February 2026 NYC-LI Section Newsletter
This is the February 2026 edition of the New York City-Long Island
Section e-Happenings newsletter. This newsletter is here to serve the Amateur Radio community in our area. We welcome and encourage all submissions. Help make this your
newsletter. We especially encourage NLI radio clubs and organizations
to submit their meeting announcements, guest speakers and any special
events. Please submit any information for the March 2026 issue prior to
the end of the first week in March.
Section News is available only on the world-wide-web. See the NLI site
at: http://nli.arrl.org
INCLUDED IN THIS ISSUE:
* From Jim Mezey, W2KFV – Section Manager
* Hamfests:
* Events
* VE Sessions
* From the ARRL
* National Traffic System
* Club Info
Hello Everyone,
What a great month January was especially with Ham Radio University starting it off. The weather was good, the forums were great and everyone had a fantastic time. Suffolk County Radio Club did a great job in running the paperless VE Session. There were two forums that brought a lot of interest. The first one was by Daniel, W2DIYwhose information on Meshtastics overcame the size of the room so they went to the larger auditorium. His full presentation and some additional resources posted on his personal website at w2diy.com/meshtastic.
The other one was about the Bouvet Island 2026 Dxpedition which will take place in February, March 2026, with Adrian KO8SCA who is one of the team members gave a very interesting lecture about the trials and tribulations on being able to get to this remote sub-Antarctic island. Thank you to all the HRU Committee for their time and effort in making this year another success.
Congratulations to the Suffolk County Radio Club who sent me this note:
Dear Jim,
I am writing to share some exciting news regarding the Suffolk County Radio Club (SCRC). Yesterday, we successfully completed our inaugural fully remote Volunteer Examiner (VE) session, marking a major technological step forward for our club and the NYC-Long Island Section.
In a move to modernize our licensing process, we operated a completely Remote session —making us one of the first clubs in the section to move away from traditional paper testing in a remote environment.
The results were fantastic:
- One SCRC member successfully upgraded to General.
- Three students from Brooklyn Tech High School were licensed/upgraded (one General, two Technicians).
This transition was made possible through the mentorship of Seth, N2SPG, who guided our VE team through the setup and execution of the remote platform. We believe this forward-looking approach is vital for engaging younger generations—like the students from Brooklyn Tech—and keeping amateur radio relevant in a digital age.
We would be honored if you would consider including this milestone in the next Section news update.
73,
Suffolk County Radio Club
I have just returned from Hamcation in Orlando, Florida. It was another great Hamfest with many forums, and new products. It was nice to see some old friends and meet some new ones. This year the flea market had everything and anything you could want with pretty good pricing. I had to leave a lot of stuff as they would never let me bring it home on the plane.
Remember, webinars and training are available at:
The ARRL Learning Network
http://www.arrl.org/arrl-learning-network
ARRL You Tube,
https://www.youtube.com/user/ARRLHQ/videos?app=desktop
RATPAC presentations:
Ham Radio University You Tube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/c/HamRadioUniversityNLI/videos
LIMARC, You Tube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@limarc-longislandmobileama3620
LICW, You Tube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@longislandcwclub
My Zoom account is available for clubs or group meetings. Please contact me at w2kfv@arrl.org for more information.
That’s all for now but don’t forget to get on the air, have fun, and enjoy our great hobby and by all means…. keep those batteries charged …….. <ar>
73, Jim Mezey, W2KFV
w2kfv@arrl.org
Section Manager – NYC/ Long Island
ARRL ~ the national association for Amateur Radio™
C: 516-315-8608
|
|
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Hamfests:
LIMARC Indoor Hamfest February 22, 2026,
Click here for PDF of this page for offline viewing
Click here for Vendor Registration
HAMFEST and Electronics Show!
Sunday, February 22, 2026
Levittown Hall, 201 Levittown Parkway, Hicksville, NY 11801
SPECIAL NOTE
LIMARC has always enjoyed the support of our vendors, members, and friends in the amateur radio community. It is that support that has enabled us to remain one of the few smaller hamfests in the local area. We are grateful to you. If we are to continue with hamfests in the future, it is really important to have your continued support. With rising costs in fuel and tolls, many vendors have to make a tough decision concerning their participation based upon anticipated sales. Please help to make their decisions to always participate by continuing to attend our hamfests. You are very much appreciated!
Vendor Set Up begins @ 7 AM
Doors Open @ 8:45 AM for Buyers
Amateur Radio Dealers & Equipment
VE Session @ 10 AM – At the conclusion of the VE session, meet Section Manager Jim Mezey, W2KFV, and Hudson Division Director Ed Wilson, N2XDD. Find out what’s going on at the ARRL!
Tune-Up Clinic – Get your rig checked with John KD2AKX
LCD Monitors, Computers, CB Equipment
ARRL and LIMARC Information
ARES Information Tables (NYC, Nassau and Suffolk Counties)
DXCC Card Checking
New and Used Ham Radio Equipment and Accessories
Expected vendors including Quicksilver, KJI Electronics, Dave Schneider, Jeff Kostetsky, KB3, Pete Sherry, and more.
GENERAL ADMISSION is $8.00
All participants must follow NYS and Nassau County Health COVID-19 protocols.
Licensed ham’s non-licensed spouse & children under 12 are free.
Free Parking!
50/50!
Food & Refreshments Available!
Door Prizes from ARRL, DX Engineering, Quicksilver, Diamond Antenna, Comet Antenna, Heil Audio and more!
Have a Few Items to Sell? LIMARC will have a table set up to sell items for others. There’s no charge to club members. Non-members pay just 10% of their selling price. Please make sure to mark your price and callsign clearly on the item.
FOR VENDORS: One $22 space includes a 6 foot table & chairs. Vendor fee separate.
7 AM Vendor Set Up. Close in and drop off parking for Vendors. Vendors must comply with NY State Sales Tax Laws. The sale of guns, ammunition or pornographic material is prohibited. Send your check to LIMARC, P.O. Box 392, Levittown, NY 11756-0392. Use the vendor registration form at the top of this page.
Limited Selling Spaces! Only some spaces have electric available. Reserve your Space Now!
Talk-In on W2VL Repeater @ 146.850 MHz (PL 136.5)
For more information, contact our Hamfest Co-Chair Richie K2KNB at 516-694-4937 or email us at hamfest@limarc.org
Check out our Classifieds page for items for sale. First come, first served.
https://limarc.org/classifieds/
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Events:
Year of the Club
For more information see the ARRL webpage at Year of the Club
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
The ARC Emergency Communications Service will be hosting a Technician class at Bethpage OEM.
