Published Monthly for members of the Amateur Radio Clubs in Virginia’s Central Shenandoah Valley

THE MONITOR THE MONITOR May 2016 May 2016

Weekly Friday Luncheon The FridayFridayFridayFriday weeklyweeklyweeklyweekly casual lunch meetings are at Hometown Grille & Buffet (Old Shoney’s) at 30 Sanger Lane, Staunton, VA at 11:00AM. Directions: I-81 to Exit 222, Richmond Rd. & Rte 250. Turn East, Hometown Grille & Buffet will be on the left across the street from Mrs. Rowe’s.

PVARC Meeting: May 6th The Page Valley Amateur Radio Club Page Valley Amateur Radio Club Page Valley Amateur Radio Club Page Valley Amateur Radio Club will hold its regular meeting on May 6th May 6th May 6th May 6th at 6:30 PM at the Luray County Sheriff’s

Training Room in Luray. All hams and their families are welcome to attend.

The Valley Amateur Radio AssociationValley Amateur Radio AssociationValley Amateur Radio AssociationValley Amateur Radio Association, will hold its May 3rd May 3rd May 3rd May 3rd meeting at Hometown Grille & Buffet (Old Shoney’s) at 30

Sanger Lane, Staunton, VA. Dinner starts at 6:00pm, and the general meeting begins at 7:00pm.

VARA Meeting: May 3rd

The Massanutten Amateur Radio Association, IncThe Massanutten Amateur Radio Association, IncThe Massanutten Amateur Radio Association, IncThe Massanutten Amateur Radio Association, Inc., will hold its monthly meeting on Thursday, May 5thMay 5thMay 5thMay 5th, at the Wood Grill

on Reservoir Street in Harrisonburg. Dinner starts at 6:30 p.m. Meeting starts at 7:30 PM. All hams and their families

are invited and welcome. Robert, W8HGH, will show and discuss SWL cards and QSL cards and their importance.

MARA Meeting: May 5th

Due to the high cost of printing and mailing the Monitor to the few members (11 active) who still receive Due to the high cost of printing and mailing the Monitor to the few members (11 active) who still receive Due to the high cost of printing and mailing the Monitor to the few members (11 active) who still receive Due to the high cost of printing and mailing the Monitor to the few members (11 active) who still receive

the newsletter via mail; this will be the last copy of the Monitor that MARA will be providing in hard copy. the newsletter via mail; this will be the last copy of the Monitor that MARA will be providing in hard copy. the newsletter via mail; this will be the last copy of the Monitor that MARA will be providing in hard copy. the newsletter via mail; this will be the last copy of the Monitor that MARA will be providing in hard copy.

Our monthly cost to produce 30 copies being sent to 11 active members is $75.60. This represents 94% Our monthly cost to produce 30 copies being sent to 11 active members is $75.60. This represents 94% Our monthly cost to produce 30 copies being sent to 11 active members is $75.60. This represents 94% Our monthly cost to produce 30 copies being sent to 11 active members is $75.60. This represents 94%

of our total dues income. The Monitor will now be digital only. of our total dues income. The Monitor will now be digital only. of our total dues income. The Monitor will now be digital only. of our total dues income. The Monitor will now be digital only.

Foster Farone, WF4O, MARA Treasurer

Luray Festival of Spring PVARC participation in the Luray Festival of Spring will be on Saturday 07 May 2016 at 10:00 to 17:00 hrs. Participants need to be

there NLT 0900 to set up. More details at the Club meeting Friday, May 6.

2 May 2016

This Dentron Radio Co. Model MT2000A, SN-2152, will handle the full legal limit (spec’d at 3KW PEP) on all the HF bands. Rather than band selec-

tion you control taps on the inductor (18) and a matching capacitor. This is a really fine tuner (both functionally and cosmetically) that was previ-

ously used with a Dentron Clipperton L amplifier. Here is a URL for an on-line manual: http://www.radiomanual.info/schemi/ACC_matching/

Dentron_MT-2000A_user_WA0KKE.pdf

Selling for as much as $326.00 on eBay (Jan-10th), I’m asking $200.00 with pick-up in Stanley.

Also, please checkout the items had listed in the March 2016 Monitor.

I have additional photos and can answer questions (as well as accept your offer) at K4DPF(at)ARRL.NET

DENTRON MT2000A ANTENNA TUNER

Homemade 220 J-Pole, $5. https://dl.dropbox.com/s/08s6pyebhqgt5n1/220%20J-Pole.jpg?dl=0

Diamond NR770HBNMO 2M/70CM NMO mount antenna, $20. https://dl.dropbox.com/s/yzdmhuetszqgzqg/NR770HBNMO.jpg?dl=0

Larsen 2/70 2M/70CM NMO mount antenna, $20. https://dl.dropbox.com/s/ncnbrfaawqs81ep/Larsen.jpg?dl=0

Diamond NR770HB 2M/70CM UHF mount antenna with magnetic mount, $25. https://dl.dropbox.com/s/jmhmjt3e2spsh8c/NR770HB.jpg?dl=0

MFJ-1752 220 5/8 wave antenna, never used, $20. https://dl.dropbox.com/s/psowun9fyn7ach9/MFJ1752.jpg?dl=0

Thanks, Todd Harrison, K4TMHTodd Harrison, K4TMHTodd Harrison, K4TMHTodd Harrison, K4TMH, contact at K4TMH@comcast.net

Ian Poole's most recent

book on Propagation and

Radio Science, ARRL

2015, available in print

and as an e-book from

Amazon. It's readable and

the reviews are good for

exploring this often overlooked variable in

the hobby. April's club presentation featured

members sharing homebrew projects with

the club. May's program will by Bob Dixon,

W8HGH. He will be presenting on the ham

radio SWL cards as well as other QSL cards. I

hope to see you there and remember: feed

the hobby!

Andrew, N4RCEAndrew, N4RCEAndrew, N4RCEAndrew, N4RCE, MARA President

3 The Monitor

May 2016.May 2016.May 2016.May 2016.

