Georgia Section On My Mind

January, 2004

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!! May this year hold many joys for each of us. As Tiny Tim said, "God bless us, every one."

The one-liners in this month's newsletter come to us from our favorite director, FRANK BUTLER, W4RH, who found them in the Huntsville ARC newsletter, "Vox". They're called "Great Truths That Little Children Have Learned". (Thanks, Frank!!)

No matter how hard you try, you can't baptize cats.

CLUB NEWS

ALBANY ARC--- A fancy dinner and music shared among friends isn't all that was served up at this year's Holiday Party; there was also an election for next year's slate of officers. Congratulations to the following newly elected leaders: President- KEN ADAMS, K1KBA; VP- KEN FIELDS, W4KEF; Secretary- LEON PERRETT, K4GCR; and Treasurer- BOB SMITH, K4PHE. Best wishes for another successful year for the club.

ALFORD MEMORIAL ARC--- December provided another outstanding party for this group, as we've come to expect, with lots of good food and a festive spirit shared among friends, and while I realize that ALL of the clubs have terrific get-togethers every December, there was a couple of "extras" for this club's celebration this year. One: would you believe that SANDY DONAHUE, W4RU, was actually sporting a suit.... and a TIE?! He had on a spiffy pair of suspenders, too, but it was the suit that got me. First time most of us at the party ever saw him decked out in such finery. He was escorting South Florida's delightful SM, SHERRI BROWER, W4STB, who was in town for business, and who was a very welcome guest at the party. It was quite a surprise and really great to meet her, but she claims that Sandy actually wears a suit and tie to Florida Hamfest! How 'bout that? (Guess he figures that it'd pretty much be a lost cause trying to impress US!!). Another cool thing: would you believe that Santa Claus himself (AKA PATRICK WHITE, KI4BGQ) came to the Alford party (AND joined the club!) (I'm not kidding! Look him up on QRZ!!)The club also paid an honor to longtime member WALT ROWE, K4MJ, by granting him an honorary Lifetime Membership, an honor which they also graciously extended to my better half MIKE, K4HBI, and me. Mike and I were pretty well speechless with surprise. Walt, however, was not. He may have been surprised, but Walt has rarely, if ever, been left speechless. In fact, he delivered a delightful extemporaneous speech on some of the history of amateur radio.

ARC of AUGUSTA--- Congratulations to newly elected club officers for 2004: President- JAY SAMPLES, KG4LEY; VP- DALE KEENER, KG4SSY; Secretary- AL MENGES, KF4NXL; and Treasurer- TOM BROWN, KF4ITM. Also elected to round out the executive board are 3-year director REGGIE FRASER, KF4HAD; 2-year director CHUCK TEETERS, W4MEW; 1-year director DOUG PUGH, KE4JSJ; and de facto director HENRY AROSTEGUI, KN4AV. Best wishes for an enjoyable and productive year.

ARC of SAVANNAH, INC.--- Congratulations to the members of this club for recently re-activating and renewing as an affiliated club of the ARRL. We wish you a successful rebirth, renewed growth, and a successful and enjoyable new year.

CENTRAL GEORGIA ARC--- Elections for the new year were held recently. Elected were WB4EEL, JOHN LOUTH, President; KG4AYV, BOB BASSETT, Vice-President; KB4KNE, ELAINE PRIVETTE, Secretary-Treasurer; KF4KQG, GEORGE KILRAINE, and AA4JF, JIM FOUST, members of the board of directors. WB4UHL, SAM PRIVETTE, outgoing president, will also serve on the board of directors. During December the club assisted with the Christmas parade. They have been doing this for almost twenty years. The new repeater equipment is up and running, coverage seems to be very good based on initial reports with a mobile unit reporting usable copy from about 100 miles to the south from an 18 wheeler. The group also participated in the "Santa Patrol" where the group operates a station from the 911 center and various mobile units are tasked to observe potential crime areas. The club meets on the second Thursday at 7:30 talk-in on the WA4ORT memorial repeater,146.85 MHz (NOTE: A special thank you to John for taking the time to email me this report. I LOVE those reports that can simply be cut and pasted....!))

CHEROKEE CAPITAL ARC---Club members are ready for the new year with their newly elected slate of officers. Congratulations to President- FELTON FLOYD, AF4DN; VP- WOODROW DAVIS, K4WTD; Secretary- EDNA WRIGHT, KF4SDF; and Treasurer- FRANKLIN HOLLIS, K4FGH. Best wishes for another successful year leading the club.

CONYERS ARG---New officers have been elected for this club, too, and best wishes go out to President- CHRIS HOFFMAN, K1KC; VP- TOM MADIGAN, K4TDM; Secretary- DAVE WAGNER, KG4WVP; and Treasurer- TIM ROSING, KC4ELV. Outgoing VP MARY ANN FLACK, KE4AXE, was honored by receiving this year's "Golden Mike" award, which is presented each year to the NCS who has drawn the highest number of net check-ins. (With her sweet as honey voice, this is NOT the first time that she's won this award!)

GWINNETT ARS--- Congratulations to NORM SCHKLAR, WA4ZXV, who was recently named as the club's Ham of the Year, in recognition of all of his hard work on behalf of the club. Norm, among other things, is one of our Public Information Officers. He seemed to be absolutely delighted and surprised by the honor. Coming up on January 24th will be this club's 7th annual Techfest, to be held at the First United Methodist Church, at the corner of Hwy 29 and Langley Drive, in Lawrenceville. A really fun activity. More info to follow under "Upcoming Events".

KENNEHOOCHEE ARC--- This is the only radio club that I know of in Georgia that elects a Board of Directors, under the leadership of a Chairman of the Board, to lead the club, rather than the usual slate of officers. It's very impressive, and one advantage of this format is that, coupled with the staggered terms of office, the club ALWAYS has experienced leaders on the Board. Makes for a very smoooooth operation. Recently elected as new directors are smooth operators PAUL MANNO, KG4UVU, DAVID PEARCE, ABØNG, and KEITH CHAFIN, NE4O. In the most recent newsletter, Chairman CURT BEEMAN, WB4JFS, mentioned that he'd received a first place certificate for his participation in the ARRL's 2002 10 M contest. He kind of downplayed it, but hey! I think it's pretty darned terrific! I mean, lots of folks participate, but there's only ONE first place winner in each category. So, congratulations, Curt!

