Georgia Section On My Mind

April, 2006

Greetings, All. The "introduction" to these newsletters is usually the last thing I write before sending these things on their merry way to ARRL HQ and to your "in box". As this newsletter seems to be kinda loooooong already, I'll keep these "appetizer" remarks to a minimum, and get right to the main course. Let's see what's been happening, and what's coming up right around the corner...

In light of this month being (ugh!) Income Tax time, some of the one-liners reflect on that less-than-favorite time of year.

Doing your own income tax return is a lot like a do-it-yourself mugging.

MARCH HIGHLIGHTS

KENNEHOOCHEE Hamfest --- March 18--- Another winning Hamfest! It was clear that everyone was happy to have the fest back at its former site at Jim Miller Park. There were quite a few empty tables inside of the buildings, but that just means that this Hamfest has ample room for future growth. SANDY DONAHUE, W4RU, and I had a fairly steady stream of visitors at the ARRL table, which is always good. No new members this time around, but lots of good conversation. The real action seemed to be centered in the boneyard, in spite of the chilly weather. Only a few hearty souls braved setting up in the shaded area, but there was plenty of action and fun out in the sun. I'm pleased to report that my better half Mike, K4HBI, managed to sell about 90% of his goodies within about twenty minutes of our arrival, a testament to the fact that a combination of good quality and good prices will move gear very quickly. (and which assured me a seat INSIDE of the truck for the long ride home! Thanks, y'all!) That also means that we now have a "little" more space at the house now, but if history is any indication, that situation will likely be rectified very soon. (Nature hates a vacuum... unless it's in a tube) The club's "Boot Camp" drew more than twenty attendees again this year; their efforts resulted in thirteen new hams joining our ranks. All-in-all, this was another terrific Hamfest. Many thanks to the Kennehoochee ARC for all of the work they put into providing yet another fun-filled event for our enjoyment, and many thanks to each of you who attended. Next up: on April 29, the Cherokee Capital ARS Hamfest in Calhoun. Hope to see you there.

A motor home towing a small car with this sign on the back: "I'm a good car. I go wherever I'm towed to go."

CLUB NEWS

ALFORD MEMORIAL ARC --- When life gives you lemons, start making lemonade. Along those same lines, when some real lemon-like problems arose when trying to return to the same location where these folks have held field day for many years, it turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Beginning this year, they will be holding field day activities at none other than Stone Mountain Park. Talk about a fantastic location. (I don't think there will be any trouble attracting visitors!)

ARC of AUGUSTA --- CHUCK TEETERS, W4MEW, provided a program on military receivers used during WWII at the February meeting, and even brought along an R-390A for "show and tell". Club members provided communications support for a GA Crackers Motorcycle Club race for the first time, but did such a fine job, it surely won't be the last. And it was a return engagement for the club at this year's Battle of Aiken Reenactment events, one of the public service events that club members have supported for many years.

ATHENS ARC --- These club members probably do a better than average job of keeping their HTs charged, because they seem to put them to good use just about every weekend of the year, providing communications support for a multitude of walk-a-thons, races, and football games. ED ROLLOR, N4ZRA, busy EC for Clarke, Madison, and Oglethorpe counties, provided FEMA training CDs at the club's March meeting, to make it easier for members to take those IS-100 and IS-700 courses. (What a great idea!) Also at the March meeting, IAN GRAY, W4ZFA, presented an informative program on "Reactance, Inductance, and Impedance". Coming up at the April meeting, Ian will provide a practical follow-up on this information, showing members how to turn theory into application, by doing some actual hands-on measurements.

CHEROKEE ARS --- A special election was held recently to re-fill the positions of president and secretary, as FRANK DEAN, K4SJR, and his bride MEG, KG4WIU, had to step down from those positions because of scheduling conflicts. (There simply weren't enough hours in a day!) Selected as the new president is TOM OLLEY, KG4VUB; and as secretary, it's JAMES ALDERDICE, N1ABM. They will join VP MARK HARRIS, KG4WIV, and treasurer JAMES JAMES, KE4HMS, in leading the club through the rest of the year. Best wishes for a successful and enjoyable year.

COLUMBIA COUNTY ARC --- At the March meeting, the program was on APRS, including practical information on the setting up and operation of the PACOMM HandiPacket TNC. Presenting this informative program were PAUL BENNETT, N4LXB, J.C. CRAWFORD, W4QK, and DEAN MAPLES, K4EQQ. This club is selling raffle tickets again this year, this time for an FT-1802, with the winning ticket slated to be drawn once again at the Augusta Hamfest in October. Every Wednesday evening, beginning half an hour prior to the club's net, held on the 146.985 repeater at 8PM, NCS Paul, N4LXB, does his bit to see that local hams are in the know by providing the audio feed from "Newsline". On March 11, club members held their first VE session, and they plan to continue to offer this service at 9AM on the second Saturday of odd-numbered months, at the Abilene Baptist Church, at 3917 Washington Road, in Martinez.

COLUMBUS ARC --- The Columbus ARC elected new officers at the March 10th meeting to serve during the club's 50th year. They are: President- JIMMY MONROE, KA4JJM; Vice President- JIM HERRING, WX4JIM; Secretary/Treasurer- JOHN WINGARD, WB4GLJ; and Activities Chairman- MARC POPE, WX4MAP. Best wishes for a great year. (de SUE GODWIN, W4SUE)

GWINNETT ARS --- At the March meeting, STAN EDWARDS, WA4DYD, presented a program about ARES, in particular on what Gwinnett ARES members have done in the past year. It's always heartening to hear what a positive difference a group of dedicated amateurs can make in their community. Coming up for the April meeting, it'll be an "ARRL night", when SANDY DONAHUE, W4RU, and I will try to entertain and inform club members with a program about the ARRL. (a "real amateur" night: I'll sing.... he can do a little dance...)

KENNEHOOCHEE ARC --- At the April 4 meeting will be a program that should be of interest to every ham. EMORY GORDY, W4WRO, will do a presentation on the ins and outs of BPL. Since BPL's incursion into Georgia, it's become even more important for us all to be aware of the interference problems that can be caused by this technology, and to have an understanding of the steps that can be taken to measure and mitigate those problems. See www.w4bti.org for directions to the meeting place.

LANIERLAND ARC --- It was a real pleasure to join with these fine folks at their March meeting. Not only did Mike and I have the opportunity to "wow" them (hey! I'm writing this!) by providing them with the evening's program, but I also had the honor of presenting them with their certificate of renewal as a Special Service Club. CONGRATULATIONS to all club officers and members for their renewal. This club has been affiliated with the ARRL since 1965, and a Special Service Club since 1997. They have a very long track record for many years of dedicated public service and support of emergency communications.

QCWA --- Coming up on April 15, GEORGE NICHOLSON, N4GRN, will be presenting a program at the chapter 49 meeting on the Peter One DX-pedition. Be among the first to hear what's sure to be a fascinating account from one of the hams who actually participated in this adventure. This meeting will be held at the Fire Mountain Grill in Norcross, near the intersection of Jimmy Carter Boulevard and Peachtree Industrial Boulevard. Lunch at noon, with the meeting to follow.

