News last updated: Fri 7 June, 2013

Welcome to the San Joaquin Valley Section.

Section Manager (SM) Dan Pruitt AE6SX

Assistant Section Managers (ASM) John Lee K6YK and Bob Hervatine N2NS

Affiliated Club Coordinator (ACC) Charles McConnell W6DPD

Section Emergency Coordinator (SEC) Edward Hanna KF6FIR

Official Observer Coordinator (OOC) Victor Magana N1VM,

Section Traffic Manager (STM) Fred Silveira K6RAU,

Public Information Coordinator (PIC) Craig Carter K6QI

Technical Coordinator (TC) Dave Smith W6TE.

The San Joaquin Valley Section includes 12 counties in the central valley of California, Kern, Tulare, Kings, Fresno, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Stanislaus, Tuolumne, Calaveras, San Joaquin, and Mono.

Thanks for visiting this page.

When your affiliated club elects officers for the next year, be sure to update your club’s information on the affiliated club area of the ARRL web page. If your club fails to update the information for 2 years, your club will be placed in the inactive file. ARRL HQ and the Director use this information on these reports to send information to your club. If the information is not up to date, your club will miss out. Please notify your Section Manager of your club's election results, ae6sx@arrl.org and the Affiliated Club Coordinator, w6dpd@arrl.org.

 

Mark your Calendars: ARRL Field Day is June 22-23, 2013. You can down load the FD Packet from ARRL. PACIFICON 2013 is scheduled for October 11-13, 2013 at the Santa Clara Marriott. See www.pacificon.org for information. The 2014 International DX Convention will be April 4-6, 2014, at the Visalia Convention Center. Check www.dxconvention.org for information.

 As space allows I will enjoy relaying any events or occurrences which illustrate Amateur Radio as a hobby and public asset. It need not be a newsletter, if you think it important, it probably should be here.

 You should also send your newsletter to the Affiliated Club Coordinator (w6dpd@arrl.org) and the Director (w6rgg@arrl.org) vice director (k6jat@arrl.org) and to ARRL HQ (clubs@arrl.org).

 Need to take an Amateur exam? Are you having an exam? Check the ARRL web page, www.arrl.org/arrlvec/examsearch.phtml for exam information. You can also search for Amateur Radio Classes in your area and register your exam. Instructors can also register classes there.

 Card Checking in the Section: You can get cards checked for awards within the section. W6XK, K6ZZ, and W6DPD can check your cards for DXCC in accordance with the rules for field checking. DXCC card checkers may now check cards dated from Nov. 15, 1945, including Deleted DXCC Entities. K6ZZ can now check 160 Meter Cards. DXCC card checkers may, at their discretion, check cards for WAS, WAC, and VUCC. W6DPD and K6ZZ can check cards for the CQ Awards, WAZ, DX, Field, and Prefixes. The card checkers may also check applications for the IARU Region 2 Award. ARRL Special Service Clubs may appoint a HF awards manager for WAS and a VHF Awards Manager for VUCC.

 

San Joaquin Valley Nets:

 

The Noontime net meets on 7.268.5 MHz. This net handles a lot of messages.

Daytime Region 6 Traffic Net meets daily at 3:30 pacific time on or near 7.275 MHZ. This one is probable not in operation at this time.

The California Traffic Net meets daily on 3.906 MHZ and 6:00 PM local time.

The Golden Bear Amateur Radio Net meets nightly at 7:00 PM local time on 3.975 MHZ.

Northern California Net (NCN), the Section Traffic Net, meets nightly on 3.533 MHZ at 7 PM Pacific Time.

San Joaquin Net meets nightly on 3918khz, at 6 PM Pacific Time.

Western Public Service System (WPS) meets nightly on 3952khz, roll - at 7:30 PM local Pacific Time.

The Mission Trail Net meets nightly on 3.856 MHZ at 8:00 PM local time.

Northern California Net 2 (NCN2) The slow speed training session of NCN, meets nightly on 3.533 MHZ at 9 PM Pacific Time. Handling traffic on CW is a good way to improve your CW skills.

The Young Ham Net every Saturday 2:00 PM local time 145.230 –0.6 PL 100 or Echolink KR6DD-R 271122 or N6WN-R 477737

 

The K6RAU (our Traffic Manager) Morse Code Instruction Course is available at www.pdarrl.org/K6RAU or www.pdarrl.org/k6rau.

No need to know a "dit" from a "dah", simply with paper and pencil, and following the instructions.

 

 

Elmering: Guy W6MSU's Elmer talk group is at W6SF@yahoogroups.com

 

 

 

********** NEWS **********

 

 

 

>> SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY SECTION Report for the month of May 2013: SM Dan Pruitt, AE6SX- ASMs K6YK and N2NS, ACC W6DPD, SEC KF6FIR, OOC N1VM, STM K6RAU, PIC K6QI, TC W6TE.

 

OK, May is gone. It is not too hot yet so, off the Grid we go!

 

First is the VHF Contest. All modes, frequencies and classes. All manners of operation on the “line-o-sight” spectrum. Enjoy the Contest as a Roamer or Mountain Topper, a single operator or with a Club or group. Take pictures and present your experiences at a club meeting or function.

 

Then it will be time for the annual pilgrimage to your Field Day site. Everyone has a personal memory or plan that they like to replay over a good meal. The site may be an old favorite or a new one. The chance to work with good comrades in the hobby will renew the special feeling of kinship.

 

Don't forget the Public. This is the best opportunity that we have to actually brag about our hobby/art. Describe and exhibit what we do to Scouts, School kids, local Government Officials and Public Safety responders. Take the time to invite a friend, relative or co-worker to the event. Get them on a GOTA Station and create some excitement for yourself and them.

 

Above all, Have Fun!

