http://www.k1pu.com/index.htmlHot News!enmarkm@cmtelephone.comCopyright 2010 Mark Mokoski2011-04-17T11:15:48-04:00 hourly 1 2000-01-01T12:00+00:00 Sun, 17 Apr 2011 11:24:45 -0400markm@cmtelephone.comContesting2011-04-17T11:15:48-04:00http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/ddf6e24a0783fdefdb8a9e54800691dd-27.html#unique-entry-id-27http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/ddf6e24a0783fdefdb8a9e54800691dd-27.html#unique-entry-id-27

The 2011 running of the New England QSO Party is just around the corner!
This has become a premiere event in New England and a good chance to experience being at the other end of a pile up!
Dates are May 7 & 8
The contest is split into two parts, Saturday May 7 from 4PM EDT to 1AM EDT (Sunday morning), and Sunday May 8th 9AM EDT to 8PM EDT.
FInd some time and make some QSO’s.

Full rules and other important info is at www.neqp.org
Also as of this posting, 2010 scores and records data has been updated and available on the NEQP web site.

K1PU
]]>markm@cmtelephone.comQCWA2011-03-28T19:37:44-04:00http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/88e964fb8363d4aa5af2d0808f5a54eb-26.html#unique-entry-id-26http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/88e964fb8363d4aa5af2d0808f5a54eb-26.html#unique-entry-id-26

Chapter 149 member and long serving ARRL Communications Manager (retired!),
George Hart W1NJM was presented with the QCWA 80 Years continuously licensed award.
Presenting George with this honor was QCWA 149 members Al Cohen W1FXQ (who is closing in on his 80th!),
chapter secretary Steve Ewald WV1X and from ARRL HQ, Joel Kleinman N1BKE.


W1NJM left, W1FXQ center ,WV1X right - photo by Joel Kleinman N1BKE

]]>markm@cmtelephone.comQCWA2011-03-19T20:24:34-04:00http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/5ab5cab7ef27f24f485bb540f680cbac-24.html#unique-entry-id-24http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/5ab5cab7ef27f24f485bb540f680cbac-24.html#unique-entry-id-24

It is with great regret I must inform the readers that Walt W1YOC has become a Silent Key.
My sympathy goes out to Norma W1UBM, Walt’s XYL.

Below is an extract of Walt’s obituary.

Walter J. Kornacki

Norwich Conn. - Walter J. Kornacki of Norwich, a native and lifelong resident of the Greeneville section, died Thursday, March 17, 2011, at home of complications from Parkinson's disease.

He was born in Norwich, on Sept. 15, 1933, the son of the late Alexander and Sophie (Marciniak) Kornacki.

He leaves behind his wife, the former Norma Jean Guile, whom he married Sept. 24, 1954. Walter and Norma met through a common interest in amateur radio (ham radio) and spent their entire married life enjoying their hobby together. He was one of the original founders of the Radio Amateur Society of Norwich, and his amateur radio call sign was W1YOC.

Walter was a graduate of Norwich Free Academy, Class of 1951. He received his bachelor of science degree in engineering from the University of Hartford. He was an engineering supervisor at Northeast Utilities corporate office in Berlin, Conn., retiring in 1993.

Walter spent his younger years as a member of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and taught the Connecticut Safe Boating Skills & Seamanship course. He was an outdoor person who loved the ocean, sailing, and family camping. He was a proficient archer and was a member of the Norwich Archery Club. A father of five sons, he spent many years in the scouting program as a Cub Scout and Boy Scout leader.

He was a talented musician and played the saxophone for several local bands including the Polka Dots. He was named a Connecticut All State band member during his NFA years and later in life, played with the Shriners Band of Newington and traveled throughout the U.S. and Canada marching in Shriner parades.

He belonged to many civic and fraternal organizations including Somerset-St. James Lodge #34 AF&AM, Valley of Norwich Scottish Rite Life Member, Sphinx Bedouin Shrine Club, Sphinx Caravan Shrine Club, Sphinx Shriners of Newington, associate of Brainard Lodge #102, National Sojourners Life Member, Heroes of '76 Chapter 58, Tuckerbung Association, OB Club, Connecticut Society of Genealogists, Norwich Historical Society, Mystic Seaport, and the Mystic Aquarium.

