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# Western Massachusetts ARRL

A local section of the American Radio Relay League, the National Association for Amateur Radio®

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://wma.arrl.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [New Amateur Reports - July 2026](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2026/07/09/new-amateur-reports-july-2026/) - Please welcome the new amateur radio operator licensees to the Western Massachusetts section! Thomas A Warner, KC1ZSL14 Pleasure AvePittsfield, MA 01201-4214 David W Malgeri, KC1ZUX200 Lakeshore DrWinchendon, MA 01475-1014 Brandon Deluca, KC1ZVI182 Farm StBlackstone, MA 01504-1323 Oldden C Fox, KC1ZVA174 Providence Rd Apt 507Grafton, MA 01519-1542 Dylan J Bonneau, KC1ZUS20 Preserve WaySturbridge, MA 01566-2316 Jeanpaul
- [Appalachian Trail Golden Packet Challenge](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2026/07/07/appalachian-trail-golden-packet-challenge/) - Hi Western MA ARES folks, On July 18th the Appalachian Trail Golden Packet challenge will take place. APRS-enabled amateur operators will establish and utilize an APRS-based network from Georgia to Maine, and one hop along the trail is Mt. Greylock! Our regular Mt Greylock operator just had a medical emergency and cannot participate this year. We are
- [Section Manager’s Report May 2025](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/05/04/section-managers-report-may-2025/) - Hi there, yes, I am a little late this month as I wanted to give a report on Near-Fest that was just held. Despite the few showers that kept our tarps busy, overall, the event went well. I cannot tell you that even where I was which I called the “Cheap Seats” It is really
- [Section Manager Report Nov. 2025](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/11/02/section-manager-report-nov-2025/) - Oh-Oh! Here we go again! Another silly season is upon us. Those of you who complained about the heat can now switch over to the cold side of it. Oct 4 was our WMA ARES SET. Chuck WS1L posted an After-Action Report and I will post it on this site. This highlights the fact
- [Section Manager’s Report May 2020](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/05/01/section-managers-report-may-2020/) - Hello! We made it through another month. Being busy make it move quickly. Springtime has certainly sprouted activity out here. Question is…where are you? I write this after a little “recovery” from Near-Fest. It was so great to see you all out there. I was there at 0530 waiting to get in to secure my
- [Section Manager’s Report Dec.2025](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/12/01/section-managers-report-dec-2025/) - 2025 is coming to a close. A lot happened during the year. Some things I’m still scratching my head over. Some things I am very happy about. I guess everyone goes through that. I made a visit to the HCRA auction they had. There was a good crowd and if you need stuff
- [Section Manager’s Report July 2021](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/07/03/section-managers-report-july-2021/) - Hello everyone. I hope your summer is going well so far. I will admit it was a bit toasty of late, day and night. July starts off elections in our area. The big one is for New England Director which is a 3-year term. Fred Hopengarten K1VR is seeking reelection and will be opposed by
- [Section Manager’s Report. May 2021](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/05/02/section-managers-report-may-2021/) - Hello everyone. Another month has quietly gone by without much fanfare. I hope it’s because you are planning your club’s activities. Speaking of club’s activities, Field Day is just around the corner. Who’s doing what? I know the NOBARC club is having a live one this year. Let me know what you are doing. I
- [Section Manager’s Report Jan. 2026](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2026/01/01/section-managers-report-jan-2026/) - Hello and Happy New Year! Yes, it did take me a couple of tries to get the right year on the title! It’s only a few weeks of winter and I’m already tired of it. Speaking of winter, Winter Field day is approaching on the fourth weekend. This event has been gaining in popularity
- [Section Manager’s Report May 2026](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2026/05/03/section-managers-report-may-2026/) - Here we are again! Has been a busy month for sure. Seems the project list are getting larger and the stuff you are doing just get’s slower, except the time. Oh well! We just had our annual event in Near-Fest. I cannot believe it is now 20 Years old! I have been going to
- [Section Manager’s Report June 2026](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2026/06/01/section-managers-report-june-2026/) - Well, here we go again! Another summer coming, June has returned and with that..Field Day! Field Day the contest, Field Day the communications drill. I don’t think that debate will ever go away. Regardless what you think it is, it’s an operating event that utilizes both, and you mix in a dose of public
- [General Class License Course](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2026/05/08/general-class-license-course/) - The Western Mass Train and Test Group will be having a General Class License course beginning on June 2 on Zoom. Class meets Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7-9 PM for 6 weeks. This is a free course, but you need to purchase the ARRL General Class Manual for your study guide. **Email Ray
- [New Ham Report for June](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2026/06/16/new-ham-report-for-june/) - Here is the latest list of new hams. 15 of them! Please reach out to them and invite them to your club, and especially to Field Day! Report for 2026-06-01 Robert D Walker, KC1ZQO - FCC73 Leo DrChicopee, MA 01020-2114 James R Gustafson, KC1ZQN - FCC218 Batchelor StGranby, MA 01033-9738 Paul F Lucchesi, KC1ZNM -
- [Section Manager’s Report. July 2026](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2026/07/03/section-managers-report-july-2026/) - Another year, another Field Day is behind us, and I’m sure those that participated are now recovering and gathering their results. I made the 400-mile tour and visited 8 sites. Some clubs have at one time had a big and active setup, now was drastically scaled back, while others have upped their game and
- [Calling for Volunteers for HamXposition in August 2026!](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2026/06/29/calling-for-volunteers-for-hamxposition-in-august-2026/) - Calling for Volunteers for HamXposition in August 2026! Thank you to all the dedicated volunteers who make HamXposition possible! Your smiling faces and eagerness to help make a difference to the attendees. I'm reaching out to invite you to volunteer (again) this year! Here is the link to the form. https://registration.hamxposition.org/volunteer/ We have a big need for help
- [New Ham Report May 2026](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2026/05/17/new-ham-report-may-2026/) - Report for 2026-05-01 Ari Klopfer, KC1ZHU - FCC215 N Valley RdPelham, MA 01002-9770 Paul R Desrosiers, KC1ZLH - FCC21 Summit StSouth Hadley, MA 01075-2530 Harold F Kershaw, KC1ZHJ - FCC15 Woodside TerWestfield, MA 01085-1228 Cyrus Rivera, KC1ZLA - FCC1191 S Washington State RdWashington, MA 01223-9677 Keziah R Kelsey, KC1ZKZ - FCC1191 S Washington State RdWashington,
- [Radio Activity Event Coming!](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2026/05/12/radio-activity-event-coming/) - When: Saturday June 20 2026 10:00-2:00 (rain date TBD) Where: Quabbin Hill Observation Tower, Belchertown MA Google Maps. Facilities: Plenty of parking. Portable toilets. Bring a chair. Limited # picnic tables. No: Sorry, no dogs, open fires or antennas in trees. Friends of Quabbin Info. Food: Coffee and hot dogs provided (while they last). Otherwise,
- [New England QSO Party is coming May 2 & 3](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2026/04/24/new-england-qso-party-is-coming-may-2-3/) - The New England QSO Party on May 2nd and 3rd is a great time to check out antenna systems and offers a moderately paced opportunity to work new states and countries. You'll find a wide variety of participants, from newcomers to experienced contesters, all interested in making contacts with New England stations.Our goal is to get
- [New Ham List for April](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2026/04/23/new-ham-list-for-april/) - Clubs, Please review the new hams in your area and extend a welcome and invite and help get them active. Report for 2026-04-01 Lawrence A Scherpa, KC1ZCT - FCC24 Tower TerAgawam, MA 01001-1407 Robert W McCarthy, KC1ZCK - FCC196 Elm StAgawam, MA 01001-2405 Anna M LaChance, K1WTS - FCC21 Sunset Ave Apt 2Amherst, MA 01002-2017
- [Section Manager’s Report. April 2026](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2026/04/02/section-managers-report-april-2026/) - Hello, welcome to another month. With this one coming around operators’ thoughts of Field Day are dancing in their sleep. Some clubs are looking at new sites and others are securing their usual spots for this year. Planning either way should be in earnest now as how and what to set up, site permits (if
- [2026 World Soccer Tournament Special Event Station](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2026/04/08/2026-world-soccer-tournament-special-event-station/) - The 2026 World Soccer Tournament is coming to Massachusetts. There will be Special Event Stations running each of the following days. This is a worldwide event with games happening here in Massachusetts. There are 7 games being played at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro. Those 7 days hams are needed to run a special event callsign
- [Section Managers Report March 2026](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2026/03/01/section-managers-report-march-2026/) - As all of you know, we got walloped with that winter storm on the 23rd. The southeast and Rhode Island got the brunt of it and is still digging out of it. I remember another one back in 1978. Different areas were pleading mercy. I do not remember how ham radio played a role in
- [Mount Tom Hamfest has been cancelled this year!](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2026/02/06/mount-tom-hamfest-has-been-cancelled-this-year/) - Due to low vendor participation the hamfest for Mt.Tom has been cancelled. We hope for it's return next year. Ray AA1SE
- [Section Managers Report Feb. 2026](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2026/02/04/section-managers-report-feb-2026/) - Hello WMA! I just got back from 24 days on a west coast trip to Arizona. And I came back to this? What was I thinking! It was warm and sunny there! One of the things I wanted to do was go to Quartzfest which is a radio event in Quartzite, 15 min from
- [Algonquin ARC Flea Market, Marlborough, February 14, 2026](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2026/01/25/algonquin-arc-flea-market-marlborough-february-14-2026/) - The Algonquin Amateur Radio Club will be holding its annual hamfest at 1Lt Charles W. Whitcomb Middle School at 25 Union St. in Marlborough, MA. The hamfest is very popular among hams in both the Eastern MA and the eastern portions of the Western MA ARRL sections. The hamfest will be held on Saturday, February 14, 2026 from 9:00 AM to 12 noon. General
- [New WMA Amateurs for December 2025](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2026/01/20/new-wma-amateurs-for-december-2025/) - Please welcome the following newly licensed radio amateurs to the Western Massachusetts area! Benjamin J Everton, KC1YPT329 Springfield StAgawam, MA 01001-1511 Paul W Fenn, KC1YPW7 Hemlock HolwBelchertown, MA 01007-9255 Benjamin S Feldman, KC1YQD130 Old Bay RdBelchertown, MA 01007-9348 Brendan Kavanaugh, KC1YPX250 Southampton RdWesthampton, MA 01027-9531 Daniel P Oneill, KC1YPR131 Burnett StGranby, MA 01033-9709 William H
- [Year of the Club Special Operating Event](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2026/01/13/year-of-the-club-special-operating-event/) - Attention all Massachusetts Clubs, This is your chance to participate in the Year of the Club special operating event! If you would like to operate W1AW/1 as a club and reserve a 4-hour block of time between February 11th and the 18th please contact Larry, W1AST, no later than January 20th. Email: FunHamRadio@gmail.com The station
- [New WMA Amateurs for November 2025](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/12/15/new-wma-amateurs-for-november-2025/) - Please welcome the following newly licensed radio amateurs to the Western Massachusetts area! Christopher D Morgan, KC1YNY64 Pleasant St Apt 1REasthampton, MA 01027-1142 Karen Angelica M Smith, KC1YNJ234 Glendale RdHampden, MA 01036-9111 David Berner, KC1YLB303 Prospect StNorthampton, MA 01060-2049 Gregory J Curtis, KC1YNN11 Chileab RdSouth Hadley, MA 01075-1219 Michelle E Surprenant, KC1YNBPO Box 15324Springfield, MA
- [Foxhunt on New Years Day](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/12/09/foxhunt-on-new-years-day/) - If there is anyone interested in foxhunting here is an activity that has been held on New Years Day for some years now. It's not your average foxhunt. Read on: Greetings Foxhunters, Keeping with tradition, I will be hosting a Foxhunt on New Years Day at 1pm. This hunt will be conducted in the same manner that
- [2026 Boston Marathon Ham Radio Volunteer Registration Opens](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/12/06/2026-boston-marathon-ham-radio-volunteer-registration-opens/) - Volunteer registration for the 2026 Boston Marathon is expected to open this week! Returning volunteers will receive an email from the BAA that includes registration instructions. In order to make registration as smooth as possible, we are providing specific instructions for our Amateur Radio Operator (ARO) volunteers. If you haven't previously volunteered, or have a
- [Sawmill River 10K Run on January 1, 2026](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/12/04/sawmill-river-10k-run-on-january-1-2026/) - Once again the Montague (MA) Parks & Recreation Department has asked for our help during the Sawmill River 10K Run on New Year's Day. In a letter from Jon Dobosz, the Parks and Recreation Director, he thanked the Hams who had provided "critical safety, security and communication services along the race route" in the past.
- [ARES SET After Action Report](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/10/29/ares-set-after-action-report/) - On 04 October 2025 the Western Massachusetts Section of the Amateur Radio Emergency Service conducted a Simulated Emergency Test from 10 am to 2 pm local time. Eighteen persons participated, plus representatives from both MEMA and FEMA. Planning A request for planning volunteers was sent out via the WMA ARES email list in July, and
- [Section Manager’s Report Mar. 2025](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/03/04/section-managers-report-mar-2025/) - Well, another month gone. Not like I’ll miss it. It was challenging with the snow and cold we had. Hopefully the worst is over and the good stuff will return, A shout out goes to the NOBARC club in Pittsfield. They have ramped up Tech classes, and VE sessions to boost their club. Eric
- [Section Manager’s Report April 2025](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/04/01/section-managers-report-april-2025/) - Helloooo Spring! This is the transitional time where we stop complaining about the cold and start complaining about the heat! 😊 It’s true! April brings also the awakening of outdoor activities, antenna maintenance, hamfest’s, POTA activation’s and more. Take advantage and enjoy the outdoors. The league has an event on April 18 in
- [Section Manager’s Report June 2025](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/06/04/section-managers-report-june-2025/) - I think you would agree with me that most of these weekends you should be operating maritime mobile. My hopes is the weather changes before field day and we get some great weather. Last year was interesting as storms were threatening and occurred during the event. Speaking of Field Day, don’t forget to
- [Section Manager’s Report Aug. 2025](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/08/01/section-managers-report-aug-2025/) - “I’m melting, melting!” That seems to have been the theme for this month. Pretty sad you have to walk around carrying a meat thermometer with you! And to top it off, I have been dealing with a sore back. Ok, bad news and complaining out of the way. So, if you haven’t heard,
- [Section Manager’s Report. Sept 2025](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/08/31/section-managers-report-sept-2025/) - Did you hear a loud scream lately? That was August flying by! Wow, Fall is just a few weeks away. It was a busy month for sure. Earlier this month I made a road trip and visited the NOBARC hamfest. Saw a number of people there and some treasures getting bought. I did not
- [Section Manager’s Report Oct. 2025](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/10/01/section-managers-report-oct-2025/) - Hello, another busy month! But it actually included a vacation for me at Oswego, NY. A few hams got together and did a number of POTA activations along the shores of Lake Ontario. The photo below is at Fort Ontario (photo by Larry W1AST) Great weather and fun. Once I returned home, I
- [New Ham Report For Oct. 2025](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/10/18/new-ham-report-for-oct-2025/) - Here is the latest new hams for October. I urge clubs to reach out to those close and send them a welcome, an invitation to visit the club, offer assistance. The cost of a stamp to send a letter or brochure can go a long way to keep the club active and help the newbie
- [Tech Class Available Nov 4 on Zoom!](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/10/13/tech-class-available-nov-4-on-zoom/)
- [New Ham Report Sept.](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/09/25/new-ham-report-sept/) - Report for 2025-09-01 Jessica Pion, KC1YFA - FCC29 Myrtle AveHolyoke, MA 01040-3513 Peter K Sullivan, KC1YCW - FCC74 Barrett St Unit 308Northampton, MA 01060-1728 Nathan H Chung, KC1YCX - FCC15 Stearns Ct Apt 1LNorthampton, MA 01060-4264 David Hunt, KC1YDK - FCC21 Field RdLongmeadow, MA 01106-1004 Stanley J Ambo, KC1YDL - FCC278 Lockes Village RdWendell, MA
- [CALLING ALL AMATEURS! CALL TO ACTION!](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/09/18/calling-all-amateurs-call-to-action/) - CALLING ALL AMATEURS! CALL TO ACTION! Your help is needed! On Tuesday the 16th, the section managers and the affiliated club coordinators had a meeting with David Minster NA2AA and have announced an all-out effort to get Bill H.R. 1094 and S. 459 which is the HOA bills passed so that hams in
- [Announcing the NE and Section Ham of the Year Awards](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/08/06/announcing-the-ne-and-section-ham-of-the-year-awards/) - The New England Division has created a new Ham of the Year award to recognize and honor those that have made notable accomplishments for Ham Radio. The awards will be given out at HamXposition. This is going to be an annual event. Any member in Western Ma. can recommend an individual by sending me an
- [Section Manager Report July 2025](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/07/02/section-manager-report-july-2025/) - Greetings, I’m sure you are still resting from Field Day, scores are being tabulated, pictures shared, etc. Speaking of pictures, I would like to put together something for the League. Please send me pictures of the weekend’s activities. Thanks. Field day was a bit of a mix as I find the number of clubs
- [New England QSO Party May 3 & 4](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/04/29/new-england-qso-party-may-3-4/) - The New England QSO Party on May 3rd and 4th is a great time to check out antenna systems and offers a moderately paced opportunity to work new states and countries. You'll find a wide variety of participants, from newcomers to experienced contesters, all interested in making contacts with New England stations.Our goal is to
- [Tech Classes Start July 8 on Zoom!](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/06/23/tech-classes-start-july-8-on-zoom/)
- [New Ham List for July](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/07/16/new-ham-list-for-july/) - Here is the latest new hams for Western Ma. Clubs, use the list and invite those near your area. We have 83 new hams in the first half of the year Report for 2025-07-01 Derek L Ferguson, KC1WXV - FCC25 Appaloosa LnWest Springfield, MA 01089-1714 Nicholas S King, N1NSK - FCCPO Box 1051Hancock, MA 01237-1051
- [Volunteers Needed at HamXposition](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/07/20/volunteers-needed-at-hamxposition/) - Calling for Volunteers for HamXposition in August 2025!Thank you to all the dedicated volunteers who make HamXposition possible! Yoursmiling faces and eagerness to help make a difference to the attendees.I’m reaching out to invite you to volunteer (again) this year! Here is the link to the form.https://registration.hamxposition.org/volunteer/We have a big need for help this year
- [New Ham Report for May](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/06/26/new-ham-report-for-may/) - Report for 2025-06-01 Michael R Sienkiewicz, KC1WVJ - FCC3005 Prospect St Unit BBondsville, MA 01009-7722 Willie Lopez, KC1WUE - FCC63 Magnolia AveHolyoke, MA 01040-3125 Jeffrey L Horan, KC1WTN - FCC100 Southampton RdHolyoke, MA 01040-9788 Liam Cregan, KC1WTW - FCC63 Golden DrNorthampton, MA 01062-3405 Elizabeth McKinstry, KC1WUC - FCCPO Box 5434Springfield, MA 01101-5434 Daniel Moriarty, KC1WWE
- [The Governor's Proclamation for Field Day](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/06/22/the-governors-proclamation-for-field-day/)
- [Authors Track at HamXposition](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/06/01/authors-track-at-hamxposition/) - Larry Krainson, W1AST, writes: I’m tinkering with the idea of having an “Authors Track” or “Meet the Authors” at this year’s HamXposition. Calling all hams in New England who are book authors! Your books do not have to include ham radio, but it would be fun if they did. If you are interested in learning more,
- [New Ham Report April 2025](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/05/20/new-ham-report-april-2025/) - Kenneth P Lamothe, W1WXX - FCC66 Dogwood LnAgawam, MA 01001-3645 Julian J Lee-Choi, KC1WSB - FCC15 Hartman RdAmherst, MA 01002-1413 Jensen Gilbert, KC1WNW - FCC6 Cheryl CirBelchertown, MA 01007-9764 Robert S Waskiewicz, KC1WOB - FCC95 Chmura RdHadley, MA 01035-9727 Diana L David, W1CBL - FCC9 Fernwood RdSouthwick, MA 01077-9514 Mark G Plaquet, KC1DZG - FCC129
- [VIRTUAL NTS TRAINING NET](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/04/25/virtual-nts-training-net/) - Many Technician class amateurs miss out on fun and skills learning of traffic handling because they reside in areas of the country where local traffic nets on VHF repeaters don’t exist. The Virtual NTS Training Net (VNTN) seeks to address this problem with the creation of a Zoom-based local traffic net that can be accessed
- [New WMA Amateurs for March 2025](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/04/12/new-wma-amateurs-for-march-2025/) - Please welcome the recent licensed amateur radio operators in the WMA section! Felicity Goeckel, KC1WJG300 Harkness RdAmherst, MA 01002-9782 Carol A Vanderheiden, KC1WJV281 Chauncey Walker St Lot 547Belchertown, MA 01007-9196 Jeffrey S Macphee, KC1WKP152 Wales RdBrimfield, MA 01010-9748 Elizabeth Hickin, KC1WJI55 Munson RdChesterfield, MA 01012-9712 Eli S Martin Eberhardt, AC1TV44 College LnNorthampton, MA 01063-6303 Matthew
- [13 Colonies Special Event Looking for Local Ham Radio Ops](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/04/10/13-colonies-special-event-looking-for-local-ham-radio-ops-2/) - 13 Colonies Massachusetts is looking for a few new ops to join Team K2H. 13 Colonies takes place every July 1-7. We're looking for volunteers who can operate for at least 2 hours per day for at least 4 of the 7 days. Operating as K2H is a blast. You become the DX, and stations
- [HamX Tickets Now Available!](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/03/18/hamx-tickets-now-available/)
- [New WMA Amateurs for February 2025](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/03/10/new-wma-amateurs-for-february-2025/) - Please welcome the recent licensed amateur radio operators in the WMA section! Michael A Perkins, KC1WHJ94 Fairgrounds RdCummington, MA 01026-9701 Declan J Flood, KC1WGJ841 Southbridge RdWarren, MA 01083-2146 Jonathan A Wynn, KC1WIO229 Cadwell RdPittsfield, MA 01201-7929 David G McKearney, KC1WHG325 Savoy RdCheshire, MA 01225-9012 Dana L Davidsen, KC1WEC70 Egremont Plain RdGreat Barrington, MA 01230-1691 Alejandro
- [General Class License Upgrade Class](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/03/09/general-class-license-upgrade-class/) - Sign up on our website: http://nobarc.org
- [MTARA Hamfest on March 1](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/02/23/mtara-hamfest-on-march-1/) - The Mount Tom Amateur Repeater Association is holding its annual Amateur Radio and Electronics Hamfest on Saturday, March 1, 2025 at the Castle of Knights, 1599 Memorial Drive in Chicopee. All amateurs and those interested are invited! Admission is $5 for adults and children 12 and under are free. Doors open at 6:30 AM for
- [YLRL Scholarships Available for Students](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/02/23/ylrl-scholarships-available-for-students/) - The Young Ladies Radio League (YLRL) has announced its Memorial Scholarship program for 2025. The scholarship program is aimed at female amateur radio operators studying radio, communications, electronics or amateur radio related arts and sciences. There are three Memorial Scholarship award categories: •The Ethel Smith, K4LMB, Memorial Scholarship — $2,500 award •The Mary Lou Brown,
- [New Ham Report Feb. 2025](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/02/19/new-ham-report-feb-2025/) - Here are the new ham report as of Feb 1. Club officials, review the list and reach out to those in your footprint and invite, welcome them. Offer assistance as well! Report for 2025-02-01 Ian A McIntosh, KC1WCZ - FCC96 Lyman Barnes RdBrimfield, MA 01010-9621 David Gage, KC1WCQ - FCC228 Barry StFeeding Hills, MA 01030-2765
- [Section Manager’s Report Feb. 2025](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/02/05/section-managers-report-feb-2025/) - Hello! I’m sure by now a lot of you are getting a case of cabin fever. February is kind of a transition month where there may be some decent days in which to get out and do something. Hopefully one thing on the list is a visit to the Algonquin club’s Hamfest coming up on
- [Upgrade your Ham Radio License!](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/01/25/upgrade-your-ham-radio-license/) - The Western Mass Train and Test Group will be having a General Class amateur radio license course beginning on February 18. Class meets Tuesday's and Thursday's from 7-9 PM on Zoom. This is a free course, but you need to purchase the ARRL General Manual for your study guide. **Email Ray Lajoie at ray.aa1se@gmail.com with
- [New Ham Report. Jan 2025](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/01/27/new-ham-report-jan-2025/) - Here is the listing of our newest ham's! Clubs should be finding the ones near you and inviting them to meeting's and offering mentoring to get them active. Promote and grow your club! Kristopher Boutin, KC1VXU23 Ruffino RdEast Longmeadow, MA 01028-3220 Alexander S Moore, KC1VVKPO Box 29N Hatfield, MA 01066-0029 Anthony E Gentile, W1AEGPO Box
- [SKYWARN Nets to Activate for Jan 19 - 20 Storm](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/01/19/skywarn-nets-to-activate-for-jan-19-20-storm/) - This message was sent over the WX1BOX SKYWARN Announcement email list: Hello to all... ..Updated Amateur Radio Net Schedule for snowfall reports and other storm impacts for the Moderate snowstorm affecting much of Southern New England. For other snowstorm forecast details see Message #4 at the following link: https://wx1box.org/2025/01/19/storm-coordination-message-4-late-sunday-afternoon-1-19-25-early-monday-morning-1-20-25-moderate-snowstorm-potential/ for additional details.. Amateur Radio Net Schedule: 146.940-Mount
- [New Section Government Liaison Appointed](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/01/15/new-section-government-liaison-appointed/) - Please join me in welcoming our new Section Government Liaison, Steve Berian KC1KEZ. Steve has stepped forward in taking on this important role which has been vacant for a number of years. He will be monitoring activity at the State House and any other governmental issue that could affect amateur radio in Massachusetts. With
- [Free Tech Class Start June 18](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/06/12/free-tech-class-start-june-18/)
- [Boston Marathon Volunteer Registration Now Open](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/01/05/boston-marathon-volunteer-registration-now-open-2/) - Hi Folks, The Boston Marathon will take place on Monday, April 21st, 2025. I am a member of the amateur radio leadership team for the event. With time running out before volunteer registration closes, we have filled less than half of our needed volunteer slots. Volunteer registration closes February 7 at 5 PM. Volunteers are needed to
- [Section Manager’s Report January 2025](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/12/30/section-managers-report-january-2025/) - Hello, the celestial odometer has clicked off another number! I hope everyone has a Happy New Year. Now the question is, will it be boring or exciting. As they say, time will tell. First off, I received the news that Steve Boyson N1VLG passed away. He was the State Government Liaison for Eastern Mass. He
- [New WMA Amateurs from June - November 2024](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/12/29/new-wma-amateurs-from-june-november-2024/) - With the ARRL's new ham reports now back up and running, we can resume posting them here. Please welcome the recent licensed amateur radio operators in the WMA section! Steven W Furr, KC1UXR87 Felix StChicopee, MA 01020-1030 Anthony J OBrien, KC1UXN9 Sandra RdEasthampton, MA 01027-2533 Lyle H Smith, AC1SE40 Bethany RdMonson, MA 01057-1104 Edward Cook,
- [2024 WMA ARES SET Summary](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/12/07/2024-wma-ares-set-summary/) - The Simulated Emergency Test for the Western Massachusetts Section ran from 0830 to 1200 local (1330-1700 Zulu) Sunday, 10 November 2024. We developed a scenario based upon Hurricane Helene and its impact in the mountainous terrain of western North Carolina. In our scenario heavy rainfall over the Western Massachusetts area began to fall on soil
- [Section Manager’s Report December 2024](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/11/27/section-managers-report-december-2024/) - Here we go again! Another silly season is upon us. Where between contacts we are writing Santa Ham for that special toy to find under the tree. Hmmm, someone needs to write a Holiday special we can see every year. Of course, I use this time of year to assess how we have been doing
- [Ham Support for Sawmill River 10K Run - January 1, 2025](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/11/18/ham-support-for-sawmill-river-10k-run-january-1-2025/) - Once again the Montague (MA) Parks & Recreation Department has asked for our help during the Sawmill River 10K Run on New Year's Day. In a letter from Jon Dobosz, the Parks and Recreation Director, he thanked the Hams who had provided "critical safety, security and communication services along the race route" in the past.