 

73; Dan AE6SX

 

NEWS:

• + Meet MAREA -- the Mars Lander Amateur Radio Robotics Exploration Activity http://www.arrl.org/arrlletter?issue=2013-05-16#toc02

• + 1984 Operation to Cocos Island Now Approved for DXCC Credit http://www.arrl.org/arrlletter?issue=2013-05-16#toc09

• + Amateurs in Oklahoma Respond to Storm Aftermath http://www.arrl.org/arrlletter?issue=2013-05-23#toc01

• + Dayton Hamvention®: Foggy Skies, Friendly Faces, Fantastic Event http://www.arrl.org/arrlletter?issue=2013-05-23#toc02

• +Section Manager Election Results Announced The following incumbent ... Managers did not face opposition ... terms of office beginning July 1: J... Joe Giraudo, N7JEH, Nevada; ... Dan Pruitt, AE6SX, SJV... http://www.arrl.org/arrlletter?issue=2013-05-23#toc06

• + Logbook of The World Reaches 500 Million QSOs Release of TQSL 1.14 for LoTW Delayed after corrections, it will be completely tested before being released. http://www.arrl.org/arrlletter?issue=2013-05-23#toc07

• + Forecasters Calling for "Active or Extremely Active" Atlantic Hurricane Season http://www.arrl.org/arrlletter?issue=current#toc01

• + ARRL Comments on Proposed Expansion of 5 GHz Unlicensed Broadband http://www.arrl.org/arrlletter?issue=current#toc03

• + FCC Seeks Small Vanity Call Sign Fee Increase to $15.20 http://www.arrl.org/arrlletter?issue=current#toc04

• + June VHF Contest Coming June 8-10 http://www.arrl.org/arrlletter?issue=current#toc05

• + Spanish Amateurs Gain New Privileges on 160 Meters 1810-1830 kHz http://www.arrl.org/arrlletter?issue=current#toc07

• + N2NS Class: SO(A)SB20 HP Operating Time (hrs): 5

                Band QSOs 20m: 200 Total: 200

                Prefixes = 178 Total Score = 72,446

 

Contests:

June 2013

 

+ Asia-Pacific Sprint, SSB 1100Z-1300Z, Jun 8

+ Portugal Day Contest 1200Z, Jun 8 to 1159Z, Jun 9

+ REF DDFM 6m Contest 1600Z, Jun 8 to 1600Z, Jun 9

+ ARRL June VHF Contest 1800Z, Jun 8 to 0259Z, Jun 10

+ RSGB 80m Club Championship, CW 1900Z-2030Z, Jun 12

+ All Asian DX Contest, CW 0000Z, Jun 15 to 2400Z, Jun 16

+ Ukrainian DX Classic RTTY Contest 1200Z, Jun 15 to 1159Z, Jun 16

+ West Virginia QSO Party 1600Z, Jun 15 to 0200Z, Jun 16

+ Kid's Day Contest 1800Z-2359Z, Jun 15

+ SARL Youth Day Sprint 0700Z-1100Z, Jun 16

+ WAB 50 MHz Phone 0900Z-1500Z, Jun 16

+ RSGB 80m Club Championship, SSB 1900Z-2030Z, Jun 20

+ His Maj. King of Spain Contest, SSB 1200Z, Jun 22 to 1200Z, Jun 23

+ Ukrainian DX DIGI Contest 1200Z, Jun 22 to 1200Z, Jun 23

+ Marconi Memorial HF Contest 1400Z, Jun 22 to 1400Z, Jun 23

+ ARRL Field Day 1800Z, Jun 22 to 2100Z, Jun 23 + CQWW WPX Contest, CW Operator:      

 

 

July 2013

 

+ RAC Canada Day Contest 0000Z-2359Z, Jul 1

+ 10-10 Int. Spirit of 76 QSO Party 0001Z, Jul 1 to 2400Z, Jul 7

+ Venezuelan Ind. Day Contest 0000Z, Jul 6 to 2359Z, Jul 7

+ DL-DX RTTY Contest 1100Z, Jul 6 to 1059Z, Jul 7

+ DARC 10-Meter Digital Contest 1100Z-1700Z, Jul 7    

 

CLOVIS ARP ++ Transmitter Hunt on July 6, will be discussed at the June 7 meeting by Rob, AE6GE. www.k6arp.org/

 

CCDX Club ++ Congradulations Steve, NA6G, for receiving Dx'er of the year 2012. Donations for Wake Island and The Amsterdam Island Dxpeditions were approved. www.ccdxc.org/

 

FRESNO ARC ++ Fresno ARES EC Glen, N6HEW report included details of the California Classic Bike Ride that was held the 18th of May. More than 16 Hams provided communications for the 100 mile event. Ron N6MTS, Field day Chairman has a new location that is close to downtown Clovis. Rob AE6GE has pictures from the May T-Hunt. Take a look at Dave, W6TE's Big Red Truck, all decked out for Roaming in the VHF contest. www.w6to.com/

 

LOS BANOS ARC ++ A Broad-, Multi-Band Inverted-L Antenna, on A Small Lot! Michael Germino, AD6AA, describes it with pictures. Pictures of the May Submariner program, by the submariner, are displayed. www.aa6lb.org

 

SEQUOIA ARG ++ Pete, W6SV announced Field Day will be up at Camp Andrew Brown this year; high (I believe about 8,000 ft) on the Kern Plateau. Also he passed a thank you to Hal N6HAL, for his program on WinLink..www.n6krv.org

 

SIERRA ARC ++ Hal, N6HAL says, “Last Newsletter till September”. Field for the Club will be up at Horseshoe Meadows. The T-Hunt went well with an interesting twist. . www.qsl.net/wa6ybn/

 

STOCKTON Delta ++ Charlie, WB6NVB, gave an over view of public service events, the club supported and a description of the May meeting. Here are some of those operators: Eric, W6INP, Shirl, AA6K, Charlie, WB6NVB, Dean, KJ6EML, Kevin K6KBQ, David N5FDL; John, NZ6Q and Paul, N6KZW took pictures while shadowing the participants. Some advice was given concerning cross-band repeating, including some don'ts! www.w6sf.org

 

TURLOCK ARC ++ During our May 14th General Meeting, Grady, K6IXA, made a presentation on some antenna work. He outlined current plans and things he’d like to do in the future. At the conclusion of the meeting, Marge, KB6DXM, presented a donation in memory of Ivan, W6SKH (sk), for that purpose. All plans for Field Day at Lake McSwain, are completed. Just Pot-Luck is needed to go with the meat. Note 11 June Swap location has moved to Veterans’ Park Atwater. www.w6bxn.org

 

The following Amateurs became Silent Keys since the last report:

Eddie KE6BK; Jerry, WD6ASN; and Michael, KG6DA. They will be missed.

Traffic for MAY 2013:

ORS: WS6P 274, K6RAU 12, W6SX 5 Total 291

PSHR: WS6P 148, W6SX 29, K6RAU 63

NNNNN

 

>> SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY SECTION Report for the month of April 2013: SM Dan Pruitt, AE6SX- ASMs K6YK and N2NS, ACC W6DPD, SEC KF6FIR, OOC N1VM, STM K6RAU, PIC K6QI, TC W6TE.

 

Time for planning the fun, food and frequencies for Field Day. April is gone, May is in full swing and the temperature is still quite comfortable.