His ham radio affiliations are the American Radio Relay League, Nutmeg Chapter Quarter Century Wireless Association #149, Yankee Chapter QCWA #112, QCWA National, and the Old Old Timers Club.

He leaves behind his sons, Jon (Cynara) of Wallingford, James (Laurie) of Mackay, Idaho, Richard (Ellen) of Voluntown, David of Manhattan, N.Y., and Michael of Darien; seven grandchildren, Nicole Kornacki of Charleston, S.C., Leah Kornacki of Philadelphia, Pa., Sarah and Daniel Kornacki of Wallingford, Anjay Kornacki of Darien, Ryan and Kyle Kornacki of Voluntown. He leaves a sister, Frances Kornacki of Norwich; a brother-in-law, Robert Guile (Rose) of Uncasville; and many nieces and nephews. Walter will be sadly missed by his many lifetime friends and extended family.

Visitation will be from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday at the Labenski Funeral Home, 107 Boswell Ave., Norwich. Funeral services will take place at 2 p.m. on Monday at the Labenski Funeral Home, with interment to follow in Maplewood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations are asked to be made in his memory to Masonicare Home Health & Hospice, 339 Flanders Road., Suite 215, East Lyme CT 06333.
]]>markm@cmtelephone.comQCWA2011-03-19T20:19:02-04:00http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/b3e32ac1c25a65f321d6ec19b3b65c15-23.html#unique-entry-id-23http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/b3e32ac1c25a65f321d6ec19b3b65c15-23.html#unique-entry-id-23

Annual Meeting and Spring Luncheon
Saturday May 7, 2011
(A change to the 1st Sat. this meeting only!)

Groton Inn and Suites
Gold Star Highway, Groton, CT.
(For directions see the Chapter web site www.qcwa149.org)
11:30AM TO 3PM

Speaker for the meeting:

 
 
GUEST SPEAKER FOR SATURDAY MAY 7 MEETING SOUNDS LIKE A WINNER
GEORGE CASSIDY KA1UUX IS ALSO A FRIEND OF PREZ MIKE SCHINDLER.
GEORGE WRITES AS FOLLOWS :

Thanks for the invite to speak at the QCWA event at the Groton Motor Inn on Saturday 7 May at 1130 hrs. It will be my pleasure!
I served as an intelligence operator aboard the USN’s first “spy ship”, USS OXFORD (AG-159 AGTR-1) from 1963-1965. I have created a web site for that ship located at: www.ussoxford.com
I appear in the book BODY OF SECRETS (Doubleday) written by James Bamford. Here you can see some of the unclassified incidents that I can still speak about.
I am entering my 30th year at the Valley Railroad in Essex, CT where I am an engineer on both steam and diesel locomotives. I am also a cruise travel agent and for my third job I’m in charge of bringing cruise ships into Connecticut’s Port of New London. Check out www.CtCruiseShip.com In my spare time you can find me on the USL Net on 80 Meters and on the 160 Net at 2200 hrs on 1.858 MHz I hold the Advanced ticked and my call is KA1UUX. I have a Kenwood TS-850 SAT and a Icom IC-718. I should be eligible to join the QC Club in a few more years!
I will come prepared to speak on any or all of the subjects above.
My xyl, Mary-Jane is also a Ham, N1KEF.

Meeting Details:                             
Meal cost remains at $18.00 per member. Make Checks out to:  "Nutmeg Chapter 149 QCWA"  and mail to:

Gary Awsiukiewicz, K1MQ,
261 Woodfield Crossing,
Rocky Hill, CT. 06067.
 
This is our Annual Meeting and the Election of Officers for the next year.  We urge all members to attend and cast your vote for the officers of your choice.

The nominating committee has delivered there suggestions and the slate is as follows:
 
President  -  Mike Schindler, K1AMS
Vice Pres  -  Mark Mokoski, K1PU
Secretary  -  Steve Ewald, WV1X
Treasurer  -  Gary Awsiukiewicz, K1MQ
 
Nominations will be accepted from the floor.
 
