Annual ARES Awards Breakfast
Saturday December 8, 2018, 8:30 am - 10 am

Our annual ARES/SVARA combined breakfast will be held at the IHOP restaurant on Tittabawassee Rd in Saginaw at 8:30 am. Awards will be given into ARES members for contributions to the ARES group over the year. For more information, contact Ron, KC8YVF at kc8yvf@arrl.net.

Please remember to register through ARES Connect.

State and local ARRL Simulated Emergency Test
Saturday October 13, 2018, 8 am - 1 pm

The State of Michigan and ARRL local simulated emergency test is tentatively scheduled for this date. Information will be emailed to operators participating in the event. Contact Ron, KC8YVF at kc8yvf@arrl.net for any questions.

Emergency Preparedness Expo
Saturday September 29, 2018, 9 am - 5 pm

On Saturday September 29, 2018 is the Great Lakes Emergency Expo at the Birch Run Expo Center. The club has been asked to participate in the expo and present the aspects of Amateur Radio and related activities like education, public service, skywarn and emergency services.  We will be provided with a table at the expo.  We will display various items, radios and publications

Setup will begin at 8 am.  We need people to man the demo table throughout the day.
If you can help for the entire day,  part of the day or only a couple of hours, please contact Ron KC8YVF or Mike KD8MMH or come out to the Expo Center Saturday.

The ARES group will again participate in the annual National Night Out event on Tuesday August 7, 2018.  The event will begin at 6 pm at the Saginaw Township Soccer Field on Shattuck Road between Mackinaw and Bay Roads.

The ARES group will showcase Skywarn Weather Safety, Emergency Service, HF and other Amateur Radio capabilities.  This event draws well over 1000 people from around the county so come show your support.

Setup will begin at 5:00. If you are interested in working this event please contact Ron, KC8YVF at kc8yvf@arrl.net

The 2018 Frankenmuth MS Walk will be held on Saturday May 12.  Operators need to report to the Kern Pavilion at 8:30 am for check in and assignments.  For more information contact Ron KC8YVF at kc8yvf@arrl.net. 

Registration: 9:00 a.m.
Opening Ceremonies: 9:45 a.m.
Official Walk MS Start: 10:00 a.m.
Route Length: 3 miles

Midland MS Walk
Saturday April 28, 2018

DATE: Saturday April 28, 2018
TIME: 10:00 AM-12:00 PM
PLACE: Midland High School

Operators report by 9 am for assignments.

When you get to the school, please sign in with the MS official(s).  Then check in with the Amateur radio group on site for your assigned location. 

Spring Skywarn training will be held on Thursday March 29, 2018 @ 7 pm at the Thomas Twp. Public Safety Building, 8215 Shields Ct, Saginaw (near Meijers on Gratiot).

This class is needed for all individuals that wish to participate in Skywarn spotter nets for severe weather events.  If you have not had this training in the last year (since 2016) please make arrangements to attend this class.

For more information, contact Ron Huss, KC8YVF at kc8yvf@arrl.net.

The Winter Field Day will be held at Harry Browne Airport beginning at noon (12 PM) on Saturday January 27, 2018.  This will be a combined ARES and SVARA event and is open to all operators.  Like the summer field day, we will have multiple stations operating from the conference room at the airport.  We are planning to man the stations for as long as possible depending on the weather.  Those interested in operation a station, please contact Dave Paquette, W8DW at sail4fun06@yahoo.com or Ron Huss, KC8YVF at kc8yvf@arrl.net.

The 2018 Winter Field Day will be held from 1700 UCT (12:00 noon EST) Saturday January 28, 2018 through 1700 UCT (12:00 noon EST) Sunday January 28, 2018.

The object of the event is familiar to most Amateur Radio operators: set up emergency-style communications and make as many contacts as possible during the 24 hour period. The rules encourage as many contacts on as many bands and modes as possible, because during a real emergency, the most important factor is the ability to communicate, regardless of band, mode or distance.

The official rules can be found at Winter Field Day web site and the event is open to all amateurs.

State and local ARRL Simulated Emergency Test
Saturday October 8, 2016, 8 am - 1 pm

The ARES group will participate in the State of Michigan and ARRL local simulated emergency test. We will need operators for this exercise.  All ARES operators should plan to participate in this exercise.

Contact Ron, KC8YVF at kc8yvf@arrl.net for more information.

Operators should report to the parking lot of Saginaw 911 / Sheriff's office on Cass St. at 7:45 am for assigments.
The drill should conclude about noon.

If you can not work a field stations, but can work from home or mobile, monitor 147.240 MHz between 8 am and noon for further instructions.

District 3 Digital Exercise
Saturday September 24, 2016, 9 am - 12 pm

The ARES group will participate in the District 3 Digital Exercise set for Saturday September 24 from 9 am until noon.  This exercise will include packet and Fldigi digital modes using the county 220 MHz packet network and HF.

ARES member will be contacted to participate in this event. For questions contact Ron, KC8YVF at kc8yvf@arrl.net.

The ARES group will again participate in the annual National Night Out event on Tuesday August 2, 2016.  The event will begin at 6 pm at the Saginaw Township Soccer Field on Shattuck Road between Mackinaw and Bay Roads.

The ARES group will showcase Skywarn Weather Safety, Emergency Service, HF and other Amateur Radio capabilities.  This event draws well over 1000 people from around the county so come show your support.

Setup will begin at 5:00. If you are interested in working this event please contact Ron, KC8YVF at kc8yvf@arrl.net

The 2016 Frankenmuth MS Walk will be held on Saturday May 14.  Operators need to report to the Kern Pavilion at 8:30 am for check in and assignments.  For more information contact Emmett W8EAB at w8eab@arrl.net.

