Join the NAB grass roots movement to stop the merger. [Archive] - The Unofficial Opie and Anthony Message Board

CTDennis85

05-21-2007, 10:07 PM

IrishVixen

05-21-2007, 10:15 PM

done!

Stuart Ullman

05-21-2007, 10:19 PM

Done and Done...

Fuck the Merger and XM

http://img371.imageshack.us/img371/1164/xmradio0ut.png

carcrash_69

05-21-2007, 11:10 PM

The Dreamer

05-21-2007, 11:15 PM

Done. cancelled xm, wrote fcc ( see sticky pest attack merger for my letter) same letter going out to reps in DC this week. I joined PAC and NAB.I take it very seriously. I'm listening to Bob and Tom for fucks sake. ( no local cbs station) if there is more I can do let me know.

Hey, look on the bright side, at least you aren't stuck listening to Walton & Johnson, like I am. I use it to psych myself up to do horrible, horrible things to XM. It just makes me so mad. I'm stuck listening to these two jagoffs do their FAKE gay voices, their FAKE black voices, their FUCKING hacky, lame, watered down bullshit, when I SHOULD be listening to the bbboys...
Grrr...

I have to go write some more e-mails and make some phone calls now..

The Dreamer

05-21-2007, 11:18 PM

styckx

05-21-2007, 11:54 PM

woops, it's a sticky now. So much for bookmarking important threads :)

hawk4444

05-22-2007, 02:16 AM

All signed up and ready to go my fellow baggers ^_^

bedpeddler

05-22-2007, 02:49 AM

me too

DowntownDave

05-22-2007, 07:04 AM

There is one other merger point we need to consider.

Who is going to be the CEO of the new company? Who stands to personally gain a LOT of money from the merger? Who is basically calling the shots for both companies now? Who has always hated the boys? Who is once again coddling his old Jew yenta ass monkey and hoping he will get O&A's audience?

If there is one single person we need to target, it's Mel. This whole thing stinks of him and his tactics

FreeSpeech202

05-22-2007, 07:09 AM

Come on [you] grow a pair and get fucking signed up.

It's people like [you] that aren't taking this seriously and fucking it up for everyone else.

What the fuck is this about? I have done everything I can to make this shit work out. I cancelled subs as soon as I found out, I destroyed XM units, signed up pretty much everywhere else I could think of and I have been trying to keep up with the 1000 posts that are popping up every day.

What the fuck do you want me to do? I must have missed something. Sorry... I must have taken a break.

I signed up for this shit long before I read your post. Just take it easy. I am doing everything that I can.

JimmyConway

05-22-2007, 07:18 AM

Registered today, Screw this merger. It is going to be bad for the consumer overall.

DowntownDave

05-22-2007, 07:27 AM

Remember people, just signing up does not do a bit of good.

YOU MUST PARTICIPATE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Read
http://www.c3sr.org/info.asp

Get your facts together and start writing

Contacts

Contact The NAB (http://www.nab.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=Contact_us&Template=/CM/GuestComments.cfm)

Contact your states Congressman (http://www.house.gov/writerep/)

Contact your Senator (http://www.senate.gov/)

Do NOT mention O&A or the suspension
Do mention you are a satellite subscriber
Do not use someone elses letters
Be honest
Do not flood them same people, 1 email will work

I don't agree with not mentioning the suspension. In my letter, I used the suspension to show that the satellite companies are not dedicated to providing the unique content that they are using as the basis for their request. Don't say "I oppose the merger because of the suspension," just use it as a case in point.

Some people don't feel confident in writing letters. I see no problem with using someone else's letters or paraphrasing. The point is to make your opinion known. When it comes down to it, they are going to look at numbers.

Being an evil bastard, I also BCC'd the XM execs as listed on the PAC page just to let them know that people are writing to oppose the merger. Something else to make those fucks squirm.

DowntownDave

05-22-2007, 07:30 AM

Come on [you] grow a pair and get fucking signed up.

It's people like [you] that aren't taking this seriously and fucking it up for everyone else.

Excuse me, but I have signed up and I sent MY letter to the FCC commissioners the day after the suspension. It is also listed in the battle plan I posted.

This is not the time to attack each other. It is time for unity. We can get back to breaking balls when the boys are back on XM

90PoundLeadHat

05-22-2007, 07:31 AM

Come on [you] grow a pair and get fucking signed up.

It's people like [you] that aren't taking this seriously and fucking it up for everyone else.

What the fuck did I do?? I signed up...

Is this random shot in the dark just mad love for my sweet, sweet handle? I certainly hope so.

http://www.bradguy.com/pictures/MySpace/FuckXM.gif

Ahhh....I get it...[you] did this...what a silly goose [you] is!!

FreeSpeech202

05-22-2007, 07:46 AM

What the fuck did I do?? I signed up...

Is this random shot in the dark just mad love for my sweet, sweet handle? I certainly hope so.

http://www.bradguy.com/pictures/MySpace/FuckXM.gif

Ahhh....I get it...[you] did this...what a silly goose [you] is!!

damnit! its the "[YOU]" trick. blast it!

superaids

05-22-2007, 08:15 PM

I'm on-board.

njdave02

05-22-2007, 08:22 PM

Done..

AWLGOOD

05-22-2007, 10:04 PM

Done Fuck Those Corporate Pricks

kingofdmv

05-22-2007, 11:19 PM

That's it, join up with those scumbags over at NAB because your panties are all in a bunch. Enjoy your FM radio, people!

carcrash_69

05-22-2007, 11:19 PM

Quote:
Originally Posted by CTDennis85
Come on [you] grow a pair and get fucking signed up.

It's people like [you] that aren't taking this seriously and fucking it up for everyone else.

Damn I fell for "You" ruse.

PyThomas

05-22-2007, 11:25 PM

I'm there, dude.

Guns4Tots

05-22-2007, 11:50 PM

That's it, join up with those scumbags over at NAB because your panties are all in a bunch. Enjoy your FM radio, people!

You appear to be advocating the "failing firm doctrine" for allowing the merger - if the merger were blocked, XM or Sirius or both (leaving us stuck with FM radio) would go out of business, so there's no reason to block the merger in the first place.

However, in his sworn testimony before the House Judiciary Committee, Sirius CEO Mr. Karmazie stated that Sirius would be a viable company even without the merger. He also said the same thing when he apppeared on Stern's radio program. Gary Parsons has said the same thing about XM.

Don't worry people. If you're against the merger, get some facts and be heard. You aren't going to kill XM.

Shadowless

05-24-2007, 11:31 AM

Joined.

The last thing we need is fuckin Mel Karmazin calling the shots again...

LilConor

05-24-2007, 11:50 AM

Just signed up. BLOCK THE MERGER !!!

kosmo8

05-24-2007, 07:00 PM

http://blog.wired.com/business/2007/05/sirius_ceo_we_s.html

GREAT NEWS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

USCowboy69

05-25-2007, 08:40 AM

I'll be happy to sign up as well. I already signed up with PAC. I also wrote a lengthy letter to the FTC...BBB (about fraud in advertising etc)...and the SEC (about manipulating cancelations to accounting reports to shareholders). I do whatever I can to help the boys.

75glide

05-27-2007, 04:30 PM

lrrhoade

05-27-2007, 06:10 PM

Done! Count me in

carpe06

05-29-2007, 11:41 AM

I guess they really do read the letters...
I wrote to Virgil Goode Jr, Virginia House of Representatives. Received following personal and signed response in the mail today...
"Thank you for your letter about the merger of XM and Sirius. I am not sure the issue will come before Congress, but if it does, I am negatively inclined towards and such merger. Thank you again for sharing your thoughts and views."

rdrtkd

05-31-2007, 06:55 PM

In.

Just saw it today. Anything to help O&A.

hillbilly j

05-31-2007, 08:22 PM

Just signed up

Thinman

05-31-2007, 08:44 PM

Done. That form is fucktarded, if you miss a field and use the 'back' link it clears what you typed in. If you type more than 255 words (there's no counter that I saw) in the comments section and have to go back, do not use the 'back' link. Use your browser's back button so you don't loose your shit.

