Thursday, February 19, 2015

February 2015 Edition of the Ohio Section Journal




In this issue:

-> HOT OFF THE PRESSES

-> DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME BEGINS

-> AFFILIATED CLUB COORDINATOR REPORT

-> FROM THE SECTION EMERGENCY COORDINATOR

-> FAR SCHOLARSHIP INVITES APPLICATIONS

-> FROM THE PIC

-> 2015 ARRL OHIO SECTION NEWSLETTER CONTEST RULES

-> FROM THE SECTION TRAFFIC MANAGER

-> OUT AND ABOUT IN SOUTHEAST OHIO

-> SOUTHWEST OHIO HAPPENINGS

-> FROM THE TECHNICAL COORDINATOR

-> FROM THE STATE GOVERNMENT LIAISON

-> FROM THE EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH ASM

-> LET'S TALK

-> FROM THE OFFICIAL OBSERVER COORDINATOR

-> FROM THE “SARGE” (W8SGT) STATE OF OHIO EOC

-> 102nd ANNIVERSARY OF AMATEUR RADIO IN DISASTER SERVICE

-> SPECIAL EVENT STATIONS IN OHIO

-> OHIO HAMFEST CALENDAR

-> FINAL.. FINAL..

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HOT OFF THE PRESSES..
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Reprinted from ARRL Newsfeed - 02/17/2015


FCC “Paperless” Amateur Radio License Policy Now in Effect

Starting February 17 (Tuesday), the FCC no longer routinely issues paper license documents to Amateur Radio applicants and licensees. The Commission maintains that the official Amateur Radio license authorization is the electronic record that exists in its Universal Licensing System (ULS), although the FCC had routinely continued to print and mail hard copy licenses until this week.

In mid-December, the FCC adopted final procedures to provide access to official electronic authorizations, as it had proposed in WT Docket 14-161 as part of its “process reform” initiatives. Under the new procedures, licensees will access their current official authorization (“Active” status only) via the ULS License Manager.

The FCC will continue to provide paper license documents to all licensees who notify the Commission that they prefer to receive one. Licensees will also be able to print out an official authorization — as well as an unofficial “reference copy” — from the ULS License Manager.

“We find this electronic process will improve efficiency by simplifying access to official authorizations in ULS, shortening the time period between grant of an application and access to the official authorization, and reducing regulatory costs,” the FCC Wireless Telecommunications Bureau (WTB) said. According to the WTB, the new procedures will save at least $304,000 a year, including staff expenses.

IMPORTANT TO KNOW..  The ULS License Manager now permits licensees to change the default setting so that the Bureau will print and mail a license document.

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DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME BEGINS

Yes folks, that’s right, even though your Freezing Your Acorns off right now, Sunday March 8th will begin that absolutely wonderful loss of an hours sleep so that you can have a little more sunshine to go with the below zero weather your experiencing!!

I’ve added this note so that none of you would miss the opportunity of losing that valuable hour of sleep. After all, misery just LOVES company.

Look at the bright side of this… Summer is only 4 months away.

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AFFILIATED CLUBS COORDINATOR REPORT
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By: John Myers, KD8MQ - ACC
kd8mq@arrl.net

Hi everyone,

Seems we have a bit of a disagreement between Punxsutawney Phil, and Buckeye Chuck, as to the
arrival of spring. As I’m writing this, the thermometer says -7 degrees outside. I’m not sure which rodent needs to be cooked first, but. . . .

Anyhow, for those who braved the weather, and made it to the Mansfield Hamfest, I salute you. Temps were brutal, to say the least. I intended to be there, but just too darn cold! I did manage to make it to the Nelsonville Hamfest in January, and had a great time! Good crowd, and very friendly.

Moving on, looking at the latest numbers from the club database, I’m happy to see more & more of you coming up to date on your club paperwork. Out of 99 clubs listed in the Ohio Section, about two thirds of you are up to date on your annual club reports to the league. We are still far from 100%, but I’m happy to see things moving in the right direction.

To beat the drum a little more, the league requires annual updates to your club record as a condition of affiliation. They aren’t sitting on the trigger, waiting for you to be one day late. But in time, they will drop your club off of the “active club” list if you neglect this important task.

In last month’s column, I spelled out the advantages of keeping your affiliation current. It really does take just minutes to do this online. If you have any questions, just drop me an e-mail (kd8mq@arrl.net), and I’ll do my best to answer them.

So, a stranger walks into your monthly club meeting. What do you do? Ignore them, or welcome them? If you’re smart, you’ll welcome them. We’ve all read the horror stories out there where the prospective club member shows up to a club meeting, only to be ignored. Not only won’t they be back, but likely won’t have anything good to say about that club to their friends.

It’s up to every one of us to be an ambassador not only for Ham Radio, but for our clubs too. If you put your best foot forward, it will pay future benefits.

I was at a club event recently, and couldn’t help noticing how this club treated newcomers. A fellow came out who was licensed, but inactive. The newcomer was made to feel welcome, and included. I bet that they’ll be seeing him again.

We have the following clubs to congratulate this month.
First, let’s welcome a new club, the Kenton Amateur Radio Club. They are in the western part of the state, based in Hardin County.

Next, I’d like to welcome back the Tusco Amateur Radio Club. They are in the East Central part of the state, in Tuscarawas County. They were off the list for a short time, but are back.

Club news from around the state

-The Dayton ARA recently held a Chili Cook-off.

-Congratulations to Chris, KD8TNF, Massillon ARC’s Ham Of The Year. Massillon has a full schedule of club programs & activities scheduled for 2015. They recently held their second Mentoring class, where they hold a Saturday morning in-depth class on various subjects; the most recent being a group build on offset attenuators for Radio direction Finding. With all this going on, is it any surprise to learn that they are a Special Service Club?

-The Mt. Vernon ARC has started off the new year with a record number of students in their Technician classes. They are also planning to participate in the Ohio ARES NVIS Antenna day scheduled for April 25th.

-From the Mahoning valley ARA newsletter, Mark, K8MSH hits on an excellent point in his editorial. To quote him, “Get involved in your local club. Pick an activity--even if it's just one--in which to participate or lead. Offer to do a program, teach a class, become a VE, serve on a committee, or help plan a club activity.”

-The Pioneer Amateur Radio Fellowship is again doing their bus trip to the Dayton Hamvention.

-The western Reserve ARC will be sponsoring a spud gun build this year.

-From the Cincinnati FM Club, we see an interesting story by N8XX about his trip to Hell (Michigan).

-Northern Ohio ARS recently had a club program on three SDR Radios.

-Also, congratulations to the Alliance ARC Ham Of The Year, Tomas, KC8ZEH

And that wraps it up for another month. Stay warm, and have fun!!


Till next time, 73 DE KD8MQ

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FROM THE SECTION EMERGENCY COORDINATOR
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By Stan Broadway, N8BHL
broadways@standi.com

Spring is on the way!

I offer that to counter the mid-winter blah’s that we often get in this part of the country. But it’s true- spring is coming with a lot to offer ARES in Ohio!

