Georgia Section On My Mind

February, 2007

Greetings, All. BRRRRRR. Thank goodness we live in Georgia, where hopefully, the spring-like temperatures are only taking a short break.

As you all know, the new rules, officially dropping the element one requirement, will be going into effect at the end of this month. Expectations are that our VE sessions are going to be jam-packed full, and that there will be a lot of hams looking for a session that's convenient for them to attend. So, if you would, PLEASE take a minute to verify that the information about YOUR VE session that is posted on our www.arrl-ga.org webpage is accurate. If it isn't, please notify our webmaster, BOB SMITH, K4PHE, and provide him with the correct information so he can amend it. (K4phe@arrl.net) Lots of people check that "exam sites" link every month; let's be sure the information they're finding there is correct. Thanks.

One of the first sessions that will be held after the rule changes take effect will be on the 24th at 1PM at the Dalton Hamfest. (or more accurately, it will be held just outside of the Hamfest site, at the Western Sizzlin) Also, on the 24th, the Thomasville ARC will be holding a special VE session at 10 AM at the Thomasville library. On the 25th, we'll be holding our regularly scheduled session at GA Tech at 2:30PM, and also on the 25th, the Hall County WCARS team will be holding a special session at Johnson High School in Oakwood at 2PM, and the W5YI VE team will be holding a special session from 1 to 6PM at the Gwinnett County Public Library at 2780 Five Forks Trickum Road in Lilburn. For more info on the special session in Hall county, please email ALFRED WESTBROOK, KT4VP, at kt4vp@arrl.net, and for the one in Gwinnett county, please contact HOWIE GOULD, W9HG, at w9hg@arrl-ga.org 

A big thank you and a tip of the hat to BILL RONAY, KM4LS. He's the fine fella who alerted me to that nefarious HB5, so that I could pass that info on to you. Many of you have written to your legislators, and that is very much appreciated. For the most part, the responses that I've seen from those legislators have been very encouraging. Nonetheless, let's all continue to keep an eye on this bill, okay?

LEON KITCHENS, WU4C, began serving as Net Manager for our SSB GA Traffic Net on April 1, 1997. (no foolin'!) And so, for almost a decade, he has been one of our dedicated NTS leaders and participants. Because of some health problems, Leon wrote me a letter and asked me to please find a replacement for him as net manager, which I've done, but I didn't want his years of service to end without a special mention. It says a lot about his character and his level of commitment, that even though he's having medical problems, he's concerned about the health of this net. THANK YOU, Leon, for a job well done. Thanks also go out to CHARLES DAVIS, WA4UJC, for agreeing to take the reins from Leon to keep this long-running net on the air. This net meets at 1 PM on 3987.5 kHz Mondays through Saturdays. Why not check in sometime?

While we're talking about NTS, two other items there. First, please join me in wishing our Section Traffic Manager, JIM HANNA, AF4NS, a very speedy recovery. And second, two of our traffic nets changed their frequency of operations to comply with some of the changes instituted by the FCC. Inadvertently, they moved to 3.560 MHz, which is the accepted QRP frequency. This was NOT intentional, by any means, and the situation will be rectified.

CONGRATULATIONS, and a huge thank you to MARSHALL THIGPEN, W4IS, who is now, officially, our second DXCC Card Checker for the state of Georgia, joining that hard-working BILL BARR, N4NX, in providing card-checking services to the DX community.

I have the niggling feeling that I've left something out of this newsletter. If I did, I apologize, and believe me, it wasn't intentional. Please continue sending your news this-a-way. (I USUALLY remember to include everything!) And if you never see anything in these newsletters about YOUR club, that's because no one from your club has sent me anything. This newsletter is intended to keep Georgia hams informed about what's going on, but I can't make this stuff up. I'm counting on you.

OK, let's see what's going on, and what's coming up right around the corner. Looks like this is gonna be a pretty long newsletter, so you might as well make yourself comfortable.... (If it makes you feel any better, it takes me a lot longer to type these things than it takes you to read 'em!)

"A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort." HERM ALBRIGHT

JANUARY HIGHLIGHTS

***JANUARY 13 --- TECH FEST--- This year marked the tenth year for this fun event, sponsored by GARS, the Gwinnett Amateur Radio Society. What is tech fest, you ask? Well, up until now, we've started out answering that question every year by saying that it's NOT a Hamfest. But actually, this year, for the first time, a boneyard was added to the mix, so I reckon now we can say it's a Hamfest PLUS. And it's the "plus" part that really sets Tech Fest apart. This event offers the opportunity for hams.... and NON-hams... to get together to learn about various facets and modes of amateur radio. It's a friendly, non-threatening atmosphere where people can ask questions... and more importantly, get ANSWERS... about all kinds of ham-related interests. It's a place for sharing ideas, tips, information, experiences, and fellowship. It's Elmering to the max. The cost is FREE; there are fine door prizes; and there's even a free lunch. What's NOT to like???

Multiple groups, like the North GA QRP Club, SEDX Club, the Alford Memorial ARC, North Fulton ARL, GA Tech ARC, and Venture Crew 73 all set up a display, so attendees had ample opportunity to learn about operating both QRP and QRO, and could learn about and join one or more of these fine groups, while they were at it. NFARL president JIM STAFFORD, W4QO, did a majorly cool demonstration where he used four lemons as the source of "juice" to run an LED and key. Some of you may remember him doing a similar demonstration at the Atlanta Hamfest some years back, but Tech Fest was the perfect place for him to do it again. The kids loved it. (Me, too!) The QRP club had a wide array of home-brew stuff on display, and the SEDX Club ran their new presentation on DXing 101. SANDY DONAHUE, W4RU, our favorite Director of Vice, and I manned the ARRL table, and I fielded a host of questions there about MARS, as well. If everyone who took away information on MARS follows through and joins one of our GA MARS groups, there should be a nice surge in membership numbers for all three branches in the near future.

There was a wide variety of displays, offering demonstrations on everything from PSK-31 to D-Star to Echolink to Pactor III to connectors to Morse code to Youth in Amateur Radio to emergency communications. And more. Gwinnett ARES members manned a table inside, where a number of go-kits were on display, and also manned the group's mobile command vehicle outside. Also on display, right beside it, was the Gwinnett county police department's communications vehicle. (WOW! If that's an example of our "tax dollars at work", our money did a great job!) As always, the over-sized key was there for the QLF (sending code with your left foot... really fun!) contest, and a number of people seemed to enjoy playing with it, but because of the crowd, not everyone heard when the announcement was made for the start of the contest, so they, unfortunately, missed out on the actual competition. (What a great problem.... It was difficult to hear the announcements because of the crowd!)

This year, the club did a superior job of promoting the event, and it showed in the number of attendees. There was a terrific turn-out, and everyone I spoke to said they were having a great time. Not only were there more hams there this year than in any of the past years, but there were also quite a few non-hams in attendance, as well, who had lots of questions on how to get licensed. As always, there was a fine free lunch, including a chili cook-off. Yours truly won first prize again this year. (I think it's just their way to get me to keep on schlepping a huge pot of chili there every year...)

