Nominations Being Accepted All officer positions are open and nominations will be accepted at the Nov 7th meeting. If you are interested in holding an office please make your intentions known to the Nominations Chairman, Rich Nagle, W8KU. Positions available: President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer. Election will be held on November 21st. 2017 Dues … Continue reading “PRC mtg Nov 7th”
Nominations Being Accepted
All officer positions are open and nominations will be accepted at the Nov 7th meeting. If you are interested in holding an office please make your intentions known to the Nominations Chairman, Rich Nagle, W8KU. Positions available: President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer. Election will be held on November 21st.
2017 Dues now being collected
Member dues for 2017 is now being collected by Treasurer Jim Bis, N8FND. Please use the application form on this site listed under the heading Membership Application. Your membership and support is always appreciated.
The early days of television in Los Angeles, California
At the November meeting, Tom Bedocs, K8DMM, retired Chief Television Engineer of Lorain County Community College will roll out his newest presentation. We now take the existence of TV broadcasting for granted, but there are fascinating stories about the medium’s early days.
And what do those W6 ham calls have to do with broadcast TV?
Rare oportunity for to meet DX face to face
DXpeditioning is the topic at the NOARS November 21st meeting. Dean KW7XX, of Custer, Washington will describe his experiences while participating in events like serving as Team Lead on T32RC to Easter Kirbati in 2013 and Co-Leader of 2015 T2TT operations in Tuvalu and 3D2RJ in Fiji. While the meeting night conflicts with our meeting, if you’re an active DXer we’ll give you a pass. Doors open at 6:30 pm at the Lorain County Public Library, 35700 Bainbridge Rd., in North Ridgeville. More info call Jane K8JGR/ 216-570-8500.
Innovation Center Tour a big hit Many fine comments followed after our visit to the Parma Snow Library’s Innovation Center early this month. We learned how easy it is for any library patron to make use of the Center’s specialized graphics computers, large format printer for poster-sized prints, MakerBot 5th Generation 3-D printer, ShopBot CNC … Continue reading “PRC mtg Oct 17th”
Innovation Center Tour a big hit
Many fine comments followed after our visit to the Parma Snow Library’s Innovation Center early this month. We learned how easy it is for any library patron to make use of the Center’s specialized graphics computers, large format printer for poster-sized prints, MakerBot 5th Generation 3-D printer, ShopBot CNC machine, laser engraving, vinyl cutter, hot press for making your own Tee shirt, and other high tech machines.
Layer by layer the MakerBot 3-D printer is creating a 3 dimensional castle.
Tours are given regularly by the staff in the event you missed this one.
Next PRC meeting Oct 17th
Make plans to attend the Monday October 17th business meeting. Larry Shimerka, KC8VZZ has been doing a great job in putting together programs and events through the year end and will give us a full report.
Following the meeting we’ll have a brief tech discussion and warning about an increasing horrendously debilitathope ing threat to your computer, what ARRL calls “a scourge.” Like most challenges to our peace and tranquility, the secret is knowing how to quickly recognize the threat and avoid it.
PRC members invited to attend a special presentation
LETTER FROM TIM DUFFY, K3LR:
The Mercer County Amateur Radio Club has invited all PRC members to attend as special evening with the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) Chief Executive Officer, Tom Gallagher, NY2RF. Tom will speak at the Pennsylvania State University Shenango Campus Auditorium on Wednesday, November 9th at 7pm. He will take questions after his prepared speech.
The ARRL is the national association for amateur radio founded in 1914, (now has) more than 165,000 members. NY2RF recently became CEO of ARRL a few months ago.
This is a big event for for our area ad we are honored to have NY2RF visit and share his vision for the League and Amateur Radio. MCARC is inviting all amateurs within 100 miles radius of Sharon, PA. We especially hope your club members can join us.
Penn State Shenango is located at 147 Shenango Avenue, Sharon, PA 16146.
This will be a special night for Amateur Radio. We look forward to seeing you and your club members.
(signed) Tim Duffy, K3LR
President, Mercer County Amateur Radio Club
Supermoon/ Hunter’s moon
If you appreciate a spectacular view of the moon, hopefully you caught the Supemoon or Hunter’s moon we had Saturday evening. Under unique conditions, the moon appears quite large. Thankfully, my daughter Laurie grabbed her camera and put this slideshow together. Enjoy.
