July 20, 2020

Field Day 2020

It wasn’t the kind of Field Day we were hoping for, was it? Looking back, we had no reason to think this Field Day would be any different from any other — the kind of Field Day where we discussed our plans, went through a checklist to be absolutely certain nothing was overlooked and then worked it through, lugging gear to the site, splashing on bug repellent and forming a team to raise antennas to the sky, unravel large rolls of coax, pitch a tent, hook up solar panels, batteries and radio gear and finally make the sweet noise of intermittent squaks, tones and even voices from distant people. Finally at 2 PM the gate is opened and the long awaited radio “sport” is on. Energized hams everywhere, it seems, are swapping reports from distant places.

It’s enough to make you starved, which is why a fantastic repast awaits the hungry group at the food tent just before night fall!

Well, hopefully we’ll do that next year.

Those of us who were able to participate in the event did so from the comfort of their homes, as did hundreds of other hams around the country. And, while it wasn’t what we all wanted, I believe we all had more fun than we expect. The member results have been reported to ARRL and will appear in the December QST.

Personnally, I’m looking forward to the next time I can operate under the stars.

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PRC Nets, a great place to stay in touch

The PRC TecNet has been a fun way to get together and share on technical and other topics. The new FM net is held the 1st and 3rd Mondays of the month on 145.410 mHz KB8WLW repeaters at 7:30 pm. The regular FM net meets each Tuesday at 9 PM on the same frequency.

On HF, join us on 28.460 mHz on the 10 meter band on USB every Thursday at 9 pm.

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Virtual Hamfest

Many of us miss the in-person gatherings of summer hamfests, but DX Engineering is not letting the virus stop them from continuing their successful events. This year’s DXE hamfest will be held online on the increasingly popular Zoom video platform. Check the fantastic line up of programs. And then there will be giveaways, too!

If you haven’t yet used Zoom. I suggest you download the app on your desktop, laptop, tablet or other device so that you can participate. You start by registering using the link below. Prior to the event you’ll be emailed an invitation to be admitted.

Mark Your Calendars for the DXE Virtual Hamfest and DX Academy

Join the Elmers at DX Engineering and a host of Ham Radio luminaries on Saturday, July 25, 2020, for the first DXE Virtual Hamfest and DX Academy—two online events combined into a full day of fun, learning, and drawings for DX Engineering gift cards.

Both events are free and open to all. Click here to register. Once signed up, you will receive a link to access the events in real-time on the Zoom webinar platform, or you can watch live on the DX Engineering YouTube channel.

The day kicks off with the DXE Virtual Hamfest, featuring presentations from top contributors to OnAllBands (DX Engineering’s blog site), and the latest news and answers to your questions about recent and upcoming products, including the RF-KIT RF2K-S Linear Amplifier (sold exclusively in North America by DX Engineering), the RT-4500HD Heavy-Duty Rotator, and the Ladder Line Surge Protector.

DXE Virtual Hamfest Schedule (times are EDT)

9 am:               Introduction by Tim Duffy, K3LR, CEO of DX Engineering
9:15 am:          DXE Product Discussion with Scott Jones, N3RA
9:30 am:          Ward Silver, N0AX, Radiosport: Training for Public Service
10 am:             DXE Product Discussion with Steve Hannah, KC8YSU
10:15 am:        Sean Kutzko, KX9X, Working Amateur Radio Satellites
10:45 am:        DXE Product Discussion with Tim Duffy, K3LR
11 am:             Anthony Luscre, K8ZT, Youth in Amateur Radio
11:30 am:        DXE Question and Answer, Wrap-up, and Drawing for a $1,000 DX Engineering Gift Card*

The afternoon will be all about improving your skills at making long-distance contacts. Sponsored by Icom America and DX Engineering, the first-ever online DX Academy brings together experts to share advice from their years of on-air experience.

DX Academy Schedule (times are EDT)

1 pm:               Introduction by Tim Duffy, K3LR
1:15 pm           Jerry Rosalius, WB9Z, Low Band Antennas for DXing
2:15 pm            Ray Novak, N9JA, Icom Product Showcase, IC-705
2:45 pm            Glenn Johnson, W0GJ, VP6R DXpedition to Pitcairn Island
3:45 pm            Valerie Hotzfeld, NV9L, Operating Tools and Ideas for Becoming a Better DXer
4:45 pm            Wrap-up and Drawing for a $1,000 DX Engineering Gift Card*

*To win, you must be registered and present on Zoom during the drawings.

Look for more information on Facebook and OnAllBands (a DXE blog) in the coming days.