 

It seems we always plan our Antenna work and Field Day about the same time. Maybe to knock the dust off the stored equipment from last year. I think it is our nature to improve over and above last year. A good antenna always goes a long way. Get out and work while the temperature is right.

 

If you do not have your contacts in place for your bonus points for Field Day, time is a wasting. The Political and Government officials are always scheduling 90 days ahead. Put your story together for the press and media. Make sure to line up the youth for your GOTA Station too.

 

Enjoy the planning, add food, good equipment and a good place to operate, add some contacts, and you will have a great time.

 

73; Dan AE6SX

 

 

Mark your Calendars: May 17-19 -- Dayton Hamvention, Trotwood, Ohio. For more information see hamvention.org .  SEA-PACK 31 May through 2 June, 2013 in Seaside, OR. Check the details at www.seapac.org/ .    ARRL Field Day is June 22-23, 2013. You can down load the FD Packet from ARRL. PACIFICON 2013 is scheduled for October 11-13, 2013 at the Santa Clara Marriott. See www.pacificon.org for information.  The 2014 International DX Convention will be in April 2014 in Visalia.  The exact dates and location have not been announced.  Check www.dxconvention.org for the latest news.

 

 

 

NEWS:

• 04/10/2013 | Applications for Teachers Institute, ETP Grants Due in May

• 04/20/2013 | Chinese Amateurs Assist in Earthquake Aftermath

• 04/19/2013 | Surfin’: Wire in the Spring, outdoor maintenance -- with wire antennas in mind.

• 04/16/2013 | Radio Amateurs Provide Communication Support in Boston Marathon Bombings

• 04/22/2013 | Seattle Will Host the 32nd (TAPR) Digital Communications Conference

• 04/23/2013 | Changes to FCC Radiotelegraph Operator Certificates Coming May 20

• 05/01/2013 | Annual Armed Forces Day Crossband Test Scheduled for May 11

• W6TV placed #1 in September VHF Contest

• W6SX placed #1 in 160 Meter contest

• WC6H placed #1 in November Sweepstakes -Phone

•  

Contests:

May 2013

+ Armed Forces Crossband Test 1400Z, May 11 to 0300Z, May 12

+ HPC World Wide DX Contest 1200Z, May 11 to 1159Z, May 12

+ CQ-M International DX Contest 1200Z, May 11 to 1159Z, May 12

+ VOLTA WW RTTY Contest 1200Z, May 11 to 1200Z, May 12

+ Nevada Mustang Roundup 1700Z, May 11 to 1700Z, May 12

+ CQ WW WPX Contest, CW 0000Z, May 25 to 2359Z, May 26

 

June 2013

+ 10-10 Int. Open Season PSK Contest 0000Z, Jun 1 to 2400Z, Jun 2

+ Maritimes QSO Party 1200Z-2400Z, Jun 1

+ SEANET Contest 1200Z, Jun 1 to 1200Z, Jun 2

+ Alabama QSO Party 1600Z, Jun 1 to 0400Z, Jun 2

•  

 

CLOVIS ARP ++ The Clovis group will be doing communications for the California Classic Century Bike Ride, 18 May. The May meeting will be a “how to” on Fox Hunting by Rob AE6GE. www.k6arp.org/

 

FRESNO ARC ++ “Skip” includes pictures and reports from the DX Convention in Visailia. Paul W6VPS continues his journal on refurbishing his Mosely Beam and adding 12 & 17 Meter elements. Also pictures and comments from the M Squared Open House. www.w6to.com/

 

LOS BANOS ARC ++ Dr. Joe will be presenting at the 11 May meeting. His topic will be operating aboard a Submarine during WWII. Time is 7 PM at the Police Annex building.

 

SEQUOIA ARG ++ Nice article in the “Voice” of the awarding of the Amateur Radio Rating Badge to a young Boy Scout. Pete W6SV, praises the guests from Bakersfield at a recent function. I am thrilled about hearing of events like these. The other colorful articles are worth the reading.www.n6krv.org

 

SIERRA ARC ++ Hal N6HAL describes many good Emcomm practices and public service events. The Club is very good at working with other clubs and groups in the area. A very well rounded examples of cooperation with the local CERT members. www.qsl.net/wa6ybn/

 

STANISLAUS ARC ++ SARA Quarterly spells out the public service events. Registration for FEMA training courses offered by the ARES group. Joe WB6AGR offers 2 links regarding videos on “Situational Awareness” http://freedv.org/tiki-index.php?page=video and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MCmE_vvHeqw . . www.saraclub.net

 

STOCKTON Delta ++ Charlie WB6NVB and Fred WB6ASU are preparing an ATV presentation. The club is very involved in a multitude of public service events. The Club is activating the minesweeper USS Intrepid for the June 1 Museum Ship Weekend. . www.w6sf.org

 

TURLOCK ARC ++ Amateur Radio & Velveeta Cheese link: http://youtu.be/aTeAtPFEuyc . Grady, K6IXA, said a new diagram of the repeater system has been created and placed on the club's web page. Grady also said a new satellite receiver has been put in place in Modesto and one will soon be going into place in Atwater and Fresno. Plans for Field Day seem in place. A reprint of the ARES participation in the Boston Marathon Bombing was very informative. www.w6bxn.org

 

The following Amateurs became Silent Keys since the last report: Edd, K6LSB and John, AE6QR. They will be missed.

 

Traffic for February 2013:

ORS: WS6P 136, K6RAU 13, W6SX 1 Total 150

PSHR: WS6P 202, W6SX 22, K6RAU 70

 

 

 

 

 

>> SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY SECTION Report for the month of March 2013: SM Dan Pruitt, AE6SX- ASMs K6YK and N2NS, ACC W6DPD, SEC KF6FIR, OOC N1VM, STM K6RAU, PIC K6QI, TC W6TE.

Hello All;

Public Service events are in full swing. Charity events and spring celebrations in the form of bike rides, Marathons, picnics, parades and carnivals are worthy of community support. They also offer good opportunities for training in safety and security, also fun radio. I recommend you plan ahead and choose the commitments you will enjoy volunteering and gain the most benefit.

Some calendar items for April in SJV. I think it note worthy that the annual Turlock Auction is on 13 April. Check out their website for details www.w6bxn.org . Remember the International DX convention is in Visalia starting 19 April. See all the happenings at: www.dxconvention.com/ .

Last but not least, Field Day in June. You should have your plans so you can post your site at ARRL.org and get your publicity going for the event.

 

Weather is nice so go play radio!

