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Public Service News MARC Is Involved In Public Service !
Public
Service Communications are at the very core of the Amateur Radio Service and the
Massillon Amateur Radio Club is dedicated to providing communications service to
our community.
Massillon Holiday Parade
In the early years of the parade, we provided only communications support to the Massillon JC’s organization who handled the staging of all the parade units. When they disbanded, the city struggled to find volunteers willing to take on this task. Since the MARC handled communications support, somehow we got nominated to take on this responsibility as well. A few years later, Massillon Cable began filming the parade in conjunction with the Massillon High School Communications Department and again the club was called upon to assist with this part of the parade also. Last minute omissions or changes to the parade line up are passed on to the production crew so that the announcers can follow along with the parade units. We had experience with this as well as amateurs routinely handle staging activities including TV production control relay duties at the Hall of Fame Festival Community Parade. The Holiday Parade has depended on this ever since. Over the past several years the parade has been sponsored by the Downtown Merchants Association with President Donald Harwig serving as Parade Chairman. During this time and before the club has always been there to make sure the parade is properly staged and starts on time down the parade route. We have become an integral part of the parade and I wonder if they could pull it off without us. I’m glad to report another successful public service event with very few problems thanks to our communications and parade skills. Over 48 years and counting Santa has arrived in the city in no small part thanks to the MARC. Parade Organizers and Communications Coordinator Perry Ballinger, W8AU express their appreciation to the MARC for their continued support of this annual holiday parade. The following club members assisted with this years event. Perry Ballinger - W8AU, Steve Hall - KD8ACF, Igor Nikishin - K8INN, Dan Anastis - N8DZM, Gary Kline - WC8W, Jim Farriss - WA8GXM, Tom Gill - KC8QOD, Joe Herrick - WD8BGW, Terry Russ - N8ATZ, Bob Ballinger - N8KXO, Robin - N8EBS, Vern Sproat - KE8BYW, Scott McGill - KC8ZCT, Mike McNamara - KB8OTK, and Pete Hardin - KD8GYI. This event provided 80 hours of community service. Massillon Holiday Parade
In the early years of the parade, we provided only communications support to the Massillon JC’s organization who handled the staging of all the parade units. When they disbanded, the city struggled to find volunteers willing to take on this task. Since the MARC handled communications support, somehow we got nominated to take on this responsibility as well. A few years later, Massillon Cable began filming the parade in conjunction with the Massillon High School Communications Department and again the club was called upon to assist with this part of the parade also. Last minute omissions or changes to the parade line up are passed on to the production crew so that the announcers can follow along with the parade units. We had experience with this as well as amateurs routinely handle staging activities including TV production control relay duties at the Hall of Fame Festival Community Parade. The Holiday Parade has depended on this ever since. Over the past several years the parade has been sponsored by the Downtown Merchants Association with President Donald Harwig serving as Parade Chairman. During this time and before the club has always been there to make sure the parade is properly staged and starts on time down the parade route. We have become an integral part of the parade and I wonder if they could pull it off without us. I’m glad to report another successful public service event with very few problems thanks to our communications and parade skills. Over 47 years and counting Santa has arrived in the city in no small part thanks to the MARC. Parade Organizers and Communications Coordinator Perry Ballinger, W8AU express their appreciation to the MARC for their continued support of this annual holiday parade. The following club members assisted with this years event. Perry Ballinger - W8AU, Bud Harvey - WA8KWD, Steve Hall - KD8ACF, Igor Nikishin - K8INN, Bill Maurer - KD8LCS, Dan Anastis - N8DZM, Wade Huthmacher - WD8MIU, Gary Kline - WC8W, Jim Farriss - WA8GXM, Tom Gill - KC8QOD, Joe Herrick - WD8BGW, Terry Russ - N8ATZ, Ralph Bugg - K8HSQ, Jeff McKinney - KC8KIX, Alan Looney - AC8RY, John Wagner - N8CD and John Kocher - N8ZXB. This event provided 68 hours of community service. Challenger Baseball Public Service Event.
