Georgia Section On My Mind

March, 2006

Greetings, fellow hams-ters.

With the relatively mild winter we've had this year, it'll be time to start shoveling the pollen again before we know it. (Since it happens every year, maybe we should call it "deja choo" all ever again?) But even with all of the pollen we have to endure every year, spring is such an exciting and beautiful time of the year here in Georgia. We can all shrug off Febru-weary now and March into some increased ham activities. Hamfest Season has already begun, and if you missed the Dalton Hamfest, you missed a good one. But fear not! The Kennehoochee ARC Hamfest is coming up on the 18th of this month, at Jim Miller Park in Marietta. ("Big or small, let's try to hit 'em all!") And while I'm mentioning upcoming Hamfests, let me alert you to the fact that the Calhoun Hamfest, at the Sugar Valley Community Center, will be on April 29 this year, NOT on the 22nd. While you're making changes to your Hamfest calendar, please also note another correction to the calendar sent out to us all by our favorite Director, FRANK BUTLER, W4RH, and that's in the month of October: the Augusta Hamfest will be on the 14th, and the Rome fest will be on the following weekend, on the 21st. That's good news! Now you can make it to BOTH of them! (P.S. Frank puts that terrific annual Hamfest calendar together for us by using probability, based on the previous year's dates, so if a club doesn't notify him before he puts that calendar together, there's bound to be an error or two.)

Surprisingly, I haven't heard from anyone yet, in response to the generous donation offer of a complete working ham station for a school or Scout group in the Winder area. So, here we go.... I'm telling you about it again. If necessary, we may have to open up the offer to a wider area, but for now, this fine gentleman ham wants to limit it to the Winder area, so he can help install the equipment personally. So, do you work or volunteer with a school or Scout group in Winder? If you're interested in this great opportunity to help some youngsters catch the ham radio bug, please get in touch with me.

BPL marches on here in Georgia. Word has it that the system is now operational in the Jefferson area. So far, the best initial news has come out of the Douglasville area, where the company there has made efforts to notch out the ham bands, and has been very cooperative in working with the ham community. Our BPL "go to" guy, EMORY GORDY, W4WRO, wanted to be sure that I made special mention of someone from the ham community who has been very instrumental in doing measurements and in working with the power company in Douglasville, and that is LES WILDING, K4OL, who has been serving as the BPL team leader in Douglasville. (and not Emory, as previously reported) So, many thanks to you, Les, for all that you've done in leading these efforts. We all appreciate you.

At the Dalton Hamfest, quite a few of you complained that you hadn't yet received your March issue of QST. This statement was recently issued by the ARRL: "The March 2006 issue of QST may arrive several days later than normal. "We are aware of widespread delays," said ARRL Marketing Manager Bob Inderbitzen, NQ1R. "Our sincere apologies." The issue was mailed four to five days later than usual in order to meet the printer/distributor's schedule requirements. Recent severe winter weather coupled with no mail delivery on Presidents' Day, February 20, also may be contributing to delivery delays. ARRL anticipates that most US members will receive their copies of the March issue by Monday, February 27. The Circulation Department will begin honoring requests for replacement copies on Tuesday, February 28." Hopefully, you've all received your copy by now. If not, please let the circulation people know.

OK, enough chatter. Let's see what's been happening in Georgia lately, and what's coming up right around the corner.

Corduroy pillows are making headlines.

FEBRUARY HIGHLIGHTS

DALTON Hamfest--- February 25--- The Dalton ARC outdid themselves again this year with their Hamfest, which long-time club member HAROLD JONES, N4BD, dubbed the "first and best" in Georgia. Without a doubt, this is one Hamfest that continues to grow bigger and better every year, and this year was no exception. All of the tables inside of the three buildings were filled, and the boneyard looked to be about the biggest they've ever had, in spite of the weather prognosticators' dire predictions of rain. The general attitude out in the boneyard seemed to be pretty much that of perennial boneyard denizen LARRY KEITH, KQ4BY, who simply kept his "really good" stuff in one area, so he could quickly scoop it up into the safety of his truck if the rains dared to come, while the rest would be entrusted to whatever protection could be provided with the use of a trusty tarp. Que sera, sera. All of these folks set up in the boneyard were hearty souls, who weren't going to be intimidated by any doggone threats of rain; by golly, this was the first Hamfest of the year in Georgia, and they were determined to be there. And their fortitude was well-rewarded. No rain!!! Likewise, all of those folks who drove (some, for five hours or more) through the pouring rain to make their annual trek to Georgia's inaugural fest were rewarded once they crossed over that invisible line in the Dalton area. Like magic, the rains disappeared. So, you folks who stayed away because you were concerned about rain, I'll say it again: you missed a good one.

At the ARRL table, our very own director of vice, SANDY DONAHUE, W4RU, did a great job of signing up new members and answering questions, though he did say that the two most frequent questions he got were, "Where's Susan?!" and Where's Frank?!" In our defense, Frank and I put in a good bit of time at the table, too, but we also stole away a few times to walk around the area a bit, and I did attend both the ARES and MARS meetings. Thanks to Sandy for doing such a good job at holding down the fort, and thanks to everyone who stopped by to say hello. Getting to meet with you folks and chat with you at these Hamfests is, for me, one of the most enjoyable things about being there.

