-suited for.
With my history of volunteer involvement with my local public
television station (nearly 15 years as a board member, including
chairman for 2 years) and the industry's national advocacy board
(APTS); my career as an educator of children and the parent of four;
and my training early in my career as a journalist, I have confidence
that I am well-versed in the issues facing the industry--
technologically, politically, financially, and culturally.
I understand profoundly the importance of public broadcasting and
the commitment of those involved to provide quality educational,
cultural and entertaining programming and to fulfill its role in
helping shape our democracy. As a board member of WEDU in Tampa,
Florida and a board member of the Association of Public Television
Stations, I have spent many hours advocating for the Federal funds to
sustain public television. This experience has helped me to comprehend
and articulate logically but also passionately just how vital public
broadcasting is for our country and its citizens. Additionally, during
the past decade and a half I have also undergone a rigorous education
in the challenges facing the public broadcasting industry in the
digital age, including the multi-million dollar capital campaigns
stations recently underwent to convert from analog to digital
broadcasting and the public awareness campaigns they are producing now
to inform the public about the February 2009 analog shutoff date.
As a teacher and mother, I value highly the role public
broadcasting plays in educating our youth; as a former journalist I
cherish the notion of bias-free news reporting, one not beholden to any
interest group or commercial influence.
For all of these reasons, I wish to serve on the Board of Directors
of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting to help ensure that its
mission is secured for the future, and that the service it provides to
our country continues to strengthen our citizens, educationally,
culturally and civically. In an era when the CPB continues to be
challenged politically and its existence called into question because
of channel proliferation and new media, I am determined to do my part
to help articulate the agency's relevance and necessity in our
democracy that so depends upon a well-informed and educated citizenry.
19. What do you believe are your responsibilities, if confirmed, to
ensure that the department/agency has proper management and accounting
controls, and what experience do you have in managing a large
organization?
If confirmed, I expect first and foremost to be educated: I would
hope to learn about the intricacies of the CPB, its budget, and how it
is structured as an organization to guarantee that it meets its stated
mission; I would expect to be introduced to the staff and learn about
how it works together and with the Board of Directors to fulfill its
goals. As an educated board member, I can then fulfill my fiduciary
responsibility to the organization, to the U.S. Senate, which has
oversight over the agency, and to the American public. Specifically, I
will ensure that the Corporation has a clear mission statement and
business plan, that it is properly staffed with a reporting structure
that can carry out the plan, and that it operates within the resources
allotted to it by the U.S. Congress. I will review periodic audits of
the Corporation to ensure the above.
I am an experienced board member of non-profit organizations and
institutions, having served or currently serving on the boards of an
orchestra, a graduate school at a religious seminary, a synagogue, a
public television station, a national board for public television
advocacy, and a Jewish federation (communal funding organization). For
each of these positions, I have pored over budgets, audits, proposals,
financial rescue plans, capital campaign plans, and the like, and I am
not afraid to ask questions when the numbers don't seem to add up,
literally and figuratively.
20. What do you believe to be the top three challenges facing the
department/agency, and why?
We live in an age of rapidly advancing technology; my teen-aged
children's and my students' media savvy cannot be ignored. The impact
that this younger generation already has on traditional forms of
broadcasting, where the CPB has its home, creates challenges for the
agency and for the public television and radio stations it funds. The
viewing and listening public's fascination with the interactive nature
of the internet, the exciting possibilities of open mobile video, the
ease and availability of on-demand viewing (and the ability to
eliminate commercial interruptions--are we losing that monopoly?) all
affect the CPB as it seeks to make a home in the hearts and minds of
younger viewers/listeners. The challenge for the CPB is to recognize
and respond to this, and yet not stray from its core mission of
enabling quality educational, cultural and entertaining programming
that is available for free to American's citizens.
Additionally, some Americans and some lawmakers question the need
for public support of broadcasting and believe public radio and
television stations, if they exist at all, should generate their own
funding. These non-supporters point to channel proliferation and new
media's successful competition for eyeballs and eardrums. To me this is
a significant challenge, as the continual need for the CPB to justify
its existence takes a toll on the agency. Time spent by the stations
supported by the CPB to convince Congressional funders of the necessity
of those dollars could be better spent on addressing the challenges of
our digital age.
Lastly, next February, America will land squarely in the digital
age when we transition from analog to digital transmission for
television broadcast. It is estimated that 25 million Americans receive
their television over the air; there is some concern that not all of
these viewers understand the implications of this conversion, or what
to do. It is also estimated that a significant number of those 25
million are supporters and viewers of public television. The CPB and
its stations must work hard with commercial broadcasters and the
Congress to ensure the success of the transition and ensure that the
audience for public television can find its programming.
B. POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
1. Describe all financial arrangements, deferred compensation
agreements, and other continuing dealings with business associates,
clients, or customers. Please include information related to retirement
accounts.
As a teacher/administrator, I have a retirement account with TIAA-
CREF, into which my school contributes a percentage of my salary.
2. Do you have any commitments or agreements, formal or informal,
to maintain employment, affiliation or practice with any business,
association or other organization during your appointment? If so,
please explain.
I will continue to work as an administrator (Director of Jewish
Studies) and middle school teacher at the Pinellas County Jewish Day
School. The school leadership has agreed to grant me time off to attend
CPB board meetings and other events of the organization and/or industry
that will require my presence. If necessary, I will reduce my classroom
assignments to enable this type of travel.
3. Indicate any investments, obligations, liabilities, or other
relationships which could involve potential conflicts of interest in
the position to which you have been nominated.
The Office of Government Ethics, in its review, noted that my
interests in the following organizations are potential conflicts of
interests, because they either receive funding from CPB, are made up of
stations that receive funds from CPB, are involved in the markets for
video programming content or delivery, or create educational content:
AT&T; Comcast Corp.; General Electric Co.; Time Warner; Viacom; Yahoo!;
Aeon Co. Ltd.; Mediaset; Sumitomo Corporation; Telecom Italia;
Cebridge; Education Management Corporation; WEDU--Florida West Coast
Public Boradcasting; and the Association of Public Television Stations.
4. Describe any business relationship, dealing, or financial
transaction which you have had during the last 10 years, whether for
yourself, on behalf of a client, or acting as an agent, that could in
any way constitute or result in a possible conflict of interest in the
position to which you have been nominated: Not Applicable.
5. Describe any activity during the past 10 years in which you have
been engaged for the purpose of directly or indirectly influencing the
passage, defeat, or modification of any legislation or affecting the
administration and execution of law and public policy.
During the past 10 years, as a citizen of the State of Florida, I
have visited members of the state's delegation to the U.S. Congress to
request adequate funding for public television. I have never received
payment from anyone to advocate for this cause.
6. Explain how you will resolve any potential conflict of interest,
including any that may be disclosed by your responses to the above
items.
It has been pointed out to me during this process by the OGE that
certain potential conflicts exist (see #3 above); with respect to
those, pursuant to the CPB's Conflicts of Interest Policy, I will agree
if confirmed not to participate in any covered transaction between CPB
and these entities. If confirmed, I will resign my seat on the Board of
Directors of the Association of Public Television Stations.
C. LEGAL MATTERS
1. Have you ever been disciplined or cited for a breach of ethics
by, or been the subject of a complaint to any court, administrative
agency, professional association, disciplinary committee, or other
professional group? If so, explain: No.
2. Have you ever been investigated, arrested, charged, or held by
any Federal, State, or other law enforcement authority of any Federal,
State, county, or municipal entity, other than for a minor traffic
offense? If so, please explain: No.
3. Have you or any business of which you are or were an officer
ever been involved as a party in an administrative agency proceeding or
civil litigation? If so, please explain: No.
4. Have you ever been convicted (including pleas of guilty or nolo
contendere) of any criminal violation other than a minor traffic
offense? If so, please explain: No.
5. Have you ever been accused, formally or informally, of sexual
harassment or discrimination on the basis of sex, race, religion, or
any other basis? If so, please explain: No.
6. Please advise the Committee of any additional information,
favorable or unfavorable, which you feel should be disclosed in
connection with your nomination: Not Applicable.
D. RELATIONSHIP WITH COMMITTEE
1. Will you ensure that your department/agency complies with
deadlines for information set by congressional committees? Yes.
2. Will you ensure that your department/agency does whatever it can
to protect congressional witnesses and whistle blowers from reprisal
for their testimony and disclosures? Yes.
3. Will you cooperate in providing the Committee with requested
witnesses, including technical experts and career employees, with
firsthand knowledge of matters of interest to the Committee? Yes.
4. Are you willing to appear and testify before any duly
constituted committee of the Congress on such occasions as you may
reasonably be requested to do so? Yes.
______
RESUME OF LIZ SEMBLER
Employment History
Director of Jewish Studies, Pinellas County Jewish Day School
Clearwater, Florida, 2001 to present.
Coordinator of Pre-K-8th grade religious education program,
responsibilities of which include supervising Hebrew and Jewish
Studies teachers; teaching Middle School Bible, Hebrew, and
Jewish Studies; conducting daily morning prayer service;
setting curriculum; conducting holiday programming; and working
with other Jewish communal professionals and rabbis.
Sixth Grade Jewish Studies Teacher, Pinellas County Jewish Day
School, Clearwater, Florida, 2000-2001.
Staff Writer, St. Petersburg Times, Times Publishing Company, St.
Petersburg, Florida, 1984-1986.
Community Service
Member, Board of Directors, Florida West Coast Public Broadcasting,
Inc.--WEDU, Tampa, Florida, 1993 to present.
Served as Chairman of the Board 2001-2003.
Member, Board of Directors, Council of Advisors, The Florida
Orchestra, 1995 to present.
Member, Board of Overseers, William Davidson Graduate School of
Jewish Education, Jewish Theological Seminary, New York, New York, 2004
to present.
Member, Board of Directors, Association of Public Television
Stations, Washington, D.C., 2006 to present.
Jewish Communal Leader, 1987 to present.
Serving or has served on boards of the Jewish Federation of
Pinellas County; the Pinellas County Jewish Day School;
Congregation Bnai Israel of St. Petersburg, Florida; Ritual
Committee of Congregation Bnai Israel; and National Young
Leadership Cabinet of the United Jewish Communities.
Education
Gratz College, Philadelphia, PA, 2007.
Graduate Certificate in Jewish Education.
University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, 1989.
Master of Arts in English.
Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York, 1984.
Bachelor of Arts in Newspaper and Political Science.
Honors and Recognitions
Shin Award from the Jewish Theological Seminary, New York for
Service to Community, Synagogue and the Jewish Theological Seminary,
2005.
Young Leadership Award from the Pinellas County Jewish Federation,
2003.
University Scholar, Syracuse University, 1984.
The Chairman. I thank you very much, Ms. Sembler.
Any questions? Apparently, your record is very clear.
Ms. Sembler. Thank you.
The Chairman. Very good.
May I now recognize Senator Pryor of Arkansas?
STATEMENT OF HON. MARK PRYOR,
U.S. SENATOR FROM ARKANSAS
Senator Mark Pryor. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
And I share the Board's and the prospective Board members'
concerns about public broadcasting. I think it is a very
important part of the American fabric, and we need to make sure
that it remains strong and is doing all the things that it is
intended to do.
So, thank you.
And I want to also thank Senator Inouye for accommodating
my father to join us today by teleconference, and he is in my
office in Little Rock. So, Dad, glad you could join us today.
And I don't have any questions.
Thank you.
Senator David Pryor. Thank you, Mark.
The Chairman. Senator Pryor or Ambassador Pryor, whatever
it is, the floor is yours, sir.
STATEMENT OF HON. DAVID H. PRYOR, RENOMINATED TO BE A MEMBER OF
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS, CORPORATION FOR PUBLIC BROADCASTING
Senator David Pryor. Mr. Chairman, I thank you, and I thank
the distinguished Members of the Committee. And I thank Senator
Nelson, and I thank Senator Pryor--the other Senator Pryor, or
the real Senator Pryor, for his nice words.
And I really do appreciate, Mr. Chairman, you and the
Committee and the staff accommodating my rather nutty and
hectic schedule this morning, which has sort of spun out of
control in recent days.
For the last 2 years, it has been my honor and privilege to
interact with my esteemed colleagues as a member of the
Corporation for Public Broadcasting board. I have had the
opportunity, Mr. Chairman, to meet and listen to many, many
viewers and those people who run our public television and
public radio stations across America and to learn how these
public television entities and radio stations are affecting the
lives of each individual American.
I have also continued to keep up my readings, Mr. Chairman,
on the history and the purpose and the practice and the
ultimate mission of public broadcasting that we should never
lose sight of in our great and diverse country. What I have
seen and heard is most rewarding, and I believe it validates
our public investment in this great enterprise.
And it is, Mr. Chairman, a great investment. It is a great
investment in our children, in our educational system, and it
is a great investment in America.
We are currently celebrating over 40 years of public
broadcasting in America. Every citizen of our country, rural
and urban alike, now has access to the many varied programs
offered by public radio and television. With the large
television transition coming next year, that access is going to
be increasingly digital and will span many new and different
medias--iPods, phones, games--and it will be accompanied by
more outreach work.
Notwithstanding the many contributions the commercial
stations and the new cable systems have made, more and more,
the average citizen in America has established a very special,
unique relationship, even a bond, with their favorite program
brought to them by public broadcast and public radio. We have
heard this from so many people all over the country through the
Corporation for Public Broadcasting's My Source initiative,
which asks viewers and listeners alike to tell local stations
what they like best about their services.
I believe, Mr. Chairman and distinguished Members of the
Committee, that the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, with
its unique partnerships, member outlets, State governments, and
private donors, has truly developed a real family, and a strong
family at that, of support for the common belief that the
American experience with each other through this system of
public broadcast, television and radio, has met with enormous
success. This experience has helped to bring us together to
define ourselves and to explore in a very transparent way our
differences and also, most importantly, our common interests.
Respectfully, Mr. Chairman and members of the Committee, it
would be so difficult to imagine America without, some 40 years
ago, ``Sesame Street,'' Robert McNeil, Jim Lehrer, ``Antiques
Roadshow,'' ``All Things Considered,'' local and national
debates, ``Car Talk,'' ``Mr. Rogers,'' the real and living part
of our American landscape that has spanned these four decades
of public broadcast.
Mr. Chairman, I can attest that I bring no agenda with my
nomination today. Although I have very little experience in the
field of radio or television broadcasting, I have learned a
great deal in my last 22 months, I certainly hope, both from my
wonderful and diverse colleagues on the Board--from the fine
staff that the Corporation for Public Broadcasting has
assembled; from our Chief Executive Officer, Pat Harrison; and
from trips and meetings that we have attended as a Board.
In fact, Mr. Chairman, we had this past summer a very, very
constructive meeting and a 3-day session in your state of
Hawaii, which I must say was most enjoyable.
I pledge that I do bring a strong commitment to this
system, which is reinforced through my exposure to the good
work of the corporation that it has accomplished, and I would
like to continue, Mr. Chairman and Members of the Committee, to
help make a contribution to CPB's quest for excellence. We are
certainly on our way. And because of public radio and public
television, I do believe that America is a better place.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. And once again, thank you for the
accommodations to allow me to appear from Little Rock,
Arkansas, on this teleconference. I look forward to meeting our
new colleagues on the board as we go through this coming year--
through the coming years ahead. Thank you.
[The prepared statement and biographical information of
Senator David Pryor follow:]
Prepared Statement of Hon. David H. Pryor, Renominated to be a Member
of the Board of Directors, Corporation for Public Broadcasting
Mr. Chairman and Distinguished Members of the Committee:
I am honored to join you once more as I am re-nominated to the
Board of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. I want to give a
special thanks to you, Chairman Inouye, and all of the Commerce
Committee Staff for accommodating my schedule this morning and allowing
me to appear before you via teleconference.
For going on 2 years, I have had the opportunity to interact with
my esteemed colleagues, with public stations' staff and with
independent producers, to meet the listeners and the viewers, to see
how CPB's educational and investigative programming truly affects the
lives of Americans. I have continued to keep up my reading on the
history, purpose, practice, and ultimate mission of public broadcasting
in our great and diverse country. What I have seen and heard is
rewarding, and I believe validates our public investment in this
enterprise.
America is currently celebrating forty years of public broadcasting
in our country. Virtually every American citizen, in every rural and
urban neighborhood, now has access to the many varied programs offered
by public radio and television. And with the television transition next
year, that access will be increasingly digital, and will span many new
and different media--iPods, phones, games, and will be accompanied by
more outreach work.
Notwithstanding the many contributions the commercial stations and
new cable systems have made, more and more the average citizen in
America has established a special relationship, even a bond, with their
favorite program brought to them by public broadcast and public radio.
We have heard this from so many people over the last year through CPB's
My Source initiative, which asks viewers and listeners to tell local
stations what they like best about their services.
I truly believe that the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, with
its unique partnerships with member outlets, state governments, and
private donors, has developed a strong family of support for the common
belief that sharing the American experience with each other through
public broadcast television and radio has met enormous success. This
experience has helped bring us together, to define ourselves, to
explore in a very transparent way our differences and common interests.
Respectfully, Mr. Chairman and Members of the Committee, it would
be difficult to imagine what America might have missed had we failed
some forty years ago to authorize and commit to a system of public
broadcasting--Sesame Street. Robert McNeil and Jim Lehrer. Antiques
Roadshow. All Things Considered. Local and national debates. Car Talk.
Mr. Rogers--a real and living part of our American landscape.
Mr. Chairman--I can attest that I bring no agenda with my
nomination. Although I have very little experience in the field of
radio or television broadcasting, I have learned a great deal in my
last 22 months--both from my diverse colleagues and from the trips and
meetings that we have attended as a Board.
I pledge that I do bring a strong commitment--which is reinforced
through my exposure to the good work that the Corporation has
accomplished--and I would like to continue, to help contribute to CPB's
quest for excellence. Because of public radio and television, I believe
that America is a better place.
______
A. Biographical Information
1. Name (include any former names or nicknames used): David Hampton
Pryor.
2. Position to which nominated: Board of Directors, Corporation for
Public Broadcasting.
3. Date of Nomination: June 2008.
4. Address (List current place of residence and office addresses):
Residence: Information not released to the public.
Office: 1405 N. Pierce Street, Suite 212, Little Rock, AR
72207.