A fantastic benefit to belonging to MARA is the

knowledge-base and curiosity to keep learning

among club members. It's like a band of

mentors. In our March meeting, Bryan Bryan Bryan Bryan

Daniels, K4RMYDaniels, K4RMYDaniels, K4RMYDaniels, K4RMY, offered attendees an

insight on understanding the numbers for

interpreting solar flux and sunspots and

their impact on propagation. Among many

sources he suggested for future follow up is

Ian Poole's article "Understanding Solar

Indices" available on line

(https://www.arrl.org/files/file/Technology/tihttps://www.arrl.org/files/file/Technology/tihttps://www.arrl.org/files/file/Technology/tihttps://www.arrl.org/files/file/Technology/ti

s/info/ pdf/0209038.pdfs/info/ pdf/0209038.pdfs/info/ pdf/0209038.pdfs/info/ pdf/0209038.pdf). He also suggested

From the President

preparations continue to go as expected.

He could not attend on the 13th, because

of car problems).

Herb Slade (AA2BF) distributed a sign-up

list for preferred FD activities and helps.

Most present are still thinking about it.

Old Business: None

New Business: None

Announcements: Founding member Rich-ard Haxton (KC3AN) was introduced by David Fordham, as he is

about to move to Hagerstown, MD. We will miss him!

Next MARA meeting May 5, at Harrisonburg Wood Grill. The

program will be “home-brew night”, immediately following the

business meeting. (But see Apr. 7 Program, below).

50/50 Drawing: $36, of which half was won by Richard Haxton (KC3AN). Richard donated his winnings to MARA. Thank you,

Richard! Proceeds were turned over to Foster Farone (WF4O)

Treasurer.

Motion to adjourn: Passed at 7:44 p.m.

Program: The Homebrew program was advanced by a month. Among those projects, Bob Van Fossen (K4DJG) demonstrated his continuous tuning capacitor and Ray Ritchie (K4NRA), his slot antenna of copper tubing, 1/6 wavelength by ½ wavelength. Bob Dixon (W4HGH) showed us his QSL Card maker and Rx bottle solder dispenser, and Al Pearson (N4RCE), 300-ohm J-pole and detachable wire yagi portable antennas for 2m. Herb Slade (AA2BF) described construction of traps from PVC pipe, tuned by a coaxial sleeve capacitor under the inductor. Respectively submitted, Herb Slade, AA2BF, Secretary

MARA Secretary’s Report

4 May 2016

MARA Secretary’s Report– April 7, 2016

Meeting called to order at Wood Grill, Harrisonburg, by President

Andrew Pearson, N4RCE, at 7:36 p.m. 26 members and 13 guests

were present. Introductions were made all around.

New Member First Reading: Greg Shilling (KM4TGA)

New Member Vote: None

The Secretary’s Minutes for last month’s meeting were approved

as published in the Monitor.

The Treasurer’s Report for March was approved as published in

the Monitor.

Committee Reports:

ARES: No report

Repeaters: Ray Ritchie (K4NRA): 147.225, 147.375, and

145.130 repeaters OK. 440 Big Mtn. repeater OK, but roof needs

replacement.

Volunteer Examiner (VE) Committee: Gayle Shull

(KU4XN) noted that at the next test session, on April 9, two will be

taking tests.

Public Service : No Report

Audit Committee: Rick Adams (KJ4IND) has turned the

completed report to Foster Ferone (WX4O).

Field Day Committee: Bob Steere (N1QEQ), FD Chair-

man, reminded us that the next committee meeting at Mt. Crawford

Burger King will be at 6:30 p.m. on April 13. (Secretary’s Note: At

that meeting, Bob said that we wouldn’t need another meeting, if

MARA Treasurer’s Report

Opening Balance $1,693.33

Income: Memberships $36.00

50/50 Porceeds $18.00

Dona#ons $18.00

$72.00

Expenses: Electric (Jan) $22.00

Field Day

Ins/Leases Repeaters

Corp Fees

Guest Meals

Bank Fees (Incl Jan) $18.00

Monitor Prin#ng & Postage $75.60

$115.60

Balance April 18, 2016 $1,649.73

March 22, 2016 to April 18, 2016March 22, 2016 to April 18, 2016March 22, 2016 to April 18, 2016March 22, 2016 to April 18, 2016

Submitted by Foster Farone, WF4O, MARA Treasurer

5 The Monitor

VARA Secretary’s Report

The Valley Amateur Radio Association Valley Amateur Radio Association Valley Amateur Radio Association Valley Amateur Radio Association held its April 5, April 5, April 5, April 5,

2016 2016 2016 2016 meeting at the Hometown Grill and Buffet in Staun-

ton. 30 members and guests were in attendance. Presi-

dent John Keller W4ZAOJohn Keller W4ZAOJohn Keller W4ZAOJohn Keller W4ZAO brought the meeting to order at 7

pm. The usual introductions were made. The 50/50 draw-

ing of $20.50 was won by Kristen Weaver KM4PVUKristen Weaver KM4PVUKristen Weaver KM4PVUKristen Weaver KM4PVU.

Reports:

ARESARESARESARES: David Tanks AD4TJDavid Tanks AD4TJDavid Tanks AD4TJDavid Tanks AD4TJ, EC for Augusta County, reported

that the Virginia ARES website is now up and running, due

in part to Roger Pience's( N1XPRoger Pience's( N1XPRoger Pience's( N1XPRoger Pience's( N1XP, our District Emergency Co-

ordinator, who was present at the meeting ) efforts as a

computer programmer. An email will be sent out to all Au-

gusta County ARES members by Roger, with a temporary

log-in and password, so you may re-register/update your

records online. More details to follow. The website is open

to all Virginia hams to view; just necessary for ARES mem-

bers to register. The next net will be Thursday April 14th,

at 8 pm, on the 146.850 repeater; Net Control will be Greg Greg Greg Greg

Czerniak W4GRCCzerniak W4GRCCzerniak W4GRCCzerniak W4GRC.

Field Day: Dave Fordham KD9LA Dave Fordham KD9LA Dave Fordham KD9LA Dave Fordham KD9LA said that the committee

has been hard at work, with several items finalized. The

next meeting will be Wednesday April 6 at 6 pm, at the Mt.

Crawford Burger King. Anyone is welcome to attend. There

will be a decision made as to whether we will do 2A again,

or go to 3A, with the GOTA station serving dual-duty as GO-

TA and a third HF station; the Field Day computers will

have to be networked to avoid having duplicate contacts.

