Broadband is the hot issue these days. Everyone seems to agree that broadband is important. Where they differ is on who needs broadband and how to pay for the rollout. When the Ohio Digital Divide Working Group met with a representative of Ken Blackwell's campaign, we found their stance is that broadband is important to businesses. We think it's important to businesses and residents. This is a common difference in philosophy - focus on the business aspect, focus on the citizens or spend the extra time and focus on both. I think Ted Strickland got it right. Hmm, wait, is that the one we were involved with? Important note - we'll provide input to anyone's broadband platform - just ask us.

We seem to be seeing the issue pop up more and more. Good evidence is the two federal events happening in Ohio in a few weeks.
1.) Sen. Mike DeWine and the USDA Rural Development are hosting a Broadband and Telecommunications Financing Conference.
2.) Sen. George Voinovich is holding a field hearing on the Appalachian Regional Commission, about half of which will focus on their telecommunications initiatives.