Along with the election of officers, we have received awards from QCWA National that will be given out at this meeting. 
For more details and directions, see the Chapter web site www.qcwa149.org

73, K1PU
]]>markm@cmtelephone.comQCWA2011-02-23T20:30:25-05:00http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/636c176ee0e9ec5ce4896e3f138437c8-22.html#unique-entry-id-22http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/636c176ee0e9ec5ce4896e3f138437c8-22.html#unique-entry-id-22

Annual Meeting and Spring Luncheon
Saturday May 7, 2011
(A change to the 1st Sat. this meeting only!)

Groton Inn and Suites
Gold Star Highway, Groton, CT.
(For directions see the Chapter web site www.qcwa149.org)
11:30AM TO 3PM

Speaker is still to be determined at this time!                                    
Meal cost remains at $18.00 per member.
Make Checks out to:  "Nutmeg Chapter 149 QCWA"  and mail to:

Gary Awsiukiewicz, K1MQ,
261 Woodfield Crossing,
Rocky Hill, CT. 06067.
 
This is our Annual Meeting and the Election of Officers for the next year.  We urge all members to attend and cast your vote for the officers of your choice.

The nominating committee has delivered there suggestions and the slate is as follows:
 
President  -  Mike Schindler, K1AMS
Vice Pres  -  Mark Mokoski, K1PU
Secretary  -  Steve Ewald, WV1X
Treasurer  -  Gary Awsiukiewicz, K1MQ
 
Nominations will be accepted from the floor.
 
Along with the election of officers, we have received awards from QCWA National that will be given out at this meeting. 
For more details and directions, see the Chapter web site www.qcwa149.org

73, K1PU
]]>markm@cmtelephone.comVideo2011-02-20T17:29:38-05:00http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/f8e7b969a3999c96f7da5d201de74e7e-21.html#unique-entry-id-21http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/f8e7b969a3999c96f7da5d201de74e7e-21.html#unique-entry-id-21



Ed Hare W1RFI gives a "short" talk to the assembled crew at Lentini Communications on February 19, 2011.
The gathering was part of Lentini's monthly Swap Meet held every 3rd Saturday of the month.
Thanks go out to Alex N1EBU and Bill N1JBS of Lentini Communications ( www.lentinicomm.com ) and Al Cohen W1FXQ who seems to get everyone to be a guest speaker at one time or another!

Video run time, 45 min, 40 sec

Click here for Video Page ]]>markm@cmtelephone.com10-10 Castle CraigMeriden ARC2011-02-01T15:48:06-05:00http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/e57e9ea5a567d48762ef25c281d29a84-20.html#unique-entry-id-20http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/e57e9ea5a567d48762ef25c281d29a84-20.html#unique-entry-id-20
There will be a Castle Craig Chapter Net on Friday, February 4th, 2010  on the club net frequency of 28.375.  The purpose of this net is to kick off the 10-10 Winter QSO Party.  I hope that all club members will join in.  Even if you do not have a 10-10 number you are worth 1 point to the rest of us who do and are submitting logs.  The QSO party runs from 0000 UTC February 5th, 2011 to 2359:59 February 6th, 2011.

Because of my high noise level issues I would like to ask everyone to listen for stations that I may not be able to hear.

If you are a paid up 10-10 member your support of the club, and our chapter would be appreciated.  Please make as many contacts as you can, and submit your log for credit.  Remember to mention that you would like to credit Castle Craig Chapter of 10-10 with your score.

We will start taking check-in’s at 6:45 PM local time, (23:45 UTC), and I will be the Net Control.  I would like a station to help with relays if needed.  The procedure is simple.  At 7 PM local time, (0000 UTC Feb. 5th), we will start from the top of the list, (myself), and I will give my 10-10 information, that is Call, Name, QTH (state), and 10-10 number.  The next station will be called and that person will give their information and then stand by.  We will proceed to the bottom of the list.

The procedure is then repeated from the top to bottom of the list, except you will call all stations that you heard and QSL their information.  If you need a repeat on any information this is the time to ask for it.

Once the last station is called they should have no calls to make because everyone has called them.

I expect that this net should last no more than about 20 minutes.

Even though we seem to be a low for sunspot activity and 10-10 participation you can never tell what 10 meters will do and there may be some surprises in store, but you have to be around to catch them, so I encourage everyone to check 10 meters during the weekend.

Please plan to attend and get the winter 10-10 QSO party off to a rousing start!