Jason Armentrout N4DSLJason Armentrout N4DSLJason Armentrout N4DSLJason Armentrout N4DSL, and Bob VanFossen K4DJGBob VanFossen K4DJGBob VanFossen K4DJGBob VanFossen K4DJG are

working on that. Having the 3rd station will allow more

members, who do not have the experience of contesting

yet, or do not feel comfortable making contacts quickly, to

get on the air and help out.

SecretarySecretarySecretarySecretary: David AD4TJ David AD4TJ David AD4TJ David AD4TJ asked that the minutes be ap-

proved as printed in the Monitor; seconded and passed.

TreasurerTreasurerTreasurerTreasurer: Greg Czerniak W4GRC Greg Czerniak W4GRC Greg Czerniak W4GRC Greg Czerniak W4GRC read the report; second-

ed and passed.

Secretary's CorrectionSecretary's CorrectionSecretary's CorrectionSecretary's Correction: during the Treasurer's report on the

donations to the repeater groups, I noticed that the 3rd

donation went to Fred Evans N4KYMFred Evans N4KYMFred Evans N4KYMFred Evans N4KYM, for the 146.700 re-

peater group. I did not catch that at the March meeting; I

thought the 3rd donation was going to the 147.045 trus-

tee, Tim Miller KG4HOTTim Miller KG4HOTTim Miller KG4HOTTim Miller KG4HOT, as was the case for the past 2

years. Looking back at the Treasurer's report for July 2015

I see that the 3rd check did go to Fred Evans, not Tim Mil-

ler. So I hereby make the correction that the 3 donations

went to the Waynesboro Repeater As-

sociation for the 147.075 repeater,

Durwood Humphries WA4ZBPDurwood Humphries WA4ZBPDurwood Humphries WA4ZBPDurwood Humphries WA4ZBP for the

146.850 repeater, and to Fred Evans Fred Evans Fred Evans Fred Evans

N4KYM N4KYM N4KYM N4KYM for the 146.700 repeater.

We also voted to donate to Tim Miller Tim Miller Tim Miller Tim Miller

KG4HOTKG4HOTKG4HOTKG4HOT for the 147.045 repeater,

which is used by many in the Valley,

and by the clubs during the Bike Fes-

tival, etc.

AnnouncementsAnnouncementsAnnouncementsAnnouncements: David KD9LA David KD9LA David KD9LA David KD9LA reminded us that the MARA

club meeting will be April 7 at the Wood Grill Restaurant in

Harrisonburg, and that you do not have to be a member to

attend.

Upcoming eventsUpcoming eventsUpcoming eventsUpcoming events: David AD4TJ David AD4TJ David AD4TJ David AD4TJ reported on contests: the

North Dakota QSO Party is the weekend of the 16th-17th;

the 10-10 club's spring digital contest on the 23rd-24th;

and the Russian WW Multimode contest is the 30th-May

1st.

Special Event stationsSpecial Event stationsSpecial Event stationsSpecial Event stations: April 9th is a commemoration of

the Doolittle Raid; they will be operating from the USS Mid-

way Museum Ship in San Diego, CA; the 16th is the 2nd

Maligned Swine Special Event from Virginia Beach, VA( no

April's Fools! ); the 17th thru the 25 is the 50th anniver-

sary of the Anderson Radio Club of Central, SC; and on the

23rd is the ARES NVIS Antenna Day from the Ohio ARES

organization from various locations in the state; also on

the 22nd-23rd from Sevierville, TN, We're 4 Vets will oper-

ate with the following calls: W4A, W4C, W4D, W4F, W4N,

and W4V.

John thanked all the local hams who got on to operate in

the Virginia QSO Party. Weird conditions were reported on

HF( on Saturday, at least ). David AD4TJ David AD4TJ David AD4TJ David AD4TJ thanked all of

those who included Shenandoah Valley Wireless on their

entry; last year we had 6 entries for the club.

Old businessOld businessOld businessOld business: none.

New businessNew businessNew businessNew business: the 147.075 repeater will have to be re-

located, and the 146.850 repeater tower will have to be

replaced( too rusty to climb, so will have to be dropped,

with a loss of any antennas that are on it ).

The meeting was adjourned at 7:28 pm with no other busi-

ness to discuss.

Program: Bob Dixon W8HGH Bob Dixon W8HGH Bob Dixon W8HGH Bob Dixon W8HGH presented a program on "

Stealth Antennas ".

Respectfully submitted,

David Tanks AD4TJDavid Tanks AD4TJDavid Tanks AD4TJDavid Tanks AD4TJ, VARA Secretary

6 May 2016

PVARC Treasurer’s Report March 15st, 2016 thru April 11th, 2016

Beginning Balance $3,355.48

Dona#ons $0.00

Dues $0.00

Total Deposits $0.00

Total Disbursements $0.00

Ending Balance $3,355.48

Submitted by Juergen Lunkwitz, W3LUVJuergen Lunkwitz, W3LUVJuergen Lunkwitz, W3LUVJuergen Lunkwitz, W3LUV

PVARC April 1, 2016 Meeting Minutes (summary)

Call to order by VP Morgan Phenix K4RHD

Pledge to the Flag

Committee Reports and Old Business:

--Trifold PVARC pamphlet draft reviewed, including corrections --Field Day: Town of Luray approved Lake Arrowhead reservation, fee waived; menu discussed including request for Mulligatawny and ques-

tion if it was soup or stew . --Town of Luray May Fest: Patrick KE4EI and Morgan K4RHD will test

40m HF signal prior to event.

Action Item: --Resolution to update club check signature card at Pioneer Bank (add: Juergen W3LUV; continue: Mark N4YSA and Morgan K4RHD

approved, vote unanimous.

May Meeting: --Next meeting (May) date debated, due to May Fest the day after, discussion meet at May Fest or the week before (ARES training).

Resolved, hold meeting as regularly scheduled.

Meeting adjourned, remaining donuts dedicated to officers in at the jail.

Submitted by Morgan Phenix, K4RHD, in absence of the Secretary.

