April Double Header

The Case For Stealth, And Not So Stealthy Antennas

Witty, entertaining, and helpful describe Tom’s (W9IPR) presentation. Stealth antennas are compromises, but a compromise antenna is better than no antenna at all. That said, some compromisers are better than others. Tom’s presentation, which can be found in total at:

touches on just about every conceivable stealth option, along with some not so stealthy options as well. If Tom piqued your interest, it just might be time to dust off that ARRL antenna book, or better yet, Google the web for more information on the subject.

 

Outstanding Job Andrew!

Typical of Andrew, half measures just don’t cut it. His presentation on QSL cards was no exception. He thoroughly researched his topic, created simple, yet effective graphics to get his message across, then delivered it with poise. First rate!

HR-1301

HR-1301 The Amateur Radio Parity Act of 2015 — H.R.1301 — has been introduced in the US House of Representatives. The measure would direct the FCC to extend its rules relating to reasonable accommodation of Amateur Service communications to private land use restrictions. US Rep Adam Kinzinger (R-IL) introduced the bill on March 4 with 12 original co-sponsors from both sides of the aisle — seven Republicans and five Democrats.

HR 1301 would require the FCC to amend its Part 97 Amateur Service rules to apply the three-part test of the PRB-1 federal pre-emption policy to include homeowners’ association regulations and deed restrictions, often referred to as “covenants, conditions, and restrictions” (CC&Rs). At present, PRB-1 only applies to state and local zoning laws and ordinances. The FCC has been reluctant to extend the same legal protections to include such private land-use agreements without direction from Congress.

 H.R. 1301 has been referred to the House Energy and Commerce Committee. Rep Greg Walden, W7EQI (R-OR), chairs that panel’s Communications and Technology Subcommittee, which will consider the measure.

ARRL members are urged to contact their US House members and ask them to sign on to the bill as a co-sponsor. We recommend sending the letter to your member of Congress to: ARRL Attn HR 1301 grassroots campaign 225 Main St Newington CT 06111

Click here for more information

New Net- 2 Meter Single Sideband

The weak signal presentation last month got a couple of us fired up about trying something new. So, starting this Thursday, March 12 at 6:45 PM we are going to have a first callup on 144.190 USB with the hope of carrying on a new local net. This will continue until further notice, same time, same day of the week. So tune in a bit early on net night and try your luck. Attached is a picture of a couple of homemade antennas for the UHF and vhf bands. They are easy and fun to make and will get you on the air if you have a radio capable on these bands.

Contact Gary K2OU for more information. (Blog contribution by Gary K2OU)