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Cable Letters (JAB) [James A. Baker]
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Cable Letters (JAB) [James A. Baker]
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Records of the White House Office of the Chief of Staff to the President (George H. W. Bush Administration)
James A. Baker III Files
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Originally Processed With FOIA(s):
FOIA Number:
2000-0715-F
2000-0715-F
FOIA
MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
Library Staff.
Record Group/Collection:
George H.W. Bush Presidential Records
Collection/Office of Origin: Chief of Staff, White House Office of
Series:
Baker, James A., III, Files
Subseries:
Legislative Files
OA/ID Number:
93003
Folder ID Number:
93003-011
Folder Title:
Cable Letters (JAB) [James A. Baker]
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Section:
Shelf:
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0
0
0
0
Barbara,
The "mass mailing du jour"
appears to be these letters
to JAB & Director Darman re:
cable bill.
When you have a minute will
you call me re: these?
Thanks!
Caron J.
9/28 -- 4:45pm
SEP-25-1992 15:38 FROM PEOPLE'S CHOICE T.V.
TO
12023953746
P.01
People's
Choice-TV®
September 25, 1992
The Honorable James Baker
Chief of Staff to the President
and
The Honorable Richard G. Darman
Director of the office of Management and Budget
old Executive Office Building
17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20503
Gentlemen:
After twenty years as a successful cable executive, I am
writing to you as President and Chief Operating Officer of
People's Choice TV Partners, the largest holder of
wireless frequencies in the United States. The wireless
cable industry was created by the Federal Communications
Commission in 1983 to compete with the traditional cable
television industry. It has strong bi-partisan support in
both Houses of Congress. We use broadcast microwave
technology to deliver video services from satellite
programming and off-air broadcasting to home consumers.
The President states that he is for competition and
against govenment regulation of the marketplace. I praise
him for that position. In light of this I'm asking you
for your support of S. 12 and your influence on the
President not to veto this consumer favored legislation.
We have launched a highly successful wireless system in
Tucson, Arizona and soon plan to expand to the major
market areas of Houston, St. Louis, Kansas City, Baltimore
and Knoxville. The partners in our company have invested
over $40 million of their own funds thus far.
People's Choice TV's efforts to serve the Tucson TV viewer
with service quality has been very successful. In July,
1992, we commissioned a customer satisfaction study by one
of the most highly respected research firms in the
country, Malarkey-Taylor Associates. Fifty-nine (59)
percent of People's Choice TV customers rated our service
excellent overall V6 only twenty-seven (27) percent of
cable customers in the same market rating their cable
service.
People's Choice TV Partners, 201 S Wilmot Rd_ Tucson, AZ 85711 TEL (602) 750-7300 FAX (602) 747-0832
SEP-25-1992 15:39 FROM PEOPLE'S CHOICE T.V.
TO
12023953746
P.02
Page 2,
I'm proud of what the wireless industry is accomplishing,
not only in Tucson, but throughout the country.
Prior to 1989, satellite cable programmers threatened by
cable monopolies (which also own or control many satellite
programmers) refused to sell us programming. Congress
began to investigate and proposed legislative solutions,
culminating in overwhelming passage of these two bills,
S. 12 and H.R. 4850.
This has now opened the door to competitors by making
programming available. The industry has been able to
provide a choice for consumers in over 110 markets,
resulting in monthly rates on an average of 30% below
cable. In spite of the anti-competitive conduct of the
cable industry, close to half a million American homes are
benefiting from this competitive service.
Without the strong access to programming language in this
legislation, there can be no real competition. I ask that
you recognize the real consumer benefits which will be
lost if the President vetoes this legislation. The future
of the wireless industry depends on the President's
support of this legislation. Many entrepreneurial dollars
and jobs of people who took risks would be lost, including
mine.
I strongly. believe that the right thing for consumers is
for the President not to veto this pro-competitive
consumer legislation. Please suppport this.
Thank you.
Will Sincerely,
W. Hipple, III
Chief Operating Officer
TOTAL P.02
RANSWORLD
TELECOMMUNICATIONS
The Honorable James A Baker III
Chief of Staff to the President
and
The Honorable Richard G. Darman
Director of the Office of Management and Budget
Old Executive Office Building
17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20503
September 25, 1992
Dear Gentlemen:
In your counseling capacity to President Bush, I feel compelled to
write you in order that you understand the consequences to the
American public if President Bush vetoes Bill S.12. I trust that
you will convey this message to the President.
Knowing that the President is pro-competition and against
government regulation of the marketplace, it is imperative that he
realize the net effect of a Presidential veto in the most important
consumer legistation of the decade.
The net result to the consumer in the 110 cities across America in
which there is a Wireless television system competing with cable is
a 28-30% price benefit.
There are potentially hundreds of Wireless television systems in
the planning stages all across America.
The significant point of this legislation is the pro-competition
access to programming provision. Without the passage of S.12, we
will not have codified into law the necessary programming provision
access in order to provide our competitive service.
Without effective competition, the cable monopoly will continue
unchecked, and the American consumer can expect the same
unconscionable price increases and poor service as they have
experienced in the past.
Please have the President consider the American consumer and not
veto Bill S.12.
Thank you.
