Apparently the Internet-access crisis has finally bounced above Threat Level Orange, forcing the Federal Communications Commission (well, two of its commissioners, anyway) into action. They're advocating a "national broadband strategy." The United States doesn't even rank in the top 10, worldwide, for broadband penetration. It's unacceptable to contemplate the notion of millions of Americans living without the ability to watch YouTube videos and upload photos to MySpace. The commissioners' proposal: Tap into the Universal Service Fund, a rural telephone subsidy program, to ensure everyone is wired into the great intarweb. It's the only way to spur entrepreneurial activity. Because what we really, really need is more people writing Facebook applications.

Microsoft wants to beam broadband Internet using dormant television airwaves, claiming it won't interfere with broadcasts. One small hitch: The sample device it sent to the FCC for testing to prove its claim was broken. [The Inquirer]

As AOL goes on another self-discovery retreat ("What is my business model? What is my power animal?"), here's what's beleaguering the portal/ISP/messaging service/media conglomerate in the real world.