73; Dan AE6SX

 

Mark your Calendars: EMCOMM West for 2013 has been postponed. ARRL Field Day is June 22-23, 2013. You can down load the FD Packet from ARRL. PACIFICON 2013 is scheduled for October 11-13, 2013 at the Santa Clara Marriott. See www.pacificon.org for information. The 2014 International DX Convention is scheduled for April 4-6, 2014 in Visalia.  The location is to be determined.  Check www.dxconvention.org for information.

 

NEWS:

• Montana Governor Signs Legislation to Protect Mobile Amateur Radio Operations from Distracted Driving Regulations and giving Amateurs a 100-foot tower by right.

• Bob Bruninga, WB4APR, led a group of radio amateurs earlier this month to Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky to test how APRS can be used as a means to extend radio communications underground via digi-peaters

• 03/11/2013 | W1AW Announces 2013 Spring Operating Schedule

• Radio Before Radio - Article about the 1910 pamphlet "The Wireless Telephone."

• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Craig Fugate, KK4INZ, met with ARRL leadership at FEMA Headquarters in Washington, DC last month.

• 2013 World Amateur Radio Day -- April 18 -- Celebrates 100 Years of Disaster Communications

 

Contests:

April

• 21 Rookie Roundup – Phone

 

CLOVIS ARP ++ The Clovis club is taking the lead on 3 events in Fresno County. Rob, AE6GE, will be doing a program of “Fox Hunting from the fox's point of view”. www.k6arp.org/

 

FRESNO ARC ++ Read about; “New Antenna material! Make antennas that will float in the air and be invisible!” Paul, W6VPS, journaled his antenna restoration. Pictures from the M Squared open house show food, hams and swappers. If you like state of the art tech – check out the insect transmit drone! www.w6to.com/

 

SEQUOIA ARG ++ This issue reports on a 15 year old from Sierra Leone earning a trip to MIT. Some history: Hungry Gulch described. Pete W6SV reminds us even the Tech Class can participate in the “Rookie Round-up” by using 6 and 10 Meters in the contest. www.n6krv.org

 

SIERRA ARC ++ John, KJ6MQN will be talking on his work on the SDR dongle radio featured in QST during the April Meeting. Elmer Says – discusses measuring SWR accuracy. This month shows great pic of Pan-Starr Comet. Hal, N6HAL, gives a tour of the Ridgecrest ARES/RACES at PD and Mobile Command Center. www.qsl.net/wa6ybn/

 

STOCKTON Delta ++ Charlie WB6NVB is working with Fred Coe WB6ASU to put on a demonstration of amateur television, when the ATV repeater is up and operating. Charlie also put on a presentation on batteries, power supplies, inverters and how they can be used. www.w6sf.org

 

TURLOCK ARC ++ Field Day Countdown, by Bob, WB3CDB, is a great checklist for prepping for Field Day. Feed System Discussion By Larry, K6IY, compares voltage and current fed antennas. Don't forget the Auction 13 April. www.w6bxn.org

 

The following Amateurs became Silent Keys since the last report: Ed, K6AHQ and Bill, KB6HRB. They will be missed.

Traffic for February 2013:

ORS: WS6P 315, K6RAU 15, W6SX 4 Total 334

PSHR: WS6P 175, W6SX 27, K6RAU 73

 

>> SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY SECTION Report for the month of February 2013: SM Dan Pruitt, AE6SX- ASMs K6YK and N2NS, ACC W6DPD, SEC KF6FIR, OOC N1VM, STM K6RAU, PIC K6QI, TC W6TE.

 

Time springs forward!  Sunday, 17 March to be exact.

 

In fact the day after the “15^th annual M Squared Open House”  on 16 March. One of the 2 large events in San Joaquin Section. The other is the DX Convention in Visalia!

 

This year is the first time M Squared has been an ARRL Sanctioned event. I'm looking forward to seeing Bob W6RGG, our Pacific Division Director at the event.   At present Ron W6KJ, Section Manager of Sacramento Section and Jim AF6AQ, East Bay Section Manager, have plans to attend. The Open House is always well attended.  Burgers, Dogs and Chili are copiously consumed by all.  Vendors, new Ham goodies, T-Hunts and prize drawings just for fun.

 

I enjoy networking with hams from all over. We get to chew the fat and compare ideas.

 

See you there!

 

73; Dan AE6SX

 

 

NEWS:

• John K6MI placed first in Pacific Division A Class January 2012 VHF Contest.

• Patrick K6BRW placed first Pacific Division RL Class January 2012 VHF Contest.

• Rob AE6GE took First Place in January 2012 VHF Portable for Pacific Division Q Class

• Patrick K6BRW placed first and Duane KI6QEL placed second in June VHF Contest RL Class.

• 02/05/2013 | ITU Offering Free Download of 2012 International Radio Regulations

• 02/06/2013 | New International Reply Coupon Introduced

• 02/07/2013 | IARU Region 2 Seeks Input on HF Band Plan

• 02/11/2013 | Three New “How To” Videos on the ARRL Website

  http://www.arrl.org/news/fcc-adopts-sweeping-changes-to-experimental-radio-service

• 02/11/2013 | FCC Adopts Sweeping Changes to Experimental Radio Service

• 02/14/2013 | Oklahoma Ham Helps Develop New Winter Weather App for NOAA

• In a Report & Order (R&O) -- FCC 13-15 -- released February 4, the FCC adopted numerous changes to its Experimental Radio Service (Part 5), revising and streamlining its rules.

• 02/21/2013 | American Red Cross to Phase Out Emergency Communication Response Vehicles

• ARRL DXCC credit: 5X8C in Uganda (commencing in 2012) and the T6TJ (commencing in 2012) and T6BP (commencing in 2011) operations in Afghanistan.