We’re nailing down the specifics for the All-Ohio ARES Conference. It’s scheduled for April 11 at
the Ohio Fire Marshall’s Conference Center, 8895 E. Main St, Reynoldsburg, OH. That’s a little drive east from Reynoldsburg. Our aim has been to make this a training session, with information you can take home and be really glad you came. Our keynote speakers will be from the joint FBI/Homeland/Police “Fusion Center” and the training will be on anti-terrorism. I’ve seen these experts before, and I have to tell you I had trouble sleeping for a couple nights when I heard what all was going on right here in Ohio! We will learn eight signs of terrorism- and since hams communicate for all the major populated events in our state, we need to be more than just ‘aware’ we need to be active and trained! We have representatives of the Red Cross to talk about their renewed interest in partnering with ARES hams. Of course, we’ll have some important internal discussions: the re-written Ohio Section Emergency Response Plan (OSERP), the launch of the Ohio ARESMAT program, the Ohio OARS database, and a few administrative details. There are more speakers on the agenda as well and not to be overlooked is the group from Ashtabula County to detail our Ohio NVIS Antenna Day. Pre-registration for the conference is on the ARRL-Ohio website, and they are coming in good numbers. There is a seating limit of around 125-140 so don’t wait! Bring your go-box, and your comm vehicle for the show!

April 25 is another great day in the Ohio Section! That is the Ohio NVIS antenna day. You should know the drill by now- put together your concepts of what a good NVIS antenna should be like, and get together to actually try them out! Starting at 10AM, this is not exactly a contest, but it’s designed to get as many counties in Ohio on the air at once, all testing antennas and communications with each other. Since we’ve been written up in ARRL’s national news, I have received numerous inquiries from as far away as Texas! I think this is going to be just a fun way to get together, play and test in our hobby, and munch some great burgers!

The most important thing we can do until spring breaks is TRAIN! Our recent activation when 911 service dropped for six Ohio counties showed that it ~can~ happen to you and when it does it’ll come quickly! Our county EC’s and volunteers did a great job- ham radio was absolutely a star in this real-life event that paralleled our last SEC almost to the letter. So bring in your EMA Directors, Red Cross managers, safety officers and get some training in stuff that happens when there is a disaster! We should know how to operate radios- but we’ll be much more useful if we are familiar with NIMS, ICS, and our local officials.

This is also a great time to make contact with the representatives of the public service activities that we cover. Make sure you have email, telephone and other contact information up to date, get the right dates for when your activities will be held this year, and make an early contact to get in on their planning process!

I sincerely appreciate all you do for your neighbors, and for the Ohio Section!


73, Stan, N8BHL

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FAR SCHOLARSHIP INVITES APPLICATIONS
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The non-profit Foundation for Amateur Radio (FAR) invites applications for the Amateur Radio-related scholarships it administers. These academic awards are sponsored by individuals and by Amateur Radio clubs across the US. The FAR scholarship application process is open to Amateur Radio licensees worldwide. For 2015 FAR is administering 67 scholarships worth an aggregate $125,500. The list includes 36 Quarter Century Wireless Association scholarships worth a total of $77,000 for 2015 (these require a recommendation from a QCWA member). Individual awards range from $500 to $5000. Applications are due by March 30, 2015.

The preferred method to apply is to enter the required information into the electronic form on the FAR website. Information entered on the form goes directly into an encrypted, password-protected PDF file that is available only to the review committee. Raw data are not stored online. Applicants will have an opportunity to print their applications and to edit them.

The application cannot be downloaded and completed, however. Applicants who are unable or unwilling to use the online application should contact Dave Prestel, W8AJR. FAR may be able to provide an alternate form of the application.

Official or unofficial transcripts may be submitted but are not required; it is preferred that these documents be scanned into PDF files, if they are to be submitted via e-mail. Schools that prefer to mail paper copies should send them to FAR Scholarships, PO Box 911, Columbia, MD 21044.

Visit the FAR Scholarship Information page or contact FAR, if you have questions about the 2015 scholarship application process.

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FROM THE PIC
--------------------
By John Ross, KD8IDJ
john.ross3@worldnet.att.net

Short Circuits

Hi Everyone...instead of one long article this month I thought I would pass along several "shorts" that might be of interest!


First...I received several emails on last month's article about the hams at the Ohio Veterans Home in Sandusky. They are a great bunch of guys doing a lot of good things.

I misidentified Joe Paluh, KB3LUE, as a Vietnam Veteran. He is actually a Granada Veteran. Sorry Joe. You'll be hearing and seeing more about these folks pretty soon.

Second...One of the great joys working at a company like AT&T is there are hundreds of ham radio operators spread all across the country. I talk with many each day and now I'm working on a story about how AT&T hams actually helped invent most of the technology we use today. The Old MA Bell was built on experimenting with technology and then making it the standard main stream systems we still use today. Who better to do that than ham radio operators!! I've got a growing list of almost 200 AT&T hams and if you are an old Bell System employee...or know someone who was...email me. This is really a big deal. Ham radio and telephony pretty much paralleled each other for more than 100 years. After all, the cell system that everyone marvels at today...is really just a repeater system! And we all know who pretty much invented that technology!

Third... WOW! The newsletter contest is in high gear and it's only February! Keep sending your clubs' newsletters...printed or electronic. I really do read them all. We'll judge them in June and have another list of great winners at the August HamFest.

Fourth...The Weather! As we move though this crummy cold and snow the active tornado season is right around the corner. Each year I try to get to one of the National Weather Services/Emergency Management Agency weather spotter training events. A lot of good information is presented that I can take back to work and pass along to co-workers. It's also a great way to meet and talk to other hams...and to folks who would like to be hams! If you have the time check one out.

Fifth...Your Ham Shack! I thought we needed to liven up the PIC section so, starting this month, we'll be featuring pictures and stories about members' ham shacks, operating areas or end-table control centers! I remember the first shack I saw when I was 10. It was tucked away in a basement corner complete with lights, switches and glowing tubes. And the smell, or aroma, was hypnotic! I can still remember that smell...ozone, burning tubes, dust or whatever it was... was a part of luring me to ham radio.

So, first up this month is the incredible shack of Ohio Section ARES Coordinator Stan Broadway, N8BHL. Check out the photo (viewed from website version only) and the story below and start sending me pictures of your shack and brief story of its evolution.

Stan’s hamshack.
I have a ~very~ understanding wife. Let me explain. I was very active in the 80’s and 90’s but a divorce, apartment living and all that put the stops on my hobby for about 15 years. I did run a little HF mobile but mostly chased storms on two meters. After 2005 I found myself out in the country, with lots of room. I started thinking about that prized radio still on the shelf after all these years. The 1982 Yaesu FT-102 has developed a cult following (its receiver is the design for the FT1000) and a retired cardiac surgeon (NC4L) was the go-to FT-102 specialist to make this one sing opera again. So with a pile of tower, antenna and leftover stuff behind the barn, I figured I could establish a station for about $500. After digging through the pile, I discovered the tower was there, but the boom to my beautiful Hy-quad beam was missing. I had two rotor controllers, ~but no rotors (!)~ apparently lost in several moves. So in a short time I added a nice used-in-the-box Force12 beam, the FT-102 and my old homebrew sweep tube amp. Even though the 160 full-wave Delta Loop didn’t cost much, needless to say my original estimate proved to be just a little low.

