From the Desk of AB9ZI - April 2025 Message
The President’s Desk
On April 18 in 1925 the International Amateur Radio Union (IARU) was formed in Paris. We have had 100 years of the IARU championing our hobby and defending our spectrum. The International Telecommunications Union (ITU) has recognized the IARU as representing interests of approximately three million radio amateurs worldwide. You may want to quote that number to the next person who asks “do people still engage in amateur radio?”
This year we celebrate those 100 years on Friday, April 18 by taking to the airwaves and making contacts, and demonstrating the ability to communicate with amateurs located in the next town and around the globe. A great opportunity to explain that when all else fails, how amateur radio can provide emergency communications. As a club we could plan an open house showing off our Northbrook Library HF, VHF, and UHF station and show our skills at communications. Members are needed to plan this event for Friday and Saturday April 18 & 19, make contacts, and explain to visitors what radio amateurs do. Contact any board member to volunteer to help. Board member email addresses can be found on the “Who We Are” tab of our club website.
Approximately ten weeks later we will be much more visible at our club’s premier event Field Day in the center of Northfield. While not a contest, our club traditionally scores well in the “not a contest” and we are always happy to see new faces come and check out the event and get on the air.
This year we are seeking individuals to shadow Field Day Chairmen Don KK9H and Marty WD9GYM, who would like to pass the event chairmanship along for 2026. As we have many capable members who would do well in these positions, we are looking forward to volunteers for these positions. Monthly Field Day planning meetings are scheduled; see our club website and the Emitter for dates and times.
Public service, in emergencies and in community events is part of the charter mission of our hobby. You have an opportunity to show off your ham radio skills and support a worthy cause.
On Saturday June 7, The Trek Bicycle Companies holds their “Trek 100”. The Trek 100 began as a humble charity bike ride to raise funds for childhood cancer childhood cancer and related blood disorders research. Held annually in June, the Trek 100 has raised over $12.5 million to help fight childhood cancer and related blood disorders. This is no small event. Last year there were 1,762 riders, some of whom rode 100 miles! Our club provides radio communications and volunteers are needed. Contact John Canker W9JM for more information and to volunteer.
Detailed information about these and other club activities is available on our website, www.ns9rc.org. Communications Director Udo N0LSR and team update our website daily. Check it out!