Amateur Radio Site Sinks To New Lows - Hams Using Free Speech As Tool For Cyberbullying

Just when the vast majority of those within the amateur radio / shortwave circles thought that those who run Hamsexy could no longer sink to new lows, we receive a surprise. For those who are unaware, Hamsexy is a controversial website whose owner(s) have defended as being a place where they and their followers can present their own opinions about amateur radio related topics, events, and whatever individuals they deem worthy of vicious attack. 

Over the course of their existence of their group, they have engaged in various "wars" with such notable places as QRZ, the ARRL and its emergency service / emergency communications education section known as Amateur Radio Emergency Service, The U.S. Government Radio Civil Emergency Service (RACES), and the National Weather Service "Skywarn" program; just to name a few. 

In past years, Hamsexy has seen fit to openly bash the LGBT community; including LGBT amateur operators. This group has been refused their own Echolink node, and only attracts a disproportionately small, yet, angry crowd of police officers, fire/ems personnel, overly aggressive members of the military, and civilians who receive personal gratification from participating in wolf-pack methods of cyber - bullying. 

The members of Hamsexy are a mix of licensed amateur operators who never (or almost never) perform control point amateur radio operations, but still, they attend big name events like Dayton Hamvention, and Florida Hamcation for the purpose of snapping libelous / defamatory photos for publication on their site and then spin their stories in ways that directly bully specific groups of social classes such as overweight and disabled persons. This group hails mostly from Vancouver, Canada; and the state of Michigan, with some members hailing from the east coast of the U.S. 

Over the last two years, Shortwave America has monitored the known simplex and repeater frequency pairs regularly frequented by Hamsexy members in places where their members are known to congregate / live in higher concentrations. Little to zero operation or other amateur radio participation by their members has been observed.

Attention was called to the comments section by an anonymous fan of Shortwave America, and after thorough investigation, it was determined that the specific comments were worthy of being shamed in public due to the level of ignorance, weight of unjust judgement, level of aggressiveness, lack of any real amateur radio knowledge, and the poor judgement it reflects upon Hamsexy as part of the journalistic presence of amateur radio. The comments in the screen caps below have been on the site since March 27th, 2011. 

The Hamsexy group has made their history of going undetected as a group of cyber-vigilantes by using clever arguments to mask their true spirit and intent of psychological violence as an aggressive pack of cyber - predators. The behavior they continually display and allow to be displayed on their site by their site users cannot even reasonably be argued as "parody" or "satire" given their solid history of using their site to attack those who are legally protected from even cyber-attack when such wording is clearly or reasonably expected to be taken as a whole to the victim(s) as a show of hate.

To wit, the same, tired, defense posted by "Wes" below:

                       

"Wes" and other Hamsexy members have wrongfully perpetuated a bad image of Amateur Radio / radio enthusiasts by way of over-generalization rooted in their own frustrations, their own short - comings, and their own "pedantry" in regards to the diverse social make-up of the radio enthusiast crowd. Preponderance of the evidence easily shows that Hamsexy lost any credibility they may have otherwise held a long time ago. Unchecked perceptions, pre-conceptions, over - generalizations, prejudices, hate, and a dangerous gang (wolf-pack) mentality shine through at Hamsexy. 

In an article on their site is a photo of a blonde, female, Dayton Hamvention attendee, who is of average size and appearance, wearing a pink baseball cap and white shorts. The group used her photo in a way that unfairly stereotyped her with implied sexualization in a negative tone. Per the overall wording of their article, a reasonable person would say it borders on defamation, and could easily gamble on a successful lawsuit based on their unlawful commercial use of her image since they more than likely do not have her consent.

Commercial use of an image means that you snap a photo of a person or corporate logo, and post it on the internet or elsewhere in a publication without express permission of the person or corporation  whether or not you make a profit from it. The argument of the person being in a pubic place and lack of a reasonable expectation of privacy does not win in a case like this. Tsk, tsk! 

The evidence shown forth by Shortwave America shows a clear negligence on part of Hamsexy to adhere to / obey time honored and respected journalistic ethics. The proliferation of state and Federal anti-bullying laws regulating the use of the internet for such activities could easily mean heavy legal penalties for Hamsexy if they continue to use their site to attack people or allow their website users to attack others on their behalf. 

There is an article at their site this year where the comments section went unmoderated when a commenter equaled radio enthusiasts to pedophiles. The group at Hamsexy fails to recognize responsibility for their site management and behavior. If someone had committed suicide as a result of their conduct, their history shows that they would likely have continued to bully even the family of the victim as other hard-core bullies have done such as in the case of a teen-age girl in Mentor, Ohio and the case of Jamey Rodemeyer.