From the site of DX Engineering. www.dxengineering.com

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June 21, 2020

I hope you’re doing well during these unusual times. Personally, I won’t pretend that its been “easy-breezy” in my home. It’s a challenge to adhere to the stay-at-home guidelines, to limit visits to stores and public places, do the essential medical appointments, maintain 6 feet social distancing while wearing a mask. All this, while we see some neighbors blissfully ignoring the advice of experts. But, like many of you, we’re toughing it out and will continue to do what we can to protect our family and ourselves.

I am very thankful that I have my hobby and our club nets to stay in touch. By the way, our TecNets move to the KB8WLW repeater appears have been the thing to do. Thanks to Mike Smith’s fabulous repeater system we’ve been able to reach out to a wider geographic area and meet new folks. The TecNet meets at 7:30 pm on 145.410 2m FM repeater, on the 1st and 3rd Monday.

Speaking of reaching out, I couldn’t be more pleased with the numerous inquirees we’ve receive through this site since April asking how they can learn more about our hobby or get tested to upgrade their license. I’m thrilled so many people have thought to contact us on their quest.

PRC Site Has a New Home

You might have noticed a different look to these pages. That’s because we moved our site to a new server. When we announced at meeting early this year that our web host was becoming a financial burden, Chuck Mehoznek, K8CVM stepped up and offered space on his server. What a terrific gesture that we trully appreciate.

We still have some fine tuning to do on the appearance and at present the site is not quite compatible with mobile devices. So we have some work to do but we’re thrilled to have successfully made the move.

Thank you, Chuck!

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Field Day 2020

ARRL President Rick Roderick, K5UR, Issues Field Day 2020 Statement

06/25/2020

ARRL President Rick Roderick, K5UR, has released a statement in advance of ARRL Field Day 2020.

Dear ARRL Members,

For the first time since the event was introduced in 1933, ARRL Field Day will indeed be significantly different this year. Continuing public safety restrictions due to COVID-19 will force many of you to operate from home, while some radio clubs, where permitted, will venture outside in limited gatherings practicing social distancing. By all means, get on the air this weekend and show the world that Amateur Radio operators remain adaptable to changing situations.

Although points are awarded, the underlying purpose of Field Day is to demonstrate the versatility and reliability of radio amateurs under simulated emergency conditions. For some of you, especially new licensees, this may be the first time you’ve established your own home station or portable radio communications capability. Let’s use this opportunity to show our friends, families, and community leaders that we are a trained, resourceful and reliable corps of volunteers, especially when other forms of communications are not available.

In addition to operating, please take a few minutes to document your station with pictures, or even offer to host a videoconference and give virtual tours. Social media is the way most people are discovering amateur radio these days, so post your photos and videos to the social media pages hosted by your clubs and ARRL.

Finally, please use the hashtag #ARRLFD along with community hashtags to get the word out that we are enjoying an amazing hobby that is also a public service. Field Day is the largest gathering of communicators on the face of the earth. Let’s show the world what amateur radio can do!

On behalf of ARRL board members and staff, have a fun and safe ARRL Field Day.

73,

Rick Roderick, K5UR


In March the following response to the pandemic outbreak appeared on ARRL.org:

Field Day 2020 — A Time to Adapt
03/27/2020


Many individuals and groups organizing events for Field Day 2020 have been contacting ARRL for guidance on how to adapt their planned activities in this unprecedented time of social distancing and uncertainty.

“Due to the unique situation presented this year, this can be an opportunity for you, your club, and/or group to try something new,” ARRL Contest Manager Paul Bourque, N1SFE, said. “Field Day isn’t about doing things the same way year after year. Use this year to develop and employ a new approach that is in line with the current circumstances.”

Social distancing and state and local requirements very likely will impact just how — and even whether — you are able to participate in Field Day this year. ARRL continues monitoring the coronavirus situation, paying close attention to information and guidance offered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If social distancing means that Class A with a 30-member team set up in a city park won’t work this year, then it’s time for a Plan B. Part of the Field Day concept has always been adapting your operation to the situation at hand. At its heart, Field Day is an emergency communication demonstration. Field Day rules are flexible enough to allow individuals and groups to adjust their participation and strategies in a way that still addresses their needs while being fun. Some possibilities:

Encourage club members to operate from their home stations on emergency power (Class E).
Use the club’s repeater as a means for individual participants to keep in touch during the event.
Family members interested in operating Field Day and unable to participate as part of a larger group may want to consider setting up a portable station in the backyard with a temporary antenna.
One big impact this year will be a decline in public visibility and any interaction with the visitors. Prudence may dictate dispensing with the ham radio PR table to attract passersby, should you set up in a more public location. It’s okay not to score all the bonus points you may have attempted in the past. Local and served agency officials may be unwilling to visit, which is understandable under the circumstances. Do be sure to reach out to them as part of your preparations and remind them that you look forward to continuing your working relationship with them in the future.

