The temperature for late August finally returned to a comfortable mid 90s and Clifton, KE5YZB and Paul, KC5CYY ventured to Kid’s Zone and setup a couple of radios.  Clifton showed up with his portable station.  Using a flipped over empty trash can for a ground plane and a mag-mount HF antenna on top and he’s in business … total setup time, less than 5 minutes, Impressive!

On the other hand, KC5CYY’s typical setup requires about 20 minutes for the 20 meter wire antenna made one afternoon while at the park.  There are some learning lessons that come from using a wire homebrew antenna.  After all, it’s a $13.00 investment and generally receives great feedback, even when conditions are marginal as today would prove.

Earlier in the week Clifton had his first Viking Radio Club KF5CRF meeting of the year.  There were 19 students including about four returning from last year, one in 8^th grade, ten 7^th graders and eight 6^th graders.  More than half the students speak a second language and we hope to take advantage of that diverse wealth of culture.

This year’s Viking Radio Club members will focus on achieving an amateur radio license and participation in community activities such as amateur radio outreach, recruiting and other activities that amateur radio can be utilized.  A field trip is planned for later in the year to the USS Batfish, a WWII submarine http://www.ussbatfish.com/ now located in Muskogee, Oklahoma.  Left, 6^th grader Viking Member Isaiah looks on as Clifton demonstrates use of the radio.

During our return to the park on Saturday, Viking Member, 6^th grader, 11 year old Itzel, her brother Marcus and mom stopped by to introduce themselves.  In no time, Itzel was on the radio.  Her 1^st contact was with VE6BSH, Ron, located north of Calgary, Canada.  Impressed?  Ron asked Itzel to spell her name phonetically.  My initial thought was no problem, I will say the letter/word and she will repeat the letter/word, job done.  Imagine my shock when she independently spelt her name phonetically without any coaching … Hi 5s all the way around.  Mom deserves some credit too.  She is a civilian employee at Fort Sill and uses the phonetic alphabet while working with in-processing basic training soldiers.  Great Job Mom!

Itzel will rack up another 6 contacts from CA, MN, MI, OH and GA and NC before she has to leave.  Conditions were marginal at best, but Itzel persevered and worked through the challenges.  Above, Itzel being coached by KC5CYY and a pre-printed coaching script using the K5USA callsign.

It was great to talk with Keith, K6YA who was participating with other hams hosting their own version of Amateur Radio Outreach.   His group utilizes a scientific research facility to host their activities and about 15 hams in total.  With the weather finally starting to cool off we are looking forward to returning to the park as the weather and schedule allows.  Vikings have committed to coming out to the park and supporting the program and we look forward to these opportunities.   See ya at the park!

The operation was set up at Ralph’s Resort, Lake Ellsworth, a huge park and RV camp ground operated by the City of Lawton, about 10 miles north of downtown Lawton.  The park has about 35 pavilions peppered around the lake that rent for $12 a day on a 1^st come, 1^st serve basis.    With a Friday evening arrival, we had immediate access to the 5 shelters each complete with power, a picnic table and in total, about 15 acres to spread out the antennas.

On Saturday morning, Mike saw a Park Official arrive.  He went over, introduced himself and explained who we were and what we were doing.  After a short discussion with Mike and a radio call, the official demanded $8.  He told us that because of the city and county’s relationship with amateur radio, the fee collected would cover the entire weekend and the 5 pavilions in our immediate area.  The official suggested that next time we want to organize something in the park that we should request a fee waiver.  Mike thanked the officer and invited him to stop by about 5pm and to bring a friend or two.  The officer accepted the invitation, but admitted that he would be off duty but would pass the offer on.

Our GOTA (Get On The Air) station was operated by Jaron, KF5DIR, originally licensed about September 2009.  Jaron is no stranger when it comes to working with non-amateurs.  During the final days of the school year, he secured permission to set up a demonstration station at the Elgin High School, Elgin, OK as part of an activities day.  He received about 25 inquires from fellow students, but there were no takers when it came to getting on the radio.

Jaron is a regular participant with the Lawton Community Amateur Radio Outreach.  A monthly program held at the Kid’s Zone Park in Lawton, OK.  The program is designed to introduce amateur radio to members of the community in a relaxed and informal setting.  At 19, Jaron frequently finds himself to be the reluctant bridge between older amateurs and curious youngsters.  He posses the skills to quickly develop a rapport, find a common starting point, normally something computer or gaming related and begins to introduce amateur radio to those that express an interest.  Jaron is an avid CW operator, and will frequently challenge those interested into learning some very basic Morse Code.  To learn more about the Lawton outreach program go to http://www.qrz.com/db/k5usa.

A photo of the GOTA operations from the outside looking in.

Above, Gabby is CQing while Jaron KF5DIR assists and mentors.

Jaron works with Gabby, the 9 year old daughter of N5PLV.  Jaron typically writes out a short script and assists the non-operator by pointing to the words.

In just a few attempts, Gabby developed a rhythm and was able to recite the CQ calling phrase or exchange if responding to a CQ. Gabby proved to be our only non-amateur that got on the air, securing over 20 contacts for the GOTA station, K5USA.

The temperature was rising fast when Ray, KI4KNV showed up on Saturday about 10am and quickly set up a G5RV between two tall pine trees.  With natural shade being in short supply, he deployed a canopy shelter for shade, set up a table and chair and with a 100’ extension cord was operating.  Temperatures approached 100 and with a high humidity; he needed every bit of shade that $2 canopy provided.  Ray’s station consisted of an ICOM 706, tuner and G5RV.  Ray’s plan was to put the “hot” end on the highest side and also the furthest away from other station antennas.  Ray’s G5RV antenna setup looked like a slightly inverted horizontal “V”.  Maybe not picture perfect but operationally fantastic!  Ray will later be the center of pile-up after pile-up after pile-up after pile-up, mostly on 40 meters.  Ray KI4KNV,  setting up his 706.

