This pandemic is a different kind of emergency than we’ve been training for. It’s a slow burn, and there’s going to be no need for backup communications. But just because we’re in one kind of emergency, doesn’t mean that other emergencies won’t happen. Hurricane Laura didn’t wait her turn, and Amateur Radio operators along the coast were ready to assist. We all need to keep working on our skills in case anything else happens where we can help.
We’re coming close to the end of severe weather season in Minnesota. Our last turn at Skywarn duty this year is the first two weeks of September. I’d like to give a big “thank you” to all the operators who have been ready to help on our Skywarn team.
This month we had 3 more VE sessions and tested 17 candidates. Although we prioritize the Dakota division, we are happy to test people from around the country, and even around the world. We tested a Marine quarantined in Okinawa with nothing to do but study for his general, and a person in the US Virgin Islands who helps with disaster response. There was a mother who was studying ham radio with her daughter as a girl scout activity. They were inspired by the third book of the “Ada Lace” series for girls, which features ham radio. We tested a guy who is both the minister and volunteer fire chief in a small town in Texas. These kinds of stories inspire us to keep going.
At this week’s club meeting we have our annual elections. Our board of directors is a dedicated group of members who help decide the direction of our club. Be sure to attend our meeting on Tuesday to help decide who they will be.
Benton Jackson, K0BHJ