LANIERLAND ARC--- This group will be sponsoring an FM contest on January 2-3 to stimulate usage of their repeater and to have some fun with a little friendly competition. For more info: (and to maybe get an idea of how your club might try something similar) http://www.lanierlandarc.org/LARC%20FM%20Contest2.pdf

NORTH FULTON ARL--- These folks had a couple of different 2M repeater contests some years back, including a "Worked All Waffle Houses" contest. They actually had more than one "pile-up" on the repeater. Generated LOTS of laughter! Anyhow, talking about a lot of laughter, congratulations go out to that hard-working, quick-witted, never-forgets-a-single-thing-you-ever-tell-him fella CLIFF SEGAR, KD4GT, who was awarded the AL Fisher Memorial Ham of the Year Award at the club's December party. Cliff, a man truly determined to instill enthusiasm and laughter into every activity, whether ya need it or not, has been a past president of the club, a newsletter editor, and was one of the instrumental workers in all of the improvements made to the club's repeater site recently. He truly deserved this honor.

NORTH GEORGIA ARC--- This club is committed to redirecting more of its energies toward the emergency communications facet of our hobby, and is currently in the process of installing a station at the Lumpkin county EOC, at the request of EMA director DON SEABOLT, KE4VDX. They already have a station at the local Red Cross chapter, and will be starting training classes there in the near future.

QCWA, CHAPTER 100--- President DON "ANDY" ANDERSON, K4PSW, reports that their December meeting was a huge success, on more than one level. Fellowship and a shared meal are always good reasons to get together, but their December meetings have traditionally been about more than that. They get a list of needed items from the director of the local Abused Children's Shelter, as well as basic information on the children currently in their care, and then these QCWA-ers set out to fill the needs of these special children. Andy says that they filled up the back seat of two automobiles with all of their donations this year. He called it "our Christmas present to those in need." What an outstanding way to spread the true spirit of the Season.

QCWA, PEACH STATE CHAPTER 49--- This group borrowed a page from the chapter 100 folks this year, and solicited items for a local children's shelter, too. Though we didn't fill up any cars with donations, it was a start, and a tradition that I hope is continued into future years. Congratulations to this fine group's duly, and newly, elected officers: President- MIKE SWIDERSKI, K4HBI; VP- JERRY LOFSTEAD, W3CDE; and Secretary-Treasurer- BOB LEAR, K4SZ. One change for this group in the new year: more frequent meetings, going to a bi-monthly format, rather than quarterly meetings.

THOMASVILLE ARC--- Recent elections kept MIKE BROWN, KE4FGF, in the President's chair for an amazing tenth year (must be doing something right!), and put WYNONA SADLER, KF4HMS, into the VP position as the first female VP, and only the second YL officer in this club's history. (You go girl!) Rounding out the slate of officers is BOBBY COOPER, N4KXL, as Treasurer, JOHN CLARK, KI4AWK as Secretary, BILL KITCHENS, KD4WQR, as Special Events VP, and BUDDY PEEPLES, WD4CJI, as Newsletter Editor. BILLY JOE LEWIS, W4ZDP, who'd served this fine club as treasurer for an unbelievable 48 years, decided to retire from that position a couple of months ago, and the club honored (and surprised!) him by presenting him with a nice new radio at the November meeting. Billy Joe is the kind of guy who, when he makes a commitment..... he makes a commitment! He has served as the treasurer at his church since 1948, and he and his lovely bride have been married since the beginning of WWII. Since our visit to the Thomasville fish fry in November, Billie Joe was kind enough to send me a copy of a terrific book called "Answering the Call", which is a wonderful compilation of the accounts of a number of Thomas county WWII veterans. One of the chapters tells Billy Joe's story, and it is absolutely fascinating reading. Highly recommended reading. This club, at president Mike's suggestion, is undertaking an interesting challenge for the new year. Calling it "Add One More in 2004", the idea is to challenge everyone in the club to actively work to get at least ONE person into the hobby or back on the air in the new year. Great idea!

WEST GEORGIA ARS--- Recent elections put the following folks into office for the new year: President- TOM KOCOUREK, N4FWD; VP(Programs)- TIM TYSON, KB4TIW; VP (Field Day & Training)- MIKE CARR, AG4WN; and Secretary/Treasurer- PATTY SMITH, KE4ZZK. Good luck to all of these fine folks as they lead the club into the new year. These folks, who've been "crossing the border" to hold their Field Day the past few years, have decided to stay put in Carroll county this year, although I have no word as yet on just where that'll be. The club boasts a new repeater now, on 224.300, with a 131.8 PL tone, callsign KB4TIW, under trustee TIM TYSON.

When your mom is mad at your dad, don't let her brush your hair.

ROMANCE AND RADIO

It doesn't get much better than this.

QCWA (Quarter Century Wireless Association) is planning an Alaskan cruise/ DX-pedition, and YOU can be a part of it. You can make it a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a fun adventure for yourself amongst a bunch of fellow hams from all over the world in one of our country's most beautiful settings.

The 7-day cruise is August 21-28, 2005, (so you have lots of time to plan!) with additional options of either a 3-day DX-pedition to Fox Island and local tours, or a 6-day pre-cruise trip to Fairbanks (Aug 16) for 2 days, then 2 days sightseeing (including Denali National Park) and a stay in a deluxe hotel in Anchorage before shipping out for the main cruise on the 21st. The group has already gotten written permission to operate amateur radio stations onboard, and is partnered with ICOM Radio and ARRAY Solutions, so there will be plenty of equipment for both the DX-pedition and the cruise.

