History

Organized in 1997, primarily to meet emergency communications needs of Alcona County and immediate surrounding areas. Since its inception, it has grown from 12 members to more than 50 active amateurs – mostly new licensees. the group now includes all aspects of emergency and community communication services including ARES, RACES, and the National Weather Service (NWS) Skywarn Spotters. All of our operating expenses are covered by community donations or various county agencies.

We support many projects, events and emergency communications call-ups. Our recent involvements include:

Our major project was the Emergency Communications and Command Unit a 19 foot fully insulated, heated & A/C, tandem axle trailer complete with generators, 13.8v DC, exterior awning, 5 operating positions (all modes including public service bands with computer systems for packet, etc.) and a separate conference/command room. Click to view photos of the completed project.

The project was initiated in the spring of 1999 with Phase I (Trailer & Related Basic Equipment) completed in August of 2000.  Phase II (Communications Equipment, Electrical Hardware and Interior Furnishings) has begun by a group of volunteers under the direction of a Project Manager with partial activation of the trailer in June 2001. The trailer has been used at various events and functional tests (Harrisville Sunrise Side Festival, County Fair, Lighthouse Days, FEMA Simulated Emergency Test, etc.) since its partial activation.

An important aspect of a small community like ours is cooperation in getting the job done. We all wear many hats from volunteer fire fighters to the American Red Cross and understand the importance of teamwork. We know our customers and their needs and they know Amateur Radio and our capabilities.

When visiting the “Sunrise Side” be certain to check into our nets. Use our open repeaters — (147.040 MHz, up 600 KHz), or Packet nodes 145.090MHz and 145.760 MHz or stop by and join us at one of our events.