Lave Respectfully da submitted,
Lance D'Ambrosio
President
LD/pc
WORLDWIDE COMMUNICATIONS FOR THE FUTURE
175 S. Main Street, Suite 450
Salt Lake City, Utah 84111
801-328-5621
Fax 801-532-6060
Sep. 25 '92 16:01
0000 SANFAX515Hseries
P. 1
RANSWORLD
TELECOMMUNICATIONS
The Honorable James A Baker III
Chief of Staff to the President
and
The Monorable Richard G. Darman
Director of the office of Management and Budget
old Executive office Building
17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20503
September 25, 1992
Dear Gentlemen:
In your counseling capacity to President Bush, I feel compelled to
write you in order that you understand the consequences to the
American public if President Bush vetoes Bill S.12. I trust that
you will convey this message to the president.
knowing that the President is pro-competition and against
government regulation of the marketplace, it is imperative that he
realize the net effect of a Presidential veto in the most important
consumer legistation of the decade.
The net result to the consumer in the 110 cities across America in
which there is a Wireless television system competing with cable is
a 20-30% price benefit.
There are potentially hundreds of Wireless television systems in
the planning stages all across America.
The significant point of this legislation is the pro-competition
access to programming provision. Without the passage of 6.12, we
will not have codified into law the necessary programming provision
access in order to provide our competitive service.
Without effective competition, the cable monopoly will continue
unchecked, and the American consumer can expect the same
unconscionable price increases and poor service as they have
experienced in the past.
Please have the President consider the American consumer and not
veto Bill 8.12.
Thank you.
Respectfully submitted,
faver Lance D'Ambrosio
President
LD/pc.
WORLDWIDE COMMUNICATIONS FOR THE FUTURE
175 S. Main Street, Suite 450 # Salt Lake City, Utah 84111 801-328-5621 Fax 801-532-6060
TRANSWORLD WIRELESS TELEVISION
Television for a New Generation
The Honorable James A Baker III
Chief of Staff to the President
and
The Honorable Richard G. Darman
Director of the Office of Management and Budget
Old Executive Office Building
17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20503
September 25, 1992
Dear Gentlemen:
In your counseling capacity to President Bush, I feel compelled to
write you in order that you understand the consequences to the
American public if President Bush vetoes Bill S.12. I trust that
you will convey this message to the President.
Knowing that the President is pro-competition and against
government regulation of the marketplace, it is imperative that he
realize the net effect of a Presidential veto in the most important
consumer legistation of the decade.
The net result to the consumer in the 110 cities across America in
which there is a Wireless television system competing with cable is
a 28-30% price benefit.
There are potentially hundreds of Wireless television systems in
the planning stages all across America.
The significant point of this legislation is the pro-competition
access to programming provision. Without the passage of S.12, we
will not have codified into law the necessary programming provision
access in order to provide our competitive service.
Without effective competition, the cable monopoly will continue
unchecked, and the American consumer can expect the same
unconscionable price increases and poor service as they have
experienced in the past.
Please have the President consider the American consumer and not
veto Bill S.12.
Thank you.
Respectfully submitted,
Pat Blanchard
Pat Blanchard
President
Pb/sc
BUSINESS COMMONS
1790 BONANZA DRIVE
SUITE 212 C
P.O. BOX 680488
PARK CITY, UTAH 84068-0488
801-649-1986
FAX 801-645-9498
Sep. 25 '92 16:00
0000 SANFAX515Hseries
P. 1
TRANSWORLD WIRELCSS TELEVISION
Television for a New Generation
The Honorable James A Baker III
and Chief of Staff to the President
The Honorable Richard G. Darman
Old Director of the Office of Management and Budget
Executive Office Building
17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20503
September 25, 1992
Dear Gentlemen:
write In your counseling in capacity to President Bush, I feel
American you order that you understand the compelled to
you will public if President Bush vetoes Bill consequences S.12. I trust to that the
convey this message to the President.
government Knowing that the President is pro-competition and
realize the regulation of the marketplace, it is imperative against
consumer legistation net effect of of the a Presidential decade. veto in the most important that he
which The net there result to the consumer in the 110 cities
a 28-30% price is a benefit. Wireless television system competing across with America cable is in
the There planning are potentially stages all hundreds across America. of Wireless television systems in
access The significant to point of this legislation is the
will not have programming provision. Without the pro-competition of
access in codified into law the necessary programming passage provision S.12, we
order to provide our competitive service.
unchecked, Without effective competition, the cable monopoly will
unconscionable and the American consumer can continue
experienced price increases and poor service expect as they the have same
in the past.
veto Please Bill have S.12. the President consider the American consumer and not
Thank you.
Respectfully submitted,
Put
Pat Blanchard Blandhard
President
Pb/sc
BUSINESS COMMONS
1790 BONANZA DRIVE
SUITE 212 C
P.O. BOX 680488
PARK CITY, UTAH 84068-0488
801-649-1986
FAX 801-645-9498
09. 25. 92 04:08 PM *MICROBAND COMPANIES P01
MA
The Microband Companies Incorporated
MICROBAND
286 Eldridge Road
Fairfield, New Jersey 07004
(201) 227-6700
Fax: (201) 227-2612
Facsimile Cover Sheet
# Pages:
Date: 9/25/92
3
(Inclusing this page)
Mr. James Baker
To: Mr. Richard Darman
Fax #:
202-395-3746
Location: The White House
From: J. Patrick Dugan
Phone: 201-808-3702
We are transmitting from a Fujitsu Dex Express 6300.
Special Instructions/Comments:
09. 25. 92 04:08 PM *MICROBAND COMPANTES P02
MICROBAND
September 25, 1992
J. Patrick Dugen
President & CEO
Mr. James Baker
Chief of Staff
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, D.C. 20050
Dear Mr. Baker:
Re: S.12 - The Cable Consumer Protection Bill
I urge you to recommend that President Bush sign S.12. The cable TV industry is an unregulated
monopoly. Period. End of story.
