The 5-1-2+ BULLETIN - 21 MAY 2002 - No. 107

“Expanding the reservoir of trained operators, technicians and
electronics experts”. -- (Ref.) Part 97.1(d)

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.emcomm.org  E-MAIL: k6soj@arrl.net
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L = LCL (Local time in the (PST winter / PDT summer) zone
Z = ZULU (Universal Coordinated Time - UTC)
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+ IN THIS EDITION:

- SHORT CIRCUITS
- FEEDBACK
- EC CORNER
- FIELD DAY 2002
- EMCOMM 2002 FEEDBACK CONTINUES
- TRAINING and CONTINUING EDUCATION
- ON-THE-AIR RADIOGRAM PRACTICE UPDATE
- NWS-SKYWARN NEWS

- WX SPOTTER CLASS SCHEDULE - UPDATED
- ARES NETS REMINDER/SCHEDULE

+ SHORT CIRCUITS +

- REDWOOD COAST AMATEUR RADIO CONVENTION - June 28-30, 2002
• ARRL San Francisco Section Convention
• Hosted by Humboldt County’s Amateur Radio Clubs
HUMBOLDT COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS - FERNDALE,  CALIFORNIA
• Talk In: 146.850- and 147.090-/103.5
ADVANCE REGISTRATION:  1 day $3.OO, 2 days $5.00
AT THE DOOR:  1 day $4.00, 2 days $7.00
SENIORS: HALF PRICE • FAMILY: $5.00 day
• Swap Meet • Commercial Dealers • ARRL FORUM • Fox Hunt • Early Bird
• Prizes • Guest Speakers • Field Day Competition • Wine & Cheese Welcome
  Friday at 6:30 PM
  Saturday - 9 am to 5 PM
• Saturday Banquet - 7:00 PM in the TURF ROOM (BY RESERVATION ONLY!)
• Keynote Speaker - Mary E. Lau, N1VH, ARRL Field and Educational Support
  "THE POWER OF CLUBS AND WHAT MEMBERSHIP CAN DO FOR YOU"
• Sunday - 9 am to 3:00 PM (Closing)
• Additional Information and ONLINE REGISTRATION: www.humboldt-arc.org

- LASSEN COUNTY NEWS - the 146.910- "LARC"  repeater (Fredonyer Peak) is back online, along with the A.P.R.S. Digi-peater on 144.390.  This site is on solar and battery power only...but don't be afraid to use it. Via Terry Cobb, K6ME, AEC Lassen County.

Editor note: This is a designated repeater for northeastern California EMCOMM and “reaches” well into northwestern Nevada.

+ FEEDBACK -

FROM: Ray Parker, ND6S, Pine Grove, CA (Amador County)

“I've been reading the 5-1-2+ Bulletins and found Bruce Winchell's (N8UT) NTS Training Manual. It is a gem worth printing and better than any of the material I covered in the ARECC Level I course. Is there a NTS digital net in northern California?  How about an NTS certified BBS?  Thanks for putting me on the mailing list.  Now I can learn something!”
73, Ray

EDITOR’S COMMENT: Thanks Ray for the kudos.  It’s nice to know that we are
at least reaching someone!  I agree that the N8UT Training is excellent. Sadly, most amateur radio operators today don’t seem to have much interest in, or see much need for, knowing proper traffic handling procedures.  I am not aware of any active NTS or ARES digital nets, or a NTS certified BBS, in northern California.   However, I know of a few digital operators that would like to see one get started and become active.  Perhaps you would be interested and willing to help?  If there are others who would like to get in on the “ground floor” of a project like this, they may contact k6soj@arrl.net.  As soon as someone volunteers to serve as a net manager, it can begin to be developed.  What do you say...all you digital traffic operators?  The website Ray refers to is: www.area-ham.org/tngdocs/ntsdocs/ntsman.htm
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FROM: Jim Reynolds, KD7MLO, Warning Coordination Meteorologist, National Weather Service,  Medford, Oregon

“I just wanted to drop a quick note to all of you to thank you for your assistance in helping me to promote and carry out my most recent series of summer weather spotter classes. The spotter group in our nine county Forecast Area continues to thrive and grow because of your efforts and I could NOT be more appreciative!!!

