Radio România Internațional

Author: Vlad Palcu

  • COVID-19 UPDATE

    COVID-19 UPDATE

    Earlier today Interior Minister Marcel Vela was joined by State Secretaries Bogdan Despescu and Raed Arafat in present military decree no. 7 Among other things, the decree introduces total quarantine for the town of Tandarei in Ialomita County, where out of the total number of 48 people who tested positive, 31 are from Tandarei. 7 out of the total of 8 people who died in Ialomita to the COVID-19 virus are from Tandarei. Under the new decree, entry into town is allowed only for the transport merchandise and medical equipment. Another measure in the new decree has banned flights inbound and outbound to Austria, Belgium, Iran, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Turkey, the United States and the United Kingdom. The measure applies to commercial flights only.

  • COVID-19 UPDATE

    COVID-19 UPDATE

    Earlier today Interior Minister Marcel Vela was joined by State Secretaries Bogdan Despescu and Raed Arafat in present military decree no. 7 Among other things, the decree introduces total quarantine for the town of Tandarei in Ialomita County, where out of the total number of 48 people who tested positive, 31 are from Tandarei. 7 out of the total of 8 people who died in Ialomita to the COVID-19 virus are from Tandarei. Under the new decree, entry into town is allowed only for the transport merchandise and medical equipment. Another measure in the new decree has banned flights inbound and outbound to Austria, Belgium, Iran, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Turkey, the United States and the United Kingdom. The measure applies to commercial flights only.

  • This week…in your letters

    This week…in your letters

    Karobi Hazarika, Japan


    “I found today’s program more informative and exciting. I am fond of poetry, I actually love it very much”.



    Brian Kendall, UK


    “Your first item in the news was also, not surprisingly, the first item in the news bulletins here in the United Kingdom. The cyber-attacks are evidently causing considerable problems for our National Health Service. It does seem particularly deplorable that a service devoted to curing people and keeping them well should come under attack in this way. Let us hope that better systems can be devised for the NHS and that other national health services are not attacked in the same way. Let us hope, too, that Europol is successful in its work. With every good wish, Brian Kendall”.



    Emiel F.A.J. Stopler, the Netherlands.


    “As a shortwave radio enthusiast, I enjoyed the programme very much”.



    Paul B. Walker, Jr., USA


    “I havent sent you any reports lately because listening from Alaska proved tough. Whether it was poor atmospheric conditions or extreme cold weather, my attempts to listen to RRI were often ruined. However, I moved and live in a region where the RRI signal is fantastic. I moved to Warren, Pennsylvania. We are a town of 10,000 people in the far northwest corner of the state, 90 minutes eats of Erie Pennsylvania, 2 1/2 hours northeast of Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and 30 minutes south of Jamestown, NY. In several days of listening, it appears your East Coast North America signals on 7375khz and 9730khz at 0000UTC seem to be very strong, steady and clear most days. The 2030UTC broadcast on 9610khz and 11850khz seem to be fair and listenable, but not as strong as the 7375khz/9730khz broadcasts later in the day. To listen to your broadcasts I use a Tecsun PL880 radio, Doxy-tronics tuneable magnetic loop and a DX Engineering HF PreAmp.”



    Brant Hunt, USA


    “Listening to you guys on 7430 kHz. I do listen to some of your programs on my mobile phone. Keep up the good work! Thank you for telling me about your wonderful work. Also learning about your history with a program dealing with World War I and also a history of Eastern European History via the Great Course Ploua taught by a professor who is from Eastern Europe. Thanks again!”



    Akira Takei, Japan.


    “I am happy to hear your broadcast today. I drink wine made in France, Germany, Italy and Chile. I have not drunk Romanian wine, but I want to”.



    Tjang Pak Ning, Indonesia


    “Again a warm greetings from Indonesia. How are things getting on in the studio of Radio Romania International in Bucharest ? As always, here is another reception report of RRI in English monitored on May 8th 2017 between 0530 until 0555 UTC on 17760 khz. Today reception was quite unstable with strong propagation and noises. So I cant catch up the whole program in good details”.



    Elizabeth Milewicz-Tyson, Australia


    “It is with great relief that I finally, after a number of months, was able to listen in to your programs, as the signal strength was much improved. Thank you for an interesting selection of programs and topics. I hope that your technical staff find this report, and the ones which I have sent, of use and I look forward to receiving verification. Fingers crossed for on-going good receptions. Best wishes to your English language staff”.