The QCWA-ers have procured some special prices, too, especially on Category BB Veranda Suites. If you'd like more information, go to HTTP://www.qsltravels.org  or contact DAVE WHITMAN, K9DQ, at k9dq@qsltravels.org  or LARRY MCCALVY, WA9JMO, atwa9jmo@wi.net  And guess what? GORDON WEST, WB6NOA, will be onboard for the fun, too, and will even offer a licensing or upgrading class, if there's any interest.

So, check it out, and..... Bon Voyage! (If any of you join this escapade, please don't forget to tell the rest of us landlubbers about your adventure.)

If your sister hits you, don't hit her back. They always catch the second person.

UPCOMING CLASSES

Not everyone can afford to go on an exotic cruise to Alaska to take an amateur radio class with the one and only GORDON WEST. But we have other options here in Georgia, where you can take an amateur radio class with the one and only WIN JACKSON, N1TWX. Win has taught countless classes for the past six years or so, mostly entry level classes that have produced a whole herd of new hams, and with a few general class level classes thrown in here and there, as well. Next up, beginning January 12th, at Central Gwinnett High School, in Lawrenceville, will be a class to prepare you to upgrade to an extra class license. Classes run from 7 PM- 9 PM, and will conclude on March 1st. (no class on the 19th) The cost is $25, payable to the school, and you'll need the 8th edition of the ARRL Extra Class License Manual.

As if that weren't enough, Win will also be teaching another technician class, too, starting on February 5th, also at Central Gwinnett High School, and also running from 7 PM- 9 PM and costing $25. If you, or anyone you know, would like to register for either of these classes, you can call the school at (770) 338-4877 from 3 PM- 9 PM, or you can simply register before class in the principal's office. Want more info? You can contact Win at n1twx@arrl.net

Never ask your 3-year old brother to hold a tomato.

ARES NEWS

The annual STATEWIDE ARES MEETING has been set for January 31, from 1 PM until 4 PM, at the Georgia Public Service Training Center in Forsyth, GA. Sincere thanks to GEMA DEC BILL CARTER, KG4FXG, for securing this site and date for us, and to the folks at GEMA for serving as our hosts for this event. If you have any suggestions for a topic that you would like to see addressed at this meeting, please send them to our SEC MIKE BOATRIGHT, KO4WX, along with a courtesy copy to your DEC or EC, if applicable. Also, it'll be time to name an ARES Ham of the Year, again, as well. Send your nomination for that honor to Mike, too. (ko4wx@arrl-ga.org) Sure hope to see a lot of you at this meeting. This is a centralized location for the state, the later start time means you won't have to get up at 3 AM to get there, and all DECs, ECs, AECs, members, and hams with an interest in emergency communications are encouraged to attend.

The Georgia Baptist Disaster Relief Training dates have been set, too. For those of you who may be interested in registering for any of these sessions, you can call to request an application at (770)936-5259. NOTE: You must take Phase I training before you are eligible to take Phase II. Coming up this year are the following training opportunities:
+January 9-10: Phase I at Westside Baptist Church, in Centerville (near Warner Robins)
+February 6-7: Phase I at New Hope Baptist Church in Blakely (SW GA)
+March 5-6: Phase II, Unit Director, Unit Certification at Camp Kaleo in Forsyth
+May 14-15: Phase I at Eastside Baptist Church, in Winder (NE GA)

CHEROKEE--- Congratulations and much appreciation go out to DARRAGH MCCLUER, WA6IKS, who has been named as the new EC to lead the strong and ever-growing group there in Cherokee county. Darragh has been serving as one of the AECs under former EC STEVE HAMMOND, K4SAH, and is well-prepared to continue the high level of leadership that this group has come to expect. Continued success to this terrific group.

COBB--- Get well wishes continue to go out to EC BOB BUTLER, W4RBB, as he recuperates from multi-bypass surgery.

GWINNETT--- This group, under EC STAN EDWARDS, WA4DYD, has started running a packet net concurrently with its regular weekly 2M net, a practical way to encourage members to dip their proverbial toes into the digital waters.

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE--- LYNN BIANCO, KN4YZ, AEC at the NWS in Peachtree City, provided a follow-up report on the Skywarn Recognition Day, held in the beginning of December. He wrote:

"The Peachtree City Office of the National Weather Service participated in the Skywarn Recognition Day special event on December 06, 2003 from 0000z to 2400z.

Our preliminary count shows 379 QSO's including 19 APRS checkins and 38 UHF/VHF checkins. We contacted 16 other NWS offices. We worked 40 different States and several countries. This total is even more impressive when you consider most operators took the time to rag chew with many of the stations we contacted.

19 different hams operated WX4PTC. Total volunteer hours = 51

Nearly every operator went out of their way to comment about how much fun this event was. What really impressed me was the support we got from outside of the "usual suspects" Five operators came from our neighboring county, Coweta, one from Cobb, and two drove all the way from Hall / Jackson Counties for a two-hour shift. One of our continuing goals is to break down the artificial barriers between organizations in different counties not wanting to intrude on somebody else's "turf." I believe this kind of turnout is a positive step in the right direction.

I would also like to acknowledge the following individuals for their hard work and contributions to our success:

KD4YDC, Robert, Fayette County KU4OJ, Wade, Fayette County W8BYH, Brian, Fayette County
N4FLT, George, Fayette County AG4ZR, David, Coweta County KI4ASK, Joe, Fayette County
W4RFD, Robert, Coweta County W4VPN, James, Coweta County KB4GR, Gary, Fayette County
KQ4PH, Jim, Fayette County N4JML, John, Coweta County KD5EJN, Lans, MIC, NWS PTC
KT4Q, Steve, Jackson County K3ZF, Bob, Hall County K4GVO, Jim, Fayette County
KA4WEW, John, Cobb County KL0UD, Chris, Coweta County KI4DEM, Dwight, Fayette County.

I also want to thank the Peachtree City NWS for their hospitality and support for this event.

NOTE: In a later report, Lynn gave the final QSO count of 426, 19 APRS, 45 on FM (2M and 70 cm) and 362 on HF. They worked a total of 37 other NWS stations. And if you check out the HTTP://www.arrl-ga.org website, and click on "section news", you can see a picture from the NWS station, where the operators working this event just weren't having "any fun" at all..... (yeah, right!)

