Blount Emergency Amateur Radio Service

In an earthquake, you may only have seconds to protect yourself before strong shaking knocks you down, or something falls on you. Practice earthquake-safe actions on October 19. Why? Because when the adrenaline kicks in, you may not act safely if you haven’t practiced the Drop, Cover, Hold On drill before that moment. Don’t wait until the shaking – register at ShakeOut.org/register to practice earthquake safety with your community.

Invite everyone who matters to you to register and ShakeOut this year– on 10/19 or whatever day works.. Everyone is welcome to participate – individuals, families, businesses, schools, government agencies and organizations!

Are You Ready to ShakeOut?

Millions of people live and work in earthquake-prone regions of the United States. A major earthquake could cause unprecedented devastation for one of these regions but also affect the economy of the entire country. What we do now, before a big earthquake, will determine how well we survive and recover.

Each year, Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills involve millions of participants worldwide through broad-based outreach programs, media partnerships, and public advocacy by hundreds of partners. The drill is held annually on the third Thursday of October. This year, International ShakeOut Day will be on October 19. However people and organizations can hold their drills on any other day of the year.

A key aspect of the ShakeOut is the integration of comprehensive science-based earthquake research and the lessons learned from decades of social science research about why people get prepared. The result is a “teachable moment” on par with having an actual earthquake (often followed by increased interest in getting ready for earthquakes). ShakeOut creates the sense of urgency that is needed for people, organizations, and communities to get prepared, to practice what to do to be safe, and to learn what plans need to be improved.

Not just any drill will accomplish this; it needs to be big. It must inspire communities to come together. It must involve children at school and parents at work, prompting conversations at home. It must allow every organization, city, etc., to make it their own event. We are all in this together.

To participate, go to ShakeOut.org/register and pledge your family, school, business, or organization’s participation in the drill. Registered participants will receive information on how to plan their drill and involve others. At the minimum practice one of the recommended protective actions listed at ShakeOut.org/dropcoverholdon. It is only a one-minute commitment for something that can save your life.

For more information, visit ShakeOut.org.

Introduction Automatic Packet Reporting System (APRS) is a real-time tactical communications protocol that supports
- tracking the location of other stations and objects,
- sending and receiving short messages, and
- monitoring weather data.

In this post, we will explore APRS client options, focusing on popular mobile apps like aprs.fi for iOS and aprsdroid for Android phones, before delving into desktop favorites such as APRSISCE/32, YAAC, PinpointAPRS, and XASTIR.

Mobile aprs.fi for iOS
URL: [aprs.fi on the App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/aprs-fi/id922155038?at=1000la28&ct=aprsfi&uo=4&mt=8&pt=2223203) aprs.fi is one of the most widely used APRS clients for iOS devices, offering an intuitive interface for tracking stations, objects, and weather data on a map. Users can view the positions of nearby APRS stations as well as send and receive messages. Additionally, aprs.fi has a built-in Software modem (requires cables) and it can connect to BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) devices such as the [Mobilinkd TNC4](https://store.mobilinkd.com/products/mobilinkd-tnc4) which will allow you to connect to a radio for complete off-line functionality.

aprsdroid for Android
URL: [APRSdroid – APRS for Android](https://aprsdroid.org/) Similarly, aprsdroid caters to Android users with similar functionality. It allows users to visualize APRS information on a map and send and receive messages. It too can connect to external TNCs.

Desktop APRSISCE/32 – The Desktop Powerhouse
URL: [APRSISCE/32](http://aprsisce.wikidot.com/) For desktop users, APRSISCE/32 stands out as a robust and feature-rich client for Windows operating systems. It offers an extensive array of features, including real-time mapping, messaging, telemetry monitoring, and more.

APRSISCE/32 stores map tiles and station data locally, allowing you to operate in remote areas or during emergencies where internet access may be unavailable. This feature-packed application might require a bit of a learning curve, but its offline capabilities and versatility make it a top choice for advanced APRS users.

