In an age where we take instant communication for granted, a sudden disruption—whether from severe weather, power outages, or network failures—can leave families scrambling to connect. The solution doesn't require expensive equipment or complex training. Instead, it starts with a simple monthly practice that takes less time than preparing dinner.

Remember TG9? In the DMR systems, it was the classic repeater group for local QSOs – no links, no internet, just pure communication through a single repeater. Now, within Group 312 Chicago, we’re returning to those roots by introducing Group 9 on our analog repeaters.

The American Radio Relay League (ARRL) has launched a nationwide grassroots campaign aimed at passing a federal law that restores equal rights for amateur radio operators in the United States to install antennas on their property.

Ham radio is a hobby that has connected people across the globe for decades – and it turns out its popularity is on the rise once again. A clear example of this is this year's ARRL Field Day 2025, the largest annual amateur radio event in the U.S., which saw a significant increase in the number of participating locations and operators making contacts.