KUDOS to everyone involved with this year's Tech Fest. It was a huge success, and I, for one, am already looking forward to next year's event.

***JANUARY 27 --- STATEWIDE ARES MEETING --- Held at the Public Safety Training Center in Forsyth, this was, once again, a resounding success. Thanks to LOWRY ROUSE, KM4Z, our DEC for OHS/GEMA, for securing the use of the facilities for us, and to all who put so much time and effort into the planning of this year's meetings. There were a bunch of terrific presentations, and for those of you who missed out on the meeting, they are already posted on the www.gaares.org website. (Such efficiency! Many thanks to STASN EDWARDS, WA4DYD, for getting that information up on the website so quickly.) CONGRATULATIONS to this year's GA ARES Ham of the Year DAVID RUDD, AI4JI, Emergency Coordinator for Walton county, and president of the Walton County Emergency Radio Club. Unfortunately, David was unable to attend the meeting, so we'll get that award to him asap. For a more detailed accounting of the meetings, see the listing in this newsletter for "Statewide ARES Meeting", following "ARES NEWS". Thanks to each and every one of you who attended. The dedication of our GA ARES members never fails to impress.

Acupuncture: a jab well done.

CLUB NEWS

ALFORD MEMORIAL ARC --- The January meeting was the time and place for the club to hand out certificates of appreciation and to name the club's esteemed Ham of the Year. Each year's worthy recipient receives a good-natured roasting before receiving that special recognition, and this year's ham "entrée" was GEORGE COLLETTI, KE4SFO. It's like pulling teeth to get some people to volunteer, but not this special guy. (although he would surely be willing to help the club with any necessary teeth-pulling) This was a well-deserved award for a hard-working and generous fella.

ATLANTA ARC --- In what I'll bet was their best program so far this year, I had the pleasure of doing my "famous" "Amateur Radio, the ARRL, and the WOW Factor" program at the January meeting. Coming up at the February meeting, which will be this Thursday, STEVE HUDSON, AA4BW, will be doing a presentation on QRP radio operations. (oh well, there goes my designation as best program of the year...) There will be a demo of QRP equipment at 7PM, with the meeting to begin at 7:30, at the Red Cross building on Monroe Drive in Atlanta.

COLUMBIA COUNTY ARC --- At the January meeting, PETE LAPIERRE, K1OYQ, did a multimedia presentation on the history of communications, which sounds like a fantastic presentation idea for any of our club meetings. Coming up at the February meeting, ALAN JAMES, AG4ZE, will be doing a program about the homebrew VHF amplifier that he built. Club nets have moved from Wednesday nights to Sunday evenings at 8:30 PM, on 146.985 repeater. http://ccarc.hamradioman.com

COLUMBUS ARC --- We tried to WOW 'em with our program at the January meeting, but instead, they WOWed us with their warm hospitality. (They even sent me a nice "thank you" card afterwards... how cool is that?) SANDY DONAHUE, W4RU, also made the trek in from his new domicile in Dothan, AL, to come to the meeting. (He'd only seen the "WOW" program about twenty times... guess he wanted to make it twenty-one!) But Sandy also spoke a little bit about the grassroots legislative program, and my better half MIKE SWIDERSKI, K4HBI, fielded some terrific questions about the OO program. It was a real fun evening.

DALTON ARC --- Recent elections put the following fine people into office for the next year: President- LARRY BRUNSON, K4SSP; VP- HAROLD JONES, N4BD; Secretary- CECIL CLEMENTS, KG4RSU; and Treasurer- RANDY JONES, W4RSJ. Best wishes to all of them for a successful and enjoyable year. In addition to being elected as the new club president, Larry, K4SSP, was also honored as the club's Ham of the Year. So, congratulations all around, with a double dose for Larry.

GWINNETT ARS --- For the January meeting, VESTER SCOTT, N8EKA, did a fine presentation on the MARS program and provided helpful handouts (and applications) to all in attendance. Coming up in February, ROBIN CUTSHAW, AA4RC, will be doing a program on D-Star. It's a very interesting program. For information on the club meeting and directions, please see www.gars.org

JASPER RC --- Elections were held recently here, also, and congratulations go out to the new slate of officers: President- JIM LONG, W4NS: VP- FRANK DEAN, K4SJR; and Secretary/Treasurer- MEG DEAN, KG4WIU. Best wishes for a terrific term. Club members are really saddened to see REED KRENN, WW3A, and his bride make preparations to pull up stakes and nail 'em back down in Texas. But we all wish them the very best with their move. Our loss is Texas' gain.

LANIERLAND ARC --- These folks participated in the first annual SPAR Winter Field Day on January 13, operating from the Hall county EOC. It sounds like they had a lot of fun, and this won't be the last time that they'll take part in this new operating event.

NEWTON COUNTY RC --- Club president CHARLES DAVIS, WA4UJC, must be doing something right. Actually, he's doing a LOT of things right, and that's probably why club members honored him by naming him Ham of the Year. Congratulations, Charles. (Ya done good!) Club members will be offering a technician class on the 24th and 31st of March, at the Newton County Law Enforcement Center (sheriff's office) from 8AM until 4 PM, with a VE session to follow the second class.

NORTH FULTON ARL --- ROBIN CUTSHAW, AA4RC, presented a very interesting program on D-Star at the January meeting, and coming up at the February meeting, TED BRUCE, KX4OM, will be presenting a program on Homebrew Test Gear. This group meets the 3rd Tuesday of every month at Fire Station #1 in Alpharetta. So far, their re-building efforts have been very successful... great meeting place, great programs, and a great turn-out. (Great job!)

PAULDING ARC --- At the January meeting, president AL MARTIN, KF4RPQ, surprised members of the club's Youth Group by presenting each of them with a special award of recognition, as well as a gen-u-ine GA Piglet tee shirt. (See www.arrl-ga.org for a picture of the youngsters, along with the ever young-at-heart Al) As reported in the club's newsletter, "PARC has been working to grow amateur radio through recruitment of young people and recently formed a PARC Youth group, comprised of PARC's young members, to promote amateur radio to others in their age range. Al Martin (KF4RPQ) presented awards to Cassidy Barrett (KI4HQX), Connor O'Keefe (KI4QHY), Keegan O'Keefe (KI4QHZ), and Nicholas Hensley (KI4KWA) for their efforts on behalf of Paulding Amateur Radio Club Youth Group.
The group, comprised of Nicholas Hensley, Cassidy Barrett, Connor O'Keefe, and Keegan O'Keefe and supervised by adult member Alicia O'Keefe have worked to organize the organization for Paulding Amateur Radio Club. Unfortunately for PARC, we'll be losing the "XYZ" boys, Alicia, and their dad, John O'Keefe (KI4HCV), when John redeploys to Kentucky. We wish the entire family well on their new adventure! Nicholas Hensley (KI4KWA) will take on the responsibility of Youth Group operations with the assistance of his grandfather, Sammy Graham (N4YDX)."