Three albums of pictures given to me by Georgia's longest-serving SM, EDDY KOSOBUCKI, K4JNL, were also at the ARRL table, and quite a few people enjoyed looking through them and reminiscing over past ham events and seeing the faces of many old ham friends, so many of whom are now silent keys. (Again, THANK YOU, Eddy!)

The ARES and MARS meetings were both enjoyable, and well-attended. CECIL CLEMENTS, KG4RSU, did a fine job of hosting the ARES meeting, and MITCH BOTSFORD, W4IFP, did the honors at the MARS meeting, with some able assistance from my better half, MIKE SWIDERSKI, K4HBI. Our esteemed SEC JIM COTE, N4PJR, was in attendance at the ARES meeting, much to Cecil's delight, and he kindly took the floor and imparted some of his worthy words of wisdom. They even let ME do a little bit of babbling. (I generally reassure folks at these meetings that I don't TALK nearly as long as I WRITE...) The informal structure of this meeting allowed for a good exchange of ideas, and the attendance by so many, leaders and members alike, from Georgia and beyond, once again demonstrated a strong dedication to the ARES mission. Thank you all for attending. The MARS meeting drew members from all three branches of service and from several sister states, as well. We don't have the opportunity to meet face-to-face nearly as often as ARES members, so it's always a real treat to attend one of these meetings. One interesting thing I noticed from both of these meetings, though: in spite of all of the hot air that we managed to generate in both of these meetings, we never could quite take away all of the chill in that meeting room. Curious.

Again, this was a great Hamfest, and the people just get friendlier and friendlier every year. Hats off to the members of the Dalton ARC for another job well done. And thanks to all of you wonderful people who attended. In spite of the forecast.

A pessimist's blood type is always B negative.

CLUB NEWS

ALBANY ARC --- These folks are well on their way to completing a big project, and that's a fine-looking club communications trailer. Many pictures of it were included in their March newsletter, and it's clear that a lot of hours and dedication went into this project. CONGRATULATIONS to the club for this great new asset for use in the Albany area.

ALFORD MEMORIAL ARC --- In support of Severe Weather Awareness Week, MIKE BOATRIGHT, KO4WX, presented a program on Storm Spotting at the February meeting. Mike, our former SEC, is Dekalb county ARES' AEC for SkyWarn, as well as ADEC for OHS/GEMA. (Ya can't keep a good man down!) Also at this meeting was the club's fun-filled annual "roast" of its selected Ham of the Year, and that "roastee" and worthy recipient for 2005 was LARRY DODD, K4LED. Larry is a steadfast and reliable kinda guy, who can always be counted on to "answer the call" whenever his help is needed. CONGRATULATIONS to him on this well-deserved recognition. (proving, once and for all, that good guys DON'T always finish last!)

ARC OF AUGUSTA --- CONGRATULATIONS to one of Georgia's NTS Stars, SID "HUTCH" HUTCHINSON, WB4GGS, for being chosen by this fine group as its Ham of the Year. This gentleman must have a muffin fan aimed at his Morse key just to keep it from over-heating, because he continues to rack up BPL award after BPL award, in recognition of the high number of CW messages he handles every month. Needless to say, that prowess is very valuable to the club every field day, as well, where he also invests plenty of sweat equity into the antenna set-up and tear-down activities. A valued club member, and a valued friend.

ATHENS ARC --- As we head towards spring and hams start considering some new antenna and tower projects, the program at the February meeting served to address the very timely issue of safety. ROBERT SCALES, KE4OGD, presented an informative program on antennas, grounding, and safety, and JEFF CROWELL, KD4AOZ, added to that presentation with additional information on safe tower installation and dismantling.

ATLANTA ARC --- JACK YEAZEL, quite the authority on GPS, presented a program on... what else? GPS, of course. He had quite an array of GPS units on display, and provided extensive information on this technology and the capabilities of various units. For more info on GPS, and particularly to see reviews on a multitude of GPS equipment, see http://gpsinformation.net 

COLUMBIA COUNTY ARC --- At the February meeting, ACE NORTON, W4WTA, presented a program on proper repeater usage. (PLEASE don't tell someone that they have a 59 signal on a repeater!)

COLUMBUS ARC --- SUE GODWIN, W4SUE, club PIO, sent the following report: "On February 22, 2006, the Columbus ARC participated in the tornado drill in observance of Severe Weather Awareness Week. There were 22 check-ins from West Georgia and East Alabama." Outstanding participation!

GWINNETT ARS --- JACK YEAZEL also did his GPS presentation at the GARS meeting. (a very busy guy!) Club elections were also held at the February meeting, and CONGRATULATIONS go out to the following officers: President- NORM SCHKLAR, WA4ZXV; VP- EARL WHATLEY, AF4FG; Secretary- BECAH JUBON, W3BEC; Treasurer- AMY WOODRICK, KE4IKF; and Activities Chairman- DAVE BRUSE, W4DTR. Best wishes to all of these fine folks for a successful and enjoyable year.

JASPER RC --- It's a lot easier to appreciate where we are today and where we're headed tomorrow when we have an understanding and appreciation of where we were yesterday. To that end, these folks enjoyed a video about the history of radio at their February meeting. (no word on whether any popcorn was provided)

MIDDLE GA CLUBS --- Five clubs in middle GA are working together to support and promote a Hamfest, which they will be holding at the Peach Outlet Mall in Byron on May 13. More details will follow in upcoming newsletters. (It's wonderful to hear about clubs putting together a cooperative effort of this kind, isn't it?)

