#emergencycommunications — Public Fediverse posts

NSSLGlobal backs veterans’ sailing voyage around UK

NSSLGlobal is providing satellite communications support for the Full Circle veterans’ sailing expedition around the UK. The voyage…
#UnitedKingdom #UK #Europe #EU #charity #Connectivity #defence #EmergencyCommunications #Fundraising #GreatBritain #mentalhealth #NorthernIreland #Notforprofit(NFP) #NSSLGlobal #rehabilitation #resilience #Scotland #storytelling #Telcos #UnitedKingdom(UK) #veterans #Wales
https://www.europesays.com/2981029/

https://www.europesays.com/uk/952158/ NSSLGlobal backs veterans’ sailing voyage around UK #Britain #Charity #connectivity #Defence #EmergencyCommunications #England #Fundraising #GreatBritain #MentalHealth #NorthernIreland #NotForProfit(NFP) #NSSLGlobal #Rehabilitation #Resilience #Scotland #Storytelling #Telcos #UK #UnitedKingdom #UnitedKingdomUK #Veterans #Wales

HOA Victory: How Indiana’s New Law Is Breaking the Silence for Future Radio Operators

1,502 words, 8 minutes read time.

On March 12, 2026, Governor Mike Braun signed Indiana House Bill 1152 into law, marking a historic shift in the long-standing battle between amateur radio operators and homeowners associations. This legislation, which officially takes effect on July 1, 2026, prohibits HOAs from adopting or enforcing rules that flatly ban amateur radio antennas, towers, or feedlines. For decades, men across the country have put off pursuing their amateur radio licenses simply because they lived in deed-restricted communities where an outdoor antenna was a contractual impossibility. Indiana has now broken that stalemate by creating a legal framework where the utility of the Amateur Radio Service is balanced against neighborhood aesthetics. This move serves as a critical test case for other states, proving that common-sense protections for emergency-ready citizens can coexist with modern residential standards.

The core of this victory lies in how it addresses the “private contract” loophole that has historically left hams in the cold. While a federal ruling known as PRB-1 has long required local governments and municipalities to “reasonably accommodate” amateur radio antennas, that protection never extended to private homeowners associations. When you bought a home in an HOA, you effectively signed away your right to install an antenna, regardless of how much public good your radio station might provide during a blackout or natural disaster. Indiana’s new law changes the game by treating amateur radio equipment with the same level of respect already afforded to satellite dishes and flagpoles. It acknowledges that a licensed operator is not just a hobbyist, but a federally regulated asset who needs an external “ear” to the world to be effective.

For many men, the appeal of amateur radio is rooted in a desire for self-reliance and community service. Whether it is the technical challenge of bouncing a signal off the ionosphere or the satisfaction of being the only person in the neighborhood who can communicate when the cell towers fail, the hobby offers a unique blend of skill and utility. However, the fear of an HOA “cease and desist” letter has been a major deterrent. Indiana’s approach removes that barrier for future developments, stating that associations formed or documents created after June 30, 2026, cannot prohibit these vital installations. This forward-looking stance ensures that as new communities are built, the infrastructure for emergency communication is baked into the neighborhood rather than litigated out of it.

The importance of this development cannot be overstated when we look at the national landscape. For years, the American Radio Relay League has been pushing for federal legislation known as the Amateur Radio Parity Act. While that bill has seen various iterations in Congress, progress at the federal level has often been slow and bogged down by bureaucratic friction. Indiana decided not to wait for Washington. By passing HB 1152, the state has provided a “proof of concept” that state-level intervention is a viable path forward. It sends a clear message to other state legislatures: protecting the rights of radio enthusiasts is a win for public safety and a win for the individual liberty of homeowners who want to use their property to serve the greater good.

Understanding the technical necessity of an outdoor antenna is key to understanding why this law matters so much. A radio is only as good as its antenna, and physics is a stubborn mistress. While some hams try to hide wire antennas in their attics or run “stealth” setups that look like rain gutters, these are often compromises that severely limit the range and reliability of the station. In an emergency, a compromise antenna might be the difference between getting a distress signal out and sitting in silence. Indiana’s law recognizes that “effective” communication requires an “outdoor” presence. By protecting the right to have an external antenna and the feedlines that connect it to the radio, the law ensures that Indiana’s hams are operating at full capacity, ready to step in when traditional infrastructure fails.