YAAC – Yet Another APRS Client
URL: [YAAC – Yet Another APRS Client](https://www.ka2ddo.org/ka2ddo/YAAC.html YAAC, as its name suggests, is another noteworthy APRS client that offers cross-platform support for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It boasts an easy-to-use interface with mapping, messaging, and weather monitoring capabilities. Additionally, YAAC can operate offline by caching map data, making it a reliable option when exploring areas with limited network coverage.

Some of my favorite features for YAAC come in the [Optional Plugins](https://www.ka2ddo.org/ka2ddo/YAAC.html#plugins) that are available.

YAAC’s user-friendly design and offline functionality make it a great choice for beginners and seasoned APRS enthusiasts alike.

PinpointAPRS – Simplicity with Offline Efficiency
URL: [PinPoint APRS](https://www.pinpointaprs.com/) PinpointAPRS is a lightweight APRS client designed for Windows, macOS, and Linux. Despite its simplicity, it packs essential features such as mapping, station tracking, and messaging.

PinpointAPRS’ lightweight nature make it a valuable tool for users who prefer a no-nonsense APRS experience with offline functionality.

XASTIR – Complexity Meets Comprehensive Offline Functionality
URL: [XastirWiki](https://xastir.org/) For experienced APRS users who crave extensive customization and powerful offline capabilities, XASTIR is a top pick. Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, XASTIR provides an impressive array of features, including digital mapping, weather data, messaging, and custom scripting.

XASTIR’s offline functionality allows users to cache map data and operate in remote or emergency scenarios with no internet access. While its learning curve might be steeper than other options, the rewards are plentiful for those willing to invest time in mastering this powerful APRS client.

Conclusion APRS offers a fascinating world of real-time tactical communication for amateur radio enthusiasts and emergency responders. The choice of APRS client depends on your platform and level of expertise. For mobile users, aprs.fi for iOS and aprsdroid for Android provide reliable offline capabilities. On the desktop, APRSISCE/32, YAAC, PinpointAPRS, and XASTIR offer a range of options, with XASTIR standing out as a complex yet comprehensive favorite.

Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced APRS user, the ability to function without the internet is essential in emergencies or when exploring remote areas. So choose the APRS client that best suits your needs and venture forth confidently into the world of APRS tracking and communication!

This weekend we have the Tour de Blount; just a few weeks after that is the Cherohala Challenge on June 3.

This communications for this event are being coordinated by Eric Franks, KK4DKW. He is looking for additional volunteers to support the event. Volunteers are needed for both for rest stops and as SAGs. Anyone interested in volunteering, please contact
Eric Franks
KK4DKW
423-337-1913
kk4dkw@gmail.com

If you know of other Hams that would be interested in volunteering please pass Eric’s contact information to them and have them get with him as soon as possible. Eric expects to have assignments and information out to everyone next week.

If you’ve ever attended a large public service event, you might have noticed that there are many people involved in making it a success. From race directors to volunteers, each person plays an important role in ensuring that the event runs smoothly. We’ll take a closer look at the various roles involved in a public service event and the responsibilities that come with them.

Net Control (NCS):

The primary responsibility of the net control station is to coordinate group communications and ensure that all participants are on the same page. Typically, the net is run on a single frequency or repeater, and it’s directed to the NCS, who controls all communications. The NCS does not necessarily have all the answers, but their job is to capture and consolidate input from operators in the field for communications with race officials (generally via a “shadow” station).

Shadow:

The shadow operator is a critical role in ensuring that event officials have the information they need to make informed decisions. The shadow operator accompanies an official during the event, usually the “race director,” the person associated with the event who can make decisions or knows who to contact when questions arise. If you need information from an official, you will request that information from NCS, who will relay the request to the shadow to have an event official give an answer.

Water/Rest Stop:

Rest stop operators are stationed at fixed locations along the event route until all participants have passed. They are the first line of eyes and ears on the course, collecting information about the event’s progress and passing that information back to NCS. Operators at these locations typically watch and report the first event participant in each group, such as the first male runner, first female runner, first child, and any needs that the rest stop may have, like more water or trash bags.