Just as Field Day was beginning, Channel 7, KSWO, News visited the location and spent about 30 minutes taking sound bites and shots of the operation, mostly the different types of antennas that were being used, and the GOTA station from very expensive to home brew wire antennas.

They were most impressed with young Gabby and grabbed plenty of footage with her talking on the radio.  The event got about 60 seconds of news coverage during the 5pm and 10pm news broadcast.  Above KSWO, local channel 7 news reporter team Ted and Dara endured the bright and warm afternoon while they visited the joint Field Day operation of W5KS, Lawton Fort Sill Amateur Radio Club www.w5ks.org, and the Lawton Independent Repeater Alliance www.wx5law.com.

When asked if they had any trouble finding the location, they responded with comments that it is very obvious that something public oriented was happening and they had no problem seeing the activities from the road.  Above, Jackie, spouse of KC5CYY profiles with the event banner.
Ray volunteered to be the Solar Station so the group could earn valuable renewable energy points.  Luck would happen as Mike K5JOA showed up just prior to the start of the event with a self contained battery powered radio system.  Mike, K5JOA operated totally portable using his battery powered station that was being recharged with a 60 watt solar panel array converting a very bright Oklahoma sun into stored battery power.  Mike operated totally off the grid for a couple of hours and then called it a day.

Field Day is one of those events that require a food element.  The group enjoyed several delicious pot luck dishes.  There was plenty to eat and no one went without.  Bennie N5PLV manned the grille and showed off his skills as he cooked up hamburgers and hot dogs donated to the event by the Bar-S Corporation of Lawton, OK.

Bob, KC5EIU offers some cooling freeze pops.	Christopher and Cassidy, the Son and daughter of Clifton KE5YZB, profiling the food items.
Of course there is always room for babies and grand babies.	How could we forget our four legged friends, only these guys would complain if nothing dropped to the ground!  There were no complaints!

Bennie, N5PLV presented an informative class on making Satellite contacts.  About 5:30pm, we found that AO51 had plenty of folks talking.  It was interesting to suddenly hear North Dakota on the “overhead” repeater.  Later, about 9:30pm, we observed the ISS make an almost overhead orbit, but they were not transmitting.  Satellite contacts are still very new to our group as we begin the process of sharing learned lessons.  Although the group did not make any contacts they did observe the process 1^st hand immediately following the class.

Bennie, N5PLV demonstrates the dexterity required to manipulate the antenna and talk on the radio.

Bennie coaches Spencer KF5FHU on antenna manipulation.

With dinner behind us and the day finally beginning to cool off, the group was back at it.  Ray was enjoying yet another pile up.  Gabby convinced Jaron that there were still more contacts to be made and off they went.  Troy, K5OK finally took a PSK break and made time to visit with Mike at his 6 meter station.  Troy is the group’s internal PSK resource while Mike primarily enjoys 6 meters.

The heat of the day takes it toll, and almost everyone stayed inside where there was AC.

About Midnight the group took a break and somehow began talking about Blueberry Waffles (below). (except for Ray, working another Pile-up).

Every Field Day offers learning opportunities and every location offers benefits and distracters.  The Lake Ellsworth location provides a premium public location for Field Day type events and is being discussed as a possible community location event for the November Sweep Stakes.  Participants would use their individual callsigns.  Locally the weather is generally ideal for outdoor activities at that time of the year.

This lake location offers plenty of power.  The fact that the site is available without reservations is mostly a plus.  There is no running water except at the rest rooms.  The rest rooms have shower facilities and are a short drive away, inconvenient but not an unreasonable solution to those that participate.  Convenience stores were just over a mile away along with several fast food operations.  The commute to the site was about 20 minutes from Lawton, with great public access.  The location offered limited Internet access but it was present for almost the entire event.  The ability to network laptops and share logging information proved to be both a benefit and a negative and the group will most likely revisit that topic.  Late arrival operators were welcome, but required a hurried introduction to the logging software and making the network connection that occasionally failed for one reason or another.

More pictures are available at http://www.wx5law.com/?page=photos&view=album&albumid=5489506570923747809.

This group is experiencing a very modest population growth and longevity spurt.  Several of the recent new hams are under 20 and one is under 13.  Senior amateur participation has declined sharply in recent years, mostly because of health issues.  Several make an appearance and depart.  The early departure guarantees that they will not be driving after dark.  Others have found that the heat of the Oklahoma sun puts too much stress on their systems for an all day activity and we all agree with that regardless of age.  Some like the idea of the Friday night setup.  Time will tell if that will be the trend or if this will be a “one time success”.

Cristi is a member of the Viking Radio Club that operates in Harper’s classroom at the Eisenhower Middle School. In addition to being a radio club member, she’s a member of the National Honor Society and currently studying for her Technician license.

Clifton Harper is an art teacher and facilitates the Viking Radio Club, KF5CRF with about 18 members. Clifton brought his HF radio system out to the park today. He continually streamlines the station making it more and more portable. His station now fits nicely into a brief case. Once he has power and a location for his mag-mount HF mobile antenna he is on the air. Typically he can key up in less than five minutes after his arrival. Great Job!

Angelee, KF5EOY (right center) visited us with a couple of friends. Within minutes they were making contacts on 40 meters, competing for air time during the CQ contest. Her friend Ashley thought it was “just too cool” to be able to talk to so many different people from all over the place. Both girls attend the Lawton Christian Academy in Lawton. At 11, Angelee is one of the youngest operators that we have seen in the area in about 12 years. Angelee gets plenty of support from her father, Richard, KF5EOX. As you can see from their call signs, they studied, took the test and passed together. Over the years we have seen several parents and their children become involved in amateur radio as a joint activity. Many continue to this day to share that common interest. Richard has discussed the possibility of a school radio club at the Academy. So far the idea has received a warm reception.

Several weeks ago we met Tomlinson Middle School student Jacob. Joe, Jacob’s father stopped by and spoke with Jaron, KF5DIR and expressed how excited his son was about amateur radio. He asked if Jacob could come back and visit us again. The response was of course positive, and in a few minutes Jacob returned wanting to learn more Morse code. So, using a “bug”, we showed Jacob how to form letters using dit’s and da’s. Jacob asked about the old style telegraph key and with a point towards Jaron’s setup, he ventured over and examined Jaron’s growing collection of keys.