NORTH GA ARC --- Emergency communications and training are an important part of this club's essence, and for their February meeting, they chose to hold a tabletop exercise as part of their ongoing training to better prepare themselves to serve the community in times of emergency.

QCWA --- At the February Peach State Chapter 49 meeting, held in Norcross, MIKE BOATRIGHT, KO4WX, presented a very interesting program on QRP and Emergency Communications. (And no, he doesn't advocate the use of QRP during adverse operating conditions. In times of emergency, though the use of lower power obviously extends the length of time you can operate under battery power, the power level must be high enough to establish reliable communications.) Mike is an avid QRP-er and long-time ARES leader and operator, and he has put together an excellent presentation that does a great job of marrying these two areas of special interest.

SEDX CLUB --- These guys were leaders in the Peter One DX-pedition, both on the home front, as well as from the icy Antarctic expanse itself. Members BOB ALLPHIN, K4UEE, and GEORGE NICHOLSON, N4GRN, were part of the adventurous team that braved the hostile Antarctic elements of Peter One to give the rest of us the opportunity to work this rare entity from our warm and cozy shacks. CONGRATULATIONS to them, and to the rest of their team, for an excellent DX-pedition. Other club members, like CHAZ CONE, W4GKF, DAVE JOHNSON, K4SSU, and DICK HANSON, K5AND, played key roles from the home front, performing duties such as maintaining the website and handling logistics for the team in the field. And, as always, this club supported the DX-pedition financially. Many thanks to the club for being such an important part of this DX-pedition. Coming up at the April meeting, Bob and George will be doing a presentation on their amazing adventure. (They may need a larger meeting room!) At the March meeting will be an ever-enjoyable "Show and Tell" night. With this group of well-traveled hams, it's sure to be a fascinating evening. www.sedxc.org 

THOMASVILLE ARC --- President MIKE BROWN, KE4FGF, will be attending an important conference meeting on March first, ably representing the amateur radio community and clarifying to the attendees exactly how hams assist in times of emergency. This meeting, called "Crossing the Imaginary Line", will be a conference of representatives from 13 South GA and North FL counties, and the intent is to bring disaster responders from these areas together so they can meet and make interactive response plans. As Mike described it, "When I sat in on a meeting in Thomasville with reps from the Police, Sheriff, Fire and EMS, it was as a guest of one of the former Red Cross Directors. The meeting was chaired by then mayor Roy Campbell. This meeting took place shortly after Thomasville and surrounding areas were inundated by evacuees (they were refugees back then) from the Jacksonville area who were running from an Atlantic coast hurricane whose name I have forgotten. All the local motels were full as were most available parking lots and everyone was using the local phone and cell services to let loved ones know they were safely out of harm's way. The mayor said he had run into two significant problems during that time. First, the Red Cross didn't have sufficient vehicles to move needed supplies to the shelters that were open. He said that he and the other car dealers could handle that problem the next time. Problem number two was of far more grave concern and that was the lack of local communications. Remember, all these folks were busy calling their loved ones and what was the immediate effect? A little voice on your phone, either cell or land line that said "All circuits are busy; please try your call again later". And the storm was no where close to here!! Basically, it made it necessary for folks to drive to the Red Cross warehouse for shelter supplies as they couldn't reliably call across town. He was in hopes that next time, we'd set up our radios and let them use them until the crisis passed. I then explained why that wouldn't work either and told him what we could do. So, in this venue, ours is a battle to educate the folks in authority we have to work with but who are generally unfamiliar with how our service works." So, many thanks to Mike for attending this conference, and we'll look forward to his report.

IMPORTANT REMINDERS: With so many clubs having held elections over the past couple of months, NOW would be an excellent time to update club records with the ARRL. All affiliated clubs are required to file an annual report, and post-election times offer the most logical time to comply with this requirement every year. And it's VERY easy to do. If clubs do not file these reports in a timely manner, they will be unceremoniously dumped into the dreaded "inactive file". YOU may know that you're still "active", but how about those new hams out there who are looking to join a club? Will YOUR club be overlooked because it is no longer listed as an "active club"? Perish the thought! If your club data is currently languishing in that black hole of "inactive clubs", filing this report NOW will restore your club to its rightful place among Georgia's active clubs. HOW can you do it, you might ask? It's simple. Please go to http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/club/biglist.html and once you select "Georgia", you'll find several options for sorting all of the clubs that are in the database. Once you find your club's listing, whether it's in the active or the inactive file, go to the bottom of the data for your club, where you can click on "submit updated data for this club report". After making whatever changes you need to make, fill out the part "official submitting this report", and then, "submit report". (TOLD ya it was simple!)

LIKEWISE, all Special Service Clubs are required to renew their status as an SSC every TWO years. Even if you have allowed that designation to lapse, you DO have the option of renewing NOW and regaining that elevated designation that you worked so hard to attain. To renew, go to http://www.arrl.org/field/club/forms/fsd7/renewal.html 

REBATE FORMS: Don't forget that affiliated clubs can earn a rebate for each ARRL membership made through the club. You can find the rebate form at http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/club/forms/rebate,pdf

My friend really likes to make pottery, but to me, it's just kiln time.