Therefore, a little regulation and a large boost for competitive forces. as in S.12, are exactly what is
needed; even staunch conservatives can't -- or shouldn't - object to this minimal regulation of a monopoly:
(1) The so-called price regulation in S.12 is de minimus; only "basic" channels are covered, thus
leaving the more popular channels such as ESPN, TNT, USA, etc. open to virtually unregulated price increases
by the cable companies, and
(2) The supposed cost to cable TV for retransmission of local off-air channels is a Trojan horse at
best; the cable companies will refuse and the local TV stations will have no choice but to back down. Do you
really believe giant companies like TCI and Time Warner and the others are going TO allow any such cost
escalation to happen? I believe they'll just drop the signals from their line-up and let the consumer get them
from "off-the-air" (very easily done in most places, by the way).
On the other hand, the equal access to programming provision, the heart of this legislation, will be a big
boost to satellite cable, private cable, and wireless cable in their efforts to compete with the entrenched CATV
monopoly -- and competition is by far the best way to "regulate."
Accordingly, I urge you to resist the power and influence of the cable TV lobbyists and PACs and support
the consumer's side of this issue by supporting S.12.
Lastly, speaking not as an executive of the wireless cable industry but, rather, as a voter who wants very
much for President Bush to be re-elected, I urge you to not risk, so late in the campaign, the President's first-ever
veto override on this legislation, which will successfully be portrayed by the Democrats (particularly Senator
Gore who spearheaded this legislation in the Senate) as pro-consumer, pro-competition, pro-education, and anti-
CATV monopoly (all of which are true).
J: Patrick Dugan
THE MICROBANO COMPANIES INCORPORATED
258 ELDRIDGE ROAD
FAIRRELD. NEW JERSEY 07004
501
297
9700
09. 25. 92 04:08 PM *MICROBAND COMPANIES P03
MICROBAND
September 25, 1992
J. Patrick Dugan
President & CEO
Mr. Richard Darman, Director
Office of Management and Budget
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, D.C. 20050
Dear Mr. Darman:
Re: S.12 The Cable Consumer Protection Bill
I urge you to recommend that President Bush sign S.12. The cable TV industry is an unregulated
monopoly. Period. End of story.
Therefore, a little regulation and a large boost for competitive forces, as in S.12, are exactly what is
needed; even staunch conservatives can't -- or shouldn't -- object to this minimal regulation of a monopoly:
(1) The so-called price regulation in S.12 is de minimus; only "basic" channels are covered, thus
leaving the more popular channels such as ESPN, TNT, USA, etc. open to virtually unregulated price increases
by the cable companies, and
(2) The supposed cost to cable TV for retransmission of local off-air channels is a Trojan horse at
best; the cable companies will refuse and the local TV stations will have no choice but to back down. Do you
really believe giant companies like TCI and Time Warner and the others are going to allow any such cost
escalation to happen? I believe they'll just drop the signals from their line-up and let the consumer get them
from "off-the-air" (very easily done in'most places, by the way).
On the other hand, the equal access to programming provision. the heart of this legislation. will be a big
boost to satellite cable, private cable, and wireless cable in their efforts to compete with the entrenched CATV
monopoly -- and competition is by far the best way to "regulate."
Accordingly, I urge you to resist the power and influence of the cable TV lobbyists and PACs and support
the consumer's side of this issue by supporting S.12.
Lastly, speaking not as an executive of the wireless cable industry but, rather, as a voter who wants very
much for President Bush to be re-elected, I urge you to not risk, so late in the campaign, the President's first-ever
veto override on this legislation, which will successfully be portrayed by the Democrats (particularly Senator
Gore who spearheaded this legislation in the Senate) as pro-consumer, pro-competition, pro-education, and anti-
CATV monopoly (all of which are true).
J. Patrick Dugan
THE MICROBANO COMPANIES INCORPORATED
288 ELDROGE FOAD
FAIRFIELD. NEW JERSEY 07004
201
227
6700
CCA
WIRELESS CABLE ASSOCIATION, INC.
Wireless Cable
2000 L Street, NW * Suite 702 * Washington, DC 20036 *
Association
(202) 452-7823 * Fax (202) 452-0041
*
September 24, 1992
The Honorable James A. Baker III
Chief of Staff to the President
and
The Honorable Richard G. Darman
Director of the Office of Management and Budget
Old Executive Office Building
17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20503
Gentlemen:
It is with great concern and anxiety that prompts the writing of this important message to you who
are counseling President Bush in these difficult election times. I am a businessman who believes the
President when he says he is for competition and against government regulation of the marketplace. I
salute him for that philosophical position.
At considerable financial risk, I personally have built a competitive wireless cable system in the
Bakersfield, California market, which has brought an important alternative choice to consumers. The net
benefit of our business proves the President's point on competition, for in those 110 cities where wireless
cable is competing, consumers receive 28-30% price benefit now.
Unfortunately, gentlemen, now is where my concern and anxiety take over in this message.
Without the passage of S. 12, we will not have codified into law the necessary programming access in
order to provide our competitive service. It is true that we have most of the programming today, thanks to
the jaw-boning by the Congress, FCC, and States Attorneys General-even if prices, terms, and
conditions for that programming is sometimes 200-300% greater than cable distributors' prices. The point
is that the significant part of this legislation is the pro-competition access to programming provision and
that will be lost if the President successfully vetoes this legislation.
Do the right thing for American consumers and competition. Don't veto this legislation.