Other than wanting to stab someone in the eye with a hot soldering iron over the form, I feel like I helped accomplish something. Please sign up!

:icon_lol:

livebackwards

06-03-2007, 11:57 AM

Its a fucking ruse.........You gotta be an imbecile to join these idiots. All the damage you guys have done to XM and O&A for that matter is just hurting the show and yourselves. XM is in worse shape than Sirius, why do you think that XM agreed to a buyout by Sirius?? Sirius is crushing XM in retail and now OEM's. What if another buyer steps in and buys XM? Do you honestly think O&A would be kept on after all this BS? Use your heads.....Its a fucking RUUUUSEEEE!

They're both bleeding money. But they're not going to go under, they're just going to have to cut back from 12 new yachts for the CEOs each year to maybe only three or four.

At this point, even if they WERE going to go under... fine, fuck 'em. After the way XM has handled O&A, I'd personally like to see the company crash and burn out of sheer spite, even if it means no more O&A on XM anyway.

Mmmm... that's-a tasty spite.

gynecometrist

06-06-2007, 05:51 PM

Satellite Radio Goes on the Offensive

Opposition to a unified satellite radio industry seems to be mounting, and executives from both Sirius and XM have said a merger between the two is looking like an uphill battle. But the latest move by the companies seems to imply that they believe the deal is far from over, and whether or not regulators approve the $13 billion proposal won't keep them from going down without a fight.

According to a federal disclosure form filed by the companies, Sirius and XM have hired the high-profile public relations firm Quinn Gillespie & Associates to lobby the government on the proposed merger. The firm was founded by Jack Quinn, who served as counsel to former-President Bill Clinton from 1995 to 1997, and Ed Gillespie, a Republican Party strategist who served as the Republican National Committee chair during the 2004 election cycle.

In addition, several other former Capitol Hill veterans and White House officials are registered to lobby on behalf of the satellite radio companies. Others listed in the disclosure form include: Jeff Connaughton, former special assistant to the counsel to Clinton (1994-95); Kevin D. Kayes, most recently chief counsel to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, (D-Nev.); Allison Giles, former chief of staff to the House Ways and Means Committee under then-Chairman Bill Thomas, (R-Calif.); Elizabeth Hogan, former special assistant to the Commerce Department; and, Christopher McCannell, former chief of staff to Rep. Joseph Crowley, (D-N.Y.).

Under a federal law, lobbyists are required to disclose activities that could influence members of the executive and legislative branches. They must register with Congress within 45 days of being hired or engaging in lobbying.

In related news, Sirius said it has obtained a $250 million senior secured term loan commitment from Morgan Stanley Senior Funding. The facility will mature in five and one-half years and have covenants substantially similar to those under the company's existing 9 5/8 percent Senior Notes, Sirius said.

gynecometrist

06-08-2007, 06:41 AM

The National Association of Broadcasters' president and CEO DAVID REHR wrote a letter Thursday to Sirius CEO MEL KARMAZIN asking the satellite radio executive to withdraw the application seeking approval for a Sirius/XM merger. In the letter, Rehr said it was Karmazin's remarks that the NAB's "advocacy efforts to oppose a satellite radio merger as 'disgraceful'" at a recent investor conference. "Any gains resulting from a merger of Sirius and XM will largely accrue to Wall Street and the companies' executives, and not African American, Latino or other programmers or consumers," he said.

loki2486

06-08-2007, 02:12 PM

The people who thinks that the opposing the merger is wrong just don't get it.

Regardless of rather XM lives or dies if the merger do not happen, the fear is that if we allow the merger to happen... the O and A show will be under the control of a company whose #1 man is Stern, O and A will only be second best, get only the left-over resources and material.

Do you loyal O&A fans wants to play second best to the Stern fans?

I know that the upper XM management have assured to O&A that is not going to happen, but from the treatment that XM have shown to the boys... how much faith do you have in XM?

Whose to say that the suspension of the boys is purely XM's doing, perhaps Sirius forced XM's hand by telling them that the boys are hurting the merger.

I say kill the merger... I would rather the boys be #1 on a doomed company, than a castrated #2 in a company that will only give them Stern left-overs.

BadGuy

06-10-2007, 03:35 AM

http://blog.wired.com/business/2007/05/sirius_ceo_we_s.html

GREAT NEWS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

My favorite part was "there is an “80 percent likelihood that the merger is not going to happen.”".

Fuck Mel, Sirius, and Hoo HOO. They stink and I don't like them!

I just signed up as well. Good Day Sir.

Rackham

06-10-2007, 04:28 AM

Hey, look on the bright side, at least you aren't stuck listening to Walton & Johnson, like I am...

The most horrible morning show ever. I feel sorry for you. :(

gynecometrist

06-12-2007, 04:02 PM

The Federal Communications Commission opened its inquiry into whether the agency will approve XM and Sirius' proposed $13 billion merger. The first round of comments are due back to the FCC July 9 with reply comments due July 24. The Justice Department also must approve the deal.

gynecometrist

06-13-2007, 07:23 AM

WIFE Supports Sirius/XM Merger

There's a reason why satellite-delivered services will always enjoy a dedicated customer base: The signals reach places other options don't. That's why groups like WIFE - Women Involved in Farm Economics - support the satellite radio merger and encourage regulators to approve the deal.

In a letter written to the Federal Communications Commission, WIFE President Pam Potthoff said farms and rural communitites have been well-served by satellite radio. "Approval of the merger between Sirius and XM will ensure that our communities continue to receive important informational services via satellite radio, and also will provide our constituents with more programming choices at improved prices," she said.

WIFE said rural communities are areas that greatly benefit from the services that satellite radio provides like weather and emergency information. The group cited Sirius' regular 24/7 broadcasts of news during natural disasters and other emergencies while XM airs Red Cross Radio, a broadcast for victims and relief workers in disaster zones.

"Rural communities enjoy and depend upon satellite radio to provide a diverse selection of programming," the group said. "Both companies provide a broad range of channels, including specialized choices that appeal to our members and are unmatched by other service providers. The merger of SIRIUS and XM will enhance these programming options for rural listeners and consumers everywhere."

WIFE was organized in December 1976 in Sidney, Nebraska as a non-profit agricultural association.

Lunchbox420

06-13-2007, 11:29 PM

www.xmsiriusmonopoly.org

gynecometrist

06-14-2007, 07:45 AM

XM/Sirius Go on the Offensive

Now that the Federal Communications Commission has officially launched its inquiry into the merger between Sirius and XM, the satellite radio companies are undoubtedly feeling the pressure to convince regulators that the proposal is a good idea. Nailing home that fact, the companies launched a well-targeted advertising campaign hoping to sway the right people into approving the $13 billion dollar union.

The ad campaign, appearing in several publications on Capitol Hill, boasts of the legions of groups who have come out in favor of the merger. The advertisements ran yesterday in highly-visable publications like Communications Daily, The Hill, The Politico and Roll Call.

Among the organizations that have voiced their support for the merger, and subsequently appeared within the campaign, are: League of Rural Voters, National Consumers League, National Black Chamber of Commerce, Hispanic Foundation, The Latino Coalition, League of United Latin American Citizens, New York State Federation of Hispanic Chambers of Commerce, and Women Involved in Farm Economics.

According to the companies, each of the ad's signatories have already filed comments with the FCC citing satellite radio's program diversity and "the merger's potential to strengthen or expand such programs and channels as primary reasons for their support." Interested parties can view the ad at http://www.xmmerger.com.

In related news, the National Association of Broadcasters unveiled its latest attempt to thwart the satellite radio deal by launching a website dedicated to opposing the merger. In celebration of the site, NAB said it has hung a giant banner outside its D.C. headquarters reading "Do the Math: XM + Sirius = Monopoly. Check it out at http://www.xmsiriusmonopoly.com if you like.

NullNVoid

06-14-2007, 10:52 PM

The Consumer Coalition for Competition in Satellite Radio

http://www.c3sr.org/index.asp

We need to sign up to this in the same numbers that we cancelled from XM. They started a front grass roots movement, we'll make it legitimate.