Field Trip to the Innovation Center On October 3rd we’ll be meeting at the Parma Snow Library, 2121 Rockside Road to receive a tour of the new Innovation Center. Innovation Center is home of a variety of “awesome” high tech machines such 3D printers and laser cutters. The tour will be an overview of the … Continue reading “PRC mtg Oct 3rd”
Garfield Hts. Library Innovation Center
Field Trip to the Innovation Center
On October 3rd we’ll be meeting at the Parma Snow Library, 2121 Rockside Road to receive a tour of the new Innovation Center. Innovation Center is home of a variety of “awesome” high tech machines such 3D printers and laser cutters. The tour will be an overview of the machines capability, safety, etc. No actual demos will be given.
We will meet in the main lobby at 7:15 pm. The tour, conducted by Matt Skvasik, Adult Services Supervisor, will begin promptly at 7:30pm. No one will be able to join once the tour is underway. These introductory sessions are required if anyone who intends to use the equipment in the future. To make this session count for qualifying just present your library card and a photo ID at the tour.
Here is a link to a brief article about the Innovation Center: www.cleveland.com
IMPORTANT: Please confirm with us immediately if you plan to attend. We’ve been asked to provide a number attending ahead of time. This tour is open to the public, as well, so they need to know the size of the group. To confirm, write: parmaradioclub@gmail.com
Pencil this in for November 7th
On November 7th Larry Shimerka, KC8VZZ and Mike Peters, KD8ZMN (inspired by a QST article on making a slot antenna) will talk about a project that’s planned to be made from a retired dish antenna. We’ll learn the principle of the slot antenna, used in VHF and UHF commercial designs.
PRC serves Raspberry Pi
On December 5th we will receive an enlightening presentation on this versatile, inexpensive, pocket sized computer. Thinking about getting on the Raspberry Pi express? You won’t be alone. Recently, Raspberry Pi sold its 10,000,000th product! Stay tuned for details on this program.
Amateur Radio Parity Act makes progress — but we’re not there yet! A letter from ARRL: Dear ARRL member, I am writing to you today because we are at a crossroad in our efforts to obtain passage of The Amateur Radio Parity Act. Our legislative efforts scored a major victory in our campaign when … Continue reading “PRC mtg Sept. 19, 2016”
Amateur Radio Parity Act makes progress
— but we’re not there yet!
A letter from ARRL:
Dear ARRL member,
I am writing to you today because we are at a crossroad in our efforts to obtain passage of The Amateur Radio Parity Act.
Our legislative efforts scored a major victory in our campaign when The Amateur Radio Parity Act, H.R. 1301, passed in the House of Representatives yesterday, September 12th. The legislation now moves to the Senate, where we need every Senator to approve the bill.
You are one of over 730,000 licensed Amateur Radio Operators living in the United States. Many of you already live in deed-restricted communities, and that number grows daily.
NOW IS THE TIME FOR ALL HAMS TO GET INVOLVED IN THE PROCESS!
If you want to have effective outdoor antennas but are not currently allowed to do so by your Home Owner’s Association, SEND THESE EMAILS TODAY!!
If you already have outdoor antennas, but want to support your fellow hams, SEND THESE EMAILS TODAY!!
If you want to preserve your ability to install effective outdoor antennas on property that you own, SEND THESE EMAILS TODAY!!
Rick Roderick, K5UR President ARRL, the national association for Amateur Radio®
Light attendance but great times at September picnic
While not the best attended picnic we’ve ever had, it was enjoyed by all – all 6 of us. The weather was excellent and many thanks go to Grill Master Larry, KC8VZZ who served up a roaring fire.
The event prompted this from Bill Squires, N8WS who wrote: A great time was had by all at the Parma, Woodchuck picnic. Larry performed his magic by waving his wand on the fire and poof we had a great fire to cook on. Great weather, good friends, plenty of food and door prizes were won by all. Visitors from 3 counties had plenty of summer fun to talk about.
WE ALL ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO NEXT YEARS GREAT PICNICS.