Registration: 9:00 a.m.
Opening Ceremonies: 9:45 a.m.
Official Walk MS Start: 10:00 a.m.
Route Length: 3 miles

Midland MS Walk
Saturday April 30, 2016

DATE: Saturday April 30, 2016
TIME: 10:00 AM-2:00 PM
PLACE: Midland High School

When you get to the school, please go in and check in and sign in with the MS official(s).  Let them know you are there and then check in with me on site. 

Spring Skywarn training will be held at 7:00 PM at Covenant Hospital Lecture Theater, 700 Cooper Ave, Saginaw, MI. on Monday March 28. This class is needed for all individuals that wish to participate in Skywarn spotter nets for severe weather events.  If you have not had this training in the last year (since 2014) please make arrangements to attend this class.

For more information, contact Ron Huss, KC8YVF at kc8yvf@arrl.net.

Emergency Preparedness Expo
Saturday March 26, 2016, 9 am - 5 pm

On Saturday March 26, 2016  is the Great Lakes Emergency Expo at the Birch Run Expo Center. The club has been asked to participate in the expo and present the aspects of Amateur Radio and related activities like education, public service, skywarn and emergency services.  We will be provided with a table at the expo and room for the club trailer inside the arena.  We will display various items, radios and publications and also have an HF radio operational in the club trailer.

Setup will begin at 8 am.  We need people to man the demo table throughout the day.
If you can help for the entire day,  part of the day or only a couple of hours, please contact Ron KC8YVF or Mike KD8MMH or come out to the Expo Center Saturday.

Here is a link to the Presenters web site Great Lakes Emergency Expo

So please join us for this special training opportunity.

The Winter Field Day will be held at Harry Browne Airport beginning at noon (12 PM) on Saturday January 30, 2016.  This will be a combined ARES and SVARA event and is open to all operators.  Like the summer field day, we will have multiple stations operating from the county communications trailer.  We are planning to man the stations for as long as possible depending on the weather.  Those interested in operation a station, please contact Dave Paquette, W8DW at sail4fun06@yahoo.com.

The 2016 Winter Field Day will be held from 1700 UCT (12:00 noon EST) Saturday January 30, 2016 through 1700 UCT (12:00 noon EST) Sunday January 31, 2016.

The object of the event is familiar to most Amateur Radio operators: set up emergency-style communications and make as many contacts as possible during the 24 hour period. The rules encourage as many contacts on as many bands and modes as possible, because during a real emergency, the most important factor is the ability to communicate, regardless of band, mode or distance.

The official rules can be found at Winter Field Day web site and the event is open to all amateurs.

District 3 HF Voice Exercise
Saturday October 24, 2015, 8 am

AEC's should plan to participate in this exercise.  Contact KC8YVF for more information.
 

Emergency Preparedness Expo
Saturday October 17, 2015, 8 am - 4 pm

On Saturday October 17, 2015  is the Great Lakes Emergency Expo at the Birch Run Expo Center. The club has been asked to participate in the expo and present the aspects of Amateur Radio and related activities like education, public service, skywarn and emergency services.  We will be provided with a table at the expo and room for the club trailer inside the arena.  We will display various items, radios and publications and also have an HF radio operational in the club trailer.

Setup will begin at 7 am.  We need people to man the demo table and operators for the HF station in the club trailer.
If you can help for the entire day,  part of the day or only a couple of hours, please contact Ron KC8YVF or Mike KD8MMH or come out to the Expo Center Saturday.

Here is a link to the Presenters web site Great Lakes Emergency Expo

Here is the link to the SVARA post for photos of the October 2013 event.
 

State and local ARRL Simulated Emergency Test
Saturday September 26, 2015, 8 am - 1 pm

The ARES group will participate in the State of Michigan and ARRL local simulated emergency test. We will need operators for this exercise.  More information will follow when available or contact Ron, KC8YVF at kc8yvf@arrl.net.

All ARES operators should plan to participate in this exercise.

The ARES group will again participate in the annual National Night Out event on Tuesday August 4, 2015.  The event will begin at 6 pm at the Saginaw Township Soccer Field on Shattuck Road between Mackinaw and Bay Roads.

The ARES group will showcase Skywarn Weather Safety, Emergency Service, HF and other Amateur Radio capabilities.  This event draws well over 1000 people from around the county so come show your support.

Setup will begin at 4:30. If you are interested in working this event please contact Ron, KC8YVF at kc8yvf@arrl.net

The 2015 Frankenmuth MS Walk will be held on Saturday May 9.  Operators need to report to the Kern Pavilion at 8:30 am for check in and assignments.  For more information contact Emmett W8EAB at w8eab@arrl.net.

Registration: 9:00 a.m.
Opening Ceremonies: 9:45 a.m.
Official Walk MS Start: 10:00 a.m.
Route Length: 3 miles
 

Midland MS Walk
Saturday April 25, 2015

DATE: Saturday April 25, 2015
TIME: 11:00 AM-1:00 PM
PLACE: Central Middle School on Rodd Street between E Reardon and E Collins Streets.

Coordinates according to Google Maps are: N43.619068, W-84.234070. 

When you get to the school, please go in and check in and sign in with the MS official(s).  Let them know you are there and then check in with me on site. 

Emergency Preparedness Expo
Saturday April 11, 2015, 8 am - 4 pm

On Saturday April 11, 2015  is the Great Lakes Emergency Expo at the Birch Run Expo Center. The club has been asked to participate in the expo and present the aspects of Amateur Radio and related activities like education, public service, skywarn and emergency services.  We will be provided with a table at the expo and room for the club trailer inside the arena.  We will display various items, radios and publications and also have an HF radio operational in the club trailer.

Setup will begin at 7 am.  We need people to man the demo table and operators for the HF station in the club trailer.
If you can help for the entire day,  part of the day or only a couple of hours, please contact Ron KC8YVF or Mike KD8MMH or come out to the Expo Center Saturday.