- [Section Manager's Report November 2024](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/11/04/section-managers-report-november-2024/) - Hello WMA. By now, you are cursing fall every time you look out the window and see all those leaves on the ground. Also knowing the silly season is around the corner. Of course, we all have our Santa Ham list at the ready, right? There is plenty of stuff going on though. I hope
- [Nov 10 2024 WMA ARES SET Instructions](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/11/03/nov-10-2024-wma-ares-set-instructions/) - The following is the Simulated Emergency Test for the Western Massachusetts Section for the calendar year 2024. The test period will run from 0830 to 1200 local (1230-1700 Zulu) Sunday, 10 November 2024. SITUATION (What is happening?) Tropical Storm Hiram formed in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico and rapidly intensified before making landfall
- [WMA ARES 2024 Simulated Emergency Test Plan](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/10/27/wma-ares-2024-simulated-emergency-test-plan/) - Introduction The following is the Simulated Emergency Test for the Western Massachusetts Section for the calendar year 2024. The test period will run from 0830 to 1200 local (1230-1700 Zulu) Sunday, 10 November 2024. SITUATION (What is happening?) Tropical Storm Hiram formed in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico and rapidly intensified before making
- [Algonquin ARC Flea Market, Marlborough, February 15, 2025](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2025/01/17/algonquin-arc-flea-market-marlborough-february-15-2025/) - The Algonquin Amateur Radio Club will hold its Marlborough Flea Market on February 15, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the 1Lt Charles W. Whitcomb School, 25 Union St., Marlborough, MA. Talk-in is on the MMRA repeater, 147.27+ (PL 146.2). A VE session will be held beginning at 9:00 AM. General admission is $5.
- [2024 WMA ARES Simulated Emergency Test Tentatively Scheduled](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/10/14/2024-wma-ares-simulated-emergency-test-tentatively-scheduled/) - The Western Massachusetts ARES Section will be holding a Simulated Emergency Test next month. The tentative date is Sunday, 10 November though that is subject to change. The test will involve stations reporting damage after a severe storm and flooding. Further information will follow on the WMA ARES email list and on normally scheduled WMA
- [Congrats to HCRA for Winning the ARRL New England Club Newsletter 2024 Award](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/09/29/congrats-to-hcra-for-winning-the-arrl-new-england-club-newsletter-2024-award/) - A bit late, but good news, nonetheless. Congratulations to the Hampden County Radio Club for coming in first place at this year's ARRL New England Club Newsletter Awards. More details here:https://nediv.arrl.org/2024/08/27/new-england-club-newsletter-award-2024/
- [Section Manager’s Report October 2024](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/10/01/section-managers-report-october-2024/) - Hello earthlings! It’s October and it’s that time for raking leaves, cooler weather, and NEAR-Fest which is on the 4th and 5th. Remember, it is at a new location in New Boston, NH. Hope to see you there. If anyone is interested in Traffic Handling, I am hosting a training session on how to send,
- [ARRL New England Division Director Elections](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/09/28/arrl-new-england-division-director-elections/) - Greetings all, As you know, we have an election for the division director to serve the next three years here in New England. Fred Kemmerer AB1OC is the incumbent and Tom Frenaye K1KI is the challenger. Below I have an message from Phil Temples K9HI as to the elections with instruction on voting as it
- [NTS Training on Zoom](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/09/09/nts-training-on-zoom/) - Interested in NTS and Traffic Handling? Join us Monday, October 14 at 7PM on Zoom and receive training. Hosted by Ray AA1SE (ARRL Western MA Section Manager) and joined by Marcia KW1U (Eastern MA, Western MA and RI Section Traffic Manager), Bob KC1KVY, and Shawn N1CVO, we will provide the training on the basics of
- [Section Manager's Report September 2024](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/09/07/section-managers-report-september-2024/) - Well, here it is. The end of summer 2024. Wow, did it scream by! It also was a toasty one too. How many operated at the beach? I have pretty much recovered from HamXposition. Again, I was a lovely shade of red. That is a HOT parking lot! Why do I do this you ask?
- [NoBARC Hamfest August 11](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/08/06/nobarc-hamfest-august-11/) - The Northern Berkshire Amateur Radio Club will be holding it's annual hamfest on Sunday, August 11. The hamfest will be held at the George Bowe Field (Adams Agricultural Fair Grounds), located directly off of Route 8 in Adams, MA. Gates open at 6:30 AM for vendors and sellers, 7:00 AM for buyers. Admission is $5
- [Section Manager's Report August 2024](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/08/04/section-managers-report-august-2024/) - Hello, we are now getting to a busy month as clubs are having gatherings, doing POTA activations and working on your tan. Radio in the summer has all kinds of opportunities. Hope you partake in some of them. The League is still having issues within their system. LOTW and the Learning Center and others are
- [Section Manager's Report July 2024](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/07/12/section-managers-report-july-2024/) - Hi there, I meant to write this right after Field Day! Whoops! Been busy, Geritol wore out, senility, your choice. So, June and July are here and we have had heat, rain, humidity, I guess that means we had Field Day. Yep, another toasty, wet event. Good news is we survived! Yours truly did take
- [Section Manager’s Report June 2024](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/05/31/section-managers-report-june-2024/) - Rest in peace MFJ and You Do It Electronics. I don’t know about you; free enterprise and small business seems to be dying rapidly. I think the advancements of technology has a bad side when you look at a computer and just order something. No customer service, no travel, large corporations just getting fatter and
- [New WMA Amateurs from March and April 2024](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/05/14/new-wma-amateurs-from-march-and-april-2024/) - Please welcome the recent licensed amateur radio operators in the WMA section! Tracy L Rondinello, KC1UHJPO Box 912Chicopee, MA 01021-0912 Alfredo Rossitto, KC1UNN972 North Street ExtFeeding Hills, MA 01030-1522 Christopher R Vyce, KC1UNF350 West St Lot 36Ludlow, MA 01056-1069 Thomas J Lopes, KC1UHY297 Howard StLudlow, MA 01056-2814 Justin F Herzig, KC1UHO141 Depot RdNorth Hatfield, MA
- [Section Managers Report May 2024](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/05/02/section-managers-report-may-2024/) - Hello, it has been a relatively quiet month of April, but on the other hand it was busy. I guess the big one is the Boston Marathon. That event came and went very successfully. From my seat, things went a lot smoother than ever. Everyone knew what to do and how to do it. Kudos
- [New England QSO Party, May 4-5, 2024](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/04/24/new-england-qso-party-may-4-5-2024/) - The New England QSO Party on May 4th and 5th is a great time to check out antenna systems and offers a moderately paced opportunity to work new states and countries. You’ll find a wide variety of participants, from newcomers to experienced contesters, all interested in making contacts with New England stations. Our goal is
- [EmComm Training Opportunities](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/04/21/emcomm-training-opportunities/) - There's a couple EmComm training opportunities that have come up that might be of interest to everyone. First is that the training schedule for WX1BOX SKYWARN has recently been published. First come, first serve on class reservations, and many classes have already been filled. This training is highly recommended to anyone interested in being a
- [13 Colonies Special Event Looking for Local Ham Radio Ops](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/04/01/13-colonies-special-event-looking-for-local-ham-radio-ops/) - The planning for the 2024 13 Colonies Special Event stations is in motion. I am looking for more ops for K2H Massachusetts. The event runs from July 1 to July 7 and is usable on all frequencies and all modes. You just need to keep a log that you can submit to me right after the
- [Section Manager’s Report April 2024](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/03/30/section-managers-report-april-2024/) - Wait for it…Wait… Where is Spring??? The Sun and warm! HURRY UP! That is the general feeling. Nice days but cold and rainy days warm. Wait for it. I got some club visits in this month and am VERY happy to say that I am seeing some growth in attendance and in memberships. There was
- [Free Extra License Class](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/03/23/free-extra-license-class/) - Extra-Class-FlyerDownload
- [Section Manager’s Report March 2024](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/03/13/section-managers-report-march-2024/) - Well, hello! Miss me? I had originally planned to get this out after the Mt. Tom hamfest to report about it. Then I discovered I have a noise issue at my QTH I am tracking down. Next thing I see is Gil WK1H giving me a gentile nudge about my report and 10 days into
- [New WMA Amateurs from February 2024](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/03/11/new-wma-amateurs-from-february-2024/) - Please welcome the recent licensed amateur radio operators in the WMA section! Scott B Paterson, KC1UFL17 N Blandford RdBlandford, MA 01008-9525 Richard A Aldrich, KC1UGY900 N West StFeeding Hills, MA 01030-1019 Joseph F McLean, KC1UGPPO Box 605Wales, MA 01081-0605 Matthew M Digiovanni, KC1UCZ115 Franklin StLee, MA 01238-1640 Suriana Y Lee, KC1UEG265 Greylock StLee, MA 01238-9483
- [HamXposition 2024 Program Update](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/02/22/6186/) - Bob DeMattia K1IW writes on the HamXposition mail list: HamXposition 2024 is coming to the Best Western Royal Plaza in Marlborough August 22-25 Here's our February program update - keep reading to find out what we have in store. Online ticketing is available now at hamxposition.org. General Admission is $18 and covers all days. Students
- [MTARA Hamfest on March 2](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/02/20/mtara-hamfest-on-march-2/) - The Mount Tom Amateur Repeater Association is holding its annual Amateur Radio and Electronics Hamfest on Saturday, March 2, 2024 at the Castle of Knights, 1599 Memorial Drive in Chicopee. All amateurs and those interested are invited! Admission is $5 for adults and children 12 and under are free. Doors open at 6:30 AM for
- [New WMA Amateurs from January 2024](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/02/18/new-wma-amateurs-from-january-2024/) - Please welcome the recent licensed amateur radio operators in the WMA section! Joshua S Hiller, KC1UCD8 McKinley AveEasthampton, MA 01027-2014 Nunzio Bruno, KC1TYF15 Benton Dr Ste 8East Longmeadow, MA 01028-3232 Brad A Shimel, KC1TYI114 Lake StFlorence, MA 01062-1321 Charles R Smith, KC1UAFPO Box 517Greenfield, MA 01302-0517 Ronald R Coler, KC1UAO168 Bailey RdShelburne Falls, MA 01370-9475
- [NEAR-Fest April XXXV April 25th and 26th 2024](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/02/06/near-fest-april-xxxv-april-25th-and-26th-2024/) - Ed.: Originally posted in the NEAR-Fest forums here. Dear Friends of NEAR-Fest! *** Please note this is an updated announcement. ****** Please disregard any other notices you may have read. ***Our Spring 2024 hamfest, NEAR-Fest XXXV, will be held FOR TWO FULL DAYS, on:*** Thursday April 25th *** and *** Friday April 26th *** There
- [Section Manager's Report February 2024](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/02/01/section-managers-report-february-2024/) - This has certainly been a busy month of January, and I am cautiously optimistic in seeing an increase in activity in this section but elsewhere. Time will tell if it takes hold, there are a lot of things being worked on that will have an influence on it. First of all, there was the ARRL
- [Algonquin ARC Flea Market, Marlborough, February 17, 2024](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/01/28/algonquin-arc-flea-market-marlborough-february-17-2024/) - The Algonquin Amateur Radio Club will hold its Marlborough Flea Market on February 17, 2024 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the 1Lt Charles W. Whitcomb School, 25 Union St., Marlborough, MA. Talk-in is on the MMRA repeater, 147.27+ (PL 146.2). A VE session will be held beginning at 9:00 AM. General admission is $5.
- [New Website Launch](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2015/01/15/new-website-launch/) - We've relaunched the Western Massachusetts ARRL website on a new platform. Please feel free to send and any all relevant content and especially latest club news and bulletins to the webmaster. I'll be happy to post relevant amateur radio related news from around or that affects the WMA section here. Thanks for visiting!
- [2015 Boston Marathon Volunteer Registration Opens](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2015/01/17/2015-boston-marathon-volunteer-registration-opens/) - UPDATE: Marathon volunteer registration ends on February 10. If you intend on volunteering, please register before then. Registration for ham volunteers at 2015 Boston Marathon is now open. There is a different registration procedure this year, so please read the following information carefully. This year, the Boston Athletic Association is requiring all volunteers, including the
- [MTARA 27th Annual Amateur Radio & Electronics Hamfest](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2015/01/23/mtara-27th-annual-amateur-radio-electronics-hamfest/) - The Mount Tom Amateur Repeater Association will hold their 27th Annual Amateur Radio & Electronics Hamfest on Saturday March 7, 2015 at 8:30 AM. The hamfest will be at the Moose Family Center/Chicopee Falls Moose Lodge 1849, 244 Fuller Road, Chicopee, MA 01020. The hamfest will feature raffle tickets / prizes, a VE exam session, and more. Admission is
- [Looking for More NCS's for WMA ARES HF Net](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2015/02/17/looking-for-more-ncss-for-wma-ares-hf-net/) - John, W1JWN is seeking at least two additional net control stations for the Sunday morning (0830 local) Western Mass Emergency HF Net on 80m phone (40m alternate) to work in a weekly rotation. If you are interested, please contact him at W1JWN. Thanks! John, N2YHKWMA SEC
- [Spring NEAR-Fest Continues, FreeFest Aspect Postponed](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2015/03/12/spring-near-fest-continues-freefest-aspect-postponed/) - Dear Friends of NEAR-Fest: It is with great regret and sadness that I must inform the radio amateurs and electronic hobbyists of New England that the NEAR-Fest Board of Directors finds it necessary to POSTPONE the FreeFest aspect of NEAR-FEST XVII that was scheduled for May 2015. It will be held at a later date.
- [Yankee Clipper Contest Club Open House](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2015/03/19/yankee-clipper-contest-club-open-house/) - The Yankee Clipper Contest Club, one of the largest Ham Radio clubs in the Northeast, is proud to open it's doors to the general Ham population of the area! We invite all hams to come and experience one of our meetings. We will be presenting special material, of interest to all hams who operate the HF
- [H.R. 1301](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2015/06/03/h-r-1301/) - This just sent out to all Section Managers: At the time I'm writing this, H.R. 1301 has 64 co-sponsors, with a few more expected by the end of the week. That's excellent, but we need more. A lot more. Some of you have done e-mail bulletins encouraging members to meet with and write to their
- [Relay for Life of Greater Gardner Special Event Station](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2015/06/09/relay-for-life-of-greater-gardner-special-event-station/) - The Mohawk Amateur Radio Club will be running special event station N1C "Number 1 Cure" at the Relay for Life of Greater Gardner on Friday, June 12th and Saturday, June 13th 2015. 2000 UTC Friday until 2200 UTC Saturday. The goal is use amateur radio to raise awareness of the great work of the American Cancer
- [Western MA Official Observer Coordinator N1FI, SK](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2015/06/26/western-ma-official-observer-coordinator-n1fi-sk/) - It is with deep regret that we note that passing of the Western MA Official Observer Coordinator Paul Loiero N1FI. Paul will be missed by all. More on Paul is available here.
- [Gov. Baker and MA State Senate Give Amateur Radio Proclamations for Field Day Weekend](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2015/06/28/gov-baker-and-ma-state-senate-give-amateur-radio-proclamations-for-field-day-weekend/) - Western MA Section Manager Ed Emco W1KT has been able to secure proclamations from the governor and the state senate proclaiming that Field Day weekend is Amateur Radio weekend in Massachusetts!