The impact of this law also touches on the social fabric of the radio community. Amateur radio has always been a way for men to connect across geographic and social boundaries, sharing technical knowledge and forming “nets” that watch over their local areas. When an HOA bans antennas, it effectively silences these voices and prevents new members from joining the fold. By opening the door to antenna installations, Indiana is fostering a new generation of “Elmers”—the experienced operators who mentor newcomers. This law doesn’t just protect metal in the air; it protects the transfer of knowledge and the growth of a community that prides itself on being ready for anything.

Critics of such laws often worry about “antenna farms” devaluing property or creating eyesores. However, the Indiana legislation is a masterclass in compromise. It doesn’t give a ham carte blanche to build a three-hundred-foot tower in a quarter-acre backyard. Instead, it creates a standard of “reasonable” accommodation. This means that while an HOA cannot say “no” to an antenna, they can still work with the homeowner on placement and aesthetics, much like they do with satellite dishes. This collaborative approach lowers the temperature of the conflict. It moves the conversation from “you can’t do that” to “how can we make this work for everyone?” This is exactly the kind of blueprint that other states need to follow if they want to modernize their property laws without triggering a revolt from residential developers.

For those looking toward the future, the Indiana victory is a call to action. It demonstrates that when radio enthusiasts organize and present their case to lawmakers—emphasizing the public service, the technical education, and the emergency preparedness aspects of the hobby—they can win. The tide is turning against overly restrictive deed covenants that treat every outdoor structure as a threat to property values. People are beginning to realize that a home is more than just an investment vehicle; it is a place where a citizen should be able to exercise a federal license to help their neighbors. Indiana has set the pace, and now the eyes of the nation are on other state capitals to see who will be next to recognize the value of the amateur radio operator.

As we look at the broader significance of this law, it is clear that we are entering a new era of “Antenna Parity.” For too long, amateur radio was the only federally licensed service that lacked protection against private land-use restrictions. Television viewers got their rights in 1996 with the OTARD rules, and those who wanted to fly the American flag got their protections in 2005. It is only fitting that the men and women who provide the backbone of emergency communications finally receive their due. Indiana’s HB 1152 is not just a win for the “Hoosier State”; it is a beacon of hope for every prospective ham who has been waiting for the legal “all clear” to put up a mast and start talking to the world.

Call to Action

The time for sitting on the sidelines while your neighborhood association dictates your technical capabilities is coming to an end. Indiana has proven that with the right legislative push, the “HOA problem” isn’t an immovable object, but a hurdle that can be cleared with persistence and a focus on public safety. If you have been holding off on getting your Amateur Radio License because you were worried about where to put the antenna, now is the time to change your perspective. Use the momentum from this victory to start your journey; study the tech, understand the gear, and get ready for the day your state follows Indiana’s lead.

Take the first step toward self-reliance and community service by finding a local radio club or an online study group today. Whether you are interested in emergency preparedness, technical experimentation, or just the challenge of long-distance communication, your voice belongs on the airwaves. Don’t let a deed restriction define your reach—start preparing now so that when the towers go up in your neighborhood, you are ready to key the mic and join the global community of operators.

D. Bryan King

Sources

• Indiana General Assembly – House Bill 1152 Official Page
• Amateur Radio Newsline: Indiana Law Protects Ham Radio Antennas
• ARRL: The History and Status of the Amateur Radio Parity Act
• BillTrack50: Indiana HB1152 Summary and Action History
• Greyline Performance: HOA Antenna Legislation Resource Center
• FCC Guide: Over-the-Air Reception Devices (OTARD) Rule
• ARRL: Understanding PRB-1 and Municipal Limits
• South Whidbey Fire/EMS: Use of Radios in Neighborhood Emergencies
• LegiScan: Indiana House Bill 1152 Full Text and Progress
• Radio-Electronics: The Importance of Antenna Height and Placement
• Ready.gov: Building an Emergency Kit with Communication Tools
• Ham Radio Outlet: A Guide to Getting Your First License

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this post are solely those of the author. The information provided is based on personal research, experience, and understanding of the subject matter at the time of writing. Readers should consult relevant experts or authorities for specific guidance related to their unique situations.

