[WIham] 2m SSB Activity Net Tonight @8pm

[Todd Sprinkmann]

    Good day,
    KC9BQA here.   Want the list to know that 2m SSB will be 
alive tonight, in conjunction with our weekly nets we've been 
running since June 2008.   There is activity on weak-signal 
VHF but it helps to know where/when/how to find it.   That's 
why I'm emailing.   
   When we say "weak-signal" it refers to beyond-the-horizon 
range.  Decent stations with a beam antenna in the clear regularly 
work stations out 100-300 miles with flat bands.  Range becomes 
even greater during occasional band openings.  For some hams 
this potential is irresistible.   

    WB9LYH near Wisconsin Rapids is on 144.240, SSB mode, 
starting at 0100Z or 8pm.   He's very loud -- stacked 17B2's, 
500w, and a great ridgetop QTH.   As is the custom on the 
SSB/CW side of 2m, his antennas are horizontally-polarized.  
Even if you have a vertical antenna, you may hear Mark.   
     If you're the curious type, turn your yagi with Mark, and see 
what you can hear.   WB9LYH starts out looking NE into the 
U.P. of MI, then gradually swings clockwise, or E, SE, S, SW, 
W and NW.   This happens from 8:00 until 9:15 or 9:30pm.     

    All are welcome, please spread the word.   These are fun, 
activity-oriented nets run by individuals who want more signals 
on the air.   

    The ARRL Sept. VHF QSO Party is only 10 days away.   
It runs from 1pm Sept. 11th until 10 pm Sept. 12th.   All the 
V/UHF bands from 6m right on up thru the microwaves are 
in play.   Operate as much or as little as you like.   I'll get more 
info out about the contest later today or tomorrow.    Suffice 
it to say that you do *not* need to be an expert to enjoy a 
V/UHF contest.   They are far more laid-back than the ones 
you hear on HF, and there's plenty of room to operate.   

    Of course, a quick visit to kc9bqa.com will get you more 
detail about our nets and the contests.

    73,
    Todd   KC9BQA    EN63ao    40 N of Milwaukee
    www.kc9bqa.com   For Frequent VHF/UHF Updates
    www.wivuch.com   WI VHF/UHF County Hunters Award