Elizabeth - W4EHC, Author at Shenandoah Valley Amateur Radio Club

Dayton Hamvention 2021 Canceled

Unfortunately, several setbacks in the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic make necessary the difficult decision to cancel Hamvention 2021. Hundreds of volunteers have been working to do everything necessary to bring this Hamvention to the many amateur radio enthusiasts and vendors who support the Dayton Hamvention.

Vaccine distribution both in the United States and around the world is lagging behind what was planned. In addition, the emergence of a more communicable form of the COVID-19 virus increases the potential for further public health problems in the next few months. We make this difficult decision for the safety of our guests and vendors.

Those who had their tickets, inside booths or flea market spaces deferred last year will be deferred again. Those who purchased 2021 tickets, inside booths or flea market spaces will also be deferred. If you desire a refund instead please email tickets@hamvention.org and we will contact you.

Stay tuned for information about a QSO party for the 2021 Hamvention weekend. We are looking forward to the 2022 Hamvention!!!

Executive Committee, Dayton Hamvention 2021

How to get over “Mic Fright”

This video has some great tips for how to get started on the air and how to get over what hams call “Mic Fright.” This can even happen to older hams who’ ve been away from the hobby for awhile.

Get started with Fox Hunting

Fox Hunt! (Radio Direction Finding) – Ham Radio Q&A:

You can find other “How To” videos by going to YouTube.com and searching for “Ham Radio Foxhunting” or similar terms.

If you’re not already familiar with it, the bible of Fox Hunting is this book by Joe Moell K0OV. Although written back in 1987, it still contains plenty of information and tips that remain relevant today: https://www.amazon.com/Transmitter-Hunting-Direction-Finding-Simplified/dp/0830627014

Interview with David Minster NA2AA, new ARRL CEO

Tim Duffy K3LR of DX Engineering interviews David Minster Na2AA, the new ARRL CEO. Thanks to club member John Kanode N4MM for letting us know about this video.

Honoring KF4EKA

How sad we are that our beloved club member Sandy KF4EKA (Sandra Lee Ritter Bowen) is now a Silent Key. A native of Frederick County, Sandy earned her undergraduate degree from Bridgewater College and her Master’s Degree in Education from the University of Virginia. For 31 years, she was a highly respected and popular elementary school teacher, serving in Warren, Frederick, and Fairfax Counties. She was a mentor not only to her students, but also to new teachers.

Sandy KF4EKA with our two youngest club members: Meghann KN4KTU (L) and Audrey KN4CHI (R)

What I (Elizabeth W4EHC) will always remember most is her smile, her warmth, and her positive attitude. She could get things done—and get others to pitch in—better than anyone I’ve ever known. She was an encourager and a cheerleader. Even in her illness, she inspired me with her never-failing hope, faith, and courage.

Sandy died on November 23, 2020. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Carrie Virginia Bowen, and a brother, Leslie Daniel Ritter. She is survived by her children Edward Bowen, III, and Mary Chiu and their families, including several grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. In lieu of flowers, donations in Sandy’s name can be made to the Blue Ridge Hospice at 333 W. Cork St., Winchester, VA 22601.

Sandy was a vibrant and valuable member of SVARC. Our best tribute to her will be to continue her legacy of kindness and service, inside and outside of the Club.