Fans and creators of independent radio of all kinds who can make it to Ames, Iowa this week should do so. That’s because community radio KHOI and the Pacifica Foundation are hosting the 16th Grassroots Radio Conference.
We’re reported on GRC several times, both when it was announced in June and in LPFM Watch because there will be so many great opportunities for new low-power broadcasters to learn the ropes, network and get pumped up about pumping up the volume. But there will be plenty more for both new and veteran radio makers, with over 150 people expected to attend more than 40 sessions and workshops.
The conference kicks off Thursday at noon with a cookout in front of the KHOI studios. Historical preservationist Johnathan Buffalo of the Meskwaki tribe will opening ceremonies on Friday. Award-winning journalist and host of the long-running Alternative Radio program, David Barsamian will give a keynote address Sunday morning at 11 AM. His speech is open to the public, with a suggested donation of $10.
“We are delighted to bring this revered radio tradition to Ames hospitality,” said Ursula Ruedenberg, manager of KHOI. “We hope area residents will take part and gain a greater appreciation of how lucky we are to have KHOI community radio in Ames.”
The full schedule of workshops, labs and events is available at the conference website. Some interesting workshops cover open source radio software, producing live remote broadcasts, the disability movement on air and making a syndicated local show. For new LPFM stations there is a station-builders intensive series.
I went to the last GRC in Urbana, IL in 2012 and I had planned on going to this year’s, too. Unfortunately, circumstances intervened and I can’t go. I hope perhaps we’ll be able to find some report-backs.
For those who can make it, tickets are still available online and at KHOI, 410 Douglas Avenue, in Downtown Ames.
