Seamless Communications: Operators Shine at the Bicycle Across South Carolina Event

Throughout York County South Carolina, an event that brought together cycling enthusiasts from far and wide unfolded over the course of three days. The Bicycle Across South Carolina event was a dynamic affair, involving rigorous logistical and technical requirements, with communication playing a pivotal role in its success.

Bicycle Across South Carolina, an event that spanned three days, was no ordinary cycling event. This event presented a unique set of challenges. The vast distances and varying terrains required precise coordination and communication, making the role of operators even more critical. From monitoring the well-being of cyclists to coordinating rest stop communications, their expertise was integral to the event's success.

The heroes behind the scenes were the 17 operators who selflessly committed their time and expertise to support this dynamic event. Their training, experience, and composure under pressure were the pillars of success. They tirelessly monitored the radio frequencies, ensured that all messages were received and relayed accurately, and worked cohesively as a team.

What makes this story even more remarkable is that the operators didn't just fulfill a duty; they thoroughly enjoyed serving their community. Their commitment went beyond the call of duty, showcasing the spirit of volunteerism. They understood the significance of their roles and the impact their efforts had on the overall success of the event.

The Bicycle Across South Carolina event served as a testament to the power of effective communication and community service. Over the span of three days, the 17 operators dedicated over 28 hours to ensure the safety and success of the event.

Hurricane Idalia

Open House on Wednesday August 30, 2023 is CANCELLED due to the impending storm.

Idalia is projected to impact a large portion of South Carolina on Wednesday 8/30 and Thursday 8/31 2023. Please make sure you are prepared for the incoming storm.

Things to consider:

• Go over your radio equipment

• Charge your radio batteries

• Make sure your radios are programmed for local repeaters, including YCARS Simplex 146.580 and the National Simplex 146.520

• Check into our local nets (echolink is back up and running)

• Make sure you have medications, water, shelf-stable food, and flash lights

• Check on loved ones and neighbors

The SC Heart Repeater system will be linked starting on Wednesday August 30th at 9:00am. YCARS Nets will be moving to the backup repeater: W4FTK 147.225 (pos offset, 110.9 tone) starting Wednesday August 30th.  The SCHEART DMR network will be in emergency mode.

Please take care of yourself and your family.

Pilgrims Inn Food Drive

Pilgrims Inn reached out to YCARS to ask for help filling their pantries. They are in need of non-perishable items. We are going to hold a food drive for Pilgrims Inn during the month of August.

The items specifically requested are:

• Canned meats

• Canned fruits

• Canned or dry beans

• Pasta

• Rice

• Canned Soups

There will be a table set up at the club house for donated items. We would love to fill up the table! The food drive starts this Wednesday August 9th and ends on Sunday September 3, 2023.

The Club House is open every Wednesday from 6:00 - 8:00pm for Open House. The second and third Thursday from 7:30pm - 8:30pm.

If you would like to donate cash to the food drive, do so through Paypal and put a note “PILGRIMS INN FOOD DRIVE” so we know what the donation is for.

New Lifetime Member

YCARS is happy to announce the Bill Mannheim K4VSV was voted in as a lifetime member in January.

Bill Mannheim, K4VSV, has been voted by the members of YCARS to receive the esteemed honor of lifetime membership. This recognition is a testament to Bill's unwavering dedication and commitment to YCARS over the course of several decades.

Throughout his years of involvement with YCARS, Bill has demonstrated a profound passion for amateur radio and has made significant contributions to the organization. His tireless efforts and invaluable expertise have greatly benefited YCARS and its members, making him a highly respected figure within the amateur radio community.

Bill's commitment to YCARS goes beyond simply participating in activities or attending meetings. He has actively played a vital role in shaping the direction and growth of the organization. His guidance, and wealth of knowledge have made a lasting impact on YCARS, fostering an environment of learning, camaraderie, and community.

The decision to grant Bill Mannheim lifetime membership in YCARS reflects the immense respect and gratitude that the members hold for his remarkable dedication. It is a fitting recognition for his exceptional service, unwavering support, and numerous contributions to the organization.