I soon added an Icom Pro II and a Dentron amp to be more consistent in signal, after joining the Hurricane Watch Net as a controller. Later, I traded off my motorcycle in favor of a used K-3. My most recent addition has been a nice Swan Mark II full-power amp. Since I do a lot of digital radio, and since the Hurricane Net uses Internet back-channels to communicate between operators, I dedicated a couple surplus PC’s and some monitors to the project.

Like most, I started in the basement with my modest shack. That changed with the reality that kids grow up…and move out! When they do that, they leave bedrooms empty and I seized an opportunity to make one into my radio room. I was still on a budget and found excellent operating tables could be made from finishing a pair of interior doors, resting on some shelving. (They’re deeper than desks, affording more writing room in front of the rigs.) Since I am on the second floor, I ran all the coax through a closet to the attic and out to the tower. So I have been blessed with a great environment, and some great radios. Now- the challenge is to make it past the Computers, email, club and SEC duties to actually get on the air! I did just grab Navassa on ten, so I’m not completely a hermit when it comes to operating. I don’t have the warehouse of gear that many have who’ve been active for a long time, but I think I’ll stay with this stuff for a while.
 


Finally... now for brief musical interlude...when you can, grab a copy and listen to Glen Campbell's Wichita Lineman. Right after the main refrain..."and the Wichita Lineman is still on the line"...the violins begin pounding out...MORSE CODE!!! No kidding. Listen carefully and see how good you can copy Violin Code in 4/4 time!!!


73, John, KD8IDJ

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2015 ARRL OHIO SECTION NEWSLETTER CONTEST RULES
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Here the rules for the 2015 entries:

A.) An eligible newsletter must be regularly published at least four (4) times per year by an Ohio
Amateur Radio organization. The Ohio Section Journal and the newsletter for any club that the current PIC is affiliated with are not eligible.
 
B.) Each organization submitting a newsletter for the contest must enter at least two (2) issues starting with January 2015 for judging. All Amateur organizations that have regularly been sending newsletters to the Ohio PIC are automatically entered (as long as these publications qualify under rule A, or C if applicable). Unless you are automatically entered, the deadline for entries is Tuesday, June 30, 2015, and all entries must be in the hands of the Ohio PIC by that date.

C.) Electronic (Web based) produced newsletters may also enter. Non-amateurs, in the Public Relations industry will do the judging. They will be judging on style (15%), content (35%), service to membership (35%), and clarity of presentation (15%). Style means newsletter design of all pages. Content means amount of useful information contained in the newsletter. Service to members means amount of information using individual members' names. Clarity of presentation means readability of the newsletter including accuracy of English grammar.

D.) No entries can be returned and all decisions of the judges on content and eligibility are final. The Ohio PIC only serves to certify entries, to provide the judges with entries, and to announce their decisions only.

E.) The decision of the judges is final.

Like last year we are keeping our Honorable Mention categories. It allows the judges to award special and unique efforts.

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FROM THE SECTION TRAFFIC MANAGER
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By: David Maynard, WA3EZN - STM
wa3ezn@att.net

By the time you read this the Mansfield Mid-Winter Hamfest will be over. I wanted so much to attend but the cold weather forecast and a deep family commitment kept me away. I hope everyone attending had fun and got home safely.

NEW NET MANAGER

On the CW side of traffic handling Bob Zimmerman W8OLO has stepped up to become the new Ohio Slow Net manager effective January first. I thank him for taking over the reins and doing the fine job that he is doing. I also would like to thank Henry Koenig WD8Q for his many years of service as the net manager and thank both of them for their service to the National Traffic System as excellent traffic handlers. If you are not aware of this net brush up or learn CW and join in the fun on 3.53535 daily at 18:00. They will slow down to your speed while you get accustomed to CW and build up you own speed.

WEATHER SPOTTER REMINDER

Next month is March and that means there will be multiple weather spotter training sessions all over the state of Ohio. These training sessions and a good weather alert radio or cell phone alert app are two of the steps you can take to help protect yourself and your family if a severe weather situation arises. Some sessions require pre-registration and this can be accomplished on the NWS website. Below is the information from the NWS website in Wilmington.

If you are going to attend the session at the OSU Fawcett Event Center in Columbus on March 7th stop by the Central Ohio Traffic Net table at the center and say hello. The COTN is planning on recruiting traffic handlers at the session.

NWS WILMINGTON OHIO 2015 SPOTTER TRAINING SCHEDULE
Classes are free and open to the public, but some may require advanced registration. You do not need to be a resident of the county in which a talk is being held in order to attend. Each class lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours and is led by a National Weather Service meteorologist who will discuss techniques and safety for severe weather spotting. Once you attend a class, you are an officially trained spotter and can report severe weather to your NWS office.

We are still working with county emergency managers to finalize a few training classes for the 2015 schedule. Please check back periodically for complete details.



ARES NVIS ANTENNA TEST

In support of the antenna test I offer this information to all Amateur Radio Operators.

On April 25 the Ohio ARES is planning a NVIS ANTENNA DAY. It would be an excellent time for all traffic handlers to join in this test even if you are not an ARES member. And speaking of ARES membership I encourage all traffic handlers to seek out the ARES in your area and join so you can be better prepared to assist in the event of a disaster in your area.

You should be working now on antennas to try out during the event! For more information check out this ARES link http://arrl-ohio.org/SEC/ . There is more NVIS information and some excellent antenna plans so you can build your own NVIS antenna. One advantage of this antenna is that you will not need a tower or to climb anything to install these antennas as they are all low to ground level antennas.

HOW NVIS WORKS

If you don’t know what NVIS is it stands for Near Vertical Incidence Skywave. RF is launched at a high elevation angle and is refracted back to earth.



Notice that unlike a signal launched at a low angle for DX, the NVIS signal returns to the ground close to the antenna.

NVIS is well suited to regional emergency communication. Reliable NVIS communications are possible out to distances of approximately 300 miles. This means that a small number of NVIS stations are required to provide a statewide network. Amateurs can quickly establish communications using NVIS after a natural disaster because NVIS uses readily available HF equipment and simple antenna that can be constructed from readily available materials and do not require towers or other special types of mounting. CW, SSB and various HF digital modes all can be used with NVIS.

Credits:

The weather spotter information is from the NWS Wilmington website. Portions of and the NVIS illustration are from the ARRL website.

In addition to the NVIS info at the ARES link (http://arrl-ohio.org/SEC/ ) here are a couple more good links:





That is all for this month. I have provided the information above instead of more traffic handling information this month because of the high importance of the two events. I hope that all have a chance to get involved in these very worthwhile activities.


73 for now, David, WA3EZN

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OUT AND ABOUT IN SOUTHEAST OHIO
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By: Lyn Alfman, N8IMW - Assistant Section Manager (SE)
lynalfman@aol.com

The weather the last month has made traveling a challenge since I live in the “outback.” However, I
did make it to the Sunday Creek Amateur Radio Federation’s hamfest in Nelsonville on January 18. That was the first time that I had attended that hamfest, and I was quite impressed at the amount of vendors and attendees. Section Manager Scott Yonally, N8SY, and Affiliated Club Coordinator John Myers, KD8MQ, were also in attendance. We had a pleasant encounter when former Section Manager Frank Piper, KI8GW, dropped by.

I attended the Cambridge Amateur Radio Association and the Zanesville Amateur Radio Club meetings where I promoted the ARRL Elmer Award. I reminded the members that it was not too early to start planning a location for their ARRL Field Day exercise.

