This Weekend You Can Talk To The World From Southern Utah

It's probably a little weird, but when I get done working here at the radio station, it's not unusual for me to go home, and talk on the radio some more. But, I'm not talking on the radio you can listen to in your car. I also happen to be an Amateur Radio operator and chat with folks around the community and around the country. It's a fun hobby, and this weekend, you can come give it a try!

Want To Join The Amateur Radio Community? Here's How!

The Rainbow Canyons Amateur Radio Club is inviting the public to join them for Field Day this Saturday at the pavilion at Three Peaks Recreation Area, just outside Cedar City. Beginning at noon, club members will operate ham radios for 24 straight hours, contacting fellow operators across the country—and potentially around the world.

Club Vice President Ron Shelley, joined me on the Big Picture Morning Show on KSUB. He described Field Day as both a fun event and a vital public service demonstration. “One of the things amateur radio is famous for is our willingness to serve others in times of disaster,” said Shelley. “When things all fall apart, all the telephone lines are down, the electricity is off, one thing that will still work is amateur radio.”

Read More: The Great CB Radio Rebellion!

Field Day is held twice a year to test operators’ abilities to deploy equipment under emergency conditions. “We don't use any power off the grid,” Shelley explained. “We're either using generators or batteries or solar power.” Participants will set up antennas, connect radios, and attempt to make as many contacts as possible across the U.S.

Shelley has held a ham license since returning to the hobby in his 60s. “I enjoy operating these radios, talking to people all over the world and here in the community and stuff. It's really a lot of fun.” His wife is also licensed, and the couple participates in nightly radio nets that connect Iron County with operators as far away as Pioche, Nevada and beyond.

The club welcomes anyone curious about amateur radio. “If you have any interest at all… come on out,” said Shelley. “We'd love to meet you. Ask any questions that you have. And if you're really nice, we'll even get you on the air.”

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You can listen to the interview with Ron Shelley in the podcast below.

Correction: I published this article earlier referring to my guest as Ron Shirley. His name is Ron Shelley. I regret the error. I can't even use the excuse that we just watched Anne of Green Gables. Sorry Ron!