December 2013 Edition
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In this issue:
-> NEW CABINET APPOINTMENTS MADE
-> FROM THE SECTION EMERGENCY COORDINATOR
-> AFFILIATED CLUB COORDINATOR REPORT
-> SOUTHWEST OHIO HAPPENINGS
-> AROUND THE WEB
-> FROM THE TECHINCAL COORDINATOR
-> OUT AND ABOUT IN SOUTHEAST OHIO
-> EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH
-> 22nd ANNUAL OHIO SECTION NEWSLETTER CONTEST RULES
-> SPECIAL PRESENTATION
-> SPECIAL EVENT STATIONS IN OHIO
-> OHIO HAMFEST CALENDAR
****************************************************
NEW CABINET APPOINTMENTS MADE..
--------------------------------------------------
First let me say “thank-you” from the entire Ohio Section
to E. Mike McCardel, KC8YLD (ACC), Jack Sovik, KB8WPZ (PIC) and
Rick Swain, KK8O (OOC) who have recently retired from their positions in the
past several months. They have all done an extremely good job over these past
many years. We appreciate all that you have done to advance the Ohio Section
and make it the GREATEST Section in the country.
And now.. (a drum roll please) it’s my great pleasure to
announce the newest Ohio Section Cabinet members.
Sandy Mackey, N8YS from Delaware Ohio has been appointed
to be our Affiliated Clubs Coordinator (ACC). NO, I didn’t make a typo in her
call. She just happens to have the reverse of mine. Sandy is a member and
former Vice president of the Delaware Amateur Radio Association (DELARA), an
Assistant Emergency Coordinator and Public Information Officer for Delaware
County ARES.
She was the former member and Treasurer/Secretary for the
Garden City Amateur Radio Club/GCARC (Garden City, Michigan), former Sunday
Night Net Control for GCARC. Currently
she is the Public Information Officer/Outreach Coordinator for the Delaware
County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management.
She’s an active ARRL, W5YI, and Laurel VE and DELARA
Field Day Coordinator. And, for those of
you who may not have been keeping score this past Field Day, DELARA came in 2nd
in the nation this year in their class.
Her training is very extensive as well. She is a Skywarn Weather
Spotter, CPR/AEP, Smart Triage, ARRL PR-101, Professional Mediation Course,
Advanced Mediation Course, WebEOC, FEMA /NIMS courses, 100, 100.PW, 120.a, 200,
230.c, 235.b, 240.a, 241.a, 242.a, 244.b, 271, 300/400, 700, 702.a, 703, 800,
907, 20.13, G-290, G291, Professional Series.
She is an integral part of the inter-workings of an
extremely active club <DELARA> that not only give classes to encourage
the general public to join the ranks and then holds testing to get them
licensed, but donates radios to those newbies to encourage and Elmer them along
the way, but one that takes a very active roll with the local government
agencies to help in times of need.
Her husband Gary, KE8O and her son Andrew, W8DRE are also
licensed and active in Amateur Radio and club activities as well.
She was first was first licensed in 1998 and obtained her
Extra Class in 2005.
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John Ross, KD8IDJ from Columbus was appointed to be the
Public Information Coordinator (PIC). He's an award winning journalist and
public relations practitioner. He's received honors from the Associated Press,
United press international and many of the major network news operations.
As a journalist he's worked as a radio and television
news reporter, on-air talent and anchor and as a guest columnist for many
different types of publications.
In addition, he has been honored by the Public Relations
Society of America (PRSA) and many other organizations for his work across many
different public relations activities including crisis management, media
relations publications editing.
John has served as the Public Information Officer for The
Ohio State University, State of Ohio, and several county and local
organizations.
For over 25 years John has been a consultant for Wilson
Group Communications, a Columbus, Ohio based crisis management and public
relations firm. All of his communications and PR work spans his 20 career with
AT&T as a Network Force and Load Manager.
John is also a lifelong musician, He began playing the
trumpet at the age of 8 and took lessons from some of the most talented and
prestigious instructors in the country. He was a five year member and squad
leader of the Ohio State University Marching Band (TBDBITL) and is also an Army
trained musician serving with the 113th United States Army Band and the 338th
Army Reserve Band. He's played with the Louis Bellson band and with Doc
Severinsen.