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Massachusetts cyberattack hits Pepperell and regional dispatch #Cyberattack #RegionalDispatch #PublicSafety #EmergencyCommunications #Massachusetts #cybersecurity https://dysruptionhub.com/pepperell-cyberattack-massachusetts/

LPWAN Meshes: ClusterDuck Protocol - Purpose-Built for Emergencies

https://web.brid.gy/r/https://gaggl.com/blogs/2026-03-12-lpwan-meshes-clusterduck-protocol-deep-dive/

Public Media: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (HBO)

Nov 17, 2025

John Oliver discusses the vital role public media plays in the lives of many Americans, how the Trump Administration’s massive budget cuts could impact those Americans directly, and why Mr. Bean is the greatest British comedian in history. Ya, that’s right, Rowan “Mr. Bean” Atkinson.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yknMJOgy2pA

#lastweektonight #CPBFunding #CPBCuts #PublicRadio #CommunityRadio #USPol #TrumpSucks #NativeAmericanRadio #CultureOfWar
#TrumpSucks #NativePublicMedia
#PublicMedia #CommunityRadio #EmergencyCommunications
#CorporationForPublicBroadcasting

Send Email Anywhere: Winlink for New Amateur Radio Enthusiasts

2,097 words, 11 minutes read time.

When the internet works, we rarely think about how much we rely on it. But what happens when it doesn’t? Hurricanes knock out power grids, wildfires melt fiber lines, and remote expeditions often operate hundreds of miles from the nearest cell tower. In those moments, email isn’t just convenience—it’s a lifeline. Enter Winlink, a system that allows you to send and receive email without a single byte of traditional internet.

This guide isn’t just for licensed amateur radio operators, though you may find yourself becoming one by the end. Instead, it’s for the curious builder, the aspiring communicator, and the man who values practical capability. Mastering Winlink prepares you for emergencies, expeditions, and even the challenge of earning your ham radio license—not as a theoretical exercise but as a tool you can actually use.

What is Winlink?

At its core, Winlink is a global messaging system designed to function where the internet cannot. It uses radio frequencies to transmit email through a network of gateway stations strategically placed across the world. These stations receive your message via radio, route it through their servers, and deliver it to the wider internet—or, if the internet is down, to another radio operator entirely.

Winlink has been a cornerstone of emergency communications for decades, with its origins dating back to the late 1990s when amateur radio operators recognized the growing importance of digital messaging. Unlike traditional voice-based ham radio, Winlink provides structured, readable, and archivable messages—a major advantage in emergency operations where accuracy can mean the difference between help arriving or being lost in the static.

Today, Winlink is more than a backup plan. It’s used by sailors crossing oceans, missionaries working in remote areas, disaster response teams, and adventurers who understand that connection should never depend solely on cell towers. As the official Winlink site describes, the system is “a worldwide radio messaging system that uses radio pathways where the Internet is not present.”

What You Need to Get Started

One of the strengths of Winlink is that it scales with your level of commitment and experience. At the most basic level, you’ll need a radio capable of data transmission, a computer running Winlink Express, and a way to connect the two—usually a sound card interface or dedicated radio modem.

A common beginner setup starts with a simple VHF/UHF radio, such as a dual-band handheld transceiver, which can connect to nearby Winlink gateways operating on local frequencies. As your experience grows, high-frequency (HF) radios open the door to global coverage, allowing you to connect to distant stations when local ones aren’t available.

The computer is equally essential. Winlink Express, the software that drives most amateur Winlink activity, provides a familiar email-like interface with the ability to compose, send, and receive messages—while managing the often-complex process of encoding and decoding digital signals in the background. A modest laptop or even a rugged tablet can serve the role well, especially in field conditions where weight and power efficiency matter.

Finally, there’s power. Portable battery banks, solar panels, or generator setups ensure that your station stays on when the lights go out. This is where the survivalist mindset aligns with the hobbyist’s curiosity—Winlink is only as reliable as the hardware that supports it.

How Winlink Sends Email Without the Internet

Understanding how Winlink works under the hood adds depth to its appeal. At a high level, the process involves three main elements: the client software (Winlink Express), the radio, and the gateway network. When you compose a message, Winlink Express packages your text into a digital format that can be transmitted as a series of audio tones over the airwaves. These tones are received by a Winlink gateway station, which acts as a bridge between the radio world and the traditional internet.

If the internet is operational, the gateway forwards your message to its destination email server. If not, Winlink allows for radio-only routing, where your message travels across stations until it reaches the intended recipient—no fiber optic cables required.

