A Monthly Update from the President’s Shack

Welcome to 2020! What better time to consider a few ham radio resolutions? What do you want to learn or become more proficient in this year? For me, this year is about trying again on some goals from last year on top of adding some new challenges.

Proficiency Time – CW. The HF bands have been very generous to me for the past few years, particularly on digital modes like FT8. I have learned CW from a few great operators over that the last few decades that have showed me a few methods to master CW and pushed me to learn more. The beauty of this hobby is that we never stop learning. We can make the decision to stop learning, but that would quickly turn us into the grump we all avoid on the air. Resolution #1- Master CW.

Finish what I started. Last year, I challenged myself to achieve DXCC, confirming at least 100 countries. I missed it by nine. But no fear, I know that I can cut into that shortfall with the first few international contests scheduled in early 2020. I already have the frame ready for the certificate.

As President, one of my goals is keeping ‘on frequency’ with the PRA membership, the goals the members have as individual amateur radio operators and the goals that they vision for the PRA. There is no doubt, amateur radio, as a whole, is going through a major transformation. I’ve been a part of a few large ham radio organizations in a couple states. The clubs where the demographics were very close, if not overlapping one another, were usually the same old, same old. A select group that ran everything and everything needed to go through them. It was stale; when I was a young whipper-snapper and forced an agenda to do something new, it was frowned upon by the establishment. Needless to say, I didn’t hang around that group of grumps long. Resolution #2 – Keep the Squelch Loose.

As I look around meetings at the PRA, we have a solid spread of demographics; young and matured, lots of YLs (young ladies), and vast professional backgrounds from doctors and lawyers to Law Enforcement, Dental Professionals, HVAC Technicians, pilots, security professionals, plumbers and Company Executives, to name a few. There is no secret that our hobby needs the attract and retain its next generation. This next generation is completely different and more diverse than most of us and we have to embrace these differences of the next generation. Where Facebook and Twitter may be common to us, my son has already told me that the PRA is missing the boat in not at least using Instagram in attracting younger members. He also said that we should produce regular video content on all social media platforms, three to five minute videos on what the PRA is doing each week or every other week and show the activity. He is 15 years old and knows more than I do.

As we kickoff 2020, we have incorporated an extensive committee formation for the Organization. You, yes YOU, can play a vital part in the development, success, and excitement of the PRA. As we know, the PRA belongs to the members, not any one individual or select group of individuals. Along with that understanding, we are also aware that we are not the small, new Amateur Radio group. We have grown into a 125+ member, mature organization. With growth, comes enhanced levels of expectations from our membership and we are excited about your participation in any one of these committees. These committees will play a vital part in the growth and enhancement of our Organization and will come with the rewarding experiences of giving back to your Amateur Radio Service. We are looking for active participation from all members in one or more of the following committees. If you have an idea for a committee, let us know by using the “CONTACT” tab on our website. We need Committee Leads and participants; monthly updates will be needed at each Face-to-Face meeting. The Committees are as follows:

New Member/Welcoming Committee

Elmer Committee & Onsite Support

Repeater Committee – Chaired by Don, W0CFI

VE Testing Committee – Chaired by Doug, KE0DC

Net Control Committee

PRA Gear Committee

ARRL Liason Team

Website Committee – Chaired by Jeff, AB0L

Field Days / PRA Events Committee – Field Day Chaired by Brent, KB4SMK

HRO Committee

Community Outreach

If you are interested in leading or participating in any of these committees, let us know so that we can get you plugged in and connected with the right people and resources to be successful. The bottom line is that we need all of our members to participate in at least one committee. Your participation drives the direction, future, and fun of your amateur radio organization. None of these committees will be “John Wayne” positions; you will be part of a team, have support both in resources and finances, as deemed necessary/appropriate by the Board. If you have specific questions about these committees, please reach out to me or any member of the Leadership Team.

To conclude the January 2020 column, I have a few excerpts from a 1941 writing of Clinton B. DeSoto called “Calling CQ.” A nearly 80-year old article rings so true today:

But the enjoyment of amateur radio is not measured in dollars or even in elaborate equipment. It is rather measured by such gauges as service, self-expression, a sense of personal accomplishment.

Friendship is such a gauge too. Even the shyest, most introspective soul will respond to a proffer like this: “Well, old man, let’s know each other better. I’m thirty-nine years old. I own a garage in this sleepy Arizona town of five hundred people. I also do electric welding. I have three children. What do you do?–and how old are you?”

