DX LISTENING DIGEST 3-122, July 9, 2003 edited by Glenn Hauser, ghauser@hotmail.com Items from DXLD may be reproduced and re-reproduced only if full credit be maintained at all stages and we be provided exchange copies. DXLD may not be reposted in its entirety without permission. Materials taken from Arctic or originating from Olle Alm and not having a commercial copyright are exempt from all restrictions of noncommercial, noncopyrighted reusage except for full credits HTML version of this issue will be posted later at http://www.worldofradio.com/dxldtd3g.html For restrixions and searchable 2003 contents archive see http://www.worldofradio.com/dxldmid.html NOTE: If you are a regular reader of DXLD, and a source of DX news but have not been sending it directly to us, please consider yourself obligated to do so. Thanks, Glenn FIRST AIRINGS OF WORLD OF RADIO 1190: Wed 2200 on WBCQ 7415, 17495-CUSB Thu 2030 on WWCR 15825; Sat 1030 on WWCR 5070, Sun 0230 on WWCR 5070 Fri 1930 on RFPI 15039; Sat 0130, 0800, 1400, 1730, 2330 on 7445/15039 Sun 0030 on WINB 12160 WRN ONDEMAND [from Fri]: http://new.wrn.org/listeners/stations/station.php?StationID=24 OUR ONDEMAND AUDIO [also for CONTINENT OF MEDIA]: Check http://www.worldofradio.com/audiomid.html [Low] (Download) http://www.k4cc.net/wor1190.rm (Stream) http://www.k4cc.net/wor1190.ram [High] (Download) http://www.k4cc.net/wor1190h.rm (Stream) http://www.k4cc.net/wor1190h.ram (Summary) http://www.worldofradio.com/wor1190.html [from Thu] MUNDO RADIAL on WWCR. The new July posted schedule shows a third airing, Tue 2130 on 15825, in addition to Wed 2100 and Fri 2115, all on 15825 (gh) UNSOLICITED TESTIMONIAL: See AUSTRALIA [and non] ** AUSTRALIA. HCJB-AUSTRALIA --- I was invited to attend a meeting with HCJB-AUS management here in Melbourne on June 30, to discuss a number of issues concerning programming, signal effectiveness, the possible introduction of a special feature known as "Australian DX Communications", publicity, and professional frequency management. Unfortunately, the meeting was cancelled at the last moment, and I have now disassociated myself from the Australian-based arm of HCJB. Sorry! (Bob Padula, EDXP World Broadcast Magazine July 2, used by permission http://edxp.org via DXLD) Well, per previous, it looks like they adopted Bob`s proposal of splitting broadcast time into morning and evening blox (gh, DXLD) ** AUSTRALIA [and non]. APPARENT LACK OF 15M HAM ACTIVITY Glenn: For the last several years I have enjoyed and appreciated the hard work you have put into DXLD. I know of no other single person who over the decades has done more to enhance and promote the hobby of SWLing, then you. For this reason, I found your observation of the apparent lack of 15 meter ham activity particularly disturbing. Please allow me to make a few observations of my own. The tone of your comment implied there is an indifference, or worse, laziness in the amateur radio community when it comes to taking advantage good HF band openings. I can tell you this is simply not the case. The ham bands are buzzing with DX activity. If anything, the opposite is true. It is not uncommon to have pileups of 30 or more stations on one frequency all trying to reach some far off operator. The difference between 100 kW and 1 kW is over 18 db. This is just transmitter power. I do not know what RA uses for an antenna, but I bet it’s got a little more gain then the typical ham radio installation. But let`s say very conservatively the RA antenna has a gain of 12 db over a very nice, high gain, amateur radio station beam antenna. Now you are talking about a difference of around 30 db between RA and a ham station! Assuming you had a nice solid S9 copy of RA, 30db below that, would be S0. Even though SSB is a more efficient mode then AM 30+db more signal is a huge difference. There is simply not a usable propagation path for low power amateur communications between Australia and the USA during this time of year at the time and frequency you were listening. The fact you could hear RA well, did not mean there was automatically a band opening for SSB amateur communications. Having said all this, one can hear and work, on a fairly regular basis, VKs on 20 and 17 meters late at night in the summer, here in the USA. The last Australian I worked was VK7GK in Tasmania, on 25 May, on 17 meters. I was using only 100 watts SSB, and a simple half wave wire dipole. It was 0555 or 5 minutes to 1:00 AM local time. The last comment you made: "If that`s all the interest they have in 14m (sic), it might as well be turned over to PLC = BPL" is perhaps the most ignorant thing I`ve ever seen you put into writing. BPL is a serious threat, which looms not just over amateur radio, but all users of the HF and the lower VHF spectrum. The FCC appears to be a proponent of this technology. In its recent NOI (notice of inquiry), the commission asked for comments on how to better facilitate BPL, which included the distinct possibility of rewriting part 15 regulations to allow even higher levels of broadband RF interference, than is currently permitted. The last thing we need now is some one who is well respected in the SWL community like yourself, publicly stating it does not matter whether BPL is implemented or not, because there is no real interest in amateur radio spectrum by those who are licensed for operation there. As a licensed amateur operator, I strongly disagree with your assumption. I suggest that the reason you heard no ham activity is that there was not an effective band opening for low power communications (despite your good reception of RA), rather then some wide spread disinterest on the part of hams. Considering the harmful nature of your comments, I respectfully suggest you publicly retract the referred to statement. 73, (David KG4TUY Hodgson, TN, July 9, DX LISTENING DIGEST) All right, I so retract! Elsewhere in DXLD, below in this issue no exception, it should be clear we have been publicizing and opposing the BPL threat. I was trying to stir up some comment, and it seems I succeeded. I am not the first, however, to bemoan hams listening rather than calling to probe band openings; hams themselves do that (Glenn) ** CAMBODIA. Re Beehive Radio: Hi Glenn, The frequency is 105.0 MHz according to Alan Davies' list of radio stations in Cambodia I found at http://asiaradio.crosswinds.net/cbglocs.htm 73, (Andy Sennitt, Holland, July 9, DX LISTENING DIGEST) ** CANADA. SUMMER SOUNDS ON CBC RADIO http://www3.cbc.ca/sections/newsitem_redux.asp?ID=2894 CBC Radio enters the months of July and August with a plethora of intriguing new programs for Canadians to experience. It's also a time when some of the best programming produced in the past year is offered again for listeners who may have missed out the first time around. Two highlights of the summer schedule are City States and Carnegie Hotel. City States explores issues facing Canada's cities on CBC Radio One. Eighty percent of Canadians live in cities; two thirds live in 27 major urban areas. The series looks at Moncton, Prince George, Quebec City, Thunder Bay and more-each program examining municipal politics from the perspective of local politicians, residents, and activists. On CBC Radio Two, Carnegie Hotel presents fictional stories each week about the secret backroom life of hotel living and those who work there, mainly told by the Carnegie's proprietress, Bea de Preville. A mix of pop, jazz and classical music underscores the emotional threads of the stories. The program can hook you on the storyline or simply offer the enjoyment of an eclectic mix of music. The CBC Radio One schedule will include the following new and or refurbished programs: MONDAY & FRIDAY Connections - 7:30 p.m. (8 NT) Showcasing documentaries from public broadcasters from around the world. MONDAY Workology - 8 p.m. (8:30 NT) Reprising a program that calls itself "The home of the one-hour workweek," with Jane Farrow. TUESDAY Prime Time Quirks and Quarks - 8 p.m. (8:30 NT) *also heard Saturday - 12 p.m. (12:30 NT)* The best of this award-winning science program, hosted by Bob McDonald. WEDNESDAY Best of Dispatches - 7:30 p.m. (8 NT) Encore editions of this respected international affairs show, hosted by Rick MacInnes-Rae. Global Village - 8 p.m. (8:30 NT) *also heard Saturday - 7 p.m. (6 AT, 6:30 NT)* Host Jowi Taylor brings music and news of music from around the world. THURSDAY Writers and Company - 8 p.m. (8:30 NT) *also heard Sunday - 3 p.m. (5 CT, MT, PT)* Exploring in depth the lives, thoughts and works of remarkable writers from around the world, with Eleanor Wachtel. FRIDAY Talking Books - 8 p.m. (8:30 NT) Host Ian Brown and his guests have their say on written works of all kinds. Friday Nights with Outfront - 8:30 p.m. (9 NT) *also heard Monday-Thursday - 11:45 a.m. (12:15 NT)* The best shows from the past year of Outfront, with host Garvia Bailey. SATURDAY City States - 9 a.m. (9:30 NT) Looking at common problems and challenges facing different Canadian cities. Go! - 10 a.m. (10:30 NT) The audio buffet of Canadian life and leisure returns with host Brent Bambury. Grooveshinny (every other week as of July 12) - 11 a.m. (11:30 NT) The continuing musical cage match between a musicologist, a recording artist, and some nobody dragged in off the street. Brent Bambury presides. National Pastime - 11:30 a.m. (12 NT) A satire of sports and sports broadcasting. Best of Quirks & Quarks - 12 p.m. (12:30 NT) *see Tuesday above* The best of this award-winning science program, hosted by Bob McDonald. SUNDAY Laugh and a Half - 1 p.m. (1:30 NT) Comedy classics with host Walter Rinaldi. New programming on CBC Radio Two includes: FRIDAY Global Village in Performance - 8 p.m. (8:30 NT) Jowi Taylor and special guest co-hosts present diverse world-music concerts. SATURDAY Connecting - 6:30 p.m. (7 NT) Showcasing the best live performances and studio sessions produced and recorded by CBC crews across Canada. Carnegie Hotel - 7:30 p.m. (8 NT) A mix of music and storytelling inspired by hotel life, hosted by Lisa Christiansen. [the same one on CJAD? Ricky] SUNDAY Compas (July 6, 13 & 20 only) - 5 p.m. (5:30 NT) Exploring the sounds of Latin Music, with host Guadalupe Jolicoeur. Combined with all the regular features of the program schedule, it's going to be a great summer for listening to CBC Radio. Regular fall programming resumes after Labour Day on Tuesday, September 2. For daily listings and further information, go to: http://cbc.ca/radioguide (via Ricky Leong, DXLD) ** CANADA. Re: WWV if Clear Channel took it over: I'm not sure if they were aware of CHU before I told them about it but CBC "What a Week", IIRC had an "all time all the time" radio station bit (Joel Rubin, NY, July 8, DX LISTENING DIGEST) ** CHINA. Except for jammers, there seems few actual CNR transmissions audible. 17605 17580 and 17550 were heard, and also what seemed CNR on 17705 until 0700 // 17605. I don't know of anything that needs jamming on this frequency, so maybe only a coincidence it went off at 0700.? Best 73s (Noel Green, UK, via Olle Alm, DXLD) Hello all, CNR-1 on 17705 and 17435 are spurious transmissions caused by jammers on 17525+17615. The latter are usually strong here and arrive on a southerly path. The same site also seems to be active on 15290 and 13670 during the 0300-0700 span. There are also jammers from other sites on these channels. It seems that more jammers have been thrown in recently, explaining the increased echoing pointed out by WB. The delays, as heard here, can be divided into three groups: None = Beijing, for instance on 17550, 17605 Single satellite delay (one hop) Double satellite delay (two hops or other kind of very long delay) The difference within each group generally is only moderate. Of the jammers audible here, one has retained the severely distorted type of audio. At 0300-0700 it is used on 15150. One or two others are slightly overmodulated. Otherwise the audio is very clean with a high degree of modern processing (from the satellite circuit?). (Olle Alm, Sweden, July 9, DX LISTENING DIGEST) ** COLOMBIA. 