Dates: March 23 – May 18, 2026,
Time: 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm (8 Sessions) Instructor: Edwin Rhodes, WA1LEI
Fee: $50 (Includes book and exam fee)
You must preregister by March 1, 2026.
No walk-ins.
Exams will be conducted on June 1, 2026
Location:
Nassau County Office of Emergency Management
510 Grumman Rd W, Bethpage, NY 11714
Email: warapres@gmail.com
To register for this class please send your name, address , phone number and email address, along with a check for $50.00 made out to the ARCECS to: ARCECS c/o Deborah Kerr 125 Lincoln Avenue, APT B2C Mineola, NY 11501
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Upcoming VE Sessions:
(Note if you have a VE Session you want to list, please send it to w2kfv@arrl.org
LIMARC
All test sessions are held at Levittown Hall, 201 Levittown Parkway, Hicksville, NY 11801
2026 Schedule
Feb 22, Hamfest; 10 AM ; Mar 14, May 9, July 11, Sept 19, Nov 14
Sessions begin promptly at 8 AM (unless otherwise indicated)
For further information Contact: VE@limarc.org
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Larkfield ARC
Where: Halesite Fire Department
1 North New York Ave, Halesite, NY 11743
Time: During club meetings or TBD
Contact: larkfieldarc@gmail.com
VOIP: (516) 415-2406
Tests will be conducted during monthly club meetings or on an as-needed basis by appointment only.
NO WALK-INS ALLOWED
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Suffolk County Radio Club:
VE Sessions are the 1st Thursday of the month at 7 PM on the FIRST Thursday of each month at the:
Longwood Youth / LYSA Sports Complex
210 Meadows Blvd E
Yaphank, NY 11980-9999
Walk-in’s allowed.
Contact: VE@suffolkcountyradioclub.com
Prior to arriving for your exam, please have $15 in EXACT CASH.
Checks ARE NOT accepted, and change is NOT available.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Suffolk VHF/UHF Association:
OUR TEST 2025 SCHEDULE WILL BE EVERY SECOND SATURDAY AT 10 AM.
Location: Smithtown Elks Lodge
124 Edgewood Ave
just off Landing Ave
Walk-ins okay.
Smithtown NY 11787-2737
You can pre-register or walk ins are always welcome.
To get info please contact Scott NQ2F
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Great South Bay Amateur Radio Club
Feb 28, March 28, April 25, May 30, June 20, July 25, Aug 29, Sept 26, Oct 31, Nov 28 Dec 29. All sessions are at the Town of Babylon EOC at 10 a.m., located in the basement in the rear of town hall. Please bring photo ID, a copy and your original amateur radio license (if you have one) and any CSCEs you may have. Nonprogrammable calculators are allowed. The exam fee is $15 payable by cash or a check made out to “ARRL VEC.”
Candidates are required to have an FRN number.
All VE Sessions are in the basement of:
Babylon Town Hall
200 Sunrise Hwy.
- Lindenhurst, NY
(between Rt. 109 and Wellwood Ave.)
In the Emergency Operations Center which is located in the basement. Access to Town Hall after hours (Evening and Weekends) is only via the rear of the building, inside of the courtyard and down the stairs.
It starts at 10 AM.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
From the ARRL:
Radio Clubs Encouraged to Plan Now for April Ham Radio Open House
02/13/2026
ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio® is inviting radio clubs to participate in the second annual Ham Radio Open House in April. Hosting an Open House gives clubs and schools the opportunity to promote amateur radio science and technology by opening their stations to the public and showcasing their hi-tech gear and operating skills.
In addition, clubs are encouraged to set up in public places or conduct outdoor activities, such as a Parks on the Air (POTA) activations or satellite operating demonstrations. The event centers around World Amateur Radio Day on Saturday, April 18, but clubs may schedule an open house at any time during the month.
Ham Radio Open House highlights the Amateur Radio Service as a platform for developing and practicing modern radio communications technology, and as a hands-on pathway into science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields for the next generation. The event offers clubs the chance to reshape perceptions of amateur radio and demonstrate how it serves as a steppingstone and testbed for young people pursuing STEM education and high-tech careers.
As ARRL CEO David Minster, NA2AA, writes in his March QST editorial, “the notion of hams sitting in Grandpa’s basement listening to tube radios is quickly dispelled when visitors see a modern transceiver and computer being used to work the world!”
Clubs are encouraged to demonstrate the latest digital modes, such as FT8 using WSJT-X. This is an excellent opportunity to explore emerging areas of amateur radio and show how the service remains at the forefront of wireless innovation.
For example, visitors might see a Software-Defined Radio (SDR) waterfall display, hear the corresponding signal, and watch the decoded message appear on screen — a powerful demonstration of how modern amateur radio works.
World Amateur Radio Day, observed annually on April 18, is celebrated worldwide by radio amateurs and their national associations, organized as member-societies of the International Amateur Radio Union (IARU). It was on this day in 1925 that the IARU was formed in Paris. American Radio Relay League (ARRL) Co-Founder Hiram Percy Maxim was its first president.
The inaugural ARRL Ham Radio Open House last year coincided with IARU’s centennial celebrations. This year’s activity is part of ARRL’s “Year of the Club” theme.
Clubs should watch for additional resources to help organize and promote their events. An interactive, map-based Ham Radio Open House Locator is available. Find details at www.arrl.org/world-amateur-radio-day.
About ARRL®
ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio® was founded in 1914 as The American Radio Relay League, and is a noncommercial organization of radio amateurs. ARRL’s mission is to promote and protect the art, science, and enjoyment of amateur radio, and to develop the next generation of radio amateurs. ARRL supports members with opportunities to discover radio, to develop new skills, and to serve their local communities. ARRL’s youth initiatives include programs to inspire students and advance STEM education through amateur radio, and to encourage pathways to higher education and careers in wireless communications and related technical fields. ARRL is also the Secretariat of the International Amateur Radio Union (IARU). For more information about ARRL and amateur radio, visit www.arrl.org/world-amateur-radio-day.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
ARRL Mourns the Loss of Sharon Taratula, Awards Manager
02/12/2026
ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio® is saddened to share the news that Sharon Taratula, who served the League with dedication and distinction for 32 years, passed away on February 4, 2026.
Sharon joined ARRL on January 31, 1994, as DXCC Awards Technician. She later served as Administrative Assistant (1996), MVP Administrative Manager (2011), and from 2016 until her passing, as Awards Manager. Over more than three decades, she became a cornerstone of support for some of the most recognized programs in amateur radio.