His interest and passion for Amateur Radio and
electronics began when he was 10 years old. With the help of this father he
built a "walkie-talkie" and took it to a nearby Amateur Radio
operator for the final tune-up. From then on he was hooked and with the help of
the neighborhood ham, he was licensed as a Novice. He built much of his own
equipment salvaging parts from old televisions. John also went on to obtaining
all of the licenses necessary to operate and maintain commercial broadcasting
stations.
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John Perone, W8RXX from Gelena was appointed to be the
Official Observer Coordinator (OOC). John started his career as a low voltage
contractor in the professional sound, commercial video, and MATV / CATV
business learning the trade. He then got into the manufacturer representative
business which allowed him to teach others how to design, sell, and install
systems.
It was at this time he also decided to get a pilots
license to better serve his territory. His interest in aviation became strong
enough to obtain his commercial license.
John is married and his wife Laura, KA8IWB is active on
low bands and VHF.
John has been involved with a number of organizations
over his years.
He is a ARRL VE, Official Observer, past President of the
Central Ohio Radio Club (CORC), American Society of Industrial Security (ASIS)
and Society of Broadcast Engineers (SBE) just to name a few.
John was first licensed in January, 1967 as (WN8VPZ)
Sandy, John and John will start their new positions, as I
will on January 1st. Please help me to welcome them to their new posts.
73, Scott Yonally, N8SY
Incoming Ohio Section Manager
(Folks, I am officially "passing the torch"
onto Scott with this edition of the OSJ. It's been a great ride, and I am glad
to have had the experience to make many friends over this period of my life.
Catch you l8r down the log! 73 de Frank KI8GW)
****************************************************
FROM THE SECTION EMERGENCY COORDINATOR..
----------------------------------------------------------------
Season's Greetings from the Northeast corner of the
Buckeye State.
Looks like counseling is helping Old Man Winter and
Mother Nature.
Temperatures and weather conditions are consistent with a
winter wonderland. ;-)
We have 20 counties listed below (organized by district)
that are in need of an Emergency Coordinator...
Ottawa; Allen; Mercer; Paulding; Adams; Warren; Carroll;
Ashland; Holmes; Morrow; Fayette; Hardin; Logan; Union; Athens; Meigs; Ross;
Vinton; Harrison; Washington
I am looking to make appointments in the counties above
but volunteers are needed to apply. Being an Emergency Coordinator does require
some of your time but with the help of Assistant Emergency Coordinators that
you appoint, you will find an abundance of time. I can also tell you that you
don't have to be retired or unemployed to do this job.
Many working people hold ARRL appointments. Once you're
appointed, you won't be alone. There are neighboring counties that have EC's
that are willing to help you. Every county is assigned an experienced District
Emergency Coordinator that is ready to help you. We have three great Assistant
Section Emergency Coordinators that are just a phone call or email away if you
need help. And as always, my door is open. If you have a question or concern
about being the next Emergency Coordinator in any of the counties listed above,
send me an email at w8dec@arrl.net or give
me a call at 440-585-7388. Even if you think you're not qualified... Even if
you think you won't be a good leader... Even if you think you can't do it...
Let us show you the ropes and help you get started in a rewarding ARRL
appointment.
Congratulations to the Twenty Over Nine Amateur Radio
Club for a great craft show and spaghetti dinner last Sunday. I had a great
time and I was thoroughly impressed with the number of vendors and attendance.
The food was fantastic! Hats off to everyone who helped make the event a
success. Job well done.
The Warren Amateur Radio Association will be celebrating
their 75th anniversary on December 15, 2013. The club has decided to do a
special event throughout the week of the anniversary. This will be from
December 15th, 2013 through December 21, 2013. Club members will be operating
from home using the club call sign W8VTD on 80, 40, 20, and 15 meters during this week. Visit their website www.w8vtd.org or contact Jackie N8JMW at n8jmw2@gmail.com should you have any
questions.
And now a short message from Assistant SEC Mark KB8YMN -
Let me introduce my self. I am Mark Griggs KB8YMN a newly appointed Assistant
Section Emergency Coordinator For districts #3, #7 and #9 and I live in
Franklin County, Ohio. As part of my job I have been given the task of
recruiting and retention of ARES volunteers for the State of Ohio. As DEC’s and
EC’s you are all aware that every licensed amateur, regardless of membership in
ARRL or any other local or national organization is eligible to apply for
membership in ARES.
