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since 2003


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2006 December 30 - Stranded Air Travelers - Another Shelter Activation!

Just when we thought it was safe to lay down our emergency jump kits for the holidays, late on Friday night, December 29, 2006, the American Red Cross activated Ham Radio Operators in San Antonio to staff an emergency shelter for up to a few hundred stranded airline passengers. This was apparently caused by one or more airplanes being delayed in, or diverted to, SA due to severe storms at their original destination airports, such as heavy snow in Colorado, etc.. Because of the Alamo Bowl Game scheduled in town this weekend, all of the available hotel rooms were booked solid, causing the airlines to need help from the City of San Antonio, American Red Cross and the Ham Community.

KE5CLV at Red Cross EOCPreparations were made to receive hundreds of stranded passengers, as the total number of affected passengers was unknown when the call first went out for help. One of the first hams (Shane, NS5D) rolled out around 11pm on Friday, December 29th, heading for a shelter location at a High School on the NE side of town.Terri KC5BJI has been coordinating volunteers by phone and on the 147.18 repeater (103.5 tone).Charlie KC5NKK activated the Bexar County ARES Emergency Phone / Pager Message Activation System.Milton KE5CLV set up at the Red Cross EOC (see photo on left), Barry W5BLH activated the city's EOC to prepare radio kits for distribution if needed. David K5OLE was also sent to the Red Cross for deployment.

No major "middle of the night" deployment was expected due to the limited number of airplanes in transit this time of night. Airplanes which are still on the ground elsewhere will not take off. As of 1am, it was expected that only the one shelter would be opened, McArthur High School, and that all passengers would be transported back at the airport by early Saturday morning. Hams were told when called or paged that they should listen to the net running on the 147.18 repeater and volunteer if they call for more volunteers due to situation changing.

 

2006 December 15 - FCC Eliminates Morse Code For General and Extra Class

Red CrossWashington, D.C. – Today, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted a Report and Order and Order on Reconsideration (Order) that modifies the rules for the Amateur Radio Service by revising the examination requirements for obtaining a General Class or Amateur Extra Class amateur radio operator license and revising the operating privileges for Technician Class licensees. In addition, the Order resolves a petition filed by the American Radio Relay League, Inc. (ARRL) for partial reconsideration of an FCC Order on amateur service rules released on October 10, 2006.

IMPORTANT NOTE: THIS CHANGE DOES NOT TAKE EFFECT UNTIL 30 DAYS AFTER IT HAS BEEN PUBLISHED IN THE FEDERAL REGISTRY.

The current amateur service operator license structure contains three classes of amateur radio operator licenses: Technician Class, General Class, and Amateur Extra Class. General Class and Amateur Extra Class licensees are permitted to operate in Amateur bands below 30 MHz, while the introductory Technician Class licensees are only permitted to operate in bands above 30 MHz. Prior to today’s action, the FCC, in accordance with international radio regulations, required applicants for General Class and Amateur Extra Class operator licenses to pass a five words-per-minute Morse code examination. Today’s Order eliminates that requirement for General and Amateur Extra licensees. This change reflects revisions to international radio regulations made at the International Telecommunication Union’s 2003 World Radio Conference (WRC-03), which authorized each country to determine whether to require that individuals demonstrate Morse code proficiency in order to qualify for an amateur radio license with transmitting privileges on frequencies below 30 MHz. This change eliminates an unnecessary regulatory burden that may discourage current amateur radio operators from advancing their skills and participating more fully in the benefits of amateur radio. 

Today’s Order also revises the operating privileges for Technician Class licensees by eliminating a disparity in the operating privileges for the Technician Class and Technician Plus Class licensees. Technician Class licensees are authorized operating privileges on all amateur frequencies above 30 MHz. The Technician Plus Class license, which is an operator license class that existed prior the FCC’s simplification of the amateur license structure in 1999 and was grandfathered after that time, authorized operating privileges on all amateur frequencies above 30 MHz, as well as frequency segments in four HF bands (below 30 MHz) after the successful completion of a Morse code examination. With today’s elimination of the Morse code exam requirements, the FCC concluded that the disparity between the operating privileges of Technician Class licensees and Technician Plus Class licensees should not be retained.

NewCLICK HERE FOR PDF OF INITIAL FCC RELEASE...

NewCLICK HERE FOR PDF OF FULL TEXT FOLLOW-UP R&O LETTER...

2006 December - Hams Help Santa Clause in Austin

Trail of LightsNet Control for the TOL. Click for larger view.
(L-R) Pat AD5BR, Roger W5WIA, Charlie KC5NKK and Terry KC5EDF.

Every year in Austin, REACT Ham Radio Operators spend many of their evenings during December helping out with the Zilker Park Trail of Lights. This large event is open free to the public and is open every night from the 2nd Sunday in December until the 23rd. Attendance ranges from 10,000 per night, to as many as 60,000 per night, depending upon the weather.

 

This year there were over 45 displays spread along a one-mile stretch thru Zilker Park. Volunteers were stationed at each of the displays, plus performing other tasks such as counting the crowd using clickers, or passing out surveys. REACT Ham Radio Operators act as Trail Captains to supervise the other (civilian) volunteers along the route. Commercial UHF radios were used by the volunteers, but Amateur Radios were used to suppliment communications on the side for chatting off-channel.

