I live in Texas, North Dallas, area...What a community, so many people helping each other (During the freeze).We even had a guy run around in a truck, giving away free beer and wine...(And of course we had people providing wood, food, and all the supplies you can think of)..It was a sight to see.. Living across USA, from California, to NY, and all in between, one thing I can say about Texans, family and community is their backbone of their society, not government...I love this place... NN2X (I might have to change my calls to NN5X! (If available !)
The folks that have lived all their lives in Texas have it ingrained in us to help those when needed. The folks that move here we pass it on and they pick it up. We are not the only state that does this to be sure, however, it is a way of life for most of us and in large and small communities it shows. It's about the people and their needs, and not politics, money, or anything else. Great podcast Julian. 73, K5PAP
Don't forget though we need to communicate with non hams. Rule of three applies so monitor channel three on other services. I am still iffy on digital in a true full on emergency. It's ok in regional emergencies but in a total one such as a massive solar storm we will be hard pressed to use it. Practicing passing traffic over voice is just as if not more important than digital.
No doubt Texas is great for people taking care of each other. But when Houston was underwater with Hurricane Harvey those Cajuns from Lousianna bring the Cajun Navy over to help us. It's not just Texas. It's the South.
The most important thing is the skill of the operator. Knowing how to use what is at your disposal in a critical situation. In an ideal world, you even have email, but in a real world, you don't even always have food. In my backpack with radio, besides the radio and antennas, there is a multitool, a set of connectors, flashlights and a few chocolate bar. But I agree with the author of the video that everyone should be ready.
I’ve lived in Texas my entire life. There’s nothing magical about Texans. They’re just like the rest of the country. A cross section of nice people, jackasses and everything in between.