Fraternalism … good fellowship … ingenuity … public service … the power to annihilate distance and bring oneself closer to mankind throughout the world … the ability to build and create and put the products of one’s hands to work to overcome the miles and hours … thrills and sport and adventure…

That’s what amateur radio is like.

So…what are your ham radio goals as an individual and with the PRA? Drop me a note, and let me know how I can help!

73,
Dan – N2SRK
President
Parker Radio Association

A Monthly Update from the President’s Shack

The 2019 year is entering its final days. As we roll off of Thanksgiving, we’re immediately faced with the Christmas rush of retailers pushing all kinds of deals, can’t miss opportunities, and some very persuasive marketing tactics. As we reflect back on 2019, the PRA had some amazing accomplishments throughout the year and has set itself up for amazing opportunities going into 2020. With the new year comes new opportunities, but we can never discount what got us to where we are today.

One of the key activities of the PRA each month is our Elmer Night. If your interest in amateur radio has only recently developed or if you’re a veteran operator trying something new in the hobby, you already know by now that there are hundreds of brands of equipment from which to choose. Some of these choices are costly, some not too costly. This is where Elmer Night shines; you are surrounded by experienced operators that simply want to help you – the goal is to shorten the learning curve of whatever you want to accomplish, so that you can enjoy the hobby even more, quickly. It is the perfect environment that is not intimidating, where you can ask any and all questions. You’re respected following the Golden Rule – treat others as you expect to be treated.

Along the same lines, the American Radio Relay League, ARRL, has taken this concept of Elmering and introduced a new magazine which will roll out in January called On the Air. What is really exciting is that this is the first new magazine from the ARRL in nearly 30 years; obviously, there is a significant amount of time, effort and energy that goes into such a publication – bottom line, the ARRL realizes that beginner to intermediate amateur radio operators are not only the most untapped, but also the most important group to embrace. Hats off the ARRL for generating this new publication and making it available to all ARRL members – yet another benefit to join the ARRL.

For the PRA, 2019 was a busy year, beyond Elmer Nights and monthly meetings – we installed a series of repeaters, both digital and analog, to support reliable communications throughout the area. We also learned a tremendous amount about ARRL activities, QRP operating, SOTA activations, National Traffic Systems, and supported community events such as Pedaling-4-Parkinson’s and the Scouts Jamboree On The Air. Not only did we hit our 100th member in 2019, but we are quickly approaching the 150 member mark. Although the numbers are impressive, what matters is the focus on the PRA’s Mission – “To Play Radio, Have Fun, and Keep the Squelch Loose.”

To ensure the success of your amateur radio organization, I highly encourage you to participate in an existing committee such as Net Control Operator, repeater committee, Website, PRA Gear, Elmer Night…or form your own committee! The committees will always focus on the PRA Mission and the bottom line is to support the growth, enthusiasm and promotion of amateur radio. I also want to thank those that have lead our committees this past year and I also want to thank the record number of members that participated in our Leadership Elections; this is a testament to the health of the PRA.

As we head rapidly towards the conclusion of 2019, thank you for your trust, support, and participation in the PRA. If 2019 is any indication of what the future is for the organization, the Parker Radio Association is poised and positioned for continue success because of its members. With the new year comes new opportunities, but we can never discount what got us to where we are today.

73,
Dan – N2SRK
President
Parker Radio Association

A Monthly Update from the President’s Shack

“It is truly amazing to find a group who is so friendly and welcoming of new hams in a hobby where so many groups are dominated by ego and showing how smart the individuals are.”

Over the last few months, the PRA has had another surge of membership. As of this writing, we are a 115 member organization and continuing to grow. I have often wondered what makes the PRA attractive to amateur radio enthusiasts (other than our good looks). There are two “non-negotiables” that we have embraced since our first day; be welcoming and keep the squelch loose. Those two elements are our foundation and go-to not only when welcoming visitors or potential new members, but when the leadership team is making decisions for the organization. By knowing what works, by taking risks and accepting some short-comings, we cannot fail.

In the last couple of weeks, I received a beautiful handwritten letter (a lost art) from one of our members. His words were just what I needed to boost up my psyche for my role and for the responsibility that I embrace for the PRA. In particular, one sentence in the letter struck me, “It is truly amazing to find a group who is so friendly and welcoming of new hams in a hobby where so many groups are dominated by ego and showing how smart the individuals are.” The timing of this letter could not have been better; the words could not have been selected better. Everything about this one line embodies who we are as an organization and helps guide our decision making process, while answering an important question, “why are we doing this in the first place?”