N5NTG with Santa

Lee, N5NTG, gives Mr. & Mrs. Santa a ride to their alternative transportation because their reindeer stayed home to watch the Dallas Cowboys on TV that night.

Trail of LightsREACT sponsors one of the displays each year. In 2006, this was the designated display (#35).

2006 November 18 - American Red Cross Communications Drill

Red CrossHam operators gathered at the San Antonio Chapter of the American Red Cross for the purposes of testing communications via Amateur Radio from San Antonio Chapter to the Dallas Regional Operations Center. Setup started the night before so that antennas could be tested and prepared for Saturday, increasing the chance of successfully connecting with the Red Cross in Dallas.

Operations were set in the vehicle compound located behind the Chapter's HQ building. Various vertical and dipole antennas were strung up all over the compound, including a huge dipole strung between the outside fence and the drive-thru canopy about 20 feet in the air. We've created a special events page with more details and photos with captions.

CLICK HERE FOR FULL STORY AND PHOTOS...

2006 November 12 - San Antonio Marathon

AARO members organized the communications coordination for the annual San Antonio Marathon with 3800 registered runners (a new record). Hams were stationed at 17 water stops, 2 train stops, 3 supply trucks, 3 net controls, 2 SAG vans, 2 Shuttle Busses (for Lackland Recruits serving as Volunteer Course Marshals), 1 ham riding a bike as "Lead Bike" pacing the lead runner all 26.2 miles of the course (including off-road on trails), 8 hams serving as "shadow" for various race officials, 5 hams over seeing the APRS operations, 9 APRS units borrowed from Austin Ham Club, plus hams relaying messages for the announcer at the start and finish line, awards, and anywhere else communications was needed. We used the City of San Antonio's 147.18 repeater for this event, plus APRS frequency. Following are some photos taken during this year's event, along with some commentaries for each photo. Click on any photo for larger view.

APRS setupAPRS was set up in a trailer down on the loading dock on the south side of the Alamodome. The APRS antenna was installed upon the top deck. Net control was inside the Alamodome. One of the units was installed on the back of "Lead Bike" ridden by Robert K5RPB where we learned that vibration on the back of his bicyle wasn't kind to the tracker units, vibrating the connectors loose. BannerKARS members brought their APRS skills, plus borrowed 9 APRS units from Austin. Photo shows Jim KK5RZ and Charlie KC5NKK putting the final touches to the KARS banner next to the APRS base antenna.
Net ControlPrimary Net Control Greg Simmons, KD5BVG, gets his radio ready for the race. David KD5NNH opened the net at 4am, followed by Shane NS5D at 5am and Greg at 7am. NC was setup in one of the officials locker rooms, so the bathrroms were really close by this year. Ken_ErnieNed KG5US (red shirt) was "Ernie Shadow". Ernie (yellow shirt) watch runners while waiting for the last runner to arrive.
MissionRdSeeded in the race were runners carrying signs denoting groups who run at specific feeds, such as the 4 minute mile as shown in this photo. Runners are returning at about the 19 mile mark, crossing under Military Hwy on Mission Road. MissinRdBarry W5BLH and Lee N5NTG (neither shown) were riding on the shuttle busses which had 41 Lackland AF recruits who served as volunteer course marshalls at key intersections.
EspadaA view from inside the shuttle bus, showing the location at Mission Espada. Espaoda KG5USNed KG5US (red shirt) was "Ernie Shadow". watches runners while waiting for the last runner to arrive.
TrashNed KG5US checks the level of toilet paper suppy at one of the waterstops. In background, a City of San Antonio trash truck arrives to pick up all the trash from this location. This WS was a tricky intersection, where outbound runners came from the direction you see the trash truck, making a right turn (left in photo), but when they came back, they were coming from the opposite direction (view point of photo) and turned right onto a trail that ran along the San Antonio River. Police barricade tape was strung across the intersection at an angle to separate the runners, causing the Lead Bike ridden by Robert K5RPB (not shown in photo) to almost hit the tape like crossing the finish line. W6GARMike W6GAR was stationed at Waterstop 12/19, which meant that runners came thru twice, once outbound at the 12 mile marker, returning at the 19 mile marker.
AbleSupply 1, also known as Abel, made the rounds dropping off supplies before the race, helping with shortages during the race, and picking everything up afterwards. Supply 1 had a radio operator, Charlie KC5NKK riding shotgun (not visible in photo). Two other hams served in same function for Supply 2 and Supply 3 (David K5OLE and Curtis KE5HDL). Waterstop 20Herm N5CNH tests his car's sound proofing when the Waterstop workers brought in a DJ with his amps and huge speakers. Herm told us a story on the AARO info net the next day, saying he had been relaxing in the sun, enjoying the weather with his windows rolled down (before DJ) and a squirrel climbed in his car and stuck its nose into Herm's ear, startling both of them. Sounded sort of nuts to us, but that was his story.
Public WorksCity police and public service trucks waiting to open up closed streets as the runners passed by. Thanks to the help of the new City Manager for San Antonio, this year's race had more cooperation with the various city agencies. Little Red BarnAfter the event was over, about 40 of the hams went to the nearby Little Red Barn where we enjoyed food and friendship. Oh, and the color of the event t-shirt this year was green.