    John Beregi, USA


    “Always a pleasure hearing your broadcasts via shortwave”.



    Johnelle Roseanna Lakeland, UK


    “I’ve changed my name from John Lakeland to Johnelle Roseanna Lakeland. I hope this doesn’t cause too much confusion! I’ve still not had access to my main SDR setup but I do still have 2 portable shortwave radios handy, so have been using those to listen to RRI and other shortwave stations. I normally listen to the full 11:00 UTC and the start of the 22:00 UTC broadcasts when I have time and am very happy that you still have rich and complete programming that is broadcast multiple times so I can listen when I’m free!”

  • This week…in your letters

    This week…in your letters

    Karobi Hazarika, Japan


    “I found today’s program more informative and exciting. I am fond of poetry, I actually love it very much”.



    Brian Kendall, UK


    “Your first item in the news was also, not surprisingly, the first item in the news bulletins here in the United Kingdom. The cyber-attacks are evidently causing considerable problems for our National Health Service. It does seem particularly deplorable that a service devoted to curing people and keeping them well should come under attack in this way. Let us hope that better systems can be devised for the NHS and that other national health services are not attacked in the same way. Let us hope, too, that Europol is successful in its work. With every good wish, Brian Kendall”.



    Emiel F.A.J. Stopler, the Netherlands.


    “As a shortwave radio enthusiast, I enjoyed the programme very much”.



    Paul B. Walker, Jr., USA


    “I havent sent you any reports lately because listening from Alaska proved tough. Whether it was poor atmospheric conditions or extreme cold weather, my attempts to listen to RRI were often ruined. However, I moved and live in a region where the RRI signal is fantastic. I moved to Warren, Pennsylvania. We are a town of 10,000 people in the far northwest corner of the state, 90 minutes eats of Erie Pennsylvania, 2 1/2 hours northeast of Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and 30 minutes south of Jamestown, NY. In several days of listening, it appears your East Coast North America signals on 7375khz and 9730khz at 0000UTC seem to be very strong, steady and clear most days. The 2030UTC broadcast on 9610khz and 11850khz seem to be fair and listenable, but not as strong as the 7375khz/9730khz broadcasts later in the day. To listen to your broadcasts I use a Tecsun PL880 radio, Doxy-tronics tuneable magnetic loop and a DX Engineering HF PreAmp.”



    Brant Hunt, USA


    “Listening to you guys on 7430 kHz. I do listen to some of your programs on my mobile phone. Keep up the good work! Thank you for telling me about your wonderful work. Also learning about your history with a program dealing with World War I and also a history of Eastern European History via the Great Course Ploua taught by a professor who is from Eastern Europe. Thanks again!”



    Akira Takei, Japan.


    “I am happy to hear your broadcast today. I drink wine made in France, Germany, Italy and Chile. I have not drunk Romanian wine, but I want to”.



    Tjang Pak Ning, Indonesia


    “Again a warm greetings from Indonesia. How are things getting on in the studio of Radio Romania International in Bucharest ? As always, here is another reception report of RRI in English monitored on May 8th 2017 between 0530 until 0555 UTC on 17760 khz. Today reception was quite unstable with strong propagation and noises. So I cant catch up the whole program in good details”.



    Elizabeth Milewicz-Tyson, Australia


    “It is with great relief that I finally, after a number of months, was able to listen in to your programs, as the signal strength was much improved. Thank you for an interesting selection of programs and topics. I hope that your technical staff find this report, and the ones which I have sent, of use and I look forward to receiving verification. Fingers crossed for on-going good receptions. Best wishes to your English language staff”.



    John Beregi, USA


    “Always a pleasure hearing your broadcasts via shortwave”.



    Johnelle Roseanna Lakeland, UK


    “I’ve changed my name from John Lakeland to Johnelle Roseanna Lakeland. I hope this doesn’t cause too much confusion! I’ve still not had access to my main SDR setup but I do still have 2 portable shortwave radios handy, so have been using those to listen to RRI and other shortwave stations. I normally listen to the full 11:00 UTC and the start of the 22:00 UTC broadcasts when I have time and am very happy that you still have rich and complete programming that is broadcast multiple times so I can listen when I’m free!”

