NCRC extends its thanks to Rob x for providing us with a SKYWARN Training Class during last night’s meeting. It was WELL received by the 40+ folks in attendance.
Members who want to take the exam can go to this link:
If you need to review the video (it is 3.7 GB in size) you can see it here:
NCRC will be having its regular club meeting on Monday February 8th. However the start time will be 15 minute earlier at 6:45 PM. This is to allow time for the SKYWARN Class that will begin at 7:30 PM.
In addition to our usual business meeting beginning at 6:45, we are pleased to offer a full SKYWARN Certification class, offered by Rob Macedo (KD1CY) who is the ARES SKYWARN Coordinator for NWS Boston/Norton Massachusetts. This class will take 2 hours to complete. Please note, even if you have been certified in the past, it is recommended that your repeat the class every 2-3 years.
Club Members will receive a Zoom Invitation for the meeting. Should you also be interested in the SKYWARN Class, you must register for the class no later than Saturday Feb 6. Your registration information will be given to Rob so he can complete your certification.
Following the insurrection at the Capitol, the FCC has made it clear that use of any RF communication device (including FRS, GMRS, Ham, etc.) in facilitation of a crime will result in additional charges. No doubt none of our members need such a reminder, but just in case…
FCC ENFORCEMENT ADVISORY
DA 21-73
Released: January 17, 2021
WARNING: AMATEUR AND PERSONAL RADIO SERVICES LICENSEES AND OPERATORS MAY NOT USE RADIO EQUIPMENT TO COMMIT OR FACILITATE CRIMINAL ACTS
The Enforcement Bureau (Bureau) of the Federal Communications Commission issues this Enforcement Advisory to remind licensees in the Amateur Radio Service, as well as licensees and operators in the Personal Radio Services, that the Commission prohibits the use of radios in those services to commit or facilitate criminal acts.
The Bureau has become aware of discussions on social media platforms suggesting that certain radio services regulated by the Commission may be an alternative to social media platforms for groups to communicate and coordinate future activities. The Bureau recognizes that these services can be used for a wide range of permitted purposes, including speech that is protected under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. Amateur and Personal Radio Services, however, may not be used to commit or facilitate crimes.
Specifically, the Bureau reminds amateur licensees that they are prohibited from transmitting “communications intended to facilitate a criminal act” or “messages encoded for the purpose of obscuring their meaning.” 47 CFR § 97.113(a)(4).
Likewise, individuals operating radios in the Personal Radio Services, a category that includes Citizens Band radios, Family Radio Service walkie-talkies, and General Mobile Radio Service, are prohibited from using those radios “in connection with any activity which is against Federal, State or local law.” 47 CFR § 95.333(a).
Individuals using radios in the Amateur or Personal Radio Services in this manner may be subject to severe penalties, including significant fines, seizure of the offending equipment, and, in some cases, criminal prosecution. 47 U.S.C. §§ 401, 501, 503, 510.
Media inquiries should be directed to 202-418-0500 or MediaRelations@fcc.gov.
To file a complaint with the FCC, visit https://consumercomplaints.fcc.gov or call 1-888-CALL-FCC. To report a crime, contact your local law enforcement office or the FBI.
To request materials in accessible formats for people with disabilities (Braille, large print, electronic files, audio format), send an e-mail to fcc504@fcc.gov or call the Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau at (202) 418-0530 (voice), (202) 418-0432 (TTY).
Issued by: Chief, Enforcement Bureau
Happy New Year everyone!
We have a full agenda for Monday January 11th at 7 PM. You should expect to receive your invitation via email in the next couple of days. Please let us know if you do NOT receive an invitation.
Following the business meeting, Mary KC1NEB, will give a presentation on the Boeing 737Max MCAS System
By this point, members should have received an email asking those that are able to participate in a fundraiser with proceeds going toward the repair of our ailing 145.45 W1SYE repeater. The first $2,500 of donations will be matched by sponsors, potentially doubling your gift. Any donation amount would be appreciated.
A “Donation” button can be found at the bottom of our “Pay Dues or Donate” tab. Of course you may also mail checks to:
NEWPORT COUNTY RADIO CLUB
P.O.BOX 3103
Newport, RI 02840
NCRC is a 501(c)(3) Charitable Organization, so your dentations are fully tax deductible.