Anything that encourages communication between people is OK in my book.
In a way ham radio was the internet chat room of it's day and some are still
hanging on.
----- Original Message -----
From: "Werner Fehlauer" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: "Mercedes Discussion List" <mercedes@okiebenz.com>
Sent: Monday, February 12, 2007 4:19 PM
Subject: [MBZ] Ham Radio - was Re: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Besides talking to the ISS, don't forget that Ham Radio does a very
important public service in disaster relief, furnishing communications when
the phones, cell towers, computers, etc. all stop working.
At least one state officially recognizes the value of Amateur Radio
operators - Alaska. After the big earthquake of 1964, they enacted a law
that allows licensed Hams to get vehicle license plates for their vehicles
for a dollar (with their call signs!), as long as there is a radio installed
or can be installed in less than 24 hours.
Everytime there's a tornado outbreak, serious hurricane, flood, fire, or
other emergency, the Amateur Radio ARES system is usually activated. Many
municipalities have pre-arranged networks using Ham Operators for
communications or backup.
So is this system passé? Not in my estimation!
Werner