-73-   Al  N1API
Castle Craig Chapter Certificate Manager]]>markm@cmtelephone.comQCWA2011-02-01T15:32:37-05:00http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/2061e6526809b304b825b3040a2bb031-19.html#unique-entry-id-19http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/2061e6526809b304b825b3040a2bb031-19.html#unique-entry-id-19

QCWA Chapter 149 Winter Luncheon .....

February  12, 2011 Luncheon
11:30 to 3:00

The next luncheon will again be held
at Tommy’s Restaurant in Middletown.
 
Food:
We will be ordering off the menu, so no reservation will be required. 
This way you can order what you desire and within your budget.
         
Tommy’s restaurant,  Saybrook Rd
Middletown, CT.
    
Directions:
 
Randolph Road, Exit 11 on Route 9.  Right at end of exit, up the hill.
Tommy’s is at the top of the hill on the left.
 
HOPE TO SEE MANY OF YOU THERE ON FEB 12, 2011!
Please advise us either by email or on the Sunday net if you plan to attend.
Email K1MQ at k1mq@arrl.net
 
For more information, go to the QCWA Chapter 149 web site.
 
]]>markm@cmtelephone.comSoftware2011-02-01T15:50:40-05:00http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/34191d100b49e4e67f41087b6c146447-18.html#unique-entry-id-18http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/34191d100b49e4e67f41087b6c146447-18.html#unique-entry-id-18

My Freeware Mac App’s are now wrapped in a “proper” Mac installer package.
So putting my App’s on your Mac is easy.

All App’s are Universal binaries, so no matter if you have the latest multicore Intel Mac, or PowerPC Mac they run the same.
For PowerPC, my lowest test box has OS X 10.4 (Tiger), but they should work from OS X 10.2 up.
If you have success or failure on any OS X version, drop me an email and I’ll note the compatibility on the software page.

Go to the Software page or click here.

73, K1PU

]]>markm@cmtelephone.comSite News2011-01-12T21:02:02-05:00http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/ba569e08b3e300cbecd7c09e3e313b99-17.html#unique-entry-id-17http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/ba569e08b3e300cbecd7c09e3e313b99-17.html#unique-entry-id-17

New in the Store .... XSET Model XHTP Hearing Protectors with Active Listening

Low profile and they fit very nice.
I used these on the outside firing range and at the indoor range, I can hear the range officer instructions with use of the active listening feature and the impact suppression is excellent.

$39.95 each, Batteries included, FREE shipping within U.S.A.

Find more details in the Store under Hearing Protection. ]]>markm@cmtelephone.comGeneral Interest2010-11-23T19:17:06-05:00http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/7632253b1faf2c63d46f6061a31baa6a-16.html#unique-entry-id-16http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/7632253b1faf2c63d46f6061a31baa6a-16.html#unique-entry-id-16

I’m off the air for a little while as I get the new shack in shape (after “she who must be obeyed” finishing touch list is completed).

Thanks go out to Pat Farrell my carpenter, without whom the project couldn’t be completed and Paul Lux, K1PL, for his electrical work and making my life more interesting figuring out all the three way switches and light dimmers!

If all goes according to plan (that would be a miracle!) I should be emitting RF for the ARRL 10 meter test in December.
(Note: 14-DEC-2010, well the 10 Meter contest didn’t happen, so much for the “plan”!)

Also sorting, purging and putting the shack back to together after 25 years at the old location has proved to be a challenge and exercise in archeology as I unearth items from the past that I lost or where forgotten.
I guess that I found out how to fill a 20 yard dumpster to maximum capacity!

73, K1PU

]]>markm@cmtelephone.comContesting2010-05-09T20:45:14-04:00http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/02dcf639c082b428a35a7ceaac8746f6-15.html#unique-entry-id-15http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/02dcf639c082b428a35a7ceaac8746f6-15.html#unique-entry-id-15

The 2010 running of the NEQP is now in the books (or logs to be technical).

Your author had a fine time with this popular QSO party from home this year.

Here is the results from Middlesex County Connecticut ...