SEDX CLUB --- Congratulations to VAN FAIR, W4GIW, who was presented the club's DX Hall of Fame Award.

STATESBORO ARS --- Our newest DXCC Card Checker, MARSHALL THIGPEN, W4IS, is already "earning his pay". He'll be presenting a program to his fellow club members on Logbook of the World.

WAYNE COUNTY EMA ARC --- Congratulations to the newest slate of officers elected to lead this group though the next year: President- JAMES ERICKSON, KI4RAC; VP- GRAHAM LARSON, KI4ILY; Secretary- GRAHAM WILLIAMSON, KG4PNE; Treasurer- AMBER ERICKSON, KI4REB; Repeater Trustee- JIM COTE, N4PJR; and PIO- JACK MASON, KI4ATE. (Special get well wishes to Jack) Best wishes for a great year. They have submitted their application for affiliation, and I fully expect them to become out newest affiliated club in the very near future.

WEST GA ARS --- Congratulations to this club's Ham of the Year, WILLIAM PARRISH, KI4MJO, who is also the club's Field Day chairman.

*** DID YOU KNOW? A benefit offered to all ARRL Affiliated Clubs is the Club Liability Insurance Program. This comprehensive policy provides coverage for lawsuits resulting from bodily injury and property damage at ARRL
Affiliated Club-sponsored activities. More information on this coverage and on how to receive a no obligation quote is available on the web at: http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/insurance/club_liability.html

*** ALLEN PITTS, W1AGP, ARRL Media & Relations Manager, says, "I just posted a whole BUNCH of resources for clubs and groups on the www.arrl.org/pio page for clubs, groups, PIOs (Public Information Officers) and anyone else to use in getting out the word about the code, promoting their group and getting new people into Amateur Radio. Most can be edited to enter local contact information." Check it out! You'll find letters, press releases, audios, poster, gif files, etc. It's a great resource.

*** Now then, let's sweeten the pot. Here's a little something to encourage you to get some press coverage on amateur radio. ARRL Media and Public Relations Manager Allen Pitts, W1AGP, has helped by providing you with some of the resources you need. (www.arrl.org/pio) Now, he's announced that a FREE PREVIEW COPY of the 2007 SWISS ARMY KNIFE for Public Information Officers will be awarded to the individuals or clubs, ARES groups and others who have a Media Hit about the code changes and welcoming new people into Amateur Radio. But, hurry! This offer ends midnight Feb 8, 2007. To claim your pre-release copy, send a copy of your media hit or a website address of it to apitts@arrl.org with the subject line "Code Media Hit" along with your mailing address. And sorry, only One per hit.

Does the name Pavlov ring a bell?

ARES NEWS

*** CONGRATULATIONS to this year's GA ARES Ham of the Year, DAVID RUDD, AI4JI, EC for Walton county and president of the Walton County Emergency Radio Club.

*** For the month of February, the statewide ARES nets (Sundays at 5PM on 3.975 MHz) will be run by WX4PTC, the fine group of hard-working volunteers associated with the NWS in Peachtree City. They will also conduct a net at 4PM each Sunday, using the linked VHF/UHF repeater system.

*** The week of February 19-23 is Severe Weather Awareness Week, with a statewide tornado drill scheduled for Wednesday, February 21, at 11AM. (in the event of actual bad weather on Wednesday, the drill will be postponed to Friday)

*** Many thanks to STAN EDWARDS, WA4DYD, for all of his hard work and dedicated service to GA ARES, as the EC for Gwinnett county, as Assistant SEC, and as our first Deputy SEC. Stan set the bar high, and approached each of these positions in a professional manner, expecting excellence from himself and from everyone around him. His attention to details provided GA ARES with some of the most comprehensive documents in the country, and with his guidance, we were able to reconfigure the organization of GA ARES into a more NIMS-compliant organization, particularly in regards to "span of control". Some of you may know that Stan took on the position of Emergency Preparedness Coordinator for GA Public Health last year, and he has decided that he no longer has the time to continue as our DSEC. As such, his resignation was effective following the statewide meeting. Please join me in thanking Stan for all of his hard work. One person CAN make a difference, and Stan is definitely one of them.

*** CONGRATULATIONS, and many thanks, also, to MIKE BOATRIGHT, KO4WX, who has accepted the challenge, and has stepped up to assume the position of Deputy SEC. As most of you probably remember, Mike is a former SEC here in GA, and has been serving as the ASEC for OHS/GEMA for some time now. Mike has a long history of service within GA ARES and has been involved in the emergency communications efforts following several different disasters. We appreciate all of the valuable experience he brings to the position, as well as his willingness to once again answer the siren call to duty.

*** Taking over the position of ASEC for OHS/GEMA is DAVID ZISKIND, KE4QLH. David has been on the OHS/GEMA response team for several years, and he is the former EC for North Fulton county. David started his involvement with GA ARES and public service as a very young man, and it is admirable that he remains committed to both. Thank you, David.

*** SCOTT ROYLE, KK4Z, our DEC for ARES-MAT, has added another hat. His new duties are as DEC for CAP & State Military. As a CAP member and the leader of ARES-MAT, who were the key participants in the last the Air National Guard exercise, it makes good sense for him to assume this title, as well. Plans are now afoot for GA ARES to support another ANG exercise, coming up March 9-11, with heightened ARES participation anticipated for the tenth. More details will be released as they become known.

*** BARTOW COUNTY ARES--- EC CHARLIE PITCHFORD, N4QET, had an interesting report on his group's January meeting. He wrote:

The Bartow County ARES January meeting consisted of a "treasure hunt" program. We had asked members to bring to the meeting the following items to participate in a training exercise:

2-meter radio
pencil/pen and paper
flashlight
county map

Being a small group of new ARES members we divided into two teams and handed out the first set of instructions. Each team was sent to a different location and told to report to net control upon arrival. At that time they were asked to switch to a simplex frequency and they were then given specific instructions on where to look for an envelope that was hidden earlier in the day. The envelope contained the address of their next assignment and destination.

The two teams were directed to:
local Red Cross Office
EMA Office
Health Department
high school gym

Objectives of the exercise were:
*Locate different locations in Carterville/Bartow County that are possible sites of deployment in the event of a ARES activation.
*Using and communicating on a 2-meter radio through an activated net.
*Check coverage of the repeater from different locations in our service area with our ARES members radios.
*Fun and fellowship with those in attendance.

Things we learned were:
*HTs with the stock antenna had poor coverage from around the county.
*Those on mobile rigs or HTs with a gain antenna performed better.
*The repeater we used had limited coverage from the different sites.
*It was a good initial exercise and was well received by the members that participated.

