ARRL-SC

Section News Archives

2005

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January 2005

Greetings to all Amateur Radio Operators.  This is Dr. Jim, N2ZZ with the January 2005 South Carolina Section Manager’s Report!  Please remember that the SC Section website can be found at www.qsl.net/arrl-sc/ where my full SM report will be listed as well as up-to-the-date information on Amateur Radio in South Carolina!

            As of January 1^st, I began my second term as Section Manager for the South Carolina Section.  The past two years have been a wonderful experience for me, and I have been proud to represent our state as Section Manager.  I was told by Susan AF4FO, SM GA when I was first elected that being a Section Manager was a “Labor of love”, and I couldn’t agree more!  I hope the changes and programs that have occurred since the ARRL-SC team took office have been positive ones for all!  I am very proud of those who have chosen to volunteer as appointees in the ARRL-SC field service, and wish to thank all of you for your hard work!

            I would especially like to thank Dan KF4VIS for his work as PIC for the last two years.  I truly appreciate his enthusiasm and service.  Dan has decided to devote his newfound free time to getting his CW code speed up for the next peak propagation cycle and work on PSK31.  Mike KG4SLH has moved up from the Assistant PIC slot to fill the PIC slot, and he has a number of goals for this year.  He is hoping to have a PIO in each club this year.  He has asked for contact information for each club, and would like a copy of each club’s newsletter.  His e-mail address is kg4slh@arrl.net or kg4slh@bellsouth.net .  If you are the contact person for a club, and/or interested in a PIO position, please contact him.  If you produce your club’s newsletter, please send him a copy if possible.  Brian KR4SP, ACC and I currently receive club newsletters from around the state.  Please add Mike to your mailing list!

            A message from Mac K4AVR: For those of you that are interested, the SandBlast 2005 Sports Car Rally is on January 22 in the Sandhills State Forest near Cheraw, Patrick and McBee, along US-1.  Net Control will be at H. Cooper Black Field Trial Center again this year.  The Chesterfield County ARS is once again asking for volunteers to help with the event.  For those of you who have not participated, it is an event quite unlike anything you can imagine.  You may want to review the photos and info found on the Rally website at http://www.sandblastrally.com/2005/index.cfm, which will give you a very rough idea of the event.  For those of you that camp, there are RV sites available at the H. Cooper Black Field Trials Center and in the past several years the Rally sponsors have picked up the tab for the camp sites.  If you plan on coming and camping, contact Charles Sherrill at sherrillc@sherrillfurniture.com about the camping arrangements for this year.  Suzie and I are once again planning on taking our Motorhome to the rally to act as a site for the NCS operations.  Come join us.

            There have been a number of events around the globe that have brought Amateur Radio into the forefront.  Many of you know about the VU4 DXPedition to Andaman Island.  Amateurs have been attempting to obtain authorization for operation on that island for over a decade.  Through a series of favorable events, operating permission was given for December, to end on December 31^st.  Those that tried to work VU4 realized very soon that the East Coast was not a very favorable spot for propagation.  Unfortunately, I was unable to even hear them at my location.  However, on December 26^th at 0055z, There was a major earthquake (9.0+) that began off the shore of Sumatra in Northwest Indonesia.  The Andaman Islands are one of the closest land areas to the epicenter of the earthquake.  The DXPedition crew immediately went into emergency communication mode and were operating at low power, with batteries and generator power to relay information to the Indian mainland.  The leader of the DXPedition team, Bharathi VU2RBI coordinated communications while hams were sent to Nicobar Island, and to Port Blair where an emergency communication station was set up in the Deputy Commissioner’s office.  Although their temporary authorization ended on December 31^st, hams were authorized to stay until emergency relief efforts were completed.

            An ARES activation was carried out during the mudslide in California.  From the ARRL letter Vol. 24 No. 2:

Flooding and a devastating mudslide in Southern California kept Ventura County ARES/RACES members on the move this week. Among other activities, ARES/RACES has supported communication at shelters housing La Conchita residents displaced by a massive and deadly mudslide January 10 that killed at least 10 people. A town of some 250 inhabitants, La Conchita is approximately 65 miles north of Los Angeles. "Several communities were cut off from access to the outside world during the flooding, including the Ojai area and the cities of Santa Paula, Fillmore, and Piru," reports David Gilmore, AA6VH, ARES District Emergency Coordinator and Ventura County RACES Radio Officer. He said five shelters were opened during the course of the flooding, providing refuge to more than 700 evacuees. Gilmore said the hospital in Ojai also experienced flooding, but the community's flood-initiated isolation would have made it extremely difficult to transfer patients to other facilities. "An ARES/RACES member stood by at the radio communications room at the hospital during this crisis, while the flooding was dealt with," he said. "Fortunately, the effects of the flooding were able to be contained, and the hospital was able to continue operating."           

Of course, closer to home (REALLY closer to home-within 3 miles of MY home!) was the Train derailment in Graniteville, spilling deadly Chlorine gas from a damaged tanker car.  On January 6^th, 2005 at approximately 2:40 am, a Norfolk Southern Railroad Train was derailed in Aiken County, SC, within the city limits of Graniteville.  The train carried three tanker trucks of Chlorine, each containing 90 tons of the deadly chemical.  One of these trucks was punctured in the collision, releasing chlorine gas into the atmosphere. The poison gas claimed nine lives and resulted in countless injuries which kept area hospitals, including Aiken Regional Medical Centers, quite busy.  In the afternoon of January 6^th, Sheriff Michael Hunt ordered the evacuation of residents within a one mile radius of the chemical leak, and a curfew for residents immediately outside that radius.  The railroad company sponsored many evacuees to stay in area hotels, however due to over 5400 individuals involved, a number of shelters were opened.  One of these shelters was opened at the University of South Carolina at Aiken.  During an information briefing by the Red Cross to the evacuees, Bob Besley K4NJN, ASM6 asked to say a few words.  Bob, in his professional life is a Sergeant at Aiken Public Safety, where he functions as a police officer and a firefighter.  At the time of the incident, however, he was working his second profession as a paramedic.  Bob addressed the evacuees in his full duty uniform, but was equipped with an item that is not standard police issue, a pad of ARRL radiograms!  Bob handled a number of health and welfare radiograms for the evacuees, and passed all of them on a traffic net that same morning.  The Red Cross representative was very thankful, and asked how amateur radio could be contacted in the future to provide message traffic in similar activations.  In regards to radio communications, the Palmetto 800 trunked system worked well, and in conjunction with the area VHF and UHF commercial radios, all emergency communications proceeded smoothly.  Charlie Miller AE4UX. SEC indicated during the event that Aiken County ARES/RACES was ready to be activated whenever emergency officials requested our support.  Our County Emergency Management officials are David Ruth KI4DLR and Paul Matthews KB4GYT, EC Aiken County.  As both are hams, they know our capabilities, and were ready to call on us whenever necessary.

I would like to thank the Greenwood Hamfest Committee organizers for an excellent hamfest!  The Greenwood ARC is our latest ARRL (RE)affiliated Club, and we truly appreciate the reaffiliation!  It was good to travel to Greenwood for South Carolina's first hamfest of the year!  From the ARRL-SC team, I was happy to see Adam WY4N, ASM-Youth; Sue N4ENX, OOC; Ken N2IXX, ASM3; Charlie AE4UX, SEC; Brian KR4SP, ACC; Peter KG4VDR, STM; Les K4NK, Vice Director Roanoke Division, and Sandy Donahue W4RU, Vice Director Southeastern Division.  Bob K4NJN, ASM6 was slated to come to the hamfest, but due to the chlorine spill in Graniteville, his services as police officer/fireman/paramedic were needed in Aiken County.   Congratulations also go to the Greenwood County Emergency Communications group for their signing of an MOU between themselves and Greenwood County!

In Aiken County, we have had a few successes as well!  Aiken Preparatory School has become an ARRL “Big Project” School, and will be implementing Wireless Technology into their curriculum for at least the next three years.  Aiken Prep has become the second “Big Project” school in South Carolina, the first being in Hampton, SC.  The North Augusta-Belvedere Amateur Radio Club has agreed to support the school, where a number of amateur radio classes and testing sessions have been given over the last several years.  On a very positive note-I went to the second session of the Technician class that started at Aiken Prep this semester.  I was pleased to see EIGHTEEN students, all eager to learn!  I even had the pleasure of showing one of the Aiken Prep teachers taking the class how to decipher the markings on a resistor!

The second bit of good news in Aiken County is that Aiken Regional Medical Centers has approved a proposal to implement Amateur Radio into their emergency plan.  This will include a two meter repeater, UHF/VHF/HF capabilities, and future repeater linking abilities.  James Tarpley KN4UE, TS has taken the lead on this project, and submitted an excellent proposal to the hospital.  Hopefully the hospital station will be in operation within the next few months!

There is a third bit of good news in Aiken County, and details will follow in subsequent reports!

Please make plans to attend the Charleston Hamfest on Saturday, February 5^th, in Ladsen, SC.  Information is on the www.qsl.net/arrl-sc/ site under “Hamfest Alert” on the left sidebar.  At the forums, I will be the “Warm up” speaker for their main attraction, Riley Hollingsworth K4ZDH, The FCC’s Special Counsel for Amateur Radio Enforcement!  I hope to see everyone there!

December 2004 National Traffic System Report for South Carolina

Net Reports
Net Name/Check Ins/Traffic/Sessions/Reported By
Anderson Radio Club 2M Net/914/37/31/KD4HEY
BRARS 2 Meter Net/1924/52/31/K4SUG
Carolina Slow Net/123/39/31/W4EAT
Columbia ARC 2 Meter Net/162/9/9/K4RKC
Greater Pee Dee 2 Meter Net/1130/60/31/K4DTT
Greenwood ARS 2 Meter Net/110/9/5/W4DEW
Greenwood Friendly Net/565/33/31/W4JAK
PALS Net/825/73/31/KG4KOE
Ridge Amateur Radio Club/45/4/4/KD4HDR
SC Sandlapper 6 Meter Net/86/4/4/K4IRT
SC SSB Net/1376/111/31/WA4UGD
York Co. ARS 2 Meter Net/732/36/53/K4CON

Station Activity Reports
Station/Sent/Received/Delivered/Originated/Total
N4EXT/4/6/2/0/12
KA4UIV/84/99/11/0/194
WA4UGD/0/36/1/0/37
W4NVO/1/11/10/0/22
KG4VDR/8/27/10/0/45

Public Service Honor Roll
Station/Cat. 1/Cat. 2/Cat. 3/Cat. 4/Cat. 5/Cat. 6/Total
KA4UIV/40/40/20/0/0/0/100
KG4VDR/40/40/20/20/0/0/120

Thanks for a great two years!

