Canadians donate over $1 million for Hurricane Katrina relief. (Sept. 3 2005)

The Canadian Red Cross estimates that so far Canadians have donated over $1 million to date to help survivors of Hurricane Katrina. 

As well, the agency said 37 Canadian Red Cross workers left for Houston on Saturday to help victims of Hurricane Katrina in the first of a series of missions being organized for the months ahead. The volunteers -- from Sydney, Nova Scotia to Edmonton, Alberta -- will support the American Red Cross in managing 270 shelters and delivering some 500,000 hot meals each day. 

"We are sending our most experienced and highly trained volunteers to support the largest relief operation in the American Red Cross' history," said Don Shropshire, National Director, Disaster Services, Canadian Red Cross. "In the coming weeks we will send at least 100 volunteers to the region, then more as required. It is the most effective way that we can help our counterparts in the US," Shropshire said. The Canadian Red Cross does not recruit new volunteers for this type of mission, but relies on its existing pool of people who have experience responding to disasters in Canada.

(Source CBC News)

RAC announces a new student package (Sept. 1 2005)

Radio Amateurs of Canada is pleased to announce a Special Introductory Package for Amateur Radio Students.
 

The Special Package will include:  - One copy of the RAC Basic Study Guide (retail value $36.50)  - One copy of the RAC Operating Manual (retail value $23.00  - A six-month trial membership in RAC, which will include three issues of The Canadian Amateur magazine (retail value $25.00, not available except through this special program)

TOTAL RETAIL VALUE: $84.50 plus $10.50 shipping plus applicable taxes.

Special Package Offer:

For a limited time get this package for only $60.00 – plus $8.50 shipping plus GST ($4.80) or HST ($10.28) as applicable.

The Special Package is available to:

 - Individuals studying to become Amateur Radio Operators
 - Clubs sponsoring Amateur Radio classes and wishing to order packages in bulk (4 packages or more)*
 - Instructors conducting Amateur Radio classes and wishing to order packages in bulk (4 packages or more)* 

*Special Bonus to Clubs and Instructors (retail value $40.00):

Amateur Radio Clubs and Instructors placing bulk orders will receive a special bonus (limit 1 bonus per Amateur Radio Club or Instructor):

 - 1 complimentary copy of the Instructors Guide CD-ROM and
 - 1 complimentary copy of the Industry Canada Question Bank CD-ROM

Order Now! Fall classes will be starting soon and time is running out 

There are three easy ways to order: 

1) Individual orders can be placed online at the RAC store on this web site. 

A special page in the RAC Store will give details of the Special Package.

2) Order by telephone at 1-877-273-8304. This is the best way for clubs and instructors to place bulk orders to obtain the Special Bonus CD-ROMs as well as the best shipping rates.

3) Order by mail, including credit card or cheque (payable to RAC), and send to:

720 Belfast Rd, Suite 217, 
Ottawa, ON
K1G 0Z5.

Bulk orders: check with RAC Headquarters first for shipping charges.

This special offer expires in December so order now.

(RAC News Service)

Special Callsign prefix to commemorate 25th anniversary of Terry Fox run (Sept. 1-30 2005)

Industry Canada has authorized the use of special callsign prefixes to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Terry Fox's run across Canada. The prefixes are as follows and will be in effect from Sept. 1 to Sept. 30 2005. 

VE= XM
VA- XL
VO= XN
VY= XO

All Canadian Radio Amateurs are encouraged to use these special callsign prefixes for the month of September.

(Thanks to Ernie VE3OU)

Special Callsign prefix to celebrate Alberta Centennial   (Sept. 1-30 2005)

Alberta Centennial Prefixes CK for VE's and CJ for VA's for use by all Alberta Amateurs for the period September 1 to 30th.  September 1 is the official Alberta 100th Birthday.  The notice was posted on Page 66 of the July-August TCA.
 

(Thanks to Jeff  VE6GJ)

The Mississauga Amateur Radio Club will be operating a Special Event Station from the Halton County Radial Railway Museum. A certificate will be awarded to those who QSL . Please note that non-Canadians will need to send either 2 green stamps or 2 IRC's as we cannot use US postage in Canada.

Operating times: 1400Z-2000Z Sep 24 and 25 

Frequencies(MHz): 7.227,14.240,21.315,28.480 +/- QRM

For more information visit:http://www.marc.on.ca

Field Day 2005 Reports

Some Clubs have been starting to post Field Day 2005 reports on thier websites, over the next few weeks links will be posted in this area. If your Club has a Field Day 2005 report posted on thier site please let us know so it can be added to this list.