“Sharon was monumental in the ARRL Awards and QSL Bureau in managing day-to-day work processes,” said Bart Jahnke, W9JJ, Radiosport and Regulatory Information Manager. “She was the go-to person for Logbook, DXCC Online, and the Legacy DXCC System. She had a graceful demeanor in helping all members and others with their DXCC Award needs.” Jahnke also noted her extraordinary attention to detail, adding that she often backed up her email reminders with Post-it notes to ensure nothing was overlooked.
Former ARRL Manager of Field Services and Radiosport Dave Patton, KW9A, recalled that a previous manager affectionately called Sharon “Radar,” after the M*A*S*H television show character, because “she always seemed to know what he needed or was about to ask her.” Patton added, “My most embedded impression of Sharon was of her calm, even demeanor in the face of most anything. She just rolled with whatever dilemma needed her attention and took care of it.” He also remembered that Sharon handled urgent and sensitive member requests — including expediting a DXCC plaque to a terminally ill ARRL member — with compassion and care.
Colleagues Deborah Voigt and Gloria Flores reflected on Sharon’s sense of humor and the joy she brought to the office. “I will never forget her laugh,” said Production Coordinator Margie Bourgoin, W1MRG. “She laughed with her entire soul.”
Sharon deeply valued the relationships she built with DXers over the years and enjoyed their visits to ARRL Headquarters, their messages, and their shared passion for amateur radio. Her outlook reflected her resilience and practicality. As one colleague remembered her saying, “Eh, it is what it is — and we’ll now fix it and make it better!”
Throughout her 32 years of service, Sharon supported countless members with grace, patience, and a genuine desire to help. She cared deeply about her coworkers and the amateur radio community she served. Her steady presence and kind heart will be greatly missed.
An online remembrance is available.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
NCVEC Question Pool Committee Removes Three Questions from Use
02/06/2026
The National Conference of Volunteer Examiner Coordinators (NCVEC) Question Pool Committee (QPC) has removed two questions from the General Class question pool and one question from the Extra Class pool from use.
Due to recently published FCC rule changes affecting the 60‑meter band (see previous ARRL News story), General Class questions G1A04 and G1C09 are no longer valid and must be removed from use on examinations. Extra Class question E4D05 must also be removed because it contains more than one correct answer. All affected questions should be removed from examinations as soon as possible.
Updated General Class question pool files, including the errata and new information, have been posted to the NCVEC General Class question pool web page at www.ncvec.org/index.php/2023-2027-general-question-pool-release. The current Element 3 General question pool became effective on July 1, 2023, and it is valid through June 30, 2027.
Updated question pool files have also been posted to the NCVEC Extra Class question pool web page at www.ncvec.org/index.php/2024-2028-extra-class-question-pool-release. The current Element 4 Extra question pool became effective on July 1, 2024, and it is valid through June 30, 2028.
The ARRL VEC advises the amateur radio community, and particularly Volunteer Examiners (VEs), to regularly check the NCVEC website at www.ncvec.org for updates to the question pools, which may include errata and withdrawn questions.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
ARRL Joins America250 as a Supporting Partner for the Nation’s 250th Anniversary
02/05/2026
Newington, CT — February 5, 2026 — ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio® announced today that it is a Supporting Partner of America250, joining the nationwide celebration of the 250th anniversary of our country in 2026.
America250 is the national, nonpartisan organization charged by Congress to lead the commemoration of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, a milestone that marks America’s Semiquincentennial. Through education, engagement, and service, America250 seeks to bring Americans together to reflect on the nation’s history and renew commitment to the ideals that unite us.
As a Supporting Partner, ARRL will contribute to America250’s mission by highlighting the historic and ongoing role of amateur radio in connecting people, supporting public service, and strengthening civic engagement across the United States. Since its founding in 1914, ARRL and its members have played a vital role in technical innovation, emergency communications, and volunteer service in communities.
“Amateur radio has been part of the American story since the earliest days of wireless communication,” said ARRL President Rick Roderick, K5UR. “For more than a century, the Amateur Radio Service has advanced the nation’s communications capabilities by fostering technical innovation, developing a pool of trained and skilled operators, strengthening emergency and public service communications, and promoting international goodwill. These enduring contributions reflect why amateur radio continues to serve the public interest as a uniquely resilient and volunteer-driven national resource.”
“As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, it’s important to recognize the organizations and volunteers who have connected and served communities for generations,” said Jen Condon, Executive Vice President of America250. “Amateur radio reflects the spirit of service, innovation, and civic engagement at the heart of our nation’s story, and we’re proud to welcome ARRL as a Supporting Partner in this historic commemoration.”
ARRL is also strengthening STEM education by bringing amateur radio into American classrooms through hands-on, project-based curricula and teacher training. By connecting youth with real-world experiences, these programs bridge educational gaps, boost student achievement, and open pathways to higher education and careers in wireless communications and related technical fields.
As part of its alignment with the US Semiquincentennial, ARRL is advancing several major initiatives throughout the year:
ARRL Year of the Club. The ARRL Board of Directors has designated 2026 as the Year of the Club, recognizing the essential role that local amateur radio clubs play in building community, mentoring new operators, and delivering public service at the grassroots level. This nationwide focus celebrates clubs as engines of civic engagement and local connection. Icom America is the Official Sponsor of the ARRL Year of the Club. [More information.]
America250 Worked All States Operating Event. ARRL has already launched the America250 Worked All States (WAS) year-long event, calling on amateur radio operators worldwide to make contact with all 50 US states in honor of America’s 250th anniversary. ARRL will produce an achievement award for radio amateurs who meet the challenge. [More information.]
2026 ARRL Field Day is June 27 – 28. ARRL announces that the theme of 2026 ARRL Field Day will be “Amateur Radio: A National Resource.” Field Day is an annual amateur radio activity organized since 1933, and the largest on-the-air operating event in North America. Field Day showcases amateur radio’s readiness to provide resilient communications in times of need while engaging the public through hands-on demonstrations and community outreach. [More information.]
ARRL’s partnership with America250 reflects a shared commitment to honoring America’s past while investing in the civic, technical, and volunteer spirit that will carry the nation forward.
For more information, visit www.arrl.org/America250.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Former FCC official John B. Johnston, W3BE, Silent Key
01/31/2026
John B. Johnston, W3BE (SK), of Derwood, Maryland, passed away on January 7, 2026. He was 98 years old. Born in Zanesville, Ohio, Johnson was a World War II veteran and served in the Pacific Theater.
He was first licensed on March 15, 1954, as KN2HHR. Following military service and college, he worked for the General Electric Company, and then as an engineer for the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). He retired in 1998 as branch chief in the Private Radio Bureau specializing in the Amateur Radio Service.