YCARS takes great pride in bestowing this honor upon Bill, acknowledging the invaluable role he has played in shaping the success and legacy of the organization. His lifetime membership serves as a symbol of appreciation for his outstanding commitment and as an inspiration to current and future members of YCARS.

Community Events

YCARS recently participated in, and successfully executed three exhilarating events that left participants, volunteers, and spectators buzzing with excitement. These events showcased the dedication and passion of YCARS members while highlighting their invaluable radio communication support.

The first event, the Mike Doty 5k/10k, was a resounding success. Participants laced up their running shoes and hit the roads and scenic trail of Ft. Mill.  YCARS members equipped with their radio expertise, and the support of Rock Hill Police Department and their mobile command center, ensured flawless communication throughout the event, guaranteeing the safety and smooth coordination of all involved. The energy was infectious, and the event concluded with jubilant smiles, high-fives, and an overwhelming sense of accomplishment.

Next on the YCARS calendar was the vibrant St. Philip Neri Italian Festival. The air was filled with tantalizing aromas of delicious Italian cuisine, and the lively atmosphere reverberated with laughter and the sounds of music. YCARS members, strategically positioned across the festival grounds, kept the channels open and facilitated seamless communication between the festival organizers, vendors, and the enthusiastic crowd. This ensured that everyone experienced a truly unforgettable celebration of Italian culture and community spirit.

In the spirit of honoring the past, YCARS supported the Remember the Ancestors 5k, a race that paid tribute to those who came before us. As participants crossed the finish line, they were met with the heartfelt cheers of family and friends, as well as the unwavering support of YCARS members. The event not only highlighted the importance of staying connected with our roots but also demonstrated the power of collaboration and camaraderie.

Throughout all three events, YCARS members exemplified their unwavering commitment to their community. Their expertise in radio communication and their tireless dedication ensured the smooth running of these events, fostering an atmosphere of excitement, happiness, and accomplishment. Participants, volunteers, and organizers were filled with appreciation for the invaluable role YCARS played in making these events truly exceptional.

As the dust settled and the events concluded, YCARS members could revel in the knowledge that their hard work had made a significant impact. The overwhelming success of the Mike Doty 5k/10k, St. Philip Neri Italian Festival, and Remember the Ancestors 5k not only left lasting memories but also reaffirmed YCARS' place as a vital pillar of support within the community. The enthusiasm and joy shared by all involved serve as a testament to YCARS' ability to bring people together and create moments of connection and celebration that will be cherished for years to come.

Summer Field Day 2023

This year YCARS participated in the 2023 ARRL Summer Field Day. We had over 50 members come out to the park to support the event. We had over twenty different people get on the air and make some HF contacts.

Overall it was a fantastic weekend full of time on the radio and fellowship. We ran as 3A with a CW station, SSB station, digital station and GOTA station. We also had a pretty cool satellite station set up that made multiple contacts through various satellites.

We are already looking froward to Summer Field Day 2024!

Dr. Marc Tarplee, N4UFP York County Amateur Radio Club Scholarship

YCARS is happy to announce the establishment of a $1000.00 scholarship in memory of Dr. Marc Tarplee, N4UFP, at York Technical College in York County South Carolina.

The Dr. Marc Tarplee, N4UFP – York County Amateur Radio Club Scholarship was established by the York County Amateur Radio Club (YCARS) in memory of Dr. Marc Tarplee, N4UFP (SK). This scholarship demonstrates our commitment to developing the next generation of local Amateur Radio Operators in our community and is a fitting tribute to a former club member and dear friend to many of us. This opportunity will provide a student with a maximum of $1,000 for tuition, books, and program educational supplies.

Dr. Tarplee served as the ARRL South Carolina Section Technical Coordinator (TC) and Section Manager. He was a member of the York County Amateur Radio Society, the Carolinas DX Association (CDXA), and a founding member of the York County Contesters Group. Marc recently retired as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of York Technical College in Rock Hill, SC. He completed his undergraduate degree in physics at the State University of New York (SUNY) at Brockport, then pursued a M.Sc. at the Rochester (NY) Institute of Technology. He earned his Ph.D. in electrical engineering from the University of South Carolina, where he did extensive research on efficiency in semiconductor processing. Dr. Tarplee became a silent key in mid-2023.

