September, 2009.

Greetings, All.

OK, here we go, fellow hams-ters: this is my final edition of GA Section on My Mind. (Though you won't be rid of me entirely just yet; there's still the September mid-monthly summary to go.) Anyway, since that first tentative issue popped up in your inbox in January 2002, this newsletter may have occasionally taxed your scrolling fingers and your eyes, and definitely caused the regular monthly agitation of billions and billions of electrons, but hopefully, it has also served to help keep us GA hams on the same frequency, so to speak. Yeah, it's taken quite a bit of work, but it's also been a lot of fun, and a genuine labor of love. Thank you all for your positive feedback and support.

As this lame duck waddles into her last month as your section manager, with some of you still trying to tell me that I should have stayed in this position "forever", the following poem (author unknown) does a fantastic job of expressing the truth about any retirement:

• Some time when you're feeling important,

• Some time when your ego's in bloom,

• Some time when you take it for granted

• You're the best qualified in the room,

• Some time when you feel that your going

• Would leave an unfillable hole,

• Just follow this simple instruction,

• And see how it humbles your soul:

• Take a bucket. Fill it with water.

• Put your hand in it up to the wrist.

• Pull it out, and the hole that's remaining

• Is a measure of how you'll be missed.

• Now, wait a minute.

• You may splash all you please when you enter.

• You can stir up the water galore.

• But stop and you'll find in a minute

• That it looks quite the same as before.

• The moral in this quaint example

• Is to do the best that you can.

• Be proud of yourself, but remember:

• There is no indispensable man.

Or woman. Good food for thought, huh? So, bottom line, GENE CLARK,W4AYK, will be executing a perfect dive into the SM waters on October 1, and then it'll be his turn to slosh it all around for you. And my money's on him being a terrific slosher.

One more thing before we get on to the rest of the newsletter. I'm very sorry to inform you that JOHNNY FEARON, W4WKP, is currently in isolation in the ICU of the Walton County Regional Hospital. Many of you have known Johnny for many years, so I thought you might like to send him a get well note or QSL card to let him know that you're thinking about him. You can send it to his home address at Lot 25, 1296 Magnolia Ridge, Monroe, GA, 30655. His wife told me today that he's improving, but she's sure that hearing from some of his old ham friends would make him feel even better. Thanks.

OK, let's get on with it. Let's see what's been happening, and what's coming up right around the corner. This month's one-liners are a continuation of last month's wonderful "life lessons", gleaned from a newspaper article penned by 90-year-old REGINA BRETT, and graciously shared by PAT HAYNES, K4BEH.

Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.

AUGUST HIGHLIGHTS

August 8 --- Ellijay Hamfest--- The first time my better half MIKE, K4HBI, and I went to the Hamfest in Ellijay, it was a teeny tail gater, and we wandered around and around from car to car, (all six of 'em?) chatting and having a grand ol' time. Even then, we really didn't NEED anything, but that didn't mean we came home empty-handed. Perish the thought. There was a ham selling a bunch of vacuum tubes, which we most definitely didn't need, as Mike already had an extensive collection of them at home, but each time we made the rounds, the seller kept trying to convince Mike to buy a tube or two. Suffice it to say that he ended up buying the whole doggone lot of 'em, box and all. The box was a very interesting-looking wooden packing crate, which still bore the inked imprint of a who-knows how old Ft. McPherson mailing address on it. Mike ended up turning that sturdy wooden box (mailing address and all) into a very unique end table, which we've used ever since, and which will always remind us of that first year at the Hamfest.

I think we've been back to Ellijay every year since, and we've really enjoyed watching the fest grow over the years. There's lots of stuff going on inside nowadays, with commercial vendors, food and drinks for sale, a VE session, door prizes, and this year, for the first time, a couple of forums. But even though it's grown, this Hamfest has never betrayed its beginnings. Somehow, they've managed to maintain that same friendly laid-back atmosphere they enjoyed when they were just a tiny little tail gater. Add that friendly people atmosphere to the beautiful Ellijay mountains atmosphere, and at least for me, it equals one Hamfest that will always be worth the trip.

Many thanks to the Ellijay ARS members for hosting another enjoyable fest; to our SE Division Director GREG SARRATT, W4OZK, for attending and for presenting the lovely technical writing award to JOHN STANLEY, K4ERO; and of course, to each of YOU who were able to attend. (I truly appreciate all of your hugs and kind words.) And remember... if we want our Hamfests to thrive, we've GOT to support 'em!

Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.

CLUB NEWS

* It's a pleasure to announce the renewal of Special Service Club designations for the Coastal Plains ARC and the Paulding ARC. Congratulations to both.

ATLANTA ARC --- In the category of "these guys must be doing something right", CONGRATULATIONS to the following slate of officers, overwhelmingly re-elected by acclimation to serve another term:  President- BILL PERKINS, KB4KFT; VP- ROB OSATTIN, KI4UTY; Secretary- GEORGE LANE, KI4DSO; Treasurer- BERT BRUNER, KE4FOV; and Member-at-Large- CHRIS FOWLER, KI4YMD. Best wishes to all of these fine fellows for another fun and successful year.