ARES NEWS

*** CAMDEN COUNTY ARES --- EC CHUCK COOPER, N4TIS, provided this report on a drill held on January 21:

Purpose: To identify possible problems with communications in the event the county and Red Cross need to open shelters.

Participating Agencies: Camden County EMA Director, Camden County Amateur Radio Emergency Service, American Red Cross, Glynn County Digital Society, Atlanta EMA office, Jacksonville National Weather Service, additional amateur radio stations monitoring traffic as stand by stations.

Drill: At 1000 all parties meet at the secondary EOC Camden County. Thirty Nine volunteers were present at the initial meeting. Agencies represented were Camden County EMA, Camden County ARES, and American Red Cross. After the initial briefing Shelter Managers and staff along with Radio operators were dispatched to their assigned shelter. On arrival traffic was sent back to the EOC notifying the EOC that Communication had arrived at the shelter. Then the EOC was notified when the shelter was open. Information as to the number of occupants, shelter needs, and several emergencies were relayed to the EOC. This information was delivered to the Incident Commander and Red Cross staff in the EOC. All participants in the drill returned to the EOC for a review on the drill.

Issues:
1. It was determine that Handy Talkies would not operate inside any of the shelters reliable.
2. Two communicators is the minimum number that should be assigned at each shelter.
3. Communication needs to be at the location at a location where the Shelter Manager is located.
4. A minimum of three operators need to assigned at the EOC
5. Traffic from the EOC to other agencies needs to be on a frequency not being used for
6. Logging of traffic needs to better utilize.

Correction Actions:
1. Permeate outside antennas and coax need to install at all shelters.
2. Recommend that Red Cross includes more instructions as to the role of ARES in their shelter manager package and training.
3. Review and revise CCARES band plan.
4. Review traffic logs with CCARES members

*** NORTH FULTON ARES --- CONGRATULATIONS and many thanks to VICTOR WASILOV, KI4HPX, who has accepted the appointment as new EC. Victor brings a lot of enthusiasm and some great ideas on how to build a stronger group, and we are very appreciative of his willingness to take on this role.

*** PAULDING & DOUGLAS COUNTY ARES --- SEAN SPARKS, W4JFL, has done a fine job leading the ARES groups as EC in both of these counties for the past six years. He has formed a strong working relationship with the EMA personnel and has built an ARES group of which we can all be proud. His diplomacy and tact, and leadership qualities, have gone a long way towards making a positive difference, and we are truly grateful to him for all that he has done. But now he is prepared to pass that mantle of leadership on to a new EC. Stepping into that position, as of March 1, is EMORY GORDY, W4WRO, who has been ably serving as one of Sean's AECs. Sean, in turn, will take over one of the AEC positions. Many thanks to both of these fine gentlemen. They BOTH have done so much to advance amateur radio, and we're fortunate to have them.

*** It is a pleasure to announce that LYNN BIANCO, KN4YZ, our new ASEC for NWS, has chosen a DEC to serve the Columbia NWS. CONGRATULATIONS and many thanks to PAUL BENNETT, N4LXB, for accepting this appointment, and CONGRATULATIONS, also, to Paul's Assistant DEC, DEAN MAPLES, K4EQQ. With Georgia being in a rather unique situation of being served by a multitude of NWS offices, it's important that we have representation and a liaison to each one of them. We appreciate Paul and Dean for providing that for us with the Columbia, SC NWS.

*** NW GA --- DEC JON MITCHAM, KD4YDA, has named his ADEC, and a fine choice he's made in the form of BILL DICKERT, KD4EKZ. Bill is also the EC in Polk county, and is serving as the acting EC in Floyd. Many thanks to Bill for his continued dedication to GA ARES. Another change in this district: CECIL CLEMENTS, KG4RSU, who has been serving as EC in Murray county, has agreed to spread his wings and also serve as the EC for neighboring Whitfield county. THANK YOU, Cecil. We appreciate your service and dedication.

*** TORNADO DRILL --- Held on February 22, this year's statewide drill was another resounding success. ROBERT BURTON, KD4YDC, who manned the HF mike at the Peachtree City NWS, wanted to express his sincere thanks to each and every one of you who participated. He would also appreciate it if those of you who activated your local EOC would please send him an email to provide him with that information. Kd4ydc@bellsouth.net

Here's the breakdown of check-ins:
42 HF CONTACTS
74 LINK NET CONTACTS
2 APRS CONTACTS
43 COUNTIES CONTACTED
12 "CONFIRMED" CONTACTS OUTSIDE OF THE PTC WFO AREA
1 OTHER NWS CONTACTED
3 GEMA CONTACTS
7 EOC or EMA OFFICES CONTACTED
181 CHECK-INS FROM OTHER NETS

Pretty impressive, huh? LUMPKIN county EC DAVE BURROWS, W9JWT, sent me a note to let me know that ARES had activated and participated in the drill from his county. I heard a relay into the HF net of THIRTY participants from the Augusta area. Gwinnett county had twenty participants. For a daytime exercise, it was amazing how many Georgia hams were able to take part in this. Y'all did great. Also of note, LOWRY ROUSE, KM4Z, our DEC for OHS/GEMA also operated from the SOC, and there were twenty-two messages sent to GEMA via WinLink from all over the state. Quite a few of them came from down Glynn county way.