Founded in 1948, the York County Amateur Radio Society (YCARS) is the oldest, continuously operating ham radio club in the state of South Carolina. For 75 years, YCARS has been promoting Amateur Radio fellowship and community service in York County and its surrounding areas.

Criteria:

• Must be a new or returning York Technical College student enrolled in a Technical Degree Program. Excludes Associate in Arts / Associate in Science / Transfer Programs

• Must have or maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA while in the program

• Have a completed FASFA on file

• Maintain at the minimum 6 credit hours

Must hold a current and non-expired FCC amateur radio license (Technician, General or Extra Class).

Scholarship may be used for Tuition and fees, textbooks and/or educational supplies.

York Tech Scholarship Link

Passing of MARC TARPLEE N4UFP

Marc C. Tarplee, 68, of Rock Hill, passed away on May 15th, 2023 after a sudden cancer diagnosis. Marc was born in Rochester, NY in 1954 to Gwen C. (Gaede) and George Tarplee. He grew up with a thirst for knowledge and loved to take things apart to see how they worked. These early experiences led him to pursue education throughout his life, first studying optics tech at Monroe Community College before attending undergrad at SUNY Brockport in NY for Math and Physics. He attended Rochester Institute of Technology for his masters, and finally completed his PhD from University of South Carolina, both in Electrical Engineering. He had an incredible memory and loved to tell stories. He was a proud veteran of the US Air Force, and spent time serving abroad in the UK - those who knew him have heard many tales of his time there. He was a classical music and jazz lover, and a talented self-taught piano player. He became a ham radio operator in 1988, through which he made friends near and far over the past 35 years. He served as the South Carolina Section Manager of the ARRL (American Radio Relay League), was an active member of YCARS (York County Amateur Radio Society), as well as numerous other radio clubs. His career was as varied as his interests, most recently serving as the Vice President of Business Services at York Technical College & formerly the Dean of Engineering Technologies. He loved to teach people new things and retired after 25 years of work for the college. Marc leaves behind his wife, Lee Harmon, daughter Austin (Seth) Eltz, daughter Marley Harmon (Tim Xumsai), his sister Stacey Ellis, and his nieces, nephew, sister and brother in law, Bob and Paula Jones, and half siblings. A celebration of Marc's life will be held at the Anne Springs Close Learning Commons at York Technical College on Saturday, May 20th at 1pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests any donations be made to the ARRL, YCARS, York Tech, or New Leaf Animal Rehab.

Copied from online obituary: Marc Tarplee (1954-2023) | Obituary (weremember.com)

Marc was a valued member at YCARS and will always be remembered for his contributions to amateur radio and as a friend to all.

YCARS Transmitter Editions now available online

All of the YCARS Transmitter editions are now hosted on the club website in PDF format. You can find them under the about tab on the main page. Select Transmitter Editions from the dropdown box and you will be linked to a page with all of the editions from the launch in 2021 to the current edition. Direct link: Transmitter Editions — YCARS - York County Amateur Radio Society

Crossband Repeater Exercise - 4/22 (rescheduled)

RESCHEDULED DUE TO RAINY WEATHER.

Due to the forecasted rain on Saturday we are moving the event to next month.

We will be discussing the event at our ARES meeting on Thursday April 20, 2023 at 7:30pm. Come join us to find out more and get invovled!

YCARS ARES Group to Host Small Scale Cross Band Repeater Exercise on April 22 from 9am to 12pm at the YCARS Club House.

On Saturday April 22, 2023 from 9am to 12pm, the YCARS ARES group will be hosting a small scale cross band repeater exercise. This exercise is open to all, and we invite anyone with a HT radio to join us.

