Happy Independence Day to everyone in the club! As we celebrate America’s 250th birthday this year, it feels fitting for a community built on the tradition of amateur radio — a hobby rooted in self-reliance, service, and keeping the airwaves open when it matters most. Whether you’re firing up the rig for some holiday operating, gathering with family and friends, or just enjoying the fireworks, wishing you all a safe, happy, and proud Fourth of July. 73s to everyone, and here’s to another 250 years!
To celebrate America 250, Ohio operators will have a second opportunity to activate W1AW/8 as part of the year-long ARRL USA-250 operations. Ohio operations Start 00:01 UTC Wed, Aug 12th and run until 23:59 Tues, Aug 18th (EDT- 8 PM Tues, Aug 11th to 8 PM Tues Aug 18th). For additional information on ARRL America250 WAS, visit www.arrl.org/america250-was.
The W1AW/8 activation will take place on 160 Meters, across all of HF (excluding 60 Meters) and on VHF/UHF, using CW, Phone and Digital (FT8/FT4, RTTY, etc.) modes. If you would like to operate using the special callsign, you must meet a few guidelines and agree to follow a few rules:
- Currently valid FCC Amateur Radio license
- Operate from within the state of Ohio
- Agree to Follow all US Amateur Radio rules and licensing class restrictions
- Follow the Radio Amateur’s Code and the Considerate Operator’s Guide and other accepted Amateur Radio Etiquette. Remember, you are representing the ARRL and the Ohio Section
- Accurately log all contacts using computer logging software
- Export an ADIF file of all contacts and submit it via email to Anthony Luscre, K8ZT (k8zt73@gmail.com)
- You do not need to be an ARRL official/volunteer to activate W1AW/8.
If you meet the above requirements, you can apply for time slots by submitting an online form – tiny.cc/w1aw8-app. If accepted, you will receive a confirmation email.
Later, you will receive complete operating information and access to an online schedule of time slots. A pre-event training session will be held via Zoom, and if needed, assistance will be provided on setting up computer logging software.