ARRL Radiosport and Regulatory Information Manager Bart Jahnke, W9JJ, reflected on his passing saying, “Johnny was heavily involved in the changing landscape of FCC regulations, including the implementation of the Volunteer Examiner system and ‘no-code’ amateur radio licenses. He would attend the annual NCVEC (National Conference of Volunteer Examiner Coordinators) meetings, bringing key FCC staff from DC and Gettysburg to support our work, and later volunteering for the NCVEC and its Question Pool Committee after his retirement.”
Johnston often participated in the FCC Forum at Dayton Hamvention®, and was honored as Hamvention “Ham of the Year” in 1991. He held several roles for the Quarter Century Wireless Association, including President from 2004 to 2008. Johnson also authored articles for several radio publications, including QST, and was an ARRL Charter Life Member.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
North Carolina Students Scheduled to Make Contact with the International Space Station
01/30/2026
580 students at Conn Magnet Elementary School in Raleigh, North Carolina, will participate in a conversation with an astronaut on board the International Space Station (ISS). Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) has confirmed the contact, scheduled for Friday, January 30, 2026, just after 10:00 AM EST.
Radio communications will be provided by the Raleigh Amateur Radio Society under the leadership of John Brier, K4EB. “This contact could not have been possible without a $14,000 grant from Amateur Radio Digital Communications (ARDC), said Brier. “The new equipment, which is in cases and movable, will allow us to provide communications for other schools in the area.” Brier added that club members are being trained to operate the gear and it can be loaned to other clubs for use in future ARISS contacts.
Today’s contact will be with NASA astronaut and medical physicist Christopher Williams, KJ5GE. Twelve students will be asking questions, two in each grade level, from kindergarten through fifth grade. All 12 students will be wearing special T-shirts designed by a second grader who won the school’s T-shirt logo contest. Students also had a chance to create a logo for a keychain and there was a winner for each grade. Every student will get their grade level keychain to mark the ARISS event.
The event will be livestreamed at youtube.com/live/tOj-SpbmA30?feature=share and live.ariss.org.
ARISS is a cooperative venture of international amateur radio societies and the space agencies that support the ISS. In the US, participating organizations include NASA’s Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) program, the ISS National Laboratory — Space Station Explorers, ARRL, and AMSAT.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
New 60-Meter Frequencies Available as of February 13
01/15/2026
The new 60-meter frequencies approved by the FCC in December will become available to amateurs as of February 13, 2026, along with new power restrictions on those frequencies. It’s a bit confusing, as different rules apply to different segments of the band. The changes result from the FCC’s action to approve a worldwide 60-meter amateur allocation made by the World Radiocommunication Conference in 2015 (WRC-15). See https://tinyurl.com/mt8p8jpa.
As of February 13, FCC-licensed amateur operators holding General Class or higher licenses may operate on a secondary basis anywhere between 5351.5 and 5366.5 kHz, subject to a maximum bandwidth of 2.8 kHz and maximum transmit power of 9.15 watts ERP (effective radiated power). For the purpose of computing ERP, the transmitter PEP (peak envelope power) is multiplied by the antenna gain relative to a half-wave dipole antenna. A half-wave dipole is presumed to have a gain of 1 (0 dBd). Amateurs using other antennas must maintain in their station records either the antenna manufacturer’s data on the antenna gain or calculations of the antenna gain.
Here’s the confusing part: The existing 60-meter channels centered on 5332, 5348, 5373, and 5405 kHz remain as secondary amateur allocations with maximum power of 100 watts ERP. However, the old channel at 5358.5 kHz is eliminated as it is now part of the new 5351.5-5366.5 kHz subband and subject to the lower power limit.
For all 60-meter transmissions, emission bandwidth is limited to 2.8 kHz or less and amateurs must not cause harmful interference to, and must accept interference from, stations authorized by the United States (NTIA and FCC) and other nations in the fixed service; and all other nations in the mobile service (except aeronautical mobile). Data or RTTY emissions in particular must be limited in transmission length so as not to cause harmful interference. Digital mode operators must be familiar with offsets in order to stay within the authorized frequencies.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
ARRL to announce winner of Icom® Dream Station at HamCation®
01/30/2026
ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio® will announce the winner of the ARRL Sweepstakes Icom® Dream Station at Orlando HamCation®, coming to the Central Florida Fairgrounds February 13 – 15, 2026.
Hosted by the Orlando Amateur Radio Club and serving as the ARRL Southeastern Division Convention, HamCation features exhibits, technical and operating forums, a large flea market and tailgate area, and opportunities to meet ARRL officials and program representatives. Attendees can learn about initiatives, including the ARRL Year of the Club and the America250 Worked All States Award.
A Saturday night banquet will include the presentation of HamCation Awards and a keynote address from ARRL Senior Director of Marketing and Innovation Bob Inderbitzen, NQ1R. Details and updates are available at hamcation.com.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
ARRL Director Tharp, KB7HDX, Receives Search-and-Rescue Award
01/30/2026
Mark Tharp, KB7HDX, Director of the ARRL Northwestern Division, has received the Hall of Honor Award for 35 years of service to the Yakima Search and Rescue group.
Tharp called the award “unexpected and very much appreciated,” adding, “You don’t do volunteer work to get awards, you do it because it’s needed and makes a difference.”
Tharp was first licensed in 1989 and now holds an Extra Class license. He became a ham after spending time with a ham friend, while exploring the mountains in the northwestern United States. “The Yakima Search and Rescue group continues to grow and help volunteers train and keep over 100 sports-related locations safe,” said Tharp. He remembered one particular rescue that involved a young boy and his cat.
The boy had been missing for several hours and it was getting dark and cloudy. “We were tired but didn’t quit. I sat down on a hillside and using an infrared camera…we were able to find him and his cat…cold but OK,” lamented Tharp.
Tharp is retired now but as the ARRL Northwestern Division Director, he represents members in Alaska, Montana, Idaho, Washington, and Oregon. He is an ARRL Life Member and a member of the ARRL Diamond Club and ARRL Maxim Society.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
ARRL Honorary Vice President John Cadwallader Kanode, N4MM (SK)
John Cadwallader Kanode, N4MM, of Boyce, Virginia, passed away on January 13, 2026. He was 88 years old. First licensed in 1952, Kanode served on the Board of Directors of ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio, for 21 years, first as Roanoke Division Vice Director, then Director, and Vice President. He was a member of the ARRL Maxim Society (President Class), a Life Member, and was named ARRL Honorary Vice President in 2003.