Lets show these fucko's we mean business.

NAB = "Grass Roots"? :haha7:

Good Buddy

06-14-2007, 11:22 PM

Joined up.

gynecometrist

06-18-2007, 07:38 PM

XM/Sirius Boasts Benefits of XiriuM

Plenty of groups have come out of the woodwork to blast XM and Sirius in their attempt to merge. But now the shoe seems to be on the other foot, as a highly visible economist and former government bigwig has come to the plan's defense.

Undoubtedly, the satellite radio companies were pleased when former Chief Economist for the Federal Communications Commission, professor of law and economics at George Mason University, and Arlington Economics principal Thomas Hazlett released a study supporting the proposed $13 billion merger between Sirius and XM. Titled "The Economics of the Satellite Radio Merger," Hazlett concludes that the deal offers potential to yield "substantial efficiencies within the audio entertainment marketplace." The study was prepared for the companies and filed with the FCC last week.

Said Hazlett, "After a thorough analysis, it is my opinion that the merger of XM and SIRIUS will predictably enhance consumer welfare. The National Association of Broadcasters' (NAB) staunch opposition to the merger illustrates their similar expectation. The improved economic vitality of a combined satellite radio company would drive industry innovation, promote competition and enhance programming and pricing options for customers."

Other findings from the report, which claims the merger will increase competition among audio entertainment providers, include: AM/FM radio, in fact, does compete with satellite radio as evidenced by terrestrial stations' long-standing opposition to satellite competition and to the proposed merger. If the terrestrial broadcasters genuinely believed the merger would substantially increase consumer prices, the study said, they would support - not oppose -the plan seeing that higher costs for satellite radio would create larger audiences and ad revenues for them.

The study also said that since satellite radio first appeared, "broadcasters have consistently attempted to restrain the new service to protect their interests at the expense of market competition." Hazlett said there are many reasons why Wall Street analysts have been arguing in favor of the transaction long before the companies announced their plans.

The study can be viewed in its entirety at http://www.xmmerger.com.

gynecometrist

06-19-2007, 12:18 PM

Merger Effort Takes Major Hit

When satellite radio officials acknowledged that getting lawmakers to approve a merger between XM and Sirius was an "uphill battle," they may have been putting it mildly. The latest blow to the companies' plans came in the form of a letter signed by 72 members of the House of Representatives opposing the proposed $13 billion deal.

The letter, being circulated to the press by the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), was sent Monday to FCC Chairman Kevin Martin, Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, and Federal Trade Commission Chair Deborah Platt Majoras. According to the organization, the letter was written by Reps. Gene Green (D-TX), vice chair of the Subcommittee on Health, and Jim Sensenbrenner (R-WI), the second highest ranking member of the House Judiciary Committee.

In all, 47 Democrats and 25 Republicans signed the letter which reads, "On its face, we believe that sanctioning the marriage of the only competitors in the satellite radio market would create a monopoly which would be devastating to consumers."

Among the Democrats who signed the letter are: Budget Committee Chair John Spratt (D-S.C.), Agriculture Committee Chair Collin Peterson (D-Minn.), Rules Committee Chair Louise Slaughter (D-N.Y.), and Presidential candidate Dennis Kucinich (D-Ohio). Republicans who jumped on board include: former House Speaker Dennis Hastert (R-Ill.), Republican Whip Roy Blunt (R-Mo.), and National Republican Congressional Committee Chairman Tom Cole (R-Okla.).

gynecometrist

06-20-2007, 06:54 AM

Does NAB Effort Actually Support Merger?

It's an interesting theory: The National Association of Broadcasters' (NAB) full-throttle approach to opposing the Sirius/XM merger is effectually working against the organization. That's what Sirius CEO Mel Karmazin hinted in an interview with TWICE. The exec said that although NAB's campaign was "predictable," the message the organization is sending actually proves the point that satellite radio does, in fact, compete with terrestrial radio and a Sirius/XM union would not create a monopoly.

In a TWICE news release, Karmazin allegedly told the mag that NAB's response "makes our argument that we are competing with them, and if we are competing with them, then their message that this is a duopoly becoming a monopoly can't be true because why are they involved? If it was a market called satellite radio, why should they care what happens to satellite radio if it did not compete with them."

The exec's comments came after the broadcaster's group both issued a letter asking the satellite radio companies to withdraw their merger application and when hung a giant banner outside of its highly-visible D.C. headquarters urging regulators to oppose the deal.

In related news, the Second District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, with 150,000 members spanning Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina and D.C., came out in support of the merger. The group said the variety of programming available on satellite radio, including the modern gospel station Praise, music stations showcasing African American talent, and sports commentary "has provided the African American community with a significant new source of information, entertainment and spiritual fulfillment."

gynecometrist

06-25-2007, 07:00 AM

League: Sirius/XM is not EchoStar/DIRECTV

One of the knocks on the proposed satellite radio merger is that a combined Sirius/XM would resemble a combined EchoStar/DIRECTV - an entity that kept regulators from approving the DBS merger in 2002. Now, a new study shows that there are clear differences between the two scenarios, and the failed attempts of DBS to merge should not be used as a barometer to judge against satellite radio's attempts now.

According to the League of Rural Voters, a group that recently went public with its support of the merger, there are clear differences between the DBS market in 2002 when EchoStar and DIRECTV tried to merge and the expanding audio entertainment market today. In the EchoStar/DIRECTV case, the FCC determined that there were only two DBS providers, but "the commission's review of the proposed merger in 2002 provides no guidance to the analysis applicable here." Further, the League said, "this is because the product markets at issue in the two transactions are fundamentally different."

The paper cites the 2002 FCC analysis of the EchoStar/DirecTV market, which narrowly defined each local market as the two DBS providers and the local cable provider. This is in contrast to the "broad and competitive audio entertainment market in which satellite radio competes," a market that today includes terrestrial radio, internet radio, iPods and other MP3 players, CD players and mobile phones. The FCC also found there were significant barriers to entry in the DBS merger. "This concern is moot in the satellite radio market, given the multitude of other competitors that have already entered the field and the anticipated release of future competitors such as HD radio and the Apple iPhone," the study said.

As far as the impact on rural consumers goes, the study said the narrow finding on the DBS product market gave rise to a number of concerns, including the reduction of viewpoint diversity and the creation of a monopoly in areas where there was no cable. "The FCC found that DBS operators contribute to viewpoint diversity by playing a 'gatekeeper role' that 'clearly affects' which entertainment and news programming is available," the paper says. "The audio entertainment market does not present the same concern, since it includes many different providers/editors."

Additionally, the league's analysis said that the FCC's concerns in the DBS case do not apply to satellite radio because of its small saturation in a rapidly growing market, noting "the proposed merger between XM and Sirius comes at a time of strong and growing competition... In fact, even a merged satellite radio provider would possess a slight market share and be constrained by the multiplicity of other media."

ashkkr

06-26-2007, 12:09 AM

I am new to Wackbag, and glad to help.

gynecometrist

06-27-2007, 07:43 AM

FamilyNet Supports Merger

FamilyNet Radio, the home of Christian talk radio on Sirius, came out this week in support for the proposed merger between its host and rival satellite radio company XM. In order to help satellite radio "survive," FamilyNet officials said the network would support any efforts of the companies that would benefit the public.

Broadcast on Sirius 161, FamilyNet offers Christian talk to the company's subscriber base - so it should come as no surprise that the network would support a merger to increase its reach. Said FamilyNet COO R. Martin Coleman, "Merging with XM will allow our blend of family-friendly and faith-based news to reach an even larger audience, many in remote areas who would otherwise not have access through traditional terrestrial radio."

In a letter to the Federal Communications Commission, Coleman said the proposed merger would enhance consumer choice and the ability of Christian programmers to offer increased programming options to listeners. "Audio programmers will continue to have many distribution avenues available to them after this merger. In fact, the merger will create more programming opportunities on satellite radio, by enabling Sirius and XM to remove duplicative channels."

