The Columbia Amateur Radio Club is now a Weather-Ready Nation (WRN) Ambassador.
The Columbia Amateur Radio Club is excited to collaborate with NOAA/NWS to help strengthen our nation’s readiness against extreme weather, water, and climate events. If you would like more information, please visit the Weather-Ready Nation Ambassador Frequently Asked Questions. And if you need any additional information, email WRN anytime at [email protected]. You can also find WRN on X (previously Twitter) @WRNAmbassadors.
We are excited to announce that at the January Club meeting, we have a special guest: Craig KM6LYW. Craig KM6LYW is a trailblazer in the amateur radio community, known for blending traditional ham radio practices with cutting-edge technology will be joining the Clubs Zoom meeting. As the creator of DigiPi, a compact, Raspberry Pi-based platform for digital communications, KM6LYW has made digital modes more accessible and affordable for amateur radio enthusiasts worldwide. The Club Zoom meeting details are at the end on this article.
The DigiPi is a versatile and user-friendly solution that supports popular digital modes like FT8, JS8Call, APRS, and more. By combining modern software with low-cost hardware, KM6LYW has empowered operators to explore the exciting world of digital amateur radio without needing expensive, specialized equipment.
Beyond developing the DigiPi, KM6LYW is passionate about supporting the ham radio community. He actively shares his knowledge, engages with fellow enthusiasts, and fosters innovation to ensure that digital amateur radio continues to thrive. Explore the world of digital amateur radio with KM6LYW and DigiPi—where tradition meets innovation.
In addition to exploring the exciting world of DigiPi and digital amateur radio, we’re excited to share that the club will offer our members a variety of amateur radio hobby items. Whether you’re a seasoned operator or just starting, you’ll find a range of gear and accessories to enhance your amateur radio experience. These items are available on a donation basis, and all proceeds will go directly to supporting the club’s activities, resources, and outreach efforts. It’s a great way to get something you need while giving back to the community that keeps the hobby alive and thriving! Bring your $$$.
Here’s how you could present the additional topics for the meeting:
Additional Meeting Topics
Join us for a dynamic and informative meeting as we dive into several exciting topics, including:
Harbison 50K Review: This is a look back at the event and the role amateur radio played in its success.
Winter Field Day: Preparation and strategies for this popular event to hone emergency communication skills.
South Carolina QSO Party: Tips for participating and maximizing your contact logs during this state-focused radio contest.
Hams and Eggs & New Lunch and Learn: Discover these engaging opportunities to connect, share, and learn in a casual setting.
Hands-On Experience: A practical session to explore and practice amateur radio techniques.
April CARC Swapfest: Get a preview of this must-attend event for buying, selling, or trading amateur radio gear.
ARRL Summer Field Day: Early planning for one of the most significant events in amateur radio, focusing on teamwork and readiness.
Whether you’re a long-time operator or new to the hobby, there’s something for everyone at this meeting. Don’t miss out!
Hi I’m Michael‚ KB9VBR‚ and I’m on a mission to inspire and educate the amateur radio community. I’ve been a ham radio operator since 1999‚ so my interests are varied and run deep. But most of all‚ ham radio is more than a hobby; it’s a lifestyle that I enjoy and love to share with others.
My goal is to share positive and uplifting videos. I’ll answer your questions and take deeper dives into some of the mysterious parts of ham radio. Whether you are a new ham or a grizzled veteran‚ I’m sure there will be something you’ll like. Ham Radio Q&A answers your amateur radio questions and explores the different aspects of the hobby.
Ham Radio Q&A is brought to you by KB9VBR Antennas: Supplier of Amateur Radio, Land Mobile, Scanner, Low Power FM, and Airband VHF/UHF Antennas.
Exciting news! The South Carolina QSO Party is just around the corner. Join us on February 22nd, 2025, for a day filled with amateur radio fun and friendly competition.
Event Overview: The South Carolina QSO Party is an annual event where amateur radio operators from all over come together to make as many contacts as possible. It’s a perfect opportunity for both seasoned operators and newcomers to sharpen their skills, compete for awards, and enjoy the spirit of ham radio. W4CAE offers the most points per contact per band, 350 points. We will be highly sought after for our valuable points.
Zoom Call Details: To help everyone prepare for the event, we have scheduled a Zoom call on February 19th at 7:30 PM. During this call, we will discuss the event, share tips, and answer any questions you may have. The Zoom call details are posted on our club’s calendar and website.
One tap mobile +13126266799,,85061047623#,,,,*977305# US (Chicago) +16469313860,,85061047623#,,,,*977305# US
We encourage all members to participate in both the QSO Party and the Zoom call. It’s a great chance to connect with fellow members, learn more about the event, and ensure we’re all set for a successful day on the airwaves.
For more information, please visit our website and check the club calendar for all the details.
Volunteer for Walk MS – Columbia, SC – March 29th, 2025
Dear Columbia Amateur Radio Club Members and Friends,
We are excited to announce that the Columbia Amateur Radio Club will be supporting the Walk MS event in Columbia, SC on March 29th, 2025. This important event brings our community together to raise funds and awareness for multiple sclerosis research and support. We are reaching out to you for your support in volunteering for event communications to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Event Overview: Walk MS is a nationwide event organized by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. It aims to connect people living with MS and those who care about them, bringing us all closer to a world free of MS. Participants will walk various routes, raising funds to support research, programs, and services that improve the lives of those affected by MS.
Volunteer Details: We are seeking volunteers to assist with event communications on the day of the walk. Your help will be crucial in providing clear and efficient communication among event organizers, participants, and emergency services.
Event Hours:
Event Date: March 29th, 2025
Volunteer Hours: 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location:
Finlay Park, Columbia, SC
Please consider lending your time and expertise to support this worthy cause. Your involvement will make a significant difference in the success of the event and the experience of all participants.
