The Maine House and Senate recognized the nearly 5,000 licensed ham radio operators in Maine and their service to the state on April 18, Amateur Radio Day in Maine. A joint resolution stated, in part, “At times of emergency or natural disasters, amateur radio is often the only dependable way to communicate locally or nationally. Amateurs volunteer their equipment and time to provide this service.” The resolution went on to cite events in Maine where amateurs have assisted organizers, such as the Dempsey Challenge, the Trek Across Maine, the Beacon to Breakers Road Race, the Maine Forest Rally, the MS Walks, the Loon Echo Bike Trek, the Kenduskeag Stream Canoe Race, the Can-Am Crown International Sled Dog Races and the World Biathlon Championship. The resolution was sponsored by Rep. Tom Winsor, KA1LUN (R-Norway) and Sen. Earle McCormick (R-Kennebec). A delegation of Maine hams accompanied American Radio Relay League Maine section manager Bill Woodhead to the Capitol Building to receive the document. From left are Bill Crowley, K1NIT, Farmingdale; Ivan Lazure, N1OXA, Lewiston; Rod Scribner, KA1RFD, Pittston; House Speaker Robert Nutting (R-Oakland); Jack Schrader, W1JHS, Manchester; Bill Woodhead, N1KAT, Auburn; and Winsor.

Copy the Story Link