Throughout April and early May I was able to conduct nine individual training sessions which includes my appearance at EMCOMM 2002 in northern California. A total of 114 people attended my classes with 42 people signing up to be new spotters...a whopping 37% of the attendees!

Thank you again for all of your help and I look forward to working with you again in the fall when we once again get ready for winter weather training.  

Take care!”
Jim

EDITOR’S COMMENT: On behalf of all those who helped...you’re welcome!
Meteorologists tell me that ground observations, ACCURATELY and EFFICIENTLY reported, through the NWS SKYWARN / WX SPOTTER PROGRAM, are still a valuable tool to the NOAA/NWS.  During a telephone or computer system failure, radio amateurs trained in  proper reporting procedures, may be the only source for important...even life saving...data and other information. The sightings of several tornadoes spotted in the central valley of California yesterday only underscores the importance of maintaining an active SKYWARN program in ALL regions.

+ EC CORNER -
If you’re looking for a professional grade tactical vest for your EMCOMM team, take a look at the website below.  The cost per vest is $75.00, which includes shipping and handling, in quantities of 12 or more. http://cops911.com/AmateurRadioVest.asp  (Via Kent Tiburski, K6FQ, ARRL San Diego Section Manager - k6fq@arrl.net)

NOTE: We are inquiring if the manufacturer can make these vests from yellow
NOMEX material.

+ FIELD DAY IS JUNE 22-23, 2002 -
Review and become familiar with the 2002 rules.  (May QST p. 108-109.)

ARES teams, ARRL affiliated clubs that are supportive of the ARES, plus
other bona-fide EMCOMM groups, that are participating in FIELD DAY 2002 may have their announcement included each week in the 5-1-2+ Bulletin. Send your team’s name, a general description of the location of your FD site, and a person to contact for more information.  To get started:

W6SOJ - The SOJOURNERS - (State of Jefferson Operators’ United Relay
Network and Emergency Radio Society).  Lake Juanita Group Camp, Goosenest RD, Klamath NF. Contact: David Bell, N2RSN, at: N2RSN@arrl.net.

K6M - Tehama County ARES members will be operational from 8000ft
Observation Pk in Northeastern California on Field Day. Lat and long:
40.774 N x 120.170W   All modes on 6m, 2m, possible 220/440/900 simplex,
definite  1.2Ghz and HF all mode if we get the appropriate equipment up
the hill. Contacts:  Dan Newman, K6MLA, dn22@mail.csuchico.edu or Jake
Hickok KF6KDD fieldday@norcalscan.org

KE7R - Northern Nevada Amateur Radio Services (NNARS), Washoe County, Nevada.  Nevada Air National Guard's 152nd Airlift  Wing Base at the
Reno/Tahoe International Airport.  The NNARS will also be  assisting a local group known as the "Our Gang Amateur Radio Group" with a VE session on Saturday morning (June 22) at the VA Medical Center in Reno. After the exam session, Our Gang will be operating KO7G, the amateur radio station at the Reno VA Medical Center as a class 1D Field Day Station for the benefit of the examinees.  Due to security restrictions there are some limitations in place for visitors.  More information is at: www.qsl.net/nnars/FD2002.html. Contact: Matt Parker, N7TOD, n7tod@arrl.net or packet N7TOD 145.05 mhz, connect using YRGTN and KD7LQS-7 nodes.

+ MORE FEEDBACK RE EMCOMM 2002
+ COMING SOON: A PICTURE PAGE OF HIGHLIGHTS OF EMCOMM 2002 In the meantime, you can view a few pics from the ARRL story at:
www.emcomm.org/  (click: “EMCOMM Story”.)