Challenger Baseball is the Special Needs division of Little league. Each year the Challenger leagues across the state come together for their annual State Tournament. This years event was held in N. Canton and Amateur Radio was honored to be part of this important tradition. Throughout the day, we provided support communications by monitoring game activity at the nine fields used for the event including one held off site at the First Christian Church on Market Avenue. At the conclusion of each game, trophy's were awarded to all players by Ohio State Troopers coordinated by amateur radio. We also provided close communications with several event coordinators including Event Director Bonnie McClellan. Net Control was established using our ARES Comm Trailer. Safety was also an important part of this event as radio communication was used several times for medical incidents. Event Director Bonnie McCellan expressed her deepest thanks for the assistance we provided during the games, the first time amateur radio support was used during this event. Eight operators supported this event who included: Don Wade - W8DEA; Wade Huthmacher - WD8MIU; Chris Wetzel - KD8TNF; Pat Quinlan - KA8DAL; Bill Maurer - KD8LCS; Mike Palmer - KD8ENV; Tom Gill - KC8QOD; and county EC Terry Russ - N8ATZ. Thanks also to Chris's XYL JoAnn and daughter Julie who also assisted during the day event. MARC Assist With Tour de Cure Ride
Sponsored by the American Diabetes association, the Tour de Cure is a series of fundraising cycling events held nationwide to benefit the ADA. Amateur Radio is a strong supporter of this event held in Summit County by providing safety, support & logistics communications for the over 1,000 riders that participated in this years event. Stark County provided four volunteers to assist with this ride. They included EC Terry Russ, N8ATZ SAG Vehicle support; Wade Huthmacher, WD8MIU and Ron Hendershot, KA8FTP Motorcycle Route patrol, and Rick Fligor, KD8NYZ, Bicycle patrol along the Bike & Hike Trail. We are glad to report only a few minor medical issues were experienced along with the normal bike breakdowns for this years ride. Summit Co EC Dennis Conklin, AI8P along with Tour Ride Logistics Coordinator Walt Heeney expressed their deepest appreciation for amateur radio's support of this important fundraiser. The American Diabetes Association's mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all persons affected by diabetes. MARC Assist With COOL Event
COOL stands for Community Outreach Of Love and is a collaboration of many area churches all sharing a common goal: to facilitate physical and spiritual impact to the community. On Saturday, nearly 1,800 volunteers and 15 amateur radio operators completed their goal in the Southwest section of Massillon. Radio operators were located at strategic blocks to provide support communications as resources and materials were transported to the over 250 individual homes in the neighborhood. Net Control was handled using our ARES Trailer located at 7th Street and Walnut Road, the staging area for this years event. My thanks to Mike, KD8ENV for the use of the trailer and acting Net Control for the event and to the Massillon ARC for the use of their generator. Event Director Cindy Mandrell and Communications Coordinator Cathy Storey, KC8EUC both expressed their deepest appreciation for the long day's support to this community project. Throughout the day, radio operators provided communications to help move manpower and materials to complete the project tasks at the many homes on this years list. We also recognize and appreciate the service of the following amateur radio operators: Tom Steele - KD8JRK, John Myers - KD8MQ (both from the Alliance ARC), Bill Treacle - KD8TKX, Tom Gill - KC8QOD, Russ McMahen - N8PII, Wade Huthmacher - WD8MIU, Bill Maurer - KD8LCS, Terry Russ - N8ATZ, Rick Fligor - KD8NYZ, Don Wade - W8DEA, Danny Newport - KG8RV, Ron Kuhn - KC8LAB, Bruce Brown - KC8RKS, Mike Palmer - KD8ENV, and Cathy Storey - KC8EUC.
Wade, WD8MIU (L) and Mike, KD8ENV as Net Control in the ECOMM Trailer
Comm Coordinator Cathy, KC8EUC and Danny, KG8RV review assignments
The Salvation Army Provided water and support during the day. MARC Attend Memorial Day Parade
(May 27, 2013) - - Members of the MARC participated in this years annual Memorial Day Parade with a display of the club's EComm Trailer along with a military jeep owned by Navy Veteran Perry Ballinger, W8AU. The club trailer was pulled by Jim Farriss, WA8GXM who is a retired member of the Ohio National Guard. The club was well represented in this years parade ! Also attending were Don Finley, W8DEF, Linda Finley, K8MOO and Terry Russ, N8ATZ who all assisted with the display.
W8AU ready to join the parade units !
EComm One Shows Off the Colors ! Annual Massillon MS Walk
(Apr 28, 2013) -- Saturday, April 27th marked the official opening of the 2013 public service season as members of the MARC again assisted with the annual Spring MS Walk in Massillon at the Massillon Recreation Center. Sponsored by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, communications volunteers staffed rest stops and provided safety and support communications for this years event. Communications was also maintained between the transfer busses and the Recreation Center. EComm 1, the clubs Emergency Communications Trailer was stationed at the Rec Center and provided Net Control operations for the Walk. The weather was a beautiful spring day with warm temperatures that brought out record walkers for this years event. Nearly 400 participants supported this years walk. Local MS Walk Coordinator Dick Kulick expressed his sincere appreciation to all of the amateur volunteers for their continued assistance year after year. The overall event went very well with only a few needing transport back to the Recreation Center. The following volunteers assisted with this years MS Walk. Terry Russ - N8ATZ, Jim Farriss - WA8GXM, Don Finley - W8DEF, Tom Gill - KC8QOD, Wade Huthmacher - WD8MIU, Mike Palmer - KD8ENV, Bill Treacle - KD8TKX with wife Shirley, Rick Fligor - KD8NYZ, Igor Nikishin - K8INN and Carl Cunert. This event provided 40 Community Service Hours.
