[CVRC] Changes to NWS Packet

[Matthew Parker]

Good Evening, All -

I made a visit to the National Weather Service Office today to do some
reconfiguring of the packet system there.  The primary change everyone
should be aware of is that the address for the KaNode has been changed back
to WX7RNO-7; anyone wishing to use the KaNode function will need to connect
to that address.  Also, in response to some input recently received, I will
once again be making an effort to load current forecast info,
watches/warnings, and forecast discussions into the packet mbx there
(WX7RNO-1) on a daily basis so that this info can be retrieved by all
packet users.  This will be kept current as much as possible, keeping in
mind that I am just a working stiff with one full-time job to pay the bills
along with seven full-time volunteer jobs - so, again, how current the
information is kept each day will depend on my schedule, unless anyone
would like to volunteer to help with this.

I will be speaking at the SNARS Club's May social, updating folks on the
status of the emergency communications programs in Washoe County.  May's
SNARS gathering will be over dinner, Monday, May 5 at 6:30 P.M. at the
Denny's Restaurant in Sparks (near I-80 and McCarran).  This, along with
the presentation I will be making on emergency communications at the
hamswap on the 10th, will be in lieu of other scheduled training for the
month of May, so plan to attend one of these functions if you are able.

One topic of interest to be discussed in coming days is a request from
Roger at the Weather Service that SKYWARN, particularly on the amateur
radio side, play a more active role in supporting the NWS during severe
weather events.  We don't see as many of those here as some other areas of
the country do, but they are asking for more help from us when such things
do occur.  In strengthening our relationship with them, there will be a
presentation on amateur radio SKYWARN support made at an upcoming staff
meeting and we will also be demonstrating amateur radio in the field at the
annual picnic in June of the Northern Nevada Chapter, American
Meteorological Society.

73,
Matt, N7TOD