Here is a link to the Presenters web site Great Lakes Emergency Expo

Here is the link to the SVARA post for photos of the October 2014 event.
 

Spring Skywarn training will be held at 6:30 PM at Covenant Hospital Lecture Theater, 700 Cooper Ave, Saginaw, MI. on Tuesday March 10. This class is needed for all individuals that wish to participate in Skywarn spotter nets for severe weather events.  If you have not had this training in the last year (since 2013) please make arrangements to attend this class.

For more information, contact Ron Huss, KC8YVF at kc8yvf@arrl.net.
 

The Winter Field Day will be held at Harry Browne Airport beginning at noon (12 PM) on Saturday January 24, 2015.  This will be a combined ARES and SVARA event and is open to all operators.  Like the summer field day, we will have multiple stations operating from the county communications trailer.  We are planning to man the stations for as long as possible depending on the weather.  Those interested in operation a station, please contact Dave Paquette, W8DW at sail4fun06@yahoo.com.

The 2015 Winter Field Day will be held from 1700 UCT (12:00 noon EST) Saturday January 24, 2015 through 1700 UCT (12:00 noon EST) Sunday January 25, 2015.

The object of the event is familiar to most Amateur Radio operators: set up emergency-style communications and make as many contacts as possible during the 24 hour period. The rules encourage as many contacts on as many bands and modes as possible, because during a real emergency, the most important factor is the ability to communicate, regardless of band, mode or distance.

The official rules can be found at the SPAR web site and the event is open to all amateurs.
 

State and local ARRL Simulated Emergency Test
Saturday October 4, 2014, 8 am - 4 pm

In conjunction with the preparedness expo, the ARES group will participate in the State of Michigan and ARRL simulated emergency test. We will need operators for this exercise and for the expo so please contact Ron, KC8YVF at kc8yvf@arrl.net if you can help with either event.
 

Emergency Preparedness Expo
Saturday October 4, 2014, 8 am - 4 pm

On Saturday October 4, 2014  is the Great Lakes Emergency Expo at the Birch Run Expo Center. The club has been asked to participate in the expo and present the aspects of Amateur Radio and related activities like education, public service, skywarn and emergency services.  We will be provided with a table at the expo and room for the club trailer inside the arena.  We will display various items, radios and publications and also have an HF radio operational in the club trailer.

Setup will begin at 7 am.  We need people to man the demo table and operators for the HF station in the club trailer.
If you can help for the entire day,  part of the day or only a couple of hours, please contact Ron KC8YVF or Mike KD8MMH or come out to the Expo Center Saturday.

Here is a link to the Presenters web site Great Lakes Emergency Expo

Here is the link to the SVARA post for photos of the October 2013 event.
 

The ARES group will participate in the first annual Covenant Emergency Preparedness Expo on Tuesday September 30, 2014.  The event will begin at 10 am at at Bliss Park across from Covenant hospital.

The ARES group will showcase Emergency Communications, Skywarn Weather Safety and other Amateur Radio capabilities. 

Setup will begin at 9:00am. If you are interested in working this event please contact Ron, KC8YVF at kc8yvf@arrl.net
 

The ARES group will again participate in the annual National Night Out event on Tuesday August 5, 2014.  The event will begin at 6 pm at the Saginaw Township Soccer Field on Shattuck Road between Mackinaw and Bay Roads.

The ARES group will showcase Skywarn Weather Safety, Emergency Service, HF and other Amateur Radio capabilities.  This event draws well over 1000 people from around the county so come show your support.

A impromptu "Special Event" station will be operated from the club trailer.

Setup will begin at 4:30. If you are interested in working this event please contact Ron, KC8YVF at kc8yvf@arrl.net

No exercise is planned for this year.
 

The 2014 Frankenmuth MS Walk will be held on Saturday May 12.  Operators need to report to the Kern Pavilion at 8:30 am for check in and assignments.  For more information contact Emmett W8EAB at w8eab@arrl.net.

Registration: 9:00 a.m.
Opening Ceremonies: 9:45 a.m.
Official Walk MS Start: 10:00 a.m.
Route Length: 3 miles
 

Midland MS Walk
Saturday April 26, 2014

DATE: Saturday April 26, 2014
TIME: 10:15 AM-2:00 PM
PLACE: Central Middle School on Rodd Street between E Reardon and E Collins Streets.

Coordinates according to Google Maps are: N43.619068, W-84.234070. 

When you get to the school, please go in and check in and sign in with the MS official(s).  Let them know you are there and then check in with me on site. 

Emergency Preparedness Expo
Saturday April 19, 2014, 8 am - 4 pm

On Saturday April 19, 2014  is the Great Lakes Emergency Expo at the Birch Run Expo Center. The club has been asked to participate in the expo and present the aspects of Amateur Radio and related activities like education, public service, skywarn and emergency services.  We will be provided with a table at the expo and room for the club trailer inside the arena.  We will display various items, radios and publications and also have an HF radio operational in the club trailer.

Setup will begin at 7 am.  We need people to man the demo table and operators for the HF station in the club trailer.
If you can help for the entire day,  part of the day or only a couple of hours, please contact Ron KC8YVF or Mike KD8MMH or come out to the Expo Center Saturday.

Here is a link to the Presenters web site Great Lakes Emergency Expo

Here is the link to the SVARA post for photos of the October 2013 event.
 

Spring Skywarn training will be held at 6:30 PM at Covenant Hospital Lecture Theater, 700 Cooper Ave, Saginaw, MI. on Thursday March 6. This class is needed for all individuals that wish to participate in Skywarn spotter nets for severe weather events.  If you have not had this training in the last year (since 2012) please make arrangements to attend this class.

For more information, contact Ron Huss, KC8YVF at kc8yvf@arrl.net.