Phone QSO’s - 26
CW QSO’s - 314
Multipliers - 64
Claimed score - 41856

Bands on Saturday where OK, 15 meters was productive with many W7’s worked, and 80 & 40 meters provided the late night QSO runs.
20 meters was in good shape to the west and Europe to snag valuable multipliers from stations the Italian contest.
Sunday the high bands need a little more solar flux.
QSO’s where there to be made, but the rate was slow.
Around 4 PM local things got better along with QSO rates until the end at 8PM local.
I was having such a good time on CW I almost forgot to grab the microphone for some phone QSO’s.
Good thing I did as I got a few needed multipliers on Phone to help out the score.

I would like to mention the efforts of my “competitor” in Middlesex County (CT), Dan W1DMM.
Dan had his best score ever (9984 points) and a significant contribution to the aggregate club score (Meriden ARC www.w1nrg.com).

Update from the 2009 contest, K1PU was the 1st place low power winner in Vermont.
I got a nice plaque sponsored by the West River Radio Club in southern Vermont.
Many thanks to the West River crew for donating this award and it will hang proudly in my shack.
I have updated the photo section with a picture.

I hope to be back in Vermont in 2011 operating portable from Orleans County.

73, K1PU
]]>markm@cmtelephone.comQCWA2010-04-21T20:15:03-04:00http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/5e837605631b89a9d25d53019b0e3101-14.html#unique-entry-id-14http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/5e837605631b89a9d25d53019b0e3101-14.html#unique-entry-id-14

May 8, 2010 at Serafino's Restaurant
72 South Turnpike Road
Wallingford, Ct.,  (203) 265-1244
(Across from the old Oakdale Theater)
                                     
Meal cost remains at $18.00 per member.
Make Checks out to:  "Nutmeg Chapter 149 QCWA"  and mail to:

Gary Awsiukiewicz, K1MQ,
261 Woodfield Crossing,
Rocky Hill, CT. 06067.
 
This is our Annual Meeting and the Election of Officers for the next year.  We urge all members to attend and cast your vote for the officers of your choice.

The nominating committee has delivered there suggestions and the slate is as follows:
 
President  -  Mike Schindler, K1AMS
Vice Pres  -  Mark Mokoski, K1PU
Secretary  -  Steve Ewald, WV1X
Treasurer  -  Gary Awsiukiewicz, K1MQ
 
Nominations will be accepted from the floor.
 
Along with the election of officers, we have received approximately 23 awards from QCWA National that will be given out at this meeting.  Since elections and the awards presentations will take much time, we have decided against a speaker this quarter.

For more details and directions to Serafino’s, see the Chapter web site www.qcwa149.org

73, K1PU
]]>markm@cmtelephone.com10-10 Castle Craig2010-04-21T20:27:46-04:00http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/97b7ccc426e1626f2a1d2ef140e180e6-13.html#unique-entry-id-13http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/97b7ccc426e1626f2a1d2ef140e180e6-13.html#unique-entry-id-13
April 24 0000 UTC until April 25 at 2359 UTC

This year, 10-10 has split off the CW QSO party from other digital modes to promote more CW activity.
Phone is the most popular QSO party’s, followed by “Digital” modes, PSK31 being most popular (I personally would like to see more RTTY!).
The Digital QSO Party is May 1 & 2 (I won’t be participating as it conflicts with my NEQP operation).

Being a single mode QSO party this year, the CW contest should see more activity, along with (we hope) better solar numbers.

See the 10-10 web site for official time and rules www.ten-ten.org

So dust off your key and join the fun on the low end of ten!

73, K1PU 10-10 #33916]]>markm@cmtelephone.comContesting2010-04-21T20:20:55-04:00http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/d2d600b5fbabb9a2316805052cfa41a4-12.html#unique-entry-id-12http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/d2d600b5fbabb9a2316805052cfa41a4-12.html#unique-entry-id-12

2010 Running of the New England QSO Party, May 1 & 2

Join the fun and try and work all 67 counties in New England!
Work at least 25 stations and get a certificate of participation, or maybe be “Top Dog” in your state or New England county!

See the official rules and results of past NEQP’s at www.neqp.org

Hope to work you on May 1 & 2.