Although anti-bullying laws are quickly catching up to technology, police don't always know how to properly use them, states attorney's don't always know how to properly file the charge(s) nor how to properly prosecute such cases. Lack of proper legal training has much to do with this, thus, law enforcement and states attorney's are very nervous about using these laws to their full potential. 

The public needs to know that amateur radio / shortwave listening has actually helped quite a few people to independently pursue their own careers in radio, music, electronics, computer engineering, etc. Shortwave America is an example of this, as is the fact that career development via amateur radio was highlighted in a 2010 edition of Amateur Radio Newsline. People like Art Bell, Scott Childers, a long list of NASA Astronauts, and a long list of others to include celebrities have been inspired or helped in some way by amateur radio or shortwave listening. Hamsexy won't ever bring up these facts, however. 

Occupy Shortwave Movement Starts With Success

Early on in the evening of November 6th, 2011, after watching a fast decline in amateur radio use, shortwave broadcast, and growing fatigue by members of the radio community on both ends of the spectrum, hastag #OccupyShortwave started showing up on twitter. Before a complete hour could elapse, pirate operators started showing up on 6945Khz and then the famed NW7US almost immediately joined the quickly growing movement.

Why occupy shortwave? To bring about a new growth, awareness, and popularity to both the amateur radio and shortwave / HF radio communities. Members of the movement want to get the message through that there is more than just studying a license manual and going to class, and earning a license. There is more than being an SWL who sits at the radio receiver spinning a dial, chasing QSL cards and free swag from shortwave stations and amateur operators.

#OccupyShortwave members are the 1% trying to reach the 99% who are not yet amateur operators or SWL's. There is a whole lot of science and learning involved in radio. There is truly something for everyone, whether it be those of you who are math geniuses who love electronic component level work, those of you who like to enjoy the science of antenna feedlines, antennas, power supplies, and radio propagation which in turn gets you into space weather, or those of you who like to engineer sound, learn about geography and culture, radio / satellite communications, maritime radio operations, etc.

Yes, WE are the 1% who also want those 99% folks, the "contest only" operators, to get back in the shack and make REAL contacts without needing a contest to do it. We want the 99% out here in the community to get involved with radio and discover the magic they have been missing for so long!

Communicate outside the establishment, become a convert from the 99% to the 1% who educate and enable people to become involved in radio. Radio involvement could be an avocation for you, or a career. It could be a volunteer experience on the weekends or during times of distress, it could be whatever experience you are looking to have; but you have to actually take that initiative. Together, if we all get "radio active", we CAN be the 99% instead of the 1% who are hardly noticed or cared about anymore.

Together, we can put radio on the map again! #OccupyShortwave on FACEBOOK and twitter. The internet is only a tool, a promotion medium. The internet relies upon an infrastructure that can always have the plug pulled. Occupying shortwave and amateur radio lawfully, means that we all get behind the mic in the studio or in our shacks and fire up the bands according to license class privilege to make a difference!

WE WILL Occupy!  

The Future of Shortwave Broadcasting by Bob Zanotti

The Future Of Shortwave Broadcasting by Bob Zanotti

There is much pessimistic talk today about the validity of shortwave as the prime vehicle of international broadcasting. Critics present several arguments: high operating costs, environmental considerations, a need to re-channel available funds into satellites and the Internet, and what is loosely termed a decline in shortwave. From the point of view of the broadcast planner and decision-maker, this catalogue of negative arguments appears sound and reasonable. From the perspective of a large segment of the audience, however, reductions in shortwave services are inexplicable and a source of frustration and even anger.

Let us examine the issues carefully, using the senses and instincts of the investigative journalist. We are in a period of restructuring, a contemporary buzzword that is used and abused so frequently as a catch-all excuse to justify virtually any action taken by management, regardless of how inappropriate. We are in a period where human endeavor is scientized, and we no longer have faith in our common sense judgment as human beings. This is the age of consultants and high technology. The media are ruled by time-and-motion studies and so-called market forces. Radio and television no longer produce programs, but products. Today there are no listeners, there are markets.

How did we arrive at this state of affairs? My view and that of seasoned colleagues is clear: international broadcasting is no longer directed by professional intuition. Instead, an army of theoreticians and technocrats, often with little or no broadcasting knowledge, experience or dedication, have taken control of the decision-making process in many organizations.