In just a few minutes, using Jaron’s recently purchased Soviet Military Surplus key, Jacob was able to send his name and a few other common words. Over the next 45 minutes the two talked enthusiastically about the evolution of keys and Morse Code.

With Jacob’s dad present, Jaron challenged Jacob to take the next amateur radio class beginning April 3. Before Jacob could respond, Joe asked if he could take the class too. Now, both father and son are looking forward to the challenge of the upcoming amateur radio licensing classes. Joe remarked that he sees amateur radio as a potential activity they’ll enjoy together. Classes are conducted at no charge, except for the cost of a text book. Jaron agreed to loan his book to Jacob and Joe. The instructor, Milton Simpson, WD5YZB will normally schedule a test session as part of the last class.

Jim Havens, KE5HAZ stopped by and helped us out with a wind generator. The wind generator was purchased a couple years ago with a grant to the W5LHS, School Radio Club. Jim is responsible for the Lawton High School (W5LHS) club, where he is a physics teacher. Using amateur radio and other equipment purchased with a series of grants for the club, Jim reinforces key fundamentals of physics. A good example was when a student asked the question about the range of wireless Internet technologies. Jim secured a wireless access point. Students were soon experimenting and answering their own questions regarding range and quickly discovered the maximum range of the device. How did everything they “know” about wireless Internet change when Jim swapped out the standard Rubber Ducky antenna for a 15 element Yagi antenna? In an instant the maximum range was again unknown, requiring more experimenting and thinking. Several students even accused Jim of cheating because he was using amateur radio technology. Jim could only smile at the accusation.

The weather was pleasant and certainly a factor for the 400+ park visitors throughout the day. The Outreach program is starting to get repeat visitors that stop by as in the case of 7 year old Andrew and his father James a member of the Coast Guard. Andrew worked the “Bug” and we reinforced Morse Code and the use of the SOS. We explained that you can use other technologies besides radio to call for help. Ideas we normally use as part of our presentation include the horn of a car, fog horn if on a boat or a flashlight at night. James offered the idea of using the shinny side of a CD that can be used as a reflector to alert nearby passing ships, aircraft or a visible shoreline.

L-R, Jim, KE5HAZ and Clifton, KF5YZB. Note the use of the trash can as a ground plane for the mobile antenna. The yellow box on Jim

L-R, Angelee, KF5EOY and two excited friends Jessica and Ashley. Jessica is a current student of Harper but not aware of the School Radio Club. Ashley will be attending Eisenhower Middle School in the fall.

East side view of the pavilion. We put a small kite on our Jack Kite Pole. In the foreground is a G5RV antenna in a horizontal (26 feet up) configuration center supported by a kite pole. This is the antenna configuration that Jaron intends to use for the Rookie Roundup contest April 18 (permit in hand). It does a great job on 40 meters and has achieved proven results on 20 meters with contacts in Alaska, Hawaii, Europe, the Caribbean and South America. The setup time is relatively quick too, at about 15 minutes.

Angelee, KF5EOY and Ashley showing off a new version of the CQ dance.

A more detailed photo of the self contained APRS unit acquired for the W5LHS Radio Club. School radio clubs have a lot of benefits.

Many, many thanks to KC5EIU, KF5DIR, KF5EOY, KF5EOX, KE5HAZ, KE5YZB, WB5YZB, WX5IRL and Cristi who’s combined presence and efforts greatly added to the success of the event.

There have been some significant changes to K5USA qrz web site with many more to come. Go to

www.qrz.com/db/k5usa and check it out.

Our next scheduled outreach event will be on Sunday April 21. If we don’t have a permit and the weather is nice on those weekends, we may head to the park when those opportunities present themselves. In the meantime, get a kite, grab your radio, go to a park, enjoy the day and listen for K5USA.

73, KC5CYY

Clifton Harper, KE5YZB at radio station KF5CRF in his classroom.

Clifton Harper, KE5YZB is an Art Teacher at the Eisenhower Middle School in Lawton, Oklahoma.  He organizes and facilitates the Viking Radio (school) Club, KF5CRF, an alternative activity for students.  During the school year, Viking members venture into the classroom to use the radio, either before or after school.  Several students enjoy talking on the radio while others work on their individual projects such as being able to say their name and club call sign phonetically.

Landry and JaKobi, making contact with GA station Rit, N4BNM during the SCR.

KF5CRF has the flexibility to operate all day during the week long School Club Round Up (SCR) amateur radio contest.  The format is simple, use amateur radio contest protocol and allow students (K-16) over North America (including US territories) to talk with other students.  The contest allows for operations for a maximum of 6 hours a day, not to exceed 24 total operating hours for the week.  Local amateur radio operators rotate in and out of the school club station to supervise proper operations.  This allows Harper to continue teaching, while the SCR is active in the classroom.  Interested students in the class are encouraged to venture over to observe and talk on the radio.

Interest always peaks when a station being heard is in another country.  Such was the case when students attempted to reply to a Nova Scotia station that went unanswered.  This was not the end of the story, as a short time later, students talked with North Pole, Alaska for several minutes.  Most conversations are general in nature with a lot of focus on current weather.  Without exception, all contacts are made by the students.  Logging is still something new to the young Vikings, but they are taking to the task well.

Coordination is critical and Harper speaks with each Viking member’s teacher.  The goal is to allow participation in the SCR for at least 50 minutes each day during four days of operations.  This way, students miss only one class from any one subject.  This level of cooperation allows for two and occasionally three student operators to be present.  Members already in Harper’s class are allowed to participate in the SCR or work on their assigned class work.

Paul Goulet, KC5CYY, during a pre-SCR meeting discusses the contest and how it will operate, reinforcing the importance of getting the call sign correct. These mini meetings are peppered with information designed to assist the student in passing the Technician License Examination.