’73 de Dr. Jim N2ZZ
ARRL Section Manager
South Carolina Section
www.qsl.net/arrl-sc/

February 2005

Greetings to all Amateur Radio Operators.  This is Dr. Jim, N2ZZ with the February 2005 South Carolina Section Manager’s Report!  Please remember that the SC Section website can be found at www.qsl.net/arrl-sc/ where my full SM report will be listed as well as up-to-the-date information on Amateur Radio in South Carolina!
             I would like to thank the Charleston Amateur Radio Society for an excellent hamfest that was held in Ladson, SC on February 5th!  The weather was perfect, and the turnout was spectacular!  From the ARRL-SC team, attendees included Bob K4NJN, ASM6; Adam WY4N, ASM-Youth; Peter KG4VDR, STM; Bob WA2EMF, ASM2 and Marc N4UFP, TC.  I was pleased to be accompanied to the hamfest by my son Philip, KI4DKW!  I presented the ARRL forum at 10 am.  My topics included information about the January ARRL Board of Directors meeting, Emergency Services update, Public Relations update, Field Day information, the SC amateur radio license plate initiative, and the SC QSO party.  I included happenings in my county, including Aiken Preparatory School becoming a Big Project School and the acceptance of an Amateur Radio station to be incorporated into the emergency plan of Aiken Regional Medical Centers.  An announcement was made by Bob K4NJN ASM6 about a major development in our county, which I will report on when further details are available. 
           Of course, I was only the warm-up speaker for the keynote speaker, Riley Hollingsworth, K4ZDH, the FCC's Special Counsel for Amateur Radio Enforcement.  When one thinks of "ENFORCEMENT", the images that come up are those of "if you do this, you will be punished", or "if you DON'T do this, you will be punished".  This does not describe Riley in any sense.  He is charged with enforcement, and does his job well, but I don't think I have ever heard anyone who is more passionate about the future of amateur radio.  He started out his talk showing an excellent article from the Washington Post regarding Amateur Radio efforts during the recent Tsunami in late December.  He stated that this is the press that he wants to see about Amateur Radio.  He made a special point to say that although it was in the newspaper and it was about amateur radio, it was actually accurate!  He feels that those who intentionally violate the rules are those who endanger Amateur Radio's future.  He said that ALL of us are charged with preserving Amateur Radio's future by bringing in young people and the recently retired to our hobby.  Riley stayed for a question and answer period.  He made two young hams (Erik KI4GXQ, and Victoria KI4GXP-The harmonics of Tim KA3IGW and Gretchen KG4UXZ from Barnwell) very happy by posing for a picture with them.  I was flattered that Tim asked me to be a part of that picture!

            An interesting story came about after the hamfest.  I confided in Marc N4UFP, TC that I was a few days shy of my half century mark.  He brought up the story that surrounded his fiftieth birthday.  His wife, several years his junior, chided Marc to no end about becoming fifty, and joining AARP.  Interestingly though, when someone becomes eligible to join, their spouse, whatever age they are, are eligible for membership as well.  So, to make a long story short, when his wife brought Marc his AARP membership envelope with a big grin, Marc opened the envelope and handed his wife her personal AARP card.  Word has it that she STILL hasn’t forgiven him!!!

            Speaking of Marc, he made the “ARRL in Action” column in the March QST on page 13.  Marc assisted Kirk Morrison KA4KXM in repair of his antenna system, which came down after the recent hurricane season.  Kirk is disabled, and was unable to do the job himself.  Everything went well, with the exception of a perturbed goat that felt his territory was threatened by Marc. Kirk promised me a picture of the goat, and I’m looking forward to receiving that picture!  Looking at Marc’s report this month, he and his team of Technical Specialists have been very productive!  There has been quite an effort aiding other hams with technical issues and discussing consideration for reconfiguration of the APRS system.  Marc, thanks for your help, and congratulations on appearing in QST!

            I have a request for all ARRL Affiliated Club Presidents.  Please send an e-mail with your name, call, club name and term of office to me at n2zz@arrl.org .  I am compiling a list of all club presidents.  Please send an e-mail ASAP, as I need to have the list complete before February 23^rd.

            If you are an ARRL member and a net manager, you may be eligible for an ARRL NM (Net Manager) field service appointment.  We request that you contact Peter KG4VDR@arrl.net for further information.  If you are volunteering your time as net manager, we want to make sure that the ARRL recognizes your efforts!

            The South Carolina Single Sideband Net is in the process of putting together their 2005 net roster.  If you would like to be included in the roster, or if you have corrections in your address, phone number, e-mail address, etc., please contact Tom WA4VYS wa4vys@arrl.net with your information.  I am currently updating ARRL appointee information to be included in the roster.  Please send all information to Tom before the end of February.

            On my travels on Field Day, I noted that there were a number of hams that had connections with broadcast stations, both TV and radio.  In fact, in North Charleston, I even met a ham who IS a newscaster.  Now is the time to show the public what Amateur Radio is all about!  The ARRL has several public service announcements (PSA’s) that are available on DVD format for broadcast stations to use.  The MPG video (low resolution) and the MP3 audio tracks are available on the national ARRL website: http://www.arrl.org/pio/pr.html#psa .  DVD’s for your media contacts are available through Allen Pitts W1AGP apitts@arrl.org .  I sent an e-mail to Al, and found out that he is a University of SC graduate, surviving in the Northeast at ARRL Headquarters!  I’m sure he would be happy to hear from you!

            Well, that is it for the shortest month of the year!  A quick question-how many months of the year have 28 days in them?  Answer-ALL of them!

            Have a great month!!

January 2005 National Traffic System Report for South Carolina-Reported by Peter KG4VDR, STM

Net Reports
Net Name/Check Ins/Traffic/Sessions/Reported By
Anderson Radio Club 2M Net/996/33/31/KD4HEY
BRARS 2 Meter Net/2101/46/31/K4SUG
Carolina's Net/445/217/62/K4IWW
Carolina Slow Net/126/45/31/W4EAT
Columbia ARC 2 Meter Net/163/9/9/K4RKC
Greenwood ARS 2 Meter Net/104/8/4/W4DEW
Greenwood Friendly Net/703 /33/31/W4JAK
Lancaster County 2 Meter Net/123/21/12/N4WMB
PALS Net/1224/81/31/KG4KOE
SC SSB Net/1353/148/31/WA4UGD
York Co. ARS 2 Meter Net/ 751/32/52/K4CON

Station Activity Reports
Station/Sent/Received/Delivered/Originated/Total
N4EHT/47/53/13/0/113
KA4UIV/59/62/0/0/121
WA4UGD/0/36/1/0/37
W4NVO/1/4/4/1/10
KG4VDR/21/29/22/0/72

Public Service Honor Roll
Station/Cat. 1/Cat. 2/Cat. 3/Cat. 4/Cat. 5/Cat. 6/Total
KA4UIV/40/40/10/0/0/0/90
KG4VDR/40/40/20/20/0/0/120

Thanks to all for a great month!

’73 de Dr. JIM N2ZZ
ARRL Section Manager
South Carolina Section
www.qsl.net/arrl-sc/

March 2005

Greetings to all Amateur Radio Operators.  This is Dr. Jim, N2ZZ with the March 2005 South Carolina Section Manager’s Report!  Please remember that the SC Section website can be found at www.qsl.net/arrl-sc/ where my full SM report will be listed as well as up-to-the-date information on Amateur Radio in South Carolina!

            Last month, I requested that all club presidents contact me and provide me with their e-mail addresses.  Most of the club presidents responded, and I thank them for doing so.  My reason for requesting this information in last month’s report was less clear.  When I talked with Riley Hollingsworth prior to his forum at the Charleston hamfest, I asked him whether he would allow me to videotape his presentation.  He gave me permission to do so.  After the presentation, I asked him if he would allow me to distribute his presentation to hams throughout South Carolina.  Again, he gave me his permission.  SO, all club presidents who responded to my request for an e-mail received a DVD of Riley’s presentation to use for a future club program!  I have spoken with a few club presidents that have already done so, and they said that they had to add another showing of the video for those who were unable to make the monthly club meeting!  I sent out fifteen DVD’s, so check with a club close to you to view Riley’s presentation.  Please don’t ask for individual copies-the time and cost to produce them would be prohibitive. As I said previously, Riley is charged with Enforcement and does a great service to the Amateur Radio community, but I have never met anyone more passionate about Amateur Radio, and its future.  He feels that those who violate the rules jeopardize the future of Amateur Radio.  His greatest fear is a negative article about Amateur Radio, and his greatest joy is a positive article about Amateur Radio.  Please make arrangements to view the video.  His talk was very inspirational!

            On February 19^th, the Myrtle Beach Marathon was held, and Amateur Radio Operators of the Grand Stand came and met the challenge.  Amateur Radio offered radio support to the Myrtle Beach Marathon, and was enthusiastically received by the organizers and other support personnel of the Marathon.  The feedback from the Race Medical Director, Dr. Mark Schecker, was “Thanks to all of the HAM operators who helped us during the race, they did a great job!!”  In addition to this feedback, Dr. Mark Schecker presented the Grand Strand HAMS with a beautiful plaque containing the inscription:

“ In Appreciation GRAND STRAND HAM RADIO ASSOCIATION for Faithful and Continuing Service in Ensuring the Health and Safety of the Runners and Walkers of the Myrtle Beach Marathon.  Signed: Mark Schecker, MD, Medical Director”. 

 Myrtle Beach Fire Department Captain, Larry Branch, Public Safety Communications Coordinator for the Marathon said, “It would be impossible to run communications for this marathon without the HAM operators!” “Thanks to you all for your hard work!  Thanks to Matt AF4UZ, DEC4 for providing me with this report!

            Dennis KG4JIA, SGL sent me an article published March 5th in the Spartanburg Herald-Journal about Fritz Nitsch W4NTO, entitled “Climbing towers no problem for radio operator”.  Fritz, now 86 years young, talking about his lack of fear of heights, was quoted as saying “You’ve got a job to do-What’s the difference?”  You go, Fritz!!

            From our Technical branch, Marc Tarplee N4UFP, TC has had several publications in QST, but was surprised to see that his two band dipole article was published in the CQ-DL Antennen International Buch, put out by DARC, the German sister organization of the ARRL!  Congratulations!  In regards to TS activity, Marc has indicated in his report that James KN4UE, TS has been very active.  James has kept the DX packetcluster alive in the Aiken Area, and has been working on one of his nodes in Lincolnton, GA.  James is also the lead on the Aiken Regional Medical Center project, and progress is being made in putting together an amateur radio station and repeater for that facility.  Ken Ferguson K4KXO, TS gave a presentation to the Quarter Century Wireless Association (QCWA), Palmetto chapter #89 on the topic of SWR.

            Speaking of QCWA, I currently am President of the Palmetto Chapter.  For those of you licensed 25 years or more, please consider joining.  Jim W5AQP is the secretary of the chapter, and would be happy to provide you with a membership application.  You can contact Jim at mfill@pbtcomm.net .

