Winter Skywarn Training

 CNY/PA WINTER SKYWARN 2024

• Wed Oct 16 600-730 PM:  Onondaga Co. - Hosted by Highway Dept/Bear Bait Radio Club, 4483 NY-31, Clay, NY - Register
• Thu Oct 24 700-830 PM: Virtual- Register
• Tue Oct 29 630-8 PM: Susquehanna Co. - Hosted by Susquehanna Emergency Management 210 Public Way Suite 3, New Milford, PA - Register 
• Mon Nov 18 700-830 PM: Virtual- Register 

Binghamton NWS Skywarn training info at: https://www.weather.gov/bgm/outreachSKYWARNtraining

Buffalo NWS Skywarn training info at: https://www.weather.gov/buf/Skywarn

Albany NWS Skywarn training info at: https://www.weather.gov/aly/skywarn

learn more about the Skywarn program: https://www.upstateham.com/p/skywarn.html

Zello PTT: A Versatile Backup Tool for Amateur Radio

(from the October 2024 RARA Rag)

Public Service Report: Mike Moore, KC2NM, RARA Public Service Coordinator 

Zello PTT has become a popular mobile phone application, offering a reliable and efficient platform for real-time voice communication. While primarily used for personal and professional purposes, Zello can also serve as a valuable backup tool for amateur radio operators. 

We used this app to a limited degree on Tour de Cure and MS Roc the Ride Great Great Lakes this year. 

Key Features for Amateur Radio Use: 

• Push-to-Talk Functionality: Zello's core feature, push-to-talk (PTT), mirrors the operation of traditional amateur radio transceivers. Simply press and hold the PTT button to transmit your voice. 

• Channel-Based Communication: Zello organizes users into channels, similar to amateur radio repeaters. You can join various channels based on your interests, location, or specific events. 

• Global Reach: Zello's network extends worldwide, allowing you to connect with amateur radio enthusiasts from different countries and regions. 

• Text Messaging: In addition to voice communication, Zello also supports text messaging within channels. This can be useful for sharing information or coordinating activities. Best Practices for Amateur Radio Use: 

• Backup Battery: Ensure you have a backup battery or power source to keep your device charged during extended use. 

• Headset: Using a headset can improve audio quality and reduce background noise. 

• Data Plan: If using Zello for mobile data, be mindful of your data usage limits. 

• Emergency Procedures: Establish procedures for using Zello in emergency situations, such as coordinating rescue efforts or providing updates. 

Zello can be downloaded to your phone using the Google Play or Apple Apps store. Create a personal account and test your phone using the echo channel. Account event channel credentials will be distributed via a QR code and password on an event ICS 205 form. Jim plans to demonstrate Zello as a tech tip at the October RaRa meeting. For more information, see the Android User Guide https://support.zello.com/hc/en-us/articles/17954095093389-Android-User-Guide

or the iOS User Guide https://support.zello.com/hc/en-us/articles/17578715747981-iOS-User-Guide

By leveraging Zello PTT as a backup tool, amateur radio operators can enhance their communication capabilities and stay connected in various scenarios

more info at: https://blog.zello.com/zello-individual-or-business

Pumpkin Patrol 2024

The 2024 Pumpkin Patrol will take place on Wednesday and Thursday October 30-31st for Bridges on the New York State Thruway.

This event contributes to the safety of travelers on the New York State Thruway. It is a statewide event and is held in cooperation with the New York State Troopers and Amateur radio groups.

The Pumpkin Patrol was initiated as a volunteer effort in 1976 by Katherine St. Jacques in Fort Johnson, Montgomery County.  Ms. St. Jacques was talking to a truck driver on her citizens band radio when the windshield of his vehicle was struck by an object thrown from an overpass.  The driver sustained injuries from the broken glass of his windshield.  St. Jacques and two companions decided to stand watch on the three over passes that crossed the Thruway in the Fort Johnson area. The State Police assumed control of the Pumpkin Patrol in 1990 as part of the State Police crime prevention effort.  More than 300 volunteers will participate in this year’s safety efforts.