  • This week…in your letters

    This week…in your letters

    “Hello my friends In Bucharest. Can you believe that spring is almost upon us? We are really moving the start of this year do you not think? It got your transmission up over here at 18:00 hours on 5.935 Khz that always does seem to come in well of an evening. So very sad to hear over the Radio here In the UK and later during the course of your newsreel report regarding the running down of Romanian car wash workers in south London that was not nice to be informed of. But on a high side of things good to hear that Romania and Hungary are making communication as I am aware of the turbulent past that both of you in the past have been through. The history show did provide a great deal of history yet again on a different topic with regards to some of the torture prisoners encountered with horrific beatings carried out by wardens In such an inhumane way during the old regime. Loving your music on your music especially one particular piece of music called the most beautiful (Frumuos) girl in the world. Hoping weather has improved and I think it has and you can now be looking forward to spring that is just around the corner. Sending you all my very best In the English section and wishing you well. Keep up the good and hard work!”


    James Obrien, United Kingdom



    “News mentioned upcoming elections in Germany, France. EU Parliament passes resolution on requiring VISAs for US citizens. I hope this does not get anywhere. Most US citizens are not aware of the VISA issues for the EU countries. The Romanian Government is increasing defense spending to 2%. The Future Starts Today had a great segment on NASA’s discovering the new set of planets. 3 have potential to support life. New telescopes could be built. I find space exploration fascinating. Always have since a kid. My parents took us to see Skylab blast off. I can often see rockets soaring through the sky after lifting off from Kennedy Space Center from my house in Fort Pierce. A nice song I Believe was called “Time” was played, female singer pop song. Roots followed by Sports and the Romanian rugby team playing Russia on Saturday. The traditional music was beautiful. A musician who participated in many national and international contests and left for the US and went back to Romania after playing in major US cities. Living in Romania with James Donahue where Romania is his second home, he bought a wooden spoon and fork as souvenirs. Through the Looking Glass had an interesting discussion on a Romanian film maker who passed away at 79 years”.


    Richard Nowak, United States



    “Mr. Donahue seemed to be extremely pleased with living in your country. I suppose that Romania can be very nice provided that you are well off. I have some Romanian friends who seem to be travelling to Turkey, Greece and Italy all the time enjoying their retirement. Others apparently are less lucky. This year I missed your World Radio Day show. However, I was very much involved in the project organized by the Swedish DX Federation. We had produced a one-hour show that went out three times on shortwave from stations in Germany and Norway and a half-hour version on Radio Northern Star, a web radio based in Norway. I produced and presented three reports including one devoted to the invention of radio. We are now planning special broadcasts at Easter and once again I intend to produce some of the segments”.


    Christer Brunstrom, Sweden



    “Spring greetings from Denmark — even that it is not too warm at the moment, but the spring flowers show their colors to tell, that warmer days are coming. I must say political temperatures has been going high in Romania. I so hope, that better days are on their way to “the man in the street”. I do not understand your protests against the plan for 2-tempi EU-development, but it is not an easy case. Best and warmest wishes”.


    Hans-Verner Lollike, Denmark



    “It has been an interesting month, what with World Radio Day and the recent protests against the Romanians governments unpopular criminal code policy. As many other RRI listeners had commented, these demonstrations had received a lot of coverage on UK TV news over many days, and it was great to see people standing up against something that they didnt like, and interesting to hear what many individual protesters had to say during TV interviews. It couldnt have been much fun standing out there for so long at this time of year, especially with recent temperatures, so well done to them, its always a good idea to keep the politicians in their place, as they love to walk over us if we let them. One thing that no one else seemed to have commented on which I thought was well worth a mention, was RRIs coverage of the demonstrations, which was very impartial, and no one could ever accuse your station of being a government mouthpiece. It was great to see the editorial freedom that you had, and to hear balanced comments on what was going on there, so well done to all at RRI staff for standing up for the truth rather than the politicians. Best regards to all at RRI till next month, it will be nice when Spring finally arrives again as Ive had quite enough of the winter cold, and Im just glad that we never get temperatures as low as some of the ones that you have experienced during the winter”.


    Alan Gale, United Kingdom



    “I like to listen to your one hour broadcast on Sundays. The mix of news, features and music is very enjoyable and informative. I always enjoy the jazz music and the listeners’ letters. It is great to know that there are still many people all over the world listening to shortwave using radios old and new. The staff and presenters at RRI do a wonderful job and your efforts are enjoyed by many people. Thank you all very much”.