Mark, K1PU - 2009 NEQP 1st place Vermont single operator low power - See my Vermont station in the Photos section
]]>markm@cmtelephone.comContesting2010-03-29T20:07:27-04:00http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/3d2a43574f1e77c4d6ac6fe3701ebede-11.html#unique-entry-id-11http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/3d2a43574f1e77c4d6ac6fe3701ebede-11.html#unique-entry-id-11


The 2009 running of the New England QSO party (NEQP) results are in.
Both New England and non-New England scores and rankings are now posted at www.neqp.org.
The final critique is not yet finished, but Tom K1KI promises that it will be done soon.

This years event is May 1 & 2. See the NEQP web site for details, times and rules.

For 2009, your author (K1PU) participated in this growing event from his Father-in-Laws hide-a-way in Essex County Vermont, a “rare” county, most years only activated by mobile stations.
K1PU placed second overall in Vermont and 1st in the Single Op - Low Power class.
Not bad for 100 watts and dipoles for 80 - 40 - 20!
See photos of the “primitive” operating conditions here.

73, K1PU
]]>markm@cmtelephone.comGeneral Interest2010-03-22T19:40:42-04:00http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/ddb3290dd29066dcc70511ae391d4135-10.html#unique-entry-id-10http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/ddb3290dd29066dcc70511ae391d4135-10.html#unique-entry-id-10

This past weekend, the W1VLA D-Star repeater stack got it’s internet connection for linking into the national D-STAR network.
Bill N1JBS and Mark K1PU (Phil WB1EXV lending moral support and the occasional tool hand up), fought off yellow jackets and other stinging insects that started to “wake up” with the warmer temperatures, to install both ends of a secure wireless link.

The W1VLA Repeater, located at the Rocky Hill CT Fire Station #2, is just 400 feet from K1PU’s work location, the “near end” of the link, so the link budget was a “No Brainer”. Signal margins look excellent and the whole link is connected to the first router in the network. Latency test end to end are in the order of 1 to 2 mS so there should be no problems the connection to the local Cable Company Internet service.

The Fire Station is connected via the town-wide network, but with discussions with the town, it was easier for the group to get an independent internet connection and not leave any “finger prints” inside the town network, and we’ll have better control over other network performance parameters with our own connection anyway.

Bill N1JBS is putting the final touches on the computer, loading the new software and NIC drivers, and we hope to have the system liked up by April 1st.

The W1VLA repeater uses ICOM brand D-Star repeater modules for Digital Voice on 2m and 70cm.
Frequencies are VHF 145.27Mhz -600 Khz and UHF 444.150Mhz +5 Mhz

Internet connection and the link equipment are donated by K1PU’s “Day Job”.

Mark, K1PU
]]>markm@cmtelephone.comContesting2010-02-05T13:00:02-05:00http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/32ad634d2b51cb0f886f758ecf5dfb04-9.html#unique-entry-id-9http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/32ad634d2b51cb0f886f758ecf5dfb04-9.html#unique-entry-id-9
The logs are in and the results computed, the 2009 edition of the ARRL November Sweepstakes is now in the record book.

SSB results are posted on ARRL Contest Page
CW results can be found HERE

The 2009 SSB Sweepstakes was a record setting event in overall participation.
The ARRL reports that 2,054 logs were submitted, an all-time high.

"It is great to see so many hams not just getting on for our contests, but submitting logs in record numbers," said ARRL Contest Manager Sean Kutzko KX9X.

73, Mark K1PU ]]>markm@cmtelephone.comQCWA2010-02-03T22:06:09-05:00http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/1e610b6de3abd11624f95ac46feda879-8.html#unique-entry-id-8http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/1e610b6de3abd11624f95ac46feda879-8.html#unique-entry-id-8
The February 13th QCWA Meeting Speaker will make you feel good that you came.

He is a well-known and highly respected editor and newsman whose career in Connecticut news circles spans several decades. Despite his imposing background, he is a regular, relaxed guy who is an entertaining speaker and one who will make you feel glad you came to the meeting.

It is James H. “Jim” Smith, currently executive editor of the New Britain Herald and the Bristol Press. He will speak about his career, his book and other matters.
His book is a fascinating tale of the Revolutionary War era.   It contains a lot of adventure with a bit of romance woven in.  It is about a beautiful, intelligent, young Seneca who has just reached womanhood. The story involves historical giants-- like Thomas Jefferson, George Washington and Lafayette -- who cannot resist her charms.  The book also contains a modicum of serious social commentary on America’s early years.
(His book, published by Plaidswede Publishing of Concord, N.H., is available at Barnes & Noble and NHBooksellers.com.)
 