With limited experience of their own, these people are forced in desperation to turn to someone else for advice. These are the consultants, the industry gurus, in which so much hope is placed. But all too often, these ‘experts’ have overstated their own qualifications, and have to rely in turn on others for advice. Unfortunately, this ‘other’ advice often comes from individuals or institutions with vested commercial interests. These special interests also include broadcast technologies.

Let us get down to cases and examine the satellite broadcasting industry. Many billions of dollars have been invested in telecommunication satellite technology. It is elementary that the investors expect a return on their investments, and considering the limited life span of satellites, this return must be as fast as possible. The main thrust of broadcasting today is television, and it was for television that the current broadcast satellite technology was designed. In concrete terms, the concept of transmission capacity for these satellites was designed with TV in mind, not radio. Sound Broadcasting, to use the ITU terminology, was promoted later as a way to merchandise over-capacity and to improve the return on investment.

But the allocation and accessing of sound channels on satellites is user-unfriendly, and therefore unattractive for most people. Furthermore, although impressive statistics based on satellite-households are often quoted to support the satellite radio argument, only a very tiny fragment of this potential audience ever listens to radio via satellite. In Europe, where direct satellite radio is allegedly highly developed, an independent study revealed that a mere one percent of satellite households ever used their satellite receiver for sound broadcasting.

Mobility is another striking deficiency in present satellite sound broadcasting. Current technology does not permit us to carry a satellite receiver in our pocket and take it along on our travels. Furthermore, reception indoors is also virtually impossible. Cable distribution of international programs is often cited as a promising alternative to direct home satellite reception, but here too, cable installations are fixed; they cannot be used away from the home setting.

Superficially, the cost of shortwave as compared to satellite appears higher. But if the factors of market penetration and acceptability are considered, as well as the crucial factor of personal cost to the listener, shortwave wins hands down. There are literally millions upon millions of shortwave receivers in use. They are compact, portable, easy to use, and above all, cheap. Technically speaking, there is no other sound broadcasting medium that can compete with shortwave in these respects.

For years now, I have heard the repeated, tired refrain: “shortwave is dead”. I recall the teachings of C.G. Jung and his concept of Collective Consciousness, in which a prevailing belief or slogan, repeated often enough, and although even a lie, can influence the thinking of an entire group or even nation. Goebels, Hitler’s propaganda minister, embraced this concept, and used it to manipulate an entire nation, with cataclysmic results.

Powerful, manipulative forces are at work here. Although difficult to prove, there has even been speculation that considerable ‘promotional fees’ may have been paid in the process. A big part of the sales talk involves belittling shortwave as a relic of the past and exalting the virtues of technologies that are frankly not yet mature. This sounds good in today’s shallow-thinking, buzzword-ridden world, but in the final analysis it doesn’t make sense. To make the propaganda strategy complete, those who would question the slogans are conveniently labelled as uninformed, obstructionist, inflexible, old- fashioned, or generally lacking in vision.

Like it or not, from a purely technical point of view, the fact is, there is nothing at this moment to replace shortwave. One day there may be. In the meantime, it is good and wise to gain a foothold in the new technologies, but not to overestimate or over-represent their value. If market orientation is truly important, than we would have to admit that the demand is still for shortwave. Ironically, shortwave technology does not stand still either: there is a current effort to develop digital shortwave, which would go far in curing analogue shortwave’s qualitative shortcomings.

To quote the old saying: Let’s not throw the baby out with the bath water. Another popular and wise saying is: If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. I for one am in favor of new technology, provided it demonstrates a clear superiority to what is currently in use. In the case of shortwave, some would like to bury it before it has even died.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS REGARDING INTERNET BROADCASTING:

The above essay was written at a time when Internet audio streaming was still immature. Although radio over the Internet (audio or “radio” on demand, or “podcasting”) opens a new and wider vista for broadcasters and would-be broadcasters, the Internet as a primary medium exhibits the same deficiencies of mobility as does satellite broadcasting. In this sense, the terms “satellite” and “Internet” are synonymous.

Written in 2002 & revised in 2007

Bob Zanotti

Switzerland In Sound

Shortwave America Membership FAQ

These are answers to common questions that may be asked about Shortwave America memberships.