    Ian Evans, United Kingdom

  • This week…in your letters

    This week…in your letters

    “Hello my friends In Bucharest. Can you believe that spring is almost upon us? We are really moving the start of this year do you not think? It got your transmission up over here at 18:00 hours on 5.935 Khz that always does seem to come in well of an evening. So very sad to hear over the Radio here In the UK and later during the course of your newsreel report regarding the running down of Romanian car wash workers in south London that was not nice to be informed of. But on a high side of things good to hear that Romania and Hungary are making communication as I am aware of the turbulent past that both of you in the past have been through. The history show did provide a great deal of history yet again on a different topic with regards to some of the torture prisoners encountered with horrific beatings carried out by wardens In such an inhumane way during the old regime. Loving your music on your music especially one particular piece of music called the most beautiful (Frumuos) girl in the world. Hoping weather has improved and I think it has and you can now be looking forward to spring that is just around the corner. Sending you all my very best In the English section and wishing you well. Keep up the good and hard work!”


    James Obrien, United Kingdom



    “News mentioned upcoming elections in Germany, France. EU Parliament passes resolution on requiring VISAs for US citizens. I hope this does not get anywhere. Most US citizens are not aware of the VISA issues for the EU countries. The Romanian Government is increasing defense spending to 2%. The Future Starts Today had a great segment on NASA’s discovering the new set of planets. 3 have potential to support life. New telescopes could be built. I find space exploration fascinating. Always have since a kid. My parents took us to see Skylab blast off. I can often see rockets soaring through the sky after lifting off from Kennedy Space Center from my house in Fort Pierce. A nice song I Believe was called “Time” was played, female singer pop song. Roots followed by Sports and the Romanian rugby team playing Russia on Saturday. The traditional music was beautiful. A musician who participated in many national and international contests and left for the US and went back to Romania after playing in major US cities. Living in Romania with James Donahue where Romania is his second home, he bought a wooden spoon and fork as souvenirs. Through the Looking Glass had an interesting discussion on a Romanian film maker who passed away at 79 years”.


    Richard Nowak, United States



    “Mr. Donahue seemed to be extremely pleased with living in your country. I suppose that Romania can be very nice provided that you are well off. I have some Romanian friends who seem to be travelling to Turkey, Greece and Italy all the time enjoying their retirement. Others apparently are less lucky. This year I missed your World Radio Day show. However, I was very much involved in the project organized by the Swedish DX Federation. We had produced a one-hour show that went out three times on shortwave from stations in Germany and Norway and a half-hour version on Radio Northern Star, a web radio based in Norway. I produced and presented three reports including one devoted to the invention of radio. We are now planning special broadcasts at Easter and once again I intend to produce some of the segments”.


    Christer Brunstrom, Sweden



    “Spring greetings from Denmark — even that it is not too warm at the moment, but the spring flowers show their colors to tell, that warmer days are coming. I must say political temperatures has been going high in Romania. I so hope, that better days are on their way to “the man in the street”. I do not understand your protests against the plan for 2-tempi EU-development, but it is not an easy case. Best and warmest wishes”.


    Hans-Verner Lollike, Denmark



    “It has been an interesting month, what with World Radio Day and the recent protests against the Romanians governments unpopular criminal code policy. As many other RRI listeners had commented, these demonstrations had received a lot of coverage on UK TV news over many days, and it was great to see people standing up against something that they didnt like, and interesting to hear what many individual protesters had to say during TV interviews. It couldnt have been much fun standing out there for so long at this time of year, especially with recent temperatures, so well done to them, its always a good idea to keep the politicians in their place, as they love to walk over us if we let them. One thing that no one else seemed to have commented on which I thought was well worth a mention, was RRIs coverage of the demonstrations, which was very impartial, and no one could ever accuse your station of being a government mouthpiece. It was great to see the editorial freedom that you had, and to hear balanced comments on what was going on there, so well done to all at RRI staff for standing up for the truth rather than the politicians. Best regards to all at RRI till next month, it will be nice when Spring finally arrives again as Ive had quite enough of the winter cold, and Im just glad that we never get temperatures as low as some of the ones that you have experienced during the winter”.


    Alan Gale, United Kingdom



    “I like to listen to your one hour broadcast on Sundays. The mix of news, features and music is very enjoyable and informative. I always enjoy the jazz music and the listeners’ letters. It is great to know that there are still many people all over the world listening to shortwave using radios old and new. The staff and presenters at RRI do a wonderful job and your efforts are enjoyed by many people. Thank you all very much”.