The point is we need new blood to pass on the skills and
knowledge that we and our members have gained. So we don’t have an ARES group
dwindle away because of no new members. Which has happened before. I also
understand that some counties have a smaller Ham community and it is harder to
find members. And others have a larger Ham population and have no problem with
recruiting. On the other hand can we afford to lose members for what ever
reason.
So with that, what I am asking for is your help and input
on questions regarding recruiting and retention of members. For example:
• What are your problems with recruiting new members.
• Do you have someone in charge of recruiting.
• Do you give ARES brochures to new Hams at VE sessions.
• Do you give ARES presentations to Ham clubs or
different groups.
Also on retention do you:
• List member milestone anniversaries in your newsletter
or give certificates.
• Thank members for their involvement in your events •
Mentor new members.
• Contact members that have quit or stopped participating
to find out why.
• Survey members to see what the think needs done to
improve you group.
Questions like this is what I need answers for. So I am
asking for all the Dec’s and EC’s in OHIO for your input. So that I can present
to Matt W8DEC/ SEC, some type of plan. So this is your chance to have a say in
the recruiting and retention plan for next year. Please email me with your
responses. I look forward to hearing what you have to say.
ASEC Scott N8SX is still collecting FEMA training
certificates from volunteers for IS-100, IS-200, IS-700, IS-800. If you have
not sent in your certificates, you're encouraged to do so by sending them
electronically to n8sx@arrl.net.
Perry County has been moved from District 8 to District
7. A new Ohio Section map reflecting this change will be out before the end of
the year.
I am pleased to announce the appointment of Brenda
KB8IUP, of Monclova, OH to the position of Emergency Coordinator for Lucas
County in District 1. Please join me in welcoming Brenda to her new appointment
by sending her an email to kb8iup@arrl.net.
I am pleased to announce the appointment of Kenn KD8URO,
of Roseville, OH to the position of Emergency Coordinator for Perry County
County in District 7. Please join me in welcoming Kenn to his new appointment
by sending him an email to kd8uro@arrl.net.
I am pleased to announce of appointment of Bruce KB8TRI,
of Dublin, OH, to the position of Emergency Coordinator for Franklin County in
District 7. Please join me in welcoming Bruce to his new appointment by sending
him an email to kb8tri@arrl.net.
Congratulations to all the new appointees. I look forward
to volunteering with you this upcoming year.
On behalf of the Assistant SEC's Scott N8SX, Mark KB8YMN,
and Gary WW8O, I wish you a very happy holidays and prosperous new year!
One final note..
September 12, 13, and 14, 2014 have been selected for
ARES Training Camp at Camp Falling Rock in Newark, Ohio. I have bounced these
dates off of the Emergency Coordinators and District Emergency Coordinators and
haven't seen any scheduling conflicts. Now I am asking for your help. Please
review your calendar and advise of any scheduling conflicts. Thanks. Anyone
interested in serving on staff or willing to be an instructor are asked to
contact me at w8dec@arrl.net.
Speaking of ARES Training Camp...I have been posting a
few menu items for training camp on my Facebook page. Take a look at my
Facebook page www.facebook.com/w8dec
and let me know whatcha' think.
73 de Matt W8DEC
Section Emergency Coordinator
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AFFILIATED CLUB COORDINATOR REPORT..
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I would like to thank each and every club, their officers
and members for their attention and cooperation over the past three years. This
has been a very rewarding journey. I have enjoyed watching the clubs around
Ohio grow and mature. You all are very special. Losing any club would be
tragic. I will not be a stranger to Ohio or its clubs and I remain available as
a speaker in my new position with AMSAT as their V.P. for Educational
Relations. I hope to continue to work closely with ASMs Anthony and Scott in
sharing information on education and youth outreach.
I wish to congratulate Scott Yonally, who will taking
over the reigns as Section Manager in January 1st. Scott is a caring, kind and
charismatic leader and will serve the Ohio Section well. Scott, know that I am
at your service where ever my journey may take me.
I am excited to see that my replacement comes with
credentials that far out weigh mine and know that the ACC will be in capable
hands. Sandy Mackey, N8YS from Delaware Ohio will serve you well and, I am
assured, is ready to hit the deck running.