A remembrance from his hometown radio club, the Shenandoah Valley Amateur Radio Club, of which he was a founding member, notes that Kanode made hundreds of thousands of contacts in his lifetime, earning nearly every top award available to amateur radio operators from every nation in the world. He attained DXCC Honor Roll, the DXCC Challenge Award, CQ DX Hall of Fame in 2000, and in 2025, he earned the latest ARRL award, the DXCC Trident.
In 1984, Kanode received the ARRL Roanoke Division Special Service Award. He also served as manager of the W4/K4/N4 ARRL QSL Bureau, and as a Volunteer Examiner (VE) he had 223 VE sessions to his credit. He was a member of the Quarter Century Wireless Association (QCWA), AMSAT – The Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation, the International DX Association (INDEXA), and the International Radio Club of America (IRCA). He also belonged to the North Shenandoah DX Association, the National Capitol DX Association, and the Potomac Valley Radio Club.
Kanode served in the US Air Force and worked for several years with Sandia Corporation in New Mexico, retiring from IBM in 1993.
A memorial service will be held at 11 AM on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at Enders & Shirley Funeral Home Chapel, Berryville, Virginia (www.endersandshirley.com/obituary/john-kanode).
NNNN
/EX
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
HAM-CON, the ARRL Vermont State Convention will be Saturday, February 28
at the Hampton Inn Colchester, conveniently located at I-89, Exit 16. HAM-CON is unique as it is the only hybrid convention. If you are unable to travel, you can join the forums and demonstrations on-line from the comfort of home.
We have another great show planned. Elecraft co-owner Wayne Burdick N6KR will do a presentation on the various Elecraft radios you might consider. The World Radio Team Championship (WRTC) will be held in England this July and chairman Mark M0DXR will be available to tell us about it. We’ll have forums on POTA activations, operating the ham satellites and operating on the long wave bands. Demonstrations will include AREDN, DMR and our HF station W1V. Add to this the flea market, ham exams, game shows, door prizes and hundreds of hams and you have a great time in the making. If you buy your tickets now, it is only $8 for a regular admission ticket. Don’t wait – the price goes up to $14 after February 14. Check the web site for vendor pricing. Not sure you will be going? Buy your ticket anyway. If you cannot attend in person, watch the event on-line either during or after the event. And if you have to travel a ways, we have a special rate of $99 at the Hampton Inn. Come up and spend a fun weekend. But do this now as the hotel deal expires February 1.
HAM-CON Web: https://www.ham-con.org/
HAM-CON Tix: https://www.ham-con.org/hamconpay.html
Another great event we have going on is the Vermont QSO Party February 7-8. And for this year, we will activate W1AW/1 during the week before and right after the QSO Party.
VT QSO Party: https://www.ranv.org/vtqso.html
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
2026 is ARRL’s Year of the Club — A Celebration of Amateur Radio Clubs
01/02/2026
ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio® is launching a year-long celebration that puts the spotlight squarely where it belongs — on radio clubs. Beginning January 1, 2026, ARRL officially recognizes the Year of the Club, an initiative designated by the ARRL Board of Directors to honor the vital role clubs play in sustaining, growing, and energizing amateur radio.
Radio clubs are the backbone of ARRL and of the Amateur Radio Service itself. For countless hams, a club is the first welcoming doorway into the hobby — a place to learn, to operate, to build, and to belong. Clubs create opportunities for mentoring, public service, technical exploration, and lifelong friendships. Simply put, when clubs thrive, amateur radio thrives.
Throughout 2026, all ARRL Affiliated Clubs are invited to participate in special programs, operating events, and recognition opportunities designed to celebrate club accomplishments and inspire new ideas. ARRL will be rolling out initiatives focused on supporting club growth, strengthening activities, and recognizing clubs that help expand ARRL membership or reach significant milestones, including 100 years of ARRL Affiliation.
New Ways to Celebrate and Compete
Two exciting contests are already under way to kick off the Year of the Club, highlighting how clubs connect with members and the broader community. Details for entering the ARRL Club Newsletter Contest and ARRL Club Website Contest are available now, with a shared submission deadline of January 30, 2026, at 4 PM Eastern Time.
The ARRL Club Newsletter Contest recognizes that newsletters are often the heartbeat of a club — sharing news, and keeping members connected and involved.
Does your radio club have a great website that supports club members but also attracts attention for your club? Consider entering the ARRL Club Website Contest. Club websites play an increasingly important role in outreach, public service visibility, and attracting new members to amateur radio.
Winners will be notified in May 2026, honored at the ARRL National Convention being hosted by the Huntsville Hamfest in August, and featured in QST.
A New Home for Clubs Online
In preparation for the Year of the Club, ARRL has launched a new Clubs website, offering a modernized, accessible hub for Affiliated Clubs, prospective clubs, and individual hams looking to get involved with a club. The site brings together information about club benefits, locations, resources, and ARRL Affiliation — all in one place.
A standout new feature is the Club Map search tool, which lets users locate radio clubs by ZIP code and displays both an interactive map and a list of nearby clubs. Try it at clubs.arrl.org/map.
A new, streamlined, online application also simplifies the process for becoming a new ARRL Affiliated Club. And all clubs can use the new Member Verification tool as they set a club goal to increase ARRL membership among club members. The result is faster service, easier updates, and better support for the Affiliated Clubs. Everyone is encouraged to explore the new site and pages at clubs.arrl.org and affiliatedclubs.arrl.org.
Be Radio Active in 2026
The message for 2026 is clear: Celebrate what your radio club already does well, try something new, and be radio active. Whether your club is small or large, new or nearing a century as an ARRL Affiliated Club, the Year of the Club is an invitation to connect, innovate, and share your story.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
The latest ARRL Letter is at:
http://www.arrl.org/arrlletter/?issue=2026-02-12
The latest ARES-Letter is at:
http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/ares-el/?issue=2026-01-23
The latest NTS Letter is at:
http://www.arrl.org/nts-letter?issue=2026-02-03
The latest ARRL Contest Update Newsletter is at:
http://www.arrl.org/contests/update/?issue=2026-02-04
The latest ARRL Club News is at:
http://www.arrl.org/club-news?issue=2026-01-20
ARRL Member Bulletin:
http://www.arrl.org/member-bulletin?issue=2025-10-10
ARRL Current:
http://arrl.org/arrl-magazines
Radio Waves:
To receive Radio Waves, register as an ARRL Instructor or Teacher, or simply edit your personal profile to select Radio Waves as one of your email subscriptions.