- [Revitalized Massachusetts / Rhode Island Phone Net](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2015/10/06/revitalized-massachusetts-rhode-island-phone-net/) - We are very happy to announce, that, beginning next Tuesday, October 6, we will be reinstating the Massachusetts Rhode Island Phone Net, MARIPN. The net will meet on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 1800 hours local time. The net frequency will be 3978 KHz, plus or minus to avoid QRM. The primary purpose of the
- [QST to All Massachusetts Hams - S1685 Needs You!](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2015/11/12/qst-to-all-massachusetts-hams-s1685-needs-you/) - recently received a personalized note from ARRL President Kay Craigie N3KN regarding how important Massachusetts amateur radio operators are for the passage of S. 1685, The Amateur Radio Parity Act of 2015 right now. She writes: We are at a critical time for S. 1685, The Amateur Radio Parity Act of 2015, in the United
- [Boxboro Updates](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2016/02/24/boxboro-updates/) - Phil Temples, K9HI, Program Chair for the ARRL New England Division Convention at Boxboro sends his regards and has provided a couple of updates on this year's convention. As previously announced, the New England Division Convention is now an annual event. Please note the date change for the convention: September 9-11, 2016. Last, the Boxboro Committee is
- [KA1OTQ, Southern Worcester County DEC, SK](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2016/03/18/ka1otq-southern-worcester-county-dec-sk/) - It is with regret and sadness that we must convey that the Southern Worcester County DEC Bob Beausoleil KA1OTQ has recently passed away and become a Silent Key. Bob was involved with amateur radio in the section and locally for several decades, including being Sutton Chain of Lights Communications Coordinator and being the Net Manager for the
- [Training for ARES ECs, DECs, SECs](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2016/04/28/training-for-ares-ecs-decs-secs/) - ARRL Headquarters will be offering a training session for ARES Emergency Coordinators, District Emergency Coordinators and Section Emergency Coordinators on local, section, and state level Memorandums of Understanding for ARES. The training webinar will be Tuesday May 24, 2016 at 8pm Eastern Time. You may register for the webinar here. The webinar will be recorded
- [New England QSO Party](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2016/04/28/new-england-qso-party/) - The New England QSO Party is coming up the first full weekend in May. Time for New England stations to be the hunted! The contest runs in two sessions over the weekend: 2000Z Saturday May 7 until 0500Z Sunday May 8 (4pm EDT Saturday until 1am EDT Sunday) 1300Z Sunday May 8 until 2400Z Sunday
- [MARS to Conduct Interoperability Exercise with Amateur Radio Community](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2016/10/10/mars-to-conduct-interoperability-exercise-with-amateur-radio-community/) - From 30 October through 1 November, members of the Military Auxiliary Radio System will be conducting a quarterly Department of Defense Contingency Communications exercise. The purpose of this quarterly exercise is train on our ability to provide communications following a “very bad day” scenario when traditional forms of communications will likely be unavailable. While the
- [2017 Boston Marathon Looking for Ham Radio Volunteers](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2017/01/18/2017-boston-marathon-looking-for-ham-radio-volunteers/) - Volunteer registration is open for the 2017 Boston Marathon! Sign up today on the BAA's web site. You don’t need to specify any group name or passcode. Just make sure you request at least one ham radio assignment in your preferences. Once you get your application confirmation number, you’re all set. If you’re a returning
- [New England QSO Party](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2017/04/06/new-england-qso-party-2/) - The NEQP is a great time to check out antenna systems and offers a moderately paced opportunity to work new states and countries. You'll find a wide variety of participants, from newcomers to experienced contesters, all interested in making contacts with New England stations. We're working to make sure that all of the New England
- [Call for Speakers for Boxboro](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2017/05/10/call-for-speakers-for-boxboro/) - Don't just attend Boxboro 2017 - BE A PART OF IT! The Boxboro Committee seeks fresh and exciting presentations for this year's ARRL New England Division Convention, September 8-10, 2017. We're looking for talks of both a technical and non-technical nature. As a Boxboro speaker, you will have the opportunity to share your subject and knowledge
- [WMA STM Looking for Help with the MA/RI Phone Net](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2017/05/21/wma-stm-looking-for-help-with-the-ma-ri-phone-net/) - We would sure like to see some representation of WMA stations on the combined section phone net - the MA/RI Phone Net - which meets on 3978 kHz at 6 PM Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Thanks, Marcia Forde KW1UEastern MA / Western MA Section Traffic Manager
- [Ray Lajoie KB1LRL Elected Next WMA Section Manager](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2017/09/13/ray-lajoie-kb1lrl-elected-next-wma-section-manager/) - Nominations for ARRL Western Massachusetts Section Manager closed on last Friday, September 8th. Only one WMA ARRL member submitted nomination paperwork for the election. As a result, Ray Lajoie KB1LRL won the uncontested election. Ray hails from Lunenburg and has long been a member and highly involved with the Montachusett ARA in a variety of
- [Nominations Open for Section Manager](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2017/07/20/nominations-open-for-section-manager/) - Nominations for Western Massachusetts Section Manager are now open! The term is for two years starting on January 1, 2018. Any candidate for the office of Section Manager must be a resident of the section, a licensed amateur of Technician class or higher, and a full member of the League for a continuous term of
- [ARRL Request to Contact Your US Senators Supporting S1534 - the Amateur Radio Parity Act](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2017/07/26/arrl-request-to-contact-your-us-senators-supporting-s1534-the-amateur-radio-parity-act/) - Dear ARRL member, I am writing to you today because we are at a crossroad in our efforts to obtain passage of The Amateur Radio Parity Act. Our legislative efforts scored a major victory in our campaign when The Amateur Radio Parity Act, S. 1534 now moves to the Senate, where we need every Senator
- [Boxboro Speakers & Saturday Grand Banquet](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2017/07/26/boxboro-speakers-saturday-grand-banquet/) - We are still looking for a few more great speakers to fill out our renowned forum program. If you have, or know of someone that has a forum topic, please contact Phil Temples k9hi@boxboro.org, or sign-up on our website at http://boxboro.org/forums-and-classes/speaker-signup. Speakers will receive a $10 coupon toward lunch at the hotel and get reserved
- [Volunteering in Florida ARES Mutual Assistance](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2017/09/19/volunteering-in-florida-ares-mutual-assistance/) - The ARRL has been asked to share the following from the Communications Branch Director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management: "The State of Florida appreciates the service of ARES. State of Florida SEOC and its staff will never request individuals or provide individuals any information on an incident. All requests for individuals in the
- [NCS's and Ops Needed For SATERN SSB Net During Hurricane Maria](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2017/09/22/ncss-and-ops-needed-for-satern-ssb-net-during-hurricane-maria/) - Greetings: The International SATERN SSB Net has been in daily operation from 0900 (CT) / 1400 Z until at least 1800 (CT) / 2300 Z (at least until 900 or 2000 (CT) the last two days) since this past Tuesday, 19 September 2017. SATERN had initially planned on terminating the Net operations for Hurricane Maria by today, Friday, 22
- [From ARRL President: Relief Efforts Need Your Help](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2017/09/26/from-arrl-president-relief-efforts-need-your-help/) - Dear ARRL Member: There are few times when I have needed to reach out directly to you for your help. This is one of those times. The American Red Cross (ARC) has asked ARRL for assistance with relief efforts in Puerto Rico. In the nearly 75-year relationship between ARRL and ARC, this is the first
- [Ham Radio Clubs Brings JOTA to the Scouts](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2017/10/25/ham-radio-clubs-brings-jota-to-the-scouts/) - On September 21st at 7am, three radio clubs converged at the district Boy Scouts headquarters in Lancaster, MA to introduce amateur radio to the local scouts for the 60th annual JOTA event. The Scouts and their parents and other leaders were given a demonstration of some of the many facets of Ham Radio. The three
- [Communications Interoperability Training with Amateur Radio Community Set](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2017/10/28/communications-interoperability-training-with-amateur-radio-community-set/) - Elements of the US Department of Defense (DOD) will conduct a “communications interoperability” training exercise November 4-6, once again simulating a “very bad day” scenario. Amateur Radio and MARS organizations will take part. “This exercise will begin with a national massive coronal mass ejection event which will impact the national power grid as well as all
- [KB1LRL Reaches Out Regarding Section Field Appointments](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2017/12/03/kb1lrl-reaches-out-regarding-section-field-appointments/) - send me an email. I ask to also please spread the word to the various clubs and let them know as well. I will be reviewing all based on qualifications, and their involvement and participation currently. I will be emailing others with existing WMA ARRL field appointments to see what their wishes are. But, I
- [Volunteer Registration for Boston Marathon Now Open](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/01/05/volunteer-registration-for-boston-marathon-now-open/) - Volunteer registration is open for the 2018 Boston Marathon! Sign up today on the BAA's web site. You don’t need to specify any group name or passcode. Just make sure you request at least one ham radio assignment in your preferences. Once you get your application confirmation number, you’re all set. If you’re a returning volunteer, you’ll
- [Learn CW Training Net on VHF](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/01/09/learn-cw-training-net-on-vhf/) - The Central Massachusetts Amateur Radio Association will be conducting a "Learn CW Training Net" on the Club Repeater W1BIM on 146.97 PL 114.8 on Monday Nights at 7:30 PM starting January 15. Greg WA1JXR will be your Net Control Operator and CW Instructor. The purpose of the Net is to teach Ham Radio Operators new
- [FCARC to Support the Greenfield Winter Carnival Sleigh Bell Race](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/01/19/fcarc-to-support-the-greenfield-winter-carnival-sleigh-bell-race/) - The Greenfield Winter Carnival Sleigh Bell Race will be held on Saturday, February 3, 2018. The Franklin County Amateur Radio Club will be supporting this event as they have in the past. The amateur radio support team will meet at the Hope and Olive Restaurant. Because of last year's UHF frequency disaster, and the new
- [Section Manager Report for January 2018](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/01/28/section-manager-report-for-january-2018/) - Ray, KB1LRL
- [Algonquin ARC Hamfest](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/02/04/algonquin-arc-hamfest/) - WMA Section Manager Ray Lajoie KB1LRL is planning on attending the hamfest. Hope to see you there!
- [Mount Tom ARA Hamfest](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/02/19/mount-tom-ara-hamfest/) - WMA Section Manager Ray Lajoie KB1LRL is planning on attending the hamfest.
- [Section Manager Report for February 2018](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/02/25/section-manager-report-for-february-2018/) - Ray KB1LRL
- [Framingham Ham Flea Market](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/03/29/framingham-ham-flea-market/) - WMA Section Manager Ray Lajoie KB1LRL is planning on attending the hamfest.
- [ARMY MARS to reach out to Amateur Stations for Reception Reports](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/03/19/army-mars-to-reach-out-to-amateur-stations-for-reception-reports/) - Due to current events, the BBC has resumed shortwave broadcasts into Ukraine and Russia. In order to improve Amateur to MARS communications, MARS stations will be requesting to see if amateur stations can provide a reception report for these BBC transmissions. The BBC broadcasts are : Frequency English Broadcast 15730 KHz 1300-1500Z 5875 KHz 2000-2200Z
- [MTARA Hamfest on March 4](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/02/14/mtara-hamfest-on-march-4/) - The Mount Tom Amateur Repeater Association is holding its annual Amateur Radio and Electronics Hamfest on Saturday, March 4, 2023 at the Castle of Knights, 1599 Memorial Drive in Chicopee. All amateurs and those interested are invited! Admission is $5 for adults and children 12 and under are free. Doors open at 6:30 AM for
- [Free Technician Licensing Class](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/01/02/free-technician-licensing-class/) - Hello folks, Happy New Year! We are now announcing our next Technician License Class! It will start on Tuesday, January 23. Feel free to pass it along to those interested. Here is the registration link: https://forms.gle/55TYRqkYPNgMVkFe9 I hope everyone has a great New Year! ThanksRay-AA1SE Jan-2024-Tech-FlyerDownload
- [New WMA Amateurs from December 2023](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/01/10/new-wma-amateurs-from-december-2023/) - Please welcome the recent licensed amateur radio operators in the WMA section! Robert Rostron, KC1TVJ125 LaBelle CirChicopee, MA 01020-4704 Jonathan R Sweeney, KC1TVC243 Pearl StFitchburg, MA 01420-2651
- [Section Manager Report January 2024](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2024/01/01/section-manager-report-january-2024/) - Greetings to 2024! I think personally ‘23 was a challenge and some things I would rather forget! Not section wise though. I think things in the section went fairly well. Let’s highlight what has gone on. I have been working with a group revitalizing the NTS system called NTS 2.0. We have now launched the
- [Ham Radio Support for the Sawmill River 10k Run - January 1, 2024](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/12/24/ham-radio-support-for-the-sawmill-river-10k-run-january-1-2024/) - For several years now, Hams from this area have provided communications for the Sawmill River Run, a 10 kilometer run in Montague Center on New Years Day. I am organizing the effort this year. Some of you have helped in the past and others may be new to this event, but I welcome as many of you
- [Foxhunt in South Windsor CT on New Years Day](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/12/19/foxhunt-in-south-windsor-ct-on-new-years-day/) - Greetings Foxhunters, Keeping with tradition, I will be hosting a Foxhunt on New Years Day at 1pm. This hunt will be conducted in the same manner that we have previously conducted live foxhunts. The hunters will assemble at the 91 Ayers Road in South Windsor, CT, home of the old Wapping Elementary School, be set up and ready to start by 1pm.
- [New Morse Code Game “Less is Morse” Now Online](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/12/18/new-morse-code-game-less-is-morse-now-online/) - Originally posted on the New England Division ARRL website: Alan Dove, AB1XW, has released a new game for learning or practicing Morse code. The free game combines several different training options into a single, minimalist control panel. An HTML version that runs in most modern browsers is available, or users can download native versions for
- [Boston Marathon 2024 Volunteer Registration Now Open](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/12/09/boston-marathon-2024-volunteer-registration-now-open/) - Volunteer registration for the 2024 Boston Marathon opened yesterday. Returning volunteers have received an email from the BAA that included registration instructions. In order to make registration as smooth as possible, we are providing specific instructions for our Amateur Radio Operator (ARO) volunteers.If you haven't previously volunteered, or have a friend who would like to
- [New WMA Amateurs from November 2023](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/12/09/new-wma-amateurs-from-november-2023/) - Please welcome the recently licenses amateur radio operators in the WMA section! Stephen Judycki, KC1TQR3 Parkwood DrWilbraham, MA 01095-1323 Robert L Scagliarini, KC1TTD152 Tiffany StSpringfield, MA 01108-3360 Brian E Brazee, KC1TUK28 Backman AvePittsfield, MA 01201-5916 Matthew Heckendorn, KC1TRH9 Crissey RdGt Barrington, MA 01230-1299 James E Jenkins, KC1TQN28 River StBrookfield, MA 01506-1642 Joshua Glover, KC1TTL137 Center
- [K1FFK now on DMR on NEDECN](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/12/08/k1ffk-now-on-dmr-on-nedecn/) - This just posted to the NEDECN Google Group: WESTERN MA and SOUTHERN VT is now connected to NEDECN via the Florida Mtn site,, North Adams, MA. This repeater is sponsored by NoBARC, North Berkshire Amateur Radio Club. THANKS to Eric, KA1SUN for his work on installing this DMR repeater site. More info on the NEDECN
- [Section Manager Report December 2023](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/12/04/section-manager-report-december-2023/) - TOO LATE!!! You blinked your eyes! Another Holiday Season is upon us! Seems like a few days ago I was having surgery and looking forward to the warm, summer days. Oh well! The one thing I need to do is apologize for not visiting the clubs as often as I usually do. I hope to
- [WX1BOX SKYWARN Recognition Day (SRD) 2023 Friday Evening 12/1/23 700 PM ET to Saturday Evening 12/2/23 700 PM ET](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/12/01/wx1box-skywarn-recognition-day-srd-2023-friday-evening-12-1-23-700-pm-et-to-saturday-evening-12-2-23-700-pm-et/) - Hello to all.. **Our apologies for the delays in getting this SRD update out as the 2 storm events from just before Thanksgiving, Monday Morning and some ongoing marginally strong wind gusts have been the focus of the volunteer efforts over the last week or so.** **SKYWARN Recognition Day 2023 will occur from Friday Evening
- [Sutton Chain of Lights](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/11/19/sutton-chain-of-lights-4/) - President Valerie Moore KC1COQ of the Worcester EmComm Team writes: Craig Shea from the Sutton Chain of Lights is again requesting assistance with communications to coordinate the trolleys for their annual event. We're looking for about 10 amateur radio operators to ride the trolleys and help keep them on schedule moving people around between stops.
- [New WMA Amateurs from October 2023](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/11/11/new-wma-amateurs-from-october-2023/) - Please welcome the recently licenses amateur radio operators in the WMA section! Daniel J Dineen, KC1TQH374 Turkey Hill RdBelchertown, MA 01007-9635 Jeffry Ross, W1JTR49 Belgian WayFitchburg, MA 01420-8935 Robert F Holloway, AC1QA38 SW Main StDouglas, MA 01516-2502 James H Cost, KC1TPP29 Public RdLancaster, MA 01523-1705 Pamela J Welsh, KC1TNG3 Sneade DrOxford, MA 01540-2739 Ethan M
- [Amateur Radio Class in Westfield](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/11/09/amateur-radio-class-in-westfield/)
- [Section Manager Report November 2023](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/11/07/section-manager-report-november-2023/) - Hello, I see that all those green leaves have fallen off the tree’s and landed on my yard! Yep, bust out the coats and jackets, winter is coming. I’m sure some of you are rustling in the leaves and making sure your antennas are ready to withstand winter’s wrath. Now the indoor projects will take
- [New WMA Amateurs from September 2023](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/10/11/new-wma-amateurs-from-september-2023/) - Please welcome the recently licenses amateur radio operators in the WMA section! Donald A Shebell, KC1TJT7 Meadow StGill, MA 01354-9708 Catherine A Stone, KC1TJU9 Forest DrAuburn, MA 01501-2116 Earlsworth A LeBlanc, KC1TLQ106 Green StNorthborough, MA 01532-1012 Edward B Boulter, KC1TKD12 Westview AveShrewsbury, MA 01545-2211 Horace V Dufresne, KC1TJX16 Cotton Mill WayUxbridge, MA 01569-2626 John Casey,
- [BAA Half Marathon – Sunday 11/12/23 – Volunteers Still Needed](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/10/22/baa-half-marathon-sunday-11-12-23-volunteers-still-needed/) - NN1C-Marty Sullaway – Amateur Radio Team Captain for the BAA Half Marathon Hi Folks, The BAA Half Marathon will take place on Sunday, November 12, 2023. I am serving as the Amateur Radio Team Captain for the event. The start and end of the race are in Franklin Park in Boston, and the route is
- [Western Massachusetts Amateur Radio Emergency Service to hold annual emergency test](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/10/15/western-massachusetts-amateur-radio-emergency-service-to-hold-annual-emergency-test/) - UPDATE 10/15 08:51 AM: ICS form download updated to version 3. The Western Massachusetts section of the Amateur Radio Emergency Service will hold their 2023 Simulated Emergency Test from 10:00 AM local time on Saturday, 21 October to 10:00 AM local time on Sunday, 22 October 2023. This test will involve ARES members attempting to
- [Ham Radio General License Class!](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/10/09/ham-radio-general-license-class/) - The Western Mass. Train & Test Group would like to invite you to a FREE on-line course so you can earn your Amateur Radio General Class License.Free On-Line classes will start Tuesday Oct. 17 on ZoomClasses will be Tuesday and Thursday Evenings starting at 7 PMSign Up with sign-up form: https://forms.gle/uMunRUaLXST4wyLz8Questions, contact Ray Lajoie via
- [NEAR-Fest, Deerfield NH, October 13-14, 2023](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/10/06/near-fest-deerfield-nh-october-13-14-2023/) - he New England Amateur Radio Festival (NEAR-Fest) will be held Friday October 13 and Saturday, October 14 at the Deerfield, New Hampshire, Fairgrounds. Besides the flea market, we will have a full slate of forums during the day on Friday. While we encourage everyone to attend the show, the forums will also be available to
- [Section Manager Report for October 2023](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/10/04/section-manager-report-for-october-2023/) - Hello Western Mass! I must be doing a great job or no one is paying attention or ….? My re-election was another landslide again. Yup, no one else stepped up. So, your stuck with me for another 2 years. I am a tad late getting this out as we have wrapped up the Big E
- [ARISS Proposal Window Opens, October 1—November 10, 2023](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/09/28/ariss-proposal-window-opens-october-1-november-10-2023/) - Ed: This news was originally posted on the ARRL New England Division website. It is being offered here upon request. ARISS News Release No. 23-47 Dave Jordan, AA4KN ARISS PRFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEMessage to US EducatorsAmateur Radio on the International Space Station Contact OpportunityCall for Proposals New Proposal Window: October 1 – November 10, 2023 September
- [New WMA Amateurs from Summer 2023](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/09/09/new-wma-amateurs-from-summer-2023/) - Please welcome the recently licenses amateur radio operators in the WMA section! David M Orr, KC1SYE54 Hills RdAmherst, MA 01002-1839 Thomas A Janas, KC1SXZ570 S Washington StBelchertown, MA 01007-9324 Steven M Hajko, KC1SZP28 7th StBrimfield, MA 01010-9662 Stephan B Wurmbrand, K1SWX29 Edwards RdWesthampton, MA 01027-9644 Thomas Tobiasz, KC1SYB198 Emerson RdLongmeadow, MA 01106-1814 Douglas E Nelson,
- [Section Manager Report for September 2023](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/09/07/section-manager-report-for-september-2023/) - I had an interesting realization at the New England Convention that ham’s like to talk about certain things, their radio’s, their antenna’s, the weather, and their joint’s, operations and ailments. The sad part is I BECAME ONE OF THEM! YIKES! The glaring reality is we are not getting any younger and as elder keepers of
- [Membership Challenge](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/08/06/membership-challenge/) - Ed: This post originated from the Maine Section Manager, whom has approved this version being released here. Many of you have already heard of the ARRL board decision to increase membership dues and make changes in the way we receive magazines, such as QST. If not, I invite you to read ARRL President Rick Roderick’s
- [Section Manager Report August 2023](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/08/03/section-manager-report-august-2023/) - Well, that was one gooey, soggy, month! I hope you took some of the month and got away from it…sort of. Hopefully it got it out of its system so there is no problems for August, especially for the convention! Hope to see many of you there. There are some really cool forums this year.
- [HamXposition is Less Than 30 Days Away!](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/07/29/hamxposition-is-less-than-30-days-away/) - HamXposition 2023 (a.k.a. ARRL New England Division Convention) is coming August 25-26-27 – less than 30 days away. Our forum schedule is now available! Come visit our website to browse over 100 forums, seminars, and workshops available at the convention. Two new additions on Friday – an AREDN mesh networking workshop where you will be building your own
- [Volunteer Help Needed for HamXposition 2023](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/07/16/volunteer-help-needed-for-hamxposition-2023/) - HamXposition 2023 is coming to the Best Western Hotel and Conference Center in Marlborough, Mass on August 25, 26 and 27. We are actively looking for volunteers to help keep the convention running smoothly.Among the duties - Setup on August 24 Ticketing, Flea Market and Forum Speaker Help on 25, 26, and 27 Take Down
- [Section Manager Report July 2023](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/06/29/section-manager-report-july-2023/) - Hello everyone, we now blinked our eyes and find that June and Field Day is done. I hope you and your respective club had a great event. I recovered enough to manage 462 miles in club visit traveling. Some of those Mass. roads made comfort a little interesting though. It was great to see everyone.