A cross band repeater is a type of radio repeater that receives a signal on one frequency and retransmits it on another frequency. The purpose of this exercise is to practice using cross band repeaters for event and emergency communications.

During the exercise, participants will be divided into teams and will work together to establish and test communications using cross band repeaters. This exercise will allow participants to practice using their HT radios and learn how to effectively communicate with their equipment.

We will be using the following frequencies:

A Side: 146.580 MHz (YC ARES VHF)

B Side: 446.580 MHz (YC ARES UHF)

We encourage all participants to bring their own HT radio to the exercise. If you do not have an HT radio, we may have some available for loan, but please contact us in advance to reserve one.

The exercise will take place at the YCARS Club House, 2051 Squire Road Rock Hill, SC. Please dress appropriately for the weather, and bring any necessary supplies such as your HT, water and snacks.

We hope that you will join us for this important exercise, and we look forward to seeing you there. If you have any questions or would like to RSVP, please contact David at KX4UV@ycars.org

Providence High School Student Visit YCARS

The Providence High School Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (Naval JROTC) recently visited the York County Amateur Radio Society (YCARS) club house, where students had the opportunity to experience the world of amateur radio and technology.

The visit began with a brief history of amateur radio and how it applies in today’s world. We also had Captain David Biggers / K1DVB from the Rock Hill Police Department give a brief presentation on the application of radio in public safety and how local amateur radio operators have assisted Rock Hill Police Department with radio communication. After the presentations, there was a tour of the club house, where students were introduced to the various equipment and technologies used in amateur radio. This included radios, antennas, and other communication devices. Theo Moore / K4TTM demonstrated how to properly operate the equipment and explained the different frequencies and modes used in amateur radio communications.

After the tour, the Naval JROTC students had the opportunity to get on the air and make their first amateur radio contact. Under the guidance of YCARS members, the students were able to communicate with other amateur radio operators around the area. This was a thrilling experience for the students, as they were able to make real-life connections with people through the radio.

The students also participated in several science experiments related to amateur radio and technology. These experiments included testing Lens law with a copper tube and magnets, building homopolar motors with wires and batteries and trying their skills at morse code. These hands-on activities helped the students understand the concepts behind amateur radio and technology in a more interactive and engaging way.

The visit also included a discussion about future careers related to amateur radio and technology. The YCARS members shared their own personal experiences and discussed the various career opportunities available in the field. This included roles in the military, engineering, communications, and emergency management. The students were able to ask questions and learn more about the different paths they could take in the future.

Finally, the Naval JROTC students were introduced to the various opportunities available for youth to get involved in serving their community through amateur radio. YCARS members discussed the various community service projects we participate in, such as providing communications support during natural disasters and volunteering at public events. The students were able to learn about the impact that amateur radio can have on their local community and the importance of giving back.

Overall, the visit to the YCARS club house was a valuable experience for the Naval JROTC students. They were able to learn about the world of amateur radio and technology through hands-on activities and real-life connections. They also gained an understanding of the different career opportunities available in the field and the impact that amateur radio can have on their community. Our YCARS members did an excellent job of showcasing the opportunities that amateur radio can provide for youth and encouraging them to get involved in serving their community.

Successful Food Drive

On Saturday January 14, 2023, York County Amateur Radio Society (YCARS) organized a food drive for Covenant Presbyterian Church and the results were astounding. With the help of multiple members of the community, we were able to collect an impressive 800 pounds of food and $125.00 in cash donations.

The food drive was a resounding success, and we couldn't have done it without the generosity and support of our members and our community. Many people saw us out there collecting donations and decided to drop off food items on the spot, which was incredibly heartwarming.

We loved getting to see all of our members who stopped by to donate items and to help out!

Pastor John of Covenant Presbyterian Church was incredibly thankful for the donations and expressed his appreciation for the efforts of YCARS and the community. He stated that the food drive will make a huge impact in the lives of those in need, and we couldn't agree more.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who donated money and food items for their generosity and commitment to helping our community. Your contributions will make a real difference in the lives of many, and we are grateful for your support.

