New NAB Chief Smith Makes Debut At Radio Show

Gordon Smith

Incoming NAB President and CEO GORDON SMITH told the attendees at the NAB RADIO SHOW in PHILADELPHIA that he plans on "hitting the ground running" to work for broadcasters' interests.  SMITH lauded broadcasters' public service and news commitments and endorsed the NAB's "Radio Heard Here" public relations campaign in the remarks before the convention's Digital Think Tank session.

"To call oneself a broadcaster, is truly answering to a higher calling," said SMITH.  "It's knowing you've been entrusted with the public's airwaves, and recognizing that what you report and air impacts the lives of your viewers. You serve your communities in remarkable ways, improving the quality of life and fostering the principles of localism."

"Broadcasters' contributions to their local communities are diverse, enormously valuable and make a major impact on towns and cities all across the country-in large part because each individual station has the latitude to serve their audience's unique and specific need," SMITH told the crowd at the PENNSYLVANIA CONVENTION CENTER ballroom.  "But many of the legal and regulatory challenges broadcasters face in WASHINGTON, D.C., such as the performance tax and the Satellite Home Viewer Extension and Reauthorization Act – or SHVERA – can affect your ability to support your communities and innovate to meet the demands of today's rapidly changing media landscape."

Departing from the convention's radio focus, SMITH touted the development of mobile digital television as an example of an exciting future for the broadcasting industry.  "There are many doors opening for television broadcasters with the acceleration and development of mobile digital television products and services," he said. "It's amazing to think we will be able to watch live TV anywhere we are. Mobile digital television will transform the way we watch television"

"The label I want you and others to define me by now is as chief advocate for America's broadcasters," SMITH told the assemblage, adding, "Even in these difficult times, you are still there for your communities -- always there to assist and provide a lifeline during times of crisis.  That is something you should all be proud of. And that's one of the many reasons I'm proud to be here standing among you today.  This is a strong industry with a bright future. And I am very excited to be a part of it. It is not only an honor to stand here among you –- it is also an inspiration."

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