 

2006 - November 4 - Veterans Day Parade, Universal City

About a dozen hams plus a police cadet, coordinated by Hill Country REACT, assisted the Universal City Police Department in securing the parade route on Pat Booker Road, from Universal City Blvd down almost all the way to the entrance of Randolph AFB. UC Public Works left barricades along the route to block key cross roads or parking lot entrances. Radio operators were advised via radio when to move the barricades into place. After the barricades were placed, operators would inform motorists that they could drive toward Randolph AFB until close to parade start time, then no access at all after the parade had started. Herm N5CHN was riding in the lead police car providing radio coordination with the police to handle any trouble spots by stubborn motorists.

ParadeVolunteers get briefed inside the Universal City Courtroom by Shane NS5D. Free donuts and coffee were provided, courtesy of the UC Police Department.

ParadeParade starts off with color guard, ROTC and Airmen from Randolph AFB ParadeTraffic backs up on Pat Booker Road at UC Blvd. All traffic direction was controlled by UC Police, not the radio volunteers.
ParadeLee N5NTG waits at start of parade and will bring up the rear of the parade when completed. ParadeLee N5NTG waits at start of parade and will bring up the rear of the parade when completed.
ParadeUS Army Float ParadeView from the rear of the parade
ParadeCharles W5BRC greets Lee N5NTG as the end of the parade passed by his position ParadeView from the rear of the parade. The horses were kept to the back of the parade, followed by the street sweeper to clean up all by-products. City Pubic Works crews pick up barricades.
ParadeCharles KD5EXS at his location near a shopping center. Charles had to cover 3 exits and deal with some very persistent drivers ParadeLinda KC5QPQ stands ready at her assigned duty location with her barricade and cones still blocking the road.

2006 - October 21- Jamboree On The Air In San Antonio

JOTA logoThis year marked the 49th Annual Jamboree On The Air. The JOTA is an annual event in which about 500,000 Scouts and Guides all over the world make contacts with each other by means of amateur radio. It is a real Jamboree during which Scouting experiences are exchanged and ideas are shared, thus contributing to the world brotherhood of Scouting. Visit this web page for more details from the Boy Scouts.

 

JOTAThe joint efforts of the San Antonio Radio Club and the Alamo Area Radio Organization led to a very successful 2006 Jamboree On The Air at McGimsey Scout Camp this past Saturday. Three HF stations and two VHF
stations were set up using several verticals, an inverted V, a 2 meter
loop, and a Hamstick dipole antenna.

(Photo left) N5IUT led 12 scouts, from two different troops, through the necessary steps to complete their Radio Merit Badges. Many more Scouts participated in the day's radio activities.

 

JOTAW2IK demostrated his completely self contained HF/VHF station which included numerous antennas of his own design.

(Photo left) Mike KD5OZM operate radio. Floyd KE5HBF (sitting in chair with cane) watching, Bob W2IK (standing) regales Floyd with stories about Ham Radio.

Members of both clubs served as Control Operators while the Scouts talked to other Scouts on HF. Pictures of the JOTA activities have been posted to the PHOTOS section of the Yahoo Group for W5SC.



2006 - October 7-8 - MS150 Bike to the Beach

REACT operates K5BCR Special Event Ham Radio StationOver 60 Ham Radio Operators from San Antonio, Houston and Austin helped to provide radio and other support to the 2006 MS150 Bike to the Beach. Over 3,000 riders rode their bicycles from San Antonio to Beeville to Corpus Christi, Texas over 2 days. Hams drove 25 SAG Vans, rode motorcycle patrols (6 of 18 were hams), staffed Break Points, rode with Tour Officials and Medical Directors to handle crisis points as they occurred. The weather was cooler than most years, but when the cloud cover burned off around noon on Saturday, the calls for SAG Vans to pick up riders along the road increased dramatically. This year we used VHF repeater frequencies for the SAG and Medical Net, while we used UFH frequencies for SAG to SAG and SAG to Break Point communications. The full story will be printed in the SARO Bulletin being released at the end of October. Copies will be shared with SARO members and with our out of town hams.

Hams waiting with SAG VansAll SAG Vans were driven by a Ham Radio Operator or have one as a navigator. Medical Directors / trouble shooters all had Hams riding in their vehicles.

(Photo shows SAGS waiting at BP 2 on Saturday morning. Click on any photo for larger view.)

All Break Points had Hams stationed to coordinate the need for SAG Van pickup, medical or supply problems. Since last year, several of the Motorcycle Support Team obtained their license, so six of the 18 or so motorcycle riders were on our net as Hams. We used UHF radio to speak SAG to SAG or SAG to Break Point, pulling some chatter and traffic off the primary VHF repeater net. The new starting route added some miles to the course, so most of the SAG Vans started out at BP2 located at Loop 1604 & Hwy 181. A few calls for SAG Vans between Start and Finish in the first hour of the event caused some of them to reverse course to pick up riders who had mechanical difficulties so soon.

Tour Director and Hams waitingWe've posted 301 photos so far on this web site for your viewing pleasure.

(Photo shos Tour Director talking with Safety Officer and other key Hams Saturday evening while waiting for the course to close at 7pm. Click on any photo for larger view.)

We've tried to add a brief discription to all of them where we could. If you find any folks mis-identified or not identifed, please send email to the Webmaster to advise so that it can be corrected. These photos will also be shown on Friday, October 27th, as part of SARO's club meeting program.