As amateur radio operators, we are always looking for ways to give back to our community and make a positive impact. This food drive was just one example of how we can come together and make a difference. We look forward to continuing to serve our community in the future and making a positive impact.

The YCARS food drive for Covenant Presbyterian Church was a huge success and we were able to make a real difference in the lives of those in need. We would like to express our gratitude to everyone who donated and supported us in this endeavor. Together, we can make a difference in our community.

YCARS Food Drive January 14th 2023

YCARS is sponsoring a food drive to support Covenant Presbyterian Church on Saturday January 14th ,2023 from 10AM-2PM. Covenant Presbyterian Church was our host facility for the 2022 Rock Hill Hamfest. We would like to help stock their Community Fridge. Covenant Presbyterian Church provides much needed food and support to the local community. 

They are requesting the following food donations:  

• Individual yogurts, pudding cups, gelatin cups,  

• Cheese sticks / cheese slices 

• Water 

• Juice boxes 

• Individual cracker packets 

• Canned goods – preferably with pop tops  

• Vienna Sausages, canned chicken, peanut butter, corned beef hash, tuna in pouches 

• Fruits – apples, small oranges 

• Vegetables 

• Eggs 

• Lunchmeat  

YCARS will be on station at Covenant Presbyterian from 10AM-2PM on January 14th, 2023 to collect and accept donations. The address is 1830 Celanese Rd. in Rock Hill. 

From their pastor, John Nowaczewski: 

 

If you are an individual or family, homeless or just getting by, or trying to make it to the end of the month, Covenant Community Fridge (CCF) is a place to get food immediately, 24/7, no questions asked.  Covenant Presbyterian Church provides the refrigerator and electricity.  Our members, as well as, community members provide, primarily, single-serving, portable foods.  We do have a small pantry area.   

Some of the items we suggest are individual yogurts, puddings, gelatin cups, cheese sticks/slices, water, juice boxes, crackers, snacks, etc.  We encourage fruits and vegetables and welcome these from your gardens.  We do not accept alcohol, raw meat or frozen foods.  When donating canned goods, please remember some may not have can openers; therefore, pop top cans are great.   

We depend on community support for donations (monetary or food), as well as volunteers and welcome groups taking the fridge on as a project (one-time, monthly, yearly).  We would be happy to speak with your group, provide more food suggestions or ways to help.   For further information, please call Susan Sistar at 803-981-4923.    

In addition to the above listed items, other good options would be protein and soups, Vienna sausages, corned beef hash, tuna in pouches, peanut butter, crackers, and any kind of chunky soup, small bottles of water. For refrigerated goods: apples, small oranges, lunchmeat, string cheeses, small cartons of milk, eggs, small juice boxes, sticks of butter. 

Covenant Presbyterian was a fantastic host facility and was extremely helpful to us for our hamfest. Please join our YCARS family is providing support to them in return. 

Any questions concerning this event can be directed to Theo (K4TTM@ycars.org) or Hillary (AB1CD@ycars.org). More information about the church and their service efforts can be found at http://www.covenantpresby.net/ 

Happy New Year!

As we welcome in 2023, we are excited for all the new opportunities and adventures that the year has in store for us. We are excited to kick off 2023 with a talented and dedicated group of officers leading the way: President Hillary Ramsey AB1CD, Vice President Theo Moore K4TTM, Secretary Scott Putnam KG9V, Trustee John Gendron NJ4Z, Treasurer Darcy Pach K4DQP, and Custodian Wayne Reeves KD4RNP.

We are confident that with such good leadership, this year will be full of exciting new projects and adventures in the world of amateur radio.

We are looking forward to achieving new goals and having fun with the amateur radio hobby. Whether you're a seasoned ham radio operator or just getting started, there's always something new to learn and explore in this exciting field.

In the coming year, we hope to see new faces at our meetings and events, and we encourage anyone interested in amateur radio to join us and get involved. Whether you're looking to make new friends, hone your skills, or just have fun with like-minded individuals, there's a place for you at York County Amateur Radio Society.

We can't wait to see what 2023 has in store for us, and we hope you'll join us on this exciting journey.