5. Date and Place of Birth: August 29, 1934; Camden, Arkansas.
6. Provide the name, position and place of employment for your
spouse (if married) and the name and ages of your children (including
stepchildren and children by a previous marriage):
Barbara Lunsford Pryor, (wife--self-employed Interior
Decorator); children: David Hampton Pryor, Jr., son, 48; Mark
Lunsford Pryor, son, 45; Scott Newton Pryor, son, 42.
7. List all college and graduate degrees. Provide year and school
attended:
B.A., University of Arkansas, 1957.
L.L.B., University of Arkansas, 1964.
8. List all post-undergraduate employment, and highlight all
management-level jobs held and any non-managerial jobs that relate to
the position for which you are nominated.
Publisher, The Ouachita Citizen.
Arkansas State Representative.
United States Representative (AR).
Governor, State of Arkansas.
United States Senator (AR).
Distinguished Professor, University of Arkansas at
Fayetteville.
Distinguished Professor, Lyon College.
Fellow, Institute of Politics, Harvard University.
Director, Institute of Politics, Harvard University.
Consultant, Federal Express Corporation.
Managing Director, Herrington, Inc.
Consultant, CorpHealth.
Consultant, Waste Management.
Consultant, Financial Services Corporation.
Consultant, Halter Financial Group.
Consultant, Anawah, Inc.
Consultant, Arkansas Electric Cooperatives.
Consultant, Waste Management.
Partner, Sundquist, Pryor, Boland, Reeves, Cloud.
Consultant, George Tagg Consulting.
9. Attach a copy of your resume. A copy is attached.
10. List any advisory, consultative, honorary, or other part-time
service or positions with Federal, State, or local governments, other
than those listed above, within the last 5 years: Comptroller General's
Commission to Study the Federal Workers
11. List all positions held as an officer, director, trustee,
partner, proprietor, agent, representative, or consultant of any
corporation, company, firm, partnership, or other business, enterprise,
educational, or other institution within the last 5 years.
Consultant, University of Arkansas.
Dean, Clinton School of Public Service, University of Arkansas.
Consultant, Federal Express Corporation.
Managing Director, Herrington, Inc.
Consultant, CorpHealth.
Consultant, Waste Management.
Consultant, Financial Services Corporation.
Consultant, Halter Financial Group.
Consultant, Anawah, Inc.
Consultant, Arkansas Electric Cooperatives.
Consultant, Waste Management.
Partner, Sundquist, Pryor, Boland, Reeves, Cloud.
12. Please list each membership you have had during the past 10
years or currently hold with any civic, social, charitable,
educational, political, professional, fraternal, benevolent or
religious organization, private club, or other membership organization.
Include dates of membership and any positions you have held with any
organization. Please note whether any such club or organization
restricts membership on the basis of sex, race, color, religion,
national origin, age, or handicap.
Heifer International Board Member 2000-2005 (approx.)
Winrock International Board Member 1998-2000 (approx.)
Alfalfa Club, 1995 to present.
Arkansas Arts Center.
KLRE/KUAR.
Arkansas Rep Theatre.
Arkansas Alumni Association, 1990 to present.
Arkansas Bar Association, since admitted to Bar.
Association of Former Members of Congress, 2004 to present.
Chenal Country Club Member, 1998-2000 (approx.)
Rotary Club of Little Rock, honorary, 1997 to present.
Blessings Country Club, member, 2008.
13. Have you ever been a candidate for and/or held public office
(elected, nonelected, or appointed)? If so, indicate whether any
campaign has any outstanding debt, the amount, and whether you are
personally liable for that debt: Yes, no outstanding debt.
14. Itemize all political contributions to any individual,
campaign, or organization, political party, political action committee,
or similar entity of $500 or more for the past 10 years. Also list all
offices you have held with, or services rendered to, a state or
national political party or election committee during the same period.
Mark Pryor for U.S. Senate
Will Pryor for Congress
Hillary Clinton for President
Chet Culver Committee
Democratic Party of Arkansas
John Kerry for President
Meeks for Congress
Ed Stanton for Congress
Dodd for Senate
Jimmie Lou Fisher Campaign
Boren for Congress
Mike Beebe for Governor
Mike Hathorn
Vic Snyder for Congress
15. List all scholarships, fellowships, honorary degrees, honorary
society memberships, military medals, and any other special recognition
for outstanding service or achievements.
Heinz Award Juror for Public Policy.
AARP Andrus Award.
1st Annual Wilbur D. Mills Leadership Award for Preserving
Social Security.
KARK Community Service Award.
Fellow & Director, Institute of Politics, Harvard University.
Distinguished Service Award, Arkansas Press Association.
Arkansas Broadcasters Association Arkansan of the Year.
Arkansas Governor's Conference on Tourism Hall of Fame.
The International Foundation's Public Service Award.
Eagle Award, Washington Regional Medical Foundation.
National Association of Area Agencies on Aging President's
Award.
Arkansas Education Association Friend of Education Award.
Diamond Award, Arkansas Chapter Public Relations Society of
America.
University of AR Law School Distinguished Alumni Award.
Elected Officials Appreciation Award--AR Martin Luther King,
Jr. Commission.
Arkansas Agriculture Hall of Fame.
Historic Preservation Alliance of AR--Parker Westbrook Lifetime
Achievement Award.
Charles M. West Distinguished American Ward--97th NARD Annual
Convention.
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Certificate of
Appreciation in Grateful Recognition of outstanding
contributions to the field of Gerontology and Geriatrics.
Easter Seals Man of the Year.
Golden Plow Award, American Farm Bureau Federation.
Legislative Conservationists of the Year Award by AR Wildlife
Federation in Cooperation With the National Wildlife Federation
and Sears Roebuck & Co.
Greater Little Rock Chamber of Commerce Pinnacle Award.
Honorary Doctorate University of Arkansas.
Honorary Doctorate Henderson State University.
Honorary Doctorate Lyon College.
Honorary Doctorate Philander Smith College.
16. Please list each book, article, column, or publication you have
authored, individually or with others. Also list any speeches that you
have given on topics relevant to the position for which you have been
nominated. Do not attach copies of these publications unless otherwise
instructed.
During my years in public service, I have given numerous speeches
and have authored several articles and have not kept a record of such.
17. Please identify each instance in which you have testified
orally or in writing before Congress in a governmental or non-
governmental capacity and specify the date and subject matter of each
testimony.
I have served in both the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of
Representatives. All of these are public record.
18. Given the current mission, major programs, and major
operational objectives of the department/agency to which you have been
nominated, what in your background or employment experience do you
believe affirmatively qualifies you for appointment to the position for
which you have been nominated, and why do you wish to serve in that
position?
I have served 1\1/2\ years as a Member of the Board of the
Corporation for Public Broadcasting. I seriously desire to continue
carrying out the overall mission of public broadcasting in America as
set out in the enabling legislation of 1967.
19. What do you believe are your responsibilities, if confirmed, to
ensure that the department/agency has proper management and accounting
controls, and what experience do you have in managing a large
organization?
My responsibility as a Member of the Board is to help constantly
monitor the financial resources granted to the CPB by the U.S.
Congress.
20. What do you believe to be the top three challenges facing the
department/agency, and why?
To help disseminate objective information, to assist member
stations throughout America, to meet independent and local challenges
of public broadcasting, and to make certain our Board acts in a non-
partisan manner, listening to the concerns of the citizens we serve.
B. POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
1. Describe all financial arrangements, deferred compensation
agreements, and other continuing dealings with business associates,
clients, or customers. Please include information related to retirement
accounts.
Federal Express Corporation, consultant.
Herrington, Inc., Managing Director.
2. Do you have any commitments or agreements, formal or informal,
to maintain employment, affiliation or practice with any business,
association or other organization during your appointment? If so,
please explain.
See above
Additionally, this Fall I will serve as a Distinguished Visiting
Professor at the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville.
3. Indicate any investments, obligations, liabilities, or other
relationships which could involve potential conflicts of interest in
the position to which you have been nominated: None.
4. Describe any business relationship, dealing, or financial
transaction which you have had during the last 10 years, whether for
yourself, on behalf of a client, or acting as an agent, that could in
any way constitute or result in a possible conflict of interest in the
position to which you have been nominated: None.
5. Describe any activity during the past 10 years in which you have
been engaged for the purpose of directly or indirectly influencing the
passage, defeat, or modification of any legislation or affecting the
administration and execution of law and public policy: None.
6. Explain how you will resolve any potential conflict of interest,
including any that may be disclosed by your responses to the above
items: N/A.
C. LEGAL MATTERS
1. Have you ever been disciplined or cited for a breach of ethics
by, or been the subject of a complaint to any court, administrative
agency, professional association, disciplinary committee, or other
professional group? If so, explain: No.
2. Have you ever been investigated, arrested, charged, or held by
any Federal, State, or other law enforcement authority of any Federal,
State, county, or municipal entity, other than for a minor traffic
offense? If so, please explain: No.
3. Have you or any business of which you are or were an officer
ever been involved as a party in an administrative agency proceeding or
civil litigation? If so, please explain: No.
4. Have you ever been convicted (including pleas of guilty or nolo
contendere) of any criminal violation other than a minor traffic
offense? If so, please explain: No.
5. Have you ever been accused, formally or informally, of sexual
harassment or discrimination on the basis of sex, race, religion, or
any other basis? If so, please explain: No.
6. Please advise the Committee of any additional information,
favorable or unfavorable, which you feel should be disclosed in
connection with your nomination:
N/A.
D. RELATIONSHIP WITH COMMITTEE
1. Will you ensure that your department/agency complies with
deadlines for information set by Congressional committees? Yes
2. Will you ensure that your department/agency does whatever it can
to protect Congressional witnesses and whistle blowers from reprisal
for their testimony and disclosures?
Yes
3. Will you cooperate in providing the Committee with requested
witnesses, including technical experts and career employees, with
firsthand knowledge of matters of interest to the Committee? Yes.
4. Are you willing to appear and testify before any duly
constituted committee of the Congress on such occasions as you may
reasonably be requested to do so? Yes.
______
RESUME OF DAVID H. PRYOR
Education
University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Arkansas 1954-1957.
B.A. Political Science
University of Arkansas School of Law, Fayetteville, Arkansas 1961-
1964.
L.L.B.
Employment Summary
Publisher, The Ouachita Citizen, Camden, Arkansas 1957-1961.
Arkansas House of Representatives, 1960-1966.
Attorney, Pryor and Barnes, Camden, Arkansas 1964-1966.
U.S. Representative, 4th District Arkansas, 1966-1972.
Governor, State of Arkansas 1975-1979.
U.S. Senator, State of Arkansas 1979-1996.
Academic Appointments
Fulbright Distinguished Fellow of Law and Public Affairs,
University of Arkansas School of Law. Fayetteville, Arkansas
1997.
Distinguished Professor, Lyon College, Batesville, Arkansas
1999.
Fellow, John F. Kennedy School of Government's Institute of
Politics, Harvard University 1999.
Director of the Institute of Politics, Harvard University 2000.
Blair Center Distinguished Lecturer in Fulbright College,
University of Arkansas. Fayetteville, Arkansas 2003.
Special Honors and Recognitions
Honorary Doctorate, University of Arkansas.
Honorary Doctorate, Henderson State University.
Honorary Doctorate, Lyon College.
Honorary Doctorate, Philander Smith College.
Honorary Doctorate, Hendrix College.
Arkansas Wildlife Federation/National Wildlife Federation
Legislative Conservationist of the Year (1982).
American Farm Bureau Federation Golden Plow Award (1989).
Easter Seals Arkansan of the Year (1991).
UAMS Certificate of Appreciation ``In grateful recognition of
outstanding contributions to the fields of Gerontology and
Geriatrics'' (1992).
Charles M. West Distinguished American Award (97th Annual NARD
Annual Convention, (1995)).
University of Arkansas Law School Distinguished Alumni Award
(1996).
Historic Preservation Alliance of Arkansas ``Parker Westbrook
Lifetime Achievement Award'' (1996).
Arkansas Agriculture Hall of Fame (1996).
Arkansas Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission Elected Officials
Appreciation Award (1996).
Arkansas Chapter PRSA Diamond Award (1997).
Arkansas Education Association Friend of Education Award
(1997).
National Association of Area Agencies on Aging President's
Award (1997).
Washington Regional Medical Foundation Eagle Award (1997).
International Foundation of Employee Benefits Plan Public
Service Award (1997).
Arkansas Governor's Conference on Tourism Hall of Fame (1997).
Arkansas Broadcasters Association Arkansan of the Year (1997).
Arkansas Press Association Distinguished Service Award (1997).
Arkansas Community Foundation Roots and Wings Award (1998).
KARK Community Service Award (1999).
First Annual Wilbur D. Mills Leadership Award for Preserving
Social Security (1999).
AARP Andrus Award (2002).
Heinz Award ``Juror for Public Policy'' (2004).
Greater Little Rock Chamber of Commerce Pinnacle Award.
UAMS Distinguished Service Award.
Selected and Philanthropic Organizations
Board of Directors, Winrock International (1999-2002).
Board of Directors, Heifer Project international (1998 to
present).
Selected Activities
International Rescue Committee, Albania (1999).
Long-Term Care Project, Institute for Healthcare Policy,
Georgetown University (2000-2002).
Comptroller General's Commission to Study the Federal Workforce
(2000-2003).
The Chairman. I thank you very much, Senator Pryor. You
have come through loud and clear.
Senator David Pryor. Thank you, sir.
The Chairman. And I commend you for your continuation of
public service. I knew you had it in you. But if you don't
mind, I will call upon your son to question you. A son should
not----
[Laughter.]
Senator Mark Pryor. Mr. Chairman, thank you.
I really don't have any questions for the panel. But again,
thank you all for your interest in serving public broadcasting.
I think it is a very important part of the American fabric, as
I said a few moments ago.
And I know how much my father treasures the opportunity to
serve in that way because he has that strong conviction of how
important it is. So I am glad to see the rest of you all doing
the same thing.
Mr. Chairman, thank you.
The Chairman. You don't wish to question your father?
Senator Mark Pryor. Well, is he under oath? That is what I
want to know. No, we will leave that for later, but thank you.
The Chairman. Senator Stevens?
STATEMENT OF HON. TED STEVENS,
U.S. SENATOR FROM ALASKA
Senator Stevens. I don't know what we can do with two
Pryors at the same time on this Committee. That is the problem.
I, too, congratulate you for being willing to continue to
serve, Senator, and am happy to see you here today.
Senator David Pryor. Thank you, sir.
Senator Stevens. Would you put my statement in the record
someplace, Mr. Chairman? I am sorry to be late.
The Chairman. Without objection, so ordered.
[The prepared statement of Senator Stevens follows:]
Prepared Statement of Hon. Ted Stevens, U.S. Senator from Alaska
Mr. Chairman, thank you for holding this morning's hearing. I am
pleased to see all the nominees here today.
In an age when talk shows and soap operas rule daytime television
and reality shows are rampant in primetime, it is important that
viewers, especially children, have access to the educational and
diverse programming provided by public broadcasting.
These programs are available through both TV and radio, and most,
if not everyone in this room, has likely watched or listened to a
program produced by a public broadcasting station like PBS or NPR. The
Corporation for Public Broadcasting is responsible for supporting these
stations and ensuring that the programming is available to the general
public.
The nominees today have been selected to perform a vital role as
members of the Board of Directors of CPB. I know a few of them already
have experience on this board, and I thank them for their continued
willingness to serve. To the rest, I also thank them and I look forward
to hearing from them.
Senator Stevens. Thank you.
The Chairman. Senator Hutchison? Senator Hutchison, do you
want to question Senator Pryor?
STATEMENT OF HON. KAY BAILEY HUTCHISON,
U.S. SENATOR FROM TEXAS
Senator Hutchison. I was just trying to find out exactly
what--where you were because I was late. Has everyone made
opening statements or not made opening statements?
The Chairman. You may make your opening statement.
Senator Hutchison. Just wanting to know what your format
is. Have they made opening statements yet?
The Chairman. Yes.
Senator Hutchison. OK. Well, let me just say--and David, it
is great to see you again, and all of you here who are
nominated for the Board--it is such an important Board for our
country. And while many people, we have so many choices on
channels now, there is no channel that gives programming for
young children like the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.
It is the one that you can rely on that will be educational
and appropriate, and I am not going to ever have to worry about
hearing words that I won't let my children use. I don't ever
have to worry about violence or people not treating each other
with respect, which you do find on other ``cartoon channels.''
So I appreciate that, and when we are into the question
period, I just will ask if everyone is committed to continuing
wholesome, educational programming for children because there
is no alternative out there for that.
And then second, I think the outreach that the CPB does in
our communities in the Ready To Learn program for literacy for
ages 2 through 8, which has even won an award from the
Department of Education, is also another major achievement.
And the news, Jim Lehrer is still just the greatest at
providing in-depth news analysis and coverage and interviews.
He does a super job. McNeil/Lehrer was one of my favorites for
years, and now Jim Lehrer has just continued to provide that
kind of in-depth backup news that we wouldn't get other places.
So I thank you all for being willing to serve, every one of
you. I have read your qualifications, and I think you are an
excellent mix of our great Nation. And so, I applaud it.
And Mr. Chairman, thank you for--I think you have already
said that we are going to have a markup off the floor to allow
these nominees to go forward. Is that correct?
The Chairman. We will do our best.
Senator Hutchison. Oh, OK. Well, I hope we will because if
we can have the confirmation off the floor so that they can
move forward, I think it would be a great asset for our
country.
So thank you very much.
The Chairman. Thank you.
Senator Thune?
STATEMENT OF HON. JOHN THUNE,
U.S. SENATOR FROM SOUTH DAKOTA
Senator Thune. Mr. Chairman, I don't have any questions for
our nominees, but I do want to thank them for their willingness
to serve and, in some cases, to re-up and do another term. We
have got some wonderful people with some great resumes and a
wealth of experience and knowledge that they can bring to these
positions.
And so, I know that public service is a calling, and I
appreciate anybody who is willing to do it when there are lots
of other demands on their time. And so, I appreciate very much
the service of our nominees and look forward to moving those
nominations fairly quickly and appreciate your all being here
today. Thank you.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
The Chairman. Thank you very much.
And now I would like to call upon a member of the CPB who
is up for reappointment, the Honorable Cheryl Feldman Halpern.
STATEMENT OF HON. CHERYL FELDMAN HALPERN,
MEMBER, BOARD OF DIRECTORS,
CORPORATION FOR PUBLIC BROADCASTING
Ms. Halpern. Thank you.