*** NEWTON COUNTY ARES --- For the January meeting, a training class was held entitled "Power Line Safety for Emergency Personnel". It was a joint training session for ARES members, and for members of the local fire agencies. The class was taught by KEITH BROOKS, Chief of the Newton County Volunteer Fire Department.

*** SKYWARN CLASS, PAULDING COUNTY ARES --- The next Paulding Skywarn class is officially set for Wednesday March 14th, 2007 from 6:30pm to 9:00pm at Chattahoochee Technical College in the auditorium. The physical address is 400 Nathan Dean Blvd Dallas, GA 30132 at the intersection of Hwy 278 and Hwy 61. This class is open to all Amateur Radio Operators and has a maximum capacity of 65 seats. Pre-registration is required; no walk-ins will be permitted. The registration deadline for Amateur Radio Operator participants is Friday February 16th. After that date, Paulding County Emergency Management will begin filling remaining seats with county employees and the general public.

Please send an e-mail to k4dmf@pauldingares.com or call Paulding / Douglas ARES EC Dave Fuller at 770-421-9902 to register. It is unknown if another class will be possible in Paulding County later in the year, so please attend this one if you can. (de DAVE FULLER, K4DMF)

+++ CHARLES DAVIS, WA4UJC, our DEC for the Salvation Army, reported recently on the progress he's made in that position. He became an official member of SATERN in November, when he received his membership certificate and SATERN operations manual. He has since communicated with the leadership for the Southern Territory, and will be attending a meeting in the near future to discuss interoperability between SATERN and ARES and to begin the process of developing an MOU and SOP.

+++ J.D. FRY, KI4MEH, our DEC for VOAD, has been busy, too. He recently attended his first VOAD meeting, and has provided the following report for us on that experience:

I attended my first VOAD meeting in January. They meet quarterly so that is how often you can look forward to hearing from me. I'm J.D. Fry, your eyes and ears at VOAD. The voice remains my own and I take sole responsibility for it.

VOAD stands for Voluntary Organizations Active In Disaster. And we (ARES) are a member. So are FEMA, The Red Cross, The Salvation Army, Patriotic Pets, more religious groups than I knew existed, and many others. For a full list visit their web site http://www.geocities.com/gavoad/ .

VOAD is not a service organization. Although VOAD may play some part during and after a disaster most if not all of its contribution will be before the fact. The primary purpose of VOAD is to provide a forum for voluntary organizations to ......

share ideas and information.
coordinate training and planning.
provide a louder voice when dealing with government organizations.

Many of the VOAD members will be quick to point out that VOAD is much more than that. For "VOAD on VOAD" visit their web site at http://www.geocities.com/gavoad/ .

I found the VOAD members to be an "interesting" collection of people and organizations, each with their own agenda bound together by the common desire to provide some form of aid in time of disaster. For the most part each was focused squarely on their own area of interest and for the most part rely on government structure and aid to help them accomplish their goals.

This was particularly interesting since the main presentation at this meeting was on the coming pandemic. As a ARES member I, and I am sure many of you, have been though three other pandemic presentations all of which went into more detail than this one so I will not repeat all of that information here. The same basic information of, 30+% loss of work force, 3 waves of infection, lasting about 3 months each still apply.

If some of you have missed out on all the pandemic presentations let us know and we'll see if we can post links to some of the better ones.

All of the handouts and literature went out of its way to spell out that when the pandemic hits you are on your own and here is how you should prepare. The presenter being from a government agency downplayed the "you're on your own" aspect and tried to point out the things that government was planning to make things better during the event.

My favorite was the plan to use airline reservation operators to help staff the emergency phones since there might not be many people flying and there would be an increase in emergency phone calls. I offered the thought that the phones might not be working very well for a few days (or more) since it only takes a few thousand calls (10k?) to lock up a local switch. The feeling in the room was the phones, like the government, would always be there.

I seem to recall a saying .........When all else fails ........something? Don't remember the rest but I'm sure it will come to me.

It was however the first time I had heard government members participating in a discussion on a proposed plan to close the schools during a pandemic. It went on to suggest restricting kids to their homes. And that this could be for the three waves of 3 months. There was some small discussion on the impact of such a move on the education process, taxes, and possible cost savings having the schools closed.

The discussion stopped short of the realization that such a plan would likely (in my opinion) require one healthy parent to remain home with the kids during that time reducing the work force potentially another 50% bringing the potential workers out to 80+%.

I look for extra opportunity and possibilities in each new situation and I think I found some at VOAD for ARES. I may have found an untapped resource. After I consult with those wiser than me in the ways of ARES and have my thoughts validated (or not) I will share them with everyone (or not) in the next installment of "J.D. in VOAD Land".

"When all else fails ........ Amateur Radio" I knew it would come to me.

If you plan for problems, they cease to be problems, and become merely a part of the plan.

STATEWIDE ARES MEETING

If you missed this year's meeting, you missed out on a lot of great information. But you don't have to miss out on all of it, because the presentations have already been posted on www.gaares.org Check it out! (Again, thanks to STAN EDWARDS, WA4DYD, for getting this information on the website so quickly)

In the meantime, here are some highlights:

For the first time, we offered an EmComm exam session this year, and it was held half an hour before the start of the DEC meeting. Thanks to SANDY DONAHUE, W4RU, for getting all of the necessary test materials from ARRL HQ for us, and to GREG TILLMAN, N4VAD, for serving as our registrar. There were fifteen applicants taking one or more tests, and a total of 23 tests were administered. Although it wasn't a 100 percent success rate, it was very evident that most applicants had done their homework and were well-prepared to take the test. Good job! Sincere thanks to our certified examiners: SANDY DONAHUE, W4RU; DAVID ZISKIND, KE4QLH; and CARL WULFESTIEG, AG4LS. Oh yeah, and me, too.

The DEC meeting was very well-attended, and although the meeting ran longer than expected, the consensus of opinion was that more time should be allotted for this meeting next year.(on purpose!)There were two major areas of discussion this year. One was the establishment of a sophisticated statewide ARES resource database, based on the excellent system that was developed and programmed by TOM HUGHES, KD4OEZ, for Gwinnett ARES. All agreed that this would be a huge step forward and a valuable asset for GA ARES. GREG TILLMANS, N4VAD, led the discussion on NIMS compliance, and on establishing criteria for typing amateur radio communicators, based on training and capabilities.

The keynote speaker for the general meeting was JEFF MORRISON, the Program Director for Statewide Exercises for GEMA. The major thrust of his presentation was to make plans, understand those plans, and then exercise, exercise, exercise those plans, not just among ourselves, but with our served agencies. It was clear that he recognizes the value of the communications capabilities provided by ARES operators. As he put it, "We're all in the same boat, and it's important that we all know how to row." (And, it's better to practice rowing together as a team now, through exercises, than to wait until after a flood hits to get into that boat together for the first time.)