- [Ham Radio Tech License Class!](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/06/13/ham-radio-tech-license-class-2/) - The Western Mass. Train & Test Group would like to invite you to a FREE on-line course so you can earn your Amateur Radio Technician License.Free On-Line classes will start Tuesday June 20 on ZoomClasses will be Tuesday and Thursday Evenings starting at 7 PMSign Up with sign-up form: https://forms.gle/uMunRUaLXST4wyLz8Questions, contact Ray Lajoie via e-mail
- [New WMA Amateurs from May 2023](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/06/10/new-wma-amateurs-from-may-2023/) - Please welcome the recently licenses amateur radio operators in the WMA section! David M Orr, KC1SYE54 Hills RdAmherst, MA 01002-1839 Thomas A Janas, KC1SXZ570 S Washington StBelchertown, MA 01007-9324 Steven M Hajko, KC1SZP28 7th StBrimfield, MA 01010-9662 Stephan B Wurmbrand, K1SWX29 Edwards RdWesthampton, MA 01027-9644 Thomas Tobiasz, KC1SYB198 Emerson RdLongmeadow, MA 01106-1814 Douglas E Nelson,
- [We Need Your Help to Staff the Big E Booth](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/06/07/we-need-your-help-to-staff-the-big-e-booth/) - We are doing another ham radio booth at the Big E this September. The dates are Friday, September 15th through Sunday, October 1st. The goal is to introduce ham radio to the general public, show that it is still relevant, and to interest the public in signing up for ham courses. Just like last year
- [Section Manager Report June 2023](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/06/06/section-manager-report-june-2023/) - Guess what! It’s June and that means one thing to us hams…Field Day! We are out there checking radio’s, antenna’s generators, and all the other goodies we need to stuff in our vehicles and bring it to your home for 2 days. I hope everyone has a fun time. Remember to promote the hobby to
- [Section Manager Report May 2023](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/05/15/section-manager-report-may-2023/) - Hello! Sorry for being a little late. As I indicated last month, I had a little encounter with a surgeon and fortunately everything went well. Now I am dealing with the post op goodies like tiredness and pain that some cool medications tend to help with. Warm weather is returning albeit a little on the
- [New WMA Amateurs from April 2023](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/05/14/new-wma-amateurs-from-april-2023/) - Please welcome the recently licenses amateur radio operators in the WMA section! Connor Blodgett, KC1SXG27 Christian Hill Rd Apt 37Great Barrington, MA 01230-1145 John Richardson, KC1SUJ22 Woodsia RdgGreenfield, MA 01301-1148 Theodore J Boyer, KC1SUD251 Wells StGreenfield, MA 01301-1614 Derek J Wheeler, KC1SVP58 Bancroft StGardner, MA 01440-1960 Judy Baumhover, KC1SXD19 E Bare Hill RdHarvard, MA 01451-1852
- [ETO WinLink Exercise - Friday Evening 5/12/23-Early Monday Morning 5/15/23](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/05/14/eto-winlink-exercise-friday-evening-5-12-23-early-monday-morning-5-15-23/) - Hello to all… The Emergency Training Organization (ETO) WinLink Exercise begins this Friday Evening 5/12/23 through early Monday Morning 5/15/23 where participants have a wide range of time to send a Winlink message via ETO instructions from 800 PM EDT - Friday Evening 5/12/23 through 259 AM EDT Monday Morning 5/15/23. We encourage all Amateurs
- [New England QSO Party](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/04/24/new-england-qso-party-8/) - The New England QSO Party will be held on May 6th and 7th. Now's your chance to be the sought after stations instead of the other way around! The NEQP is a great time to check out antenna systems and offers a moderately paced opportunity to work new states and countries. You'll find a wide
- [13 Colonies Special Event](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/04/25/13-colonies-special-event-4/) - It's 13 Colonies time again and that means Massachusetts K2H is looking for ham that would like to activate. The special event runs 7 days from July 1 through July 7. Team K2H is looking for ops. Last year we worked over 21,300 Qso's during those 7 days. We are hoping to exceed that this
- [Groton Road Race](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/04/23/groton-road-race-4/) - Greetings all, The Groton Road Race has a new course for 2023. The race is scheduled for May 7 and this weekend I received official word that Amateur Radio support is again requested by the Race Committee and Groton Police Department. This is short notice, but we're all prepared for "emergency" service are we not?! The 2023
- [W1AW/1 Massachusetts Volunteers On The Air a Great Success!](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/04/22/w1aw-1-massachusetts-volunteers-on-the-air-a-great-success/) - The Massachusetts Volunteers On The Air was held from April 12th through April 18th. Team VOTA MA consisted of 15 hams contributing to a total of 9449 QSOs. It was a team effort and everyone contributed! I would like to thank the following 15 hams for their part in the MA Spring VOTA effort. They
- [World Amateur Radio Day is April 18](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/04/11/world-amateur-radio-day-is-april-18/) - WARD is held on April 18 every year and is celebrated by radio amateurs and their national associations which are organized as member-societies of the International Amateur Radio Union (IARU). It was on this day in 1925 that the IARU was formed in Paris. American Radio Relay League (ARRL) Co-Founder Hiram Percy Maxim was its
- [Massachusetts Volunteers On The Air Week](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/04/09/massachusetts-volunteers-on-the-air-week/) - Massachusetts is ready and anxious to work everyone for it's Spring VOTA (Volunteers On The Air) week starting Wednesday, April 12th and going through Tuesday, April 19th. We have a team of 17 ops that will be operating on all bands on multiple modes. We even have hams located in "other" states remoting through transmitters
- [WX1BOX SKYWARN Training Schedule 2023](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/04/06/wx1box-skywarn-training-schedule-2023/) - This is this year's WX1BOX SKYWARN Training Schedule. Please note, it includes a special session for those with hearing loss on Wednesday, May 3 from 6:30 to 8:30 PM at the Learning Center for the Deaf in Framingham, MA. Click on the image below for the full size version or visit WX1BOX training schedule on
- [New WMA Amateurs from March 2023](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/04/09/new-wma-amateurs-from-march-2023/) - Please welcome the recently licenses amateur radio operators in the WMA section! John W Fitzsimmons, KC1STE27 Lawnwood StAgawam, MA 01001-3558 Robert J Hunt, KC1STB792 Bay RdAmherst, MA 01002-3544 John M Lapaire, KC1SPV112 N Maple StHadley, MA 01035-9614 Donald A Lafountain, KC1SOY82 Bliss StFlorence, MA 01062-2606 Margaret E Lafountain, KC1SPJ82 Bliss StFlorence, MA 01062-2606 Theodore W
- [Section Manager Report April 2023](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/04/04/section-manager-report-april-2023/) - Ahhhhh….Spring! May it last a long time. At least for 3 months! I’m sure you are looking outside and writing up the list of repairs, cleanup, tree cutting, etc. especially from the most recent storm. I kind of embarrassed myself when I could not assist in storm reporting as my power went out for 12
- [Big E 2023 Here We Come!](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/04/02/big-e-2023-here-we-come/) - Greetings All,We're hard at work getting things into place for this year's Big E. For 2023 it runs Sept 15 to Oct 1. The booth has been reserved, insured, the paperwork signed, and bills paid. A few of us have been talking about making some changes to make the booth more approachable to the public,
- [Western MA Train & Test Group Amateur Extra Class Begins March 28, 2023](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/03/22/western-ma-train-test-group-amateur-extra-class-begins-march-28-2023/) - The Western MA Train & Test Group invites you to a FREE on-line course so that you, too, can upgrade to the Amateur Extra class license. The free on-line Zoom classes will start Tuesday, March 28, 2023. Classes will be held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 7:00 PM. Sign up at: https://forms.gle/6KT2PCGFnibQdDDF7 Questions? Contact
- [We Need a Little Help!](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/03/22/we-need-a-little-help/) - Hello, we have a couple on needs which we hope you can help with: First Larry, W1AST is looking for someone with some graphic drawing experience who would like to create a QSL card for the upcoming 13 Colonies event coming up. Second, he is also looking for volunteers for the VOTA W1AW/1 event coming
- [ARES and SKYWARN Activation for March 14 Winter Storm](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/03/13/ares-and-skywarn-activation-for-march-14-winter-storm/) - SITUATION As of 1030 on Monday, 13 March 2023 all Western Massachusetts ARES members are notified that a severe winter storm will impact our area during tonight, all day Tuesday, and into Wednesday. We are expecting a large amount of heavy, wet snow and some high winds that are likely to bring about power outages
- [Introducing the New WMA ARES Membership Database](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/03/08/introducing-the-new-wma-ares-membership-database/) - The Western Massachusetts Section has re-started the former Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) membership database. This database was in use up until 2019 or 2020, and contains records going back to at least 2013. We are in the process of cleaning up the membership records, and we are urging every ARES member in the WMA
- [New WMA Amateurs from February 2023](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/03/05/new-wma-amateurs-from-february-2023/) - Please welcome the recently licensed amateur radio operations in the WMA section! Maxim Veremchuk, KC1SKS44 Sprague StWest Springfield, MA 01089-3423 Eric R Schirmer, KC1SLU226 Gray RdTempleton, MA 01468-1142 Willow E Nichols, KC1SMN2 Ledgewood DrBoylston, MA 01505-2034 Declan T Foley, KC1SLO3 Parker PlPrinceton, MA 01541-1235
- [Section Manager Report March 2023](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/03/01/section-manager-report-march-2023/) - Hello, a busy February was in store for me with meetings, visits and planning. This seems to be the preview of what the rest of the year is going to be like. Hamfests are firing up. We just had the Marlboro Hamfest and that was fun. Nice to see a lot of familiar faces there.
- [ARRL New England Town Hall on February 23](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/02/12/arrl-new-england-town-hall-on-february-23/) - ARRL New England Division Director Fred Kemmerer, AB1OC writes: Phil Temples K9HI, our Assistant Directors, and I will hold our next New England Division Town Hall Meeting on Thursday, February 23rd, at 7 pm ET. The purpose of the meeting will be to provide you with an ARRL update, get your thoughts on what we
- [New WMA Amateurs from January 2023](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/02/12/new-wma-amateurs-from-january-2023/) - Please welcome the recently licensed amateur radio operations in the WMA section! Robert L Waring, KC1SJB10 Skyview DrMillbury, MA 01527-3642 Harish Sathishkumar, KC1SIO3 John Matthews RdSouthborough, MA 01772-1522
- [Gardner VE Session from the Western Mass Train and Test Team](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/02/09/gardner-ve-session-from-the-western-mass-train-and-test-team/) - The Western Mass Train and Test Team will be holding a VE session on Saturday, Feb. 11 at 10 AM at the Gardner MA PD on 200 Main St., Gardner, MA. An FCC FRN number, photo ID and 15 dollars is required in order to take the test. No appointment is necessary. Please share this
- [Section Manager's Report February 2023](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/02/07/section-managers-report-february-2023/) - Ed: Due to a website issue, this is posted late. Ray got this to me on time, sorry for the technical issue. Hello, I certainly hope that January isn’t an indicator of the whole year, I’ll go hide somewhere! It all started with my primary computer going bye-bye and it’s been challenging all month since.
- [Algonquin ARC Flea Market, Marlborough, February 19, 2022](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/01/31/algonquin-arc-flea-market-marlborough-february-19-2022/) - The Algonquin Amateur Radio Club will hold its Marlborough Flea Market on February 19, 2022 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the 1Lt Charles W. Whitcomb School, 25 Union St., Marlborough, MA. Talk-in is on the MMRA repeater, 147.27+ (PL 146.2). Any COVID-related updates will be carried on the AARC website at http://n1em.org. A VE
- [Massachusetts Volunteers On The Air, W1AW/1 Sign Up](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/01/28/massachusetts-volunteers-on-the-air-w1aw-1-sign-up/) - This year, the ARRL is honoring volunteers with its Volunteers On The Air (VOTA) operating event. The event starts January 1 and ends December 31, 2023 Twice a year, for one week, each state will be activated as W1AW/1 (for call area 1 Massachusetts, for example). To make this happen, we need ops to get
- [Massachusetts STM Report for December 2022](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/01/28/massachusetts-stm-report-for-december-2022/) - The combined Massachusetts sections traffic report for December 2022 is available at https://ema.arrl.org/massachusetts-stm-report-for-december-2022/. This contains a recap of stats, events and traffic notes for the past year. 1901 net sessions were conducted, with 6,220 messages passed by 12,396 net participants during a total of 539 hours of net operation. These folks love what they do
- [Boston Marathon Registration](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/01/16/boston-marathon-registration/) - Volunteer registration for the 2023 Boston Marathon is open and ongoing. The BAA opened early this year and we’re grateful for new and returning volunteers that have already signed up! For anyone who hasn’t yet, please don’t delay! Volunteer registration closes on Friday, February 10 at 5:00 PM EST. It would help our planning processes
- [New WMA Amateurs from December 2022](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2023/01/05/new-wma-amateurs-from-december-2022/) - Please welcome the recently licensed amateur radio operations in the WMA section! Daniel Tereso, KC1SGB4R Archie StChicopee, MA 01020-1702 Eric J Phinney, KC1SHM197 Bumstead RdMonson, MA 01057-9780 Mike R Balestri, KC1SEW486 Cold Spring AveWest Springfield, MA 01089-3765 Steven Hilliard, KC1SFO98 Douglas RdGardner, MA 01440-1860 Edmund L Bilodeau, KC1SFD27 Ridgewood Ln Apt 24Gardner, MA 01440-2029 Ezrah
- [Section Manager's Report June 2022](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/06/01/section-managers-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
- [HCRA Annual Auction](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/10/23/hcra-annual-auction/) - The Hampden County Radio Association will be holding its Annual Auction. It's a good chance for you to free yourself of unused gear, discover the classic you have been longing for, meet old friends and have fun. When Friday November 4 2022 Where Holyoke Hospital Auxiliary Room: http://www.hcra.org/meeting-location Five minutes from Route 91 Exit 14. Doors
- [Section Manager Report January 2023](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/12/31/section-manager-report-january-2023/) - Hello everyone, Happy New Year! I have some breaking news for you all. Please join me in welcoming Chuck Chandler, WS1L as the new Section Emergency Coordinator. Chuck is from N. Adams and has a background in law enforcement. He is now retired but works part time with the Williamstown PD. I look forward to
- [New WMA Amateurs for November](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/12/19/new-wma-amateurs-for-november/) - Please welcome the recently licensed amateur radio operations in the WMA section! Jacob A Maheu, KC1SCX45 Kopec AveBelchertown, MA 01007-9538 Steven Storie, KC1SDK91 Broadview TerPittsfield, MA 01201-4385 Andrew R Schweitzer, KC1SBI79 Pleasant StDalton, MA 01226-1126 Amanda Menier, KC1SBW271 Log Plain RdGreenfield, MA 01301-1030 Andrew J Drawec, KC1SCZ309 Petersham RdNew Salem, MA 01355-9608
- [SKYWARN Recognition Day (SRD) 2022 is December 3](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/12/02/skywarn-recognition-day-srd-2022-is-december-3/) - Hello to all.. **Our apologies for the delays in getting this SRD update out as the storm event from mid-week has kept us busy. This update adds information to various SRD NWS office operations and our roving repeater schedule.** **SKYWARN Recognition Day 2022 will occur this year and for the first time since 2019, Ops
- [Section Manager Report November 2022](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/12/02/section-manager-report-november-2022/) - Hello, welcome to another silly season. Why I call it that? Simply look around you. Everything goes into hyper-drive. The stores barrage you with ads 5 times a day. Black Friday has grown and had offspring. People have to deal with multiple pressures in concentrated form. Just remember to get away from it for a
- [New WMA Amateurs from October](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/11/13/new-wma-amateurs-from-october/) - Please welcome the recently licensed amateur radio operations in the WMA section! Michael K Williams, AC1NZPO Box 24Amherst, MA 01004-0024 Seth H Blackwell, KC1RYXPO Box 1420Warren, MA 01083-1420 Katherine E Blackwell, KC1RYY285 Cutler RdWarren, MA 01083-7926 Thomas J Juzba, KC1SAA74 Nagle StIndian Orchard, MA 01151-2136 Dominic V Iacopino, KC1RYA1020 Ashby West RdFitchburg, MA 01420-6630 Michel
- [November Section Manager Report](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/11/04/november-section-manager-report/) - Hello, here we go again. Silly Season is approaching once again! I have a feeling the wish list will include heating oil, electricity, etc. One can also think that as uncertainty is gripping the world, how many of us are thinking about radio as a vehicle for international goodwill, or a means to relay a
- [Section Manager Report October 2022](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/10/02/section-manager-report-october-2022/) - Hello! What a month! As most of you know, a lot of us has been immersed in the Big E Project and in a few days it’s all over. This has been a long time in the making and even though there were a couple of hiccups, the majority of us consider this a huge
- [New WMA Amateurs from August and September](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/10/02/new-wma-amateurs-from-august-and-september/) - Please welcome the recently licensed amateur radio operations in the WMA section! Peter Campbell, KC1RTO79 Ashbrook StSpringfield, MA 01118-1202 Kyle D Kobold, KC1RTL130 Silver StLanesborough, MA 01237-7904 Emily A Chase, KC1RRE10 Lowell AveHolden, MA 01520-2134 Vincent J Johnson, KC1RRC40 Killdeer RdWebster, MA 01570-3302
- [BIG E Space Chat is a “Go” on September 27, 2022](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/09/23/big-e-space-chat-is-a-go-on-september-27-2022/) - Fred Kemmerer, AB1OC, writes on the ARRL New England Division members list: Hundreds of The Big E attendees and spectators will be able to watch students make a live contact with an astronaut aboard the International Space Station (ISS) from The Big E Arena on Tuesday, September 27, 2022. Hams who bring an official copy
- [Section Manager Report September 2022](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/09/04/section-manager-report-september-2022/) - Hello! Welcome to September! School’s back in session, vacation’s over and club meetings are back for another season. Just last weekend we had the HamXposition in Marlboro. And as is the theme for this Summer. HOT! I even added an extra treat and volunteered to help set up. I was looking for someone to baste
- [New WMA Amateurs from July](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/08/23/new-wma-amateurs-from-july/) - Please welcome the recently licensed amateur radio operators in the WMA section! Jiaxi Tian, KC1RMN950 N Pleasant St Apt 132Amherst, MA 01002-3155 John S Folliard, KC1RME26 Sheffield DrBelchertown, MA 01007-9522 Daniel J Smith, KC1RKT112 Sheehan DrHolyoke, MA 01040-1024 Cecil Lewis, KC1RINPO Box 455Huntington, MA 01050-0455 Joshua Towse, KC1RIV30 Jefferson StWestfield, MA 01085-2855 Brian O Richards,
- [NoBARC Hamfest on Aug 21](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/08/07/nobarc-hamfest-on-aug-21/) - The Northern Berkshire Amateur Radio Club will be holding it's annual hamfest on Sunday, August 21. The hamfest will be held at the George Bowe Field (Adams Agricultural Fair Grounds), located directly off of Route 8 in Adams, MA. Gates open at 6:30 AM for vendors and sellers, 7:00 AM for buyers. Admission is $5
- [We Need YOU at the Amateur Radio Booth at The BIG E!](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/08/05/we-need-you-at-the-amateur-radio-booth-at-the-big-e/) - Originally posted on the ARRL New England Division website: Amateur Radio will be on public display like never before at The BIG E in West Springfield, MA from September 16 – October 2, 2022. Over a million people will visit the Fair over the 17-day period. We need ham radio “Goodwill Ambassadors” to staff the booth and
- [Section Manager Report August 2022](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/08/01/section-manager-report-august-2022/) - Hello WMA. Welcome to August! I don’t know if you also heard the sonic boom, that’s how fast this year has been going! Our top story is of course The Big E. Larry W1AST, Fred AB1OC. And myself along with others have been immersed in getting this to be a quality experience for all. Not
- [Section Managers Report for July 2022](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/06/30/section-managers-report-for-july-2022/) - Hi everyone, Field Day 2022 is in the books. My day started at 0730 when I started my travels to Windsor Ma. which is between Peru and Hinsdale. It is a pleasant ride with hills and farms etc. There we find our first stop, the NOBARC club. They were setting up for a 4A effort.
- [Stolen Radio Equipment at NEAR-Fest and Other Area Flea Markets](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/06/23/stolen-radio-equipment-at-near-fest-and-other-area-flea-markets/) - Lose something at NEAR-Fest or Other Area Flea Market? Maybe we can help you you can get it back!!!!!! If you had something stolen from your table at a flea market or hamfest in NH or eastern Mass. within the past several years please contact Officer John Delaney of the Deerfield Police Department as soon
- [Project Big E to Highlight Modern Amateur Radio](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/06/10/project-big-e-to-highlight-modern-amateur-radio/) - Project Big E is a 17-day amateur radio exhibit to be held at the 2022 Big E from September 16-October 3, 2022 in West Springfield, Massachusetts. Western Massachusetts ARRL Affiliated Club Coordinator and Hampden County Radio Association president Larry Krainson, W1AST, is the Project Big E General Chairman. The Big E, formerly known as The
- [New England Division Town Hall Meeting](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/06/04/new-england-division-town-hall-meeting/) - Hello Everyone, We are planning our second New England Division Town Hall Meeting on Wednesday, June 15th at 7:30 pm ET. All ARRL members in the New England Division are invited to attend. Our planned topics for this meeting include: An ARRL Update - Fred AB1OC and Phil K9HIUpdates from our Assistant Directors - Anita
- [13 Colonies Special Event](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/05/29/13-colonies-special-event-2/) - This is the last call for any hams in Massachusetts that may want to be a 13 Colonies Team K2H Massachusetts operator. The Special Event runs from July 1 through July 7. We currently have 28 K2H ops and if you would like to join the team, please contact me before June 1 at W1AST@arrl.net.
- [Groton Road Race](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/04/28/groton-road-race-3/) - The Groton Road Race is back! May 15 will be the 29th running of this event. The Groton Police Department and the Race Director have again requested our support this year. The planned event schedule this year is the same as 2019; the two main races (5k and 10k) will start 90 minutes earlier than
- [New England QSO Party](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/04/19/new-england-qso-party-7/) - The New England QSO Party will be held on May 7th and 8th. Now's your chance to be the sought after stations instead of the other way around! The NEQP is a great time to check out antenna systems and offers a moderately paced opportunity to work new states and countries. You'll find a wide
- [2022 World Amateur Radio Day: “Celebrating Amateur Radio’s Contribution to Society”](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/04/16/2022-world-amateur-radio-day-celebrating-amateur-radios-contribution-to-society/) - World Amateur Radio Day, held on April 18 each year, is celebrated worldwide by radio amateurs and their national associations which are organized as member-societies of the International Amateur Radio Union (IARU). It was on this day in 1925 that the IARU was formed in Paris. American Radio Relay League (ARRL) Co-Founder Hiram Percy Maxim was its
- [Department of Defense Zoominar for Communications Exercise, April 21, 2022](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/04/14/department-of-defense-zoominar-for-communications-exercise-april-21-2022/) - Tom Kinahan writes: On Thursday 21 April at 8 pm ET representatives from the US Army Network Enterprise Technology Command will give an unclassified presentation to review the concept of the upcoming DoD Exercise 22-2 which will take place from 2-7 May. Army representatives will briefly describe the concept of the exercise and how amateurs
- [NEAR-Fest XXXI](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/04/13/near-fest-xxxi/) - ATTENTION….. Two weeks to go! New England’s premier radio hobby event……Both days ….huge flea market, forums, ARRL officials in attendance. Friday: AMers W1IA Celebration, “HamJam,” Saturday: VE Exams 10:00 AM. ……… Big door prizes both days (Two Yaesu FT-891s, two SDRplay radios, one each day)……Fun for all! NEAR-Fest XXXI Friday April 29th and Saturday
- [Section Manager’s Report April 2022](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/04/01/section-managers-report-april-2022/) - Greeting’s earthlings! As you may know I had formed a group back in January with 3 clubs to conduct license classes and VE testing. I am pleased to report that the Tech. class has completed and out of 12 people who took the test, 10 passed and 3 of them also took the General and
- [Affiliated Club Coordinator announcement](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/03/23/affiliated-club-coordinator-announcement/) - Hello everyone, Gil Hayes, WK1H has stepped down as our club coordinatordue to job obligations. I wish to thank him for his contribution to thesection. I am pleased to announce that Larry Krainson, W1AST has accepted theposition as club coordinator effective Mar. 22 Larry is currently thePresident of the Hamden club. Larry is a Life
- [13 Colonies](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/03/22/13-colonies/) - Each year from July 1 through July 7 the 13 Colonies special event stations are on the air. The goal is to work all 13 of the colony stations plus the extra bonus stations. This is a fun event that hams of Massachusetts are part of. The call for Massachusetts is K2H. Team K2H is looking
- [RFI teams forming.](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/03/15/rfi-teams-forming/) - Rob Leiden K1UI is a newly appointed Asst. Director and is spearheading a New England wide program to get teams together to train and operate equipment to find, report, repair noise interference. See below for his invitation: One of the biggest problems faced by amateur radio in this era of new technologies is the growth
- [New Hams March 2022](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/03/07/new-hams-march-2022/) - Report for 2022-03-02 Ralph B Cerreta, KC1QNDPO Box 749Cheshire, MA 01225-0749 Michael Leo, KC1QKM110 Pearl Hill RdFitchburg, MA 01420-2004 Evan Hollander, KC1QKB70R Milk StBlackstone, MA 01504-1216 Mozart M Telles, KC1QMR30 Douglas Hill WayDouglas, MA 01516-2257 Howard Shpegel, AC1MN98 Mary Catherine DrLancaster, MA 01523-2958 Nichole R Anderson, KC1QMD164 Leicester StNorth Oxford, MA 01537-1006 Garret Bratica, KC1QJM2801
- [Section Manager’s Report March 2022](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/02/28/section-managers-report-march-2022/) - Hello! I don’t know about you, but this has been one crazy month. I think they took the two days and stuffed those activities into the rest of the month. I am looking forward to seeing you at the Mt. Tom Hamfest this Saturday, Bob, K1YO, Smitty, KC1IKA Larry, W1AST and myself will have tables
- [HAM-CON, the ARRL Vermont State Convention,  February 26](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/02/10/ham-con-the-arrl-vermont-state-convention-february-26/) - The ARRL Vermont State Convention, known as HAM-CON, will be held Saturday, February 26, at 8AM-1PM live in Colchester, VT and On-Line at HAM-CON.ORG. If you are in our primary coverage area of Vermont, Northern NH, Northern NY and Southern Quebec, we hope to see you in person. However, anyone, anywhere can take part in HAM-CON.
- [New WMA Amateur Licensees February 2022](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/02/09/new-wma-amateur-licensees-february-2022/) - Congratulations to the latest new hams of Western Massachusetts: Aleksandr Baraban, KC1QGT131 Ashley AveApt B5West Springfield, MA 01089-1333 Matthew T St George, KC1QHG60 Kenwood StPittsfield, MA 01201-5661 Dennis Juhasz, KC1QHJ74 Upland StUnit CWorcester, MA 01607-2003 Richard S Quimby, KC1QHD100 Institute RdWorcester, MA 01609-2247
- [Free Online Licensing Class Taught By Local Hams](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/02/09/free-online-licensing-class-taught-by-local-hams/) - The Western MA Train and Test Group, made up of various hams from the Montachusett ARA, Mohawk ARC and Central MA ARA are starting a free online Technician class. Check the flyer below!