SAG:

SAG stands for Support And Gear and is generally found in events like bicycle rides. SAG vehicles are mobile on the course and provide support to the participants. The support may include hauling bicycles and riders back to the finish line if their bicycle (or rider) becomes disabled for some reason, carrying extra tubes for the bicycle tires, carrying tools like a full-sized tire pump to assist riders in on-course repairs, and more. As a SAG operator, one generally serves double-duty as a SAG vehicle driver and provides communications about what they’re seeing on the course. With the mobile nature of these stations, it’s handy if they have the ability to run an APRS tracking device – this makes it easier for NCS to keep an eye on where everyone is and identify the closest responder available to assist someone on the course.

Observer:

The observer’s role is to watch the event’s progress and report back to NCS with any pertinent information. This may include traffic patterns, crowd sizes, or any other issues that may arise. Observers are not directly involved in the event’s operations but provide valuable feedback to ensure that the event runs smoothly.

Public service events require the coordination and cooperation of many people to ensure a safe and successful event. Each role is vital and has a unique set of responsibilities that work together to create a seamless experience for participants and organizers alike. Whether you’re a volunteer or a participant, it’s essential to appreciate the efforts of everyone involved in making these events possible.

In the Documents section of the TeamApp, we have a collection of PDFs that describe these Public Service Roles in more detail. Find them here: https://bcares.teamapp.com/clubs/465784/documents/961865-public-service-roles?expires_at=1688169599&list=v1. These PDFs a from another organization, so they are not necessarily our requirements, but they do provide a good overview of the positions and give you a good idea of what to consider bringing when you’re filling those roles.

The Tour de Blount is coming up on May 20th, and we are in need of volunteers to help with communications during the event. As one of our largest events, we want to ensure that everything runs smoothly, and we can’t do it without your help.

The Tour de Blount is a cycling event that will start at Maryville College and consist of three routes to meet the interest levels of all participants. Additionally, a post-ride meal will be provided to all participants. In order to make this event successful, we need volunteers to serve as operators for water stops as well as on-course SAG.

Volunteers will play an important role in ensuring the safety and success of the event. As a communications volunteer, you will be responsible for relaying important information between the water stops and SAG stations, as well as keeping track of any emergencies or issues that may arise during the ride. No previous experience is necessary.

Volunteering for the Tour de Blount is a great way to support the local community and meet new people who share your interests. You’ll also have the opportunity to see some of the beautiful scenery that Blount County has to offer.

Our current list of volunteers includes:
- Ricky Carnes – AI4SI
- Jim Graham – AA0JE
- Mike Graham – KK4MG
- Nick Hanson – K4TID
- William McKeehan – KI4HDU
- Paul Peterson – KQ4DPH
- Hal Weeden – WB4E

We could use a lot more help.

If you’re interested in volunteering for the Tour de Blount, please contact Ricky, AI4SI, or Lou, WB4E, as soon as possible to sign up. Your support will be greatly appreciated.

Thank you for your consideration, and we hope to see you at the Tour de Blount!

Looking to get involved in your local community and help out a great cause? The Susannah’s House 5K is coming up on May 6th, and we are looking for more communications volunteers to join us in supporting this amazing event. As existing volunteers with ARES, we know the value of strong communication during events like this, and we hope you’ll consider joining us.

All you need to bring is a handheld radio – we’ll take care of the rest. The event runs from 9am to 11am, so it’s a perfect opportunity to give back to your community without taking up your entire day. Not only will you be supporting a great cause, but you’ll also have the chance to meet other volunteers and make new friends.

Our existing list of volunteers includes:
- Jim Graham – AA0JE
- Henry Hanson – KK4TID
- Craig Lynch – NW1A
- William McKeehan – KI4HDU
- Paul Peterson – KQ4DPH
- Hal Weeden – WB4E

We could really use some more hands on deck. Whether you’re an experienced radio operator or just looking to get involved, we’d love to have you on board. Plus, you’ll get to be a part of something truly special – helping to make the Susannah House 5K a success.

If you’re interested in volunteering, please reach out to Rick, AI4SI, or Lou, WB4E, as soon as possible so we can get you set up with all the information you need. We look forward to hearing from you and working together to make this year’s Susannah House 5K the best one yet!