In today’s technology-centered world, it’s easy to get wrapped up in the idea that newer is better. But when disasters come along and knock out communication systems, and we are forced to disconnect from the constant web of updates, people turn to an old means of reliable communication – amateur, or ham, radio.

The Southwest Mississippi Amateur Radio Club, formed in the 1960s, works to make sure communication channels are open when other technologies may not be available or as efficient. To make sure all their equipment and their setup are up to par, they will be participating in the annual Amateur Radio Field Day Event this weekend.

Operating from the Brookhaven Recreational Department on Highway 51, the radio operators will be working to contact as many other stations across the continent as possible from 1 p.m. Saturday to 1 p.m. Sunday.

“It’s a way to prepare ourselves in case of an emergency,” Homer Richardson, SMARC member, said.

Richardson said events like Hurricane Katrina really prove the importance of amateur radios. While cell phone towers were down and other forms of communication were unavailable, these radios worked to provide information to emergency response teams.

“Our job is to be the ears for those who are coordinating,” Richardson said. “The object is to have a way to communicate in those type of situations.”

Richardson also said the club operates during special events, such as the Walthall Dairy Festival.

“We listened to hundreds of calls all over the world,” he said. “‘What’s going on? What are you doing?'”

Richardson said it gave them an opportunity to educate people about the festival and dairy in Mississippi.

Richardson received his license in 1959 while enrolled at Louisiana State University as part of his participation in ROTC. Now, it has become a hobby he enjoys due to the connections he is able to make all over the world.

“I may very well get on one moment and talk to someone in Lithuania, and the next call may be down in Korea,” he said.

Richardson said people who have never experienced amateur radio are often surprised by how little equipment it takes to talk to people all over the world.

“You mean you’re talking to someone in Lima, Peru, with just that little box,” he said is the most common comment he hears.

Richardson said that amateur radio is a hobby for those who enjoy doing something that is a little different every time. For those interested in learning more, Richardson opens an invitation to come by during the field day to see demonstrations and learn more.