LAGRANGE ARC --- This club will be hosting its first Hamfest on October 3rd, from 8AM until 1PM, at the Oakside Baptist Church gymnasium at  1921 Hamilton Road. There will be a VE session at 11AM, prize drawings throughout the day, and there will even be a Southern style breakfast and lunch available for your dining pleasure. For more details, please see www.lagrangeradioclub.org or if you have additional questions, you can email them to lagrangeHamfest@yahoo.com.

THOMASVILLE ARC --- It's funny how time gets away from you. Has it been 8 years already since we first heard from the "Section Mom?" Our group was intrigued as soon as we heard Susan refer to herself that way.  We've always stressed family in our club, and here was someone from far off Atlanta saying the same thing. It's been a good ride, and I'll have to tell you that a lot of the successes that our club celebrated were directly benefited by Susan telling everyone else what we were up to here in GSOMM.  One other unsung hero is also stepping aside, and "that's him"...Mike, K4HBI. Together,  crisscrossing the state in that little red car, they united Georgia hams in a way that the state hasn't seen before. We surprised them one year at our annual fish fry by making them "Official" TARC members, but I know every other club in Georgia has similar claims. While we'll miss them from the spotlight, I hope they both know the tremendous difference they've made, and how appreciative we ALL are for what they've done. (de MIKE BROWN, KE4FGF)

Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.

PUTTING ON THE DAWG

Okay, so they aren't exactly "putting on the dawg", but Athens area hams WILL be operating special event station K4UGA from the University of GA's Sanford Stadium on October 10 and 11. According to the information provided by BOB HERRIN, KE4JLL, kick off is at 9AM Saturday, when members of the Athens Radio Club, the Northeast Georgia Radio Club, and the Oconee County Amateur Radio Society will start calling CQ for what's to be a 30-hour operating event in commemoration of the thirty years that area hams have provided communications for the Red Cross, and for the university, during home football games.

And guess what? Walk-ons are invited to participate! If you'd like to operate, don't forget to bring a copy of your license. With plans to set up 3 HF stations, 2M, 6M, and a satellite station, this'll be a larger operation than some folks enjoyed during field day. Sounds like this promises to be a howling success. And you are cordially invited to run with the dawgs. For more info, please see http://k4uga30.wordpress.com/

The best is yet to come.

OPERATING IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS

* National Wildlife Refuge Week 2009
The KP1-5 Project, which brought you the 2009 Desecheo Island DXpedition, is pleased to announce that it is serving as national coordinator for Amateur Radio's observation of the 2009 National Wildlife Refuge Week, Sunday October 12 to Saturday October 18, 2009. The goal is to combine your communication skills with your enjoyment of the outdoors to help others learn about the National Wildlife Refuge System. Only authorized, responsible access to refuges is sanctioned by this event.

To operate from a National Wildlife Refuge:
1. Review guidance information available at http://www.nwrweek-radio.info/
2. Contact info@nwrweek-radio.info to request coordination through our clearinghouse.
3. Obtain permission from the refuge manager to operate within the refuge.
4. Submit your operating plan to info@nwrweek-radio.info to have your operation listed on our web site.

Operating Tips:
* Operate one day or the entire week, subject to the refuge manager's authorization.
* Use your own call sign, a club call sign or a 1x1 special event call sign.
* Use SSB, PSK31, RTTY, CW, etc., and describe refuge features and wildlife to those you  contact.
* Be a good steward of the refuge. Your presence in wildlife areas should be passive, minimizing impact and leaving habitat unaltered.

NOTE: Several ham operators who have experience operating from refuges are available to answer questions and offer suggestions. Contact 2009 National Wildlife Refuge Week Amateur Radio coordinator BRAD FARRELL, K4RT at info@nwrweek-radio.info

Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.

OO SUMMARY

Here are excerpts from the latest OO summary from the ARRL's Field & Regulatory Correspondent, CHUCK SKOLAUT, K0BOG:
This month's statistics reveal a total of 700 Official Observers. During the month of July we received 6 recommendations for hams to begin the process to become OOs. Seven amateurs including 4 from Iowa, 2 from California, 1 from Texas successfully passed the exam and joined our group.
Here are some of the situations OOs assisted with in July:

• We continue to receive comments about K1MAN's return to the air. The FCC is aware of renewed on-the-air operations by K1MAN and is investigating the situation.  Accordingly, ARRL OOs should not be in contact directly or indirectly with K1MAN about his activities.

• The FCC posted 4 warning letters that went out in July, several of which address long standing problems on 3910.  Reports indicate much improvement on the frequency. http://www.fcc.gov/eb/AmateurActions/Welcome.html

• OOs in California continue to investigate a case of an intermittent carrier on a two meter frequency.

• Several questions were received regarding felons holding licenses, the FCC has stated that these cases are handled on a case by case manner and if anyone has a complaint, they can contact them at FCCHAM@fcc.gov with specific information.

• Also several incidents involving the banning of individuals from using a repeater. To facilitate possible FCC involvement later if needed, it is best to notify the individual by letter that requires a signature so a record of official notification is assured a repeater owner.

• A report of jamming on 3969 was received from the SCV OOC and surrounding section OOCs were alerted to pass on to their OOs.

• Eastern Massachusetts OOs investigated a report of a local repeater not IDing properly.

• We received several more reports of unlicensed 10 meter operation, the more specific information that can be obtained in these cases increases the chances of effective follow up.

• We continue to receive a number of reports of uncertified CB type equipment being offered for sale on eBay and other sites on the internet and also at the major truck stops across the nation.