Each month I give a short run down of what clubs across
Ohio are doing. This month I am paying tribute to one club. I think
celebrating their 100th Anniversary is an incredible accomplishment.
Cambridge Amateur Radio Association - W8VP - Celebrates
100 years of service to Guernsey County, Ohio, USA. First founded as the
Cambridge Wireless Association in 1913 the club was founded by Roy Waller 8CL,
Homer McMunn 8xx, and Paul Simcox. The club celebrated at THEO’S RESTAURANT in
Cambridge, OH December 14.
Bruce Homer, N8JMK served as the Master of Ceremonies and
Fred Barton, KB8MGI, presented the blessing. A host of speakers were on hand,
in spite of the snow storm that hit the area that day, including Great Lakes
Director Jim Weaver, K8JE, Great Lakes vice-Director Dale Williams, WA8EFK,
Incoming Ohio Section Manager Scott and Assistant Section Manager for
Southeastern Ohio , District 3 Connie Hamilton, N8IO. Local Author &
Historian Bob Ballantine, W8SU, who presented "The Early Years".
C.A.R.A. President Sonny Alfman, W8FHF presented "A Brief History of Last
50 Years" Other presenters included Guernsey County ARRL Emergency
Coordinator Dick Wayt, WD8SDH and Guernsey County Emergency Management Agency
Director Gerry Beckner. Various award presentations were made by Larry Dukes,
KD8QYV, Bruce Homer, N8JMK and Sonny Alfman, W8FHF.
Over the years the club has boasted the 2nd (in Ohio) 4th
(in US) YL in Miss Nellie Waller, founder Roy Waller's sister. C.A.R.A. hosted
ARRL Amateur Radio Ham Conventions in the Berwick Hotel in both 1935 and 1937.
A book was published about the club, "Radio Boys
Leave A Legacy" by R.R. Ballantine, W8SU, covering their history for the first
fifty years. C.A.R.A is in the process of publishing " "A
Century of Radio: W8VP Cambridge Amateur Radio Association 1913-2013."
Founder Roy Waller started the first AM broadcast station
in eastern Ohio - WEBE. Among their Technical Achievements were First
Micro-processor controlled two meter repeater in the State of
Ohio. 1972-73.
First two meter repeater with a Voice ID system in the
State of Ohio.(Loop tape recorder). 1974. First packet digipeater operating under
Node system control in the State. 1978.
The club also lists a plethora of Contest, Public Service,
Amateur radio Promotions and Ham Fun Events over their 100 year history.
In celebration throughout 2013 C.A.R.A. has Performed
twelve Special Event Stations (one a month), finishing with the 100 Year SES.
Performed Ham training classes and VEC exams. Supported
the SCOUTFEST event with Amateur Radio Demonstrations, 1000 Scouts in
attendance.
JOTA with 100 scouts on the air. Been the subject of
Great articles in local newspaper on our activities and events. Participated in
two TV and three Radio interviews reference our 100 Year birthday.
A photo slide show of the celebration can be viewed at the
Section Web Site http://arrl-ohio.org/cara/cara.html
The Cambridge Amateur radio Association has not only
witnessed the history of Amateur Radio they were part of making that history. Congratulations CARA!
Again thank you all and always remember, Get Out of
Meeting Mode!
73, E. Mike McCardel, KC8YLD
ARRL Ohio Section V.P. Educational Relations, AMSAT-NA
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SOUTHWEST OHIO HAPPENINGS..
-------------------------------------------
MILESTONES
Thanks to the efforts of Brian and Marji Deyoung, K4BRI
and KJ4ZKC; Dick Arnett, WB4SUV; Dan Curtin, KF4AV; and Mike Eilers, AC4XS
OH-KY-IN, k8sch, made a clean sweep of all 83 sections in the ARRL November
Phone Sweepstakes. They accomplished this feat in just under 18 hours. Whew, what an accomplishment!
Congrats to Paul Gehringer, WB8ZZR, and his wife on
becoming first time great grandparents.
Congratulations also go out to emergency coordinator,
Steve Lewis (N8TFD) and Jen who tied the knot on Saturday, December
7. Jen proudly proclaims herself as his XYL. Hmm, any bets on how long it will
take her to get a call sign? Perhaps one of the many licensing classes and
exams listed below will help her accomplish that feat soon.
