Inform, Entertain, Inspire
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Local Amateur Radio Enthusiasts Hold Annual Field Day

Courtesy Michiana Amateur Radio Club

It was a big weekend for amateur radio enthusiasts, as ham radio clubs around the area participated in their annual field day at Henry Frank Park in Mishawaka.

 

“Every year, once a year, all of the amateur radio operators in North America – that’s Canada, United State and Mexico – have Field Day," Michiana Amateur Radio Club Secretary Barry Keating said. "Field Day is like open house for radio amateur operators. All of us get on the air."

 

Keating said for a 24-hour period, participants operate from remote locations using temporary antennas. They also operate off-grid, using battery or generator power rather than electric power mains.

 

“The idea is when all else fails, amateur radio is still able to operate," Keating said. "So, it’s a chance to see if we can operate under emergency conditions.”

That ability comes into play during local emergencies, where many amateur radio enthusiasts play a role.

“A lot of the people you see here are members of Skywarn, for instance," Keating said. "Skywarn are the amateur radio operators who watch when we have tornado warnings…they report exactly what’s going on on the ground – things that radar can’t see – directly to the National Weather Service."

Keating said Skywarn members take a training course from the National Weather Service and use the organization's standard terminology to report hail, heavy wind and other adverse weather conditions.

The annual field day also allows amateur radio operators to get their hobby into the public eye, demonstrating equipment and techniques to the community.

The Michiana Amateur Radio Club maintains a presence on Facebook. Area residents interested in learning more about the hobby can contact club members there.

Contact Kent atkfulmer@wvpe.org.

Kent Fulmer joined WVPE in August of 2020 to take on one of the station's most high profile roles as the local host of Morning Edition. Kent comes to WVPE with more than 20 years experience in radio in the Michiana area. During his career, Kent has had a variety of roles including DJ, reporter and newscaster, as well as several behind-the-scenes positions. Kent and his wife, Donna, are celebrating their 32nd wedding anniversary in 2020 and have lived in Elkhart County for almost 20 years. They have two adult daughters, Sarah and Rebecca. When not working, Kent is active as a musician, playing trumpet and flugelhorn. He has performed with a number of area bands. Currently he performs with the Phat Tuesday Dixieland Band and Jazz Assemblage, as well as his church's praise band. As a member of Jazz Assemblage, Kent has appeared at the Elkhart Jazz Festival several times. He also volunteers with Bugles Across America.