SE DX CLUB --- The March club meeting featured the always popular "show and tell", and with this club, there's always bound to be some unique items of interest and stories to share. President WES LAMBOLEY, W3WL, did, however, warn club members to "be sure to bring your waders for some of the stories". (What EVER did he mean??) If you can't make it to the QCWA meeting to hear about the Peter One DX-pedition, take heart! BOB ALLPHIN, K4UEE, and GEORGE NICHOLSON, N4GRN, will be giving a presentation on the DX-pedition for fellow club members at the April club meeting. (a chance to see a sneak preview of the presentation they'll be doing at Dayton) See www.sedxc.org for details, and directions to the meeting.

SILVER COMET ARS --- ( Hiram, Ga.) The Silvercomet ARS members have been working on Digital testing on VHF and UHF over the past several months. We have been trying to come up with a way that will help in time of emergency to pass large quantities of information via 2 or 440 repeaters, The testing has been taking place on the WB4QOJ 146.955 (-) repeater with a 77hz tone. WB3ILX, WB4QOJ and KI4MDU have been working on the project. If you are interested in trying this with them please send an email to wb3ilx@gmail.com to let him know you are interested. The testing has been centered around BPSK at 250 baud and works quite well. If you would like to see the results of the testing to this point please email wb4qoj@gmail.com to receive a copy of the information. Also the next meeting of the Silvercomet ARS will be Tuesday April 4th at the Paulding Chamber on RT 278 in Dallas, Ga. Topic will be Cheap HF antennas that really work. Remember our web site at www.silvercometars.com (de LEE MCDANIEL, WB4QOJ)

THOMASVILLE ARC --- These folks have enough activities scribbled down on their calendars to keep them plenty busy throughout the months of April and May, with a bike ride, three parades, and an airfest in nearby Tallahassee providing them with a variety of public service opportunities. Club president MIKE BROWN, KE4FGF, attended the "Crossing the Imaginary Line" conference at the beginning of March. The purpose of this conference was to initiate planning between multiple counties in south Georgia and north Florida, so that they are better prepared to provide a more coordinated and cooperative response to disasters. (Mike's report on this conference can be found elsewhere in this newsletter.) It may have been this conference that provided the impetus that served as the deciding factor, but in any case, we are very grateful to Mike for accepting the EC position in Thomas county, as well as agreeing to serve as acting EC in Grady county. He's been "doing the job" for quite some time now; we are pleased to provide him with the title to go along with it. Congratulations to 12-year-old JORDEN LAWSON, KI4NBW, who served as NCS for the club's weekly net during the month of March. No mike fright for this young man; his youthful exuberance and willingness to serve made for a winning combination.

WEST GA ARS --- These folks will be holding an "Introduction to Ham Radio" seminar on April 3rd, and again on the 10th, to prepare folks to take a 10-week technician class course that they will be offering. For more info, please contact ki4czr@bellwouth.net or kb4tiw@bellsouth.net

** TWENTY-0NE clubs have filed their annual reports since the beginning of the year! Way to go, folks!

** The following clubs in Georgia currently hold the Special Service Club designation: Athens ARC, ARC of Augusta, West GA ARS, Lanierland ARC, Silver Comet ARC, Gwinnett ARS, Alford Memorial ARC, and Cherokee Capital ARC. We're very proud of all of these clubs and their fine members. NOTE: If you thought that YOUR club was an SSC, but don't see it in this list, that means that you have allowed your SSC status to expire. (OH, NO!!) To bring it back to life, go to http://www.arrl.org/field/club/forms/fsd7/renewal.html  (And ONLY those clubs with up-to-date SSC status are authorized to use the SSC logo on their club banners, newsletters, etc)

Whoever said that truth never hurts never had to fill out a 1040 form.

ARES NEWS

**Several new EC appointments to announce: Glynn county- JEFF COLE, N4XGI; Thomas county- MIKE BROWN, KE4FGF (also "acting" EC in Grady county); and Bartow county- CHARLIE PITCHFORD, N4QET. Many thanks to all three of these fine fellas. Thanks, also, to BOBBY COOPER, N4KXL, who has agreed to ably serve as Mike's AEC and to assist him in leading the ARES efforts in Thomas and Grady counties.

**Also, effective April 1, Gwinnett county EC STAN EDWARDS, WA4DYD, will be stepping down and handing the reins over into the capable hands of JOHN DAVIS, WB4QDX. Stan has served the county long and well, and has done an excellent job of insuring a smooth transition, both with the county and with the ARES membership. Sincere thanks to both Stan and John.

**April first is also the date for a change in our Section leadership for digital communications. JOHN KRAUS, KC4ZGQ, has done an excellent job for us as Digital DEC, and I'm confident that TOM OLEY, KG4VUB, will continue to lead the way in promoting digital communications in Georgia. Many thanks to both John and Tom.


**CLARKE COUNTY ARES --- Following several weeks of orientation-type training on pandemic flu, EC ED ROLLOR, N4ZRA, led members in the first part of a follow-up, tabletop exercise on March 26. The goal of this training was to promote understanding about the ramifications of a public health disaster, about the responsibilities and roles of each of the responding agencies who would respond to that disaster, and about the specific role of amateur radio operators in those response plans.

**CLAYTON COUNTY ARES --- Three cheers for these members, who spent the day introducing Boy Scouts to the joys of amateur radio. AEC BUZZ KUTCHER, K3GWK, shared this report with us:

On March 11, members of the Clayton/Henry ARES group mentored a Radio Merit Badge class for the Flint River Council, BSA, in Griffin. Over 700 scouts and leaders participated in the day long event. Our club members taught the merit badge to 11 scouts. In addition to the classroom program, we set up portable HF and APRS stations. The highlight of the demo was contacting W1AW. I think the counselors got a bigger thrill out of that contact than the boys did. The operator at W1AW was a scouter and was able to really engage the boys with scouting related questions. All eleven passed the requirements and will receive the merit badge. The station equipment was provided by JOHM WALDRON, KF4GSY, and SCOTT CURTISS, W4SRC. Also participating as instructors were ROY BAKER, WB4WQE (EC), JOHN TILGHMAN, KG4PVS (AEC) and BUZZ KUTCHER, K3GWK (AEC, OES).

**COBB COUNTY ARES --- EC TERRY GIBBS, WK4E, reported on another job well done by the fine folks in Cobb county:

Over a three day period in January of this year, Cobb ARES provided communications support for the Georgia Special Olympics Winter Games. Cobb ARES provided communications for 25 separate sports events at 12 different venues scattered throughout Cobb County covering an area of 344 square miles. In addition to the sporting venues, Cobb ARES provided communicators at the Special Olympics Command Center and at several social events held for the Special Olympics athletes. Cobb ARES members worked closely with Special Olympics staff as well as medical teams located at each venue. The Special Olympics staff was unable to communicate via cell phone from many of the venues (gymnasiums, ice rinks, etc.). Cobb ARES provided reliable communications from all of the venues using 2 fixed UHF/VHF repeaters and 2 portable UHF/VHF repeaters.

**OCONEE COUNTY RACES/ARES --- BILL RONAY, KM4LS, reports that all is well with this group. With the conduit already run, they are now working to finalize the installation of HF/VHF/UHF equipment at the Oconee County Sheriff's Office/911 Center as soon as the facility is completed. And their impressive communications trailer, dubbed "Big Blue", is nearing completion, too. EMA director QUINTON STILL is anxiously awaiting that completion and looking forward to the enhanced support he'll then be able to receive from the OCARS, with their portable operating capabilities within that trailer.