Upstate NY Counties participating:

Erie (Buffalo area): https://ecarham.org/announcements/

Monroe (Rochester area): The RARA Pumpkin Patrol event captain, Ed Wilkonski, K1EM is preparing for this year's event. Please see his article elsewhere in this month’s Rag. For more information or to register for this month's events, see our Public Service page at https://rochesterham.org/public_service.htm for more information and to volunteer.

 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdr-KssQziuUPpDSEgn5SzqNZPIxgbGd9VmAmA-78UDttsTkg/viewform

Onondaga (Syracuse area): https://www.w2cm.com/public-service/

PLEASE SEND US YOUR GROUPS PLANS FOR 2024 to: UpstateHam@gmail.com

RAGS POTA event - Camillus 10/5/24

 The Radio Amateurs of Greater Syracuse (RAGS) will be hosting a Parks On The Air event on Saturday October 5, 2024 at the Erie Canal Park in Camillus NY on DeVoe Road. The hours are from 8am until1pm or later. There will be stations set up for use and all Hams are welcome to bring their own station and set up,The pavilion has electricity. Early coffee and donuts will also be available, There will also be hot dogs , chips, and drinks available around 10 ish, All courtesy of RAGS. 

Come out and learn about POTA and Amateur Radio. 

For more information, email Fred Legawiec, W2LGA at w2lga@yahoo.com

Bear Bait Radio Club - Tailgate fest - Sat. 9/21/24

Bear Bait Radio Club Tailgate Fest 

Saturday September 21st from 7AM to 1PM.   Rain or shine.

Door prizes and 50/50 raffle!

Admission: $5

Tailgate/Vendor: $5

Location:

Clay Highway Building
4483 State Rt 31
Clay NY

More info: https://bearbaitradioclub.com/index.php/events/

Elmira Hamfest - Sat. 9/28/24

 

More info at: https://arasth3.org/arast_website/public/hamfest.php 

International Lighthouse & Lightship weekend 2024 report

 (from Sept-24 RAGS Review newsletter)

INTERNATIONAL LIGHTHOUSE AND LIGHTSHIP WEEKEND– 2024 EDITION

Fred , W2LGA again operated from Oswego Harbor. Here is his report: 

We set up inside the Derrick Boat and it could not have worked out better!! We had more visitors than I have ever had during this event. Setup was super easy and not being hampered by the weather really made it nice!! Charlie Abbot helped set upon Saturday morning and we were on the air by 8am! . We made over 125 total contacts by phone and another 76 contacts via digital modes!! We contacted 18 lighthouses and 2 lightships. Saturday we contacted a lighthouse in France and Sunday we got a lighthouse in Sydney Harbor in Australia!! 

Visitors were from the area as well as one couple from Connecticut that wanted to see the museum as well as the Amateur Radio set up … the lady used to be a “Ham” when she was young and saw the announcement about the set up on the internet. The highlight was a family of 5 who stopped in Saturday afternoon. Two adults and three children. The kids were about 6-10 years old and I let them work the radio!! The youngest called “CQ Lighthouse” and he got a return call from a Canadian light house on Prince Edward Island. I walked the lil guy through the contact but he handled the mike the whole time!!! He was beyond excited!! I even let him enter the contact in the log!! Already looking forward to next year’s events

AWA Conference & Flea Mkt - 10/3-4/2024

The AWA Annual Conference has a flea market on Thursday the 3rd and Friday the 4th of October 2024 at the RIT Conference Center in Henrietta, NY.

Selling and buying is free.  Just park, set up and sell (or buy).  No registration needed unless you want to attend the conference inside. Take as many spaces as you want; it's a nice parking lot.

See this link for more  details:  https://www.antiquewireless.org/homepage/conf-main-page/

Conference schedule:  https://www.antiquewireless.org/homepage/conf-schedule/

Please contact me if there are any questions.

73

Michael C. Migliaccio

Vice President,  AWA

AWA eMail:  vicepresident@antiquewireless.org

Personal email: n3hlm@arrl.net

Fulton Amateur Radio Club - General Class - starts 9/5/24

 General Class Instruction - Press Release - 8/15/24

General Class Amateur Radio Exam Instruction Offered

Starting on Thursday, September 5, the Fulton Amateur Radio Club will host a free 10-week course designed for Technician Class licensees who are interested in obtaining their General Class Amateur (Ham) Radio license. 