UPCOMING LICENSING CLASSES AND EXAM OPPORTUNITIES..
OHKYIN will be offering Technician, General and Amateur
Extra licensing classes beginning Feb 3, 2014. All classes will run from 7 to 9
PM. The 4 week Tech and General Classes will end Feb. 24th. The 8
week Extra Class will wrap up on March 24th. Exams to follow on Mar 29. All
classes and exams will be held at St. Bernard City Building (Centennial Hall) 110 Washington Ave, St. Bernard, OH 45217.
Pre-class reading required for registration or information about classes and
exams, please contact: classes@ohkyin.org
The DIAL RADIO CLUB will be offering a six-week
technician class from Jan 29, through March 5, 2014. All sessions will run from
6 to 9 PM.
The class will be held in Verity Lodge, on the Middletown
Campus of Miami University. Free Exams to follow on Mar 19. Class enrollment
may be limited to twenty students. For registration and/or additional
information, please call Beverley Taylor (n8gge@arrl.net
513-423-3165) or Carl Morgan (k8cm@arrl.net
513-422-9384).
If you or someone you know resolved to get a license in
2013 or upgrade an existing one, there’s still time to make good on that
promise.
Dayton Amateur Radio Association will host a special
Laurel NO FEE Amateur Radio test session on Tuesday December 31, 2013 at 4:30
PM in the Beavercreek High School axillary gym located at: 2660 Dayton Xenia
Rd, Dayton, OH 45434. All levels of tests will be given. For MORE INFORMATION
OR TO REQUEST SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS, CONTACT David Crawford at kf4kww@sbcglobal.net
PUBLIC SERVICE..
On December 14, hams in the Zenia area provided
communications for the Santa Run. This 5K run benefitted the Women's recovery
center in Zenia.
The annual Hillsboro Holiday Parade came off on November
30 without a hitch. Some 13 members braved a sunny but cool late morning and
afternoon to organize the parade and get it through the uptown streets of
Hillsboro. A special thanks to SWL Bill, WA8KFB, N8YHU, KC8EQQ, KD8VUY, WD8AIG,
N8ZNR, WA8KIW, KQ4TL, KD8TUR, KD8SIK, K8HM, and KD8UVU.
Special thanks to KC8EQQ for the use of his four-wheeler
and to WA8KFB for furnishing some radios.
HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS GALORE..
Many clubs have included family members in their
holiday festivities.
The celebrations involved feasts ranging from potlucks
and pizza parties to buffets and reasonably priced catered affairs. Some clubs
had unique entertainment as well. For instance, QCEN played jeopardy with two
categories each for hams and potential hams (called muggles). Ham and “muggle” prizes were awarded.
Portsmouth Radio Club (Scioto County) auctioned off a
blend of gag and nice gifts brought by members as a fundraiser for their club.
Attendees only discovered their new treasures after the bidding was over and
presents were unwrapped.
NEW LEADERS ELECTED..
Highland Amateur Radio association (HARA) elected Bob
McFarland (N8ZDL) as President, Floyd Colville (KD8SIK) as Vice President,
Kathy Levo (N8ZNR) as Secretary/Treasurer, and Dave Tourtelot
(KD8TUR) as trustee for a 3-Year term.
The railroad came through Clinton County Thursday evening
and all 2013 Clinton County ARA officers were returned to office with the
exception of the Vice President. The new Vice President is now Dana Dunsieth,
KB8FOW. Congratulations to all.
73, Kitty Hevener, W8TDA
Assistant Section Manager (SW)
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AROUND THE WEB..
------------------------
Hi Gang,
This will be a Thanksgiving/Christmas for my family and
friends to remember. For those of you who haven’t heard, I took a tumble on
Thanksgiving morning just before everyone gathered to eat all the goodies my
wife had prepared. My tumble ended up with me in the hospital with my right
ankle being broken in two places. The long story short of it was that I had to
have surgery the next day and 8 screws and a stainless steel plate were
installed to hold everything together.
I’m ok now, but on crutches for the next 6 weeks. This
means that right now I’m hobbling around the house on crutches and my office chair!