Participation in the SCR allows students the chance to talk with other students while reinforcing their understanding of geography and how the sun plays an important role in amateur radio communications.  With the recent blizzard and ice storms in Oklahoma, many students have personal stories of power loss and temporary relocation while repairs to the local grid were being made.  The conversations are interesting because they are unique to the students.  Other topics students are encouraged to develop over the radio include school sports or other areas of commom interest.

Shy and Alicia, making contact with a school in Pennsylvania.

Vikings strive to use good operating procedures.  Students locate a quiet frequency and listen.  They must then decide if the frequency is already in use.  This is followed by calling and asking if the frequency is in use.  If they don’t hear a reply and they frequently do, they proceed to call CQ, which is short for “calling any station” and continue with a preformatted CQ announcement.  Students generally memorize the CQ announcement after a few attempts.

Students are continually reminded that they may only be able to hear one side of a radio conversation.  As 8^th grader Cristi discovered when a 59 plus (referred to as an RST.  RST is a method of station reception reporting) blasted into KF5CRF; just as she was getting ready to ask if the frequency was in use.  Although startled, she laughingly remarked, “I guess that frequency is in use” and moved to another “quiet” frequency.

Occasionally, students forget all previous drills when they get a reply from their CQ calling efforts.  This is changing as their experience grows.  Most of the time, they get it right and repeat back the call sign,  KF5CRF along with RST, location and identify themselves as a school.  After completing the log, they’ll reply with something personal such as their name, age and what grade they attend.  Each QSO, which is short for conversation, is typically brief and may require coaching on the part of the

Cristi and Landry calling CQ on 20 meters and looking for other schools participating in the SCR.

The experienced Vikings are mentoring the new members. The 18 members worked as a team and contacted 1 country, 14 states, 10 schools and a total of 31 operators during the SCR winter 2010.

amateur radio control operator present.  Students are encouraged to be thoughtful of the other operator, thank them for the contact.  If they’re participating in the SCR, wish them luck in the contest.  Once the QSO is over, students begin another round of calling CQ.

This is the second time the Vikings participated in the SCR.  There has been considerable growth in their radio skills.  Students are more at ease and doing a better job of listening and developing the conversation.  Those that were “MIC SHY” during the last SCR are now comfortable talking on the radio.  Several students from the classroom also venture over to observe the activities.

Another positive from this SCR was the amount of recruiting that took place just prior to, and the week of the SCR event.  Viking Radio Club member Jackson would talk about amateur radio to anyone that would stand still long enough to listen.  He’d invite them to come and see the station and learn more about amateur radio.  Many of the newest members are a direct result of Jackson’s steadfast recruiting efforts.  The club picked up seven new members, four girls and three boys.  Of the new members, two have amateur radio connections.  Crista is the granddaughter of KC5JAU and Landry is the niece of W5RSN.

The majority of the Vikings are in the 6^th grade.  This level of growth potential should mean that several of these 6^th graders may eventually become licensed operators.  In the meantime, they’ll continue to have fun, learn about the world they live in and explore amateur radio.  As was the case when Vikings enjoyed the opportunity to talk  with station operator Roy Dickinson, operating as XE2/N5SWE from the Light House in Sonora, Mexico.  Photo courtesy of www.qrz.com/db/n5swe.

Club members are encouraged to get their license, either by independent study or taking a locally provided class.  Beginning on April 3^rd, Viking Radio Club members will be able to take (6) Saturday classes to prepare for the Technician Class License.  All amateur radio classes are given at no cost. The last class generally includes a test session.  Viking Radio Club members enjoy a scholarship for the cost of amateur radio study materials, text books, and when they are ready, testing fees.  We look forward to the day when a Viking Radio Club member will have their own call sign.  For more information about amateur radio contact Clifton Harper, Paul Goulet, kc5cyy@gmail.com or Milton Simpson, WB5YZD schoolmaster5@sbcglobal.net – 73 and good DX .

Today the weather cooperated and allowed us to have a great Amateur Radio Outreach event.   With temperatures approaching 60 degrees in a bright Oklahoma sun.  It’s little surprise to see kids actually wearing shorts today.  Kid’s Zone proves to be a magnet for kids to release energy after 2+ weeks of bitter cold that saw the most destructive winter weather ever seen by this author.  Lawton was clobbered by a harsh ice storm that left thousands in our community without power, some for several days.  Compared to our neighbors just 15 miles north, we got off easy.

Two years ago, Public Service of Oklahoma, began an aggressive program of trimming trees that could potentially put power lines at risk along easements.  I complained loudly about the aggressive reach into my back yard and the loss of half a beautiful shade tree.  I now see the benefit of that aggressive undertaking.  I’m the 1^st to admit, the decision greatly reduced the overall damage and impact caused by this storm.  We’ve learned some valuable lessons too.  Our Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) needs more depth of operators.  We all need to pull together to strengthen our ARES program.  There are not enough amateurs to provide sustained assistance if our community needed us.

The next picture is of the tree across the street from the home QTH.  Normally, you can walk under the tree.  Imagine the weight of every branch, every twig carrying 1 inch of ice all the way around and extending beyond the tip by another inch.  Branches, power lines and utility poles collapsed under the colossal weight throughout the day and night.  There was little that could be done for the next two days as cold air and heavy clouds prevented sun light from providing much needed melting relief.

The tree above represents 50+ years of growth.  For the most part, this tree only lost two large branches.  Most trees did not fare as well and are being reduced to next year’s fire wood.  Look carefully at the ice on the road.  Do you see the letters carved in the ice that spell, rate increase?

The next picture is an attempt to show you the same view 2 weeks later, remember this tree did well.  Trees that did not topple now look like utility poles with stubs.  Imagine the tremendous weight this tree was bearing.  The white specs, yes it’s snowing.

On the day before the storm, I took down my G5RV wire antenna.  The center was connected using a pulley to a fork as high as I could reach into the tree with a telescoping 31’ pole.  That limb along with many others is now in a pile on the side of the house.  On the positive side, the center point of my wire antenna is now about 8 feet higher than its previous location.  That tree is pretty void of limbs and may not survive, time will tell.