INSERT PICTURE FROM LARRY HERE….
73 Bill N8WS
Many thanks to Bill and Judy Squires who provide scrumptious cookies and delicious home grown Burpee’s orange tomatoes to all who attended. You weren’t there? Sorry. – Editor
As the seasons change, it’s a good time to give thought to protecting coax from UV damage, cold and rain. Pictured is coax that was exposed to severe conditions and it just didn’t make it. A good practice is to wipe down your coax occasionally with a small cloth soaked in Armor All. Sold in most auto stores, Armor All is designed for cleaning and protecting tires and vinyl. It works wonders.
Our next meeting is September 19th. We’ll have a short business meeting followed by a discussion of the common “longwire” antenna.
Have a Safe and enjoyable Labor Day. Our next meeting is September 19th. More on that later. Most importantly… It’s picnic time! Our September picnic has always been popular. The air is usually a little cooler and quite pleasant. Of course, I’m not a weather prognosticator. Mark your calendar for Monday, September 12th. Talk it … Continue reading “PRC picnic Sept. 12th”
Have a Safe and enjoyable Labor Day. Our next meeting is September 19th. More on that later. Most importantly…
It’s picnic time!
Our September picnic has always been popular. The air is usually a little cooler and quite pleasant. Of course, I’m not a weather prognosticator.
Mark your calendar for Monday, September 12th. Talk it up among your friends and let’s have fun. The location will be the Day park pavilion we’ve used for several years. See directions below. There’s road work being done on Pleasant Valley Road but there shouldn’t be any problem getting into the park.
Of course, our picnic is open to everyone. The club will provide the fire. Bring whatever you would like to cook on the grill and your refreshment. Alcohol is not permitted in the park. In the past, some folks have brought dessert and other snacks and dishes to share — which is always appreciated, but not required. While rare, fast food wrappers have been seen at the picnics. The Pavilion has electrical outlets that can be used for food warmers, coffee maker, lighting, etc.
The Pavilion shelter is behind the swimming pool at Day Park, just east of Tri-C. We will gather about 5:30 pm and will try to listen to the 145.410 repeater in case you get lost.
We’re hoping that all of our new members will be there and give us all a chance to meet them in a totally different environment. It will be great fun! See you there.
We are looking for a “Grill Master”. The successful applicant must arrive early and secure the Pavillion as well as start the grill. If you can take this chore, pick up a bag of charcoal and bring your lighter fluid, matches and grill tools. Keep your receipt. The treasurer will reimburse you for your expenses. Let me know if you will be taking this task. This is important. Without a Grill Master, plan to eat raw meat!
Pavilion at Day Park, Pleasant Valley Rd.
Directions: From Ridge and Pleasant Valley, the location of our regular meetings, go West on Pleasant Valley Road past York Road. You’ll pass the entrance to Cuyahoga Community College, then a U-shaped road that goes to the park ball fields. Turn right (north) when at the park sign at Sesquicentennial Drive. We’ll be in the large shelter called the Pavilion, which is behind the swimming pool.
Splice like the big guys
It’s that time of the year when we can work on an antenna without suffering from the heat. You might have a repair to make to a wire antenna. If you’ve ever wondered what’s the best way to join two wires, you could do it like the big guys. These 3 photos will show NASA’s preferred method of joining wires:
Sometimes called the Western Union Slice, it’s also called the NASA splice. For the full story go to this link from Make Magazine http://makezine.com/2012/02/28/how-to-splice-wire-to-nasa-standards/ For my purposes, it’s a bit of an overkill. I find two wraps on each side of the splice is adequate.
While you’re working with your antennas, take a few minutes to inspect your coax, then apply a bit of Armor All with a small cloth. This automotive vinyl protection product will help keep moisture out of coax skin and act as as a UV sun blocker, too.