LANS ROTHFUSZ, KD5EJN, the meteorologist in charge at the Peachtree City NWS office, touched on several topics. First up was the concept of "mesonets", which is a network of sensors that gather accurate real-time data on a multitude of conditions. We were first introduced to this project at last year's meeting, when it was pretty much a matter of "wishful thinking". Now, thanks to MARK FEHLIG, WA4NGC, chief engineer for GA Public Broadcasting, and JOHN DAVIS, WB4QDX, our DEC for GPB, plans are underway to incorporate these sensors, along with the amateur radio equipment, at the GPB towers around the state. Lans also talked about a shift from the familiar F (Fujita) scale to the EF (Enhanced Fujita) scale for categorizing tornadoes. The new EF scale uses 28 different indicators, which will improve the accuracy of measuring the tornado strength by better assessing the damage caused by it. Talking about tornadoes, on February 21, the Peachtree City NWS will be conducting a tornado drill at 11 AM. It is most likely that a net will be held on 3.975 MHz, but stay tuned for details. (If the weather is at ALL iffy on the 21st, the drill will be postponed to the 23rd) In closing, Lans mentioned a fun interactive site where you can "put on a meteorologist's hat" and test your decision-making prowess in issuing weather alerts. Check it out at www.weather.gov/Atlanta Scroll down and click on the Hot Seat button, and... have a seat.

STAN EDWARDS, WA4DYD, Emergency Preparedness Coordinator for GA Public Health, gave an eye-opening presentation on pandemic flu. See www.pandemicflu.gov to see what YOU can do to be better prepared.

BARRY KANNE, W4TGA, our DEC for Public Health, and DAVID KRADER, the State Communications Officer for the GA Department of Human Resources, brought us up to speed on the ongoing project of installing amateur radio equipment in all of the Regional hospitals throughout the state. That is Phase One of the overall plan, and Barry has done an outstanding job of meeting with state officials and hospital personnel all over Georgia. He has also developed a common standard for equipment and installation, and has worked with HRO and Kenwood to help keep the price down for the state. DAVID KRADER announced that he has set aside $100,000 to fund the implementation of Phase One. Phase Two will be the installation of equipment in smaller hospitals, and Phase Three will be for rural hospitals and clinics.

GREG TILLMAN, N4VAD, talked about NIMS compliance, and the typing of amateur radio communicators. It was a "State of ARES" talk, in a way. He described what it used to mean to be an ARES operator, and what it means today. We must change and adapt to the times, and if we want to be a valuable asset to our communities and our country, we MUST be trained. Gone are the days of showing up after a disaster with only an HT in hand and a heartfelt desire to help. That no longer cuts it. The old attitudes and ways of doing things would make us more a part of the problem than a part of the solution. All ARES members are strongly encouraged to take the FEMA online courses 100, 200, 700, and 800, as well as the ARRL EmComm courses, levels one and two.

STAN EDWARDS, WA4DYD, did a presentation on reporting statistics, tracking the changes in numbers over the past two years. Although numbers were up in most areas, the same ol' problem of non-reporting is still there. When one of our sons was in high school, he used to thoroughly enjoy researching topics and wrote some excellent papers. The problem? He didn't always "bother" to turn those papers into the teacher. As a parent, it made me feel like banging my head up against the wall in frustration. Now, you guys are doing the same thing. Failure to report every month and at the end of the year is no different than our hard-headed son failing to turn in those papers he wrote. You're doing the work; PLEASE do the paperwork! It isn't that hard, and if you ECs don't want to "bother" with turning them in, please name an AEC who is willing to take on those responsibilities.

"That which we persist in doing eventually becomes easier, not because the nature of things change,
but our ability to do it increase." HEBER GRANT

COMMUNICATIONS SUMMIT

I received this information about a conference coming up at the end of February. It sounds very worthwhile, and may be of some interest to some of our emergency management personnel out there, as well as some of our ARES membership:

This conference should stir interest in the amateur radio community. These people actually know that ham radio played an important part in recovery right after the storms. I have worked with GSRCPI before taking my present position. I am writing as an interested party and hoping ham radio can help in some way here. Please look at the website and call and ask questions and if possible attend this summit. GSRCPI works with policing agencies through out Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana. In line with the Global Amateur Radio Emergency Communications Conference set for Huntsville, AL, this would be a chance to get a look and participate in planning for emergency communications in Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi.

Technology in Support of Emergency Response - Gulf Coast Summit 2007
February 26-28, 2007 - Baton Rouge, LA
Disasters and Crime Do Not Stop at State Borders - Neither Should Communication!

Communication has always been an issue for first responders. September 11th demonstrated this, so did Katrina and Rita. Lack of planning, policies and coordinated technology during emergency response costs lives, property, and causes prolonged suffering for victims, emergency responders and their families.

Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama are committed to becoming a National Model for Interstate communication, coordination and mutual aide. This relationship will enhance response for events as complex as hurricanes and terrorist attacks or as daily as crime prevention, investigation and response.

The goal of this summit is to bring key stakeholders together from the Gulf States Area to discuss the issues pertinent to emergency response such as: Voice, Data and Video Interoperability, cutting edge technology, best practices, multi-state drills exercises and mutual aide. This is the ONLY multi-state regional initiative in the United States!

The Gulf States Regional Center for Public Safety Innovations (GSRCPI) will coordinate this summit with funding by the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) and co-sponsored by SEARCH.

Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana State Departments of Homeland Security have approved this event to use State DHS Planning/Training funds to attend (in accordance with individual state guidelines). Other states may also allow state DHS funds to be utilized for this Summit, however, participants should check with their respective state approving agencies beforehand.

Summit Goal: Emergency Response Leaders will discuss, plan and learn about communication issues such as: Voice/Data/Video Interoperability, cutting edge technology, best practices, intra-agency/state negotiation/purchasing agreements, multi-state drills, mutual aid, intra-state and inter-state coordination.

Who Should Attend: Police and Fire Chiefs, Sheriffs, EMS, Public Safety Supervisors, Emergency Managers/Responders, Information Technology Managers/Purchasers, Elected Officials, Government Representatives responsible for learning more about Emergency Technology, Policies, Best Practices and Funding.

Registration/Materials Fee: $50.00 - Includes 2 and 1/2 days, breakfast, lunch, materials, and full access.

To register online for this Summit, Click Here!!!

More Summit Information is Available at http://summit.gsrcpi.org

Roy M. Davis, Jr.
Chief Engineer
K5RMD/CBT
3200 Old Havre Hwy.
Black Eagle, MT 59414
Ph. 406-453-4151
Fax 406-727-9703
Cell 406-788-3317

Definition of eternity: Four blondes at a 4-way stop.

DIGITAL WORKSHOP

The Silver Comet ARS will be hosting a series of workshops on digital communications, and YOU are invited. Here's the perfect opportunity for you to learn more about various digital modes and to become more comfortable and proficient in using them. Here's the information on the first workshop, from club president LEE MCDANIEL, WB4QOJ:

The Silver Comet Amateur Radio Society Inc. Hosts....

