The FCC has issued a press release announcing that the Morse Code proficiency test is no longer required to obtain an Amateur Radio license at any class. In the past, only the Technician class license was available without the code. The change will take effect 30 days after publication in the Federal Register.

In the past, REC has taken a "slow code" approach where the 5WPM code would still be endorsed for the Amateur Extra class license.

REC Networks has reached a technology transfer agreement with SIRIUS Satellite Radio. As a part of the transaction, REC will transfer the rights to use the REC FM Broadcast Channel Search algorithms used for finding suitable frequencies for SIRIUS Satellite Radio receivers with built in very low power FM transmitters.

REC Networks will still own the domain name FMFIND.info and will provide direct links to the new SIRIUS FM Channel Search application. REC will no longer engage in consumer Part 15 FM channel searches but instead will refer all requests to SIRIUS. REC Networks will continue to maintain weekly updates of the SIRIUS FM database, which will be coincide with REC's standard FCC database update schedule.

REC is not disclosing any other terms of the agreement.

On Friday during the full Commission meeting, the FCC has adopted a report on MB Docket 05-210 for changes on city of license and other broadcast allotment issues in the AM and FM radio services. According to the FCCs news release, some of the changes include:
- The ability to move an AM or FM radio station from one community of license to another through a minor change application (where in the past for FM, it required amending the Table of Allotments).
- Requiring an FCC Form 301 with the filing fee when petitioning the FCC to drop in an FM allotment.
- Eliminate the prohibition of electronic filing for Table of Allotments proceedings.

In a landmark decision, the FCC has granted a waiver of several rules to Thin Air Community Radio, licensee of KYRS-LP in Spokane, WA.

The station, currently faced with encroachment from a metro move by a station in Idaho was looking for creative solutions to keep the station on the air. Under the existing rules, the statation was deadlocked as there were no alternate channels available. Thin Air has filed for 89.9 (Ch. 210) at it's licensed site.

REC Networks, Hardcore J and Anime Hardcore Radio extends our heartfelt condolences to our friends at Dementia Radio with the tragic loss of personality "Blindwulf".

Jamin Peace aka Blindwulf was found dead of an apparent heart failure. He was only 27.

Based on conversation in the Dementia Radio IRC channel (#dementia on EFnet), Blindwulf was blind and was facing a lot of challenges. While we did not know Blindwulf personally, we feel as a member of the webcasting community to come together to mourn his loss.

So to Justin's family and his extended family on Dementia Radio, REC sends it's best in this time of reflection. Look for Dementia Radio to run tribute programming.