District 9 Emergency Coordinator Sonny Alfman, W8FHF; Guernsey County EC Dick Wayt, WD8SDH; and his AECs Bruce Homer, N8JMK; Mark Jenei, KC8SBB; and Larry Dukes, KD8QYV, and I attended an Everbridge Citizen Notification training session at the Guernsey County EMA office to learn how to set up an A. R. E. S. ® group notification. I am a member of the Guernsey County A. R. E. S. ®, and I needed the training since I am the EMA Director’s backup PIO.

I attended the Muskingum County A. R. E. S. ® meeting where Section Emergency Coordinator Stan Broadway, K8BHL, welcomed the new Muskingum County EC Liz Nichols, KC8SIQ. Also in attendance were several neighboring counties’ ECs and AECs, who wanted to meet SEC Broadway. Stan put on a nice program on “My First SOS” and the role and organization of A.R.E.S. ®.

I plan on attending the Mansfield Hamfest on February 15, weather permitting. Hopefully spring will arrive before long!


73, Lyn, N8IMW

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SOUTHWEST OHIO HAPPENINGS
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From: Kitty Hevener, W8TDA - Assistant Section Manager (SW)
w8tda@arrl.net

CLASSES AND EXAM OPPORTUNITIES
The Monday Morning Memo reports that the Wilmington National Weather Bureau is scheduling spotter training classes. This year many counties are being combined for training purposes. The schedule can be found on the Wilmington NWS web site. http://www.weather.gov/iln/spottertrainingschedule

The Greene County Amateur Radio License Courses, jointly sponsored by the three Greene County amateur radio clubs (Bellbrook, Fairborn and Xenia) and Greene County ARES, started on Sunday, February 8 and will run through April 12. All classes begin promptly at 7:00 and end at 9:00 PM. There will be no classes on Easter Sunday, April 5th. A Greene County VE Test Session is scheduled for Sunday, April 19th at 6:00 PM. To register for one of the courses or for more information, please contact Bill Watson K8WEW, Green County License courses Coordinator by email at wwatson4@att.net

Rob Lindsay, W8MRL reports that the Butler County Amateur Radio Association (BCARA) will offer an amateur radio operator's license examination session beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2015 at the Fairfield Township Police Department, 6485 Vonnie Vail Ct., Hamilton, Ohio. Exams are FREE. Walk-ins welcome - Preregistration is not required. Additional information may be obtained from Thurl Golden, KD8VLU, (513-939-4891) or Carl Morgan, K8CM, (513-422-9384)

PUBLIC SERVICE
According to Rob Lindsay, W8MRl, Butler County Amateur Radio Association members Thurl - KD8VLU, Charlie - K8CLC, Mindi - KC8CKW, Kevin - W8KJ and Terry - KD8ULM brought a taste of amateur radio to residents of the One Way Farm Children’s Home in Fairfield Ohio. During the Jan 24 event, children ranging in age from 10 to 17, learned the science of radio, deployed a wire dipole and assembled a ground mounted antenna. Perhaps the highlight of the day was the opportunity that the children had to talk with Stu, MM0BSM in Scotland.

Steve Lewis, N8TFD, advises that volunteer registration for the 2015 Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon is now open. Anyone interested in assisting as a ham radio volunteer is urged to contact him at (513-985-9844-home).

MAXIMIZING YOUR RESOURCES
It’s the last minute and you are still hoping and praying that somehow you will get enough volunteers to provide communications for your marathon, bike-a-thon, parade, etc. Sound familiar? Imagine only needing to put out one call for help for that special event, and getting far more volunteers than you need. It’s possible, especially if you play your cards right!

Chances are newly licensed hams and those who have recently moved to your area or who are visiting may step up to the plate. Some of these volunteers may likely be disabled. This is because people with disabilities now make up a large and rapidly growing segment of our population. And, as we all know, Amateur Radio is the great equalizer.

If you feel uncomfortable interacting with folks that are disabled, you’re not alone. Just remember that people with disabilities are people first, just like you. They may do things a little differently, but as long as they can get the job done, and do it effectively, that’s all that really matters, right? For example, you read with your eyes, a person who is blind, will most likely read with their fingers, or have an electronic reader that will speak to them. As long as the communication gets through correctly, what’s the difference in how it got through!

The following three keys have led to many successes in working with volunteers who may or may not have disabilities. Implement them, and watch your volunteers come back again and again.

Get To Know Your Volunteers
What do your volunteers want to do? Are they interested in fulfilling a community service requirement? Do they wish to build their resume? Perhaps they want to make a difference. Are they motivated by the recognition that comes with a job well done? Or, perhaps they simply enjoy the social interaction and fun that comes from participation.

Determine Your Volunteers’ Strengths
Once you know a person’s strengths, it’s possible to play into them. In doing so however, you may find it necessary to make small changes in your assignments/ activities. Your willingness to make these small changes will make all the difference as to how effective your volunteers with disabilities can excel.

For example, suppose you need a net control who can direct the operation of the net, and keep an accurate log of net activities on a specific form which can only be accessed through a computer system. And, the radio equipment available is setup for someone who is sighted only (no talkie chip). Initially it may seem impossible for a ham who is not sighted to be able to function as Net Control, even though they have the experience to perform the Net Control task very well. Hold on! Before you send that talent packing, determine if making a minor change to assignment would allow this person to do the task after all. Nothing says that all the duties of a Net Control has to be done by just one person, or for that matter even a licensed ham. So, why not split up the duties if you can? Assign the task of directing the operation of the net to your experienced volunteer ham, who also happens to be blind in this case. Assign the sighted duties to the non-ham who can perform those duties. This setup will enhance your overall operating efficiency, since everyone involved can be more focused on their specific tasks. It also gives a non-ham the ability to participate in an activity that they wouldn’t ordinarily be allowed to participate in as well!

Now you have just put two people to work that might not have ever been asked to participate in the first place. What a WIN – WIN opportunity. Now, so far the discussion has been tilted toward just sighted / non-sighted persons.. What about someone with missing digits or limbs? There are an awful lot of soldiers coming home with just such disabilities. They have a lot of experience in handling difficult and strenuous (even life threating) situations. Are you going to turn all this experience away? Sometimes the knobs on the radios are so small, or situated in a location that they cannot be manipulated by someone with prosthetics. This too is where you can excel. By allowing an additional person to help out, you again have a WIN – WIN situation.
This is by no means the only accommodations one can make to maximize the benefits of talented resources. There are many, many more. In most cases, if you just ask the person with a disability what can you do, they will tell you exactly what it takes to make it possible for them to participate.

It is also recognized that not every situation allows for an additional person to be involved. Sometimes it just isn’t possible.. but when it is possible, especially when you have non-ham volunteers that are just chomping at the bit to help, this is an excellent way to get the extra resources that you sometimes need. You know, if this experience for the non-ham is a positive one, it just might be the “push” it takes to get a good trained ham in the future as well.

Recognize Your Volunteers’ Contributions
Finally, don’t forget to acknowledge your volunteers for their contributions that helped make your event a resounding success. This holds true for every occasion. We all work for “positive strokes.” It’s only human to want to hear that you’ve done a good job, especially if you have.

