We had it all!
We had a Tornado Warning (and we had reports of cloud rotation in Preston and Monongalia counties.) We had multiple Severe Thunderstorm Warnings and a Flood Watch. That’s a lot to handle in one net!
Yesterday a total of 15 stations checked into the North Central West Virginia ARES Skywarn Net. Thanks to everyone who participated! Your being there and your availability to help if needed is deeply appreciated. Special thanks to Tom, W8ZHN, for a fantastic job as Net Control.
The North Central West Virginia ARES Skywarn Net is not a club centered net. Hams from all the local clubs participate as do hams who have no club affiliation. That said, gratitude must be extended to the Monongalia Wireless Association for providing the exclusive use of the W8MWA two-meter repeater during all weather events.
The cooperation and collaboration between the Appalachia Skywarn Net and the North Central West Virginia Net must be noted. Thanks to the leadership of Jason, KD8FDD, there was never conflict or any competition between the two Skywarn nets. Each Skywarn Net supports the other during weather events.
Finally, we must recognize that Public Service is why the FCC grants our licenses in the first place. Public Service Public Service isn't an elective or optional part of your amateur radio license—is expected. It is written right into Part 97 of the FCC Rules and Regulations.
Not everyone has to check into Skywarn Nets to fulfill the Public Service requirement—but you do need to check a Public Service box somewhere. You can participate in Field Day or the various club events throughout the year. Plus serving as a Net Control for any of the local club nets certainly counts.
And, yes, if you have participated with the North Central West Virginia Skywarn Net you have definitely have fulfilled the Public Service requirement of your license. So—thank you!
73,
Jeff, WB1AAL