Latest News

The next RVWARS meeting is February 18th. This meeting will include the election of officers, so please plan on attending

Club meetings are at 7 pm, at the Churchtown Firehouse, 2219 County Route 27 in the hamlet of Churchtown.

Email Joe Sacco   for further information.

New Technician Class begins January 29 at Columbia-Greene Community College

Technician Course Outline:

January 29, 2019

Chapter 1: Welcome to Amateur Radio

• What is Amateur Radio?
• The FCC and Licensing
• Amateur Radio Activities
• Getting Your Ham Radio License

February 5, 2019

Chapter 2: Radio and Signals Fundamentals

• Modulation
• Radio equipment Basics

February 12, 2019

Chapter 3: Electricity, Components and Circuits

• Electricity
• Components and Units
• Types of Radios and Radio Circuits

February 19, 2019

Chapter 4: Propagation, Antennas and Feedlines

• Propagation
• Antenna Fundamentals
• Feed Lines and SWR
• Practical Antenna Systems

February 26, 2019

Chapter 5: Amateur Radio Equipment

• Transmitters and Receivers
• Digital Communications
• Power Supplies and Batteries
• RF Grounding

March 5, 2019

Chapter 6: Communicating With Other Hams

• Contact Basics
• Band Plans
• Making Contacts
• Using Repeaters
• Nets
• Communications for Public Service
• Special Activities, Modes and Techniques

March 12, 2019

Chapter 7: Licensing Regulations

• Licensing Terms
• Working with the FCC
• Bands and Privileges
• International Rules
• Call Signs

March 19, 2019

Chapter 8: Operating Regulations

• Control Operators
• Identification
• Interference
• Third-Party Communications
• Remote and Automatic Operation
• Prohibited Transmissions

March 26, 2019

Chapter 9: Safety

• Electrical Safety
• RF Exposure
• Mechanical Safety

Review for Exam

April 2, 2019

VE Session

Instructors: Wayne Gearing, K2WG and Jules Madey, K2KGJ.

2017 Field Day Enjoyed by Many

Claverack--Field Day Chairman Pete Franklin, NX2X was pleased with the outcome of this year's field day event at Claverack Town Park in Mellenville.

Several members showed up early Saturday to setup the antennas and equipment and operate the rigs. The event kicked off at 2 pm. Pete said the the weather cooperated and the bands were very good.

The club operated 3A, or three transmitters at a maximum of 100 watts each. Pete, NX2X also operated his satellite station during several passes of Amateur satellites.

The site was visited by several members of the public, including some local officials.

The club even held an educational antenna building session where 2 meter ground plane antennas were made.

The attendees were well fed with an assortment of dishes including hot dogs, hamburgers and pepperoni subs as well as various salads. Sunday morning breakfast included sausage and eggs.

Breakdown and cleanup started at 2 pm on Sunday, by the weary, but satisfied crew. More details to follow as they become available.

Pete, NX2X and Club Vice President Joe Sacco, KC2JMS operating the rigs, while Dick Franklin, WB2UWR, (Pete's dad) looks on.

(l. to r.) Shelly Evans, AA2Y, Club President Wayne Gearing, K2WG and Jules Maday, K2KGJ administering the VE session held on Sunday.

Club Treasurer Jack Griffin. AA2JM. attending to the Field Day culinary duties.

RVWARS Members Participate in Scouting Event

CHATHAM--Members of Rip Van Winkle ARS participated in the Twin Rivers Council Spring Camporee on Saturday, May 20th, demonstating amateur radio for several scouts. Several contacts were made on voice and PSK-31, including first contacts by scouts. The event was held at the Chatham Fairgrounds.

Chris Carlsen, N2PBN, a long time participant with scouting, was joined by Barry Thompson, WA2KLP, Sean Madey, KD2GRA, Vincent "Otter" Vispo, KD2LIO and Marty Miller, N2LDR.

Several scouts look on as Sean Madey, KD2GRA makes a PSK-31 digital contact

Who said CW is dead...?

Field Day 2016

2016 was another successful year for the Rippers at field day. Here are some of the moments.