Episode 52 - Hunter Thornsberry - Cincy Mesh

Ep. 52 — Off-Grid Texting, Mesh Networks, and Cincy Mesh We're closing in on one year of Let’s Talk Clermont! We start with some local updates, including Batavia Township’s upcoming fire/EMS levy effort, Milford’s move to acquire key downtown parcels, and progress at New Richmond’s Liberty Landing. Then talk with Hunter Thornsberry from Cincy Mesh to talk Meshtastic—a LoRa-based, off-grid text messaging system that can hop device-to-device without cell service. We cover what it is, why people use it, what gear to buy first, and how the mesh is growing around Greater Cincinnati.  Interview — Hunter Thornsberry (Cincy Mesh) Hunter talks about: LoRa + line-of-sight basics and why height mattersWhat “mesh” actually means (hops, repeaters, routers)Real-world uses: hiking, travel, storms, privacy-minded comms, GPS sharingStarter hardware recommendations (cheap nodes vs. nicer keyboard devices)Why some folks love/hate MQTT (bridging traffic over the internet)How to plug into the local community and help the Cincinnati mesh growWant to learn more? Cincy Mesh is friendly, active, and always looking for more nodes—especially in higher-elevation spots. Check out their website to learn more.https://www.cincymesh.org/ In the News Batavia Township Fire/EMS levy info: a new site + Facebook page from producer Brandon Hicks with details ahead of the voteMilford: council approved steps toward acquiring multiple downtown parcels (including the Fountain Specialist and Gun Haven Armory buildings) to increase control and make redevelopment easierNew Richmond / Liberty Landing: retaining wall work advancing; utilities work coming upClermont Northeastern Schools: kindergarten registration is open for the 2026–2027 school year (eligibility: age 5 by Aug. 13)Fish fry season is here (St. Louis in Owensville gets a big recommendation) If you're looking for more info on the Batavia Fire Levy, check out the website and Facebook page Producer Brandon Hicks madeWebsite: https://www.cincymesh.org/Facebook: Batavia Township Fire and EMS LevyProducer shoutout Thanks to the anonymous producers who came in under $50—appreciate you supporting the show!Events roundupHomeschool Discovery Day: Sap to Syrup — Feb 20 (1–2 PM), Pattison ParkMaple Sugaring Hikes — Feb 21 (1 PM / 2 PM / 3 PM), Cincinnati Nature Center (registration required)Saturday Play Date — Feb 21 (10:30 AM), library program (ages ~0–8)Foraged Tea Time + Hike (Maple Tea) — Feb 21 (1–2 PM), Clingman Park (registration required)Hiking for Lichen — Feb 22 (11 AM–12 PM), Pattison Park (free)Young Innovators: Ohio Food Innovations — Feb 23 (4:30 PM), New Richmond Branch LibraryFeelin’ Froggy Fiber Arts — Feb 23 (6 PM), Goshen Branch Library (adults)Young Innovators: Superman in Ohio — Feb 26 (4:30 PM), Amelia Branch Library (ages 8–12)Maple Murder Mystery — Feb 27 (5:30–7:30 PM), Pattison Park Lodge (registration required, adults)Appalachian Music (Dulcimers) — Feb 28 (11 AM), Miami Township Branch LibraryRaptor Rampage — Mar 1 (2–3 PM), Clingman Park (free)Next week Mike Desmond from the Milford Amateur Radio Club (the folks behind Cincinnati Hamfest) joins the show. Follow on Facebook & Instagram, and signup for the Thursday newsletter.FacebookInstagramNewsletterIf the show brings you value, consider supporting us!Donate