5955.0, L.V. DE LOS CENTAUROS. Villavicencio, Colombia. 1620-1700* Jul 6. Ajustando su señal a la frecuencia asiganda luego de varias semanas (ex – 5958) presentado el programa Reminicencias, con música del recuerdo. Mencionaron el No. telefónico 6623666 para reportar sintonía, así que llamé y luego de unos minutos me fueron enviados saludos. Luego de terminar el programa a las 1658 y de una idedntificacion propia de Caracol salió del aire (Rafael Rodríguez, Colombia, Conexión Digital via DXLD) Hola Amigo DXista Rafael Rodriguez y Otros! Mis felicitaciones a Caracol, Villavicencio! Por fin se ubica en 5955.00 kHz, como nos informa Rafael en su mail. "Siempre" ha ocupado una frecuencia "al lado" por ejemplo 5957-5958v kHz. El 5 de julio la encontré en aproximadamente 6007 kHz pero solamente ese día. Buena señal con mala calidad de sonido. Primero pensé que haya sido Alcaraván Radio porque estuvo mencionando a menudo el departamento de Meta, pero un control mostró Alcaraván ocupando 6009.78 kHz. 73s de (Björn Malm, Ecuador, ibid.) Como señala el Colega Malm efectivamente el dia 5 de julio se presentó una mezcla entre estas dos emisoras colombianas a mi paracer se debió a los ajustes de L.V de los Centauros para ubicarse ya en los 5955 KHz (Rafael R., ibid.) ** CONGO DR. Interesting signals this morning from the United Nations station RADIO OKAPI, Kinshasa, using 6030. Noted in period 2200-2300 via shortpath, carrying lively African songs, and programming in African dialects. This frequency is usually blocked by Radio Martí, Greenville, but that station inaudible this morning! Regards! (Bob Padula, Mont Albert, Victoria, Australia, EDXP via DXLD) *2200 scheduled on 6030, altho that`s well before LSS at midsummer (gh) ** CUBA. Cuban FMers --- This is a list compiled from several sources in internet; the David Sharp's list is quite old but is included here. MHz Radio Location Source 87.8 Coco ? http://ddsradio.20m.com/carib01.html 89.5 Taíno ? http://ddsradio.20m.com/carib01.html 90.3 Progreso ? http://ddsradio.20m.com/carib01.html 90.5 Musical ? http://ddsradio.20m.com/carib01.html 90.5 Guamá ? http://ddsradio.20m.com/carib01.html 91.7 "Coco, CMCK" Habana http://www.radiococo.cu 92.1 Rebelde ? http://www.rrebelde.cu 92.1 Taíno ? http://ddsradio.20m.com/carib01.html 92.7 Rebelde ? http://www.rrebelde.cu 92.9 Manatí ? (Condiglist thread) 93.5 DobleV CMHW ? http://ddsradio.20m.com/carib01.html 93.5 Cadena Agramonte Camagüey http://www.cadenagramonte.cubaweb.cu/programacion.htm 93.7 Enciclopedia ? http://ddsradio.20m.com/carib01.html 95.1 Musical ? http://ddsradio.20m.com/carib01.html 95.5 CMKS Guantánamo http://www.cmksradio.islagrande.cu 95.9 Reloj ? http://ddsradio.20m.com/carib01.html 96.7 Rebelde ? http://www.rrebelde.cu 97.7 Coco ? http://ddsradio.20m.com/carib01.html 98.7 Ciudad de la Habana http://ddsradio.20m.com/carib01.html 98.9 Ciudad del Mar Cienfuegos http://www.rcm.cu/historiarcm/historia.htm 99.3 Siboney ? http://ddsradio.20m.com/carib01.html 99.9 Cadena Habana Habana http://www.cadenahabana.islagrande.cu/ 100.7 Cadena Habana ? http://ddsradio.20m.com/carib01.html 102.1 Metropolitana ? http://ddsradio.20m.com/carib01.html 102.9 Rebelde ? http://www.rrebelde.cu 102.9 Metropolitana ? http://ddsradio.20m.com/carib01.html 104.9 Cadena Habana ? [104.0] http://ddsradio.20m.com/carib01.html 106.7 Ciudad del Mar Cienfuegos http://www.rcm.cu/historiarcm/historia.htm Also a interesting link (in Spanish) about 92.9 is: http://www.jrebelde.cubaweb.cu/2003/julio_septiembre/jul-1/la.html LA 46 ESTÁ EN EL AIRE Juan Morales Agüero LAS TUNAS. --- Con la inauguración de la emisora CMLD, Radio Manatí, en el municipio tunero del mismo nombre, el país cuenta con 46 centros de ese alcance, entre las 71 emisoras que existen hoy nacionalmente. La nueva planta transmite en frecuencia modulada con sonido estereofónico una programación variada, cuatro horas al día, de lunes a domingo por los 92,9 megahertz. . . Regards (Humberto Molina, El Salvador, July 9, DX LISTENING DIGEST) So we have the callsign too; says it is on the air only 4 hours per day, but in stereo, contrary to Bill Nollman`s catch (gh, DXLD) ** CUBA. Tuning around at 1628 July 9, I came upon Vatican IS on 15570; but at 1630 up came ``Rebelde, La Habana, la emisora de la Revolución``, 12:30 timecheck, and some frequencies mentioned, I think for the Caribe, but missed them. SAH and signal weak; perhaps Vatican continued but on a less favorable beam, so I checked 11655 and found Rebelde much better there and in the clear; nothing audible on 9600 (Glenn Hauser, OK, DX LISTENING DIGEST) ** CUBA [non]. La Voz del CID transmitted from EL SALVADOR: q.v. ** DOMINICAN REPUBLIC. Hola Glenn, Saludos desde Catia La Mar, VENEZUELA. Hoy me llevé tremenda sorpresa al sintonizar los 4960 kHz porque pensé que iba a toparme con Cima 100. Pues no, este 09/07 a las 0241 UT, capté la emisora juvenil "SUPER Q FM" 100.9 MHz, desde Santo Domingo. La frecuencia exacta es 4959.87 kHz, con SINPO de 24322. Emitía un tema techno pop de Gigi D'Agostino, luego reggae-rap estilo The Noise (puertorriqueño), Toni Braxton "Unbreak my heart", Bob Marley "Buffalo Soldier", Bacilos "Viejo" y hasta algo de merengue. La monitoré por casi una hora. Locutor muy dinámico que presentaba el espacio como "Tu empujón". Jingles con efectos de voces y sonidos, muy buenos. Para ironías de la vida, el locutor de la ID oficial de la estación es el venezolano Alejandro Rhode, quien labora en Planeta 105.3 MHz, en Caracas. El teléfono de SUPER Q FM, anunciado por el DJ de guardia es el 5414-009. Sería bueno llamarlos para ver si confirman con una QSL. Suerte en la escucha. 73's y buen DX (Adán González, Catia La Mar, VENEZUELA, DX LISTENING DIGEST) You never know which station of the group they will put on SW (gh) ** ECUADOR [non]. Here are all the times of DX Partyline via WWCR, as in new posted schedule dated July 1, with UT corrected for DST: Sat 0900 5070, Sun 0200 5070, Tue 0930 9475, Thu 2000 15825. Note that two of these precede WORLD OF RADIO, and another is at the same time on a different day (Glenn Hauser, DX LISTENING DIGEST) ** EL SALVADOR. El cubano anticastrista Luis Posada Carriles, actualmente preso en Panamá, dio una entrevista para el periódico salvadoreño "La Prensa Gráfica" http://www.laprensagrafica.com/especiales/2003/carriles Además el periódico ha realizado una investigación alrededor de sus declaraciones. Una parte es interesante en cuanto la Voz del Cid, la conocida radio clandestina para Cuba, la cual es ubicada por "fuentes ex-gubernamentales" en el Cuartel del Batallón Atlacatl, San Andrés sobre la carretera que de San Salvador conduce hacia Santa Ana. Transmitiendo entre los años 1983 a 1997, según las mismas fuentes, la radio estuvo bajo supervisión directa de Húber Matos. Esta revelación, y otras, de "manera oficial" ha causado bastante revuelo ya que eso supone que la emisora funcionó 5 años después de firmados los acuerdos de paz; el gobierno salvadoreño había aceptado anteriormente la existencia de la radio pero en el marco de la guerra (Humberto Molina, San Salvador, El Salvador, July 9, DX LISTENING DIGEST) ** GERMANY. The first Deutsche Welle service to broadcast from the new headquarter at Bonn will be the Russian one, starting on July 19. The German program is to be produced at Bonn from August 4. The switch will probably take place at 0900 (Kai Ludwig, Germany, DX LISTENING DIGEST) ** INDIA. Dear Glenn Hauser, With reference to info on India in DX LISTENING DIGEST 3-121, July 8, 2003, I would like to clarify that 10330 kHz is via Bangalore 500 kW (not 50 kW as mentioned). Yours sincerely, (Jose Jacob, VU2JOS, India, DX LISTENING DIGEST) ** INTERNATIONAL VACUUM. ANALYSIS: US-BASED IRANIAN SATELLITE TV, RADIO DISRUPTED | Text of editorial analysis by Martin Peters of BBC Monitoring Media Services on 9 July 2003 In the week that Voice of America TV rolled out a nightly Persian- language news programme, and with the launch of another US-based radio station beaming into Iran, the satellite carrying these and other services has been targeted by a mysterious, interfering signal, rendering the broadcasts unwatchable. A raft of opposition, pro-monarchist TV and radio stations, originating in the US and intended for viewers in Iran, has been easily available to anyone in the Middle East with a modest satellite dish directed towards the Telstar 12 satellite. The jamming of satellite signals is not a new phenomenon. The earliest recorded instance can be traced back to April 1986, when viewers of the Home Box Office channel were surprised to find programming interrupted by a caption, signed by "Captain Midnight", criticizing a recent HBO price hike. A year later the Playboy Channel suffered a similar indignity. In December 1995, programmes from Med-TV, a Kurdish station broadcasting to Turkey, were disrupted. Monitoring observations implied deliberate jamming, but an identification of its origin could not be made. Med-TV's satellite service providers suspected deliberate sabotage, as the incident took place during a scheduled live debate which included a contribution from the then Chairman of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), Abdullah Ocalan. A report in the Turkish national daily Sabah claimed that the Turkish authorities were to blame. In China, the outlawed Falun Gong broke into satellite transmissions from state broadcaster China Central Television (CCTV). Previous attempts by the movement were limited to hacking into local cable systems and replacing bona fide programming with their own material. In September 2002, the satellite carrying CCTV programming to China was hijacked by Falun Gong and used to distribute "cult propaganda" across the entire country. The Chinese authorities claimed they were certain that the interfering signal was originating from Taiwan's capital, Taipei, and demanded that the "Taiwan province" put a stop to the criminal activity. Fifteen people were later convicted and sentenced for up to 20 years for breaking into community cable TV systems. Meanwhile, the Taiwan-based satellite hacker remains free. During the recent conflict in the Gulf, Iraqi satellite television temporarily fell victim to jamming when, on the opening night of hostilities, the Space Channel's usual diet of news and patriotic songs was substituted with colour bars from an unknown source. Later, the station was to suffer repeated attempts to knock it off the air by more conventional, military means. Clampdown in Iran So to Iran, where the authorities seem set on clamping down on access to foreign media. With rising levels of tension in Tehran, spearheaded by student protests, and encouraged, the Iranian government says, by US-based media outlets, confiscation of satellite dishes by the authorities has increased. Hitherto, a long-standing government ban on dishes had been flouted, with most middle class homes having access to satellite. Residents of Tehran who have managed to retain their dishes, and who are in the habit of tuning in to satellite broadcasts from abroad, have recently discovered their reception disrupted by a network of jamming facilities placed in and around the capital. The Persian daily newspaper Hambastegi quoted an Iranian MP acknowledging that a "military organization was transmitting powerful signals from several of its bases and a number of mobile stations installed in trucks". According to the World Health Organization (WHO), continued exposure to the high levels of microwave radiation required to jam the offending signals, could effect people's health, including male fertility, and this has caused official concern in Iran. The jamming signals are said to be wreaking havoc with legitimate users of the radio spectrum including Internet services and the