1. Is Shortwave America always going to be free? YES

2. What does each membership level offer?

Bronze membership at the 1.00 level is a basic support membership and earns the right to enter upcoming contests. Silver level 5.00 membership earns the right to enter contests and receive a yearly news letter. Gold level 15.00 memberships earns the right to enter contests, receive a newsletter twice a year, and receive members only audio programming as such programming becomes available. Platinum level 20.00 memberships earn the right to enter contests, receive a bi-monthly newsletter, membership only audio programs, and discounted copies of Shortwave America programming on CD/R or DVD/R along with bonus material on those discs. Premiere level 50.00 memberships offer all of the privileges afforded to memberships listed above PLUS you'll gain the privilege of knowing about upcoming programs ahead of time with an advance discounted copy of programs along with the complete program scripts personally AUTOGRAPHED to you in PDF format AND upon your request, Shortwave America will offer free sign up service for radio equipment catalogs / communications magazines (minus subscription fees, which are payable by you) Premier members also receive a monthly newsletter in PDF format FREE, right to your e-mail inbox at the end of each month.

Platinum and Premiere members will be given special access to any future public events where Shortwave America staffers are in attendance. This includes a private lunch or dinner. 

3. I live in a country where I cannot use Paypal, how do I solve this problem?
Shortwave America will attempt to help you solve this IF an answer can be found for this dilemma. Guarantees cannot be made at this time.

4. I am visually challenged or blind, I have some other recognized disability that makes it difficult for me to read or listen to programming. Can I receive Shortwave America audio files for free or can I receive print copies of Shortwave America audio programming geared towards my disability?

YES, Shortwave America is happy to offer accommodations for ANYONE with any type of disability that affects their ability to read, hear, or otherwise enjoy Shortwave America. Those who are disabled in any way that affects their ability to enjoy Shortwave America does not need a membership to request accommodation.

5. I am a paid foreign member who does not speak or read English. Can I request that audio and printed media offered to paid members be translated into my language?

Yes, Shortwave America will even attempt to find volunteers who speak your language fluently to assist in this task for accommodating paid members in the international community. This is a request that does take some time to complete due to the skill and time involved, but we will find a way to accommodate you. However, you DO need to let Shortwave America know about this request or else we have no idea that you have this need.

Please be sure to let us know what language you speak, and if your language has more than one dialect; please let us know which dialect you need translation for.

6. Do I have to renew my membership? NO. ALL Shortwave America memberships make you a member for life or until you decide you want to relinquish your membership.

7. Do I have to pay any taxes on my membership? Yes. All U.S. States and Federal Law state that tax must be made on ALL purchases including purchases made on the Internet. Shortwave America has the tax rate set at 10% which is the mean U.S. national average.

8. May I use my Shortwave America membership as a tax write-off? NO. Shortwave America is NOT a 501 (C) 3 entity.

Other important questions and answers will be posted here as they arise. 

Radio Australia Talks About New Technology: Reading The Human Mind and Body Language

Radio Australia: 

"Many current technological research are looking at the possibility of machines that can 'read' people's mind and body language. This can be used to support people with disabilities or to prevent road accidents. If you can have a mind-reading machine, what would you use it for?"

We hear more about the intent and possible uses of this technology by clicking the link.
 

November Edition of Shortwave America: NASA Space Shuttle Communications Team

In November, for the second episode of Shortwave America, we are working on bringing you the NASA Space Shuttle Communications Team. We will take a look back at the very first shuttle launch mission, STS-1 (Space Shuttle Columbia), and talk about how communications were handled through three decades, ending with STS-135 the final flight of the space shuttle by Atlantis. The team at NASA we are efforting speaking with are as follows:



 


Mike Leinbach
Shuttle Launch Director, Shuttle Processing Directorate

Roberta Wyrick 

NASA Kennedy Space Center OTC

This show will air on WRMI Radio and PCJ Radio/PCJ Media. If none of these guests are available, a show with the same topic will air minus the guests. NASA receives more media requests than they can possibly honor, and it is impossible for these guests to be on everyone's program at once.Photos above are courtesy of NASA.

Shortwave B-11 Schedules Are Up! (HFCC , AOKI, EIBI Versions)

Click HERE for B-11 schedules by broadcaster and FMO

HFCC B-11 Schedule Zip File.

Shortwave Central also has detailed B-11 schedule information.

Neither Eibi nor Aoki have their B-11 sched tables up yet, but they will be made available here when they finally get everything up.

****UPDATE**** 21 November 2011

Here is the AOKI B-11 text file link   Here is the AOKI B-11 ZIP FILE link

EIBI has still not posted the B-11 files usually hosted there.

Voice Of Indonesia Press Release

VOI is launching a contest called "Wonderful Indonesia Quiz" broadcast through teresterial ( SW ) and within their website. In the middle of November, they are going to have a lucky draw for two participants and invite them to visit Indonesia. The quiz can be found under the article "Wonderful Indonesia Quiz".
Best regards,

Kabul Budiono,
Head of RRI World Service

Shortwave America Offers Advertising Space / Membership Program

Advertising space is now available at Shortwave America at the official sponsor page. Interested parties should contact Shortwave America for pricing information. Shortwave America asks that ONLY those entities / individuals with real businesses and / or products to apply.