*** This important message comes to us from JOHN DAVIS, WB4QDX, our DEC for GPB:

For those of you who were unable to attend the state ARES meeting in Forsyth, I invite you to visit the Georgia ARES site www.gaares.org and the DEC section on Georgia Public Broadcasting. There you will find information on the development of a statewide voice and data network using the towers of Georgia Public Broadcasting.

The PowerPoint document in this section provides information on how the GPB towers can be used to host amateur equipment for development of the statewide network. I am soliciting any and all input on frequencies, technologies, applications to be supported, linking and any other thoughts on the network design.

Our objective is to complete a network plan in the next 60 days to specify antennas to GPB and begin to build the network as sites become available. Please send your input to me at wb4qdx@arrl.net.

We have an opportunity to enhance emergency communications across Georgia with the tremendous resources provided by GPB. I look forward to hearing from ARES members across the state and tapping into the vast knowledge and experience base of Georgia ARES members.

*** WinLink 2000. More and more hams are giving WinLink 2000 a look-see, here in Georgia, and around the world. So many who have tried it are very enthusiastic about it, and there have been countless articles written about how well it has performed during various disasters. Unfortunately, many who have not tried it are quick to scoff at it and to reject it as "not being amateur radio" or as being "too costly" for the average ham to even bother with it. It's been a couple of years now since the ARRL came out with a recommendation for ARES groups to add this method of communication to their bag of tricks, and yet, many still resist it. Without question, there are many digital modes available to us, and you're encouraged to work with as many of them as your little hearts desire, but I would like to urge ALL of our ARES groups to take WinLink 2000 more seriously. Please, don't sell it short. It CAN and DOES deliver. With GEMA SOC having WinLink capabilities, it would serve our state well if we could have these capabilities in as many of our counties and EOCs throughout the state as possible. (If a telpac is needed in your geographical area, with the support of your EMA director, the county may even be able to provide the funding to have one installed at or near the EOC.) And it doesn't cost you one red cent to download the program and install it on your computer. JOHN KRAUS, KC4ZGQ, our Digital DEC, writes, "Anyone wanting to give Winlink a try should check out this Yahoo group. It offers a series of lessons with instructions on setting up all of the Winlink programs. It also offers a good place to get problems with the installation process solved."

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LOADING_WL2K_USER_PROGRAMS/ 

So, please, TRY it. (I think you'll LIKE it!) John, or one of his ADECs, TOM OLLEY, KG4VUB, or GARRY HARLEY, KD4NUD, would be happy to help you with any questions you may have about it. (Contact info for John: DIGITAL_COMMS_GA@cox.net for Tom: kg4vub@arrl.net and for Garry: kd4nud@bellsouth.net)

*** NOAA Radios update: As you know, the newer NOAA radios also have SAME (Specific Area Message Encoded) capabilities, which broadcast emergency information on a multitude of emergency situations. However, as noted by RON ROGERS, WW8RR, on the Forsyth ARES reflector, those codes are subject to change. He wrote, "If you currently have a NOAA weather radio capable of decoding SAME data, it would be a good idea to validate what FIP codes you currently have programmed, depending upon which county alerts and messages you want to receive. Click on the following URL, and then select Georgia to view the updated county FIP codes and choice of frequency to monitor."
http://www.nws.noaa.gov/nwr/indexnw.htm (Thanks, Ron)

*** For those interested WiFi, PAUL PESCITELLI, K4UJ, found an interesting report on what the ARRL is doing with HSMM (High Speed Multi-Media) at http://www.n5oom.org/hsmm/rootenna_project.htm

*** From THE EMERGENCY EMAIL & WIRELESS NETWORK http://www.emergencyemail.org/ comes information on Katrina and how this information can be used for future preparation in Georgia. Please see these sites:
http://www.emergencyemail.org/katrinareport.asp
http://www.emergencyemail.org/katrinareportwhitehouse.asp

Does the name Pavlov ring a bell?

MARS: ONE WAY TO "GIVE BACK"

Those of you who've served in the military may have fond memories of MARS, Military Affiliated Radio System, which maybe allowed you to have a conversation with a loved one back home. I know I'll never forget the joy I felt at being able to talk, even briefly, to Mike when he was in Vietnam, thanks to the phone patch provided by a dedicated MARS operator. But our gratitude for that wonderful "connection" that was provided for us personally is only a part of the reason why we're both members of GA Army MARS today.

The bottom line is that MARS provides us with another outlet to use our amateur radio licenses to serve our community and our country. An opportunity to "give back", if you will. I respectfully suggest that you might consider joining, too.

Although the mission of MARS has changed since Mike's years in the Army, today's mission is still an important one. These days, our military has tools like the internet and satellite telephones to make contact with the folks back home, so phone patches aren't nearly as prevalent. In fact, the overall number of messages that MARS members handle for our military personnel is much smaller than in years past. However, during events like Katrina, nets are run 24/7 to provide emergency communications. Like for ARES members, the preparedness to provide emergency communications and the ability to relay voice and digital traffic reliably and efficiently are important to us. But we serve different customers and operate on different frequencies. And an even larger part of our mission is to provide pertinent information to our served agencies regarding disasters and emergency situations and on the real-time conditions of the infrastructure in our area. (i.e. transportation conditions, damage to any major buildings, status of telephone service, power, etc)

Our nets are structured, and training is a big part of them. We operate on phone, but have a strong digital structure, as well, and dabble in a number of different modes.