- [Amateur Radio and AUXCOM Support to the Department of Defense](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/02/03/amateur-radio-and-auxcom-support-to-the-department-of-defense/) - ARRL will present a webinar on the evening of Thursday February 17 at 8pm ET (0100Z Feb 18) on Amateur Radio and AUXCOM support to the Department of Defense. Use this zoom link to attend: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83781154615?pwd=L0NOY0hEV0tBdmNDWVNNeWRaVXJ5dz09Check out the ARRL link below for more detail: http://arrl.org/news/webinar-set-to-discuss-amateur-radio-and-auxcom-support-to-department-of-defense This webinar will coincide with the start of MARS Exercise
- [Section Manager's Report February 2022](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/02/02/section-managers-report-february-2022/) - Hello, I hope you take a few moments out of your digging out to have a read. We have not had a storm like that for some time now. I hope all is safe and well. The past two storms our ARES and Skywarn groups have activated themselves and conducted nets on 3944 kHz LSB
- [Western MA Emergency Net Operations for Winter Storm Izzy](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/01/16/western-ma-emergency-net-operations-for-winter-storm-izzy/) - The Western MA Emergency Net will operate tomorrow as a part of the SKYWARN operations form Winter Storm Izzy. This storm system we have coming up is a quick hitting but potent storm system for our area. For portions of western and northwest Massachusetts, we will see the snow heavy at times with the potential
- [New WMA Amateur Licensees January 2022](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/01/06/new-wma-amateur-licensees-january-2022/) - Congratulations to the latest new hams of Western Massachusetts: Kenneth Wiley, KC1QBFPO Box 1004Warren, MA 01083-1004 Eric H Niergarth, KC1QCR9 Ashley St# 1Westfield, MA 01085-3801 John Giovanoni, KC1QAU48 Athol Richmond RdRoyalston, MA 01368-8901 Francis G Sobieski, KC1QATPO Box 125South Deerfield, MA 01373-0125 Linnea Gardner, KC1QDA180 Russell Hill RdAshburnham, MA 01430-1315 Michael F Bedard, KC1QBE30 Dean
- [Boston Marathon Volunteer Registration Opens on January 5](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/01/02/boston-marathon-volunteer-registration-opens-on-january-5/) - After a successful 2021 marathon this past October, we’re right back into planning mode for the 126th running of the Boston Marathon at our more traditional time frame on Monday, April 18, 2022. Volunteer registration will open for the Marathon on January 5th, 2022. Please make sure to whitelist volunteer@baa.org to make sure you receive all BAA communications. How
- [Western Mass Traffic - New Year, New Schedule, New Time](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/01/01/western-mass-traffic-new-year-new-schedule-new-time/) - Happy New Year to all in the Western Mass section. Effective with this new year, the Western Mass Traffic Net will meet at a new time. Effective Monday January 3, 2022 there will be one session daily Monday through Friday, at 6:00 PM local time. The net will continue to meet on the Mt Greylock
- [Section Manager’s Report Jan. 2022](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2022/01/01/section-managers-report-jan-2022/) - Greetings and Happy New Year! Sometimes I think the catchphrase of the year will be “I got all my shots!” We are entering the year with a certain amount of uncertainty. I truly hope this pandemic goes away real soon. This year I begin my third term as section manager and with that comes a
- [Section Manager's Report Dec 2021](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/12/06/section-managers-report-dec-2021/) - Hi everyone. Yet another year over. (Just about.) The silly season is upon us. I do hope everyone and their families have a happy, healthy, safe Holiday Season and 2022. Clubs have been planning their festivities this month and no meetings. So, it’s been a little quiet this month. Well, it has been well publicized
- [Sutton Chain of Lights](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/11/28/sutton-chain-of-lights-3/) - Hi Folks, Craig Shea from the Sutton Chain of Lights is again requesting assistance with communications to coordinate the trolleys for their annual event. We're looking for about 10 ham radio operators to ride the trolleys and help keep them on schedule moving people around between stops. We will meet at 08:30am on Sat 12/4/2021
- [September new ham list](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/11/01/september-and-octobers-new-ham-list/) - Report for 2021-10-06 Henry M Jones, KC1PXCPO Box 443Brimfield, MA 01010-0443 Jason R Leduc, KC1PWK280 Munger Hill RdWestfield, MA 01085-4584 David M Thomas, KC1PWL244 Poplar AveWest Springfield, MA 01089-2929 Adrian Piris, KC1PXB146 Endicott StSpringfield, MA 01118-2324 Brendan A Mcevilly, KC1PUM305 Reservoir RdLunenburg, MA 01462-1532 Aniket A Tadepalli, KC1PUD6002 Avalon DrNorthborough, MA 01532-2287 Mike Tartaglia, KC1PVT296
- [New WMA Amateur Licensees October 2021](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/11/10/new-wma-amateur-licensees-october-2021/) - Congratulations to the latest new hams of Western Massachusetts: Lucas Elliott, KC1PZJ36 Malburn TerLeominster, MA 01453-4873 Colin Bentley, KC1PZW26 Upton RdWestborough, MA 01581-2203 Judy Gauvin, KC1PZN12 Stone School RdSutton, MA 01590-2942 Shijing Yang, KC1PYB80 Salisbury StUnit 710Worcester, MA 01609-3135 Thomas R Gauvin, KC1PVO12 Stone School RdSutton, MA 01590-2942 Michael E Shatz, KC1PWE7 Admirals LnSouthborough, MA
- [Section Manager’s Report. Nov 2021](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/11/01/5586/) - Hi everyone, yet another busy month here and lot’s going on. First thing is to write this email down, clubs@arrl.org. this email will be used for anything club related. Resources, inquiries. The other thing it will be used for is to edit your club information. If you need to change things such, as contact or
- [Updating ARES Membership Roster – Your Help Needed!](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/10/28/updating-ares-membership-roster-your-help-needed/) - WMA ARES is in the process of updating our registered Members roster. Below you will find a list of those members who are currently registered as of 10/27/2021. If you are a member of WMA ARES and do not appear below or need a correction, please drop me a note at k1yo@arrl.net with your name,
- [2021 World Amateur Radio Day is April 18](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/04/16/2021-world-amateur-radio-day-is-april-18/) - World Amateur Radio Day, held on April 18 each year, is celebrated worldwide by radio amateurs and their national associations which are organized as member-societies of the International Amateur Radio Union (IARU). It was on this day in 1925 that the IARU was formed in Paris. American Radio Relay League (ARRL) Co-Founder Hiram Percy Maxim was its
- [Upcoming Activities – Western Massachusetts ARES](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/10/21/upcoming-activities-western-massachusetts-ares/) - Hello Western Mass Amateurs! This is just a quick note to explain some of the things related to Emergency Services that we will be putting into place shortly. First, we are going to focus heavily on training and practice for our net operations. Charlie (Smitty) Smith, KC1IKA has accepted a position as Assistant Section Emergency
- [Emergency Radio Communications  personal enrichment course](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/08/05/emergency-radio-communications-personal-enrichment-course/) - MWCC Noncredit Personal Enrichment CourseInstructor Name: Paul TopolskiName of Course: Emergency Radio CommunicationsDates: Thursdays, September 9 to October 28, 2021Time: 6:00 to 8:00 PMWhere: Gardner CampusCost: $169Description of Course:A course for everyone who uses or wants to use two-way radios professionally, as part of their emergencypreparedness efforts, on-board air and water craft, to help their
- [VE Session for Sunday August 22 postponed.](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/08/21/ve-session-for-sunday-august-22-postponed/)
- [Section Manager’s Report October 2021](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/10/03/section-managers-report-october-2021/) - Hello once again! The switch got flipped and fall is here. It’s nice that the temps have calmed down some, but I don’t like what looms ahead. This is the perfect opportunity to get your antenna projects completed before that white stuff shows up. A huge shout out and thanks got to Larry W1AST and
- [Section Manager’s Report Sept. 2021](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/09/01/section-managers-report-sept-2021/) - Hello one and all! It has been an interesting month overall with activities and the weather. I will not labor on the weather. Anyone who poked their head out the window lately knows! Looking forward to HamExposition! I am getting my goodies ready and will be out there to “lighten the load” and to get
- [Communications for two events in our area](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/08/12/communications-for-two-events-in-our-area/) - The Franklin County Amateur Radio Club will provide communications for two events soon to take place in our area. We welcome licensed amateurs who would like to join us. On 21 August, the Franklin County Land Trust will host an off the beaten path bicycle tour, called the Deerfield Dirt Road Rondonee (D2R2). It is
- [WBZ's 100th anniversary](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/08/11/wbzs-100th-anniversary/) - The Billerica Amateur Radio Society, along with the Hampden County Radio Association in Springfield, will be commemorating WBZ's 100th anniversary by conducting a special operating event starting at 1300z/9:00 AM EDT September 17 and ending at 0359z September 20/11:59 PM EDT September 19. Amateurs using the callsigns W1W, W1B, W1Z, and WB1Z will make two-way contact with other amateurs
- [Section manager’s Report August 2021](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/08/02/section-managers-report-august-2021/) - Greeting’s! What a month! West coast is burning while out our way is drowning. You never know what the forces of nature is going to bestow upon us. This is a great example of making people aware that even though it has not reached that point, it can turn into a disaster and things will
- [Youth On The Air 2021 Camp Makes Successful ARISS Contact](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/07/15/youth-on-the-air-2021-camp-makes-successful-ariss-contact/) - Fred Kemmerer, AB1OC, writes:
- [100th anniversary of WBZ radio Special Event](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/06/15/100th-anniversary-of-wbz-radio-special-event/) - September 17-19th is the 100th anniversary of WBZ radio in Boston. But there was a WBZA radio here in Springfield at one time.The HCRA is working with the Billerica club to co-sponsor this operating event. Billerica started the event and the HCRA is helping out in many ways including the use of one of our
- [Section Manager’s Report June 2021](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/06/03/section-managers-report-june-2021/) - Hello, welcome to summer, “unofficially”, but we know what that means…FIELD DAY! So far, I know of 2 clubs going live this year. How about the others? I am looking to plan the tour. I may not get to them all but will sure try. May 8th, we had our ARES SET to figure out
- [Additional RF Exposure Rules Presentation, May 4, 2021](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/05/01/additional-rf-exposure-rules-presentation-may-4-2021/) - Eastern MA Technical Coordinator Dan Brown, W1DAN, will hold another presentation addressing the new FCC RF exposure rules on May 4 at 7:30 PM using the ARRL GoToWebinar platform. His April 27 talk was a hugely successful–a maximum number of 100 connections for the call was reached just as the discussion started. The GoToWebinar has
- [Steve Finberg, W1GSL, SK](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/04/26/steve-finberg-w1gsl-sk/) - It is with deep sadness and regret that I report the passing of Steve Finberg, W1GSL, of Cambridge Massachusetts, the founder and Benevolent Dictator of the “Swapfest, the Flea at M.I.T.” who became a Silent Key on Friday, April 23rd 2021 just before 7:00 PM. Steve started the famous Massachusetts Institute of Technology electronics flea
- [New Amateur Licensees March 2021](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/04/06/new-amateur-licensees-march-2021/) - Congratulations to the latest new hams of Western Massachusetts: Vivian Felten, KC1OZA116 Pleasant StApt 413Easthampton, MA 01027-2743 John H Trinder, KC1OXI24 Potter Mountain RdPittsfield, MA 01201-1079 Peter R Jengo, KC1OZC105 Secret Lake RdPhillipston, MA 01331-9597 Bethany R Shoucair, KC1OYH162 Randall RdBerlin, MA 01503-1107 John A Shoucair, KC1OYG162 Randall RdBerlin, MA 01503-1107 Lawrence Murphy, KC1OXB500 Pine
- [New England QSO Party](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/04/09/new-england-qso-party-6/) - The New England QSO Party will be held on May 1st and 2nd. Now's your chance to be the sought after stations instead of the other way around! The NEQP is a great time to check out antenna systems and offers a moderately paced opportunity to work new states and countries. You'll find a wide
- [HAMCRAM Pittsfield April 21/22](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/04/08/hamcram-pittsfield-april-21-22/) - Peter Mattice KD2JKV and Rich Hall KC1BYD are leading up a "HAMCRAM" license-in-a-weekend session in Pittsfield on April 21 and 22, 2018. The session will be held in Studio K at Pittsfield Community TV at 4 Fedrico Drive in Pittsfield. The class will run April 21 from 8 AM to 5 PM and April 22 from 8 AM till noon.
- [Groton Road Race](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/04/15/groton-road-race/) - April 29 will be the 27th running of this race and the race committee is again asking the Amateur Radio community to provide the logistics and safety communications for this high-profile event. The Groton Road Race continues to be a major event for Amateur Radio in North Central Massachusetts. Those of you who have joined
- [NEAR-Fest Spring 2018](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/04/18/near-fest-spring-2018/) - The Spring 2018 edition of the New England Amateur Radio Festival will be May 4 - 5, 2018. The NEAR-Fest is an international event run by and for all radio hobbyists and enthusiasts, including hams”, short-wave listeners, scanner buffs, vintage/antique radio fans, etc. NEAR-Fest is held twice annually, spring and fall, rain or shine, at
- [New England QSO Party](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/04/20/new-england-qso-party-3/) - The New England QSO Party will be held on May 5th and 6th. Now's your chance to be the sought after stations instead of the other way around! The NEQP is a great time to check out antenna systems and offers a moderately paced opportunity to work new states and countries. You'll find a wide
- [Section Manager Report for March 2018](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/03/29/section-manager-report-for-march-2018/) - Ray, KB1LRL
- [Westover CAP Looking For Comms Volunteers](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/05/06/westover-cap-looking-for-comms-volunteers/) - The Westover Composite Squadron, located at Westover ARB, Chicopee MA is looking to recruit two assistant communications officers. A strong candidate would have an amateur radio license (technician or higher) and would be willing to commit to attending weekday evening meetings at least twice a month, as well as participating in almost monthly scheduled practice exercises (weekend one day).
- ["Experience Amateur Radio" in Worcester](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/05/06/experience-amateur-radio-in-worcester/) - On Saturday, May 12, from 1-3 PM, members of two local amateur radio clubs will be at Annie’s Book Stop of Worcester on 65 James Street to talk about their experiences with ham radio, and give a hands-on demonstration of what ham radio operators do. The event is meant to perk the interest of kids
- [Western MA ARRL State Government Liaison KC1VQ, SK](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/05/07/western-ma-arrl-state-government-liaison-kc1vq-sk/) - Ray KB1LRL
- [Section Manager Report for April 2018](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/05/07/section-manager-report-for-april-2018/) - Ray KB1LRL
- [WK1H Appointed as WMA Official Observer Coordinator](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/05/09/wk1h-appointed-as-wma-official-observer-coordinator/) - I'm happy to report that my appointment as Western Massachusetts ARRL Official Observer Coordinator has finally been approved and accepted. I first expressed interest in this appointment in October 2016. Former Section Manager W1KT approved and put the appointment change in with the League. However, League HQ rejected the change and sent out a message
- [New England Season Opener Triathlon](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/05/09/new-england-season-opener-triathlon/) - The Worcester Emergency Communications Team is looking for amateur radio assistance with the New England Season Opener Triathlon on Saturday, May 19 from 7:00 AM to around 12:00 PM. Assignments will vary but will generally include various checkpoints along the route, start and finish line, and shadowing the triathlon coordinators. Times involved with each of the assignments will
- [Relay for Life Special Event Station](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/05/27/relay-for-life-special-event-station/) - Every year, the Mohawk Amateur Radio Club sets up and runs a special event station in conjunction with the Greater Garnder Relay For Life's annual event. The Relay For Life is a fundraiser event for the American Cancer Society to raise money and awareness towards a cure for cancer. The special event station will operate from
- [MEMA Region 4 RACES Net Restarts on June 4](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/06/02/mema-region-4-races-net-restarts-on-june-4/) - As a part of the continuing desire to slowly but surely rebuild a RACES program across the state, I have been appointed as the new MEMA Region 4 RACES Officer. We're restarting the Region 4 RACES Net this coming Monday night (June 4). The net typically will run on the first Monday night monthly (second
- [13 Colonies Special Event](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/06/04/13-colonies-special-event/) - Eastern MA ARRL Affiliated Club Coordinator Andy Stewart, KB1OIQ writes: The annual 13 Colonies Special Event will take place from Sunday, July 1st, 9:00 AM Eastern (1300 UTC) until Saturday, July 7th, 12:00 Midnight Eastern (July 8th, 0400 UTC). Participants are encouraged to contact as many of the original 13 Colonies as possible in that timeframe. There are also
- [Section Manager Report May 2018](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/06/04/section-manager-report-may-2018/) - email me where you will be so I can plan on getting there. My attempt is to visit as many as I can if not all sites. There are some sites way out there and I will be working on getting there early. I am looking forward to seeing how everyone else has theirs set
- [Governor Baker Proclaims June 24th "Amateur Radio Day"](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/06/05/governor-baker-proclaims-june-24th-amateur-radio-day/)
- [Boxboro Hamfest Call for Speakers](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/06/06/boxboro-hamfest-call-for-speakers/) - Don’t just attend Boxboro 2018—BE A PART OF IT! The Boxboro Committee seeks fresh and exciting presentations for this year’s ARRL New England Division Convention, September 7-9, 2018. We’re looking for talks of both a technical and non-technical nature. As a Boxboro speaker, you will have the opportunity to share your subject and knowledge with Amateur
- [MARS / Amateur Interoperability Nets Starting This Week](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/04/04/mars-amateur-interoperability-nets-starting-this-week/) - Starting this week, on April 7 and for the first week of every month going forward, US Army Auxiliary Radio System members will conduct nets on 60 meters channel 1 (5.3305 MHz) with the goal of exercising the mission of MARS to Amateur interoperation. These Nets will start at 8pm local time on April 7,
- [Section Manager’s Report. April 2021](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/04/02/section-managers-report-april-2021/) - Hello everybody. This month’s report actually started a couple of weeks ago in my head and changed countless times. I usually put a positive spin on them, I could not this month, sorry. I do want to address something if I can. We as radio operators are trained and licensed to communicate. We do that
- [New CW Slow Speed CW Traffic Net](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/03/14/new-cw-slow-speed-cw-traffic-net/) - Want an opportunity to practice your newly acquired CW skills or brush up on old skills once learned but not used for many years? Learn and practice the art and skill of handling written messages, and have some fun along the way. You've asked for it and now we are reviving a slow speed CW
- [New Amateur Licensees February 2021](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/03/14/new-amateur-licensees-february-and-march/) - Congratulations to the latest new hams of Western Massachusetts: Kevin M Odlum, KC1OPV153 Brookfield RdBrimfield, MA 01010-9766 James Epps, KC1OPM123 Trouble StCummington, MA 01026-9722 Steven M Mendrek, KC1OPU62 Russellville RdSouthampton, MA 01073-9338 Philip M Pin, KC1OPP15 Briar Cliff DrWilbraham, MA 01095-1578 Matthew T Lichenstein, KC1OOO22 Argentine StLeominster, MA 01453-5902 Michael F Caruso, KC1OPF39 Gray RdTempleton,
- [Section Manager’s Report March 2021](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/02/28/section-managers-report-march-2021/) - Hello! You know those video clips you see and there is the phrase “wait for it”, well that’s how I feel when March has arrived. Come on Spring! Not that we had a bad winter, but there is this thing about warm temps that interest me. Basically, another quiet month. I have been getting to
- [Section Manager’s Report Feb, 2021](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/02/05/section-managers-report-feb-2021/) - Hello there! It must be the cold of winter doing this, my brain is frozen! Seems like as soon as February comes around, I get itchy for Spring. I guess Puxatawney Phil has an influence in this…oh well! The nice thing about winter is there is some great contests going on in the weekends. There
- [New Amateur Licensees December and January](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/02/04/new-amateur-licensees-december-and-january/) - Congratulations to the latest new hams of Western Massachusetts: Timothy L Johnson, KC1OJLPO Box 31Southampton, MA 01073-0031 Michael S Maruk, KC1OHK25 Potter Mountain RdPittsfield, MA 01201-1079 Flavia R Mastellone, KC1OHXPO Box 207Williamstown, MA 01267-0207 Rachel L Schmoyer, KC1OHY278 Stow RdHarvard, MA 01451-1907 Josue Valentin, KC1OLK113 Prospect StChicopee, MA 01013-4027 Todd Alexander, KC1OKD202 Reservoir RdWesthampton, MA
- [Fall Boston Marathon Date Announced](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/02/01/fall-boston-marathon-date-announced/) - This just in from the BAA to all its volunteers. More details on the BAA announcement on their website. We hope you are safe and healthy. We wanted to provide you a short update on 2021 Boston Marathon plans in light of today’s public statement from the Boston Athletic Association (BAA). The BAA statement can
- [Amateur Radio Booth Proposed for “The Big E” in 2022](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/01/12/amateur-radio-booth-proposed-for-the-big-e-in-2022/) - Hampden County Radio Association president Larry Krainson, W1AST, is coordinating an effort to organize an amateur radio booth at “The Big E” in West Springfield, Massachusetts for 2022. The exhibition runs for 17 days from September 17 through October 3, 2022. According to Wikipedia, “The Big E,” formally known as The Eastern States Exposition, is
- [NEAR-Fest XXIX May 2021 Deerfield NH Cancelled!](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/01/12/near-fest-xxix-may-2021-deerfield-nh-cancelled/) - Dear Friends of NEAR-Fest..... I am sure that just about everyone knew this was coming but this makes it is official. Given the current Coronavirus situation with new cases reported every day at astronomical levels (on January 8th there were 7,110 in Mass. alone) and the fact that the vaccination process is running behind schedule
- [Section Manager Report January 2021](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2021/01/01/section-manager-report-january-2021/) - Hello everyone and Happy New Year! I guess we can all agree we won’t regret 2020 going bye-bye. But a new chapter opens up and we can all hope our dreams, plans, hopes can be realized without much resistance. Myself, I cannot complain, I made some pretty good achievements last year. I learned CW finally
- [Boston Marathon Volunteer 2021 Update](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/12/30/boston-marathon-volunteer-2021-update/) - Boston Marathon Communications Committee writes: We hope you are all safe and healthy. We also hope you are having an enjoyable holiday season despite the impacts of COVID-19. We wanted to provide you a short update on 2021 Boston Marathon plans in light of today’s public statement from the BAA. The BAA statement can be
- [Newcomers Roundtable Net Starting on the NoBARC Repeater](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/12/12/newcomers-roundtable-net-starting-on-the-nobarc-repeater/) - North Berkshire Amateur Radio Club (NoBARC) is once again starting their Newcomers Roundtable on the Mt. Greylock Repeater. Specifically, the net is to provide a forum for new ham radio operators to ask questions, learn how to operate in a net environment, and meet hams that have been around for a while with plenty of
- [Wild Thing Trail Race](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/06/07/wild-thing-trail-race/) - Knut Finnevolden N1ATP is looking for multiple ham radio operators to help support the Wild Thing 5k and 10k Trail Race. The race is at the Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, 472 West Mountain Rd, Lenox, MA 01240. The event will be on Sunday June 24 from 8 to noon. Keep in mind that this is
- [WMA Section Manager Sets Field Day Tour Plan](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/06/19/wma-section-manager-sets-field-day-tour-plan/) - Ray KB1LRL
- [Section Manager Report June 2018](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/06/30/section-manager-report-june-2018/) - Ray KB1LRL
- [Section Manager Report July 2018](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/08/05/section-manager-report-july-2018/) - Ray, KB1LRL
- [NoBARC Hamfest](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/08/12/nobarc-hamfest/) - The Northern Berkshire Amateur Radio Club will be holding it's annual hamfest on Sunday, August 19. The hamfest will be held at the George Bowe Field (Adams Agricultural Fair Grounds), located directly off of Route 8 in Adams, MA. Gates open at 6:30 AM for vendors and sellers, 7:00 AM for buyers. Admission is $5
- [New England Division Convention at Boxboro](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/08/27/new-england-division-convention-at-boxboro/) - The ARRL New England Division Convention at Boxboro will be on September 7, 8 and 9 at the Boxboro Regency Hotel & Conference Center. General Admission grants access to the Flea Market, Forums & Classes, Vendors, and the Theatrical Screening! It also grants you an opportunity to win one of our fabulous Door Prizes. Among some
- [WMA Section Meeting at Boxboro](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/08/31/wma-section-meeting-at-boxboro/) - Western MA Section Manager Ray Lajoie KB1LRL. The purpose of this meeting is essentially just to give all ARRL members in Western Massachusetts a platform for discussion of things they would like to see the section change and improve. Ray's main focus recently has been to get people appointed to various section staff positions and
- [Section Manager Report Aug/Sept 2018](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/09/10/section-manager-report-aug-sept-2018/) - Ray KB1LRL
- [Section Manager Report October 2018](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/10/07/section-manager-report-october-2018/) - Ray KB1LRL
- [Section Manager Report November 2018](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/10/30/section-manager-report-november-2018/) - Ray KB1LRL
- [Nationwide MARS COMEX (Comms. Exercise) Oct 24 - 26](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/10/10/nationwide-mars-comex-comms-exercise-oct-24-26/) - MARS stations will be operating from Oct 22-26, but the participation of Amateur Radio Operators is expected on Oct 24-26. Here is a link to the national ARRL story on it: http://www.arrl.org/news/mars-members-to-support-defense-department-radio-communication-readiness-exercise As part of this COMEX, MARS members will reach out to amateur radio operators (on the 24-26) for any information on real life
- [New England Division Election Ballots Mailed](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/10/08/new-england-division-election-ballots-mailed/) - Ballots for the upcoming ARRL New England Division Director election were mailed from ARRL HQ in Newington, CT on October 1st. If you’re an ARRL member within the New England Division, please make sure to vote and return your ballot so it arrives by noon on November 16th. If you do not receive your ballot by mid October, contact ARRL
- [ARRL Staffers, State and Local Officials on Hand for Massachusetts ARISS School Contact](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/11/20/arrl-staffers-state-and-local-officials-on-hand-for-massachusetts-ariss-school-contact/) - Note: This is a re-post from the ARRL national website here. ARRL Teachers Institute on Wireless Technology alumnus Mariusz Zielinski, KB1MDS, invited ARRL Lifelong Learning Manager Kris Bickell, K1BIC, Lifelong Learning Administrator Ally Riedel, KM3ALF, and ARRL Communications Content Producer Michelle Patnode, W3MVP, to witness an exciting November 2 Amateur Radio on the International Space
- [KD1CY Receives Blue Hills Observatory Outstanding Service Award](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/11/21/kd1cy-receives-blue-hills-observatory-outstanding-service-award/) - Re-posted from the Eastern MA ARRL website: The Blue Hill Observatory awarded Rob Macedo, KD1CY, with their Outstanding Service Award on November 9, 2018. The award was presented at a Blue Hills Observatory fundraising event by meteorologist and Weather Channel personality Jim Cantore and former Weather Channel meteorologist Mish Michaels. The honor was especially meaningful
- [ARRL New England Division Director Election Results](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/11/21/arrl-new-england-division-director-election-results/) - ARRL Headquarters has released the election results for all of this season's division director and vice-director elections. The New England Division results were: Fred Hopengarten, K1VR 1,432 Tom Frenaye, K1KI 1,383 Candidate Mr. Hopengarten was declared elected, edging out incumbent Mr. Frenaye by only 49 votes. Details on K1VR and his views on the positions on
- [SKYWARN Recognition Day 2018](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/11/23/skywarn-recognition-day-2018/) - The 2018 SKYWARN Recognition Day will be on Saturday, December 1. SKYWARN Recognition Day was developed in 1999 by the National Weather Service and the American Radio Relay League. It celebrates the contributions that volunteer SKYWARN radio operators make to the National Weather Service mission, the protection of life and property. Amateur radio operators comprise
- [Youth Survey](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/12/09/youth-survey/) - This is a repost from the /r/amateurradio subreddit: Hi all, I've been talking with the ARRL, actually got a response from both the CEO and the Lifelong Learning Manager. I offered to use whatever contacts I have to try and get more hams involved, and to try and see how the younger hams like to
- [Massachusetts Traffic Report for November 2020](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/12/11/massachusetts-traffic-report-for-november-2020/) - Eastern and Western Massachusetts Section Traffic Manager KW1U has posted the latest NTS monthly report. It can be viewed on the Eastern Massachusetts ARRL website at this link.