Atlantic

Halifax Regional Emergency Operation Centre: http://www.ve1hre.ca/fd-2005.html

Summerside Amateur Radio Club: http://www.vy2cc.no-ip.org:60345/album/thumbnails.php?album=23

Tri-County Amateur Radio Club: http://www.ve9tca.org/products.htm#Field%20Day%202005

Westcumb Amateur Radio Club: http://www.westcumb.com/

Ontario

Georgian Bay Amateur Radio Club: http://greynet.net/~gbarc/fieldday.htm

Kitchener Waterloo Amateur Radio Club: http://www.kwarc.org/fd2005/FD2005.htm

Lambton County Radio Club: http://www.kcbassociates.com/lcrc/activities.htm

Mississuaga Amateur Radio Club: http://www.marc.on.ca/marc/events/events_fdphotos.asp

Niagara Peninsula Amateur Radio Club: http://nparc.on.ca/

Oakville Amateur radio Club: http://www.oakvilleamateurs.net/gallery/index.php

Ottawa Amateur Radio Club: http://www.oarc.net/photos/oarc_field_day_2005

Ottawa Valley Mobile Radio Club: http://www.ovmrc.on.ca/field_day_19981.htm

Peel Amateur Radio Club: http://www.peelarc.org/

Prince Edward Radio Club:http://perc.lks.net/fieldday.html

Western

Moose Jaw Amateur Radio Club: http://www.geocities.com/ve5ma/fdpic05.htm

Chilliwack Amateur Radio Club: http://www3.telus.net/carcfiles/fieldDay2005.pdf

Kamloops Amateur Radio Club: http://www.karc.ca/album/fieldday/index.html

North Shore Amateur Radio Club: http://www.ve7nsr.ca/field/field.html

Westcoast Amateur Radio Association: http://www.ve7vic.ca/fieldday.htm
 

Jim Taylor VA3KU
Bulletin Editor
bulletin@hfradio.net

Vancouver Island Ham Happenings  (September 10, 2005)
Sponsored by: The Nanaimo Amateur Radio Association

Location:  Departure Bay Activities Centre 1415 Wingrove Street Nanaimo BC ( Aka the old Departure Bay Fire Hall ) Take Departure Bay road from either end down to the beach, Wingrove st. is right across from the Departure Bay beach.
Please see map and directions on our web site.

Opens: Sellers setup from 7am to 10 am, doors will be open to the Buyers and general public at 10am and close at 1pm

Cost:  Cost of tables are $15.00 ea. includes 1 admission. There will be no charge for the table for anyone reserving a table from the lower mainland. Helpers and general admission $5.00 each.

Talkin: VE7ISC at 146.640 open repeater

Notes: There will be a RAC table, equipment manufactures tables, local dealers tables, a collectors display table and many, many sellers tables. We will be holding the annual QLF (Left foot CW) CW contest. There will be hourly door prizes as well as a major door prize of an Icom IC-V82 Handheld radio. If you are coming the night before we have many hotels and motels close by, and for RVs we have three malls in the area that allow overnight parking for self contained RVs.

For more info visit: http://www.nara.nisa.com

Barrie Hamfest  (September 10, 2005)
Sponsored by: The Barrie Amateur Radio Club

Location:  Oro Medonte Fairgrounds Just north of Barrie on Hwy #11 to Oro-Medonte Line 7. Watch for Airport sign at exit. Take Line 7 Northwest 2 Km to the 15/16th sideroad and you're at the Fairgrounds. Co-ordinates are 44 30 17 N 79 33 17 W

Opens: Open for Inside Vendors at 7 am, Taigaters at 8 am, General public at 9 am till 1 pm.
Cost:  General admission $5 , 8' tables $15 plus general admissions, Taigaters $5 plus general admissions.
Talkin:  VE3RAG 147.000 +

Notes:  Our second year at the new bigger location. Wheelchair accessable and handicap parking available.
Registration form and map on website.

For more info visit: http://www.barriearc.com

Shuswap Mini-Hamfest 27th Annual  (September 16-18 2005)
Sponsored by: the Salmon Arm Seniors' Amateur Radio Club

Location: Sunnybrae Community Hall, Tappen, B.C.-- Proceed 15 km. west of Salmon Arm on TCHwy to the Tappen Coop. Make a right turn just past the coop and drive  4 km.to the hall on the Tappen-Sunnybrae Road along the shore of Shuswap Lake.

Opens: for free RV parking [no hookup] on a first-come basis at noon on Friday, September 16th. This is an informal, relaxed weekend which includes an amateur cribbage tournament on Friday evening and late snack.

On Saturday, September 17th,  ladies' crafts, corn roasts, flea market, bean bag toss and horse races, pie auction, potluck supper, radio seminar, and a music jam session.

Sunday, September 18th includes a pancake breakfast, raffle, auction, and draw prizes until noon.

Prizes include a Yaesu FT-2800M Transceiver and another coveted blanket-chest, from the woodshop of Hans VE7BOD.

Cost: Registration of $10 includes corn and coffee at lunch, snacks, and a free pancake breakfast on the 18th.  $1 of each registration goes to the CNIB Amateur Radio Program. School age $5. Under 6 years free. Craft and flea market tables are free.

Talk in: 146.760- or 147.020-.

Information: Hans VE7BOD at 250-835-8324 or Ron VE7RLE at 250-832-2442 or ve7rle@rac.ca

Kingston Amateur Radio Club Annual Flea Market (Sept. 17 2005)

The KARC will hold its annual flea market on Saturday Sept. 17, 2005 The event will be held at Drill Hall "A", CFB Kingston. Doors will open to vendors at 0730 and the public at 0900

Admission is $ 3.00. Tables are $ 10.00 including one admission. Commercial tables are $ 20.00 but will be given free with a door prize.

