[MarinTeams] Beginner's Classes in Amateur Radio

[Bill Smith]

Please spread the word.  Please forward to Next Door or other local
neighborhood information channels.

The Hamilton Wireless Association encourages those who are interested in
neighborhood communications or perhaps just interested in personal radio
communications as a hobby to participate in the upcoming Amateur Radio
license event.  In addition to filling out a simple form, passing a test of
basic radio technology is all that is needed.
 
The Hamilton Wireless Association offers ongoing training courses to acquire
an amateur radio license.  We now offer a free, four-session class to
prepare for the license examination.  The next class begins Tuesday, January
7, 2:00pm-3:30pm at the San Rafael City library.  Subsequent dates are
January 21, January 28 and February 4.   The Technician study manual we use
is posted on-line and is available for download at www.ad7fo.com.  

HWA also offers a one-day license preparation class on the same day as the
examination, which will be held Saturday, February 8th at Novato Community
Hospital.  Enter through the main hospital lobby and you will be escorted to
the examination room.  The main Hospital is located at 180 Rowland Way,
Novato CA 94945.  The study session begins at 9:00am.  At the Saturday
License Class, you will be given a booklet with questions and correct
answers which we ask you to read up to the time of the test.  Experience
indicates virtually everyone who reads the materials passes the test.  The
exam to qualify for your license scheduled at 1:00pm.
 
The examination fee is $15, which is included in the $25 charge for the
preparation class.
 
Obtaining your FCC Amateur Radio license is the first step in the
HWA-sponsored TEAM Radio program.
 
Those of you who have obtained your license are asked to purchase a
transceiver and attend a four-session Communications class (described
below).  Cost of a basic radio ranges between $40 and $180.  The
communication classes are free.
 
Our "Marin Teams" mailing list provides announcements of upcoming classes,
and current information about the program.  The list also provides a way to
communicate among our TEAM Radio members.  If you are not already a
subscriber, ask to be placed on the list.
 
The Communications Classes are conducted on an ongoing basis to assist you
with using your radio.  There are four class sessions which are planned for
Thursday evenings following the Saturday license event (more information to
follow).  Further, there are on-air exercises held every Monday evening from
7:00 to 7:30 in which you can participate from your home.  If you know of
any neighbors or friends who would like to join us in our Radio group,
please let them know about the program!
 
We would like you to help us build an expanding radio network in your
neighborhood.  If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to email or
call.
 
Sincerely,
 
Bill Smith, AB6MT
info at k6bw.org
415-485-3815
415-258-0864 (cell)