- [New Amateur Licensees October and November 2020](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/12/12/new-amateur-licensees-october-and-november-2020/) - Congratulations to the latest new hams of Western Massachusetts: Kimberly Lane, KC1NYK500 Riverglade DrApt EAmherst, MA 01002-3673 Noah R Loebel, KC1NXU77 S Maple StHadley, MA 01035-9736 Michael D Laferriere, KC1OCA21 Ely RdMonson, MA 01057-9580 Alan R Seidner, KC1OCT82 Thayer RdGreenfield, MA 01301-9630 David M Bellew, KC1OBX95 Shawna StFitchburg, MA 01420-3683 Wayne D Nasiatka, KC1NYQ123 Bickford
- [Section Manager Report December 2018](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/11/25/section-manager-report-december-2018/) - Ray KB1LRL
- [Sutton Chain of Lights](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/11/29/sutton-chain-of-lights/) - Worcester Emergency Communications Team President Brian Loverro K1BML is looking for a few more ham radio volunteers to help support the Sutton Chain of Lights this Saturday December 1, 2018 from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The event is a town-wide holiday celebration featuring open houses and activities at a large variety of locations throughout the town. For
- [ARES Contacts](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/10/04/ares-contacts/)
- [ARRL Hires Paul Z. Gilbert, KE5ZW, as Director of Emergency Management](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/08/12/arrl-hires-paul-z-gilbert-ke5zw-as-director-of-emergency-management/) - Originally posted on the ARRL HQ website: As another step in ARRL’s increased focus on strengthening its emergency communications capabilities and long-standing working relationships with federal and state agencies and private emergency response organizations, ARRL has hired Paul Z. Gilbert, KE5ZW, of Cedar Park, Texas, as its first Director of Emergency Management. Gilbert brings more
- [HCRA Remote Licensing Class Starting February 2021](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/12/05/hcra-remote-licensing-class-starting-february-2021/) - The Hampden County Radio Association will be running an Online Technician Licensing Class starting this February. The classes will be conducted over Zoom. The class will run weekly for 5 weeks on Wednesday evenings from 7 PM to 9 PM. The class will start on February 3 and conclude on March 3. For more details
- [Section Manager Report December 2020](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/12/05/section-manager-report-december-2020/) - Hello once again. Sorry I’m a little late as the new job is putting a different spin on my weekdays. As we near the end of 2020 it certainly places a lot of “what-ifs” to the new year, so many thing’s that will drive our livelihoods and our lives, My wish is to find normalcy
- [SKYWARN Recognition Day (SRD) 2020](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/11/29/skywarn-recognition-day-srd-2020/) - Hello to all.. **We hope all SKYWARN Spotters and Amateur Radio Operators had a very Happy Thanksgiving. On behalf of the NWS Boston/Norton forecasters and the entire WX1BOX Amateur Radio Team, we are fortunate to have such a strong and vibrant program with the support of all of you in the field and we appreciate another
- [Section Manager Report November 2020](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/11/21/section-manager-report-november-2020/) - Hello everyone, it's been kind of quiet out there lately, even the crickets aren't saying much. The only thing that has been happening is some of our staff has resigned their post's for various reasons. Some of it is that there has been little progress in plans and activities, etc. in the ARES department. Remember,
- [WMA ARES Section Upcoming Activities](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/11/21/wma-ares-section-upcoming-activities/) - There is a substantial amount of work underway in the WMA Section for activities upcoming in the near future. I'm certain most of you are unaware of these since they are still in the planning stage, but I wanted to give you a quick update. I'm planning for a local Section Emergency Test (SET) to
- [Ellis Rud N1MWJ, SK](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/11/29/ellis-rud-n1mwj-sk/) - Ray KB1LRL
- [Amateur Radio License Class in Holyoke in January](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/12/08/amateur-radio-license-class-in-holyoke-in-january/) - The Hampden County Radio Association will be sponsoring an amateur radio class for those looking at getting their Technician license. The class will run on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM running from January 15 through February 26. The class will be held in the Auxiliary Conference Center at the Holyoke Medical Center
- [Massachusetts Traffic Reports for October and November 2018](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/12/12/massachusetts-traffic-reports-for-october-and-november-2018/) - Eastern and Western MA Section Traffic Manager Marcia Forde KW1U has posted the traffic reports for the combined Massachusetts sections. They are available here.
- [Section Manager Report January 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2018/12/29/section-manager-report-january-2019/) - Happy New Year! This also marks 1 year as your section manager. It has been a busy year. It has also been a big learning curve for me. And of course, the usual triumphs and setbacks. My hopes in 2019 is what we have got now grows. I have been working on some things which
- [Boston Marathon Volunteer Registration Now Open](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/01/03/boston-marathon-volunteer-registration-now-open/) - On behalf of the BAA Amateur Radio Communications Committee, we want to wish you a Happy New Year. It’s hard to believe that 2018 has come to a close and we are heading into 2019, and with the new year also comes the 123rd running of the Boston Marathon. Today, January 3rd, 2019, volunteer registration
- [Proposed MA Legislation Seeks to Require “Hands-free” Cell Phone Use While Driving](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/01/23/proposed-ma-legislation-seeks-to-require-hands-free-cell-phone-use-while-driving/) - This news was originally written and posted on the Eastern MA ARRL website. Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker on Tuesday “proposed his most sweeping set of road safety rules yet, calling for Massachusetts to join 16 other states in requiring hands-free cell phone use while driving and proposing to allow police to stop motorists for not
- [Section Manager Report February 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/02/03/section-manager-report-february-2019/) - Hello everyone. So, I hear that our friend Phil predicted an early spring. We’ll see about that. If you recall, last time he did that we got bombed with endless snows. I don’t know about you, it’s been a relatively decent winter, but I like the warmer temps. January 12 I was in Springfield where
- [Local Communities Looking for RACES Officers](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/02/04/local-communities-looking-for-races-officers/) - A few months ago, the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency conducted a survey for all local community emergency management directors across the Commonwealth. The survey was specifically about the use of amateur radio and RACES locally within their community, whether they have an appointed RACES Officer, and if not, if they would like to find one. The Radio
- [Volunteers Still Needed for 2019 Boston Marathon](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/02/04/volunteers-still-needed-for-2019-boston-marathon/) - The Boston Marathon Communications Committee is currently at 250 out of our goal of 350 volunteer registrations for this year's Boston Marathon. Registration is scheduled to close on February 6th (we have requested an extension on this, but there's no guarantee the BAA will grant it) so there isn't much time left. If you're interested
- [New England Vintage Electronics Expo 2](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/02/18/new-england-vintage-electronics-expo-2/) - The New England Antique Radio Club will hold its New England Vintage Electronics Expo 2 on Sunday, March 3, 2019 from 8 AM to 4 PM at the Courtyard Marriott Event Center, 2200 Southwood Drive, Nashua, New Hampshire. Billed as “the East Coast’s largest antique radio and vintage electronics show and flea market, the event features over
- [MTARA Annual Hamfest](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/02/23/mtara-annual-hamfest/) - The Mount Tom Amateur Repeater Association is holding its annual Amateur Radio and Electronics Hamfest on Saturday, March 9, 2019 at the Castle of Knights, 1599 Memorial Drive in Chicopee. All amateurs and those interested are invited! Admission is $5 for adults and children 12 and under are free. Doors open at 6:30 AM for
- [HCRA Renews SSC Qualification](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/03/01/hcra-renews-ssc-qualification/) - Congrats to the Hampden County Radio Association for once again has achieving ARRL Special Service Club designation. SSCs are clubs that go above and beyond for their communities and for Amateur Radio. They are the leaders in their Amateur Radio communities who provide active training classes, publicity programs and actively pursue technical projects and operating
- [Registration Now Open for ARRL's New EC-001 Course](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/03/04/registration-now-open-for-arrls-new-ec-001-course/) - ARRL’s Lifelong Learning Department is excited to announce the launch of the recently revised Introduction to Emergency Communications (EC-001) course. As part of this new initiative, the course has been updated, beta-tested by a group of course mentors, and transferred into a new online learning platform. With the closing of the Connecticut Distance Learning Consortium (CTDLC) in
- [FCARC Offering General Licensing Class](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/03/05/fcarc-offering-general-licensing-class/) - The Franklin County Amateur Radio Club is offering a General Class licensing course for those looking to upgrade from Technician Class amateur radio licenses. Keep in mind that the General Class license question pool will be updated on July 1 of this year, so if you've been studying with the current question pool, now is
- [New Amateur Licensees - February 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/03/10/new-amateur-licensees-february-2019/) - Congratulations to the latest new hams of Western Massachusetts: Eddie Stankiewicz, KC1LAW36 Grove AveEast Longmeadow, MA 01028-2203 Philip J Lord, KC1LAV279 North RdHampden, MA 01036-9662 Jesse P Kellner, KC1LAU383 Mountain RdWilbraham, MA 01095-1725 John R Hanlon, KC1KWYPO Box 808Sheffield, MA 01257-0808 James A Psillas, KC1KXJPO Box 1016Stockbridge, MA 01262-1016 Caleb A Fitzgerald, KC1LAB146 Lenox StAthol,
- [Section Manager Report March 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/03/10/section-manager-report-march-2019/) - Hello and welcome to Spring! (When it get’s here!) I held off the report until the hamfest was over so I can include that. We started the month with a visit to the Hampden County Radio Association. Gil, WK1H and myself went there and presented them with a Special Service Club certificate. These are given
- [K1YO Appointed as New Section Emergency Coordinator](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/03/13/k1yo-appointed-as-new-section-emergency-coordinator/) - Good day to you. Please join me in welcoming Bob Meneguzzo K1YO to our staff as Section Emergency Coordinator. Bob is also the Tech Specialist for our section as well. He has taken over from John, N2YHK who has been looking to step aside since I assumed SM duties. Thank you for your service to
- [ARRL New England Division Convention Web Site Live!](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/03/17/arrl-new-england-division-convention-web-site-live/) - The 2019 ARRL New England Division Convention (now branded as “North East HamXposition @ Boxboro“) web site is now live. Sign-ups for speakers and volunteers are now available, as are applications for commercial, non-profit, and club vendor tables. Ticket pre-orders will be available in early June. The three-day convention is held September 6-8, 2019 at the Boxboro Regency Hotel
- [Framingham Ham Flea](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/03/24/framingham-ham-flea/) - The Framingham Amateur Radio Association will be holding its spring flea market and exams at the Keefe Technical School at 750 Winter Street in Framingham, MA. The flea market is very popular among hams in both the Eastern MA and the eastern portions of the Western MA ARRL sections. The hamfest will be held on Sunday,
- [New Amateur Licensees - March 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/04/03/new-amateur-licensees-march-2019/) - Congratulations to the latest new hams of Western Massachusetts: Leon G Szafran, KC1LCZ16 Hunters Greene CirAgawam, MA 01001-3663 Harold R Lemieux, KC1LCH25 Paige Hill RdBrimfield, MA 01010-9776 Tobias Haenel, AC1HIPO Box 485Monson, MA 01057-0485 Matthew J Merchand, KC1LBD1226 S Main StApt 2Palmer, MA 01069-1891 Kerry L Baird, KC1LCF213 Eden TrlBernardston, MA 01337-9582 Nicholas A Maloney,
- [Section Manager Report April 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/04/06/section-manager-report-april-2019/) - Hello, welcome to spring…er…I think. It wants to come! I am sure everyone is busy getting the yard cleaned up as am I. Sorry for being a little tardy, life kind of got in the way a little bit. But there are things coming up which I am looking forward to. The first one is
- [Groton Road Race](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/04/08/groton-road-race-2/) - Ralph Swick, KD1SM writes the following in the March, 2019 issue of NVARC “Signal”. Although Groton is actually in the EMA ARRL section, many individuals from the eastern part of the WMA ARRL section have historically helped with this event: Sunday, April 28 will be the 28th running of the Groton Road race. The Groton
- [Ham Radio @ IEEE International Microwave Symposium Seeks Volunteers, June 2-7, 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/04/10/ham-radio-ieee-international-microwave-symposium-seeks-volunteers-june-2-7-2019/) - Re-post of news originally from the EMA ARRL website: Volunteer form: HamRadio @ IEEE IMS 2019 Boston area amateurs have been requested to provide an Amateur Radio presence at the IEEE International Microwave Symposium in Boston, June 2-7, 2019 at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center in Boston’s Seaport District. Local amateurs will equip and staff an ARRL
- [New England QSO Party](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/04/18/new-england-qso-party-4/) - The New England QSO Party will be held on May 4th and 5th. Now's your chance to be the sought after stations instead of the other way around! The NEQP is a great time to check out antenna systems and offers a moderately paced opportunity to work new states and countries. You'll find a wide
- [Message from WMA Section Emergency Coordinator K1YO](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/04/19/message-from-wma-section-emergency-coordinator-k1yo/) - Hello, fellow Western Massachusetts Radio Amateurs !! I’m sending this email to both introduce myself and to update you on my plans to revitalize the Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) program within our Section. My name is Bob Meneguzzo, K1YO, from Southwick MA, and I’m your new Section Emergency Coordinator (SEC) for the five counties
- [NEAR-Fest Spring 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/04/20/near-fest-spring-2019/) - The Spring 2019 edition of the New England Amateur Radio Festival will be May 3 - 4, 2018. The NEAR-Fest is an international event run by and for all radio hobbyists and enthusiasts, including hams”, short-wave listeners, scanner buffs, vintage/antique radio fans, etc. NEAR-Fest is held twice annually, spring and fall, rain or shine, at
- [Massachusetts Traffic Report For March 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/04/23/massachusetts-traffic-report-for-march-2019/) - Eastern and Western Massachusetts Section Traffic Manager KW1U has posted the latest NTS monthly report. It can be viewed on the Eastern Massachusetts ARRL website at this link.
- [ARRL CEO Howard, WB2ITX, to operate W1AW on May 13](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/04/29/arrl-ceo-howard-wb2itx-to-operate-w1aw-on-may-13/) - Edit 5/3: This event has been cancelled due to potential conflict of interests and a possible violation of FCC Part 97 rules. For more details, check this post on the ARRL Headquarters website. Below is a press release from ARRL Headquarters announcing a special event involving ARRL CEO Howard Michel, WB2ITX, and a chance to
- [Section Manager Report for May 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/04/30/section-manager-report-for-may-2019/) - Hello fellow radio enthusiasts. I don't about you this persistent rain thing is really getting tiring. 1 day of sun followed by 3 days of rain. It's getting so I need a canoe to get to my tower. Things are moving along quite nicely as the ARES staff is starting to come together, thanks to
- [Employment Opportunities at ARRL HQ](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/05/02/employment-opportunities-at-arrl-hq/) - Just wanted to remind every ARRL member in the Western Massachusetts section of a ham radio employment opportunity at ARRL Headquarters in Newington, CT. Newington is not that far away for some of us in this section, especially for what could be a dream job for a lot of us. The League is looking for
- [New England Season Opener Du/Triathlon](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/05/02/new-england-season-opener-du-triathlon/) - The Worcester Emergency Communications Team is looking for amateur radio assistance with the New England Season Opener Du/Triathlon on Saturday, May 11 from 7:00 AM to around 12:00 PM. Assignments will vary but will generally include various checkpoints along the route, start and finish line, and shadowing the triathlon coordinators. Times involved with each of the assignments will
- [New Amateur Licensees - April 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/05/05/new-amateur-licensees-april-2019/) - Congratulations to the latest new hams of Western Massachusetts: Karl F Zinnack, KC1LGF63 Thomas RdHuntington, MA 01050-9750 Joseph M Byrnes, KC1LHN175 Loomis RdgWestfield, MA 01085-3963 Johan E Reuchlin, KC1LIXPO Box 550Great Barrington, MA 01230-0550 Suzanne E Colpitts, KC1LIWPO Box 91Housatonic, MA 01236-0091 Daniel Barker, KC1LJX38 Rich StGardner, MA 01440-2714 Shon Rainford, KC1LJY196 Campbell StRutland, MA
- [Massachusetts Hand-free Mobile Device Legislation Update](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/05/23/massachusetts-hand-free-mobile-device-legislation-update/) - This is a re-post from the EMA ARRL website: Hands-free mobile device legislation moved one step closer to becoming law, passing in the Massachusetts House on May 16. But by all accounts amateur radio operation while driving will remain unaffected. Eastern Massachusetts section staff who have been in touch with legislative aides in both the
- [Section Manager Report for June 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/06/02/section-manager-report-for-june-2019/) - Hello there! Once again that annual tradition of Field Day is upon us and I’m sure you are “making the list, checking it twice, to see if RF is naughty or nice!” (ok..lame attempt) But, we are busy getting the preparations together to have a successful event. And I wish you all good luck. Once
- [New Amateur Licensees - May 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/06/07/new-amateur-licensees-may-2019/) - Congratulations to the latest new hams of Western Massachusetts: Gerald W Beltran, KC1LKS51 Loudville RdFlorence, MA 01062-7500 John K Bourque, KC1LKT124 Oklahoma StSpringfield, MA 01104-2942
- [Massachusetts Traffic Report For April and May 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/06/13/massachusetts-traffic-report-for-april-and-may-2019/) - Eastern and Western Massachusetts Section Traffic Manager KW1U has posted the latest NTS monthly report. It can be viewed on the Eastern Massachusetts ARRL website at this link.