Have YOU registered for the terrific arrl-ga.org reflector yet? Guaranteed to deliver less spam to your mailbox than the arrl.net reflector does. (Or DID...... many of you have already dropped it!)Same great service, without the unwanted meat byproducts.... sounds like a real deal to me. The only requirement for enrollment is that you live here in GA, and you are a member of the ARRL. You can sign up on our website at http://www.arrl-ga.org

This message comes from STEVE EWALD, WV1X, on the ARRL, Citizen Corps and You:

In June 2003 ARRL signed a Statement of Affiliation with the Citizen Corps, making ARRL an affiliate organization working with Citizen Corps and other organizations to promote the goals of Citizen Corps. As an affiliate organization, ARRL, along with American Red Cross, NOAA, Points of Light Foundation, Veterans of Foreign Wars and others, was invited to a two-day meeting in Maryland on December 2 and 3. The purpose of the meeting was to identify strategies and goals for organizations working with Citizen Corps.

In the course of the meeting, Citizen Corps staff shared the information that $35 million was awarded to state Citizen Corps groups. Each state will receive a share of the money based on a population-based formula. The funding was awarded in order to execute states' strategic plans for disaster prevention and preparedness and recovery - this plan had to be submitted to Citizen Corps by December 31, 2003. Funds will begin flowing to states in March 2004.

What does this mean for ARRL? Since there is no funding available on the national level, ARRL HQ is not eligible for funds. However, for ARES groups and Amateur Radio clubs, there is potential funding for projects that relate to a state's strategic plan. The message from Citizen Corps was that participation and funding must be at the local and state level. Each state has a Point of Contact (POC) for Citizen Corps and a State Administrative Agency (SAA) that will manage the funds. The Citizen Corps funding mandate requires that the SAA work through the POC for programs and initiatives to be funded locally. The POC and SAA may be the same in some states.

ARRL affiliated clubs that are interested in this funding might best band together, and should take the initiative to contact their state POC and SAA about programs that need funding (a pilot project, specialized training, equipment or a system). If there is more than one Section in the state, it would be best to work together on a funding request and present a unified plan that may be better received by the POC and SAA. Please share this information with those you feel would be interested. Also, SMs and/or SECs should contact the state POCs, if this has not already been done, to ensure that Amateur Radio is included in the state's strategic plan.

So, it's up to you. If you need funding for a local project, event or initiative, collaborate on your grant request by contacting other Amateur Radio groups in your area or state to coordinate and integrate your plans. Then contact the state Citizen Corps POC. A list of the state POCs can be found at this web address: http://www.citizencorps.gov/citizenCorps/statepoc.do. Additional information about Citizen Corps is at http://www.citizencorps.gov.

ECs who are interested in seeing some very worthwhile documents, including one for "walk-on" volunteers during an emergency, there is a wealth of information to be found here. Thanks to DON MICHALSKI, W9IXG, Wisconsin SM, for letting us have a look-see at this great stuff: http://www.wi-aresraces.org/otherdocs.html

"These days, if you show up to help in a real emergency, you will probably be turned away. Don't forget two very important issues. You can't train during a real emergency. (it's too late) and no one will have time to be wasting to show you what to do." BOB LEAR, K4SZ

ARES REPORT FROM SEC MIKE BOATRIGHT, KO4WX

Jurisdictions Reporting 21
2 Total # of ARES Members 495
3 Change since last month -67
4 Total Net Sessions 72
5 Number of drills, tests and training sessions this month 29
6 Man hours 381.3
7 Number of public service events this month 12
8 Man hours 174.5
9 Number of emergency operations this month 1
10 Man hours 17
11 Total number of ARES operations this month 98
12 Man hours 1060.05

Counties/Jurisdictions Reporting District Reporter

Carroll 1 K4DEY
Cherokee 3 K4SAH
Clayton 3 WB4WQE
Cobb 3 W4WKE
Dekalb 3 N4SEG
Gwinnett 3 WA4DYD
Henry 3 WB4WQE
Rockdale 3 KC4ELV
Peach 5 AA4JF
Baker 7 K4GCR
Calhoun 7 KE4KRE
Dougherty 7 N4GPJ
Lee 7 KB4OMV
Mitchell 7 K4TWG
Worth 7 K1KBA
Burke 8 K4BR
Camden 8 N4TIS
Coffee 8 KD4QFH
Evans 8 W4HYU

You can't trust dogs to watch your food.

NET REPORT FROM JIM HANNA, AF4NS, STM

NET ACTIVITY:

PUBLIC SERVICE HONOR ROLL:

STATION ACTIVITY REPORTS:

Traffic handled (QTC):

"In days of old, when ops were bold and sideband not invented, the words were passed by pounding brass, and all were quite contented."
Anonymous

LEGISLATION UPDATE

Just because our legislators are "on break" doesn't mean we should forget about the ongoing battle to get more of them to co-sponsor he CC&R bill and the Radio Spectrum Protection Bill. This, from the ARRL, on the subject:

Just as the US House of Representatives was about to adjourn for the year, the Amateur Radio Spectrum Protection Act, HR 713, picked up three new cosponsors. The addition of Democrats Sander M. Levin of Michigan, Brad Sherman of California and Chris Van Hollen of Maryland brings the cosponsor list to 77. The nation's lawmakers now have headed home and won't be back in Washington until January 20. ARRL President Jim Haynie, W5JBP, suggests that League members take advantage of the opportunity--while members of Congress are on their home turf--to pay a visit at their local offices and urge support for the spectrum protection measure and for the so-called ''CC&R bill,'' HR 1478.

''It wouldn't hurt to stop by and drop off a QSL card with a message asking for support,'' Haynie said. ''That's what it's going to take. Cards and letters from individual voters do make a difference.'' Judging by the number of cosponsors to date, Haynie says, the spectrum protection bill appears to be gaining the attention of lawmakers.

