[W1SMH] FW: An urgent request for new public service event in Boston

[bruce alexander]

  _____  

From: Bob - wa1ida at arrl.net [mailto:wa1ida at comcast.net] 
Sent: Monday, March 23, 2009 9:42 PM
To: wa1ida at arrl.net
Subject: An urgent request for new public service event in Boston



The Boston Athletic Association (BAA) is beginning a new athletic event.  On
Sunday, 19 April 2009 (the day before the Boston Marathon), there will be a
sanctioned 5K race followed by four Invitational 1 mile runs for the best
high school runners from the cities and towns along the Marathon course.
All events start near the Boston Public Library and finish at the Marathon
Finish Line on Boylston St.  There will be no logistical interference with
preparations for the Boston Marathon the next day.  

The 5K and 1 mile courses are in Boston's Back Bay.  Similar to last year's
Olympic Trials, we have been asked to provide safety, station and
administrative communications for all these events.  We will assemble at
0700 and everything should be over by 1100.  

Particularly since they are new, each event will have its hazards and
quirks, but our communications will help make the day safe and smooth.  For
those who are new to ham public service, this is a good introduction - and
we need your help.  For those who have done this before - your help is
needed more than ever.  In years past, we have been thanked and honored for
our skilled service.  

A 2-meter, 5 watt hand-held is satisfactory for most of the assignments at
these events.  A dual-band radio is very desirable.  An antenna better than
the "rubber duck" that came with your radio is essential.  Be sure to have
sufficient batteries to last the morning.  

As ham public service, these are interesting and fun experiences.  The
communication load is expected to be light, but safety and support for the
participants are always primary.  

Our communications support is very important to the participants and to the
success of these new events.  If you can help on Sunday, 19 April, please
reply to me with all of the following information as soon as possible.
Reply by email is the best method.  

Full name 

On-air name 

Call sign 

Postal mailing address (including 9-digit ZIPcode) 

Evening phone 

Day phone 

Cell phone 

Email address 

Does your 2-meter radio have CTCSS (PL)? 

Do you have a dual-band radio? 

Do you have a magnetic mount antenna? 

Jacket size 

Depending on the responses received, there is a microscopic chance we cannot
use all volunteers.  Try to get back to me as quickly as you can.  

If you know other hams who would like to volunteer, ask them to send the
above information to me.  If you are new and want to get more public service
experience, this is an excellent event to get your feet wet.  As significant
as our communications will be, each event is a low impact opportunity to
learn the ropes.  

I will get the assignments and more details to you as soon possible.  If you
have already volunteered, bear with me and reply to this message, also.
Don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or would like to
recommend another ham to join us.  

73, 

Bob Salow, WA1IDA 

wa1ida at arrl.net 

508.650.9440