Island Tech Services (ITS), a provider of technology, mobility and vehicle solutions based in Ronkonkoma, New York, joined the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) dealer program through the AT&T alliance channel.

The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) board of directors approved its fiscal year (FY) 2019 budget at an Aug. 13 meeting. Chairwoman Sue Swenson, who will step down as chair later this month, was honored at the end of the meeting for her service to public safety.

The First Responder Network (FirstNet) announced two new subscriber agencies, one in Florida and the other in Georgia.

Two Way Direct joined the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) dealer program. As a FirstNet dealer, Two Way Direct can equip public-safety entities with FirstNet plans and service.

The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) certified the new Samsung Galaxy Note9. The new smartphone is available in AT&T stores Aug. 24, and FirstNet customers can get a free Samsung Galaxy Note9, S9 or S9+ when they buy a Samsung Galaxy Note9 from AT&T.

Acadian Ambulance joined the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet), connecting its medics and ambulances to the nationwide public-safety broadband network. The upgrade equips Acadian’s EMS personnel with new capabilities and reliable access to critical information while in the field, so they can better serve patients across Louisiana, Texas and Mississippi.

Telit announced its Long Term Evolution (LTE) LE910C4-NF internet of things (IoT) module and LM960 data card were selected by Centrix IP to power a line of first responder communication routers from Agile Interoperable Solutions (AIS). AIS routers will operate in 700 MHz band 14, the frequency licensed to the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet).

AT&T FirstNet, in collaboration with Sonim Technologies, is creating Emergency Drop Kits. The portable kits will envelop first responders in a 300-foot “connected bubble,” letting them maintain constant communications to better coordinate their response.

Motorola Solutions is still negotiating contracts for the Airwave TETRA network and the U.K. Emergency Services Network (ESN) broadband network with the U.K. Home Office and expects agreements by the end of the quarter, the company’s CEO said during its Aug. 2 financial results conference call.

The National Public Safety Telecommunications Council (NPSTC) awarded the 2018 Richard DeMello Award to Sue Swenson, First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) board chairwoman from 2014 to 2018.