Coleman said he believes the merger will allow consumers to enjoy the best of both satellite radio services at a combined cost of less than what it would cost to purchase both today.

Cup O Broth

06-28-2007, 03:48 PM

http://www.fmqb.com/Article.asp?id=431311

The FCC is looking for public comment. KILL THE MERGER!!! O&A will definitely be fired by a merged XM and Sirius. If we want O&A to remain uncensored, the merger MUST BE BLOCKED!!!!!!!!!!!

gynecometrist

06-28-2007, 08:23 PM

Surprising Twist to Satellite Radio Merger

Opponents of the proposed satellite radio merger between Sirius and XM may try to downplay the latest turn of events in the ongoing debate. But make no mistake, what the Federal Communications Commission is pondering could have a monumental effect on the lingering $13 billion deal.

How big? Like making the 'no-unified-satellite-radio-operator' regulation a thing of the past.

The latest scoop is that the commission is wondering whether the language in it's original 1997 order - language that prohibits a combination of the only two companies granted authority to offer satellite radio services in the U.S. - actually "constitutes a binding commission rule." And if that isn't eye-popping enough, the agency also is thinking whether it should "waive, modify or repeal the prohibition" if it would serve the public interest.

The FCC's 1997 SDARS Report and Order says, "...After DARS licenses are granted, one licensee will not be permitted to acquire control of the other remaining satellite DARS license... to help assure sufficient continuing competition." But XM and Sirius seem to have found a major loophole, saying the language in the order is only a policy statement - and not a binding commission rule - because the wording was never codified as a federal regulation.

And, according to FCC documents, Sirius and XM also say that the prohibition need not be continued "because the preservation of two separate satellite radio licenses is no longer required" to fuel competition. In fact, the companies say, it is the prohibition itself that is no longer serving the public interest.

The revelation could be seen by opponents of the deal as grasping for straws, but it doesn't seem to be so simple. The FCC has issued a Notice of Proposed Rule Making on the topic and is now currently seeking comments on whether the companies' contention holds water - and whether it should "waive, modify or repeal" the rule.

Late Tuesday, the merger's most vocal opponent - the National Association of Broadcasters - issued a statement regarding the FCC's Notice. Said NAB EVP Dennis Wharton, "NAB is pleased the FCC is asking tough questions about this proposed government-sanctioned monopoly. We're hopeful that in the final analysis, regulators will conclude that competition serves consumers better than a monopoly, particularly when XM and Sirius have said repeatedly that they are not failing businesses."

gynecometrist

07-03-2007, 03:42 PM

XM's New XMX

With the merger debate still up in the air, both satellite radio companies have continued down a path toward differentiation. This week, XM unveiled plans to launch a new channel aimed at doing just that: Focusing on what makes it different from its competition.

Beginning Aug. 1, XM will launch XMX, a new channel dedicated to exclusive XM programming featuring the satcaster's original music shows all in one place. Some of the company's most popular shows, like Bob Dylan's Theme Time Radio, Ludacris' Open Mic, and Tom Petty's Buried Treasure will all be carried on the new XMX (channel 2).

XM said that while new episodes of its original music series will continue to air on their regular time slots and on normal home channels, XMX will be uniquely scheduled in a 'program of the day' type format. This, the company said, will provide subscribers with more opportunities to tune in anytime and hear episode premieres or catch up on episodes from previous weeks or seasons.

XM also said it has plans to launch additional original channels this summer to enhance its programming lineup. Also in August, the satcaster will launch Starbucks XM Cafe (channel 45) and exclusive sports channels for SEC college sports (channels 199-201), Big 12 college sports (channels 241 and 242), and a news channel dedicated to the 2008 presidential election.

gynecometrist

07-09-2007, 08:22 PM

The North Carolina Association of Broadcasters wrote FCC Chairman Kevin Martin a letter expressing its opposition to the proposed satellite radio merger between Sirius and XM. In the letter, the group's president, BRUCE WHEELER, said allowing the union "would only encourage unfair, anti-competitive commercial practices and a diminution of service to the public."

gynecometrist

07-12-2007, 06:47 AM

Merger Gets Late Surge of Support

As Sirius and XM undoubtedly enjoyed the amount of support their merger plans received this week, a late surge of proponents filed comments with the Federal Communications Commission just in the nick of time. As the agency's initial comment period came to a close Monday, a group of corporate think tanks, companies and high-profile individuals endorsed the $13 billion deal that would unify the country's two satellite radio providers.

Among the additional supportive comments filed with the FCC late Monday were from: Competitive Enterprise Institute, Crutchfield, Free State Foundation, Frank Sinatra Enterprises, Honda, Ed Meese and Jim Gattuso at the Heritage Foundation, Loral Space and Communications, The Progress and Freedom Foundation, and Steven Van Zandt.

XM and Sirius said the latest round of comments came on top of the already-announced 3,500 favorable comments from individuals and 20 organizations and businesses.

"The latest comments filed with the FCC echo the thousands of pro-merger comments that have already been filed and reflect the breadth and diversity of the support for our merger," said Mel Karmazin, Sirius CEO. "Sirius and XM - and the many groups and people who support us - believe that the merger will lead to more choices and better pricing for consumers, and will create a stronger competitor in the rapidly evolving audio entertainment market."

gynecometrist

07-16-2007, 05:11 PM

Both XM and Sirius have been on the minds of many during the past several months as regulators begin to decipher the raging debate surrounding the companies' proposed merger. Wall Street especially has been paying close attention, and analysts are now preparing to take a stab at how the nation's satellite radio players are performing so far this year.

According to Wedbush Morgan's William Kidd, XM seems to have sustained its first quarter market share gains which has led the analyst to positively revise his second quarter net adds. And although retail sales for both satellite radio companies continue to be "anemic," Kidd said XM is the one to have rebuilt much of its market share lost to Sirius last year. With this in mind, Kidd increased his Q2 net additions to 295,000 (from 235,000) on a stronger-than-anticipated retail showing.

The analyst also said a strong OEM result could push XM ahead of forecast. "In spite of our revised Q2 net adds estimate, we believe the incremental direction from Q1 is positive," Kidd said. "OEM sales for both Sirius and XM should show progress throughout the remainder of 2007." Out of the two companies, it is XM which has a greater potential to positively surprise, he said.

As for Sirius, Kidd said he expects the merger process to continue to overshadow the company's operational results, which should show a positive transition to an OEM-driven mix from retail. The analyst raised his Q2 net adds estimate from 423,000 to 460,000 with OEM gross adds jumping from 419,000 to 526,000.

"Bear in mind, we expect retail sales to continue to be soft, as mid-quarter NPD data suggested that retail sales were down roughly 20 percent Y-o-Y and that XM was holding its recent market share gains at -45 percent," Kidd said.

With regards to the merger, Kidd said now that the FCC is considering a rule change that would reverse the license provision that currently prevents the companies from joining forces, "the issue of market definitions will dominate the regulatory thought process, with regulators having to decide whether or not substitutes, like MP3s and free radio, could serve to restrain a monopoly's pricing power." Also, the analyst said, regulators must determine whether customers would benefit from a combined XM/Sirius entity.

Deadbent

07-16-2007, 05:14 PM

If there's a decent argument in favor of why a merger wouldn't be beneficial to a consumer, detail it.

Otherwise, more content is more gooder.
I can tune into sirius stations when opie is making "radio gold" out of shit in a hat.

gynecometrist

07-17-2007, 05:41 PM

Motley Fool criticizes XM for O&A suspension. Says that there'll be a lot of churn this quarter because of it:

Finding value under rocks
While those of you who've read my prediction of satellite radio's demise might find it surprising, I'm actually viewing one half of the heavenly duo as perhaps having the most potential here. XM certainly didn't win many kudos from listeners when it suspended the on-air personalities Opie and Anthony for making some off-color remarks. This is satellite radio, after all, where you're supposed to be able to express yourself in a no-holds-barred fashion. And subscriber numbers have been difficult to boost these days, so we'll probably see some higher churn this quarter because many O&A fans canceled their subscriptions, and XM was forced to offer subscription extensions to appease them.