local phone network. Iran's Minister of Post, Telegraph and Telephone Ahmad Mo'tamedi denies government approval for the jamming and President Khatami has called for action to be taken against those responsible. Pro-monarchy TV and radio stations beamed into Iran have suffered similar disruption once before, when in 1996, they were targeted by ground-based jammers. Following a brief spell on Eutelsat's Hotbird, where they also suffered from interference, the stations moved to Telstar 12, a satellite that can be configured only to accept and relay signals from North America. This indicates that the current spate of jamming is being beamed from the Americas. Sporadic, only partially effective, interference was first noted on 6 July, and again on the following day. Observations on 8 July indicated an increase in the signal level of the interference, making reception of any of the channels impossible. Satellite owner Loral continue with their investigations. What can be done about those who would wish to steal satellite frequencies to broadcast their message, and others wanting to silence rebellious broadcasts from afar? With the intention of preventing a repetition of previous intrusions, China has bought a French-made Apstar satellite which includes 'special technology' to prevent malicious interruptions to broadcasts. Ever more satellite manufacturers offer craft incorporating just such a feature. Innovations such as this should ensure that satellite hijacking is no longer an option. However, the deliberate jamming of "undesirable" stations and their messages will, it seems, still be possible, leaving frustrated viewers with blank screens, and broadcasters without an audience. Source: BBC Monitoring research 9 Jul 03 (via DXLD) ** IRAN. AL-ALAM TV CONTENT SURVEY ON 8 JULY 03 | Text of editorial analysis by BBC Monitoring Middle East desk on 8 July Judging from the programmes surveyed today, the main topics which are given prominence by Al-Alam TV are Islam and the revival of Islamic thought and the ensuing debate on political Islam, jihad and its violent corollary, terrorism, in addition to the Palestinian cause and the situation in Iraq. Al-Alam TV's editorial line is not blatantly militant or anti-western but it is obvious that the choice of the guests taking part in the various discussions almost betrays the underlying intention and the political message the television wants to convey since these guests still talk about "US imperialism", "western colonialism", the "Zionist entity" and "occupation". Al-Alam TV's news bulletins today all led with the crash of the Sudanese plane and not with the situation in Iraq for example. In fact, Iraq was relegated to third position, well after the latest Palestinian developments and Bush's African tour, which were reported factually. Even when reporting that Islamic Jihad had reiterated its commitment to abide by the truce agreement, Al-Alam TV did not, as one would expect, make any comment. The only hint of criticism of the Americans and their intentions was a report about US troops patrolling the streets of Baghdad and lending a hand to help ease traffic congestion in order "to win the friendship of the Iraqis", something the Iranians must certainly view with suspicion. An equally subtle reflection of Alam TV's editorial line can be found in the articles chosen for the press review and these start with the row in London over the intelligence report on weapons of mass destruction, the increasing number of attacks on US troops in Iraq, the real motives behind Bush's African tour and the efforts by the US administration to defuse the tension with Turkey. It is common knowledge that a Saudi-Iranian rapprochement is well under way and yet one of the participants in a programme called "After the event", devoted today to Al-Qa'idah and Bin-Ladin, was a Saudi dissident identified as Hamzah al-Hasan, from the Alliance for Democracy in Saudi Arabia, who was interviewed via satellite link from London. The dissident openly talked about the need for reforms in Saudi Arabia and he also urged the Saudi regime to seek legitimacy through the ballot box and to put an end to repression. This contribution, aired on Iranian TV, will undoubtedly be viewed by the Saudi authorities at least as an unfriendly gesture. But Al-Alam TV's argument would be that it was all done in the name of freedom of expression and this is exactly what the millions of Arab viewers crave and appreciate. Source: BBC Monitoring research 8 Jul 03 (via DXLD) ** IRAN: PERSIAN TV TRANSMISSION FROM USA JAMMED IN NEIGHBOURING STATES | Text of report by Iranian Baztab web site on 9 July For the past two days, most of the Persian television programmes from Los Angeles are jammed by devices either inside America or in one of the neighbouring countries. The programmes are transmitted [to Iran] via Telestar-12 satellite. Daily Iran, wrote: At present, only one television network is active in Los Angeles which relays programmes of the other channels. Source: Baztab web site, Tehran, in Persian 0740 gmt 9 Jul 03 (via BBCM via DXLD) See also INTERNATIONAL VACUUM above ** IRAN [and non]. Czech Republic/Iran: RADIO FARDA SOURCE OF HOPE FOR MANY IRANIANS - PRESS | Text of report in English by Czech news agency CTK Prague, 7 July: Radio Farda, the Iran-targeting broadcasts from Prague, is becoming a symbol of objective information about world developments which has been eagerly sought by millions of Iranians every day since it was launched a half year ago, the daily Mlada fronta Dnes writes today. "We know that our influence is considerable. The Iranian government takes much effort to ham us. This is the best proof of our popularity," Sonia Winterova, spokeswoman of the Prague-seated Radio Free Europe (RFE), which broadcasts in 34 languages to 25 countries, including Iran, says in the paper. Radio Farda (Tomorrow) now largely means to Iran what the US-run RFE, then seated in Munich, meant to Eastern Europe in the Communist era. A source of objective news, and thus also a source of hope, the daily writes. According to estimates, Radio Farda broadcasts, the listening to which is illegal in Iran, are sought by up to 15 per cent of the country's population of 70 million. The banned station can be heard to play silently from radios in offices as well as people's cars, and many listen to it through satellites. Three-quarters of millions of users visit the station's Prague Internet servers every month, Mlada fronta Dnes writes. The station broadasts 24 hours a day. Apart from newscasts, it devotes much time to music in order to attract the young generation. Radio Farda is not the only source of information and programmes from abroad. Foreign media broadcasting to Iran also include, for example, several television stations from the USA, which, financed by Iranian emigrants, are openly antigovernment. "Now and then I watch them at the neighbour's. Sometimes it is really horrible. It is a propaganda in its purest form. They overdo it, people don't believe them," the paper quotes Iranian doctor Farhang as saying. The symbol of objective information are the Persian broadcasts of the BBC, and more and more also Radio Farda, only half a year old. Before, the RFE's "Persian service" broadcast from Prague to Iran for several years. Later it was joined by the Persian broadcasts of the Voice of America, by which a new station was formed. Of its 30-strong staff, about 20 people work in Prague and 10 in Washington. Radio Farda does much for its programmes to be variable in order to attract young listeners, as two-thirds of the Iranian population are people under 30. "We are neither a subversive station nor a mouthpiece of America. This would be a mistake," one of the radio's employees, who requested anonymity, told the paper. "Our task is to carry objective information as the only way to make people believe us," he added. The launch of the Persian service broadcasts from Prague prompted a diplomatic rift in 1998. Tehran even withdrew its ambassador from Prague. However, the situation has calmed down in the meantime and Farda Radio reporters say Tehran makes no attempts at intervening against them or threatening them. Source: CTK news agency, Prague, in English 0807 gmt 7 Jul 03 (via BBCM via DXLD) ** KOREA SOUTH. Keep listening to the English service of RKI as they are planning some celebrations on account of their 50th anniversary this year. No exact details are known but please listen in, especially on a Sat such as 2100 UT on 3955 to Europe (NS = Nicholas Sharpe?, July World DX Club Contact via DXLD) ** PERU. 6536.2 RADIO SAN MIGUEL DE SONDOR. Sondor, Perú. 2320-0030 Jul 2. Ex RD Huancabamba. Su dueño Federico Ibáñez traslado a este Distrito su estación luego que perdiera las elecciones a la Alcadía de Huancabamba y se hiciera de algunos enemigos políticos. A las 2330 presenta el programa Aires Huarinqueños, programa que alguna vez hacia Mayo del 2002, escuché a través de RD Comercial Huancabamba 6560.3. Continúa con el soporte comercial del Maestro Curandero Santos Neira Julca. ``...somos Radio San Miguel de Sondor; muchas gracias por su sintonía...`` (Rafael Rodríguez, Colombia, Conexión Digital via DXLD) ** RUSSIA. By the year 2010 Russia is planning to switch to digital TV-Radio broadcasts. The Voice of Russia, broadcasting in 32 languages, has become the first Russian company that daily broadcasts to Europe in the new digital format. The chairman of The Voice of Russia, Armen Oganesian has called digital broadcasting a fabulous breakthrough in promoting Russian information product abroad (VoR News Bulletin, July 9, 2003 via Sergei Sosedkin, IL, DXLD) ** UGANDA. Radio Uganda, Kampala, 5026 noted past its usual s/off time of 2100 with excited talks and echo announcements (sounding remarkably like a Latin broadcaster!), in English. Suddenly off at 2120, leaving Benin nicely in the clear (Rob Wagner (VK3BVW, June 28, EDXP via DXLD) ** U S A. Estación de radio que oigo frecuentemente en la banda extendida de la OM: Oldies Radio, 1700 kHz. ¿De qué parte de Estados Unidos es esta radio? 73's y buen DX (Adán González Catia La Mar, VENEZUELA, DX LISTENING DIGEST) KQXX, Brownsville TX (gh) ** U S A. PRISON RADIO -- INSIDE ANGOLA'S INCARCERATION STATION by Jenny Lee Rice [91.7 MHz, 16m, 830 watts ERP per FM Atlas XIX] http://www.publicbroadcasting.net/kuer/news/arts.artsmain?action=viewArticle&sid=11&id=508378 Lord, hear our penitential Cry: Salvation from above; It is the Lord that doth supply, With his Redeeming Love. Ho! every one that hunger hath, Or pineth after me, Salvation be thy leading Staff, To set the Sinner free. --- Jupiter Hammon, from "An Evening Thought" At first glance, it could be the broadcasting booth of a college radio station. A poster advertising a recent film symposium hangs on the wall; people are mopping up after the rain, working on newly acquired equipment, queuing up CDs. The DJ looks through the newspaper and marks the stories he will read on air, most of which regard Louisiana corrections. There are no armed guards, no nametags --- nothing to indicate that this is a maximum security prison. Looking around, I can see why inmates would want to work here. For a moment, we could be anywhere else. "The radio station helps me to relieve stress and tension," the Reverend A.J. explains. The 71-year-old inmate serving a life term for first-degree murder looks gentle and grandfatherly. If this were indeed a college campus, A.J. would be a model student. Here at Louisiana State Penitentiary (Angola), he is a member of the Lifer's Association, Chairman of the Elderly Assistance Group and hosts a gospel show on KLSP, Angola's radio station. He visits sick prisoners in the hospital and preaches to other inmates during church functions. "I've done so much wrong to people," he says. "Now that I have the chance to give back, that's what I do." Reverend A.J., whose full name is Andrew Joseph, first came to Angola in 1948. "When I came to prison, [it] wasn't a place of rehabilitation. Everything was survival." As a 17-year-old kid who "attracted the older inmates," A.J. survived by "develop[ing] a violent attitude." He was in and out of correctional facilities several times before being sentenced to life in 1978. About 10 years ago, Burl Cain, Angola's warden asked him to become involved with the radio station. "Just to realize that I was counted as a trustworthy inmate to work at a radio station was a big deal for me," A.J. says. "I jumped at that." KLSP is the only FCC-licensed radio station in the country facilitated by inmates, and it's an integral part of Angola's unorthodox approach to inmate rehabilitation. The station was established under a previous warden in 1986 as a means of communicating with everyone in the prison at once. Angola is the country's largest correctional facility, with 5,108 inmates, so the need to disseminate information rapidly is critical. KLSP is licensed as a religious/educational station, and, through Cain's efforts, has formed a close alliance with Christian radio. Until recently, the station was using hand-me-down equipment courtesy of Jimmy Swaggart; last year, His Radio --- Swaggart's Greenville, S.C.