My Tri-Band (donated by N5WTS) antenna that proudly stood erect on the top of a 30’ push up pole for 15 years was lost.  Against the Oklahoma sun, lightning, wind and previous ice storms the antenna finally surrendered and broke in half on the 2^nd day.  The antenna landed on the roof with a loud crack.  When I investigated the noise, I found six feet of the fiberglass shell encased in more than 1 inch of ice.  There were a lot of great conversations left in that antenna.  I will have to submit a grant request to N5WTS to see about a replacement.  The wire portion of the actual antenna was dangling below the remaining six feet of pole still attached to the push up pole, blowing in the wind, like a streamer!   Many stations lost antennas, including the Lawton High School, W5LHS silencing their participation in this year’s School Club Round Up (SCR).

Jaron KF5DIR is coming into his own as he locates a station for these young ladies.  Four of the girls are students at the Eisenhower Middle School and know about the Viking Radio Club.  I asked if they knew Mr. (Clifton) Harper KE5YZB and one of them said “yes, but he don’t like me.”  I said, of course he don’t like you, he’s a teacher and they laughed.  Jaron got Sarah on the radio to she talked briefly with Dennis in AZ.  Is that sun bright or what!

Later Jaron would attempt to make his first CW (Morse Code) contact on the 20 meter Elmer frequency.  Although no one came back to him, he made a fine effort and was not at all disappointed.  He chalked it up as an opportunity to get more practice before he ventured into the world of CW.

Earlier in the day Connor age 12 (above right) visited us.  Jaron and Connor are listening to verify if a frequency is not already in use.  Everyone that talks on the radio now gets a “RADIO CARD”.  We include the dits and dahs of their name along with contact information and future outreach program dates.  Conner proved to be a natural coach when he showed Justin, another 12 year old visitor how to do SOS and his name in Morse Code.  Justin made the best comment when he said, “This is cool and you learn stuff too.”  Imagine that.

This day, the weather was pleasant and the park provided welcome relief for the 300+ kids and adults that ventured in and out of the park while we were there.  We encourage park visitors to risk coming our way – using a strategically positioned welcome sign that directs their interest to the pavilion.  We had about 18 visitors inquire about our activities.

Milton WB5YZB stopped by and informed us about an upcoming class beginning April 3 that will run for about six Saturdays.  Do you have a red ARRL Ham Radio License Manual?  Please donate your book to this class.  There is no cost for the class, and donated books are not being resold.  If you are still studying, the question pool will change on 1 July.  Hopefully, that should motivate you.

Foot notes for the week.  Clifton Harper KE5YZB earned every bit of his amateur radio paycheck this past week.  He pulled double duty as a middle school art teacher and School Club Round Up (SCR) host in his classroom.  Overall 17 Viking Radio Club members contacted 1 country (Mexico), 14 States, 31 operators, 10 schools, and 1 lighthouse!  The lighthouse sparked so much interest that students had to look it up on the web.  All contacts were made using High Frequency (HF) radio broadcasts.  During the week, the club picked up seven new members, four girls and 3 boys.   One of the new students took an on-line practice test and PASSED!  Clifton shared a chat he had with a teacher in Pennsylvania.  She too is an art teacher and has a station in her classroom year round.  Clifton was the 1^st art teacher she ever met that also had a radio in the classroom.

During this past SCR event amateurs came in to assist and supervise the activities of the students.  Two Viking Radio Club members have direct relationships to other hams, KC5JAU is a grandmother of a student and W5RSN is the uncle of another.

This past outreach was an impromptu event sparked by Jaron wanting to take advantage of the good weather and he asked me to assist. The results were just too successful to overlook providing you a summary.

The next two pictures are of another off the cuff event held in the park just prior to the ice storm.  These spur of the moment activities carry the risk of disappointment.  If the pavilion is already reserved, we can be asked to leave and that has happened one time.  In January and February that risk is probably very limited, and most times we can successfully share the space for birthday parties and other events, after all, we show up with balloons.

Below KC5CYY is working with elementary age students assisting them in making a local contact with Mike Minor, WD5USA.  Even though WD5USA and KC5CYY have known each other for years, when the call comes as K5USA, they almost always reintroduce themselves, including phonetic spelling of their names and give a signal report.  They see this as setting the stage of the conversation as they try to make the contact appear to be a first time event, every time.

We all remember our new young friend Hannah (below), seen here working with Jaron.  Jaron will sometimes dit and dah out messages on paper while he works with her to develop her interest.

February 21 should already be marked on your calendar, that’s our next scheduled Amateur Radio Outreach event, but Jaron has already contacted me about going on Monday the 15^th and taking advantage of school being closed.  Until then, get radio active and take a trip to your local park!

Please recycle your red ARRL Ham Radio License Manual by donating it to the next Technician Licensing class. The current testing pool for the Technician Class license will expire on 1 July 2010. Please talk up the next operator licensing class. Yes, amateur radio is still a contact activity!

Milton Simpson, WD5YZB, will be conducting Technician Classes beginning Saturday 3 April for 6 weeks at the Lawton Technical Center, located about 4500 SW Lee. Classes are three hours long and start at 9am and normally finish about noon. Milton hopes to have enough books available on the 1st day to begin lessons immediately. A test session is normally part of the last training session. There is no cost for the class, but the cost of the book is $25, and because the questions will be changing, please consider donating your book to future operators. There will be no charge to students for recycled books.

Speaking of the question pool changing. Are you still studying? Take your test prior to 1 JULY! Once you pass, donate your book to the next group of hams.

Please donate your book to this project. Contact me via email to make arrangements.

This is a great time to talk up this class.

73

Paul Goulet /KC5CYY

How could I resist bringing up the movie Independence Day, with Will Smith, Bill Pullman and Brent Spiner?  When all the normal communications became disrupted by the aliens, there was still one means of communications available, amateur radio. Using the binary language of CW, instructions were passed from amateur to amateur throughout the world.  They all said, “Hey, that’s right”!  Have you noticed a recent commercial using CW, specifically SOS?