Winter Skywarn will be held at 6 PM at Covenant Hospital Lecture Theater, 700 Cooper Ave, Saginaw, MI. on Wednesday December 4. Although we do not report winter storms through a spotter net, this is a good training to attend. Reports are sent directly to the National Weather service 800 number or via email.
 

The ARRL sponsored ARES simulated emergency test was held on Sunday October 20, 2013.   Thank you to Gail NO8U, Dave N8ERL, Dave W8DW, Emmett NE8B, Steve KD8FQL, and Joe N8OSL for their participation. 
 

Emergency Preparedness Expo
Saturday October 19, 2013

On Saturday October 19, 2013  was the Great Lakes Emergency Expo at the Birch Run Expo Center. The club was asked to participate in the expo and present the aspects of Amateur Radio and related activities like education, public service, skywarn and emergency services.  We were provided with a table at the expo and room for the club trailer inside the arena.  We displayed various items, radios and publications and also had an HF radio operational in the club trailer.  We were also asked to give a seminar on the different aspects and Mike N8XPS, Mike KD8MMH and Ron KC8YVF participated. Many members of SVARA worked or attended the expo and everyone had a great time.

Here is a like to the Presenters web site Great Lakes Emergency Expo

Here is the link to the SVARA post for photos of the event.
 

The ARES group will again participate in the annual National Night Out event on Tuesday August 6, 2013.  The event will begin at 6 pm at the Saginaw Township Soccer Field on Shattuck Road between Mackinaw and Bay Roads.

The ARES group will showcase Skywarn Weather Safety, Emergency Service, HF and other Amateur Radio capabilities.  This event draws well over 1000 people from around the county so come show your support.

Setup will begin at 4:30. If you are interested in working this event please contact Ron, KC8YVF at kc8yvf@arrl.net

When:  Sunday May 19, 10 pm - 12 pm
Where: Swan Valley High School, Saginaw, MI
Description:  Volunteer operators should report by 8:30 am.
Contact: For more information contact Dave, N8ERL at wz8ds@yahoo.com

Planning has started for this years county emergency exercise.  We will need 10-12 operators for this years event.  The exact time has not been determined, but will be in the morning. More information will follow and ARES planning meetings will be scheduled.  Please check back for updates.

The 2013 Frankenmuth MS Walk will be held on Saturday May 11.  Operators need to report to the Kern Pavilion at 8:30 am for check in and assignments.  For more information contact Emmett W8EAB at w8eab@arrl.net.

Registration: 9:00 a.m.
Opening Ceremonies: 9:45 a.m.
Official Walk MS Start: 10:00 a.m.
Route Length: 3 miles

Midland MS Walk
Saturday April 27, 2013

DATE: Saturday April 27, 2013
TIME: 8:30 AM-12:00 PM
PLACE: Central Middle School on Rodd Street between E Reardon and E Collins Streets.

Coordinates according to Google Maps are: N43.619068, W-84.234070. 

When you get to the school, please go in and check in and sign in with the MS official(s).  Let them know you are there and then check in with me on site. 

The National Weather Service Skywarn training will be held Tuesday March 12, 2013 at Covenant Cooper Hospital in the Lecture Theater at 6:00 PM.  Those wishing to maintain their spotter skills or have not taken a Skywarn class should plan to attend this session.  For more information contact Ron at kc8yvf@arrl.net.

Attendees should arrive by 5:30 PM to secure a seat.

NOTE: If you did not take the class in 2011, you must attend this session to stay Skywarn certified in Saginaw County.

Thanks to W8EAB, KD8MMH, W8DW, KD8PEZ, KC8YVF and KA8YXV for participating in this years event.  We had stations on 10, 20, 40, 80, CW and digital operating from the county communications trailer.

The Winter Field Day will be held at Harry Browne Airport beginning at noon (12 PM) on Saturday January 26, 2013.  This will be a combined ARES and SVARA event and is open to all operators.  Like the summer field day, we will have multiple stations operating from the county communications trailer, SVARA trailer and N8ERL's hanger at the airport.  We are planning to man the stations for as long as possible depending on the weather.  Those interested in operation a station, please contact Dave Paquette, W8DW at sail4fun06@yahoo.com.

The 2013 Winter Field Day will be held from 1700 UCT (12:00 noon EST) Saturday January 26, 2011 through 1700 UCT (12:00 noon EST) Sunday January 27, 2012.

The object of the event is familiar to most Amateur Radio operators: set up emergency-style communications and make as many contacts as possible during the 24 hour period. The rules encourage as many contacts on as many bands and modes as possible, because during a real emergency, the most important factor is the ability to communicate, regardless of band, mode or distance.

The official rules can be found at the SPAR web site and the event is open to all amateurs.

The ARRL SET will be held on Saturday October 6 from 8 am until about noon.  We will be participating in the State drill also during this time frame.

For our local drill we will be conducting a simplex exercise on 147.240 MHz. 

The scenario is that due to an electrical power grid failure, power has been cut to a large section of Michigan and the Ohio Valley.  The repeaters in our area including Saginaw's are without power and we must rely on simplex operations to maintain county communications.  You may participate from your home, vehicle, work or HT.  This is a great time to try alternative power sources for your station.  If you have a generator, connect your station to it's power source, or try a battery or battery/solar cell combination.   How can you power your station not using commercial AC power, test your skills of keeping your station on the air in an emergency.  Also test external antennas to give you greater range.

Emergency coordinators will be putting out a call during the 8am -12pm time frame to see who we can contact on simplex.  Relay stations will be utilized if needed so if you can hear the call, but are unable to make contact with the EOC, ask for a relay station.

So now is the time to get creative and plan to join in on the county exercise on Saturday October 6.