    Ian Evans, United Kingdom

  • 2016 Listener’s Day on RRI

    2016 Listener’s Day on RRI

    Dear friends,



    On Sunday, November 6, we invite you to listen to the traditional Listeners Day show on RRI. As always, this is a special show, in which you play an active part by sending in your opinions and answers on which the segment is based. This time around, our question for you is, “Where do the happiest people live?



    There are, obviously, annual lists ranking the happiest countries or the cities with the highest living standards, based on criteria such as generosity, social relations, freedom of decision, life expectancy, healthcare services, culture, education or infrastructure. But are these countries and cities truly home to the happiest people in the world? Or is happiness to such an extent shaped by individual factors, making the answer to this question purely subjective? We invite you to share with us your opinions on this matter. Where do you think the happiest people live? Where and how would you like to live? What are the elements that make you feel good in a particular place?



    We look forward to receiving your contributions, whether in writing (by e-mail, on Facebook, through the form on the RRI website, or the classical means, fax or post) or in audio format (if you agree, we can call to record your contributions). Our contact details are, as usual: Radio Romania International, 60-64 General Berthelot, sector 1, Bucharest, PO Box 111, post code 010165, fax 00.40.21.319.05.62, e-mail engl@rri.ro. Our web page is at www.rri.ro


    Hope to hear from you soon!


  • This week…in your letters

    This week…in your letters

    “I just finished listening to another delightful broadcast of Radio Romania International. I can’t begin to tell you how many times over the years I have tuned in to your station. But, I can tell you I first heard Radio Bucharest in the early 1970s, and haven’t stopped listening since. Even after 40 years I still find Romania exotic, and this is coming from a guy who has travelled around the world and lived in much of the US, England and Malaysia over his 60 odd years. Why exotic? I suppose it is the way you describe Romanian culture, the varied selection of Romanian music, old and new, and the profiles on Romanians themselves. Romania is indeed much more than Transylvania and, the equally more famous, Nadia Comaneci. I learn so much each time I tune in to RRI.


    Timm Breyel, Malaysia



    “I very much enjoyed todays program. I found todays program more informative and knowledgeable. Quality of the program was superb.


    Debakamal Hazarika, India



    “Technically, the broadcast was pretty good. I had no problems hearing most of the program details. During the last twenty minutes, noise slightly increased, but was not disruptive. I heard this particular broadcast in Ulan Bataar, the capital of Mongolia. However, over the course of the five previous days, I listened every morning while traveling through eastern Mongolia and the broadcast quality was consistently excellent. So it seems that in Mongolia you come in loud and clear. At the moment, I really cant add anything new to what Ive said before. Excellent and interesting programming, no real complaints. Of course, I personally prefer more business news and history, but understand Im just one of many regular listeners. Keep up the good work and Ill keep on listening.


    John Rutledge, China



    “News mentioned Romanias gold medal in the Olympics, congratulations! A question to win CDs was mentioned, I want to do this. The future Starts Today discussed terrorism, DAESH and their organizing attacks in Europe, interesting discussion. Roots mentioned the Feast Day of the Ascension of the Virgin Mary and Romanians fasting. I love to hear these cultural facts and traditions. Beautiful classical violinist music played. Living Romania discussed Peter Hurley who works in advertising and organizes festivals. Through the Looking Glass described a village in the South Carpathians with a forest road, butterflies and the Yellowstone of Europe. Sounds like a lovely place! The show had informative news and commentary and educational cultural segments. The music was beautiful. RRI has great programming. Thanks for the show and your support of shortwave!