- [“Triple Play:” MA Hams Receive Amateur Radio Proclamations, Resolutions from House, Senate, and Governor](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/06/13/triple-play-ma-hams-receive-amateur-radio-proclamations-resolutions-from-house-senate-and-governor/) - This reposted from the Eastern MA ARRL website: Massachusetts ARRL staff received copies of proclamations and resolutions congratulating the Amateur Radio community for its service to the Commonwealth, and for the upcoming annual Field Day exercise June 22-23, 2019. The Massachusetts House of Representatives document “offers its sincerest congratulations to the American Radio Relay League
- [HamXposition @Boxboro - Online Ticketing Open!](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/06/19/hamxposition-boxboro-online-ticketing-open/) - The doors are open on our online ticketing system. Please visit our website to find out more about out 2019 program and to purchase your general admission, flea market vendor, and Friday and Saturday dinner tickets!http://www.hamxposition.org We still need about forty more volunteers to help out on 2 to 4 hours shifts. Receive a $10
- [Nominations Open for Section Manager](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/06/29/nominations-open-for-section-manager-2/) - Nominations for Western Massachusetts Section Manager are now open! The term is for two years starting on January 1, 2020. Any candidate for the office of Section Manager must be a resident of the section, a licensed amateur of Technician class or higher, and a full member of the League for a continuous term of
- [Section Manager Report for July 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/06/29/section-manager-report-for-july-2019/) - Hello, I’m sure by now you have recovered from Field Day, tabulated your scores and feel good about what you accomplished this year. Regardless of outcome it should always have been a successful mission. Some of the clubs reported participation a little off this year. Tough to determine the reason why and it varies, but
- [Pay It Forward!](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/07/06/pay-it-forward/) - Amateur Radio is a great avocation! It challenges us to improve ourselves in many ways. Where else could we learn and manipulate how the physical universe affects our radio performance through ionospheric propagation on different bands? We communicate with each other on opposite ends of the globe through various evolving operating modes, via orbiting satellites
- [New Amateur Licensees - June 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/07/28/new-amateur-licensees-june-2019/) - Congratulations to the latest new hams of Western Massachusetts: Gerald W Beltran, KC1LKS51 Loudville RdFlorence, MA 01062-7500 John K Bourque, KC1LKT124 Oklahoma StSpringfield, MA 01104-2942 Dennis H Clowes, KC1LNL PO Box 1472 Warren, MA 01083-1472 Michael J Heilman, AC1HU 180 Elm St Ste I Pittsfield, MA 01201-6500 Michael A Ragusa, KC1LNZ 24 Glassworks Rd Berkshire,
- [Section Manager Report for August 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/07/28/section-manager-report-for-august-2019/) - Hello everyone, I hope the summer is treating you well. The weather has certainly been cooperative for hanging around the beach, or pool, or just simply “chillin” at the ham shack working on your latest and greatest project. This month has been fairly quiet activity-wise and that’s fine. I myself have been immersed in study
- [HamXposition at Boxboro / ARRL New England Division Convention](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/08/03/hamxposition-at-boxboro-arrl-new-england-division-convention/) - HamXposition at BoxboroThe ARRL New England Division ConventionSeptember 6-8, 2019 Boxboro Regency Hotel & Conference Center, Boxborough, Massachusettswww.hamxposition.org Top-notch Forums and Talks all three days Large Exhibit Hall & Flea Market: Sat 9 AM to 5 PM & Sun 9 AM to 1 PM Major prize drawings Friday DXCC/Contesting Dinner featuring special guest Adrian Ciuperca,
- [New Amateur Licensees - July 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/08/11/new-amateur-licensees-july-2019/) - Congratulations to the latest new hams of Western Massachusetts: Brian M Rice, KC1LRP56 Chestnut StApt 9AWare, MA 01082-1562 Daniel G Carboneau, KC1LRQ67 Brookline AveWestfield, MA 01085-4344 Christopher W Neyland, KC1LRT278 Walnut StNorth Adams, MA 01247-3744 Jeremy T Bullock, KC1LQQ36 Deanna DrUxbridge, MA 01569-1445 Joseph Auger, KC1LQPPO Box 20075Worcester, MA 01602-0075 Dusko Dumanovic, AC1HX49 Maple StMilford,
- [Error in QST Convention and Hamfest Calendar](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/08/31/error-in-qst-convention-and-hamfest-calendar/) - Steve Ewald, WV1X, Supervisor, ARRL Field Organization Team writes: We want to let everyone know about the error in the September QST Convention and Hamfest Calendar. There will not be a hamfest in Windsor, Maine, on September 22. The Windsor hamfest was already held on July 27. Thank you very much.
- [New Amateur Licensees - August 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/09/05/new-amateur-licensees-august-2019/) - Congratulations to the latest new hams of Western Massachusetts: Brian M Rice, KC1LRP56 Chestnut StApt 9AWare, MA 01082-1562 Scott J Chapman, KC1LTYPO Box 1094Belchertown, MA 01007-1094 David Lutz, KC1LVLPO Box 606Goshen, MA 01032-0606 Zachary J O Brien, KC1LTX615 Burts Pit RdFlorence, MA 01062-3674 Leonard L Bechan, KC1LVE333 E Hill RdOakham, MA 01068-9745 Mark C Rosen,
- [Northeast HamXPosition 2019 This Weekend](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/09/05/northeast-hamxposition-2019-this-weekend/) - Visit the ARRL booth at HamXpositionThe ARRL New England Division ConventionBoxborough, MassachusettsSeptember 6-8, 2019 (exhibit hall open Sat & Sun only) Join ARRL or extend your membership and get a FREE gift. Meet ARRL staff including Convention and Event Coordinator Eric Casey, KC2ERC and Ally Flynn, KM3AF, of ARRL’s Lifelong Learning Department. Learn about the
- [Title 9 Women's Only Triathlon](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/09/05/title-9-womens-only-triathlon/) - The Worcester Emergency Communications Team is looking for about a dozen hams to provide communications assistance for the Title 9 Women's Only Triathlon in Hopkinton on Sunday, September 8th. This event is sold out, so it will be busy. It occurs from about 7am to Noon (some assignments should secure as early as 9:30am, and most by 11am). It
- [More WECT Public Service Events](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/09/09/more-wect-public-service-events/) - The Worcester Emergency Communications Team is looking for ham radio operators to assist with two more upcoming public service events. Both of these events are out of WECT's normal operational area. The Buzzard's Bay Triathlon in Westport on Sunday, September 15th. It occurs from 9 AM (hams will meet at 8 AM) until about 1 PM (some assignments should secure by noon). It will
- [Section Manager Report for September 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/09/10/section-manager-report-for-september-2019/) - Hello everyone, I held off this month’s report to include Boxboro’s Hamfest which if you missed it, shame on you! Boxboro provided pretty much the usual cast of characters and events. Most of the outdoor flea vendors were a little worried with Dorian dumping its remnants in the area but, luckily it left us at
- [ARRL HQ Seeking Emergency Management Director](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/09/22/arrl-hq-seeking-emergency-management-director/) - This is a repost from the national ARRL website. We're reposting it since it might be possible for Western MA to be employed at League HQ and commute in to work each day. ARRL is seeking an emergency management director to oversee a team responsible for supporting ARRL emergency communication programs and services, including the
- [Official Observer Program Sunset](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/10/04/official-observer-program-sunset/) - As announced recently on the ARRL HQ website, on September 30, 2019, the Official Observer program was sunset and replaced with the new Volunteer Monitor program. As the last Western MA Official Observer Coordinator, I would personally like to thank all of the OOs that have worked in the section over the years and have
- [Fall 2019 NEAR-Fest](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/10/06/fall-2019-near-fest/) - The next New England Amateur Radio Festival will be Friday and Saturday October 11 and 12. NEAR-Fest is an international event run by and for all radio hobbyists and enthusiasts, including hams, short-wave listeners, scanner buffs, vintage/antique radio fans, etc. NEAR-Fest is held twice annually, spring and fall, rain or shine, at the Deerfield Fairgrounds,
- [New Amateur Licensees - September 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/10/06/new-amateur-licensees-september-2019/) - Congratulations to the latest new hams of Western Massachusetts: Chester M Andrzejczyk, KC1LWF22 Williston AveEasthampton, MA 01027-2219 Timothy J Otto, KC1LXJ1056 Millers Falls RdNorthfield, MA 01360-9622 Jacob N Killoy, KC1LYF29 Geordie LnHubbardston, MA 01452-1664 Elana Rabinow, KC1LVQ241 Reservoir RdLunenburg, MA 01462-1530 Eric J Koslowski, KC1LWR271 Sunset LnLunenburg, MA 01462-2144 Kaitlyn Whelan, KC1LWP80 Brigham StNorthborough, MA
- [Section Manager Report for October 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/10/16/section-manager-report-for-october-2019/)
- [Sutton Chain of Lights](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/10/18/sutton-chain-of-lights-2/) - Brian Loverro K1BML, President of both WECT and CMARA, is looking for amateur radio operators for the Sutton Chain of Lights Saturday December 7, 2019 from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The event is a town-wide holiday celebration featuring open houses and activities at a large variety of locations throughout the town. For more on the event, visit the Sutton
- [Massachusetts Traffic Report For September 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/10/22/massachusetts-traffic-report-for-september-2019/) - Eastern and Western Massachusetts Section Traffic Manager KW1U has posted the latest NTS monthly report. It can be viewed on the Eastern Massachusetts ARRL website at this link.
- [WMA ARES Simulated Emergency Test Sunday November 3](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/10/30/wma-ares-simulated-emergency-test-sunday-november-3/) - After a long hiatus, the Western Massachusetts ARES Section will conduct a simplified Simulated Emergency Test (SET) to determine our current capacities for communications within the 5 counties in the section.The exercise will begin at noon local time on Sunday November 3 and last until approximately 3PM. Inter-section communications -MAY- be attempted in the 3PM
- [Amateurs Contact Military Stations on 60M](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/11/02/amateurs-contact-military-stations-on-60m/) - This just in from Tom Kinahan N1CPE of Army MARS: A government station call up amateur stations on 60M channel 1 (Dial 5.3305 Mhz) at 9am Sunday (11/3/19) for the purpose of getting situational awareness reports. Amateurs will be asked for any known failures of infrastructure in their county such as water, power, telecommunications, sewer,
- [Schedule and Frequencies for SET](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/11/02/schedule-and-frequencies-for-set/) - There have been some questions about the frequencies and schedule for tomorrow's SET. Here's what everyone needs to know: HF Frequency 75m SSB 3.944 MHz +/- (same as regular weekly nets) VHF Simplex Frequency 146.420 MHz NBEMS / FLDigi Frequency .... 3.580 MHz OpMode = PSK Use PSK31 choice Also, here's a spreadsheet schedule of
- [New Amateur Licensees - October 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/11/05/new-amateur-licensees-october-2019/) - Congratulations to the latest new hams of Western Massachusetts: Thomas D Silliman, KC1MAN36 Reservoir RdLeeds, MA 01053-5320Christopher A St Germain, KC1MAO15 Castle St # 1455Ware, MA 01082-1103Shaun T Weigand, KC1MAR73 Cambridge AvePittsfield, MA 01201-7232Mark J Bennett, KC1MAG22 5th StWebster, MA 01570-2825Robert S Zarges, KC1LZX69 Fales StWorcester, MA 01606-2033Andrew J Adiletta, KC1LZY244 Sawyer RdBolton, MA 01740-1313Rebecca A
- [Section Manager Report for November 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/11/05/section-manager-report-for-november-2019/) - 73, Ray KB1LRL
- [Latest MARS Exercise Instructions](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/11/09/latest-mars-exercise-instructions/) - At this time, we are being asked to reach out to amateurs and capture the following information. There may be MARS operators gathering this sort of information using their amateur callsigns on amateur frequencies, or on 60 meters using their MARS callsigns looking for Amateurs station reports. Status of 50KW AM broadcast stations: This is
- [EMA/WMA STM KW1U Featured on Ham Talk Live!](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/11/10/ema-wma-stm-kw1u-featured-on-ham-talk-live/) - Eastern and Western MA Section Traffic Manager Marcia Forde, KW1U, was the featured guest on Episode #189 of Ham Talk Live! on November 7, 2019. Marcia spoke about NTS message handling on the nationwide podcast and live call-in talk radio show hosted by Neil Rapp, WB9VPG. The weekly show is simulcast on shortwave station WTWW on 5.830 MHz.
- [MARS Exercise Continued Instructions for November 16](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/11/16/mars-exercise-continued-instructions-for-november-16/) - Tom Kinahan N1CPE of Army MARS has issued new instructions for the on-going MARS exercise. On November 16, 2019 at 10:00 PM EST or (17 NOV 2019) 0300Z will be the 60 Meter broadcast on channel 1 (5330.5 kHz) in voice and digital M110A from Department of Defense stations. If you have this capability, check it out,
- [MA Lawmakers Announce Surprise Agreement on Distracted Driving Legislation](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/11/16/ma-lawmakers-announce-surprise-agreement-on-distracted-driving-legislation/) - WCVB.com: Boston — After several years and failed attempts, Massachusetts lawmakers have taken a major step toward enacting a law to restrict the use of handheld electronic devices by drivers. State Rep. Bill Straus and state Sen. Joe Boncore issued a statement late Friday (November 15, 2019) announcing the six-member conference committee had reached an
- [MARS Thanks Amateur Radio Operators for their support of MARS Exercise 19-4](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/11/19/mars-thanks-amateur-radio-operators-for-their-support-of-mars-exercise-19-4/) - Tom Kinahan N1CPE of Army MARS writes: Thank you to all of the Amateur radio operators who supported and participated in Exercise 19-4. Below is a message from ARMY MARS headquarters that I have been asked to relay: P 181700Z NOV 2019FM NETC G3-5 CUOPS HQ ARMY MARS FHU AZTO UHXWWW/ALL MARS STATIONSBTUNCLAS EXER/COMEX 19-4//MSGID/GENADMIN/NETC
- [Hands-free Legislation, November 19, 2019, Additional Update](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/11/19/hands-free-legislation-november-19-2019-additional-update/) - Ray Lajoie, KB1LRL SM WMATom Walsh K1TW SM EMA
- [Impact on Amateur Radio From Distracted Driving Bill](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/11/21/impact-on-amateur-radio-from-distracted-driving-bill/) - Ray Lajoie, KB1LRLARRL Section Manager Western MassachusettsTom Walsh, K1TWARRL Section Manager Eastern MassachusettsCOMMUNICATION RECEIVED FROM:General Counsel of the Joint Committee on Transportation.Thank you very much for the chance to speak earlier concerning H4203, the distracted driving legislation that is now before the Governor. It is the Committee’s view that the legislation does not alter, amend
- [Massachusetts Traffic Report for October 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/11/22/massachusetts-traffic-report-for-october-2019/) - Eastern and Western Massachusetts Section Traffic Manager KW1U has posted the latest NTS monthly report. It can be viewed on the Eastern Massachusetts ARRL website at this link.
- [SKYWARN Recognition Day 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/11/27/skywarn-recognition-day-2019/) - Hello to all..**We hope all SKYWARN Spotters and Amateur Radio Operators have a very Happy Thanksgiving. On behalf of the NWS Boston/Norton forecasters and the entire WX1BOX Amateur Radio Team, we are fortunate to have such a strong and vibrant program with the support of all of you in the field and we appreciate another
- [Section Manager Report December 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/12/01/section-manager-report-december-2019/) - Hello all! The silly season has descended upon us once again! I trust each of you will have a very joyous Holiday Season with family and friends. Be safe as well.With the weather approaching tomorrow take extra care to be prepared in case something was to happen. Even an HT with your local repeater or
- [New Amateur Licensees - November 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/12/29/new-amateur-licensees-november-2019/) - Congratulations to the latest new hams of Western Massachusetts: John P Swienton, KC1MCU444A N Main St# 335East Longmeadow, MA 01028-1812 Peter K Lindenauer, KC1MCT21 Roe AveNorthampton, MA 01060-1635 Michael R Kuehl, KC1MDR1778 Parker StSpringfield, MA 01128-1286 Benjamin D Greenfield, KC1MFQ58 Linden StWilliamstown, MA 01267-2512 Colleen R Ahlquist, KC1MEV327 Bridle PathWorcester, MA 01604-1306 Nicolas X Machado,
- [10th Annual Montague Sawmill River 10K Run](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2019/12/29/10th-annual-montague-sawmill-river-10k-run/) - The Franklin County Amateur Radio Club will again be supporting the 10th Annual Montague Sawmill River 10K Run this year. The event wil be on January 1, 2020. For this event, FCARC's Leyden repeater (146.985 MHz, PL 136.5) will be used. Due to the nature of the course, volunteers should strongly consider using mobile radios with 10W
- [Section Manager Report January 2020](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/01/01/section-manager-report-january-2020/) - Ray KB1LRL
- [KC1KCE Appointed as Western MA Public Information Coodinator](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/01/03/kc1kce-appointed-as-western-ma-public-information-coodinator/) - Ray, KB1LRL
- [New Amateur Licensees - December 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/01/07/new-amateur-licensees-december-2019/) - Congratulations to the latest new hams of Western Massachusetts: Everett C Rubel, AC1IP146 Wales RdBrimfield, MA 01010-9748 John D Mckeon, KC1MIP70 West StPaxton, MA 01612-1014
- [Massachusetts Traffic Report for November 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/01/07/massachusetts-traffic-report-for-november-2019/) - Eastern and Western Massachusetts Section Traffic Manager KW1U has posted the latest NTS monthly report. It can be viewed on the Eastern Massachusetts ARRL website at this link.
- [Boston Marathon Volunteer Registration Opens](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/01/07/boston-marathon-volunteer-registration-opens/) - On behalf of the BAA Amateur Radio Communications Committee, Happy New Year! It’s hard to believe that 2019 has come to a close and we are heading into 2020. With the New Year comes the 124th running of the Boston Marathon.Volunteer registration will open for the Marathon is now open. The race itself is taking place on Monday,
- [Important Info on the New Distracted Driving Laws](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/01/09/important-info-on-the-new-distracted-driving-laws/) - Back in November, it was reported on this website and on Eastern MA section's website that new changes to the Commonwealth's distrcted driver laws were being considered. These changes would include holding any electronics communications device, even with just one hand, while driving. These changes will go into effect on February 23, 2020. There will be
- [Massachusetts Traffic Summary for 2019](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/01/19/massachusetts-traffic-summary-for-2019/) - Eastern and Western Massachusetts Section Traffic Manager KW1U has posted a NTS summary for the entire year of 2019. It can be viewed on the Eastern Massachusetts ARRL website at this link.
- [ARISS Opens Window for ISS Ham Radio Contact Proposals on February 1](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/01/25/ariss-opens-window-for-iss-ham-radio-contact-proposals-on-february-1/) - Editors note: Generally we do not repost news items off of the ARRL HQ home page unless the news pertains directly to the Western MA section. In this case, we've had school based ARISS contacts made in the section in the past and this is another opportunity to repeat an excellent experience. Please consider it!
- [New ARRL Mentoring Guide Available](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/01/25/new-arrl-mentoring-guide-available/) - Section Manager Ray Lajoie KB1LRL, Technical Coordinator Greg Algieri WA1JAR, Technical Specialist Paul Topolski W1SEX and Technical Specialist Bob Meneguzzo K1YO presented a new ham mentoring program. The intent is to provide access to information, tools and resources to new hams, clubs and VE’s. Ray, Greg, Paul, Bob and others in the section have put together a
- [Greenfield Winter Carnival Sleigh Bell Race](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/01/25/greenfield-winter-carnival-sleigh-bell-race/) - The Franklin County Amateur Radio Club is looking for amateur radio volunteers for the Greenfield Winter Carnival Sleigh Bell Race. The race will be held Saturday, February 1, 2020. This is a very short race, only 4 miles. We will meet around 9am - 9:15ish at Hope & Olive - coffee and donuts are available -
- [New WMA ARRL Social Media Pages](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/01/26/new-wma-arrl-social-media-pages/) - Our new Public Information Coordinator Grant Fritchey KC1KCE has been busy already by setting up new, official social media accounts for our section. Please consider visiting and following them: https://www.facebook.com/arrlwma https://twitter.com/Arrl_WMa
- [2020 Northeast HamXposition: New Venue and New Date!](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/01/27/2020-northeast-hamxposition-new-venue-and-new-date/) - Northeast HamXposition 2019 General Chair Mike Raisbeck, K1TWF, wrote to convention vendors and exhibitors on January 23, 2020: To all our vendors, past, present, and (we hope) future: Northeast HamXposition at Boxboro, the New England ARRL Division Convention, is now four months behind us. The 2019 show went well. The gate remained steady. Attendance at the banquets, forums, and flea market
- [Mike Raisbeck, K1TWF, Elected to ARRL First Vice President](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/01/28/mike-raisbeck-k1twf-elected-to-arrl-first-vice-president/) - Editor note: This article was first posted on the EMA ARRL website. The ARRL Board of Directors has elected Mike Raisbeck, K1TWF, of Chelmsford, Massachusetts as First Vice President during its recent meeting January 17-18, 2020 in Connecticut. Mike has served as the ARRL New England Division Vice Director since July 1998. According to the League’s
- [HCRA Tech Class Starting in March](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/01/28/hcra-tech-class-starting-in-march/) - The Hampden County Radio Association is holding a weekend Tech Class license session over March 21 & 22. Classes run 8 am thru 6 pm Saturday. 8 am thru 2 or 3 pm Sunday with testing immediately after.Cost is $35 and includes the book and lunch on Sunday. Bottled water will be available on both days.Location is the room
- [Algonquin ARC Hamfest](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/02/02/algonquin-arc-hamfest-2/) - WMA Section Manager Ray Lajoie KB1LRL is planning on attending the hamfest. Hope to see you there!
- [Section Manager Report February 2020](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/02/02/section-manager-report-february-2020/) - Ray KB1LRL
- [New Amateur Licensees - January 2020](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/02/05/new-amateur-licensees-january-2020/) - Congratulations to the latest new hams of Western Massachusetts: Vincent J Melling, KC1MOH88 Rick DrFlorence, MA 01062-1046 David R Archambault, KC1MKY44 Cottage AveSouthampton, MA 01073-9538 Michael J Gregoire, KC1MOI10 Brentwood DrWilbraham, MA 01095-2504 Pranee Ngaokaeo, KC1MMA3 Themeli CtNorth Oxford, MA 01537-1026
- [New WMA Club Presenters List Published](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/02/05/new-wma-club-presenters-list-published/) - I'm happy to report that, with the help of many others, I've compiled a list of known good club presenters and topics. The purpose of the list is to help clubs in the section in selecting and asking people to come to their club meetings to speak and present on a variety of interesting topics.
- [More Boston Marathon Ham Radio Volunteers Needed](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/02/09/more-boston-marathon-ham-radio-volunteers-needed/) - The Boston Marathon Communications Committee is currently at 240 out of our goal of 350 volunteer registrations for this year's Boston Marathon. Registration was scheduled to close on February 7th -- the BAA has granted us an extension until February 17th. If you're interested in volunteering, please register today. You can sign up at http://register.hamradioboston.org.
- [KB1LRL Featured on Tomorrow's Ham On! Show](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/02/11/kb1lrl-featured-on-tomorrows-ham-on-show/) - Western MA Section Manager Ray Lajoie KB1LRL. In particular, they will be talking about the secton's new mentoring program that Ray and section's technical staff is starting, as well as ARES in within the section and other happenings. You can listen live on wtbrfm.com. Past recordings of Ham on! are also available at https://anchor.fm/peter0190. Peter is also one of our section's Assistant Section Traffic
- [33rd Annual MTARA Hamfest](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/02/23/33rd-annual-mtara-hamfest/) - Ray Lajoie KB1LRL is planning on attending the hamfest.
