Comments on: Amateur Radio Field Day Is This Weekend, Free Demonstrations At Ashton Brosnaham And Bratt Parks

By: Just saying

Just saying — Fri, 21 Jun 2024 02:43:50 +0000

After Ivan local officials (small south Alabama town) couldn’t call state officials on landlines or cell phones. Ham operators contacted the state EMA and relayed messages.

They have their place.

By: Shellie

Shellie — Fri, 21 Jun 2024 00:05:42 +0000

Money- You’d be surprised. There is a start-up cost, and you could spend thousands, but you can get into the hobby for less than 1000 dollars. Come out and see some of the club members’ setups that are up and working. The rigs that you will see here are designed for portable fieldwork, so they can be used during an emergency.

By: SW

SW — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 23:50:32 +0000

@money…

It can be as expensive or as inexpensive as you’d make it, just like any hobby. Radios range from $25 (new) to several thousand; the used market is very reasonable.

How much did that hunting gear cost; that fishing boat; home theater, etc.?

Hams are FCC licensed communications operators and technicians; they have to pass a written test in order to get that license. Their stations can be on the air in a very short time to assist in emergencies; they can assist with communications during events like bike races or marathons; they participate in STEM programs to foment interest in electronics and science, too.

Sure it’s a hobby, but it has a place. Come out and see. (We have a lot of fun and eat pretty well, too).

By: TB

TB — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 13:31:01 +0000

When the internet and cell phone towers go down Amateur radio will still be able to talk around the world, even from their vehicles.

By: Money Ain't for Nothing

Money Ain't for Nothing — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 12:06:53 +0000

seems like an expensive and old skool hobby