By following these simple keys, your volunteers (those with and without disabilities) will likely come back again.

In closing, FEMA Administrator, Craig Fugate, (KK4INZ) reminds us that “In a disaster, we need Amateur Radio operators of all abilities who can support their communities in their time of need. As an Amateur Radio operator, you can play a key role in your community’s response and recovery from disaster. But we can only do that if we are prepared and trained.”

Want to know more? Contact me, I’ll be happy to talk to you, or your organization about how this WIN – WIN opportunity can be utilized to its fullest. You can also contact the HandiHams or consult the ARRL Public Service Handbook for more information.

73, Kitty, W8TDA

****************************************************

NOTES FROM THE TECHNICAL COORDINATOR
----------------------------------------------------------------
By: Jim Yoder W8ERW - TC
w8erw@arrl.net

If you thought we'd escape winter, I think by now the notion of any such luck has passed. It's snowing again now as I write this and the temperatures have already been making the gas meter run more like a gyroscope. It's pretty perhaps, seasonal for sure and likely drives most of us to inside activities rather than being outside in the weather.

Those inside activities sometimes lead to thinking about future plans for our operating environments and other chores that we might wish to accomplish which otherwise might not get done when we are busy outside. I apologize in advance for those who lament the snow shovel, blower and the ice scrapers early in the morning. Here is what I have been contemplating.

Our friends in Michigan have initiated a group of technical experts to produce up to date instructional materials to assist their members with the digital modes. Here in Ohio we have a group working to connect all of us digitally in support of our ARES and other needs. I would like to see something similar to the Michigan program here in Ohio. When you meld computers, radio and the appropriate software, the task can be daunting, especially to those who have had little exposure to either of the necessary elements involved. So, I am asking for your input and a few talented Ohio Hams to form a group towards this end. If you have some experience using the digital modes and would like to assist in collaboration with others to produce graphical presentations that can be used at club meetings etc., I want to hear from you. Specifically, we need people who are actively using the digital modes and have some skill in producing video, Power Point and written documentation. Let's see what we can do.

Along the same theme, Technical expertise is always welcome. If you would like to be a part of the team of Technical Associates serving the Ohio Section, I would like to hear from you also. Our mission to the Section is to assist other Amateurs with RFI and other technical problems as well as serve as a resource to local clubs throughout Ohio. A little experience, an outgoing personality and a certain desire to help a fellow Ham are what you need to be a part of a great group of Amateurs who serve as Technical Associates. Drop me a line or give me a call if you are interested.

Although not a technical issue, the State of Ohio is now requiring holders of Amateur Radio special plates to provide a copy of the FCC license in order to renew those plates. Renewal can be done at the local Deputy Registrar office or by mail. In either case, a copy of the FCC license is required. For those of us who have used the online renewal "O-Plates", it appears we will no longer be able to do that. The following message appears online when I made an attempt to renew my plates: "This plate cannot be updated through the O-PLATES program. Supporting documents are required for renewal. Contact the Bureau of Motor Vehicles for assistance at our toll free number 1-866-868-0006."

I spoke with a representative of the Bureau of Motor Vehicles today expressing my concerns in light of the recent FCC announcement that they will no longer routinely provide Hams with a paper copy of the Amateur license. The FCC now states that proof of license primarily resides in the FCC database and this change represents a significant cost savings in not having the expense of printing a paper license. We have a situation now where what is sufficient for the Federal Government is not enough for the State of Ohio.

The BMV was very knowledgeable of the FCC licensing process including this recent change and assured me of their intent to keep up with technological changes and continue to provide the best possible service to Ohioans. Indeed, the Ohio BMV is at the top among other states in providing their services to the residents of Ohio including Amateurs requesting Ohio special plates.

BMV is however required by law to periodically review policies and procedures to insure compliance with the applicable Law. In this case the Ohio Revised Code, section 4503.14 which states in part, "Owners and lessees of motor vehicles who are residents of this state and hold an unrevoked and unexpired official amateur radio license.... issued by the federal communications commission, upon application, accompanied by proof of ownership of such license.....shall be issued a validation sticker and license plates or a validation sticker alone" Effective date: 08-21-1997.

For now at least, this change in policy will require a visit to the local deputy registrar with a copy of your license in hand to satisfy the proof requirement or the same by mail. ARRL has provided information relative to the FCC policy change including provisions on how to obtain a paper license copy and documentation on the FCC ULS manager web site. Here is the ARRL URL containing the information:
Please note that the original license if you still have one is not necessary. A "Reference Copy" is allowed and you can obtain one of the FCC ULS page. You will need to register and have your FRN and password to enter the system. Here is the link to the FCC License Manager web page:
Here also is a link with some additional information and how to print an un-official reference copy which should also be acceptable: http://www.radioqth.net/fcclicscopy

I encourage all Ohio Amateurs to refrain from contacting the Bureau of Motor Vehicles concerning this policy as they cannot change Ohio law. Rest assured that they do understand and are sympathetic to our concerns. However they cannot change the law as written. If you have any questions, please contact me and I will endeavor to answer them appropriately. I also emphasize that my conversation with BMV this afternoon was very cordial and productive. They were very aware of the situation including the desire of all hams to protect the integrity of their license including the issuance of Ohio Special call sign plates.

BMV has also stated that deputy registrar offices are aware of the changes and if difficulty is encountered while attempting to renew your registration the local deputy registrar should contact their help desk for questions and assistance.

Your Ohio Section leadership is currently looking at this situation and will be evaluating an appropriate response.

Spring is coming. Every cold and snowy day is one more behind us.


73, Jim, W8ERW

****************************************************

FROM THE STATE GOVERNMENT LIAISON
-----------------------------------------------------------
By: Nick Pittner, K8NAP - SGL

Back to Basics

Many of you already understand what is about to follow, but there are also, it seems, many who do not and it has been suggested that it’s time for a refresher. So, with apologies to those who have already heard this, let’s get back to some basic concepts about amateur radio antenna regulation.

It has to do with the regulation of land usage. Many of us believe that if you buy a piece of land it’s yours, to do with what you wish. But in many respects that has never been the case. You can’t use your land to create a nuisance for your neighbors, for example, or to conduct activities that pose a physical threat to them. With respect to ham radio antennas, which are not inherently dangerous or otherwise unlawful, there are only two basic types of regulation. The first is by contract - restrictions that you agreed to when you bought the land. The second is by law, in the form of zoning ordinances legislatively imposed without your agreement.

Contractual limitations can take many forms. Deed restrictions are one of the most common. Deed restrictions are land use limitations imposed on the land by the developer often referred to as “covenants, conditions and restrictions, or “CC&Rs”. Residential real estate developments commonly carry numerous restrictions on the permitted usage of land in the development covering wide ranges of issues such as the parking of motor homes, the size of the houses in the development and, commonly, “antennas” of all sorts. Once imposed, the restrictions “run with the land” and apply to all subsequent purchasers, whether they specifically agree to the restrictions or not. Because the deed restriction are matters of public record, the buyer is presumed to have purchased the property with knowledge of, and agreement to the restrictions.

Other forms of contractual limitations come in the form of condominium agreements and neighborhood agreements, all of which involve the same basic principle – that by buying the property with is subject to the restriction the buyer has, by contract, agreed to those restrictions. These agreements have been adopted, and can be amended by the governing board, though it may be difficult to accomplish.