Sincerely,
Robert L. Schmidt
President
RLS/lkm
WIRELESS CABLE ASSOCIATION, INC.
WINSTON
CHING
PM
Wireless Cable
2000 L Street, NW * Suite 702 * Washington, DC 20036 *
Association
SEP25'92
26058
1997
D.C
5311062
U.S. POSTAGE
The Honorable James A. Baker III
Chief of Staff to the President
and
The Honorable Richard G. Darman
Director of the Office of Management and Budget
Old Executive Office Building
17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20503
266 P02
SEP 25 '92 15:35
WCA
WIRELESS CABLE of ATLANTA
September 25, 1992
The Honorable James A. Baker III
Chief of Staff to the President
and
The Honorable Richard G. Darman
Director of the Office of Management and Budget
Old Executive Office Building
17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20503
Gentlemen:
It is with great concern and anxiety that prompts the writing of this important
message to you who are counseling Bush in these difficult election times. I am a
businessman who believes the President when he says he is for competition against
government regulation of the marketplace. I salute him for that philosophical position.
At considerable financial risk, I personally have built a competitive wireless cable
system in the Atlanta, Georgia market, which has brought an important alternative choice
to consumers. The net benefit of our business proves the President's point on
competition, for those 110 citles where wireless cable Is competing, consumers receive
28-30% price benefit now.
Unfortunately, gentlemen, now is where my concern and anxiety take over in this
message, Without the passage of S. 12, we will not have codified into law the necessary
programming access in order to provide our competitive service. It Is true that we have
most of the programming today, thanks to the jaw-boning by the Congress, FCC, and
States Attorneys General-even if prices, terms, and conditions for that programming is
sometimes 200-300% greater than cable distributors' prices. The point is that the
significant part of this legislation is the pro-competition access to programming provision
and that will be lost if the President successfully vetoes this legislation.
Do the right thing for American consumers and competition. Don't veto this
legislation.
Sincerely
Richard L. Kendrick
Chief Executive Officer
3100 Medlock Bridge Road. Suite 360
Norcross, Georgia 30071-1437
(404) 449-0955 / Fax: (404) 449-0955 Ext. 122
266 P01
SEP 25 '92 15:35
WIRELESS CABLE OF ATLANTA
FACSIMILE TRANSMITTAL SHEET
Date Sent:
9-25-92
Time Sent:
Pm
Deliver To:
James A. Baker III 11)
Company/Firm:
Chief of Staff to the President
Fax Number:
(202) 395- 3746
Number of Pages:
d
Sent From:
Richard L. Kendrick
Sender's Telephone Number: (404) 449-0955 Extension: 107
Sender's Fax Number:
(404) 449-0955 Extension:
122
Message/Comments:
The original or this transmitted document will be sent by:
1
First Class Mail
Messenger
Overnight Mail
This will be the only form of delivery.
If contact you do not receive the entire transmission indicated please
the operator at (404) 449-0955.
3100 Medlock Bridge Road - Suite 360 o Norcross. Georgia 30071-1439 . (404) 449-0955
SEP 25 '92 17:17 THREE-SIXTY CORP.
P.2/6
THREE SIXTY CORP.
120 FLORALAVENUE
NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ 07074
(908) 085-0094
FAX# (000) 665-0343
September 25, 1992
The Honorable James A. Baker III
Chief of Staff to the President
and
The Honorable Richard G. Darman
Director of the office of Management and Budget
old Executive Building
17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20503
Centlemen:
I understand there has been indication by President Bush that
he might to veto the recent cable bill that passed the Senate this
week with a margin sufficient to override his veto. Votes in both
the House and Senate were by such overwhelming non-partisan
majorities that a clear mandate 1s present. The public, and those
representing the public, can measure the same consumer benefits
from this legislation that I see in it, i.e., stabilization of
cable TV rates, and the provision of competition in the marketplace
to weaken the strength of the cable monopoly.
The Presidential veto would certainly fly in the face of such
obvious logic. It would cause some to wonder why the President
would take such a step. I wrote to the President earlier asking
him to permit this legislation to become law when it arrived on his
deck, however, my. influence on the process is about zero. yours
may be considerable. I have also written to a number of Senators
debunking the campaign put on by the cable industry to attempt to
prove that this legislation would cost consumers more money. A
copy of this is enclosed for your information.
This legislation will benefit consumers all over this nation.
The major players opposed to this legislation are the Cable
Industry itself, and other vested interest parties whose arguments
are extremely self-serving. My own interest could be construed to
be self-serving, however, I am simply a little frog in a big pond.
I am, however, in a position, by way of Wireless Cable competition,
to benefit some of the 60 million cable consumers of this country.
SEP 25 '92 17:18 THREE-SIXTY CORP.
P.3/6
The Honorable James A. Baker III
The Honorable Richard G. Darman
September 25, 1992
Page Two
Please do something for consumers, and not for big business
interests. Advise the President to permit this legislation to
become law.
Thank you for your attention.
very truly yours,
Robert Bild
Robert D. Bilodeau
RDB/mme
SEP 25 '92 17:18 THREE-SIXTY CORP.
P.4/6
THREE SIXTY CORP.