Thank you for those who participated in this years event

The sixth annual Saginaw County Family Preparedness Fair will be held Tuesday August 7 in conjunction with the National Night Out event  from 6 PM until 9 PM at the Saginaw Township Soccer Fields on McCarty Rd in Saginaw Township.  The ARES group will participate in this event and which will showcase Skywarn Weather Safety, Emergency Service, HF and other Amateur Radio capabilities.  This event draws well over 1000 people from around the county so come show your support.

Setup will begin at 4 pm

For more information or to sign up for this event, please Ron KC8YVF at kc8yvf@arrl.net.

The 2012 Frankenmuth MS Walk will be held on Saturday May 12.  Operators need to report to the Kern Pavilion at 8:30 am for check in and assignments.  For more information contact Emmett W8EAB at w8eab@arrl.net.

Registration: 9:00 a.m.
Opening Ceremonies: 9:45 a.m.
Official Walk MS Start: 10:00 a.m.
Route Length: 3 miles

Saginaw county will be holding an emergency exercise in Zilwalkee on Wednesday April 18. 
 

The National Weather Service Skywarn training will be held Thursday March 8, 2012 at Covenant Cooper Hospital in the Lecture Theater at 7:00 PM.  Those wishing to maintain their spotter skills or have not taken a Skywarn class should plan to attend this session.  For more information contact Ron at kc8yvf@arrl.net.

Attendees should arrive by 6:30 PM to secure a seat.

NOTE: If you did not take the class in 2011, you must attend this session to stay Skywarn certified in Saginaw County.

The Winter Field Day will be held at Harry Browne Airport beginning at noon (12 PM) on Saturday January 28, 2012.  This will be a combined ARES and SVARA event and is open to all operators.  Like the summer field day, we will have multiple stations operating from the county communications trailer, SVARA trailer and N8ERL's hanger at the airport.  We are planning to man the stations for as long as possible depending on the weather.  Those interested in operation a station, please contact Dave Paquette, W8DW at sail4fun06@yahoo.com.

As part of the Winter Field Day, the ARES group will be participating in a District wide packet test. 
 

The 2012 Winter Field Day will be held from 1700 UCT (12:00 noon EST) Saturday January 28, 2011 through 1700 UCT (12:00 noon EST) Sunday January 29, 2012.

The object of the event is familiar to most Amateur Radio operators: set up emergency-style communications and make as many contacts as possible during the 24 hour period. The rules encourage as many contacts on as many bands and modes as possible, because during a real emergency, the most important factor is the ability to communicate, regardless of band, mode or distance.

The official rules can be found at the SPAR web site and the event is open to all amateurs.

The ARRL SET will be held on Saturday October 1. 

The second part of the drill will be held on Thursday October 13 at 6:30 at Bliss park.  ARES members should park in the front parking lot of Covenant Cooper Hospital on Michigan Ave at Houghton.

West Michigan Breakaway June 11-12, 2011
Mid Michigan Breakaway July 16-17, 2011
Bavarian Breakaway September 24-25, 2011


The Michigan Bike MS events are held to help the Michigan chapter of The National Multiple Sclerosis Society, raise funds and awareness for people living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in Michigan.  As ham communicators our goals are to provide comprehensive, state-of-the-art amateur radio communications to support the MS Society, and at the same time to encourage as many amateurs as possible to participate in what has become the largest Public Service Events in Michigan. We need your continued support to expand and continue this role in communications.

Information for the different events and signup information are listed on the website http://mibikemshams.org/

I look forwarded to seeing all the old faces and new faces at the events this year.

Thanks 73, Fred - W8FSM, Michigan MS-150 Amateur Radio Communications
Manager (ARCM)

Genesee County is looking for radio operators to work the Crimm Race to be held in Flint on Saturday August 27, 2011.

Operators will meet at 5:30 AM at Vogt's Flower Shop parking lot on the corner of Fifth Ave. and Garland in Flint.

If you would like to work this event, please contact KC8YVF.

http://www.crim.org/

The fifth annual Saginaw County Family Preparedness Fair will be held Tuesday August 2 in conjunction with the National Night Out event  from 5 PM until 9 PM at the Saginaw Township Soccer Fields on McCarty Rd in Saginaw Township.  The ARES group will participate in this event and which will showcase Skywarn Weather Safety, Emergency Service, HF and other Amateur Radio capabilities.  This event draws well over 1000 people from around the county so come show your support.

A Special Event station will be in operation from 2100Z to 0100Z (5:00pm to 9:00pm EDT).  Certificates will be available for the QSO by sending your QSO information along with a 9x12 inch self-addressed, stamped envelope to address listed below.
Frequencies will be 14.260, 7.260, 3.860 or close to them.

Dave Schneider
7680 Krisdale Dr
Saginaw, MI 48609.

• Setup will begin at 3 pm at the Saginaw Township Soccer Field
• The Special Event station will be on the air at 5 pm
• The event starts at 6 pm

For more information or to sign up for this event, please Ron KC8YVF at kc8yvf@arrl.net.

The Saginaw County Hazmat team will be conducting at training session for all ARES members on Saturday June 4 beginning at 9AM.  This training will last about 3 hours and will offer presentations and hands on training.  Genesee, Midland and Bay County ARES groups will be invited to attend this session. 

Since this is an outdoor event, please dress for the occasion and bring water, snacks or other food items to sustain you for the duration of the training.
 

This State exercise will consist of a simplex formal message drill.  A message will be sent from the state EOC (SECO) through the NTS network to the local VHF traffic nets to the district .  The message will then be sent via simplex frequency to each county in the district.  A reply will be sent via the reverse route back to the SEOC.  The drill will be handled by the AEC's.
 

Run for Windy
Sunday May 15, 2011

Thank you to everyone that participated in this years event.

The Walk for Windy will be held on May 15, 2011 from 10 until 12 PM at Swan Valley High School.  Volunteer operators should report by 8:30 AM

For more information, please contact Dave, N8ERL at wz8ds@yahoo.com.