PVARC Secretary’s Report

PVARC member, Zory (KB3VQC) has received the beautiful name badges ordered by Club members, and will

bring them to the May club meeting. Please plan to attend the meeting, or make arrangements to pay for, and

have your badge picked up. You can contact Zory if you have questions about the badges at: phone (301)

524-5143 (cell), or by E-mail ( ZGLASER8@Gmail.com ).

7 The Monitor

The Page County ARES Net Page County ARES Net Page County ARES Net Page County ARES Net meets the first Sunday nights on the local 146.550 simplex, the remaining Sundays on the 146.625 (PL

131.8) repeater, at 8:00 pm local time.

The Rockingham County ARES Net Rockingham County ARES Net Rockingham County ARES Net Rockingham County ARES Net meets Monday nights at 8:00 pm local time, the first Monday on 146.55 simplex, all other Mon-

days on the 145.130(-) repeater (PL 131.8).

The Augusta County ARES Net Augusta County ARES Net Augusta County ARES Net Augusta County ARES Net meets the second Thursday of each month at 8:00 pm local time, usually on the 146.850 repeater (PL

131.8).

The NVTNNVTNNVTNNVTN (Northern Virginia Traffic NetNorthern Virginia Traffic NetNorthern Virginia Traffic NetNorthern Virginia Traffic Net) meets daily on the 147.300 (PL 131.8) repeater at 7:30 pm local time.

The Old Dominion Emergency Net Old Dominion Emergency Net Old Dominion Emergency Net Old Dominion Emergency Net meets every first and third Monday on 3.947 kHz at 6:30 pm local time. All hams are welcome!All hams are welcome!All hams are welcome!All hams are welcome!

The VSBN (Virginia Sideband Net) VSBN (Virginia Sideband Net) VSBN (Virginia Sideband Net) VSBN (Virginia Sideband Net) meets daily on 3.947 kHz at 6:00 PM local time. All hams are welcomeAll hams are welcomeAll hams are welcomeAll hams are welcome!

Don’t forgetDon’t forgetDon’t forgetDon’t forget: The local ARES groups hold regular nets to let you check out your radio equipment, anten-

nas, and other station gear. Take advantage of these opportunities to get signal reports and get to know

the other local hams.

How Long Has It Been Since You Checked Into One of the Nets?

Page County Va. ARES

Frequencies Repeaters Simplex 146.625 131.8 Page ARES Channel 1 146.55 146.670 114.8 “ “ “ 2 146.40 443.350 203.5 “ “ “ 3 146.45 “ “ “ 4 146.50 “ “ “ 5 147.45

_____________________________________________________________________ ARES Contacts

Mark Hensley EC N4YSA 540-578-1133 n4ysa@gmx.com Morgan Phenix AEC K4RHD phenix@centurylink.net

Bob Forrest AEC WO4MI wo4mi@arrl.net

Call Up Procedure

Call up for the Page County ARES members will be via 146.625R & Page ARES Channel 1. 146.55 simplex. You will be advised of the emergency and you assignment. In the event of power loss, inclement weather or other emergency, monitor the Call up frequencies

at the top of the hour.

The Rockingham County ARES Net will be held Monday night at 8pm (2000). Net will

held on the 145.1300 145.1300 145.1300 145.1300 K4MRA repeater minus offset PL 131.8. This change will be in

effect until further notice due to issues with the .225 repeater.

Bryan, K4RMY

Rockingham County ARES Net to change Repeaters

ANNUAL ARMED FORCES DAY CROSSBAND MILITARY/AMATEUR RADIO COMMUNICATIONS TEST (14 MAY

2016)

for more information: http://www.usarmymars.org/home/announcementshttp://www.usarmymars.org/home/announcementshttp://www.usarmymars.org/home/announcementshttp://www.usarmymars.org/home/announcements

Armed Forces Crossband Military/Amateur Test

The VA ARES website operational. All are welcome to peruse it. Only ARES members need to log in. Enjoy! <https://www.aresva.us/https://www.aresva.us/https://www.aresva.us/https://www.aresva.us/>

ARES of VA Web Site is Operational

5T , MAURITANIA5T , MAURITANIA5T , MAURITANIA5T , MAURITANIA. 5T2AI is the callsign issued to Ahmad, 9K2AI, who is working in Mauritania for the next three years next three years next three years next three years [425DXN 1269]. The licence expires on 18 August 2018. Ahmad is a 99% SSB operator. QSL via NI5DX. [TNX 5T0JL] 9A, CROATIA. 9A, CROATIA. 9A, CROATIA. 9A, CROATIA. Members of the Radio Club Karlovac are QRV with special event call 9A70CVW during all of 2016 to celebrate the club's 70th anniversary. QSL via 9A6Z. 9Q, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO. 9Q, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO. 9Q, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO. 9Q, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO. Elvira, IV3FSG is QRV as 9Q0HQ/1 from a children's hospital in Kimbondo until April 30. From May 1 to 22 May 1 to 22 May 1 to 22 May 1 to 22 she will be QRV as 9Q0HQ. Activity is on 80 to 10 meters using SSB, RTTY and PSK31. QSL via IK3GES. HR, HONDURAS. HR, HONDURAS. HR, HONDURAS. HR, HONDURAS. Gerard, F2JD is QRV as HR5/F2JD from Copan until July 13until July 13until July 13until July 13. Activity is on the HF bands using CW, SSB and RTTY. QSL direct to F6AJA. DA, FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY. DA, FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY. DA, FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY. DA, FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY. Special event station DM0MORSE is QRV during all of 2016 all of 2016 all of 2016 all of 2016 to commemorate the 225th birthday of Samuel F.B. Morse. QSL via bureau. A9, BAHRAIN. A9, BAHRAIN. A9, BAHRAIN. A9, BAHRAIN. Special event call sign A9110RR is QRV until the end of the end of the end of the end of the year the year the year the year to celebrate the 110th anniversary of the ITU Radio Regulations. QSL direct via A92AA. OH0, ALAND ISLANDS. OH0, ALAND ISLANDS. OH0, ALAND ISLANDS. OH0, ALAND ISLANDS. Hans, PA0VHA will be QRV as OH0/PA0VHA from April 25 to May 6to May 6to May 6to May 6. Activity will be on the HF bands. QSL to home call. V3, BELIZE. V3, BELIZE. V3, BELIZE. V3, BELIZE. Andre DL1AS (V31DL), Martin DM4IM (V31IM) and Erwin DK4BX (V31BX) will be active from Belize from 20 April to 20 Mayto 20 Mayto 20 Mayto 20 May. "While there they plan to help launch the Belize Amateur Radio Club (BARC) in support of reestablishing IARU membership for the V3 Amateur Radio society", and they will also be QRV as V3V (the new club callsign). QSL V3V via V31BZ, others via home calls and LoTW. [TNX The Daily DX] TA, TURKEY. TA, TURKEY. TA, TURKEY. TA, TURKEY. A number of operators will be QRV as TC2016EXPO and TX2016ANT from April 23 to October 30 to October 30 to October 30 to October 30 during EXPO 2016 hosted in Antalya. QSL both calls via TA4ED. TY, BENIN.TY, BENIN.TY, BENIN.TY, BENIN. Nicolas, F8FQX is QRV as TY2SN for the next three yearsthe next three yearsthe next three yearsthe next three years. Activity is on the HF bands using CW and SSB. QSL direct via IZ1BZV. VK9N, NORFOLK ISLAND. VK9N, NORFOLK ISLAND. VK9N, NORFOLK ISLAND. VK9N, NORFOLK ISLAND. Doug, VK4ADC will be QRV as VK9NU from April 23 to May 2to May 2to May 2to May 2. Activity will be on 80 to 6 meters using SSB. QSL