Part of the 2013 MS Walk Crew. Left to right
Jim- WA8GXM, Don - W8DEF, Tom - KC8QOD, Wade - WD8MIU and Rick -
KD8NYZ Bike Rover. Massillon Holiday Parade
In the early years of the parade, we provided only communications support to the Massillon JC’s organization who handled the staging of all the parade units. When they disbanded, the city struggled to find volunteers willing to take on this task. Since the MARC handled communications support, somehow we got nominated to take on this responsibility as well. A few years later, Massillon Cable began filming the parade in conjunction with the Massillon High School Communications Department and again the club was called upon to assist with this part of the parade also. Last minute omissions or changes to the parade line up are passed on to the production crew so that the announcers can follow along with the parade units. We had experience with this as well as amateurs routinely handle staging activities including TV production control relay duties at the Hall of Fame Festival Community Parade. The Holiday Parade has depended on this ever since. Over the past several years the parade has been sponsored by the Downtown Merchants Association with President Donald Harwig serving as Parade Chairman. During this time and before the club has always been there to make sure the parade is properly staged and starts on time down the parade route. We have become an integral part of the parade and I wonder if they could pull it off without us. I’m glad to report another successful public service event with very few problems thanks to our communications and parade skills. Over 45 years and counting Santa has arrived in the city in no small part thanks to the MARC. Special thanks to the following club members for their assistance with this years parade. They are: PARADE ASSEMBLY- Perry - W8AU Communications Coordinator, Bob - N8KXO, Steve - KD8ACF, Bud - WA8KWD, Gary - WC8W, Anne - N8GAF, Robin - N8EBS, Tom - KC8QOD, Dan - N8DZM, Ralph - K8HSQ, Terry - N8ATZ, and Jeremy - KB8VHL. As PARADE MARSHALLS - Charlie - KB8STV, Bill - KD8TKX, Wade - WD8MIU, Steve - KB8VHI, Dale - KB8LWP, Igor - K8INN, and Sarah - KC8ZCS. Handling TV Production interface was Joe - WD8BGW. Several volunteers handled both parade assembly and parade marshal duties. This event annually provides nearly 100 hours of community service to the city. ADDITIONAL HOLIDAY PARADE NEWS
The following note of appreciation appeared in the Massillon Independent Newspaper in the Letters To The Editor on Thursday, November 29, 2012. "Many Had A Hand In Parade's Success" A big thank-you to all the organizations, businesses, individuals and spectators for supporting the 58th Annual Massillon Main Street / Downtown Massillon Association Holiday Parade on Saturday, November 17. I would like to express my thanks to the following for their efforts: The Massillon Amateur Radio Club for their assistance in the parade lineup. Donald R. Harwig Thanks Don, you can always count on us ! Canton Marathon Report
Organization for this event began over nine months ago and marathon organizers were eager to have amateur radio support for this high profile community event. After several meetings with marathon organizers we were requested to provide both logistical and runner safety communications support, a function we have performed at similar events. Thanks to a great volunteer turnout, we provided operators at each mile marker for all three legs of the marathon, the 10K, half and full marathon. Throughout the event, amateurs provided status reports on runner volume back to the command center at Canton's Fawcett Stadium. Net Control was also stationed at the stadium using the Massillon ARC's Emergency Communications Trailer. We also relayed information on supply status for the various Aid stations provided throughout the course. The twenty-six mile course size required the use of multiple repeaters to ensure solid coverage. Both the Stark Co ARES Repeater on 147.12 Mhz and the Massillon ARC Club Repeater on 147.18 Mhz were used that both provided excellent coverage of the course. This also marked the first time that tactical callsigns were used to facilitate communications with the various course locations. The event lasted about five hours during which time operators kept a watchful eye on runner progress and assisted with a few minor medical situations. Marathon organizers were very impressed by our professional communications and many times we provided runner updates much faster than they could get by cellphones. Race Director Rob Steinberg expressed his sincere appreciation and thanks for the support we provided for the Marathon. While there were a few gliches during the event, we plan a critique meeting to better prepare for next years event. MARC Assists With MS Walk
Massillon Holiday Parade !
MARC Assists With Community Parade
Again this year amateurs provided both logistical support
communications for parade staging as well as medical support
covering the Digital packet communications were utilized to synchronize the nearly 125 parade units making up this years parade. Using a voice relay from Bruce, KB8SAF who relayed the exact line up to Tom, KC8QOD who then sent this down to Jason, KC8LIN inside the Television Production truck. This system allowed parade officials to make any last minute lineup changes and accurately convey this to the TV producer. Packet is used for this function and has proven to be the perfect choice as it allows van personnel to continuously monitor the status of all units in the parade. This marks the eleventh year this has been used and is an important aspect of our parade assistance. With summer popup thunderstorms an ever present possibility, we also monitored Cleveland NWS Weather Radar in case of severe weather. Our other parade responsibility and perhaps our most important, especially considering the warm and humid conditions of this years parade was our role in medical support. Amateurs were stationed with Canton EMS units and provided a common communications link to the medical command center in demarshaling area. Fortunately very few minor medical emergencies occurred mostly due to the warm temperatures. Mike Palmer, KD8ENV acted as Medical Liaison in the staging area. Captain Ray Friedman of the Canton Fire Department appreciated our efforts in support of the medical units. Community Parade General Chairman Brad Longbrake expressed his heartfelt thanks to all the radio operators for their assistance. "Your operators are a vital part of this parade", said Brad, "your continued support year after year makes all the difference". A special thank you to the following volunteers who assisted with this years event. The staging and logistical support crew included Bruce Humphrey - KB8SAF. TV production support included Tom Gill – KC8QOD and Jason Stroll - KC8LIN in the TV Production Van. Net Control was handled by Terry Russ - N8ATZ. Medical Unit support included Mike Palmer – KD8ENV in staging with Cathy Storey - KC8EUC, and Igor Nikishin - K8INN along the route. Demarshalling was staffed by Dale Storey - KB8LWP. A terrific job from a great crew, thanks again for your support of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival ! Terry Russ - N8ATZ Massillon MS Walk