However, in the meantime... CLICK HERE for a slideshow view of 301 photos taken during this event by 2 hams, Alfred KG5QW and Lee N5NTG. Warning.. These page may load slow due to high levels of photos even though we reduced them to thumbnails on the index page.

2006 September 11 - 5th Annual Commemorative WTC Special Event Station K5BCR

REACT operates K5BCR Special Event Ham Radio Station2006 marked the fifth anniversary for the World Trade Center Disaster. Hill Country REACT chose to commemorate this event by hosting a Special Event Ham Radio Station at Brackenridge Park in San Antonio. The idea originated with local ham operator Bob Hejl, W2IK, who was unable to participate at the last moment. The event grew over a very short time into a full blown "Emergency Preparedness Day" event, with the participation of more than a dozen other agencies.

In the photo to the left (click for larger view) you see the REACT ham radio station with radio operators Jim W5CPA (rear) and Schuylar KE5VIP (front center) talking to two of the American Red Cross volunteers. The American Red Cross also had a full blown display plus free snacks and drinks for the attendees and participants.

Despite heavy rains which dropped nearly five inches of rain in some parts of the city, flooding streets nearby and raising the San Antonio River enough to overflow the banks inside Brackenridge Park where the event was held, nearly a dozen agencies were represented with displays and booths providing information to the attendees. REACT Ham Radio operators made contacts on both 20 meters and the local 2 meter repeater sponsored by the Alamo Area Repeater Organization (AARO). Instead of operating from inside REACT's Comm Trailer, they chose to set up outside to allow more attendees better view the activities. Some local hams from area ham clubs stopped by to assist in the operation and their help was greatly appreciated.

Following are some photos taken by this webmaster and Roy Botello during this event. Click on any photo for larger view.

Serviceman enjoys Red Cross snacks

 Alamo Regional Citizen Corps
Red Cross REACT ham station
Willford Emergency Medical Texas Medical Rangers
Search Dogs Participants discuss event

9-11 FlyerThe event was co-sponsored by Alamo Regional Citizen Corps and the City of San Antonio Emergency Operations Center.

Participating agencies included:

Special Thanks to San Antonio Parks & Recreation, San Antonio City Council & District 6 Councilwoman Delicia Herrera's Office,
Bexar County Sheriff's Office, Bexar County Commissioners Court, Frank Kruesel @ Art-Trig Corp (for donating the 9-11 Photo Poster Display)

2006 September 11 - ARES Anderson Power Pole Party

ARES Anderson Power PolesBexar County ARES held an Anderson Power Pole Party during their monthly meeting in September. Members met downtown at the San Antonio EOC learning how to put on Anderson Power Pole connectors. The goal was to equip all local ARES members with a power cord from their vehicle's battery with Anderson Power Pole connectors so that they would be able to power and use one of the City issued 2 meter radios if deployed. Members brought their own zip-cord power cable and other ARES members either attached the connectors or showed them how to attach their own.

ARES leadership explained the importance of proper installation including the correct sized wire (#10 or #12 gauge) and in-line fuse holder rated for the expected radio load. In the photo shown, Shane NS5D (front) attaches connectors while Milton KE5CLV shows Dale KD5YSJ how to attach connectors.

To learn more about Anderson Powerpole Connectors, how to install them properly and where you might get a good deal on ordering your own supply of these connectors and/or the crimper tool, visit this SAHams web page.

2006 - Need a $190,000 HF Antenna with Free House?

Andy WG5O House For SaleAndy,WG5O, is selling his tower and beam antenna for $189,500.00. He is throwing in his 5 bedroom, 2587 sq ft home on 0.391 acre to go with the tower. See the full details here. If you are interested, contact Andy Pickens at wg5o@sbcglobal.net

Comfortable split-level in Castle Hills. Room for kids, hobbies, workshop, garden, and ground-level master bedroom suite. Three walk-in closets. Over-sized garage with big storage cabinets. 8 x16 storage shed & tool shed. Large, private yard, with back-alley access to park a small RV. Nice accessories with a great antenna system.


2006 September 9 - Bulverde Jubilee Special Event Station N5J

GVARC at Bulverde2006 marked the first year that the Bulverde Jubilee featured a Special Event Ham Radio Station. This was their 5th Annual Event and organizer Joe McNaul, WD5FMU, wanted to have a ham radio station in place. He ended up with not only one ham radio station, but two for the price of one. Both Guadalupe Valley ARC and Hill Country REACT had ham stations up and running. GVARC had a 20 meter station running voice and CW. REACT had two radios on the air, a local 2 meter repeater (145.45) for talk-in, plus an HF radio that was usually on 20 meters, but did check out the other bands for action (none found). The bands didn't cooperate with the two groups, although they did make contact with each other once or twice as they stumbled across each other. :) In the photo to the left, GVARC members operate the radio while setting up an umbrella for shade. Note: This means you need 1 operator, 1 logger and 1 person to hold the shade umbrella if you can't find a way to mount it.