8 May 2016

This month’s bulletin was made possible with information provided by NC1L, QRZ DX, The Weekly DX, The This month’s bulletin was made possible with information provided by NC1L, QRZ DX, The Weekly DX, The This month’s bulletin was made possible with information provided by NC1L, QRZ DX, The Weekly DX, The This month’s bulletin was made possible with information provided by NC1L, QRZ DX, The Weekly DX, The

OPDX Bulletin, 425 DX News, The Daily DX, DXNL, Contest Corral from QST, the ARRL Contest Calendar and OPDX Bulletin, 425 DX News, The Daily DX, DXNL, Contest Corral from QST, the ARRL Contest Calendar and OPDX Bulletin, 425 DX News, The Daily DX, DXNL, Contest Corral from QST, the ARRL Contest Calendar and OPDX Bulletin, 425 DX News, The Daily DX, DXNL, Contest Corral from QST, the ARRL Contest Calendar and

WA7BNM web sites. Thanks to all.WA7BNM web sites. Thanks to all.WA7BNM web sites. Thanks to all.WA7BNM web sites. Thanks to all.

ASASASAS----024, YONAGUNI ISLAND, JA . 024, YONAGUNI ISLAND, JA . 024, YONAGUNI ISLAND, JA . 024, YONAGUNI ISLAND, JA . Look for Tak, JR1LZK/6 and Mitsu, JE1HXZ/6 to be active from Yonaguni Island (ASASASAS----024024024024) from 23 April to 1 May. to 1 May. to 1 May. to 1 May. They will operate CW, SSB and digital modes on 40-6 metres. QSL via home calls, direct or bureau, and LoTW. [TNX JN6RZM] ASASASAS----031, JD1, OGASAWARA. 031, JD1, OGASAWARA. 031, JD1, OGASAWARA. 031, JD1, OGASAWARA. Koji, JI1LET will be QRV as JD1BOI from Chichijima Island, IOTA ASASASAS----031031031031, from April 26 to May 6to May 6to May 6to May 6. Activity will be on 80 to 6 meters using CW, SSB and RTTY. QSL to home call. EUEUEUEU----008, GM, ISLE OF MUCK. 008, GM, ISLE OF MUCK. 008, GM, ISLE OF MUCK. 008, GM, ISLE OF MUCK. M1LOL and M1REK will be active as MM1LOL from the Isle of Muck (EU-008) on 1on 1on 1on 1----6 May6 May6 May6 May. QSL via M1REK, direct or bureau. [TNX rsgbiota.org] EUEUEUEU----013, GJ, JERSEY013, GJ, JERSEY013, GJ, JERSEY013, GJ, JERSEY. ON4LEM, ON5TC, ON6QO, ON7GLF, ON7WZ and

to home call. XT, BURKINA FASO. XT, BURKINA FASO. XT, BURKINA FASO. XT, BURKINA FASO. Jusei, JA3IVU and Junichi, JH3AEF will be

active again as XT2IVU and XT2AEF from Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso from 27 April to 4 Mayto 4 Mayto 4 Mayto 4 May. They will operate CW, SSB, RTTY and PSK31 on 80-6 metres. QSL via home calls, direct or bureau. [TNX DX World] VU, INDIA. VU, INDIA. VU, INDIA. VU, INDIA. Dani, EA4ATI is now stationed in India for the next two yearsfor the next two yearsfor the next two yearsfor the next two years, and expects to be soon QRV as VU3WDN. QSL via EA4CWN. [TNX EA4CWN] YJ, VANUATU. YJ, VANUATU. YJ, VANUATU. YJ, VANUATU. Chris, HB9LCA will be active holiday style as YJ0CS from Vanuatu on 1111----27 May. 27 May. 27 May. 27 May. He will operate mainly CW with some SSB and JT65 on the HF bands. QSL via home call.

EMERGENCY TRAFFIC EMERGENCY TRAFFIC EMERGENCY TRAFFIC EMERGENCY TRAFFIC ------------>>>> In the wake of the catastrophic earthquake in Ecuador, the Amateur Radio community is being asked to keep 7.060 MHz clear for Cadena HC emergency traffic. DXpeditions operating RTTY on 40 meters are requested to keep pileups below 7.060 MHz.