**WHO can join?
Any amateur radio licensee, American citizen, over the age of eighteen. And did you know? Having an amateur license without HF privileges does not prevent you from operating on the MARS HF frequencies, because our operations are under the NTIA, not the FCC.

**WHAT do I need to have in my station to be a member?
Members must have a station that is capable of operating on MARS frequencies. In most cases, a simple modification to your radio can expand your radio's capabilities to cover the MARS frequencies. NTIA compliance required after 2007.

**WHAT will be required of me?
-For the ARMY, a minimum of 12 total hours per calendar quarter, with at least 6 of those hours on the air.
-For the AIR FORCE, a minimum of 12 total hours per calendar quarter, and at least 6 of those hours on air.
-For the NAVY/MARINE CORPS, a minimum of 18 hours per calendar quarter, with at least 12 of those hours being on the air.
-The filing of a simple monthly participation report that provides information on the number of total hours spent on MARS activities, the number of hours spent on-air, the number of messages sent, and the number processed.

**TRAINING?
Yes, in each branch of Service, you will receive quite a bit of initial basic training, and will have a given amount of time to complete that training and other activities to become a full member. For the Army, training continues on each net to reinforce and refresh that basic training. We have a net on weekday mornings, and two every evening of the week. Each net runs for one hour. The Air Force and the Navy/Marine Corps run a little differently, but there is ample opportunity to have adequate on-air time to far exceed the basic requirements.

**HOW can I apply? Please see www.gamars.org You will find additional information there, as well as an application for GA Army MARS. You will also find links that can take you to the other two services. ALL three services serve similar missions, and all three work together.

Speaking for GA Army MARS, we would love to welcome you as a new member, and I'm quite sure that the Air Force and the Navy/Marine Corps would welcome an upswing in their membership, as well. At the very least, please give it some thought.

NOTE: Though Army MARS would welcome any and all members from all over the state, we particularly would love to recruits some new members from South Georgia. How's about it?

If your club or ham group would like more information on MARS, please let me know. I'll be sure that you get it.... Maybe we could even arrange to do a presentation at one of your club meetings, if you'd like.

Shotgun wedding: a case of wife or death.

A LITTLE MARS HUMOR

This was in "Reader's Digest" in 2002, as submitted by (then) SSgt WES CRAIN:

Stationed at Kunsan Air Base in South Korea, I used the Military Affiliate Radio System to call my wife back home in the States. Since many people serving overseas use this network, especially on the weekends, I had to wait for my call to go through. Minutes later, the PA system in our section announced that I had a message from MARS. Heading for the telephone, I overheard a young airman say, "I sure hope it's not collect!"

Dijon vu: the same mustard as before.

ARES REPORT DE STAN EDWARDS, WA4DYD, DSEC

The following is reported for January 2006:

Membership: 1,131 Change since last month: -13

Total Net Sessions: 118
Drills, Tests, Training Sessions: 112 Man-hours: 1,167
Public Service Events: 5 Man-hours: 381
Emergency Operations: 6 Man-hours: 100
Misc. Events: 56 Man-hours: 900.5

Total Events: 179 Total Man-hours: 2,548.5

Reporting by District:

West Central 100.0%
Metro Atlanta 90.9%
Northeast 37.5%
Northwest 28.6%
Central 25.0%
Southeast 21.4%
Southwest 21.1%
East Central 14.3%

Total Reporting 31.9%

The following jurisdictions reported for January: Baker, Baldwin, Carroll, Charlton, DEC - Central, DEC - GPB, DEC - Metro Atlanta, DEC - NWS Charleston, DEC - NWS Peachtree City, DEC - OHS/GEMA, DEC - Southeast, DeKalb, Douglas/Paulding, Cherokee, Clayton/Henry, Cobb, Dodge, Evans, Fayette, Gwinnett, Hall, Houston, Lee, Lowndes, Morgan, Muscogee, Murray, Newton, Oglethorpe, Putnam, Rockdale, Toombs, Ware, Washington, Worth.

I fired my masseuse today. She just rubbed me the wrong way.

NET REPORT DE JIM HANNA, AF4NS, STM

PUBLIC SERVICE HONOR ROLL:

STATION ACTIVITY REPORTS:

Traffic handled (QTC):

***CONGRATULATIONS to Sid, for earning yet another BPL listing in QST. With 310 messages sent, 337 received, and 6 delivered, he racked up a grand total of 573.

"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

CRUISING FOR CONTACTS

Everybody's pretty well aware of the recent successful DX-pedition to Peter One. Many of us eagerly followed their day-to-day operations, and some of us were fortunate enough to work them. While we may all admire the hearty sense of adventure that sent this crew to that remote and icy expanse, providing us the golden opportunity to work a rare entity from the comfort of our cozy shacks, perhaps a less ambitious adventure.... with warmer temperatures... and sky blue waters... would hold more appeal for you??