Sponsored by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society communications volunteers staffed rest stops and provided safety and support communications for this years event. Communications was also maintained between the transfer busses and the Rec Center. EComm 1, the clubs Emergency Communications Trailer was stationed at the Rec Center and provided Net Control operations for the Walk. This years walk was blessed with near perfect weather resulting in nearly 400 participants this year. Local MS Walk Coordinator Dick Kulick expressed his sincere appreciation to all of the amateur volunteers for their continued assistance year after year. The overall event went very well with only a few needing transport back to the Rec Center. The following volunteers assisted with this years MS Walk. Terry Russ - N8ATZ, Jim Farriss - WA8GXM, Don Finley - W8DEF, Scott McCamish - N3JJT, Wade Huthmacher - WD8MIU, Mike Palmer - KD8ENV, Igor Nikishin - K8INN; Jim Porter - KA8PBA; Robert Keller - AC8GE; Tim France - WB8HHP and son James - WA8HHO. This event provided 52 Community Service Hours. Massillon Holiday Parade
In the early years of the parade, we
provided only communications support to the Massillon JC’s
organization who handled the staging of all the parade units. When
they disbanded, the city struggled to find volunteers willing to
take on this task. Since the MARC handled communications support,
somehow we got nominated to take on this responsibility as well. A
few years later, Massillon Cable began filming the parade in
conjunction with the Massillon High School Communications
Department and again the club was called upon to assist with this
part of the parade also. Last minute omissions or changes to the
parade line up are passed on to the production crew so that the
announcers can follow along with the parade units. We had
experience with this as well as amateurs routinely handle staging
activities including TV production control relay duties at the
Hall of Fame Festival Kickoff Parade. The Holiday Parade has
depended on this ever since. Over the past several years the parade has
been sponsored by the Downtown Merchants Association with
President Donald Harwig serving as Parade Chairman. During this
time and before the club has always been there to make sure the
parade is properly staged and starts on time down the parade
route. We have become an integral part of the parade and I wonder
if they could pull it off without us. I’m glad to report another successful public service event with very few problems thanks to our communications and parade skills. Over 43 years and counting Santa has arrived in the city in no small part thanks to the MARC. Special thanks to the following club members for their assistance with this years parade. They are: Charlie - KB8STV, Anne - N8GAF, Perry - W8AU, Linda - K8MOO, Don - W8DEF, Igor - K8INN, Tom - KC8QOD, Dan - N8DZM, Jim - WA8GXM, Terry - N8ATZ, Mike - KD8ENV, Steve - KD8ACF, Scott - N3JJT, Tom - WD8MBE, Sarah - KC8ZCS, Carl - AB8CC, Jason - KC8LIN, and Wade - WD8MIU. Club member Joe Herrick - WD8BGW also assisted in the parade both as a radio operator and in his full time job as Captain of the Massillon Police Department. This event annually provides over 80 hours of community service.
EComm 1 Trailer decorated for the Holiday Parade ! MS Walk Update
Sponsored by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society communications volunteers staffed rest stops and provided safety and support communications for this years event. Communications was also maintained between the transfer busses and the Rec Center. EComm 1, the clubs Emergency Communications Trailer was stationed at the Rec Center and provided Net Control operations for the Walk. Although the event began with morning showers the walk well attended Walk with over 500 registrants this year. Local MS Walk Coordinator Dick Kulick expressed his sincere appreciation to all of the amateur volunteers for their continued assistance year after year. The overall event went very well with only a few needing transport back to the Rec Center. The following volunteers assisted with this years MS Walk. Terry Russ - N8ATZ, Jim Farriss - WA8GXM, Don Finley - W8DEF, Tom Gill - KC8QOD, Scott McCamish - N3JJT, Wade Huthmacher - WD8MIU, Mike Palmer - KD8ENV, Ralph Bugg - K8HSQ, Igor Nikishin - K8INN and Don Wade - W8DEA. .This event provided 44 Community Service Hours. Massillon Holiday Parade Report
In the early years of the parade, we
provided only communications support to the Massillon JC’s
organization who handled the staging of all the parade units. When
they disbanded, the city struggled to find volunteers willing to
take on this task. Since the MARC handled communications support,
somehow we got nominated to take on this responsibility as well. A
few years later, Massillon Cable began filming the parade in
conjunction with the Massillon High School Communications
Department and again the club was called upon to assist with this
part of the parade also. Last minute omissions or changes to the
parade line up are passed on to the production crew so that the
announcers can follow along with the parade units. We had
experience with this as well as amateurs routinely handle staging
activities including TV production control relay duties at the
Hall of Fame Festival Kickoff Parade. The Holiday Parade has
