eHam.net News

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Dufferin's Hams Put the Call Out for New Recruits:

Posted: 09 Apr 2013 12:25 AM PDT
http://www.eham.net/articles/30000


Despite the Internet, cellphones, email and modern communications, regions
can find themselves in the dark during disaster events. In many cases, the
one consistent service that never fails is amateur radio. These radio
operators, often called "hams," can provide vital backup communications.
The Dufferin Amateur Radio Emergency Services is looking for new recruits.
Dufferin's hams will offer a basic qualification course to anyone
interested in gaining their amateur radio operator certificate. Starting
on April 22, the course, which will run for about 10 weeks, will be held at
the W & M Edelbrock Centre on Centre Street in Orangeville from 7 to 9 p.m.


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Radio Buffs 'Ham' It Up in Denville Township:

Posted: 09 Apr 2013 12:25 AM PDT
http://www.eham.net/articles/29999


You don't need the internet. You don't even really need an electric outlet.
When disaster strikes, amateur radio is one form of communication that will
persevere against all odds. And for the Radio Amateur Civil Service
(RACES), a standby emergency radio group that meets every month in the
Senior Center in Denville, the only equipment needed to blast an emergency
signal is a small antenna and a low-power radio. For members, many of them
electronic hobbyists, the fact that their work can benefit the community if
the worst occurs is definitely an added perk. "When there's a loss of
power, and other means of communication aren't working, we can call and ask
for supplies," member Matthew Morely said. In fact, the group had a radio
repeater on Beacon Hill during hurricanes Sandy and Irene when northern New
Jersey experienced widespread power failure. Many operators and operator
services were in fact instituted after the events of 9/11. in the United
States as emergency backup, Morely added. He explained that every hospital,
including Saint Claire's Hospital in Denville, has a ham operator who can
tap the airwaves for help just in case all else fails.