-based network of stations --- held an on-air fundraiser for the prison, broadcast live from Angola. They quickly surpassed their $80,000 goal, raising over $120,000 within hours. Cain used the money to update the station's flagging equipment and train inmate DJs in using the new electronic system. In the months following their initial partnership, Cain deepened his relationship with Christian radio stations. KLSP now carries programs from His Radio and the Moody Ministry Broadcasting Network (MBN) for part of the day. Despite new alliances, the majority of the station's broadcasting decisions remain in the hands of inmates like 43-year-old Robin Brett Polk, who has been in the prison "somewhere around 21 years." He has a radio show on KLSP that plays Christian rap and R&B. "Music has helped me to keep myself focused on trying to straighten my life out," Polk says. "It taught me to be a dependable person." With few opportunities to see his family, most of Polk's socialization comes from inside Angola. When he is not at KLSP, where he has worked for several years, he can often be found practicing with the prison gospel band, in which he plays bass. "Prison is sort of like a family," he says. "The inner family for me is the musicians I play with." The entire correctional family tree is enormous --- Louisiana has the largest per capita incarceration rate in the country, and the average sentence at Angola is 88 years. "I bury more than I release," says Warden Cain. Victim's rights groups are powerful in Louisiana, a state notoriously tough on crime. "The challenge is for the people to forgive one another more," says Cain. "We all make mistakes." But with little relief for the state's crowded facilities in sight, Cain finds himself presiding over an aging prison population and, as inmates pass away, dealing with the bodies of unclaimed prisoners. They used to be buried in cardboard boxes, until one incident where a man fell through the bottom. Cain instituted a policy change --- now inmates manufacture coffins themselves in a factory on the grounds. Angola is located at the base of the Tunica hills in a breathtakingly beautiful region of Louisiana. Though individual camps containing sleeping and recreational quarters are fenced in, the facility is walled only by the hills and the Mississippi River. The sight of inmate trustees in jeans and T-shirts hanging out at KLSP or working the front gate makes it feel like a pastoral society. Watching rows of inmates work the fields of Angola's farm, however, is less comforting. The prison sits on the land of a former plantation and slave breeding ground (named Angola for the African country from which its slaves were sent). After the Civil War, plantation owner Samuel L. James leased Louisiana's inmates, housing them in slave quarters. At the time, this was a relatively uncontroversial move --- courts ruled that a prisoner "not only forfeited his liberty, but all his personal rights except those which the law in its humanity accords to him. He is for the time being a slave to the state" (Ruffin v. Commonwealth, 1871). The prison, whose population is 76.7% black, is still a working farm, with each inmate laboring about eight hours a day on the 18,000 acre site. Many prison officials refer to outsiders, such as journalists, as "free people." Burl Cain will be the first to say that a prison takes on the character of its warden. He is a charming, charismatic man with a George W. Bush-like appeal --- the down-home everyman just trying to make the world a better place. A big man with a thick Southern drawl and disarmingly candid manner of speaking, Cain possesses qualities to which many of the inmates seem to react positively. While I was there, the warden held a meeting with leaders from various inmate clubs at his ranch house. They gathered around his table and ate snacks as the warden answered questions about their concerns. Inmates spoke freely, and Cain was friendly and jovial. Everything was recorded for broadcast on KLSP. The warden is also a deeply religious man, and as such, Angola sometimes feels like disciplinary Bible camp. A plaque near the prison's front entrance quotes from Philippians, and the annual prison rodeo includes a lengthy parade wherein Jesus' story is acted out on horseback. The only on-site facility of higher education at Angola is the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, where inmates can earn a degree in Christian ministry. According to the prison's inmate- produced newsmagazine, The Angolite, the "Level One" disciplinary cells afford only "a white jumpsuit, religious book, pad of paper and pen, and legal papers" to each prisoner. The emphasis on Christianity is thought to have a civilizing effect on inmates. Cain insists "the only true rehabilitation is moral rehabilitation." He speaks to churches and religious leaders across the country about Angola's programs, and elicits partnerships with likeminded groups, such as His Radio and MBN, whenever possible. "We're feeding them good material," Cain says. According to His Radio's website, the warden has invited the Christian programmers to return every six months to "maintain the equipment and help train the inmate DJs to minister more effectively." Rehabilitated inmates are able to lead a somewhat normal life, and Cain is very matter-of-fact regarding his methods. "You're supposed to obey the law of the land," says Cain. "It says it in the Bible. If you respect authority, then you will respect authority." Traditionally, those who do not respect authority have suffered strict consequences --- in the infamous "Angola 3" case, inmates were placed in solitary confinement for nearly 30 years. Just last year, an inmate was prevented from testifying at his own trial after several courtroom outbursts. Baton Rouge's daily newspaper, The Advocate, described Angola's method of dealing with the rebellious inmate: "Louisiana State Penitentiary security officers wrapped the bottom half of his face and all of his neck with duct tape, then wrapped a circle of tape under his jaw and over the top of his forehead." More recently, Warden Cain has acquired wolves that he hopes will replace the guard dogs. He expresses an almost childlike optimism about their psychological effect. "You're more afraid of a wolf than you are of dogs," he explains, "so if I have a wolf that'll bite, then the wolf will never have to bite anybody, because nobody will want to be challenged by the wolf." The prison's emphasis on faith-based rehabilitation programs and strict punishments raises eyebrows with civil rights groups like the ACLU. Joe Cook, the executive director of the ACLU of Louisiana, calls many of the warden's methods "highly suspect." "From what we've seen and what we've heard," Cook explains, "it appears the administration favors religion over nonreligion and that does offend the First Amendment." The ACLU has fielded complaints that Angola's administration has withheld certain privileges from those inmates who have not found God. The inmates I met at KLSP were all articulate and smart. Two of the DJs, Reverend A.J. and Leotha Brown, are graduates of the on-site seminary. It seems that their lives have been made better by the opportunity to be involved with the station. If, at the end of the day, Warden Cain's promotion of religion helps inmates like those at KLSP, is he really doing any harm? Joe Cook claims there is "no scientific evidence" to back claims that faith-based programs work better than others. More importantly, he points out, "even if there was some connection, it doesn't make it legal." The Supreme Court ruled in 1947 that "[n]either a state nor the Federal Government? can pass laws which aid one religion, aid all religions, or prefer one religion over another? " and that "[t]he First Amendment has erected a wall of separation between church and state. That wall must be kept high and impregnable." (Everson v. Board of Education, 1947). "I'd like to see Warden Cain honor the Constitution and the rule of law," says Cook. "If those in charge of enforcing the law break the law, that sends a terrible message." Cook is fighting an uphill battle, as Louisiana traditionally has had a pro-Christian legislature. "The prevailing sentiment is that this promotion of religion is a good thing," Cook explains. Cain believes that his method of rehabilitation works, and he has the support of state officials. "They can get out and become productive citizens," he explains, or "as long as they don't go out, they have a real calming effect for us over this prison. And you bring God into it and say, God intends for you to be here, and you've redeemed yourself. You can't get out of here, but you'll be blessed later." The Reverend A.J., who has never applied for a pardon, agrees. "People don't want to hear that I'm a Christian now --- everyone goes [before] the board with the same story. People don't think you can change. Maybe I deserve to be here; I don't know." © Copyright 2003, Public Arts(TM). All rights reserved (via KUER Salt Lake City via DXLD) ** U S A. FLOODING CAN'T STOP RADIO STATION [WCSM, Celina OH] http://www.onnnews.com/story.php?record=25305 (via Artie Bigley, OH, DXLD) ** U S A. THE LAWSUIT ON THE CUTTING-ROOM FLOOR By Lisa de Moraes, Wednesday, July 9, 2003; Page C07 http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A30614-2003Jul9.html HOLLYWOOD, July 8 Filmmaker Shelton Lee says he dropped his lawsuit against Viacom because "on reviewing the circumstances concerning" its efforts to rename cable network TNN, "I no longer believe that Viacom deliberately intended to trade on my name when naming Spike TV." Lee, whose nickname is Spike, had sued the studio, claiming that people would mistake Spike TV for his network and that he did not want to be associated with the channel. Lee's joint statement with Viacom about the settlement reached on Monday was read today by Spike TV topper Albie Hecht during that network's Q&A session here at Summer TV Press Tour 2003. Having reached a settlement -- the terms of which Hecht would not discuss -- it seems that Shelton Lee has now become a champion of the First Amendment. "As an artist and a filmmaker, I feel that protection of freedom of expression is a critical value and I am concerned that my efforts to stop Viacom from using the Spike TV name could have unintended consequence of threatening the First Amendment rights of Viacom and others," Lee added, which brought chuckles from the critics. "I am pleased to be able to resolve this matter and be able to work with Viacom on new projects," Lee's statement concluded. That was followed by more chortling from the TV critics, one of