PITTSBURGH, February 8, 2008 – The American Cable Association (ACA) this year will proudly celebrate 15 years of representing independent cable operators throughout America. Since 1993, the ACA has represented small- and medium-sized cable operators before the U.S.Congress, Federal Communications Commission and other federal agencies. In the years before ACA was formed, small and often rural community cable providers had little support and stood alone without a unified voice in their legislative, regulatory and business battles.
After 15 years, the ACA now represents more than 1,100 independent cable operators serving more than 7 million subscribers in mostly rural markets across the U.S. With independent cable systems operating in an environment that continues to favor big over small, ACA’s mission is as clear and its resolve as strong as ever. In Washington, D.C., the association speaks out to ensure regulatory and legislative decisions fairly meet the interests of its members and their ability to provide advanced services to customers in hometown America.
“ACA’s 15th anniversary is a celebration of the strength and resilience of independent cable operators,” said Matthew M. Polka, ACA president and CEO. “In a world of consolidation and mega-media conglomerates, independent operators have combined their innovative spirit with the efforts of the American Cable Association to meet the unique needs of small and rural communities. We make a strong case that the country’s economic health, particularly in smaller markets and rural areas across America, is intertwined with success of ACA members who often are the only operators in their communities providing consumers and businesses with video, voice, and broadband services. After all these years, our members remain dedicated to offering the most advanced services in hometown America, and that is cause for celebration.”
This year’s commemoration, appropriately themed, “15 Years Fighting for Independents,” will include a series of activities throughout 2008 to honor ACA members and their achievements. ACA recently released a commemorative edition of the ACA 2008 Industry Planner and Directory and launched an online gallery of photos and milestones reflecting the organization’s rich history and work on behalf of independent cable operators. In addition, ACA kicks off its 15th Annual Summit on April 7 with a special evening anniversary celebration at the Mellon Auditorium in Washington, D.C.
About the American Cable Association
Based in Pittsburgh, the American Cable Association is a trade organization representing 1,100 smaller and mediumsized, independent cable companies who provide broadband services for more than 7 million cable subscribers primarily located in rural and smaller suburban markets across America. Through active participation in the regulatory and legislative process in Washington, D.C., ACA’s members work together to advance the interests of their customers and ensure the future competitiveness and viability of their business. For more information, visit www.americancable.org.