A few short weeks ago, we had our PRA elections for officer positions. I would like to congratulate our new officers:

Vice President – Patrick, AI8C

Secretary – Elizabeth, N1RDH

Treasurer – Justin, AE2L

Chief Technology Officer – Ray, N0KEG

Directors At Large – Wayne, N0AD and John, N4SJW

I also want to thank all of those that took the brave step, threw their hat into the ring, and ran for a leadership position. This was the first year in our existence that we had so many people run for the election positions. That screams of success and health of the organization. Also, with the number of committees we have formed, there is no better way to add your touch into the success of the PRA by joining, participating or leading one of our committees. Committees drive the current and future of the PRA, and your input, ideas and suggestions are needed.

As we round third and head for home to round out the 2019 year, we celebrate our accomplishments by reflecting on the countless hours giving back to the community, how we have showcased the wonder of technology and how we have built a great amateur radio organization. May we always continue to play radio, have fun, and keep the squelch loose.

73,
Dan – N2SRK
President
Parker Radio Association

A Monthly Update from the President’s Shack

October is a very exciting time of year. We see and experience the wrestling match of the seasons, Summer vs. Fall. There is no better place than Colorado to have a front row seat to the majesty behind this annual battle of the seasons. At the same time, it is one of my favorite times of year because of the Major League Baseball playoffs. Very rarely do I get a chance to watch a single game on the comfy couch, let alone four games in one evening. Whether it is the crisp mornings, watching the first leaves change color, or baseball playoffs, change is evident and change is coming.

For the PRA, this October is a special month for the organization as we elect new officers for the organization. These officers will serve two year terms, starting in 2020. What I am most proud of is the fact that so many people were nominated, took the brave step, and said, “yes, I’d like a shot” at whichever position they were nominated. In the PRA’s history, this has been the greatest turnout of nominations and candidate pool. To me, that is a testament to the foundation and backbone of the PRA – the MEMBERS!

From an activity standpoint, the PRA gathered firearms enthusiasts for a group event. One hobby promoting another – but without amateur radio, this type of gather would have never happened. Also coming up is a QRP Expedition to Signal Butte. Fresh air, mountains, hiking, and radio. Combine that with the season change and amazing display of colors, that is certainly going to be an amazing experience for the participants. Again, the commonality of amateur radio brought all of this together.

As the nominations are in, I’d like to thank the membership for their trust in me for the next two-year term. As I stated, this will be my last two year term as I firmly believe that this organization needs fresh eyes and fresh perspectives at all levels of the organization. I would also like to congratulate John-N4SJW and Wayne-N0AD on their nominations and seating to the Director-At-Large positions. It is important that you come out and vote at our October meeting on October 15th. If you are unable to make it in person, make sure you secure an absentee ballot from Robert-AE0CA, our Election Chairperson. If you haven’t noticed, yet, change is evident and change is coming.

73,
Dan – N2SRK
President
Parker Radio Association

A Monthly Update from the President’s Shack

Through the balance of this year, we have a lot of exciting activities and inevitable changes taking place. Some of these activities are driving the change. If you’ve ever read one of my favorite books, “Who Moved My Cheese?” you’ll understand why change should be embraced as opportunity for not only growth, but survival. Change is the only constant, and change forces us out of our comfort zone which is necessary in our lives and in our organizations.

Our September and October monthly meetings mark significant importance to the PRA. It is our Nomination and Election meetings, respectively. All PRA Leadership positions are open for nomination and will lead our organization through 2021. I believe that organizations such as ours need consistency, but need new ideas and fresh perspectives. I highly encourage you to consider yourself or a friend for one of these positions. All of our officers are happy to discuss any details, commitment level and responsibilities of the positions. It is also important to note that Terry, WB3EVZ and Paul, AC5S will not be running for re-election. I want to thank both Terry and Paul for their expertise, enthusiasm, ideas, suggestions and guidance over the past five years. Both of these gentlemen have been involved with the PRA since day one and their direct impact to the Organization will be felt for decades to come. The next time you see them, be sure to thank them for their service, ideas, and leadership over the last several years. I know the PRA would not be where it is without them.

Both Terry and Paul demonstrate that getting involved helps the common good. Maybe you’re not about an elected officer position, which is OK; sign up for a net (PLEASE, WE NEED MORE – go to our “EVENTS” tab and sign-up!), participate in our community events like Pedaling-4-Parkinson’s, come out to Elmer Night and teach one of the newest hams, serve on a committee like our Repeater or Website Committees. Every little bit helps and only takes a few minutes each month.