The impact will differ from place to place, so ARRL recommends that all amateur radio clubs participating in Field Day stay in regular contact with local or state public health officials for their advice and guidance on hosting Field Day activities.

Demonstrating an understanding of the health crisis we all face and your willingness to adapt will show that you and your club or group are good working partners with local or served agencies.

“With any emergency preparedness exercise, it’s not about adapting the situation to your operation, it’s about adapting your operation to the situation that presents itself,” Bourque said. “Try something different. Learn something new about how you prepare. It may be a challenge, and you may have to ask yourself if you’re up to the challenge. We hope to hear you on the air over the June 27 – 28 weekend.”

— Thanks to Paul Bourque, N1SFE, and Dan Henderson, N1ND


PRC to Participate in Field Day 2020, June 27-28

While the PRC will not be conducting its normal Field Day operations, we encouraging members to operate from their home stations and then report their Field Day log to the club for inclusion in the club’s report. You will be using your own call sign and operating as a Class D station.

Here’s how it will work: (reprinted from ARRL.org)

Temporary Rule Waivers for ARRL Field Day 2020

5/28/2020

With one month to go before 2020 ARRL Field Day, June 27-28, the ARRL Programs and Services Committee (PSC) has adopted two temporary rule waivers for the event:

     1) For Field Day 2020 only, Class D stations may work all other Field Day stations, including other Class D stations, for points.

     
Field Day rule 4.6 defines Class D stations as “Home stations,” including stations operating from permanent or licensed station locations using commercial power. Class D stations ordinarily may only count contacts made with Class A, B, C, E, and F Field Day stations, but the temporary rule waiver for 2020 allows Class D stations to count contacts with other Class D stations for QSO credit.

     2) In addition, for 2020 only, an aggregate club score will be published, which will be the sum of all individual entries indicating a specific club (similar to the aggregate score totals used in ARRL affiliated club competitions).

     Ordinarily, club names are only published in the results for Class A and Class F entries, but the temporary rule waiver for 2020 allows participants from any Class to optionally include a single club name with their submitted results following Field Day.

     For example, if Podunk Hollow Radio Club members Becky, W1BXY, and Hiram, W1AW, both participate in 2020 Field Day — Hiram from his Class D home station, and Becky from her Class C mobile station — both can include the radio club’s name when reporting their individual results. The published results listing will include individual scores for Hiram and Becky, plus a combined score for all entries identified as Podunk Hollow Radio Club.

The temporary rule waivers were adopted by the PSC on May 27, 2020.

ARRL Field Day is one of the biggest events on the amateur radio calendar, with over 36,000 participants in 2019, including entries from 3,113 radio clubs and emergency operations centers. In most years, Field Day is also the largest annual demonstration of ham radio, because many radio clubs organize their participation in public places such as parks and schools.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many radio clubs have made decisions to cancel their group participation in ARRL Field Day this year due to public health recommendations and/or requirements, or to significantly modify their participation for safe social distancing practices. The temporary rule waivers allow greater flexibility in recognizing the value of individual and club participation regardless of entry class.

ARRL is contacting logging program developers about the temporary rule waivers so developers can release updated versions of their software prior to Field Day weekend. Participants are reminded that the preferred method of submitting entries after Field Day is via the web applet. The ARRL Field Day rules include instructions for submitting entries after the event. Entries must be submitted or postmarked by Tuesday, July 28, 2020.

The ARRL Field Day web page includes a series of articles with ideas and advice for adapting participation this year.

The complete Field Day Rules are reprinted here or are available at arrl.org.

ARRL Contest Program Issues Field Day 2020 FAQ

06/09/2020

The ARRL Contest Program has released some Frequently Asked Questions related to the Field Day temporary rule waivers. On May 28, the ARRL Programs and Services Committee (PSC) adopted these provisions only for the June 27 – 28, 2020, event: (1) Class D stations may work all other Field Day stations, including other Class D stations, for points, and (2) an aggregate club score will be published, which will be the sum of all individual entries that indicate a specific club. Contact the ARRL Contest Program with any questions related to Field Day 2020.

Q: Several of our club members are going to operate independently and wish to attribute their scores to the aggregate club score. What call sign should they use?

A: Participants should use their own call signs. Except for Class C (mobile) entries, all transmitters, receivers, and antennas must be located within a 1,000-foot-diameter circle may operate using a single call sign. This prohibits the use of a single call sign from more than one location. Under the 2020 waiver, those operating from home, including backyard operations, must use their own station call signs. Multiple home stations operating with a club call sign or modified club call sign, such as W1AW-1, W1AW-2, W1AW-3, etc, are not allowed.

Q: How does my club submit an aggregate club score?  Does the club need to add up each participating member’s scores and submit a club entry with the aggregate score under the club call sign?