• 02/21/2013 | Amateur-created “Varicode” Adopted as ITU Recommendation

• 02/27/2013 | ARRL Website Debuts New Features

• 03/04/2013 | Montana Governor Signs Legislation to Protect Mobile Amateur Radio Operations from Distracted Driving Regulations

• 03/07/2013 | More Than 20,000 arrl.net, arrl.org E-mail Addresses Blocked by Microsoft

 

Contests:

 

March

+ Idaho QSO Party 1900Z, Mar 9 to 1900Z, Mar 10

+ North American Sprint, RTTY 0000Z-0400Z, Mar 10

+ Wisconsin QSO Party 1800Z, Mar 10 to 0100Z, Mar 11

+ BARTG HF RTTY Contest 0200Z, Mar 16 to 0200Z, Mar 18

+ Russian DX Contest 1200Z, Mar 16 to 1200Z, Mar 17

+ North American Sprint, SSB 0000Z-0400Z, Mar 17

+ CQ WW WPX Contest, SSB 0000Z, Mar 30 to 2400Z, Mar 31   April

+ SARL 80m QSO Party 1700Z-2000Z, Apr 4

+ LZ Open 40m Sprint Contest 0400Z-0800Z, Apr 6 21 Rookie Roundup – Phone

 

Mark your Calendars: The annual M Squared Open House is scheduled 16 March. For more details contact sales@m2inc.com. Radiofest Monterey Bay is March 23rd, 2013. For more information go to www.radiofest.org. The Turlock ARC Spring Auction is April 13, 2013. For information check www.w6bxn.org The 64th Annual International DX Convention sponsored by the Northern California DX Club will be held at the Visalia Conference Center in downtown Visalia, California from April 19-21, 2013. See www.dxconvention.com for the latest information. EMCOMM West for 2013 has been postponed. PACIFICON 2013 is scheduled for October 11-13, 2013 at the Santa Clara Marriott. See www.pacificon.org for information.

 

CLOVIS ARP ++ First big event for public service was the annual “Blossom Trail 10K Run”. Providing communications from supporting groups that included ARES, RACES, SATERN, Fresno CERT (Cedric KI6FHD) and at least 4 Ham Clubs. www.k6arp.org/

 

FRESNO ARC ++ Members Steve NA6G, Richard KE6SHL, Bob N2NS, and John K6MI were all heard operating on RTTY contesting in February. Bob N2NS and Steve K6AAB also were in the CW contests. Of course M Squared Antenna Open House was mentioned for 16 March! www.w6to.com/

 

SEQUOIA ARG ++ This month is all about humor. Pig stories, road signs and a reprint of a 1923 QST article. On a serious note, how to avoid being hacked while traveling with your laptop. www.n6krv.org

 

SIERRA ARC ++ Hal N6HAL reports the rap up of CW training and the continued rag chew 75 meter AM net on Mondays at 2000. March meeting is on preparedness. He also states that the plan is to meet on 4 May as the second annual BARC and SARC in the Park. Last year Bishop and Sierra clubs had a great time. www.qsl.net/wa6ybn/

 

STOCKTON Delta ++ Flysheet includes an article about managing the wireless microphones at the Super bowl, TY Shirl AA6K. February's presentation on SDR radio by Guy W6MSU, was well received. Nice description of Public Service events and 11 new techs! www.w6sf.org

 

TURLOCK ARC ++ April 13 is the date for the auction. Maps, fees and details are in the “ARCover” newsletter, on the website. “Last Man Standing” is previewed showing the shack that is being used. Hints to the upcoming episode regarding ham radio, from the producer. Field Day plans are well set! www.w6bxn.org

 

 

The following Amateurs became Silent Keys since the last report: Stan AC6TO, Karen AF6DRand Ed K6AHQ. They will be missed.

 

 

Traffic for February 2013:

ORS: WS6P 273, K6RAU 11, W6SX 5 Total 289

PSHR: WS6P 160, W6SX 29, K6RAU 67 Total 256

 

CTN (Calif Traffic Net)-FEB 2013: See Sacramento Valley Section]

NNNNN

 

>> SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY SECTION Report for the month of January 2013: SM Dan Pruitt, AE6SX- ASMs K6YK and N2NS, ACC W6DPD, SEC KF6FIR, OOC N1VM, STM K6RAU, PIC K6QI, TC W6TE.

 

 

Here we go!

 

The year 2013 is off and running. Time to plan our events, contests and programs. This is where your Club becomes the way to organize. The structure is there. Defining your goals well in advance allows all your members to align with each other and enjoy the best possible experience. Those clubs that plan for the up coming year find they are better able to span the trying times that are always with us.

 

The Field Day packets are available for June. There is one rule change for 2013. Contest calendars are everywhere. There are over 400 contests each year. Planning your events will give you the option to request Amateur Radio information from ARRL, as well as advice.

 

Some of the best contests are just around the corner. Plan now and leave the contest to enjoy!

 

73; Dan AE6SX

 

 

NEWS:

• The ARRL filed a Petition for Rulemaking with the FCC, asking it to amend Sections 2 and 97 of its rules and create a domestic Amateur Radio allocation at 472-479 kHz, conforming to the allocation status and limitations set forth in the international Radio Regulations and as approved at the 2012 World Radiocommunication Conference.

• The FCC issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, seeking to give primary status of the entire amateur portion of the 160 meter band to the Amateur Radio Service. It also proposed a new LF amateur band at 135.7-137.8 kHz.

• A video and a web page to introduce the ARRL’s Evolution of Amateur Radio exhibit. www.arrl.org/arrl-vintage-amateur-radio-equipment-exhibit.

• A New Book on Handheld Transceivers and the 2012 Periodicals DVD are now available.

• 2012 Marks All-Time High for Amateur Radio Licenses

• January 27, it will cost more to mail first class letters, postcards and packages within the US. The cost to mail a first class letter is 46 cents, while the cost to mail a postcard is 33 cents, an increase of 1 cent for each; this is the third increase for postcard postage in less than two years. IRCs are no longer being sold by the USPS.

• BSA to Offer Amateur Radio Operator Rating Strip to be worn on uniforms signifying Licensed Amateur Radio Operators.

 

 

Contests:

 

• February 9-10 CQ WW RTTY WPX Contest

• February 11-15 School Club Roundup

• February 16-17 ARRL International DX Contest – CW

• February 22-24 CQ WW 160 M SSB Contest

• March 2-3 ARRL International DX Contest – Phone

• March 30-31 CQ WW WPX Phone

 

 

CLOVIS ARP ++ Mike, W6YDE, gave a demonstration on his method of soldering coax connectors. Rob AE6GE brought good expectations to the meeting after operating the VHF contest. www.k6arp.org/

 

FRESNO ARC ++ Rob AE6GE and Pat W6YEP collaborate on the VHF contest. New CW android app is mentioned. Vintage link to an MGM youtube on Ham Radio: www.youtube.com/watch?v=xYQ1f5o_XCY. www.w6to.com/

 

SEQUOIA ARG ++ Officers for 2013: Pres - Pete W6SV, VP - Donna WA6FUN, Sec. - Marty KC6RIZ and Treas. - Jane KA6CZS. Great article on SPAM and ARES/RACES. www.n6krv.org

 

SIERRA ARC ++ Hal, N6HAL lays out the projects in the near future. Good discussion of ARES/RACES collaboration and linked communications in East Kern County. www.qsl.net/wa6ybn/

 

STOCKTON Delta ++ Club officers 2013: Pres. - WB6NVB, Charlie, VP - N6KZW, Paul, Treas. - KD6CPA, Peter and Sec. - W6INP, Eric.