Since our first day, the PRA has long committed to belong to its Members, not the Leadership. You have the ability to make the PRA what you want it to be. There is no time like now to get involved; sometimes the most simple acts make the greatest impacts for the future.

73,
Dan – N2SRK
President
Parker Radio Association

A Monthly Update From the President’s Shack

The Parker Radio Association hit a major milestone in the Organization’s history the evening of July 31st. We reached the 100 member mark. Reaching a milestone like this is nothing short of remarkable, considering we started this endeavor only five short years ago. For any organization, hitting a milestone does not happen by accident or is it the act of any one individual. Milestones are a collective effort by a team of individuals that are bonded together in serving a purpose and a mission.

When a small group decided to take a leap of faith in forming the PRA (frankly, we said, “let’s see what happens”), our first announcement of kicking this can down the road was met with a lot of skeptics that were loud in their opinions. One of these skeptics in particular said, “Great, just what Denver needs, another radio club; just get in your car and drive to one of the other clubs that is already in the area…SMH.” A statement like this hit home because there was an element of truth; Denver does have a strong concentration of long established Amateur Radio organizations. Even while standing at the base of this mountain, this small founding group came to the consensus that if we had 15, 20, or even 25 people that were “regular” and participatory, we would be just fine.

As I reflect back on the last five years, we quickly established 15, 20, then 25 regular participants. That soon quickly grew to 40, 50, then 60 members and that happened quickly. Growing that quickly does not come with its own struggles. When we had a small member base, it was easy to manage with our Leadership Team alone. However, as the numbers grew, the Leadership Team knew it was time to give the control to the members and manage the Organization. Committees were formed, members took Lead roles in these committees and new members found a way to get quickly plugged into the organization. Besides our normal monthly business meeting that is capped with absolutely amazing presentations, we decided that a night per month that is dedicated exclusively to learning and teaching was important – welcome to the formation of Elmer Night. Our Elmer Nights are just as popular as monthly meetings. No agenda, no script; simply an evening of teaching, learning, Q&A and forming relationships.

It is obvious that it is the members that make the PRA what it is today. Hitting the 100 member mark is nothing to sneeze at and it is a testament to the common goal and mission of the Organization that is lead by the members. I can’t help but wonder what the next milestone will be for the organization will be. Regardless, one thing that I know true, the next milestone will also be a result of positive actions by the collective membership. To our critics from five years ago, I hope we’ve earned a chance to earn your membership because we are not just another ham radio club in Denver.

73,
Dan – N2SRK
President
Parker Radio Association

A Monthly Update From the President’s Shack

A few people have noticed that this monthly column is running a bit behind schedule for the month. It is for good intentions. I am a firm believer that in order to truly reflect upon your activities and decisions, you need to step away once in a while in order to better organize your thoughts so as to improve your actions. There is no better way to step away for a bit than to use vacation time to get out of town, turn off work emails and (dare I say), turn off the radio for a bit. As much as we promote amateur radio operators to “get on the air” or “call CQ,” there is a magical process that happens when you walk away from it all for a short period of time.

The PRA is coming off one of its most busiest months in the organization’s history. In the month of June alone, we had at least 15 club activities; from on-the-air nets, face-to-face meeting, Elmer Night, Pedaling-4-Parkinson’s and Field Day. Throw in a couple online meetings to the mix and it is obvious that the month of June was a record pace for the PRA. Speaking of records, we set a much higher bar for future Field Day operations – more of that to follow. In the midst of all this activity, coupled with employer obligations, family obligations, graduation parties, feeling overwhelmed or overbooked was staring me in the face. I knew that if I got to the 4th of July, I would take full advantage of the vacation I had scheduled.

The PRA is in its best shape ever. We have a dedicated leadership team that lives and acts on the organization’s mission; we have an engaged, participatory and excited group of members that are not only eager to participate, but do so willingly. In particular, every month I am blown away at the level of enthusiasm at our monthly Elmer Nights. Experienced operators helping new or potential operators, offering words of encouragement, giving different perspectives or techniques. Even experienced hams getting taught new modes or methods of operating. If you have not attended a PRA Elmer Night, I strongly encourage you to do so.