[TNX ARRL]

IOTA News

GK Prefix in CornwallGK Prefix in CornwallGK Prefix in CornwallGK Prefix in Cornwall: Amateurs permanently

located in Cornwall and on the Scilly Islands are

permitted to use the letter K as part of their prefix

(G3ABC would become GK3ABC, 2E0ABC would

become 2K0ABC) during 2016 in order to mark the

official recognition of the Cornish as a national

minority. There will also be an award available.

http://gb2gm.org/

How’s DX

Special Note

9 The Monitor

For more details and informa�on, go to:

h�p://www.hornucopia.com/contestcal/contestcal.html

RTTY

Contests & QSO Parties

1 AGCW QRP/QRP Party 2 RSGB 80m Club Championship, SSB 3 ARS Spartan Sprint 4 Phone Fray 4-5 CWops Mini-CWT Test 4-5 MIE 33 Contest 5 NRAU 10m Activity Contest 6 NCCC RTTY Sprint 6 NCCC Sprint 7 Microwave Spring Sprint 7 FISTS Spring Slow Speed Sprint 7-8 10-10 Int. Spring Contest, CW 7-8 SKCC Weekend Sprintathon 7-8 ARI International DX Contest 7-8 F9AA Cup, PSK 7-8 7th Call Area QSO Party 7-8 Indiana QSO Party 7-8 Delaware QSO Party 7-8 New England QSO Party 11 Phone Fray 11 RSGB 80m Club Championship, Data 11-12 CWops Mini-CWT Test 12 NAQCC CW Sprint 13 NCCC RTTY Sprint 13 NCCC Sprint

14 FISTS Spring Unlimited Sprint 14-15 VOLTA WW RTTY Contest 14-15 HPC World Wide DX Contest 14-15 CQ-M International DX Contest 14-15 MARAC USA QSO Party 14-15 Arkansas QSO Party 14-15 Portuguese Navy Day Contest 14-15 50 MHz Spring Sprint 15 WAB 7 MHz Phone 15 UA2 QSO Party 16 Run for the Bacon QRP Contest 18 Phone Fray 18-19 CWops Mini-CWT Test 1900Z-2030Z, May 19 20 NCCC RTTY Sprint 20 NCCC Sprint 20 Slobozhansky Sprint Contest 21 UN DX Contest 21 Feld Hell Sprint 21-22 NZART Sangster Shield Contest 21-22 Aegean RTTY Contest 21-22 His Maj. King of Spain Contest, CW 21-22 EU PSK DX Contest 21-22 Baltic Contest 25 SKCC Sprint 25 Phone Fray 25-26 CWops Mini-CWT Test 27 NCCC RTTY Sprint 27 NCCC Sprint 28 Portuguese Navy Day Contest, Digital 28-29 CQ WW WPX Contest, CW 29 SARL Digital Contest

ON8VP will be active as MJ/ON4RSX from St. Brelade, Jersey EUEUEUEU----013013013013) on 5on 5on 5on 5----8 May8 May8 May8 May. They will operate SSB, CW and digital modes on 40-6 metres. QSL via bureau to ON4RSX or direct to ON8VP. [TNX The Daily DX] EUEUEUEU----042, ARMUM ISLAND,DL042, ARMUM ISLAND,DL042, ARMUM ISLAND,DL042, ARMUM ISLAND,DL. Mike, DG5LAC will be active as DG5LAC/p from Amrum Island (EUEUEUEU----042042042042) from 30 April to 6 Mayto 6 Mayto 6 Mayto 6 May. He will operate SSB on 80-10 metres. QSL via home call, direct or bureau; OQRS on Club Log. [TNX rsgbiota.org] EUEUEUEU----120, G, LUNDY ISLAND. 120, G, LUNDY ISLAND. 120, G, LUNDY ISLAND. 120, G, LUNDY ISLAND. Nigel G0GDA, Mark G0GQT and Keith M0KJA will be active as MX0VRC from Lundy Island (EUEUEUEU----120120120120) on 2on 2on 2on 2----7 7 7 7 MayMayMayMay. They will be QRV on SSB, CW and digital modes between 6 and midnight (local time) daily. All logs will be uploaded to eQSL and Club Log, but apparently no paper cards will be available. NANANANA----079, W, GARDEN KEY079, W, GARDEN KEY079, W, GARDEN KEY079, W, GARDEN KEY. A team of five (K4JTT, K4NHW, KD0DTS, W0QH and WK4U) will be active as K4T from Garden Key (NA-079) in the Dry Tortugas National Park from 16 UTC on 6 May until around from 16 UTC on 6 May until around from 16 UTC on 6 May until around from 16 UTC on 6 May until around 16 UTC on the 9th16 UTC on the 9th16 UTC on the 9th16 UTC on the 9th. They will operate CW and SSB on 80-10 metres, plus 6m (50130 kHz) and via satellite SO-50. QSL via eQSL, LoTW or direct only to K4JTT. Updates will be posted to qrz.com. NANANANA----105, PJ7, SINT MARTEEN105, PJ7, SINT MARTEEN105, PJ7, SINT MARTEEN105, PJ7, SINT MARTEEN. Laurent, FM5BH will be active holiday style as PJ7BH from Sint Marteen (NANANANA----105105105105) on 1on 1on 1on 1----8 May8 May8 May8 May. He will operate mainly CW on 40-10 metres. QSL via FM5BH (direct); logsearch and OQRS on Club Log. [TNX NG3K] NANANANA----107, FM, MARTINIQUE. 107, FM, MARTINIQUE. 107, FM, MARTINIQUE. 107, FM, MARTINIQUE. Gerd, DL7VOG (www.dl7vog.de) will be active as FM/DL7VOG from Martinique (NANANANA----107107107107) from 6from 6from 6from 6----11 May and 11 May and 11 May and 11 May and