Young hams are pictured operating and good Elmering described. Very active calendar announced. www.w6sf.org

 

TURLOCK ARC ++ Field Day is again at Lake McSwain! Planning now advancing at full speed, frequency details will be examined at their next meeting. Good article on the New York City permit tower battle. www.w6bxn.org

 

Central California DX Club ++ 2013 officers are pres KB6DI, 1st vp WA5VGI, s/t W6DPD, dirs K6XJ, NA6G, and N2NS. For information check www.ccdxc.org. The club meets quarterly at Apple Annie’s in Tulare and supports some DXpeditions and ARRL DX Contest plaques. The club has a breakfast meeting on Saturday morning of the DX Convention at Apple Annie’s in Tulare.

 

The following Amateurs became Silent Keys since the last report: Cass WA6IMN, Ron KE6KJB, Betty KF6PVO, and Rube ex-K6RCW. They will be missed.

 

 

Traffic for January 2013:

ORS: W6DPD 0, WS6P 355, K6RAU 15, W6SX 19 Total 389

PSHR: WS6P 165, W6SX 44, K6RAU 73 Total 282

 

CTN (Calif Traffic Net)

--JAN 2013: See Sacramento Valley Section]

 

 

>> SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY SECTION Report for the month of December 2012: SM Dan Pruitt, AE6SX- ASMs K6YK and N2NS, ACC W6DPD, SEC KF6FIR, OOC N1VM, STM K6RAU, PIC K6QI, TC W6TE.

 

I want to quote outgoing Club President, John NZ6Q, from the Stockton-Delta 'Flysheet'.

 

“It’s through the combined efforts of each of you; your hard work, dedication and commitment that any of (referring club responsibilities)this got done at all. Bunches of Saturdays were given up in support of the Blind Center, the March of

Dimes, the Stockton Bicycle Club, Rotary Clubs and many others. While our friends and neighbors were

still in their beds on Thanksgiving morning, several of us were out early in support of over 3500 people

making a difference against hunger and homelessness in our community. Who does that?

 

WE DO THAT!” He was describing his clubs Public Service efforts and club maintenance. A very admirable goal for any Club.

 

I think it fitting to mention that John alludes to the same trials and responsibilities that most clubs are experiencing and are successfully overcoming. Amateur Radio is a sound hobby and is always changing to fit the future technology and society. It is also varied enough to please all of us and keep us enthused. It does require effort. The more that participate the easier the burden.

 

I don't believe we would be happier if we continued to use spark-gap, AM, CW without experimenting with new toys like digital, VOIP, complex counterpoise radial-less verticals.... The list goes on. The one constant is the friendships created on the air. So just like our gear, clubs have to be maintained -lovingly, hi hi.

 

On that note here is to all of SJV – Have a healthy and Prosperous 2013 and good DX!

 

73; Dan AE6SX

 

 

NEWS:

• The fix for the Logbook of The World (LoTW) bug was implemented at 2103 UTC today, November 28.

• NASA is now accepting proposals from US schools, museums, science centers and community youth organizations -- individually or working together -- to host an Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) contact between May 1, 2013 and November

• Effective immediately, Radio Amateurs of Canada (RAC) has instituted a new, centralized address for its Incoming QSL Bureau. Please address all QSL cards sent to Canada via the RAC’s QSL bureau to: RAC National Incoming QSL Bureau, Box 51, Saint John, NB E2L 3X1, Canada.

• On December 12 and 13 the FITSAT-1 Cube-Sat was sending Morse code by flashing its array of super-bright LEDs. Depending on local conditions, the light may be visible to the naked eye and will be easily visible through binoculars. The LEDs sent “HI DE NIWAKA JAPAN.”

• The FT-817 Satellite interface featured in QST is now available as a kit

• W6DPD - First place Single OP Phone Only High Power SJV 2011 10 Meter Contest.

• KB6DI has DXCC.

• K6ESL achieved #1 DXCC Honor Roll.

Contests:

January

• 6 Kids Day

 

• 19-21 January VHF Contest

February

 

• 11-15 School Club Roundup

•  

• 16-17 International DX Contest – CW

 

Mark your Calendars: Quartzfest Convention, 15 January 2013 at Quartzsite, AZ. For details go to: http://www.quartzfest.org February 15-16, 2013 ARRL Arizona State Convention, Yuma, Arizona. For details go to http://www.yumahamfest.org/ The 64th Annual International DX Convention sponsored by the Northern California DX Club will be held at the Visalia Conference Center in downtown Visalia, California from April 19-21, 2013. See www.dxconvention.com for the latest information. EMCOMM West for 2013 has been cancelled. PACIFICON 2013 is scheduled for October 11-13, 2013 at a location to be determined. See www.pacificon.org for information.

 

CLOVIS ARP ++ Officers for 2013: Rob AE6GE, Pres. Steve N6JXL, VP. Lou KD6WAW, Treas. Patrick K6BRW, Sec. www.k6arp.org/

 

FRESNO ARC ++ Ben, WB6GBS, was interviewed by the clubs biographer Joe, W0PJD. New VHF contest rules are described just in time for this month's contest. There are some new repeaters in town. www.w6to.com/

 

KERN Co.CVARC ++ Officers for 2013:

Pres- Mat, W6MBW; 1st V.P.- Randy, KC6ZRF; 2nd V.P.- Tim, KI6KHG; Secretary– Dave, KG6YSZ; Treasurer – Ed, KF4YDM. www.w6lie.org/

 

SIERRA ARC ++ New ARES EC in Eastern Kern County is Hal, N6HAL. Read his column in the “Air Waves” Newsletter to keep abreast of SJV's Eastern Outpost. Officers for 2013: President – Hal, N6HAL; 1st VP– Bill, AG6QU; 2nd VP– Dave, KJ6VRV; and Secretary– Bill, WA6QYR; and Treas– Julie, KI6YRA. www.qsl.net/wa6ybn/

 

STOCKTON Delta ++ John, NZ6Q makes a heart felt examination of his Clubs progress in 2012. Officers for 2013: Pres- Charlie, WB6NVB; VP- Paul, N6KZW; Treas- Peter, KD6CPA; Sec- Eric, W6INP. www.w6sf.org

 

TURLOCK ARC ++ Officers for 2013: Pres- Darren, DJ6RDJ; VP- Ron, KJ6FNL; Treas- Mike, KG6VFL; Sec- Spencer, KJ6ART. Field Day Plans are being finalized. www.w6bxn.org

 

The following Amateurs became Silent Keys since the last report: Frances, ex-N6JQW; Alec, W6BWM; and Randy, ex-WA6UOD. They will be missed.