Talk in: will be on the VE3KAR repeater, 146.940 ( -600)
Canteen will be available.

We will have a 50/50 draw to support the museum, many door prizes and possibly a major prize raffle. Door prizes include magazine subscriptions, dinner vouchers, sightseeing air flights, movie tickets, computer material, emergency radio etc.

The Canadian Forces Communications and Electronics Museum will be open for all to visit as well.   Free admission and only 5 minutes from the fleamarket)

Tables are available by contacting:

VE3TMT Max at mdonoghue@sympatico.ca
VE3GO Ron at ve3go@sympatico.ca or ( 613 634-4085)

West Island Auction/Fleamarket  (Sept. 17 2005)
Sponsored by:  West Island Amateur Radio Club
Location: Kirkland Arena,  16950 Boulevard Hymus, Kirkland, QC
Vendors - 09:00 - General Public from 10:00 - 13:00 - Auction at 10:00
Admission: 5.00$. - Tables 15.00$.
Talk-in: VE2RWI 146.910 (-)
For more info visit: http://shell.pubnix.net/~wiarc

Hamfest centre du Québec (Sept. 24, 2005) 
Sponsored by: Le club radioamateur de Drummondville 
Location: Ce hamfest à lieu au collège St-Bernard,25 avenue DES FRÈRES près de l'hôpital Ste-Croix 
Opens: L'arrivée des exposants à 7h00,AM L'entrée des visiteurs à 9h00,AM 
Exposants: $15.00 ceci comprend la table plus une admission pour tout autre admission le coût est de:$5.00 Visiteurs:$5.00 
Talkin:  Autoguidage:146.625- avec tone de :110.9 
Notes:  Maintenant disponible rampe d'accès pour personnes handicapées 
For more info visit: http://www.9bit.qc.ca/ve2crd

London Amateur Radio Club 28th Annual Fleamarket   (Sept. 25 2005)

Sunday, September 25, 2005, located at the Western Fair Grounds Special Events Building, London Ontario. 9:00am to 1:00pm

Vendor setup at 7:30am. Admission: $6.00 , tables $ 10.00

Free parking, Air conditioned, commercial dealers, snack bar facilities, wheelchair accessible with handicap washrooms

Inquiries: email: hamfest2005@hamster.foxhollow.ca or phone / mail to Doug Tompkins, VE3IDT (519) 439-5113
54 Hammond Cres. London, ON  N5X 1A4

Website:http://larc.ca/newsletter/LARC-HAMFEST-2005.pdf

Hamilton Amateur Radio Club "HAMFEST 2005"  (Oct. 15 2005) 
Sponsored by:  Hamilton Amateur Radio Club 
Location: Marritt Hall (Ancaster Fair Grounds) On Highway #53 (Rymal Road)- between Southcote Road and Kittymurry Lane. 
Opens:  Vendors 7:00am and to the General Public at 9:00am. 
Cost:  All tables $10.00 plus Admission. General Admission;- $6.00 
Talkin: VE3NCF 146.760 (-) 
Notes: Book early to avoid dissapointment. Refer to our Marritt Hall Layout on our website to pre register and pick your location. 
For more info visit: http://www.hwcn.org/link/radio/

Greenwood Annual Flea Market  (Oct. 15 2005) 
Sponsored by: The Greenwood Amateur Radio Club 
Location: Greenwood Community Centre Church St Greenwood  Kingston NS 
Opens: Sellers 8AM, Buyers 10AM 
Cost: $3 admission, tables free 
Talkin: VE1WN, 147.240+ 
For more info contact: Guy VE1NC ve1nc@rac.ca

Montreal Hamfest 2005 (Oct. 22 2005) 
Sponsored by: Montreal South Shore Amateur Radio Club 
Location: The Montreal South Shore Amateur Radio Club will hold it's annual Hamfest at Place Desaulniers, 1023 Taschereau blvd. Longueuil (Quebec)
Situated only 10 minutes from downtown Montreal.
Opens:  Set up Sat. 6-9 AM; public 9 AM to 3 PM 
Cost: $10.00 per table and that include admission for one. General admission is $5.00 per person 
Talkin: 145.390 (-) 
Notes: Free parking, handicapped accessible, refresments.
For more info visit: http://www.ve2clm.ca/hamfesta.htm

York Region Hamfest (Oct. 29 2005) 
Sponsored by: The York Region Amateur Radio Club 
Location: Markham Fairgrounds, Markham, ON. McCowan Road at Elgin Mills Road E. 
Opens: Vendors 6:30 a.m. Public 9:00-1:30 p.m. 
Cost: General Admissions $5.00. Vendors-refer to website for table fees. 
Talkin: 145.350- (VE3YRA) 
Notes: YRARC extends an invitation to you to come and particpate in Ontario's Leading Hamfest - 2 large buildings plus a 3rd building holding seminars. 
Exams may also be available to interested parties -- please contact the Hamfest Co-ordinator if you are interested prior to event date. 
The 29th Annual YORK REGION HAMFEST Wheelchair accessible; handicap parking available