whom asked Hecht to detail the projects Viacom had had to buy to get Lee off the studio's back. Hecht would say only that they are for Viacom's MTV network. © 2003 The Washington Post Company (via Kraig Krist, DXLD) ** U S A. AMATEUR RADIO'S SIGNAL WAVERING Enthusiasts see technology, rules boosting hobby By CRISTINA SILVA http://www.timesleader.com/mld/timesleader/news/6246792.htm LEHMAN TWP. [PA] --- Sometimes if you build it, they still won't come. Though about 2,000 radio enthusiasts from across the Northeast attended the 24th annual Murgas Amateur Radio Club's Hamfest and Computerfest held at Luzerne County Fair Grounds on Sunday, very few were new to the event. And despite recent technology and relaxed Federal Communications Commission rules making it easier than ever to obtain a license and radio, amateur radio is not exactly the most happening hobby around. "We are competing with the Internet, DVDs and video games," said Rick Rinehimer, a member of the club since 1983. "A national problem is to attract people to radio." The Murgas Amateur Radio Club was founded in 1975 by radio enthusiasts in the area. Club membership has fluctuated at around 100 people for the past 20 years with the demographics shifting toward older and older members each year, Rinehimer said. The club is named in honor of the Rev. Joseph Murgas, who was the pastor at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Wilkes-Barre and a pioneer in the wireless communications field in the early 1900s. Since its inception, the club has been actively involved in community service and in the past year provided radio communications for the MS Walk at Frances Slocum State Park, the St. John Hospice Bicycle Ride and the Wilkes-Barre Triathlon. The members also volunteer their services during bad weather or other emergencies and participate in a weekly drill in conjunction with the Luzerne County Emergency Management Agency. Yet club members still get very little recognition. "The community doesn't know we are here until we are needed," Rinehimer said. But that might be changing soon with new technology and rules that are making it easier to participate in the 100-year-old hobby. Whereas 30 years ago a person would have to make his or her own ham radio, today a radio can easily be purchased in an electronics store, said Hal Bice, a Murgas member. Bice said a person today could purchase a radio, plug it in an electrical outlet and transmit to people across the country in a matter of minutes. Hearing the voices of people in Guyana, Denmark, Costa Rica and Russia all in one night can not compare to using the Internet for communication, said Bice. New FCC regulations are also making radio more accessible. Testing for a license was once a hurdle for many who wanted to become radio operators, said George Miklosi, co-chairperson of the Hamfest. Now, the FCC and American Radio Relay League publish a manual with sample test questions and answers. Also, in recent years the Morse code section of the test was greatly relaxed. Currently, to earn a beginners license one must be able to transmit a minimum of five words of Morse code in a minute, said Miklosi, as opposed to the required more than 20 words in the past. The Morse code, in which short and long sounds called dots and dashes are used to transmit messages, is often used in radio transmissions. The radio community's goal is to make it easier for people to get on the air, Miklosi said. Furthermore, new technology is allowing radio operators to pair their computer and radio to provide faster transmissions, said Bice. Radio enthusiasts also are exploring how digital technology can be used to make radio transmissions quicker and easier, Rinehimer said. Carey Staron of Williamsport has been attending the Hamfest for the past decade. She said she hopes more people will get involved with radio to replace "pioneers" that have passed away. But even if they don't, Staron said she believes the tradition will still live on. "Amateur radio will never die." 73 (via Kim KD9XB Elliott, DXLD) ** U S A. FCC OPINION BOLSTERS FEDERAL PREEMPTION OVER RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE MATTERS NEWINGTON, CT, Jul 8, 2003 -- An FCC Memorandum Opinion and Order (MO&O) released this week bolsters the doctrine of federal preemption over local efforts to regulate radio frequency interference (RFI). The ARRL had commented in the proceeding, WT Docket 02-100, which could have implications for Amateur Radio. The proceeding stemmed from efforts by Anne Arundel County, Maryland, to require telecommunication service providers to certify their facilities would not interfere with the county`s public safety communication system. ``We find that federal law preempts provisions of the Anne Arundel County, Maryland, zoning ordinances involving radio frequency interference,`` the FCC declared in granting Cingular Wireless` Petition for Declaratory Ruling and denying the county`s Motion to Dismiss. ARRL had supported Cingular`s position in the proceeding. Cingular asserted in its petition that Congress had established a ``pervasive regulatory scheme`` that grants the FCC exclusive jurisdiction to regulate RFI, and that the Anne Arundel zoning amendments conflicted with the Commission`s rules regarding resolution of RFI cases. The county had contended that the courts, not the FCC, had exclusive jurisdiction over local zoning actions affecting placement, construction and modification of personal wireless service facilities. At the same time, the FCC said it expected all parties involved to continue to cooperate in resolving the RFI issues that remain. It also mandated progress reports. Responding to unresolved RFI from wireless facilities to its public safety communication system, Anne Arundel County in January 2002 adopted zoning amendments requiring commercial telecommunication providers to demonstrate that their facilities would not degrade or interfere with the public safety radio system. The amended ordinance gave the county the authority to revoke a zoning certificate if such interference or degradation occurred or if telecommunication service providers did not certify their systems to be in compliance with FCC standards and guidelines. The FCC said it found that the county`s zoning provisions went beyond traditional zoning functions and attempted to regulate RFI, which is said is the exclusive domain of the Commission. The FCC claimed exclusive federal regulation over RFI on the basis of ``field preemption.`` In field preemption, ``the federal interest is so dominant that the federal system is presumed to prohibit enforcement of state laws on the same issue,`` the FCC explained in its MO&O. ``The Commission and the federal courts have consistently found that the Commission`s authority in the area of RFI is exclusive, and any attempt by state or local governments to regulate in the area of RFI is preempted.`` The FCC pointed out that it had addressed the same issue nearly 20 years ago after a local zoning board attempted to condition a zoning permit to a broadcast station on the station`s not causing RFI to existing facilities or TV translators. The FCC also found in that case that the Communications Act gave it authority over RF interference. The FCC Memorandum Opinion and Order is available on the FCC Web site. http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-03-2196A1.doc Copyright © 2003, American Radio Relay League, Inc. All Rights Reserved (via John Norfolk, DX LISTENING DIGEST) ** VENEZUELA. PRESIDENT PLEDGES FUNDS TO BEEF UP STATE BROADCASTERS | Text of report in English by Venezuelan pro-government VENews web site on 7 July In an effort to clean up the government's media and communications act, Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez Frías has offered an extra 60bn bolívares [about 1,600 bolivares to the US dollar] to update equipment and strengthen media strategy. Newly appointed media minister, Jesse Chacón, says the money will be spent on state VTV channel and Radio Nacional, which he claims is not reaching important sectors of society. Spouting the theory that the media is the medium [sic], Chacón states, "if we are going to have a public and private system in which the media is once again the medium, we will set up a series of mechanisms that will make it easier to reach the public, but if opposition media continue to rule, then we will have to search for other ways of reaching people and back them up legally." The minister complains that government news briefs and releases end up in opposition media editors' bins, leaving it up to the government to seek other mechanisms to reach the public. The government has frequently complained that Venezuela's private print and broadcast have blacked out its achievements, which are published by the government Venpres agency. The breakdown of national link-up transmission of the military parade on 24 June sparked the dismissal of Nora Uribe as media minister, as President Chávez Frías makes media coverage a top priority vis-à-vis the private media sector, which has formed a solid block in opposition. Quinto Día's editor is the latest to come under fire for allegedly giving excessive coverage to military affairs. Source: VENews web site in English 7 Jul 03 (via BBCM via DXLD) UNIDENTIFIED. Saludos desde Catia La Mar, VENEZUELA. El 05/07, se pudo escuchar en la frecuencia de 9600 kHz, una transmisión de prueba de la VT Merlin Communications. Se identificaba con un locutor en inglés y un tema musical de fondo. El mensaje duraba como un minuto y se repetía una y otra vez. Escuchada a las 2137 UT. Fuera del aire como 5 minutos después (Adán González Catia La Mar, VENEZUELA, DX LISTENING DIGEST) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ POWERLINE COMMUNICATIONS ++++++++++++++++++++++++ For your information, here is a copy of the final version of the NASB comments on BPL which our attorney Ed Bailey submitted on Monday to the FCC: Before the FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20554 In the matter of ) ) Inquiry Regarding Carrier Current Systems ) ET Docket No. 03-104 including Broadband over Power Line Systems ) ) ) COMMENTS Introduction These comments are submitted on behalf of the National Association of Shortwave Broadcasters (``NASB``), which represents eighteen FCC- licensed, privately owned shortwave broadcast stations located in the United States.[footnote 1] The Commission has requested information and data regarding issues related to Broadband over Power Lines systems (BPL) as part of its consideration of changes to Part 15 of the Commission`s rules in order to facilitate the deployment of this technology. NASB`s position is that BPL, or any other developmental technology, should be introduced only if existing proven frequency applications are provided the maximum protection so as to prevent harmful interference with existing uses. To that end, NASB has consistently supported the reasonable concerns of public protection, disaster relief, defense and security users of HF frequencies when those users have expressed concerns regarding harmful interference from proposed users. Because NASB believes BPL to be a disruptive technology that significantly interferes with many existing radio applications now in use in the bands between 2 and 30 MHz, it concludes that BPL should not be authorized at this time. Technical/Interference Concerns These Comments address concerns related to two different BPL technologies: Access and In-House. Both systems employ multiple carrier signals spread over a broad range of frequencies. The conducted energy from a BPL system causes harmful interference to radio communications via two possible paths. First, the RF energy is carried through electrical wiring to radio receivers connected to the electrical wiring. Second, at frequencies below 30 MHz, where wavelengths exceed 10 meters, long stretches of power line wiring will act as an antenna, permitting the BPL RF energy to be radiated over the airwaves. Thus, it would have the effect of raising the already high noise floors for radio reception. Since there is relatively low propagation loss at these frequencies, such radiated energy would cause harmful interference to portable or mobile radio receivers, even those at a considerable distance from the power lines. The adoption of a BPL system in the United States, using wide spectrum techniques from 4.5 MHz to 21 MHz would result in the de facto ``jamming`` of international shortwave broadcasts intended for listeners in the United States. Since the clear intention of the international Radio Regulations is to avoid harmful interference, the U.S. has a responsibility to limit, or remove, any source of interference with such reception. The concern of NASB is that BPL, in fact, introduces such harmful interference. Several papers and commentators have raised significant concerns regarding the viability of BPL in light of the above issues.