August 6, 1997 STATEMENT OF COMMISSIONER SUSAN NESS REGARDING DESIGNATION OF BILL KENNARD AS FCC CHAIRMAN AND NOMINATION OF MICHAEL POWELL AS AN FCC COMMISSIONER I congratulate Bill Kennard on his designation by President Clinton as the next chairman of the Federal Communications Commission. Bill has been an outstanding General Counsel. The agency has been well served by his experience, his intellect, his temperament, and his integrity. He will make an exceptional chairman. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with him over the past three years and look forward to our serving together once he is confirmed by the Senate. I am also delighted that the President has nominated Michael Powell as a Member of the Commission. Michael's expertise in antitrust matters will be invaluable as the Commission proceeds with its efforts to foster competition in all segments of the communications industry. In addition, his enthusiasm and collegial spirit will contribute to the Commission's future success. The changing composition of the Commission must neither diminish nor delay our efforts to fulfill the pro-competitive policies of the Telecommunications Act of 1996. Much remains to be done to secure the benefits the Act envisaged for families, education, consumers and the economy. I look forward to tackling these challenges with Bill, Michael and my other new colleagues upon their confirmation. -- FCC --