depended on this ever since. Over the past several years the parade has
been sponsored by the Downtown Merchants Association with
President Donald Harwig serving as Parade Chairman. During this
time and before the club has always been there to make sure the
parade is properly staged and starts on time down the parade
route. We have become an integral part of the parade and I wonder
if they could pull it off without us. I’m glad to report another successful public service event with very few problems thanks to our communications and parade skills. Over 42 years and counting Santa has arrived in the city in no small part thanks to the MARC. A special note regarding this year’s parade, Santa rode in his traditional sleigh instead of a Massillon FD fire truck. Just the way it was many years ago. Special thanks to the following club members for volunteering this year. They are; Wade – WD8MIU, Sarah – KC8ZCS, Scott – KC8ZCT, Anne – N8GAF, Jim – WA8GXM, Terry – N8ATZ, Igor – K8INN, Mike – KD8ENV, Steve – KD8ACF, Don – W8DEF, Linda – K8MOO, Scott – N3JJT, Bill – KD8LCS, Dan – N8DZM, Tom – KC8QOD, Russ – N8PII, Tim France – WB8HHP and Communications Coordinator Perry – W8AU. Also assisting us this year from the Summitt Co ARES was Bruce Brown – KC8RKS. This event annually provides over 80 hours of community service.Annual Massillon MS Walk Sponsored by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society communications volunteers staffed rest stops and provided safety and support communications for this years event. Communications was also maintained between the transfer busses and the Rec Center. EComm 1, the clubs Emergency Communications Trailer was stationed at the Rec Center and provided Net Control operations for the Walk. Great weather made for a very well attended Walk with over 600 registrants this year. Local MS Walk Coordinator Dick Kulick expressed his sincere appreciation to all of the amateur volunteers for their continued assistance year after year. The overall event went very well with only a few needing transport back to the Rec Center. The following volunteers assisted with this years MS Walk. Terry Russ - N8ATZ, Jim Farriss - WA8GXM, Don Finley - W8DEF, Linda Finley - K8MOO, Tom Gill - KC8QOD, Scott McCamish - N3JJT, Wade Huthmacher - WD8MIU, Mike Palmer - KD8ENV, Rodger Trompower - KA8FTS, Carl Cunnert - AB8CC, Dan Anastis - N8DZM, Jack Wade - N8LCS, Ralph Bugg - K8HSQ and Rex Simmons - NX8G.This event provided 63 Community Service Hours. MARC Recognized by Tour de Cure
Summit Co Tour De Cure Communications Coordinator Bruce Brown - KC8RKS visited the clubs August meeting to present a plaque to the club which read "Thank You MARC For Your Generous Support of the 2007 Tour de Cure". The club provided 10 volunteers for the ride including Wade Huthmacher - WD8MIU, Carl Cunert - AB8CC, Mike Palmer - KD8ENV, Rex Simmon - KD8ELX, Dan Anastis - N8DZM, Igor Nikishin - K8INN, Richard Ross - KA8ZQH, Rodger Trompower - KA8FTS, Ralph Bugg - K8HSQ and Terry Russ - N8ATZ. MARC Assists With MS Walk
The following Saturday, April 28th, the MS Society held their Massillon MS Walk at the Massillon Recreation Center. EComm 1, the club's Emergency Communications Trailer was stationed at the Recreation Center to provide base support for this walk. As with the Quail Hollow Walk, the club provided Rest Stop support as well as safety & support communications for the event. The weather was a bit damp but it didn't deter the nearly 500 walkers who participated in this years walk. Thanks to Ralph Bugg - K8HSQ and Dan Anastis - N8DZM, APRS was used to monitor walker flow along the trail. Local MS Walk Coordinator Dick Kulick expressed his appreciation to the club for our continual support of this event year after year. The Walk went well with only a few needing transport back to the Rec Center. Massillon's Event Communications Coordinator Jack Wade - N8LCS also thanked the club and volunteers Terry Russ - N8ATZ, Scott McCamish - N3JJT, Don Finley - W8DEF, Linda Finley - K8MOO, Rodger Trompower - KA8FTS, Wade Huthmacher - WD8MIU, Igor Nikishin - K8INN, Dan Anastis - N8DZM, Ralph Bugg - K8HSQ, Jack Wade - N8LCS, Gary Kline - WC8W and Tom Gill - KC8QOD. A letter of Appreciation was also received from Jodi Shipley, Marketing Coordinator, National MS Society thanking the core group of volunteers who assist each year. The combined walks totaled 82 hours of public service to the community.
The Massillon MS Walk Volunteers The Great American Canoe Races
2 meter FM (not CW or AM) at that time was fairly new to ham radio. Begun in early sixties with surplus commercial two way FM radio units converted to AC use and usually on one channel, 146.94 MHz, these boxes were heavy all vacuum tube operated. Two meter beams were used to enable our ten watt (big) radios to communicate down the river valley for at least 5 miles. (The canal did not have water in it all the way to Lake Avenue). Needless to say, our efforts were always successful. We were, after all, pretty darn efficient technicians and communicators. Fast forward to today ... we revisit an old "battle ground," the Tuscarawas River Valley ! We have new technologies and new smaller, more efficient radio gear, repeaters, digital modes ... This should be a snap! We can use one of the many repeaters we have locally ... maybe even the club's 442.85 machine that looks right over the river valley right at about Lake Avenue. Think again! After two days of testing, it was found that the UHF machine could not handle the challenge. The nearest VHF repeater, our far ranging 147.18 machine, passes right over the valley and does not penetrate the deep gorge that is prevalent from north of Lake Avenue up to beyond Butterbridge road, south of Canal Fulton. The river is the "lowest" point in the county, obviously, and combined with the thick foliage, tends to attenuate RF very well. Hmmmmmm... We have to go back to the basics ... just like years ago. Since we do not have a lot of HF portables on 75 meters (that would use the ionosphere to reflect signals up and down the valley), we are back to what we do have ... a lot of two meter gear, albeit mush smaller and portable, thank goodness! 