needs of local community said local journalistic institutions are themselves in crisis with financial, technological and behavioral changes taking place in our society. yet there is universal agreement that healthy journalism is a vital ingredient in a democratic society. citizens in need trusted sources of information about how their government and major institutions function. only a thriving news media can serve as a check on a powerful government. at this moment of tremendous change, what course should policy take? how can we guarantee the survival of an independent media serving the public interest? what role can government policy makers play that does not breach first amendment protections? to answer these and other questions, we have assembled a panel of experts who have different points of view that promise us a very lively discussion. so let me begin by introducing the panelists. first, and if you'll raise your