Identical versions of the Spectrum Protection Act have been introduced in the House and Senate. The number of cosponsors for the Senate version, S 537, remains at eight. Sponsored in the House by Rep Michael Bilirakis (R-FL) and in the Senate by Sen Michael Crapo (R-ID), the bill would require the FCC to provide ''equivalent replacement spectrum'' to Amateur Radio if the FCC reallocates primary amateur frequencies, reduces any secondary amateur allocations, or makes additional allocations within such bands that would substantially reduce their utility to amateurs.

Meanwhile, the cosponsor count on the CC&R bill--known formally as HR 1478, the Amateur Radio Emergency Communications Consistency Act of 2003--is holding at 29. Sponsored by Rep Steve Israel (D-NY), the C&R bill would require private land-use regulators such as homeowners' associations to ''reasonably accommodate'' Amateur Radio antennas consistent with the PRB-1 limited federal preemption. The ARRL is seeking a sponsor for a companion bill in the US Senate.

The bills' texts, sample letters and information on how to write members of Congress is on the ARRL's The Amateur Radio Spectrum Protection Act of 2003 Web page, http://www.arrl.org/govrelations/arspa.html and on the HR 1478, The Amateur Radio Emergency Communications Consistency Act of 2003 Web page,
http://www.arrl.org/govrelations/hr1478/.

Those writing their lawmakers on behalf of the Spectrum Protection Act are asked to copy their correspondence via e-mail to specbill03@arrl.org. Those writing on behalf of the Amateur Radio Emergency Communications Consistency Act, HR 1478, are asked to copy their correspondence to ccr-bill@arrl.org.

"Unless amateurs, with the help of friends in the U.S. Congress are successful in passing HR713 and S537, we can expect to see our frequencies become secondary allocations to the numerous communications interests who want to take them away for their own use." ALAN PICKERING, KJ9N

MORE ON BPL

In what may prove to be a terrific boost to the efforts of the ARRL to convince the FCC that the BPL is not the best thing since the transistor, this story was recently released by the ARRL on comments filed by FEMA on the matter:

A proverbial monkey wrench in the works for BPL? Expressing "grave concerns" about likely interference from unlicensed Broadband over Power Line (BPL) systems, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) told the FCC that BPL could "severely impair FEMA's mission-essential HF radio operations in areas serviced by BPL technology." FEMA responded December 4 to last April's FCC BPL Notice of Inquiry, ET Docket 03-104. Now part of the Department of Homeland Security--the agency said its primary worry is BPL's potential impact on the FEMA National Radio System (FNARS) on HF. FNARS is FEMA's primary command and control backup medium under the Federal Response Plan.

"FEMA has concluded that introduction of unwanted interference from the implementation of BPL technology into the high frequency radio spectrum will result in significant detriment to the operation of FEMA radio systems such as FNARS," FEMA asserted. "FNARS radio operators normally conduct communications with signals that are barely above the ambient noise levels." FNARS HF stations, FEMA said, typically are in residential areas of the sort that BPL might serve.

As part of the Department of Homeland Security, FEMA's perspectives on BPL could carry substantial weight at the FCC, which may issue a Notice of Proposed Rule Making as early as February. The FCC's BPL Notice of Inquiry has attracted more than 5100 comments--many of them from the amateur community.

FEMA said BPL also could render useless such "essential communications services" as the Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES), the Military Affiliate Radio System (MARS) and the Civil Air Patrol. FEMA and ARRL last year signed a Memorandum of Understanding that focuses on how Amateur Radio may coordinate with the agency in disasters and emergencies.

Calling the HF spectrum "an invaluable and irreplaceable public safety resource," FEMA said there's no current alternative to HF in terms of meeting national security and emergency preparedness requirements at the national, state and local levels. The agency advised the FCC to beef up its Part 15 rules to ensure no increase in interference levels to existing FCC or NTIA-licensed communication systems. Otherwise, FEMA predicted, "any noise increase inevitably would diminish the ability to maintain essential communications" and would "directly impair the safety of life and property."

Likewise, FEMA pointed out, amateur HF transmitters could possibly interfere with and interrupt BPL service, leading consumers not familiar with Part 15 to blame licensed radio services.

Concluded FEMA: "The purported benefits of BPL in terms of expanded services in certain communications sectors do not appear to outweigh the benefit to the overall public of HF radio capability as presently used by government, broadcasting and public safety users."

Additional information about BPL and Amateur Radio is on the ARRL Website, http://www.arrl.org/tis/info/html/plc/. To support the League's efforts in this area, visit the ARRL's secure BPL Web site, https://www.arrl.org/forms/development/donations/bpl/.

This is great news, folks. FEMA is a valuable ally in this struggle. And a struggle it remains. A BPL system was recently approved for a small area in Manassas, Virginia, purportedly in an area without hams. This certainly bears watching. (And you can be sure that the ARRL IS watching!)

In West Central Florida, Hamfest have started donating $1 of every ticket sold to the BPL fund, in an effort to "put its money where its mouth is", so to speak. What a terrific idea! I betcha most hams would be more than willing to pay a little more of an entrance fee to support such a vital issue to our hobby.

"Eternal vigilance in the protection of our frequencies is the price we must pay if we are to continue the service-hobby we all enjoy." ALAN PICKERING, KJ9N

2003 ARRL STRAIGHT KEY NIGHT

Hope this newsletter actually reaches your mailbox before this event kicks off. Most of you who already know about it don't NEED a reminder, I know, but it could be that there may be a few new CW operators out there who may not have heard. If so, this is for them. (If the event's already past, well then, this is what you MISSED! Sorry about that!)

In this era of digital communication, keyboarding, FM and electronic keys, once a year many excellent operators bring the past to the present and participate in the annual ARRL Straight Key Night. The object of this friendly event is to enjoy some good, old fashioned QSO fun, using straight keys. The emphasis is on rag-chewing rather than on fast contest-type exchanges.

SKN 2003 begins at 7:00 p.m. EST December 31 and runs for 24 hours through 7:00 p.m. EST January 1 (0000 --2400 UTC January 1, 2003). When participating in SKN 2003, instead of sending RST before sending the signal report send the letters SKN, to indicate your participation, and to clue in passers-by who may be listening that SKN is going strong.