Also, the time and amount of work it takes to bring all of you the high quality presentations here means that your support and the support of the public has become paramount to keeping Shortwave America alive in the future to come. Those customers wishing to buy Shortwave America memberships should use the logo below or see the permanent logo at the top of the homepage.

Shortwave America Membership Categories

Shortwave America Bronze  Membership $1.00    Shortwave America Silver  Membership $5.00    Shortwave America Gold  Membership $15.00    Shortwave America Platinum  Membership $20.00    Shortwave America Premiere  Membership $50.00

Those who donate funds in any amount totaling one dollar or more will be enrolled as members of Shortwave America. Shortwave America membership entitles you to enter all future contests, and receive other benefits that non-paying persons will not be privileged to; such as unedited versions of Shortwave America audio programming, reduced cost copies of CD's and DVD's, and other privileges as they become available, when such is NOT a contest prize item. Remember, Platinum and Premium members will receive the best privileges.

Those persons / entities who pay for advertising space will also be eligible to ask for a 30 second audio spot on Shortwave America audio programming with a 10% reduction on the highest price quoted to you elsewhere.

Lucky Strike Presents: Back To 1938!

This is a bit of nostalgia for those who are still alive and can remember these days. For the rest of us, this is a peek at what radio programming was like in the 30s. If you use your imagination, you may be able to get a reasonable picture of what society was in that time. LISTEN HERE

Announcing The NEW Audio News Programming Page

As promised earlier this year, Shortwave America attempted to bring you access to some 7 different radio or world news related programming. Many of those shows with the exception of two of them, have shut down. There was also a problem with bringing you many of these programs because the publishing schedules were either very erratic or just too difficult to keep up with in the practical sense.

In an effort to keep the promise made to our fans and followers, Shortwave America has erected an "Audio News Programming" page, located at the very top of the page. The shows here are high quality content produced and engineered by veteran broadcasters. Here's the list:

• Amateur Radio Newsline
• The Rain Report
• Classic Media Network with Jonathan Marks
• Nash Holos / Ukranian News Outlook with Paulette MacQuarrie
• Bob Zanotti's Switzerland In Sound
• The QSO Show with Ted Randall

The QSO show isn't produced anymore as far as we know, but it seems as if it is a good show with good material. 

Happy Diwali (Festival Of Lights)!

See the Wikipedia link provided by Shortwave America fan, Mitsul Kansal.

May all of our fans and followers in India know complete happiness, enlightenment, closeness of family and friends, along with the best of memories for the rest of the year! As you gather with those who are close to you, may you also know that there are those of us across the world sharing happiness with you during this most important time of the year.

Shortwave America Celebrates Three Years!

Seems like it was just yesterday when Shortwave America became a reality three years ago today. Those loyal fans from all over the globe who have been watching this publication grow and make each new achievement, each new milestone; are the ones who have made Shortwave America what is has become thus far and what it will become in the future to come.

Most everyone knows that there are big dreams happening here, and there exists the courage, drive, and direction to make those dreams a reality. At this time, Shortwave America wishes to thank a long list of people and entities. If you do not get named, please know that you haven't been forgotten!

Keith Perron, Paulette MacQuarrie, Bob Zanotti, the entire support team at PCJ Radio / PCJ Media, the fans and listeners of Media Network Plus, Andy Sennitt, Jonathan Marks, the wonderful folks at WRN, Chris Freitas, Corq SWL, everyone at HF Underground, RadioReference, the India DXing Cooperation Forum along with the listeners and fans in India; Indian DX Club International, Radio Listeners Club, No Mundo Do Dexismo; those fans / readers in China; our friends and fans in the U.K., Australia, Poland, Russia, Italy, Spain, and everywhere else! Special mentions to: Ian McFarland, and Victor Goonetilleke for their patience and good spirited sportsmanship; to Jerry Bryant for being the very first special guest on the Shortwave America pilot episode; Chris Daniels, and Victor Sergeyev. 

Before closing out this piece, it is noteworthy to mention that a special program for December is in the works. This is something that has not ever been done by any radio amateur, any shortwave or local broadcaster anywhere. This show will be a focus on Christmas around the world, creatively tied into the radio community. The beginning of December will bring you more details.

Until next time, here's to three years turning into 30 more years! Thanks again to all of those people who read and pay attention here.