            The Charlotte Hamfest was this last weekend.  Our Director Dennis Bodson W4PWF and our Vice Director Les Shattuck K4NK attended the hamfest as well as North Carolina Section Manager John Covington W4CC, and me.  I generally go to two hamfests in North Carolina, Charlotte and Shelby.  In regards to Shelby, though, I was told by several hams that there was a problem between the new management of the Cleveland County fairgrounds and The Shelby Radio Club.  Apparently the new management informed the hamfest committee that rental of the fairgrounds for the usual two weeks would cost $6000 more or a $1 surcharge on each ticket.  This apparently was refused by the hamfest committee.  I checked the Shelby website and there was no specific information listed about the hamfest, whether it was to be cancelled, or moved, etc.  All I can say is stay tuned!  I see quite a few SC hams at Shelby each year!  Director Bodson held the ARRL forum, with Vice Director Shattuck providing information as well.  There was a very healthy question and answer period, after which John Covington took the podium to discuss happenings in North Carolina.  A good time was had by all!

            Finally, I did have a chance to talk with Dennis Fowler KG4JIA, SGL, and he feels the new amateur radio license plates will be available this year.  For any questions, please contact him at kg4jia@arrl.net

            Well, that is it for now!  Have a great month!!

February 2005 National Traffic System Report for South Carolina:

Net Reports
Net Name/Check Ins/Traffic/Sessions/Reported By
Anderson Radio Club 2M Net/880/28/28/KD4HEY
BRARS 2 Meter Net/1831/42/28/K4SUG
Carolina Slow Net/93/23/28/W4EAT
Columbia ARC 2 Meter Net/136/8/8/K4RKC
Greenwood ARS 2 Meter Net/113/6/4/W4DEW
Greenwood Friendly Net/609/30/28/W4JAK
Lancaster County 2 Meter Net/123/22/11/N4WMB
PALS Net/1125/72/28/KG4KOE
SC SSB Net/1269/86/28/WA4UGD
York Co. ARS 2 Meter Net/698/29/46/K4CON
York Co. ARS 2M SSB Net/33/0/4/K4CON

Station Activity Reports
Station/Sent/Received/Delivered/Originated/Total
N4EHT/35/47/15/0/97
KA4UIV/48/55/3/0/106
WA4UGD/0/36/0/0/37
KG4VDR/5/28/10/0/43

Public Service Honor Roll
Station/Cat. 1/Cat. 2/Cat. 3/Cat. 4/Cat. 5/Cat. 6/Total
KA4UIV/40/40/10/0/0/0/90
KG4VDR/40/40/20/20/0/0/120

Thanks to all for your contributions to Amateur Radio!

’73 de Dr. Jim N2ZZ
ARRL Section Manager
South Carolina Section
www.qsl.net/arrl-sc/

April 2005

Greetings to all Amateur Radio Operators.  This is Dr. Jim, N2ZZ with the April 2005 South Carolina Section Manager’s Report!  Please remember that the SC Section website can be found at www.qsl.net/arrl-sc/ where my full SM report will be listed as well as up-to-the-date information on Amateur Radio in South Carolina!

             Well, Masters “Mania” has finally ended in nearby Augusta, GA, where golf fans from all over the world come to visit the Augusta National.   Being twenty miles from Augusta, we have many visitors stay in the Aiken area, and we can definitely feel the impact.  I’m not sure if the Augusta club has offered to provide communications for the Masters, but it would definitely be a good idea, seeing how hard tickets are to come by!

            In my last report, I asked everyone to “stay tuned” about the Shelby Hamfest, which is held on Labor Day weekend.  I am happy to report that the Shelby Hamfest will be held at the Cleveland County fairgrounds this year.  The Hamfest Committee and the Cleveland County Fair Association signed a one year contract to reserve the fairgrounds for a two week period leading up to and including the hamfest weekend.  Reports went on to say that a number of other county fairgrounds offered free accommodations to the hamfest committee.  Perhaps we will be traveling to a different location next year!

            There have been a number of public service events since my last report.  In Aiken, communications support was provided to the Whiskey Road Race by the North Augusta-Belvedere ARC.  In Charleston, the Charleston ARS provided communications for the Cooper River Bridge Run and the “After the Bridge Run Ride”, and in York County, YCARS provided communications for the Patriot’s Trail Bicycle Race Event. In Columbia and Lexington, the MS walks were held April 9 and 10^th, respectively.  Thanks to all that provided their services for these events!  For the event organizers, please take time and fill out the Public Service Activity report on the ARRL website: http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/forms/fsd-157-online-form.php .  This report documents your services, and will be used by the ARRL when they need to demonstrate the public service that hams provide to the public.  This can be very useful when the ARRL is defending our frequency bands and/or asking for new frequency allocations.

            I wish to offer my congratulations to the South Carolina Sideband Net on their 47^th anniversary, with an anniversary net held on Thursday, April 7^th.  I usually give a Section Manager’s Report every Wednesday, but due to work commitments, I was unable to check into the net on Wednesday or Thursday.  I received a volley of e-mails Thursday night congratulating me-I found I was named South Carolina Sidebander of the Year!  The net has given this award yearly since 1961, and I am honored to be one of the distinguished hams who have received this award.  My thanks to the selection committee and to the fine job that the SC SSB net does in providing a common net where SC hams throughout the state can come together!

            I was unable to attend the Union Hamfest due to work commitments, but I asked Bob WA4EMF, ASM2 to say a few words: “The Union County Amateur Radio Club held its annual Hamfest On Saturday April 2, 2005 at the Union County Fairgrounds.   It was a fine day for a hamfest, a bit of nip in the air kept folks moving briskly through the tailgate area, but plenty of time was spent viewing the treasures and haggling over prices.  Hot sausage biscuits and coffee were welcome upon entering the inside dealer area. UCARC President Roger Gregory was pleased with the turnout and was busy manning the SERA table, while Spartanburg ARC President Art Patterson KE4EAN and other visiting amateurs enjoyed the fellowship and biscuits. Representing the ARRL were Roanoke Division Vice Director Les Shattuck K4NK, and his lovely wife Joyce, N2PTW, TC Marc Tarplee N4UFP, SEC Charlie Miller AE4UX, ACC Brian Sugden KR4SP, ASM-2  Bob Bacharach WA2EMF and TS Tony Sealy N4ADM. A good showing of indoor vendors was headed by the Wireman while quite a few booths displayed an array of boat anchor and modern used gear. A fine Hamfest where fellowship is the focal point was enjoyed by all attendees.”

            South Carolina was in the news on the National ARRL website: http://www.arrl.org/news/stories/2005/04/01/3/?nc=1 .  In Aiken County, a $100,000 ARES communications trailer is now under construction.  Bob K4NJN, ASM6 wrote a grant through Aiken County requesting homeland security money for this trailer, and the grant was approved!  Final approval was given by Aiken County, and the Trailer is now under construction.  This trailer is intended to be a resource for all of South Carolina.  The estimated delivery date of the trailer is in mid July, but hopefully it will be available prior to that time, just in time for Field Day!  My hope is that this grant will be a “springboard” for other cities and states, so that amateur radio will be able to compete for grants of this magnitude in the future.

            I received a note from Steve Costelli, N4JTH.  If any ham in South Carolina has acquired an AAA tower, he is offering his services without charge to relamp the tower provided that the bulb is provided to him, or arrangements are made with him in advance.  Steve is a licensed and insured tower technician.  Steve can be contacted at 843-424-3178.  Thanks for the offer, Steve!

            I was notified of a Silent Key report by John KF4VGX.  Dave Witherspoon, AB4AV, a Judge in North Myrtle Beach, has passed away.

            I was notified by Mac K4AVR, TS about a serious automobile accident involving Rusty WD4HEM (of PALS) and his significant other, Norma.  Rusty sustained injuries to his collarbone, shoulder blade, arm and head.  Surgery was carried out on April 12, and according to Norma, everything went fine. Rusty was taken to Carolinas Medical Center, Carolinas Healthcare System, 1000 Blythe Blvd., Charlotte, NC, 28203.  I’m sure Rusty would appreciate your cards and letters!

            Peter KG4VDR, STM has noted that there were many missing net reports this month.  Please make every effort to send your net reports to Peter by the 7^th of each month either on the air or via e-mail at kg4vdr@arrl.net.   Thanks!

            Well, that is it for this month!  Enjoy your favorite on-the-air activity!

 SC Section Traffic Report for March 2005:

March 2005 National Traffic System Report for South Carolina

Net Reports
Net Name/Check Ins/Traffic/Sessions/Reported By
Anderson Radio Club 2M Net/995/33/31/KD4HEY
BRARS 2 Meter Net/2119/45/31/K4SUG
Carolina's Net/387/133/62/K4IWW
Carolina Slow Net/110/25/31/W4EAT
Grand Strand ARC 2M Net/263/125/14/N4XML
Greenwood ARC 2 Meter Net/133/9/5/W4DEW
Greenwood Friendly Net/535/32/31/W4JAK
PALS Net/1171/67/31/KG4KOE
SC SSB Net/1360/85/31/WA4UGD

Station Activity Reports
Station/Sent/Received/Delivered/Originated/Total
KA4UIV/28/34/8/0/70
WA4UGD/1/36/0/0/37
KG4VDR/14/47/13/0/74

Public Service Honor Roll
Station/Cat. 1/Cat. 2/Cat. 3/Cat. 4/Cat. 5/Cat. 6/Total
KA4UIV/40/40/10/0/0/0/90
KG4VDR/40/40/20/30/0/0/130

Thanks to all for your service to Amateur Radio!

’73 de Dr. Jim, N2ZZ
ARRL Section Manager
South Carolina Section
www.qsl.net/arrl-sc/

May 2005

Greetings to all Amateur Radio Operators.  This is Dr. Jim, N2ZZ with the May 2005 South Carolina Section Manager’s Report!  Please remember that the SC Section website can be found at our new location: www.arrl-sc.org/ where my full SM report will be listed as well as up-to-the-date information on Amateur Radio in South Carolina!

            As of a week ago, the ARRL-SC website was moved to a new server, and the new link is www.arrl-sc.org .  This faster server should keep pace with the ARRL-SC website as it grows with information!  Please update your links!  I did spend some time cleaning up the links on the “Club/Organization” page on the website.  Thanks go to Gretchen Birt KG4UXZ for helping me do so!

            I received a request from Elaine Thorp, N4EHT n4eht@n4eht.com : Elaine is a ham and disabled single mom in Clinton. She has a Rohn-25 100 ft tower with a HAM-IV rotor.  She is interested in mounting a Mosley Pro-67 7 element beam on top of the tower.  The antenna weighs approximately 120-140 lbs and has a 24 ft boom. She may also need some help with a couple of wire antennas.  If you or anyone you know can help Elaine, please contact her at her e-mail address above.

            I also received a request from Dennis Zabawa KG4RUL, PIO of the Trident ARC.  The Trident ARC has provided communications for the Tour de Cure bicycling event for the last several years.  In the past, the route was from Orangeburg to Mount Pleasant.  This year, the course will cover 83 miles and will stretch from Columbia to St. George.  There will be a loop of 20 extra miles for those interested in a century (100 mile) ride.  The event will be held on June 4^th and 5^th.  Dennis needs additional communication support for the event, especially for the first day of the ride, June 4^th.  Further information on the event can be found at http://tridenthams.org/TourDeCure.htm .  If you or anyone can help with this event, please contact Dennis at (843) 572-4053 or e-mail kg4rul@comcast.net . 