Afterwards, send the Contest Branch a list of stations worked, plus your vote for the best fist you heard (it doesn't have to be one you worked). Also, include your vote for the most interesting QSO you had or monitored. http://www.arrl.org/contests/rules/2003/skn.html 

Don't sneeze when someone is cutting your hair.

SECTION NOTABLES

BOB LEAR, K4SZ, a longtime VHF contester, and BRAIN MCCARTHY, NX9O, stretched their wings (and their signals) on a first attempt at working EME during the ARRL's EME contest. Not a mode designed for folks who want to work big pile-ups, but certainly one of the more challenging modes of operation. Alas, they weren't successful this time, but in the immortal words of TIM ALLEN, "Arr! Arr! Arr!! MORE POWER!" That's what they'll be aiming for next time around, along with (arr, arr, arr!) More antennas. But they both deserve big attaboys for making that first attempt. (Not a mode for the timid operator)

That wacky wit, PHIL NEIDLINGER, KA4KOE, has been at the writing desk again. He's written another of his irreverent and informative "dead dude" articles. He says, "Been awhile since I wrote a new one. However, since the response in the forums was so positive, here is no. 5. Not even up front yet, but its new, and its funny!!!" You can find it at http://www.eham.net/articles/7075

I'd like to offer a bit of recognition to BILL CARTER, KG4FXG, our DEC for GEMA, NM for the CW Training net, and one of the instructors at the Richards Middle School amateur radio club, and it's not for any of those things. For the past couple of years, he's sought out restaurants that can handle a crowd, and then sets up "Meet 'n' Eat" outings for hams and their families. Meeting an average of once a month whenever possible, the turnout is fantastic, and it's been such an effective way to break down those invisible walls that sometimes exist between radio clubs. So, kudos to Bill for being a "bridge builder". (Our next outing is on December 31, 6 PM, at Max and Erma's, near Gwinnett Mall.)

Never hold a dust buster and a cat at the same time.

PIGLETS (AKA "YOUNG HAMS")

EXTRA!! EXTRA!! TWO new Big Project Schools in Georgia!!! MARK SPENCER, WA8SME, announced that Northside High School and Tift County High School have both been approved to receive Project Grants, as two of the newest additions to the ever-growing and successful program that introduces amateur radio into our schools around the country. Congratulations to the applicants for each of these schools, to the hams who will be working with them, and to all of the lucky students who will be benefiting from this terrific program.

KID'S DAY IS SUNDAY, JANUARY 4!

For the first time, Kid's Day will occur on a Sunday. The first 2004 running of this popular operating event will be Sunday, January 4 (the second Kid's Day in 2004 will be Saturday, June 19). Intended to encourage young people--licensed or not--to enjoy Amateur Radio, Kid's Day offers a "mentoring opportunity" for experienced amateurs while giving youngsters some firsthand hamming experience and perhaps sparking a lifelong interest.

"Kid's Day is an opportunity to introduce your own youngsters, neighborhood kids and nieces and nephews to participate in the magic of ham radio," suggests JEAN WOLFGANG, WB3IOS, of ARRL Field and Educational Services. Originated by the Boring Amateur Radio Club  http://jzap.com/k7rat/, Kid's Day now is sponsored and administered by the ARRL with BARC's cooperation and assistance. Now entering its tenth year, each running of Kid's Day typically attracts more than 1000 participants.

Kid's Day is not a contest, and patience is the byword on both sides of each contact. The role of the licensee and control operator is to help youngsters with the basics, keep an eye on the technical aspects of the operation, observe third-party traffic restrictions http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/io/3rdparty.html  when making DX QSOs and ensure station identification at proper intervals. In this event, it's quality of the contacts that counts, not quantity.

Kid's Day will run from 1800 to 2400 UTC, and there's no limit on operating time. The suggested exchange is name, age, location and favorite color. Stations may work the same station again if an operator has changed. Call "CQ Kid's Day."

Suggested frequencies are 14.270-14.300, 21.380-21.400 and 28.350-28.400 MHz plus 2 meter repeater frequencies, with permission from the repeater's sponsor). Guidelines for this event are available on the ARRL Web site http://www.arrl.org/FandES/ead/kd-rules.html.

All participants are eligible to receive a colorful certificate. Visit the ARRL Kid's Day Survey page http://www.arrl.org/FandES/ead/kids-day-survey.html to complete a short survey and post your comments. You will then have access to download the certificate page. Or you can send a 9x12 SASE to Boring Amateur Radio Club,PO Box 1357,Boring,OR97009.

Kid's Day participants are invited to post logs and comments on the Internet http://lists.contesting.com/pipermail/kids/.

SCHOLARSHIPS: Believe it or not, the time has come to start applying for scholarships for the 2004-2005 school year. You can fill out one application for the main pool of scholarships, with a bit of additional paperwork required for the William R. Goldfarb Memorial Scholarship. Go to http://www.arrl.org/arrlf/scholgen.html

SPECIAL EVENT STATION: From Davidsonville, MD, W3W, operating from 1300Z January 17th to 1800Z January 18th, celebrating the 3rd anniversary of a radio club for kids. Certificate or QSL card. QSL K3ASK. For more info, see http://www,kidshamradio.com/specialevent.html

You can't hide a piece of broccoli in a glass of milk.

LADIES' CHOICE

TERRY ATHA, KG4LTL, in Jackson, sent me a couple of interesting emails, saying that he believed that the many ladies here in Georgia who've chosen to become hams, and who've contributed much to the hobby, deserve some special attention in these newsletters. I've decided that he's absolutely right. The premiere reason that I like the idea is as a possible recruiting tool to attract more YLs into the hobby. Hundreds of OMs have told me that they really wished that their wives would get licensed and get involved in the hobby. Maybe if some of those wives (or sisters, daughters, whatever...) start reading some testimonial type profiles in this newsletter each month, they may decide to give the idea some consideration. It's worth a shot.