For more info visit: http://www.yrarc.on.ca

Ham Radio, Electronic & Computer Swap Meet  (Nov. 6 2005) 
Sponsored by: The Maple Ridge Amateur Radio Club 
Location: 12460 Harris Road Pitt Meadows In the old Rec Hall 1 Block South of the Lougheed Hwy On the left side of Harris Road. Maple Ridge BC
Opens:  9:Am To 12:30PM Doors open for Vendors at 7:30AM Open for public 9AM 
Cost: Tables $20.00 includes ONE Entry Admission $3.00 
Talkin: 146.800 -600 Tone 156.7 
Notes: Pancakes and Sausages served between 8Am & 9Am. Coffee Juice and Do-Nuts served throughout the event.Great Prizes Icom Handheld 2mtr radio.50/50 Draw and many other Prizes 
For more info visit: http://www.qsl.net/ve7rmr

Hurricane Katrina HF Response and Recovery Frequencies  (Sept. 1 2005)

2802.4 USB American Red Cross Disaster (F-91) **

3171.4 USB American Red Cross Disaster (F-92) **

5136.4 USB American Red Cross Disaster (F-93) **
5141.4 USB American Red Cross Disaster (F-94) **
5211.0 USB FEMA
5236.0 USB SHARES Coordination Network (nationwide HF voice coordination)

6859.5 USB American Red Cross Disaster (F-95) **

7507.0 USB USN/USCG hurricane net (pri)

7550.5 USB American Red Cross Disaster (F-96 - primary) **
7698.5 USB American Red Cross Disaster (F-97) **

9380.0 USB USN/USCG hurricane net (sec)

10493.0 USB FEMA

14396.5 USB SHARES Coordination Network (nationwide HF voice coordination)

** Type-accepted equipment and an issued US FCC license are required to transmit on Red Cross frequencies

AMATEUR HIGH-FREQUENCY GULF COAST HURRICANE NETS

3845.0 LSB Gulf Coast West Hurricane
3862.5 LSB Mississippi Section Traffic
3873.0 LSB Central Gulf Coast Hurricane
3873.0 LSB Louisiana ARES Emergency (night)
3873.0 LSB Texas ARES Emergency (night)
3873.0 LSB Mississippi ARES Emergency
3910.0 LSB Mississippi ARES
3910.0 LSB Louisiana Traffic
3923.0 LSB Mississippi ARES
3925.0 LSB Central Gulf Coast Hurricane
3925.0 LSB Louisiana Emergency (altn)
3935.0 LSB Central Gulf Coast Hurricane
3935.0 LSB Louisiana ARES (health & welfare)
3935.0 LSB Texas ARES (health & welfare)
3935.0 LSB Mississippi ARES (health & welfare)
3935.0 LSB Alabama Emergency
3940.0 LSB Southern Florida Emergency
3950.0 LSB Northern Florida Emergency
3955.0 LSB South Texas Emergency
3965.0 LSB Alabama Emergency (altn)
3967.0 LSB Gulf Coast (outgoing traffic)
3975.0 LSB Texas RACES
3993.5 LSB Gulf Coast (health & welfare)
3995.0 LSB Gulf Coast Wx

7225.0 LSB Central Gulf Coast Hurricane
7235.0 LSB Louisiana Emergency
7235.0 LSB Central Gulf Coast Hurricane
7235.0 LSB Louisiana Emergency
7240.0 LSB American Red Cross US Gulf Coast Disaster
7240.0 LSB Texas Emergency
7243.0 LSB Alabama Emergency
7245.0 LSB Southern Louisiana
7248.0 LSB Texas RACES
7250.0 LSB Texas Emergency
7260.0 LSB Gulf Coast West Hurricane
7264.0 LSB Gulf Coast (health & welfare)
7265.0 LSB Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio (SATERN) (altn)
7273.0 LSB Texas ARES (altn)
7280.0 LSB NTS Region 5
7280.0 LSB Louisiana Emergency (altn)
7283.0 LSB Gulf Coast (outgoing only)
7285.0 LSB West Gulf ARES Emergency (day)
7285.0 LSB Louisiana ARES Emergency (day)
7285.0 LSB Mississippi ARES Emergency
7285.0 LSB Texas ARES Emergency (day)
7290.0 LSB Central Gulf Coast Hurricane
7290.0 LSB Gulf Coast Wx
7290.0 LSB Texas ARES (health & welfare)
7290.0 LSB Louisiana ARES (health & welfare) (day)
7290.0 LSB Texas ARES (health & welfare)
7290.0 LSB Mississippi ARES (health & welfare)

14265.0 USB Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio (SATERN) (health & welfare)
14300.0 USB Intercontinental Traffic
14300.0 USB Maritime Mobile Service
14303.0 USB International Assistance & Traffic
14313.0 USB Intercontinental Traffic (altn)
14313.0 USB Maritime Mobile Service (altn)
14316.0 USB Health & Welfare
14320.0 USB Health & Welfare
14325.0 USB Hurricane Watch (Amateur-to-National Hurricane Center)
14340.0 USB Louisiana (1900)

(Thanks to Jay VE3EMP Toronto ARES)

PEOC providing centralized coordination for Hurricane Katrina Relief Operations.  (Sept.1 2005)
 

As part of the Hurricane Katrina relief efforts, the Provincial INFOline at 1 888 886-3998 has been activated. It is currently operating Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and is handling general inquiries. The best way for the public to help is to donate cash that can be sent directly to the affected areas. The Canadian Red Cross is taking financial donations at 1 800 418-1111. For Ontario residents seeking information on Canadian relatives or friends in the hurricane impacted area, please contact Foreign Affairs Canada at 1 888 949-9993.