New Year’s Resolution Ideas!

Are you ready to make 2023 the best year yet for your amateur radio hobby? We're here to help! Whether you're a seasoned ham operator or just getting started, we've got some ideas to help you achieve your amateur radio resolutions.

1. Get your license: If you've always wanted to get your amateur radio license, now is the time! We offer VE testing every other month and resources to help you prepare for the exam. Plus, once you're licensed, you'll be able to participate in all sorts of fun activities and make new friends.

2. Try a new mode: Are you tired of the same old thing? Why not try out a new mode of operation, like digital or satellite? There are so many exciting ways to get on the air, and you never know what you might discover.

3. Get involved: This year, why not make an effort to get more involved with your local amateur radio club? We're a friendly bunch, and we'd love to have you join us for meetings, events, and activities.

4. Become an Elmer: Do you have a wealth of knowledge and experience when it comes to amateur radio? Why not pass it on to the next generation? Consider becoming an elmer to a new ham operator and help them get started in the hobby.

5. Have fun: Above all, remember to have fun! Amateur radio is all about enjoying yourself and exploring the world through the magic of the airwaves. So go ahead and make some noise!

We hope these ideas will help you achieve your amateur radio resolutions for the new year. Happy 2023!

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from everyone at York County Amateur Radio Society!

We hope that this holiday season is filled with joy, love, and lots of good cheer. Whether you're spending the day with family, friends, or solo, we hope that you have a wonderful time and make lots of memories.

As amateur radio enthusiasts, we know that the holiday season can be a great time to get on the air and connect with other hams around the world. So if you're feeling festive and want to chat with some fellow radio enthusiasts, be sure to tune in to your favorite frequencies and see who you can make contact with. You can also check in with us on our daily net at 8:30pm EST.

And if you're not an amateur radio operator yet, don't worry! We are always looking for new members to join our ranks. If you're interested in getting your ham radio license or learning more about the hobby, we'd love to have you. Just reach out to us and we'll be happy to help you get started.

From all of us at YCARS, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

2022 Rock Hill Christmas Parade

On Friday December 2, 2022 YCARS assisted the Rock Hill Police Department with communications during the annual Rock Hill Christmas Parade. The YCARS Community Service and ARES Team provided eighteen volunteer amateur radio operators to support communications along the parade route. This is the second year YCARS has assisted with the parade and it is quickly becoming one of our favorite events! The parade was attended by thousands of people this year and was a complete success! Santa brought cheer to all and officially kicked off the Christmas season in Rock Hill, SC.

Rock Hill Hamfest 2022

Thank you to everyone who came out to support the Rock Hill Hamfest 2022! We had an absolutely wonderful day and enjoyed getting to meet everyone. We look forward to seeing everyone next year!

Photos by: Pete Krenn KC4ZJ

Rock Hill Hamfest 2022

The YCARS 2022 Hamfest will be Saturday November 12, 2022 from 8am - 2pm.

Admission is $5.00 - please pay admission at the entrance and get a YCARS Hamfest 2022 wristband.

Tailgate is $10.00 - (truck/trailer = 2 spots)

Talk-in Frequency: 146.580 simplex (no tone)

Coming from I-77:

Take Exit 82 C - Hwy 161 / Celanese Road

Head West towards York on Hwy 161

Travel approximately 1 mile down Hwy 161 / Celanese Road.

Hamfest is located on the right side of the road at Covenant Presbyterian Church on the corner of Mt Gallant Road and Celanese Road. Landmarks are the Walgreens and McDonalds across the street from the church.

Parking: Located behind the church and across Fieldcrest Circle.

Door Prizes will be drawn at 12:00pm. They include multiple Buck Books, Prize pack from Quick Silver Radio, 3D Prints from Code Ninja, 2 coupons for 250 QSL cards from QSLConcept and other prizes

Jamboree on the Air

Jamboree on the Air provides the opportunity for millions of Scouts around the world to meet on the air via Amateur Radio.

Jamboree on the air POTA picnic flyer