Chairman Inouye, Senator Hutchison, and distinguished
Members of this Committee, I appreciate the opportunity to
address the Committee and for your consideration of my
nomination to serve a second term on the Board of the CPB.
My time at the CPB has been among the most fulfilling of my
years of involvement in public service. A commitment that has
included service on the Boards for International Broadcasting,
Broadcasting Board of Governors, the Foundation for the Defense
of Democracies, the President's Advisory Council of Barnard
College, and the Women's Democracy Network.
Since 2002, I have served on the Board of CPB, and I was
also privileged to be elected by my Board colleagues to serve
two terms as Chair. I wanted to take this opportunity to talk
about my work on the CPB Board in particular. As you know, the
board is charged with overseeing compliance with the laws and
regulations governing the corporation and the use of public
broadcasting funds.
CPB's Board has extensive oversight over matters related to
budgetary controls and governance. We give the CPB staff broad
policy guidance, consistent with the directives of the law, but
the Board has no role in individual program decisions.
Shortly after my becoming Chairman, the Board received the
findings and recommendations of the CPB's Office of the
Inspector General, published in November 2005. As soon as we
received the OIG's recommendations, we moved to act
deliberately and effectively. A comprehensive review of the
governance and internal operations of the corporation followed,
and we call this review ``Project Champion.''
For the first time in CPB's 40-year history, we initiated a
top-to-bottom review of its operations and procedures. Never
before had our organization undertaken a major examination of
every task, operation, and practice to ensure that CPB is
following best practices and promoting accountability.
We needed to establish a tone from the top based on
integrity, ethical values, and clear assignments of authority
and responsibility, which are critical to the success of any
organization. Thus, the Board established a Corporate
Governance Committee currently chaired by one of our Board
members and one of your former colleagues, Senator David Pryor,
and as well as an Executive Compensation Committee.
As part of Project Champion, the Board also implemented a
new code of ethics and a conflict of interest policy for
directors, clarified board and CEO roles and responsibilities,
committed to transparent actions during board meetings,
prevented the use of political tests and employment decisions,
adopted a whistleblower policy, adopted new expense guidelines,
and committed to a revision of its role in CPB contracting.
I am proud that in my time as chair we made these
significant revisions to our governance procedures, established
more clearly defined roles and responsibilities for the Board
Chair and for the CPB President and CEO. In addition, the
Board, under my tenure as Chair and since, has committed to
holding more meetings outside of Washington, D.C. This allows
us to see for ourselves how America's public television and
radio stations are, in fact, serving these local public
audiences.
There is an old public broadcasting saying. ``When you have
seen one public broadcasting station, you have seen one public
broadcasting station.'' My fellow Board members' and my
experiences certainly reflect that sentiment. In the past few
years, we have individually and as a Board visited stations
across the country. Every station we have visited is unique,
with its own history, its own challenges, and its own
understanding of its place in the community.
These visits offer us valuable opportunities to connect
with public broadcasting where it happens and to learn from the
men and women who work every day to bring their communities not
only the programming, but also the outreach, the online
services, and the opportunity for community engagement that set
public broadcasting apart.
To give just one example, on our trip to Hawaii, where we
visited with you, Mr. Chairman, we learned how the islands that
make up the state use public broadcasting for emergency
preparedness, for promoting literacy, and for celebrating the
state's diverse and special culture.
We are also working to raise public awareness of the
excellence in our programming. I am proud to currently serve
the Board as its Chairman of the Public Awareness Committee,
which carries forward this work on an ongoing basis.
By reaching out to local station boards, conducting station
visits, working to educate opinion leaders and elected
representatives, and doing regular outreach, we are making
ourselves effective goodwill Ambassadors on behalf of all
public broadcasters. We strive to give voice to a simple
message. Public broadcasting is our source for quality
programming across the entire spectrum of possibility.
All of these efforts bear the imprint and reflect the hard
work of a dedicated staff and board. My goal as a member of the
Board has been, and I hope will continue to be, to responsibly
serve as a fiduciary for public broadcasting as mandated by
Congress.
Thank you again, Mr. Chairman and distinguished Members of
the Committee, for inviting me to testify today. And I would be
happy to answer any questions you might have.
[The prepared statement and biographical information of Ms.
Halpern follows:]
Prepared Statement of Hon. Cheryl Feldman Halpern, Member, Board of
Directors, Corporation for Public Broadcasting
Chairman Inouye, Senator Hutchison, and Members of this Committee,
thank you for this opportunity to address the Committee and for your
consideration of my nomination to serve a second term on the Board of
the CPB.
My time at CPB has been among the most fulfilling during the years
of my involvement in public service--a commitment that has included
service on the Boards for International Broadcasting, the Broadcasting
Board of Governors, the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, the
President's Advisory Council of Barnard College, and the Women's
Democracy Network. Since 2002, I have served on the Board of CPB, and I
was also privileged to be elected by my board colleagues to serve two
terms as Chair.
I wanted to take this opportunity to talk about my work on the CPB
Board in particular. As you know, the Board is charged with overseeing
compliance with the laws and regulations governing the Corporation and
the use of public broadcasting funds. CPB's Board has extensive
oversight over matters related to budgetary controls and governance. We
give the CPB staff broad policy guidance, consistent with the
directives of the law, but the Board has no role in individual program
decisions. Shortly after my becoming Chairman, the Board received the
findings and recommendations of CPB's Office of the Inspector General
(OIG), published in November 2005.
As soon as we received the OIG's recommendations, we moved to act
deliberately and effectively. A comprehensive review of the governance
and internal operations of the Corporation followed; we call this
review Project Champion.
For the first time in CPB's 40-year history, we initiated a top-to-
bottom review of its operations and procedures. Never before had our
organization undertaken a major examination of every task, operation
and practice to ensure that CPB is following best practices and
promoting accountability.
We needed to establish a ``tone from the top'' based on integrity,
ethical values, and clear assignments of authority and responsibility,
which are critical to the success of any organization. Thus the Board
established a Corporate Governance Committee, currently chaired by one
of our Board members and one of your former colleagues, Senator David
Pryor, and an Executive Compensation Committee.
As part of Project Champion, the Board also implemented a new code
of ethics and a conflict of interest policy for directors; clarified
board and CEO roles and responsibilities; committed to transparent
actions during board meetings; prevented the use of political tests in
employment decisions; adopted a whistleblower policy; adopted new
expense guidelines; and committing to a revision of its role in CPB
contracting.
I am proud that in my time as Chair, we made these significant
revisions to our governance procedures, established more clearly
defined roles and responsibilities for the Board Chair and for the CPB
President and CEO, and improved accountability and transparency in the
operations of our organization.
In addition, the Board, under my tenure as Chair and since, has
committed to holding more meetings outside of Washington, D.C. This
allows us to see for ourselves how America's public television and
radio stations are in fact serving these local public audiences.
There's an old public broadcasting saying that ``when you've seen one
public broadcasting station, you've seen one public broadcasting
station.'' My fellow Board members' and my experiences certainly
reflect that sentiment. In the past few years we have, individually and
as a Board, visited stations in Alaska, Arkansas, Arizona, California,
Florida, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, Montana, New Jersey, New York,
North Dakota, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico and West Virginia. Every
station we have visited is unique, with its own history, its own
challenges, and its own understanding of its place in its community.
We have taken every opportunity to meet with station managers,
staff and members of station boards of directors. Through these visits
we have been able to see firsthand the role that public broadcasting
plays in linking people and their communities with ideas, information
and the resources they need in order to address communal concerns and
create positive change.
These visits offer us valuable opportunities to connect with public
broadcasting where it happens, and to learn from the men and women who
work every day to bring to their communities not only the programming,
but also the outreach, the online services, and the opportunities for
community engagement that set public broadcasting apart.
To give just one example, on our trip to Hawaii, where we visited
with you, Mr. Chairman, we learned how the islands that make up the
state use public broadcasting for emergency preparedness, for promoting
literacy, and for celebrating the state's diverse and special culture.
We are also working to raise public awareness of the excellence in
our programming. I am proud to serve the Board currently as its
Chairman of the Public Awareness Committee, which carries forward this
work on an ongoing basis. By reaching out to local station boards,
conducting station visits, working to educate opinion leaders and
elected representatives, and doing regular outreach, we are making
ourselves effective good will Ambassadors on behalf of all public
broadcasters. We need to continue to engage the larger public
audience--not just PBS viewers and NPR listeners--but those who simply
do not know about the excellence that exists every day on America's
public broadcasting stations. We strive to give voice to a simple
message: public broadcasting is ``My Source'' for quality programming
across the entire spectrum of possibility. As I have often said, we
need to share our pride in public broadcasting.
All of these efforts bear the imprint and reflect the hard work of
a dedicated staff and board. I can say that I have learned much during
the course of my service on the CPB Board; whether it was in the
preparation of the Board's response to the OIG's review, the creation
of Project Champion, the positive interaction resulting from bringing
our meetings to the communities across America or the enthusiasm for
the Public Awareness Initiative. My goal as a member of the Board has
been, and I hope, will continue to be, to responsibly serve as a
fiduciary for public broadcasting as mandated by Congress. Thank you
again, Mr. Chairman and Members of the Committee, for inviting me to
testify today. I would be happy to answer any questions you might have.
______
A. BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION
1. Name (include any former names or nicknames used): Cheryl Miriam
Feldman Halpern (nee Feldman).
2. Position to which nominated: Director, Corporation for Public
Broadcasting (re-nomination).
3. Date of nomination: June 3, 2008 (re-nomination).
4. Address (list current place of residence and office addresses).
Residence: Information is not available to public.
Office: Corporation for Public Broadcasting, 1401 Ninth Street,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20004-2129.
5. Date and place of birth: November 20, 1954; New Haven, CT.
6. Provide the name, position, and place of employment for your
spouse (if married) and the names and ages of your children (including
stepchildren and children by a previous marriage.
Spouse: Frederick Michael Halpern, Real Estate Developer,
Partner, Atlantic Realty, 1190 Woodbridge Center Drive,
Woodbridge, NJ 07095; children: Yonina Halpern Gomberg, age 29;
Maiera Halpern Werthenschlag, age 26; Alexander Halpern, age
23.
7. List all college and graduate degrees. Provide year and school
attended.
Barnard College, 1975, B.A.
NYU Graduate School of Business Administration, 1980, MBA
Finance.
8. List all post-undergraduate employment, and highlight all
management-level jobs held and any non-managerial jobs that relate to
the position for which you are nominated.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Date of Employment Employer/Address Title
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Aug. 2002--Present Corporation for Public Director
Broadcasting
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sept. 2000--Present FCYMA/H, LLC Member
Livingston, New Jersey
07039
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nov. 1999--Present Mountain Ledge Investors, Member
LLC
Livingston, New Jersey
07039
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998--Present Peppermint Spice, LLC Member
Livingston, New Jersey
07039
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sept. 1995--2002 Broadcasting Board of Member
Governors
Washington, D.C. 20036
------------------------------------------------------------------------
April 1992--Present Integrated CFH Partner
Associates, G.P.
Livingston, New Jersey
07039
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dec. 1988--Present Then As Now, L.P. Partner
Livingston, New Jersey
07039
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oct. 1990--August 1995 Board for International Member
Broadcasting
Washington, D.C. 20036
------------------------------------------------------------------------
May 1988 -1996 Porcupine Enterprises, Secretary-Treasurer
Inc.
Livingston, New Jersey
07039
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1984-1997 CFYM Associates, Inc. President
Livingston, New Jersey
07039
------------------------------------------------------------------------
9. Attach a copy of your resume. A copy is attached.
10. List any advisory, consultative, honorary, or other part-time
service or positions with Federal, State, or local governments, other
than those listed above, within the last 5 years: Not applicable.
11. List all positions held as an officer, director, trustee,
partner, proprietor, agent, representative, or consultant of any
corporation, company, firm, partnership, or other business, enterprise,
educational, or other institution within the last 5 years.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------
National Women's Committee of Honorary Chairman
Republican
Jewish Coalition
Washington Institute for Near East Lifetime Trustee
Policy
International Republican Institute Member of Board
Barnard College President's Advisory Council
Member
Jewish Policy Center Trustee
Queen of Sheba Foundation Chairman
Foundation for Defense of Democracies Member of Board
Corporation for Public Broadcasting Director, Chairman
Mountain Ledge Investors, LLC Member
Peppermint Spice, LLC Member
Integrated CFH Associates, GP Partner
Then-As-Now, LP Partner
------------------------------------------------------------------------
12. Please list each membership you have had during the past 10
years or currently hold with any civic, social, charitable,
educational, political, professional, fraternal, benevolent, or
religious organization, private club, or other membership organization.
Include dates of membership and any positions you have held with any
organization. Please note whether any such club or organization
restricts membership on the basis of sex, race, color, religion,
national origin, age, or handicap.
To the best of my knowledge, none restrict membership on any of the
listed bases.
I am interpreting ``membership'' broadly and have attempted to
include the organizations in which I am called a ``member'' by virtue
of having made contributions.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Republican Jewish Coalition (RJC) National Chairman (1993 to
2001); Member of Board of
Directors
National Women's Committee,
Honorary Chairman (10/07 to
present)
B'nai B'rith International Chairman, U.N. Affairs
Committee (1998 to 1992).
Life Member
Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy Member, Board of Education
(Resigned); Board of Trustees
(Resigned)
Anti-Defamation League Member, Regional Advisory
Board
Beaver Creek Club Member
Capitol Hill Club Member
Carnegie Club Member (1998 to present)
N.J. Israel Commission Member (1989 to 2001)
Lexington Institute Board of Trustees Member (No longer serving)
Washington Institute for Near East Lifetime Trustee
Policy
The Hudson Institute
Business Executives for National
Security
National Committee on American Foreign
Policy
American Horse Show Association Life Member
Central N.J. Home for the Aged Life Member
AMIT Women Life Member
The Friendship Circle
Simon Wiesenthal Center International Leadership
Council Member
Holocaust Resource Foundation
Young Israel of Bal Harbor and Surfside
The Shul
Synagogue of the Suburban Torah Center
Congregation B'Nai Vail
Jewish-Americans for Franks Co-Chairman (8/14/00 to 11/00)
(No longer exists)
Bionexus Foundation Director (Inactive since 5/00)
International Republican Institute Member of Board (9/99 to
present)
Women's Democracy Network
American Heart Association
Essex County Ritualarium
Barnard College President's Advisory Council
Member
Garden State Arts Center Foundation
Congregation B'Nai Joseph DME
International Fellowship of Christians
and Jews
North American Jewish Forum
Institute of Semitic Studies, Princeton
University
Vail Valley Foundation
American Israel Public Affairs Committee
Jewish Institute for National Security
Affairs
American Cancer Society
Weizman Institute of Technology
Jewish Educational Center
The Frisch School
Jewish National Fund
American Red Magen David for Israel
Commonwealth Jewish Trust
Yeshiva University
Dorot
Meals on Wheels
Yad Vashem
American--Israel Foundation
Jewish Policy Center Trustee
Rabbinical College of America
NCSY
Orthodox Union
Empower America
NORPAC
Bikur Cholim of Rockland County
Project Mercy
Stern College for Women of Yeshiva
University
American Friends of Shaare Zedek Medical
Center
Queen of Sheba Foundation Chairman (1/07 to present)
Sesame Workshop
Foundation for Defense of Democracies Member of Board (2005 to
present)
Words Can Heal Organization
Meir Panim
Music Cares Foundation
Broadway Cares Equity Fights AIDS
NJN Foundation
Friends of WNET
Friends of WBGO
Friends of WNYC
Bayith Lepleitot
Seeds of Peace
Robin Hood Foundation
Republican Regents
National Republican Senatorial Committee
Republican Governor's Association
Republican Majority for Choice
------------------------------------------------------------------------
13. Have you ever been a candidate for and/or held a public office
(elected, non-elected, or appointed)? If so, indicate whether any
campaign has any outstanding debt, the amount, and whether you are
personally liable for that debt?
Yes. For positions on Board for International Broadcasting,
Broadcasting Board of Governors, Board of Corporation for Public
Broadcasting. No outstanding debt.
14. Itemize all political contributions to any individual, campaign
organization, political party, political action committee, or similar
entity of $500.00 or more for the past 10 years. Also, list al offices
you have held with, and services rendered to, a state or national
political party or election committee during the same period.
This information is retained in Committee files.
15. List all scholarships, fellowships, honorary degrees, honorary
society memberships, military medals, and any other special recognition
for outstanding service or achievements.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------
10/2007 Award for Excellence, National Women's
Committee, Republican Jewish Coalition
------------------------------------------------------------------------
6/2006 New Jersey Network Distinguished Public
Service Award
------------------------------------------------------------------------
3/2005 In Celebration of Women's History Month,
Honored by the Essex County Board of
Freeholders for ``Her Outstanding Career
in Broadcasting, Her Civic Involvement
and Advocacy on Behalf of Women's Rights,
and for Embodying the Spirit and
Accomplishments of Women Everywhere''
------------------------------------------------------------------------
16. Please list each book, article, column, or publication you have
authored, individually, or with others. Also, list any speeches that
you have given on topics relevant to the position for which y u have
been nominated. Do not attach copies of these publications unless
otherwise instructed.
Speaking Engagements
``Maximizing the My Source Platform in Your Community,'' My
Source Public Awareness Initiative Conference, Chantilly,
Virginia (03/08).
Jeane K. Kirkpatrick Memorial Award Dinner, Women's Democracy
Network, Washington (03/08).
CPB Chairman--Spoken at Public CPB Meetings in Alaska, Arizona,
Hawaii, Hopi Reservation, Mississippi, North Dakota,
Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C.
Emma Bowen Scholars, Public Service Media Workshop, Washington,
D.C.
``The Uses of Media: Information and Dis-Information,''
Foundation for Defense of Democracies, Freeport, Bahamas (05/
07).
``Children's Literacy,'' ``Between The Lions,'' Mississippi
Public Broadcasting, Jackson, Mississippi (02/07).
``Challenges and Opportunities For Women In Politics And
Governance In The Middle East And North Africa,'' Women's
Democracy Network, Amman, Jordan (02/07).
``Developing Public Awareness,'' Major Giving Initiative
Conference, Lansdowne, Virginia (07/06).
Presentation of Edward R. Murrow Award, New Orleans, Louisiana
(07/06).
``Codes Of Conduct And Deontology Of The Global Media,'' MEDEA
Conference, Brussels, Belgium (05/06).
``Holocaust Heroes,'' Premier of the New Jersey Network's ``The
Hidden Child'' (04/06).