Yes, my office chair makes a great “wheeled” chair. I can cruise all around the
kitchen with little effort. Thanks to my son-in-law he moved my computer setup
to the kitchen. So, I’m able to get on-line and do things. My radios are all
downstairs and I haven’t been able to get to them yet, but I’m working on that
one. I have figured a way to get down to the lower level without using my right
leg, but my trip back upstairs is where I’m having problems. I’ll get there
before Christmas you can bet on that one!
Now, like I said, I’m home and because I am, I have some
time on my hands. So, I decided to change the entire website again. I wanted it
more efficient and smarter looking and definitely easier to use. I believe I
have it so it is all those things and more. I have even added some color to it
as well. I think you’ll like it.
I’m going to continue to encourage you to watch the RSS
feeds for all the updates to the website. You can set your browser / email
programs to “watch” for updates coming through on these RSS feeds as well. This
way you’ll be notified quicker that something has been added.
Ohio State (vs) Michigan football game wager..
As many of
you older hams know, the Section Managers of these two great states have
wagered on this game off and on for many years, usually it’s for some odd chore
or goodies between the two managers. This year I wagered a dozen of my wife’s
famous Buckeye candies against whatever Larry Camp, WB8R the Section Manager of
Michigan wanted to give up. As any good Buckeye fan knows, Ohio State won the
game in the very last few seconds of the game when Michigan tried to win the
game with a two point conversion that didn’t happen with just seconds left on
the clock. Well, I’m here to tell you that Larry paid off with a large two
pound container of Planter’s nuts. The note he taped to the lid I feel says it
all..
“Ahhh Nuts”. Better luck next year Larry, and thanks..
I’ll definitely enjoy them on while watching football and enjoying a brew or
two.
I’ve heard from a number of you on my article last month
on watching out for spam messages. It’s amazing to me that there are so many
folks out there that just sit and think up these things. Please, don’t fall
into these jokers arms. If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is. If
they ask for money, don’t do it. Unfortunately greed is what keeps these guys
going. It’s our greed to “get something for nothing” that sets the trap. As
hams we’ve all been taught that we never get something for nothing, there’s
always a price to pay. Whether it’s losses in the feedline, or DB gain, there’s
always a price to pay. Always have your virus protection up-to-date to help
prevent getting emails like this. Don’t have virus protection? You can download
Microsoft’s Security Essentials for FREE.
There’s also a few others out there that are FREE as
well. But, even though you may have the best virus protection available to you,
there is still a possibility that you will get a virus/worm in your computer, I
did. Always have your computer backed up so in case you do get something that
you don’t want, you at least have a chance to survive it.
Do the “In the Clouds” backup programs work? I believe
they do. I feel they are a great investment and I would (and do) highly
recommend getting a subscription to one, if not right now, how’s about for a
Christmas present!!
Some folks will undoubtedly say I don’t have anything in
my computer that I have to worry about, and for those folks let me ask just
this one question. How much money do you have saved up for a new computer right
now? I say it that way because I only have a few hundred dollars in mine, but
it is invaluable to me and the data that is stored on it would take a lot of
hours and a tremendous amount of frustration to recover from losing it.
I do want to thank the Cambridge Amateur Radio
Association (CARA) for the hospitality they extended to my wife, Janie, KB8YPW
and I at their 100th anniversary party on December 14th. It was fun getting out
and about. I have pictures of the event posted on the website. Please, go take
a look. You’ll find the link to it on the front page of the website.
That’s going to do it for this month.. As I’m writing
this article I’m thinking it will be the last time I write to all of you as the
ASM Webmaster. It’s been my title for a lot of years. I will continue to
maintain the website as before, but as of January 1st it will be as your
Section Manager.
Frank, I will miss you greatly and the sometimes very
lengthy talks that we’ve had over the years. You’ve been a real friend and I do
appreciate it.
To all of you, please have a safe and joyous holiday and
New Year. 2014 will be an exciting year as that the League will be turning 100
years old. There are many celebrations planned all over the country. If you
can, try to participate in some of these celebrations. You’ll have a lot of
fun! Enjoy your family, enjoy Amateur Radio.
73, Scott Yonally, N8SY
Assistant Section Manager
****************************************************
FROM THE TECHNICAL COORDINATOR..
---------------------------------------------------
Being the Section Technical Coordinator gives me no
relief from the challenges and obstacles many of us face in pursuit of our
hobby. I have never been interested in the contests and building a contest
busting shack. I prefer the more casual contact, taking to get to know the Ham
on the other end of my QSO. Neither do I use a linear amplifier or one of those
beam antennas that could break through the pile-ups.
