For its 20th year, the Grassroots Radio Conference moves to the quaint tourist town of Hot Springs, Ark., known for its thermal waters and colorful past. Hosted by KUHS-LP 97.9, the conference will be held Oct. 7-10, 2016 at the Springs Hotel, 135 Central Ave., and at other locations throughout the historic downtown. Session topics will include solar power installation, Rivendell automation, open source software and hardware, FM transmit chains, grant writing, live remote broadcasts, reporting, programming, promotions, station management and more.
The conference is an annual event of the Grassroots Radio Coalition, which invites community radio volunteers and activists to learn new skills, discuss issues, network, and have fun. Founded in 1996, the GRC is dedicated to preserving the grassroots nature of community radio and to developing this medium. The conference is hosted at different locations each year by a community radio station in that area.
Says KUHS station manager Zachary Smith:
As a young station, we’re honored to host the 20th annual gathering of the Grassroots Radio Coalition. It’s a great organization that’s helped pave the way for new, low-power stations like ours.
Launched in August 2015, KUHS is Arkansas’ first and only solar powered station. It was engineered by Bob Nagy, who will offer courses on alternative technologies at this year’s conference. Other presenters include Michelle Bradley, Al Davis, Donna DiBianco, Bob Dunn, Jim Ellinger, Will Floyd, Dr. Lauralee Harris, David Klann, Betty McArdle, Ursula Ruedenberg, Sharon Scott, Bob Simmons and Tom Voorhees.
Says Smith:
Some of the best minds of community radio will be gathered together here in Hot Springs, and we’re excited to have them share their wealth of knowledge. We’re also looking forward to showcasing our little town. We think this year’s conference will be truly memorable with great presenters and lots of quirky fun.
Known as the nation’s “first resort,” Hot Springs is nestled in the Ouachita Mountains and adjacent to a national park, where presidents, baseball legends and notorious gangsters all convened to bathe in the naturally hot, spring water. Held in the historic downtown district, the conference venues are convenient to restaurants, bars, boutiques, art galleries, hiking trails and bathhouses.
The 2016 GRC will kick off the evening of Friday, Oct. 7 and will continue through Mon., Oct. 10. Breakfast and lunch will be provided throughout the conference. Tickets are available now at a discounted price of $150. Beginning Oct. 1, tickets will be $175. To register or find additional information, please visit www.grc2016.net on the web.