VERNON FIX, W4THN, of Virginia Beach, has organized something that may be right up your alley. It's a seven-day ham cruise, December 3-10, leaving from Ft. Lauderdale onboard the Caribbean Princess. He has already gotten permission from the ship for onboard radio operations, and has even made arrangements for hams to receive special (FREE) licenses to operate in Bermuda. He plans to bring two operating stations, which he is willing to share with other hams, or you have the option of bringing your own gear, if you'd prefer. (The power limit will be 150W, so you can leave the linear at home.... Besides, how many boatanchors does one ship need??) Antennas used will probably be verticals, clamped onto the ship's railing.

Vernon and his wife have already been on six cruises now, but she is all "cruised out" and perfectly contented to remain a landlubber for now. Vernon isn't. He thought that a cruise with a bunch of other hams would make for a mighty fine vacation. So, he has done all of the groundwork to make it happen. (And lest you wonder, he says that there's nothing "in it" for him but a good time.) And the ship is offering a special group rate for all of the hams who take advantage of this fun opportunity.

For more info, see www.hamradiocruise2006.com or you can email Vernon directly at w4thn@arrl.net

(NOTE: I reckon that the only ice that you're likely to see on THIS adventure would be floating in your beverage. Maybe you can even get one of those little umbrellas...?)

Without geometry, life is pointless.

CALLING ALL TEACHERS

The dates have been set for the 2006 Teachers Institute, the wonderful ARRL program that provides teachers with a unique opportunity to learn more about robotics, space technology, electronics, satellites, amateur radio, and more.

**WHY should a teacher want to participate?
- Teachers who have participated in the past two years' Institutes have come away with increased confidence and enthusiasm, and with the tools in hand and the methods in mind to instill enthusiasm for science in their students. Specifically, the PURPOSE of this program is to support wireless technology literacy in our schools.

**WHO is eligible to participate?
- Active teachers at elementary, middle or high school level, or leadership in enrichment or after-school programs.
- You do NOT have to be a ham

**HOW much will it cost?
- All expenses are covered (reimbursed) for tuition, travel, lodging, plus a daily stipend for daily meals, through donations made to the ARRL Education and Technology Program. (To qualify for full reimbursement, participants must attend the full week of Institute activities.)

**WHEN and WHERE?
- June 19-23 Parallax, Roseville, CA
- July 24-28 ARRL, Newington, CT
- July 31-August 4 ARRL, Newington, CT
- August 7-11 Liberty Science Center, Jersey City, NJ

**HOW can you apply?
- Send a request for an application to MARK SPENCER, WA8SME at mspencer@arrl.org

**WHEN is the deadline?
- May 15, so hurry up. Enrollment for each session is limited to twelve participants

For MORE INFORMATION about the Teachers Institute and the ARRL Education and Technology Program, see http://www.arrl.org/FandES/tbp/

This is a great program. Please help spread the word.

A gossip is someone with a great sense of rumor.

SECTION NOTABLES

*** A tip of the hat to some of our special ham radio instructors here in Georgia. Those of you who know MARK AULICK, KF4MLT, EC for Bulloch county and ADEC for the SE District, may have wondered why he didn't make it to the statewide ARES meeting this year. Well, as he often is, he was teaching a class that day. He wrote, "As a result of a class I taught in Savannah on Jan. 21 and 28, and through the efforts of a VE team headed by DAVE DELAMATER, K4DJD, we have 16 new hams in southeast Georgia. Between 25 and 30 people sat in on the class, including a number of folks from different health departments from around the area. JIM DRINNON and JIM PHILLIPS, both officials from the Department of Health, were very instrumental in getting the class organized; we are looking forward to working with them and their people to get involved in amateur radio and emergency communications."

*** Another instructor who deserves a round of applause is GREG TILLMAN, N4VAD. CHARLIE CARROLL, WD5ECL, and the "whole gang" at the Brunswick Police Department wanted to issue a special thanks to Greg for the "excellent technician class he gave at the Brunswick Police Department on Saturday, February 11, from 0800 to 1800 hours." (As a follow-up, Charlie has purchased the ARRL's Video course and will continue working with some of those folks who didn't pass their test the first time around. So, thanks to YOU, too, Charlie!)

*** We have a lot of great instructors throughout the state, but these folks down in SE GA have really set the bar high. MANY THANKS to you guys for dedicating so much time towards increasing our numbers. Y'all are great.

*** This must be the month to laud our South GA hams. When you combine the natural tendency of most hams to be friendly and outgoing with some good old-fashioned Southern hospitality and good manners, the results are simply unbeatable. That's what JEFF AMERSON, KS4GH, of Macon, discovered when he made a trip to the Savannah area recently to help his 90-year-old uncle JIM DRINNON, W4AUU, with some antenna work. Since Jeff was going to be in the area anyway, his cousin JIM DRINNON, KI4NKD, invited him to participate with the local club members in providing communications for the Tybee Island marathon. Well, Jeff was so impressed with this group of hams that he was moved to write me a note about the experience. He said, "The group in Savannah welcomed me and made me feel at home. I even got a T-shirt and the use of a new VX-7 hand held. What a bunch of great hams. (Kept the T-shirt but had to give back the VX-7. Shucks) Even after I returned home late Saturday afternoon and after a good power nap my cousin Jim, KI4NKD, called and thanked me again on behalf of STEVE JONAS, K4SDJ, and the club. I feel relieved that there is such a nice group of folks in the COASTAL AMATEUR RADIO SOCIETY to check on and be friends to my uncle Jim."

A successful diet is a triumph of mind over platter.