The class will meet on Thursday evenings from 7:00-9:00 pm in the lower level of the Oswego County Office Building, across from Mimi's Restaurant, Route 481, Fulton, NY. Class dates are September 5, 12, 19, 26, October 3, 10, 17, 24, November 7. The exam will be administered on Thursday, November 14.

There are many reasons to upgrade. General Class licensees have access to many more frequencies, some of which allow for around-the-world wireless communication without the need for intermediate infrastructure (such as the internet, cell towers, repeaters, etc.). More communications modes and new technical opportunities are also available. 

The course material resembles that which was covered in the Technician exam, with more in-depth focus on high frequency (HF) operation and advanced operating modes. Topics will include operating effectively using single sideband (SSB) on HF, digital modes, solar effects on HF propagation, test instruments, practical electronic circuits, and antennas.

For more information contact Redd Swindells, AI2N, at ai2n(at)twcny.rr.com. Potential students are requested to preregister to assure proper course resource preparation.

More info at: https://www.fultonamateurradioclub.org/

International Lighthouse Lightship Weekend - August 17 & 18

 

Also in Oswego NY: https://www.upstateham.com/2024/07/international-lighthouse-lightship.html

Ithaca VE Exam by TCARA on 8/24/24

 Tompkins County Amateur Radio Association has an upcoming VE exam session on 8/24/24.

To register for a TCARA (AF2A) test session, email:

Kevin Howe; AD2DD: tcara-ve-contact@googlegroups.com

https://hamstudy.org/sessions/66a7d8312d306a6a63fc4518/1

ROC City Hamfest - 8/24/24

 

more info at: https://roccitynethamfest.com/

International Lighthouse / Lightship Weekend Event - 8/17-18/2024

 

Good afternoon all,

 Once again, I will be setting up a portable station at the West Pierhead Lighthouse in Oswego, NY. I hope to be operating from inside the Derrick Boat near the museum itself …. If not I will be directly out front once again. 😊

My tentative hours of operation are from 8am until 4pm both Saturday and Sunday August 17th and 18th. Longer if they will have me!! The 48 hour event runs from 8pm Friday until 8pm Sunday EDT. I will be on most bands using SSB, CW, and FT8 whenever possible. I will try to stay in the General frequency range for the most part. It is hoped to have over 500 lighthouses and lightships registered on the website (illw.net) but regardless …. It will be fun!!

 Hope to see or “hear” you all,

Fred, W2LGA

more info at: https://illw.net/

Keuka Lake ARA Hamfest - 8/17/24

 

Saratoga County Hamfest - 9/7/24

 

More info at: https://www.k2dll.org/

RAGS Hamfest - Sat. July 13th, 2024

 

More info at: https://ragsclub.org/ham-fest/

Ithaca Hamfest - Sat. 8/3/24

 

more info at: https://www.tcara-ny.org/hamfest

Send us your Field Day photo's and stories!

 Its Field Day 2024!

Hope you get out and visit a club or group activity. Or just sit in your air conditioned shack and make a few contacts!

After its all done please consider sending us some pictures and maybe even a story or two about this year or past memories. We'll try to publish them all on UpstateHam!

link to the Field Day locator: https://www.arrl.org/field-day-locator

Email us at: UpstateHam@gmail.com 

Technician Licensing Class - Fulton Amateur Radio Club - starts 6/20/24

 

Skywarn Training....still some classes left

 

more info at: https://www.weather.gov/bgm/outreachskywarntraining

Commemoration - 80 years of D-DAY

 Plusscouts will be operating a special event station June 2nd-9th at the D-Day Museum at Omaha Beach to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Allied Forces landing at Normandy on D-Day. The event callsign will be TM80DDAY. 