120 FLORAL AVENUE
NEW PROVIDENCE, MJ07874
(903) 065-0094
FAX # (000) 665-0843
September 21, 1992
Dear Senator:
I am aware that the Cable Industry is putting on a "nard
passed by the House last week by a margin of 280 to 128, I am also
press" to convince you to vote against the Cable Re-rogulation court Bill
a aware "veto that the Benate passed an almost identical bill previously
acting again in like fashion.
proof" margin. I therefore look forward to the Senate by
misinformation to the public about certain aspects of the bill. sends
defeat the legislation. It is utilizing a campaign that help
The cable industry is also using its subscriber base to
of an example of this misinformation, I have enclosed a reduced As
by TeleCommunications, Inc., the local Corpus Christi, Texas paid
a full page Corpus Christi Caller Times advertisement copy for
company. The ad implies that major newspapers in the US cable are
likewise against this legislation.
this the New York Times, you might believe that The Times is to
with respect to the view attributable by Telecommunications
legislation! However, the New York Times editorial opposed to
September that 14, the day before this TCI ad appeared, clearly of
President Bush's likely veto,"
"the bill deserves enthusiastic support, enough to overcome states
marketplace. attempted to railroad Congress's effort towards competition in the
This is yet another example of how the cable industry has
Very truly yours,
RBLL
Robert D. Bilodeau
A Wireless cable Operator, waiting for the truth to surface.
RDB/mme
Enclosure
Corpue the Caller Wines
HELP
/
Below are what
some
Congress is wielding such a heavy
of the top papers in the
country
hand that instead of reducing rates,
have to-say about
the Cable
it could end up costing cable
Bill It's not nery
subscribers.
flattering
Ajier all if it passes,
cable 16567S
-Chicago Tribune
williend. paying
$2 to $4
"It's a poorly written and
a.month more for
exactly
contradictory piece of legislation:
whit theyre getting
now. We
adorned with 80 many gimmicks
feel this bill is wrong
If you agree,
that it resembles a Christmas tree
please call or write
your Senator
decorated with items from the
or Omgressmon
They'll be unlino
local junkyard."
very som.
-The Denver Post
It is hard to imagine that the
federal government can adjudicate
this process in any manner but
"The Cable Reregulation Bill has
to drag out the pain and delay the
become a consumer's nightmare
unfolding of a wondrous
and a lobbyist's dream
technological epach"
The Wall Street Tournal
-The Atlanta Journal
a
Public discontent with cable
this bill etill includes provisions
that are anything but consumer
prices hardly justifies the quasi
protection. They are, in fact. require-
nationalization of a whole industry.
ments that consumers subsidize
Were that the criteria, Washington
cable television's competitors."
would be running everything from
autos to hospitals."
-Saint Paul Pioneer Press
-The Cincinnati Past
"Viewers will need to beware, The
threat is that costly regulations will
U.S. Senate
force local authorities to grant large
Washington, DC 20620
rate hikes, or force cable companies
(202)224-3121
to cut ser vice and put off Investment
U.S. House of Representatives
in new ser vice."
mushington, D.C. 20515
(202)825-3121
-The Now York Times
SEP 25 '92 17:19 THREE-SIXTY CORP.
P.6/6
A18 L
THE NAW YORK TIMES EDITORIALS
ARTHUR DONE DULZEEPOUR JR., Publisher
MAX FRANKEL, Executive Editor
JOBBRN LELTYDER, Managing instrur
WARREN HOCE, Assistant Managing Eddor
DAVID k JONES. Assistant Managing Kditor
CAROLYN LEE. Accistant Muraging Estion
JOHN LEE, Assistant Menaging Editor
The New York Times
ALLAN SIEGAL Assistant Managing Editor
ECTIONAL Editorial Page Bditos
PEILIP M.HOFFEY. Deputy Editorial Page Editor
Nounded in 1851
LANGE R. FRIMIS. President and Conanal Manager
100LPH 8.OCHS Publisher 1890-1935
RUSSELL T. LEWIS. Executive V.P. Deputy Gen. Mgr.
ANTHUR HAYS SINZRERGER, Publisher 1035 1081
JOHN M. Y.P. Deputy Gen. segn.
GRVIL E.ERYFOODS. Publisher 1061.1063
WILLIAM L POLLAR, Executive V.P. Sales
AMHUR OCHS SULZBERGER, Publisher 1983-1992
JAMES 4, CUTTE, Sr. V.P, Marketing
ERICH & LINKER JR. Sr. V.P. Aducatising
RICHARD H. GILMAN. V.P.. Systems and Technology
MEDICAL AMOUNT V.F, Human Reseurces
KAREN A MEDEINED, VP, Controller
JOSEPH M.MULLEN, V.P. Production
CHARLES M.SHELTON V.H. Charalation
A Fine-Tuned Cable Bill
The lolks who bring you cable television have
would also allow the F.C.C. to veto rate bikes for
a furious campaign to scuttle legislation
more expensive services. but only if the proposed
that would re-regulate their industry. The House
rates would be excrbitant. The nill would also
Kind Senate have proposed giving authorities the
enable cable's potential competitors, like satellite
right to reduce monthly cable charges. But the
broadcasters and "wireless" systems, to acquire
table operators say the legislatton-would have the
cable programs at fair-market rates.
opposite effect, driving prices up by parhaps $50 a
The original versions would have subjected
year, by imposing onerous regulations.
cable operators to costly reviews of even minor rate
The cable operators have exaggerated the
hikes by Lens of thousands of local authorities. But
costs and conducted a misicading advertising cam-
the conference bill empowers the F.C.C. to waive
paign to scare customers. They once had a point:
routine reviews.
The House and Senate versions were heavy-handed
The conference bill would require cable compa-
and needlessly eastly. But then conferees pruned
nics to install devices that would give customers
much of the excess. Whar's emerged is 0 responsi-
flexibility to decide which services to buy. But the
ble bill, up for vote this work, that would rein in
bill provides an ample deagine - 10 years - and
agregious price hikes for basic service and open up
allows the F.C.C. to waive the requirement for small
the industry to potential competitors.
companies serving low-Income viewers.