**PAULDING COUNTY ARES --- ( Paulding County Ga. ) The weekly Paulding/Douglas County ARES Net has really been growing. The net meets each Thursday at 8pm local time on 146.955 (-) 77hz. in Dallas. During times of weather events we are gathering spotter information on 146.955 and then passing that information back to Peachtree City NWS on the linked repeater system. This helps disseminate weather information for our area in a concise form to the NWS. We have also been doing some interesting things with traffic passing and training. Before the net we are starting to send CW for those that would like to work on their CW skills. We are also planning some digital check-ins after the voice part of the net to work on those skills as well. W4WRO EC Paulding/Douglas County ARES is working on some new ideas on increasing interest in ARES. More to come at a later date. www.pauldingares.com (de LEE MCDANIEL, WB4QOJ)

**GA ARES MEMBER JOINS HSMM WORKING GROUP (Howell, MI 3/5/06) - JOHN CHAMPA, K8OCL and Chairman of the ARRL's High Speed Multi Media (HSMM) Working Group, has added PAUL PESCITELLI, K4UJ and AEC for Technology in Gwinnett County ARES, to the ARRL's High Speed Multimedia Working Group as "openhsmm" Project Leader. This is in recognition of Paul's work on a network appliance that supports a broad suite of IP networking functionality. The appliance supports both wired and wireless connectivity and will include a firewall, advanced network switching, and other IP network functions. The project was originally undertaken to support the Gwinnett ARES IP network initiative. It soon became evident that the appliance would have a much broader interest, both inside and outside the Amateur Radio community, and the "project" was born. For more information visit www.openhsmm.org. (de STAN EDWARDS, WA4YD)

**OHS/GEMA news de DEC LOWRY ROUSE, KM4Z:
I actually was told about this at the State ARES Meeting in January by ROBERT BELCHER (W4AEO) who is a State Warning Officer for OHS/GEMA. He informed me that OHS/GEMA and ARES were credited for saving eight (8) lives during Hurricane Katrina. The original emergency message came from a source in the disaster area that happened to have connections to the SOC here in Atlanta. The message was handed to us (CECIL DUNCAN, KD4ZEM, and myself were operating at the time) in the SOC Communications Room. As some of you know, we were experiencing a high noise level plus interference from a near-by AM radio station on the HF side of communications at that time. (FYI: this interference has been reduced somewhat since then) The 40 Meter Emergency Net on 7.285 MHZ had marginal reception on us at the SOC station. MIKE BOATRIGHT (KO4WX) happened to be in contact with us at the time, so I passed the message to him. From his home station, Mike checked into the net and passed the traffic to the Net Control Station. The message made it through to the proper authorities, resulting in these eight individuals being rescued from a rooftop by a helicopter.

There was one other incident where one of our GEMA Team members helped out during Hurricane Katrina recovery operations. TOM HOLCOMB (K5AES) was able to pass a message from The Angel Flight Service here at Peachtree/Dekalb Airport into the 40 Meter Emergency Net offering their services when needed. The receiving station in one of the LA. EOC's acknowledge receipt of this message a couple of days later. This message resulted in some much-needed medicine being sent into the affected area.

NOTE: The GEMA SOC callsign of WX4GMA was rightfully included in the February QST listing of individuals and groups who participated in post-Katrina relief efforts.

***ARES-MAT information from DEC SCOTT ROYLE, KK4Z:
ARES-MAT needs your help. The Office of Homeland Security, along with GEMA and the DOT, are preparing Reentry teams to go into hurricane affected areas shortly after the hurricane passes for assessment. They are looking for amateur radio operators to provide communications for them. They have asked the GA ARES-MAT to provide hams for this purpose. This is still in the beginning stages but some of the requirements are: 1. to be totally self sufficient to include food, water, and shelter for up to 72 hours. 2. have HF/VHF/UHF capability. 3. training to include IC-100, IC-700, EMCOM 001, and EMCOM 002. 4. Immunizations are not yet required but a tetanus shot, at the minimum, is recommended. 5. you will be traveling in your own vehicle. This season is expected to equal or be worse than last year so your opportunity to serve is good. If you are interested in joining our team for the chance of helping others please contact me: Scott J. Royle, KK4Z e-mail kk4z@bellsouth.net.

*** NWS, PEACHTREE CITY--- ROBERT BURTON, KD4YDC, DEC for the PTC NWS, sent a summary of some procedural changes being made at the Peachtree City office. A couple of them bear mentioning, for the benefit of all of our Storm Spotters and SkyWarn members:

"Penny" size hail is the official standard for severe. ("Dime" just didn't measure up to the 3/4 inch standard.)

Wind speed and damage. While 58 MPH still remains the official threshold for severe, the PTC office has a new local policy on issuing warnings for damaging winds. Statistics show trees start falling at 35-40 MPH. Since the goal is to warn the public of potentially damaging weather, the PTC NWS will issue severe thunderstorm warnings when Doppler estimates show the wind to be around 40 MPH.
IMPORTANT! Warning verification for severe thunderstorm.
1. Several Trees (5 or more) down across the entire County or
2. 3-5 trees down in a concentrated area (neighborhood or subdivision)

*** LYNN BIANCO, KN4YZ, our assistant SEC for NWS, said that the Southeastern River Forecast Center (SERFC), which serves 22 weather forecast offices in the Carolinas, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, and Puerto Rico, is seeking some additional help from amateur radio operators, to help keep them better apprised of flood conditions. Details follow:

Part I
Another part of the National Weather Service (NWS) the general public may not be too familiar with is the River Forecast Center (RFC). Located in Peachtree City, GA, the Southeast River Forecast Center (SERFC) is responsible for the production of river forecasts for all rivers that drain into the Atlantic Ocean along the coasts of North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida, as well as the rivers that drain into the Gulf of Mexico from Mobile Bay to the southern most tip of Florida. This is an area of almost 270,000 square miles. In addition, they provide hydrologic support for the island of Puerto Rico.
The SERFC is a lead agency in providing a wide variety of hydrometeorological information. Almost seven out of every ten inland-moving tropical storms or hurricanes affect our area. Consequently, the SERFC plays a key role in the advance warning of inland floods associated with tropical activity.

The SERFC provides water forecasts for a wide variety of customers, from five-day river forecasts to the general public to as much as a yearly outlook for water management agencies. The SERFC serves 22 Weather Forecast Offices throughout the Southeastern US and Puerto Rico.

On their web site www.srh.noaa.gov/serfc you will find a vast amount of hydrometeorological information. You can find five-day (at six-hour intervals) forecasts for almost 100 specific river locations. You will find Doppler radar estimates of rainfall, adjusted by rain gauges. You will find ensemble stream flow projections for the next 90 days, and rainfall forecasts and a daily hydrometeorological outlook made by their meteorologists.