We have some lady hams who actively work in public service activities, in emergency communications, in contesting and DX-ing, in public relations, and in teaching our young people about amateur radio. NANCY DRAHEIM, NK4U, has put a lot of work into serving as a QSL manager, both for the Bureau, as well as for numerous DX-peditions. LAURA BLOCK, KG4WQT, saw amateur radio as an important tool to increase her value as part of the NDMS (National Disaster Medical System) team. And neither of these ladies has a licensed OM, which makes them even more outstanding.

ANDREA HARTLAGE, KG4IUM, our online Youth Editor for the ARRL, did a project for school a few years ago on pie charts, in which she asked a bunch of hams, male and female, about what their number one favorite thing was about being a ham. Hands down, the number one choice, (from out of a whole bunch of reeeeeally good choices) was..... people. Simply....... people. It's the wonderful people we meet through this hobby, the connections we make with other people all over the world, and the opportunity that our skills as operators afford us to HELP other people, through public service and in times of emergency, that make this such a rewarding endeavor. Many ladies who aren't in the hobby may not see that side of it; they dismiss us as techno-geeks. So let's set out to educate them. Amateur radio may not be for every female. Then again, maybe it is.....

So, thanks, Terry, for the great idea. And now, Ladies, it's up to you. You are onstage, front and center, and the spotlight is on you. Please take a few minutes to send me an email about you and your experience with amateur radio, things like how you got interested, why you got licensed, what you like about it, special experiences, how you'd respond to another YL as to why she might consider getting into this terrific hobby, that sort of thing. When I talk to my non-ham friends about amateur radio, I figure it's time to shut up when their eyes start to glaze over. That's part of the reason why it's so exciting when groups like EMAG actually invite me to come visit them with the express purpose of talking to them about it and what it has to offer. And now, I'm inviting YOU Ladies out there to talk (or actually, to write...) about amateur radio. (And I promise, my eyes won't glaze over!)

So, let's do some recruiting, Ladies! Have at it!!

Don't wear polka dot underwear under white shorts.

TECH TIPS

This is GREAT NEWS for our many VHF enthusiasts. As you may know, this year's Southeastern VHF Society convention will be held right here in Georgia, and now, here's another coup for this great group. Thanks to CLIFF SEGAR, KD4GT, for passing along the news:

Harvey Kaylie, President of Mini-Circuits, http://www.minicircuits.com was given a copy of our Conference Proceedings and was impressed with the experimental nature of our group [Southeastern VHF Society].

Mr. Kaylie has pledged a first place prize of $1,000 cash, or a gift certificate worth $2,500 at Mini-Circuits, for the winner of an electronics design competition. Second thru sixth place winners would receive gift certificates worth $200.

For details, see http://www.svhfs.org/design_award.htm (And start designing!)

Are you still in the dark about the Logbook of the World that some of your ham buddies have been talking about?? If so, find the answer to lots of your questions on this exciting innovative way to track contacts and earn awards at http://www.arrl.org/lotw/faq

Here's a site for Kenneke Communications, offering a great new line of radio kits: http://www.kenneke,com/radiokits.html

Have you heard of the "Buddipole" antenna? It's an HF portable dipole antenna system. (My better half has done pretty much the same thing on occasion with a couple of hamsticks) But if you're unfamiliar with the concept of this antenna system, designed by BUDD DRUMMOND, W3FF, you may find it very interesting. Check it out at http://www.buddipole.com

Do you know what a Klein bottle is? I didn't, until I checked out this website, mentioned in "World Radio" magazine. Online, it reads, "These elegant bottles make great gifts, fantastic classroom displays, and inferior mouse traps. With its circle of singularities, an Acme Klein Bottle can be said to exist inside of itself..... especially handy during time-reversals." Worth a look-see at these interesting masteries of design. http://www.kleinbottles.com

From JEFF HARRISON, KD4GPI: If you are interested in 900Mhz (FM, repeaters, radios etc.) in Atlanta and around Georgia you can join a new Yahoo group called GA900@yahoogroups.com. All 900Mhz posts/topics are welcome from beginner to advanced. By the way, something in your email must give me a hint that you are a amateur radio operator or I'll think you are a spammer and deny membership. You can email additional info to GA900-owner@yahoogroups.com to identify you to your email address if needed.

Here's good news for any of you who've struggled your way through the FCC website:

The FCC on December 14 will unveil a new on-line filing interface for its Universal Licensing System (ULS), on the web at, http://wireless.fcc.gov/uls, which includes the Amateur Service.

Among other features, the ULS's new look will include easier-to-read on-screen forms that guide users through filing and simplify such routine tasks as applying for license renewal, address change or vanity call sign. The FCC says the introduction of its new system, called "ULS License Manager," concludes phase one of an ongoing ULS overhaul by the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau.

ULS License Manager will be compatible with most major Web browsers and computer platforms and no longer will require downloading Java and Java Script files. An FCC staffer involved with implementing ULS License Manager notes that all features may not be in place when the system debuts.

The ULS will require all filers to log into the system using an FCC Registration Number (FRN) and Commission Registration System (CORES) password. Taxpayer Identification Numbers (TINs) no longer will be accepted for log-in purposes, the FCC said.

Once the new system is up and running, all licenses and applications in the ULS database will be converted to the new ULS License Manager filing environment.

There's also a new paper version of FCC Form 605, dated December 2003. One change is that Form 605 no longer requests a date of birth and will only accept an FRN and CORES password. There are no Amateur Service-related changes to any Form 605 schedules. The FCC says Amateur Service applicants may continue to use the March 2001 (or later) edition of Form 605, although it encourages use of the newest version. The new FCC Form 605 now is available via the FCC Web site at, http://www.fcc.gov/Forms/Form605/605.html.

To assist with any ULS issues after the changeover, the Technical Support Hotline staff will be available Sunday, December 14, from 10 AM until 6 PM EST. Normal hours are weekdays (except holidays) from 8 AM until 6 PM Eastern Time. Technical Support is available via the FCC Web site at, http://esupport.fcc.gov, or telephone 877-480-3201 (TTY 202-414-1255).

ULS licensing support and forms information is available weekdays (except holidays) from 8 AM until 5:30 PM Eastern Time via e-mail at ulshelp@fcc.gov, or telephone 888-CALLFCC (225-5322), Option 2 (users also may call 717-338-2888).