Two primary connection methods make this possible. The first is Radio Frequency (RF) mode, where your signal travels over amateur radio frequencies to a gateway. The second is Telnet mode, which uses the internet directly, primarily for testing and training. Beginners often start with Telnet to learn the software before moving to full radio operations, where range, atmospheric conditions, and antenna placement all play a role.

The elegance of Winlink lies in its resilience. It doesn’t care if cell towers collapse, satellites go dark, or an entire region loses power. As long as one gateway remains reachable via radio waves, email can still flow.

Setting Up Winlink Express (Beginner-Friendly Walkthrough)

Getting started with Winlink Express is easier than most people expect, though it rewards careful attention to detail. Begin by downloading Winlink Express from the official Winlink website. The software is lightweight, requiring minimal computing power, but it is rich in features, so take time to explore its menus and configuration panels. Upon first launch, you will be prompted to create a Winlink account—this simply involves selecting a callsign (if you have one) or using a temporary tactical callsign for training until you are fully licensed.

Once your account is created, the software asks for your station information. Here, accuracy matters. Enter your location, radio type, and any details about how you will connect to the network. While beginners often start with Telnet mode to get comfortable with sending and receiving messages, the real magic happens when you move to radio frequency (RF) mode. This requires configuring your sound card interface or external modem to match your radio’s data capabilities, setting the correct baud rate, and fine-tuning your audio levels so that your signals are crisp and clear.

A good practice is to test with short, simple messages at first. Compose an email to yourself or a fellow operator, attach a small text file, and send it through a nearby gateway. Once received, verify that the message’s content is intact and legible. Over time, experiment with different frequencies, power settings, and antenna orientations to learn how changing conditions affect transmission quality. Each successful test builds confidence, and confidence is the foundation of reliable field communication.

Winlink in Real-World Scenarios

Winlink is not a theoretical exercise. It has been proven repeatedly in some of the most demanding conditions imaginable. When hurricanes devastate coastal regions and cellular infrastructure collapses, emergency communication teams turn to Winlink to coordinate rescue operations and deliver critical updates to relief agencies.

Sailors and maritime operators also rely on it daily. Imagine crossing the Pacific Ocean, hundreds of miles from the nearest internet hub, and still being able to send weather reports, position updates, and personal messages to family. Winlink bridges that gap seamlessly, often using high-frequency (HF) bands to cover immense distances where no other communication option is practical.

Outdoor adventurers—backpackers, mountaineers, hunters—value Winlink for its ability to provide a digital lifeline when venturing far beyond cellular coverage. A hiker deep in the Rockies, for instance, can check in with a support team or report an emergency location via GPS coordinates, all without relying on fragile smartphone connectivity.

But perhaps Winlink’s most valuable role is in structured emergency communications (EmComm) exercises. Across the United States, Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) groups run regular Winlink drills, sending forms such as ICS-213 general messages or weather reports to practice real-time coordination. For men who see preparedness not just as a hobby but as a responsibility, Winlink offers a tool that combines technical challenge with practical life-saving potential.

Practice Before You Need It

Owning the gear and installing the software is only half the equation. True proficiency comes from use—regular, deliberate, and preferably guided by experienced operators. Many radio clubs host Winlink training nets where members check in, send test messages, and share configuration tips. One example is the Tuesday Winlink Connect, a weekly session designed to sharpen skills and keep operators ready for real-world scenarios.

Practice also teaches the subtle art of troubleshooting. A misplaced setting, misaligned antenna, or weak signal can make the difference between a successful transmission and frustration. By testing under calm conditions, you build familiarity that pays dividends during emergencies when stress and urgency are high.

For beginners, practice should start simple. Use Telnet mode to simulate message flow and confirm that your software is configured correctly. Move to VHF or UHF packet sessions next, connecting to local gateways at modest distances. Finally, progress to HF operations, where propagation conditions introduce a fascinating layer of complexity. The more you practice, the more intuitive the system becomes—and the more confidence you carry into your first field deployment or real emergency activation.

Looking Ahead – Preparing for Your License

While this guide focuses on using Winlink, gaining a deeper understanding of amateur radio regulations and practices naturally prepares you for eventual licensing. The Technician Class license, often considered the gateway to amateur radio, provides access to VHF and UHF frequencies—sufficient for local Winlink gateway access and learning the fundamentals of on-air communication. For those seeking broader coverage through HF frequencies, the General Class license becomes the logical next step, unlocking the potential for long-distance email transmission over radio.