Media Network Plus Makes It To "Best Of The Best Weekend DX Programs" At Monitoring Times

 

The broadcasting team of Keith Perron, Paulette MacQuarrie, Dan Hensley and a list of others at PCJ Radio who make up the core team of the popular "Media Network Plus" program which boasts both a weekly and a monthly show has made the Shortwave Central by Monitoring Times "Best of The Best" list for weekend DX programming. There are also other programs on this same list aired by other stations, but to even be on the list is an achievement and a privilege.

We want to thank all of our fans and listeners who make the show possible because without fans and listeners, there would be no show. Of course, WRN has been VERY good to us and we also want to thank them for having us on their network!

73's and 88's where applicable!

Shortwave America Pilot Episode Status

Dear loyal fans and readers,

The first pilot episode of Shortwave America is in production status as we await two other interview subjects for this first episode. Jerry Bryant was an awesome man to speak with, and contributed great things to the pilot episode by way of his interview. Taking the time to produce the pilot episode the right way is an integral part of your listening experience. We expect to have this show up and running by the next two weeks.

A new development has occurred here at Shortwave America in that WRMI Radio has agreed to work with Shortwave America to air each episode to the world, and Radio Indonesia has expressed an interest in carrying Shortwave America programming as well.

The second show will air in November, and will be a special 3 hour show focusing on an international treasure that not many people get to know much about. We're talking exciting, high tech stuff! (sorry, no more clues until November 1st!)

Media Network Plus - October 1st and 8th Editions

October 1st edition: LISTEN OR DOWNLOAD HERE

October 8th edition: LISTEN OR DOWNLOAD HERE

Chris Freitas: The Battle Over Shortwave Radio, Internet Broadcasting, and How It Shapes Listening Habits

All of you out here take note: A fellow radio professional and colleague has some rather important things to say about the ever changing world of radio. Chris Freitas runs the "Yellow Badge Of Cowardice" over at Wordpress. Chris also holds a B.A. degree in Communications and is an intern at "The Look 24.7", an internet radio station. In his education and his internship, Chris has an inside track on various types of radio broadcasting, and radio communications in general.

Chris was featured on "The Maple Leaf Mailbag" at Radio Canada International on Sept. 25th 2011. You can hear that interview here.

Before going to college, Chris was and still is an avid SWL. There are those of you out here who have seen Chris' radio reviews, and other radio related insights. Many of you may have had a chance to have conversation with Chris. Here is where Chris is different than your average SWL: he doesn't "chase" DX or QSL cards as many others do, though he does send in reception reports; Chris pays attention to content.

So many people just spin the VFO, receive a station for a few seconds, and document whatever details you can and then go back to spinning that VFO. The technical details and behavior of a station is always a relevant item to be interested in, but how many people stop to pay attention to the content? This author has always been interested in both the technical details, propagation, AND CONTENT!

Shortwave stations don't just broadcast so they can receive a ton of e-mailed / snail mail signal reports in this new age of technology. Stations are always glad to be noticed, they are always glad to get reports that tell them where they are being heard and how often because it gives them at least some idea about their listenership, but they are each unique for the focus of their content...what they present for the enjoyment or education of the listening public.

Without any more banter from this publication, let us present you with Chris Freitas' informed article on "Shortwave Radio, Internet Broadcasting, and WHY SWL's Should Use BOTH" This article talks quite poignantly about how all of this comes together to shape listening habits, and the importance of CONTENT.

Media Network Plus Sept. 24th 2011 Weekly and Monthly Editions

Listen to or download the WEEKLY edition of Media Network Plus on WRN HERE
The final weekly September edition of Media Network Plus features Part 2 of a documentary on broadcasting in World War Two with broadcasting legend, Jonathan Marks. The weekly radio propagation forecast is in this edition.

Listen to or download the 55 minute MONTHLY edition of Media Network Plus HERE
The almost hour long monthly edition of Media Network Plus features Jeff White to talk about the just concluded HFCC. American journalist Jocelyn Ford joins Keith in a conversation about what it was like covering the 911 terror attacks in China, and being the ONLY media outlet in China to do so. And much more.

Watch It All On The Radio? That's What Lionel Cartwright Says!

For a slow, relaxing weekend, Shortwave America gives you Lionel Cartwright's "I Watched It All On My Radio"

Shortwave On The Go: Win a FREE Autographed Shortwave America DVD+R

Shortwave America and PCJ Radio fan, Chris Freitas, listens to his Tecsun portable at the University of Memphis while he completes some work during the course of his day. Chris is listening to 15235Khz in AM mode. Can anyone guess what program he's enjoying? Here's a hint or two to find out: The A-11 AOKI Schedule is your friend! Use UTC time between 1600 and 2245. The first three people to figure it out correctly will get a free autographed DVD+R from Shortwave America.