``Children And Cyberhate,'' American Committee for Shaare Zedek
Medical Center, New York, New York (02/06).
``Electronic Anti-Semitism,'' International Council of Jewish
Parliamentarians, Jerusalem, Israel (01/06).
``Children of Jerusalem: Painting Pain Dreaming Peace,'' (11/
05).
Christine Todd Whitman Excellence in Public Service Series
``Donor Relations'' and ``Grass Roots Outreach,'' 2004.
``The Media And Anti-Semitism,'' OSCE Conference on Anti-
Semitism, Vienna, Austria (06/03).
``Your Soul Investment--Community Service,'' B'Nai B'rith Forum
on Public Policy, Baltimore, Maryland (02/03).
``U.S. International Broadcasting: Challenges and Opportunities
in the Middle East, Iran and China,'' USC Annenberg School for
Communication (10/02).
``The Role of the Media in Covering Conflict,'' Voice of
America, Jakarta, Indonesia (07/01).
``Jewish Women In The Political Process,'' Panel discussion,
National Institute for Jewish Leadership (06/27/01).
``50 Anniversary of Voice of America Transmission From Tangier,
Morocco,'' Speech (03/08/00).
Articles
``Our Energy Security is Our National Responsibility,'' by
Cheryl Halpern and Michael David Epstein, New Jersey Jewish
News (03/14/02).
``Bush Offers Fresh Start, New Promise for Education'', by
Cheryl Halpern and Matthew Brooks, New Jersey Jewish News (02/
01/01).
``Bush, Goldsmith And the Faith-Based Policy,'' Letter to
Editor, Forward (02/16/01).
``Azerbaijan's Support the Kind That Muslim States Should
Emulate,'' by Cheryl Halpern and Jason Epstein, New Jersey
Jewish News (11/08/01)
``Encouraging Muslim Moderation,'' by Cheryl Halpern and Jason
Epstein, Forward (11/16/01).
``Put Syria Back on Drug List,'' Letter to Editor, Jewish Voice
(December 1997).
``School Vouchers Give Parents More Power to Choose,'' by
Cheryl Halpern and Matthew Brooks, New Jersey Jewish News (10/
16/97).
``Look Again--President Clinton Is No Friend of Israel,'' by
Max Fisher, Cheryl Halpern, and Matthew Brooks, The Jewish News
(04/03/97).
``In Congress Jews Should Trust the Republicans,'' by Richard
Fox, Cheryl Halpern and Sheldon Kamins, The Jewish News (10/17/
96).
``The Republicans' Actions Speak Louder Than Words,'' by Max
Fisher and Cheryl Halpern, Washington Jewish Week (10/11/96).
Salute to the Republican Congress, Speech (08/14/96).
``Nevertheless'', Letter to the Editor, Washington Jewish Week
(01/26/96).
Women's Rights: A Perspective on Beijing, Conference (11/15/
95).
``Jewish Community Should Effect Change,'' ``Swing To GOP?'',
by Max Fisher and Cheryl Halpern (10/94).
``Reflections On the Accord,'' NJC Bulletin (9/93, 10/93).
``George Bush Kept Promises, Has Been Tested In Crisis,'' by
Max Fisher, George Klein and Cheryl Halpern, The Jewish
Standard, The Jewish News (10/92).
``Convention Was A Great Success In Eyes Of Jewish
Republicans,'' by Cliff Sobel and Cheryl Halpern, The Jewish
News (8/92).
``In Praise of Quayle,'' by Cheryl Halpern and Elliot Felig,
Letter to Editor, The Jewish News (5/89).
``Dodd & Weicker Should Stop Meddling In The Israel Issue,''
Letter to Editor, New Haven Register (04/88).
17. Please identify each instance in which you have testified
orally or in writing before Congress in a governmental or non-
governmental capacity and specify the date and subject matter of each
testimony.
03/21/07 Testimony as Chairman of CPB Board of
Directors, Subcommittee on Labor, Health
and Human Services, Education and Related
Agencies, U.S. House Committee on
Appropriations.
11/04/03 Confirmation hearing for appointment to
CPB Board Senate Committee on Commerce,
Science and Transportation.
07/20/95 Testimony before U.S. Senate Committee on
Foreign Relations, Official Hearing to be
a member of the Broadcasting Board of
Governors.
18. Given the current mission, major programs, and major
operational objectives of the department/agency to which you have been
nominated, what in your background or employment experience do you
believe affirmatively qualifies you for appointment to the position for
which you have been nominated, and why do you wish to serve in that
position?
I have served on the boards of the Board of International
Broadcasting, the Broadcasting Board of Governors, and the Corporation
for Public Broadcasting (CPB). I was Chairman of the Board of the CPB
for two terms of office. Therefore, I have experience in U.S.
Government funded broadcasting. More specifically, in 1990, I was
nominated by President Bush and confirmed by the Senate to serve on the
Board for International Broadcasting (the ``BIB''). In 1995, when the
BIB ceased to exist due to congressional legislation, I was the only
carryforward to serve n the Broadcasting Board of Governors. I was
subsequently re-nominated by President Clinton and confirmed by the
Senate. In 2002, I be an my service on the Board of the CPB. I have
served on the CPB Board of Directors for the past 6 years, and as
Chairman of the Board for the last 2 years (October 2005-October 2007).
During my tenure as Chairman, we initiated a complete overall and
reform of CPB's governance and internal control procedures, we began an
initiative to increase awareness of the value and service that public
broadcasting offers Americans across our country, and I personally made
sure that our board traveled round America to view public broadcasting,
not in the reports and ane dotes received in Washington, D.C., but
beyond the beltway in stat s like Alaska, Mississippi, Hawaii, North
Dakota and Arizona.
19. What do you believe are your responsibilities, if confirmed, to
ensure that the department/agency has proper management and accounting
controls, and what experience do you have in managing large
organization?
Members of the Board of Directors, both individually and
collectively as a governing body, are responsible for ensuring that the
Corporation's officers observe prudent management and accounting
practices. This is achieved through an effective system of internal
controls, approved by the Board, which include systematic reporting
requirements. As Chair of the CPB Board, I initiated and oversaw
``Project Champion,'' a comprehensive reform of CPB's governance and
internal controls following the Inspector General's November 2005
investigative report. That multi-year effort led to the adoption of a
broad range of ``best practices", patterned on Sarbanes-Oxley and other
safeguards, which have made the work of CPB more transparent and
effective.
20. What do you believe to be the top three challenges facing the
department/agency, and why?
A major challenge facing the public broadcasting industry and, by
extension, the CPB, is maintaining and expanding its service to the
American people during the transition from analog to digital
broadcasting. With respect to television, CPB's most immediate task is
to ensure hat the public television audience continues to be served by
their stations after the February 17, 2009 deadline for analog shutoff.
As such, in allocating its special digital appropriation provided by
Congress, CPB has made its highest priority investment in the
transmission and related equipment needed to help stations meet the
transition. While not facing a date-certain shutoff, public radio
stations are leading the way in adopting this new digital technology.
This will allow them to enhance the quality and scope of services they
provide to their communities, as well as to provide their listeners
with richer quality sound than is currently available.
Another challenge I would point to is that of ensuring public
broadcasting's leadership in children's and educational programming in
a fast-changing media landscape. Education is a core value of the
public broadcasting community, as it has been since its inception. This
fact is underscored by the results of a comprehensive CPB-commissioned
survey of public television stations, which documents the educational
services stations are providing directly to their communities. These
services, which extend beyond the broadcast, range from helping to
ensure that low-income children arrive at school ``ready to learn'';
special in-person reading programs for parents and childcare providers;
to professional development resources for teachers; to online
activities designed to spark student learning in subjects such as
science and math. As a current CPB Board member, and a nominee to
continue my service on this Board, I am committed to doing all I can to
sustain the robust and vital contribution public broadcasting stations
make when it comes to education and an informed and strengthened civil
society.
A third challenge which we have begun to address is that of
increasing the American people's awareness of the breadth and depth of
the services that public broadcasting has to offer and the value that
public broadcasting brings to American society and local communities.
From the bricks and mortar of station facilities in hundreds of
communities across the country to thousands of hours of community
service programming, including millions of dollars of investment in
education and beyond-the-broadcast community engagement activities, the
public media enterprise connects citizens to their local communities
and is, simply put, a national treasure. As Chair of the CPB Board's
Public Awareness Committee, I believe that to preserve that treasure,
it is essential that the American public, who have supported public
broadcasting with their tax dollars, be made aware to the full extent
of how public media enhances lives and enriches communities.
B. POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
1. Describe all financial arrangements, deferred compensation
agreements, and other continuing dealings with business associates,
clients, or customers. Please include information related to retirement
accounts: Not applicable.
2. Do you have any commitments or agreements, formal or info mal,
to maintain employment, affiliation, or practice with any business,
association or other organization during your appointment? If so,
please explain: No.
3. Indicate any investments, obligations, liabilities, or other
relationships which could involve potential conflicts of interest in
the position to which you have been nominated.
I have already signed and provided to the CPB's Senior Vice
President and General Counsel a recusal letter confirming that I would
refrain from participating in any covered transaction between CPB and
any of the following entities in which I hold passive investments:
Comcast Corp.; Linkton, Ltd.; Netlease.com; Time-Warner Cable; and
Time-Warner, Inc.
4. Describe any business relationship, dealing, or financial
transaction which you have had during the last 10 years, whether for
yourself, on behalf of a client, or acting as an agent, that could in
any way constitute or result in a possible conflict of interest in the
position to which you have been nominated: None.
5. Describe any activity during the past 10 years in which you have
been engaged for the purpose of directly or indirectly influencing the
passage, defeat, or modification of any legislation or affecting the
administration and execution of law or public policy.
I have served as Chairman and then on the Legislative Committee of
the Republican Jewish Coalition. In those capacities, I have been
involved in communicating the concerns of the Jewish community.
6. Explain how you will resolve any potential conflict of interest,
including any that may be disclosed by your response to the above
items.
If I become aware of a potential conflict of interest. I
immediately will consult with the counsel to the Corporation for Public
Broadcasting and any other assigned ethics officer and will take
appropriate steps to address the conflict issue in a manner completely
satisfactory to counsel and the ethics officer, including recusal where
appropriate.
C. LEGAL MATTERS
1. Have you ever been disciplined or cited for a breach of ethics
by, or been the subject of a complaint to any court, administrative
agency, professional association, disciplinary committee, or other
professional group? If so, please explain: No.
2. Have you ever been investigated, arrested, charged, or held by
any Federal, State, or other law enforcement authority of any Federal,
State, county, or municipal entity, other than for a minor traffic
offense? If so, please explain: Not to my knowledge.
3. Have you or any business of which you are or were an officer
ever been involved as a party in an administrative agency proceeding or
civil litigation? If so, please explain.
I was a plaintiff in the C.F.Y.M Associates, Inc., a New Jersey
Corporation and Cheryl Halpern v. Andrew Philbrick d/b/a Hunter Farms,
Ltd. and Cynthia Webber matter, Civil Action No: 87-2713 (REC), United
States District Court for the District of New Jersey, commenced July 8,
1987; resolved by entry of Stipulation and Order of Settlement on
September 25, 1987 and Supplemental Stipulation and Order of Settlement
on October 23, 1987.
I was a defendant in Ernest E. Pell v. RFE/RC, Inc., et al., Civil
Action No: 94-2290 JR, United States District Court for the District of
Columbia dismissed as against me by Order filed March 26, 1995.
4. Have you ever been convicted (including please of guilty or nolo
contendere) of any criminal violation other than a minor traffic
offense? If so, please explain: No.
5. Have you ever been accused, formally or informally, of sexual
harassment or discrimination on the basis of sex, race, religion, or
any other basis? If so, please explain: No.
6. Please advise the Committee of any additional information,
favorable or unfavorable, which you feel should be disclosed in
connection with your nomination: None.
D. RELATIONSHIP WITH COMMITTEE
1. Will you ensure that your department/agency complies with
deadlines for information set by Congressional committees? Yes.
2. Will you ensure that your department/agency does whatever it can
to protect Congressional witnesses and whistle blowers from reprisal
for their testimony and disclosures? Yes.
3. Will you cooperate in providing the Committee with requested
witnesses, including technical experts and career employees, with
firsthand knowledge of matters of interest to the Committee? Yes.
4. Are you willing to appear and testify before any duly
constituted committee of the Congress on such occasions as you may be
reasonably requested to do so? Yes.
______
Resume of Cheryl F. Halpern
CPB Board Member
Cheryl Halpern has a long record of public service in broadcasting,
women's issues, education, and international affairs.
Mrs. Halpern has been nominated to the boards of both national and
international public broadcasting organizations by Presidents George
H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush.
In 1990, Mrs. Halpern was confirmed as a member of the Board for
International Broadcasting and as a Director of Radio Free Europe/Radio
Liberty (RFE/RL). From 1995 through 2002, she served on the
Broadcasting Board of Governors (BBG) overseeing Voice of America,
Radio and TV Marti, RFE/RL, Worldnet, Radio Free Asia and Radio Free
Iraq. While serving on the BBG she helped create Radio Sawa, America's
Arabic radio service to the Middle East. In August 2002, Mrs. Halpern
was appointed by President George W. Bush to serve as a director of the
Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). In September 2005, she was
elected to be chairman of the CPB.
As a Presidentially-appointed U.S. delegate to the OSCE Conference
on Anti-Semitism in 2003, Mrs. Halpern spoke before the plenary council
on children's programming and textbook development. She has supported
the development of ``Sesame Stories,'' a program produced by the Sesame
Workshop for Israeli, Jordanian and Palestinian children. In 2005 she
helped bring the exhibit ``Children of Jerusalem Painting Pain,
Dreaming Peace'' to the Palace of Westminster in London.
Mrs. Halpern was a delegate from the Coordinating Board of Jewish
Organizations to the 4th United Nations World Conference on Women's
Rights in 1995 in Beijing. In April 2005, she participated in the Iraqi
Women's Educational Institute conference in Jordan and addressed the
importance of developing democratic values through education. In 2006
she became a member of the Women's Democracy Network.
Mrs. Halpern's civic involvement includes participation on the
boards of the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, the
President's Advisory Council of Barnard College and the International
Republican Institute. She also chaired the character education program
of the Words Can Heal organization, a national campaign to curb gossip,
fight verbal abuse and promote ethical speech.
In March 2005, she was honored by the Essex County (New Jersey)
Board of Chosen Freeholders for ``her outstanding career in
broadcasting, her civic involvement and advocacy on behalf of women's
rights, and for embodying the spirit and accomplishments of women
everywhere.'' In May 2006, she received from the New Jersey Network the
Littell Award for distinguished public service.
Mrs. Halpern has an M.B.A. with a concentration in finance from New
York University. She completed her undergraduate studies at Barnard
College of Columbia University. Mrs. Halpern lives in New Jersey with
her husband Fred.
The Chairman. Thank you very much, Ms. Halpern.
And may I now recognize Mr. Bruce M. Ramer?
STATEMENT OF BRUCE M. RAMER,
MEMBER-DESIGNATE, BOARD OF DIRECTORS,
CORPORATION FOR PUBLIC BROADCASTING
Mr. Ramer. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
Chairman Inouye, Ranking Member Hutchison, and
distinguished Members of the Committee, first let me express my
gratitude for your holding this hearing, especially at this
time when the Committee's schedule is so full with so many
pressing issues.
And of course, I do want to thank the President for
nominating me to serve on the Board of the Corporation for
Public Broadcasting.
I am very excited at the prospect of having the opportunity
of serving CPB and of having the opportunity to help advance
the cause of public broadcasting in the public interest--a
cause with which I have been deeply involved and committed for
some 25 years--and to do everything I possibly can to
strengthen it.
I have long understood that public broadcasting is one of
our country's most important community assets. I would say it
was a jewel in the crown of our community assets. And as an
American, I am very proud of what public broadcasting
accomplishes across our Nation.
My involvement with public broadcasting began in 1992, when
I joined the Board of Directors of KCET, the PBS affiliate
covering Southern California. I served as Chairman of that
Board from 2001 to 2003, and other than a brief mandatory
hiatus, I have been on the Board ever since. At this time, I
serve on the Executive Committee, I chair the Programming
Committee, and I am a member of the Audit Committee.
And I have come--during this time, I have come to
understand better the relationship between CPB and PBS and
something of the nuances of that relationship. I should note
that, if confirmed, I will, of course, recuse myself if any
conflict should arise between CPB and KCET or in connection
with any other entity with which I may be involved either as an
attorney or otherwise.
Public broadcasting fills a crucial need in our country by
providing programming which might not otherwise see the light
of day on commercial or pay television, programming such as
that designed for our children, for caregivers, for
preschoolers, and of special note, for all the elements of our
increasingly diverse population. Programming which can be
received by the 15 percent or so of our population which relies
on free over-the-air broadcasting.
At KCET, I saw how public television comes to grips with
many of these issues, how local as well as national interests
are served. In my written testimony submitted to the Committee,
there are some examples of this. But I will omit them now in
the interest of brevity.
I do want to add, however, that my belief in the power and
accomplishments of public radio is equally strong, and I look
forward to expanding my knowledge of the shape of this medium
today and its opportunity to grow in the future.
But please let me comment briefly on the importance of
CPB's community service grants. CSGs, as you know, are
unrestricted grants to stations. They permit stations to turn
on the lights. They permit stations to operate. They permit
stations to pay salaries and for public television stations to
help pay PBS dues and to acquire programming. They are crucial.
They are indispensable.
My day job as an entertainment lawyer for most of my career
also deals with communication and the media. This gives me an
additional perspective and insights, which can be helpful if I
am permitted to serve CPB.
My interest in communications goes back to my college days
and now includes service on the Board of Counselors and as Co-
Executive Chair of the Executive Committee of the USC Annenberg
School for Communications. This Board further exposes me to the
current and future needs and requirements of broadcasting,
journalism, and the media.
My law practice and my involvement with both the Annenberg
School and KCET have helped to educate me about new and
evolving media and the changing media landscape. There may be
an even greater future for public broadcasting if it can seize
the advantages of these new technologies.
Other community involvements of mine, which range from
having served as National President of the American Jewish
Committee to membership on the Board of Trustees of the
University of Southern California, Pacific Council for
International Affairs, and the Herrhausen Institute for
International Dialogue of the Deutsche Bank, will also help me
to contribute more meaningfully to CPB if I am confirmed.