            One personal request:  If you live North of Spartanburg in the Inman/Campobello areas and operate HF (particularly if you run high power), please send an e-mail with your call, name, address, phone number and e-mail address to me at n2zz@arrl.org as soon as possible!

            I received this link from John, KF4VGX regarding EXCELLENT PR about the Tsunami disaster (in the form of an MPG file) and an audio broadcast about amateur radio operator involvement in the 9/11 disaster: http://www.mesne.org/kl7ea/ .  Take a look!

            It was a beautiful day for the Upstate hamfest on Saturday!  The weather was wonderful, and there was quite a turnout, from both the inside exhibitors and the outside flea market.  Attending from the ARRL-SC team included Bob WA2EMF ASM2, Dennis KG4JIA SGL, Brian KR4SP, ACC, Adam WY4N ASM-Youth, Sue N4ENX OOC, Peter KG4VDR STM, Charlie AE4UX SEC, and Ken N2IXX, ASM3.  Our Vice Director Les, K4NK attended as well.  My special thanks to Bob, Dennis and Brian for spending time at the ARRL table while I was out and about!  The ARRL forum was held by both myself and Les, with various topics including the new ARRL bandwidth proposal, BPL, current FCC enforcement, Field Day, Emergency Services and information about the forums to be held at the Dayton Hamvention.  Of particular interest was an announcement by Dennis KG4JIA, SGL.  He has been working on improvements on the SC automobile license plate for the last few years (check the left sidebar of the www.arrl-sc.org website for the proposed SC license plate).  He feels that it will be passed in this legislative session.  Although when politicians are involved, nothing is definite; but this was encouraging news!  He did state that this would just be a new blank for the license plate-there should not be any additional costs involved, other than the $2 initial fee- i.e. this will not be considered a vanity plate.  Keep your fingers crossed!  I had the pleasure of having Peter KG4VDR demonstrate to me his mobile Winlink 2000 station, a compact station not taking up more than a foot square or so.  The entire station included a Winlink modem, IC-706MIIG, Antenna Tuner and antenna analyzer.  Great project-more news to come about Winlink 2000 as more stations are assembled throughout the state!
I was honored by the South Carolina Sideband Net at the Upstate hamfest, as I was awarded the South Carolina Sidebander of the Year award for 2004.  Those presenting the award to me included Miss Emmie KA4LRM, Secretary/Treasurer; Johnnie WA4UGD, Net Manager; and Tom WA4VYS, Historian.  I am truly honored by this award.  The SC SSB net is a place where all SC hams can meet on a daily basis.  Even those restricted to frequencies 50 mHz and above can participate in VHF nets where the SC SSB net traffic is forwarded and receive reports about the net.  Thanks to all for this great honor!  It was good to see that Miss Emmie's wrist and hip have healed from her fall last year!

            The 27th Annual Lake Hartwell Hamfest has just been announced!  It will be held at Sadler's Creek State Park in Anderson on Saturday, May 21st, beginning at 8 am.  There will be license exams and hourly prizes. Camping is available.  Tailgaters are welcome. There is no admission price, but there is a $2 State Park Entry Fee.  For driving directions, the hamfest flyer is available on the www.arrl-sc.org website.

            May is the month for the DAYTON HAMVENTION!  The Hamvention will be held May 20^th-22^nd in Dayton Ohio.  This year, the ARRL National Convention EXPO will be held at this event!  Information on the Dayton Hamvention can be found at www.hamvention.org , and information on the ARRL EXPO can be found at http://www.arrl.org/announce/nc/2005/ .  I will be traveling to the Hamvention again this year, and will spend some time representing South Carolina at the EXPO.  If you have never attended the Hamvention, you should make plans to do so at least once!  This is a hamfest of unbelievable proportions!

            Well, that’s it for May!  See you next month, and enjoy your favorite operating mode!!

April 2005 National Traffic System Report for South Carolina

Net Reports
Net Name/Check Ins/Traffic/Sessions/Reported By
Anderson Radio Club 2M Net/986/36/30/KD4HEY
BRARS 2 Meter Net/1836/55/30/K4SUG
Carolina's Net/376/148/60/K4IWW
Carolina Slow Net/130/30/30/W4EAT
Columbia ARC 2 Meter Net/145/8/8/K4RKC
Grand Strand ARC 2M Net/244/92/13/N4XML
Greater Pee Dee 2 Meter Net/255 /29/9/K4DTT
Greenwood ARC 2 Meter Net/109/6/4/W4DEW
Greenwood Friendly Net/516/34/30/W4JAK
Lancaster County 2 Meter Net/137/21/12/N4WMB
PALS Net/1146/53/30/KG4KOE
SC SSB Net/1480/99/30/WA4UGD
York Co. ARS 2 Meter Net/808/29/50/K4CON

Station Activity Reports
Station/Sent/Received/Delivered/Originated/Total
W4JLE/4/11/9/3/27
KA4LRM/7/15/4/1/27
KA4UIV/71/96/29/0/196
WA4UGD/0/36/0/0/36
KG4VDR/12/31/2/0/45

Public Service Honor Roll
Station/Cat. 1/Cat. 2/Cat. 3/Cat. 4/Cat. 5/Cat. 6/Total
KA4LRM/40/27/10/0/0/0/77
KA4UIV/40/40/10/0/0/0/90
KG4VDR/40/40/20/60/20/0/180

Have a great month!

’73 de Dr. Jim N2ZZ
ARRL Section Manager
South Carolina Section
www.arrl-sc.org

June 2005

Greetings to all Amateur Radio Operators.  This is Dr. Jim, N2ZZ with the June 2005 South Carolina Section Manager’s Report!  Please remember that the SC Section website can be found at our new location: www.arrl-sc.org/ where my full SM report will be listed as well as up-to-the-date information on Amateur Radio in South Carolina!

            Since my last report, Morse Code was on national television on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno.  Ben Cook, a master cellphone text-messager (who has the record of composing a text message of 160 characters in 57 seconds) and his partner were pitted against Chip Margelli, K7JA and Ken Miller, K6CTW, both CW operators. Leno asked the pair how long they had used the Morse Code.  Chip replied “43 years in ham radio”.  A short message was chosen by the Tonight show staff, to be conveyed by a team member to their partner.  The pair who transferred the message the fastest was declared the winner.  The audience participant guessed that text messaging would be faster.  Not surprisingly, Morse Code won easily.  Jay Leno mentioned to the text-messaging team that he was sorry that they were beat by a 170 year old technology!  As an inside, I was able to speak with Chip at the Dayton Hamvention.  He said there were a number of off-air “dry runs” with this contest.  He specifically did not mention “ham radio” in the rehearsals, worrying that it would be cut by the producers.  During the show, he proudly said “ham radio”, and was included on the on-air version of the tape!  Chip works for Yaesu, and he wore the same outfit from the show-an old-time railroad telegrapher’s garb-to the Dayton Hamvention!  At my request, echoed by several other SM’s, the ARRL is trying to obtain rights from the Tonight Show to rebroadcast that segment as a Public Relations piece for Amateur Radio!

            Well, the Dayton Hamvention was May 20^th-22^nd, and what a Hamvention it was!  The most striking part of the Hamvention this year was the ARRL EXPO!  My impression was that this time the ARRL did EVERYTHING Right!  An entire rear portion of an exhibit hall was turned into a miniature ARRL Headquarters.  Everyone from Headquarters staffers, to Section Managers (25 in all!) Directors, Officers, and even President Haynie were available to discuss ARRL activities to all the attendees!  There was a very large retail center in the middle, selling ARRL manuals, CD’s, lanyards, and the like.  Technical services along with Ed W1RFI were present.  A booth was available to purchase ARRL branded clothing, and even an ARRL credit card sign-up area was part of the EXPO!  During my trips through the EXPO, the area was packed with people.  A record 900 new ARRL members were signed up at the membership booth!  I was pleased to see a ham buddy from my distant past-N2IC.  Steve started me in NTS soon after I received my license.  We are a long distance away from our original Syracuse, NY location.  Steve is now in New Mexico.  This was the first time we have seen each other in over 25 years!  Great to see you, Steve!

            I attended the Wouff Hong ceremony, and became a member of the Royal Order of the Wouff Hong at this convention.  This is a ceremony that can only be performed at Section, Division or National ARRL conventions, and is to be held at midnight.  The “Old Man” was portrayed by Joe Phillips K8QOE, host SM from Ohio.  The “Novice” was none other than our own Riley Hollingsworth!  What a good sport!  If you have a chance at some future convention, you owe it to yourself to become a member of The Royal Order of the Wouff Hong!

            The FCC forum was packed, with standing room only.  The forum was led by Bill Cross, W3TN and Riley Hollingsworth, K4ZDH.  Although a number of current FCC topics were discussed, the one announcement that everyone was waiting for did not happen-The amateur license restructuring proposal.  All the forum hosts would say is that it is “in the works” and that a compromise between all the proposed plans was being considered.

            I was proud to represent South Carolina at the ARRL EXPO.  From our neighboring states, John W4CC SM NC and Susan AF4FO SM GA were present as well!  I make the Dayton Hamvention an annual vacation, and have been attending yearly for over ten years.  If you have not been to the Dayton Hamvention, please make some time to go there-at least once.  It is an experience that you will never forget!!

            Field Day (June 25th and 26th) is almost upon us!  Charlie AE4UX, SEC and I will be traveling to Field Day sites around the state again this year.  If you are participating in Field Day, PLEASE e-mail me at n2zz@arrl.org with specific driving directions to your Field Day site.  We would like to visit as many as possible.  We will be having some help this year, so even if we have not visited your site in past years (or even if we have!) please send specific driving directions to me ASAP so we can plan our trip.  I hope to be operating FD mobile again this year, between Field Day sites!

            I have a request regarding the South Carolina QSO party.  This on-the-air operating event is usually held the third week of September.  In past years, the Sumter club hosted the event.  This year, the Sumter club has relinquished ownership of the party, wishing to pass it on to another club.  I am looking for a club that is willing to assume ownership of the QSO party on a yearly basis.  My hope is that the SC QSO party will continue to exist, no matter whoever is in the position of SC Section Manager.  For that, I need a club that will take this on as an annual event, much like a hamfest.  The requirements are minimal.  A submission announcing the contest must be submitted to “Contest Corral” in QST by a deadline date.  The sponsoring club station should be on the air during the event.  Logs must be requested, received, and winners determined.  Plaques should be provided for the first, and possibly second place winners in each category (currently 3), with computer generated awards for the other placeholders.  I do need to know ASAP, as by June 27^th, I will either transfer the responsibility to a club, take it on myself, or cancel the QSO party for lack of interest.  Please let me know at n2zz@arrl.org ASAP!  Thanks!!

            Are you aware of the new ARL Numbered Radiogram, number forty-seven? "Reference your message number ____ to  _____ delivered on  ____ at ____ UTC."  This was approved by the ARRL's Programs and Service Committee, a committee of the ARRL Board of Directors.