Media Network Plus Weekly Edition - Sept 17th 2011

This edition of Media Network Plus features Paulette MacQuarrie taking the reins once again and we'll focus on radio communications from World War 2, and how communications in Germany were conducted during this same time period. Also featured is the weekly radio propagation forecast.

LISTEN OR DOWNLOAD HERE

Shortwave America - First Podcast Coming Featuring Jerry Bryant of Full Circle

What is Shortwave America doing? That is a GREAT question! Why is the first podcast going to feature Jerry Bryant, a man from a Contemporary Christian Music show? Well, Jerry is a veteran musician and radio broadcaster whose heart and soul is in communicating a family friendly platform that is fun, fresh, and relevant when it comes to giving hope to the world in ever changing times when all we hear about is darkness, destruction, failing economic conditions, and violence.

Full Circle Jesus Music takes people back to the 1970s era when what we know now as Contemporary Christian Music and the radio industry were starting to come into a place of their own as a co-existing body of communications. "Jesus Music" is what it was called then, and it was too spiritual for commercial radio, yet, also too rock n roll for the church. At Full Circle, you will not hear the heavy doomsday messages broadcast at WYFR, and you will not be given a perpetual hard sell on religion.

Jerry focuses on the positive ministry to a person's spirit, and couples this inspirational music with his gift of broadcasting professionally in an hour long show. As our readers know, this publication likes to focus on a diversity of material, presenting it fairly. Without the advance of CCM in the world scene, we might not have much of a choice in what we get to listen to or what musicians across the world get to create. The first Shortwave America podcast is in the process of being put together. Until it is ready, let's take a look at what Jerry Does at Full Circle so you have a chance to become familiar with Jerry and his show. Here's a video from January of 2011:

Fun radio station from Canada.

Not too long ago a listener of Happy Station Show in Canada wrote me to tell me about a station he thought I would enjoy. Well he certainly knows my music taste. The station is CJNU in Winnipeg, Manitoba. They broadcast using 50watts on 107.9fm. The station has a special events license from Industry Canada. What I enjoyed about the station first is the music format. Many years ago when I was still living in Canada there was a station, which is now long gone called CFCF 600am. If you like Ray Conniff, Gordon Lightfoot, Beatles, Frank Sinatra, Peggy Lee, Sarah Vaughn, James Last, Dean Martin ect! You will enjoy listening to them.

What is also amazing about the station is you will get to hear some very well known names from radio past in Winnipeg. One of my favorite announcers is Susan Hamilton. She reminds me of an announcer I would listen to years ago from a station in Boston, Mass. She does not come from a broadcasting background, but you would think she has been doing it all her life. Another time slot I would suggest you listen to is from 1400UTC to 1700UTC with Gren Marsh. He started in radio in 1949. You can also hear his sons with him on air.

The music format is fun because despite the fact the station is really targeting an audience of 50+, in many parts of the world in Germany, England, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Australia and Japan this music tends to attract an audience of under 40. In the Netherlands AVRO the public broadcaster have a daily program called Toppers van Toen presented by my good friend Jan Steeman started off years ago as a program for the 50+, but that has changed now. In the last 5 years his audience has been getting younger. So it's like the old saying. If you keep that suit in your closet long enough it comes back in fashion.

Keith Perron

PCJ Radio

Radio In World War 2 - Mike Scanlan Speaks

From the Youtube user statelibraryqld - "A story about radio training and usage during World War II by John Scanlan. This is a Storylines Q150 digital story. This digital story was made by the State Library of Queensland with funding from the Queensland Government.  It is a legacy of the Q150 celebrations in 2009."

BBC Comedy - Do You Speak English?

Shortwave America is taking the weekend off in preparation for a couple of new pieces here that is sure to keep you informed AND entertained. In the meantime, please enjoy a comedy clip from the BBC called "Do You Speak English?"

Studio 1430-AM KEZW, Fogg In The Cockpit

KEZW is a gem of a broadcast station in the U.S. due to its content focus performed properly in the context of what the early to mid 1900s were. KEZW truly presents a real flavor of what life was like in these times. Below, you will see their schedule posted so you can see the valuable offerings this station goes to great lengths to keep alive.