A: Each participant will submit his or her own independent entry under his or her call sign. ARRL will calculate the aggregate score based upon the club name entered on the official Field Day entry form via the web applet (preferred method) or on the paper Field Day entry form. In order for results to be tabulated correctly, all club participants must enter the club’s official name exactly the same, avoiding abbreviations or acronyms. This is important!

Q: Our group is still planning to operate at the usual Field Day site, but some members do not feel comfortable gathering in a large group this year. Can we still submit an entry using the club call sign, as well as have members operating from home using their own call signs?

A: Yes. If your club is still hosting a group Field Day effort, it will submit an entry as usual, using the club call sign. Club members operating at home will submit separate entries with their own call signs and will enter the club name on the entry form for club aggregate scoring.

Q: Can a club member operate from home using the club call sign?

A: Yes, but the call sign may only be used in one location. The member must receive permission from the trustee of the club call sign.

Q: Our club normally enters Field Day in Class A. If we operate from our home stations, in which class should individual members enter in order to be included in the aggregate club score?

A: Each member will operate independently and will submit the entry using whatever class that applies to their operation. Typically, home stations running on commercial ac power are Class D, while home stations running on battery, solar, generator, or the like (i.e., not from ac mains) are Class E. When the results are published, each club member will be listed in the results under the class in which they operated. For 2020 only, aggregate club scores will be listed by the club name in a separate listing.

Q: Our club will have 10 members operating from home as Class D stations. Should they worry about working the same station on the same band and mode (duplicates)?

A: Because members are operating as separate entries using their own call signs, the contacts are not considered duplicates.

Q: Does the club need to be an ARRL-affiliated club to participate in Field Day?

A: No. All clubs and groups are welcome to participate in ARRL Field Day.

Q: How will bonus points be calculated for the aggregate club scores? Can individual club members still earn bonus points?

A: All individual scores, including bonus points, will be added together to determine the aggregate club score. Refer to the complete rules to determine eligibility for bonus points. — Thanks to Paul Bourque, N1SFE, ARRL Contest Program Manager


To paraphrase a popular big box hardware store: “Let’s Do It.” And have fun.

Hal Rogers, K8CMD

President, PRC

Do the Five

h


PRC holds 1st TecNet!

While in-person meetings are on hold during the coronavirus emergency, there’s no reason we can’t socialize on the radio and do what we really enjoy — talk tech stuff.

Called “TecNet”, this new venture won’t be a typical net. In stead the TechNet will take the popular round table form. A moderator will begin by accepting check ins, then introduce a thought provoking tech topic for group discussion in a round table style.

Before beginning the round table, the order of the check ins will be read by the moderator. Participants will be asked to remember the operator who follows them on the list so that they know who to turn it over to following their transmission.

Any participant, might occasionally contribute a technical trivia question for for the group.

So, it’ll be a fun time, and as with all club functions, the TecNet will be open to members and non-members.

Join us on the 1st and 3rd Mondays at 7:30 PM on 145.410 FM (KB8WLW repeater system).

Join us on the 1st PRC TecNet!


Hamfests cancelled

ARRL has announced that the Dayton Hamvention 2020 has been cancelled. See Dayton Hamvention 2020 Cancelled.

Cuyahoga Falls Amateur Radio Club hamfest has been cancelled. See CFARC HF cancelled.

PRC mtgs Mar 2nd & 16th

For many reasons, it’s a pleasure to put February behind us. The weather hasn’t been terrible but it certainly hasn’t been very predictable, has it? Personally, I’ve had a string of things that just stopped working: computers, a snowblower, refrigerator. To quote my late father-in-law/ philosopher, “The more you got, the more you got to … Continue reading “PRC mtgs Mar 2nd & 16th”

For many reasons, it’s a pleasure to put February behind us. The weather hasn’t been terrible but it certainly hasn’t been very predictable, has it? Personally, I’ve had a string of things that just stopped working: computers, a snowblower, refrigerator. To quote my late father-in-law/ philosopher, “The more you got, the more you got to break.” So right, Chet. So right.

Speaking of computers, I just got a message on this laptop that Windows 10 wants to do an update. So I better hurry. I also read a few weeks ago that Microsoft is rolling out a major update to Windows 10. I don’t think this is it, but we’ll see. Major updates always give me the heebee jeebees, if that’s the expression, ever since I tried to install Windows 10 on an old Windows 7 laptop. The system froze and never could be used again there on out. It became the proverbial “brick.” So wish me luck.


Thanks to Rich Nagel, W8KU for bringing us a great “show and tell.” Rich has been working on a neat little HF QRP transceiver kit. Rich explained that the kit includes a preassembled board and all you have to do is find a housing and wire up all the connective components. Rich fabricated his box from PC board material. The kit, a uBix V.5 was purchased from hfsignals.com .