Now, rest assured that I have a high respect for those
who do work the contests and those who are fortunate enough to financially
support a more ambitious shack with all the bells and whistles to do so.
Contesting is a significant portion of Amateur Radio and
those who pursue it are often innovators who add measurably to the enjoyment of
our hobby. I enjoy a more simple pursuit with wire antennas, 100 watts and
catching some rare DX before the big guns have found it.
Until I found myself here in Tiffin on a lot with no
trees and without sufficient room to erect a tower, I had always lived with
many trees, at least enough to support those wire antennas. The Cushcraft
vertical was my mainstay for HF operating here. I began to consider what other
means I might employ without turning my back yard into an antenna farm, (Oh
yes, I would love to do so) and garnering the angst of my neighbors who might
not appreciate my interest in pursuing better operating conditions. I really
wanted to get some wire into the air while keeping it modest and simple. But
how to support the wire well enough to make a difference to my shack
performance was the question.
A few years ago, I planted a treated 4X4 in the yard
after the application of some sealer to both protect it and enhance the visual
appeal. This worked very well while supporting the outdoor portion of a weather
station I had purchased. I started to explore the possibility this fall of
using a pair of 4X6 treated supports to hold a wire antenna aloft. I nearly
waited too far into the season to get it started. A 4X6 that is 16 feet in
length needs concrete around it to insure that it doesn’t begin to lean over
and freezing temperatures must be avoided when allowing concrete to cure
properly.
I purchased the treated lumber, a pair of 4X6’s 16 feet
in length, got them sealed and ready to erect and completed the two holes in
the back yard to stand them in. Now the great weather we had been experiencing
turned to rain every other day and near or below freezing at night.
Fortunately, we had an improvement in weather conditions and with the help of
Mark WD8KQX, the posts were planted and the concrete curing nicely. Other than
the ARES activation with active tornado warnings immediately afterward, I could
see this all coming to fruition soon.
I had purchased all the required parts to erect an “Off
Center Fed Dipole” and was into the construction when I found one that I had
purchased several years ago in the storage container with some of my antenna
materials. Now, I have no excuse or reason to delay. Mark and I had engineered
this project to include the two support timbers along with several sections
each of surplus aluminum military mast attached to the wood. I now had a pair
of support structures planted and capable of elevating a wire antenna more than
20 feet above ground.
One of my objectives was to get on the air with something
that would allow me to work the Ohio HF nets. So height wasn’t to be the
defining parameter. Low incident propagation was the desire and I could always
increase the length vertically by adding more of those mast sections if DX
performance was poor. The two supports run diagonally across the back yard
allowing me as much horizontal length as possible.
The OCF dipole is approximately 68 feet long and supports
40 through 10 meters utilizing a tuner. I placed an eye bolt and pulley at the
top of the mast section on each end and I am able to lower the wire for
maintenance or to change out the antenna with another design. Since the
supports are pretty well fixed I didn’t need a means to allow for movement such
as I would have using trees that sway considerably in the wind.
So far, I am impressed with the performance and with the
sun spot cycle finally showing some potential, I expect some enjoyable
operating this winter. The supports don’t look to bad either. The time I spent
sealing them adds much to their appeal and hopefully neighborhood acceptance.
I would be happy to share more of the details with anyone
who finds their own environment similar with a desire to improve operating
potential.
73, Jim Yoder W8ERW
Technical Coordinator
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OUT & ABOUT IN SOUTHEAST OH..
--------------------------------------------
I’m still working on Ham radio but it has dropped off. I
have up days and down days and more down than up.
Sent my FT 857D to Florida to be fixed. When I got home
the Gent that as fixing it reported back that it has Motherboard problems and
more.
I’ll be heading to MD for Christmas and the day after
I’ll be headed North on Amtrak 1st Class compliments of my son, Mark who will
pick me up in Boston and take me to Maine for a week.
Will try to get my head on straight by the time I return
from there.
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to All!
73/88, Connie Hamilton, N8IO
Assistant Section Manager - Southeast Ohio
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FROM THE EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH..
-------------------------------------------------
Anthony Luscre, K8ZT, Ohio Assistant Section Manger for
Education Outreach to present at 2014 Ohio Educational Technology Conference.