What:
The first in a series of FREE Digital Workshops for Ga ARES Members and other licensed Amateur Radio Operators. This event will concentrate on setting up and using Airmail for Winlink, utilizing Telnet, Packet, and if experienced help
is available, Pactor. Also available will be support for those wanting to get WiFi (802.11) configured and working on their computer since it is a valuable asset for network connectivity.

When:
Saturday March 10, 2007 9am till approx 2pm

Where:
Paulding Chamber of Commerce
(Lower level behind building)
455 Jimmy Campbell Pkwy.
Dallas , GA 30132

Seating is limited and it will be first come first served
Send your E-MAIL seating request to: gadigital@yahoo.com

Send your CALL-SIGN, NAME and arrival time and any other information needed by the Elmers of this Digital Workshop.

Plan:
Those in attendance will bring their computer/laptop, radio TNC, and all misc cables. Help will be available to interface the hardware, load the software, configure and use the applications. There is ample room for station antenna placement for live packet testing, and there may already be a couple of antennas available for connection if needed. Best bet is to bring your own roll-up jpole antenna and minimum 50' coax.

Extended:
Anyone that wants to attend but cannot be there until later in the day may make advance arrangements for someone to be available later, but only if there are enough people to make it worth the effort. Plan is to have some finger food or
snacks on site, but don't count on enough to satisfy your lunch. Please commit.
DO NOT SAY YOU WILL BE THERE, THEN NOT SHOW UP! We are making space available foor computers and radios. There will be limited space. If folks have to be turned away because of no room and you don't stay committed, then valuable time and space will have gone to waste. If you become a no-show, it could jeopardize your ability to attend and receive help in future workshops.

Disclaimer:
The Silver Comet ARS, Inc. hopes to provide an Internet connection so the Winlink applications can be downloaded and tested with a live connection. All Winlink software is licensed only to FCC licensed HAM operators and is free to download and use, however it is the responsibility of the attendees to obtain their own licensed copy of Windows. It is assumed that attendees will bring computers they've been using. Windows XP or Windows2000 is recommended. Win98, and Millennium Edition may have compatibility issues with the Winlink software applications and the local network connection. Although the Winlink and packet applications have been proven to run fine on the older OS's, it will be much easier to use the later, supported Operating Systems. Make sure you have the latest Security Updates.

PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU HAVE ALREADY INSTALLED AND ARE USING AN ANTI-VIRUS PROGRAM. An example, Grisoft's AVG anti virus program is a free download without additional costs for personal use. It can be obtained from http://free.grisoft.com

Also, make sure that any important documents or information on your computer is backed up before carrying your PC to the event. The Silver Comet ARS, Inc and the Elmers will not be responsible for any computer hardware, software, or radio equipment damage or failures problems during or after this workshop.

HAM radio volunteers are providing their own time to help those who are interested in digital communications to get their stations configured and running so they may be able to support GA ARES Emergency Communications.

Future:
We hope this workshop will set a precedence for future organized activities where HAMS help HAMS in various digital modes of communications. Just like the local area voice nets that occur each week, there needs to be constant use of
digital modes for the purpose of training and practice. There is a lower percentage of HAMS that know how to interface their computers with their radio equipment. As a result, there is limited activity in digital communications.

The Internet is an infrastructure just like the telephone and cellular systems. Today's lifestyles rely heavily on the Internet for information and communications. The ham radio community needs to provide means for backup digital communications just as importantly as voice, if not more.

Hands on workshops like this are about the most efficient way to learn how to get started. Most of the latest digi modes are plug and play. There is a lot of free software available. Attending these workshops will assist in determining which software applications to use and how to use them so you can be sure you have the basic capabilities to support GA ARES.

Not all digital communications in HAM radio is done with slow packet. There are other options at higher speeds that are available within the average ham's budget. The idea is to start simple with the minimal equipment that is valuable for emergency communications. Then build on that practice and knowledge to develop the skills and know-how to implement the faster connections.

Anyone wanting to host such a workshop may do so. There should be a minimum of 10-15 operators in attendance to benefit from such an activity. Location should have plenty of space, easy access to/from the parking lot to carry computers and radio equipment inside, and a place to erect antennas. EOC's may be a bad choice since there would be a lot of traffic in and out of the building and security could be a concern. Hamfests may bee too distracting, and monthly meetings don't provide enough time. Plan for an all day activity, leaving plenty of time for setup and take down. Attendees should be encouraged to have their equipment configured for portable use, making it quicker and easier for setup. For more details on hosting a Workshop like this please contact TOM OLLEY, KG4VUB, our Digital DEC for GA ARES.
E-MAIL : kg4vub@arrl.net

The Silver Comet Amateur Radio Society Inc. is a 501 (C)(3) NOT FOR PROFIT Georgia Licensed Corporation
www.silvercometars.com

There are 10 types of people in the world: those who understand binary and those who don't.

ARES REPORT DE DSEC STAN EDWARDS, WA4DYD

The following is reported for December 2006:

Membership: 1,268 Change since last month: +4

Total Net Sessions: 108
Drills, Tests, Training Sessions: 99 Man-hours: 640
Public Service Events: 15 Man-hours: 464
Emergency Operations: 4 Man-hours: 20
Misc. Events: 29 Man-hours: 211

Total Events: 147 Total Man-hours: 1,335

Reporting by District:

West Central 100.0%
Metro Atlanta 63.6%
Central 40.9%
Northwest 38.5%
Southwest 25.0%
Southeast 17.9%
East Central 14.3%
Northeast 13.3%

Total Reporting 30.7%

The following jurisdictions reported for December: Baldwin, Bartow, Bibb, Butts, Charlton, Clarke/Madison, Clayton/Henry, Cobb, DEC for Central, DEC for Digital, DEC for GEMA, DEC for GPB, DEC for NWS - Columbia, DEC for NWS - Peachtree City, DEC for NWS for Salvation Army, DEC for Southeast, DEC for Southwest, DeKalb, Dodge, Dougherty, Douglas/Paulding, Effingham, Fayette, Floyd, Gilmer, Grady/Thomas, Gwinnett, Hall, Haralson, Houston, Jones, Lee, Morgan, Muscogee, Net Manager, Pike, Polk, Rockdale, Toombs, Washington, Wilkinson, and Worth.

"Enforcement is no substitute for courtesy and common sense."
RILEY HOLLINGSWORTH

NET REPORT DE STM JIM HANNA, AF4NS

*****NOTE: The GTN and GSN have inadvertently moved their net to the traditional QRP frequency, and I hope that is rectified in the very near future. Sorry for the mistake.

PUBLIC SERVICE HONOR ROLL

STATION ACTIVITY REPORTS

Traffic handled (QTC):

** CONGRATULATIONS to SID HUTCHINSON, WB4GGS, for BPL (Brass Pounder League) recognition: 260 messages received, and 256 sent, for a total of 504.

