[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 141 (Friday, October 9, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1996]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  RECOGNIZING NEW JERSEY BROADCASTERS

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                       HON. CHRISTOPHER H. SMITH

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 8, 1998

  Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of New 
Jersey's broadcasters and the New Jersey Broadcasters Association who 
have worked in partnership to help focus public attention on some of 
the key concerns for residents in my state. While radio and television 
stations are required to address important public issues, New Jersey 
broadcasters have worked hard to exceed their responsibilities.
  New Jersey's television and radio stations have raised over $1 
million for charitable causes and donated over $3 million in air-time 
for public service projects. Broadcasters in my state have raised money 
to build new housing for needy families, provided gifts for children 
during the Christmas holidays, and helped many individuals who were 
victimized by natural disasters.
  Stations in New Jersey have donated countless hours of public affairs 
programming and public service announcements aimed at educating 
residents about alcohol abuse, anti-crime initiatives, and efforts to 
fight poverty and hunger. Additionally, two-thirds of the radio 
stations in New Jersey have made it their policy to offer free air-time 
to political candidates. The median value of the air-time totaled 
$27,000 per station.
  Radio and television stations have done much to provide important 
information for people throughout New Jersey. Their important 
charitable fund raising, coordinated through the New Jersey 
Broadcasters Association, has helped enhance the quality of life for 
many of our citizens.
  Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Phil 
Roberts, the Executive Director of the New Jersey Broadcasters 
Association and all the people who work at New Jersey's radio and 
television stations for their commitment and dedication to the people 
of New Jersey.

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