And if I am confirmed, it is my hope to be part of a team
strengthening an evolving public broadcasting system and its
work in the communities across our country. I am committed to
do all that I can to enhance the already high quality of public
broadcasting for our citizens and to work toward even wider
diversity of programming, be it news, education, information,
or entertainment, always with the singular purpose of serving
the interests of the American public.
My commitment is passionate and deep. I hope to have the
opportunity to serve my country and public broadcasting by
being confirmed as a member of the Board of the Corporation for
Public Broadcasting. And I thank you, Mr. Chairman and Members
of this Committee, for the opportunity for making this
presentation and look forward to answering any questions you
may have.
Thank you.
[The prepared statement and biographical information of Mr.
Ramer follow:]
Prepared Statement of Bruce M. Ramer, Member-Designate,
Board of Directors, Corporation for Public Broadcasting
Chairman Inouye, Ranking Member Hutchison and Members of the
Committee, let me express my gratitude for your holding this hearing,
especially at this time when the Committee's schedule is so full with
many pressing issues. And, naturally, my thanks to the President for
nominating me to serve on the Board of the Corporation for Public
Broadcasting.
I am excited at the prospect of having the opportunity of serving
CPB, of having the opportunity to help to advance the cause of public
broadcasting in the public interest--a cause with which I have been
deeply involved and committed for some 25 years--and to do everything I
possibly can to strengthen it.
I have long understood that public broadcasting is one of our
country's most important community assets. As an American, I am very
proud of what public broadcasting accomplishes across our nation.
My involvement with public broadcasting began in 1992 when I joined
the Board of Directors of KCET, the PBS affiliate in Los Angeles
covering Southern California. I served as Chairman of that Board
between 2001 and 2003, and other than a one-year mandatory hiatus, I
have been on the Board continuously. At this time, I serve on its
Executive Committee, as Chair of its Programming Committee and as a
member of the Audit Committee. In this time, I have come to understand
better the relationship between PBS and CPB, and something of the
nuances of that relationship.
(I should note that I will, of course, recuse myself if any
conflict should arise between CPB and KCET or in connection with any
other entity with which I may be involved as an attorney or otherwise.)
Public broadcasting fills a crucial need in our country by
providing programming which might otherwise not see the light of day on
commercial or pay television. Programming such as that which is
designed for children, for caregivers, for pre-schoolers and, of
special note, for all the elements of our increasingly diverse
population.
At KCET, I saw how public television comes to grips with these
issues, how local, as well as national, interests are served. For
example, in our state a third of the children entering Kindergarten are
unprepared. With so many single-parent and two-working-parent families,
children in the 0-5 age group, during the period of their greatest
brain development, are often being raised by untrained caregivers. We
were able to use television to provide these caregivers with tools to
improve the readiness of the children in their care for Kindergarten.
Our success in the first 2 years of production, when the show was aired
only on public television stations in California, motivated CPB to
award a grant to KCET that allowed the program to go national in its
third season. The programs, ``A Place of Our Own'' in English and ``Los
Ninos en Su Casa'' in Spanish, are now seen on public television
stations reaching over 74 percent of the U.S. Television Households.
The programs have won numerous awards, including the George Foster
Peabody Award, and the websites won the international competition for
The Japan Prize, awarded to one website in the world by NHK. This is a
good example of the synergy between CPB and PBS.
KCET also just premiered its newest production on PBS, an animated
pre-school science program, ``Sid the Science Kid,'' which uses the
latest motion capture technology to teach children the wonders of
science. The companion website is geared to help parents capture the
natural curiosity of their children to facilitate scientific inquiry in
the earliest years.
As Chair of KCET's Programming Committee, I have worked to support
efforts to mount European co-production, which has led to a meaningful
relationship with BBC on historical documentary, drama, and arts
programming, including: ``Copenhagen,'' ``How Art Made the World,''
``Auschwitz and the Making of the Nazi State,'' and ``Stalin, Churchill
and Roosevelt,'' which will air in 2009. This relationship is
deepening, as KCET has been given the assignment to be the exclusive
marketing and distribution agent for BBC World News for U.S. public
television.
I must add that my belief in the power and accomplishments of
public radio is equally strong and I look forward to expanding my
knowledge of the shape of this medium today and its opportunity to grow
in the future.
Please let me comment briefly on the importance of CPB's Community
Service Grants. CSGs, as you know, are unrestricted grants to stations.
They permit stations to operate--to pay salaries, to turn on the lights
and, for public television stations, to help pay PBS dues. And to
acquire programming. They are crucial.
My ``day job'', as an entertainment lawyer for most of my career,
also deals with communication and the media. This gives me an
additional perspective and insights which can be helpful in serving
CPB.
My interest in communications goes back to my college days and now
includes service on the Board of Councilors, and Co-Chair of the
Executive Committee, of the USC Annenberg School for Communications.
This Board exposes me further to the current and future needs and
requirements of broadcasting, journalism and the media.
My law practice and my involvement with both the Annenberg School
and KCET have helped to educate me about new and evolving media and the
changing media landscape. There may be an even greater future for
public broadcasting if it can seize the advantages of these new
technologies.
Other community involvements of mine, which range from having
served as National President of The American Jewish Committee to
membership on the Boards of the University of Southern California, the
Pacific Council for International Affairs and the Herrhausen Institute
for International Dialogue of the Deutsche Bank, will also help me to
contribute more meaningfully to CPB.
If I am confirmed, my hope is to be part of the team strengthening
an evolving public broadcasting system and its work in the communities
across our country. I am committed to do all I can to enhance the
already high quality of public broadcasting for our citizens and to
work toward even wider diversity of programming, be it news, education,
information or entertainment--always with the singular purpose of
serving the interests of the American public.
My commitment is passionate and deep. I hope to have the
opportunity to serve my country and public broadcasting by being
confirmed as a member of the Board of the Corporation for Public
Broadcasting.
Thank you for the opportunity for making this presentation and I
look forward to answering any questions which any members of the
Committee may have.
Thank you.
______
A. BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION
1. Name (include any former names or nicknames used): Bruce M.
Ramer.
2. Position to which nominated: Board of Directors of Corporation
for Public Broadcasting.
3. Date of Nomination: The White House announced the intention to
nominate on Thursday, May 29, 2008.
4. Address (List current place of residence and office addresses):
Residence: Information not available to the public.
Office: 132 South Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90212.
5. Date and Place of Birth: August 2, 1933; Teaneck, New Jersey.
6. Provide the name, position, and place of employment for your
spouse (if married) and the names and ages of your children (including
stepchildren and children by a previous marriage).
Spouse: Madeline Smith Ramer, not employed; children: Gregg
Ramer, 41 on July 12; Marc Ramer, 39; Neal Ramer, 35; Alexandra
Lang Susman, 34.
7. List all college and graduate degrees. Provide year and school
attended.
Princeton University (Woodrow Wilson School of Public and
International Affairs), A.B., 1955.
Harvard Law School, LLB, 1958.
8. List all post-undergraduate employment, and highlight all
management-level jobs held and any non-managerial jobs that relate to
the position for which you are nominated.
Morrison, Lloyd & Griggs, attorneys, Hackensack, NJ.
Gang, Tyre, Rudin & Brown (now Gang, Tyre, Ramer & Brown) Los
Angeles, CA.
9. Attach a copy of your resume. A copy is attached.
10. List any advisory, consultative, honorary, or other part-time
service or positions with Federal, State, or local governments, other
than those listed above, within the last 5 years: None.
11. List all positions held as an officer, director, trustee,
partner, proprietor, agent, representative, or consultant of any
corporation, company, firm, partnership, or other business, enterprise,
educational, or other institution within the last 5 years.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Organization Type Position
------------------------------------------------------------------------
University of Southern Educational Member, Board of
California Institution Trustees
(Los Angeles, CA)
University of Southern Educational Chair, Public Affairs
California Institution Committee
(Los Angeles, CA)
Alfred Herrhausen Society Nonprofit Member, Board of
for International Dialogue Trustees
of the Deutsche Bank
(Berlin, Germany)
Geffen Playhouse (UCLA) Nonprofit Founding Chairman,
(Los Angeles, CA) Board of Directors
University of Southern Educational Chair, Institute on
California Gould School of Institution Entertainment Law And
Law Business
(Los Angeles, CA)
USC Annenberg School for Educational Co-Chair Executive
Communication Institution Committee, Board of
(Los Angeles, CA) Councilors
KCET Nonprofit Member, Board of
(Los Angeles, CA) Directors
Pacific Council on Nonprofit Member, Board of
International Policy Directors
(Los Angeles, CA)
Council on Foreign Nonprofit Member
Relations
(New York, NY)
Committee on Present Danger Nonprofit Member
(New York, NY)
American Jewish Committee Nonprofit Chair, Latino and
New York, NY Latin American
Institute
Southern California Nonprofit Member, Board of
Committee for Olympic Directors
Games
(Los Angeles, CA)
Homeland Security Advisory Nonprofit Member
Council, Region One
(Los Angeles, CA)
Survivors of the Shoah Nonprofit Member, Board of
Visual History Foundation Directors
(Los Angeles, CA)
USC Shoah Foundation Nonprofit Member, Board of
Institute for Visual Councilors
History and Education
(Los Angeles, CA)
Righteous Persons Nonprofit Member, Board of
Foundation Directors
(Los Angeles, CA)
National Foundation for Nonprofit Member, Board of
Jewish Culture Directors
(Los Angeles, CA)
American Bar Association Nonprofit Member
(Chicago, IL)
California Bar Association Nonprofit Member
(Sacramento, CA)
Los Angeles County Bar Nonprofit Member
Association
(Los Angeles, CA)
Beverly Hills Bar Nonprofit Member
Association
(Beverly Hills, CA)
The Fellows of the American Nonprofit Member
Bar Foundation
(Chicago, IL)
132 Rodeo, Inc. Corporation Director, COB, CFO
(Beverly Hills, CA)
Gang, Tyre, Ramer & Brown, Corporation Director, President,
Inc. CEO
(Beverly Hills, CA)
G.T.R.& B. Charitable Nonprofit Director, President
Foundation
(Beverly Hills, CA)
The CED Company, Inc. Corporation Director, VP, Asst.
(Los Angeles, CA) Sec.
The Malpaso Company, Inc. Corporation Director, VP, Asst.
(Los Angeles, CA) Sec.
Malpaso Pictures, Ltd. Corporation Director, VP; Asst.
(Los Angeles, CA) Sec.
The Tehama Company, Inc. Corporation Director, VP; Asst.
(Los Angeles, CA) Sec.
Somerset Enterprises, Inc. Corporation Director, VP;
(Los Angeles, CA) Secretary
Scott Paint Company, Inc. Corporation Director, Secretary
Fka Bruning Paint Company
(Baltimore, MD)
Amblin' Entertainment, Inc. Corporation Secretary
(Los Angeles, CA)
AEJ Services, LLC LLC Secretary
(Los Angeles)
Amblin' Television, Inc. Corporation Secretary
(Los Angeles, CA)
Apaquogue Holdings, Inc. Corporation Director, Vice
(East Hampton, NY) President
Copernicus Investments, LLC LLC Vice President
(Los Angeles, CA)
County Wexford, LLC LLC Vice President
(East Hampton, NY)
Darnit, Inc. Corporation Director, VP
(Los Angeles, CA)
Diamond Lane Productions Corporation Secretary
(Los Angeles, CA)
DW Subs, Inc. Corporation Director, Secretary
(Los Angeles, CA)
Ferds, LLC LLC Director, VP
(Los Angeles, CA)
Film Properties Management, Corporation Director, VP
Inc.
(Los Angeles, CA)
Global Enterprises I, LLC LLC Secretary
(Los Angeles, CA)
Heights Investment Co., Corporation Director, Vice
Inc. President
(Los Angeles, CA)
Neo Geo, Inc. Corporation Director, Vice
(Los Angeles, CA) President
No. 2 Hampton Enterprises, Corporation Director, VP; Asst.
Inc. Sec.
(East Hampton, NY)
Nomo Funds, LLC LLC Vice President
(Los Angeles, CA)
Our Gang, Inc. Corporation Director, Vice
(Los Angeles, CA) President
Rabbit Ears, LLC LLC Vice President
(Los Angeles, CA)
Sassafras, LLC LLC Vice President
(Los Angeles, CA)
Topanga Peak, LLC LLC Vice President
(Los Angeles, CA)
U-Drive Productions, Inc. Corporation Secretary
(Los Angeles, CA)
Whirlybird, LLC LLC Secretary
(East Hampton, NY)
The Wunderkinder Foundation Nonprofit Director
(Los Angeles, CA)
The Zemeckis Charitable Nonprofit Director
Foundation
(Los Angeles, CA)
Bruce M. Ramer Living Trust Family Trust Trustee
(Los Angeles, CA)
Bajamex, Ltd. Corporation Secretary-Treasurer
(Wilmington, DE)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
In addition to the foregoing, as an attorney: (a) I represent a
number of corporations and other business entities formed and owned by
clients. These entities are privately held. I perform legal services
for such entities in the normal course and do not render investment
advice and (b) I serve as a co-trustee on a number of client-
established family trusts in connection with which I have no control
over investments, having delegated that power to a co-trustee(s).
Should you need any further information regarding these items, please
let me know.
12. Please list each membership you have had during the past 10
years or currently hold with any civic, social, charitable,
educational, political, professional, fraternal, benevolent or
religious organization, private club, or other membership organization.
Include dates of membership and any positions you have held with any
organization. Please note whether any such club or organization
restricts membership on the basis of sec, race, color, religion,
national origin, age, or handicap.
Member, Board of Trustees, University of Southern California,
2003-. Chair, Public Affairs Committee, 2005-.
Member, Board of Trustees, Alfred Herrhausen Society for
International Dialogue of the Deutsche Bank. 2004-.
Founding Chairman and Member, Board of Directors, Geffen
Playhouse (UCLA) Los Angeles, 1995-.
Chair, Institute on Entertainment Law and Business, University
of Southern California Law School, 2002-. Executive Director,
Institute on Entertainment Law and Business, University of
Southern California Law School, 1987-2002.
Member, Board of Councilors, University of Southern California
Law School, 1986-.
Co-Chair of the Executive Committee, Board of Councilors,
University of Southern California Annenberg School for
Communication, 2000-.
Member, Board of Directors, KCET (Channel 28), Public
Television, Los Angeles, California, 1992-2004. Chair, 2001-
2003. Director, 2005-.
Member, Board of Directors, Pacific Council on International
Policy, 2005-.
Member, Council on Foreign Relations, 2004-; Member, Committee
on Present Danger, 2007-.
Member, Homeland Security Advisory Council, Region One, 2006-.
National President, American Jewish Committee, 1998 to 2001.
Chair, National Board of Governors and National Council 1995 to
1998. Chair, Asia & Pacific Rim Institute 1990 to 1998. Chair,
American Jewish Committee's Latino and Latin American Institute
2004-. (Membership in the American Jewish Committee is
restricted to American Jewish citizens and residents.)
Member, Advisory Board, Hollywood, Health & Society, 2001-2006.
Member, Board of Directors, Los Angeles Urban League, 1987 to
1993; 1997-2002.
Member, Board of Directors, Southern California Committee for
Olympic Games, 1998-.
Member, Board of Directors, UCLA School of Medicine and Medical
Center, 1998 to 2004.
Member, Board of Directors, Survivors of the Shoah Visual
History Foundation, 1994-2006; Member, Board of Councilors, USC
Shoah Foundation Institute for Visual History and Education,
2006-.
Member, Board of Directors, Righteous Persons Foundation,
1994-.
Member, Board of Directors, National Foundation for Jewish
Culture, 1999-2006.
Member, Economic Strategy Panel of the State of California,
1997-1999.
Member, Board of Directors, Jewish Federation Council of
Greater Los Angeles, 1996-2001.
Member, American Bar Association, Est. 1959-; California Bar
Association, and Los Angeles County Bar Association, Est.
1963-. Beverly Hills Bar Association, 1984-. The Fellows of the
American Bar Foundation, 1996-. Member, American Bar
Association Special Committee on Judicial Independence, 1997-
1999.
13. Have you ever been a candidate for and/or held a public office
(elected, non-elected, or appointed)? If so, indicate whether any
campaign has any outstanding debt, the amount, and whether you are
personally liable for that debt: No.
14. Itemize all political contributions to any individual, campaign
organization, political party, political action committee, or similar
entity of $500 or more for the past 10 years. Also list all offices you
have held with, and services rendered to, a state or national political
party or election committee during the same period.
Please see the itemized list of all political contributions to any
individual, campaign organization, political party, political action
committee, or similar entity of $500 or more for the past 9 years
attached hereto as Exhibit A. We are unable to locate political
contributions, if any, for 1998.
No offices held or services rendered to a political party or
election committee.
15. List all scholarships, fellowships, honorary degrees, honorary
society memberships, military medals, and other special recognition for
outstanding service or achievements.
American Jewish Committee Learned Hand Award 2005. Survivors of the
Shoah Visual History Foundation Ambassador for Humanity Award 2002.
Medal of Honor of The Konrad Adenauer Foundation 2001. The Commanders
Cross of The Order of Merit of The Federal Republic of Germany 2000.
Beverly Hills Bar Association Entertainment Lawyer of the Year Award
1996. National Conference for Community and Justice Annual Brotherhood
Award 1990. Beverly Hills Bar Association Executive Director's Award
1988. American Jewish Committee Community Service Award 1987.
16. Please list each book, article, column, or publication you have
authored, individually or with others. Also list any speeches that you
have given on topics relevant to the position for which you have been
nominated. Do not attach copies of these publications unless otherwise
instructed.
``Closing Argument: Civility? Yes, Civility.'' Los Angeles Lawyer
Magazine, May 2004, p. 60.
17. Please identify each instance in which you have testified
orally or in writing before Congress in a governmental or non-
governmental capacity and specify the date and subject matter of each
testimony.
(i) Hearing on H.R. 2121--Secret Evidence Repeal Act. House
Judiciary Committee, May 23, 2000. Testimony (oral and in writing) on
behalf of the American Jewish Committee, relating to proposed enactment
of H.R. 2121.
(ii) Hearing on H.R. 2121--Secret Evidence Repeal Act House
Judiciary Subcommittee on Immigration and Claims, February 10, 2000,
testimony submitted in writing on behalf of the American Jewish
Committee, relating to proposed enactment of H.R. 2121.