What can we do to aid the mission of the River Forecast Center? As Hams, storm spotters and citizens, we need to report certain events to our local NWS office that may not technically fall under the "Severe Weather" label. For example, a prolonged rain event may never rise to severe levels; yet there may be a tremendous impact on homes, property, and lives through flooding. Again, let me emphasize that we report the information to the local NWS Weather Forecast Office (WFO).
What should we report? Obviously, we still report anything that reaches the definition of severe weather such as damaging winds, 3/4 inch hail, tornadoes, funnel clouds, and flash flooding. Additionally, we need to report items such as:
Washed out roads
Water touching or overflowing a bridge
Dam breaks or breaches
Street flooding that results in a street closure
Water flowing over streets and roadways
Blocked storm drains when water rises to the level of the bottom of cars
Any other flooding that is more than just a nuisance
When making the report, it is essential to tell the meteorologist an exact location and time you observed the event. Also important is whether the water is just rising or flowing or both. If you can safely measure the depth, that is also good information. Remember, flooding is the number one killer and the number one dollar-loss natural event. By becoming familiar with the products the River Forecast Center provides, you will have a much better awareness of some of the broader implications of when it rains.

Part II
After becoming familiar with some of the products a River Forecast Center generates, there is something we can do to help them in their mission. Since they maintain a close relationship with the WFOs, direct public reporting to a RFC is generally not needed. However, during significant floods, they do need additional information we can help provide.
The SERFC is mainly interested in photos of the sites they forecast. These are indicated as the circles on the front page of their web site www.srh.noaa.gov/serfc If any of these sites are above flood stage, they would be most interested in seeing photos of any impact - flooded roads near the rivers, inundation of structures, washed out bridges, etc.
To this end, I would like to solicit ARES members near a river of interest to email digital photos of the event to the SERFC. Satellites and radar do not measure floods; all they have are river gauges that often go out of service during a big event. Please send no more than three pictures per email. If you have additional pictures, send multiple emails. Send all pictures to: sr-alr.rivers@noaa.gov In the subject line, tell what river is flooding. In the text, please remember to include an exact location and time you took the pictures.
This is a new initiative we are trying this storm season. What makes it so impressive is that it involves input from not just a Section, but from two Divisions - the Southeastern and Roanoke. With everybody's help, we can make this a success and a valuable contribution to part of the National Weather Service.

***FEMA has released a new DVD on "Getting Ready for Disaster Preparedness". Designated # "FEMA 500", you can order a copy at 1(800)480-2520. (One DVD per caller)

*** As additional reinforcement of what we've been telling you for some time about the training requirements to be a deployable ARES member, COOPER MORRIS, WA4PZD, recently received an email from a contact at FEMA, who has told him that the following courses will be required for "first responders and mitigation responders (which is the category that hams fall into)":

IS-100 - Introduction to the Incident Command System
IS-700 - National Incident Management System
IS-317 - Introduction to Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)
ARRL ARECC Level I and Level II, and
NWS Severe Weather Spotter Training.

*** Storm spotter training is popping up here and there throughout the state. SE DEC WILLIAM THORNTON, W4WDT, wanted to share this information about two such classes coming up in his district in the near future:

What: SkyWarn Storm Spotter Training Class
When: Thursday April 6th from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Where: Wayne County Airport-Jesup, GA.
Instruction: Basic and Advanced Levels
Instructor: Angie Enyedi
Sponsor: National Weather Service Office-Jacksonville, FL.
Information: Please contact Greg Tillman (N4VAD) n4vad@bellsouth.net 

What: SkyWarn Storm Spotter Training Class
When: Monday May 1st from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Where: Waycross College-Waycross, GA.
Instruction: Basic and Advanced Levels
Instructor: Angie Enyedi
Sponsor: National Weather Service Office-Jacksonville, FL.
Information: Please contact Perry Blackburn (KF4SUY) pblackburn@warecounty.com (912) 287-4454

Experience, if one learns, is an important teacher. Failure to learn from experience is a terrible waste.
Failure to learn before experience is a lack of preparation.

CROSSING THE IMAGINARY LINE

Last month, it was reported that MIKE BROWN, KE4FGF, would be attending a conference, called "Crossing the Imaginary Line", and that he would share a report with us on the results of that conference. His report follows: (Thanks, Mike!)

On March 1st, 2006, a number of representatives from 13 South Georgia and North Florida counties met in Thomasville for a conference to discuss how emergencies that involved crossing the "imaginary" state line would be handled. Attending the conference were representatives from Law Enforcement, Fire Services, Hospital and Allied Health Organizations, Volunteer Organizations (principally Red Cross), and both State and Local Emergency Management Officials. Even though I'm from Thomas County, I am attending this meeting as a member of the Grady County contingent as their "Volunteer representative" and other than one of my club members attending as a hospital representative; I'm the only Amateur Radio rep in the crowd. The purpose of the meeting was to allow everyone to get to know each other better, learn more about each others agencies, and begin work on ways to better coordinate events that would ultimately bind us all together. Ours isn't a unique situation but having to coordinate responses across the state line does lead to a different set of problems than an emergency inclusive to one state. Each group separated for discussions and as Amateur Radio most directly works with volunteer agencies such as the Red Cross, that was my assigned area. While the Tallahassee Chapter has management that has some history behind it, the two South Georgia Chapters represented, from Thomasville and Valdosta, have directors of fairly recent vintage. Thomasville handles 4 counties and Valdosta handles 5. In Thomasville, most of the equipment they have to work with is really old and in need of replacement. The discussion immediately focused on communications links between the 3 chapters. The two Georgia chapters have no communications equipment presently (with the exception of a few cell phones) and no radio to gain access to the national Red Cross frequency of 47.42 MHz. I pointed out that a few years ago, when a passing Hurricane "Floyd" caused a mass exodus from Jacksonville, that the number of evacuees that flooded Thomas County overwhelmed the local phone services, both land line and cell and they were forced to drive to the supply area with a list of what was needed at the shelters. While there was a discussion about use of FRS radios, I found out that to comply with Red Cross 4496 guidelines for acceptable shelters, the two designated shelters for our county were now on the fringes of town and thus far out of FRS range from the chapter house. Another real concern here was that the western most county in the Thomasville cluster, Seminole, has only 11 licensed hams and apparently no active club or group and worse, no repeater. The lady from the Valdosta chapter had similar concerns and while she remembered talking to a ham from the area, she wasn't exactly sure who that contact person was. I made sure she knew where the Georgia ARES website was and encouraged her to make contact with any of the Lowndes county hams listed there to see who she should be talking to and urged her to contact me if she needed help. It was obvious from our conversations that both the ladies face a formidable task to get their respective "clusters" ready for another active storm season. From an Amateur Radio standpoint, it made it clear to me that WE have a lot of work to do also. A prevalent problem, along with few or no licenses in several state line counties is the lack of an EC to coordinate any responses. A quick look at the map will show that the area our club, the Thomasville ARC, covers, is roughly 50 miles from the coast, and would be the most accessible Georgia area to a storm coming ashore in Apalachee Bay and heading north. As I had vacillated about taking the EC appointment for my own county, what I learned at the meeting convinced me that it was both right and prudent to accept. The final presentations from the various groups showed that the morning had fostered a lot of good discussions. Liability was obviously a big issue for most groups as the influx of evacuees would be from another state. We also realized that a storm coming north on the panhandle would have a stream of evacuees from yet another imaginary line, that being the one with Alabama. Were there immediate answers to all the problems we faced? No, because as most first meetings go, we really identified the problems we do face and now hopefully together, we can move forward to be better prepared when the "Big One" does finally hit. What was good to hear was that the Tallahassee Red Cross Director suggested that the local chapters should help us solicit new amateurs in the needed areas by sponsoring classes. Is there a lot of work to do here? That answer is a definite yes and only by working together with our served agencies can we be better prepared to do what will be necessary.