 

 

Traffic for December 2012:

ORS: W6DPD 0, WS6P 333, K6RAU 15, W6SX 11 Total 359

PSHR: WS6P 310, W6SX 38, K6RAU 74 Total 422

 

CTN (Calif Traffic Net)

--DEC 2012: See Sacramento Valley Section]

 

>> SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY SECTION Report for the month of November 2012: SM Dan Pruitt, AE6SX- ASMs K6YK and N2NS, ACC W6DPD, SEC KF6FIR, OOC N1VM, STM K6RAU, PIC K6QI, TC W6TE.

 

 

One Month remains in 2012 –

 

As we prepare for times with family and winter weather, I would be remiss in not bringing up the subject of “preparedness”. We are bombarded with the storm tracks and damage reports from Sandy and other weather makers. The East and Central USA has been hard hit, obviously, with drought, winter and fall storms. We need to learn from their experiences and add to our knowledge base here. We are in line for a wet winter and are always subject to earthquakes. Add to this our levy system is suspect.

 

OK, OK, we know this. We do have people that are good at handling these situations so what does a Ham need to do? I think we need to continue enjoying our hobby and expand by doing 2 little things. 1. Look into making contact with your local emcomm group and see what minimum training you can acquire, and who to contact if you wish to volunteer, just in case. 2. Make a point to learn who and when you can contact a ham in the next county, regularly.

 

If you are aware of these minimal items, you may be in a position to relay or pass traffic to a network and back.

 

Now, conditions have been pretty good on the air so let us enjoy he 10 Meter contest, hi hi.

 

Merry Christmas everyone! Happy Holidays all around.

 

73; Dan AE6SX

 

 

NEWS:

• If the US Postal Service (USPS) gets its way, it will no longer sell International Reply Coupons (IRCs) after January 27, 2013.

• 11/15/2012 | QST -- There’s an App for reading QST on Iphone and Ipad.

• 11/21/2012 | FCC Seeks to Assign Entire Amateur Portion of 160 Meter Band to Primary Status to Amateur Radio Service, Proposes New LF Amateur Band at 135.7-137.8 kHz

• 11/28/2012 | ARRL UHF/Microwave Band Plan Committee Seeks Input on 6 and 3 Centimeter Bands

• 11/29/2012 | The ARRL 10 Meter Contest December 8-9: The Band Is Hot!

•  

Contests:

 

December 2012

 

• 8-9 ARRL 10 Meter Contest

• 16 Rookie Roundup – CW

 

January 2013

 

• 1 Straight Key Night

• 5-6 RTTY Roundup

CLOVIS ARP ++ The next Transmitter Hunt will be 15 December. Starting at 10:00am in Oakhurst. This will be a large area T-Hunt covering parts of Madera and Fresno Counties, says Rob AE6GE. www.k6arp.org/

 

FRESNO ARC ++ Pres Stu WB6VRJ says, “I am glad to hear so many CW ops on the air. There are a lot of chaps who will QRS [slow down] and match your speed of 5 WPM, so go at it!” Jim W6NIF explains some home brew antenna projects. Including how not to make a coax balun.” www.w6to.com/

 

KERN Co.CVARC ++ Congratulations Dave W7YFV for earning the Clubs “Ham of the Year” award. www.w6lie.org/

 

STANISLAUS ARC ++ A good article, 'ARES®/RACES Back-Up Comms for GOP Convention' reprinted from Bill, AG4QX, Hillsborough County (Florida). The assignment was treated for the City as a CERT event. www.saraclub.net

 

SIERRA ARC ++ Congratulations Hal, N6HAL, the new RACES officer and ARES EC of Eastern Kern County! The new meeting home at the Historic USO Building sounds great. www.qsl.net/wa6ybn/

 

TURLOCK ARC ++ Hurricane Sandy's sinking of Bounty; Ship's Electrician Doug Faunt, N6TQS, was rescued. FIELD DAY 2013 outline in place By Bob, WB3CDB. www.w6bxn.org

 

The following Amateur became a Silent Key since the last report: Leroy, KF6ZDW and Mark, KG6NPS. He will be missed.

 

Traffic for November 2012:

ORS: WS6P 145, K6RAU 10, W6SX 18 Total 173

PSHR: WS6P 177, W6SX 43, K6RAU 62 Total 282

 

CTN (Calif Traffic Net)

--Nov: 30 sessions; 113 msgs; 946 ckins

(*ki6obe net manager / w7fqq nts liaison)

[*changes in December to kg6zoa / Sacramento Valley Section]

 

NNNNN

 

 

 

>> SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY SECTION Report for the month of OCTOBER 2012: SM Dan Pruitt, AE6SX- ASMs K6YK and N2NS, ACC W6DPD, SEC KF6FIR, OOC N1VM, STM K6RAU, PIC K6QI, TC W6TE.

 

Autumn. Already?

 

October had something to offer Amateur Radio enthusiasts all month long. Contests, conventions, disaster exercises, expeditions, special events and this year ARRL's National Convention.

 

I have to say that ARRL's Ham Expo – just like at Dayton – was quite the event. First time on the "Left Coast" in almost 20 years, The ARRL National Convention was held in Santa Clara.

 

Partnering with Pacificon, Most every service and department of ARRL was represented. Many officers and Department heads were in attendance including League President Kay Craigie, N3KN and Bob Inderbitzen, NQ1R, the Marketing Manager for ARRL who championed the event. Look for the pictures on ARRL Facebook and Pacificon.org.

 

Besides the Contests, October is the month designated as the Simulated Emergency Exercise. This followed on the East Coast by a real incident in Hurricane Sandy and in California -”The Great Shake Out” earthquake drill. An on going Public Service that we can provide, we need to be abreast of the latest “Best Practices” available.

 

Somehow I hope you all had time Elmer in Ham Radio. The Scouts held their 42 Jamboree On The Air (JOTA) coinciding with Jamboree On the Internet (JOTI). These and all youth programs and services are the future of our hobby.

 

Start planning for next month and next year’s events. Find ways to be the best tool for Public Service and Educators of our youth. Help expand their horizons and our own. We enjoy the hobby; we should share what excites us.

