* FCC extends deadline for leased-access reports
By Mike Robuck
On Wednesday, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) extended the deadline to July 15 for cable operators to file reports pertaining to leased-access rates, usage, complaints and channel placements.
On Feb. 1, the FCC released an order that was designed to lower the rates that cable operators could charge in an effort to make it more affordable to lease space on cable systems.
Before the extension, the reports were due yesterday. The FCC also extended its voluntary comment date from May 15 to July 31, related to its proposal that the leased-access rate cuts not apply to infomercial and shopping networks.
* Sprint names Brust as CFO
By Traci Patterson
Sprint Nextel has named Robert H. Brust as the company’s new CFO, effective immediately. Brust previously served as the CFO for Eastman Kodak Co. and Unisys Corp., following a 31-year career with General Electric Co.
As expected, Sprint reported a continued loss of wireless subscribers and a continued decline in overall revenue for its fourth-quarter 2007 (story here).
* Walter Kaitz Foundation prepares for Cable Show ‘08
By Traci Patterson
The Walter Kaitz Foundation, the cable industry’s foundation for diversity, has announced plans for its 9th-Annual Supplier Diversity Connection Workshop in conjunction with The Cable Show ’08.
The Kaitz Foundation also released plans for a first-time program – Cable Cares About Diversity in Engineering and Technology – to be produced in conjunction with BET Networks. The program will introduce minority students and professionals to technical opportunities available in the cable industry.
The Foundation will conclude three days of convention activities by co-producing a panel with the Cabletelevision Advertising Bureau (CAB) focused on the importance of diversifying the workforce and marketing efforts to expand a business.
More Broadband Direct:
• Comcast’s revenue up, basic subs down in Q1
• Charter boosts broadband speeds in parts of Mo., Ill.
• Sezmi unveils next-gen TV 2.0 platform
• Verizon serves up HD VOD in Oregon
• AT&T to launch mobile TV in 58 markets Sunday
• SCTE Foundation announces Q1 grants
• Report: Mobile Internet extends audience reach for some sites