We all understand that amateur radio serves an important public safety role as a source of emergency communications and in 1984 the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recognized that role when it issued order PRB-1 limiting the power of local government agencies to restrict amateur radio antennas. Noting that “[t]here is also a strong federal interest in promoting amateur communications.” The FCC’s order states, “Except as otherwise provided herein, a station antenna structure may be erected at heights and dimensions sufficient to accommodate amateur service communications. (State and local regulation of a station antenna structure must not preclude amateur service communications. Rather, it must reasonably accommodate such communications and must constitute the minimum practicable regulation to accomplish the state or local authority's legitimate purpose. See PRB-1, 101 FCC 2d 952 (1985) for details.)”

PRB-1 was initiated by the ARRL and, though not the answer to all of our antenna problems, was an astounding success because, in this area, FCC regulations have the force and effect of federal law and pre-empt local regulations that conflict. Notably, though, PRB-1 did not apply to contractual land-use limitations and only affected local antenna zoning regulations. Additionally, the vague language of PRB-1 (which intentionally omitted specific height provisions for antennas) led to an extensive amount of federal litigation, with a mixed bag of results for radio amateurs. But, with the support of federal legislation behind them, many hams began to seek state legislation protecting their right to antennas. To date, over 23 states, including Ohio, have passed “PRB-1 –like” legislation. The import of the FCC’s federal regulation into state law has been useful in many instances and has proven much more difficult for local zoning authorities to ignore. It also avoids many of the legal “scope of preemption” questions that have posed difficulties in federal court.

In most cases the state legislation, like the FCC, have avoided the difficult issues associated with taking on CC&Rs or other forms of contractual antenna restrictions. The practical reasons for this have to do with money and legislative power. Real estate developers have, it seems, an abundance of both and any proposed law that would limit the authority of developers to impose CC&Rs is an almost guaranteed battle. There may be other ways to get at that issue, but that’s beyond the scope of this article. Suffice to say, for the moment, that we have legal rights with respect to antenna-restrictive zoning restrictions, but not a great deal of leverage when it comes to contractual limitations. So, if you’re looking to buy real estate, be sure to check the deed restrictions and any other applicable neighborhood or condominium restrictions before you sign. Next time we’ll talk about Ohio’s antenna law.


73, Nick, K8NAP

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FROM THE EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH ASM
-------------------------------------
Anthony Luscre, K8ZT

Hi Everyone,

As part of our ARRL educational outreach to schools through Education & Technology Program,
each summer the ARRL offers multiple sessions of the Teachers Institute on Wireless Technology, an expenses paid professional development seminar, in locations through the U.S.

The Teachers Institute has provided teachers from elementary school to the university level with tools and strategies to introduce basic electronics, the science of radio, space technology and satellite communications, as well as weather science, introduction to micro-controllers and basic robotics in their classrooms.

The curriculum is designed for motivated teachers and other school staff who want to learn more about wireless technology and bring that knowledge to their students.


Please pass this information along to any teachers that are not hams but interested including Radio Technology in their classrooms.


73, Anthony, K8ZT

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LET'S TALK
----------------
From: Scott Yonally, N8SY - Section Manager
n8sy@arrl.org


Hi Gang,

Wow.. Another month has gone by. Boy, time is really moving fast! Life on retirement has really been a pleasant surprise. I know that I’m rubbing it in some, but after more than 40 years of getting up in lousy weather to go to work and now not having to, it’s the greatest feeling. In recent days I have sat at the kitchen table enjoying a hot bowl of oatmeal and just thinking to myself “boy it’s great not having to get out in this cold and snowy mess..”  

Now that I’m retired I’ve got the time to give much more to the Section Manager’s job than when I was working full time. I now can give this position the time that it really needs to be a PRO-active Section Manager as the Ohio Section needs and deserves!!

I do have to chuckle a bit on this next item.. No matter how much I mention this, it seems that someone hasn’t yet signed up to receive emails from the Section Manager / Great Lakes Director with the ARRL. I'm going to keep encouraging you to check out your account with the League and make sure that the box for receiving emails from the Section Manager / Division Director is checked.

Now, for those of you who may not want to go to all the bother of checking your account with the League, or you are just not League members, you still have a chance to get these important emails. All you have to do is to “Opt-In” to receive them. There’s a link to do this on the Ohio Section website, it’s on the bottom left corner.. For your convenience, here’s a direct link to it: http://arrl-ohio.org/forwarder/forwarding.html. I urge all of you to make sure that everyone, regardless of whether they are a League member or not, get signed up for one of these options. You can always “Opt-Out” at any time if you feel this is not what you were expecting. But, who in their right mind would want to miss out on anything coming out of the Great Lakes Director or the Ohio Section Manager?

Oh, you didn’t know that the Ohio Section had a website?? We definitely do.. You can find it at: http://arrlohio.org   If you don’t have this website set as your home page, I urge you to do so. This website is one of the exceptions to the rules.. It changes all the time. It’s never stagnating, and I would highly recommend that you check into the website at least 3 times per week or more if you can. Yes, it does change that much!

Ohio's Speaker Bureau.. Need a speaker for your club meeting? I’m available. Please, feel free to give me a call. I’ll do my very best to be at your function.

**Have you noticed??** There’s a NEW – one question – questionnaire on the Ohio Section Website once again. It changes about once every couple of weeks or so. It only asks one question and it will take all of about 5 seconds for you to answer it, and you can see how your answer stacks up with others instantly.

Why is this there? I want to know how you feel. This is YOUR way of letting me know how the Ohio Section is thinking. Yes, this is very important to me. I represent YOU and I’m asking how you feel about something.

Also new on the Ohio Section website main page is a Twitter window. It’s a window directly to the W8SGT (Ohio EMA) Twitter account. In the past months it has been very difficult to find where W8SGT is operating for their weekly net. They started out trying to use just a couple of published frequencies. They quickly found out that 80 meters is just too crowed to nail down one particular frequency. Thus the need to let everyone wanting to check in to the nets on Tuesday night at 7:15pm just where they are.. Thus, the need to be able to update everyone quickly to go with the ebb and flow of the enormous amount of traffic up there. The Twitter window allows you to see just what frequency they are using at any given time. This also allows you to quickly see if they are on at other times too. Just go to the Ohio Section Website and look on the left side column.

Have you checked out the Great Lakes Division website lately? http://arrl-greatlakes.org  It’s changed. It’s been brought up to the twenty-first century with an entirely new look and feel. It’s cleaner and much easier for you to navigate. Check in often, and check out the changes..

Now something that was announced by our Great Lakes Director at the Mid*Winter Hamfest this past weekend. There will be a Division Conference this year. It will be held in conjunction with the Columbus Hamfest on August 1st. Keep this date open. There’s going to be a lot of neat forums that you won’t want to miss out on.

OK.. On to a REALLY important topic.. Has your annual club report form been filed with the League yet?

-- Club Officers.. take note of this article.. A number of clubs around the state have been placed into the “inactive” clubs category due to forgetting to simply fill out the annual report. It is critical for your club to update your clubs information once per year. The club update area on the ARRL website is now active. This section allows you to edit information in your club record and also upload photos of your club activities.