Scheduled operating frequencies should include:

1.882 MHz LSB

3.682 MHz LSB

7.182 MHz LSB

14.182 MHz USB

21.182 MHz USB

28.482 MHz USB

DMR TalkGroup 907 - JOTA

More info at: https://www.qrz.com/db/tm80dday

ARRL Field Day - June 22-23, 2024

ARRL Field Day is just a month away! 

Do you have plans with a club or friends yet? Why not visit one of the many groups having events here in Upstate NY. ARRL Field Day locator: https://www.arrl.org/field-day-locator

The object of Field Day is to work as many stations as possible on the 160, 80, 40, 20, 15 and 10 Meter HF bands, as well as all bands 50 MHz and above, and in doing so to learn to operate in abnormal situations in less than optimal conditions. A premium is placed on developing skills to meet the challenges of emergency preparedness as well as to acquaint the general public with the capabilities of Amateur Radio.

More info at: https://www.arrl.org/field-day

Museum Ship Weekend - June 1-2, 2024

 Good evening fellow HAMS,

Once again, this year I plan on setting up a portable operation amateur radio station at the US Army tugboat LT-5 at the H Lee White Museum in Oswego, NY. I’ll be set up for the Museum Ship Weekend Event on June 1st and 2nd. Operating times are planned for 9am to 5pm depending on mother nature of course. The event details can be found at https://www.nj2bb.org/museum/ .  It is a fun event as we try to contact many other ships from all over the world with similar set-ups. Many Aircraft Carriers and Battleships have already signed up. The full list is on the website!!

Stop by or check in,

73’s

Fred Legawiec, W2LGA

more info on the H Lee White Museum in Oswego: https://hlwmm.org/

Lockport Hamfest - Sat. June 8th, 2024 (update)

 

more info at: https://www.lockportara.us/

Cortland Hamfest - Sat. 6/8/24 (Updated)

The 42nd annual Cortland Hamfest and Technology Fair will take place on Saturday June 8th at the Cortland County Fairgrounds, 4301 Fairgrounds Dr. in Cortland.

 Admission: $6.00 per person, under 12 free. Outdoor Flea market is free with admission. There are 25 indoor flea market spaces available for $10.00 per 10' length, first come first served.

 

VE tests will be available beginning at 9 AM.

Coffee and Donuts will be available.

 Travel Directions: I-81 to exit 12; turn left on to Route 281 South. Turn left again on to Fisher Ave, (8/10 mile) then right on to Fairgrounds Drive.

 From Ithaca: Route 13 North to Route 281 North. Turn right onto Fisher Ave, then right on to Fairgrounds Drive.

 For your GPS: 4301 Fairgrounds Dr. Cortland, NY 13045

 We hope to see you there!

 -- ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 

Andrew Slaugh KB2LUV Secretary, Skyline Amateur Radio Club

more info at: https://skylinehamradioclub.org/?page_id=76

Thousand Islands Hamfest - Sat. 5/18/24

 

more info at: https://www.tirepeaterclub.com/

Solar Event continues to unfold this weekend!

 HF radio communications remain unstable this afternoon here in Upstate NY. The effects of this weeks solar storms are expected to continue to affect HF communications through the weekend.

More info at: https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/

Significant HF radio effects from this weeks Solar events!

 HF radio communications were barely possible this morning here in Upstate NY. The effects of this weeks solar storms are expected to continue for the next few days. If cloud cover diminishes we may be able to see some Aurora activity this evening here in CNY!

More info at: https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/

Space weather info: https://solarham.com/

Severe (G4) Geomagnetic Storm Watch for the evening of Friday, May 10

 

NOAA FORECASTS SEVERE SOLAR STORM; MEDIA AVAILABILITY SCHEDULED FOR FRIDAY, MAY 10

    published: Thursday, May 09, 2024 23:02 UTC

For Immediate Release [May 9, 2024]   

MEDIA ADVISORY

NOAA forecasts severe solar storm; media availability scheduled for May 10

NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) — a division of the National Weather Service — is monitoring the sun following a series of solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) that began on May 8. Space weather forecasters have issued a Severe (G4) Geomagnetic Storm Watch for the evening of Friday, May 10. Additional solar eruptions could cause geomagnetic storm conditions to persist through the weekend.