Familiarity with Winlink software, digital modes, and RF principles gives you an advantage when studying for these licenses. Concepts such as frequency allocation, propagation, and equipment operation are no longer abstract—they are skills you have applied firsthand. Many operators find that their first real-world experiences with Winlink inspire them to push deeper into the hobby, exploring not only licensing but also antenna theory, power management, and emergency communication protocols.

Local amateur radio clubs are excellent resources for bridging this gap. They offer study sessions, licensing exams, and, perhaps most importantly, a network of experienced mentors. These seasoned operators often share practical insights that go far beyond test preparation, helping new enthusiasts build reliable portable stations, troubleshoot equipment issues, and operate confidently under pressure. As you advance, consider sharing your own experience with Winlink to guide others—a true hallmark of the amateur radio tradition.

Conclusion

Winlink is more than a clever workaround for internet outages. It represents a mindset—a commitment to capability, resilience, and preparedness in a world that too often assumes technology will never fail. Whether you are drawn by the technical challenge, the thrill of operating independently, or the satisfaction of knowing you can send an email from the middle of nowhere, Winlink delivers. It bridges the gap between old-school radio tradition and modern digital utility, proving that innovation thrives where curiosity meets purpose.

This guide has only scratched the surface. From basic setup to advanced field deployment, Winlink offers endless opportunities for exploration. More importantly, every message sent, every drill completed, and every skill mastered moves you closer to becoming a fully licensed amateur radio operator—a step that will open new frequencies, new friendships, and new possibilities.

If you’ve read this far, you are no longer a casual observer. You are someone who sees the value in building practical skills that can make a real difference when it matters most. Don’t wait until the next power outage or storm to start learning. Install Winlink Express, send your first test email, and experience the satisfaction of digital messaging without a single byte of internet.

Better yet, join a live training session. The Tuesday Winlink Connect net is a perfect place to start. Here, you can practice in a supportive environment, learn from seasoned operators, and gain confidence with every transmission.

Finally, I invite you to share your thoughts, questions, or first-time experiences in the comments below. What challenges did you face? What worked best for you? By sharing, you help build a community of capable communicators—men who value skill, readiness, and the quiet confidence that comes from knowing they can reach out when others cannot.

D. Bryan King

Sources

• Winlink Global Messaging System
• ARRL: What is Ham Radio?
• ARRL: Getting Licensed
• ARRL: Introduction to Winlink
• RadioReference: Amateur Radio Resources
• QRZ.com: Callsign Database and Ham Community
• EmComm.org: Emergency Communications Training
• Winlink FAQ
• Winlink Express Overview
• Ham Radio Concepts (YouTube Channel)
• HamRadio.com – Equipment and Guides
• PrepperNet: Radio Communications for Preppers
• DXZone: Winlink Software and Tutorials
• eHam.net – Ham Radio Reviews and Forums
• GPS World: Winlink Overview

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this post are solely those of the author. The information provided is based on personal research, experience, and understanding of the subject matter at the time of writing. Readers should consult relevant experts or authorities for specific guidance related to their unique situations.

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#amateurRadioEmail #amateurRadioWinlink #disasterCommunications #emergencyCommunications #hamRadioDigitalMessaging #hamRadioEmergencySkills #hamRadioForBeginners #hamRadioOffGridEmail #HFRadioEmail #offGridCommunication #portableHamRadio #portableWinlinkStation #prepperRadioTools #radioEmailForBeginners #radioEmailSystem #sendEmailViaRadio #survivalRadioEmail #VHFUHFPacket #Winlink #WinlinkBeginnerGuide #WinlinkCommunications #WinlinkCommunicationsGuide #WinlinkCommunicationsTutorial #WinlinkEmail #WinlinkEmComm #WinlinkEmergencyDrill #WinlinkEmergencyUse #WinlinkEquipment #WinlinkExplained #WinlinkExpressGuide #WinlinkExpressSetup #WinlinkExpressTutorial #WinlinkForAdventurers #WinlinkForEmergencyCommunications #WinlinkForExpeditions #WinlinkForHamOperators #WinlinkForHikers #WinlinkForPreppers #WinlinkForSailing #WinlinkGateway #WinlinkGettingStarted #WinlinkGlobalSystem #WinlinkGuide #WinlinkGuide2025 #WinlinkHamRadioSystem #WinlinkMessageSystem #WinlinkNet #WinlinkOffGrid #WinlinkOperation #WinlinkOverview #WinlinkPracticeNet #WinlinkSetupGuide #WinlinkSetupInstructions #WinlinkSoftwareDownload #WinlinkSoftwareTutorial #WinlinkTips #WinlinkTraining #WinlinkTrainingResources #WinlinkTutorial