Be prepared: remember, it wasn't raining when Noah started building the ark.

ARES REPORT DE DSEC STAN EDWARDS, WA4DYD

The following is reported for February 2006:

Membership: 1,098 Change since last month: -32

Total Net Sessions: 137
Drills, Tests, Training Sessions: 170 Man-hours: 1,152

Public Service Events: 6 Man-hours: 44
Emergency Operations: 2 Man-hours: 257
Misc. Events: 50 Man-hours: 198

Total Events: 228 Total Man-hours: 1,651

Reporting by District:
West Central 100.0%
Metro Atlanta 90.9%
Northwest 38.5%
Central 30.0%
Southeast 28.6%
Northeast 21.4%
Southwest 15.8%
East Central 0.0%

Total Reporting 28.8%

The following jurisdictions reported for January: Baldwin, Camden, Carroll, Charlton, Cherekee, Clarke/Madison, Clayton/Henry, Cobb, DEC - Central, DEC - Metro Atlanta, DEC - OHS/GEMA, DEC - Southeast, DeKalb, Fayette, Floyd, Forsyth, Fulton-North, Gilmer, Glynn, Gwinnett, Hall, Houston, Lee, Lowndes, Morgan, Muscogee, Murray/Whitfield, Newton, Peach, Pierce, Polk, Putnam, Rockdale, Toombs, Ware, Wayne, Worth.

The job isn't over until the paperwork's done.

NET REPORT DE JIM HANNA, AF4NS, STM

PUBLIC SERVICE HONOR ROLL:

STATION ACTIVITY REPORTS:

Traffic handled (QTC):

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

TOUR DE GEORGIA BIKE RACE

One of North America's premiere professional cycling events will be held right here in Georgia from April 18-23, drawing entrants from all over the world, possibly to an area near YOU. The route will take these cyclists from Augusta to Macon, from Fayetteville to Rome, from Chickamauga to Chattanooga, from Dalton to Dahlonega, from Blairsville to Brasstown Bald, and from Cumming to Alpharetta. As always, volunteers are needed to support this event.

If you're interested in helping, please see http://fordtourdegeorgia.com/ On the right of the screen, click on "volunteer"; then under "job preference", check "course marshal" if you want to be a communicator. Under the "extra info" box, you can add that you are a ham radio operator, and you would like to serve as a communicator.

WOODY PARR, W2BBQ, noted on one of the local reflectors, "Operations are typically on a local 2 meter repeater and you will mainly be operating on your mobile radio in your vehicle. It won't hurt though to bring a single or dual band HT and an ARES type jump bag or kit if you have one. Also BRING your own food-snacks-drinks for the day and any other personal items you think you might need. A basic tool kit, first aid kit and a full air tank or portable air compressor might be needed. Anything you can think of to be of assistance to bikers. The race org. provides the riders with food-drink along the way."

It's hard to believe that America was founded to avoid high taxation.

IT'S PARTY TIME, AND YOU'RE ALL INVITED!

Georgia is throwing a party, and you're ALL invited! You don't have to get all dressed up for this party, either. Heck, you don't even have to wear shoes. I'm talking about the GA QSO Party, scheduled to last from 1800Z April 8 until 0359Z April 9 and again from 1400Z until 2359Z on April 9. (See, they even allow you time to catch a little shut-eye!) This annual bash is sponsored by the SE DX Club and the SE Contest Club, and the more Georgia hams and Georgia counties that participate in this event, the better. So, join the fun... whether it's for an hour or for the duration. These folks have put a lot into developing this QSO party, but throwing a party isn't much fun unless some folks actually attend and have some fun.

I'm afraid that you'll have to provide your own food and beverage of choice, but here's some details on the event. You can check out the rules for this year's event at http://gqp.contesting.com/Rules.htm

Here's the general run-down:
Georgia QSO Party - CW, SSB and Mixed Mode Classes
Dates 1800Z Apr 8 - 0359Z Apr 9 and 1400Z - 2359Z Apr 9.
Frequencies: 80 - 10 meters.
Categories: SOAB, MS, MM, Rover, Novice/Tech, HP (>150W), LP, or QRP (<5W).
Rovers must activate at least two GA counties.
Mobiles and portables must move the complete station including antennas at least 200 yards to change counties--no county line operations.
Exchange RST and GA county or S/P/C. QSO Points: SSB--1 pt, CW--2 pts.
Score: QSO Points x GA counties (GA station use states and provinces) counted only once per band, and for Mixed, per mode.
For more information: www.gqp.contesting.com.
Logs due May 10 to gqp@iham.us or mail to John Laney, K4BAI, PO Box 421, Columbus, GA, 31902-0421.
Sponsored by SECC and SEDXC

Income tax forms should be printed on Kleenex, because so many of us have to pay through the nose.

PHONE CONTEST TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE

To better prepare you to operate in the GA QSO party, the following troubleshooting guide is reprinted here, with the permission of the ARRL. It originally appeared in the March 8 "ARRL Contest Rate Sheet".

SYMPTOM
- CAUSE
- CORRECTIVE ACTION

Band unusually quiet, can't see rig
- You have headphones on sideways
- Remove boom mike from your ear and rotate headphones ninety degrees

Opposite wall covered with fluorescent lights
- You have fallen over backward
- Have yourself duct taped to operating desk

Mouth contains peanuts, back of head covered with peanut shells
- You have fallen forward
- Have yourself duct taped to operating chair

Coffee tasteless, front of your shirt is wet
a. - Mouth not open
- Unlikely since this is a phone contest
b. - Cup applied to wrong part of face
- Take a restroom break, practice in mirror

Your transmit audio is garbled and indistinct
- Boom mike immersed in your coffee cup
- Hide headset and swipe the one from the dead band's radio

Rhythmic crackling QRM wiping out the entire band
- You are eating potato chips
- Suck on them instead

Sharp pain in one arm
- Multiplier operator is trying to get you to stand by
- Talk faster and stomp on footswitch

Sharp pain in one foot
- You and the multiplier operator are both trying to use the same
footswitch
- Kick wildly in all directions and run him off!

Rig Blurred
- Relief operator is trying to get you out of the chair
- Yell, "I'm running Europe!" and grab onto chair arms

Floor moving
- You are being carried away
- Find out if you are being taken to a different operating chair

Room seems unusually dark
a. - You are asleep under the operating desk
- Stand up without hitting your head and reclaim operating chair
b. - You are asleep with old QST over your face
- Act like you were just reading without your glasses

Radio suddenly takes on colorful aspect and textures
- You are asleep in the M&M's dish
- Eat M&Ms

Bottom cold and clammy
- You forgot to put on pants after last sleep break
- Reinstall pants without losing run frequency

Bottom warm and clammy
- Improper bladder control
- Complain about previous operator's lack of shack etiquette

Other operators are looking at you and smiling
- You fell asleep and empty soda cans are now stacked on your head
- Don't swallow or move!

Heavy weight pressing on one side
- Mult operator fell asleep and is leaning on you
- Stack soda cans on his head

Station you're working is using unfamiliar procedures
- You are operating on MARS net outside of band
- Remove one letter from the prefix and log it!

Caller has the best audio you've ever heard
- You are attempting to work shortwave broadcast station news program
- Add a number somewhere in the call sign and log it!

Callers only send one letter at a time
- You are attempting to make a QSO with intermodulation products
- Accumulate enough characters and log it!