PIGLETS (AKA YOUNG HAMS)

*** Well, it seems that we had at least one happy piglet from Georgia who participated in this year's Kids Day. LYNN BIANCO, KN4YZ, reported that his daughter LISA, KG4UIB, "had 11 contacts over about a one hour period. She worked CA, OR, NV, TX, MN, WI, IA, ND, PA, & NY. A lot of fun for Dad & daughter." So CONGRATULATIONS to Lisa. She has received an official GA Section certificate in recognition of making the most contacts this year. You can find her smiling picture on our www.arrl-ga.org website under the Piglets link.

*** Here's a neat story about a teen who made a difference during Hurricane Katrina: http://www.2theadvocate.com/features/2331966.html

*** Here are some websites that you can share with your piglet or piglet-to-be to help answer some of their questions about amateur radio.
- Great informational link - www.youthtech.com/hamradio/ 
- ARRL Kids link page - www.arrl.org/FandES/ead/youth/
- Ham radio for Kids - www.kidshamradio.com/

Sea captains don't like crew cuts.

THIS 'N' THAT

*** STEVE GARRISON, N4SEG, will be coordinating the communications efforts again this year for the Summer Special Olympics GA, to be held June 2-4, in Atlanta. He's already in the recruiting mode, so if you can help, please send him a note at n4seg@arrl.net.

*** There was a great article about amateur radio in the February issue of Delta Airlines' "Sky" magazine. There was lot of chatter about it on the ARRL PR reflector, and many of you sent me a link to the article online. STEVE REYNOLDS, W4CNG, that heavy-duty traveler and presidential motorcade driver, (honest! Ask him!) was even kind enough to bring me my very own copy. In case you missed it, it's definitely worth a read:

http://www.delta-sky.com/2006_02/RolePlaying/index.html

*** There will be a class offered in Conyers to help you make that General Class Upgrade. It will be held at the Rockdale County Fire Department's meeting room (in the back of the building) on Scott Avenue in Conyers. This six-session course will be offered on Saturdays March 11, 18, & 28, from 9AM until 4PM, with a one hour break for lunch, and on Thursdays March 16, 23, & 30, from 7PM to 9PM. The class will be using the ARRL General Class study book and ARRL code tapes, plus off-air copy practice. For more details, please contact COOPER MORRIS, WA4PZD at 770-482-6364 clmorris2005@yahoo.com or JOE TOTTER, WA4UJC at 678-342-0215 joe.totter@bellsouth.com.
-Directions: I20 East to Ga. 138, (Exit 82) turn north (across the expressway) go to second red light, turn left on Dogwood Drive, pass Brewster's Ice Cream (on the right), continue on Dogwood Dr. to Scott St. (beside John Miles Chevrolet), turn right, go 1 block to Fire Station (on right - next to Conyers City Hall). Park in back of fire station.
-Talk in on the Conyers Repeater 147.27 MHz.

*** If you don't happen to have a recent repeater directory, here's a site that could be of some help to you in researching the repeaters within any given city:
http://www.artscipub.com/repeaters/

*** SHERRY BROWER, W4STB, SM in South FL, will be "filling in" as the writer for the 4-Land for the YLRL "Harmonics", and she's looking for any input from our YLs on their ham activities. If you have a story to tell, please contact Sherri at w4stb@arrl.org 

*** Though I've heard conflicting reports as to the accuracy of ALL of the information you'll find on this site, it is an interesting reference tool for researching the hams in your area: http://hams.mapmash.com/hammap.php

*** The current Extra class licensing not challenging enough for you? How'd you like to be a (insert the blare of trumpets here) **Superham**?? Stick your tongue firmly in cheek, and check out this link, sent to us by CLIFF SEGAR, KD4GT: http://webpages.charter.net/k4hal/license.htm

*** Looking for some practical help in comparing the performance of various kinds of coax? Check out this site at http://www.k1ttt.net/technote/coaxloss.html#tables.

Acupuncture: a jab well done.

UPCOMING EVENTS

MARCH 4-5 --- ARRL International DX contest. 0000Z Mar 4- 2400Z Mar 5. See www.arrl.org/contests or p. 88 of December 2005 QSR for details.

MARCH 6 --- HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Southeastern Director FRANK BUTLER, W4RH.

MARCH 18 --- Kennehoochee ARC Hamfest, Jim Miller Park in Marietta. Includes their unique all-day "Boot Camp" technician class. ($50 for class, book and VE test) Talk-in 146.880 For more info, see www.w4bti.org Hope to see you there.

MARCH 18 --- Macon ARC Special Event Station W4BKM, for the 24th annual Cherry Blossom Festival. 1500Z-2200Z. 145.370, 14.240, 10.110, 7.055 Certificate. www.qsl.net/w4bkm. 

MARCH 25-26 --- CQ WW WPX Contest. Phone. 0000Z Mar 25- 2400Z Mar 26. Work as many "prefixes" as you can. Lotsa fun.

MARCH 25-26 --- Spring QRP Homebrewer Sprint CW/PSK31 For details, see www.njqrp.org/data/qrphomebrewersprint.html

A boiled egg is hard to beat.

SILENT KEYS

SAMUEL COUCH, WA4GVK
BRIAN FORD, KC4LYS
STEVEN HOUGH, KB4HPQ

Heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of each 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.

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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