HERE is the KEZW website

Mon-Fri 6-11am ... Rick Crandall's Breakfast Club
Mon-Fri 11am-1pm ... Studio Lunch Break
Mon-Tue-Thur 1-6pm & Fri 1-5pm ... Afternoons with Wayne Yaffee
Mon-Tue-Thur-Fri 6-7pm ... When Radio Was
Mon-Tue-Thur-Fri 7-10pm ... Nights with Steve Edwards
Wed 1-5pm ... Afternoons with Wayne Yaffee
Wed 5-7pm ... Warren Byrne's Restaurant Show
Wed 7-8pm ... When Radio Was
Wed 8-10pm ... Nights with Steve Edwards
Fri 5-6pm ... The Player's Lounge
Mon-Fri 10pm-6am ... Studio 1430 Night Sounds
Sat 5-7am ... Paid Programming
Sat 7-9am... Ask The Garden Pros with Jim & Keith
Sat 9am-Noon ... Warren Byrne's Restaurant Show
Sat Noon-1pm ... Randy's Auto Show
Sat 1-2pm ... Departure Time Travel Show
Sat 2-3pm ... Paid Programming
Sat 3-4pm ... Money In Motion
Sat 4-6pm ... KEZW Music
Sat 6-7pm ... Star Spangled Radio Hour
Sat 7-9pm ... Sounds of Sinatra
Sat 8pm-Sun 5am ... Studio 1430 Night Sounds
Sun 5-7am ... Paid Programming
Sun 7-7:30am ... Studio 1430 Timeless Music
Sun 7:30-8:00am ... Mormon Tabernacle Choir
Sun 8am-Noon ... Favorites with Steve Edwards
Sun Noon-2pm ... Big Band Jump
Sun 2-4pm ... Studio 1430 Timeless Music
Sun 4-6pm ... KEZW Music
Sun 6-8pm ... Radio Deluxe with John Pizzarelli
Sun 6pm-6am ... Studio 1430 Night Sounds

After you get to listen to this great station, don't forget the program as pictured below:

Early this morning, KEZW performed an interview with Rich Fogg, who co-authored the book, "Fogg In The Cockpit" by Janet Fogg, Rich's wife.

Janet is a talented Author with an intelligent mind and also happens to be very personable. You can learn more about Janet and Rich by clicking on this link.
 

You can preview and purchase this book at Amazon.com

CW Numbers Station On 5900Khz

This link will take you to a download of a CW numbers station transmitting on 5900Khz sometime between 0400UTC and 0530UTC today.

STS-135 Final Space Shuttle Flight - Radio Transmission Audio File Available

This link will take you to the STS-135 final flight / final space shuttle mission audio containing the final Flight Director's poll just prior to launch. 

The link above contains the moving final speech given by Commander Chris Ferguson. 


This link will take you to the STS-135 Shuttle Atlantis Final Flight audio containing mission highlights from the 3 hour and holding mark all the way through other special features.

This link above contains the final speech given by Roberta, the Senior communications person at NASA Kennedy Space Center just before the lift-off.

Lindsay Blanton's RadioReference To Launch New Features

See the statement from Lindsay

This press statement at the forums comes complete with screen shot previews

Shortwave America Remembers 9-11: TEN YEAR ANNIVERSARY

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Shame on the leaders of New York City for refusing to remember their emergency responders today, for telling them they are not welcome because they want to make room for petty politicians. Shame on those in positions of power nationwide who have shut out other people who held positions in the Public Safety profession. Have you forgotten? Have you forgotten the spirit of friendly community? There are thousands, millions even, who want to gather for the purpose of remembering a national tragedy and being what community should be.

Shortwave America and its business partners, supporters, and readers DO remember!

Media Network Plus - September 3rd 2011

LISTEN or DOWNLOAD HERE for the weekly edition of Media Network Plus, including the weekly propagation forecast.

PCJ Pilot Program - SWL Media Dxers Network Digest World Unlimited Of Radio

Just the other day when someone from the secret service was going through the PCJ and Shortwave America archives, they came across a PCJ pilot show that never aired. A few years back we had the idea to bring together 4 names in international broadcasting for a new series of show. But from the start there was a problem. First the name of the show. No one could agree! 

SWLMEDIADXERSNETWORKDIGESTWORLDUNLIMITEDOFRADIO. The show was produced and presented by Ian McFarland, and Jonathan Marks with a special open forum chat about radio between Glenn Hauser and Arnie Coro.

Please note this is only a parody. WE have great respect for these men and the contributions they made to broadcasting

SWL MEDIADXERS NETWORK DIGEST WORLD UNLIMITED OF RADIO from Shortwave America on Vimeo.