            Congratulations to Elsie Finkelstein KA2CLX for her article in the May 2005 CQ magazine entitled "The 29th Assault on Mt. Mitchell"!  Great article, Elsie!

            A homeland Security Exercise was held on June 1^st and 2^nd in Columbia, involving Amateur Radio.  Here is a note from Fred W4JLE, DEC SCEOC to the participants:

Well done and thank you for your participation in the terrorist homeland security exercise June 1 and June 2, 2005.  It can sometimes be a frustrating experience for volunteers in any program, particularly when we are forced to use vacation time, disappoint family, or put aside other plans to volunteer. Charlie and I appreciate the sacrifices that each of you make for your community, you are appreciated.  I enjoyed meeting many of you and look forward to meeting with the rest. As a returning South Carolina resident, let me say I am proud to be associated with you. My last efforts in SC were as net control station during Hurricane Gracy on the old SC AM net on 3930, so it has been a while.  Your patience with the "hurry up and wait" nature of drills like this exemplifies your dedication and professionalism. I am convinced we were ready and able to provide the communications should that have become necessary.  On another note, we hope to redo the antenna system at the SEOC and fill the two empty EC positions. At preset, Ron Twining W4RET is the section 1 EC.  Section 2 and 3 are open and Charlie and I are looking to fill these positions in the next 30 days. If we can get a certain individual (Don't worry Paul, I won't mention your name) to upgrade, section 2 will be filled.  We will also be putting together a "Quick response team", this will consist of five people that keep a bag packed and will rapidly deploy by helicopter or aircraft to the scene of an emergency. If you have an interest in being a team member, please let me know. You must be able to reach the airport in Columbia with in sixty minutes of being notified.  Fred Hambrecht Sr W4JLE DEC SEOC        

            Well, that is it for this month!  Congratulations to Peter KG4VDR, STM for receiving the President’s Volunteer Service Award!  Details are on the www.arrl-sc.org website!

May 2005 National Traffic System Report for South Carolina- compiled by Peter KG4VDR, STM:

Net Reports
Net Name/Check Ins/Traffic/Sessions/Reported By
Anderson Radio Club 2M Net/964/39/31/KD4HEY
BRARS 2 Meter Net/1791/67/31/K4SUG
Carolina's Net/387/222/62/K4IWW
Carolina Slow Net/120/34/30/W4EAT
Columbia ARC 2 Meter Net/120/7/7/K4RKC
Grand Strand ARC 2M Net/197/94/14/N4XML
Greater Pee Dee 2 Meter Net/855/56/31/K4DTT
Greenwood ARC 2 Meter Net/107/7/4/W4DEW
Greenwood Friendly Net/546/33/31/W4JAK
Lancaster County 2 Meter Net/147/24/12/N4WMB
PALS Net/1161/96/31/KG4KOE
SC SSB Net/1522/132/31/WA4UGD
York Co. ARS 2 Meter Net/812/28/51/K4CON
York Co. ARS 2 Meter SSB Net/27/0/4/K4CON

Station Activity Reports
Station/Sent/Received/Delivered/Originated/Total
W4JLE/2/5/3/0/10
KA4LRM/12/19/7/1/39
KA4UIV/50/79/13/0/142
WA4UGD/0/37/0/0/37
KG4VDR/12/30/17/0/59

Public Service Honor Roll
Station/Cat. 1/Cat. 2/Cat. 3/Cat. 4/Cat. 5/Cat. 6/Total
KA4LRM/40/239/10/0/0/0/89
KA4UIV/40/40/10/0/0/0/90
W4JLE/40/40/10/0/0/0/90
KG4VDR/40/40/20/0/0/0/100

Have a great month!

’73 de Dr. Jim N2ZZ
ARRL Section Manager
South Carolina Section
www.arrl-sc.org

July 2005

Greetings to all Amateur Radio Operators.  This is Dr. Jim, N2ZZ with the July 2005 South Carolina Section Manager’s Report!  Please remember that the SC Section website can be found at our new location: www.arrl-sc.org/ where my full SM report will be listed as well as up-to-the-date information on Amateur Radio in South Carolina!
            Field Day weekend was June 25^th and 26^th, and we had two teams from the ARRL-SC team visit Field Day sites this year!  Charlie AE4UX, SEC and I visited eight sites, and Bob K4NJN, ASM6 visited eight sites as well, for a total of sixteen!  Total mileage was over one thousand miles!  I asked Bob for comments on his trip-Anderson: Miss Emmie KA4LRM had a beautiful display of ARRL materials.  The breeze off of the lake kept the participants cool, and the bugs away! Pickens: Lots of home made antennas and liquid refreshments! Blue Ridge: The BRARS group was helping Sue N4ENX celebrate her 39th birthday! Greer: Most beautiful Field Day site in SC! Spartanburg: Art, KE4EAN, DEC2 was showing Bob around his emergency trailer, and also a 1964 Austin Healey! Gaffney: Held at the Cherokee County EOC, working hand in hand with Emergency Management Officials. Rock Hill (York): Largest Field Day participation that Bob saw on his travels.  There was a Demo of an alternative fuel generator powered by Methanol (But Bob said that any LEO knows it was Triple-X {Moonshine, y'all!}) Salkehatchie: Held in the press box, high atop the football field at Blackville High School, giving an excellent view of the 50 yard line and a G5RV!
          The theme of my trip was "Is this rain EVER going to stop?"  Charlie and I started out at our home club, North Augusta-Belvedere Radio Club held at North Augusta Public Safety Station 2.  This was the beginning of setup, with quite a good turnout!  Next was the Ridge Club, where I saw yet another item made out of PVC-a compressed air antenna launcher assembled by Joe AF4JX, EC Edgefield. Morse code keyboards, Elecrafts and C.W.'s homebrew table rounded out our visit!  Columbia/Palmetto was next, where I viewed the Governor's proclamation, naming this week "Amateur Radio week".  Congratulations to all that made this possible!  There was a flurry of activity, as the rain was about to fall! Trident ARC: great site, several antennas, several operating and food tents, and pouring down rain! MUSC: We visited Brian Fletcher K6NWS behind the Emergency Room Entrance at MUSC where he had a cart with a mini Field Day station-Seemed portable to me-it was on wheels!  Rain was still pouring, but Brian found a dry spot in a very heavy pedestrian traffic area, where many saw the station.  Bravo! Charleston ARS- STILL raining!  Fortunately it was dry aboard the Yorktown.  Glen WB4UIV showed us his recently acquired (retired) ambulance fitted with the CARS CW station.  Charlie and I enjoyed talking with everyone in the CARS club room!  We spent the night in Georgetown, and on Sunday, we visited the Grand Strand ARC on the grounds of the Myrtle Beach Red Cross.  The entire group was brimming with enthusiasm, especially two new hams who were manning the 40 SSB tent!  Our Final stop was the Florence ARC at Lake Darpo.  Field Day was just winding down and VE testing was going on.  Everyone who was tested either walked away with a new license or a CSCE!  How about some real excitement?  Remember Lloyd KD4HTW?  If you look at the Florence Field Day 2003 pictures, I pictured Lloyd using a keyer-He said no one in the club would believe that picture, since he didn't operate CW!  I am proud to say Lloyd passed his CW test, and is now a full fledged General, and looking to upgrade to Extra soon!  Congratulations, Lloyd!!
          I was happy to participate as 1C-SC from the "ZZ"-mobile.  I found how hard it is to drive and operate a contest at the same time, though, so I kept operating time short.  Charlie assumed logging duties!  I think that all three of us found how useful GPS units were in finding the Field Days sites-some careful programming at home made our drives much easier.  I would especially like to thank Bob, K4NJN for his travels.  Bob was to have a travel companion, but due to a family illness, his companion had to remain in Aiken.  It is difficult to travel close to 500 miles without someone to talk with during the trip.  Fortunately, Amateur Radio came to the rescue, and Bob had a few QSO's!  Bob, thanks so much for your participation with our Field Day visitations!  Thanks also to Bob, K4BG and Tom, WA4VYS who took Field Day traffic from the Field Day sites to be sent to the SM/SEC!
          Thanks to all-we had great hospitality at all the Field Day sites.  I am very pleased that we were able to visit sixteen sites.  Of those who responded to my original request for instructions, however, we were unable to visit Lancaster, Bluffton (Islanders ARA) and Wateree ARS.  My apologies-because of the chosen routes of travel, we were unable to visit this year.  I truly hope we will be able to visit you next year!  Please continue your Field Day efforts!
          TO ALL-This is one of my favorite times of the year, when I am able to travel around the state and see everyone! There was an incredible amount of enthusiasm! I hope everyone had a great time!  Be sure to file your completed FD logs with the ARRL!

            During my Field Day travels, I received great news about additional funding for Amateur Radio in the Charleston area-I asked John Welton N4SJW, DEC5 to comment:

A consortium of Charleston area hospitals have committed a substantial amount of federal funds towards improvement and implementation of amateur radio resources. The main objective was to provide seamless backup communications to all area hospitals by installing repeaters and adding HF and VHF simplex equipment. Total funding amounts are: Medical University of South Carolina Hospital $48,000; Trident Hospital $5,000; Summerville Hospital $8,000; and Roper/St Francis Hospital $5,000. Both Charleston area clubs, Charleston Amateur Radio Society (CARS) and Trident Amateur Radio Club (TARC) have enthusiastically supported the project and will work towards implementing the system in the coming months. Brian Fletcher (K6NWS) will be the project lead for MUSC. Future funding in the coming fiscal year is anticipated to add digital and other capability to support disaster communications preparedness and response.

Congratulations to all involved, and my personal gratitude to the CARS and TARC clubs for their joint support of this great opportunity!

            A number of my previous reports discussed Broadband over Power Lines (BPL).  The ARRL has taken a strong stand against BPL, as it uses unshielded power lines and has the potential to cause significant interference to Amateur Radio Communications.   BPL has now come to South Carolina.  I received information from Dennis Fowler KG4JIA, SGL that it was announced in the Gaffney Ledger on Wednesday, May 4^th, 2005 that The Gaffney Board of Public Works was signing on with the Shpigler Group to provide BPL to its customers.  The Board would be compensated $30,000-40,000 annually for the use of their power lines.  For those in the Gaffney area, please check for interference on the HF bands prior to and after deployment of the BPL system, and report your results to the ARRL.  I will be happy to assist transferring the information to ARRL HQ Technical department for their review.

            Now, on a much better note, “Quiet BPL” is also making its debut in South Carolina.  Motorola has been working with the ARRL for a BPL model which should not cause the interference that mainstream BPL produces to Amateur Radio communications.  While BPL uses Medium Voltage power lines, the Motorola model uses microwave links to Low Voltage power lines, and uses a variation of “Home Plug” devices to bring broadband into individual homes.  Marc Tarpley N4UFP, TC gave a presentation to the Spartanburg ARC this month about the Motorola system.  The ARRL is very excited about this development.  The ARRL has been dubbed as a BPL hater by those who promote BPL.  The ARRL has never been against BPL, just the interference it causes.  The Motorola system, if shown to not produce interference to Amateur Radio communications, will be enthusiastically accepted and supported by the ARRL.  Test sites will be in Northern South Carolina.  Stay tuned!