P.S. Mike recently used the site to renew his license, and breezed through it with no problems. But please note, if your password has less than six characters, you'll need to type in a star (or stars) to make it at least six characters long. If you have your password and your FRN at hand to enter, I think you'll be very pleased with the more user friendly aspects of the website.

From TERRY JONES, W4TL, comes info on this website that I've mentioned once before, but it's good enough to rate another mention. Terry says, "A friend of mine sent me the following URL a few days ago which has a lot of good information about ham radio for both the old timer and 'wanna be a ham" alike.
Take a look and explore the many links it has concerning amateur radio and how everything works. I think you will enjoy it. http://www.howstuffworks.com/ham-radio.htm/printable

This was included in one of the recent ARRL bulletins. (Do you find this as ironic as I do? Isn't it kinda like burning down the barn.... and then buying a new horse??) Just kidding; this is definitely a worthwhile, and needed, addition in today's world:
"To keep up with the times, however, the IARU proposed adding a new character--the commercial "at" or @ symbol--to permit sending e-mail addresses in Morse code. The draft new recommendation proposes using the letters A and C run together (.--.-.) to represent the @ symbol."

Not exactly "technical" per se, but here's some interesting stuff, especially for you history buffs who'd like a little more information about this great state we all live in. This is from MAYFORD FLYNN, WB4ZOJ. He says, "Just what is written on those Georgia Historic Markers that we whiz past on the highways? This website will reveal some, but not all, of the inscriptions. Hope you find this interesting." http://www.cviog.uga.edu/Projects/gainfo/gahistmarkers/

The best place to be when you're sad is Grandpa's lap.

UPCOMING EVENTS

December 20- January 4--- Lighthouse Christmas Lights. Always a fun event to work. For more info, check December QST, page 84

December 31--- Straight Key Night

January 2-3--- Lanierland ARC FM contest http://www.lanierlandarc.org/LARC%20FM%20Contest2.pdf

January 4--- Kids' Day

January 12--- Extra Class licensing class begins at Central Gwinnett High School n1twx@arrl.net (Tech class starts on February 5)

January 17-18--- W3W Special Event Station marking 3rd anniversary of amateur radio club just for kids. http://www.kidshamradio.com/specialevent.html

January 24- 1900Z- January 26 0400Z. VHF Sweepstakes. See December QST, page 97, for details

January 24--- TECHFEST--- "Not the mama! Not the mama!" That's what the baby dinosaur used to call his father on an old TV show that we used to watch and enjoy. (Kind of like an animated dinosaur version of the "Honeymooners") Anyhow, Techfest is "Not a Hamfest! Not a Hamfest!" What it is, though, is a terrific gathering of hams to share ideas and information. A great place for new hams to take advantage of a whole roomful of Elmers, and for long-time hams to share their expertise and maybe learn a thing or two about some of the newer modes of operation that they haven't yet tried. And of course, there's always lots of food, usually a variety of homemade chili and corn bread, as well as hot dogs and burgers and all the fixings. And desserts, hmmmm, lots of desserts. So, check it out, if you can, for a great way to spend a fun day. First United Methodist Church in Lawrenceville, corner of Lawrenceville Highway (hwy 29) and Langley Drive, from 11 AM until 3 PM. For more info, see http://www.gars.org

January 31--- Statewide ARES meeting. 1 PM until 4 PM at the Georgia Public Service Training Center in Forsyth, GA

February 9-13--- 18th annual School Roundup. See p 102 in the January QST for details. (Please let me hear about it if your school participates.)

February 28--- Dalton Hamfest. The FIRST Georgia Hamfest every year.... Think "warm"....

"Some people make things happen. Some people watch things happen.
Some people wonder what happened."
RICH ARMSTRONG, WM9X

SILENT KEYS

MARVIN OLLENDORF, W4HAH, Peach State Chapter 49 QCWA member
CARL PARKS, W4REI, longtime member of the Bill Gremillion ARC and Army MARS
ANDY THOMPSON, W4PP, previously W4GGD for many years, a topnotch CW operator
LOYCE "KIP" TURNER, W4KIP, also known as "Lat" in the engineering community
JIMMY WALKER, W4VX, 98, had been the oldest living ham in Columbus
RALPH WHITE, WA4VMI, longtime member and friend of the Lanierland ARC

Sincere condolences to the many friends and family members that these wonderful men left behind. A longtime friend of one of these SKs sent me a wonderful letter, portions of which I would like to share with you. This comes to us from "RUDDY" ELLIS, W4LNG. He wrote:

"Amateur radio lost a VHF and ATV pioneer with the passing of Loyce A. Turner, W4KIP, on Dec. 17. Loyce was known as "Kip" from the day he received his call in about 1947.

Kip was a real genius. He and I were teenage VHF enthusiasts at Georgia Tech, where he earned his bachelor and masters degrees. What 18 year old nowadays could build a 75 watt rig for 235 MHz with a pair of 24G tubes? Or a 955 acorn tube super-regen receiver plus a 4 element yagi? Yes, I said 235 MHz. That was the postwar band for a while, before the change to 220 and finally, 222.

Kip was not a craftsman. His homebrew rigs didn't look like much, but they sure did work! I remember his 144 MHz power amplifier of several hundred watts. The plate current meter was hanging in space by its wire leads! His 235 MHz converter was built stage by stage like a house of cards.

He tried in vain to get me interested in ATV and using his ATV repeater. I would enjoy "eyeball" QSOs with him at all of the local Hamfest, and will surely miss him!"

Thank you so much, Ruddy. And believe me, many many folks will surely miss him. He was an icon in the ATV world, and touched the lives of many people.

Well, folks, that's about it for now. Again, I wish you all a very happy and healthy new year. Please keep those emails coming. It's always good to hear from you, and great to get your "news". This is AF4FO, signing clear. Until next time, take care of yourselves. And each other.

73, Susan af4fo@arrl.org   (Send me your news and tech tips!!)
ARRL Georgia Section Manager

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