again from 23 May to 6 Juneagain from 23 May to 6 Juneagain from 23 May to 6 Juneagain from 23 May to 6 June, with a side trip to St Lucia in between (see J6 below). He will be QRV on 80-6 metres mainly CW and RTTY, and will participate in the CQ WPX CW Contest. QSL via home call (bureau preferred); OQRS on Club Log. NANANANA----108, J6, ST. LUCIA. 108, J6, ST. LUCIA. 108, J6, ST. LUCIA. 108, J6, ST. LUCIA. Gerd, DL7VOG will be active as J68GU from St. Lucia (NANANANA----108108108108) on12on12on12on12----22 May22 May22 May22 May. He operate mainly CW and RTTY 80-6 metres. QSL via home call (bureau preferred); OQRS on Club Log. OCOCOCOC----009, T8, KOROR. 009, T8, KOROR. 009, T8, KOROR. 009, T8, KOROR. Kan, JJ2RCJ will be active as T88RF from Koror (OCOCOCOC----009009009009), Palau on 1on 1on 1on 1----5 May5 May5 May5 May. He will focus on the digital modes, mainly RTTY. QSL via JJ2RCJ (direct), LoTW and eQSL; logsearch on Club Log. [TNX NG3K] OCOCOCOC----013, E5_sc, RAROTONGA013, E5_sc, RAROTONGA013, E5_sc, RAROTONGA013, E5_sc, RAROTONGA. Doug, W6HB will be active again as E51DLD from Rarotonga (OCOCOCOC----013013013013), South Cook Islands from 24 April to 10 Mayto 10 Mayto 10 Mayto 10 May. He will be guest operating from the shacks of E51AND and E51JD. QSL via W6HB. OCOCOCOC----073, MINAMA TORISHIMA, JD1_mt073, MINAMA TORISHIMA, JD1_mt073, MINAMA TORISHIMA, JD1_mt073, MINAMA TORISHIMA, JD1_mt. Take, JG8NQJ expects to be back to the weather station on Minami Torishima (OCOCOCOC----073073073073) from mid-March to midto midto midto mid----MayMayMayMay. He operates CW only as JG8NQJ/ JD1 in his spare time. QSL via JA8CJY (direct) or JG8NQJ (bureau). OCOCOCOC----165, SATANG BESAR, 9M8165, SATANG BESAR, 9M8165, SATANG BESAR, 9M8165, SATANG BESAR, 9M8. . . . The new dates for 9M8RC's activity [425DXN 1291] from Satang Besar (OCOCOCOC----165165165165), East Malaysia are from 30 April to 2 Mayto 2 Mayto 2 Mayto 2 May. The new QSL route is direct to 9M8WAT. [TNX rsgbiota.org]

10 May 2016

*Deadline for newsletter articles is the 20th of the preceding month of publication.

Calendar of Holidays and Local Events

May June

The club newsletter, the Monitorthe Monitorthe Monitorthe Monitor, is provided free of charge monthly to all members of all three clubs via email

distribution, in PDF format. However, it is the individual club members’ responsibility to notify the newsletter

editor directly of all changes in email address. Electronic back issues will be provided free to members on

request.

Members not receiving the electronic Monitor in a timely fashion (e.g., before their monthly club meeting)

should notify the newsletter editor promptly to investigate and resolve the problem with distribution. Members

who are using the latest update version of Adobe Reader and experience trouble opening the Monitor email

attachment can contact the newsletter editor for assistance.

VE News (No, we’re not talking about Canada)

1 MAY DAY1 MAY DAY1 MAY DAY1 MAY DAY 1 Page County ARES Net (146.55 Simplex) 2 Rockingham County ARES Net (Simplex) 2 Old Dominion Emergency Net (3.947 KHz) 3 VARA Club Meeting3 VARA Club Meeting3 VARA Club Meeting3 VARA Club Meeting 5 MARA Club Meeting5 MARA Club Meeting5 MARA Club Meeting5 MARA Club Meeting 5 Augusta County ARES Net (146.850, PL-131.8) 6 Friday Luncheon 6 PVARC Club Meeting6 PVARC Club Meeting6 PVARC Club Meeting6 PVARC Club Meeting 8 VE DAY8 VE DAY8 VE DAY8 VE DAY 8 Mother’s Day8 Mother’s Day8 Mother’s Day8 Mother’s Day 10 Page County ARES Net (146.625, PL-131.8) 11 Rockingham County ARES Net 13 FRIDAY THE 13TH CELEBRATION13 FRIDAY THE 13TH CELEBRATION13 FRIDAY THE 13TH CELEBRATION13 FRIDAY THE 13TH CELEBRATION 13 Friday Luncheon 14 MARS/Amateur Radio Crossband test14 MARS/Amateur Radio Crossband test14 MARS/Amateur Radio Crossband test14 MARS/Amateur Radio Crossband test 15 Page County ARES Net (146.625, PL-131.8) 16 Rockingham County ARES Net 16 Old Dominion Emergency Net (3.947 KHz) 20 Deadline for June newsletter submission*20 Deadline for June newsletter submission*20 Deadline for June newsletter submission*20 Deadline for June newsletter submission* 20 Friday Luncheon 21 ARMED FORCES DAY21 ARMED FORCES DAY21 ARMED FORCES DAY21 ARMED FORCES DAY 22 Page County ARES Net (146.625, PL-131.8) 23 Rockingham County ARES Net 27 Friday Luncheon 29 Page County ARES Net (146.625, PL-131.8) 30 Rockingham County ARES Net 30 Memorial Day30 Memorial Day30 Memorial Day30 Memorial Day

Thanks to those who helped with the April 14 test session.

RAY RICHIE, K4NRARAY RICHIE, K4NRARAY RICHIE, K4NRARAY RICHIE, K4NRA ANDREW PEARSON, N4RCEANDREW PEARSON, N4RCEANDREW PEARSON, N4RCEANDREW PEARSON, N4RCE

ROBERT VAN FOSSEN, K4DJGROBERT VAN FOSSEN, K4DJGROBERT VAN FOSSEN, K4DJGROBERT VAN FOSSEN, K4DJG GERALD NAUMAN, KN4FMGERALD NAUMAN, KN4FMGERALD NAUMAN, KN4FMGERALD NAUMAN, KN4FM

E.C. SHOWALTER, KG4KURE.C. SHOWALTER, KG4KURE.C. SHOWALTER, KG4KURE.C. SHOWALTER, KG4KUR BRYAN DANIELS, K4RMYBRYAN DANIELS, K4RMYBRYAN DANIELS, K4RMYBRYAN DANIELS, K4RMY

TERI HENDERSON, KT4UOTERI HENDERSON, KT4UOTERI HENDERSON, KT4UOTERI HENDERSON, KT4UO HUGH PETTIS, K3ECHUGH PETTIS, K3ECHUGH PETTIS, K3ECHUGH PETTIS, K3EC