Speaking of leadership, this year is a PRA election year. All positions are open for nomination and election; what is most refreshing about this is that the entire PRA Board wants new perspectives and is encouraging members to serve in some capacity. If a leadership position seems too steep, offer your help in one of our committees like website, repeater, Scouts, or Field Day, to name a few. When the PRA was founded, we committed that this organization belonged to the membership, not the leadership. This is your amateur radio organization. Nominations will take place at our September meeting and elections in October.

Of our most recent PRA activity, ARRL Field Day, we demonstrated that amateur radio prevails in all types of conditions. We experienced 70 degree weather, rain, thunder/lightening, hail, plummeting temperatures, and even a couple of snow flurries. Through expert planning and execution of the entire Field Day committee, lead by Brent – KB4SMK, not only did we overcome the elements, but the PRA set an all-time new record for the organization. We had a total of 1,032 contacts which is over 35% higher than we had the previous year. Our point total 3,768, driven by not only the QSO totals, but bonus points. Even with the less than ideal weather conditions, we had 30 PRA members and guests participate in a fun filled Field Day weekend that proved that amateur radio is a fail-safe way to communicate.

In my time away the past two weeks from amateur radio, I came to realize in the last days of vacation that I missed it. Taking time to step away gained me a greater appreciate for the hobby, cleared my cluttered mind, and has re-energized me to learn more about the hobby, promote it better, and develop new ways to continue to giveback to a service that has given me so much. That time away was indeed magical and long overdue, but there is nothing more magical than getting back on the air again, when you have been away, and making that first contact again.

73,
Dan – N2SRK
President
Parker Radio Association

A Monthly Update from the President’s Shack

As we head into the month of June, it is easy to focus on all of the activities of the summer. From graduation celebrations to family vacation time, gardening, lawn mowing and general fix-ups of our homes; June is a very busy time. The same holds true with the PRA for the month. As an organization of amateur radio enthusiasts, we are looking not only at one of the busiest months of the year for activities, but one of the most fun.

Any given month produces at least 10 opportunities to participate with the PRA. Each week, we have three on-the-air nets, unless bumped by one of our face-to-face meetings (Monthly Meeting or Elmer Night). On top of these activities in June, the PRA is participating in Pedaling-4-Parkinson’s (P4P) and the ARRL Field Day. Both P4P and Field Day capture the skills, professionalism, knowledge, and passion that our members have. In the P4P Event, a group of over 20 PRA members will provide communications over 60-miles of courses throughout Arapahoe and Douglas Counties. We have operators that will be assisting at each Aid Station to support the timely and accurate communication of needs for those we serve. We will also have operators with experience in bicycle repair that will be serving dual roles in fixing and providing communications! As we have been told by the event coordinators, “we will never do this without the PRA.” We made quite an impression in our first year and it is obvious that there is nothing amateur about amateur radio.

One of the most highly anticipated events for the PRA is participating in the annual ARRL Field Day. Over the course of 24-hours, we will set up a series of radios with a focus of making as many contacts as possible with other participating stations around the world in less than ideal conditions. Even though our focus is making contacts, our purpose is to teach, learn, laugh, and get on the air. I can remember my first Field Day almost 30-years ago and I vividly remember having a fair amount of mic-fright. After some one-on-one coaching, encouragement, and a few Elmers showing me the ropes, I conquered my fear because of the support and encouragement that I received from people I only met a few hours earlier. Support, encouragement, and mentoring; great operators always focus on that in demonstrating amateur radio. With nearly 60% of the PRA membership taking a trip to the hills for Field Day, our only fear is running out of food. Considering the preparation involved, we know that will not happen.

Whether amateur radio is providing a service or demonstrating the magic of the hobby in two-way wireless communications, one thing is for sure; it takes a balance of support, encouragement, mentoring, learning, teaching, and laughter to make it successful and fun. At the PRA, we remain focused on our core beliefs of “playing radio, having fun, and keeping the squelch loose.” May you have a safe, fun, and memorable June.

73,
Dan – N2SRK
President
Parker Radio Association

A Monthly Update from the President’s Shack

The month of May, especially in Colorado, provides glimpses of spring time and some reminders of how Old Man Winter likes to remind us that an 80 degree today does not discount snowfall tomorrow. When listening and participating in repeater rag-chews and nets, it is so refreshing to hear so many fellow operators talk about how they are gearing-up for spring time. Whether it is installing a new antenna, changing out coax, or re-configuring their camping or Go-Kit, this time of year brings out the vision, strategy, and execution not only in our own shack, but in the PRA, and amateur radio as well. If you have not noticed, the PRA has been gearing up for a lot of activities and events outside of our monthly meetings and nets.