To sign up as a volunteer or for more information, please contact Jim Lathan by emailing [email protected] , visiting our website, and checking the club calendar for all the details.
Volunteer for Walk MS – Columbia, SC – March 29th, 2025
Dear Columbia Amateur Radio Club Members and Friends,
We are excited to announce that the Columbia Amateur Radio Club will be supporting the Walk MS event in Columbia, SC on March 29th, 2025. This important event brings our community together to raise funds and awareness for multiple sclerosis research and support. We are reaching out to you for your support in volunteering for event communications to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Event Overview: Walk MS is a nationwide event organized by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. It aims to connect people living with MS and those who care about them, bringing us all closer to a world free of MS. Participants will walk various routes, raising funds to support research, programs, and services that improve the lives of those affected by MS.
Volunteer Details: We are seeking volunteers to assist with event communications on the day of the walk. Your help will be crucial in providing clear and efficient communication among event organizers, participants, and emergency services.
Event Hours:
Event Date: March 29th, 2025
Volunteer Hours: 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location:
Finlay Park, Columbia, SC
Please consider lending your time and expertise to support this worthy cause. Your involvement will make a significant difference in the success of the event and the experience of all participants.
To sign up as a volunteer or for more information, please contact Jim Lathan by emailing [email protected] , visiting our website, and checking the club calendar for all the details.
Thank you for your support!
73,
Jim Lathan President Columbia Amateur Radio Club
Permanent link to this article: https://w4cae.com/walk-ms-2025/
Exciting news! The South Carolina QSO Party is just around the corner. Join us on February 22nd, 2025, for a day filled with amateur radio fun and friendly competition.
Event Overview: The South Carolina QSO Party is an annual event where amateur radio operators from all over come together to make as many contacts as possible. It’s a perfect opportunity for both seasoned operators and newcomers to sharpen their skills, compete for awards, and enjoy the spirit of ham radio. W4CAE offers the most points per contact per band, 350 points. We will be highly sought after for our valuable points.
Zoom Call Details: To help everyone prepare for the event, we have scheduled a Zoom call on February 19th at 7:30 PM. During this call, we will discuss the event, share tips, and answer any questions you may have. The Zoom call details are posted on our club’s calendar and website.
One tap mobile +13126266799,,85061047623#,,,,*977305# US (Chicago) +16469313860,,85061047623#,,,,*977305# US
We encourage all members to participate in both the QSO Party and the Zoom call. It’s a great chance to connect with fellow members, learn more about the event, and ensure we’re all set for a successful day on the airwaves.
For more information, please visit our website and check the club calendar for all the details.
73,
Jim Lathan, President
Columbia Amateur Radio Club
Permanent link to this article: https://w4cae.com/south-carolina-qso-party-on-february-22nd-2025-planning-zoom-call-february-19th-20205-730-pm/
From the ARRL Division News Roanoke Division Email:
ANTENNA RELIEF BILL REINTRODUCED – Identical versions of The Amateur Radio Emergency Preparedness Act have been reintroduced in Congress in both the House and the Senate. If passed and signed into law, the legislation would require homeowner associations to accommodate the needs of FCC-licensed Amateur Radio operators by prohibiting the enforcement of private land use restrictions that ban, prevent, or require the approval of the installation or use of Amateur Radio station antennas. Among other provisions, this legislation would prohibit homeowner association rules that would preclude or ban Amateur Radio antennas, specify an approval process for installing Amateur Radio antennas, and provide a federal private right of action to Amateur Radio operators in disputed cases. The bill numbers are HR1094 for the House version and S459 for the Senate bill. ARRL will be coordinating a grassroots campaign to have members contact their congressional representatives for support.
The text of the House Bill can be found at the link below:
Hi I’m Michael‚ KB9VBR‚ and I’m on a mission to inspire and educate the amateur radio community. I’ve been a ham radio operator since 1999‚ so my interests are varied and run deep. But most of all‚ ham radio is more than a hobby; it’s a lifestyle that I enjoy and love to share with others.
My goal is to share positive and uplifting videos. I’ll answer your questions and take deeper dives into some of the mysterious parts of ham radio. Whether you are a new ham or a grizzled veteran‚ I’m sure there will be something you’ll like. Ham Radio Q&A answers your amateur radio questions and explores the different aspects of the hobby.
Ham Radio Q&A is brought to you by KB9VBR Antennas: Supplier of Amateur Radio, Land Mobile, Scanner, Low Power FM, and Airband VHF/UHF Antennas.
Join us for the Hams and Eggs Breakfast, a gathering of radio enthusiasts to share knowledge and camaraderie. This month’s event highlights Winter Field Day, where we discuss preparation and tips for this essential operating event. Dive into the innovative world of Meshtastic, exploring how it enhances communication in remote settings. Additionally, we’ll present a GMRS Primer, perfect for those new to General Mobile Radio Service or looking to integrate it with ham operations. Enjoy a hearty breakfast, network with fellow operators, and leave inspired for your next adventure on the airwaves. All are welcome, from newcomers to seasoned hams!
Permanent link to this article: https://w4cae.com/january-hams-and-eggs/
The Columbia Amateur Radio Club (CARC) is thrilled to invite amateur radio enthusiasts, hobbyists, and collectors to our Annual Swapfest in beautiful Columbia, South Carolina! This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever, offering a fantastic opportunity to buy, sell, and trade amateur radio gear, meet fellow hams, and participate in the vibrant community of amateur radio operators.
Event Details:
Event Name: Columbia Amateur Radio Club Swapfest
Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
Time: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: North Trenholm Baptist Church, 6515 N. Trenholm Road, Columbia, SC
Admission: FREE. See the Important Information section for vendor/seller details.