We administered 11 test and issued 6 licenses: 4 tech, 1 gen, 1 extra

Our next testing will be June 11June 11June 11June 11, see you there,

GAYLE , KU4XN GAYLE , KU4XN GAYLE , KU4XN GAYLE , KU4XN

2 MARA Club Meeting2 MARA Club Meeting2 MARA Club Meeting2 MARA Club Meeting 3 PVARC Club Meeting3 PVARC Club Meeting3 PVARC Club Meeting3 PVARC Club Meeting 3 Friday Luncheon 5 Page County ARES Net (146.55 Simplex) 5 Augusta County ARES Net (146.850, PL-131.8) 6 Rockingham County ARES Net (Simplex) 6 Old Dominion Emergency Net (3.947 KHz) 7 VARA Club Meeting7 VARA Club Meeting7 VARA Club Meeting7 VARA Club Meeting 10 Friday Luncheon 12 Page County ARES Net (146.625, PL-131.8) 13 Rockingham County ARES Net 14 FLAG DAY14 FLAG DAY14 FLAG DAY14 FLAG DAY 17 Friday Luncheon 19 FATHER’S DAY19 FATHER’S DAY19 FATHER’S DAY19 FATHER’S DAY 19 Page County ARES Net (146.625, PL-131.8) 20 Rockingham County ARES Net 20 Old Dominion Emergency Net (3.947 KHz) 20 Deadline for July newsletter submission*20 Deadline for July newsletter submission*20 Deadline for July newsletter submission*20 Deadline for July newsletter submission* 26 Page County ARES Net (146.625, PL-131.8) 27 Rockingham County ARES Net 24 Friday Luncheon 26 Page County ARES Net (146.625, PL-131.8) 27 Rockingham County ARES Net

Friday the 13th Trivia: Friday the 13th Trivia: Friday the 13th Trivia: Friday the 13th Trivia: Many buildings and skyscrapers do not have a 13th floor. Many people will not allow 13 people at the table. If there is exactly 13 people present, a second table is set up. Skippers would not go out to sea with a crew of 12. Including the captain, that made 13 people. Ancient Mayans of Central America were the most advanced culture in all of the Americas. They considered the number 13 sacred.

Like any other special or wacky day, we encourage you to fully embrace the day and have fun with it. But, don't cower in your room in fear of this day. You'd miss all of the fun and excitement!

11 The Monitor

Club Information

MASSANUTTEN AMATEUR RADIO ASSOCIATION, Inc.

PresidentPresidentPresidentPresident: Andrew Pearson, N4RCE

Vice President: Vice President: Vice President: Vice President: Bryan Daniels, K4RMY

Secretary: Secretary: Secretary: Secretary: Herb Slade, AA2BF

TreasurerTreasurerTreasurerTreasurer: Foster Farone, WF4O

Board (exp 2017): Board (exp 2017): Board (exp 2017): Board (exp 2017): Jim Franklin, W4SIU

Board (exp 2016): Board (exp 2016): Board (exp 2016): Board (exp 2016): Bob Steere, N1QEQ

http://mara.ws

MARA meets the first Thursday of each month

at Wood Grill Buffet on Reservoir Street

in Harrisonburg, Virginia.

Dinner begins at 6:30 pm,

the business meeting begins at 7:30 pm

Visitors are always welcome.

Dues ($12 per year) should be mailed to:

MARA

PO Box 1882

Harrisonburg, VA 22801

VALLEY AMATEUR RADIO ASSOCIATION

President: President: President: President: John Keller, W4ZAO

Vice President: Vice President: Vice President: Vice President: Ed Varner, N4EDI

SecretarySecretarySecretarySecretary: David Tanks, AD4TJ

Treasurer: Treasurer: Treasurer: Treasurer: Greg Czerniak, W4GRC

http://w4xd.com

VARA meets the first Tuesday of each month

at the Hometown Grill & Buffet off Richmond

Road in Staunton, Virginia

Dinner starts at 6:00 pm,

the business meeting starts at 7:00 pm

Visitors are always welcome

Dues ($15 per year) should be mailed to:

VARA, Greg Czerniak

418 Oriole St.

Staunton, VA 24401-1661

PAGE VALLEY AMATEUR RADIO CLUB

PresidentPresidentPresidentPresident: Tim Ramey, AK4CJ

Vice PresidentVice PresidentVice PresidentVice President: Morgan Phenix, K4RHD

Secretary: Secretary: Secretary: Secretary: John Spillman, KT4CB

Treasurer: Treasurer: Treasurer: Treasurer: Juergen Lunkowitz, W3LUV

Board Member (exp 2016)Board Member (exp 2016)Board Member (exp 2016)Board Member (exp 2016): Zory Glaser, KB3VQC

Board Member (exp 2017): Board Member (exp 2017): Board Member (exp 2017): Board Member (exp 2017): Gary Fisher, K6OZ

http://www.k4pmh.org

PVARC meets the first Friday of each month

at the Page County Sheriff’s Training Room

in Luray, VA.

The meeting begins at 6:30 pm

Visitors are always welcome.

Dues ($12 per year) should be mailed to:

PVARC

PO Box 245

Luray VA 22835-0245

The Monitor is published monthly by MARA, Inc.

for members of the three amateur radio clubs

in the Central Shenandoah Valley.

Distribution is in Adobe PDF format via email attachment

to all club members in good standing.

Clubs differ in their policies regarding paper copies.

Contact the president of your respective club

for information on paper copies.

Back issues are freely available on the MARA website

starting a few months after publication.

Since the clubs derive their revenue from memberships,

the Monitor is not to be made regularly available on a

timely basis to individuals who are not club members.

Occasional complimentary current copies are

provided to prospective members free of charge.

Clubs may also formally decide to provide complimentary copies

at club expense to various constituencies.

Contact your respective club officers for more information.

Articles in the Monitor may be quoted with attribution.

Being a publication of an IRS 501(c)3 educational organization,

the Monitor may occasionally use copyrighted material under the Fair

Use Provisions of copyright law.

Copyright notices must be respected.

MARA/VARA/PVARC

Return Service Requested

c/o John Spillman

168 Bosley Drive Ext.

Stanley, VA 22851

Phone: 540-778-1332

Email: kt4cbva@gmail.com

MARA

VARA

PVARC