Ears ringing, mind unusually clear, station owner yelling
- You just blew up the amplifier
- Point at the youngest operator and keep operating barefoot

Hiram Percy Maxim tries to correct the call sign you just entered
- Personal sleep deprivation limitation exceeded
- Enter random call from Super Check Partial and drink a Mountain Dew

Don't recognize anyone or the room you're in
- You showed up at the wrong station
- See if they have an available operating position

Isn't it appropriate that the month when taxes are due begins with April Fool's Day
and ends with cries of "May Day!"?

VANITY CALLSIGN RENEWALS

From the ARRL newsletter:

With the renewal window about to open for the first Amateur Radio licenses assigned vanity call signs in 1996, the FCC's Wireless Telecommunications Bureau (WTB) has attempted to clarify filing procedures. The WTB says vanity call sign holders whose licenses expire on or after June 4, 2006, must file electronically or on paper via the Universal Licensing System (ULS) http://wireless.fcc.gov/uls/  to renew their licenses. Amateur Radio renewal applications may only be filed within 90 days of the licenseexpiration date.

"Licensees of stations assigned vanity call signs have the option of keeping the vanity call sign or requesting that it be changed to a sequentially assigned call sign," the WTB points out. Those opting to keep their vanity call signs for the new 10-year license term must pay the current regulatory fee, now $21.90, when renewing (the vanity call sign regulatory fee may change in August or September). If the licensee no longer wants to keep a vanity call sign, no fee is required, and the applicant should request a sequentially assigned call sign instead.

Amateur Radio licensees holding vanity call signs granted prior to 1996 do not have to pay a regulatory fee when renewing. This is because Congress did not begin requiring the FCC to annually recover its regulatory costs until 1993. Additionally, such licensees are not specifically tagged as vanity call sign holders in the ULS.

To renew electronically via the ULS, licensees should log into ULS License Manager http://wireless.fcc.gov/uls/  Online Filing (click on "Log In") using their FCC Registration Number (FRN) and Commission Registration System (CORES) password. Anyone doing business with the FCC must supply an FRN on any application.

To keep a vanity call sign, licensees should select "Renew" under the "Work on this License" option. Fees for electronically filed applications may be paid online or mailed to Federal Communications Commission, Regulatory Fees, PO Box 358835, Pittsburgh, PA 15251-5835.

Online filers choosing not to renew a vanity call sign should select the "Systematic Call Sign Change" option from the "Work on this License" list. To obtain a new call sign, licensees should answer "No" to the question "Your license is eligible for renewal. Renew call sign (vanity call sign)?" Doing this will result in the issuance of a renewed license bearing a sequentially assigned call sign.

Licensees filing on paper must use FCC Form 605 (main form), and--if a fee is required--Form 159 (remittance advice). Licensees wishing to keep their vanity call signs should enter "Renew" under "Purpose" on Form 605 and enter the present call sign in item 5. Manual filers choosing not to renew their vanity call signs must file Form 605 (main form) Schedule D in order to obtain a new systematic call sign. The "Purpose" on the main form must be "Renewal/Modification," and the "Systematic Call Sign Change" question on Schedule D must be answered "Yes."

If no FRN is provided on the main form, an FCC Form 160 (registration) is also required for manual filing. All forms are available via the FCC Forms page http://www.fcc.gov/formpage.html.

For more information on how to renew an Amateur Radio vanity call sign, visit the FCC Help & Support page http://esupport.fcc.gov/index.htm or call the ULS Customer Support Hotline, 877-480-3201 (TTY 717-338-2824).

The ARRL handles routine non-vanity renewals for members free of charge. At this time, it does not process renewal applications for post-1995 vanity call sign holders, but ARRL plans to add that capability in the near future.

Income tax is Uncle Sam's version of "Truth or Consequences"

CHANGE OF ADDRESS FILING IS NOT "OPTIONAL"!!!

Sometimes, in the process of packing boxes, and all of the other hassles involved with moving, some hams tend to overlook the need to file a change of address with the FCC. Please remember, that you MUST file a change of address with the FCC, or you risk losing your license. (Section 97.23 says that revocation or suspension of your operator license may result when correspondence from the FCC is returned as undeliverable because you failed to provide your correct mailing address.)

You can file a change of address right on the FCC website, no muss and no fuss.

Go to http://wireless.fcc.gov/uls/ and follow the directions there. You'll need to have your FRN and to supply a 6-15 letter password to register. (Because the FRN is a matter of public record, a password is required to insure that you are the only one able to access and modify your data.) When asked the purpose of your application, select "AU", administrative update. Then enter your correct address.

Please.... Don't put it off any longer.

Taxation WITH representation isn't so hot, either!

THINK YA WORKED 'EM ALL? NOT SO FAST...!

Experts have been watching an on-again, off-again island in the Pacific for many years, and it appears that the island may now be here to stay, opening the door to the possibility of adding another DX entity to the list. Until last May, this island was submerged for an average of sixteen hours per day, yet the eight hours that it emerged above the waters each day revealed an island covered with lush vegetation.

Utopia? Islanders from nearby Tiki-Tiki seemed to think so. For centuries, they've flocked to the emergent island daily to hold ritual picnics and pearl-diving contests. Experts believe that suspected underwater seismic activity has caused the island to remain above water for the past year, and there are as yet no signs that the island is in any risk of sinking below the seas any time in the near future. Recent studies have shown that the sea in the area is atypically void of salinity and extremely high in rich nutrients, which fostered the surprisingly thick vegetation covering the island.

What was once a daily visitation has turned into a permanent residence for many of the former Tiki-Tiki islanders, and they have cleared away some of the vegetation to build huts all over the island. Central to their new island home is a beautiful tiki bar, where residents meet every evening to toast their good fortune.

In recent weeks, some ARRL staff members visited the island to judge its eligibility as a new DX entity. While there, they ran a special event station from the tiki bar, using, of course, all beverage antennas to run their station. They used the callsign 14YALL, but it is yet to be determined whether or not this will eventually count towards DXCC. Staffer DAN HENDERDAUGHTER said that while the tiki bar is a good start, he believes that they will need to have a decent BBQ joint before they can be seriously considered as an entity.

(Need I even say it....?) April Fools Day!

"HELLO" CAMPAIGN

A few years ago, when Mike and I were in south Georgia to attend one of the Thomasville club's annual fish fries, we saw a PSA about amateur radio on TV. It was the first time we'd ever seen one about amateur radio, which was good, but it was a really AWFUL PSA, which is not so good. I must admit that I groused to HQ about that awful depiction of amateur radio, and wanted to know what we could do to create something better.

And the ARRL is definitely "creating something better".

ALLEN PITTS, W1AGP, Media and PR Manager for the ARRL, has put a LOT of time and effort into a fantastic new major PR campaign for amateur radio, and it features some outstanding new PSAs, among other things. The 30-second audio spots for broadcast radio stations have been created by hams all over the country. RICH LUBASH, N1VXW, and EMORY GORDY, W4WRO, have been working on an awesome PSA for TV stations, which should be completed sometime this month. Emory wrote the background music for this spot, and Rich, an incredibly talented producer, has been working magic with the video. (Some of the cool old equipment that is shown in the opening shots belong to my better half.... How cool is THAT?!!)