+++ TRAINING and CONTINUING EDUCATION SECTION -
(Previous training bulletins are archived at: www.emcomm.org/svares/training/index.htm

+ AN EXCELLENT NATIONAL TRAFFIC SYSTEM (NTS) TRAINING WEBSITE IS AT: http://www.qsl.net/aresco/nts-top.htm

+ RADIOGRAM practice sessions are Wednesday nights following the ARES
REGIONAL LEADERSHIP NET - (Approximately 2000L on 3987 LSB + or -.)
- Test messages will be sent by volunteer operators.
- The RADIOGRAMS will be published in the following 5-1-2+ Bulletin, so
participants can check their copy 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 (earlier buff colored cover edition);
or, ARRL Net Directory (FSD-50, 2001-02 edition);
or, go to: www.arrl.org/FandES/ead/teacher/kemp/appendixa.html

+ TEST RADIOGRAMS AS SENT ON MAY 15
SENDING STATION K6SOJ -- RECEIVING STATION KI6MX
-------------------------------
11 R HXD K6SOJ ARL 11 MACDOEL CA MAY 15

ED BRUETTE N7NVP
305 NW PAULSON RD
POULSBO WA 98370
360 698 0917

ARL FIFTY BEST WISHES FOR
YOUR UPCOMING VOYAGE ABOARD THE
ENDURANCE

D W THORNE
-------------------------------
12 R HXD K6SOJ ARL6 MACDOEL CA MAY 15

JAMES RIDDLE KD7AOI
123 BRIAR ST
PRESCOTT AZ 86305

ARL FIFTY CONGRATULATIONS ON HELIOGRAPH
REENACTMENTS

D W THORNE K6SOJ
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When composing a RADIOGRAM, pretend that you will be charged ONE DOLLAR for every “word”.
-------------------------------
“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.area-ham.org/tngdocs/ntsdocs/ntsman.htm

A SPECIAL QSL CARD is available to operators who participate in any
Wednesday session and submit a copy of a 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 -).
2. Copy at least one 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 the 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
------------------------------------
May   1 KK7BF  WO6P
May   8 K6SOJ  KI6MX
May  15 K6SOJ  KI6MX
May  22 TBA      (or no practice)
May  29 WO6P
------------------------------------
Stations SEND messages for two consecutive Wednesdays.  Then RECEIVE
messages for the following two Wednesdays.  If you want to “jump in with both feet”, and be a sending (then a receiving) station, please let us know.  Don’t let the fear of making a mistake hold you back.  In an emergency or disaster, operators who have not practiced this will have one a hell of a time if they ever need to send a message.  Learn how, or polish up your old skills, BEFORE an EMERGENCY occurs!

OK...who will be next?  We need a receiving station for April 10 and 17.

+ 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.emcomm.org/skywarn

+ NWS MEDFORD WX NET PARTICIPANTS ARE POSTED EACH WEEK ON THE NWS WEBSITE: www.emcomm.org/skywarn/nets.htm

+ NWS / SKYWARN WEATHER SPOTTER CLASS SCHEDULE -
All Spring classes have been completed.  Future classes “to be announced”.

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 Relay)
3987LSB (1982 LSB alternate).

SKYWARN nets will be activated on these frequencies during severe weather
events.

NWS SKYWARN NET CONTROL STATIONS -

DATE      147.26+        3987 LSB
MAY   1   K6SOJ          KC7WEU
MAY   8   N7GK      KC7WEU
MAY  15   K6SOJ         KC7WEU
MAY  22   N7GK     KB7EKF
MAY  29

ADDITIONAL NWS NET CONTROL OPERATORS SOUGHT -
For more information contact:
Gary, N7GK, gpederso@OregonVOS.net; 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: gpederso@OregonVOS.net

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 (see NWS-SKYWARN section below)
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.emcomm.org/svares/nets/nets.htm

ARES REGIONAL NET CONTROL STATION SCHEDULE:
------------------------------------
MAY   1  Sacramento Valley SEC K6SOJ
MAY   8  Klamath County AEC N2RSN
MAY  15  Curry County EC KA7GNK
MAY  22  Josephine County EC KK7BF
MAY  29  Dist. 1 & 2  DEC  WO6P
------------------------------------
ARES leaders* who are willing and available to serve as the NCS on one of
the blank dates above, please contact K6SOJ to be placed on the schedule.
(* SECs, DECs, ECs, AECs, OES, ORS, etc.)

+ ARES and other EMCOMM NETS - list at:
www.emcomm.org/SVARES/nets/index.htm
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+ BACK ISSUES OF THE 5-1-2+ BULLETIN ARE ARCHIVED AT:
www.emcomm.org/svares/archives

+ The “5-1-2+ BULLETIN” - Copyright (c) 2002 - 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
--- end of bulletin ---