*****NOTE: Don't forget the South CARS net, which meets every day from 8 AM until 10 AM and again from noon until 2PM, on 7.251 MHz. A friendly, welcoming group of folks. Especially great company while on the road. I understand that a Trader's Net meets on this same frequency on Wednesday mornings at 10 AM.

***** Other GREAT nets:
QCWA: Saturdays at 9AM on 3.8575 MHz
SE 6M SSB Net: Sundays at 9 PM on 50.145 MHz
SE AM Net: Tuesdays at 7:30 PM on 3885 kc (AM nets ALWAYS meet on kcs...)
Hole in the Wall Net: Wednesdays at 8 PM on 50.135 MHz (Check in three times, and earn a nice certificate)

"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

THIS 'N' THAT

*** Many of you knew FRED RUNKLE, K4KAZ, who became an SK near the end of last year. In addition to being a long-time ham, VHF enthusiast, QCWA member, Technical Specialist and one-time Technical Coordinator, Fred was also a long-time Red Cross volunteer. He and his wife Pat spent a tremendous amount of time over the years providing relief to people in need, and in recent years, Fred was in charge of the technical and communications needs for the Red Cross metro region. You may have seen him at one of the Hamfest with the Red Cross communications vehicle. In memory of Fred, there will be a special blood drive held at Faith Hall, Hopewell Baptist Church, on West Peachtree Street in Norcross, on February 14th, from 3PM until 7:30 PM. What an appropriate way to honor his memory. If you can, please consider donating blood, the gift of life, in honor of the special life of one of our own.

*** DANNY DYER, WB4IDU, a ham living in the Toccoa area, contacted me with a couple of problems. OTIS MURPHY, W4OY, quickly came to his aid by providing the information he was seeking about repeaters in the Irwington area, and hopefully, one of you may be able to help him with the other problem. Danny is desperately seeking an IC706. He used to have one, and he says that the rig is very user-friendly for the visually impaired. As he put it, he thought he had one "in sight", but ended up getting ripped off, when it turned out the rig that he'd been "sold" was actually stolen property. So, he's on the look-out once again. Anyway, here's the pitch in his own words:

"Send Me Your Dinged, Your Dented, Your Scratched!
Icom IC706, Any Flavor!

_Finally! At Long Last!
Your Chance To Get Rid Of That Icom IC706 any flavor, which works as it should, but has gotten Really Ugly! If It Has So Many scratches, dings, and dents you hesitate to sell it to anyone who can see it, for fear they'll laugh at it, Well, Here I Am, your solution! Sell It, Unashamed, to this lifetime blind, Longtime Ham, who could Care Less what it looks like! Including The scratches all over the display that make it hard or impossible for you to read! If it works as it should, and you'll sell it to me cheap enough, I'll buy it with my eyes wide open, and promise not to laugh til I get to my bank. And This Is No "Blind Man's Bluff!" Seriously, I'm Totally Blind, Incurably Cheap, Have Cash, Swaps, References; And Would Like The Chance To Discuss Possibilities: Even If Your Unit Has Solvable Technical Issues! Sincere Thanks And GOD's Blessings To You And Yours, Danny Dyer, wb4idu, Toccoa GA, USA. Email ddyer1@gmail.com
phone 706.599.5413 Days/Leave Word If No Answer, I'll Call Back.

*** HAM CLASSES, GWINNETT COUNTY --- WIN JACKSON, N1TWX, is teaching both a technician class and a general class at Central Gwinnett High School. The first classes were held the beginning of this week, but these are seven-week courses, and part of this semester's night school offerings. To see if you can still become a part of one of these classes, please contact Win at n1twx@arrl.net

*** HAM CLASS, HALL COUNTY --- ED CRAVEY, KF4HPY and TERRY JONES, W4TL, will be teaching a 3 Day Technician License Class at the Hall County EOC on February 3, 17 and March 3. For additional information on this class you can access the following URL for more information. http://www.w4tl.com/class.htm

*** HAM CLASS, NEWTON COUNTY --- The Newton County Radio Club is conducting a Technician class on two successive Saturdays, 24 & 31 Mar 07, to be held at the Newton County Law Enforcement Center, 15151 Alcovy-Jersey Road, Covington, GA 30014. For further information please contact any of the following:
Charles Davis, WA4UJC - 770-786-6546
James Marston, K4DOI - 770-786-9367
Tom Madigan, K4TDM - 770-388-0335
Bob Carter, W4NNN -770-785-7318

*** INSTRUCTOR(S) NEEDED --- Following the statewide ARES meeting this past Saturday, the EMA Director of Lamar County (Barnesville) asked if there was anyone who'd be willing to teach a ham class and hold a follow-up VE session in his area. GREG TILLMAN, N4VAD, said that he sounded kinda "desperate". Is there anyone out there who would be willing to help "grow some hams" for the EMA folks in Lamar county? If so, please contact Greg, (n4vad@bellsouth.net) and he'll put you in touch with the EMA director. Thanks.

*** TEACHERS' INSTITUTE --- The deadline for applying to be a participant in one of this year's Teachers Institutes is May 15. This is an amazing opportunity for teachers to learn how to better teach their students about wireless technology. These hands-on seminars inspire the teachers, and then the teachers can come back and inspire the students. There are four seminars scheduled for this year:

June 18 - 21 in Rocklin, California
July 26- 29 in Spokane, Washington
July 30- August 2 in Newington, Connecticut
August 6 -9 in Newington, Connecticut.

For more info, please see: http://www.arrl.org/FandES/tbp/ti.html.

*** Q SIGNALS--- After the presentation that I gave at the Atlanta ARC meeting in January, STAN PLAGER, AB4CD, asked a question about the origins of the Q signals, and was kinda wondering out loud as to when they had originated. The following week, DAVID ZISKIND, KE4QLH, came across an article on that very topic, and was kind enough to send it to me. Unfortunately, I was unable to find an email address for the author to secure his permission to re-print his article in full, but I will share some of the highlights. The article, entitled "Ham History: the Q-Codes", was written by JIM LINTON, VK3PC. He says that the original Q signals date back to 1909, when they were created by the British government to facilitate ship-to-shore communications. Then, in 1912, 45 Q signals were adopted by the International Radiotelegraph Convention. Did you know that there are actually three different sets of Q signals? QAA-QNZ signals are for aeronautical use, QOA-QOZ for maritime use, and QRA-QUZ for general use. (That's us!) Mr. Linton commented on the fact that some of the early Q signals that were used by amateur radio operators have since gone by the wayside. One he mentioned is QUM, which meant that normal operation of an amateur station can resume. Usage of this signal stemmed from spark-gap days, when hams were sometimes told to stop transmitting because of the interference they were causing to maritime stations.