(iii) Hearing On the Treatment of Israel by the United Nations,
House International Relations Committee, July 14, 1999.
According to the website of the House International Relations
Committee, I testified (without indicating whether both orally and in
writing or just in writing) before that Committee on behalf of the
American Jewish Committee, relating to the treatment of Israel by the
United Nations.
18. Given the current mission, major programs, and major
operational objectives of the department/agency to which you have been
nominated, what in your background or employment experience do you
believe affirmatively qualified you for appointment to the position for
which you have been nominated, and why do you wish to serve in that
position?
I have been a supporter of and involved with public broadcasting
since 1992, the year in which I joined the Board of Directors of KCET
(PBS), Public Television for Southern California. I served as Chairman
of that Board commencing 2001 with my term expiring in 2003. I serve
currently as the Chair of the Programming Committee of the Board and as
a member of both the Audit Committee and the Executive Committee.
In addition, I have been a practicing attorney in the
entertainment, communication and media business for over 40 years.
I wish to serve as a member of the Board of Directors of the
Corporation for Public Broadcasting in order to continue to work for
and in support of public broadcasting. I believe that public
broadcasting, whether radio or television, is a true and essential
community asset and provides vital services, information, news,
education and entertainment to the American public. I wish to do my
part to preserve, protect and enhance that service.
19. What do you believe are your responsibilities, if confirmed, to
ensure that the department/agency has proper management and accounting
controls, and what experience do you have in managing a large
organization?
If confirmed, my responsibilities will be those of a director with
dedicated fiduciary duties to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting,
exercising appropriate oversight in seeking to ensure that the
Corporation for Public Broadcasting maintains proper management and
accounting controls.
My experience in management is principally that involved with the
running and operation of my law firm.
20. What do you believe to be the top three challenges facing the
department/agency, and why?
I believe that the top three challenges facing the Corporation for
Public Broadcasting are:
(a) to secure the funding which will enable the Corporation to
continue to provide grants and financial assistance in program
production and the enhancement of the public broadcasting
services;
(b) to use the assets of the Corporation for Public
Broadcasting wisely in providing public broadcasting services
to the American people; and
(c) to maintain and increase viewership of public television
and listenership of public radio in order to provide the
maximum benefits of public broadcasting to the widest possible
segment of the American population.
B. POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
1. Describe all financial arrangements, deferred compensation
agreements, and other continuing dealings with business associates,
clients, or customers. Please include information related to retirement
accounts.
As a member of Gang, Tyre, Ramer & Brown, Inc., my law firm, I
participate in a percentage of the net revenues derived from the firm
from its practice of law. There is no deferred compensation agreement
as such, although there is an agreement which provides a formula for
payment following retirement in certain circumstances or death. As to
retirement accounts, my law firm maintains a 401(k) program and I
maintain an individual IRA.
2. Do you have any commitments or agreements, formal or informal,
to maintain employment, affiliation, or practice with any business,
association or other organization during your appointment? If so,
please explain.
Yes. I intend to continue practicing law with my law firm and to
maintain my affiliations with charitable and community organizations.
3. Indicate any investments, obligations, liabilities, or other
relationships which could involve potential conflicts of interest in
the position to which you have been nominated.
I believe that the only relationships in which I am involved which
could involve potential conflicts of interest as a member of the Board
of Directors of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting are my
memberships on the Board of Directors of KCET and on the Board of
Trustees of the University of Southern California. I will recuse myself
from participation in any matters that come before the Board of the
Corporation for Public Broadcasting involving either of these entities,
whether respecting grants or otherwise.
Clients of my law firm are engaged in various aspects of the
production of motion picture and television and related products, but,
with one exception, I do not recall any clients who have or contemplate
seeking grants or other funding from the Corporation for Public
Broadcasting. If any should occur I will recuse myself.
4. Describe any business relationship, dealing, or financial
transaction which you have had during the last 10 years, whether for
yourself, on behalf of a client, or acting as an agent, that could in
any way constitute or result in a possible conflict of interest in the
position to which you have been nominated: Please see the answer to
B.3., above.
5. Describe any activity during the past 10 years in which you have
been engaged for the purpose of directly or indirectly influencing the
passage, defeat, or modification of any legislation or affecting the
administration and execution of law or public policy.
Please see the answer to A.17 above. In addition, particularly in
my capacity as a member, officer or Governor of the American Jewish
Committee, I have from time to time participated in discussions with
Members of the Senate or Members of the House or Members of the
Administration pertaining to legislation or public policy, but in a
general way and not as a lobbyist.
Similarly, I have attended several meetings with Members of the
Senate or Members of the House as a Trustee of the University of
Southern California, but again not as a lobbyist but rather in a
general way with respect to legislation or public policy.
6. Explain how you will resolve any potential conflict of interest,
including any that may be disclosed by your responses to the above
items.
As noted, I will recuse myself in any situation which apparently or
actually presents a potential conflict of interest.
C. LEGAL MATTERS
1. Have you ever been disciplined or cited for a breach of ethics
by, or been the subject of a complaint to any court, administrative
agency, professional association, disciplinary committee, or other
professional group? If so, please explain: No.
2. Have you ever been investigated, arrested, charged, or held by
any Federal, State, or other law enforcement authority of any Federal,
State, county, or municipal entity, other than for a minor traffic
offense? If so, please explain: No.
3. Have you or any business of which you are or were an officer
even been involved as a party in an administrative agency proceeding or
civil litigation? If so, please explain: Only as a result of my legal
practice.
4. Have you ever been convicted (including pleases of guilty or
nolo contendere) of any criminal violation other than a minor traffic
offense? If so, please explain: No.
5. Have you ever been accused, formally or informally, of sexual
harassment or discrimination on the basis of sex, race, religion, or
any other basis? If so, please explain: No.
6. Please advise the Committee of any additional information,
favorable or unfavorable, which you feel should be disclosed in
connection with your nomination: None.
D. RELATIONSHIP WITH COMMITTEE
1. Will you ensure that your department/agency complies with
deadlines for information set by Congressional committees?
As a director of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, I will
use my best efforts to ensure that the Corporation complies with
deadlines for information set by congressional committees.
2. Will you ensure that your department/agency does whatever it can
to protect Congressional witnesses and whistle blowers from reprisal
for their testimony and disclosures?
As a director of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, I will
use my best efforts to ensure that the Corporation does whatever it can
to protect congressional witnesses and whistle blowers from reprisal
for their testimony and disclosures.
3. Will you cooperate in providing the Committee with requested
witnesses, including technical experts and career employees, with
firsthand knowledge of matters of interest to the Committee? Yes.
4. Are you willing to appear and testify before any duly
constituted committee of the Congress on such occasions as you may be
reasonably requested to do so? Yes.
______
RESUME OF BRUCE M. RAMER
Curriculum Vitae
Bruce M. Ramer, born Teaneck, New Jersey.
A.B., Princeton University (Woodrow Wilson of Public and
International Affairs); LLB, Harvard Law School.
Lawyer, partner, Gang, Tyre, Ramer & Brown, Inc., 132 South Rodeo
Drive, Beverly Hills, California 90212.
Member, Board of Trustees, University of Southern California.
Chair, Public Affairs Committee, 2005-. Member, Board of Trustees
Loyola Marymount University, 1986-1997.
Member, Board of Trustees, Alfred Herrhausen Society for
International Dialogue of the Deutsche Bank. 2004-.
Founding Chairman and Member, Board of Trustees, Geffen Playhouse
(UCLA) Los Angeles. Member, Board of Directors of Rebuild L.A. 1992-
1996. Member, Board of Directors, LA 2000 Partnership 1992-1994.
Chair, Institute on Entertainment Law and Business, University of
Southern California Law School. Member, Board of Councilors, University
of Southern California Law School. Co-Chair of the Executive Committee,
Board of Councilors, University of Southern California Annenberg School
for Communication.
Member, Board of Directors, KCET (PBS Channel 28), Los Angeles,
California (1992-2004). Chair, 2001-2003. Director, 2005-.
Member, Board of Directors, Pacific Council on International
Policy. Member, Council on Foreign Relations, 2004-.
Chair, American Jewish Committee's Latino and Latin American
Institute
2004-.
National President, American Jewish Committee, 1998-2001. Chair,
National Board of Governors and National Council, 1995-1998. Chair,
National Executive Council, 1992-1995. Chair, National Board of
Trustees, AJC, 1989-1992. Chair, Asia & Pacific Rim Institute, 1990-
1998. National Vice President, AJC, 1982-1988. Past President, Los
Angeles Chapter, AJC, 1980-1983. Chair, AJC Western Region, 1984-1986.
Member, Board of Directors, Los Angeles Urban League, 1987-1993;
1997-2002. Member, Board of Directors, Southern California Committee
for Olympic Games, 1998-.
Past President, Los Angeles Copyright Society; Past President,
California Copyright Conference.
Past President, Princeton Club of Southern California.
Vice Chair at Large, 1991-1993, and Member, United Way Corporate
Board of Directors, 1981-1993. Member, Executive Committee, 1989-1990.
Chair, Council of Presidents, 1989-1990. Member, Community Issues
Council, 1989-1990. Chair, Discretionary Fund Distribution Committee,
1987-1989.
Member, Board of Directors, UCLA School of Medicine and Medical
Center, 1998-2004.
Member, Board of Directors: Key3Media Group (2001-2002); Home
Shopping Network, Inc. (1996-1998); QVC, Inc. (1994-1995).
Member, Board of Governors, California Community Foundation 1988-
1998. Member, Board of Directors, Los Angeles Children's Museum, 1986-
1989.
Member, Board of Directors, Survivors of the Shoah Visual History
Foundation, 1994-2006; Member, Board of Councilors, USC Shoah
Foundation Institute for Visual History and Education, 2006-.
Member, Board of Directors, Righteous Persons Foundation, 1994-.
Member, Board of Directors, National Foundation for Jewish Culture,
1999-2006. Member, Economic Strategy Panel of the State of California,
1997-1999.
Member, Board of Directors, Jewish Federation Council of Greater
Los Angeles, 1996-2001.
Member, American Bar Association, California Bar Association, Los
Angeles County Bar Association and Beverly Hills Bar Association, The
Fellows of the American Bar Foundation. Member, American Bar
Association Special Committee on Judicial Independence (1997-1999).
Member, Committee on Present Danger, 2007-.
American Jewish Committee Learned Hand Award 2005. Survivors of the
Shoah Visual History Foundation Ambassador for Humanity Award 2002.
Medal of Honor of The Konrad Adenauer Foundation 2001. The Commanders
Cross of The Order of Merit of The Federal Republic of Germany 2000.
Beverly Hills Bar Association Entertainment Lawyer of the Year Award
1996. National Conference for Community and Justice Annual Brotherhood
Award 1990. Beverly Hills Bar Association Executive Directors Award
1988. American Jewish Committee Community Service Award 1987.
Named among: the 100 Most Influential Lawyers in America by The
National Law Journal (1994 and 1997); the 100 Most Powerful Lawyers in
California (California Business Lawyer, 1999 and 2001); the Top 100
Lawyers in California (Daily Journal, 2002, 2003 and 2004) .
Married to Madeline Ramer. Four children: Gregg; Marc; Neal; and
Alexandra.
The Chairman. I thank you very much, Mr. Ramer.
And may I now call upon Ms. Loretta Sutliff? I gather you
have family members here?
STATEMENT OF LORETTA SUTLIFF,
MEMBER-DESIGNATE, BOARD OF DIRECTORS,
CORPORATION FOR PUBLIC BROADCASTING
Ms. Sutliff. Thank you. Yes, I would love the opportunity
to introduce my family.
My aunt, Joan Sutliff, is here from Bainbridge Island,
Washington. Also our daughter, Olivia Kathleen Rice, she's 7
years old. And her father, my husband, John Patrick Rice, from
Elko, Nevada, where John also serves on the Elko City Council,
I might add.
Mr. Chairman and Members of the Committee, thank you very
much for the opportunity to appear before you today to discuss
my nomination to the Board of the Corporation for Public
Broadcasting.
I would also like to extend my appreciation to President
Bush for nominating me to the board and to Senator Reid for
selecting me for consideration.
I am a small-town broadcaster with almost 25 years'
experience and accountability to my community. The more I
understand about the mission of public television and radio,
the more I realize I am uniquely qualified for this position.
Our town, Elko, Nevada, is located some 160 miles away from
the closest shopping mall, where our 7-year-old daughter can
make her own teddy bear. We are surrounded by the fragile
beauty of the high desert, rugged glacier-carved Ruby
Mountains, and an ecosystem rich with wildlife unique to any
other spot on the planet. I often tell family and friends
spread across the country that we like to make our own fun.
I think it is this desert experience that allows the spirit
of individualism to take root, endure, and thrive. I also
believe the Nation's public radio and television stations are
poised to emerge as the beacons of culture, custom, and
creative spirit as more of our mainstream media options are
further franchised and consolidated.
I work in commercial radio and television in a partnership
to provide local news and programming. I host a daily radio
talk show, ``Elko Live,'' at KELK, which has been on the air
for almost 15 years. I also hosted the morning radio show on
our local AM station for more than a decade until our daughter,
Olivia, started kindergarten.
Channel 10, KENV, is a local NBC television affiliate
located on the Great Basin College campus under arrangement
with Sunbelt Communications. My work at Elko Broadcasting
Company is a continuation of a family owned tradition of more
than 60 years. Our radio stations--KELK-AM, KLKO-FM--are deeply
committed to community service in providing air time and talent
to almost every charitable or beneficial cause in the region
for decades.
I have been providing weekday newscasts my entire broadcast
career. As a result, I fully understand the responsibility of
balanced and accurate reporting and the accessibility and
involvement of broadcasters in the community.
At KENV-TV, owned by Sunbelt Communications, I am very
proud to work with and for some of the most inspiring and
energetic people in our community. We craft a half hour of
local television news each weekday and Saturday that is
available both online and on air.
I report, edit, produce, and anchor segments using
technology that didn't exist when I first picked up a grease
pencil and razor blade to splice tape on reel-to-reel. My
colleagues and I are constantly learning and sharing, mentoring
and encouraging, an attitude I recognize in the heart of public
broadcasting.
As broadcasters, we initiated through Great Basin College
the first broadcast technology program to recruit and train
future community broadcasters, producers, and filmmakers. This
program is in its second year, and we have already seen a
diversity of applicants from a local historian--she is already
talented in conducting interviews--beginning her second career,
to a young Shoshone student who shared her culture and
viewpoint through newly developed skills in video production
and outreach.
What I hope to convey in this statement is my enthusiasm
and optimism for the future of broadcasting, especially in
areas that I can see public radio and television setting the
standard and reaching viewers and listeners who are becoming
frustrated with the loss of local voices and views in their
communities. I have both vision and skill to inspire local
origination broadcasting. I see that service as key to the
future of preserving our unique identities, the expression and
soul of the place we live and the people we are.
The Public Awareness Initiative is an example of how public
radio and television station leaders can increase the awareness
of how public broadcasting enriches and informs daily life,
whether for listeners in Owyhee, Nevada, a remote Western
Shoshone reservation, listening for a road report, or in
Sparta, Wisconsin, where my mother-in-law, Barbara Rice, tunes
in to hear ``what NPR says'' while analyzing national politics.
Many PBS viewers have sought refuge in ``The News Hour,''
during this election cycle to make sense of the sensations
found elsewhere.
The Story Corps project is one our community is familiar
with because it is similar to local efforts by the Western
Folklife Center in Elko, host to the National Cowboy Poetry
Gathering, now celebrating a silver year anniversary, in
launching the ``Sheep Camp for Stories.'' A Basque sheep wagon
was outfitted to record oral histories during the winter event.
Immigrants, grandparents, craftspeople, gold miners, sons and
daughters of pioneer families have contributed their voices to
this priceless archive, more valuable to the future than any
trust fund.
While there are challenges and mounting costs in providing
broadcast signals, especially to distant and rural populations
such as those found throughout Nevada, I believe an even bigger
challenge not measured in money is in recruiting and retaining
talented and dedicated future broadcasters who want to serve
small- and medium-sized towns covering city council meetings
and airing local election results, adding and blending local
voices, opinions, and issues to that of national content.
I appreciate the Talent Quest mission of inspiring and
motivating our replacements. I believe expanded access to local
origination in communities and on campuses will foster even
more talent waiting to be discovered.
I would be sorely remiss if I did not also applaud PBS for
its work in continuing the quality children's educational
programming I grew up with and now enjoyed by our daughter.
From the mainstay ``Sesame Street,'' with its ageless yet
contemporary characters, to new and vibrant programs such as
``Between the Lions'' and ``Maya and Miguel,'' these are among
children's programming on PBS that I know our daughter can
watch.
I understand well the mission of the Corporation for Public
Broadcasting, and I would be honored to serve on the Board of
Directors for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.
Thank you for considering me, and I would be happy to
answer any questions.
[The prepared statement of Ms. Sutliff follows:]
Prepared Statement of Loretta Sutliff, Member-Designate,
Board of Directors, Corporation for Public Broadcasting
Mr. Chairman and Members of the Committee: thank you very much for
the opportunity to appear before you today to discuss my nomination to
the board of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. I would also like
to extend my appreciation to President Bush for nominating me to the
board and to Senator Reid for selecting me for consideration.
I am a small town broadcaster with almost twenty-five years'
experience and accountability to my community. The more I understand
about the mission of public television and radio, the more I realize I
am uniquely qualified for this position.
Our town, Elko, Nevada, is located some 160 miles away from the
closest shopping mall where our 7-year-old daughter can make her own
teddy bear. We are surrounded by the fragile beauty of the high desert,
rugged glacier-carved Ruby Mountains and an ecosystem rich with
wildlife unique to any other spot on the planet. I often tell family
and friends spread across the country that we like to ``make our own
fun.''
I think it is this desert experience that allows the spirit of
individualism to take root, endure and thrive. I also believe the
Nation's public radio and television stations are poised to emerge as
the beacons of culture, custom and creative spirit as more of our
mainstream media options are further franchised and consolidated.
I work in commercial radio and television in a partnership to
provide local news and programming. I host a daily radio talk show,
``Elko, Live'' at KELK which has been on the air for almost 15 years. I
also hosted the morning radio show on our local AM station for more
than a decade until our daughter, Olivia, started kindergarten. Channel
10 KENV is a local NBC television affiliate located on the Great Basin
College campus under arrangement with Sunbelt Communications.