The next best thing to homebrewing is seeing someone else’s handiwork. This little rig is typical of Rich’s high quality work.


March 2nd meeting. Our recent meeting had a disappointing low attendance, most likely because of the threat of snow flakes, cold and darkness. So the scheduled program will be presented following a brief business meeting. I have some very informative videos on HF propagation. Even if you think you have a good understanding of what makes HF propagation work, I guarantee you’ll learn a thing or two because science has been making significant discoveries in recent years. It’s no secret that band conditions have been less than desirable. Oh sure, there have been good days, but most people say it takes some work. Why is that? Is there hope for anything better. Will there ever be a return of the “good ole days?” We thought it was time to look to the experts a and that’s what we’ll do. So don’t miss it. And if that isn’t enough, Ken Osicki, K8OAE is bringing donuts and said he doesn’t want to take any home!

March 16th meeting. At this meeting we’ll learn about one of the most valuable features on HF receivers- filters. What are filters? What do they do and how do you use them effectively? I would say that with today’s band conditions filters are invaluable. Which makes it extremely important to know how to set them up for optimum receiving. Do you have experience you can share on this topic? We need your input. So join us on the 16th.

Coorespondence

It’s always enjoyable to hear from past members or hams who once lived in the area. We recently received the following from a former Parma resident:

Hal, I grew up in Parma and met my wife of 50+ years.  Am now living in Kansas since 1977. I’d like to make an HF contact if possible with a member.  I would really like to visit with some of your members.  I work mostly HF on 80 and 40 meters.  These are best for me at night and 80 is probably best.  I also work phone and no CW or RTTY at the present time.  If some member would like to call me to arrange a frequency and time to meet that might be a good starting point.  Most any evening I am available for contacts.  I have spoken to hams in the Cleveland area so it is possible to make contact at night.  I also would like to make contact with your members during your Earth Day event as I saw in your newsletter.  I am in Kansas so there is a one hour time difference here (Central Time). Thanks so much and hopefully we can make some contacts. — Dale Stelz 73s ! KC0DVV

(In the interest of privacy, I don’t give out personal phone numbers. Just contact me for Dale’s number. Hal)

PRC Celebrates 8th Annual Earth Day

On April 18th, 10 am to 4 pm, the Parma Radio Club will conduct its 8th annual Earth Day Celebration at Stearns Farm. The special event is open to the public and will feature a variety of interactive educational displays including HF and VHF amateur radio stations, an interactive learning set of morse code keys, and electronic circuit building sets especially geared to youth. Brief explainer programs will show How Solar Panel Systems Create Electrical Power and Help Save the Earth and How World Wide Radio Communication is Only Possible Thanks to Our Friend the Sun.

This year will be Earth Day’s 50th anniversary. The event, celebrated around the world in hundreds of countries by millions of people, seeks to remind us all the importance of being good stewards of our precious planet and its resources.

QST Special Event Announcement:

In the middle of writing this post, Windows ignored my suggested time to do the update and took control. The update ran through the night but all looks good and, so far, is working well.


Hal Rogers, K8CMD President

PRC mtgs Feb 3rd & 17th

2020 got off to a great start with a terrific program from Tom Bedocs, K8DMM who had recently held a successful open house for neighborhood scouts, introducing them to the wide world of opportunities in amateur radio. Tom said he opened the day with an explanation of the basics of the hobby then followed up … Continue reading “PRC mtgs Feb 3rd & 17th”

2020 got off to a great start with a terrific program from Tom Bedocs, K8DMM who had recently held a successful open house for neighborhood scouts, introducing them to the wide world of opportunities in amateur radio. Tom said he opened the day with an explanation of the basics of the hobby then followed up with providing hands on experience on the ham bands. As you might imagine their eyes were wide open. Spreading the word about our great hobby is always a thrill and very rewarding. Good job, Tom!

At our recent meeting, George Donaldson, EI7KO located in Ireland visited us through his YouTube channel to share a demonstration of one of his favorite programs, CW Skimmer. Many hams, and some SWLs, use the program which is capable of decoding multiple stations simultaneously.

I later told George how much we enjoyed his program and he thanked me for letting him know and asked that everyone subscribe to his channel.

If you missed the meeting, you can see George’s informative program, “CW Skimmer Explained” at https://youtu.be/sK580zCjXAc

__________________________________

The evening also gave us an opportunity to show Ken Osicki, K8OAE our appreciation for the superb photo work he provides us by presenting him with a unique coffee mug that resembles his professional camera lens. He’s sure to enjoy the unique mug. We might have discovered another photographer, too. Thanks to John Malloy, KA8VTV for stepping taking hold of Ken’s camera to capture the moment.