- [Section Manager Report March 2020](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/03/01/section-manager-report-march-2020/) - Ray, KB1LRL
- [KD2JKV Appointed as Assistant Section Manager](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/03/01/kd2jkv-appointed-as-assistant-section-manager/) - Please join us in welcoming Peter Mattice KD1JKV as our newest Assistant Section Manager! Peter is involved with many things in the hobby, including serving in multiple roles within ARES, within NTS, and he also hosts his own broadcast radio show and podcast dedicated to ham radio. Peter will be serving mostly as a representative
- [WMA Mentoring Guide (Re)Published](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/03/01/wma-mentoring-guide-republished/) - Section Manager Ray Lajoie KB1LRL, Technical Coordinator Greg Algieri WA1JAR, Technical Specialist Paul Topolski W1SEX and Technical Specialist Bob Meneguzzo K1YO presented a new ham mentoring program. Our section's Technical Specialist Team has put together a mentoring guide which is intended to be downloaded by whoever needs it and can edit it specific to their club or group. This
- [Boston Marathon "Urgent Appeal" for More Volunteers](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/03/02/boston-marathon-urgent-appeal-for-more-volunteers/) - This year we have worked hard to build up our volunteer numbers so that the mission may be accomplished. Unfortunately we’ve been met with lower than hoped for volunteer applications. So here’s our urgent appeal for help.Please spread the word, personally, that comms volunteers are needed at the Marathon. In particular, we are seeking Amateur
- [New Amateur Licensees - February 2020](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/03/07/new-amateur-licensees-february-2020/) - Congratulations to the latest new hams of Western Massachusetts: Lindsay E Stromgren, KC1MSD106 Amherst RdPelham, MA 01002-9706Merrick L Stromgren, KC1MSE106 Amherst RdPelham, MA 01002-9706Howard M Tuber, KC1MQJ114 E Hill RdMonson, MA 01057-9203Samuel L Hirshberg, KC1MSB1 Berkshire SqAdams, MA 01220-1300Lois Hunt, KC1MSC12 Long Plain RdSouth Deerfield, MA 01373-9721Randall J Miller, KC1MSA596 Oak Hill RdFitchburg, MA 01420-4818Richard
- [Massachusetts Traffic Report for February 2020](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/03/13/massachusetts-traffic-report-for-february-2020/) - Eastern and Western Massachusetts Section Traffic Manager KW1U has posted the latest NTS monthly report. It can be viewed on the Eastern Massachusetts ARRL website at this link.
- [Boston Marathon Postponed Until September](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/03/13/boston-marathon-postponed-until-september/) - The following message was sent to all amateur radio operators that have signed up to volunteer at the Boston Marathon this year: As you should now have read in the BAA’s email to all volunteers, the decision has been made to postpone the race this year. This was directed by the City of Boston and
- [NEAR-Fest XXVII Status Report](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/03/28/near-fest-xxvii-status-report/) - The big question for the last several weeks has been: Is NEAR-Fest XXVII scheduled for May going to be canceled? The answer sadly now is yes. On March 26th the NH Governor issued Emergency Order 17 which is a “stay-at-home” advisory in effect from Friday, March 27th through Monday May 4th 2020. This
- [Section Manager Report April 2020](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/03/29/section-manager-report-april-2020/) - myself. With that, The League as you know is all working from home and can be contacted via email. There have been questions regarding exam sessions that people have been preparing for. They are looking at this as well as other things to keep parts of these areas moving. There is chatter, although nothing confirmed
- [New Amateur Licensees - March 2020](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/04/08/new-amateur-licensees-march-2020/) - Congratulations to the latest new hams of Western Massachusetts: Antonio J Costa, KC1MTR320 S East StAmherst, MA 01002-2615 Daniel P Lesperance, KC1MTS63 Laskowski StChicopee, MA 01020-3577 Joseph P Gomes, KC1MTMPO Box 24Cummington, MA 01026-0024 Robert Denault, KC1MXD36 Lombard AveEast Longmeadow, MA 01028-1641 Mark Bouchard, KC1MTO267 Parker StEast Longmeadow, MA 01028-2614 Sarah K Oelker, KC1MTX75 Evergreen
- [HamExposition Postponed Until Nov 6-8](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/04/10/hamexposition-postponed-until-nov-6-8/) - I hope this messages finds you safe and healthy. After long consideration, the convention committee has decided to postpone the 2020 convention to the week of November 6 through 8. There are several reasons for this, the first and foremost is the health and well-being of our attendees. In addition, there are many logistical
- [Looking for Local Net Information](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/04/19/looking-for-local-net-information/) - Ray KB1LRL
- [CMARA Breakfast Net Helping Fellow Hams](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/04/19/cmara-breakfast-net-helping-fellow-hams/) - The Central MA Amateur Radio Association has recently started up a new Breakfast Net. The net runs on their W1BIM repeater system every day at 9 AM local as well as on 80m on 3982 kHz at 10 AM local. The purpose of the Breakfast Net is twofold. First is to reach out to all
- [New England QSO Party](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/04/22/new-england-qso-party-5/) - The New England QSO Party will be held on May 2nd and 3rd. Now's your chance to be the sought after stations instead of the other way around! The NEQP is a great time to check out antenna systems and offers a moderately paced opportunity to work new states and countries. You'll find a wide
- [WMA Ham Net Listing Published](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/05/06/wma-ham-net-listing-published/) - Section Manager Ray Lajoie KB1LRL asked the members and clubs throughout the section to provide information on a variety of nets that are being run throughout the area. The output of this activity is now available! The net listing is available on the main navigation menu What We Do > Operating > Net Listing. Special
- [Section Manager Report May 2020](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/05/06/section-manager-report-may-2020/) - Ray, KB1LRL
- [New Amateur Licensees - April 2020](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/05/06/new-amateur-licensees-april-2020/) - Congratulations to the latest new hams of Western Massachusetts: Gene Howard, KC1MYI11 Park RdSunderland, MA 01375-9567 Kerry K Reynolds, KC1MYA30 Taft StNorthbridge, MA 01534-1286 Matthew Caola, KC1MYD460 Walnut StShrewsbury, MA 01545-4816 Mark H English, KC1MZB88 Whitins RdSutton, MA 01590-2733
- [HCRA Health and Welfare Net](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/05/06/hcra-health-and-welfare-net/) - The Hampden County Radio Association will be conducting a Health and Welfare Net beginning on Tuesday May 5. The net will take place every Tuesday and Friday morning at 11:00 AM. We will continue the net for as long as there is support or need. The purpose of the net is to inform colleagues and
- [FCARC Meeting on JS8Call Important For WMA ARES](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/05/09/fcarc-meeting-on-js8call-important-for-wma-ares/) - This month's Franklin County Amateur Radio Club meeting will be held online via Zoom due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The meeting will be on Monday May 11 at 7 PM. All are welcome to attend this online meeting. FCARC President Aaron Addison KF1G will presenting on JS8Call. JS8Call is a digital mode built on the
- [Temporary Rule Waivers Announced for 2020 ARRL Field Day](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/05/28/temporary-rule-waivers-announced-for-2020-arrl-field-day/) - This was posted today to the ARRL HQ website. Original posting can be seen here. We're reposting it here as this is exciting information for all amateur radio operators looking at participating in Field Day this year. With one month to go before 2020 ARRL Field Day, June 27 – 28, the ARRL Programs and Services
- [Boston Marathon Amateur Radio Effort Cancelled](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/05/29/boston-marathon-amateur-radio-effort-cancelled/) - We hope this email again finds you, your friends, and your family safe and in good health in this time of extraordinary challenge. The Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) has announced that the 124th Boston Marathon will be held as a virtual event, following Boston Mayor Martin Walsh’s cancellation of the marathon as a mass participation
- [146.94 Mt.Tom Repeater Skywarn and ARES Net Control Stations](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/06/01/146-94-mt-tom-repeater-skywarn-and-ares-net-control-stations/) - Regularly Scheduled ARES and Information Nets The 146.94 pl -127.3 Mt.Tom repeater has been experiencing technical problems. These problems appear to be more noticeable generally to the South and East of the Mt.Tom repeater location. Please note that stations generally North and West seem to be operating normally at this time.The tech folks at MTARA are aware of
- [Section Manager Report June 2020](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/06/01/section-manager-report-june-2020/) - Ray, KB1LRL
- [New Amateur Licensees - May 2020](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/06/07/new-amateur-licensees-may-2020/) - Congratulations to the latest new hams of Western Massachusetts: Leo A Koerner, KC1NBP2128 Canaan Southfield RdSouthfield, MA 01259-9767 Raoul Sevier, KC1MZS4 Longfellow WayBoylston, MA 01505-1444 Dewey Sasser, KC1NBG1 Applewood LnCharlton, MA 01507-1649 Jennifer O Emhoff, KC1NAY222 Burlingame RdCharlton, MA 01507-5202 Neil Powers, KC1NCH383 Brigham StNorthborough, MA 01532-2321 Emily Huck, KC1NCD383 Brigham StNorthborough, MA 01532-2321 Kyle
- [WMA ARES Looking for Volunteers for VHF Testing](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/06/14/wma-ares-looking-for-volunteers-for-vhf-testing/) - The WMA ARES Section is in the process of conducting simplex communications testing on 6 and 2 meters within the section.At this point, we are looking to test 6 meter communications between Hampden and Worcester counties and need a few volunteers with good 6 meter capabilities, particularly in the Southern Worcester County area. Time involved will be short
- [Ham Radio Saving A Life Locally!](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/06/20/ham-radio-saving-a-life-locally/) - On Tuesday, June 15, Alden Sumner Jones IV, KC1JWR, was hiking on the southern part of the Appalachian trail in Vermont (it’s also been reported as being on the Long Trail) with his cousins at around 12:30 PM. Alden started feeling light headed, his pulse was racing and the next thing he remembers is waking
- [HCRA Health and Welfare Net – Closed for Now](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/06/20/hcra-health-and-welfare-net-closed-for-now/) - Over the past 2 weeks check-ins to the HCRA Health & Welfare net have tailed off considerably. After discussing this with Rich KC1AEO, we've decided the net has served its purpose as people get back to a more normal life. Therefore, we will close the net for now with the idea that we will begin
- [Section Manager Report July 2020](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/07/07/section-manager-report-july-2020/) - Ray, KB1LRL
- [Fall NEAR-Fest Cancelled](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/07/09/fall-near-fest-cancelled/) - Many radio amateurs and hobbyists in the Northeast already know that the Deerfield Fair Association voted reluctantly but overwhelmingly to cancel the 2020 Fair at a special meeting on Tuesday, June 23rd, 2020. Ben, KB1NZN, and I are members and were at the meeting. We both voted for cancellation and totally agree with the decision
- [MARS Announces HF Skills Exercise](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/07/16/mars-announces-hf-skills-exercise/) - As part of a Nationwide HF Skills Exercise for MARS Members and Amateur Radio Operators the Chief of ARMY MARS and the Chief of Air force MARS have announced an exercise for July 20-24, 2020.Amateur Radio Operators are encouraged to participate in Daily 60 Meter Nets on Channel 1 (5330.5 KHz USB Dial) at 1200 and 2000 local
- [Section Manager Report August 2020](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/07/28/section-manager-report-august-2020/) - Ray, KB1LRL
- [HamXposition First Postponed, Now Going Virtual](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/08/01/hamxposition-first-postponed-now-going-virtual/) - Hello All,Large indoor gatherings such as our convention are currently prohibited by Massachusetts state law. This is highly unlikely to change by November. Unfortunately, we will not be able to hold a physical convention this year.However, we do plan some virtual activities, all free. We are currently working on the details for these and will
- [Section Manager Report September 2020](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/08/31/section-manager-report-september-2020/) - Ray, KB1LRL
- [New Amateur Licensees June, July and August 2020](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/09/20/new-amateur-licensees-june-july-and-august-2020/) - Congratulations to the latest new hams of Western Massachusetts: Dale A Winkler, KC1NCL35 Tanglewood DrMilford, MA 01757-1060Gail Parsloe, KC1NFF382 Northampton RdApt AAmherst, MA 01002-2558Jacob P Morin, KC1NHF68 Monson RdWales, MA 01081-9714Alexander N Habermann, KC1NHG1 Berkshire SqApt 410Adams, MA 01220-1304James Javorsky, KC1NJJ480 Teel RdWinchendon, MA 01475-2143Joseph Quinn, KC1NHV7 Bradish Farm RdUpton, MA 01568-1021Shridhar Ambady, KC1NIX16 Seward
- [Phil Temples, K9HI, Appointed as New England Division Vice Director](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/09/24/phil-temples-k9hi-appointed-as-new-england-division-vice-director/) - ARRL President Rick Roderick, K5UR, has appointed Phil Temples, K9HI, of Watertown, Massachusetts, as New England Division Vice Director. He succeeds Mike Raisbeck, K1TWF, who was elected earlier this year as ARRL First Vice President. President Roderick made the appointment after consulting with New England Director Fred Hopengarten, K1VR, and the region's Section Managers. "I want
- [NEAR-Fest and the Road Ahead](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/09/26/near-fest-and-the-road-ahead/) - Dear Friends of NEAR-Fest: Now that NEAR-Fest XXVII and XXVIII have been cancelled there are some important issues with which we must deal..... First, this is going to be a major hit on our treasury because, notwithstanding the reason we are being canceled, we have contracts that need to be honored. 2019 was, as you
- [Section Manager Report October 2020](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/09/30/section-manager-report-october-2020/) - Hello fellow practitioners of the ether! I’m starting to hear rumors that Santa is only giving sanitizing supplies this year! Makes you wonder don’t it? If you haven’t found out yet we now have a NE Division Vice Director and that is Phil Temples, K9HI. You may have seen him around or talked to him
- [HamXposition / New England ARES Academy Schedule](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/10/01/hamxposition-new-england-ares-academy-schedule/) - From ema.arrl.org: The first-ever New England Division ARES Academy, originally scheduled for the Division Convention in November, will instead be held over a period of several weeks in October via Zoom. There are five Basic Track classes for those just getting started, and more advanced classes and workshops for those who already have the basics.
- [ARES Potential Deployment Capabilities Survey](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/10/01/ares-potential-deployment-capabilities-survey/) - The ARES Western Massachusetts Section is in the process of updating information about its members. We are beginning a redesign of our Registration Form and accessibility to the data you have provided in the past. Look for more information on our WMA ARES website as we progress through these tasks. Initially I’d like to ask
- [Schedule and Registration for NE ARES Academy](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/10/04/schedule-and-registration-for-ne-ares-academy/) - The schedule and registration for the upcoming NE ARES Academy is now up and running. https://hamxposition.org/2020/ne-ares-academy
- [New Amateur Licensees September 2020](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/10/06/new-amateur-licensees-september-2020/) - Congratulations to the latest new hams of Western Massachusetts: Samuel A Bell, KC1NUK470 Memorial DrApt 351Chicopee, MA 01020-5051Michael P Siekiewicz, KC1NUL556 Main StHampden, MA 01036-9679Patrick J Lennon, KC1NXI91 Pineridge DrWestfield, MA 01085-4544David J Moriarty, KC1NSZ76 Campechi StSpringfield, MA 01104-2921Paul M Bigos, KC1NUJ95 Mountain Dale Cir691Becket, MA 01223Aaron Taylor, KC1NWC41 Hill Province RdWilliamstown, MA 01267-2030David W
- [Department of Defense Exercise With Amateur Radio Participation, October 2020](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/10/06/department-of-defense-exercise-with-amateur-radio-participation-october-2020/) - As written by Tom Kinahan N1CPE and posted on the NE Division website: For almost the whole month of October, (now through October 26) the Department of Defense is conducting a series of exercises that will train the connection of MARS members to the Amateur Radio Service. There are opportunities for hams to participate in
- [WMA ARES HF Emergency Net Signal Reports](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/10/12/wma-ares-hf-emergency-net-signal-reports/) - Hello to all stations that checked into the WMA ARES HF Emergency Net on Sunday October 11.You've probably noticed that I've requested your power levels to be reported also ... this is to assist in studying some of the 75m ionospherics at play during our net relative to the time and your location. I've attached
- [Calling all VE's and Teachers](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/2020/10/18/calling-all-ves-and-teachers/) - Ray KB1LRL

## Pages

- [Local ARRL Affiliated Clubs](https://wma.arrl.org/local-arrl-affiliated-clubs/) - Most new amateur radio operators get their first experiences with amateur radio with a local club. Whether it's contacts via the clubs local repeater system, attending a club's meeting, or operating at a club's Field Day operation, local amateur radio clubs embody what the ARRL is all about. For more information about the local clubs
- [State Government Liaison Steve Berian KC1KEZ](https://wma.arrl.org/state-government-liaison/) - Contact Info:119 Industrial Drive, Unit 1012E Longmeadow, MA 01028-7741smpvs@hotmail.com My radio experience started when I was 11 years old, when I walked up our street in Hartford, CT, to Trinity College’s radio station, WRTC-FM. Initially I hung out with the disc jockeys, refiled their records, fetched them coffee, soda & munchies from the nearby cafeteria,
- [About the Western Massachusetts ARRL](https://wma.arrl.org/about/) - The Western Massachusetts (WMA) ARRL field organization serves American Radio Relay League (ARRL) members in the western part of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, comprised of Worcester, Franklin, Hampden, Hampshire and Berkshire counties. Founded in 1914 by Hiram Percy Maxim, ARRL is the national association for Amateur Radio in the US, serving members by protecting and
- [Open ARRL Field Appointments](https://wma.arrl.org/open-arrl-field-appointments/) - This page contains a listing of ARRL Field Appointments that the Western Massachusetts section is actively searching to fill. All of these appointments require full, active ARRL membership. If you are an ARRL member in the Western Massachusetts section that meets the stated requirement of the appointment and are interested in it, please apply! Section
- [Western Massachusetts Section Mentoring Program](https://wma.arrl.org/western-massachusetts-section-mentoring-program/) - The Western Massachusetts Technical Specialist Team is developing a new mentoring program. The intent is to provide access to information, tools and resources to the section to help Elmer new hams, especially that have just gotten their new amateur radio license. There is a lot of resources out there regarding how to get an amateur radio
- [Technical Coordinator Greg Algieri WA1JXR](https://wma.arrl.org/technical-coordinator/) - Contact Info: 22 Chase Hill Road Lancaster, MA 01523 wa1jxr@comcast.net First licensed as WN1JXR in 1967. Amateur Radio lead me to pursue a career in Electrical Engineering, earning BSEE and MSEE degrees from the Univ. of R.I. I have worked for Raytheon Co. on RADAR Systems for 39 years, currently as a Senior Principal RF/uW
- [Section Traffic Manager Marcia Forde KW1U](https://wma.arrl.org/section-traffic-manager/) - Contact Info: 44 Raymond Rd Concord, MA 01742 kw1u@comcast.net I was first licensed in 1980 while living in Concord MA, having been introduced to ham radio by my son who was licensed at age 13. His call is now K1WU. After a year of WAS and DXing etc., in 1981 I followed in his footsteps
- [Section Emergency Coordinator Charles Chandler WS1L](https://wma.arrl.org/section-emergency-coordinator/) - Contact Info: 22 A Street North Adams, MA 01247 chandlerusm@gmail.com I've been a ham since 1983. I started with 2 meter FM, then the DX'ing bug bit and I got hooked, hard. That led me to CW as a preferred mode, then to DXCC and finally to Honor Roll. I also contest a bit. The
- [Public Information Coordinator VACANT](https://wma.arrl.org/public-information-coordinator/) - Contact Info: This appointment is presently vacant. If you are interested in this appointment, please contact the Section Manager. Public Information Coordinator Appointment Description The ARRL Public Information Coordinator (PIC) is a section-level official appointed by and reports to the Section Manager (SM) as the section's expert on public information and public relations matters. Requirements: Full
- [Affiliated Club Coordinator Larry Krainson W1AST](https://wma.arrl.org/affiliated-club-coordinator/) - Contact Info: 100 Kenmore Drive Longmeadow, MA 01106 w1ast@arrl.net Back in late 1975, when I was in 7th grade, a friend asked me if I wanted to talk on the “shortwave” radio to meet new people around the world. I told him yes, but I had to check with my parents. Thankfully my parents said
- [Assistant Section Manager Greg Algieri WA1JXR](https://wma.arrl.org/assistant-section-manager-wa1jxr/) - Contact Info: 22 Chase Hill Road Lancaster, MA 01523 wa1jxr@comcast.net First licensed as WN1JXR in 1967. Amateur Radio lead me to pursue a career in Electrical Engineering, earning BSEE and MSEE degrees from the Univ. of R.I. I have worked for Raytheon Co. on RADAR Systems for 39 years, currently as a Senior Principal RF/uW
- [Section Manager Ray Lajoie AA1SE](https://wma.arrl.org/section-manager/) - Contact Info: 245 Leominster Rd Lunenburg, MA 01462 aa1se@arrl.org My Radio experience started at a young age when as a kid I would spend hours on a National RBJ style Military receiver swapping coils and tuning the bands. Set the Wayback machine to 2004 at Hosstraders where I got my license. Since then I have
- [Technical Specialists](https://wma.arrl.org/technical-specialists/) - Amateur Radio can be proud of its technical accomplishments. Throughout the history of the radio art, amateurs have continually made significant contributions to its development. And today, even in our "high-tech" world, there continue to be opportunities for amateurs to make a difference. Technical appointees within the Western Massachusetts ARRL work towards assistance the section's
- [Public Information](https://wma.arrl.org/public-information/) - Amateur Radio is a valuable resource that deserves to be promoted to the public in a variety of ways. The ARRL has established a public information and relations wing of the field organization to help the general public discover the value of amateur radio overall. The ARRL has established several public information campaigns to promote
- [Government Advocacy](https://wma.arrl.org/government-advocacy/) - One of the responsibilities of the ARRL, in all of its forms and on all levels, is to interact with government agencies for the benefit of amateur radio. What value would you place on a group of people who: Can provide instant wireless communication during a disaster or community event with little advance notice; Have
- [Formal Messaging](https://wma.arrl.org/formal-messaging/) - During disasters or other emergencies, radiograms are used to communicate information critical to saving lives or property, or to inquire about the health or welfare of a disaster victim. In amateur radio, we call these formal messages and radiograms "traffic". The National Traffic System was developed in the early days of amateur radio, with a
- [Amateur Radio Emergency Service](https://wma.arrl.org/emergency-communications/) - Within each ARRL section, the main outlet for emergency communications needs within the field organization is the Amateur Radio Emergency Service® (ARES). ARES consists of licensed amateurs who have voluntarily registered their qualifications and equipment, with their local ARES leadership, for communications duty in the public service when disaster strikes. ARES Membership Click here to
- [REGISTER BELOW FOR DIGITAL MODES TRAINING – WESTERN MASS ARES](https://wma.arrl.org/western-mass-digital-training/) - If you are interested in attending online Zoom training for Digital Communication … modes WinLink, FLDigi or JS8Call … please fill in the information below and submit the form using the button provided. Indicate your mode(s) of interest by checking the appropriate boxes, being sure to provide the additional information requested as this enables us
- [Data Privacy Policy](https://wma.arrl.org/data-privacy-policy/) - In this policy, the Western Massachusetts (WMA) section of the ARRL define the use of its websites; the WMA Section defines its use of the “online” database. In both cases, interaction is always initiated by you, which will help to safeguard your data. With the exception of ARES business, you will never be sent emails.

## Categories

- [website](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/website/)
- [Section Staff](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/section-staff/)
- [CMARA](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/cmara/)
- [WECT](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/wect/)
- [SM Report](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/sm-report/)
- [New WMA Licensees](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/new-wma-licensees/)
- [Hamfests](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/hamfests/)
- [Public Service](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/public-service/)
- [ARES](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/ares/)
- [Government Advocacy](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/government-advocacy/)
- [Section](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/section/)
- [NTS](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/nts/)
- [Contests](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/contests/)
- [MARS](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/mars/)
- [FCARC](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/fcarc/)
- [Licensing Classes](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/licensing-classes/)
- [HCRA](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/hcra/)
- [MTARA](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/mtara/)
- [RACES](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/races/)
- [NoBARC](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/nobarc/)
- [Public Info](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/public-info/)
- [SKYWARN](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/skywarn/)
- [ARISS](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/ariss/)
- [Technical Guidance](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/technical-guidance/)
- [Mentoring](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/mentoring/)
- [Nets](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/nets/)
- [New England Division](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/new-england-division/)
- [Youth](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/youth/)
- [Field Day](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/field-day/)
- [Special Event Stations](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/special-event-stations/)
- [VE](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/ve/)
- [Mohawk ARC](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/mohawk-arc/)
- [Montachusett ARA](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/montachusett-ara/)
- [Operating Events](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/operating-events/)
- [YCCC](https://wma.arrl.org/blog/category/yccc/)