Hello Ventura County Hams,
I was not expecting to be writing another Vice President’s message, but here I am back again!
First, I want to thank Robert KM6RSS for doing an amazing job as VP this year. I can’t think of
another member with as much passion for, and dedication to, the club as Robert. He has
graciously volunteered to take over the immensely important job of Secretary, a responsibility
he is eminently qualified for. Thanks Robert!
So far, this summer has been a little bit of a bust on HF. Increased solar radiation causes the F2
Layer to expand upward and become less dense, making it less effective at reflecting our
signals. Adding to that, more D Layer absorption during the day attenuates signals, making the
summer feel like a real bummer. However, we are still near the peak of the solar cycle, so let’s
all hope for a resurgence in our DX as we move towards the fall and winter. There’s a reason
why they call the end of the year DX Season!
This month we have a great presentation scheduled – again, thanks to Robert’s hard work –
with Dr. David Pepper, WA6TWA, who will be enlightening us on the history of ham radio call
signs. Dr. Pepper entertained us last year with a presentation on his experience doing T-hunts
in L.A. in the 1960s, and I’m sure this month’s talk will be just as informative.
Don’t miss out on this presentation, or on our Portable Operations and Help event the next
day! These gatherings, which are also held at Grace Lutheran Church, are a great opportunity to
hang out with other members and get help on anything radio related. Even if you don’t bring a
radio, there are always a couple for you to operate. If you are a Technician who has never been
on HF, come by and give it a try!
I’m looking forward to a fun rest of the year on the radio, and hope to hear you all on the air
soon.
73,
Jacques KN6VQ