A large sunspot cluster has produced several moderate to strong solar flares since Wednesday at 5:00 am ET. At least five flares were associated with CMEs that appear to be Earth-directed. SWPC forecasters will monitor NOAA and NASA’s space assets for the onset of a geomagnetic storm.

CMEs are explosions of plasma and magnetic fields from the sun’s corona. They cause geomagnetic storms when they are directed at Earth. Geomagnetic storms can impact infrastructure in near-Earth orbit and on Earth’s surface, potentially disrupting communications, the electric power grid, navigation, radio and satellite operations. SWPC has notified the operators of these systems so they can take protective action. Geomagnetic storms can also trigger spectacular displays of aurora on Earth. A severe geomagnetic storm includes the potential for aurora to be seen as far south as Alabama and Northern California. 

WHAT:    Media availability via teleconference on the unfolding space weather event and Geomagnetic Storm Watch. 

WHO:    Experts from NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center

WHEN:                Friday, May 10, 2024; 10 a.m. EDT 

        CALL-IN #:    630-395-0205

        INTERNATIONAL (TOLL FREE): 800-988-9736

        PASSCODE: 8186632

VIDEO:    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-dr2BIlDGDk&feature=youtu.be(link is external). 

Video Caption: NOAA’s GOES-16 satellite captured the eruption from the sun that occurred around 2 p.m. EDT on May 9, 2024. Credit: NOAA

NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center is the official source for space weather forecasts, watches, warnings and alerts. Visit www.spaceweather.gov for updates. The public can subscribe to receive NOAA space weather alerts, warnings, and watch information at pss.swpc.noaa.gov.  

Contact:  Erica Grow Cei, erica.grow.cei@noaa.gov(link sends e-mail), 202-853-6088

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

MORE INFO AT: https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/

East Coast Reflector is holding a "Meet and Greet" - Orchard Park NY - 6/8/24

 The East Coast Reflector is holding a "Meet and Greet" on June 8, 2024. 

This will be held at Chestnut Ridge Park in Orchard Park, NY.  This will be held at Martin's Lodge from 1 PM to 8 PM. Dinner will be from 3 PM to 6 PM.  Cost is a donation of $15 per person.  There will be door prizes and a 50/50 drawing.  Talk in will be on 146.520.  Food available will be hot dogs, hamburgers, cheese burgers and BBQ beans.  There will besome drinks available.  Last year, hams came from throughout Eastern USA. Tailgating will be allowed and clubs are invited to bring along several pamphlets on their clubs and membership applications. Hope to see you all there!

more info here: https://www.eastcoastreflector.com/ecr-2024-meet-greet/

RARA operating event - Rochester - Sat. 5/4/24

 Operating Event for New(ish) Hams

Saturday May 4, 2024 (10am setup, 11am open)

We have had great success in the last three years in getting new or new-again hams kick-started in their ham radio career.

This year's event will be on May 4th (Star Wars Day, so feel free to bring your lightsaber), and will again be at the Pathfinder Shelter in Black Creek Park. We can access the shelter starting at 10am, this is when setup will start and then our new(ish) hams will join us at 11am. The event goes until we run out of audience, or out of steam, which usually is between 3 and 4pm.

If you would like to interest somebody who is new to the hobby in your niche of ham radio, here is your opportunity :)

I would like to again have a wide range of topics that we can present. In years past, we've had antenna building, portable operating, digital modes, CW, soldering, programming HTs, foxhunting, throwing antennas into trees and more.

If you can spare a few hours to help our newest hams to get started in the hobby, they will appreciate your effort and your time.

If you would like to participate, please send me an email with what topic you would like to present. If you would like to participate, but don't have a good idea yet about what to do, let me know, I can help you with some ideas.

THANK YOU!

Karl Heinz, K5KHK    education@rochesterham.org

Location:

Pathfinder Shelter, Black Creek Park in Chili https://www.google.com/maps/search/Pathfinder+Shelter,+Black+Creek+Park+in+Chili/@43.0853966,-77.8047603,13z?entry=ttu

RAGS portable ops demo party - this Saturday!