For the lowdown on this "Hello" Campaign, here's the story, straight from Allen Pitts:

Hello and EmComm Public Service Announcements Available First of the new Hello audio PSAs added March 15

A series of 30 second audio PSAs in mp3 has been made for the Hello campaign. The plan is make a new one available about every 6-8 weeks and a great video will be available in April 2006. These "mini-commercials" for ham radio are already being played on dozens of stations across the country and the numbers keep growing. You can help by downloading the PSA's from right here onto a CD and taking it to your own local radio station.

Audio Files -GO TO WWW.ARRL.ORG/PIO to hear and download

Hello audio PSA #1the first of the Hello audio PSAs

Emergency Communications audio PSA the 30 second PSA regarding Hurricane Katrina operations

(To DOWNLOAD...right-click once on the above link and choose "save target".) These 30 second PSAs were made possible thanks to Johnny Donovan at WABC-AM and Howard Price, KA2QPJ, of WABC-TV in New York who is Acting President of the Broadcast Employees Amateur Radio Society, a member of the ham organization at WABC Radio & TV in New York and also the BEARS.

More audio PSAs will be coming out - about one every 6-8 weeks in 2006

Video Files -GO TO WWW.ARRL.ORG/PIO to hear and download

Hello video PSA (coming in April '06 and it is going to be GREAT!!)

Emergency Communications video PSA a 30 second mpeg of Katrina Operations video (2.57meg)

MPEG files may be good enough for your computer, but the files do not have high enough resolution for "real" TV work. To get a DVD of the video, please write to hello@arrl.org with your name, address and where you will be placing it. The DVD's are not cheap, so we cannot just speculatively pass them out. If you have a local TV station that must have BetaSP or the full, uncompressed digital files, please send an email with specifics about what they need to hello@arrl.org.

Hello Brochures

Copies of the special 4 page Hello brochure are available from ARRL headquarters. These are intended to be used where there is a presentation to NON-hams. As such, please use them for talks to schools, clubs, displays and other places promoting Amateur Radio to the public. They are NOT for use at Hamfests, radio club meetings and "preaching to the choir". There is a space on the back page to add your local club info. To see a viewable .pdf of the brochure, -GO TO WWW.ARRL.ORG/PIO and download To request copies of the brochure, write to hello@arrl.org. To minimize the costs of mailing them, we request you to send a check for at least the postage costs made out to "ARRL" to me at Public Relations - ARRL, 225 Main St., Newington, CT 06111 If you do not send a check we will still mail them, but your help in keeping costs down is appreciated and allows us to do more.

Hello Bumper Stickers

Hello Logo bumper stickers will be on sale through the ARRL catalog sales - go to -GO TO WWW.ARRL.ORG/PIO for easy link

Hello Buttons

Buttons for the Hello campaign will be made available at Dayton and at major Amateur Radio events.

Hello Logo

The special logo for Hello is for use on stationary, newsletters, websites, and your own promotional materials you develop for the campaign. It was designed to look good even if printed in B&W, but except for that it cannot be changed. If you must, you can add information to it by adding writing UNDER it (which is why it is a long rectangle). If you are not sure of its use, please ask me at apitts@arrl.org -GO TO WWW.ARRL.ORG/PIO to download.

Hello Website www.hello-radio.org

Perhaps the greatest amount of care went into the design of the Hello website. It is meant for NON-hams to learn a little bit about us and to arouse more interest. Again, we stay upbeat, positive and hopeful. Nothing threatening, too difficult or scary was included. We try to point the prospects to groups that have indicated they will provide a warm welcome to newbies - a good "Hello!"  The key to creating a new ham operator is to develop a relationship with a current ham operator!

You can help! By providing a link from your website, or that of your club, to www.hello-radio.org this new website moves up in the search engines.

"Hello, I love you, won't you tell me your name...???" (the DOORS)

THIS 'N' THAT

**If you find yourself with an empty beer keg or two lying around (Hey, I dunno, maybe you took the GA QSP Party idea to heart, or something?!) here's an innovative way to put those kegs to good use. (Thanks to JERRY ADAMS, W4PX, who posted this on the Forsyth ARES reflector)
http://www.pubtech.org/resources/beerkegresonator/beerbarrelresonator.pdf

** RON THOMAS, N4RT, came across some great radio books that are available for download, and for our favorite cost.... FREE. This information was shared via the Southeastern AM Radio Club (SAMRC) reflector:

http://www.pmillett.com/tecnical_books_online.htm that shows tube related books free to download.... Included in the downloads are:
The Radio Handbook, William Orr (editor), 15th edition 1959
Radio Receiver Design (Part 1), K. R. Sturley, 1945
Radio Receiver Design (Part 2), K. R. Sturley, 1945
Radio Amateur's Handbook, American Radio relay League, 1936
Radio Amateur's Handbook, American Radio relay League, 1941
Radio Engineering Principles, Henri Lauer and Harry Brown, 2nd edition 1928
Reference Data For Radio Engineers, Federal Telephone and Radio
Plus others......!!!!!

** There was an excellent, even-handed article about BPL and amateur radio in a recent "USA Today" newspaper. TAD WILLIAMSON, WF4W, has provided us with a link to that article:

http://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/2006-03-19-powerline_x.htm

** To all of my boatanchor friends, what do you think about a "mini" version of the HW-101? You have to see it to believe it! TED BRUCE, KX4OM, posted this cool link on the North GA QRP reflector: http://www.kiyoinc.com/dx60.htm

**JOHN MCCOLLY, W5RQ, of Georgetown, TX, recently sent an email to MIKE BROWN, KE4FGF, to schedule an HF radio contact with him. You see, John is an avid county hunter, and has been chasing counties for almost 50 years. Thanks to Mike, John can now add another notch to his belt for Thomas county. Now, the only counties he needs to make a clean sweep of Georgia are Miller, Calhoun, Baker, Echols, Schley, Hancock, Glascock, and Taliaferro. If you live in any of these counties, or plan to operate from any of these counties, it sure would be nice if you'd send a note to John, and schedule a time to help him reach his goal. You can reach him at mccolly@thegateway.net

**JIM WAUFORD, WA4REV, one of the fine GA Baptist Disaster Relief communicators, is in search of some equipment. He'd happily accept any donations, or low costs for the following items: a good mobile, portable, or mobile HF rig and mobile HF antenna for 75, 40, and 20M; a multi-mode TNC for use with WinLink; and a good used van for the installation of his "jump kit" and deployment to wherever he may be sent. (770) 928-9064

** PHIL SPECHT, K4PQC, posted information on the North GA QRP group's reflector about this website, which serves as a great guide on surface mount technology http://www.zianet.com/erg/SMT_Soldering.html

** REMINDER: The GA Special Olympics will be coming up June 2-4, with most activities taking place on the Emory University campus in Atlanta. Once again STEVE GARRISON, N4SEG, is coordinating the communications for these events. If you can help, please contact him at n4seg@arrl.net.

**HAM CLASS coming up in Forsyth county. Two classrooms have been reserved at Grace Chapel Church of Christ in Cumming, with the first class slated to begin on April 22, and set to continue for the following four weeks. Details to follow as they become available.

** The Moving Wall, the half-sized replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., will be on display on the grounds of Hebron Baptist Church in Dacula, at the corner of Dacula and Fence Roads, following its set-up on April 27, until noon on May 1.