$179 billion for #Military projects, but $1 billion to keep Americans safe, informed and educated (via #PublicBroadcasting) is too much?!! They only want soldiers to fix the machines when they break down! They don't care about science, culture, building community, etc.

#Hypersonics, #AI, #droneSwarms: Pentagon pours $179 billion into R&D

by Kyle Gunn
Wed, July 16, 2025

https://www.yahoo.com/news/hypersonics-ai-drone-swarms-pentagon-205135850.html

#CultureOfWar #TrumpSucks #CPBCuts #NativePublicMedia #PublicMedia #CommunityRadio #MilitaryBudget #MoreSesameStreetLessWar #EmergencyCommunications #CorporationForPublicBroadcasting

$179 billion for #Military projects, but $1 billion to keep Americans safe, informed and educated (via #PublicBroadcasting) is too much?!! They only want soldiers to fix the machines when they break down! They don't care about science, culture, building community, etc.

#Hypersonics, #AI, #droneSwarms: Pentagon pours $179 billion into R&D

by Kyle Gunn
Wed, July 16, 2025

https://www.yahoo.com/news/hypersonics-ai-drone-swarms-pentagon-205135850.html

#CultureOfWar #TrumpSucks #CPBCuts #NativePublicMedia #PublicMedia #CommunityRadio #MilitaryBudget #MoreSesameStreetLessWar #EmergencyCommunications #CorporationForPublicBroadcasting

$179 billion for #Military projects, but $1 billion to keep Americans safe, informed and educated (via #PublicBroadcasting) is too much?!! They only want soldiers to fix the machines when they break down! They don't care about science, culture, building community, etc.

#Hypersonics, #AI, #droneSwarms: Pentagon pours $179 billion into R&D

by Kyle Gunn
Wed, July 16, 2025

https://www.yahoo.com/news/hypersonics-ai-drone-swarms-pentagon-205135850.html

#CultureOfWar #TrumpSucks #CPBCuts #NativePublicMedia #PublicMedia #CommunityRadio #MilitaryBudget #MoreSesameStreetLessWar #EmergencyCommunications #CorporationForPublicBroadcasting

$179 billion for #Military projects, but $1 billion to keep Americans safe, informed and educated (via #PublicBroadcasting) is too much?!! They only want soldiers to fix the machines when they break down! They don't care about science, culture, building community, etc.

#Hypersonics, #AI, #droneSwarms: Pentagon pours $179 billion into R&D

by Kyle Gunn
Wed, July 16, 2025

https://www.yahoo.com/news/hypersonics-ai-drone-swarms-pentagon-205135850.html

#CultureOfWar #TrumpSucks #CPBCuts #NativePublicMedia #PublicMedia #CommunityRadio #MilitaryBudget #MoreSesameStreetLessWar #EmergencyCommunications #CorporationForPublicBroadcasting

$179 billion for #Military projects, but $1 billion to keep Americans safe, informed and educated (via #PublicBroadcasting) is too much?!! They only want soldiers to fix the machines when they break down! They don't care about science, culture, building community, etc.

#Hypersonics, #AI, #droneSwarms: Pentagon pours $179 billion into R&D

by Kyle Gunn
Wed, July 16, 2025

https://www.yahoo.com/news/hypersonics-ai-drone-swarms-pentagon-205135850.html

#CultureOfWar #TrumpSucks #CPBCuts #NativePublicMedia #PublicMedia #CommunityRadio #MilitaryBudget #MoreSesameStreetLessWar #EmergencyCommunications #CorporationForPublicBroadcasting

#Trump Cuts to #PublicMedia Threaten #NativeAmerican Stations That Protect #Culture & #PublicHealth, Issue Alerts

July 18, 2025

"We speak to Loris Taylor, president of #NativePublicMedia, about the Trump administration’s drastic #defunding of public media and its impact on tribal nations. Fifty-nine #TribalRadioStations and one tribal #TelevisionStation that depend on federal funding will be among the first to face possible closure, putting some of the essential services that #PublicBroadcasting provides, including warning systems for missing #IndigenousWomen and girls, at risk.

