MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
The Reno County Kansas Amateur Radio Association is inviting the public to learn more about amateur, or “ham,” radio during two upcoming events aimed at education, outreach, and emergency preparedness.
The first event, the group’s annual Field Day, will take place this weekend at Gottschalk Park, near 23rd and Poplar, at the old main entrance of the Kansas State Fairgrounds. Field Day begins at 2 p.m. Saturday and continues through 2 p.m. Sunday.
“This is a national event that’s been going on since 1933,” said Mark Rankin, a member of the association. “It gives us a chance to practice setting up and operating off the grid — using batteries, solar, or generators — just like we would in an actual disaster.”
The 24-hour event allows operators to make radio contacts across North America and test equipment reliability without the use of internet or commercial power. Members will set up a 100-foot telescoping radio tower, part of Reno County’s “Communications on Wheels” trailer, to simulate disaster response capabilities.
Rankin noted that Field Day also serves as an open house. “We want the public to stop by, talk with us, see the equipment, and even try it out,” he said. A special “Get on the Air” station will allow visitors to make supervised transmissions under a licensed operator’s guidance.
In addition to hobbyist interests, the association plays a key role in public safety. Many members are part of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and are trained to assist Reno County Emergency Management with communications during natural disasters and severe weather.
“Amateur radio becomes essential when cell towers and internet go down,” Rankin said. “We provide eyes on the ground and a reliable line of communication.”