The November club meeting agenda unfolded as usual, with a business meeting and a presentation. Two key events were reviewed: Field Day and the MDI Marathon Communications. As mentioned in an earlier post, the EAWA proved their skills by scoring in the top 10% in the country and second in Maine in their class. The review of the Emergency Communications for the MDI Marathon received an equally glowing evaluation. All those involved reported that the radio transmissions were clear, giving an accurate and timely picture of the racers’ progression along the course.
Among the other news items, it’s time to look forward and consider putting your name on the ballot for an officer’s position in the EAWA. If you’re interested, contact the nominating committee — Dick W1KRP and Phil N1EP. If you would like to get more involved but feel an officer’s position is too much, please reach out to the EAWA President, Jeff KA1DBE, or any other EAWA member in leadership.
Also looking forward, a new group is forming around the topic of local training for emergency situations, with a specific focus on emergency communications. Anyone may join in, whether an EAWA member or not, or whether a licensed amateur radio operator or not. If you’d like to know more, contact Dick W1KRP at res.w1krp@gmail.
Next up, AREDN, the Amateur Radio Emergency Data Network that connects hams and stations, was the focus of the Zoom presentation given by Cory KU1U. The network uses a series of commercial off-the-shelf low-cost wireless equipment to create a radio-based way to send data. As stated in an AREDN brochure, “The AREDN Project’s focus is Emergency Communications (EmComm). It seeks to provide hams a means to implement this technology in practical ways to support local and regional emergency communications needs.” Through volunteers, donations, and secured grant money, the New Hampshire to Maine connection is extending further along the eastern parts of Maine. For more information, check out these resources:
YouTube Presentation for Mainers, https://youtu.be/xKhghQm82cU?si=1OIxvTZB4I5zXi6J
YouTube General Introduction, https://youtu.be/T78v7lOWZQ0?si=AQJOq7zL-mGgIDgR
AREDN website, https://www.arednmesh.org/
Contact Cory KU1U at ku1u@nedev.arrl.org
This concluded a very informative club meeting. Oh, before you move on, the December meeting will be held on Sunday, December 8, at noon, at our usual location (the Meadow View Community Room). The annual Holiday Potluck Luncheon will take the place of the program.
Written by Marion W1GRL
W1TU 