          The SOUTH CAROLINA QSO PARTY IS ON!  The Columbia Amateur Radio Club has accepted sponsorship of the Third annual SC QSO party (SCQP)!  Doc AI4JN will head the SCQP committee for the club.  Dates and times of the event will be from 1300z  Sept 17  to 2100z  Sept 18, 2005.  Full information is available on the www.arrl-sc.org website by clicking on “SC QSO Party” on the left sidebar.  Please mark your calendars now!  Time to get that HF mobile station built!  We have had at least two mobiles each year cover all 46 counties in SC!  My thanks to the Columbia Amateur Radio Club for their upcoming sponsorship of the SCQP!

            I am happy to report that Tim, KA3IGW is recovering well after his heart surgery at Duke Medical Center on July 1^st.  Thanks to all that have sent cards and good wishes to Tim!

            I have thoroughly enjoyed receiving e-mails from Mac K4AVR, TS and Suzie KG4YVJ detailing their RV trip from South Carolina to Alaska with both text and pictures!  Mac and Suzie are running APRS as K4AVR-14 and are currently near Seward, AK.  We wish them both a safe trip!

            That is it for this month!  See you next month!

June 2005 National Traffic System Report for South Carolina as reported by Peter KG4VDR, STM:

Net Reports: (Net Name/Check Ins/Traffic/Sessions/Reported By)
Anderson Radio Club 2M Net/927/43/30/KD4HEY
BRARS 2 Meter Net/1853/60/30/K4SUG
Carolina's Net/379/197/60/K4IWW
Carolina Slow Net/137/35/30/W4EAT
Columbia ARC 2M Net/156/10/8/K4RKC
Grand Strand ARC 2M Net/214/106/13/N4XML
Greater Pee Dee 2 Meter Net/754/42/30/K4DTT
Greenwood ARC 2 Meter Net/98/8/5/W4DEW
Greenwood Friendly Net/472/32/30/W4JAK
PALS Net/1008/103/30/KG4KOE
Ridge ARC/55/4/2/KD4HDR
SC Sandlapper 6M Net/109/4/4/K4IRT
SC SSB Net/1312/135/30/WA4UGD
York Co. ARS 2 Meter Net/833/37/49/K4CON
York Co. ARS 2 Meter SSB Net/33/0/5/K4CON

Station Activity Reports: (Station/Sent/Received/Delivered/Originated/Total)
KA4LRM/14/11/10/0/35
KA4UIV/11/15/0/0/36
WA4UGD/0/37/1/0/38
KG4VDR/8/38/19/0/65

Public Service Honor Roll: (Station/Cat. 1/Cat. 2/Cat. 3/Cat. 4/Cat. 5/Cat. 6/Total)
KA4LRM/40/35/10/0/0/0/85 KF4UKC/10/3/10/30/30/0/83 W4JLE/40/40/10/0/0/0/90
KG4VDR/40/40/20/0/0/0/100

Have a great month!

’73 de Dr. Jim N2ZZ|
ARRL Section Manager
South Carolina Section
www.arrl-sc.org

August 2005

Greetings to all Amateur Radio Operators.  This is Dr. Jim, N2ZZ with the August 2005 South Carolina Section Manager’s Report!  Please remember that the SC Section website can be found at our new location: www.arrl-sc.org/ where my full SM report will be listed as well as up-to-the-date information on Amateur Radio in South Carolina!

Last month I was happy to announce that the SC QSO party is ON!  The third annual SC QSO party will be sponsored by the Columbia Amateur Radio Club!  Dates and times of the event will be from 1300z  Sept 17  to 2100z  Sept 18, 2005.  Full information is available on the www.arrl-sc.org website by clicking on “SC QSO Party” on the left sidebar.  Please mark your calendars now!

Perhaps the most noteworthy event since my last report was the FCC’s announcement about their proposal to drop the Morse requirement for Amateur Radio Licensure.  Concerning was the fact that the ARRL proposed a major restructuring of Amateur Radio Licensure for the 21^st century, and the FCC considered ONLY the deletion of the Morse requirement in their restructuring plans. As you remember, though, the ARRL proposal recommended the retention of the Morse requirement for the Amateur Extra license.  I am told that there will be a very insightful letter from Dave Sumner, K1ZZ, ARRL CEO in the September issue of QST concerning this proposal. In the meantime, comments to the FCC can be sent via the FCC’s on-line comment filing system (ECFS).  Go to http://www.fcc.gov/cgb/ecfs/ , and click on “Submit a Filing”.  Be certain to type "05-235" in the "Proceeding" field (without the quotation marks, but with the hyphen).  Your comments can then be submitted electronically.

Our Director Dennis Bodson W4PWF sent out the Roanoke Division Newsletter on July 29^th.  He announced that the ARRL Board of Directors approved the “Regulation by Bandwidth” petition.  This will be sent in the form of a petition to the FCC to regulate the Amateur Radio Subbands by bandwidth rather than by mode.  A number of changes were made at the ARRL board meeting, and the finished petition will be filed at the ARRL Executive Committee’s discretion.  Director Bodson went on to point out that the vote for the proposal was 12 to 3 for approval, and he was one of the three who voted against the proposal.  He stated his reasons were that he never saw the final proposal which was voted on, that this matter was not sufficiently discussed with the membership, and that comments from the members were not adequately addressed.

Marc, N4UFP, has been working with the Charlie AE4UX, SEC to erect a new HF-NVIS antenna for 80/40m on the roof of the SEOC. The original plan called for N4UFP, AE4UX, and at least one TS to remove the existing antennas from the roof and re-work one of them into a two-band dipole. Schedule constraints and high temperatures prevented this from happening. Instead, N4UFP is constructing the antenna ahead of time, which will be finished in early August 2005, and the team will mount the new antenna in place of the old dipole on the SEOC roof. This will minimize the time on the roof and the interruptions to SEOC activities. N4UFP will also line up volunteers for on-the air NVIS tests after the antenna is installed. A date in August 2005 has not yet been selected.

Throughout the month of August, the University of South Carolina Center for Public Health Preparedness will be sponsoring Amateur Radio Licensing Classes at four hospitals in South Carolina.  The intent of these classes is to train individuals that will offer Amateur Radio support to these hospitals in times of emergency.  Classes will be held at Aiken Regional Medical Centers, Greenville Memorial Hospital, Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, and Loris Hospital.  The curriculum will be spread out over two weekends, with a VE testing session given at the end of the course.  There will be no charge for study materials, meals or VE fees for the participants.  The VE sessions will be available to non-participants as well, but the usual VE charges will apply.  For further information or to register for the courses, contact Charlie AE4UX, SEC at ae4ux@arrl.net .

Excitement hit Aiken County on July 30^th, as the Aiken County Amateur Radio Emergency Services Trailer rolled into town!  The trailer was manufactured by Nomad Technologies http://www.Nomadtechs.com  and was driven from Northwest Montana to South Carolina for delivery!  Bob K4NJN, ASM6 who wrote the $100,000 Homeland Security grant for the trailer, flew to Montana to observe the technicians putting the final touches on the project.  He also took a turn at driving, giving Will and Seth Schmautz, the President and Vice President-Research, respectively, of Nomad Technologies a chance to rest!  The trailer boasts a 10 kW diesel generator, two air conditioners/heat pumps, a 30 foot compressed air collapsible mast, Directway satellite internet with WiFi capability to a large area using an external WiFi gain antenna, Direct TV, indoor/outdoor briefing screen and much more!  Currently, the trailer is being outfitted with amateur radio gear, and procedure manuals/checklists are being written.  Policies for Trailer use inside and outside of Aiken County are also being written.  As soon as the trailer is ready, training will commence.  I am proud to say that this trailer may very well represent the FIRST Department of Homeland Security grant of this magnitude for an Amateur Radio Communications Facility.  I am also proud to report that since this accomplishment, county amateur radio groups in both New Jersey and Pennsylvania have obtained grants for communication trailers!  This is exciting for Amateur Radio, and it is just the beginning!

            Don’t forget the Shelby, NC hamfest on September 3^rd and 4^th to be held at the Cleveland County Fairgrounds.  Information is available at www.shelbyhamfest.org .  I hope to see you there!

July 2005 National Traffic System Report for South Carolina by Peter KG4VDR, STM

Net Reports
Net Name/Check Ins/Traffic/Sessions/Reported By
Anderson Radio Club 2M Net/742/29/31/N4MEH
BRARS 2 Meter Net/1889/50/31/K4SUG
Carolina's Net/374/156/62/K4IWW
Carolina Slow Net/107/25/31/W4EAT
Grand Strand ARC 2M Net/237/143/13/N4XML
Greater Pee Dee 2 Meter Net/859/33/31/K4DTT
Greenwood ARC 2 Meter Net/90/5/4/W4DEW
Greenwood Friendly Net/445/32/31/W4JAK
PALS Net/892/95/31/KG4KOE
SC SSB Net/1303/65/31/WA4UGD

Station Activity Reports
Station/Sent/Received/Delivered/Originated/Total
KA4LRM/3/6/0/0/9
KA4UIV/48/63/2/0/113
WA4UGD/0/38/1/0/39
KG4VDR/8/38/19/0/65

Public Service Honor Roll
Station/Cat. 1/Cat. 2/Cat. 3/Cat. 4/Cat. 5/Cat. 6/Total
KA4LRM/40/9/20/0/0/0/69
KA4UIV/40/40/10/0/0/0/90
KG4VDR/40/40/20/0/0/0/100

Have a great month!

’73 de Dr. Jim N2ZZ
ARRL Section Manager
South Carolina Section
www.arrl-sc.org

September 2005

Greetings to all Amateur Radio Operators.  This is Dr. Jim, N2ZZ with the September 2005 South Carolina Section Manager’s Report!  Please remember that the SC Section website can be found at our new location: www.arrl-sc.org/ where my full SM report will be listed as well as up-to-the-date information on Amateur Radio in South Carolina!

            Since my last report, Hurricane Katrina was the top news story.  Our prayers go out to all affected by this tragedy.  I have to admit that I am somewhat at an information overload, with all the information that I have received.  I found that watching the 24 hour news channels can be quite depressing.  I think all of us heard the problems emergency personnel were having with communications and lack of interoperability in the disaster area.  Local hams were helping with communications, but just basic survival took most of their time.  It was difficult for many days for anyone outside the area to enter, so hams from other states had to wait for the call to go.  A “Clearing House” was set up by the ARRL to allow those who wished to volunteer to be matched up with served agencies: http://www.arrl.org/news/stories/2005/09/09/103/?nc=1 .  From our section, I received word that David Beatson, W4LNY was called to go and was stationed at a Red Cross unit in Ocean Springs, MS.  He states that he was the first ham on scene in that county, and has been active in deploying two man teams to shelters.  David goes on to say: “things have gone so well the Red Cross has asked us to cover more locations from this Operations Center, this is a huge team effort, and we are being utilized continuously supporting all Red Cross Operational communications needs.”  Alabama Section Manager, Greg Sarratt W4OZK has been coordinating volunteers to come in to the disaster area.  He stated that he has processed and assigned amateurs from just about all ARRL sections.  There was also a note about “Renegade” hams that just showed up without prearranging their visit, and were turned away.  Greg and the ARRL urge everyone to coordinate their desire to volunteer through their County EC, District Emergency Coordinator, and/or our SEC, Charlie AE4UX.  I was informed that Peter KG4VDR, STM was getting ready to head to the Gulf, but is currently on hold, awaiting an assignment.

