Happy, happy Christmas, that can win us back to
the delusions of our childhood days, recall to the old man
the pleasures of his youth, and transport the traveler
back to his own fireside and quiet home!
--Charles Dickens
The 5-1-2+ BULLETIN - 18 December 01 - No. 85
A REGIONAL Bulletin for ARES and other EMCOMM Stations and Public Safety
Officials in northern California, southern Oregon, northern Nevada, and
elsewhere. D. W. Thorne, K6SOJ, SV Section EC, Editor.
INTERNET: www.qsl.net/k6soj E-MAIL:
k6soj@arrl.net
+ IN THIS EDITION:
- A CHRISTMAS EVE RADIO STORY
- SHORT CIRCUITS
- NWS MEDFORD AND THE JEFFERSON NOON NET
- FEEDBACK
- TRAINING and CONTINUING EDUCATION
- ON-THE-AIR RADIOGRAM PRACTICE UPDATE
- ARES TO MARS PROJECT UPDATE
- NWS-SKYWARN NEWS
- WX SPOTTER CLASS SCHEDULE
- ARES NETS REMINDER/SCHEDULE
- COMING ATTRACTIONS
+ A
CHRISTMAS EVE RADIO STORY -
The year was 1906. Marconni had already invented the wireless
telegraph,
and land and sea communication networks were being established.
While DeForest was attempting to perfect his “audion” (triode) tube;
a Canadian inventor, by the name of Reginald Fessenden with the help of Ernst
Alexanderson, a Swedish immigrant, were at work in Fessenden’s Massachusetts
laboratory. They developed a method to “alternate” a continuous radio wave.
Their mechanical device consisted of a huge disc that revolved at 20,000
rpms. They connected it to a transmitter and a microphone, and discovered
that they could “modulate” a radio signal. They continued their
experiments.
On Christmas Eve, as wireless operators on ships off the Massachusetts
coast were listening for the familiar Morse code signals; they were startled
when they suddenly heard voices in their headphones!
They listened spellbound. Next they heard a woman singing!
Finally,
they heard someone playing a violin. It was Fessenden himself...playing the
sacred carol: “O Holy Night”.
No longer would sounds over the airwaves be restricted to the
“dit’s” and
“dah’s” of the Morse code.
And that is what happened on Christmas Eve...Nineteen Hundred and Six.
+++ SHORT
CIRCUITS - (Brief, but important announcements)
+ TONIGHT ON NBC NIGHTLY NEWS WITH TOM BROKAW -
Watch for story about a proposal to shut off cellular phone service to general
users during times of emergency. (If this was ever done the role of the
ARES could expand...exponentially!
+ KLAMATH COUNTY OREGON ARES NEWS -
Klamath County ARES net is now at 1900L Thursdays on 146.61- Also, Dick Suber,
K7DDI, EC has announced that Ed Ewell, K7DXV, of Klamath Falls is the new
Assistant Emergency Coordinator in charge of training for Klamath County ARES.
+ TRIBUTE TO THE “FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES” (with sound) -
New link on main page at: www.qsl.net/k6soj
+ STRAIGHT KEY NIGHT - 0000 to 2400Z - January 1, 2002
(1600 PST December 31 to 1600 PST January 1).
Info: www.arrl.org/contests
HOPE TO C U ON AIR NY EVE ES HOPE UR SKN IS ALWAYS 599 73 DE K6SOJ
+ NWS
MEDFORD AND THE JEFFERSON NOON NET -
Jim Reynolds, KD7MLO, Warning Coordination Meteorologist (WCM), advises
that NWS monitors the JNN from WX7MFR (NWS amateur station at Medford, OR). Jim
will check in via 147.26+ (123.0) Mt. Ashland, if he needs additional
information. Stations within range of 147.26+ are invited to monitor for
possible relay.
Stations checking in to the JNN are invited to give pertinent WX reports in the
first round table, (or when they check in IF they are on limited time).
Registered WX Spotters say their WX spotter number (if they are at home).
Mobiles and other stations report their location using familiar landmarks,
referenced with direction and/or distance using “air miles”. (E.g. - “This
is K6SOJ mobile, on Hwy 97 five miles south of Midland, OR”. Or: “This is
K6QQ nine miles WSW of Alturas, CA”.
WX SPOTTERS follow this criteria as requested by the NWS:
TORNADOES, FUNNEL CLOUDS or SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS -
1. Tornadoes or funnel clouds are observed.
2. Hail observed 0.5 inch in diameter or larger.
3. Rainfall at a rate of 0.5 inch or more an hour.
4. Winds gust of 35 mph or more.
RAINFALL -
1. One inch or more in 12 hours.
2. 1.5 inch or more in 24 hours.