A word of caution, Ken. Make sure you grab the real lens when you dash out to our next meeting!

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We have some excellent programs lined up for this month.
On Monday, February 3rd following a short discussion of business issues and upcoming events, Tom Bedocs K8DMM will bring us in on one of his current technical projects — the rebuild of a repeater. Not only will we learn a lot about repeaters, but Tom will introduce us to the differences between diplexers and duplexers. So, it will be a great learning session.

Later in the month, at the February 17 meeting we’ll talk HF with an interesting program that will explain what’s been going on in the world of HF propagation. It’s no secret that band conditions have been less than desirable. Why is that? Is there hope for anything better. It’s time to look to the experts. And that’s what we’ll do. So don’t miss it.

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The PRC received correspondence from Rob Hall (KV8P), President of the Toledo Mobile Radio Association. Bob is Chairman for the upcoming ARRL Great Lakes Convention in Toledo, OH scheduled only 46 days from today.   Bob’s letter is attached. https://www.parmaradioclub.com/?attachment_id=3240

___________________________________________

In additional correspondence the PRC received the following press release from SWODXA.

Attached is information about the SouthWest Ohio DX Assn or (SWODXA)… our Dayton DX Dinner that we have been putting on for 35 years. We ask that you pass this onto your membership and others.

Thanks in advance for your help.
Joe W8GEX  SWODXA.https://www.parmaradioclub.com/swodxa-2020-dinner-press-release/


See you at the Monday February 3rd PRC meeting.

Hal Rogers, K8CMD President

PRC mtgs January 6th & 20th

Happy New Year, PRC members and friends! As we begin this bright new year there’s no doubt that, like each of us, the PRC confronts challenges. But you can be certain that a club that’s more that 70 years old has seen numerous challenges over nearly three quarters of a century. I’m certain the club’s … Continue reading “PRC mtgs January 6th & 20th”

Happy New Year, PRC members and friends!

As we begin this bright new year there’s no doubt that, like each of us, the PRC confronts challenges. But you can be certain that a club that’s more that 70 years old has seen numerous challenges over nearly three quarters of a century. I’m certain the club’s journey has seen numerous bends in the road and a myriad of steep ups and downs.

The Parma Radio Club’s challenges are not unique. Many amateur radio clubs in the area,as well as across the country, are experiencing similar difficulties. Why? There’s no single answer. For one, there are numerous changes occurring within our hobby daily, including new modes, undependable HF propagation, radio equipment design improvements. The list is endless.

In order to look ahead, it’s always a helpful to focus on what our members want from their club. Yes, they enjoy the social side of the hobby, meeting other people with similar interests. PRC members have long thought of their club as a source of learning and sharing the various technologies in there favorite hobby.

Recalling that “perfect vision” is often described as “20-20” I prefer to think that PRC’s 2020 should be about striving for a Perfect Vision of what our members and future members want. If we pursue Perfect Vision we can create a year of technical programs and activities that meet the interests and needs of everyone.

With that in mind, dedicated members huddled at recent meetings to develop a list of program topics for 2020 that is certain to impress you such as:

Introduction to the CW Skimmer Software, HF propagation, all about Radio Filters and how to use them, 6 meters – the magic band, Sunspots and Propagation, Building practical wire beams, the new VLF bands way down below the AM broadcast band, and more.

It’s going to be a great year with super programs, plus we’ll have our 8th annual Earth Day event on April 18th. Then on to Field Day in June, followed by a QRPicnic where we can eat AND play QRP radio!

Of course, to achieve our goals we have to have financial support through membership. If you haven’t yet sent in your dues, PLEASE do so today. The membership form is available on this site. Or click
Printable Member Application. As always, we sincerely appreciate your your support.

A change in our postings.

Call it a New Years resolution, I guess, but I’ve decided to reduce web site posting to once monthly where possible. The plan is to write a post like this one monthly about the upcoming month. That way you can better plan ahead.

2020 Program Schedule

We will soon post our 2020 Program Schedule. As they say “check this site”.

Meeting cancellations.

As in the past, the Busch Community room will be closed if there is a Parma School closing. If that occurs, we will try to notify you by text so you can avoid an inconvenient trip. Our best advice is you are in doubt, check a local TV station’s web site or other news source for school closing information. By the way, situations like this are why we ask on the member application if you receive texts.

Our January meetings

January 6 – We’ll finalize our program schedule followed by technical discussions and hopefully show and tells of new toys you might have received from Santa.

January 20 – An introduction to the popular software CW Skimmer. A terrific program for copying CW that is not without it’s controversies. Have you used this program in your station? We’d like to hear your experiences, opinions and comments about this program.