The club update is your annual report.  You must update your club record at least once per year or your club will be listed as inactive. Updates may take up to three business days to appear on the web. Note: You must be logged into the ARRL web site to use the editing system. Go to: http://www.arrl.org/club-update to update your club’s information. Don’t get caught.. Update your club record now. It only takes 5 minutes and it will save you a lot of time and headaches by keeping current with the ARRL.

Now on to the stats for Ohio.. We are not as bad as it may seem on the surface, but we could be much, much better. Right now we have 99 “Affiliated” clubs in Ohio with 60 of those clubs being up-to-date with their paperwork. That’s over half, not bad, but could be better for sure.. You’ve worked so very hard to get the club to “Affiliated” status, why would you not want to continue being a great club and follow through with something as simple as filling out the annual report. All it takes is about a half an hour worth of work and that’s it. For most of the clubs around the state, I would imagine you could almost copy verbatim last year’s report! This will make it even go faster. You know, I would be amazed to hear that your club members wouldn’t want to hear a financial report at least once a year.. This is really the same thing. It’s a report on how your club is doing.

Now on the Special Services side of things we definitely need to give this some attention. We have 28 clubs that are in the rears for paperwork, with just 9 clubs up-to-date. That’s about one third. Now, to get to “Special Services Club” status you’ve had to work even harder to make it, don’t throw it all away. Get the paperwork submitted. Again, I can’t stress this enough, it’s so simple, just fill out the annual report. If you need help, just ask. I’m sure that our ACC – John Myers, KD8MQ, or myself, can find time to answer your questions and help you get that all valuable annual report filled out.

You know, Ohio is THE largest Section out of the 71 sections. Let’s have the most Affiliated and Special Services Clubs as well. If you didn’t know, the Ohio Section is responsible for a lot of the rules that now determine what makes a club a “Special Services Club.”

Elmer Award..

Hay Gang, did you know that the League has a beautiful Elmer Award that you can apply for to give to your Elmer? They do, I presented one of these awards at a club meeting just this past month. It was great giving back to my Elmer and recognizing him for all the great things he did for me as I was starting out.

Recognizing your Elmer is a way of “paying it forward” and to encourage future Elmers out there. Anyone that is a League member can go on line to: http://www.arrl.org/elmer-award  and fill out the form and either have the form mailed directly to the Elmer, or more impressively, and the one that I would encourage all of you to do, have the certificate mailed to you and present it to your Elmer in person, it’s a fantastic way of recognizing your Elmer for all the things that he/she did to get your started. Yes, you do have to be an ARRL member to request a certificate, but you don’t have to be one to receive it!

Now for the logistics.. First and foremost, like I said above, you need to be an ARRL member to take advantage of this particular program. If you aren’t a League member, this is a great opportunity to become one. This is the perfect reason for you to join. Now, once that is taken care of, go on-line and fill out the form and hit the submit button. That’s it. A few simple boxes to fill in and that’s all there is to it.

Since this certificate is mailed to you via the US postal service you’ll have to wait to get it (about 2 – 3 weeks), as it is a certificate that is snail mailed only at this time.

Hey club officers.. I know that you’re always looking for club activities to get your members involved with.. this is a fantastic way of getting old timers and the young folks together. You might have a night set aside just to “award” all of your Elmers out there. Wouldn’t that be great!

Let me know if you take advantage of this great recognition, I would like to hear about your Elmer.

The League also has a “First Contact” award for you to present as well.. I’ll discuss more on that one in future articles.

Last item of the article..  Did you know that there is a warrant for arrest out for that rodent that predicted 6 more weeks of winter? It’s true, it seems that Punxsutawney Phil is in a lot of trouble for the recent deluge of snow in the eastern seaboard. Anybody got bail money??

That’s going to do it this month from here.. I hope to see all of you at the various hamfests or meetings soon and who knows; maybe you’ll be one of the lucky ones to get a “mug” on me. Oh, by the way, the mugs are now filled with some extra surprises..

Have a question? Feel free to give me a call or write to me. My email and phone number are always listed on the Ohio Section Website http://arrlohio.org as well as on page 16 of QST..


73, Scott, N8SY

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FROM THE OFFICIAL OBSERVER COORDINATOR
-------------------------------------------------------------------
From: John Perone, W8RXX
jper@insight.rr.com

Hi Folks,

The Ohio Section has elected to start showing just how much work our OO’s in Ohio are doing for us. This all started with a question from a new Section Manager out west asking all the Section Managers around the country if any of them publish a report on their particular OO program. Most of the SM’s stated that they don’t publish anything, including Ohio. This started me and Scott, N8SY to thinking, our OO program in Ohio is very active and they spend a tremendous amount of time monitoring the frequencies and making sure that we don’t go astray. So why shouldn’t the folks of Ohio know just how much time is spent. Thus, a new monthly article.

Please remember one thing here that is VERY important to keep in mind, OO’s are NOT cops. They do not have the authority to cite or arrest anyone. What we are here for is to gently let you know when you’ve gone astray and broken a rule, hopefully before the FCC gets involved. This can be anything from key clicks, to not identifying properly, to improper language, to being out of band. So you know that it isn’t all bad news.. We also send out “Good Guy” cards too. This is when we feel that the operator has done something good and needs to be recognized for it. So you can see, it’s not all bad news, we also recognize good behaviors too. 

The Official Observer (OO) program is part of the FCC Amateur Auxiliary and has been sponsored by the ARRL for more than 85 years. The OO program serves as the first line of "eyes and ears" for the FCC. OO’s are certified in the Auxiliary by passing a mandatory written examination. It’s not easy to do. It takes a lot of studying and understanding of the laws, technical operation for all the various modes of operation and even then you may not pass.

Are you interested in taking the challenge and becoming an OO? Do you have a question about the OO program? Let me or our Section Manager know. We’ll be happy to guide you through it.

Now here’s the January 2015 report overview:

Total Hours = 510

OO cards sent = 7

Good Guy Cards sent = 2


73, John, W8RXX

****************************************************

FROM THE “SARGE” (W8SGT) STATE OF OHIO EOC
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
By Gayle Adams, W8KWG
w8kwg4@gmail.com

THIS IS A TEST FROM …. W8SGT!

You are familiar with the occasional interruption of on-air programming with an alarm tone and this announcement: “This is a test from the Emergency Alert System,” followed by instructions on what to do. Now let’s take this same scenario and apply it to our Amateur Radio Service.

We all know the reasons for the occasional interruptions—to test equipment to make sure it is ready in case of an emergency. The same goes for our service—we must test our equipment so we can be ready in case of an emergency. A perfect example, as all of you know, happened last month. Remember the 9-1-1 service interruption in Medina and several other counties? W8SGT was requested by Medina County to help out during this time.

We never know when disaster may strike, or whether or not we will be needed in a public service event. How many of you participated in public service events? The purpose is twofold: (1) to test your equipment and skills and put them through their paces and 2) to provide safety for all participants involved.

The next time your county is activated, will you be ready or will you be a sitting duck? Hopefully, you will be ready.

Henceforth, this behooves me to mention our Tuesday night net. Yes, our Tuesday night net is a means by which we can test our radios to make sure they are functioning properly and our skills as operators, for that matter. I encourage any and all of our 88 counties to check into our net.