Our program has shifted a bit and we now actively engage kids to learn the International Distress Signal.  Three shorts, three longs and three shorts.  Reinforced with various methods to send a distress signal such as a flashlight, car horn, reflective mirror, outside light switch and of course, radio.  We use a Bug Keyer so kids get an immediate tactile response and are able to distinguish the short and long sound, or as Hams refer to those sounds, dits (short) and dahs (long).  Kids need time to learn about the radio and may not be comfortable getting on the air immediately, even though they ask question as was the case with Hannah.

Hannah (above right is being coached by Ron, AF5Q) asked several questions and was initially a reluctant participant.  The truth is she simply needed time to absorb what was presented to her.  Once she was comfortable with the knowledge, she took on the challenge of learning to send SOS and her name.  It’s when she sent “mom” in CW and shouted “I GOT IT!” you knew that she just put it all together in a new learning experience.  Eventually, Hannah had an enjoyable chat with Scotty, KE7NCO located in Sparks, NV.  Hannah proudly told Scotty of her ability to send her name in CW.  Scotty shared that he was working on improving his CW skills too.  They exchanged signal reports and talked about the weather.  Scotty wanted to get more contacts, so Hannah let him move on.  Hannah’s mom told us that Hannah is exceptionally good in both music and math.

Spring (right) is showing her Cousin Autumn (above) how to manipulate the paddles in this peep to peer learning session.  Spring had previously learned to send SOS and her name and was now showing Autumn some of what she learned.  Later they would get on the air and talk with KE5VOF, Gary in Oklahoma City through the local repeater link.  Elijah got a chance to talk with Mike, WD5USA.  We had a great time talking with Sam and his older brother Steven (below) about amateur radio.  Both were fast studies when it came to learning to send SOS and their names in CW.

Bob, KC5EIU was present along with Jaron, KF5DIR who is now a regular at these events.  AF5Q, Ron did some HF digital work using his home made G5RV that did a great job.  We tried to get a long wire antenna up for Jaron’s operation but didn’t have much luck and we eventually put his radio on the local repeater frequencies.  We will try the long wire again next time.  Interestingly, we had three stations operating under the pavilion with room for at least one or maybe two more stations.  We were also visited by Milton, WB5YZB, Clifton, KE5YZB and Mike, WD5USA.  Everyone was enjoying the great weather and the chance to be in the park.

Recent test session results are that we gained 3 new amateur radio operators, including 12 year old Angelee  Harris (above).  Together Angelee and her dad Richard studied the materials to prepare for the test session.  At the time of this summary, both are awaiting their new call signs.  Congratulations to both.  As you can see from the four young faces in this photo, amateur radio continues to interest young girls and boys as a challenging and rewarding hobby.

(Step on soap box)  American kids are smart enough to learn the skills necessary to meet all of our engineering requirements.  Having fun and learning new skill sets that may catapult America’s youth into engineering or other high tech fields is a plus.  As all amateurs know, learning is a journey and it doesn’t stop because of a successful test session.  Amateur radio is just one vehicle to help kids learn necessary basic skill sets in math, science, electronics, geometry and physics, all in the direction of a great career.  It may be cheaper for a company to fly software engineers in from India, but is it right?  What if they only have tourist visas and no green cards?  Would you stop them from working?  After all, who would know?  Why aren’t Americans doing these jobs?  Do you really think this scenario doesn’t happen? (Step off soap box)

Look for your next Amateur Radio Outreach on February 21.  There is some discussion of a Winter Field Day the weekend of January 30-31 with the details still needing to be worked out.  A School Club Round-up will be happening during the week of February 8-12.  Yes, we are busy in amateur radio and there is always something to learn, something to do and someone to talk too.

 Sunday 091220

It’s appropriate to be writing this story as the wind is howling and the snow is blowing, and we find ourselves under a blizzard warning.  Conditions outside are dangerous as wind gust exceed 50 and 60 mph.  It’s difficult to see the neighbor’s house just across the street.  Snow drifts of 12-18 inches can be found right here at the house and we have several hours of storm ahead of us.

Amateur Radio reports tell of power outages in several neighborhoods, all over western Oklahoma, driving conditions are white-out with zero visibility, utility poles toppled and Interstate 44, from mile marker 1 to 101 is closed.  The Comanche Country Emergency Operation Center is active, and the Emergency Manager is considering if he will need to begin opening shelters.  Jackie and I are hunkering down and standing fast.  Yes this is a bad and dangerous storm!  Emergency batteries for the radios are charged and will provide several reliable hours of capabilities.

Occasionally, there are reports of power being restored.  You have to hand it to those guys that repair power lines.  The work is dangerous and when you add in the hazardous weather conditions, those guys are earning their paychecks today.

During our most recent Amateur Radio Community Outreach Program on December 20^th, the weather was drastically different from today.  Then, temperatures approached mid 60s under a bright Oklahoma sun.  W5GCM, Art, a Shrine Santa with a natural beard, stopped by to help bring attention to our activities and we had plenty going on. The program is now a regular activity at the park and immediately we had several youths offer to assist us in setting up.  The young man securing a radial will later show off some of his athleticism with some incredible flips.

Dave, K8GCU has now assisted us twice and will hopefully become a regular at the park.  Dave is not new to amateur radio.  Dave and his Grandfather, the original K8GCU, spent countless hours in the shack making hundreds of Contacts.  Dave recently acquired his Grandfathers call as a vanity call sign and acknowledged that his Grandfather would be proud.  Below, we see Dave sharing the amateur experience with Taiwania, who surprised us with a short visit after she left church.  Taiwania and WX5LIR had an enjoyable on air conversation.

Later Jacob and Canary will get on the air and talk with other hams.  Jacob expressed real interest and fun and we hope to see him again.

We now document the QSO and do a bit of self promoting with our guest operators.  We complete a QSL card to record the event and include contact information, along with our next scheduled park visit.