3. Rain that freezes on contact with ground or other surfaces.
SNOWFALL -
1. Below 5000 ft. - four or more inches of new snow.
2. Above 5000 ft. - six or more inches of new snow.
WINDS (see Beaufort scale) -
1. Below 5000 ft. - estimated winds of 35 mph or greater.
2. Above 5000 ft. - estimated winds of 45 mph or greater.
SMALL STREAM FLOODING -
1. Small stream flooding or near flood and rising.
2. Water “ponding” in low areas or crossing roadways.
DENSE FOG -
1. Visibility 100 yards or less and affecting major roadways.
EARTHQUAKES OR TREMORS -
1. When felt.
OTHER INFORMATION (optional) -
1. Current temperature, overnight low temperature (rounded to the nearest
degree in Fahrenheit), ice on roadways, sky condition, etc. may be
reported.
Please make sure your reported data is accurate. (We once had a station
who kept his thermometer probe in the direct sun...NOT accurate!)
+ FEEDBACK -
From: “Down Trinidad Way”...
“Hello David,
I think it is time that I drop you a line to let you know how much I appreciate
your very informative bulletins. You do provide very valuable information.
I use some of them in helping to improve the operation of Emergency
communications in my group. Some of the areas I have used are the message
handling forms and preparing an EMCOMM plan. We are in the process of developing
our plan for approval at our next Annual General Meeting to be held in March
2002. Keep the bulletins coming. I can handle formal written messages from the
National Traffic System of ARRL. I am familiar with the procedure. I operate a
Pactor MBO here on the island of Trinidad and Tobago. WI7J and K7SLI both
operate the same system as I do. I sometimes make a connection to WI7J direct.
If you do operate Pactor, maybe you can give it a try. If you do not, and you
know anyone who operates Pactor ask him or her to try and make a connection. I
monitor 14064.9 (CF) 14065.0 (Mark) from 1300z to 0100z every day. Conditions
are good between 1800z to 0100z. 73 and keep up the good work, Irvine
Niffikeer, 9Y4IBN”.
COMMENT: Thanks Irvine for your kind words. It’s letters like
yours that make my long hours at the computer worthwhile... and “keep me
going”. I do not work any digital modes (except CW - HI), but my wife
Nannette, KE6MZT, recently upgraded and now has HF privileges on 20M. As
soon as she gets her station active she/we will give you a call. In the
meantime, don’t be too surprised if some our readers QSO you via Pactor. - de
K6SOJ
+++ TRAINING and CONTINUING EDUCATION SECTION
-
(Previous training bulletins are archived at: www.qsl.net/k6soj)
+ RADIOGRAM PRACTICE
SESSIONS CONTINUE -
RADIOGRAM TIP #5: On phone, it is unnecessary and is considered bad form to say
“check” before saying the check figures, or to say “To” before saying
the address.
RADIOGRAM TIP # 6: On phone, when saying the text, it is recommended to say
“figures”... then say the figure(s). E.g. - “Figure 4” would be
written: 4
(one word). “Figure group 458” would be written: 458 (one word).
Except
on ARL numbered messages, the Arabic figures are shorter, quicker, and in
some cases will avoid confusing them with homonyms. (E.g. - “two”, “to”
and “too”.) Note: In CW, this is a non-problem.)
SURVEY OF PARTICIPANTS:
We would like to know who and how many are participating in these RADIOGRAM
PRACTICE SESSIONS, please send a short e-mail to: www.qsl.net/k6soj indicating that you are.
Better yet...send in for the special QSL card. Please include any comments or
suggestions. Thank you.
A SPECIAL QSL CARD will be issued to all operators who participate in any
Wednesday session, and submit a copy of one correctly copied RADIOGRAM by
regular mail. All radio amateurs (including “no code” Technicians) are
invited to listen in and submit an entry. Here are the rules:
1. Listen on Wednesdays at 2000L on 3987 LSB (+ or -). Three RADIOGRAMS
will be transmitted.
2. Copy the entire RADIOGRAM(s) (preamble, text, and signature). Copy(s)
must be accurate and correct. VERY minor (non-consequential) errors, MAY
be accepted.
3. Use an ARRL RADIOGRAM blank; (a “printer friendly” version is available
at: http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/forms/radiogram2.pdf
or, you may use a plain piece of paper. However, your “copy” MUST be
in ARRL RADIOGRAM format.
4. Send your completed RADIOGRAM(s) and a business-size (4 x 9.5”)
self-addressed stamped envelope (.34 cent stamp affixed) to:
D. W. Thorne, K6SOJ, P.O. Box 99, Macdoel, CA 96058.
5. Entries MUST be postmarked by Monday that follows the practice session,
since the correct copy will be published in the 5-1-2+ Bulletin the
following Tuesday.