REACT in BulverdeWith the two stations separated, GVARC on the east end of Bulverde, and REACT on the west end, there was probably at least 200 yards between them. There was little or no interference experienced as neither station was running more than 100 watts peak using vertical antennas of some homebrew variety. REACT was using W2IK's 2 meter j-pole antenna plus his latest HF Antenna invention, the deployable HF antenna that stores in the same tube that acts as the base when mounted. They made some of the same contacts, plus some local hams, but both groups left there in the late afternoon feeling like the time was worth the effort.

In the picture on the left, Schuylar, KE5VIP, assists three local youths from an area church get on the air using the special event call sign. Lee N5NTG taking the photo, was there as control op since they were operating in the General portion of the 20 meter band. Each of the three read the script "CQ CQ CQ Special Event Station November Five Juliet..... etc." on the air multiple times in an effort to make a contact. Unfortunately nobody responded, but each of them was given a N5J QSL card as a souvenir. Organizer Joe McNaul, WD5FMU, also tried his hand on the air with no luck.See photo on left.

Joe WD5FMUMost of what was heard on 20 meters was coming from Europe, especially Georgia in Russia, as operators competed in the Worked All Europe (WAE) contest this weekend. This meant that such operators were ignoring possible contacts with non-European hams, to the extent that one such ham was heard on the air explaining not-so-patiently that he didn't want any other contacts from the USA and to go away and quit bothering him. The hams in Bulverde also contacted a couple of other special event stations, one in California, the other up on Ontario, Canada.

There were also quite a few local hams who showed up to visit in person, picking up a QSL card for making an "in-person" contact with the station.


2006 July 27 - Silent Key - W5VIV LOUIS J KOCUREK, JR (Boerne)W5VIV Louis Kocurek

 

Louis Joe Occur Jr., born December 11, 1935 in San Antonio, Texas went to be with the Lord on Thursday, July 27, 2006. He was a member of St. Peter's Catholic Church in Boerne. Louis was an active member of the Kiwanis Club for over fifty years, and with QCWA as a Ham Radio Operator for over fifty years (W5VIV). Louis was a member and former officer of the San Antonio Radio Club, San Antonio Repeater Organization and Kendall Amateur Radio Society.


2006 July 30 -Tall Texan Triathlon - Boerne

Communications coordinated by Kendall Amateur Radio Service (KARS) local ham club. Hams used to coordinate communications and participant safety along the 25k bicycle route and 10k running route. Event started at Boerne City Lake. Using APRS, 2 meters and HF to cover the more remote rural locations. Photo at right taken during a 2004 Triathlon where the control station was set up to coordinate communications. Running course ended at Boerne City Park, downtown Boerne. Bicycle course went south across IH-10 and back to the park. KARS members were assisted by members of Hill County REACT.


2006 July 29 - Bexar County ARES Members Tour Corpus Christi EOC

Corpus Christi EOC TourNearly 20 members of the Bexar County ARES drove in caravan down to Corpus Christi, Texas to visit their Emergency Operations Center (EOC). They met with about the same number of local hams, plus local emergency officials from the City of Corpus Christi and the American Red Cross. In photo, Bexar County ARES members talk with their counter parts from Corpus Christi. Click on photo for larger view.

The following is a quote from Mark, AA5CA, Nueces County EC (Corpus Christi) and the STARC web site.

The ARES group from San Antonio/Bexar Country met with the Nueces County ARES group Saturday, July 29, 2006 at the Corpus Christi EOC on the 4th Floor of the Frost Bank Building.  There were 40 participants at the meeting with about 85% of those in attendance being ARES members.

 

Representing the City of Corpus Christi, Luci Rodriguez spoke briefly on the criteria for evacuation and the procedures for volunteers and residents to enter the City after a storm/hurricane/event has passed. Jab Murray, K5CNZ, spoke of the City relationship with local ham radio operators and outlined the equipment and capabilities of the Amateur radio station located in the City EOC. Nevada Linford, the local Red Cross Director of Preparedness and Response, outlined the various needs that could be anticipated after a widespread disaster.  She also spoke on the requirements and qualifications to serve as a Red Cross volunteer.

 

We have all become more aware of the fact that if a disaster strikes our area, we will be victims along with all the other residents, and will rely on volunteers from outside the area to assist us in the recovery efforts.  This meeting gave us an excellent opportunity to meet our counterparts from Bexar County and to associate names and faces with call signs.  There were some excellent discussions at the EOC on procedures, frequencies, and the methods of communications that we will be using in the event of an emergency.

 

After the meeting at the EOC ended, more excellent conversation followed at the home of Jab, K5CNZ, where a BBQ lunch was served for over 30 hungry hams.  A big “Thank you” to Jab and his wife Pat, along with Mike, KD5WZV, for coordinating the lunch.  It was great! More details with photos can be found here on the web site for the South Texas Amateur Radio Club.

KE5VIP and KC5NKK2006 July 23 - (San Marcos, TX) - Aquarena Sprint Triathlon

Hill Country REACT Ham Radio operators provided needed radio coordination for the 5th annual Aquarena Sprint Triathlon. Participants swam at Aquarian Springs in San Marcos, climbed out of the lake, jumped on their bikes for an 18k race on the county roads and IH-35 access road, then returned to Aquarena Springs to run down around the college and back, 10k total running distance. REACT members were staged along the bicycle route to watch for problems, such as the two tire blow-outs at the first construction zone on the county road, or the riders who experienced other problems causing them to drop out. In the first occurrence, radios were used to summon the SAG truck to perform repairs.