2 meter SIMPLEX, revisited... We used four equidistant mobile stations with beams along the eight mile route, with six canoe's based at 1 mile apart. Since HT's cannot be heard far in the thick foliage river valley, at least one of the four mobile stations WILL hear the HT's as they report race progress and these reports can be relayed to the Lake Avenue HQ where we have the club's Ecomm Trailer with the 58 foot pneumatic mast and beam. Viola! Success. No failures, no upended canoes everyone safe and dry! (Except for the sporatic light rain). We are so good at this we will probably have to do it next year! (The price of success). Many thanks to our stalwart members, especially those that were still "young at heart" enough to work out of a canoe for up to 3 hours!. Our volunteers for this event were; In canoes Michelle Gill-KC8ZEJ, Joe Herrick-WD8BGW, Jason Stroll-KC8LIN, Dan Anastis-N8DZM, Anne Ballinger-N8GAF and Barry Heiks-KC8QOE. Canal Fulton start point; Scott McCamish-N3JJT and Perry Ballinger-W8AU. Butterbridge Road crossing; Gary Kline-WC8W. Crystal Springs start point; Rodger Trompower-KA8FTS and Wade Huthmacher-WD8MIU. Lake Avenue HQ; Jim Farriss-WA8GXM and Igor Nikishin-K8INN. 73's De Perry, W8AU GOBA Returns to Stark County - A Final Report Terry Russ, N8ATZ - Assistant Emergency Coordinator
In an extremely well organized event, two meter nets are established as the riders enter each county. This sets the stage for that days ride as our volunteers as well as the GOBA support staff, most of which are also licensed amateurs, begin the 50 mile toward their next destination. This years GOBA staff included 30 radio operators who are responsible for coordinating all aspects of the weeks event. On Monday, June 21, the rolling town of over 3,000 riders left camp in Orville eventually making their way into Stark county. The Massillon club's 147.18 repeater served as the net control frequency for the entire day's ride thanks to the repeaters vast coverage pattern and history of dependability. Our responsibility was to provide a net control station, radio operators to staff several medical transport units and finally to monitor several potentially hazardous intersections along the route through Stark county. As the morning unfolded, it became apparent it was going to be a busy day. Soon the repeater was filled with nearly nonstop traffic as various logistical, medical and support communications filled the repeater. There were two distinct segments active during the ride. First was the GOBA support staff who cover administrative, medical and SAG vehicle coordination. Secondly was the ham contingent from the host county who rode in medical units, guarded dangerous intersections and provided tight net control operations to keep everything running smoothly. I am happy to report that all went extremely well during the day's ride. The MARC's ECOMM Communications Trailer was positioned midway through the route and served as our net control station. Minor medical emergencies, broken down bicycles, lost riders were but a fraction of the traffic that flowed over the repeater during the day. A special thanks to the members of the MARC who gave up a Monday to assist with this major public service event. Our logbook indicated nearly 300 entries during the day which worked out to about 43 separate communications per hour or almost one per minute ! A busy day to say the least and a fine job by a great crew. On behalf of Jeff Slattery, N8SUZ - GOBA Communications Director and myself, I would like to thank my dedicated crew for their assistance during this event. They were: Jim Farriss - WA8GXM, Don Finley - W8DEF, Linda Finley - K8MOO, Rodger Trompower - KA8FTS, Helen Trompower - KC8ZWG, Ralph Bugg - K8HSQ, Larry Fierstos - KC8RKU, Ed Clinger - WA8DRT and Igor Nikishin - K8INN. A special KUDO's to KC8RKU who assisted with the GOBA ride all week. Hat's off to you all for a job well done. Club Assists With Brewster and Massillon CROP Walk's
Providing both safety and support communications,
club members monitored the walkers as they took to the Towpath
Trail, walking from Navarre to John Glenn Cove Park enjoying the
fall foliage along the scenic Ohio & Erie Canal Trail. This
marks the fourth consecutive year we have assisted with this
event. The club's Emergency Communications Trailer, ECOMM 1, was positioned at John Glenn Park to provide a central point for our communications duties. Additional members were stationed at church registration and along the route to monitor walkers progress. Some Amateur Television was used again this year to monitor vehicle traffic along a busy street used by the walkers. The walk was completed in about 2 hours with everyone returning safe and sound. A special thanks to the following club members for their support and assistance. Terry Russ - N8ATZ, Don Finley - W8DEF, Jim Farriss - WA8GXM, Igor Nikishen - WB8KEO, Charlie - KB8STV, Don Wade - W8DEA Gary Kline - WC8W and Ed Clinger - WA8DRT. Igor took some great pictures of the walk and they are posted on his website. Click Here to check them out !
The Great CROP Walk Volunteers !
Then two weeks later on October 19th the club provided similar assistance to Massillon's First United Methodist Church under the direction of Rev Leslie Peine, K8CP also a club member. The four mile route took the walkers through downtown to the Towpath Trail and back. Rest stops were set up at the Trailhead by Ernie's Bicycle Shop and the First Assembly of God Church on Lake Avenue. Operators were used at both rest stops and monitored the walkers as they made their way around the four mile course. Our operators monitored dangerous intersections downtown and as they crossed Route 21 on Lake Avenue. The clubs Emergency Communications Trailer was stationed at UMC church and the 147.18 repeater was used to maintain communications. About 40 plus walkers completed the long route with about 15 enjoying the one mile walk. All participants completed the Crop Walk successfully without incident. Rev Les Peine thanked all the club volunteers for helping with the walk. Volunteers were Terry - N8ATZ, Gary - WC8W, Igor - WB8KEO, Don - W8DEF, Perry - W8AU and Ed - WA8DRT.
EComm 1 at the registration area Red Cross Training Class Well Attended
The video based course introduced participants to disasters, the community response, and the role of Red Cross Disaster Services. The class covered the seven major areas of disaster services and is a required course for those who wish to join the Red Cross as a volunteer.
