You can't turn around in Washington without tripping over a panel discussion, press conference, book release, policy meeting or hearing that is related to spectrum and the dtv transition. The New America Foundation had their event on Tuesday, May 24 and presented their perspective to as many who could attend.

Looking back at the Telecommunications Act of 1996 is a good way to understand the special interest lobbying that went on back then. It is already apparent to everyone that that was child's play compared to the lobbying that is and will take place this time around.

New America's senior researcher, J.H. Snider, has released a book that could be helpful in understanding the broadcasters' influence. "Speak Softly and Carry a Big Stick: How Local TV Broadcasters Assert Power" is very timely. The road ahead will be bumpy for first responders.