Radio Waves aims to showcase how educators and license class instructors are getting their students and local communities involved in ham radio. These efforts deserve to be documented and shared. The contributors are teachers and instructors who are currently bringing amateur radio into the classrooms and beyond, just like you!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
ARRL DX news bulletin:
|
|
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
NLI ~ National Traffic System STATS:
| TRAFFIC NETS | JAN. | 2026 | |||||||
| Sessions | QNI | QTC | QSP | QTR | |||||
|
BA |
31 | 531 | 5 | 5 | 876 | ||||
| ESS | 31 | 325 | 44 | ||||||
| NCVHFTN | 27 | 82 | 0 | 0 | 284 | ||||
| NLISTN | NR | ||||||||
| NYS/E | 31 | 114 | 52 | 52 | 251 | ||||
|
|
|||||||||
| Station Activity | JAN. | 2026 | |||||||
| SAR | O | R | S | D | T | ||||
|
KD2TDG |
0 | 5 | 1 | 4 | 10 | ||||
|
0 | 1 | 8 | 0 |
9 |
||||
| WB2JNQ | 26 | 66 | 33 | 56 | 181 | ||||
|
|
|||||||||
| PUBLIC SERVICE | JAN. | 2026 | |||||||
|
PSHR |
1/Nets | 2/Tffc | 3/Pos | 4/Pub | 5/Emg | 6/Dig | TOT | ||
| KD2TDG | 40 | 10 | 20 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 70 | ||
| WB2JNQ | 40 | 40 | 10 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 90 | ||
|
Digital Activity |
JAN | 2026 | |||||||
| DTR | R | S | T | ||||||
| KD2MDV | 0 | 12 | 12 | ||||||
| 73, | |||||||||
| Eugene KD2MDV | |||||||||
| ASTM NLI
|
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
NTS INFORMATION
NYS/M*/ 10am local time daily /*NYS/E*/ 7pm local time daily /*NYS/L*/
10pm local time daily –
As of now the frequency for all things NTS in NY is 3576. The alternate
freq. is usually 7042 kHz ± but 80 is starting to go long again, so if
you can get on top band, the alternate of 1807 kHz.
INDEPENDENT CW NETS which maintain close association with the NTS.
Empire Slow Speed Net (ESS) 6pm daily on 3566 kHz . Alt. 7044 kHz ±
Hit and Bounce Slow Speed Traffic Net (HBSN) 7112 kHz at 7:30 am daily.
Hit and Bounce Net (HBN) 8:30 am daily on 7112 kHz
NTS SECTION LEVEL HF/phone nets:
New York Public Operations Net (NYPON) 5pm daily on 3925 kHz ± QRM,
alternate freq. 3913 kHz
The NTS local nets are:
Big Apple Traffic Net now meets @ 8:00 PM on 446.675 – 114.8 PL
Nassau Co. VHF Net Tuesday thru Sunday at 7:30pm. Pri: 146.805/R (136.5pl)Alt.1:
147.135/R (136.5pl) Alt.2: 443.525/R (114.8)
NCVHFTN Website: : http://www.nassautraffic.net
NLI Student Skywarn / Traffic Net
Meetings
Off for summer
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Digital Traffic:
KD2MDV, KD2MEN, and W2ITT are now operational as a Digital Relay Stations on HF winlink representing the New York City/Long Island Section.
Club Meetings and Information:
The Club listing is always being updated. Please submit your meeting
information to w2kfv@arrl.org
NOTE: Always check with the club to verify the date, time and
location of the events/meetings listed here.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
ARCECS
Due to construction at The American Red Cross in Mineola, our meetings will be virtual via Zoom until further notice.
First Tuesday of every month (except August) our monthly local repeater Net will start at 7:30pm and finish by 7:50pm – Net will commence on: WB2QBP/r – 442.650MHz + 5Mhz/141.3 Tone access.
The Net will be followed by our Zoom virtual General Business Meeting at 8:00pm.
Here are the particulars for attending our TUESDAY meeting:
- Monthly ARC ECS Net on WB2QBP/r (442.650 MHz +5MHz/141.3Hz tone) at 7:30pm (EST) All Members and non-Members are invited to participate if they are within range of our analog system. The Net will close at 7:50pm, FOLLOWED BY:
Meeting is by invite from our President, Ms Deborah Kerr KC2GPV:
- ZOOM ARC ECS General Business Meeting, starting at 8:00pm (EST). The lag time will allow members and any invited guests time to virtually move over & login via their own PC, tablet, iPad or mobile device. After the Net, there will be “social” time before & after the meeting on Zoom as needed.
For more information go to their website: http://www.arcecs.org
Please contact Leonard Smith (PIO) at: n2ldv@arrl.net for information.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
BONAC Amateur Radio Club (BARC)
BARC meets the 4th Thursday of the month at 6:00 PM at the Amagansett
Library (except November, which is on the 3rd Thursday). For more
information please go to the club website at http://www.bonacarc.org
Or contact President Eddie Schnell, WZ2Y at wz2y@arrl.net
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Brookhaven National Labs Amateur Radio Club (BNLARC)
President ; Joe Levesque III – AC2ND ac2nd@arrl.net
For more information please go to the club website at http://www.arc.bnl.gov/BNLARC/Home.html
++++++++++++++++++
Camp Pouch Amateur Radio Association (WA2CP) http://www.wa2cp.org
Meetings are held on the 2nd Saturday of each month. 1 PM. At the William H. Pouch Scout Camp, 1465 Manor Road, Staten Island. Club E Mail, info@wa2cp.org
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Grumman ARC (GARC) http://www.qsl.net/wa2lqo/
Meetings are held on the fourth Wednesday of each month at the Haypath Road Park in Old Bethpage, starting at 5:30 PM.
GARC VE sessions are held on the second Tuesday of each month in the meeting rooms at the Bethpage Community Park in Bethpage, starting at 5:00 PM.
Contact: Ed Gellender at wb2eav@yahoo.com
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Great South Bay ARC
GSBARC Monthly meetings are the last Thursday of the month, 8PM.
Babylon Town Hall EOC, 200 East Sunrise Hwy, North Lindenhurst. GSBARC
Monthly VE are the 4th Saturday starting 10:00 am. For more
information, Contact AB2ZI Kevin Morgan at kmorgan6@optonline.net.
Please see the club website for directions http://www.gsbarc.org/
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
HOSARC
The NY Hall of Science ARC has general membership meetings on the
second Tuesday of each month, 7:30 PM, with the exception of July and August.
The meetings are a time to take care of club business, listen to a
great speaker regarding an interesting topic related to ham radio, and
to make new friends and catch up with old friends. The club has its
meetings at the Fort Totten Coast Guard Auxiliary
611 Little Bay Road
Bayside, NY 11359
Outside Staircase is in the back to 2nd floor
Please check the clubs website at www.hosarc.org for more detailed
information.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Kings County Radio Club (KC2RC)
Club Meeting Info:
Zoom Virtual Meeting Software
1st Wednesday of Each Month
7:00 PM – Pre-Meeting (informal discussion, questions, etc.)