Thank you to everyone that participated in this years event.

The 2011 Frankenmuth MS Walk will be held on Saturday May 14.  Operators need to report to the Kern Pavilion at 8 Am for check in and assignments.  For more information contact Emmett W8EAB at w8eab@arrl.net.

Registration: 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Opening Ceremonies: 9:45 a.m.
Official Walk MS Start: 10:00 a.m.
Route Length: 3 miles

The 2011 Midland MS Walk will be held on Saturday April 30.  Operator need to report to Central Middle School, 305 Readon, Midland, MI.  For more information contact Chris KB8UIH at kb8uih@charter.net.

Registration: 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Opening Ceremonies: 9:45 a.m.
Official Walk MS Start: 10:00 a.m.
Route Length: 3 miles
 

Covenant Hospital will sponsor a 5K and half marathon on Sunday April 10, 2011.  6 -10 operators are needed for aid stations, command area and other assignments.  To sign up for this event please contact Ron, KC8YVF at kc8yvf@arrl.net.

Operators need to report to the Thomas Township training room next to the Library on Shields Dr  at 6:00 AM.

 

The National Weather Service Skywarn training will be held Thursday March 10, 2011 at Covenant Cooper Hospital in the Lecture Theater at 7:00 PM.  Those wishing to maintain their spotter skills or have not taken a Skywarn class should plan to attend this session.  For more information contact Ron at kc8yvf@arrl.net.

Attendees should arrive by 6:30 PM to secure a seat.

NOTE: If you did not take the class in 2010, you must attend this session to stay Skywarn certified in Saginaw County.

The 3rd District and ARRL SET will be held on October 2 from 9 am until noon.  A call up of ARES members will begin at 9 am and operators should report to the Saginaw Red Cross by 10 am for their assignments.  More information will be given at that time or contact Ron KC8YVF at kc8yvf@arrl.net.

MS Bavarian Breakaway Bike Race

This first annual event will be held at Frankenmuth Harvey Kern pavilion on Saturday September 25 and Sunday September 26.

Operators are need for one or two day assignments.  If you would like more information or to sign up to work this event, go the web site listed below.

MS Web Site

The fourth annual Saginaw County Family Preparedness Fair will be held Sunday September 19 from noon until 3 pm on Ojibway Island in Saginaw.  The ARES group will be participating in this event and will showcase Skywarn, Emergency Service and ATV. 

If you are interested in working this event, please contact Ron KC8YVF at kc8yvf@arrl.net

Genesee County is looking for radio operators to work the Crimm Race to be held in Flint on Saturday August 28, 2010.

Operators will meet at 5:30 AM at Vogt's Flower Shop parking lot on the corner of Fifth Ave. and Garland in Flint.


 

If you would like to work this event, please contact KC8YVF.

http://www.crim.org/

A lecture by John Ropar from Pittsburgh will be held on August 21, 2010 at 2:00 PM at Covenant Cooper Hospital in the Lecture Theater.  John owned his own technical school for several years and was a Zenith electronics engineer.  Come join us for this special event.

- Flyer
 

  - Map
  - Directions

Genesee County is looking for 30 radio operators to work the Tuuri Road Race to be held in Flint on Saturday July 24, 2010.  Operators will need to report to the parking lot of the Wahley Children's Center at 1137 N. Grand Traverse by 6:30 AM.  The 147.26 MHz (PL-100Hz) repeater will be used for this event.

If you would like to work this event, please contact KC8YVF

On Friday June 11, 2010 Lapeer County is having their emergency drill.  About 10 operators are need and will be a "real time" event.  The drill will run from 6 pm to 9:30 pm.

Those wishing to help out at this years event should contact Tom KD8EBY on the 146.62 repeater (-, 100 PL) or at (810)247-3227 or you can contact Ron at kc8yvf@arrl.net.

The Midland Dow Run will be held on Saturday June 5, 2010 beginning at 8 am. 
Operators should report at 7 am to E. Collins St between Rodd St. and State St.

Those wishing to help out at this years event should contact kc8yvf@arrl.net.

http://www.dowrunwalk.mymcc.org/

Run for Windy

Thank you to everyone that participated in this years

The Walk for Windy will be held on May 16, 2010 from 10 until 12 PM at Swan Valley High School.  Volunteer operators should report by 10:30 AM

For more information, please contact Dave, N8ERL at wz8ds@yahoo.com.

Thank you to everyone that participated in this years

The 2010 Frankenmuth MS Walk May 15, 2010. 

Registration: 9:00 a.m. 10:30 a.m.
Opening Ceremonies: 9:45 a.m.
Official Walk MS Start: 10:00 a.m.

Thank you to everyone that participated in this years drill

A Simulated Emergency exercise will be conducted on May 13, 2010.  It will include Midland and Bay Counties.

The event will beginning at 8 AM and last about 6-8 hours.  At this time, we need at least 30 radio operators to work this event.

Operators must have a valid ARES ID card to participate

Pre-staging for out-of-town operators will be held at the McDonald's Restaurant on Michigan north of the Saginaw Red Cross.

Staging will be at the Red Cross back parking lot.

For more information or to volunteer, contact Ron, KC8YVF at kc8yvf@arrl.net.

A Section simulated emergency test is scheduled for Saturday April 10, 2010.
This exercise will begin at 8 am and conclude at Noon.  We will be testing the National Traffic handling system from the State EOC through the HF nets to local VHF nets.  Communications in the district will handled on VHF simplex.  I you would like to help in this exercise, please contact Ron at kc8yvf@arrl.net.

The National Weather Service Skywarn training will be held April 8, 2010 at Covenant Cooper Hospital in the Lecture Theater at 7:00 PM.  Those wishing to maintain their spotter skills or have not taken a Skywarn class should plan to attend this session.  For more information contact Ron at kc8yvf@arrl.net.