 Reminder - RAGS is having an "open to the public" Amateur Radio Demonstration at Cedar Bay Park in Town of Dewitt, 8A-2P.  There will be portable amateur stations set-up.  This is a POTA park and is also within the Erie Canal Corridor POTA park.  

Please come to visit, or to operate if you like, or for just good old fellowship.  There will be coffee and donuts!!! 

Chasing weather balloons

Want to track a weather balloon? This is a pretty cool website that tracks weather balloon across the country.  You can also listen for their data packet telemetry on your radio when they in your area (Buffalo generally uses 403.800mhz). The NWS in Buffalo and Albany launch balloons around 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM everyday. They also may launch at other times like during storms. Check it out here: https://sondehub.org/#!mt=Mapnik&mz=7&qm=3h&mc=43.45329,-75.39917

Learn more about how the tracker works here: https://github.com/projecthorus/sondehub-tracker/wiki/SondeHub-Tracker-User-Guide#sondehub-tracker-overview

Cool tracking info: https://www.overlookhorizon.com/how-to-launch-weather-balloons/how-to-track-nws-weather-balloons/

More info from NOAA: https://www.weather.gov/upperair/

Nice Drumlins Hamfest yesterday

Great turnout and weather yesterday for one of our favorite early season Hamfests! The best crowd we have seen there in a couple of years and lots of used equipment for sale. The Drumlins Club always does a very nice job and has great site there in Newark NY. Thanks guys!

Help needed - RAGS Public service comms for WorkForce Run on June 6th

(UPDATE 5/24/24) We are still in need of committed operators for the WorkForce Run on June 6.  This event is a late afternoon event with a pre-event meet-up at 5PM.  

Please sign-up by either going to www.ragsclub.org, click on the Public Service and fill out the Public Service Event Form OR email Andriy at KD2KUB@gmail.com or Walt at n2ikwkb@gmail.com.

This is a nice short event and our help is always greatly appreciated.

Jerry, NK2C

Lockport Hamfest - 6/8/24

 

more info at: https://www.lockportara.us/

ARES/RACES Quarterly Training - Onondaga County 4/22/24

 Get Involved In ARES and RACES

The next ARES/RACES Quarterly Training session

will be April 22, 7:00P at the Onondaga County

Emergency Operations Center, Electronics Parkway,

Liverpool. There will be a tour and we will check out

antenna systems.

John Perkins, K2VTT, RACES Radio Officer

Drumlins Hamfest - Palmyra NY - 4/20/24 (update)

 Note:   Ken Blume, K2UPI, A longtime friend of the CNY Amateur radio community passed away this past December 2023. Several of his friends will be selling equipment from his estate outside at the Drumlins Hamfest. The offerings include vintage and modern equipment from Eico, Hallicrafters, Hammarlund, Heathkit, Johnson, Kenwood, TenTec, Yaesu and more. Over 150 items will be for sale. The proceeds of all sales will be going to his family.

more info at: https://drumlinsarc.us/hamfest-info/

AWA Spring meet - Sat. 5/4/24 - Bloomfield, NY

 

Don't miss the 2024 Antique Wireless Association's annual spring meet!

more info at: https://www.antiquewireless.org/homepage/2024-spring-meet/

Warren County Ham Radio Swap meet - Sat. 4/13/24

 

more info at: https://www.w2wcr.org/events/swapmeet

SkyWarn Spring 2024 Training

 The 2024 Skywarn Spring Training Season is upon us!

Learn more from your local NWS office listed below:

Binghamton NY NWS SKYWARN page: http://www.weather.gov/bgm/outreachSKYWARNtraining

Buffalo NY NWS SKYWARN page: http://www.weather.gov/buf/Skywarn

Albany NY NWS SKYWARN page:  http://www.weather.gov/aly/skywarn

The effects of severe weather are felt every year by many Americans. To obtain critical weather information, NOAA’s National Weather Service (NWS), part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, established SKYWARN® with partner organizations. SKYWARN® is a volunteer program with nearly 290,000 trained severe weather spotters. These volunteers help keep their local communities safe by providing timely and accurate reports of severe weather to the National Weather Service.