W8PRC to participate in Ohio QSO Party August 27th the PRC will participate in the very popular Ohio QSO Party. Operation will be from Stearns Homestead. We’ll discuss the topic further at the coming August 15th meeting. Please be with us to make your suggestions as to how we can make this event a success. … Continue reading “PRC mtg Aug. 15th”
W8PRC to participate in Ohio QSO Party
August 27th the PRC will participate in the very popular Ohio QSO Party. Operation will be from Stearns Homestead. We’ll discuss the topic further at the coming August 15th meeting. Please be with us to make your suggestions as to how we can make this event a success. While the Ohio QSO Party is a long standing event, to my recollection this is the first time the PRC has participated. You can review the rules here: Ohio QSO Party Rules
Stearns Homestead Farmers’ Market in full swing
A reminder that our friends at Parma Historical Society operate a wonderful Farmers’ Market at Stearns Farm every Saturday June 25th through October 1st, 9 am to 1 pm. Great place to stock up on locally grown vegetables, honey, eggs, home baked goodies and more at really good prices.
Last meeting a little loopy
At our last meeting Rich Nagle, W8KU showed his impressive magnetic circular loop, made from old 75 ohm coax. We were all impressed with its very low SWR. I used the opportunity to show the “guts” of a 10 meter vertical delta loop supported on two vintage cane poles my 4:1 homebrew balun.
My Little Field Day
I had had one QSO on the 10 meter delta loop with Mike, KD8ZMN but it was time to see if I could be heard out of town. During a brief 10 meter opening I was able to work a Texas station. Success. I was using an FT-817nd set up as a portable. Flying high on that success, I then put up a portable 40 meter dipole and worked 40 meters QRP, phone and CW. ’til the bugs got unbearable and daylight was long gone, I enjoyed what I call “my little field day.” What fun!
Again, thanks for your interest in volunteering with Geauga County ARES for the 194th Great Geauga County Fair. The fair is taking place September 1st through the 5th, and we are asking for volunteers from 9:00AM until 9:00PM each day. We have a number of roles to fill: Golf cart dispatch, dispatch logger, golf cart drivers, golf cart passengers/navigators, and walking around the fair.
To give you an idea of how many volunteers we need – we will likely have 3 golf carts again this year. Each golf cart requires two people – a driver and a navigator. That’s 12 hours per day for 5 days. That’s 120 man hours for just the golf carts!!
I also want to assure everyone that we expect things to go smoothly this year as far as the fair board is concerned. Last year went really well, and since then, we have only further improved our relationship with the fair board since then.
When you sign up, you’ll be asked for some basic info, and you’ll see a huge list of “spots” that are open. Each “spot” is a two hour shift in a particular position. Please click every spot you’d like to volunteer for, but don’t double-book yourself and volunteer for two positions on the same shift. Also, please do not sign up for a shift unless you are 100% committed to working it!
I haven’t read a lot of newsletters but I’ve seen far too many that start out with, “I can’t believe it’s ________ already.” You fill in the month. It’s purely cliche writing and far over used. But I will admit that I could have used it today. It seems that the summer is really flying … Continue reading “PRC mtg Aug 1st”
I haven’t read a lot of newsletters but I’ve seen far too many that start out with, “I can’t believe it’s ________ already.” You fill in the month. It’s purely cliche writing and far over used. But I will admit that I could have used it today. It seems that the summer is really flying by. I hope yours is going well and and that you’re getting everything done you intended.
We’re still collecting photos from Field Day. If you have some on your camera please try to get them to me soon. We’ll be publishing them soon.
Let’s talk antennas
Summer is, of course, antenna time. At the August 1st meeting we’ll have an open discussion of various antenna designs and construction ideas. I’ve been working on a 10 meter experimental loop with a homemade balun and will be bringing the essentials for show and tell. If you have an antenna project you can bring, please do. We’d love to see it. On a recent net the question as to whether painting an antenna is a good idea. What do you think?
By the way, I’ve learned to call most of my antennas “experimental.” There are several reasons for this. First, it makes it sound like I’m a scientist and who would question science? Also it suggests t0 family and curious neighbors that it’s temporary and they won’t have to look at it forever. I don’t know if it buys me any extra time, but I think it discourages some comments like “What the hell is that?”
Bring yourself, ideas and show and tell items to the next meeting. You’ll be glad you did.