• It is important for all amateurs to abide by their band privileges, our DXCC department does consider OO reports regarding out of band privileges by operators and continual infractions are forwarded on to the FCC.  Also we have been receiving a number of reports of Technician class licensees on the HF bands.

• A question was received regarding whether digitized voice was considered a voice or digital transmission. Our rules man says voice is voice no matter in what form it is transmitted.

• A constant carrier was reported on 14030 for some time, went off and then returned for a time.  It ceased before the source could be located.

• A report of what appeared to be unlicensed fishermen using the low end of 80 meters was reported to the New Hampshire OOC.

• Reports of unlicensed bear hunters in Michigan were received and forwarded on to the FCC.

• OOs in South Texas are investigating the report of a Citizens' Band operator interfering with amateur radio operations there on 10 meters.

• A report of unlicensed hang gliders in California using 2 meter simplex frequencies is being followed up on.

If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.

ARES NEWS

** IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE 2009 SET.

MIKE BROWN, KE4FGF, will be taking over as our new SEC on October 1, just a couple of days before this year's SET, and here's a message from him NOW about that SET:

Hi Folks,

As promised last month, here I am again. I told you a little bit about me last month, and now, properly introduced, we need to get down to some pressing business.

Gene and Susan wanted to have a state-wide SET this year, to try and get all our ARES groups involved, and the date for that is Oct. 3rd.  As I mentioned in my last note, that's only 2 days after I take over as SEC. Two days is simply too late for me to get anything going, so with their permission, I want to get this thing off the ground now.

If you've read the scenario (it's on www.arrl-ga.org) you know the premise is a state-wide power outage that lasts the entire weekend. The idea was for everyone to evaluate how long they could operate in that event, and is particularly appropriate for the Atlantic coast area, as well as the extreme southern counties close to the Gulf, where a hurricane could mean no power for weeks at a time. We kept it general enough that if you are in a county where the ARES presence only numbers 3 or 4 people, you can still easily play this scenario out at home, and possibly become that critical relay link for a bigger group.

After the "SET studies group," published the scenario for suggestions, we quickly heard from folks like Jan, K2HJ, who reminded us that this is a time for GAARES to shine in front of our served agencies, rather than do it all from home. I also agree with this idea, and as a DEC, I encouraged my ECs to get with their respective EMAs, show them the plans, and see if they were interested in joining us in the exercise on Saturday morning.

Several of those groups in SWGA are now planning for an exercise where the power outage has caused another "localized" catastrophe to take place, and they'll attend to it as the power outage scenario "plays in the background."

I'd encourage your group to do the same. In my tenure as DEC for SWGA, the main comment I've heard from the EMA directors I've met with here is that they don't know exactly what we could do to help them. Further questioning revealed the reason we didn't fit was that they didn't have a clue about who we are and what we can do.

So how do you get their attention? Thomas County (my home county) has strong ties with the local EMA Director. Another county in the district had problems with getting their EMA Director interested. He simply couldn't see where Amateur Radio might fit into his plans. Every month, all the district EMA directors get together with the GEMA rep of their district to discuss things over lunch. I simply asked our guy to put in a good word for what Amateur Radio was doing for him with their guy, and "out of the blue," the EC from that county had a call from their EMA requesting a meeting to discuss the possibilities. 

Now, it's not always that simple, and there's no guarantee it would work in your situation, but sometimes there are outside influences available, and it doesn't hurt to use them. If your group is new, and you want more information on how to move forward, your DEC should be able to either help, or get you in contact with someone who can.

So, getting back to the SET, how does it work in your favor towards having closer ties with your county officials? While local drills are helpful, most EMA people worry about how far you can reach if they need help from outside the county. Remember, the ARRL sets aside this weekend as the suggested time for all groups nationwide to participate in the SET. It becomes something of a "Mini Field Day" and should guarantee contacts both in and out-of-state. That gives your group the advantage of showing your EMA Director just how far a "long distance" contact can be despite the rather poor band conditions of late.

You're also probably wondering how complex your local scenario should be. While you want to test yourself, I'd suggest keeping it simple enough to assure success that will build your groups morale. You may have new folks who won't participate because they don't feel like they bring enough expertise to the table. That gives you the opportunity to pair a new ham with one more experienced. The "new guy" has the benefit of learning from an experienced operator and the "old guy" benefits from becoming an "Elmer." 

Keep in mind that the "no power available" scenario is running in the background, so let it provide additional "wrinkles" to add value to your exercise.

In a real event, everything is not going to work as planned, and a simulation is the best time to find out what works, and more importantly, what doesn't. While building morale is important, if you make it too simple, you won't learn anything valid about your capabilities. Succeeding despite problems is also a morale booster.

I've heard several ECs voice their worry over failure because they want a good showing in front of their EMA reps. If you can involve them in the exercise, make it clear beforehand that you're testing yourself to see where things will break and a failure here and there is both anticipated and necessary. My local group had several crazy things happen in our first SET, but because I had briefed the EMA director beforehand, rather than laughing at us, he was duly impressed by the fact that we worked through the problems and accomplished the goal anyway.

It also uncovered some weaknesses in his organization, so everyone involved left knowing they had things to work on. Ask your EMA director if he also has ideas for your exercise. Involving him now makes him an invaluable asset later.