8:00 PM – General Meeting (Club business, etc. The meeting can continue until 8:30 to 9:30)
Presently we have our meetings by Zoom virtual meeting software. Anyone can request a link to our next meeting by requesting one by email to Roy AC2GS (at AC2GS@AC2GS.com) and identifying themselves (anonymous email addresses are insufficient).
Our 2 Meter Nets Tuesdays at 9:00 PM, 146.730 Pl 88.5 -600hz Encode / Decode
Our 2 Meter Tech Net is Second and Fourth Wednesday of Every Month At 9:00 PM 146.730 Pl 88.5 – 600hz Encode / Decode
Our 10 Meter KCRC Net Sunday 10 Meter Net 28.380.0 USB Every Sunday 11:00 AM Eastern Time Zone
We now have Wire-X Room KCRC-RPT #85663.
To listen to Digital Side and 2 Meter Club Net Stream us when you are away from your radios
https://www.kingscountyradioclub.com/stream/
Kings County Radio Club Facebook Page
https://www.facebook.com/groups/kingscountyradioclub/
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Larkfield Amateur Radio Club
Club Meetings and Information:
Larkfield Amateur Radio Club
Club Meetings are in person/virtual
Larkfield Amateur Radio Club meetings take place at 7:30 PM on the second Thursday of every month, at the Halesite Fire Department, 1 North New York Ave, Halesite, NY 11743.
Utilize the Town Park parking lot to the rear of the building. Do NOT park in Firefighter parking spots. Use rear entrance and take elevator to 2nd floor meeting room.
ZOOM invitations are emailed to all members on the club roster. Guests are welcome to join. For more information contact: larkfieldarc@gmail.com
Club website http://www.larkfield.org/
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Long Island Amateur Radio Simplex Club
The LIARS Club meets on the first Tuesday of the month at Newfield High
School in Selden, NY at 7:30PM. All are welcome. Our web site is:
www.lisimplex.org Contact: Tim MoDavis, KA2VZX at ka2vzx@arrl.net
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Long Island CW Club:
LICW holds 75 classes and classes and forums weekly on Zoom covering CW instruction and many interesting topics on radio and related technology. The club has grown quickly to 3000 members in 50 states and 43 countries. LICW has local events such as portable outings and luncheons. More outings will be planned as Covid eventually eases. LICW has taught CW to over 350 kids with a number getting licenses. Programs for members with disabilities such as hearing impairments are available. LICW has a very unique website dedicated to all aspects of CW: Learn Morse Code – CW with The Long Island CW Club
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Long Island DX Association (LIDXA)
Zoom Virtual Meeting
For club details, see our Web site, or contact Jack
Phelan, NU2Q, LIDXA Secretary at jackp05@aol.com for further
information.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Long Island Mobile Amateur Radio Club (LIMARC)
LIMARC meets the second Wednesday each month, 8PM at Levittown Hall,
201 Levittown Parkway, Hicksville, NY. All are welcome. Bring a
friend!
Webpage is: http://www.limarc.org
Club Contact: President, Richie Cetron, k2knb@limarc.org
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Long Island Transmitter Hunters (LITHARC)
Seeking new participants A group of Long Island transmitter hunting
enthusiasts has been conducting hunts on Friday nights with an
occasional Sunday event and we are seeking new participants to join in
the fun. Anyone interested in learning more about the activity of radio
direction finding and radio fox hunting is invited to come out as
a hunter or rider. A LITHARC discussion group (Long Island Transmitter
Hunters ARC) has been established on Groups IO as a central
information and communications site.
You are welcome to sign up to keep informed about upcoming events. If
you would like our group to conduct a hunt in your area that would
include members of your radio club, please let us know. For more
information, contact Larry, WA2SUH at wa2suh@aol.com
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Nassau Amateur Radio Club (NARC) http://www.k2vn.org/
Meetings every Monday night at 7:30 PM in Eisenhower Park in East Meadow
at the Lannin House, Field #6 / 6A. The General meeting is the last
Monday of the month at 7:30 PM. All are welcome. Contact Mike Croce, N2PPI, President at n2ppi.mike@gmail.com
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
New York City Repeater Association (NYCRA)
Meets the second Thursday of the month (except for July and August)
Meetings are held at the South Beach Psych Center, 777 Seaview Ave.
Off Father Cappodano Blvd., in Building 10. The meeting will start
promptly at 8 pm.
Staten Island ARES meets at the same location starting at 7pm.
Talk in frequency is 447.375 minus shift pl. 141.3
All are welcome, members and non-members.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Peconic Amateur Radio Club (PARC)
PARC’s regular club meeting is held the first Sunday of each month (except in July) at the Custer Institute and Observatory 1115 Main Bayview Road Southold, New York 11971
See the PARC website at www.w2amc.org for our current club activities, meeting details and contact information
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Radio Central Amateur Radio Club
RCAC meets the last Wednesday
of most months from 6:30-9PM at the Middle Country Public Library;
101 Eastwood Blvd, Centereach, NY 11720
+40.8654, -73.0800
Each month, meeting details are on our web site: http://www.rcarc.org
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Radio Club of Junior High School 22 NYC
Joe Fairclough-WB2JKJ
President
PO Box 1052
New York NY 10002
Telephone 516-674-4072 Mobile/Text 516-658-6947
*** Meet us on THE CLASSROOM NET, 7.238 MHz, 7:00-8:30 am, Monday thru Friday.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Staten Island Amateur Radio Association (SIARA)
From President Neal “Rich” Balas, W2RB:
Due to the current COVID pandemic, all meetings and VE Sessions have been
suspended until further notice
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Suffolk County Radio Club (SCRC)
Please be advised that the SCRC meeting dates will now be held on the last Monday of the month, Beginning on April 25,2002. The board meeting will begin at 7pm and the general meeting will start at 8:00 pm. Our new meeting will now be held at :
Longwood Youth / LYSA Sports Complex
210 Meadows Blvd E
Yaphank, NY 11980
Contact Richie Geraci, KD2NJA, at kd2nja@gmail.com
Or go to their NEW website, http://www.suffolkcountyradioclub.net
The Suffolk County Radio Club holds weekly nets on the W2DQ repeater.All are welcome to check-in. The repeater is in Yaphank, NY on 145.210 MHz / negative ( – ) 600 kHz shift / PL 162.2 . Their back up machine has a 136.5 PL
SCRC Information & Rag chew Net
Round table discussions, Club news and information, technical topics and for sale items. Wednesday 8:00 PM
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Symbol Technologies Amateur Radio Club
The Symbol Technologies Amateur Radio Club is dedicated to serving the
amateur radio community and the general public on Long Island, New
York. The club operates under the vanity call sign of W2SBL.. Email:
Jim Fuccello, AG2I at jim.fuccello@zebra.com for more details
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Wantagh Amateur Radio Club
Meetings are held on the second Friday of each month at 7:30 PM at the
Wantagh Public Library, 3285 Park Ave, Wantagh, NY 11793. Entrance to
the meeting room is at the rear of the library, adjacent to the
parking-lot. For more information, see the club’s website at
http://www.qsl.net/w2va
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES)
New York City:
DEC: Martin Grillo, W1EMR, w1emr@arrl.net
ADEC: Frank J. Racaniello, KE2ARA, ke2ara@arrl.net
EC: Kings / Queens: Simon Wurster, K2FH, k2fh@arrl.net
AEC: L. Sugai, N2UJG, n2ujg@arrl.net
Nassau County:
DEC : Ken Kobetitsch, KD2GXL, kd2gxl@ncaresmail.net
ADEC : Robert Jagde, KD2GRS, kd2grs@ncaresmail.net
Nassau County ARES meets monthly on the 4th Thursday at 7:30 pm.
