[LeArc] Urgent - Emergency Messages for Area Ham Radio Operators

[Jesse Risley]

At the request of Dan Kreps from McDonough County ESDA, the kind assistance of the local amateur community is being requested due to power outages from the ice storm.

1. An emergency shelter is being opened this evening at WIU's Olson Hall to individuals in McDonough County who are without power and need a
warm place to sleep.  Dan has asked that the amateur community frequently broadcast the following message over the local VHF repeater to help ensure that the word does indeed get out, as more power outages are expected overnight due to high winds:

Olson Hall will be open from 6 p.m. to
midnight for check-in; however, there are a limited number of beds
available. Beds will be filled on a first-come first-served basis.
There is no cost for the stay.  Food and water will be provided at the
shelter and anyone going to the shelter should only pack personal items
for a short-term stay. Pets are not permitted. For information on availability, contact Olson Hall at (309) 298-3346.

2. Please remain alert to the VHF repeater, as there is certainly a remote possibility that hams will be physically requested to provide some sort of assistance to ESDA, the American Red Cross and/or the Salvation army if conditions deteriorate later this evening.  Any help that you are willing to provide, should it be requested, would certainly be appreciated.

Jesse, K9JLR
309-313-1300