||| FROM GREG HANCOCK for SJC AMATEUR RADIO SOCIETY |||


Has COVID got you thinking about what you can do to prepare for future emergencies and disasters, like the inevitable Cascadia Subduction Zone mega-quake? We know that it will grind our region to a halt for weeks if not months, knocking out power, transportation, and regular communications. Consider adding amateur radio skills to your personal preparations – it’s a way to help your family, your community, and meet other preparedness-minded people along the way.

The San Juan County Amateur Radio Society will be hosting a free amateur radio (“ham radio”) license exam on May 15 in Friday Harbor. Socially-distanced testing will follow COVID minimum-contact protocols in compliance with state guidance. Tests will be administered to each candidate separately. Interested parties should contact Kenny KU7M at kenny@holenwall.com. Pre-registration is required by May 10. All ages welcome!

Amateur radio is a fun and interesting hobby for anyone with curiosity about science and a desire to help the community by providing voice and data communications capability during disasters. Morse code proficiency is no longer required. Books and self-paced training resources are available at www.arrl.org. Local volunteer mentors can help you with remote studying and getting familiar with amateur radio.