Bruce discusses Disaster Preparedness to MARC Club participation was exceptional with 18 members taking part in the introductory course organized by club Training Coordinator Charlie Scherger - KB8STV. Congratulations to the following for taking part in this Red Cross course. They were, Don Finley-W8DEF, Jason Stroll-KC8LIN, Bryon-KF8UN, Gary Lewis-W8SSB, Don Guisinger-KC8RPE, Don Wade-W8DEA, Linda Finley-K8MOO, Jim Farriss-WA8GXM, Terry Russ-N8ATZ, Ann Ballinger-N8GAF, Rich Ross-KA8ZQH, Randy Phelps-KD8JN, Charlie Scherger-KB8STV, Jules Labourcane-KA8MMN, Sam Marang-WA8YGR, Bruce Putnam-AB8FB, Gene Beckwith-W8KXR, and Gary Blagg-KC8IHR. Members Don and Linda Finley, Jim Farriss and Sandra Becker-N8TZB have been involved in the Red Cross for many years and Bruce Robinson hopes the introductory class will inspire a few new volunteers ! FEMA Training Class Well Attended
A special thanks goes out to Charlie, MARC's Public Service Award recipient for 2001, for spearheading an effort to provide additional training to the amateur operators of Stark County. This is one of the major goals of the Stark County ARES and Charlie is helping us to achieve this important goal. Congratulations to the following MARC members for successfully completing this initial FEMA class. They are Gary Kline - WC8W, Randy Phelps - KD8JN, Don Wade - W8DEA, Anne Ballinger - N8GAF, Linda Finley - K8MOO, Perry Ballinger - W8AU, Bruce Putnam - AB8FB, Russ McMahen - N8PII, Gene Beckwith - W8KXR, Jules Laborcane - KA8MMN, Byron Berger - KF8UN, Jack Wade - N8LCS, Rick Garner - KC8LYG, and Terry Russ - N8ATZ. Our instructor Charlie Scherger - KB8STV, assistants Don Finley - W8DEF and Jason Stroll - KC8LIN have previously taken and completed this course. The Commercialism of Amateur Radio
Frank Piper, KI8GW MARC Involved in Search & Rescue Operations
With approximately 60 to 65 personnel from various fire departments including additional support from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, local Police and the Stark County Sheriff as well as the Ohio Highway Patrol involved in the massive rescue effort, Red Cross & ARES member Don Finley - W8DEF was immediately dispatched to the scene to provide Red Cross meal support. Red Cross Coordinator Jim Farriss - WA8GXM also stood ready in case the clubs Emergency Communications Trailer, ECOMM 1, was called into service. During the height of the search efforts, a Metro LifeFlight helicopter and a Ohio Highway Patrol search plane circled the area while a rescue boat combed the waters and fields surrounding the Tuscarawas River. Other personnel set out on foot or mounted all terrain vehicles. Thankfully the woman was found unharmed sitting inside a locked vehicle in a local business parking lot. Although Amateur Radio participation was minimal, Navarre Fire Chief Ray Gallaher, incident commander was ready to call out additional amateur support in the event the search continued throughout the evening. What if it happens here ? That's the title newsline from the Massillon Independent newspaper article of Monday, October 22, 2001 and Amateur Radio is mentioned as part of the cities emergency preparedness plan. The events of September 11th redefined the meaning of emergency preparedness, both local & national and the Massillon Amateur Radio Club is stepping up our efforts to provide communications support to our community should an emergency occur. We are fortunate to have a presence in our public service community as we already have permanent two meter stations setup at both Massillon Community and Doctor's Hospital as well as our newest station located at Massillon's Regional Emergency Dispatch Center. This liaison helps to unite us with several local police & fire departments. Our EComm 1 Communications Trailer has been upgraded continuously over the past several years in preparation for any local emergency. It will soon have a permanent commercial public service radio installed that will provide a direct link with nearly all of our local public service agencies. Massillon has had a disaster plan loosely in place since 1975 and it has been steadily upgraded each year as possible threats to the city became apparent to local officials. The MARC has been an integral part of that plan almost since that time but over the years our ties to local government slowly faded due to inactivity. We have taken part in numerous local practice exercises and drills primarily under the direction of the Red Cross, an agency with whom we have developed a very strong relationship over the years. This would undoubtedly be the focus of our activities in the event of a local emergency, but I can envision an expanded role since the real worth of professionally trained radio operators was demonstrated to the world at both the World Trade Center and the Pentagon disaster sites. City officials are keenly aware of the fact that any number of both natural and man made disasters could land squarely here in Massillon. Everything from weather related disasters such as tornadoes and floods, disasters such as toxic spills, railroad accidents or even airplane crashes are all possible in our small community. City planners have already stated that all local resources would be taped to assist in a local emergency situation including amateur radio. The real question is ARE WE READY ? Click here to read the full text of the recent story in the Massillon Evening Independent. Click Here for details on ECOMM 1. Click Here for a guide to working public service events.
This page was last updated on 02/06/16 Site best viewed in 800 x 600 Resolution
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plus many other community events. Many of our members participate in the Amateur
Radio Emergency Service. The Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) consists of
licensed amateurs who have 
To
maintain a high level of readiness, the MARC routinely participates in yearly
training exercises with several local and national organizations such as the
American Red Cross and the National Weather Service. We also actively
participate in several amateur radio service exercises, most notably "Field
Day", sponsored by the ARRL, the National Association for Amateur
Radio. These operating events help to keep our skills sharp and ready should we
be called upon to assist in an emergency situation.
Many of our members also participate in our local Skywarn Spotter program. Typically,
trained volunteer spotters report into a local operations center, and these
reports are relayed to the National Weather Service. Reports are delivered to
this local center by many means including Amateur Radio. Specialized training is
necessary to become an effective skywarn spotter and many of our members attend
yearly spotter seminars to remain proficient in this program. In 1999 the
Massillon Amateur Radio Club was asked to allow our primary 2 meter amateur
repeater to be used as a backup to the Stark County ARES Skywarn repeater should
it become necessary. The MARC has always been committed to assisting the Skywarn
program here in Stark County. 
As part of the local Skywarn Spotter program, the MARC has also established
memorandums of understanding with both Massillon Community and Doctors Hospitals
here in Stark County. We have established full time fully operational amateur
radio stations to be staffed by MARC volunteers in the event the National
Weather Service issues a severe weather warning for our area. Massillon
Community Hospital is also the home of our UHF Communications Repeater, a
further testament to the mutual cooperation that exists between our two
organizations.