MARVIN ATHERSON, KG4FHB, long-time chairman for the Dacula Memorial Day parade, says that VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED... for the set-up, for the tear-down, and to help visitors locate names on The Moving Wall in 4-6 hour shifts around the clock. Though this isn't "amateur radio oriented", it is in support of one of our fellow operators, and I know that many of you are Vietnam vets. Thought you might appreciate the opportunity to see this incredibly moving monument, and to volunteer your services, if possible.

To Volunteer, or to get more information:

The Moving Wall, P.O. Box 602, Dacula, GA 30019-0602
Contact: Marvin Atherton at 770-367-7371
Email: themovingwall@bellsouth.net

Old oscillators never die. They just don't get excited anymore.
David Millburn

SECTION NOTABLES

WOW! What a wonderful group of "notables" this month! CONGRATULATIONS to each of them.

** AL MENGES, KF4NXL, was the recipient of the 2005 Ronald Reagan Gold Medal, which was bestowed upon him by the National Republican Congressional Committee. Representative TOM REYNOLDS,(R-NY) Chairman of the NRCC, said, "Mr. Menges has long supported Republican ideals, like debt reduction and tax reform as they relate to the growth and stability of small business in this country. I look forward to Mr. Menges's continued participation as a key member of the committee and offer my congratulations on the award." Recipients of the Ronald Reagan Gold Medal are invited to participate in periodic strategic briefings to provide input on economic and tax issues, and to share their ideas on building broad-based support for conservative initiatives within the business community. They also leave their mark on American history, as their names are permanently listed in the ranks of the Honor Roll at the NRCC HQ in Washington, D.C.

** ANDY HOWARD, WA4KCY, was featured in an outstanding article in the March issue of "CQ" magazine. Andy is the president and founder of the Southeastern AM Radio Club, and let me tell you, the vintage commercial equipment and beautifully-built homebrew gear that fill his shack should evoke "wows" from every ham, not just from AM enthusiasts. The 4-1000 transmitter that he's built is a thing of beauty... a very LARGE thing of beauty.... and is a tall testament to the pleasure Andy finds in designing and building a rig, and then putting it on the air. In today's world of hamming, where most of us are content to buy a rig from "off the shelf" and then buy another one when that one develops a problem, it is a real pleasure to read about this gentleman ham and his dedication to restoring and preserving some of the classic rigs, to experimentation and building, and in continuing to encourage the enjoyment of "Angels' Modulation". (For your reading pleasure, Andy has posted this article in its entirety on his website at http://wa4kcy.com)

** TOM CROWELL, KD4DK, (ex-KU4CK) the president of the North GA ARC, was chosen as the Lumpkin County Volunteer of the Year. Mentioned in the presentation was the public service that is provided by Tom and other members of the club.

** LARRY COLE, N4IWP, one of the original founding members of the Oconee County ARS, was selected by the Oconee County Chamber of Commerce, and honored at a recent meeting as its Volunteer of the Year.

** HARVEY CHASE, W4TG, was featured in a terrific article in the Macon "Telegraph". Harvey, an avid CW operator, recently received a QCWA award in recognition of his 75 years as an amateur radio operator. (and he's still going strong) http://13wmaz.com/news/top_stories.aspx?storyid=23952

** JOHN WOOTEN, KI4HTY, was also featured in the Macon "Telegraph", and in the article, he was depicted as someone who doesn't have the word "quit" in his vocabulary. John is an accomplished wheelchair athlete, who is hoping to make the trip to Alaska to participate in some big national competitions. http://www.macon.com/mld/macon/news/local/14117801.htm

** PHIL NEIDLINGER, KA4KOE, who has written a long list of "Dead Electrical Dudes" articles, which have appeared on eham and have aired on "Radio Newsline", wrote another article, which was printed in the April issue of "QST". You can find his article, entitled "Green Radio Round-Up", on page 57.

** BOB VARONE, W4ETN, is a long-time ham and accomplished DX-er, but his contacts with the ISS marked a definite highlight of his hamming experiences. You can read about it at http://www.arrl.org/news/features/2006/03/15/1/?nc=1 Not only does this article depict Bob's obvious enthusiasm, but it also details how you, too, can make your own contact with the space station.

** FRANKIE WOMACK, W4BJT, and DAVE THOMPSON, K4JRB, both received awards for fifty years of ARRL membership.

It is not the class of license the amateur holds, but the class of the amateur that holds the license.
Al Waller, K3TKJ

PIGLETS (AKA YOUNG HAMS)

** DUSTIN DAVIS isn't an "official" piglet yet, but he's working on it. A fifth grade student at Stone Creek Elementary School in Rossville, Dustin went to great lengths.... and 200 miles UP... for his science project this year. With the help of his dad STEVE, KG4TOS, he tracked the path of the International Space Station and attempted to make contact with it each time it passed overhead. With Dad's radio and a homemade antenna, they made a successful contact with astronaut and ham-active BILL MCARTHUR, which Dustin excitedly videotaped. Not only did Dustin prove to his fellow students that "the sky's the limit", but he also won first prize at the school's science fair.

** KIDS ROUND-UP. An operating event sponsored by kids for kids. 1400Z April 1 - 2200Z April 2. See www.ki3ds.org for more details.

** There will be a Scouting event on April 22, complete with a ham station to introduce visiting Scouts to the joys of amateur radio. Scout Blast will be held at the Gwinnett County Fairgrounds, on Sugarloaf Parkway in Lawrenceville, with the Gwinnett county ARES communications trailer providing HF and VHF operating capabilities.

** We hope to have some terrific GA PIGLET tee shirts to offer for sale in the very near future. Thanks to that talented lady MARY AHLS, W4NZJ, we have a great design for these shirts, and we're now working on finding a company to produce these shirts for us. STAY TUNED for further information.

Inside of every old person is a young person wondering what happened.

UPCOMING EVENTS

APRIL 1-2 --- 50th annual QCWA Spring QSO party. CW, Digital, and Phone. 1800Z- 1800Z. www.qcwa.org/qso-party.htm

APRIL 1-2 --- Kids' Round-Up. Phone. 1400Z April 1- 2200Z April 2. www.ki3ds.org 

APRIL 8-9 --- GA QSO Party!!! (Y'all come!) http://gqp.contesting.org 

APRIL 18 --- World Amateur Radio Day (GREAT excuse to treat yourself to a new rig!)

APRIL 22 --- Scout Blast, Gwinnett county fairgrounds. Gwinnett county ARES communications vehicle will be there, operating HF and VHF.

APRIL 29 --- Cherokee Capital ARS 9th annual Hamfest in Calhoun. 8AM- 2PM at the Sugar Valley Community Center, 3295 Sugar Valley Road. VE session at 11 AM. Admission $5, free tailgating, $5 for inside table. Food onsite and hourly drawings for prizes plus a grand prize drawing of a Yaesu FT-2800M 2M radio. We've been to this Hamfest every year since its inception, and it has been growing steadily. We'll be there again this year, and hope to see YOU there, too. See www.qsl.net/k4woc for more info.

MAY 6-7 --- Birmingham, AL Hamfest

MAY 13 --- Heart of GA Hamfest, Byron GA

Happy people don't get sick as often as unhappy people,
which only proves that the surly bird catches the germ.
Cal Neff, K4JSR

SILENT KEYS

JOHN GRANBERRY, WYPM
HOWELL MENDENHALL, JR, KB4KE

Sincere 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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