Photo shows Schuylar, KE5VIP (wheelchair) getting briefed by Charlie, KC5NKK (standing). Participants in background awaiting the start of the swimming portion of the race. 365 participants registered for this event. Click on photo for larger view.


2006 - Silent Key - Radio Shack and Atex Electronics Store Closure in July

Radio ShackPaul Guido, N5IUT, was the first to alert us to the fact that Radio Shack was closing seven (7) local stores, with clearance price discounts starting mid May 2006. Discounts were gradually increased up to 90% off in the last couple of days of this sale. All 7 stores finally closed July 12, 2006. The other locations in San Antonio are still open for business.

Radio Shack closed the stores located at:

Atex eBay Sales

Gary Harmon, K5JWK, was the first to alert us that ATEX Electronics, formerly located at 9008 Broadway (outside Loop 410 @ Tesoro Drive), was closing the 2nd week of July. They offered discounts up to 30% off by the final day, July 15th. The owner of the store confirmed he will continue to sell only through the Internet, using eBay as the primary method. His eBay user ID is "jaxele". Don't expect to find the great deals on pieces-parts that we used to get there, and expect to pay for shipping. Although he only moved up to the Canyon Lake area with a new warehouse, he is not accepting local visitors according to an interview he gave this web master on the last day of closing. His web site remains www.shopatex.com but it currently says "under construction" and refers to eBay for sales. I did a quick search of eBay and found lots of stuff for sale, mostly higher priced items which makes sense since you have to factor in shipping now.


REACT Logo2006 July 4 - (San Antonio, TX) - Hams Help During 4th of July Parade

Members of Hill Country REACT, with assistance from Travis County REACT, help organize the Annual 4th of July parade sponsored by the VFW Post #8800 in Startzville, Texas.  REACT members use their radio skills to coordinate the staging area, getting all of the 40+ entries lined up in their proper places.   REACT has been coordinating this parade every year for more than ten years.  In addition to coordinating the staging area, we also placed a radio operator at the reviewing stand to relay any last minute line-up changes (like the 1 entry that dropped out due to mechanical problems), plus at the de-staging area at the end of the route to keep the entries from stacking up back onto the route.

This year, we faced a few more challenges than the usual intermittent rain, missing parade entries, entries who showed up with KD5WDQ drives calliope in parade12 too many cars (usually Miata's or Corvettes), or floats from organizations who forgot to calculate the length of the towing vehicle when they submitted their entry.  In addition to the on again / off again rain, at the last minute Jacy & Molly Groff of San Antonio, owner of the Calliope entry in the parade, needed a new driver of the Model T Truck with the Calliope mounted on the back.  They asked if REACT could supply a driver for them. REACT member Eddie Kovelan, KD5WDQ, accepted the challenge of driving this parade entry so that the Groffs could play their Calliope.   Click on photo for larger view.

The other last minute challenge we had, was when word came down the line that both the Randolph AFB Color Guard  and Lackland AFB Drum & Bugle Corps had transportation difficulties (bus broke down).  The parade was delayed 20 minutes to allow them time to arrange alternate transportation.  Only the Drum & Bugle Corps arrived in time for the start of the parade, but by using the radios we were able to coordinate the delays and allay the participants' concerns.  The parade ran without a hitch, starting with the traditional flyover from the Confederate Air Force.  REACT members from both teams finished off the parade by driving their personal vehicles marked with REACT mag signs, along with the Comal County VFD fire truck, ambulance and a Sheriff's unit.


KARS Triathlon2006 July 1 - Small Texan Triathlon - Boerne

Communications coordinated by Kendall Amateur Radio Service (KARS) local ham club. Hams used to coordinate communications and participant safety along the 25k bicycle route and 10k running route. Event started at Boerne City Lake. Using APRS, 2 meters and HF to cover the more remote rural locations. Photo at right taken during start of Triathlon where the swimmers were being briefed prior to taking a dip in the lake. Pat, AD5BR (yellow shirt on left) was race shadow for this event. KARS members were assisted by members of Hill County REACT. Click on photo for larger view.


FCC INVITES COMMENTS ON KATRINA PANEL RECOMMENDATIONS


FCC CommentsComments are due Monday, August 7, in response to an FCC Notice of Proposed Rule Making (NPRM) regarding recommendations of the independent panel that reviewed Hurricane Katrina's impact on communication systems (EB Docket 06-119). Reply comments are due by Monday, August 21.

"The Commission, in this proceeding, is to take the lessons learned from this disaster and build upon them to promote more effective, efficient response and recovery efforts as well as heightened readiness and preparedness in the future," the FCC said. Some of the wide-ranging proposals in the NPRM, released in June, could affect the Part 97 Amateur Service rules. The FCC asked if it should explore amending its rules to permit automatic grants of certain types of waivers or special temporary authority (STA) in declared disaster areas. After last year's devastating hurricanes, the FCC issued a handful of STAs to permit licensees lacking HF privileges to operate on HF for emergency purposes.

The NPRM further offered three specific areas for consideration: Waiver of Amateur Radio and license-exempt rules, permitting transmissions necessary to meet essential communications needs; waiver of application filing deadlines, something the FCC did last fall for amateurs living in hurricane-stricken states; and a streamlined STA process.