Attendees should arrive by 6:30 PM to secure a seat.

NOTE: If you did not take the class in 2009, you must attend this session to stay Skywarn certified in Saginaw County.

The search and rescue group K-9 One from Genesee County will be conducting a demonstration and training for the ARES group on Friday February 5.  This will be held on the the usual SVARA Club meeting night and start one half hour earlier at 7:30 PM.

All ARES members are encouraged to attend.
 

Genesee County is offering Fire/Hazmat training to ARES members. This training will be held at the EOC in the Genesee County Building.  Two sessions are available.

Tuesday October 13, 2009 - 7:00 p.m.
Saturday October 17, 2009 - 10:00 a.m.

If you are interested in this training, please contact KC8YVF.

Thank you to all that participated in this event

The fall SET has been scheduled for Saturday October 3, 2009.  Call up will begin at 9  am and operators should report to the Red Cross by 10 am for assignments.  We need at least 12 operators for this event including those trained in the hospital packet system and HF.

For more information contact KC8YVF.

The third annual Saginaw County Family Preparedness Fair will be held Sunday September 27 from noon until 4 pm in St Charles.  The ARES group will be participating in this event and will showcase Skywarn, Emergency Service and ATV. 

If you are interested in working this event, please contact Dave Schneider (N8ERL)

In preparation for the October 3 SET, a Packet/Hamgate training and All-Hands-on-Deck meeting is scheduled for Tuesday September 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the Red Cross.

This meeting will cover current information for the ARES group, the October SET, Hospital Packet network and Hamgate sytems. 

All ARES members should make plans to attend this meeting.

Genesee County is looking for radio operators to work the Crimm Race to be held in Flint on Saturday August 22, 2009.

Operators will meet at 5:30 AM at Vogt's Flower Shop parking lot on the corner of Fifth Ave. and Garland in Flint.

If you would like to work this event, please contact KC8YVF.
 

Thank you for those that helped out at this years event

  - Map
  - Directions

Genesee County is looking for 30 radio operators to work the Tuuri Road Race to be held in Flint on Saturday July 25, 2009.  Operators will need to report to the parking lot of the Wahley Children's Center at 1137 N. Grand Traverse by 6:30 AM.  The 147.26 MHz (PL-100Hz) repeater will be used for this event.

If you would like to work this event, please contact KC8YVF

The dates have been set for this years Mid Michigan MS150 Bike Ride, July 11 & 12, 2009. We are in need of operators to work the 2 day event.

The MS150 event is the largest Amateur Radio public service event in South East Michigan. It requires a minimum of 75+ amateurs, to cover some 200+ miles of route, plus rest stops, and some 20+ mobile units each day. Each amateur that participates in the two day event supplies his or her own equipment, mainly consisting of a 25 Watt or greater UHF FM radio, Magnet Mount antenna, cigarette lighter socket Y adapter, and power cords.  Food and lodging for Saturday night are provided for by the MS organization. The event starts promptly at 7am Saturday and concludes late Sunday afternoon after the last rider arrives back. The Saturday night entertainment at MSU is a fun time for all.

If you are interested in participating or need any questions answered, please email Fred, W8FSM - fred@moses.bz. We currently have many open assignments for either Saturday, Sunday, and many 2 day assignments as well.

To sign up for the event or get more information visit our website @
http://ms150.moses.bz

73, Fred - W8FSM, MS-150 Amateur Radio Communications Manager (ARCM)
fred@moses.bz

This years Volklaufe Race will be held on Saturday July 4, 2009.  The ARES group is looking to participate in this years event providing communication for Aid Stations. chase vehicles, and shadows for race coordinators.  More information will follow.

ARES members who wish to participate should contact kc8yvf@arrl.net. 

Harvey Kern Pavilion, Heritage Park
601 Weiss Street
Frankenmuth, MI, 48734

Event information can be found at http://www.volkslaufe.org/

Thank you to those who help out at this years event

The Dow Run will be held on Saturday June 6, 2009.  10 to 15 operators from outside Midland County are needed for this event.  Any radio operator who would like to participate, please contact  KC8YVF at  kc8yvf@arrl.net.

Operators should report to Central Middle School at Collins and Rodd Rd at 7:00 am

Thank you to all members who made this years event a great success.

The 2009 Frankenmuth MS Walk is Saturday May 9, 2009.  As last year we will be providing communications for the Aid Stations through a Net Control station located in Heritage Park.  Chase vehicles, logistics and event coordinator shadow will again be used for this event.  ARES members who wish to participate should contact kc8yvf@arrl.net to sign up.

Harvey Kern Pavilion, Heritage Park
601 Weiss Street
Frankenmuth, MI, 48734

Set up and job assignments: 7:30 a.m.
Official Walk MS Start: 9:00 a.m.

Thank you to Mike, John and Emmett that participated in this event

Genesee County is looking for radio operators for their spring SET on Thursday April 30, 2009.
If you would like to work this event, please contact KC8YVF as soon as possible.
 

The National Weather Service Skywarn training will be held April 9, 2009 at Covenant Cooper Hospital in the Lecture Theater at 7:00 PM.  Those wishing to maintain their spotter skills or have not taken a Skywarn class should plan to attend this session.  For more information contact Ron at kc8yvf@arrl.net.
 

Skywarn/Net Control Station training will be held Thursday March 26, 2009 from 7 - 9 PM at the Red Cross building in Saginaw.  This training will cover basics of a NCS, Skywarn Net and table top exercise.  Any ARES member who has not had this training or wished to review this information should plan to attend this meeting.  To sign up, please contact Ron at kc8yvf@arrl.net.
 

Thank you to all members who participated in this years event

The county EOC will be activated for Angles Night (10/30) and Halloween night (10/31).