Session Title: Radio Technology in the Classroom, Cross
Curricular, STEM Oriented Lessons for Grades 5-12, will be presented 1/28/2014
at Columbus Convention Center.
The Ohio Educational Technology Conference is the
third-largest state educational technology conference in the nation. Each year,
more than 5,000 educational technology professionals and
enthusiasts come together to explore the forefront of P-20 learning and
innovation in Ohio. Anthony has presented at previous years of this conference
on a wide variety of technology and educational oriented subjects.
Session full description: "Often when one hears of
Radio in the Classroom their thought go back to Educational TV or even further
back to early days of "wireless" radio shows and networks. Most
people fail to realize that Radio Technology is more important then ever as it
is basis of our mobile technology devices, cell phones, tablets, remote controls,
robotics and other 21 Century Tools. This session will discuss ways that you
can bring radio technology into your classroom in a wide variety of curriculum
areas. The inclusion of Radio Technology injects STEM concepts and thinking
into all areas of curriculum. Don't know much about radio, electronics,
robotics, satellites? This session will get you started with a wide variety of
resources and professional development opportunities for you to start from zero
and gain confidence to include Radio Technology in your classroom. We will also
present you with pre-made lesson plans, community resources and other aids to
get you started. Did I mention that much of this is FREE? A variety of both
nonprofit, commercial and government agencies have came together to provide Teacher
professional development in Radio Technology at no cost to participants. They
also provide grant funds that you can utilize to for equipment and teaching
materials. With the recent "Makers" movement the idea of building,
experimenting and innovation is taking off and you can bring your class along
for the ride!"
73, Anthony Luscre, K8ZT
Assistant Section Manager - Educational Outreach
****************************************************
22nd ANNUAL OHIO SECTION NEWSLETTER CONTEST RULES..
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
It is time again for the Annual ARRL Ohio Section Amateur
(Ham) Radio Newsletter Contest. This contest has become very popular and there
have been obvious improvements to the newsletters over the years. This was the
objective of the Ohio Section PIC (Joe Phillips, K8QOE) when he created it back
in 1992..."
Now the rules:
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 2014 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 Monday, June 30, 2014, 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.
****************************************************
SPECIAL PRESENTATION..
-------------------------------
You're Invited to a VERY SPECIAL PCARS Meeting on February 10, 2014 at 7pm to hear Bob Heil, K9EID, of Heil Sound.
PCARS will be hosting a LIVE Skype presentation with "Yes" THE Bob Heil.
The Skype presentation will be Monday - February 10, 2014 - 7 PM at Stringz & Wingz - Located at 1543 State Route 303 in Streetsboro, Ohio.
Since this is something extra-ordinary, everyone, and anyone, that would like to attend is invited to see Bob's presentation.
We got the room & PCARS looks forward to your being
there!
In Bob’s own words:
"I have no set scripts for my presentations. We get into audio,
antennas as well as some theory - keeping it simple."
If you need more information? Contact PCARS President -
Tom, WB8LCD@portcars.org
****************************************************
SPECIAL EVENTS STATIONS IN OHIO..
-----------------------------------------------
Celebrating the Birth and Birthplace of Thomas Edison
Feb 8-Feb 9, 1500Z-2100Z, NI8G, Milan, OH.
The Thomas Edison Memorial Radio Club.
28.370 21.270 14.270 7.270.
Certificate & QSL. Jack Hubbard, 13113 River Rd,
Milan, OH 44846.
SASE required; e-QSL available.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Freeze Your Acorns Off
Feb 15, 1500Z-2100Z, K8BF/FYAO, Kent, OH.
Portage County Amateur Radio Service.
28.350 21.300 14.250 3.875 EchoLink thru the K8SRR Node.
Certificate. Robert Hewett , K8FEY, 3670 Sea Ray Cv,
Reminderville, OH 44202.
FYAO Stations will use their own call/FYAO.
For 8x10 color Certificate, send appropriate sized SASE.
****************************************************
OHIO HAMFEST CALENDAR..
-----------------------------------
01/19/2014 SCARF Hamfest
Nelsonville, OH
Sunday Creek Amateur Radio Federation
Wallick Auction House
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
01/26/2014 | Tusco ARC Hamfest
Strasburg, OH
Tusco Amateur Radio Club
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