*** FYI: NEW JOB OPENING AT ARRL HQ:

Job Title/Department: Emergency Communications Manager
Job Grade: Compensation to be determined by experience
Hours: Monday through Friday - Some business travel required including weekends
Direct Supervisor: Manager of Programs and Services Department
Location: ARRL Headquarters, Newington, CT

Qualifications:
*Knowledge of Amateur Radio including HF, VHF and digital modes related to emergency communications..
*At least five years experience with amateur radio emergency communications in ARES/ RACES or equivalent
*Experience in ARRL Field Organization in a leadership position
*Experience as emergency communications professional and/or first responder desired
*Knowledge of and experience with ICS and NIMS. NIMS 100 highly desirable and 700 Certification recommended
*Amateur Radio license required and ability to attain Amateur Radio Extra Class License
*Completion of ARRL EmComm Level Course Level 1
*High level presentation, verbal and writing skills
*Bachelor's degree

Responsibilities and Objectives:
*Act as ARRL Emergency Communications liaison to governmental agencies including FEMA and Homeland Security.
*Administer memoranda of understanding between ARRL and served agencies such as The American Red Cross.
*Maintain and encourage relationships with all ARRL served agencies.
*Creation and administration of the ARRL internal emergency response plan.
*Coordinate Simulated Emergency Tests.
*Assist Field Personnel with Emergency Communications and Public Service events and planning, as required.
*Maintain and update ARRL emergency communications training materials and publications.
*Keep ARRL Emergency Communications and Public Service content accurate and updated on the ARRL web site.
*Maintain ARES Database.
*Act as liaison to ARRL Emergency Communications Field Leadership including ARES and RACES Leadership.
*Author and/or edit occasional material for QST and other ARRL Public Service publications.
*Manage other Emergency Communications and Public Service Related Issues.

To formally apply for the position, the applicant needs to submit a resume to LouAnn Campanello, our HR Manager LCampanello@arrl.org.

NOTE: Just a reminder to all of you who may be considering applying for this position..... winter generally lasts longer than a week up there.

*** You can find many worthwhile articles on antennas, transmission lines, antenna tuners, etc at the website of L.B. CEBIK, W4RNL, at www.cebik.com. In particular, there's a recent addition that can give you some tips on re-tuning your 75/80 M antennas to cover the new phone allocations there. See www.cebik.com/trans/wb.html

*** The major thrust for the ARRL's PR campaign for 2007 is based on Emergency Communications. The new website for this campaign is now active and can be found at www.emergency-radio.org The background story can be found at http://tinyurl.com/2djc2w

*** Here's one for you Dilbert fans, sent to us by CAL NEFF, K4JSR:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1K9lxujiuAE

I love cooking with wine. Sometimes I even put it in the food.

GEORGIA PIGLETS (AKA YOUNG HAMS)

*** SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS: The non-profit Foundation for Amateur Radio (FAR) now is accepting applications for 56 academic year 2007-2008 scholarships to assist radio amateurs pursuing higher education. The deadline to apply is April 30, 2007.

FAR fully funds three of scholarships and administers 42 others without cost on behalf of various club and individual donors; grant income funds the remaining 11 awards. Amateur Radio licensees pursuing a full-time course of study beyond high school and accepted by or enrolled in an accredited university, college or technical school are eligible to apply.

Scholarship grants range from $500 to $3000, and preference in some cases goes to applicants living in particular geographical areas or pursuing certain studies. Non-US residents are eligible to apply for some of the scholarships.

Request more information and an application form via e-mail scholarships@farweb.org or by sending a QSL card by April 30 to FAR Scholarships, PO Box 831, Riverdale, MD 20738.

*** JODY CARTER, teacher at LaFayette Middle School in Walker county, is the co-sponsor of the school's amateur radio club, along with BARRY EURE. Jody informed me that on January 29, the school's club, the RAMBLER RADIO CLUB, was issued the call sign of KI4TEY. CONGRATULATIONS! (and just in time for the School Round-Up)

*** Yes, the School Round-Up. That fun event will be held the week of February 12-17. If any of you school clubs participate, please let us hear about it.

"Youth would be an ideal state if it came a little later in life."

 UPCOMING EVENTS

FEBRUARY 3 --- FYBO (Freeze Your Buns Off) Winter QRP Field Day. 1600Z-2400Z. Kinda like the traditional June Field Day, only instead of fighting the heat and swatting mosquitoes, the advantage (i.e. multiplier) goes to those fighting the colder temperatures and frostbite. For more info, see www.ascqrpions.org

FEBRUARY 3-4 --- 10-10 International Winter Phone Contest. 0001Z Feb 3- 2359Z Feb 4 See www.ten-ten.org 

FEBRUARY 5 --- HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my favorite ham and better half

FEBRUARY 9-11--- Orlando, FL Hamfest

FEBRUARY 11-12 --- CLASSIC EXCHANGE- 1400Z Feb 11- 0800Z Feb 12. Where you can work multiple rigs, and the older the rig, the higher the points. See qsl.asti.net/CX for details

FEBRUARY 12-17 --- 21st annual School Club Round-Up

FEBRUARY 14 --- CHOCOLATE DAY! Oops, I mean Valentine's Day....

FEBRUARY 17-18 ---ARRL International DX Contest, CW 0000Z Feb 17- 2400Z Feb 18 For details, please see www.arrl.org/contests or page 99 of December, 2006, QST

FEBRUARY 17-18 --- AM QSO Party. Sponsored by the Antique Wireless Association. 0000Z Feb 17- 000Z Feb 18. www.antiquewireless.org/amqsoparty.html for details

FEBRUARY 19-23 --- Severe Weather Awareness Week

FEBRUARY 21 --- Statewide Tornado Drill

FEBRUARY 24 --- DALTON Hamfest!! FIRST GA Hamfest of the year!! Sponsored by the Dalton ARC, and held at the North GA Fairground in Dalton. Set-up 7AM, with gates open for the public at 8. VE session at 1 PM at nearby Western Sizzlin. (This will be one of the first VE sessions following the implementation of the new rules that will drop element one requirements) Breakfast and lunch foods available at Hamfest site. MEETINGS: 10AM- ARES; 11AM- GA Cracker Net; noon- MARS. Hourly drawings, with two grand prize drawings at 2:30 PM: a 2M mobile rig, and an HF mobile rig. Talk-in on 145.230(-) Hope to see you there!!!! (Think WARM!)

FEBRUARY 24-25 --- CQ WW 160M Contest (SSB) 0000Z Feb 17- 2400Z Feb 25. See January QST, page 98, for details.

MARCH 17 --- KENNEHOOCHEE Hamfest at Jim Miller Park in Marietta (just so you can be sure to mark it on your calendars NOW!)

A truly happy person is one who can enjoy the scenery on a detour.

SILENT KEYS

DON ENNEST KS4WR
JIM MARTIN W4PFF
WALLY RANKIN KE4ISH

Sincere condolences to the families and friends of all of these fine men.

Well, folks, that's about it for now. Until next time, this is AF4FO, signing clear. Take care of yourselves. And each other.

(P.S. Do electrons have a negative influence on society?)

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

No trees were killed in the sending of this message. However,
a large number of electrons were terribly inconvenienced.

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