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 STATEMENT  OF  COMMISSIONER  MICHAEL  J.  COPPS 
 Re:  Creation  of  a  Low  Power  Radio  Service  (FCC  05-  75) 
 This  proceeding  is  a  welcome  step  towards  addressing  long  outstanding  questions  regarding  low-power  FM  radio  service.  These  locally-  based  stations  which  are  licensed  to  churches,  schools,  and  other 
 community  organizations  increase  localism  and  diversity  in  our  media.  They  are  already  helping  in  significant  ways  to  meet  the  needs  of  under-  represented  communities.  They  are  benefiting  local  talent  by 
 providing  more  outlets  for  airplay.  They  are  providing  community  coverage  in  often  strikingly-  successful  ways.  As  fewer  and  fewer  conglomerates  control  the  airwaves,  there  is  an  even  greater  need  for  low 
 power  radio.  I  look  forward  to  a  full  record  on  the  questions  raised  in  this  Notice  and  an  expeditious  resolution  of  this  proceeding. 
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