Please stay tuned to your local radio or television station and continue checking this website for further information from provincial authorities. Otherwise, don't take any more action and please call the Provincial INFOline if you have any questions.

Emergency Management Ontario (EMO) is responsible for the development and implementation of emergency management programs throughout Ontario. Comprehensive programs includes mitigation/prevention, preparedness, response and recovery.

EMO carries out its mandate through a number of activities:

• helping provincial and community officials develop and implement emergency management programs; 
• Providing training for emergency management staff; 
• Responding to actual emergencies by providing advice and assistance to community officials, and coordinating the provincial and federal response; and 
• Providing public education products. 

Members of the public should contact their community emergency co-ordinator or their local fire or police departments.

For public information about individual or family emergency preparedness planning, contact our Public Education Assistant at (416) 212-3468. For all other routine matters EMO staff may be reached Monday to Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern time at (416) 314-3723.

(EMO News)

Simulated Emergency Test  (Oct. 1-2 2005)

The Simulated Emergency Test (SET) is a North America-wide exercise in emergency communications, administered by ARRL and RAC Emergency Coordinators and Net Managers. Both ARES and the National Traffic System (NTS) are involved.

The 2005 dates are Oct. 1 and 2. ARES units and other groups are free to conduct their SETs anytime between September 1 and November 30 if an alternative date is preferred. The activity period should not exceed 48 hours.

After their chosen SET weekend, participating ECs and Net Managers must send reports to RAC by January 31, 2006.  For more information see: www.rac.ca/fieldorg/ARES_set.htm

(RAC)

Annual Fall QCWA QSO Party  (Sept. 17 2005)
 

QCWA cordially invites all to participate in the 2005 QSO party. All licenced Radio Amateurs world wide are invited. Time/Dates:  It will run for a period of 24 Hours. Both CW , Phone and digital modes may be used. The Fall QSO Party will be September 17, 2005 at 1800 hrs UTC.

Frequencies: The following 15 Bands may be used:-
1.8: 1.800 - 2.000 14.0: 14.000 - 14.150   28.3: 28.3 - 29.7
3.5: 3.500 - 3.750 14.2: 14.150 - 14.350   50: 50.0 - 54.0
3.9: 3.750 - 4.000 21.0: 21.000 - 21.200 144: 144.0 - 148.0
7.0: 7.000 - 7.150 21.2: 21.200 - 21.450 220: 220.0 - 225.0
7.2: 7.150 - 7.300 28.0: 28.000 - 28.300 UHF above 420 Mhz

Any station may be contacted on any or all of the 15 bands for a maximum of 15 QSO’s per station, with no more than one QSO per Band. Any station in your home QCWA chapter may be counted only once, for a maximum of one QSO per station. No contacts on WARC bands are permitted (10, 18 and 24 Mhz Bands). No Cross Band or Repeater Contacts are allowed.

Suggested Starting Frequencies:
CW:     1.810:   3.540:   7.035:   14.040:   21.050:   28.050
Phone:  1.845:   3.890:   7.244:   14.262:   21.365:   28.325
Calling (CW or Phone):  CQ  QCWA

Information Exchange: Fill Columns on the Log Form. For the "year" column, indicate the last 2 digits of the year the station operator was first licenced. If the contacted station does not belong to a QCWA chapter show only the State, Province or Country of its location. The latter would apply to Non QCWA members as well as to QCWA members who are not affiliated with a local chapter. Do Not mention the term "At Large" (AL) as was done several years ago, as this can be confused with AL for Alabama. For Band info, simply indicate one of the above 15 Bands in the "band" column.

MODES: You may choose to work all MODES or Only Phone or Only Digital (which includes CW). Certificates will be issued for each Mode of "Cw/digital", "Phone", or "Mixed" .

Scoring: Each Phone QSO is worth one contact point. Each CW QSO or other Digital Mode QSO such as RTTY,PSK31, MFSK etc. is worth 2 contact points (show 2 points in the QSO Points Column on the Log). A Multiplier of one point is given for each QCWA Chapter worked and for each State, Province or Country reported from stations not belonging to a QCWA Chapter. A total of only one multiplier point will be given for each State, Province or Country. A Multiplier of 3 points will be given on each of the 15 Bands for working our Special Events Station W2MM. It is hoped to have this station active throughout the two parties. Stations within 50 miles (80 Kms) of W2MM, may work W2MM only once for a total multiplier of 3 points. Sample logsand a summary sheet may be requested from QCWA Headquarters with an SASE. The address is P O Box 3247 Farmingham, MA 01705-3247 USA. They are also on the internet at www.qcwa.org . Contacts with QCWA Memorial Station W2MM count as three multipliers on each of the 15 bands. Note: For 2005 HQ Station W2MM is being operated by Chapter 162 in Southeast Wisconsin. Members of that chapter, and non chapter Members within 50 miles (80 kms) will be permitted to work W2MM only once for a total of 3 Multiplier points.