My work at Elko Broadcasting Company is a continuation of a family-
owned tradition of more than 60 years. Our radio stations KELK AM/KLKO
FM, are deeply committed to community service in providing airtime and
talent to almost every charitable or beneficial cause in the region for
decades. I've been providing weekday newscasts my entire broadcast
career. As a result, I fully understand the responsibility of balanced
and accurate reporting and the accessibility and involvement of
broadcasters in the community.
At KENV TV, owned by Sunbelt Communications, I'm very proud to work
with and for some of the most inspiring and energetic people I n our
community. We craft a half-hour of local television news each weekday
and Saturday that is available both online and on air. I report, edit,
produce and anchor segments using technology that didn't exist when I
first picked up a grease pencil and razor blade to splice tape on reel-
to-reel. My colleagues and I are constantly learning and sharing,
mentoring and encouraging, an attitude I recognize I n the heart of
public broadcasting.
As broadcasters we initiated through Great Basin College, the first
Broadcast Technology Program to recruit and train future community
broadcasters, producers and filmmakers. This program is in its' second
year and we have already seen a diversity of applicants, from a local
historian, already talented in conducting interviews, beginning her
second career; to a young Shoshone student who shared her culture and
viewpoint through newly-developed skills in video production and
outreach.
What I hope to convey in this statement is my enthusiasm and
optimism for the future of broadcasting, especially in areas that I can
see public radio and television setting the standard and reaching
viewers and listeners who are becoming frustrated with the loss of
local voices and views in their communities. I have both vision and
skill to inspire local origination broadcasting and see that service as
key to the future of preserving our unique identities; the expression
and soul of the place we live and the people we are.
The Public Awareness Initiative is an example of how public radio
and television station leaders can increase the awareness of how public
broadcasting enriches and informs daily life, whether for listeners in
Owyhee, Nevada, a remote Western Shoshone reservation listening for a
road report, or in Sparta, Wisconsin where my mother-in-law Barbara
Rice tunes in to hear, ``what NPR says,'' while analyzing national
politics. Many PBS viewers have sought refuge in ``The News Hour,''
during this election cycle to make sense of the sensation found
elsewhere.
The ``Story Corps'' project is one our community is familiar with.
It is similar to a local effort by the Western Folklife Center in Elko,
host to the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering now celebrating a Silver
Year, in launching the ``Sheep Camp for Stories.'' A Basque sheep-wagon
was outfitted to record oral histories during the winter event.
Immigrants, grandparents, craftspeople, gold miners and sons and
daughters of pioneer families have contributed their voices to this
priceless archive, more valuable to the future than any trust fund.
While there are challenges and mounting costs in providing
broadcast signals, especially to distant and rural populations such as
those found throughout Nevada, I believe an even bigger challenge not
measured in money is in recruiting and retaining talented and dedicated
future broadcasters who want to serve small- and medium-sized towns,
covering city council meetings and airing local election results,
adding and blending local voices, opinions and issues to that of
national content.
I appreciate the Talent Quest mission of inspiring and motivating
our replacements. I believe expanded access to local origination in
communities and on campuses will foster even more talent waiting to be
discovered.
I would be sorely remiss if I did not also applaud PBS for its work
in continuing the quality children's educational programming I grew up
with, and now enjoyed by our daughter. From the mainstay, ``Sesame
Street,'' with its ageless yet contemporary characters, to new and
vibrant programs such as ``Between the Lions'' and ``Maya and Miguel.''
These are among children's programming on PBS, that I know our daughter
can watch.
I understand well the mission of the Corporation for Public
Broadcasting and I would be honored to serve on the board of directors
for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Thank you for considering
me and I would be happy to answer any questions.
______
A. BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION
1. Name: (include any former name or nicknames used): Lori Gilbert
(aka Loretta Cheryl Sutliff)
2. Position to which nominated: Board of Directors of the
Corporation for Public Broadcasting.
3. Date of Nomination: May 29, 2008.
4. Address:
Residence: Information not available to the public.
Office: KENV, 1500 College Parkway, Elko, Nevada 89801; KELK/
KLKO, 1800 Idaho Street, Elko, Nevada 89801.
5. Date and Place of Birth: August 1, 1963; Hill AFB, Ogden, Utah.
6. Provide the name, position, and place of employment for your
spouse (if married) and the names and ages of your children (including
stepchildren and children by a previous marriage).
John Patrick Rice, PhD, Director of Institutional Advancement,
Great Basin College, Elko, Nevada; children: Olivia Kathleen
Rice, age 7, second grade student, Northside Elementary, Elko,
Nevada.
7. List all colleges and graduate degrees. Provide year and school
attended.
Great Basin College, Elko, Nevada, continuing education
8. List all post-undergraduate employment, and highlight all
management-level jobs held and any non-managerial jobs that relate to
the position for which you are nominated.
KENV TV (Sunbelt Communication), News Director (06/1997 to
present).
KELK/KLKO Radio (Elko Broadcasting), News Director (10/1986 to
present).
9. Attach a copy of your resume. A copy is attached.
10. List any advisory, consultative, honorary, or other part-time
service or positions with Federal, State, or local governments, other
than those listed above, within the last 5 years: None.
11. List all positions held as an officer, director, trustee,
partner, proprietor, agent, representative, or consultant of any
corporation, company, firm, partnership, or other business, enterprise,
educational, or other institution within the last 5 years: None.
12. Please list each membership you have had during the past 10
years or currently hold with any civic, social, charitable,
educational, political, professional, fraternal, benevolent or
religious organization, private club, or other membership organization.
Include dates of membership and any positions you have held with any
organization. Please note whether any such club or organization
restricts membership on the basis of sec, race, color, religion,
national origin, age, or handicap.
Boys and Girls Club of Nevada, Board Member (2004 to present).
Associated Press of California & Nevada, Board Member (1995 to
2000).
Nevada Women's Fund, member (2007 to present).
13. Have you ever been a candidate for and/or held public office
(elected, non-elected, or appointed)? None.
14. Itemize all political contributions to any individual, campaign
organization, political party, political action committee, or similar
entity of $500 or more for the past 10 years. Also list all offices you
have held with, and services rendered to, a state or national political
party or election committee during the same period: None.
15. List all scholarships, fellowships, honorary degrees, honorary
society memberships, military medals, and other special recognition for
outstanding service or achievements.
Heart of Hospice Award, Horizon Hospice, Elko, Nevada, 2008.
Associated Press, Mark Twain Award, 2001 and 2003.
Associated Press, News Station of the Year, 2000.
Elko Area Chamber of Commerce Advocate Award, 1997.
Various Associated Press Awards and Citations for outstanding
service, 1986 to present.
16. Please list each book, article, column, or publication you have
authored, individually or with others. Also list any speeches that you
have given on topics relevant to the position for which you have been
nominated. Do not attach copies of these publications unless otherwise
instructed: Not Applicable.
17. Please identify each instance in which you have testified
orally or in writing before Congress in a governmental or non-
governmental capacity and specify the date and subject matter of each
testimony: None.
18. Given the current mission, major programs, and major
operational objectives of the department/agency to which you have been
nominated, what in your background or employment experience do you
believe affirmatively qualifies you for appointment to which you have
been nominated and why do you wish to serve in that position?
Given the Corporation for Public Broadcasting mission of providing
universal access to high quality programming and services, I believe my
long career as a rural journalist and broadcaster gives me a unique
ability to accomplish a number of tasks, communicate with a variety of
interests and has developed a sense of service, especially to remote
populations. I understand how important it is to provide local news,
information and programming.
19. What do you believe are your responsibilities, if confirmed, to
ensure that the department/agency has proper management and accounting
controls, and what experience do you have in managing a large
organization?
While I don't have particular experience managing a corporation or
overseeing a large budget, I am prudent with the resources made
available to me as an employee of a family-owned business, Elko
Broadcasting Company, KELK and KLKO Radio Stations. I also work within
the constraints of a corporate budget as provided by Sunbelt
Communications, owner of KENV TV.
20. What do you believe to be the top three challenges facing the
department/agency, and why?
a. As a nominee for this position, I have not talked directly
to any staff or agency person. In my own experience with the
Corporation for Public Broadcasting, mostly as a consumer, 1
realize there are challenges with the delivery of programming
and the funding required to maintain systems that meet FCC and
market technology demands.
b. A second challenge, from my perspective as a nominee, is to
continue to serve the underserved, particularly children and
minorities, with local content. In my experience as a rural
broadcaster, I see less local programming and content being
made available to consumers, with a dwindling reserve of
talented journalists and broadcasters being encouraged to
pursue careers within their communities.
c. A third perceived challenge; balancing content and delivery
through technology that is both informative and appealing to
future generations of listeners and viewers. I am fortunate to
work with exciting and talented young people and believe we
should rely on the upcoming generation to help shape current
and future content and explore the scope of delivery of news
and information services.
B. POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
1. Describe all financial arrangements, deferred compensation
agreements, and other continued dealings with business associates,
clients or customers. Please include information related to retirement
accounts.
I have a managed 401K account through Sunbelt Communications. Our
daughter, a 529 College Plan, through Great Basin Bank. My husband has
a 403B administered through the State of Nevada and VALIC.
2. Do you have any commitments or agreements, formal or informal,
to maintain employment, affiliation, or practice with any business,
association or other organization during your appointment? If so,
please explain.
I will continue my full-time employment as News Director with Elko
Broadcasting Company and Sunbelt Communications working in radio and
television news in my community. If appointed to this position, I have
been asked by the local newspaper, the Elko Daily Free Press, to submit
an article detailing the appointment and offering insight as to the
role of the CPB in rural communities. There would be no compensation
for this.
3. Indicate any investments, obligations, liabilities, or other
relationships which could involve potential conflicts of interest in
the position to which you have been nominated.
I am employed by commercial broadcast station owners who have been
openly supportive of Public Broadcasting and our relationships to
service in our communities. I do not anticipate anything but future
support from both Elko Broadcasting Company and Sunbelt Communications
if I were to be appointed to this position.
4. Describe any business relationship, dealing, or financial
transaction which you have had during the last 10 years, whether for
yourself, on behalf of a client, or acting as an agent, that could in
any way constitute or result in a possible conflict of interest in the
position to which you have been nominated: None
5. Describe any activity during the last 10 years in which you have
been engaged for the purpose of directly or indirectly influencing the
passage, defeat, or modification of any legislation or affecting the
administration and execution of law or public policy: None.
6. Explain how you will resolve any potential conflict of interest,
including any that may be disclosed by your responses to the above
items.
I am already in the practice of avoiding financial conflict of
interest. As a working broadcaster, I do not accept gifts or any
consideration valued at more than $25. If I were to be appointed to
this position and were approached by any interest asking for
consideration in exchange for compensation, I would report the incident
to the appropriate ethics body.
C. LEGAL MATTERS
1. Have you ever been disciplined or cited for a breach of ethics
by, or been the subject of a complaint to any court, administrative
agency, professional association, disciplinary committee, or other
professional group? If so, please explain: No.
2. Have you ever been investigated, arrested, charged, or held by
any Federal, State, or other law enforcement authority of any Federal,
State, county, or municipal entity, other than for a minor traffic
offense? If so, please explain: No.
3. Have you or any business of which you are or were an officer
even been involved as a party in an administrative agency proceeding or
civil litigation? If so, please explain: No.
4. Have you ever been convicted (including pleases of guilty or
nolo contendere) of any criminal violation other than a minor traffic
offense? If so, please explain: No.
5. Have you ever been accused, formally or informally, of sexual
harassment or discrimination on the basis of sex, race, religion, or
any other basis? If so, please explain: No.
6. Please advise the Committee of any additional information,
favorable or unfavorable, which you feel should be disclosed in
connection with your nomination.
I have no past or present legal involvements or professional
breaches of conduct. 1 am very accountable to my community and to the
individuals and their families represented in our news coverage.
D. RELATIONSHIP WITH COMMITTEE
1. Will you ensure that your department/agency complies with
deadlines for information set by congressional committees?
Yes, I believe I have demonstrated my ability to meet deadlines as
a requirement of my profession. I meet deadlines each day.
2. Will you ensure that your department/agency does whatever it can
to protect congressional witnesses and whistle blowers from reprisal
for testimony and disclosures?
Yes, I believe my experience as a veteran broadcaster and news
reporter has prepared me to protect individuals who provide
information, if necessary. If appointed to this position, I would be
vigilant in this role.
3. Will you cooperate in providing the Committee with requested
witnesses, including technical experts and career employees, with
firsthand knowledge of matters of interest to the Committee? Yes.
4. Are you willing to appear and testify before any duly
constituted committee of the Congress on such occasions as you may
reasonably be requested to do so? Yes.
______
RESUME OF LORETTA SUTLIFF
CPB Board Nominee
Loretta Sutliff began her work in broadcasting in 1983. Working
under the broadcast name of ``Lori Gilbert,'' she has specialized in
providing broadcast news in rural communities, with most of her career
being spent as the news director for Elko Broadcasting Company's KELK
and KLKO in Elko, Nevada. The Associated Press Television and Radio
Association acknowledged her news department as the ``News Station of
the Year'' in 1999. Her daily half-hour community news program, ``Elko
Live,'' has provided listeners throughout northeastern Nevada with
first-person news accounts of local, regional and national issues and
events for nearly fifteen years.
In 1997 she broadened her reach and her responsibilities as the
founding news director and anchor of KENV News 10 in Elko. The KENV
television news department, under her direction, produces news shows 6
days each week. She also produces and anchors a thirty minute weekly
news program, featuring in-depth discussions with community leaders on
topics of current interest. News 10 regularly produces live community
forums, including political debates between local, regional and state
wide candidates. Her style of journalism holds local leadership
accountable for their actions in ways no other media in the region
requires, providing citizens with valuable information and insight for
formulating opinions about the direction of their community. She
continues to work on the air in both radio and television broadcasting,
and is consistently recognized by news organizations for her
outstanding contributions to broadcast journalism.
She studied communications at Weber State University in Ogden,
Utah. She has served as an adjunct instructor of journalism at Great
Basin College in Elko, as well as a member of the advisory committee to
the community's public television and public radio signals, helping to
bring public broadcasting service to viewers and listeners in some of
the most remote reaches of rural Nevada. She was a member of the board
of directors of the Associated Press Television and Radio Association
of California and Nevada, and advised association members on rural news
gathering and communications. She was recently inducted into the Nevada
Broadcasters Hall of Fame. For the last 3 years she has served on the
executive board of Boys and Girls Club of Elko, and is a past member of
the board of directors of the Elko County Family Resource Center and
the Elko County Juvenile Advisory Board. She is a regular host at the
National Cowboy Poetry Gathering, held each winter in Elko.
She is married to Dr. John Patrick Rice, an Administrative Officer
at Great Basin College. They have a daughter, Olivia, an elementary
school student.
The Chairman. I thank you very much, Ms. Sutliff.
Senator Stevens?
Senator Pryor?
I would like to advise the panel here that one of the
members has submitted several questions, and we would like to
submit them to you, and may I suggest that you respond to them
as soon as possible so that we can carry out this process
before we adjourn?
We are trying our best to fulfill our responsibilities
here. But as you know, we may be out of Washington in 2 weeks.
So I would expect all of you to do your part.
I have a couple of questions to all of you. As you know,
since its creation, CPB has participated in programs, radio and
television, that appeal to minority audiences, diverse
audiences. And we have this consortia now, National Minority
Consortia. Just want to know, do you support this?
Ms. Halpern?
Ms. Halpern. Forgive me. Thank you.
As the Chairman of the CPB Board, I did take my colleagues
to meet with both the Pacific Islanders, when we did visit
Hawaii, as well as the Native American consortia leadership,
when we were out at the Hopi reservation in Arizona.
We are currently reviewing how to, in fact, engage more
effectively with the consortia. And after the review is
concluded, I know that the CPB staff will come and brief the
Committee staff as well. But there is an absolute commitment by
the current CPB Board, myself, if renominated, and I am
assuming the new nominees as well, to be all we can be to every
underserved or unserved audience as legislated.
The Chairman. Mr. Ramer?
Mr. Ramer. Mr. Chairman, the short answer is, yes,
absolutely. I noted in my opening statement a reference to the
need of public broadcasting to serve all the elements of an
increasingly diverse population, and I think that is an
essential part of what public broadcasting does, and I support
the minority consortia.
The Chairman. Thank you.
Ms. Sembler?
Ms. Sembler. I would agree. I do support it, and I believe
that the mission--one of the missions of public broadcasting is
education, and I would certainly like to see national
programming that is reflective of what the consortia is doing.
The Chairman. Ms. Sutliff?
Ms. Sutliff. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
I, too, believe wholeheartedly in this minority consortium,
and especially coming from rural Nevada, we know what it feels
like to be a minority population. And we have important
cultures to be represented within our communities as well. So,
thank you, and again speaking as a nominee.
The Chairman. Senator Pryor?
Senator David Pryor. Yes, Mr. Chairman, thank you.
I think, in a new sense of transparency, especially in the
last 3 years for the board of the Corporation for Public
Broadcasting, Board and its staff, there is, in fact, a new
sense of transparency which does result, Mr. Chairman, in your
finding and the Committee's staff finding that a great portion
of our discussions in our Board meeting has been dedicated to
the concept that public broadcasting, radio and television,
must be totally open to every group and every portion of this
country, regardless of race, color, creed, geographic region,
et cetera.
And therefore, I feel truly a bursting new commitment to
fulfilling of this sense of fairness throughout our country,
and I hope that our Committee staff members on the Commerce
Committee and also would avail themselves of looking sort of
into the record to see how much time and commitment we are
having at this moment to making this become definitely a
reality.
Thank you.
The Chairman. I thank you very much.
I have just one more question. As you know, on February 17
next year, we will switch from analog to digital signals. Do
you believe that all public broadcasting stations, radio and
TV, are ready for this?
Ms. Halpern?
Ms. Halpern. In this regard, I especially want to say thank
you to the Senate--actually, to Congress--for providing the
additional sources of funding to allow for the transition for
the public broadcasting system to digital. To date, there are
but 15 stations that are in the process of yet converting to
digital.
But more importantly, I need to applaud the public
broadcasting family for the manner in which they are engaging
with their audiences, their listeners and their viewers. They
are effectively delivering messages regarding the converter
boxes, how to access, how to become more comfortable with what
will be forthcoming in February 2009.
Thank you.
The Chairman. Mr. Pryor, Senator Pryor, do you think we are
ready?