Still, even as I've said satellite radio needs to resist the urge to become more like terrestrial radio, the bigger, more financially secure XM has the best chance to succeed ... if it survives. A merger would help end the internecine battle it's engaged in with Sirius, but whether the Federal Communications Commission is willing to overlook the companies' charters, which expressly prohibit such a pairing, is doubtful. Some smart Fools doubt XM won't flame out, but as we see below, some think it will survive.

For example, CAPS All-Star bl400 says demographics are in its favor:

I feel that XM is a long-term hold and that they were overvalued when they reached their highs last year. They're pulling in lots of younger subscribers (under 35), which will help set a nice install base for the future. They'll have bumps for the simple fact that they are in debt, but that debt should really start decreasing within the next year or 2.

Another All-Star, Zhuren, who has a rating better than 93% of all CAPS investors, says:

This baby is going to be producing some significant free cash flow three years out from now ... whether or not it is currently a little pricey, its current price is a screaming bargain for where they will be three years from now. Also, it only has one direct competitor. That's a good thing.

It's your turn
So there you have it: four low-rated stocks that have gotten a big endorsement from some of the best and brightest investors in the CAPS community. What do you have to say? Will XM still get a signal, or will GM avoid the potholes? If you want to add your two cents, sign up to join the Motley Fool CAPS community, which is 100% free.

gynecometrist

07-17-2007, 08:07 PM

More Congressional Opposition to Merger

Reps. Bart Stupak (D-MI) and Steven LaTourette (R-OH) wrote a joint letter to both the Federal Communications Commission chair and the assistant attorney general opposing the proposed merger between XM and Sirius. Referring to the deal as a government-sanctioned monopoly, Stupak and LaTourette urged the Department of Justice and the FCC to "preserve national radio competition, and safeguard the interests of American consumers by denying" the merger.

Addressed to the FCC's Kevin Martin and Assistant AG Thomas Barnett, the Congress members said their constituents have embraced satellite radio as a supplement to free over-the-air radio and have "benefited greatly" from Sirius and XM competing head-to-head. According to the letter, it's been this competition that has kept prices down, increased innovation and strengthened customer service across the satellite radio sector.

"With no viable competition in the national market, a combined XM-Sirius satellite radio monopoly could easily raise prices without losing existing subscribers. Even the promised price caps would provide only temporary protection to consumers, and are an acknowledgment themselves of the monopoly power resulting from a merger," the Congressmen said. "Free over-the-air radio is not enough of a competitor to satellite radio to keep the satellite subscription prices down... The FCC has not adequately enforced other consumer protections in this market, such as the creation of interoperable satellite radio devices."

The letter also said that unlike terrestrial radio, XM and Sirius benefit from a national footprint which allows them to reach into "every corner in America." OTA radio stations, on the other hand, are restricted to their FCC-licensed broadcast reach.

"And unlike iPods and Mp3 players, both Sirius and XM can provide immediate and live broadcast service of national programming," the letter said.

In related news, the FCC said the first round of comments on its proposed rule change regarding the transfer of the companies' satellite radio licenses is due Aug. 13. Reply comments are due later that month, Aug. 27.

sapsucker22

07-18-2007, 11:25 AM

who cares

gynecometrist

07-19-2007, 06:52 AM

NAB: XM, Sirius Violate FCC Rules

The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) earlier this week urged members of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to move forward in releasing information about XM and Sirius' operations in relation to the agency's rules governing FM modulators and terrestrial repeaters. The broadcaster group said the information "is inextricably linked" to the satellite radio companies' application to merge.

The NAB said it filed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request with the FCC earlier this year. The filing is seeking yet-to-be released information related to what the NAB alleges are the satellite radio companies' "history of rules violations."

Following a ruling that allowed a partial release, NAB said XM and Sirius - as well as some current and former employees - filed applications to review the requested information. The subsequent requests ended up delaying what the group said is the release of "key facts which hold a direct bearing on XM and Sirius' merger application."

Said NAB Executive Vice President of Media Relations Dennis Wharton, "XM and Sirius may operate above the Earth, but they are not above the law. Their continued reluctance to fully disclose key facts related to past violations is yet another example of why these two companies should not be trusted with monopoly power."

gynecometrist

07-23-2007, 06:03 PM

AP
Sirius, XM Satellite Unveil New Plans
Monday July 23, 1:04 pm ET
Sirius, XM Satellite to Submit Response to FTC, Unveil a La Carte, Family Plans

NEW YORK (AP) -- Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. and XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc. said Monday the companies plan to offer a la carte plans to consumers starting at $6.99 for 50 channels.

The two radio satellite operators, which are merging in a $4.7 billion deal announced in February, also plan to introduce two family-friendly plans that will block adult-themed programing.

The companies are filing on Tuesday joint reply comments to the Federal Communications Commission, which is considering whether to approve the merger of Sirius and XM Satellite. The deal, which has faced opposition from lawmakers and consumer groups, also requires approval by the Justice Department.

Under the a la carte option, customers will be able to buy additional channels for as little as 25 cents each. A second a la carte option will allow subscribers to choose 100 channels and will allow Sirius customers to select from some of the best of XM's programming and XM subscribers to choose from some of the best of Sirius' programming.

In total, the companies plan to offer eight plans costing up to $16.99 per month. Currently, the companies offer programming options costing from $12.95 to $25.90 per month.

A la carte programming will be available beginning within one year following the merger, and the other programming options will be available beginning within six months following the merger.

"The a la carte options and other packages unveiled today demonstrate that consumers will be the beneficiaries of this merger," said Mel Karmazin, chief executive of Sirius Satellite. "The efficiencies of the merger will allow the combined companies to save hundreds of millions of dollars a year and give us the opportunity to increase the number of programming options available to subscribers."

In afternoon trading, shares of XM Satellite fell 5 cents to $12.60, and Sirius Satellite shares added 8 cents to $3.20.

(This version CORRECTS to say comments will be filed with the Federal Communications Commission, not the Federal Trade Commission.)

gynecometrist

07-24-2007, 08:33 PM

NPR Opposes Satellite Radio Merger

Using familiar "monopoly" terminology, National Public Radio officials recently filed a petition with the Federal Communications Commission to deny the proposed merger between Sirius and XM. What seems to make this public opposition unique from earlier dissent is that NPR is the first programmer - carried on both satellite radio platforms - to contest the transaction.

In a summary of the group's 32 page petition, NPR said it is a goal of the FCC to maximize diversity in points-of-view available to the public over mass media outlets. The "fundamental policy goal" stems from the U.S. Constitution's First Amendment, the organization said, which "rests on the assumption that the widest possible dissemination of information from diverse and antagonistic sources is essential to the welfare of the public."

In NPR's petition, the group said "reducing the number of (satellite radio) providers from two to one would substantially harm the diversity of voices to the detriment of program producers, including NPR and NPR member station licensees, and ultimately the public. While it is unclear how much programming overlap exists between the services, eliminating one of the two providers would clearly affect the editorial decision-making that results in the current (satellite radio) program offerings."

With specific regard to NPR and other public radio outlets, the organization said it fears a unified satellite radio provider would reduce the amount and quality of public radio programming offered via the satellite radio platform. "A monopoly (satellite radio) provider would certainly be able to demand less favorable licensing terms, thereby forcing NPR and others to decide between program quality and carriage," the petition said.

However, if the FCC approves the merger, NPR officials suggested the agency should do so only after imposing comprehensive structural and regulatory conditions on the deal. The petition said the FCC should require all satellite radio receivers have the capabilities to receive HD Radio; return sufficient spectrum licenses to permit a post-merger second satellite radio provider; and at least until the restoration of intra-modal competition, a tariff-like regulatory regime to scrutinize the merged company's service offerings and pricing options.

johnyaztec

07-26-2007, 06:43 PM

One last thing... You wanna get some rage going for the XM/Merger beatdown?

http://www.waltonandjohnson.com/main/
http://www.houstonrock1037.com/rock_listen/listen_live.htm

hook that shit up early in the morning. You'll wana tear the THROAT out of this merger..