RADIOGRAM PRACTICE SESSION STATION SCHEDULE:
SEND RECEIVE
------------------------------------
Dec. 5 KB7EKF K7DXV
Dec. 12 KB7EKF K7DXV
Dec. 19 K7DXV KC7IXX
Dec. 26 K7DXV KC7IXX
------------------------------------
Jan. 2 KC7IXX WA7IZU
Jan. 9 KC7IXX WA7IZU
Jan. 16 WA7IZU
Jan. 23 WA7IZU
Jan. 30
------------------------------------
As you can see from the above pattern, volunteer stations will send three
messages for two consecutive Wednesdays. Then, they will receive messages
for the two Wednesdays following. If you want to “jump in with both
feet”, and be a sending (then receiving) station, please let us know.
Don’t let the fear of making a misteak (HI) hold you back. Operators who
have not practiced this will have one a hell of a time if they ever need to send
a message. Learn how to, or polish your old skills, BEFORE an EMERGENCY
occurs!
OK...who will be next? (Need a receiving station for Jan 2 and 9.)
+ TEST (PRACTICE) RADIOGRAMS AS SENT ON 12 DECEMBER:
-------------------------------
TEST 10 R G KB7EKF 15 GRANTS PASS OR DEC 12
DAVID WILSON VE3BBN
1153 LINE 9
ST. DAVIDS ONTARIO CANADA L0S1P0
TEST MESSAGE X CONGRATULATIONS ON
SPARK GAP TRANSMISSIONS TONIGHT X
SIGNAL INTO OREGON WAS 462
/S/ KB7EKF
-------------------------------
TEST 11 R G KB7EKF 23 GRANTS PASS OR DEC 12
JACK SPRAT
FAIRY TALE LANE
HOLLYWOOD CA 92123
213 700 1234
TEST MESSAGE X UNDERSTAND FAT
IS OFF YOUR DIET AND
WIFE NO LONGER EATING MEAT
X HAVING CLEAN PLATE IS
A GOOD THING
/S/ H DUMPTY
-----------------------------------------
TEST 12 R G KB7EKF 11 GRANTS PASS OR DEC 12
LINDA GRAY
1120 MUD ROAD
VENTURA CA 93020
805 644 6543
TEST MESSAGE X ARL FIFTY
ARL SIXTY ONE ARL FIFTY
SEVEN
/S/ WARREN
---------------------------------
RADIOGRAM practice sessions follow the ARES REGIONAL LEADERSHIP NETS every
Wednesday night.
- Approximately 2000L on 3987 LSB + or -.
- Test messages will be sent by volunteer operators.
- The preamble and text of the RADIOGRAMS will be published in the 5-1-2+
Bulletin the following Tuesday, so participants can check for accuracy.
- You will need a supply of blank RADIOGRAMS. They are available from
league HQ; or, you can print them out from: http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/forms/RADIOGRM.pdf
- ALL EMCOMM operators are invited to “practice” with us. ARES leaders
are
asked to encourage members on their teams to participate.
- Operators that do not have an HF station, can still practice. All you
will need is an HF receiver.
- Later on, we may also do some sessions on CW.
- Watch the 5-1-2+ Bulletin for more information.
- Reference materials are:
The ARRL Public Service Manual; or go to:
http://www.arrl.org/FandES/ead/teacher/kemp/appendixa.html
“TRAFFIC HANDLING IS FUN AND REWARDING!”
ADDITIONAL (VERY) USEFUL information is available at:
http://www.remote.arrl.org/FandES/field/pscm/sec2-ch11.html
http://www.iea.com/~donf/pan/NTSMinutes.htm
+ ARES TO MARS BY
DECEMBER -
(See 5-1-2+ Bulletin No. 79 for complete details)
+ NWS-SKYWARN
SECTION
Jim Reynolds, KD7MLO, Warning Coordination Meteorologist, Medford NWS
Gary Peterson, N7GK, Acting Medford SKYWARN Coordinator
D. W. Thorne, K6SOJ, Asst. Medford SKYWARN Coordinator
SKYWARN is the National Weather Service program of trained volunteer spotters
reporting severe weather. The ARRL/ARES has a national “memorandum of
understanding” (MOU) with the NOAA/NWS.
MEDFORD NWS SKYWARN WEBSITE: www.qsl.net/mfrskywarn
+ NWS/ARRL SKYWARN RECOGNITION DAY - 1 December 2001
http://hamradio.noaa.gov/
+ WEATHER
SPOTTER CLASS SCHEDULE -
Classes for 2002 will be announced as they are scheduled.