The bill does contain one potentially destruc-
tive giveaway. To gain political support, sponsors
When Congress lifted price controls in 1984,
weable companies socked customers with whopping
gave broadcasters the right to charge cable campa-
nies for retransmitting local programs. The danger
price hikes. some were justified, reflecting the cost
of new service or catch-up after years of punitive
18 that retransmission fees could loom large, threat-
ening subscribers with large rate likes or dimin-
rate setting by local authorities. But many in-
ished offerings.
creases constituted monopoly exploitation.
Over all, the hill deserves enthusiastic support,
The conference bill would require the Federal
enough to overcome President Bush's likely voto.
Communications Commission to set guidelines for
Under the conference bill, the only people who need
the price of basic service. like retransmission of
fear the legislation are those who've grown smug
network programs and public access channels. It
overcharging captive audiences.
SEP 25 '92 17:16 THREE-SIXTY CORP.
P.1/6
THREE SIXTY CORP
DATE: 9/25 ) 1992
TO: James 9. Baher
LOCATION: Chul of wood LIBERTY Staff to the President
CARLE TV-ATLANTIC
DOM'S
WCTV.
OMNIVISION
CLEARVIEW
FROM: Robert I Belodeau
LOCATION: Three Sixty Corp.
PAGES:
6
including Cover Sheet
OUR FAX #: 908 - 665 - 0343
SPEC INSTRUCTIONS NOTES V MMMM
IF YOU HAVE NOT RECEIVED THE COMPLETE FAX, PLEASE CALL:
909 - 665 0004
THREE SIXTY CORP 120 FLORAL AVE, NEW PROVIDENCE, N.J. 07974
CONIFER
®
TELECOMMUNICATION PRODUCTS
September 25, 1992
The Honorable James A. Baker III
Chief of Staff to the President
and
The Honorable Richard G. Darman
Director of the Office of Management and Budget
Old Executive Office Building
17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, D. C. 20500
Dear Gentlemen:
The President's recent campaign platform has promised
further fostering of small business. At Conifer Corporation
we design and manufacture high-tech electronic products for
the Wireless Cable and Instructional Television (educational
TV) industries. Institutions of higher education along with
all public and private schools can benefit from our products
and services. In addition we export a significant
percentage of our products. But our main business is to
supply reception equipment to wireless cable operators
around the country who are trying to offer a choice to the
American consumer.
If the President's veto of S. 12 is successful, not
only will it seriously stunt the growth of our customers,
and consequently the growth of our company, but it will also
jeopardize our very livelihood.
Do the right thing for American consumers and
competition. Don't veto this legislation.
The 125 Proud Employees of
Conifer
By It's President Corporation Toming
John T. von Harz
CONIFER CORP
P.O. BOX 1025
1400 N. ROOSEVELT
BURLINGTON, IOWA 52601
(319) 752-3607
FAX 319-753-5508
ACS
ENTERPRISES, INC.
September 25, 1992
ALAN SONNENBERG
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD / CEO
The Honorable James A. Baker III
Chief of Staff to the President
and
The Honorable Richard G. Darman
Director of the Office of Management and Budget
Old Executive Office Building
17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, D.C. 20503
Gentlemen:
I am a Wireless Cable operator, serving the Philadelphia metropolitan area with
an alternative method to receive cable programming. Without the passage of the
current cable bill, 2, 200, 000 households will be denied our service. President
Bush has repeatedly stated that he is pro-competition. However, without access
to programming, at fair and reasonable terms, we cannot offer our service, which
on the average saves the consumer 35% per year. Where I can understand that
additional government regulation creates some burden, the country is better off
with the passage of S. 12, as it is right now, then without it.
In retrospect, it may have been better for the Administration to work closer with
Congress to develop the real points needed to encourage competition. It did not
happen. I, myself, on many occasions, tried to meet with various Presidential
Advisors, to try to explain not just the reality of wireless, but what we offer
the consumer.
If this legislation is vetoed, I strongly believe not only will it demolish the
efforts of competition to the cable monopoly, but as an active Republican, I am
afraid that it will put the President in a much lesser light to the voters.
Unfortunately, the President is fighting a difficult battle with Governor
Clinton. I have been a supporter and believer in the President in this difficult
election. Because Senator Gore has specifically had such an active position,
over the years, regarding this issue with the cable companies, without any
hesitation, I am convinced that this will be the icing on the cake that President
Bush will not be able to overcome if he vetoes this legislation.
For my business, for the country, and for President Bush's reelection, I can only
recommend that this legislation is not vetoed because the negative aspects
perceived by the Administration with the bill are not as bad as with out.
Very truly yours,
ACS ENTERPRISES, INC.
Alan Sonnenberg
Chairman of the Board/CEO
AS/laj
2064 STATE ROAD, BENSALEM, PA 19020
215/245-4900
800/972-1200
FAX 215/245-5254
SM
METRATEN
5400 Transportation Boulevard
Garfield Heights, Ohio 44125
CABLEVISION
216/662-7125 Fax: 216/662-7165
September 28, 1992
The Honorable James A. Baker III
Chief of Staff to the President
and
The Honorable Richard G. Darman
Director of the Office of Management and Budget
Old Executive Office Building
17th Street and Pennsylvania Ave.
Washington, DC 20503
Gentlemen:
I continue to become seriously concerned regarding President Bush's threatened
veto of the cable bill. I understand and agree with his desire to reduce regulation, but in this
instance he is on the wrong track.