As we are ALL in this together, you don't have to be an "ARES Official" for your input to be important. If you've got ideas for this exercise, you need to be sharing them with your local team now. Have a look at the actual SET report you'll be filling out afterwards to get a better idea of how you may want to structure your exercise. It's found here: http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/forms/ec_set.pdf 

Many new ARES operations are struggling to figure out the best way to get their efforts off the ground. They may number only 3 or 4 hams. If there are new groups like this in your district, and your ARES group has "been at it for years," the benefit of your experience may prove to be the significant "push" that helps them "lift off." Mutual aid  doesn't just extend to "Served Agencies." Your neighbors across the county line need to know you're there for them too.   

And that isn't just a "district thing."  If you have ideas that merit attention across the Section, copy me at ke4fgf@arrl.net so it can be shared with everyone else across the state. Remember, we're all succeed or fail as a team. I'm looking forward to hearing your team on the air on Oct. 3rd.

73 de Mike

** NET PLANS FOR THE SET

The following information comes to you from our STM and GAARES Net Manager CHARLES PENNINGTON, K4GK:

The Georgia Statewide ARES Net(s) will activate during the Annual Simulated Emergency Test (SET) scheduled for October 3 and 4.  The nets will operate in support of local and district teams participating in the SET to provide long range coverage and statewide opportunities.

The following schedule is planned:

The ARES Net will be active every two hours (Even numbered hours only) during daylight hours both Saturday and Sunday.

The net will be called on the following hours on a frequency of 3975 KHz:     

10:00 AM, 12:00 noon, 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM, and 6:00 PM both days.

The ARES Digital Net will be called at 11:00 AM Saturday and 4:30 PM Sunday on the frequency of 3583 KHz using PSK31 to demonstrate digital modes.  The digital frequency may also be used at other times and modes upon demand.

The Georgia Single Sideband Net, Georgia Traffic Net, Georgia Traffic and Emergency Net, and Georgia State Net (GSN) will operate as normal
schedule to handle any remaining traffic.

During the daylight hours the Statewide ARES Net may move to 40 meters (7275 KHz LSB) to test our operations on that frequency.

We will make an effort to use several different Net Control Stations (NCS) during the event to gain additional experience in that regard.

All Georgia amateurs are encouraged to participate in this years Simulated Emergency Test (S.E.T.).  Good luck on this years Test!

** RECENT APPOINTMENTS: LOWRY ROUSE, KM4Z, who has held a multitude of positions in GA ARES over the years, has been appointed as the new ASEC for Operations.And two new ECS: In Twiggs county, it's ROY WOOD, JR, KJ4LAM; and in Wheeler county, it's PAUL PRATT II, KI4MNR. Congratulations to each of these gentlemen, and thanks to them for their willingness to serve.

Over prepare, then go with the flow.

ARES REPORT DE ASEC TOM FULLER, KE4QCM

Total number of ARES members:  842              
Change since last month: +17  
# of DECs/ECs reporting this month:  70   
# of ARES nets active: 168  
# with NTS liaison: 0   
# of drills, tests and training sessions this month: 167     
Person hours: 1248
# of public service events this month: 13                    
Person hours: 432
# of emergency operations this month: 1                     
Person hours: 21 
Total number of ARES operations this month: 181                   
Total Person hours: 1701

DECs REPORTING:

Central-NM4W; East Central-KJ4AMN; GPB-WB4QDX; Metro Atlanta-N4SEG; NWS/Columbia-N0FBV; NWS/Peachtree City-KD4YDC; Northwest-KD4EKZ; Public Health/Augusta-AI4RV; Salvation Army-WA4UJC; Southeast-W4WDT; Southwest-KE4FGF

ECs REPORTING:

• Central: Baldwin-KG4EPI; Bleckley-WN8UNO; Houston-KI4QFF; Putnam-KF4EOH;  Washington-K4GK; Wilkinson-W4OY

• East Central: Burke-WE4GW; Lincoln-W4KNS; Richmond-AH6IW

• Metro Atlanta: Cherokee-WA6IKS; Clayton-AJ4GT; Cobb-KI4RQQ; Dekalb-W4TGA; Fayette-AG4ZR; Gwinnett-WB4QDX; Newton-WA4UJC; North Fulton-W4UOC; Paulding-K4DMF; Rockdale-KC4ELV

• Northeast: Clarke-N4ZRA; Hall-AA4BA; Stephens-KU4ES

• Northwest: Bartow-N4QET; Carroll-N4IF; Catoosa-W4LAW; Chatooga-W4LAW; Dade-W4LAW; Floyd-KD4EKZ; Gilmer-KC4GH; Gordon-AF4DN; Heard-KE4OBM; Murray-AI4ZV; Pickens-K4SJR; Polk-KD4EKZ; Walker-W4LAW; Whitfield-AI4ZV

• Southeast: Appling-W4WDT; Chatham-K4GTM; Toombs-KG4BKO

• Southwest: Baker-K4GCR; Colquitt-K4BEE; Cook-KA4WWZ; Dougherty-N4GPJ; Echols-AJ4RW; Grady-KI4RGD; Lee-W5VRV; Lowndes-AL7NS; Macon-KI4BEO; Mitchell-N1QJ; Seminole-K4TPD; Thomas-N4KXl; Turner-W4GHW; Worth-K1KBA

