St. Cloud Amateur Radio Club Newsletter
WØSV — February 2026
From the President
As we settle into February, I’m inspired by the vibrant energy within our club this year. Between winter operating, new licensees joining the hobby, and the steady rhythm of Morse code practice sessions, the St. Cloud Amateur Radio Club exemplifies community in action. Thank you for the warmth, curiosity, and generosity you bring to every meeting and every contact on the air.
Upcoming Meetings & Events
General Meeting — Thursday, February 19, 2026
7:00 PM • SCARC Clubhouse
Program: “Winter Operating Techniques: Staying Warm, Staying Safe, Staying On the Air”
We’ll explore practical tips for cold‑weather portable work, battery management in low temperatures, and antenna strategies when the ground is frozen solid.
Other February Activities
Sunday Night ARES Net: Following the Welfare Net at 7:00 PM on the WØSV 146.940 repeater
Monday Night Activity Night: 6:00 PM – Clubhouse
Tuesday Night Training: 7:00 PM
CW Practice Sessions: Ongoing
Thursday, Feb 19: 7:00 PM General Meeting
Saturday, Feb 28: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM SCARC HAMFEST at St. Cloud Armory
Recent Club Highlight
January’s meeting kicked off the year with excellent attendance and a lively discussion about our SKYWARN program. Several members attended the Train the Trainer session in Sartell, sponsored by the weather service. Recertification for club members is scheduled for March. Winter Field Day, held the last weekend in January, was well attended and successful.
Education & Training Corner
Our Morse code program continues to grow, with newcomers joining each week. February’s lessons focus on building rhythm, confidence, and copying accuracy at comfortable speeds. Printable weekly sheets and audio practice tracks are available for anyone who wants to join.
We’re also planning a spring licensing class for Technician, General, and Extra class candidates at the Cabin Fever Reliever Hamfest.
Technical & Repeater Updates
The WØSV 146.940 repeater is performing well. We visited the repeater site in Collegeville and reset the repeater to alleviate a noise issue. If you notice anything unusual during operation, please let us know so we can investigate promptly.
Member Spotlight
This Month: Eric, KF0WFG
Eric is a new Ham, having earned his Technician and General Licenses in January. He is well on the road to acquiring radio equipment and has become well versed in APRS. Listen for him on the club repeaters.
On the Air
Propagation has been variable but rewarding, with several members reporting strong openings on 10 meters during the first week of February. Keep an ear out for sporadic E as we move toward spring. If you’ve made an interesting contact or tried a new mode, consider sharing it at the next meeting — these stories inspire others to get on the air.
Club Business
Treasurer’s Report: The club remains in good financial standing, with January expenses limited to routine repeater costs and meeting room fees.
Dues Reminder: Annual dues for 2026 are now being collected.
Committee Notes: The Cabin Fever Reliever Hamfest is coming up on Saturday, February 28 at the St. Cloud National Guard Armory from 9 AM to 1 PM. We will be setting up tables and chairs on Friday, the 27th at noon. If you are available to help with any or all of the event, please contact Kay at kb0cef@w0sv.club.
Closing Notes
Thank you for being part of the St. Cloud Amateur Radio Club. Whether you’re checking into the net, experimenting with a new antenna, or helping a newcomer learn the ropes, you’re strengthening the fabric of our community. Stay warm, stay curious, and stay on the air.
73′
Randy Welsand – WJ0L
320-828-3100
President, St. Cloud Amateur Radio Club
Minnesota Central ARES District Emergency Coordinator