Amateur radio operators to strut their stuff in community event

An annual event for amateur radio operators is coming up and the Vaca Valley Radio Club (VVRC) invites the community to join in on the fun.

The American Radio Relay League's “Field Day” event is set for 11 a.m. June 25-26 at the Sandy Beach County Park's RV facility, 2333 Beach Drive, in Rio Vista.

At this event, participants, aka “Hams,” gather to practice emergency radio communications in a field setting, as defined by the “rules” of the event. The rules define the types of radios, power output limits and ways that the radios are powered for the event.

“Hams” will set up various types of radios and antennas then attempt to make “contacts” using a variety of “modes.” The contacts will be with other “hams” and radio clubs across the country, around the world and even with the International Space Station.

While clubs do compete for points and bragging rights, the event is intended to practice communication techniques, test equipment and introduce the hobby to the public.

Amateur Radio, while being primarily a hobby, plays an important role in emergency communications. Amateur radios will function when phone lines, cell towers and the internet are down or overloaded.

“Hams” provide emergency communications through volunteer programs such as Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES), Radio Amateur Civil Emergency, Service (RACES), SKYWARN (severe storm tracking), local Office of Emergency Services (OES) groups, Military Auxiliary Radio System (MARS) and other communication needs.

Dozens of “hams” will be present to demonstrate and explain the various aspects of amateur radio to visitors. Amateur Radio has numerous facets that apply to the S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) teaching methodologies in schools.

The VVRC will have multiple radio stations set up, including a station for newcomers to “Get On The Air.”

Sandy Beach County Park “day-use” parking is open between 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and costs $8 per day. The VVRC will have some parking passes available to help facilitate visitors.

For more information, contact Will Shaffer at 3010954 or km6srx@gmail. com.