Our net has been changed to 7:15 (1915 hours or 0015 UTC). Tune up and check in! Follow us on Twitter (hashtag W8SGT) for frequency information. You can also see our Twitter feed directly from the Ohio Section Website. There’s a window on the left side of the main page that allows you to view the Twitter posts from W8SGT directly. So, if you don’t have a Twitter account, you are still good to go. Just logon to the Ohio Section website.. http://arrlohio.org and look on the left side bar.

This topic also segues into propagation. The 40 meter band can be so long (stretching like a pair of old pantyhose from here to Timbuktu.) The problem is that we don’t want to talk to Timbuktu. We often hear foreign broadcasters, so it makes things challenging for us.

Have you tested your equipment lately? Maybe you have an old radio in your attic or closet that’s begging for some TLC in order to be airworthy. Think about this the next time you hear the familiar alarm tone followed by “This is a test…….”


73, Gayle, W8KWG

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102nd ANNIVERSARY OF AMATEUR RADIO IN DISASTER SERVICE
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reprinted from QRZ.com

“SOS Hilltop Business Men’s Association wants city to send boats……….Supplies will last until about tomorrow……… Men are hanging on trees…….Send supplies…... Water is receding…...Try and get us water and gas…… People are suffering…….. Send this to Mayor Karb at once…… SOS.”

It was with these words sent by a 15 year old teenager over 100 years ago that Amateur Radio entered into Disaster Service.

Photo courtesy Bill Neill-NE1LL

Herbert V. Akerberg was a student at West High School in the Hilltop neighborhood of Columbus, Ohio when he anxiously tapped out that Morse code message on the afternoon of March 26, 1913.

A slow moving storm had dumped 11 inches of rain over much of Ohio’s already saturated soil. In Zanesville the Muskingum River was cresting at 27 feet and 20 feet of water stood in her intersections. Five of the town’s seven bridges were washed away. Only the tips of the lampposts of the famous “Y” bridge could be seen.

In Defiance, Ohio the Maumee River rushed in 10 feet above flood stage and covered 268 homes. Rowboats plucked people from trees and rooftops everywhere. In Tiffin help came too late for several. Nineteen people waiting on their roofs for help, perished when their homes collapsed and they were swept away by the Sandusky River

On the west side of Columbus, where young Herb Akerberg was manning his station, the Scioto River crashed through the downtown dumping flood waters 17 feet deep into his neighborhood. Thirteen people were rescued.

“For about three days and nights, practically continuously for seventy-two hours, young Akerberg remained on duty at his radio set, in communication with the radio station on top of the Huntington Bank Building, sending messages to the mayor and keeping the public advised as to the conditions on the devastated West Side.

Many messages were sent to the friends and relatives of those in the devastated district.” C. B. Galbreath-Author “The History of Ohio”

The greatest destruction was in the areas around Dayton, where the rushing waters of the Great Miami River washed away homes and bridges claiming hundreds of lives. In Dayton 360 souls were lost, 3,400 domesticated animals and horses perished, 65,000people were displaced and 20,000 homes were destroyed. Damage, in today’s dollars, exceeded $2Billion.

The flow of the Great Miami River through Dayton during that Easter week storm in 1913 was equivalent to the same amount of water that spills over Niagara Falls in a month! In nearby Hamilton four-fifths of the town was covered and 400 people lost their lives.

“People talked about how fast the waters rose, sometimes one or two feet per hour, and there wasn’t any way of sending warnings downstream because of the downed wires,” she said. “There was no radio then except for a few ham radio operators, and the 1913 Flood is what triggered the legislation to create an emergency broadcast system.”…Trudy E. Bell-Author “The Great Dayton Flood of 1913”

Back in Columbus, Herbert Akerman, pounding brass from his home shack is joined by the station from Ohio State University. Unlike Akerman, the OSU students are not proficient in Morse Code. To the North of Ohio, B.N. Burglund at the University of Michigan station was unaware of the flooding in Ohio until he intercepted a call from a operator in Freemont, Ohio who reported that the town was under water and that the Captain of the Port Townsend Life Saving Station had drowned while attempting a rescue. The operator reported that all telegraph and telephone lines were down.

Burglund put out a General Call to any station located in the flooded areas. This call was responded to by operators in Mansfield, Springfield, and Mt. Vernon, as well as the OSU station in Columbus.

Burglund, assisted by engineering students George Norris, Worth Chatfield, and Mr. Watts (who had once been a commercial operator) began handling Health and Welfare traffic from the devastated area.

The Ohio State University station was now being manned by a capable operator, J. A. Mercer who pounded the key for more than 70 hours before he collapsed from exhaustion and was temporarily relieved by operators from the U.S. Army Signal Corps.

Young Mr. Akerberg, the first Ham ever to use Amateur Radio in a disaster would go on to honorably serve with the men of the Army Signal Corp during World War I.

In 1923 he directed the building of Radio Station WPAL in Columbus. Six years later he joined the start-up network CBS, where he built much of their network of radio and television stations. Herbert Akerberg passed away in Scottsdale, Arizona on November 6, 1964.

“Wireless in the hands of the amateur, while it is used by some as a plaything, is capable of doing excellent service in time of need; and we hope the work done by these men who did all they could to maintain communication between the flood stricken cities and the rest of the world, will long be remembered.”

B.N. Burglund –Modern Electrics, April 1913


Written by
John Bigley-N7UR
President-Frontier Amateur Radio Society
Las Vegas, NV

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SPECIAL EVENTS STATIONS IN OHIO

---------------------------------------------------

02/25-26/2015 | The Northeast Ohio 2-Meter FM Simplex Squares Contest
Full details, including rules, grid square information, HT enhancements,
Antenna construction links, operating tips can be found at:

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05/23/2015 | WBCCI Region 4 39th Annual Rally
W4B, Mansfield, OH.
Wally Byam Caravan Club International Region 4.
7.225 +/- QRM.  Certificate.

David Brett, 40 Edgewater Dr, Youngstown, OH 44514.
Celebrating the 39th annual rally of Airstream Owners
in Ohio, Michigan, and West

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OHIO HAMFEST CALENDAR
--------------------------------------


03/15/2015 | TMRA's Hamfest and Computer Fair
Location: Perrysburg, OH
Sponsor: Toledo Mobile Radio Association

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03/28/2015 | MOVARC HamFest
Location: Gallipolis, OH
Sponsor: Mid-Ohio Valley ARC

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FINAL.. FINAL..

For those of you who have been recipients of prestigious Ohio Section Mug I want you to know that you are in very good company. I now have proof positive that our “Mug” is used every day at the ARRL Headquarters and proudly displayed to all who visit Becky Schoenfeld, W1BXY, the managing editor of QST.



I presented Becky with a “mug” last year at Dayton and she was thrilled with it. She told me then that she was an avid coffee drinker and would proudly use our mug every for her coffee. I now have a picture of Becky showing off her mug, thanks to our Vice Director, Tom Delaney, W8WTD. When Tom was up at Connecticut for the Board of Directors meeting last month, he happened to stop in to Headquarters and ran across Becky during his visit. He took a picture of Becky holding the mug. You’ll have to go online to see the picture, but believe you me.. I’m proud that she shows it off for everyone that visits Headquarters.

Thanks Tom for taking the picture and showing that our “mug” is getting its due all over the country.

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eof..