If you have not already signed up to go to our luncheon, please make your reservation now!
For more information, go to the QCWA Chapter 149 web site.

73, Steve WV1X QCWA Chapter 149 Secretary

]]>markm@cmtelephone.comSite News2010-02-03T22:03:23-05:00http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/7a7216f17c39f7719f8d6390be205276-7.html#unique-entry-id-7http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/7a7216f17c39f7719f8d6390be205276-7.html#unique-entry-id-7
The store is again open for business.

I’m starting off slow and adding product categories one at a time.

Active Products:
Speaker Microphones

Coming soon:
Headsets
Do It Yourself (DIY) Parts
Specialty Items

73, Mark K1PU
]]>markm@cmtelephone.comQCWA2010-01-27T20:24:31-05:00http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/e3006e4b4e1caa7b89dfcad9e6b25844-6.html#unique-entry-id-6http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/e3006e4b4e1caa7b89dfcad9e6b25844-6.html#unique-entry-id-6
QCWA Chapter 149 Winter Luncheon .....
will be held February 13th 2010 at Serafino's Restaurant in Wallingford Connecticut. The restaurant is located across the street from the Chevrolet Theater which was formally known as the Oakdale Theater.  Since we have had nothing but good reports since we were there in August,  we decided to pay them another visit. 

The social hour begins at 11:30 AM, and our Buffet Luncheon and Meeting will begin around 12:00 Noon

BUFFET MENU:
  Baked Salmon; Sliced Roast Beef and Gravy;  Ziti with Tomato Sauce;
  Roasted Potatoes;   String Beans;   Cheese cake;   Coffee and Soda
  Cash Bar available for those who are interested.

Business for the meeting is the election of the 2010 officers.
The nominated slate stands as:

• President - Mike Schindler, K1AMS
• Vice President - Mark Mokoski, K1PU
• Secretary - Steve Ewald, WV1X
• Treasurer - Gary Awsiukiewicz, K1MQ

Nominations from the floor are welcome.

We are also making arrangements for an interesting after-lunch program.
Al W1FXQ always seems to come up with an interesting speaker for these occasions, and we expect this time Al will not disappoint!

For more information, go to the QCWA Chapter 149 web site.

73, Mark K1PU

]]>markm@cmtelephone.comContesting2010-01-26T22:37:54-05:00http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/3d3ec053b5fb1c071029e93f5e27d006-5.html#unique-entry-id-5http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/3d3ec053b5fb1c071029e93f5e27d006-5.html#unique-entry-id-5
The 2009 ARRL CW Sweepstakes results are in!

With a shorter deadline for log submissions, the folks in the ARRL contest branch got the results done in 74 days!
A big effort, but Sean KX9X and crew deserve a big ”thank you” from all participants.
I’m sure more expanded commentary will appear in QST and on the ARRL contesting web page, but we all know it’s the scores that count!

Click this Link to view the final tally.

Based on this result, looks like the scores for the SSB Sweepstakes will be ready about the third week in February, given the larger number (a record!) of SSB logs.
The real delay in scoring the CW test was the manual entry of the paper logs.
That’s just one more reason to get on the computer log band wagon, faster (and more accurate) scoring.

Check back in February for the SSB Sweepstakes score posting when they become available.



73, Mark K1PU
]]>markm@cmtelephone.comContesting2010-01-26T21:21:17-05:00http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/0065559c6ff7712fc3f50490fde7c751-4.html#unique-entry-id-4http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/0065559c6ff7712fc3f50490fde7c751-4.html#unique-entry-id-4
The 2010 running of the CQ World Wide 160 Meter CW contest is this weekend from 2200Z January 29th until 2200Z January 31st.
(For the UTC challenged, 2200Z is 5 PM Eastern Time!)
Solar conditions are still at a low point with conditions predicted to be quiet on January 29-30, with unsettled conditions on January 31st.
Solar flux for the weekend are estimated to be in the low 80’s and sun spot number in the mid 30’s.

So get ready for some good Top Band activity!