Powder Time
Thanks to Mark Huber, N8OJ for his recent demonstration of powder coating. In his demo, Mark coated an old aluminum worklight shade from host Rich Balata, KD8KBO. Powder coating differs from paint in that the powder is not suspended in a solvent. In the powder coating process, the colored powder is electrostatically charged while being blown onto the work piece from a special gun. Then the item is heated in a 400 degree convection oven for 20 minutes. The work can be handled as soon as it cools. The result is impressive appearance and very durable. Great for ham projects!
Technology: Friend or Foe? Technology is indeed my friend– when it works. Unfortunately my friend is not available. Some time late Wednesday July 13th or Thursday the phone line at my home went out. That means my DSL also went on vacation. My neighbor was told there is a wide spread outage in Parma. My … Continue reading “PRC mtg July 18th”
Technology: Friend or Foe?
Technology is indeed my friend– when it works. Unfortunately my friend is not available. Some time late Wednesday July 13th or Thursday the phone line at my home went out. That means my DSL also went on vacation. My neighbor was told there is a wide spread outage in Parma. My report to ATT (to a disinterested automated man) indicated that the service would be back in operation on Saturday July 16th. Well, that hasn’t happened yet, so this post is being written from the local McD’s where I just had a brief panic when I overheard that their order taking computer is down.
We like to think we could do without all the technology and that it might be better to just get back to the “simple life.” I’m not so sure that would be a good idea. Since the internet outage I’ve seen neighbors I never knew I had. Some are even talking to each other and some teenagers discovered they had a back yard. Life is changing.
Everybody loves a picnic.
A good time was had at the July 2016 picnic. photo by Larry Shimerka, KC8VZZ
Thank you all who participated in the July picnic. It’s always enjoyable. And what a wonderful day we had. It was so good to see Laurie and Robin Schurdell!
Our next meeting will be July 18th. We’ll have a full report of Field Day 2016 to discuss. As is customary, we’ll take a moment to discuss some ideas that could make next year’s Field Day even better.
Take a Powder
Everyone’s invited to a demonstration of powder coating by Mark Huber, NO8J. Mark has shown samples of the powder coating work at the PRC, but an actual demonstration needs to be done outdoors. Powder coating is a heat based process that results in a durable protective coating on metal. Powder coating is an inexpensive way to give your project an impressive, professional look.
The presentation will be Saturday July 23rd, 10am at the home of Rich Balata, KD8KBO:
11694 State Road, Parma. As Rich likes to say he’s the “4th fireplug south of Wallings on State Road.”
Look for a sign on the west side of State for the Woodchuck Radio Club meetng.
“Another very enjoyable Field Day” “Another very enjoyable Field Day” is the simplest way to describe our 2016 Field Day. While the report is still being compiled, we can say this was one of our most successful Field Day events ever. The food was wonderful, thanks to Sharon and Mike Pardue, N8WHB. We had an … Continue reading “PRC picnic July 11th”
“Another very enjoyable Field Day”
“Another very enjoyable Field Day” is the simplest way to describe our 2016 Field Day. While the report is still being compiled, we can say this was one of our most successful Field Day events ever. The food was wonderful, thanks to Sharon and Mike Pardue, N8WHB. We had an astounding 31 total participants, including operators and visitors! And this was our first opportunity to show off our new PRC flag made by Tom Pechnik, AC8EH. The easy to read flag waved proudly above our FD site on the fiberglass antenna mask. Thanks, Tom, for your handiwork. I’m sure the club will get many years service out of your beautiful work.
We operated on HF using the venerable old segmented dipole and on 6 meters with a 3 element portable beam. Both antennas were great choices for the occasion.
Many people took photos and when they’re all in we’ll post them here for you to enjoy.
Picnic July 11th
Hope that you and your family have a good and safe Independence Day this July 4th. Of course, we will not have a meeting but next week we will have our 1st picnic.
Time to get out the picnic basket! Our 1st club picnic will be Monday, July 11th. Talk it up among your friends and let’s have fun. The location will be the Day park pavilion we’ve used for several years. See directions below. There’s road work being done on Pleasant Valley Road but there shouldn’t be any problem getting into the park.