Awards: Certificates will be issued for the top 3 World Scores in each category. A certificate will also be issued for the top score in each category in each participating Country

Send Logs to: W2OD, Robert Buus, 8 Donner Street, HOLMDEL N.J. 07733-2004, U.S.A.or as an e-mail attachment to : w2od@aol.com

For more information visit:www.qcwa.org

George Roach-VE3BNO
QCWA Activities Mgr.

Onatario Amateur Radio Service (ONTARS) under new leadership  (Aug. 19 2005)

The ONTARS net, held daily on 3.755 mhz from 7 am to 6 pm, has undergone a change at the top. Hart, VA3OU of Richmond Hill, has assumed the Net Manager duties. A newly formed website has been created with information about "3755 The Friendly Net" and can be found online by visiting: www.3755.ca

The net still has a need for controllers during the mid-day hours. Please consider giving an hour of your time occasionally.

Pot Hole Net (Aug.19 2005)

“The Pot Hole Net” is sponsored by the Ottawa Valley Mobile Radio Club airs from the National Capital Region under the sponsorship of the Ottawa Valley Mobile Radio Club (OVMRC) from the first weekend after Labour Day in September to the last weekend in July, both on Saturdays and Sundays at 10:00 am ET. Saturdays on 40m at 7.095 MHz (LSB) and Sundays, on 80m at 3.760 MHz (LSB). The OVMRC Pot Hole Net was established in1959.

José VA3PCJ
OVMRC HF Operations

Maritime Swap Shop

The Maritime Swap Shop is held every Monday at 7:30pm local time on 3.750 MHz. All station are invited to checkin and post their wants and items for sale. The Maritime Swap Shop list can be found on many places on the internet, here are just a few: The Loyalist City Amateur Radio Club ,  hfradio.net ,    VE1AIC's Home Page  and  Truro Amateur Radio Club

Please Note: The Maritime (on-air) Swap Shop, which was formerly held on Tuesday evenings, will now take place on Monday evenings at 1930 local time on 3750.

Looking for that special piece of radio gear to finish off your ham station? Do you have extra radio gear you'd like to turn into some cash?

Well the place to visit is the 'Ontario Swap Shop' held every Sunday at 12 noon on 7055 kHz and 7:00pm on 3755 kHz. Nick VE3NJG and Ken VE3YK host the hour long program and all amateurs are invited.

The Swap Shop list is posted every Monday on the Trans Provincial Net website, Ontario Swap Shop Listings , the swap shop list can also be found on packet by calling up VE3DID

Introducing the "Ontario Swap Shop Club" a place where you can record your e-mail address or phone number where it will always be available even if you have nothing currently listed on the swap shop. 
 

(Nick VE3NJG)

The Manitoba Repeater Society Swap & Shop
 

This is a bi-weekly net, and listings are posted for four weeks.  Only HAM radio gear & computers may be posted.  www.ve4sss.ca/swapnshop.html

So, you've learned your radio privileges now include HF, but now what do you do? HF can be intimidating to a new operator, but it can also be a fun place. Hams new to HF want to know how to be a good HF operator. Everyone has to learn somewhere, so we thought a quick bit of reading might be a good start. There are a few important ground rules with HF, some are in accordance with national and international laws, some are founded in tradition, and they're all founded in good reason. What you do on HF can affect or interfere with communications halfway around the globe! Just like driving, there are laws and conventions that keep the traffic running smoothly. In the following paragraphs we will try to illustrate a few pointers that every HF operator (both new and experienced) should keep in mind when on the 'short-waves.' Albeit numbered, the points are not in any specific sequence, so their order does not suggest degrees of importance. The numbering is more for reference purposes in case you wish to review or refer to a specific point(s).

• 1) A ham ticket is a privilege, not a right. Just like driving, there are rules that must be observed. They are there to protect the usefulness of the radio spectrum and vis-à-vis the safety of all persons using it. Radio is a recreation 99% of the time to a ham, but it can be a critical life-safety device to others. Please treat it with care and respect.

• 2) On HF, it is very important to listen before attempting to transmit. (AKA: listen, listen, listen!) There are a lot of frequencies that are assigned to nets, calling, and other categories of traffic. Always listen for a minute before you transmit.

• 3) Okay, so you listened and didn't hear anything, but before assuming the frequency is not occupied, ask if frequency is in use. You can't always hear both sides on HF, in fact it's very common! Someone could be working a station in your skip zone, but they are outside of your skip zone.

• 4) A simple 'This is {your callsign}, is this frequency in use?'  works wonders. Listen for about 10 seconds for any reply or existing traffic. Repeat this procedure two or three times and if nothing is heard, there is a high probability the frequency is vacant. 

• 5) This of course begs the question your receive conditions are such that you can hear a reply if it was there. If your noise floor is S-5 or S-7 (as can often be the case with urban living) and there's a station or stations below this level, you won't hear them and therefore you might still be barging onto an occupied frequency. This illustrates the importance of doing everything we possibly can to keep our operating conditions as ideal and clean as possible. Put a little work into setting up a good antenna with minimal receive noise, it will pay off with lots of good DX!