Official contest rules can be found here

The SSB edition of CQ WW 160 is 2200Z February 26th to 2200Z February 28th 2010.

73, Mark K1PU ]]>markm@cmtelephone.comMiddlesex ARS2010-01-26T19:02:49-05:00http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/8b2b11f8017bb3c2b3eb6d6c6c67441f-3.html#unique-entry-id-3http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/8b2b11f8017bb3c2b3eb6d6c6c67441f-3.html#unique-entry-id-3
The Middlesex Amateur Radio Society had elected new officers for the 2010 term.
The following lucky individuals where elected:

• President - Mac Harper,  W1FYM
• Vice President - Bob Stielau, N2XN
• Treasurer - Leo Zieller, WB1ENI
• Secretary - Don Bohman,  N1XTJ
• Procurement Officer -Vacant
• Statutory Agent - Don Gouin,   K1CMM
• Trustee - Don Gouin,   K1CMM
• VEC Coordinator - Paul Lux,    K1PL

 
And along with various committee appointments, it’s going to be an active year at the Middlesex ARS.

Congratulations to all new and reelected officers and committee chairs.

73, Mark K1PU]]>markm@cmtelephone.comMeriden ARC10-10 Castle Craig2010-01-18T19:04:59-05:00http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/f0f49e8af6eb852c029db444ff56b870-2.html#unique-entry-id-2http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/f0f49e8af6eb852c029db444ff56b870-2.html#unique-entry-id-2
There will be a Castle Craig Chapter Net on Friday, February 5th, 2010  on the club net frequency of 28.375.  The purpose of this net is to kick off the 10-10 Winter QSO Party.  I hope that all club members will join in.  Even if you do not have a 10-10 number you are worth 1 point to the rest of us who do and are submitting logs.  The QSO party runs from 0000 UTC February 6th, 2009 to 2359:59 February 7th, 2009.

Because of my high noise level issues I would like to ask everyone to listen for stations that I may not be able to hear.

If you are a paid up 10-10 member your support of the club, and our chapter would be appreciated.  Please make as many contacts as you can, and submit your log for credit.  Remember to mention that you would like to credit Castle Craig Chapter of 10-10 with your score.

We will start taking check-in’s at 6:45 PM local time, (23:45 UTC), and I will be the Net Control.  I would like a station to help with relays if needed.  The procedure is simple.  At 7 PM local time, (0000 UTC Feb. 6th), we will start from the top of the list, (myself), and I will give my 10-10 information, that is Call, Name, QTH (state), and 10-10 number.  The next station will be called and that person will give their information and then stand by.  We will proceed to the bottom of the list.

The procedure is then repeated from the top to bottom of the list, except you will call all stations that you heard and QSL their information.  If you need a repeat on any information this is the time to ask for it.

Once the last station is called they should have no calls to make because everyone has called them.

I expect that this net should last no more than about 20 minutes.

Even though we seem to be a low for sunspot activity and 10-10 participation you can never tell what 10 meters will do and there may be some surprises in store, but you have to be around to catch them, so I encourage everyone to check 10 meters during the weekend.

Please plan to attend and get the winter 10-10 QSO party off to a rousing start!

-73-   Al  N1API
Castle Craig Chapter Certificate Manager]]>markm@cmtelephone.comGeneral Interest2010-01-16T19:08:31-05:00http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/676bb6b2f9ca1e4f6f51d72b26382847-1.html#unique-entry-id-1http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/676bb6b2f9ca1e4f6f51d72b26382847-1.html#unique-entry-id-1

Al Cohen, W1FXQ, a “well known” personality for more reasons than just Ham Radio, celebrates his 92nd Birthday today January 16th, 2010.

Happy Birthday Al !

Mark, K1PU

]]>markm@cmtelephone.comSite News2010-01-16T15:00:08-05:00http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/313a6c7d22892210d581a1742fb7e678-0.html#unique-entry-id-0http://www.k1pu.com/News/files/313a6c7d22892210d581a1742fb7e678-0.html#unique-entry-id-0

Well, if you have visited this site in the past, you will notice a big change in style and organization.
As my web skills have improved, so has the look of the sites I manage.
As of this posting I have not yet completed the job of moving over all the content, but please return and check the News.

Mark, K1PU]]>