In 2000 we continued that commitment by establishing an amateur
station at the Regional Emergency Dispatch (RED) Center located in Massillon.
This office handles the dispatching responsibilities for several local police
and fire departments and completes the circle in a carefully prepared area
disaster plan that we are an integral part of. We have also created several
portable packet stations that can be setup at these three locations to relay
sensitive and confidential information back to either Red Cross command centers
or the Stark County Emergency Operations Center. We also maintain close
ties with the Stark County Emergency Operations Center located in the Stark
County Sheriff's Office. 
We are always looking for ham operators to become involved in public service
communications here at the MARC. If you are interested in this important aspect
of the amateur radio service, you are encouraged to contact us. If you would
like to know more about Emergency Communications here in Stark County we
recommend you check out the Stark County Amateur Radio Emergency Service website
at 
(Nov 27, 2015) - - The MARC just finished assisting with the
61st Annual Massillon Holiday Parade sponsored by Massillon Main
Street and the Downtown Massillon Association. This continues to
remain the oldest public service event that is handled by the
club and our responsibilities have grown over recent years to
include many aspects of parade operation. The parade was
rebroadcast over Massillon Cable TV and I hope some of you had a
chance to view it. The club trailer looked great on the route
with our new decorations and special thanks to Jim Farriss -
WA8GXM for pulling the trailer in the parade. 
(UPDATED Jul 29, 2014) - -
Members of the Massillon Amateur Radio Club provided Safety &
Support Communications for the 2014 Challenger Baseball Ohio
Tournament Games held on Sunday, July 20th. The event was held
at the Hoover Community Recreation Complex in N. Canton.
(July 2, 2013) - - On Saturday, June 29th, members of
the Stark Co ARES & Massillon Amateur Radio Club provided
communications assistance to the Summit Co ARES with the annual
Tour de Cure Bike Ride.
(July 7. 2012) -- On Sunday, June 17th Amateur
Radio Operators from Stark and Summit County combined their
efforts to provide communications support for the inaugural
Canton Marathon.
(Aug 2, 2011) -- Under
a warm summer sky with the temperatures a sultry 85 plus
degrees, members of the Stark Co ARES, Canton & Massillon
ARC's once again assisted in the opening events of the Pro
Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival by providing
communications support for the Community Parade held this year on
Sunday, July 31st.
(Apr 25, 2010) -- Saturday,
April 24th marked the official opening of the 2010 public service
season as members of the MARC again assisted with the annual
Spring MS Walk in Massillon at the Massillon Recreation Center.
(Sep 9, 2007) -- The MARC was recognized by the American
Diabetes Association for our support of the 2007 Tour de Cure Ride
held June 16th in Summit County.
(May 13, 2007) -- Saturday,
April 21st marked the official opening of the 2007 public service
season as members of the MARC assisted with the Annual MS Walk at
Quail Hollow State Park. Sponsored by the Multiple Sclerosis
Society, volunteers staffed rest stops and provided safety &
support communications for this years event. Communications
Coordinator Jason Stroll, KC8LIN reported an excellent event with
no rain or medical incidents for the 300 walkers who took part in
this years event. A special thanks to volunteers Wade Huthmacher -
WD8MIU and Rodger Trompower - KA8FTS who staffed rest stops. Dan
Anastis - N8DZM at Lake Elementary School pickup point and Jason
MS Walk Coordinator.
(July 4, 2006) -- On
Saturday, June 3rd the Massillon Area Clergy Association's
sponsorship of this canoe race brought back an annual event that
MARC used to participate in from 40 to 26 years ago. At that time
it was the "Canal Fulton Canoe Races." The MARC was
called upon for safety communications and we responded by using 2
meter FM at a number of locations along the Ohio and Erie Canal.
(This parallels the river and is quite water as compared to the
river.)
(Updated
Oct 22, 2003) -- On
Sunday afternoon October 5th, members of the Massillon Amateur
Radio Club assisted the Brewster United Methodist Church with
their annual CROP Walk. Known as the Christian Rural Overseas
Program (CROP), is a program that provides interfaith hunger
education sponsored by local churches. The Brewster walk is a
collaboration of over 11 area churches.
On Tuesday, March 19th, members of the MARC participated in a Red
Cross class held at the Western Stark County Chapter in Massillon.
The class "Introduction To Disaster Services" was
conducted by Bruce Robinson, Director of Emergency Services. 
17 Members of the
MARC under the direction of club Training Coordinator Charlie
Scherger - KB8STV completed the first of what we hope will be a
semi-annual club training program series. Our first attempt at
this type of "no charge" training was FEMA's sponsored
"Emergency Response to Terrorism", presented by the
National Fire Academy. This course, part of FEMA's Independent
Study Program, consists of self-paced courses designed for both
the general public and people who may have emergency
responsibilities, a perfect starter for amateur radio operators
involved in the Amateur Radio Emergency Service. Their website, 
With Charlie as course instructor and assisted by Don Finley -
W8DEF, the basic outline of the course was presented through
slides which defined what terrorism is, types of terrorism
incidents, appropriate responses and basic HAZMAT fundamentals.
Participants were then required to complete a twenty question open
book test at the conclusion of the class. Once submitted,
recipients will receive a nice certificate of completion from
FEMA. 
(Oct 3, 2009) --
On Friday, September 25th the ARRL released their statement of the
Commercialization of Amateur Radio. I suggest each of you visit
the ARRL website, and read this important document. In short,
there is no change in FCC part 97 covering the use of Amateur
Radio and peculinary interest. This document describes the topic
in greater detail.