16 radio operators will be needed for Angles Night.  10 operators will be needed for Halloween night.

Operators are to report to the EOC in the basement of the Saginaw County Government Center at 5:00 PM for assignment.

You must have your ARES ID card for admission to the EOC.

Contact EC KC8YVF for to volunteer.

Thank you to all members who participated in this years event

Saturday October 18th, 2008, 12 - 4 PM
Shields Men's Club, Miller Rd off Gratiot

ARES, Skywarn and ATV demonstrations will be presented.

Set up will begin at 10 AM and tear down at 4 PM.

All ARES members are encouraged to participate in this event.  Contact your EC KC8YVF for more information.

Thank you to all members who participated in this years event

The fall SET has been scheduled for September 27, 2008.  This is a two part exercise with a State SET and a local SET.  The local exercise will be conducted in St Charles with the State exercise taking place at the Red Cross building.

All Operators should report to the Red Cross at 9:00 am Saturday September 27 for staging and assignment.

For further information, contact your EC KC8YVF.

Genesee County is looking for 15 radio operators to work the Tuuri Road Race to be held in Flint on July 26th.  Operators will need to report to Hurley Hospital by 6:30 AM.  The 147.26 MHz (PL-100Hz) repeater will be used for this event.

If you would like to work this event, please contact KC8YVF as soon as possible
 

The dates have been set for this year's Mid-Michigan MS150 Bike tour, July 12 & 13. We are in need of operators to work the 2-day event. The MS150 event is the largest Amateur Radio public service event in South East Michigan. It requires a minimum of 75+ amateurs, to cover some 200+ miles of route, plus rest stops, and some 20+ mobile units each day.

Each amateur that participates in the two day event supplies his or her own equipment, mainly consisting of a 25 Watt or greater VHF/UHF Mobile radio, Magnet Mount antenna, cigarette lighter socket Y adapter, and power cords. Food and lodging for Saturday night are provided for by the MS organization. The event starts promptly at 7 am Saturday and concludes late Sunday afternoon after the last rider arrives back. The Saturday night entertainment at MSU is a fun time for all.

If you are interested in participating or need any questions answered, please email Fred, W8FSM - fred@moses.bz. We currently have many open assignments for either Saturday, Sunday, and many 2 day assignments as well. To sign up for the event or get more information visit our

website: http://ms150.moses.bz.

73, Fred, W8FSM, MS-150
Amateur Radio Communications
Manager (ARCM)
 

Thanks to all that participated in this years County SET.  A de-briefing meeting is scheduled for June 4.  Check the calendar for more information.

• A SET Kickoff meeting will be held on May 20 at the Texan Restaurant on State St at 7 PM.  Anyone who wishes to participate in the SET should attend this meeting.
   
• May 21, 2008 is Saginaw County's next Simulated Emergency Test.  This exercise will culminate our three step training plan starting with the Skywarn spotter training being held on April 10th and the Net Control / Tabletop exercise on April 24th.  ARES members wishing to maintain their Skywarn spotter status for 2008 should plan to attend the April 10th spotter training and should participate in the April 24th tabletop session.  The May 21st county exercise will put into practice what you learned in the first two trainings.  Check the calendar or contact your EC for more information.

A Hazmat Awareness training session will be held on May 8, 2008 and is open to all ARES members.  Please check the calendar or contact your EC for more information.
 

The TNC for the Digipeater has been updated to conform to standards published by the APRS inventor Bob Bruninga.  The RELAY command has been removed and WIDE2-2 has been added instead.   Please use the Path Recommendations listed below.

"In the next month or so we will be making a change to the way the APRS digipeater operates.  We are conforming to standards published by the APRS inventor Bob Bruninga.     Right now the K8DAC APRS digipeater requires a Path string that starts with RELAY.  To follow the new standard, the RELAY needs to be removed and WIDE2-2 needs to be used instead.    

There is another APRS digipeater that covers parts of Saginaw County that already works with the new WIDE2-2 path so you can switch over now and be prepared.   Once we discontinue listening for RELAY on the K8DAC APRS repeater, anyone still using RELAY will not have their packets relayed to the APRS net. 

This change is really good and I encourage you to make the adjustment and test your equipment as soon as possible."
Keith --- N8XD
 

The public service form has been updated to simply and speed reporting.  Please review the new form and category descriptions.

"Angles Night" was a success.  No major incidents were reported.  No activation is planned for Halloween.  Thanks to all that volunteered for this event.

The EOC will be activated on October 30th for "Angles Night".  In cooperation with the Office of Emergency Management, the ARES group has been asked to staff the EOC from 4 pm Tuesday until 4 am Wednesday.  Volunteers are needed and 4 hour shifts will be assigned.  Please contact Ron Huss at kc8yvf@arrl.net for more information or to volunteer.
 

The fall SET went off without any major issues  There was only a minor glitch with data communications from the incident scene that was soon corrected .  Many lessons were learned and thanks to all member who participated in the event to make it a great success.
_______________________

The fall SET has been scheduled for October 6, 2007.  This event will take place at several locations through out Saginaw County and test our repeater, simplex, packet and HF capabilities.  ARES/RACES members are requested to be at their assigned station at 12:00 pm.
 

Carl DeMeritt, KC8YVI announced his retirement as EC of Saginaw County ARES effective September 30, 2007.  The new EC will be Ron Huss, KC8YVF who will take over on October 1st.  We would like to thank Carl for his many years of leadership and dedication to the Amateur Radio Emergency Service group of Saginaw County.  Carl will continue on as a member of the ARES team.
 

• Build out of the repeater has been completed 
• Rib Cage antenna build planned
• Video camera installation planned
   

• 3 - Dell P4 desktops with 19" LCD monitors
   

• 8' x 18' double axial trailer
  • ATV equipment will be installed after build out of interior