Meetings are held at the American Red Cross 195 Willis Ave. Mineola , NY
For more information about local ARES groups, contact the
following Emergency Coordinators:
Suffolk County:
DEC: John Melfi, W2HCB suffolkcountydec@outlook.com
EC;s
Town of Smithtown: Rich Johnston, KC2TON, kc2ton@arrl.net
Smithtown meets on the 2nd Monday of every month at the Smithtown EOC – 7:30PM.
We also hold weekly Nets on Monday’s at 7:30 pm, (W2LRC/145.43, PL 136.5 Larkfield Repeater)
Town of Brookhaven: Joe Schierer, KC2BZB, kc2bzb@arrl.net
2nd Monday of the month at the Middle Country Library,
101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach, NY at 7:30 pm
Town of Riverhead: Steve Casko, W2SFC, w2sfc@arrl.net
Monthly meeting TBD
Town of Southampton: Vacant
Town of Southold: Don Fisher, N2QHV, n2qhv@arrl.net
ARES announcements and business conducted during the Peconic ARC
meetings.
1st Friday of the month at 6:30 pm. Mattituck Public Library on the Main Road
(route 25) in Mattituck.
Town of East Hampton: Eddie Schnell,WZ2Y, wz2y@arrl.net
4th Thursday of the month at 6:00 pm during the BONAC ARC meeting
(except November which is on the 3rd Thursday). Amagansett
Library, Amagansett
Town of Shelter Island: Vacant
Town of Islip: Phil Jacobs, W2UV, w2uv@arrl.net
Other Stuff :
[DX]
John Reiser, W2GW is the section DXCC card checker and is available for
field checking of QSL cards for your DXCC Award. John is available by
appointment at his home in West Hempstead for card checking, and at all
LIDXA meetings. If some lives far from him, John is willing to meet them
half way at a diner or someplace. Contact John at w2gw@arrl.net
Aaron Broges, WC2C and Tom Carrubba, KA2D are also DXCC card checkers. Aaron and Tom are also members of the LIDXA and is usually available for DXCC QSL checking at the monthly LIDXA meetings (along with W2GW).
Approved DXCC card checkers can also check cards for WAS and VUCC
awards as well.
NLI DX Spotting Clusters:
AA2MF Staten Island-NY, dxc.aa2mf.net
K2LS Greensboro- NC. dxc.k2ls.com
K2LS is still a popular spot for many NLI DXers.
+++++++++++++++++++++++-
ARRL Additional :
Finding ham radio classes a mouse click away! A new user-friendly
feature on the ARRL Web site-the ARRL Amateur Licensing Class Search
Page-lets prospective hams search for a licensing class in their area.
It also allows ARRL registered instructors to list their classes on the
Web. Visitors can search for classes by ZIP code, ARRL Section or
state.
http://www.arrl.org/FandES/courses/
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
ARES E-Letter, sign up now!
The ARES E-Letter is an e-mail digest of news and information of
interest to active members of the ARRL Amateur Radio Emergency Service
(ARES) and to hams concerned with public service and emergency
communications. ARRL members may subscribe to The ARES E-Letter by
going to the Member Data Page at:
http://www.arrl.org/members-only/memdata.html?modify=1
Check the box for ARES E-Letter (monthly public service and
emergency communications news) and you’re all set. Past issues of
The ARES E-Letter are available at: http://www.arrl.org/ares-el/ Issues
are posted to this page after publication.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Repeaters:
MetroCor is coordinating body for the New York metro area. MetroCor is
the established coordinating body for the New York Metro area,
inclusive of New York City, Long Island, Westchester County and the
majority of Northern New Jersey. You must apply for coordination
through MetroCor if you wish to establish a new system on Amateur Radio
Spectrum above 29.5 MHz. These and any other matters related to repeater
systems coordination are welcomed by MetroCor. They invite you to
visit their website at: http://www.metrocor.net. You can also direct
questions to their e-mail at metrocor@metrocor.net.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
NLI Staff :
DEC New York City: Martin Grillo, W1EMR, w1emr@arrl.net
DEC Nassau County: Ken Kobetitsch, KD2GXL, kd2gxl@ncaresmail.net
DEC Suffolk County : John Melfi, W2HCB, w2hcb@arrl.net
Affiliated Club Coordinator : Richie Cetron, K2KNB, k2knb@arrl.net
Technical Coordinator: Steve Barreres K2CX, k2cx@arrl.net
Public Information Coordinator : Mel Granick, KS2G, ks2g@arrl.net
State Government Liaison: George Tranos N2GA, n2ga@arrl.net
Section Traffic Manager: Todd Walerstein, KD2CBV
Assistant Section Traffic Manager: Eugene Boychenko, KD2MDV, kd2mdv@arrl.net
Assistant Section Managers:
Webmaster: Mitch Cohen N2RGA, n2rga@arrl.net
Skywarn: John Hale, KD2LPM, kd2lpm@arrl.net
Comments
February 2026 NYC-LI Section Newsletter — No Comments
HTML tags allowed in your comment: <a href="" title=""> <abbr title=""> <acronym title=""> <b> <blockquote cite=""> <cite> <code> <del datetime=""> <em> <i> <q cite=""> <s> <strike> <strong>