• West Central: Troup-K3IMC

DEC COMMENTS:

• Central-NM4W: This month we met with Houston Medical Center EMS Director and ER Unit Coordinator to establish a liaison between the hospital and ARES. The EMS board of director will purchase handhelds to be use by licensed EMS Personnel and ARES. Also, the Hospital will be host to the Technician/General HamCram on Sept. 12 2009. The Central GA ARES VHF Net is rapidly growing to about 12 repeaters now with check ins from over 8 counties. We attended Milledgeville ARES ARC meeting this month in Baldwin County, and it was a good meeting with Dr. Gene attending as well as some of the ADEC and EC's from other Central Division Counties.
  * East Central-KJ4AMN: Actively recruiting ECs to fill vacant counties. Currently working with local hospitals to get MOUs in place for ARES Operators to provide communications during disasters. Planning training session later this year for East Central Georgia ARES members.

• GPB-WB4QDX: Installation of Ft. Mountain D-STAR repeater at GPB site

• Metro Atlanta-N4SEG: There was no monthly Metro Atlanta District ARES NET for the month of July as the county that was to be NET Control failed to call the net. No other station picked up the net. The August NET is scheduled to be called by the Cobb County ARES Group.

• NWS/Columbia-N0FBV: New report will follow. Thank you.

• NWS/Peachtree City-KD4YDC: Quiet month, although there had been some sporadic strong storms in Georgia in July.

• Northwest-KD4EKZ: 2 Polk ARES members assisted in Northwest Georgia ARC Repeater relocation to permanent structure on Georgia Forestry Site on Mt. Alto. Move will enhance ARES communications in Northwest Georgia.

• Public Health/Augusta-AI4RV: A new repeater is planned for East Central Regional Hospital, with whom we have a signed MOU. In the southern part of the district, a new repeater is being installed in Twin City (146.715). This will be part of the 4-hospital intertie (entity? I think is what he means – DCW) (Swainsboro, Statesboro, Vidalia, Dublin). Ultimately, they will be linked to 3 different Regional Hospitals: Augusta, Macon, Savannah.

• Salvation Army-WA4UJC: Please check into the Salvation Army nets. The nternational net is on 14.265 Mhz Monday thru Saturday at 11am eastern, and the Mid-South Net is on Saturday at 11am eastern on 7.262MhZ.

• Southeast-W4WDT: Planning to start the 2 meter simplex net back up on Sundays at 4pm. I am trying to work on a deal to acquire a 2 meter repeater and frequency pair for Appling County. Contacting local hams to advertise the net and hopefully acquire new ARES members. I am in talks with local EMA director about putting amateur equipment in EOC radio room. I also have two guys wanting to get licensed and involved
  with ARES.
  Southwest-KE4FGF: It's been a quiet month, but I've spent my time getting the District ready for their new DEC, Mark, KD4EYF, who will step into my shoes when I move up to SEC in October. We have met with several clubs together, and our focus was not only to introduce Mark, but to get the groups "revved up" for the statewide SET in October.

I've also been working with several ECs to get meetings with their EMAs set up.  I sat in on the Capital District EC meeting (NFL Section) on the 9th, to see what they were up to, and help continue good interstate relations.  I'm positive the SWGA District will be in good hands on October 1st.

 
EC COMMENTS:
----> CENTRAL

• Baldwin-KG4EPI: Thanks to those ARES members that pull net control when my job keeps me from being net control.

• Bleckley-WN8UNO: The Central GA ARES VHF Net is growing with new repeaters being linked, and many new check ins weekly. We attended the Milledgeville ARC and ARES meeting this month.

• Houston-KI4QFF:  Still growing. Made contact with Houston County Hospital. Got some good results. Making plans for the Ham Cram in Sept.12th.

• Wilkinson-W4OY: Acting EC for county and encouraging a person in county to become EC. One person calls into the Central ARES net and indicate a slight interest. Will pursue this. Members are encouraged to check in to the BCARES Net. Working with the BCARES EC in developing packet use and aiding him in recruiting additional members and developing a viable training plan.

----> EAST CENTRAL

• Burke-WE4GW: Trying to recruit a new EC, Doyle is EC for Columbia County and living in Columbia County-DEC Robert Leiter.

• Lincoln-W4KNS: Storms brought wind and rain.

----> METRO ATLANTA

• Cherokee-WA6IKS: 1.maintenance repeater site 2.retune duplexer on 443.074 repeater, big improvement

• Clayton-AJ4GT: First General class license class was on July 25th -

• Cobb-KI4RQQ: Public Service Event - Marietta 4th of July Parade. EC continuing to suffer from health issues, but slowly gaining. Lack of activity solely due to lack of EC participation.

• Fayette-AG4ZR: Miscellaneous activities include 911 practitioner time, local Fire Dept activity, other nets and administration.

• Newton-WA4UJC: Prepared for the Covington Century Bike Ride in August which included driving the 100 mile route of the event and checking on the road markings.

• North Fulton-W4UOC: July 4th- Peachtree Road Race - 6 hams X 9 hours = 54 hours July 18 & 19 - Butterfly Festival at Chattahoochee Nature Center - 9 hams at 47.5 hours 

----> NORTHEAST

• * Hall-AA4BA: We have undertaken an extensive new membership enrollment process throughout Hall county.