HAHAHA
Walton and Johnson are now officially as lame as MANCOW
HOUSTON 10%ers
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday July 30th W&J will head up the line-up for an exciting new concept radio station. The new 9-5-0 Radio Mojo (KPRC) will launch with your own radio gawds from 5:30-10. The rest of the line all day is full of big names like Dennis Miller, Bill O Reilly, Mancow, Michael Savage, Phil Hendrie, Glen Beck, and others. So flip it over old school over to 950 AM and you will once again get the show unchanged except for location starting this Monday. We look forward to working with this august group.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------

FUCK HOUSTON RADIO
VIRUS 202 BABY

gynecometrist

07-29-2007, 07:08 PM

XM Q2 Results Should Bolster Confidence

Unsure how the pending merger would affect XM Satellite Radio's results, Wall Street was pleasantly surprised to see the company doing so well. With impressive subscriber additions, respectable revenue increases and a narrowing net loss, the company's second quarter should do well to boost investor confidence.

For the period ending June 30, XM reported a 22 percent year-over-year increase to $277 million compared to $228 million in 2006. The company's second quarter loss narrowed to $176 million, representing a 23 percent improvement compared to last year's Q2 net loss of $229.

The company also said it ended the period with more than 8.25 million subscribers, compared to 6.9 million one year ago. XM's subscriber acquisition costs (SAC), a component of cost per gross addition (CPGA), was $75 compared to $67 in the second quarter of 2006, XM reported.

"We view revenue results of $277.3 million (in line with our $270.4 million estimate) favorably in light of the strong subscriber growth. Net adds were 338K, well ahead of our recently raised 295K estimate," said Wedbush Morgan's William Kidd. "We were pleased to see SAC costs were on track, given the favorable sub growth (and) churn was also spot on."

CTDennis85

07-30-2007, 03:26 PM

NAB = "Grass Roots"? :haha7:

Do you know how to read?

I clearly stated this group is a FRONT grass roots movement, that the NAB is alleged to be pushing behind the scenes.

The NAB itself is obviously not a grass roots organization.

Now just go kill yourself.

Thanks.

gynecometrist

08-09-2007, 07:11 AM

More Opposition to XiriuM

The a la carte debate has taken center stage with regulators as they contemplate whether to endorse or contest the pending merger of XM and Sirius. But just as the satellite radio companies enjoyed a soft-endorsement from Federal Communications Commission Chair Kevin Martin, more government representatives are voicing their opposition to the proposed deal.

The latest to join the ranks of anti-merger sentiment is Sen. Claire McCaskill (D-MO.), who this week wrote to Department of Justice Assistant Attorney General Thomas Barnett and the FCC's Martin saying she was against the transaction. In her letter, the Missouri Democrat said she doesn't believe the merger is in the best interest of consumers and asked that Barnett and Martin reject the companies' plans.

"While satellite radio faces competition from terrestrial radio services and portable music devices, the service satellite radio provides is sufficiently different as it is subscription-based, national programming, free from decency and public interest requirements," she said. "Furthermore, consumers have benefited from the head-to-head competition between Sirius and XM. Competition has kept prices low, while spurring innovation in both equipment and programming."

gynecometrist

08-15-2007, 07:46 AM

FCC Rule Change Comment Period Over

The Federal Communications Commission's comment period on its proposed rule change making the 'no-unified-satellite-radio-operator' provision a thing of the past ended on Monday. If repealed, no longer would there be a regulatory stipulation that says one satellite radio licensee would not be permitted to acquire control of the other remaining DARS license.

As many expected, there was a small flurry of late filings that both supported and opposed the change in rules - most notably from the satellite radio companies themselves and, of course, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB). Not so expected, but hardly surprising, was a group of Senators, Congressmen and one terrestrial radio company that also filed in opposition to the rule change.

The need for comments on the proposed rule change stemmed from the satellite radio companies' contention that language written into the order makes the ownership prohibition only a policy statement - not a binding commission rule - because the wording was never codified as a federal regulation. In addition, XM and Sirius have said that the preservation of two separate satellite radio licenses is no longer required to fuel competition.

In the most comprehensive filing of the bunch, Clear Channel Communications outlined three major points of contention regarding the proposed rule change. The company said the commission's prohibition against one licensee acquiring control of all SDARS licenses 1) has the force and effect of law - the enforcement of which compels the agency to disapprove the application; 2) if the FCC finds the ownership prohibition is indeed only a policy statement, XM and Sirius "still must meet the heavy burden of obtaining a waiver" from the FCC; and 3) the companies don't meet that burden for a waiver because granting one "would be inconsistent with the commission's long settled policy of promoting intramodal competition."

Among the elected officials to file a comment in opposition to the merger - and by definition the proposed rule change - was Senator and presidential hopeful Sam Brownback (R-KS), Congressman John Tierney (D-MA), Congressman Charles Gonzalez (D-TX), Senator Byron Dorgan (D-ND) and Senator Claire McCaskill (D-MO).

sorryboff

08-21-2007, 09:59 PM

this will do nothing good for the public

gynecometrist

08-22-2007, 07:02 PM

from nyrmb: Inside Radio reports that Entravision is stating that if XM and Sirius are allowed to merge, they should be required to sell one satellite radio license. Of course they would also then need to sell a set of satellites and related equipment.
Entercom claims it would then put together a consortium of terrestrial broadcasters to purchase these resources, and offer a rival satellite radio service.
While the idea of requiring a merged XM-Sirius to sell one license makes some sense, I have my doubts Entercom really wants to start a satellite radio service. How would they expect to make money when Sirius and XM have lost it by the trainload? I believe this is just another move by terrestrial radio to throw obstacles in the way of a satellite radio merger.

gynecometrist

08-30-2007, 07:24 AM

XM Insider Bets Big on Future

The recent refusal of a judge to block the merger between organic grocery chains Whole Foods and Wild Oats has far reaching implications for the folks at Sirius and XM who are hoping to merge their two companies. Besides, if the organic foods industry can be defined in broader terms to include traditional supermarkets, some are asking why satellite radio can't do the same when being compared to terrestrial radio delivery?

It seems one person - notably XM Satellite Radio board member Jeffrey Zients - is betting that it can.

According to a recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission, Zients bought 270,000 shares of XM for his investment company last week. The move comes at a time when XM is facing opposition to its plans on being purchased by its Sirius rival, and at a time when the climate among regulators is starting to seem a little more merger-friendly.

Looking at XM's annual proxy statement filed with the SEC in April, Zients' purchase has boosted his stake in the satcaster from around 10,000 shares. The buy changes him from one of the company's least-invested directors to one of the most heavily-invested board members.

Industry observers are saying the purchase looks to be a bet that the pending merger between XM and Sirius has a good chance of being approved. Even if the deal doesn't go through, many are saying Zients would just be the latest to join a long list of investors who believe the satellite radio industry has a bright future - unified or not.

gynecometrist

09-06-2007, 07:26 AM

XM/Sirius Deal Wins Support from Former FCC Head
While XM and Sirius await approval for their proposed merger, the deal has won the blessing of one former regulator.

Mark Fowler was chairman of the Federal Communications Commission in the 1980s. He addressed the media on Wednesday about the pending combination of the satellite radio giants, praising XM and Sirius for offering a diverse slate of programming targeted to many audiences

Fowler also had choice words for broadcasters opposing the merger.

"In observing the broadcasters' intense negative reaction to the proposed merger of the two satellite radio companies, it struck me that little has changed in 26 years," Fowler said. "Each year, the skies over Washington darken as the Lear jets bring industry lobbyists to the latest battlefront against competition and its offshoot - mergers that enhance competition."

Back in 1981, when Fowler headed the FCC, regulators were only beginning to see the possibilities of satellite-delivered media services. "Twenty-six years later, we live in an entertainment media marketplace that features a striking - and exciting - competitive dynamic beyond anything we could have envisioned," he said.