            The SC QSO party will be held this weekend, from 1300Z Sep 17 to 2100Z Sep 18.  The SCQP is sponsored by the Columbia Amateur Radio Club (CARC).  Full information can be found on the CARC website: www.kf4ghc.net/scqp.shtml .  Logs will be due Oct 18 to scqp@kf4ghc.net or: CARC--SCQP Entry, PO Box 595, Columbia, SC 29202-0595.  A contact with the CARC club station KF4GHC or me (N2ZZ) will add 300 points each to your score!  A word to all, though:  There are a number of emergency nets that are handling traffic from the Hurricane Katrina aftermath.  Please listen carefully prior to transmitting, and allow these nets to carry out their mission.  See everyone in the pile-ups!

            Throughout the month of August, the University of South Carolina Center for Public Health Preparedness sponsored Amateur Radio Licensing Classes at four hospitals in South Carolina.  The intent of these classes was to train individuals that will offer Amateur Radio support to these hospitals in times of emergency.  Classes were held at Aiken Regional Medical Centers, Greenville Memorial Hospital, Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, and Loris Hospital.  The curriculum was spread out over two weekends, with a VE testing session that was given at the end of the course.  In Aiken, nine individuals participated in the class, and all nine now have their Technician licenses!  Congratulations to all participants, and to Joe Semer AF4JX, who was the instructor for the Aiken group.  According to Charlie AE4UX, SEC, MUSC had 21 participants, with 19 passing.  Greenville had 6 participants, 4 of whom passed. Congratulations to all!  When I receive a report from Loris, I’ll pass that information along as well!

            The Shelby, NC hamfest was held at the Cleveland County Fairgrounds on September 3^rd and 4^th.  Travel over the Labor Day weekend was a bit hampered, though, as gasoline prices went through the roof!  Many gas stations were running out of gas, and for those of us who were around during the gas shortage of the late 70’s, we were wondering if we had enough fuel to get us to Shelby and back!  Fortunately, I was able to get to Shelby on Saturday.  The weather was fantastic!  It appeared there was some drop in attendance, but not a significant amount.  The ARRL forum was conducted by Les Shattuck, K4NK, our Vice Director.  Our Director Dennis Bodson, W4PWF did not attend, but we were visited by Frank Butler, W4RH, Director of the Southeastern Division.  John Covington W4CC, SM NC and I gave presentations as well!  It was great to see everyone again!

            Speaking of hamfests, October is a very busy hamfest month in South Carolina. 

On October 1^st, the Rock Hill hamfest will take place.  The Sumter hamfest will be on Saturday October 22, and the Grand Strand Beachfest will be held on October 29^th.  In one of our neighboring states, the Augusta, GA hamfest will be held on October 8^th.  Full information with links is available on the www.arrl-sc.org website!  Please come and participate!

            Now some dates in September: The Quarter Century Wireless Association, Palmetto Chapter 89, will meet on Saturday, September 24^th at the Hill Top Steak House, 767 St. Andrews Road [Exit 106W from I-26] at 11 AM.  If you have been licensed for 25 years or more, please make plans to attend, and be a part of this fine organization!  The following day, September 25^th, the PALS picnic will be held at Cheraw State Park at Noon.  Driving instructions are available on the home page of the www.arrl-sc.org website!  We hope to see you there!

            For those of you using (or not using) the “ARRL.NET” forwarding service, you will be happy to know that the ARRL is changing providers, and new spam filters will significantly decrease the amount of SPAM that is forwarded.  So, if you have discontinued this member benefit because of SPAM, please try it again and sign up!  I can attest that it DOES work, since it thinks my Yahoo address is SPAM, and I can’t send anything to anyone @arrl.net without it bouncing back to me.  I have to use an alternate address to send mail.  I have reported that problem to ARRL HQ, and hopefully it will be fixed before too long!

            The dedication of the Aiken County Emergency Services Amateur Radio Trailer was on Wednesday, September 14^th.  There for the dedication were Aiken County Sheriff Michael Hunt, Aiken County Council Chairman Ronny Young, Aiken County Emergency Management Coordinator David Ruth, K4DLR, representatives from the State Emergency Management Department, Bob Besley K4NJN, ASM6, Tony Sealy N4ADM, TS and myself.  There was excellent news coverage from two local television news teams, WJBF and WRDW.  I was able to record the news and produce a streaming video for the web, in Windows Media Format.  It is available on the ARRL-SC website.  I have also added a newspaper article about the trailer in PDF format as well!  According to Bob K4NJN ASM6, final touches are being put on the trailer and training will be held for each of the 6 EMD areas in South Carolina this Fall!

            That is it for now!  Please keep all the victims of Hurricane Katrina in your prayers!

August 2005 National Traffic System Report for South Carolina

Net Reports
Net Name/Check Ins/Traffic/Sessions/Reported By
Anderson Radio Club 2M Net/922/43/31N4MEH
BRARS 2 Meter Net/1988/55/31/K4SUG
Carolina's Net/358/162/62/K4IWW
Carolina Slow Net/130/30/31/W4EAT
Grand Strand ARC 2M Net/234/16/13/N4XML
Greenwood ARC 2 Meter Net/106/7/4/W4DEW
Greenwood Friendly Net/449/32/31/W4JAK
Lancaster County 2 Meter Net/122/20/13/N4WMB
SC SSB Net/1315/77/31/WA4UGD

Station Activity Reports
Station/Sent/Received/Delivered/Originated/Total
KA4LRM/9/18/4/0/31
KA4UIV/44/51/4/0/99
WA4UGD/0/38/0/0/38
KG4VDR/12/22/4/0/38

Public Service Honor Roll
Station/Cat. 1/Cat. 2/Cat. 3/Cat. 4/Cat. 5/Cat. 6/Total
KA4LRM/40/9/20/0/0/0/69
KA4UIV/40/40/10/0/0/0/90
KG4VDR/40/40/20/0/0/0/100

Have a great month!

’73 de Dr. Jim N2ZZ
ARRL Section Manager
South Carolina Section

www.arrl-sc.org

October 2005

Greetings to all Amateur Radio Operators.  This is Dr. Jim, N2ZZ with the October 2005 South Carolina Section Manager’s Report!  Please remember that the SC Section website can be found at: www.arrl-sc.org/ where my full SM report will be listed as well as up-to-the-date information on Amateur Radio in South Carolina!

The third annual South Carolina QSO party was held on September 17^th and 18^th, sponsored by the Columbia Amateur Radio Club (CARC).  I heard a number of stations on and active this year!  It is great to have an event where all can play and have fun!  Band conditions were much improved over last year, with excellent propagation most of the weekend.  This is the event where the Columbia club station KF4GHC and I were able to run pile-ups, as a contact with us added another 300 points to a participant’s score.  It was not quite the same as going to a rare DX country, but there is a lot to be said for the comforts of one’s shack!  My QSO number rounded out to a total of 200.  From the looks of the number of QSL card requests I received, I think the rest of the country appreciated our event also!  My thanks to the Columbia ARC for sponsoring the event!  For further information on the event, go to the CARC website: www.kf4ghc.net/scqp.shtml .

I had the pleasure of attending the 53rd Annual Rock Hill Hamfest on October 1^st! This is the second annual hamfest for the York County Amateur Radio Society to be held at the American Legion Post in Rock Hill.  Despite high gasoline prices and the TenTec Hamfest being held on the same day, close to 400 attendees were present!  There were many vendors, with Lakeview antennas, Tarheel Antennas, AC-DC Electronics, and the Wireman to name a few.  There were approximately 60 tailgate sellers throughout the day.  The ARRL forum was held by Les K4NK, Vice Director Roanoke Division, and myself, with discussion on a number of topics!  VE testing followed, resulting in seven new Technician licensees and three successful upgrades!   Bob Bacharach WA2EMF ASM2, hamfest chairman, passes along his thanks on behalf of YCARS to all of their guests and friends that participated in the Rock Hill Hamfest!

We have two additional hamfests before the end of October.  The Sumter “Open Air” Hamfest will be held on October 22^nd at a new location.  The event will be held at the Sumter Jaycee Hut on 314 Pine Street, next to Riley Ball Park, and will begin at 8am.  Talk-in will be on 147.015, Tone 156.7.  The club will have a snack bar open.  According to the hamfest flyer, there will be limited indoor space, but plenty of outdoor tailgating will be available.  Further information is available on their website: www.geocities.com/CapeCanaveral/2695/sara.htm . 

The Grand Strand BEACHFEST will be held on Saturday October 29^th.  This is the South Carolina State Convention hamfest!  Dan Henderson N1ND, contest branch manager, will be traveling from ARRL Headquarters to attend this hamfest.  The event is held in Conway, and talk-in will be on 145.110.  From the looks of their website, there will be quite a few dealers!  Further information is available on their hamfest page: http://www.w4gs.org/beachfest/ .  I hope to see everyone there!

A word about hamfests-it seems attendance is going down all around the country.  Even the Dayton Hamvention seemed a bit less crowded this year.  Hamfests have suffered a double whammy this year from the abrupt rise in gasoline prices. I mention in my reports about keeping our South Carolina hamfests strong by our attendance.  As someone who was part of the Aiken Hamfest committee, I saw how hamfests cannot survive without good attendance.  Once the balance sheet goes red, the hamfests go away.  We enjoy hamfests as a way to have an eyeball QSO with our friends, to view, touch and feel (and sometimes use) the equipment we see in QST prior to purchase.  We use them to keep up-to-date with happenings in the Amateur Radio World.  Hamfests are a valuable resource to Amateur Radio.  Please make an effort to support our South Carolina Hamfests!  Carpooling is one way to beat the high gas prices-and you get to trade stories about your purchases on the way home to boot!

I would like to extend my best wishes to Tom, WA4VYS, who avoided a close call this past month.  Tom attended a health fair screening and found that he had a major blockage of one of his neck arteries, a situation that could have resulted in a stroke or even death!  Tom has undergone surgery, and is now back at home recuperating.  He was a bit winded at first, but I’ve since heard him on several occasions calling the SC SSB net with all the vigor and enthusiasm we have come to enjoy!

I also heard from Les K4NK, our Vice Director.  Les has suffered a broken foot while performing an antenna installation on a tower.  It has not slowed him down, though.  Reverend Les will be preaching this Sunday!  Please send Les your best wishes!