• * Stephens-KU4ES:  We are excited about improvements to the 145.250 (K4TRS) repeater, as well as welcoming a firm partnership with the W4BNG Repeater (442.500+ 88.5T). Improvements to both repeaters provide for a greater coverage in the service area. Amateur License Training has also been scheduled for local public service personnel to provide an avenue to incorporate a smoother ARES operation. Many thanks to all of the people involved in working to expand and improve ARES, both for the county and the area!

----> NORTHWEST

• Carroll-N4IF: Special Service Event = Carrollton July 4 Parade Bowdon Founder's Day 5k Run & Parade (Aug 1) prep. = 6.0 hrs Carroll county
  ARES Meeting (Aug 4) Prep. = 6 hrs.

• Chatooga-W4LAW: No Activity.

• Floyd-KD4EKZ: 3 members assisted in Northwest Georgia ARC Repeater relocation to permanent structure on Georgia Forestry Site on Mt. Alto. Move will enhance ARES communications in Northwest Georgia.

• Gilmer-KC4GH: Flu Pandemic Presentation Review.

• Gordon-AF4DN: Provided communications for Parade at the Dizzy Dean Baseball World Series for 6 yr olds in Sonoraville.

• Heard-KE4OBM: Studying Heard County to determine activity center(s) 2.0 hrs Recruiting ARES Members (will input into system when [if ever] I can. 2.0 hrs.

• Murray-AI4ZV:  See Whitfield County Report for combined Murray and Whitfield County report.

• Polk-KD4EKZ:  2 Polk ARES members assisted in Northwest Georgia ARC Repeater relocation to permanent structure on Georgia Forestry Site on Mt. Alto. Move will enhance ARES communications in Northwest Georgia.

• Whitfield-AI4ZV: This is a combined Murray and Whitfield County report.

----> SOUTHEAST

• Appling-W4WDT: Planning to start the 2 meter simplex net backup on Sundays at 4pm. I am trying to work on a deal to acquire a 2 meter repeater and frequency pair for Appling County. Contacting local hams to advertise the net and hopefully acquire new ARES members. I am in talks with local EMA director about putting amateur equipment in EOC radio room. I also have two guys wanting to get licensed and involved with ARES.

• Chatham-K4GTM:  1. Weekly 2 Meter Simplex Net at 2030 2. Echolink Node W4SGA-R on 146.700 Repeater 3. Local activity on blog www.k4gtm.blogspot.com

• Toombs-KG4BKO: Reconnected 2 meter and HF station at Toombs County EOC after console renovation.

----> SOUTHWEST

• Baker-K4GCR: Nothing going on!

• Colquitt-K4BEE:  Nothing to report.

• Dougherty-N4GPJ: Planning for SET in October is continuing.

• Echols-AJ4RW: ECARES/LARES had its monthly meeting on July 11, 2009 and lasted for 2 hours. Attendance was 15.

• Grady-KI4RGD: The Thomasville Amateur Radio Club Thursday night NET took a break for the month of July. Therefore, there were no coordinated ARES NETS for Grady County. Grady County ARES efforts took the month of July off.

• Lee-W5VRV: No activity this month.

• Mitchell-N1QJ: We stood down after Field Day. All quiet here.

• Seminole-K4TPD:  Took the month of July off except to do some ARES research on HF nets, operational procedures, etc. Took my test for General Class and passed at Field Day in Thomasville. My Amateur License was upgraded to General Class by the FCC on July 7th. I have been researching HF radios, antennas, and related equipment this month in order to be on the * Thomas-N4KXl: The 16 hrs I have down is for the clean up crew at the Boston repeater site, which we maintain to keep a repeater on that tower. This could very well be used in an emergency!!

----> WEST CENTRAL

• * Troup-K3IMC: Public Service: Blazing Saddles Bike Event Emergency Operation: Local Skywarn during 7/5/09 storm.

No one is in charge of your happiness but you.

NET REPORT DE STM CHARLES PENNINGTON, K4GK

PUBLIC SERVICE HONOR ROLL:

STATION ACTIVITY REPORTS:

Traffic handled (QTC):

NOTE: GA State Net website updated:  www.qsl.net/gsn/

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

Other GREAT nets:
QCWA: Saturdays at 9AM on 3.8575 MHz
SE 6M SSB Net: Sundays at 9 PM on 50.145 MHz
GARS 6M net: Wednesdays at 9PM 53.110/52.110
SE AM Net: Tuesdays at 7:30 PM on 3885 kc (AM nets ALWAYS meet on kcs...)
Hole in the Wall Net: Wednesdays at 9 PM on 50.135 MHz

"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

SECTION NOTABLES

** CONGRATULATIONS to PHILIP NEIDLINGER, KA4KOE, who'll be trading his scoutmaster uniform for a tux on November 6, because he's been booked to provide his special brand of music at this year's third annual "Museum in the Moonlight" gala, to be held at Savannah's Sea Museum from 7-9PM. The promo for this event reads, "Wander through the garden and Museum on a moonlit night, while enjoying refreshments under the tent and live music inside the Museum. As always, the most romantic free event in the city." And how is Philip's music "special", you ask? Philip is an accomplished Thereminist, and he built his beloved theremin with his own two hands. (If you don't know what this is, do a google search. Waaaaay cool.)