[2] The BBC and its broadcasting arm, VT Merlin, are strong in their objection to any relaxation of interference to the broadcast bands. A report[3] developed by Jonathon Stott of the BBC Research and Development Group, demonstrates that BPL systems are a serious threat to broadcasting. The European Broadcast Union developed a proposal on BPL systems and their emissions which was first presented as a report to the DRM membership. DRM, the leading digital methodology for the future of radio, has expressed strong concerns, as has the European DX Council, the Radio Society of Great Britain4 and the Austrian Amateur Radio Society.[5] It will be impractical, if not impossible, to develop standardized measurement techniques to ensure compliance at any protection level that the Commission might adopt. BPL systems use electrical wiring within a building as the means to transmit data; consequently, the impedance of the building system changes every time a device or appliance is added, removed, or turned off or on. Such a widely fluctuating environment makes modeling of any such system extremely difficult, if not impossible. Radiated emissions from the RF energy imposed on the building`s electrical wiring would vary from location to location based on each building`s wiring and power requirements. Since the building wiring would also serve as an antenna, that wiring structure would have to be accounted for in any evaluation methodology. Certainly, measurements derived in any laboratory setting would be invalid, as each system would constitute a unique set of parameters to be measured and evaluated. Public Protection, Disaster Relief and Defense Many of the authorized services in the fixed, land mobile, aeronautical mobile, maritime mobile, radiolocation, broadcast radio, amateur radio terrestrial and satellite, and radio astronomy frequencies play an important role in Homeland Security and, arguably, would be severely compromised by interference from BPL. These services currently provide reliable and proven methods of communication when other means of communication have been disrupted. It would be untimely and ill-advised to introduce any new source of potential interference that might have an adverse affect on these communications. This effect would be quite noticeable in both urban and rural settings and imposes on everyone served by the power line, whether they receive the service or not. Recommendation In the event there is an adoption and deployment of BPL, NASB would require that operable BPL systems demonstrate, and the FCC certify, that the magnetic field of the emissions should be 0 dBu V/m, measured at a distance of one meter, in a bandwidth of 9 kHz, and utilizing a peak detector. This is the only methodology that can guarantee adequate protection to the radio spectrum from 2 to 30 MHz from BPL interference. Conclusion Accordingly, NASB believes that BPL systems jeopardize the current use of the radio bands between 2 and 30 MHz. NASB joins in the expressed concerns about BPL interference to other licensed radio spectrum users in these bands. NASB encourages the Commission to look beyond the temporary appeal of BPL to undergo a thorough examination of the science, to recognize the collateral damage caused by BPL and to provide maximum protection of the proven existing radio applications. Respectfully submitted, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF SHORTWAVE BROADCASTERS 1 KSDA; WMLK; WEWN; WYFR; KFBS; WTJC; WBOH; WSHB; WHRI; KWHR; WHRA; WRMI; KTWR; KAIJ; KVOH; WJIE; KNLS; and, WINB. 2 See, e.g. ``Power Line Communications: A Threat for Radio Listening?`` Prof. Filippo Gianetti, Università degli Studi di Pisa http://www.edxc.org/modules.php?op=modload&name=Sections&file=index&re q=viewarticle&artid=1&page=1). See also, ``Physical and Regulatory Constraints for Communication over the Power Supply Grid`` by Martin Gebhardt, Frank Weinmann and Klaus Dostert, University of Karlsruhe. 3 See http://www.bbc.co.uk/rd/pubs/whp/whp013.html 4 http://www.rsgb.org/emc/pltnew.htm 5 http://www.powerline-plc.info/video (via Jeff White, NASB, DXLD) ``BPL IS A PANDORA`S BOX OF UNPRECEDENTED PROPORTIONS,`` ARRL TELLS FCC --- By Rick Lindquist, N1RL, Senior News Editor, July 8, 2003 NEWINGTON, CT, Jul 8, 2003 -- Citing the potential for interference to and from Amateur Radio, the ARRL has called on the FCC to ``take no steps`` to permit Broadband over Power Line (BPL) -- a form of power line carrier (PLC) technology. The League has filed a 120-page response--including studies--in response to the FCC`s BPL Notice of Inquiry (NOI) in ET Docket 03-104, published May 23. The NOI asking how the FCC should regulate the delivery of broadband services to homes and businesses using electrical wiring to conduct high-speed digital signals attracted some 1900 comments -- many from the amateur community -- by the July 7 comment deadline. ``ARRL is unwilling to have the Amateur Service gored with the double-edged sword of an incompatible service that will at once (1) cause widespread interference, and (2) preclude any future changes in the amateur HF allocations,`` the ARRL said. The League said that based on ``diligent and exhaustive research,`` it`s concluded that BPL must avoid any and all amateur MF, HF and VHF allocations without exception. ``This interference potential, as a matter of both law and fact, disqualifies access BPL as a potential future competitive broadband delivery system.`` How will the radiation from BPL wiring affect other systems, such as telephone or cable TV? So-called ``access BPL`` would use existing overhead medium-voltage power lines to distribute Internet and broadband services to homes and businesses. Another form of BPL, ``in-house BPL,`` uses electrical wiring inside a building to distribute digital signals. The League said that while it`s aware that current Part 15 rules permit BPL, its interference potential remains untested and unrealized, since no access BPL systems are in operation. BPL proponents would prefer that the FCC authorize even higher power levels for such systems, however. ``BPL is a Pandora`s Box of unprecedented proportions,`` the ARRL declared. It asked the FCC to modify its Part 15 rules to prevent interference to users of the HF and low-VHF spectrum from the start and ``to prevent consumers` reliance on BPL as an interference-free broadband delivery system.`` In announcing its BPL initiative earlier this year, members of the FCC could barely contain their enthusiasm for the technology. The League`s comments point out, however, that the FCC had acceded to the utility industry by citing potential interference to and from unlicensed power company PLC power-grid control systems in turning down ARRL`s petition for a 136 kHz allocation. ARRL had asked that hams be permitted to transmit on 136 kHz at less than 2 W effective isotropic radiated power (EIRP); the FCC had proposed 1 W EIRP. ``Yet, the same industry, together with BPL manufacturers, is apparently contending now that at HF and VHF, where the power lines are better antennas than they are at LF, that BPL can co-exist with amateur stations using more than 10,000 watts EIRP,`` the League said. ``Both arguments cannot be valid.`` Studies appended to the League`s comments suggest received signal levels of BPL broadband noise at typical amateur stations would be anywhere from 33.7 dB to 65.4 dB higher than typical ambient noise levels in the worst-case situations. ``BPL cannot be deployed using amateur allocations in the MF, HF and VHF bands without severely high interference potential,`` the ARRL reiterated. One technical issue involves the best method to bridging or bypass the typical step-down pole transformer to deliver BPL from the power grid into an office or dwelling. Electric utility companies would operate many, if not most, BPL systems. ARRL pointed out that some power companies have demonstrated a less-than-stellar record of cooperation in resolving complaints of power line noise to hams. ``It is fair to say that power line interference to Amateur Radio has been a substantial regulatory burden to the Commission,`` the ARRL said. ``It is a very substantial problem now for the Amateur Service, without the addition of BPL to the mix.`` The ARRL concluded by urging the FCC to ensure that BPL ``is not permitted to operate in or near any Amateur Radio allocations`` and that any future changes in ham allocations would ``trigger retroactive modifications to BPL facilities`` to avoid amateur frequencies. In addition, the ARRL said, spurious emissions from BPL facilities must be substantially attenuated below current Part 15 requirements. ARRL`s complete filing in response to the FCC`s NOI is available on the FCC Web site [at] http://gullfoss2.fcc.gov/prod/ecfs/retrieve.cgi?native_or_pdf=pdf&id_document=6514284573 The complete NOI is available on the FCC Web site [at] http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/FCC-03-100A1.doc Reply comments in this proceeding are due on or before August 6, 2003. Interested parties may submit electronically filed comments via the FCC`s Electronic Comment Filing System (ECFS) [at] http://www.fcc.gov/cgb/ecfs/ Under ECFS Main Links, click on ``Submit a Filing.