On the national front, Amateur Radio operations as support communications in the Hurricanes Katrina and Rita aftermath are winding down, as conventional telecommunications are coming back on-line.  Alabama Section Manager Greg Sarratt, W4OZK, shut down his American Red Cross Amateur Radio volunteer intake operation in Montgomery on October 9^th. Sarratt had overseen that function for about five weeks.  The full story is on the ARRL website: http://www.arrl.org/news/stories/2005/10/11/2/ .

Well, that is the news this month!  I hope everyone has a great month, and hope to see everyone at the Sumter hamfest and the Grand Strand Beachfest!

September 2005 National Traffic System Report for South Carolina-Reported by Peter KG4VDR, STM:

Net Reports
Net Name/Check Ins/Traffic/Sessions/Reported By
Anderson Radio Club 2M Net/893/33/30/N4MEH
BRARS 2 Meter Net/1851/50/30/K4SUG
Carolina's Net/322/160/60/K4IWW
Carolina Slow Net/119/30/30/W4EAT
Columbia ARC 2 Meter Net/109/8/8/K4RKC
Grand Strand ARC 2M Net/ 232/20/13/N4XML
Greater Pee Dee 2 Meter Net/1091/49/30/K4DTT
Greenwood ARC 2 Meter Net/138/7/5/W4DEW
Greenwood Friendly Net/325/30/30/W4JAK
Lancaster County 2 Meter Net/143/24/12/N4WMB
PALS Net/861/135/30/KG4KOE
SC SSB Net/1648/83/30/WA4UGD
York Co. ARS 2 Meter Net/867/37/51/K4CON

Station Activity Reports
Station/Sent/Received/Delivered/Originated/Total
KA4LRM/9/14/6/0/29
KA4UIV/36/39/2/0/77
WA4UGD/0/37/1/0/38
KG4VDR/7/23/4/0/34

Public Service Honor Roll
Station/Cat. 1/Cat. 2/Cat. 3/Cat. 4/Cat. 5/Cat. 6/Total
KA4LRM/40/29/20/0/0/0/89
KA4UIV/40/40/10/0/0/0/90
KG4VDR/40/40/20/0/0/0/100

Have a great month!

’73 de Dr. Jim N2ZZ

ARRL Section Manager

South Carolina Section

www.arrl-sc.org

November 2005

Greetings to all Amateur Radio Operators.  This is Dr. Jim, N2ZZ with the November 2005 South Carolina Section Manager’s Report!  Please remember that the SC Section website can be found at: www.arrl-sc.org/ where my full SM report will be listed as well as up-to-the-date information on Amateur Radio in South Carolina!

            I enjoyed traveling to Sumter this past Saturday to be part of the Sumter "Open Air" hamfest.  There were a number of tailgaters as well as a few indoor vendors.  The food was great, and thanks go to Lois for her famous cookies!  I would like to thank George KK4F who saw me driving around Sumter trying to find the hamfest, and then went out of his way to guide me in.  I had two GPS's in the car and they were disagreeing with each other!  George was on his way to Kentucky, but took the time to bring me to the hamfest.  George, thanks again!

            Our last hamfest of the year was the Grand Strand Beachfest, held in Conway, SC at the Conway National Guard Armory.  This was the ARRL South Carolina State Convention, and we were pleased to have Dan Henderson N1ND from ARRL Headquarters join us for the festivities!  The Grand Strand ARC group arranged a get-together at Thorny’s on Friday night where we gathered for an informal dinner, followed by a great hamfest the next day.  The weather was great, and welcomed all participants to visit the indoor vendors as well as the tailgaters outside.  The ARRL forum was held by myself and Dan N1ND, where a number of topics were covered.  Of the vendors, I noted that “Radio Oasis” was from New York.  I visited the dealer, and it was none other than K2ZZ!  I guess it IS a small world!

            I wish to congratulate Peter KG4VDR, STM on a new employment opportunity that will take him to Birmingham, Alabama.  We will miss Peter, but our loss is Alabama’s gain!  Peter is now looking for a successor to the STM position.  If you are interested in the Section Traffic Manager position, please contact Peter at kg4vdr@arrl.net .

            I was asked by Carl, W4EAT to remind everyone about the Carolinas Slow Net which meets on 3695 nightly at 8 pm local time.  Code speed ranges from 8-10 WPM.  Carl is looking for increased participation from South Carolina.  Newcomers are welcome!

            Nominations for the Roanoke Division Service Award for 2005 are now being requested by Dennis Bodson W4PWF, our Roanoke Division Director.  The Service Award is intended for an individual who has a long history of significant and consistent contributions to Amateur Radio and the ARRL.  Please submit your nominations to Dennis at w4pwf@arrl.org .  His full contact information is available in any issue of QST on page 15.

            The ARRL/Salvation Army toy drive is in full swing, and this year there is a video available from the www.arrl.org website in three different formats, including a DVD format for broadcasters.  Award-winning country music artist Patty Loveless, KD4WUJ, is the Holiday Toy Drive's national chairperson, and is featured in the video.  The full story is available on the ARRL website: http://www.arrl.org/news/stories/2005/11/15/4/?nc=1 .

            The 7th annual SKYWARN Recognition Day (SRD) special event will take place Saturday, December 3, 2005.  SKYWARN Recognition Day is an event co-sponsored by the National Weather Service and the American Radio Relay League. SKYWARN Recognition Day is the National Weather Service's way of saying "thank you" to Amateur Radio operators for their commitment to helping keep their communities safe.  During the 24-hour special event, amateur radio operators visit their local National Weather Service (NWS) office and work as a team to contact other hams across the world.  To learn more, check out the web site:  http://hamradio.noaa.gov.

            On November 14, the ARRL filed a petition for Regulation by Bandwidth with the FCC.  The full story is available on the ARRL website: http://www.arrl.org/news/stories/2005/11/15/1/?nc=1

            Well, that’s it for now!  I wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving, and see you next month!

October 2005 National Traffic System Report for South Carolina by Peter KG4VDR, STM:

Net Reports
Net Name/Check Ins/Traffic/Sessions/Reported By
Anderson Radio Club 2M Net/856/38/30/N4MEH
BRARS 2 Meter Net/1693/37/31/K4SUG
Carolina's Net/332/128/62/K4IWW
Carolina Slow Net/120/32/31/W4EAT
Grand Strand ARC 2M Net/256/18/13/N4XML
Greater Pee Dee 2 Meter Net/1089/43/31/K4DTT
Greenwood ARC 2 Meter Net/94/4/4/W4DEW
Greenwood Friendly Net/331/20/31/W4JAK
SC SSB Net/1652/72/31/WA4UGD
York Co. ARS 2 Meter Net/882/46/51/K4CON
York Co. ARS 2 Meter SSB Net/39/0/4/K4CON

Station Activity Reports
Station/Sent/Received/Delivered/Originated/Total
KA4LRM/9/11/0/0/20
KA4UIV/33/44/8/0/85
WA4UGD/0/39/1/0/40
KG4VDR/11/27/9/0/47

Public Service Honor Roll
Station/Cat. 1/Cat. 2/Cat. 3/Cat. 4/Cat. 5/Cat. 6/Total
KA4LRM/40/20/20/0/0/0/80
KA4UIV/40/40/10/0/0/0/90
KG4VDR/40/40/20/0/0/0/100

Have a great month!

’73 de Dr. Jim N2ZZ
ARRL Section Manager
South Carolina Section
www.arrl-sc.org
 

December 2005

Greetings to all Amateur Radio Operators.  This is Dr. Jim, N2ZZ with the December 2005 South Carolina Section Manager’s Report!  Please remember that the SC Section website can be found at: www.arrl-sc.org/ where my full SM report will be listed as well as up-to-the-date information on Amateur Radio in South Carolina!

            We are still looking for a Section Traffic Manager, as Peter KG4VDR was offered an employment opportunity in Alabama.  Peter has been maintaining his STM duties from afar, which I truly appreciate.  He has compiled the traffic report at the end of my report this month.  I do ask that anyone that is interested in the STM position to check out the www.arrl-sc.org website under “Appointee Information” and the www.arrl.org website for information on the position.  My main need is for someone to compile the traffic/net/PSHR reports to send to me monthly, by the 8^th of each month, for inclusion in my monthly Section report.  Without this summary, I will not be able to include the above mentioned reports with my report.  If you have an interest in NTS, please step forward and be a part of the ARRL-SC team!  Contact me at n2zz@arrl.org.

            Our next SC hamfest will be in Greenwood on Saturday, January 14^th at the Greenwood Civic Center on Highway 72 East.  Doors will open at 9 am.  VE exams will be “walk in” beginning at 10:30 am.  Bring your original license and a copy.  Talk-in will be on 147.165+ with 146.52 as an alternate frequency.  Bob K4NJN, ASM6 has informed me that he is planning on bringing the Aiken County Emergency Services Amateur Radio Trailer to the hamfest!  I hope to see everyone there!

            For those who are hamfest chairpersons, please look at the “Hamfest Alert” on the www.arrl-sc.org website, and check your listing.  There are a number of hamfests that have not been confirmed, as they have not been registered with the ARRL.  I would like to have confirmation of your hamfest so that we can set our calendars-please forward the information to me at n2zz@arrl.org.  Thanks!

            The Columbia Amateur Radio Club has announced winners for the South Carolina QSO party, and awards have been distributed. Congratulations to Bob Gagliardi N4XML who placed first In-State with 15,936 Points and to William Baranek KG4IGC who placed 1st in QRP with 11,940 which also would have been good for 3rd place overall.  Out of state, Carolyn Irons took top honors with 1,536 Points.  Full details are available on the www.kf4ghc.net web site.  Thanks to The Columbia Radio Club for sponsoring the SCQP, and we will look forward to next years event!  Gear up your vehicles for next year, and rake up a new multiplier for each county you operate from!

            DXer’s had a rare treat this past weekend.  Desecheo Island (KP5) was on the air!  KP5 is number 8 on the DXer’s most wanted list.  Attempts to operate from that island have been blocked by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) of late.  In fact, there has been a movement by the KP1-KP5 project team http://www.kp1-5.com/ to have congress enact a law to require the USFWS to open Nevassa (KP1) and Desecheo (KP5) to limited, reasonable public use (HR-1183).  Fortunately, Kam Sirageldin N3KS, and Dave Collingham K3LP were granted permission to operate from the island, as Kam is part of a communications project team working on Desecho. They were to spend 48, perhaps 72 hours operating from Desecheo, but late afternoon/early evening of December 16th, the pair were served official documentation from Washington D.C. demanding that they leave the island immediately.  They were served these papers by police.  At this time, it is not known who is behind this action, although there is a lot of speculation.  The team was fortunate to have bad weather (really!) so that it was too dangerous to leave the island.  Authorities allowed them to operate through the night, and their last QSO was at 1730Z on the 17^th.  I am happy to say that I was fortunate to work them on 30 meters.  For those who squeezed out a QSO, their QSL manager is W3ADC.  Remember that the US postal rates are going up on January 8^th.  Be sure your SASE has 39 cents postage!

            As the Christmas holiday approaches, I note a number of holiday get-togethers by our affiliated clubs.  I wish everyone the very best this holiday season, and please take care!  See you next year!

November 2005 National Traffic Syst