** PETE RIKER, K4VKD, carried a bunch of keys to the August Kennehoochee ARC meeting, because he thought he was going to be doing a presentation that night. It's certainly no secret that Pete loves to operate CW, and is always happy to talk about it, and to show off his collection of keys, but what WAS a secret is that the club had something else in mind for him that night. It was a surprise celebration of Pete's amazing FIFTY YEARS in amateur radio.
CONGRATULATIONS, Pete. (I'll bet he's STILL smiling.)

** August 10 was a bittersweet evening for Georgia. That's when the city of Macon met at City Hall to celebrate the many years of dedicated service, and (alas) the retirement of our friend and long-time EMA director JOHNNY WINGERS, WX4R.  CONGRATULATIONS, Johnny. You did an awesome job. We all wish you an awesome retirement.

** Here's a very special, though early, HAPPY BIRTHDAY wish for PAUL CRAM, K4IO, of Mansfield, GA, who will be celebrating his 100^th birthday on November 23. This dear man was introduced to amateur radio in 1925 when he saw a spark transmitter for the first time, and he says that amateur radio continues to "spark" his interest today. I'm sure that all of Georgia joins me in wishing you a happy birthday, dear sir.

Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.

THIS 'N' THAT

** The following was posted on a club reflector by CHUCK CATLEDGE, AE4CW: For those of you plagued by RF in the wrong place (if you haven't yet, you will be!!), this article is a must read. It's somewhat long and very comprehensive.  But, the table of contents helps zero in on your problem(s) and the solution(s).  It's one of the two best I've ever seen on this common problem.  Give it a look and file it away in your favorites for future reference!
http://www.yccc.org/Articles/W1HIS/CommonModeChokesW1HIS2006Apr06.pdf

• NEW 10M NET --- Welcome to the "Laryngitis Net". Thanks to some Murray county hams, this new net meets at 0000Z every Wednesday night on 28.380 MHz. As the name suggests, participants in this just for fun net are welcome to talk 'til they get hoarse. It's a check in, and roundtable rag chew net, and if there's a band opening, so much the better. All are welcome to participate. (info de DREW MCCARSKY, KB2SEO)

• NEW 15M NET --- Also on Wednesday evenings at 0000Z is a new 15M net.  Started by JAMES CARMODY, NN5O, of Houston TX in an attempt to stimulate activity on 15M, the format is similar to 10-10, in that each participant will be issued a number, but unlike 10-10, there is no charge. Look for this net around 21.290-21.295 MHz.

** UPCOMING CLASSES:

ALPHARETTA - The North Fulton Amateur Radio League will be offering both Technician and General HamCram classes on October 3rd, at two separate locations, beginning at 8:00 AM, and concluding with a post-class VE session. Registration is required by September 12 to allow adequate time for participants to read the prerequisite study materials. You can register, and find additional information, at www.nfarl.org/hamcram

CUMMING -- FORSYTH ARES will be offering Technician and General Amateur Radio classes at the Cumming Police Station, just south of downtown Cumming, beginning October 17th. Classes will be held on five consecutive Saturdays from 9-11:30, followed by a VE session on November 21. To register for one of these classes, and for additional information, please go to http://forsythares.org/ARES/?page_id=12

GAINESVILLE --- The Hall county EMA, Hall county ARES, and the Tri-County ARC will be conducting a one-day ham cram technician class on Saturday, September 19, at the Hall county EOC, 470 Crescent Drive, from 8AM until 4PM, with a VE session to be held at the end of class. (photo ID required) Interested students can register by going to www.HallCountyARES.com The cut-off date for registration is September 17. For additional info, please contact MICHAEL CROWDER, AA4BA, at aa4ba@arrl.net

HOUSTON -- HamCram Sessions for both technician and general class licensing will be held from 8AM until 4PM at the Houston Medical Center (in the basement of the new tower) on Saturday September 12th, with a VE test to follow at 4PM. To register, please contact WIL PEREZ, NM4W at nm4w@live.net

• SUCCESSFUL CLASS - STEVE GARRISON, N4SEG, taught a multi-week technician class recently, and thanks to his efforts, TEN new technicians passed their tests with flying colors, including the Operations Chief for the Dekalb county EMA. She was so impressed that she now wants him to teach another class, which will be sponsored by Dekalb EMA. Success breeds success, and as Steve put it, "No rest for the weary." Kudos to Steve, and to all of our other instructors, too, who work so hard to increase the footprint of amateur radio throughout the state. Thank you all.

• Georgia D-Star has released its second newsletter. You can download it at http://www.dstarinfo.com/Newsletter/

• Proving that it's possible to be serious contesters while having some serious fun, the SEDXC team won the Multi/Multi category in the ARRL SSB contest for the second year in a row. Last year, they operated from TI50DX; and this year, PJ2T. Next year, who knows? But my money's on them pulling off a three-peat.

Frame every so-called disaster with these words: "In five years, will this matter?"

UPCOMING EVENTS

SEPTEMBER is National Preparedness Month. According to the Department of Homeland Security website (www.dhs.gov/dhspublic/) "The goal of National Preparedness Month is to increase public awareness about the importance of preparing for emergencies and to encourage individuals to take action." A prime time for your club to set up an amateur radio demonstration in your area. www.ready.gov

SEPTEMBER 4-6 --- SHELBY (NC) Hamfest, the "granddaddy of 'em all". For details, please see http://www.shelbyHamfest.org

SEPTEMBER 2-9 --- HPM/140 special operating event. In celebration of what would have been Hiram Percy Maxim's 140th birthday, the ARRL is sponsoring this event, in which certain operators are authorized to add /140 after their call sign. Who? HQ staff, ARRL life members, directors, vice directors, SMs, field appointees, etc. Work at least 25 /140 stations to earn a certificate. For more info, please see page 20 of the September QST.

