LRN could terminate satellite ops for Liberty-oriented programming

KEENE, N.H. — Unless fundraising improves in the upcoming months, a New Hampshire-based Internet radio network may have to terminate satellite operations. A September 1 update from Liberty Radio Network (LRN.FM, also known as LRN) co-founder Ian Freeman states that the end of satellite operations could be a possibility.

A tale of two satellite operations for LRN

Freeman notes that in 2011, LRN.FM was sent out via satellite across North and Central America. Later, in 2012, a satellite feed would go live over sub-Saharan Africa.

Freeman cites his inspiration to enter this project after satellite dishes were being confiscated and destroyed by oppressive regimes. The motive was to have an operation to what RT (Russia Today) does for their propaganda. The intent was to broadcast the ideas of Liberty all over the world, especially Africa, which is the least Internet-connected continent in the world.

The satellite feeds also allow for pirate radio operations to broadcast the 24/7 feed in remote locations where they may want to utilize a transmitter and do not have Internet access. For those without Internet service, this satellite method is a reliable delivery method.

Unfortunately, Freeman notes that few people are sharing this vision. The network has been running a Patreon fundraiser since 2017, but only has two dozen donors to date. However, the donations amount to roughly 15 percent of monthly access costs.

LRN satellite renewal is up in 2021

This announcement comes up, as their three-year renewal contract is up in 2021. This presents a good time to consider to continue operations or terminate them altogether.

“It’s not about the money,” Freeman states. “It’s about doing something without market support. Why should I bother if others don’t value it enough to sustain it?”

Freeman notes that he will likely continue the sub-Saharan Africa feed on his own as a continuing outreach project. However, he would like to have some confirmation that the entire satellite project is a worthwhile operation.

The cost of LRN satellite operations and what you can do

Freeman notes that their monthly satellite operations costs run roughly $1,000.

There is some time remaining to continue fundraising until the time window begins for either renewal negotiations or satellite feed cancellations. This could mean going exclusively Internet-based as a result outside of keeping the African feed.

Freeman is considering offering matching donations to the satellite fund for anyone who contributes to their ongoing fundraiser. He is also open to others wishing to double his matching donations. Additionally, the Shire Free Church will be doubling the total contribution amount in hopes that it’s enough to cover both existing satellite feeds.

He additionally states that he would like to add at least one new feed elsewhere in the world if they can raise at least $1,000 monthly. The location of this new feed would likely be determined by patrons of this satellite fund.

Freeman would like to hear from satellite feed users

Freeman is extending an invitation to users of LRN’s satellite feeds to reach out. He is asking for users to let him know how they utilize the feed. He is also opening the doors for potential fundraiser contributors from these nations as well.

All parties can reach out to LRN via their Discord server as well.

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DISCLAIMER: Heartland Newsfeed Radio Network is a broadcast affiliate of LRN.FM and you can catch their programming regularly. Declare Your Independence airs weekdays from 8-11 AM Central. Free Talk Live airs seven nights a week from 6-9 PM Central; late-night Free Talk Live replays air weeknights from 3-6 AM Central with weekend replays from 12-3 AM Central. Questioning Authority airs Saturday nights from 9-11 PM Central.

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