Of course, our picnic is open to everyone. The club will provide the fire. Bring whatever you would like to cook on the grill and your refreshment. Alcohol is not permitted in the park. In the past, some folks have brought dessert and other snacks and dishes to share — which is always appreciated, but not required. While rare, fast food wrappers have been seen at the picnics. The Pavilion has electrical outlets that can be used for food warmers, coffee maker, lighting, etc.
The Pavilion shelter is behind the swimming pool at Day Park, just east of Tri-C. We will gather about 5:30 pm and will try to listen to the 145.410 repeater in case you get lost.
We’re hoping that all of our new members will be there and give us all a chance to meet them in a totally different environment. It will be great fun! See you there.
Pavillion at Day Park, Parma
Directions: From Ridge and Pleasant Valley, the location of our regular meetings, go West on Pleasant Valley Road past York Road. You’ll pass the entrance to Cuyahoga Community College, then a U-shaped road that goes to the park ball fields. Turn right (north) when at the park sign at Sesquicentennial Drive. We’ll be in the large shelter called the Pavilion, which is behind the swimming pool.
FM net changes
Many thanks to Kelly Heidenreich, KE8AXL for her service as NCO. Kelly, who did a wonderful job and is very personable on the air, as in person, has found it necessary to step down from the role. We welcome Kelly back any time she is again available. Not skipping a beat Mike Peters, KD8ZMN stepped up for the slot. Mike, a regular on the 10 meter net as well as the FM nets will do a great job, I’m sure. Please join Mike for his initial net, July 19th.
Recent QST back-issues appreciated
I’ve been contacted by a new ARRL member who would appreciate recent back issues of QST. If you can help, please let me know or bring them to a meeting.
It’s Field Day Week, and let’s talk digital modes At our June 20th business meeting we’ll confirm and wrap up details of our Field Day planning. This is primarily to benefit those members who were not able to attend the previous planning meeting. Afterward, the mic will be turned over to Bill Squires, N8WS for … Continue reading “PRC mtg June 20”
It’s Field Day Week, and let’s talk digital modes
At our June 20th business meeting we’ll confirm and wrap up details of our Field Day planning. This is primarily to benefit those members who were not able to attend the previous planning meeting.
Afterward, the mic will be turned over to Bill Squires, N8WS for a discussion Bill’s called “How I do the digital modes.” If you’re looking at “going digital” be sure to be at the meeting to get all your questions answered.
PRC New Press Release to Promote Field Day
Vice President Jeff Ronay, KF8CQ has prepared a new press release promoting PRC’s Field Day activity and inviting. Jeff will be distributing the release to several print and broadcast media. It will also be available for handout at Field Day. Feel free to read and share it. This document is worth 100 FD points.
Tom, AC8EH has been developing new skills at the library. Yes, at the library, many of which now have 3-D printers and sewing machines. My knowledge is limited at this point but I do know that Tom created a spectacularly beautiful flag for the club that will be flown at Field Day from our antenna support mast. The flag will be shown for the very first time at the June 20th meeting.
Program suggestions?
The PRC has been long known for it’s quality technical programs and interesting topics. The fact is that often our program topics are the direct result of a member suggestion. Is there a topic you’d like discussed? We have open slots in our program schedule and would like to hear your suggestions. Send us your ideas or bring them to the June 20th meeting.
Looking ahead…
This past winter Mark Huber, NO8J offered to present a program on powder coating. Powder coating provides a very attractive, professional, durable coating to your metal project box. Formerly a technique that was only done in an industrial setting, now powder coating can be achieved by the hobbyist. The program, which will include a demonstration requires a small oven — and an outdoor setting. Mark will present his demo in July at a Woodchuck Radio Club meeting. We’ll keep you posted as the date approaches.
Do you have a favorite tool? Why?
One of my favorite books is an old Sears and Roebuck reprinted catalog. I’ve had it since I was a kid. I could snuggle up with that big book and a flashlight under my blanket and be off in another world. Page after page, there were hundreds of strange tools for every imaginable job around a shop or farm. Some might say I missed my calling and should have worked in hardware stores.
On a recent net I asked participants to share with the group their favorite hand tool and why it’s a favorite. I’ve brought up this topic before and always enjoy the discussions that ensue. In a future post I’ll share all the comments from fellow members but before I do– if you haven’t shared your favorite, please do so it can be included.