The cable television industry today is an unregulated monopoly with virtually no
competition. Recently we all saw a result of that monopoly power which is far more disturb-
ing than their ability to raise rates at whim. Look at the flood of protest they generated with
disinformation campaign the waged against the cable bill. Just think of the consequences if
that power is left unchecked and is used to influence other public policy for the benefit of
the few individuals who control the industry.
The President is right, competition is the answer to controlling this runaway monopo-
ly. If you look at markets where competition exists from wireless cable, you will see cable
rates are up to 30% less than those in uncompetitive markets.
However competition will not develop without access to programming. The cable
reregualation bill has an important pro-competition programming access provision which
guarantees competitors fair and equal access to necessary programming. Unless S.12
becomes law, the programming competitors need to stay in business will not become avail-
able.
I urge you, please support competition. Do not veto this bill.
Sincerely,
PaR
President
A service of Metropolitan Cablevision, Inc.
SEP-28-92 MON 9:52
FAX NO. 2166627165
P. 01/01
SM
5400 Transportation Boulevard
Garfield Heights, Ohio 44125
CABLEVISION
216/662-7126 Fax: 216/662-7165
September 28, 1992
The Honorable James A. Baker III
Chief of Staff to the President
and
The Honorable Richard G. Darman
Director of the Office of Management and Budget
Old Executive Office Building
17th Street and Pennsylvania Ave.
Washington, DC 20503
Gentlemen:
I continue to become seriously concerned regarding President Bush's threatened
veto of the cable bill. I understand and agree with his desire to reduce regulation, but in this
instance he is on the wrong track.
The cable television industry today is an unregulated monopoly with virtually no
competition. Recently we all saw a result of that monopoly power which is far more disturb-
ing than their ability to raise rates at whim. Look at the flood of protest they generated with
disinformation campaign the waged against the cable bill. Just think of the consequences if
that power is left unchecked and is used to influence other public policy for the benefit of
the few individuals who control the industry.
The President is right, competition is the answer to controlling this runaway monopo-
1y. If you look at markets where competition exists from wireless cable, you will see cable
rates are up to 30% less than those in uncompetitive markets.
However competition will not develop without access to programming. The cable
reregualation bill has an important pro-competition programming access provision which
guarantees competitors fair and equal access to necessary programming. Unless S.12
becomes law, the programming competitors need to stay in business will not become avail-
able.
I urge you, please support competition. Do not veto this bill.
Sincerely,
Robert Patterson
President
A service of Metropolitan Cablevision, Inc.
TBN
Trinity Broadcasting Network
International Headquarters
Mr. James Baker
Trinity Broadcasting Network
White House Chief of Staff
2442 Michelle Drive
Old Executive Office Building
Tustin, California 92680
White House
1600 Pennsylvania Ave.
Washington, D.C. 20500
Paul F. Crouch
President and Founder
Norman G. Juggert
General Counsel
Colby M. May
Communications Counsel
Trinity
Broadcasting
Network
Jay A. Sekulow
Chief Litigation Counsel
September 29, 1992
Office of the President
The President
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20500.
Dear Mr. President:
Thank you for your prompt response of September 11 concerning the
Cable Consumer Protection Act, i.e., Senate Bill S-12 and House
Bill HR 4850.
It is clear from your response that you still have not focused on
a serious inequity which this bill seeks to redress. You are
correct that deregulation has fostered a multi-billion dollar
expansion of cable TV which has generated many new programs for
consumers. But in the process cable has become an unregulated
monopoly--indeed the GATE KEEPER to the TV homes of America!
Mr. President, please hear me as I speak for the many independent
as well as religious TV broadcasters. Remember, we were here
first. We, too, have invested billions into free, through the air
broadcasting services. All we ask is access to ONE CHANNEL to
reach the homes that we are mandated to serve by the FCC within
our cities of license. But in many cases cable has DENIED us this
access! Herein is the outrageous inequity of cable's monopoly.
We broadcasters have only ONE channel within our cities of
license. Cable has typically 35 to 100 channels. When they deny
us even one cable channel, they preclude our ability to reach our
viewers. Indeed, in some heavily cabled areas we are reduced to
reaching as little as 10% of the viewers in our cities of license!
How, sir, in heaven's name are we to serve our communities as
required by the FCC so as to receive our license renewal
viewers. expectancy every five years if cable denies us access to our
Mr. President--GIVE US MUST CARRY OR WE WILL DIE!
Please check your records. I am a lifelong loyal Republican and
have personally contributed the maximum permitted by law to your
campaign. I supported President Reagan as well as your
Administration to the fullest extent possible. In fact, a special
Trinity Broadcasting Network International Headquarters
2442 Michelle Drive Tustin, California 92680 (714) 832-2950
The President
September 29, 1992
Page2
TV program is scheduled for broadcast over the Trinity
Broadcasting Network on October 25 which will urge the Christians
of America to vote. Dr. Bill Bright, Dr. Adrian Rogers, Rev.
Charles Stanley, Dr. James Dobson, Rev. G. Raymond Carlson, and
others have agreed to participate in this special program calling
our nation to prayer and urging voters to compare all candidate's
positions on the great moral and family issues of the day. In
what promises to be a very close election all God fearing
Americans must weigh their vote prayerfully. Mr. President, the
evangelical Christian vote just might be the margin you will need
to win.