    Richard Nowak, USA



    “It’s time for the reception reports on R.R.I.’s English broadcasts in July and August. The report for July is on the transmission on the 31st of the month at 20.30 U.T.C. on 6170 kHz. Reception was good with SINPO of 55444. The main news items included the consequences of corruption allegations concerning the National Bank; N.A.T.O. exercises in Romania; Romanian opinions on what are the major problems facing the E.U.; the continuation of the U.K.’s strategic partnership with Romania; and the Pope’s message on World Youth Day in Krakow. There was information on the latest R.R.I. listeners’ contest then the Cooking Show concentrated on picnics and barbecues. After a song there was Inside Romania which was about a play day for parents and children then Visit Romania was all about Covasna county in the center of the country. The report for August concerns the transmission on the 8th of the month, again at 20.30 U.T.C. and still on 6170 kHz. Reception conditions had changed little and SINPO was again 54444. The main news stories this time concerned Queen Anne’s funeral which her husband was too ill to attend; a reduction in the rate of inflation; regulations on absent voting for Romanians abroad; a film festival; and the Olympic games in Brazil. There was a commentary on additional overtime payments to doctors then information on the listeners’ contest was again given. The History Show was about archery both in battle and for hunting then there was a song followed by Think Green which was about saving forests from illegal logging. I hope these reports will get me two more of your wonderful QSL cards and I also hope you will excuse the brevity of this message. The weather is great (for once!), the football season has started and I’ve a million things to do…one of which is, as always, finding time to listen to R.R.I.


    Martin Rogan, Scotland

  • This week…in your letters

    This week…in your letters

    “I just finished listening to another delightful broadcast of Radio Romania International. I can’t begin to tell you how many times over the years I have tuned in to your station. But, I can tell you I first heard Radio Bucharest in the early 1970s, and haven’t stopped listening since. Even after 40 years I still find Romania exotic, and this is coming from a guy who has travelled around the world and lived in much of the US, England and Malaysia over his 60 odd years. Why exotic? I suppose it is the way you describe Romanian culture, the varied selection of Romanian music, old and new, and the profiles on Romanians themselves. Romania is indeed much more than Transylvania and, the equally more famous, Nadia Comaneci. I learn so much each time I tune in to RRI.


    Timm Breyel, Malaysia



    “I very much enjoyed todays program. I found todays program more informative and knowledgeable. Quality of the program was superb.


    Debakamal Hazarika, India



    “Technically, the broadcast was pretty good. I had no problems hearing most of the program details. During the last twenty minutes, noise slightly increased, but was not disruptive. I heard this particular broadcast in Ulan Bataar, the capital of Mongolia. However, over the course of the five previous days, I listened every morning while traveling through eastern Mongolia and the broadcast quality was consistently excellent. So it seems that in Mongolia you come in loud and clear. At the moment, I really cant add anything new to what Ive said before. Excellent and interesting programming, no real complaints. Of course, I personally prefer more business news and history, but understand Im just one of many regular listeners. Keep up the good work and Ill keep on listening.


    John Rutledge, China



    “News mentioned Romanias gold medal in the Olympics, congratulations! A question to win CDs was mentioned, I want to do this. The future Starts Today discussed terrorism, DAESH and their organizing attacks in Europe, interesting discussion. Roots mentioned the Feast Day of the Ascension of the Virgin Mary and Romanians fasting. I love to hear these cultural facts and traditions. Beautiful classical violinist music played. Living Romania discussed Peter Hurley who works in advertising and organizes festivals. Through the Looking Glass described a village in the South Carpathians with a forest road, butterflies and the Yellowstone of Europe. Sounds like a lovely place! The show had informative news and commentary and educational cultural segments. The music was beautiful. RRI has great programming. Thanks for the show and your support of shortwave!


    Richard Nowak, USA



    “It’s time for the reception reports on R.R.I.’s English broadcasts in July and August. The report for July is on the transmission on the 31st of the month at 20.30 U.T.C. on 6170 kHz. Reception was good with SINPO of 55444. The main news items included the consequences of corruption allegations concerning the National Bank; N.A.T.O. exercises in Romania; Romanian opinions on what are the major problems facing the E.U.; the continuation of the U.K.’s strategic partnership with Romania; and the Pope’s message on World Youth Day in Krakow. There was information on the latest R.R.I. listeners’ contest then the Cooking Show concentrated on picnics and barbecues. After a song there was Inside Romania which was about a play day for parents and children then Visit Romania was all about Covasna county in the center of the country. The report for August concerns the transmission on the 8th of the month, again at 20.30 U.T.C. and still on 6170 kHz. Reception conditions had changed little and SINPO was again 54444. The main news stories this time concerned Queen Anne’s funeral which her husband was too ill to attend; a reduction in the rate of inflation; regulations on absent voting for Romanians abroad; a film festival; and the Olympic games in Brazil. There was a commentary on additional overtime payments to doctors then information on the listeners’ contest was again given. The History Show was about archery both in battle and for hunting then there was a song followed by Think Green which was about saving forests from illegal logging. I hope these reports will get me two more of your wonderful QSL cards and I also hope you will excuse the brevity of this message. The weather is great (for once!), the football season has started and I’ve a million things to do…one of which is, as always, finding time to listen to R.R.I.