"Although traditional over-the-air radio remains the most dominant audio entertainment platform, continued technological innovation has forced broadcasters to confront that they must offer better service and more choices to consumers if they are to compete and survive," Fowler added.

gynecometrist

09-06-2007, 07:27 AM

Where the Sat Radio Merger Stands
Both XM and Sirius continue to promote their proposed merger among regulators in Washington, D.C. And the ongoing efforts come as the companies cross some routine - yet still important - milestones on their way to what they hope will be a successful completion of their deal.

On Wednesday, both XM and Sirius said they certified to the Antitrust Division at the Justice Department that we are in compliance with requests for additional information related to their pending combination. Certification is a good indication that the Justice Department believes it has what it needs from the companies to make a decision on whether to allow the merger to proceed.

"While it is often thought that the certification of compliance triggers a 30-day period in which the DOJ has to decide whether to sue to prevent the merger, the reality is that the companies legally cannot close until after the Federal Communications Commission has granted the petition to transfer the license. Thus the DOJ can, and in our view, is likely to take more than 30 days to make up its mind," said Blair Levin of Stifel Nicolaus.

Levin also said he doesn't believe Justice Department officials have engaged in "substantive discussions on the economic analysis that would indicate, one way or another, their leanings in this matter. We expect that to start happening later this month but we believe it may well be mid-to-late October before the DOJ develops its conclusion," the analyst said.

Also, analysts pointed out that today marks the 90th day on the FCC's informal time clock for reviewing the deal. With the clock, the agency has given itself a timeframe to submit questions and information requests to the companies concerning the merger. Nonetheless, the commission could still send inquiries to the companies about the merger after today, and probably will do so, some suggested.

The companies said in a regulatory filing released Wednesday that they continue to believe the merger will be consummated by the end of 2007.

PlaneSaltVice

09-09-2007, 11:36 AM

My company car has Sirius in it and my wife's car has XM. I like them both. I pay attention to the broadcast schedule. It affects which car I will drive to work in the morning. It drives my wife nuts! All I know is if it doesnt cost me more money AND I can get the same programs then what the hell do I care what happens?

WOWmagnet

09-24-2007, 07:15 PM

Evilartiepuppet

10-05-2007, 07:56 PM

ummm Im a big OandA fan whose new to the forum and can someone explain why the merger is bad. I have sirius in my truck and I spend my own time listening to Howard and all day in the work truck listening to OandA. Is it assumed opie and anthony will be dropped from XM if they merge? Cause otherwise it seems pretty sweet. And even if they are going to ax OandA I do not think you guys should be complaining to the FCC what are we the PTC? I mean come on they are the enemy. Poor OandA cant say anything these days. Howard and OandA on a merged satellite company thatd be cool. Howard never talks shit on them and it seems generally they dont speak of him either. But when OandA first came to 1047 the wolf I know they had commercials just bashing howard, it was really lame and turned alot of us off to them, but they are pretty good nowadays.

AnalLeakage

11-24-2007, 03:09 PM

Seems like the Washington Post is starting to dig:

A check by The Washington Post of 60 people whose names were attached to identical, anti-merger e-mails instigated by the National Association of Broadcasters, a major opponent of the merger, produced mostly unanswered phone calls and recordings saying the phones were disconnected. Of the 10 people reached, nine said they never sent anything to the FCC, and only one said she remembered filling out something about Sirius but did not recall taking a position on a merger.

Washington Post Article (http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/11/21/AR2007112102149.html)

gynecometrist

11-27-2007, 07:36 AM

Consumer Groups Urge FCC to Reject Merger
The Consumer Federation of America, Consumers Union and Free Press this week urged the Federal Communications Commission to reject the proposed merger of XM and Sirius. In their joint report filed with the FCC, the consumer groups said allowing the two satellite radio companies to unify would eliminate competition and negatively impact American consumers.

The report examines what the consumer groups claim would be the merger's negative side-effects for both consumers and for the satellite radio industry as a whole. For consumers, the groups said, the merger would reduce the number of channels and formats available and result in fewer cost-saving incentives. The loss of competition in the industry would cause a dramatic drop in spending on talent and retail, the report said.

"The proposed XM-Sirius merger is not in the interest of American consumers," said Dr. Mark Cooper, director of research for the Consumer Federation of America and lead author of the report. "Leaving one company to monopolize the satellite radio industry would result in higher prices and fewer choices - with no foreseeable public benefit."

The consumer groups also said the merger standards of the U.S. government have long prohibited this kind of monopoly to protect consumers against negative results.

Using FCC data on radio stations, the consumer groups said the study shows evidence that satellite radio and terrestrial radio are not close substitutes - a contradiction to data submitted by the companies. The report said that satellite radio represents a unique consumer product that it does not compete with iTunes or internet radio, nor can its national service be in direct competition with local terrestrial broadcasters.

Ego

11-30-2007, 08:02 AM

Is that lil' puppy peeing on your laptop?

gynecometrist

11-30-2007, 07:04 PM

Is that lil' puppy peeing on your laptop?

Yeah... he shares Anthony's opinion about VISTA...

gynecometrist

12-03-2007, 07:40 PM

Decision Near on XM/Sirius Deal?
It appears decision day is close for the XM/Sirius combination.

Reports surfaced last week that the Justice Department and its antitrust staff are close to rendering a judgment on the pending transaction, which would see the combination of the satellite radio giants. Some, such as Bear Stearns analyst Robert Peck, suggested that the decision could come today.

Indications are the DOJ staffers could approve the deal.

If and when the transaction wins DOJ approval, it will move to the Federal Communications Commission. The merger is spending its 178th day at the Portals as of today.

If the FCC approves the XM/Sirius combination, it's expected that conditions could be attached to the deal. The companies revealed their intentions to merge operations on Feb. 19, and filed the required paperwork with the corresponding regulatory agencies weeks after the announcement.

watsonnostaw

12-06-2007, 02:06 PM

.....good luck bro

meanmarv

12-20-2007, 06:20 PM

If approved all O&A fans are fucked. This is on the heels of the statement today by the Bbbboys about XM would like them to be gone for the next month but the CBS deal keeps them on the air.
I said it some time ago, I hope they come up with a new/different format that can give the guys back their on the air freedom.

I did not spend 22 years in military for this type of shit to go down and hope all are warned to the signs Socialism/Communism.

No wonder XM is giving radios away that will be worthless down the road.

Merry Christmas

gynecometrist

01-01-2008, 07:48 AM

May
Wasn't satellite radio supposed to be the one medium where it was OK to be politically incorrect? A runaway segment that culminated in lewd remarks ended with XM handing down a 30-day suspension (http://www.fool.com/investing/high-growth/2007/05/17/another-shoes-drops-at-xm.aspx) to its Opie & Anthony Show, despite a promise to its subscribers that no content would be taken off the air during the company's courtship with Sirius.

In a bizarro twist, advertisers on the show threatened to boycott XM if the shock jocks weren't brought back on the air. Did XM take one for the team in acting terrestrial to appease regulators who threatened to derail its merger with Sirius? The show returned a month later, but the scar of XM as a censor lingers.

gynecometrist

01-16-2008, 07:28 PM

Jesse Jackson, Others Press XM/Sirius Remedies
Pace Electronics
As XM and Sirius continue to wait for regulatory approval for their planned merger, one group with big concerns about the satellite radio tie-up has recruited well-known help to lobby decision-makers about conditions tied to the deal.

D.C.-based Georgetown Partners, which has been active on the pending satellite radio merger, approached Federal Communications Commission officials late last week with potential "remedies" to alleviate concerns about the XM/Sirius combination. As part the push, the group brought in Jesse Jackson of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition to help lobby for its cause.

Georgetown Partners representatives and Jackson met with FCC Chairman Kevin Martin about the deal.

During the meeting, the group proposed that a combined Sirius/XM entity lease a portion of its infrastructure and at least 20 percent of channel capacity on a permanent basis to a minority-controlled entity.

The move would create competition and diversity in the satellite radio market. Also, the condition could be a partial remedy to the "adverse competitive effects of the proposed merger," the group said in a filing detailing the FCC meeting.