• 6) It is inevitable you will eventually inadvertently QRM an ongoing QSO. When this happens, simply apologize quickly to the parties involved and move to another frequency or wait quietly until the frequency is relinquished. Do not try to start a round table chat unless you are specifically invited to join in.

• 7) Keep proper spacing from other stations. (4 kHz minimum for phone.) To QRM another station is both rude and violates the terms and conditions of your privileges. Remember, we are allowed zero emissions beyond the band edge. That means you can't use 14.350MHz for USB! You're side band would occupy 14.350 to 14.353, possibly 14.354. This means you must keep your 'dial indicated' frequency several kHz away from the band edge. For LSB, the reverse is true, stay at least four kilohertz above the band edge. For AM or FM (as in 10m) your signal occupies spectrum in BOTH directions, so the same rules apply. This also applies to the sub-sections within the band itself. You cannot allow your 'phone' signals to bleed into a non-phone section of the band.

• 8) It is illegal to communicate with a pirate station. If you encounter a pirate do not lecture them. You may not communicate with them in any way, this is the law! Do not give them an audience. This also applies to any station deliberately causing QRM or attempting to interfere with the operation of other stations. The best way to deal with these people is to ignore them. Pretend they're not there. Do not speak about their interference to your contact. Do not acknowledge their presence in any way. Do not react to anything they say. Denied an audience, these stations disappear very quickly. This simple yet effective procedure is the best means with which to deal with this problem. It has worked for generations, so please follow it and it will continue to do so.

• 9) Before replying to a CQ, be sure you are allowed to operate on that frequency, in that mode, and with that station. Some classes of license have more privileges than others. Many nations have different band plans than ours. Some allow operation in areas and modes we are not, and conversely, we are permitted to operate in spectrum and modes where others may not. Albeit few and far between, there are a few counties that have forbidden their operators from communicating with certain other countries. With the advent of the internet, third party traffic is pretty rare these days, however, some countries do not allow it.

• 10) The best thing to keep in mind when on any band (HF or otherwise) is to keep everything as polite as possible. After technical considerations, courtesy is your paramount concern. If all operators treat other operators with the same courtesy and respect they would like to receive, the bands will remain a fun and relaxing place to be.

• 11) Use plain language whenever you can; there is no need for slang at all other than the Q-code if necessary or RST etc. Use phonetics only when required, once the other station has copied your call correctly, you no longer need to keep saying it with phonetics. Save your voice for the next contact. You're going to need it.

• 12) Let your contacts know if you are new to HF radio. They will make you feel welcome and will overlook your inexperience. They might also offer you some valuable pointers which may ultimately make you a better operator.

• 13) Learn what frequencies on each band are established net or DX calling windows or known DX frequencies, [eg:  IOTA.]

• 14) Understand split operation. If a station is calling 'CQ and listening up 5 & 10' it means they are not listening on the same frequency on which they are transmitting. They're tuning a receive frequency about 5 to 10kHz higher than their TX freq. This is one method of controlling pile-ups. 

• 15) Avoid sensitive topics. {i.e. politics and religion} Keep the QSO positive and interesting. Never lecture or condemn anyone on air. If they are causing deliberate interference, remember point 8. Nobody wants to hear people arguing over the air, it's a waste of spectrum. No one wants to listen to someone 'soap boxing.' If you want to pontificate, try a public speaking club.

• 16) Respect the human rights code. Never slander or libel others on the air. Idle gossip is never good form. Don't propagate rumours. Give everyone the first benefit of doubt. 99.999999% of radio operators are really nice folks. Remember the golden rule: Treat others as you would like to be treated. 

• 17) Avoid the use of alcohol when operating. Luckily this is a rarity, but every few years you may hear someone on the air who's obviously intoxicated. This is both dangerous and unwise from many perspectives. You could damage your gear by not noticing a problem due to your diminished awareness. You may violate the terms of your license. You may say or do things you would not do otherwise. You could be causing interference and not realize it. No matter how you look at it, it's simply not appropriate and it can be very dangerous.

• 18) As a new operator, learn and adhere to the existing long-established operating practices. They are conventions that have evolved over the years for good reasons. You wouldn't race a car through a parking lot even though there may not 'technically' be a speed limit. These operational conventions are there because they keep everything running smoothly and help avoid or minimize problems. Stick with the rules and observe conventions and you too will soon be a well seasoned HF'er!

• 19) Avoid calling public safety nets [i.e.] Hurricane net or Maritime net unless you can be of use or are requested. These nets pass specific and sometimes critical traffic. If they need stations in a specific area or a certain kind of assistance they'll ask for it.

• 20) Be patient with everyone. We are all different. If you feel challenged or uncomfortable, then politely sign clear. Avoid confrontation. If you don't know the correct protocol for a certain situation, get some advice from an experienced operator.

• 21)  Look for an Elmer! Ask for help. There are lots of seasoned HF operators who would be more than happy to get you going in the right direction. You local club meetings are likely filled with guys (and gals!) with many years of experience. If you can't make it out to a meeting, ask on some local repeaters. Help is everywhere!

• 22) Listen and check in with local nets. It's a great way to get your feet wet and meet some active HF operators in your area.