Continually we get asked the magic question, “Wha-cha-doing?” and now we sometimes respond with a question.  Do you know about Morse-Code or can you tell me a common name for a distress call?  This encounter is generally accepted as a challenge and turned into a two character set learning opportunity.

As most members of this audience know, there are many ways to send Morse-Code, and I am reminded of Bill Parker AC5DH, who, while stationed in Kosovo, taught his soldiers to use a flashlight to report their status and communicate with other sentries at night while they were on guard duty.

It’s no surprise to us that kids want to learn new and challenging concepts.  Let’s be honest, in this world of hi-tech cell phones that are miniature computers and low cost gaming devices such as WIIs, Gameboys and XBOXs, it’s a challenge.  But we have the same tools available to us too.  By interfacing a computer with a set of paddles we provide a challenge that also can bring about an immediate positive response when they are successful.

Everyone acknowledged the importance of timing.  Was that 3 ‘E’s or one ‘S’?  With a little practice, several got it correct and the computer agreed!  Some even used words like cool and fun.  Over time our adventures in the park will later contribute to future amateurs.  We are realistic about our efforts – after all not everyone really wants to become a ham no matter how much fun they tell us they are having.

Bob, KC5EIU has been a consistent fixture with our Outreach Program.  Jaron, KF5DIR is also becoming a regular and finding that he has a lot to contribute to the program.  To those that answer the K5USA call and spend a few minutes talking with guest operator’s thank you.  Your contributions are valuable and appreciated.

The weather was spectacular and we spent 5 great hours in the park.  When we put in our request for December 20^th, our friends at P&R thought that there would be nobody in the park so close to Christmas.  I explained to them that 1 positive encounter is a success, thanks to Santa, we had about 40 successes.

Santa was certainly the center of attention and here are a few more pictures.  Santa proved to us that he can certainly bring in the kids no mater how old, and this Santa truly engaged both kids and parents.    Thanks W5GCM, Art and K5FLO, Flow for coming out.  You made a difference and we hope you had a great time.

You have to check this out!

Below, this young man would climb on top of a rail and from a standing position, perform a jump and flip.  He lands in a pile of wood chips (on his feet), climbs back up on the rail, and performs another version of a free standing jump and flip.  His friend in the white tee-shirt is documenting the activities – UTUBE maybe?  Just amazing!

Did you notice the format changed for this edition.  [Ed: the double column format did not translate to the web page]  We look forward to bringing you future adventures from the park next year.  Take care and be safe.  KC5CYY

On Friday, the morning air was a bit chilly, but the sun began to warm things up quickly.  My Grandson Darrion and I finished loading the car and we headed off to Kid’s Zone about 1pm. The park already had about 50 kids playing inside.  Clifton KE5YZB showed up, and immediately we began setting up the K5USA station.  It takes about 30 minutes to get everything ready.  As a matter of course, we now always bring our “Help Wanted” sign and place it at the end of the sidewalk.  Take a left and you go to the play area, turn right and you’re heading to the restroom.

Viking Radio Club member Shelby showed up and had a great QSO with Dave W4RN who just finished putting up a new home brew antenna (that sounded remarkable).  Shelby had to catch-up with her family and leave.  Dave and I continued the conversation discussing homebrew antennas.  When the QSO ended, other operators gave K5USA a shout.  Most were eager to talk with kids and others were interested in hearing about our Radio In the Park program.  Above, Shelby, needing a bit of help with spelling her name phonetically.

Our next visitors were playing in the park and happened along our way to ask “what-cha-doing”?  So of course we told them.  KM5IO, “Doc” over in Hobert, OK got a chance to talk with Andrew.  Doc did a great job of getting Andrew to open up and of course planted the seed of thought about amateur radio in Andrew’s future.

Later in the day, we met Taiwana (Left), who talked to Mike, WD5USA on a local repeater.  Although the picture is staged, Taiwana was very relaxed on the radio and expressed how cool it was to talk on the radio.  She’s expressed interest in learning more and has already starting learning the materials for her Technician Class license.  Throughout the afternoon others would stop by and visit and many would get on the radio.

We certainly learned some new things this trip … most kids are actually a bit mic-shy.  Amazingly their friends always have questions to ask — until it’s their turn to get on the radio.  Continually, we find ourselves prompting rather than coaching.  Hmm, would 3×5 Que cards work?

This little bit of prompting should be enough for the other operator to get them to start talking and respond with more than a frustrating yes or no answer.  Radio In the Park is still a work in progress and we are seeing positive results in our community.

Our target age group is 8-12 year olds, but certainly some moms and dads will come along for the amateur journey too.  Recently a parent of a Viking Radio Club member stopped by the park to offer his appreciation for our activities and spurring a new found learning activity for his son.  Bob Roundtree, KC5EIU is the first one to tell parents – it’s a lot more than just talking on the radio!  Above, Juliana took time out of her busy afternoon and stopped by and got on the radio – Juliana required little prompting and did a great job.  Her older sister was reluctant to get on the air, and Darrion is somewhat of a regular, but his interest has yet to develop.  Darrion does bring interested kids over who will get on the radio and talk.  We might have to make him a recruiter, what do you think?

After Shelby left, there was plenty of time to just get on the radio on enjoy a QSO with several hams that heard W4RN and I chatting.  Most related their support for our efforts and that always goes a long way.  KD6QCT, Ron went one step further and mentioned that he might begin his own Radio In the Park program.  What we are doing is certainly transferable to a park near you.  You’ll know you’re in the right location if you see a lot of kids.  I’ll offer a few unsolicited suggestions:

1. Be consistent and be persistent.
2. Identify your key support operators.  Those naturally great with kids.
3. Limit the size of your key supporters to 3 or 4.  A large group of hams socializing may send the wrong message and shy some interested youth away.  Youthful operators, the more the merrier.
4. Who is going to talk to Mom and Dad, and what will you tell them?
5. Answer Mom and dad’s question.  Why should my kid go to all this trouble when cell phones are so readily available?  – Remember the journey of self-learning!  That’s a reason we actively seeking interested 8-12 year olds.
6. Do you have an operator that loves doing something actively on the radio?
   1. Phone, CW, SSTV, RTTY and/or PSK have someone doing something.  This operator is the grinding wheel – who may not be the best person to talk with the visitors, but rather a person willing to always be active.
   2. Your visitors now see activity and you have something to talk about!
   3. Be excited — WOW!!! He just talked to the USS COD, an amateur radio station aboard a WWII submarine in Cleveland, OH.  How exciting will it be when you make contact with the Queen Mary, a distant Lighthouse or a foreign country?
7. Occasionally build something, right there in the PARK!
8. Have a colorful welcoming sign.
9. Banner.
10. Be safety conscience.
    1. We’ve asked people to move away from the antenna structure.
    2. Place antenna(s) out of the obvious pathways.
    3. Safety cones.
    4. Two adults present.
11. Have a localized flyer ready to hand your visitor when they leave.  Remember, WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN and HOW.   Include contact information?
12. Make the local repeater a resource too.  Ask for volunteers not necessarily your core operators, to reply back when requested.
13. Document your adventures!  Include pictures.  Send out a report to anyone and everyone that supports youth enrichment programs.  Remember your friends at the Park and Recreation Department.
14. Occasionally bring out some portable renewable energy sources such as solar panels and wind generators.  This type of eye candy tends to bring out plenty of adults that ask – wha-cha-doing?

Successes are measured in positive contacts, not new amateurs.  New amateurs will happen, as they did for us, but that process takes months – sometimes years.  Providing an opportunity for kids to experience and learn about amateur radio opportunities is enough fun for us, and that’s why we go to the park.  Your next radio in the park with K5USA is scheduled for December 20^th.

Radio In the Park Summary 091018

What a HAM adventure filled week! We had our Radio In the Park event, but it started on Saturday and would not end until next Saturday. On the 17^th several of us participated with the Scouts during the annual Jamboree On The Air (JOTA). The Lawton Elmer Thomas Park west pavilion proved to be perfect for such an event. We even managed to enjoy the company of a visiting Australian family that included two young scouts. In no time, Ron AF5Q had the two scouts on the air making contacts. Another young scout was not to be out done, and demonstrated his potential amateur skills. Although turn-out was low, the fun-meter was high!

We followed up a good Saturday event with a great Sunday event. We kept things pretty simple, and carried everything into the park in one trip! It takes Bob (KC5EIU) and I, about 40 minutes to have our area fully setup. This includes an HF station and a 20 meter vertical wire antenna.

(L-R – Caleb, Jaron and Bob)

Lots of activity on 20m for us – reality is that we are not in the park looking for contacts on the air. Our contacts are already in the park, as we search out interested young boys and girls that find the idea of amateur radio fun and exciting. Our new “Help Wanted” sign makes notice of a special demonstration, and that phrase works! It only takes a few minutes before those with an interest in science or math to come on over and check us out, such as 8 year old Caleb, a 3^rd grader from Hugh-Bish elementary school, and his mom. Calab’s mom expressed that he’s always had an interest in science.

After some time, Bob spurred Caleb’s interests and got him on the air. Great! In the meantime, we managed to get some SSTV going back and forth. We listened in on a 20 meter DX operation from the Caribbean. The station was giving priority to Japan stations. Most of the Asian stations were undistinguishable in the background noise. But occasionally, a Japanese station would be loud and clear. I’m always amazed at how great that $14 antenna works that Bob and I put together one afternoon in the park!

Jaron KF5DIR (above blue and white jacket), one of our newest hams, reinforces our efforts at Kid’s Zone. Jaron’s proving to be a real asset at the park. He helps with set up and tearing down. He makes a quick connection with the kids too, and joins into the engagement. Although actually “talking” on the radio is still new to Jaron, he’s getting the hang of it. He’s finding out there’s lots of ways to “Talk” on the air without actually “talking”! Jaron and I talked about the School Club Round-Up (SCR) that would begin the next day – Monday (19 Oct). Bob was going to be present at the Viking station all day and needed to leave early. With the park full of kids, we had about 15 visitors come on by and ask question and getting on the air. A great success story!

Dusk began to settle on the park – Jaron volunteered to stay for the duration, and together we packed up everything. Jaron’s dad, just like the cavalry, showed up just in time, and helped carry out the equipment. On the way out, we grabbed up our “Help Wanted” sign. Amazingly, the park still had about 30 kids present. You have to love these hearty kids from Oklahoma! As this day closes, we have to remember that the SCR is the next day.

The School Club Round-Up just reinforced a fun week, as Bob and I spent most of the week with Viking Radio Club members. Every member got on the air and made at least two contacts each over the course of the week.

Laurel and Jacobi Listen as AE4TE confirms their station as she commutes in Florida.

Clifton Harper, KE5YZB the responsible teacher, organized the students, so that at least 1 student would always be present to operate the radio during school hours. Every member made some great contacts. One Viking was exceptionally proud when accused of “blasting” into California! Another still refers to his contact with Hawaii, as the farthest. Great job Vikings!

Viking Members will be sending out QSL cards to every contact in the QSL Database. Of course it is always nice to get a reciprocal QSL card. These kids are proud of their club and looking forward to sharing their pride. They worked hard to make the contact, but got tongue tied when it came time to talk on the air and we are working on that. By February, our young Vikings should be able to put this past week’s adventure into full practice and have a nice rhythm to their presentation. The score’s have been tallied, the Vikings talked with 14 other schools and 51 individuals. Great Job Vikings!

Your next Radio In the Park Event is scheduled for November 14^th (A Saturday because of a previous work schedule conflict). We are going to try to be present on Sunday the 15^th, but we still need to coordinate that with our friends at Parks and Rec. This past week proved to be busy and fun for amateur radio – if you did not get your share, sorry you missed out. Four Viking members were present for the 1^st of 5 Saturday 9a-12p classes on the 25^th as they work towards their Technician license. So, you see, it really was a GREAT AMATEUR RADIO WEEK!

Author, KC5CYY, Paul Goulet

Contributor, KF5CSP, Marianne Class

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