SEPTEMBER 5-6 --- All Asia SSB Contest. 0000Z Sept -2400Z Sept 6 80-10M. www.jarl.or.jp/English

SEPTEMBER 12 --- PRATER'S MILL tailgating swapfest, 7 miles north of Dalton at Varnell, GA, on highway 2. Sponsored by the Dalton ARC, this one is FREE. As they like to put it, "No tests, no tickets, no tables"... but ALWAYS lots of fun. (come EARLY!)

SEPTEMBER 12-13 --- Work All Europe SSB DX Contest. 0000Z Sept 12-2400Z
Sept 13. 80-10M waedc.de SEPTEMBER 13--- N.A. CW Sprint. 0000Z-0400Z. 80-20M. www.ncjweb.com

SEPTEMBER 12-14 --- ARRL VHF QSO party. 1800Z September 12-0300Z
September 14. 6M+, all modes. www.arrl.org/contests for more info

SEPTEMBER 19 --- Paulding ARC's 19th annual Hamfest, 8AM until 4PM, at Paulding Meadows Park about 2 miles north of the Paulding County Courthouse on Highway 61. (Dallas, GA) Mostly tailgating, but several booths are available on a first come, first serve basis. Great place to spend a pleasant day. Talk-in: 146.895+/77Hz PL tone. VE testing. http://pauldingarc.com

SEPTEMBER 19-20 --- QCWA Fall QSO party. 1800Z Sept 19-1800Z Sept 20. 160-10M and 6M+, all modes. For more info, please see qcwa.org/qso-party-rules.htm

SEPTEMBER 20 --- N.A. SSB Sprint. 0000Z-0400Z. 80-20M. www.ncjweb.com

SEPTEMBER 20-21--- Classic Exchange, from 1300Z Sept 20-0700Z Sept 21. (CW) Where it's an advantage to rotate multiple rigs on the air, and the older, the better. 160-10M, 6M, 2M. qsl.asti.com/CX/

SEPTEMBER 25-26 --- Ten-Tec Hamfest. Sevierville, TN. Friday 2-7PM; Saturday, 9AM-2PM. FREE. At Ten-Tec, Inc, 1185 Dolly Parton Parkway.
For more information, and to pre-register for door prizes, see http://radio.tentec.com/Hamfest/

SEPTEMBER 27-28 --- Classic Exchange, from 1300Z Sept 27-0700Z Sept 28. (AM, SSB, FM)

OCTOBER 3 --- SET

OCTOBER 3 --- The first LaGrange ARC Hamfest, 8AM- 1PM. Oakside Baptist Church gym, 1921 Hamilton Rd. TI 146.7 (PL 141.3) For more info, please see www.lagrangeradioclub.org

OCTOBER 10 --- ARC of Augusta Hamfest

OCTOBER 17 --- NW GA ARC'S AL BROCK Memorial Hamfest & Tailgate Party (Rome)

OCTOBER 17-18 --- JOTA

NOVEMBER 7-8 --- Alford Memorial ARC Hamfest (Lawrenceville)

When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.

MEMORIES OF A SILENT KEY

Several years ago, RUDDY ELLIS, W4LNG, wrote me a brief recollection about amateur radio in Atlanta during the 40s and 50s, which he then okayed for inclusion in one of our GA section newsletters. One of the hams Ruddy mentioned in that article was BOB CARTER, W4IRL, who, unfortunately, became an SK in July. Now, Ruddy shares some more memories of W4IRL, providing us with another brief glimpse of history:

When I was attending Georgia Tech in 1946, the Army ROTC had a code room. There was a long bench down the center with cubicles along each side. In each one was a hand key and headphones. Bob Carter, W4IRL, was also in school. He obtained permission from the ROTC to conduct code classes in the room for anyone interested. For receiving, he played punched paper tapes on an old machine. We sat in the cubicles with phones on and a pad to copy on.

For sending, he would play a tape or send to us by hand. We each had a copy of the text so we could send in step with what we were hearing. It may be that we heard the tape in one ear and our own sending in the other!

I was saddened to read of Bob's passing in the Georgia Tech Alumni Magazine and then in the Sept. QST. Bob gave a lot of own time to help me and others learn the code. I passed my class B exam at the FCC Atlanta office and was issued W4LNG in Feb. 1947.

I think that my other "Elmers" are also SK. Some were HOWARD PARRISH, W4IEO, and INGRAM "DICK" DICKENSON, W4IKJ. My high school buddy  DURHAM SCHANE became W4IYG, another was ELLIS BRYANT, W4IJA. Also was LOYCE TURNER, W4KIP.

All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.

SILENT KEYS

ROBERT TERRELL, JR. WD4DJG
RALPH "TY" TYRRELL W1TF

Heartfelt condolences to the families and friend 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.

No trees were killed in the sending of this message.
Alas, some terribly inconvenienced electrons got a wee bit fed up and ran amok. Terrible, just terrible.