• 23) Listen to some contesting and make a few contacts. The contacts are short and sweet and a great way to practice using your rig. Also, if there's a problem on your signal, someone will likely point it out to you.

• 24) Give honest signal reports. There's no shame in getting a 3/3 or a 2/1. It's radio, and you're not going to be booming in everywhere all the time. Some operators seem to be offended if they receive a report less than a 5/9. There are others who have to have the contact repeat their call numerous times, get it wrong the first few, and still give out a 5/9. This is a common problem and is perhaps due to many not understanding the proper way to evaluate a received signal.  It would be a benefit to all hams if everyone reviewed this simple procedure. A report is of no value to anyone if it is not accurate.

Happy DX!

After a year's absence, a long-standing August tradition - the LCARC Steak & Salmon Supper - was reinstated this year after concerns last year related to a lack of adequate indemnification for such events were allayed by the new RAC insurance coverage.

Hams from around Nova Scotia have traditionally made this late-summer, taste-watering dinner a must-do event each August.  This year was no exception, with over 80 in attendance.   Right - Phil (VE1PDO) loads steaks onto the grill - and don't worry, Phil is a Fire Fighter by profession so he can handle the smoke. Below - Tom (VE1TA) cooks up fresh Atlantic salmon steaks. The dinner was held on Sunday, August 28th at the Social Club of the Michelin Tire plant in Bridgewater Nova Scotia.  Guests enjoyed an open bar prior to the dinner, while socialising with Hams from around the province.  There was a good contingent from Halifax and these Hams travelled for over an hour each way in order to get to Bridgewater and attend the dinner.

Members and spouses of the Lunenburg County Amateur Radio Club spend hours in the kitchen in preparation for this event, turning raw spuds into potato salad, baking pies and cakes and procuring the freshest salmon available on the South Shore of Nova Scotia.  A special thanks to Tom (VE1TA) and wife Shirley (VE1JFG), and to President Al (VE1CYP) and wife Nancy (VA1CYP) for co-ordinating the event this year. Above - Just look at all those delicious desserts. Left - Percy (VE1PLV) of the IRLP Trans-Canada Net fame; now you can put a face to the voice of the East Coast Controller that you hear every Wednesday.  The Winners - L>R James (VE1PAJ) ; Al (VE1CYP) the current President of the LCARC; and Bob (VE1VAG) with new scanner in hand.

As Hams chatted and discussed their latest home-brew and DX contact, Tom - VE1TA - and Phil - VE1PDO - cooked up dozens of pieces of salmon and steak to appeal to both seafood and beef lover alike.

Following dinner, Al - VE1CYP - drew names for two door prizes, a framed map of Mahone Bay and the BIG prize - a BCT8 Uniden Trunk-tracking Scanner.  James - VE1PAJ won the map, and Bob - VE1VAG - was took home the new scanner.

As always, a wonderful time was had by all and everyone is already looking forward to 2006.  By the way, if you are planning a vacation trip to the East Coast in 2006, come in late August - the weather is great (in other words less chance of fog) and you can stop by and enjoy the LCARC fellowship at their 2006 Steak and Salmon Dinner.

For more photos from the 2005 LCARC Steak & Salmon Dinner go to:
http://photos.yahoo.com/d_howard_dickson

I have been involved with suppression of consumer electronics which malfucnctions in some way audibly, visually or in the control system incorporated in it, for the past 30 years.  I used to compile case histories with solutions in the CROSSWAVES column of the Canadian Amateur but, only submit articles when items of interest occur. Most of the work involves amateurs but I see an increasing number of consumers  who have been unable to get relief in any way by contacting Industry Canada. 
 

In the past year, in the Community of Riverside South, a few kilometers north east of Manotick ON, I have investigated two cases of well known brand name gas ranges which have malfunctioned due to the proximity of a local broadcast station on 1150Khz.  In the first case: the manual range control function was only "ON/OFF". The homeowner had the range replaced three times and had as many as 8 service calls all to no avail. Think of the inconvenience for a $2500 purchase! In the second case: the gas range oven timer would beep and intermittently operate and program a random time- say 3 hours. From that point it would normally take manual operation to initiate the action. On occasion, another beep indicated that the range was operating- all without human intervention. This truly a hazardous condition!

This could happen to you!

While I suspected conducted interference causing the 110V AC control circuitry to malfunction, I simply plugged in a Hammond Mfg, "ZAP-TRAP" line filter and Voila- the range operated normally.  I left the filter with the resident for two weeks to confirm that this was the problem and it was. They subsequently replaced the Hammond distribution bar with a CSA approved line filter.

Industry Canada has been notified that conducted RF is the culprit since again a simple line filter resolved the issue which had plagued this couple for over 9 months. To date there has been no repsonse to my letter sent in June. 

I would be pleased to hear from any other amateurs who may be aware of this type of sporadic operation before something serious happens. It needs to be documented and in writing with copies to all the authorities. Since these ranges were manufactured in the U.S. I plan to notify the FCC who take these reports more seriously than in this country. 

Surely a $5. filter can't impede sales in any way when consumer safety is at risk!

I might mention that I e-mailed the local range distributor and offered to provide details of the fix but they never even acknowledged the offer. 

(Ralph Cameron VE3BBM@rac.ca)