MEDFORD NWS WX SPOTTER / SKYWARN NETS:
The Medford NWS WX SPOTTER NET every Wednesday at 1915L on: 147.26+ /
CTCSS: 123.0, (Mt. Ashland - Jackson County and more) 146.55 SIMPLEX (eastern
Siskiyou and Klamath Counties) 146.97- (Likely - Modoc County) 3987LSB (1982 LSB
alternate).
SKYWARN nets may be activated on these frequencies during severe weather
events.
NWS SKYWARN NET CONTROL STATIONS -
1st and 3rd Wednesdays:
147.26+ K6SOJ SY42
3987 LSB KE7WEU JO25
2nd and 4th Wednesdays:
147.26+ N7GK JA14
3987 LSB N2RSN KL98
ADDITIONAL VOLUNTEER OPERATORS NEEDED FOR NWS NET CONTROL OPERATIONS -
While we now have a total of four (4) NWS NC operators for Medford NWS, we
still would like about four more, either for regular or back-up duty.
For more information contact:
Gary, N7GK, gpederson@orednet.org;
or,
Dave, K6SOJ, k6soj@arrl.net
NWS PACKET NODE ON MT. ASHLAND is on 145.030 MHz, ID is: skywrn.
NWS is asking for SKYWARN and ARES packet stations to connect and let them know
your location, the type of antenna and power you use to access the Mt. Ashland
node. The “connect” to NWS packet bbs (direct) is 145.090 and the ID is
NWSMFR. Then connect to NWSBBS, e.g., c nwsmfr. Then, c nwsbbs. The NWSMFR at
nws mfr is a node.
Questions? contact Gary, N7GK e-mail: gpederson@orednet.org
Check in to the JEFFERSON NOON NET daily at 1200L on 7232 LSB (alt. 3987) for
announcements regarding anticipated or actual severe WX.
+ REMINDER - 5-1-2+
REGIONAL ARES AND NWS NETS
DAILY:
1200 to 1230L: Jefferson Noon Net on 7232 LSB (3987 LSB alternate)
NOTE: ALL STATIONS ARE ENCOURAGED TO MONITOR AND/OR CALL ON 146.52 and/or 146.55
MHZ DURING THE NOON NET TO RELAY CHECK-INS OR TRAFFIC.
WEDNESDAYS:
1915 to 1930L: NWS WX SPOTTER NETS
1930 to 2000L: A.R.E.S. LEADERSHIP NET on 3987 LSB (1982 LSB alternate) ALL ARES
and other EMCOMM leaders are welcome. A net roster is available at: www.qsl.net/k6soj/nets/net.htm.
Starting November 21, 2001 at 2000L (approximate) on 3987 LSB (+ or -):
“ON-THE AIR” RADIOGRAM PRACTICE SESSIONS
ARES REGIONAL NET CONTROL STATION SCHEDULE:
-----------------------------------
Dec. 19 Josephine Co. AEC KC7IXX
Dec. 26 SV Section EC K6SOJ
------------------------------------
Jan. 2
Jan. 9
Jan. 16
Jan. 23 Dist. 1-2 DEC WO6P
Jan. 30
------------------------------------
+ ARES and other EMCOMM NETS - list at: www.qsl.net/k6soj/nets/index.htm
+ IF YOU HAVE AN ANNOUNCEMENT OR SOMETHING OF INTEREST TO REPORT
about your ARES team or other EMCOMM unit...and would like it posted in the
5-1-2+ BULLETIN...send it to: k6soj@arrl.net
+ NEXT WEEK...SIMULATED POWER OUTAGE EXERCISE AND
COMPETITION ANNOUNCEMENT
+ COMING ATTRACTIONS
...
+ HISTORY OF THE 5-1-2+ BULLETIN
+ CW IN EMCOMM - WHY?
+ DEVELOPING YOUR EMERGENCY PLAN - TIPS
+ PLANNING AND EXECUTING YOUR NEXT “SET” - TIPS
PLUS:
+ WHAT does “Amateur Radio”...mean to YOU?
+ MORE... “SATIRICAL SYMPHONIES”
+ HOW PREPARED ARE YOU? - A FUN QUIZ
+ EMCOMM 2002
April 20-21 2002 - Bishop Quinn High School, Palo Cedro, CA.
www.emcomm2002.net
+ PREVIOUS EDITIONS OF THE 5-1-2+ BULLETIN ARE ARCHIVED AT:
www.qsl.net/k6soj
+ The “5-1-2+ BULLETIN”- Copyright (c) 2001 - D. W. Thorne,
K6SOJ
Permission is hereby granted to reproduce and re-circulate items from this
bulletin providing appropriate credit is given to the “5-1-2 REGIONAL ARES
BULLETIN” and/or the author or originator of the material. Send corrections,
updates, etc. to: k6soj@arrl.net