`` In the ``Proceeding`` field, enter ``03-104`` and complete the required field. Comments may be typed into a form or you may attach a file containing your comments. Comments also may be submitted via e-mail, per instructions on the ECFS page. The ARRL has initiated an important Spectrum Defense Fund campaign to support activities to educate government officials on the potential threat that BPL poses to Amateur Radio. To find out more, or to support ARRL`s efforts in this area, visit the ARRL`s secure BPL Web site [at] https://www.arrl.org/forms/development/donations/bpl/ Related Story: ``Understanding the FCC`s Broadband Over Power Line (BPL) Notice of Inquiry`` http://www.arrl.org/news/features/2003/06/19/2/ Copyright © 2003, American Radio Relay League, Inc. All Rights Reserved (via John Norfolk, DX LISTENING DIGEST) CONVENTIONS & CONFERENCES +++++++++++++++++++++++++ Fwd: NEW REGULATIONS FOR THE AMATEUR SERVICES Note: We received the following news release from the International Amateur Radio Union on the outcome of World Radiocommunications Conference `03 and feel it is important for all of you to read. In addition to the data already in circulation dealing with upcoming changes to 40 meters in 2009, this document also has information on overall regulatory changes to ham radio world-wide as the result of the just concluded Geneva Switzerland conference. Also remember that here in the United States we hams must await FCC action to implement any of these changes. They do not go into effect until that happens and this could (and will) be several years in the future. It might be wise to keep this on file for future reference as the regulatory change process begins. WA6ITF, ARNewsline(tm) July 5 --------------------------------------------------------------------- NEWS RELEASE --- International Amateur Radio Union P.O. Box 310905, Newington, CT 06131-0905 USA FAX: +1 860 594 0259 E-Mail: iaru@i... [truncated] 3 July 2003 For immediate release New Regulations For The Amateur Services By Michael Owen, VK3KI, WRC-03 IARU Observer Team Member Introduction On 4th July 2003 the World Radiocommunication Conference, Geneva, 2003 ended and on the following day, the 5th July 2003 the new international regulations governing the amateur and amateur satellite services, Article 25 of the Radio Regulations, that had been adopted by the Conference come into effect. The language of many provisions in Article 25 as it was before 5th July 2003 was the language of many years ago, reflecting the priorities, structures and attitudes of a time long gone. Provisions such as requiring amateur stations to use ``plain language``, that communications be limited to messages ``relating to experiments``, and remarks ``for which by reason of their lack of importance, the use of the telegraph service could not enter into consideration``, the prohibition of ``international communications emanating from third parties``, though that provision ``may be modified by special arrangements between the interested countries``, the requirement for Morse Code, and a number of other provisions are to be found in Article 8 of the General Radio Regulations annexed to the International Telecommunication Convention, Madrid, 1932. The IARU policy was to seek the simplification of the Regulations affecting the amateur services by removal of regulations that were no longer necessary, the removal of provisions that were redundant because the subject matter was covered elsewhere in the Radio Regulations, the updating of provisions to reflect today`s attitudes and activities, the identification of some standards for the qualification of amateurs and the addition of provisions that encouraged amateurs to be given the ability to provide emergency communications and to encourage the international recognition of amateur licences. The Radio Regulations, the international regulations, define the fundamentals of the amateur services, and regulate international communications between stations in the amateur and amateur-satellite services. Administrations may and do make additional regulations, and regulate in detail the amateur services in their country. This article compares the previous regulations with the new regulations and attempts to identify what is new and what is different. It does not attempt to explain why the particular provision was adopted in a particular form, which is another story told elsewhere. The numbers used to identify provisions are the temporary numbers used by the ITU in the course of the WRC. Banned countries list The first provision of Article 25, the so called ``banned countries`` list is a provision that is to be found in the 1932 Regulations, and is almost the same as the previous regulation except that it is now expressed positively rather negatively. The provision reads: 25.1 Radiocommunications between amateur stations of different countries shall be permitted unless the administration of one of the countries concerned has notified that it objects to such radiocommunications. That is a provision that has only a limited effect on most amateurs. The balance of Article 25 is more directly relevant to the day to day activities of radio amateurs. What may be transmitted by Amateur Stations The old international regulation relating to what an amateur station may transmit was as follows: ``When transmissions between amateur stations of different countries are permitted, they shall be made in plain language and shall be limited to messages of a technical nature relating to tests and to remarks of a personal character for which, by reason of their unimportance, recourse to the public telecommunications service is not justified.`` This dealt with two distinct matters, the content of messages and the encryption of messages. The phrase ``messages of a technical nature relating to tests and to remarks of a personal character`` could be construed unnecessarily narrowly, and did not reflect today`s world, and the qualifying phrase ``which, by reason of their unimportance, recourse to the public telecommunications service is not justified`` was both vague and uncertain, and certainly reflected a time when in most countries the common carrier was a government monopoly. So, the old provision was replaced by a new provision as follows: 25.2 Transmissions between amateur stations of different countries shall be limited to communications incidental to the purposes of the amateur service, as defined in No. 1.56 and to remarks of a personal character. The term ``incidental to`` is wide, certainly not requiring a narrow connection with the ``purposes of the amateurs service`` and as the ``purposes`` of the amateur service set out in the definition are ``self-training, intercommunication and technical investigations``, the subject matter goes much beyond ``tests``. The new provision much more accurately reflects what in fact is the subject matter of amateur transmissions today. Coded Messages It is assumed that the phrase in the old provision requiring transmissions to be in ``plain language`` meant something transmitted by either voice or Morse that anyone could hear and understand. But today amateurs use many codes, and so what is meant by the phrase ``plain language`` could become a question in some countries. The language is no longer really appropriate. And, in any event a total prohibition is not appropriate as encryption is required for the control of satellites by command stations. The requirement is not for ``plain language`` but a prohibition of messages encoded for the purposes of obscuring their meaning. So, the simple phrase in the old regulation was replaced by a new provision, as follows: 25.2A Transmissions between amateur stations of different countries shall not be encoded for the purpose of obscuring their meaning, except for control signals exchanged between earth command stations and the space station in the amateur satellite service. The IARU had suggested that it would be desirable for the exception to be expressed more widely than limited to satellite control signals, but a number of countries resisted this for security reasons. Of course the provision applies only to international communications. Therefore, repeater control signals, which are almost invariably transmitted within a single country and so are subject to national rather than international, regulation, may be encoded unless prohibited by national regulation. ``Third party`` messages One of the most difficult areas was the old provisions dealing with so called ``third party messages.`` The provisions were as follows: It is absolutely forbidden for amateur stations to be used for transmitting international communications on behalf of third parties. The preceding provisions may be modified by special arrangements between the administrations of the countries concerned. That prohibition of international communication on behalf of third parties is very wide. What is a communication on behalf of a third party? School children speaking to an astronaut is a communication on behalf of a third party, as is participation in the Jamboree on the Air. The provision inhibited preparation for disaster communication, and indeed, international disaster relief communications unless a special arrangements were in place between the two countries concerned. The requirement that the prohibition could be modified by ``special arrangements between the administrations of the countries concerned`` was slow and clumsy, in many countries involving the ministry responsible for foreign relations. The IARU suggested the suppression of both provisions, taking the view that each administration was fully empowered to regulate its amateurs, and in particular to define what communication could and could not be carried by an amateur station both nationally and internationally. Of course, the fundamental requirement that the amateur service is non commercial is to be found in the definition of the amateur service and Article 25.2 set out above. The new provision reads as follows: 25.3 Amateur stations may be used for transmitting international communications on behalf of third parties only in the case of an emergency or disaster relief. . An administration may determine the applicability of this provision to amateur stations under its jurisdiction. The exception to the blanket prohibition for cases of emergency and disaster relief is important, and when read with the new provision intended to encourage emergency communication by amateur stations will hopefully lead administrations to adopt new regulations to facilitate such activities. This second sentence of this provision enables each administration to define what is a communication on behalf of a third party, and with whom the stations under its jurisdiction may exchange such communications. If the other station`s administration permits the same communication, then the communication may be exchanged internationally. The removal of the requirement for bilateral agreements between countries is significant as the new regulation certainly provides the means by which each administration can permit many activities, such as disaster relief, practice for emergency communication, and educational communications to take place internationally. Morse Code The old regulation that Morse was a requirement for the operators of amateur stations below 30 MHz was found in a provision that read as follows: Any person seeking a licence to operate the apparatus of an amateur station shall prove that he is able to send correctly by hand and to receive correctly by ear texts in Morse code signals. The administrations concerned may, however, waive this requirement in the case of stations making use exclusively of frequencies above 30 MHz. That was replaced with a provision giving each administration the right to decide whether or not Morse is a required qualification as follows: 25.5 Administrations shall determine whether or not a person seeking a licence to operate an amateur station shall demonstrate the ability to send and receive texts in Morse code signals. The alternative of simply deleting the old provision was rejected because a number of administrations thought that the matter was so important that a positive decision not to require Morse as a qualification was appropriate. The effect is actually the same: Morse code is no longer an internationally required qualification for an amateur licence, though an administration may still require it. The Qualification of Amateurs Apart from the Morse code as a qualification, the previous regulation provided: Administrations shall take such measures as they judge necessary to verify the operational and technical qualifications of any person wishing to operate the apparatus of an amateur station. This was replaced by a new provision as follows: 25.6 Administrations shall verify the operational and technical qualifications of any person wishing to operate an amateur station. Guidance for standards of competence may be found in the most recent version of Recommendation ITU-R M.1544. The reference to the Recommendation is a non-mandatory reference. That is, an administration is not bound to follow it, but it is expected that all administrations will take the Recommendation into account when setting the qualification for an amateur licensee. The Recommendation is very general, for example providing that any person seeking a license to operate an amateur station should demonstrate a ``theoretical knowledge of: Radio regulations, international, domestic``, and under the heading ``Radio system theory``, ``transmitters, receivers, antennas and propagation and measurements.