ARRL Interested parties may file comments and view the comments of others via the Electronic Comment Filing System (ECFS) http://www.fcc.gov/cgb/ecfs/. In either case, enter "06-119" in the "Proceeding" field (without quotation marks but including the hyphen). A copy of the NPRM is on the FCC Web site http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/FCC-06-83A1.pdf.

This reprinted news was provided courtesy of the American Radio Relay League in the ARRL Letter Vol. 25, No. 28 dated July 14, 2006.


Wheelchair On The Air

Thanks to the help of Bob W2IK and the suggest of Lee N5NTG, new ham Schuylar KE5VIP (pronounced Sky-Lar) can reach out and touch repeaters that were previously out of range of his HT when he was operating from his wheelchair. Lee brought the "problem" to Bob's attention and a few days later we were installing a modified version of the W2IK extendable J-pole design on the back of Schuylar's wheelchair in front of the University Hospital entrance.

This design allows the operator to quickly raise the antenna up to as high as 14' when fully extended, without assistance from another operator (although it is easier to have help). It can be collapsed down as low as 5 feet 10 inches to allow easy loading of the ham into the VIA Handicapped Shuttle bus. Schuylar found out that if VIA sends the small shuttle to get him, he needs to simply pull the antenna out of the mounting bracket and hold it in his lap because the smaller shuttles's are too short in clearance. Click on photo for larger view.

Schuylar has reported that since Bob installed this antenna, he has now been able to contact through repeaters as far away as the 147.14 Canyon Lake and the 147.86 Roost (SE Bexar County) from his home in the far NW side of town. Schuylar transferred the antenna to his motorized chair for FD 2006 and was proudly cruising all over the place talking on his HT.

See http://hometown.aol.com/alonestaryank/W2IK-WHEELCHAIR-ANTENNA.html for more details.


Field Day Photos Here

We've updated the Field Day web page for 2006 to include photos from most of the area ham radio operations during Field Day exercise. Click here for details...


Statewide Hurricane Drill - May 3rd

Area ham radio operators responded to a request from Bexar County ARES to staff key locations around town and as far away as Seguin, Texas (where, in a real emergency, they would have watched for bus convoys and monitored traffic level.) Hams were at the San Antonio EOC, Red Cross, 211-Texas @ United Way, and many other locations including a back-up EOC.

In this photo (L-R), Mark Scheibler (Director, 2-1-1 Operation) looks on while Ned Lee, KK5V, instructs Suzanne Carter (Director, 2-1-1 Program Development & Training) on how to send a message via ham radio. Lee Besing, N5NTG, takes a call from EOC while at the United Way 211 Texas Center during the drill. Photo taken by United Way.

A second repeater was activated on the same 147.18 frequency but with a different tone, in an effort to increase coverage area. That experiment had mixed results when the automated repeater ID kicked in on top of voice communications by the other repeater. At noon, when the ham's portion of the drill was intended to finish and most of the hams were being released, a call cam in asking for hams to staff about 40 shelter locations. Calls went out on various repeaters around town and hams responded to be assigned as "simulated" shelter operators or "simulated" Red Cross ERV drivers.


New Bexar County Emergency Coordinator (EC) Announced

ARES logoSan Antonio, Texas, April 10, 2006 -- The Amateur Radio Relay League (ARRL) South Texas Section Manager, Ray Taylor N5NAV, has announced the appointment of Dogan "Don" Perese as the Emergency Coordinator (EC) for Bexar County, Texas. Perese replaces Neil Martin WAFSR, who has served as EC for the past 10 years.

Perese oversees the Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) program in Bexar County, and is responsible for recruitment, training and deployment of amateur radio volunteers for service in emergency and disaster communications. All requests by government and private agencies for emergency or disaster amateur radio communications support should be directed to Perese or a designated Assistant EC.

Bexar County ARES draws support and volunteers from local amateur radio clubs. As such, it is not necessary to contact these clubs directly for emergency and disaster communications support. Perese can be reached by phone at 210-826-5633, or by email at ec@bexarcountyares.org.

Bexar County ARES is strictly involved with emergency and disaster communications, and does not provide amateur radio communications support for public service events such as parades, marathons or other not-for-profit events. Requests of this nature should be directed to the local amateur radio clubs.

ARES is part of the field service organization of the ARRL. The ARRL is a member of National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NVOAD) and is an affiliate organization of Citizen Corps.

For more information - Shane O'Neal NS5D, Assistant EC, Bexar County ARES
210-473-4847 info@bexarcountyares.org www.bexarcountyares.org


More from the outgoing, long time serving Bexar County EC, Neil Martin...

ARES LOgoFinal ARES Report - March 24, 2006 - Neil Martin WA5FSR

"It is with mixed feelings that I write this. About 10 years ago I agreed to assume the duties of ARES Emergency Coordinator for Bexar County on a pro-tem basis until a permanent EC could be selected.

Since then we have been through a fire, two major floods, Y2K and several hurricanes providing support communications for the Red Cross, National Weather Service, City of San Antonio, Texas Department of Emergency Management, the Baptist Men=s Kitchen, the Salvation Army, FEMA and many others.

The credit for the success of these communications operations goes to you, the Amateur Radio community, because without you coming forward when needed the job could not have been done.