    Martin Rogan, Scotland

  • French police swoop on attacks suspects in Paris suburb

    French police swoop on attacks suspects in Paris suburb

    A deadly standoff between French police special forces and two suspects wanted in connection with Fridays terror attacks in the French capital city began in the early hours of Wednesday morning in the northern Paris suburb of Saint Denis.



    Two suspects are reported to have been killed, including a woman who blew herself up using a suicide belt. Another three suspects are now in police custody, according to the French media reports. According to the French police, four officers have been injured during the swoop. Several blasts were also reported during the raid.



    The operation is allegedly targeting Abdelhamid Abaaoud, the person believed to be behind the terrorist attacks on Friday that killed 129 people and left more than 350 wounded. Abaaoud, who was originally reported to have fled to Syria, was seen getting holed up in a flat in the Saint Denis area, close to one of the Paris districts where suicide attackers detonated bombs on Friday.



    SWAT Teams are now on the scene in an attempt to close all the exits. The French army is also securing a perimeter around the operation. Local residents have been evacuated and a large area around Jean Jaures Square has been sealed off.

  • November 7, 2015 UPDATE

    November 7, 2015 UPDATE

    COLECTIV (UPDATE) – Another nine people who sustained injuries and burns in the Colectiv nightclub fire passed away on Saturday, raising the death toll to 41. Another 48 people are in critical condition. So far several skin-grafting surgeries have been made, while in some cases doctors were forced to operate to clear the patients airways. Two planes of the Mobile Emergency Service for Resuscitation and Extrication (SMURD), transported two patients in critical condition to Vienna, Austria, where they will receive specialised treatment.



    Interim Prime Minister Sorin Cimpeanu has said that several countries in Europe have offered to help Romania, by either taking in patients or sending medical teams to Bucharest. The Romanian official added the Government would cover the costs of transporting and hospitalising patients and a member for each family abroad.




    In another move, the former mayor of Bucharest District 4, where the tragedy occurred, Cristian Popescu-Piedone has been detained, being charged with abuse of office and forgery. He is being accused of having issued operation permits for the clubs functioning in spite of the fact that its owners did not get the approval of the Department for Emergency Situations beforehand.



    The clubs three owners have been taken into pre-trial custody on suspicion of aggravated manslaughter and involuntary bodily harm. The firm contracted to ensure the pyrotechnics show at Colectiv on the night of the tragedy is also being investigated, its owners having been arrested.



    Also on Saturday, interim Prime Minister Sorin Cimpeanu said only 7% of schools in Romania have been greenlighted for functioning by the Department for Emergency Situations.

  • November 7, 2015 UPDATE

    November 7, 2015 UPDATE

    COLECTIV (UPDATE) – Another nine people who sustained injuries and burns in the Colectiv nightclub fire passed away on Saturday, raising the death toll to 41. Another 48 people are in critical condition. So far several skin-grafting surgeries have been made, while in some cases doctors were forced to operate to clear the patients airways. Two planes of the Mobile Emergency Service for Resuscitation and Extrication (SMURD), transported two patients in critical condition to Vienna, Austria, where they will receive specialised treatment.



    Interim Prime Minister Sorin Cimpeanu has said that several countries in Europe have offered to help Romania, by either taking in patients or sending medical teams to Bucharest. The Romanian official added the Government would cover the costs of transporting and hospitalising patients and a member for each family abroad.




    In another move, the former mayor of Bucharest District 4, where the tragedy occurred, Cristian Popescu-Piedone has been detained, being charged with abuse of office and forgery. He is being accused of having issued operation permits for the clubs functioning in spite of the fact that its owners did not get the approval of the Department for Emergency Situations beforehand.



    The clubs three owners have been taken into pre-trial custody on suspicion of aggravated manslaughter and involuntary bodily harm. The firm contracted to ensure the pyrotechnics show at Colectiv on the night of the tragedy is also being investigated, its owners having been arrested.



    Also on Saturday, interim Prime Minister Sorin Cimpeanu said only 7% of schools in Romania have been greenlighted for functioning by the Department for Emergency Situations.