January Hamfest

Beat the winter doldrums at the Tusco Amateur Radio Club’s 30th Annual Hamfest, Electronics and Computer Show, Sunday, January 26th. Just $5 at the door. Main prize, a Yaesu FT 891 160-6 meters mobile transceiver. Check their web site for more information. Tusco Amateur Radio Club.


PRC mtg Dec 16

2020 Board Appointed At the past meeting officers for 2020 were appointed. All positions were elected by acclimation. President, Vice President and Secretary positions were filled by the incumbents and a the Treasurer position was filled by a new candidate who ran unopposed. So, I’m happy to say that the 2020 board then will be, … Continue reading “PRC mtg Dec 16”

2020 Board Appointed

At the past meeting officers for 2020 were appointed. All positions were elected by acclimation. President, Vice President and Secretary positions were filled by the incumbents and a the Treasurer position was filled by a new candidate who ran unopposed. So, I’m happy to say that the 2020 board then will be, left to right, Tom Pechnik AC8EH – Treasurer, Hal Rogers K8CMD – President – John Malloy KA8VTV – Secretary, Mike Marganski KE8HBK – Vice President.

Many thanks to Ken Osicki K8OAE for serving the PRC in 2019 and contributing his photography skills in the photo below and many more.

Final meeting

At our final meeting of the year, December 16, we’ll nail down our program line up for 2020. Please come prepared to suggest program topics that would interest you. Also, we have some proposals for the board to consider. So please be present to voice your opinion and cast your vote.to

At this time it appears we will continue the tradition of having a “Roll Out Dinner” in January to kick off 2020. The location has not yet been decided so we’re open for suggestions about your favorite eatery.

Dues are due

Please remember to re-up your dues for 2020. We appreciate your support of the PRC. As in the past, please include a new application for with your payment so that we can be sure your contact information is up to date. On your application, make a note about your particular ham interests and what you’d like the PRC to address in a program, an event or on a net. Your input is very much needed and appreciated.


Hal Rogers K8CMD, President

2019 PRC Elections

Our elections are getting a late start this year. After a short illness on my part and ongoing other family matters, I’m back in action. The good news is that my wife’s 2nd knee surgery is coming along well, although not without a certain amount of pain and discomfort. She was able to drive today … Continue reading “2019 PRC Elections”

Our elections are getting a late start this year. After a short illness on my part and ongoing other family matters, I’m back in action. The good news is that my wife’s 2nd knee surgery is coming along well, although not without a certain amount of pain and discomfort. She was able to drive today and that really makes a difference. I’m losing my designated driver status!

About elections: Our slate of candidates will look very familiar. While all officers are willing to run for another term, anyone interested in running for the office is certainly free to throw their hat in the ring. The Office of Treasurer is open and this time we have no candidate. This is a serious issue for the PRC because in order to be an ARRL sanctioned club all offices must be held member. And our constitution stipulates that the member must be a licensed amateur.

What’s required of the Treasurer? The responsibilities are fairly straight forward: Receive dues payments and deposit them in the bank. A couple times a year you might be asked to write a check on behalf of the PRC. Naturally, most receipts occur during the first quarter of the year.

This is a plea. If you want to see the PRC continue please give thought to stepping up for an office, particularly the office of Treasurer.

The candidates at present are:

Hal Rogers, K8CMD …. President Unopposed

Mike Marganski, KE8HBK … Vice President Unopposed

John Malloy, KA8VTV … Secretary Unopposed

OPEN … Treasurer

2020 Dues, now accepted

We’ve already been receiving payments for PRC 2020 dues. Those members are very much appreciated. Your support is greatly appreciated. Please take a minute to download the membership form and update your information.


We are working on a re-issue of a tremendous memento. The trully fascinating 1962 Parma Radio Club Call Book. What a club project this was! All hand typed! The PRC Call Book is complete with more than 55 pages full of names, calls, favorite bands of NEO hams, area clubs (25!) and numerous nets, plus ads from all the popular amateur and electronics retailers. It even has authentic, hand written personal notes by former member Robert Morgan, K8RBV.

Thanks to Tom Pechnik, AC8EH for carefully printing this fragile document in PDF form so that we can be share it with you.

** SPECIAL BONUS ** We’re making the historic Parma Radio Club “1962 Call Book” available to eveyone whose dues we receive before December 20th. Don’t wait. Complete and send the link below today. You’ll really enjoy reminiscing as you browse through names and calls of friends and relatives, nets like “Chix on Six” and long gone ham radio suppliers.

2020 PRC Member Application

Looking Ahead

Members are looking forward to the 2020 Earth Day Special Event at Stearns Farm. Mark your calendar for April 18, our 8th Annual Day. Last year was undoubtedly the best ever. What fun it was to see all the young and curious visitors enjoying the activities and talking on the radio to hams locally and in Canada. I can’t wait to see what we come up with for 2020.