The Georgetown Partners/Jackson effort came as other organizations approached the FCC with proposed conditions for the satellite radio merger.

Earlier this week, Public Knowledge said a merged satellite radio company should make a la carte or tiered programming choices available to consumers, and provide capacity to non-commercial educational and informational programmers. Also, the group said a combined satellite radio company should agree not to raise prices for its combined programming package for three years after the merger wins regulatory approval.

In addition to FCC approval, XM and Sirius need clearance from the Justice Department’s antitrust division.

100gbitwasfake

01-24-2008, 03:00 PM

I really hope this goes through

South Jersey

01-27-2008, 07:32 PM

I really hope this goes through

http://www.geocities.com/pighatr/shit.gif

gynecometrist

02-07-2008, 06:54 PM

Clear Channel Argues Against Sat Radio Merger
If one of the nation's biggest radio broadcasters had its way, there would be no merger between XM and Sirius.

In meetings with top Federal Communications Commission personnel this week, Clear Channel argued that the pending transaction was not in the public interest and that the agency should not grant the license transfer application from the companies that would finalize regulatory approval of the deal. In a filing detailing its FCC meetings, Clear Channel representatives argued that the transaction would violate rules for DARS licensing and would harm terrestrial broadcasting.

Clear Channel complained that an "enormous amount of spectrum" would be "concentrated in the control of one essentially unregulated entity" if the satellite radio deal won approval. That would create "a genuine threat to the economic framework of terrestrial broadcast radio," the broadcast conglomerate said.

The XM/Sirius merger continues to wait for regulatory approval from the FCC. In addition, the deal is before antitrust regulators at the Justice Department.

gynecometrist

03-17-2008, 07:47 AM

Is the end near for the XM/Sirius merger review?

Federal Communications Commission Chairman Kevin Martin and company leaders recently expressed hope that any regulatory scrutiny of the proposed satellite radio combination would be wrapped up by the end of the month. Last week, there was more action at the FCC among all parties that have an interest in the deal, and that has apparently led to more staff activity on the transaction.

As Blair Levin of Stifel Nicolaus said, "We believe that we are close to the end … though we admit we have believed this before."

He added, "As has been true with so many times with this transaction, there are multiple ways to interpret the data points, but none, in our view, is conclusive as to the result or the timing."

Levin and Stifel Nicolaus said they don't think the FCC staff has yet coordinated with the Justice Department, which is handling the antitrust review of the deal, in terms of a final conclusion. "But we would not be surprised if the FCC has some inkling about the timing and is seeking to have a draft order ready to be sent to the commissioners shortly after the DOJ announces its decision," the analyst said.

Levin said the Justice Department "remains the big - and silent - hurdle in the XM/Sirius merger."

The companies first proposed combining operations in February 2007.

gynecometrist

05-27-2008, 07:41 AM

Clear Channel Takes Aim at Sat Radio Merger
A radio broadcast giant took aim at the pending XM/Sirius merger, saying the proposed combination of satellite radio companies would have an adverse impact on local AM/FM stations.

Representatives from Clear Channel met with Federal Communications Commission staff last week on the deal, complaining to regulators that the satellite radio companies are "constrained by very few regulations, including little if any, content regulation." The radio company stated in a filing detailing its FCC meeting that XM and Sirius provide content that can be deemed indecent, and that programming has traditionally been fined on local radio.

In addition, Clear Channel said a combined satellite radio company would control more spectrum than all of FM and AM radio combined. Also, "The merged company would enjoy a dual revenue stream and could easily outbid local radio for talent and programming, and erode our advertising base," Clear Channel said in its comments.

On programming, Clear Channel said its particular concern is with local sports coverage. Asked the company, "Will it only be accessible to listeners who pay for the privilege?"

And Clear Channel added in its filing, "Were the FCC to determine that the creation of a satellite goliath is in the public interest, it would be nothing more nor less than government intervention in favor of one company and one pay technology to the detriment of thousands of local broadcasters, free, over-the-air radio and the listening public."

gynecometrist

07-23-2008, 08:25 PM

FCC Reaches Tentative Deal
To Approve XM-Sirius Merger
By AMY SCHATZ
July 23, 2008 7:09 p.m.

WASHINGTON – A tentative deal has been reached by a majority of commissioners at the Federal Communications Commission to approve the merger of Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. and XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc., a FCC source close to the review said Wednesday.

Republican commissioner Deborah Taylor Tate is the only FCC member left to vote on the deal and she is expected to do so shortly, two FCC officials close to the negotiations said. She is expected to sign off on the deal in exchange for a consent decree that resolves several enforcement issues involving the satellite radio companies and a combined fine of about $20 million, an FCC source close to the deal said.

Ms. Tate has also asked for a variety of other minor conditions, an FCC source said. An adviser to Ms. Tate did not respond to a call for comment. Exact details about the deal are not known since FCC officials and lawyers for the companies appear to still be working them out.

Ms. Tate's vote would finally end the agency's 13-month review of the deal. Her vote is critical for the deal's approval since the rest of the five-member board remained evenly split on the deal.

As of Wednesday morning, both of the FCC's two Democratic commissioners had voted against the deal. Democrat Jonathan Adelstein announced his decision in a statement, noting he was hoping for a "bipartisan solution" but that the other commissioners weren't interested.

Last week, Mr. Adelstein proposed conditions including a six-year price cap, a 25% channel set-aside for non-commercial and minority-owned stations and interoperable radios that would receive digital signals from terrestrial radio stations.

FCC chairman Kevin Martin had made it clear to the rest of the commissioners Tuesday evening that Mr. Adelstein's conditions would not be a focus of the negotiations, an agency source said.

In recent days, Ms. Tate has been the center of negotiations, as the companies have wrangled over how to resolve several outstanding enforcement issues that have been raised. They include issues involving complaints that some of the satellite radio receivers exceeded FCC power limits and bled into the signals of some local radio stations.

Concerns have also been raised that Sirius has yet to bring to market an interoperable radio despite an FCC requirement that it develop one. Broadcasters have also complained that satellite booster towers were placed in nonapproved locations.

Habib Haddad

07-24-2008, 10:19 AM

The Federal Communications Commission said today it fined XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio about $20 million for past technical violations, in what may be the final step before approving the companies' merger.

FCC Chairman Kevin J. Martin said XM was fined $17.5 million and Sirius $2.2 million for violations regarding the companies' use of certain radio receivers and terrestrial repeaters that were not compliant with the agency's technical rules.

The enforcement of the past offenses was an issue Republican Commissioner Deborah Taylor Tate had pushed before she would agree to the merger. Robert Kenney, an FCC spokesman, said she had urged the companies be fined $8 million. After his own review of the violations, Martin increased the amount, Kenney said.

"This is significant in moving forward with the merger," Martin said in an interview.

Tate is the last of the five-member agency to yet announce how she would vote on the merger of District-based XM and Sirius of New York. So far votes are split along party lines with the two Republicans, Martin and Robert McDowell, in favor and Democrats Michael Copps and Jonathan Adelstein opposed.

The merger, which has been under review by the FCC for 16 months, has been criticized by dozens of lawmakers, states' attorneys general and consumer groups as harmful for consumers as a monopoly satellite radio provider could lead to higher prices and fewer options for programming and receivers. But it has passed antitrust scrutiny by the Department of Justice.

Sirius confirmed it is working with the FCC to resolve the outstanding enforcement of its technical violations. It said XM would shut down a total of 100 repeaters, or radio towers, that violated rules of interference. Sirius will shut down 11 such repeaters.

Martin said XM was fined much more than Sirius because so many more of their towers were too tall, too powerful or had other violations.

In addition, Martin said when XM was supposed to bring their receivers and repeaters into compliance at the FCC, they are supposed to turn those technologies off while waiting for authorization from the agency. XM did not.

"My concern was that there was not significant enough of a fine," Martin said.

With the penalty and commitments agreed upon by the companies to cap prices for three years after the merger, offer a la carte programming, and increase minority programming, the merger appeared poised to move forward.

He said Tate has submitted edits to her proposal and "everyone seems to be in agreement on the proposal."

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