  • November 7, 2015 UPDATE

    November 7, 2015 UPDATE

    COLECTIV (UPDATE) – Another eight people who sustained injuries and burns in the Colectiv nightclub fire passed away on Saturday, raising the death toll to 40. Another 48 people are in critical condition. So far several skin-grafting surgeries have been made, while in some cases doctors were forced to operate to clear the patients airways. Two planes of the Mobile Emergency Service for Resuscitation and Extrication (SMURD), transported two patients in critical condition to Vienna, Austria, where they will receive specialised treatment.



    Interim Prime Minister Sorin Cimpeanu has said that several countries in Europe have offered to help Romania, by either taking in patients or sending medical teams to Bucharest. The Romanian official added the Government would cover the costs of transporting and hospitalising patients and a member for each family abroad.




    In another move, the former mayor of Bucharest District 4, where the tragedy occurred, Cristian Popescu-Piedone has been detained, being charged with abuse of office and forgery. He is being accused of having issued operation permits for the clubs functioning in spite of the fact that its owners did not get the approval of the Department for Emergency Situations beforehand.



    The clubs three owners have been taken into pre-trial custody on suspicion of aggravated manslaughter and involuntary bodily harm. The firm contracted to ensure the pyrotechnics show at Colectiv on the night of the tragedy is also being investigated, its owners having been arrested.



    Also on Saturday, interim Prime Minister Sorin Cimpeanu said only 7% of schools in Romania have been greenlighted for functioning by the Department for Emergency Situations.

  • November 7, 2015 UPDATE

    November 7, 2015 UPDATE

    COLECTIV (UPDATE) – Another eight people who sustained injuries and burns in the Colectiv nightclub fire passed away on Saturday, raising the death toll to 40. Another 48 people are in critical condition. So far several skin-grafting surgeries have been made, while in some cases doctors were forced to operate to clear the patients airways. Two planes of the Mobile Emergency Service for Resuscitation and Extrication (SMURD), transported two patients in critical condition to Vienna, Austria, where they will receive specialised treatment.



    Interim Prime Minister Sorin Cimpeanu has said that several countries in Europe have offered to help Romania, by either taking in patients or sending medical teams to Bucharest. The Romanian official added the Government would cover the costs of transporting and hospitalising patients and a member for each family abroad.




    In another move, the former mayor of Bucharest District 4, where the tragedy occurred, Cristian Popescu-Piedone has been detained, being charged with abuse of office and forgery. He is being accused of having issued operation permits for the clubs functioning in spite of the fact that its owners did not get the approval of the Department for Emergency Situations beforehand.



    The clubs three owners have been taken into pre-trial custody on suspicion of aggravated manslaughter and involuntary bodily harm. The firm contracted to ensure the pyrotechnics show at Colectiv on the night of the tragedy is also being investigated, its owners having been arrested.



    Also on Saturday, interim Prime Minister Sorin Cimpeanu said only 7% of schools in Romania have been greenlighted for functioning by the Department for Emergency Situations.

  • November 7, 2015 UPDATE

    November 7, 2015 UPDATE

    COLECTIV (UPDATE) – Another person who sustained injuries and burns in the Colectiv nightclub fire passed away on Saturday, raising the death toll to 39 dead. Previously, on Saturday morning, 6 people died. Of these, two died while being transported for treatment to hospitals abroad. According to the latest reports, some 107 people are still hospitalized, of whom 48 are in critical condition.



    Two patients in critical condition on Saturday afternoon were transported to Vienna, Austria with two planes of the Mobile Emergency Service for Resuscitation and Extrication (SMURD).



    So far several skin-grafting surgeries have been made, while in some cases doctors were forced to operate to clear the patients airways. Interim Prime Minister Sorin Cimpeanu has said the Government will next week refund all costs for patients who were treated in hospitals abroad. In another move, the former mayor of Bucharest District 4, where the tragedy occurred, Cristian Popescu-Piedone has been detained, being charged with abuse of office and forgery. He is being accused of having issued operation permits for the clubs functioning in spite of the fact that its owners did not get the approval of the Department for Emergency Situations beforehand.



    The clubs three owners have been taken into pre-trial custody on suspicion of aggravated manslaughter and involuntary bodily harm. The firm contracted to ensure the pyrotechnics show at Colectiv on the night of the tragedy is also being investigated, its owners having been arrested.



    Also on Saturday, interim Prime Minister Sorin Campeanu said only 7% of schools in Romania have been greenlighted for functioning by the Department for Emergency Situations.