`` Consistently with the decisions of the Conference, the Recommendation does not suggest any requirement for a Morse skill. That accords with the IARU position that the Radio Regulations should give some guidance as to the qualification appropriate for an amateur licence, but should not attempt to set a syllabus, as the diversity of environments for which a standard must be set is very great. The identification of a standard, the topics on which knowledge is required, reflects one of the essential elements of the amateur service, namely that an amateur is a person who has demonstrated an operational and technical qualification, distinguishing that amateur from many other users of the spectrum. Power The next provision in the new Regulations is: 25.7 The maximum power of amateur stations shall be fixed by the administrations concerned. That is almost the same as the old regulation, but with the words after those words in the old provision being omitted, so the words ``having regard to the technical qualifications of the operators and to the conditions under which these stations are to operate`` are no longer part of the provision. The application of other provisions of the Radio Regulations Again, Article 25.8 is a shortened version of the previous article, and reads as follows: 25.8 All pertinent Articles and Provisions of the Constitution, the Convention and of these Regulations shall apply to amateur stations. That changes the reference to ``general rules`` to ``pertinent`` provisions of the current ITU documents and omits the sentence ``In particular, the emitted frequency shall be as stable and as free from spurious emissions as the state of technical development for such stations permits.`` which is unnecessary as the requirements apply to amateur stations in any event. In reality, there is no change arising from the different wording. Probably the provision is unnecessary in any event, but it offered some assurance to administrations that amateurs will abide by all pertinent rules. Call signs Finally, a provision that is the same as the previous provision: 25.9 During the course of their transmissions, amateur stations shall transmit their call sign at short intervals. Emergency Communications Then, a completely new provision is included in Article 25, a provision that really needs no explanation. 25.9A Administrations are encouraged to take the necessary steps to allow amateur stations to prepare for and meet communication needs in support of disaster relief. That provision should be read in conjunction with Article 25.3, and it is hoped that administrations will make regulations that facilitate amateurs preparing for emergency situations and providing communications in emergencies and for disaster relief. This was an important IARU objective. The international recognition of the licences of visiting amateurs A further completely new provision is added to Article 25: 25.9B Administrations may determine whether or not to permit a person who has been granted a licence to operate an amateur station by another administration, to operate an amateur station while that person is temporarily in its territory, subject to such conditions or restrictions it may impose. This provision has been interpreted by some to mean that an administration may, if it wishes, permit a licensee from another country to operate in its territory without issuing a licence, as would otherwise be required by Article 18 of the Radio Regulations. There is some substance in interpretation, as the provision deals with ``permissions`` and applies only to a person temporarily in the territory of the other administration. The interpretation of the provision is, of course, a matter for administrations, but hopefully it is a provision that will encourage administrations to allow amateurs to enjoy their hobby while travelling by recognising the foreign licence. A global recognition would fill in the gaps left by the CEPT Recommendation T/R 61-01 and the International Amateur Radio Permit of the OAS. The Amateur-satellite service The final two provisions deal with amateur-satellite service, the first being unchanged and reading as follows: 25.10 The provisions of Section I of this Article shall apply equally, as appropriate, to the amateur-satellite service. The next provision is the only operative provision in Article 25 dealing with the amateur-satellite service. The previous provision read as follows: Space stations in the amateur-satellite service operating in bands shared with other services shall be fitted with appropriate devices for controlling emissions in the event that harmful interference is reported in accordance with the procedure laid down in Article 22. Administrations authorizing such space stations shall inform the IFRB and shall ensure that sufficient earth command stations are established before launch to guarantee that any harmful interference which might be reported can be terminated by the authorizing administration (see No. 2612). The provision was unnecessarily complex, repeating obligations that are found elsewhere in the Radio Regulations, particularly Article 22. In the end, the following simplified provision was adopted: 25.11 Administrations authorizing space stations in the amateur- satellite service shall ensure that sufficient earth command stations are established before launch to ensure that any harmful interference caused by emissions from a station in the amateur- satellite service can be terminated immediately (see No. 22.1). The new provision avoids the repetition in different words of regulations that already apply to the stations, and simply requires that sufficient earth command stations are established before launch. The Definition of the Amateur Service When, in 1996, the IARU commenced its examination of the issues raised by placing Article 25 of the Radio Regulations on the agenda of a future World Radiocommunication Conference, it very quickly saw that the definition remained as relevant and appropriate as it had been over the many years that it been a part of the Radio regulations. It is worth setting out that definition for the sake of completeness: 1.56 Amateur service: A radiocommunication service for the purpose of self-training, intercommunication and technical investigations carried out by amateurs, that is, by duly authorised persons interested in radio technique solely with a personal aim and without pecuniary interest. Similarly, the definition of the amateur-satellite service remains unchanged: 1.57 Amateur-satellite service: A radiocommunication service using space stations on earth satellites for the same purposes as those of the amateur service. The Conference decided that no change was required to those definitions in Article 1. Conclusion The Radio Regulations are the written result of the welding together of the different views of different people with different languages and from different cultures. It is no doubt easy to say that some of the provisions could be expressed more elegantly, and that some of the provisions are not necessary. Of course, it is true that the narrower provisions of the old international regulations have not really inhibited the amateur service in many countries, with administrations preferring a liberal interpretation. But in the long run, the amateur service cannot afford to have countries ignore the international regulations. It is fundamental that the amateurs have appropriate ``operational and technical qualifications.`` A speed limit that is unrealistic and not enforced is going to be ignored. What was appropriate in 1932 may not be appropriate in 2003. In the end it is suggested that the meaning of Article 25 is clear, even if expressed in language different from the language suggested by the IARU. What is important is the substance, not the form, and it is suggested that the changes and additions made to Article 25 by WRC 2003 will meet the needs for the future of the amateur service identified by the IARU (via ARNL via John Norfolk, DXLD) PROPAGATION +++++++++++ In the discussion about TV DX off-frequency European transmitters were mentioned: These are no faulty, drifting transmitters but instead deliberate so-called offsets, a technique to reduce interferences between co-channel transmitters by shifting the video carriers a certain amount against each other. Regards, (Kai Ludwig, Germany, July 7, DX LISTENING DIGEST) ARNIE CORO`S DXERS UNLIMITED`S HF PLUS LOW VHF BAND PROPAGATION UPDATE AND FORECAST Solar activity is and will very probably continue to be MODERATE, with a big group of sunspots making solar scientist very happy at this moment... THERE IS A REALLY BIG SUNSPOT GROUP AT THIS MOMENT: Sunspot group 375 is still growing. The large leading spot alone is about the size of the planet Neptune, and the entire group, which consists of 40 individual spots, stretches 10 Earth-diameters from end to end. But please, take care and although it is easy to see -- never stare directly at the sun. Always use safe solar observing techniques , that do require special equipment !!! Solar flux is now around 140 units, and reports are coming in about exceptional Sporadic E TRANSATLANTIC propagation reaching up to the FM broadcast band. Expect more interesting propagation during the next three to five days amigos. As usual during the summer, you will notice that the short wave conditions actually improve after your local sunset, so spend some time looking for DX from about half an hour before local sunset to about an hour after or so, when a noticeable peak in propagation will almost surely be happening (Arnie Coro A., CO2KK, RHC DXers Unlimited July 8 via Bob Chandler, VE3SRE, ODXA via DXLD) FORECAST OF SOLAR AND GEOMAGNETIC ACTIVITY 09 JULY - 04 AUGUST 2003 Solar activity is expected to range from very low to moderate levels but predominantly at low levels. Region 397 and Region 400 have the potential for moderate level activity before they rotate beyond the west limb on 09 July and 13 July, respectively. Activity for the remainder of the period is expected to be at very low to low levels. No greater than 10 MeV proton events at geosynchronous orbit are expected during the period. The greater than 2 MeV electron flux is expected to reach high levels on 06 – 08 July, 12 – 14 July, 16 – 18 July, 20 – 28 July, and again on 30 July – 02 August due to recurrent coronal hole high speed streams. The geomagnetic field is expected to range from quiet to major storm levels during the period. Minor storm levels are possible on 11 – 12 July due to a small recurrent coronal hole high speed streams. Unsettled to major storm levels are possible on 14– 16 July due to small but intense coronal hole high speed stream. A large southern coronal hole is due to return on 23 - 27 July with major storm levels possible. The trailing portion of this large coronal hole will be in a geoeffective position on 29 July – 01 August and is expected to produce minor storm levels. :Product: 27-day Space Weather Outlook Table 27DO.txt :Issued: 2003 Jul 08 2211 UTC # Prepared by the US Dept. of Commerce, NOAA, Space Environment Center # Product description and SEC contact on the Web # http://www.sec.noaa.gov/wwire.html # # 27-day Space Weather Outlook Table # Issued 2003 Jul 08 # # UTC Radio Flux Planetary Largest # Date 10.7 cm A Index Kp Index 2003 Jul 09 140 15 3 2003 Jul 10 135 10 3 2003 Jul 11 125 25 5 2003 Jul 12 120 20 4 2003 Jul 13 120 15 3 2003 Jul 14 120 25 5 2003 Jul 15 120 30 5 2003 Jul 16 115 20 4 2003 Jul 17 115 12 3 2003 Jul 18 115 20 4 2003 Jul 19 115 15 3 2003 Jul 20 115 20 4 2003 Jul 21 115 25 5 2003 Jul 22 115 20 4 2003 Jul 23 120 20 4 2003 Jul 24 125 30 5 2003 Jul 25 125 30 5 2003 Jul 26 130 25 5 2003 Jul 27 130 20 4 2003 Jul 28 130 15 3 2003 Jul 29 135 15 3 2003 Jul 30 135 15 3 2003 Jul 31 140 20 4 2003 Aug 01 140 20 4 2003 Aug 02 130 25 5 2003 Aug 03 135 25 5 2003 Aug 04 135 15 3 (http://www.sec.noaa.gov/radio via WORLD OF RADIO 1190, DXLD) ###