In looking forward to the activities of the coming months, it is important to understand some of the milestones that got us here in the first four months of 2019. One of the biggest accomplishments has been the redevelopment, release, and management of our improved website. This is a testament to the talents and expertise of our membership. I especially want to thank Jeff, N0KAI, for the hours, days, weeks, and months he has put into the our website. It now offers members full control over their updates of callsign, email address, and methods of preferred contact. Membership has its privileges and with membership comes login credentials that gives members exclusive access to areas such as forums. The development of this site was not a top-down drive or mandate; these suggestions came from our members and this is a perfect example of how the PRA belongs to its members.

Looking ahead, the PRA has many activities coming up through May and June. Aside from our monthly face-to-face meetings and Elmer Nights, there are several ways you can exercise your amateur radio privileges. On June 8th, we will be supporting the Pedaling 4 Parkinson’s cycling event where we provide communications for nearly 200 riders over a 60-mile course spanning Arapahoe and Douglas Counties. This low pressure event is a great way to not only see, but participate and demonstrate the reliability of our amateur radio network. If we learned anything from our conversations with the staff from P4P, they will admit that “cell phones just do not cut it.” Want to help out, sign-ups are still underway at parkerradio.org/p4p.

One of the main events for the PRA each year is Field Day. On June 22nd and 23rd, over 30 members of the PRA test their skills and preparedness in setting up stations in less than ideal conditions. To me, the beauty of the Colorado Mountains is ideal, but setting up with the lack of luxuries such as commercial power gives us a challenge. It is really fascinating to see the planning and execution by our Field Day committee and how the PRA comes together to not only rack up a lot of contacts, but my measure of success is how often I hear people laugh and have fun. If you have never experienced a PRA Field Day, give yourself that opportunity, even if it for a few hours. You’ll get on the air, make a ton of contacts, learn something, teach something, and have fun. More details about Field Day can be found on our website.

For what is ahead this year, remember that officer elections are coming up. If you ever wanted to be a part of the Leadership Team of the PRA, this year is your opportunity. All positions are open for nomination and election for a two-year term. If you are interested in a particular position, let us know! We want to not only encourage your participation, but give you keen insight into each position and the duties that come in serving your fellow members.

Of all things that matter in the PRA, we continue to hold true to our core belief to Play Radio, Have Fun, and Keep The Squelch Loose. See you on the air.

73,
Dan – N2SRK
President
Parker Radio Association

A Monthly Update from the President’s Shack 

Those that know me well enough know that I am a big fan of Southwest Airlines. Southwest’s Founder, Herb Kelleher, recently passed away, leaving a tremendous legacy and has forever paved the way for the future of air travel. One of the many traits that Mr. Kelleher had was to always put people first, and keep things simple. When asked about Southwest’s strategy for success, Herb Kelleher said perfectly, “We have a strategic plan-it’s called doing things.” If there is a quote that we can focus the PRA efforts, it would be this one.

Over the last several months, the PRA been very strategic in doing lots of things. It has held its standard face-to-face meetings; which has grown to solid turnouts of over 40 people monthly. One additional meeting that we added routinely is Elmer Night. The purpose of Elmer Night is to give potential or new amateur radio operators a setting where they feel welcomed and supported. Also, we have an environment where any and all questions are welcomed and answered. Elmer Night has also exploded in popularity with a record turn out in March with 42 potential, new and veteran hams learning about D-Star, DMR, Fusion, and HF Digital.

Going into the balance of the year, the PRA will fulfill its Mission by participating in community events including Scouts Events, Pedaling-4-Parkinson’s, ARRL Field Day, and many more! If monthly meetings are not of interest to you, that is OK, too; our community events incorporate the service and hobby we enjoy by putting people first. From day one, I believe that the PRA has gotten it right with the philosophy of putting people first. No matter what area of interest you have in amateur radio, we have created a welcoming environment for all amateur radio enthusiasts that allows for the freedom to be themselves and offer their talents and knowledge to fellow operators and the community as a whole.

As the first three months of 2019 is behind us, may we continue to stay focused on our strategic plans, as Herb Kelleher said perfectly, “We have a strategic plan-it’s called doing things.” To add to that, may we also continue to “Play Radio, Have Fun, and Keep The Squelch Loose.”

73,
Dan – N2SRK
President
Parker Radio Association