Phil Lombardo
CEO
Citadel Communications

There's no question that the past few years have produced a difficult operating environment for broadcast stations. Consumers have more media and entertainment options than ever before, but are also more time-starved.

Thankfully, the clouds are beginning to part and revenues are beginning to climb, but this is no time to rest on our laurels. Now it is more critical than ever to make sure you have a strong vision and strategic plan for your business to help it thrive into the future.

There is one NAB event coming up that I try to never miss - the Futures Summit held November 7-9 in Rancho Palos Verdes, Calif.

Deadline Extended!
Deadline for registration and hotel discount is Tuesday, October 12.

www.nab.org/futures

The Futures Summit is an exclusive gathering of top broadcast executives focused solely on the future of our industry. The event showcases visionary thinkers, new media experts and analysts who discuss next generation technology that can revolutionize our business.

We have to be ready to capitalize on the future - to take our businesses places we may not have even thought of yet. Who could have predicted years ago the impact technologies like digital video recorders, music tagging or audio and video streaming would have on our business? By seizing the opportunities that new technologies provide, we can ensure broadcasting continues to be the top choice of news and entertainment for our viewers and listeners.

When the dark clouds come, it is the businesses with strong strategic vision and bold leadership that weather the storm.

If you have not yet made plans to attend this year's Futures Summit, I strongly encourage you to register today and visit www.nab.org/futures for more information.

Philip Lombardo is CEO of Citadel Communications. He has spent more than 30 years in the broadcast business and is a former joint board chairman of the National Association of Broadcasters.