Next Meeting

Hope that you and your family had a good Thanksgiving. There is much to discuss and decide at our next meeting, December 2nd.

————————————————-

Hal Rogers, K8CMD President



PRC mtg Nov 18

At the last meeting VP Mike Marganski, KE8HBK brought a beautiful old broadcast/ shortwave receiver that he received from a fellow worker. At this time not much is known about the model name and maker. One thing we can see is that the radio is a TRF style. The three gang variable capacitor is typical … Continue reading “PRC mtg Nov 18”

At the last meeting VP Mike Marganski, KE8HBK brought a beautiful old broadcast/ shortwave receiver that he received from a fellow worker. At this time not much is known about the model name and maker. One thing we can see is that the radio is a TRF style.

The three gang variable capacitor is typical of tuned radio frequency receivers, the predecessor of the superhetrodyne. Can you help with identification? As you can see, just examining the chassis was a fun experience for everyone.

This all inspires me to share a vintage amateur radio photo book at the next meeting.

______________________________________________________________________________

Sharing knowledge is one of the greatest pleasures in this hobby. Our annual Homebrew Show and Tell meeting in October featured many neat projects, like high amperage rechargeable battery system built by Chuck Mehozonek, K8CVM. What beautiful work, Chuck.

Here Mike checks out one of Chucks smaller batteries.

Then, Rich Nagel, W8KU shared his home made balun. Again, beautiful work. You can’t buy’em like that.

And did I tell you about my latest iambic CW paddle? Nothing like Show and tell.


Lot’s of important matters to discuss at the November 18th meeting. See you there.

Hal Rogers, K8CMD President


PRC mtg October 7th

The 62nd Annual Jamboree On The Air will be held on the weekend of Oct 18-20th. Jamboree-on-the-Air, or JOTA, is the largest Scouting event in the world. It is held annually the third full weekend in October. JOTA uses amateur radio to link Scouts and hams around the world, around the nation, and in your … Continue reading “PRC mtg October 7th”

The 62nd Annual Jamboree On The Air will be held on the weekend of Oct 18-20th. Jamboree-on-the-Air, or JOTA, is the largest Scouting event in the world. It is held annually the third full weekend in October. JOTA uses amateur radio to link Scouts and hams around the world, around the nation, and in your own community. This jamboree requires no travel, other than to a nearby amateur radio operator’s ham shack. Many times you can find the hams will come to you by setting up a station at your Scout camporee, at the park down the block, or perhaps at a ham shack already set up at your council’s camp.

To find registered JOTA stations in your area visit https://k2bsa.net/registered-jamboree-on-the-air-stations. If you or your local club is planning a JOTA operation you can register it at https://k2bsa.net/jota-station-registration.   

For additional information on planning your JOTA operations visit:

For additional information on Scouting and Amateur Radio visit:


Anthony Luscre
K8ZTOhio Section Section Youth Coordinator & Education OutreachARRL – The National Association For Amateur Radio™ 
k8zt@arrl.net (best for Amateur Radio)

The Web Resource Hoarder- www.ZTLearn.com
K8ZT Radio Website- www.k8zt.com
Amateur Radio Resources for Students/Youth – www.k8zt.com/hry

Homebrew Show and Tell is coming!

I can honestly say that Homebrew Show and Tell is my favorite meeting of the year at the PRC. This is the evening many of us look forward to because it’s all about learning old and new technologies. How does it work. Simple. If you have a new toy or tech interest that interests you, bring it and share it with the group. It doesn’t have to be a homebrewed project. It doesn’t have to old or new. In fact, it doesn’t even have to be a physical thing. We’re good with concepts. If it’s somewhat technical, we’re interested. See you Monday October 7th.

PRC is looking for a new web platform

At our previous meeting it was announced that the cost of using this web platform is becoming prohibitive for our group. Our pages are published using WordPress and various free plug-ins. We’re hosted by GoDaddy, who also secures for us the parmaradioclub domain name.

Because of the advertising we often hear promoting “free web sites” many people assume that web services are free or inexpensive. While there are some inexpensive web platforms, it is a business and free pages come with trade offs like banner advertising, very structured layouts limited publishing tools.

So this is a call to our members to inform us of web services you’re aware of that you think we should look at. Just write parmaradioclub@gmail.com. Thanks for your help.

Looking back at the Cleveland Hamfest

If you had the opportunity to attend the Cleveland Hamfest we’d be interested in your experience. Personally, I was tied down to a vendor booth. While I enjoyed the day, working a booth restricts your view of an event. So come and tell me what I missed.


Hal Rogers K8CMD, President