I am, however, in a most agonizing quandary. If you do, indeed,
veto this cable bill, I will have no choice but to explain what
happened to our viewers, and to express my profound
disappointment. Trinity Broadcasting Network is rated by Arbitron
as the number one religious service in America, with a weekly
circulation of 26,000,000 regular viewers, nearly one-third of all
TV households in America.
I pray, Mr. President, that you will reconsider and allow this
bill to pass since any monopoly, in the absence of competition, be
it the phone company, power and light company, or cable TV must
have a public utilities commission to regulate it for the good and
protection of the public.
My personal prayers and the prayers of millions of Christians are
with you as you make a most difficult decision.
God bless you.
Respectfully yours,
Paul Crouch
Paul F. Crouch
President
PFC:mt
XC: Vice President Dan Quayle
Richard Bond - via telefax (202) 863-8774
Leigh Ann Metzger - via telefax (202) 456-1647
James Baker - via telefax ( 202) 456-2461
Richard Darman - via telefax (202) 395-3174
Charles Black via telefax (202) 336-7115
Fred Maleck via telefax (202) 336-7081
Robert Teeter - via telefax (202) 336-7090
Herb Ellingwood - via telefax (202) 336-7954
SEP 29 '92 16:44 TRINITY BRDRCASTNG
P.1/3
Trinity Broadcasting Network
2442 Michelle Drive, Tustin. CA 91680 (714) 832-2950
TELEFAX COVER SHEET
Date:
9-29-92
Time:
To:
Mr. James Baker
Company:
The White House
FAX Number: ( 202
) 456-2461
From:
Paul F. Crouch
Fax: (
714
)
730-0657
Phone: ( 714
) 731-2300
MESSAGE:
GF126
Total number of pages. including this cover sheet
3
PLEASE CALL If ALL PAGES ARE NOT RECEIVED
SEP 29 '92 16:45 TRINITY BRDRCASTNG
P.2/3
Paul F. Crouch
President and Founder
Norman G. Juggert
General Counsel
Colby M. May
Communications Counsel
Grinity
Broadcasting Network
Jay A. Sckulow
Chief Lirigation Counsel
September 29, 1992
Office of the President
The President
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Mr. President:
Thank you for your prompt response of September 11 concerning the
Cable Consumer Protection Act, i.e., Senate Bill S-12 and House
Bill HR 4850.
It is clear from your response that you still have not focused on
a serious inequity which this bill seeks to redress. You are
correct that deregulation has fostered a multi-billion dollar
expansion of cable TV which has generated many new programs for
consumers. But in the process cable has become an unregulated
monopoly--indeed the GATE KEEPER to the TV homes of America!
Mr. President, please hear me as I speak for the many independent
as well as religious TV broadcasters. Remember, we were here
first. We, too, have invested billions into free, through the air
broadcasting services. All we ask is access to ONE CHANNEL to
reach the homes that we are mandated to serve by the FCC within
our cities of license. But in many cases cable has DENIED us this
access! Herein is the outrageous inequity of cable's monopoly.
We broadcasters have only ONE channel within our cities of
license. Cable has typically 35 to 100 channels. When they deny
us even one cable channel, they preclude our ability to reach our
viewers. Indeed, in some heavily cabled areas We are reduced to
reaching as little as 10% of the viewers in our cities of license!
How, sir, in heaven's name are we to serve our communities as
required by the FCC SQ as to receive our license renewal
expectancy every five years if cable denies us access to our
viewers.
Mr. President--GIVE US MUST CARRY OR WE WILL DIE!
Please check your records. I am a lifelong loyal Republican and
have personally contributed the maximum permitted by law to your
campaign. I supported President Reagan as well as your
Administration to the fullest extent possible. In fact, a special
Trinity Broadcasting Network International Headquarters
2442 Michelle Drive
Tustin, California 92680
(714) 832-2950
SEP 29 '92 16:45 TRINITY BRDRCASTNG
P.3/3
The President
September 29, 1992
Page2
TV program is scheduled for broadcast over the Trinity
Broadcasting Network on October 25 which will urge the Christians
of America to vote. Dr. Bill Bright, Dr. Adrian Rogers, Rev.
Charles Stanley, Dr. James Dobson, Rev. G. Raymond Carlson, and
others have agreed to participate in this special program calling
our nation to prayer and urging voters to compare all candidate's
positions on the great moral and family issues of the day. In
what promises to be a very close election all God fearing
Americans must weigh their vote prayerfully. Mr. President, the
to win.
evangelical Christian vate just might be the margin you will need
I am, however, in a most agonizing quandary. Tf. you do, indood,
veto this cable bill, I will have no choice but to explain what
happened to our viewers, and to express my profound
disappointment. Trinity Broadcasting Network is rated by Arbitron
as the number one religious service in America, with a weekly
circulation of 26,000,000 regular viewers, nearly one-third of all
TV households in America.
I pray, Mr. President, that you will reconsider and allow this
bill to pass since any monopoly, in the absence of competition, be
it the phone company, power and light company, or cable TV must
have a public utilities commission to regulate it for the good and
protection of the public.
My personal prayers and the prayers of millions of Christiano are
with you as you make a most difficult decision.
God bloss yeu.
Respectfully
Paul F. Crouch
President
PFC:mt
XC: Herb Ellingwood - via telefax (202) 336-7954
Richard Bond via telefax (202) 003-8774
Leigh Ann Metzger - via telefax (202) 456-1647
James Baker - via telefax ( 202) 456-2461
Richard Darman - via telefax (202) 395-3174
Charles Black - via telefax (202) 336-7115
Fred Maleck - via telefax (202) 336-7081
Robert Teeter. - via telefax (202) 336-7090