 

73; Dan AE6SX

 

 

NEWS:

• On October 2, the FCC released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) in WT Docket No. 12-283 that seeks to change the Amateur Radio licensing rules, especially as they concern former licensees. http://www.arrl.org/news/fcc-seeks-to-change-amateur-radio-licensing-rules-allow-additional-emission-types

• The US Postal Service has announced that as of January 27, 2013, the cost to mail first class letters, postcards and packages within the US will go up. The cost to mail a first class letter will be 46 cents, while the cost to mail a postcard will be 33 cents, an increase of 1 cent for each. They also want to stop selling IRCs.

• 10/17/2012 | ARRL Media and Public Relations Manager Allen Pitts, W1AGP, Retires from League

• 10/25/2012 | W1AW Receives Semi-Annual Antenna Inspection, New Antenna for 160 Meters

• 10/24/2012 | FCC Seeks Comments on Proposed Changes to Amateur Licensing Rules, Emission Types

• 11/01/2012 | As Hurricane Sandy Wreaks Havoc on East Coast, Hams Heed Call to Help

• Even though Hurricane Sandy was declared a post-tropical cyclone by the time it made its final landfall -- just 5 miles southwest of Atlantic City, New Jersey at about 8 PM EDT on Monday, October 29 -- the storm still had winds in excess of 80 miles per hour.

• 11/01/2012 If you can’t wait for your December issue of QST to arrive in the mail to see how you did in the 2012 ARRL Field Day, don’t worry! The results -- including a copy of the QST article (with line scores) and a results database -- are now available on the ARRL website.

• 11/01/2012 | Robin Walbridge, KD4OHZ, Missing at Sea after Sinking of Tall Ship Bounty; Ship’s Electrician Doug Faunt, N6TQS, Rescued

• Field Day Results SJV: some.

KI6J 4,198 1A

W6GV 7,220 1AB

W6SX 1,867 1D

NU6N 514 1E

W6TO 2,490 2A

W6SW 8,926 3A

K6CME 1,750 3F

 

Contests:

 

• + 10-10 Int. Fall Contest, Digital 0001Z, Nov 10 to 2359Z, Nov 11

• + Kentucky QSO Party 1400Z, Nov 10 to 0200Z, Nov 11

• + CQ-WE Contest 1900Z-2300Z, Nov 10 (CW/Digital) and

0100Z-0500Z, Nov 11 (Phone) and

1900Z-2300Z, Nov 11 (Phone) and

0100Z-0500Z, Nov 12 (CW/Digital)

• + NCCC Sprint 0215Z-0300Z, Nov 16

• + YO International PSK31 Contest 1600Z-2200Z, Nov 16

• + CQ SA SSB Contest 0000Z-2400Z, Nov 17

• + SARL Field Day Contest 1000Z, Nov 17 to 1000Z, Nov 18

• + NA Collegiate ARC Championship, SSB 2100Z, Nov 17 to 0300Z, Nov 19

• + ARRL Sweepstakes Contest, SSB 2100Z, Nov 17 to 0300Z, Nov 19

• + EPC PSK63 QSO Party 0000Z-2400Z, Nov 18

• + Homebrew and Oldtime Equipment Party 1300-1500Z, Nov 18 (40m) and 1500-1700Z, Nov 18 (80m)

• + CQ Worldwide DX Contest, CW 0000Z, Nov 24 to 2400Z, Nov 25

• + ARRL 160-Meter Contest 2200Z, Nov 30 to 1600Z, Dec 2

 

December 2012

• + TARA RTTY Melee 0000Z-2400Z, Dec 1

• + ARRL EME Contest 0000Z, Dec 1 to 2359Z, Dec 2

• + TOPS Activity Contest 1600Z, Dec 1 to 1559Z, Dec 2

• + SARL Digital Contest 1300Z-1600Z, Dec 2

 

CLOVIS ARP ++ The annual National Weather Service Severe Weather Spotter /SKYWARN training session was put on by the National weather Service in Hanford. www.k6arp.org/

 

FRESNO ARC ++ Reported in Skip NCCC club member Doug, N6TQS being rescued after the HMS Bounty foundered during Hurricane Sandy. http://gcaptain.com/coast-guard-helicopter-crews-save/ also details at http://arrl.org/news. Club members in California QSP Party K6AAB Steve, Multi single low power cw = 330 Qs. Call: W6YO Operator: N2NS Bob SOFixed HP Total: 363 Qs. www.w6to.com/

 

KERN Co.CVARC ++ Club gears up for November Sweepstakes. Great pictures from Pacificon. www.w6lie.org/

 

Los Banos ARC ++ George, W6YD reminds us of Veterans Day November 11. www.aa6lb.org

 

SIERRA ARC ++ Adrian, N6ZA spoke about Summits on the Air(SOTA). Sorry to see the aluminum Pretzel Wind Damage at Jim WA6TFZ QTH! Hal N6HAL, was appointed the Eastern Kern County RACES Radio Officer previously held by Mike Cash W6PM. www.qsl.net/wa6ybn/

 

STOCKTON Delta ++ Field Day #1 W6SF 1,730 2A. A personal account of Antenna maintenance from Ted, K6XN. Some info on Hurricane Sandy is available here. Thanks to Ed, N6XMA, who acted as net-control for a 2nd year for the "Great Shake out". I was in Fresno, but I did manage to check into the Fresno ARES net from our Fresno Office and give a report. de John, NZ6Q. www.w6sf.org

 

TURLOCK ARC ++ TARC always has a great set up on Field Day and 2013 should be just as good with Bob WB3CDB as FD coordinator and Ken KF6IDK assisting. Note the preparedness article from FEMA. www.w6bxn.org

 

The following Amateur became a Silent Keys since the last report: Eugene W6SAY, Leland AC6WS, John Stiner, ex WA6NCA and Bill KA6HGA. They will be missed.

 

 

Traffic for October 2012:

ORS: WS6P 101, W6DPD 0, K6RAU 7, W6SX 2 Total 109

PSHR: WS6P 246, W6SX 27, K6RAU 56 Total 329

 

CTN (Calif Traffic Net)--

no report

 

NNNNN

>> SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY SECTION Report for the month of SEPTEMBER 2012: SM Dan Pruitt, AE6SX- ASMs K6YK and N2NS, ACC W6DPD, SEC KF6FIR, OOC N1VM, STM K6RAU, PIC K6QI, TC W6TE.

 

QST –

 

Pacificon. The National Convention, Ham Expo, demonstrations and eyeball QSOs. All this, right next door in Santa Clara. It has been a long time since the National Convention has been on the “Left” Coast (1992 in LA) and even longer since it has been up in our vicinity.

 

There is a lot planned. Speakers of some importance. Laura Smith of the FCC, Astronaut Hams, Amateur Radio dignitaries and ARRL