"Taylor shares how Native-led public media helps preserve #IndigenousLanguages and helped keep communities informed during the peak of the COVID-19 #pandemic. She fears that without these same resources and 'with the #ClimateCrisis increasing, [we] are going to be operating on the margins of information and are not going to have real lifesaving information available to our citizens when they need it most.' "

Listen / watch / read transcript:
https://www.democracynow.org/2025/7/18/public_broadcasting_cuts_native_public_media

#ViewerSupportedNews #DemocracyNow #CulturalGenocide #EmergencyCommunications #CorporationForPublicBroadcasting #TrumpHatesThePoor #CorporateColonialism #LanguagePreservation #NativeAmericanNews #NativePublic #NativeAmericans #USPol

Only Two Republicans Voted Against #Trump Defunding #SesameStreet

Senate #Republicans just took a wrecking ball to #PublicBroadcasting.

Malcolm Ferguson
July 17, 2025

"Only two Republican senators broke the line to vote against their party’s plan to defund the #CorporationForPublicBroadcasting.

"#Alaska’s #LisaMurkowski and #Maine’s #SusanCollins joined Senate Democrats in opposition to Republican cuts to organizations like PBS and NPR, and the smaller stations that they fund. While PBS and NPR would still continue at the national level, the cuts would likely devastate those local stations that rely on them.

"The Senate approved $9 billion dollars of cuts early Thursday morning, with $1.1 billion in cuts to public broadcasting and $8.8 billion from foreign aid programs like #USAID, which #ElonMusk’s #DOGE slashed earlier this year.

" 'The vast majority of this funding, more than 70 percent, actually flows to local television and radio stations,' Collins said last month during an earlier stage of the deliberation. 'In #Maine, this funding supports everything from #EmergencyCommunications in rural areas to coverage of high school basketball championships and [a] locally produced high school quiz show. Nationally produced television programs such as #AntiquesRoadshow, #DanielTigersNeighborhood, are also enjoyed by many throughout our country.'

" 'I understand … the concern about subsidizing the national radio news programming that for years has had a discernibly partisan bent,' she added.
'There are, however, more targeted approaches to addressing that bias at NPR than rescinding all of the funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.' She backed up that thinking with her vote on Thursday morning, along with Murkowski."

https://newrepublic.com/post/198063/two-republican-senators-vote-against-trump-defunding-sesame-street

#CPB #CommunityRadio #PublicTelevision #GOPHatesSesameStreet #TrumpHatesSesameStreet #GOPAreHaters #Fascism #Corporatocracy #FuckTheGOP #CommunityRadio
#CollegeRadio #NativeAmericanRadio #SesameStreet #MisterRogers #ReadingRainbow #MollyOfDenali

Here we go again: mayor #blackout in Europe within some months. Great.
Hope my work on grid-independent communication will bear fruit in near future.

#loramesh #emergencycommunications #meshnet #meshtastic #meshcore

Remember folks... If #KesslerSyndrome / #KesslerEffect happens, satellite-based communications will be toast! Make sure you have other ways to communicate (two-way radios, Ham radios, bike messengers, runner relay route stops, etc.).

#EmergencyPreparedness #EmergencyCommunications #MutualAid #WereOnOurOwn

I am wondering how the mobile networks are holding in Spain (or not) and the emergency communication systems for police, firedepartements etcetera. lessons can probably be learned.

#spain #portugal #electricity #mobilenetworks #emergencycommunications

📡 Just found this great video on making a DIY adjustable J-Pole antenna by Mr. MuDs Ham Radio Time! It's affordable, easy to assemble, and perfect for classroom projects or emergency communications! 🎉
👉 Watch here: https://youtu.be/QBXRZAnvhaM) or Invidious: https://invidious.reallyaweso.me/watch?v=QBXRZAnvhaM
#HamRadio #DIY #POTA #SOTA #RadioAmateur #OutdoorAdventures #DIYProjects #PortableAntenna #EmergencyCommunications #AmateurRadio

Great story. It makes me concerned about the future of #emergencycommunications given the lack of #diversity of the #volunteers in #ARES and #RACES, as #climatechange and #climateemergency continues. 😟