I was advised by my BAMC service chief several days ago that I am being placed in a new position effective April 3rd. This new position is going to require that I do quite a bit of outside study for six months to a year and will, during emergencies involving the hospital, make me unavailable for Amateur operations. This and other factors are making it more difficult for me to continue as an effective EC.

I have communicated with Jerry Reimer, KK5CA; the Section Emergency Coordinator and my appointment of EC for Bexar County will expire on March 31, 2006. I have made recommendation to Jerry of several Amateurs who I think should be considered for the position of Bexar County EC but it will be up to him and the Section Communication Manager to make the selection. I would ask that you all support the new EC as you have helped and supported me.

I especially want to thank those Amateurs who have assisted me over the years. Without the Assistant EC's I could not have done the job. Thanks to Terri Thomas, KC5BJI: Stan Stanukinos, KA5IID; James Wright, K5CDT; Al Uvietta, KC5S; Bobby Rodriguez, K5AUW; John Weber, WA5YQC; Herm Haertel, N5CNA; Jack Riegel, N5JAK; Johnny Wallace, K5POP; and my wife Louise, WB5LCT. Also, thanks to two former EC=s, Ivan Mangold, WA5RNV; and Ken Harwood, WA5QZI; for being examples and mentors. I hope I didn't leave anyone out."

Neil Martin, WA5FSR


ARES Announces New District EC and Comal County EC

ARES LogoDue to the resignation of Brian NB5R caused by his moving out of the area recently, Jerry Reimer, KK5CA; the Section Emergency Coordinator, has appointed Bob McWha AD5NQ to the section 12 District Emergency Coordinator, overseeing the local counties around San Antonio. Bob has been the Kendall County ARES EC for several years now, and is active with REACT and other area clubs. We look forward to his term of service as DEC for District 12.

Due to the resignation of Neil WA5FSR as Bexar County EC (see story here), The Amateur Radio Relay League (ARRL) South Texas Section Manager, Ray Taylor N5NAV, has announced the appointment of Dogan "Don" Perese as the Emergency Coordinator (EC) for Bexar County, Texas. Perese replaces Neil Martin WAFSR, who has served as EC for the past 10 years. (see story here)

FCC WARNS RADIO AMATEURS TO SETTLE PERSONAL DIFFERENCES OFF THE AIR

The FCC has advised four Texas licensees to take an "ongoing dispute" off the Amateur Radio bands or face enforcement action. Special Counsel in the FCC Enforcement Bureau Riley Hollingsworth sent essentially identical warning letters February 28 to Luis A Caraballo, N7PLC, and Sharon E. Millhouse, KC5PRX--both of Floresville, and to Thomas O. Caldwell, WD5GXH, and Gary Sheets, WD5FWP--both of San Antonio. Hollingsworth said the dispute has "led to allegations of slander and deliberate interference" on the ham bands.

"The Commission is not concerned with the merits, or lack thereof, of any dispute between you or of how you settle such disputes," Hollingsworth wrote, "but any use of amateur frequencies to carry on the dispute is contrary to Section 97.1 of the rules and will lead to enforcement action against the licenses of each of you."

Hollingsworth told ARRL that the personal squabble among the four radio amateurs has been going on for several years, eventually spilling over onto 2 meters. FCC efforts to resolve the dispute have been unsuccessful, he said, adding, "it's degrading the Amateur Service."

Sanctions could include license revocation or suspension as well as fines of up to $10,000, Hollingsworth warned. "We may also consider proceedings to restrict or remove the voice privileges of your licenses," he added, noting "this is the last warning you will receive before enforcement action is initiated."

Hollingsworth this week said he'd heard back from all but one of the individuals who received his letters, but only one reply was in writing. In a handwritten note, Sheets pledged to amend his attitude and practices. Hollingsworth said he's awaiting written responses from the other three recipients.

Source with permission - The ARRL Letter, Vol. 25, No. 14, April 7, 2006

2006 SOUTH TEXAS TWO-METER "SHOOT-OUT"
LOCATION @ John James City Park - Download PDF Map Here
3598 Rittiman Road, just west of IH-35 (Loop 410)

On APRIL 8, 2006 at 10 AM, the RADIO OPERATORS OF SOUTH TEXAS (ROOST) will hold a TWO-METER TEXAS "SHOOT OUT" as amateur antenna builders will compete to see who has built the best home-brew antenna. Winners in four categories will hold "bragging rights" for a year, until the next "shoot out". Anyone, ham or non-ham, may enter or attend.

There is NO entry fee to compete. Those who wish to be a part of this contest will abide by the simple rules which will be available during contest registration on the day of the shootout and must sign a release form. The judges determinations are final. Click here for more details

There will be FIVE categories:

* Beams will be limited to up to 4 elements maximum.

Sponsored by Alamo Area Radio Organization (AARO)

One Day Ham Radio Review Course For
Amateur Radio Technician License Exam
Saturday, April 22, 2006 - 8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Class will cost $35 per student plus book. Includes continental breakfast, lunch and fee for the exam given at the end of the day. Students supply their own copy of Gordon West's Technician Class book. Location: Lecture Hall, Bonilla Science Building, University of the Incarnate Word, 4301 Broadway, San Antonio, TX. Visit AARO Web Site.

Call 210-522-3008 or 210-680-6841 to register or send email to jwallace@swri.org.

 

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