Senator David Pryor. Mr. Chairman, with all due respect, I
think we are getting ready. And I think by February, we will be
there. And I think this is an exciting moment. It is an
exciting transition and development in the broadcast industry.
Once again, it will serve more and more Americans more fairly
and, I think, even more efficiently.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman, yes.
The Chairman. I thank you.
Senator Stevens?
Senator Stevens. I wonder what role the Board has in terms
of looking at broad issues and whether they should be sort of
headlined by the stations involved that you oversee. For
instance, and it is provincial, the Chairman and I represent
two new states. We will celebrate our 50th anniversary, each of
us, on January 3 of next year. Alaska and Hawaii will have been
a state for 50 years.
As a matter of fact, it took 45 years for us to get
statehood once we started that. I think Hawaii just slightly
longer. But I just wonder, does your board go into and look at
events ahead and ask the stations to recognize these events, or
is this something that you don't get involved in?
Yes, anyone? I don't care.
Ms. Halpern. Senator----
The Chairman. If you want his vote, you better give the
right answer.
Ms. Halpern.--the CPB board is not allowed by law to get
involved with programming. But I would hope that the stations
in Alaska, as well as in Hawaii, given their responsibilities
as local public broadcasters, would certainly be celebrating
the anniversary of statehood.
When we visited Alaska and we went, in fact, up to Bethel,
we were able to, as a board, listen to the type of programming
that the stations provide, and the special connection, the life
system that, for example, ``Tundra Drums'' provides in Bethel
to those of the Inuit communities who become completely
isolated when that tundra thaws is remarkable, unique, and so
very special. So I cannot but imagine that they will do
everything.
Senator Stevens. Oh, I am sure they will in our state. I am
talking about nationally. You don't have anything to do with
that, right?
Ms. Halpern. That we do not, sir.
Senator Stevens. Thank you very much.
The Chairman. With that, I would like to once again request
that you respond to the questions that the Committee will
submit to you, and the sooner we do this, we can expedite the
process.
Once again, thank you very much for your appearance here.
And Senator Pryor, give my regards to Arkansas.
Senator David Pryor. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you
very much.
The Chairman. And with that, we will try to speed up the
process. Thank you very much.
[Whereupon, at 11:23 a.m., the hearing was adjourned.]
A P P E N D I X
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Byron L. Dorgan to
All CPB Nominees
Question 1. Public television offers some of the last locally-owned
and controlled media in this country. Subsequently, its role in the
marketplace of media is becoming increasingly important as we search
for diverse opinions and voices. In fact, a 2003 study by the McGannon
Center found that over a 2-week period, commercial broadcasters aired,
on average, only 45 minutes of local public affairs programming per
week, in contrast to the 3.5 hours aired by public broadcasters. How
important do you see the role of public broadcasters as leaders in
local programming?
Ms. Halpern. I believe public broadcasting is a national treasure,
and an invaluable community connector. In most communities, the public
broadcasting station is the last locally-owned media operation and the
only vehicle for significant discourse on local issues. If confirmed
for a second term, I want to make sure that we protect and enhance the
opportunities for public broadcasting entities across our country to
provide this valuable connection through local programming.
Ms. Gilbert. This is an extremely important issue to me. I believe
public radio and television broadcasters will have an even greater role
in providing local news and programming in the near future as
competition and costs continue to squeeze commercial interests. I
believe public broadcasting may soon be one of the only outlets to
provide continued free access and information throughout the country.
Mr. Ramer. I believe that public broadcasting is basically the last
bastion of local broadcasting. For example, in my City of Los Angeles,
KCET is the only ``local'' television station. In my opinion, while
there are many reasons why public broadcasting is an essential for our
Nation and a healthy democracy, having local stations is one of the
most important reasons.
Ms. Sembler. My 15 years of service at WEDU, the Tampa Bay area's
public television station, has taught me the importance of localism. It
is only our station that offers a weekly public affairs program,
Florida This Week, in prime time on Friday evenings; only our station
that produces and broadcasts two interview shows, one spotlighting
local community leaders, the other, local business leaders; and our
station alone that, through the generous funding of a community
foundation, presents A Gulf Coast Journal with Jack Perkins, a show
that highlights the people and places of Sarasota and west central
Florida. Additionally, WEDU has provided our viewers with many special
broadcasts about aspects of our local community, including shows that
focused on the African-American community of St. Petersburg, FL, the
Ringling Museum in Sarasota, FL and the Mote Marine Laboratory, also in
Sarasota, to name but a few. WEDU also produces local offerings to
dovetail with PBS programming (such as our local follow-up to The War
series by Ken Burns, and our local ``town hall'' forum in response to
Judy Woodruff s production Generation Next).
WEDU is not alone. All across America, public television stations
follow a similar formula to provide a perfect mix of local and PBS
programming. It is what makes public television unique and, in my
opinion, superior to all other television available.
Additionally, and perhaps even more significantly, WEDU and public
TV stations across the country reach out into the local community with
our signature literacy program, Ready To Learn.
Public television is truly THE leader in local programming. It is
critically important for public broadcasters to continue in this role
in our local communities.
Question 2. The Board of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting
serves a very important role and while it is not supposed to interfere
with content, as we saw in 2005, the CPB Board has tried in the past.
You will recall that in 2005, then-Chairman Kenneth Tomlinson tried to
influence public broadcasting programming and hired a consultant to
track the political leanings of the guests on Bill Moyers' show
``Now.'' What is your opinion of Tomlinson's actions?
Ms. Halpern. In 2005; as part of the arrangement which terminated
Mr. Tomlinson's association with CPB, the Board of Directors signed an
agreement which prevent us even today from publicly commenting on his
tenure as CPB Board Chairman. Regardless of the former Chairman's
actions, CPB has not since hired a consultant for any such purpose and,
in fact, I would oppose any such a hire as a member of the CPB Board of
Directors.
Ms. Gilbert. As a nominee to the CPB, I have no firsthand
information of the controversy surrounding the previous Chairman. I
would not care to comment on specifics except to say, I intend that the
past issues and controversy will inform better decisions and actions by
the Board in the future.
Mr. Ramer. Attempts on the part of CPB, its management or its
Board, to interfere with or influence the content of public
broadcasting is inappropriate and flies in the face of the statutory
imperatives.
Ms. Sembler. It is important to me, whenever I serve on a Board, to
follow the guidelines and by-laws of the organization. I have learned
over the course of this nomination process that CPB's statute prohibits
CPB from interfering with local station operation or controlling
editorial content or programming. I am in agreement with this
prohibition, and if confirmed, I will work to ensure that CPB complies
fully with the directives of the Public Broadcasting Act.
Question 3. Does public broadcasting accurately reflect the
diversity and variety of ideological views of Americans? Do you believe
public broadcasting stations present balanced news coverage on local,
national and international affairs?
Ms. Halpern. Across the entire programming schedule, and especially
in news and current affairs programming, I believe public broadcasting
offers the most balanced news coverage of any news outlet in America.
Programs like The Newshour with Jim Lehrer offer a variety of opinions
on almost every issue discussed every night, representing a diversity
and variety of views reflective of Americans across our country.
Ms. Gilbert. As a nominee to the CPB, my comments are those of a
consumer. I sincerely appreciate the educational, cultural and
historical aspects of public television. I watch The NewsHour on PBS to
get more accurate, less sensational views of national and international
issues, especially after feeling there is too much opinion injected in
commercial broadcasts. It's possible that NPR could do more to reflect
regional and local issues in radio markets although I believe that
opinion should be supported by community and management perspective.
Mr. Ramer. I also believe that public broadcasting news programs--
both television and radio--seek to present balanced and objective news
locally, nationally and internationally and certainly succeed far
beyond that of commercial sources.
Ms. Sembler. Yes, I believe that public broadcasting offers a
variety of balanced news and current affairs programming, both
nationally and at the local level. At WEDU in Tampa, we offer the
public affairs program that I mentioned above, Florida This Week. On
this program, along with a moderator, the producers always include four
individual commentators who represent the varied parts of the political
and community spectrum. Each week, white, African-American, and Latino
leaders and thinkers articulate viewpoints that are conservative,
liberal, and points in between. I am proud that WEDU works hard to
create programming such as this that is balanced, fair and
representational of the community it serves.
I believe that national programming reflects this as well and
strives to present balanced news coverage on national and international
affairs. Programs such as The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer and Washington
Week, for example, are well-respected for their balance.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Byron L. Dorgan to
Cheryl Feldman Halpern
Question 1. In 2003, when you testified before the Senate Commerce
Committee, Senator Lott said journalist Bill Moyers's post-election
commentary was: ``the most blatantly partisan, irresponsible thing I've
ever heard in my life,'' and said, yet the CPB ``has not seemed to be
willing to deal with Bill Moyers and that type of programming.'' You
responded: ``The fact of the matter is, I agree with you.'' And you
said, referring to your time with the Broadcasting Board of Governors,
``when there were allegations of impropriety and violation of the
journalistic code of ethics, we were able to aggressively step in,
review the transcript . . . and initiate penalties and change
accordingly.'' This was prior to Tomlinson's attempt to address the
programming of Bill Moyers. You acknowledged that the CPB cannot do
this, yet you said to Senator Lott: ``so I'm as frustrated as you.''
Can you tell me how you differ from Kenneth Tomlinson in your views?
Answer. Unlike the former Chairman, if confirmed for a second term,
I will keep, and have kept, my personal opinions about the programs on
public broadcasting separate from the discharge of my duties as a CPB
Board member. Foremost amongst these duties is to, in the words of the
Public Broadcasting Act of 1967, ``assure the maximum freedom of the
public telecommunications entities and systems from interference with,
or control of, program content or other activities.''
Question 2. If you disagreed with Tomlinson's actions, why did I
not hear you speak out in 2005, or preferably earlier to prevent them
from occurring?
Answer. In 2004 and 2005, Chairman Tomlinson acted as an executive
Chairman of the Board and, as many media reports acknowledged at the
time, many of his actions took place without the knowledge of the
Board. Again, in 2005, as part of the arrangement which terminated Mr.
Tomlinson's association with CPB, the Board of Directors signed an
agreement which prevent us from publicly commenting on his tenure as
CPB Board Chairman.
Question 3. Do you believe that the Corporation for Public
Broadcasting should assess purported political bias in public
broadcasting content through the use of internal or external content
analysis?
Answer. No. CPB should not assess purported political bias in
public broadcasting content. However, we are charged with complying
with the mandate of the Public Broadcasting Act, which requires the
CPB's Board of Directors to establish a ``comprehensive policy and set
of procedures,'' that, among other things, provide for regular review
of national public broadcasting programming for objectivity and
balance.
In the 2005 report from CPB's Inspector General, he recommended
that the CPB Board establish formal policies and procedures for
conducting regular reviews of national programming for objectivity and
balance.
In beginning to address the IG's recommendation, CPB and the Board
consulted with the deans of the Nation's top schools of journalism, the
Project for Excellence in Journalism, public broadcasters including
National Public Radio (NPR) and the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS),
relevant interest groups and others.
Frankly, these discussions produced no clear consensus, with some
stating the language of the Congressional mandate is either unclear or
archaic according to the standards of modern journalism, and others
urging CPB to focus instead on its ``most important'' role of
insulating public broadcasters from outside pressures and protecting
their independence.
The Board subsequently requested that CPB management obtain
research based on insights from the journalism community that could
better inform our efforts to address the Public Broadcasting Act's
requirements.
Accordingly, in the winter of 2007, CPB issued seven requests for
proposal (RFPs) for white papers, the topics for which are: (1)
Objectivity and Balance: Conceptual and Practical History in American
Journalism; (2) Objectivity and Balance: Today's Best practices in
American Journalism; (3) Objectivity and Balance: How do Readers and
Viewers of News and Information Reach conclusions regarding Objectivity
and Balance?; (4) Journalism When Government Supports the Enterprise;
(5) Concepts in Tension: the Challenge of ensuring Both Objectivity and
Balance and Editorial Independence; (6) Best Practices in Assessing
Objectivity and Balance; and (7) Expectations for Objectivity and
Balance in Multi-Platform Distribution--Traditional and New Media.
At the end of July, four white papers were submitted to CPB:
``Objectivity and Balance: Conceptual and Practical History in American
Journalism''; ``Objectivity and Balance: Today's Best practices in
American Journalism''; ``Objectivity and Balance: How do Readers and
Viewers of News and Information Reach conclusions regarding Objectivity
and Balance''; and ``Concepts in Tension: the Challenge of ensuring
Both Objectivity and Balance and Editorial Independence.''
In early August, the authors of three of the papers participated in
a workshop at the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass
Communication conference in Chicago.
This resulted in offers of assistance from several independent
journalism entities to help us as well as a proposal for the White
Paper on ``Expectations for Objectivity and Balance in Multi-Platform
Distribution--Traditional and New Media.''
Going forward, CPB will be integrating the findings of the white
papers; Arranging for the white papers to be formally presented at
national journalism conferences in 2009; working with at least two
independent journalism entities on our further research needs as well
as the development of a web-based training initiative on journalism and
ethics which will include a module on balance, objectivity, fairness,
accuracy and transparency directed toward professionals, academics and
lay persons alike; and sponsoring a national symposium on the impact of
digital media on journalism. At the same time, CPB will also continue
to work with stakeholders in the public broadcasting system on the
issue of editorial independence as well as on objectivity and balance.
We will make sure to keep you and your staff abreast of our efforts
to meet our statutory ``objectivity and balance'' mandate.
Question 4. What level of autonomy do you believe should be given
to news programming decisions made by public broadcasters?
Answer. I believe they should be given complete autonomy.
Question 5. Have you taken any action during your tenure on the
Corporation for Public Broadcasting to influence the direction or
outcome of programming?
Answer. No, I have not.
Question 6. Were you calling for more Board transparency and checks
and balances on the Board before the Tomlinson actions and before the
Inspector General's report was issued?
Answer. It was not until after I assumed the Chairmanship of the
CPB Board of Directors that we initiated a top-to-bottom review of
CPB's operations and procedures. Never before had our organization
undertaken such a major examination of every task, operation and
practice. During this time, we made significant revisions to our
governance procedures, established more clearly defined roles and
responsibilities for the Board Chari and for the CPB President and CEO,
improving accountability and transparency in the operations of the our
organization.
I am very proud of our work, and I believe we addressed and
continue to address many of the issues identified in the 2005 report of
the Inspector General, and in so doing, we have created an atmosphere
of transparency, integrity, ethical values and clear assignments of
authority and responsibility for the CPB board and staff.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Byron L. Dorgan to
Bruce M. Ramer
Question 1. Former Chairman Kenneth Tomlinson believed that
programming created by public broadcasting was partisan and biased. Do
you share these views? If yes, do you believe, as the former Chairman
did, that the Board should be able to take corrective action?
Answer. I do not believe that public broadcasting is partisan or
biased.
Question 2. Do you plan to attempt to influence the direction or
outcome of public broadcasting programming?
Answer. No.
Question 3. What do you think of the value or depth of news and
information on public broadcasting as compared to other news sources?
Answer. Based upon my knowledge of what is broadcast by public
broadcasting and by commercial broadcasters, I believe that there is
more depth of the news and information on the public system than on
commercial broadcasting.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Byron L. Dorgan to
Elizabeth Sembler
Question 1. Based on your experience with public broadcasting in
Tampa and with the Association for Public Television Stations (APTS),
what are the greatest challenges public broadcasting faces in the near
future?
Answer. In my opening statement, I identified three areas that I
believe present the greatest challenges for public broadcasting in the
near future:
A. The February 17, 2009 analog shut-off for television
broadcasts. Of the estimated 25 million Americans who receive
their television programming over the air (and who will need to
do the most to transition to digital reception), a significant
number are supporters and viewers of public television. Public
broadcasters must work hard with commercial broadcasters and
the Congress to ensure the success of the transition and ensure
that the audience for public television can find its
programming.
B. Competition in a multi-channel, multi-platform universe. It
is imperative that public broadcasting is on the cutting edge
of media technology to reach viewers and listeners on the media
outlets they choose to use.
C. Funding. This continues to be a great challenge for public
broadcasting, and the Federal Government's role is even more
important now as we head into the digital age. While Federal
funding of public broadcasting may only represent 15 percent of
total revenue, this 15 percent is essential in garnering
support from other sources. While CPB have lately received
modest increases for our advanced Federal funding, this has
hardly kept pace with inflation.
Question 2. Do you believe the Corporation for Public Broadcasting
should be granted more authority to address claims of bias?
Answer. No. While I do believe that the public certainly has the
right to respond to and comment on public broadcasting, I am not
convinced that the CPB itself should address claims of bias. Suffice it
to say, I am comfortable with the parameters that now define the CPB's
role in this area, and do not think it is wise to change them.
Question 3. Are you committed to transparency on the Corporation
for Public Broadcasting and how can the CPB's transparency be improved?
Answer. Yes, and if confirmed I will work to ensure transparency
remains at the forefront of all of CPB's operations. CPB is a
federally-funded and thus public institution; the public has the right
to know about its workings.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Byron L. Dorgan to
Loretta Sutliff
Question 1. What are your views, regarding the importance of
localism to the future of public broadcasting?
Answer. I feel very strongly that if public broadcasting does not
strengthen the current commitment to providing local news and
programming, future generations will be forced to subscribe to or
``purchase'' only franchised information. Local news coverage is also
very important to the balance of government and law enforcement in any
community. I understand that Senator Dorgan is concerned about the
incidence of violent crime on Native American reservations, as is our
community. Greater scrutiny by local media is a form of public
protection.
Question 2. What value has localism in public broadcasting brought
to your rural Nevada community?
Answer. I recognize the value that public broadcasting's local
focus brings to communities, large and small, across the country.
Furthermore, as a small town broadcaster with almost twenty-five years'
experience, localism is what my job is all about. In fact, in the time
I've been sitting at my desk to answer these questions I've received
phone calls ranging from a Nevada Forester hoping to promote a local
tree sale, to the Chairman of the Elko Area Chamber of Commerce as
we're coordinating a series of candidate debates, including a televised
forum featuring the U.S. Congressional Race for the 2nd District in
Northern Nevada. Our involvement is a direct reflection of a busy
community that relies on us. As a commercial broadcaster in radio and
television, we are unique in that we provide services usually only
found in public broadcasting.
Question 3. Do you plan to attempt to influence the direction or
outcome of public broadcasting programming?
Answer. As a nominee, it has been clearly explained to me that
members of the Board of Directors of the CPB are to have no influence
on programming or content.