ITU Publication: International Radio Frequencies for Disaster Relief

https://swling.com/blog/2025/01/itu-publication-international-radio-frequencies-for-disaster-relief/

#EmergencyCommunications #ITU

Notre Dame News: Simple changes to social media messaging can help persuade people to heed wildfire evacuation orders . “Effective communication during disasters is critical to saving lives, but getting people to heed warnings and follow evacuation orders can sometimes prove difficult. Relief organizations’ updates can inadvertently heighten fear and reduce public compliance with safety […]

https://rbfirehose.com/2025/01/10/notre-dame-news-simple-changes-to-social-media-messaging-can-help-persuade-people-to-heed-wildfire-evacuation-orders/

A Shining Moment for Ham Radio

https://swling.com/blog/2024/11/a-shining-moment-for-ham-radio/

#EmergencyCommunications #EmergencyPreparedness #HamRadio #HurricaneHelene

Ham Radio Workbench Podcast Episode 221: Hurricane Helene and Emergency Prep

https://swling.com/blog/2024/10/ham-radio-workbench-podcast-episode-221-hurricane-helene-and-emergency-prep/

#EmergencyCommunications #HamRadioWorkbench

From the Archives: When the fertilizer hits the fan radio kit

https://swling.com/blog/2024/10/from-the-archives-when-the-fertilizer-hits-the-fan-radio-kit/

#EmergencyCommunications #EmergencyPreparedness #EmergencyRadios #JockElliottKB2GOM #RobW4ZNG

As the U.S. prepares for the 2nd MAJOR Hurricane to hit the Gulf Coast in less than a month, in my latest "Ham on a Bike" blog post, I explore the topic, "It's My Frequency" #AmateurRadio #hamRadio #EmergencyCommunications

https://hamonabike.blogspot.com/2024/10/its-my-frequency-but.html

@ai6yr Snapped a photo of the kits at work that we can ship for #EmergencyCommunications during #disasters #hamradio

#Emergency #radio #frequencies in use in #Poland and #Czechia due to #flooding, please keep them free #amateur_radio #hamradio #CB #PMR446 #EmergencyAid #EmergencyCommunications #Europe

#earthquake #volcano #naturaldisasters #hamradio #emergencycommunications
Public Service Message from the Lost Cabin Press for the New Year. If there is no phone, no internet and no help, Ham Radio will always work. No expensive massive equipment or towering antennas needed, a simple transceiver, battery, some wire, a few watts and the world will hear you. A license (in the USA) is easy and cheap to obtain. There are thousands of radio operators on 24/7 around the world that communicate daily

From WTOP.com: “Rate limit exceeded: Local officials find ways to inform public following Twitter usage cap”

#BirdSite #EmergencyCommunications

https://wtop.com/local/2023/07/how-twitters-new-limits-threw-public-information-officials-for-a-little-bit-of-a-loop/

Looks like #hamradio #amateurradio #arrlfd2023 participants will get a real chance to test out their #emergencycommunications #emcomm skills this weekend with #tropicalstorm #bret
https://twitter.com/N4JAW/status/1670912017283141633?t=-Hp-Zk-dRuw2lqQCJA6T3Q&s=09

@Byte absolutely. It's part of the "DNA" (law) that creates the ham radio service. I could find a few articles but recommend searching #emcomm #emergencycommunications with #hamradio and see what you can find. Or you can type in any weather disaster and #amateurradio and see for yourself.

#Twitter #SocialMedia #emergencies #NaturalDisasters #PublicSafety #FirstResponders #EmergencyCommunications

Associated Press: Public safety accounts urge caution on Twitter after changes

https://apnews.com/article/technology-business-c3190e0920677e905fe0952dffb96185

#SocialMedia #gov #CommunityOutreach #EmergencyCommunications

StateScoop: Musk's changes create Twitter blues for government agencies

https://statescoop.com/musks-changes-create-twitter-blues-for-government-agencies/

Keeping Ham Radio Relevant Hack Chat - Join us on Wednesday, February 5 at noon Pacific for the Keeping Ham Radio Relevant Hack Chat with J... more: https://hackaday.com/2020/02/03/keeping-ham-radio-relevant-hack-chat/ #emergencycommunications #hackadaycolumns #amateurradio #thehackchat #js8call #emcomm #sota #wspr #ham