Although SKYWARN® spotters provide essential information for all types of weather hazards, the main responsibility of a SKYWARN® spotter is to identify and describe severe local storms. In the average year, 10,000 severe thunderstorms, 5,000 floods and more than 1,000 tornadoes occur across the United States. These events threatened lives and property.

Since the program started in the 1970s, the information provided by SKYWARN® spotters, coupled with Doppler radar technology, improved satellite and other data, has enabled NWS to issue more timely and accurate warnings for tornadoes, severe thunderstorms and flash floods.

Learn more about CNY SKYWARN here: https://www.upstateham.com/p/skywarn.html

Learn more at the National SKYWARN web site: https://www.weather.gov/SKYWARN

 

CVARA BULLTHISTLE HAMFEST - Norwich NY - Sat. 4/20/24

 

more info at: https://cvara.net/our-events/bullthistle-hamfest/

Syracuse/Rochester area GMRS repeaters

 Lots of interest lately in GMRS with the reduced cost of licensing. 

Some Syracuse/Rochester area GMRS repeaters:

462.550     Auburn, PL 141.3 - est. 5-15 mile coverage

462.550     Fulton, PL 136.5 - est. 5 mile coverage, City of Fulton

462.550     Cazenovia, PL 162.2 - est. 35 mile coverage

462.575    Bristol, Alliance, PL141.3 - est. 70 mileage coverage

462.600    Syracuse, ADD, PL 151.4 - est. 70 mile coverage

462.625    Locke, PL 71.9, est. 10 mile coverage (Owasco Valley?)

462.725    Bristol, Covert, PL-TBD (ask), est. 80 mile coverage

Some info about getting licensed and using the GMRS radio service - see links below:

https://www.mygmrs.com/help/about-gmrs

https://www.nysgmrsalliance.com/considering-gmrs

http://www.usagmrs.com/usgmrsassociation.html

https://woofthebeatenpath.com/quick-start-guide-to-gmrs-radio-for-beginners/

https://www.retevis.com/blog/a-guide-for-new-gmrs-radio-comers

GMRS/FRS Frequencies:

https://www.rightchannelradios.com/blogs/newsletters/gmrs-radio-frequencies-and-channels

Operators needed - Syracuse St. Patrick's Day parade on Sat. 3/16

 We still need a few more operators to help with communications at the parade on March 16. Long range forecast is for 52F, so it will be balmy.  Please help if you can.... RAGS has loaner radios if needed.  Please contact Walt, N2IK at n2ikwkb@gmail.com or 315-243-0736. 

Jerry, NK2C

WNY Ham radio support for 4/8 Solar Eclipse

To:   All WNY Ham Radio Clubs

From:  Vince Harzewski N2JRS, Emergency Coordinator, Erie County ARES/Assistant Radio Officer, Erie County RACES

 

Re: April 8, 2024 Total Solar Eclipse

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

The Erie County Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services

has requested the assistance of amateur radio operators in conjunction

with the total solar eclipse on April 8.

 

Amateurs will be asked to provide critical information on the day of the

eclipse:

 

All Amateurs from any county are invited to participate.

 

Hams working with Emergency Services will establish communications in

the Emergency Operations center in Cheektowaga NY and will take reports

from amateurs on location, traffic, weather and amount of people

gathering during the key times of the eclipse on the 8th.

 

They will also establish cross border communications with Canadian

amateurs to test viability of passing traffic across the pond.

 

Hams in the EOC will establish communications with the state EOC with HF

voice and WINLINK connectivity.

 

Amateurs from Erie County ARES/RACES will be positioned at certain areas

of interest in the county that are deemed possible points where traffic

leading up to and at the end of the eclipse might become a problem if an

emergency arises and will provide reports to the EOC throughout the

duration of the event.

 

Amateurs in Erie County will also establish 2 quick deployment teams and

station them in the north and south in the county should the need arise

to setup and operate until other county resources can assist and Erie

County RACES will provide an operator to Buffalo Fire in their

respective EOC for a link back to the county EOC and to test the

viability of using us as a backup to inter EOC communications.