Section Manager’s Report June 2022

Hi gang! Well, it’s that time of year again. The sound of “CQ Field Day, CQ Field Day” Is dancing in our heads. Load up the radio’s, coax, antennas, and just as important, the grill. June 27 – 29 is the date. So, where will you be? With a club? In your backyard? Mobile? It’s all good. Remember 100-watt max. going forward. Also, the rules the last couple of years still apply. As usual, I will be touring the countryside looking for those elusive club sites. If you want to be found, put yourself in the League’s locator site. As of this writing, there are no clubs in my section posted on it. Please do all you can to invite new hams, make them feel welcome and get them on the air. Remember, there are points to be had for an information table, GOTA and also the educational activity bonus.

My apologies for not posting the new ham list. When the FCC had their issues, the new hams have not been getting processed and the ARRL has not got them. Hopefully when it comes back it will be a BIG list.

Our section has again been stung with resignations. Bob, K1YO and Aaron, KF1G have left their positions. This effectively leaves ARES in ashes again. I will support what is still in place as best I can. This and many positions are continuing to left be unfulfilled and other positions are filled and absent from their duties. I’m looking for new volunteers to these positions that can bring some energy to the mix and help really take us to the next level. Positions are open. Email me if you’re interested or just want to discuss these positions.

It is good to see that there is an uptick in VE sessions and license classes going on again. I cannot underscore enough that mentoring will play a big role in getting them active in the hobby. New hams are the continuation of our hobby. The league is well aware of it now and new programs are starting to aid in clubs being successful. Reach out to myself, Larry W1AST the ACC for assistance.

Last week I had the pleasure of going to my first Hamvention in Dayton. I actually drove there. (13 hours) which from what I heard was a good thing as some people had flight issues on the return. I spent part of the time working the ARRL booth for memberships and the clubs. We were treated to some toasty weather and a lot of people. It is hard to imagine the scope of the event and its size until you go there. This was actually the 70th one they had, and it was reported to bring in 30 million dollars to Dayton’s economy. Believe it or not, I didn’t even see the outdoor flea market! (Too much to do) When people advise you about your feet and foot care, pay attention, trust me!

There is an awful lot going on with upcoming events. There is the 13 Colonies special event in July, HamXposition in Marlboro in August, and the Big E in September. There is a big need for people to help out in these events. Visit their websites to learn more or email me. Please consider donating some time. It cannot be done by themselves!

That’s all for me. Definitely not bored at all. With all that I wrote, I said nothing about what I’m doing personally for the section and for the hobby. I can do it, so wake up Van Winkle or Jiminy Cricket and pitch in!

Till next time,

73

Ray AA1SE