A free ARRL Training Webinar, “Contesting as Training for Public Service,” hosted by Ward Silver, N0AX, will take place on Sunday, July 24, 8 until 10 PM EDT (0000-0200 UTC on July 25). All are invited to join the audio-slide presentation online or via telephone.

“Think of contests as a ham radio fitness center,” Silver said. “Public service teams are always looking for enjoyable activities to improve operator skills. Just as sports provide good physical exercise, contests are great at developing radio skills, and both are a lot of fun.” Silver pointed out that contests originated as a way to hone traffic-handling skills and develop an effective station.

Register here.

In addition, ARRL Emergency Preparedness Manager Mike Corey, KI1U, is seeking anecdotes from radio amateurs who have activated an emergency operations center (EOC) for a bona fide contest, such as ARRL November Sweepstakes or a state QSO party — but not ARRL Field Day, a SET, or SKYWARN Recognition Day.

“Just a brief overview of event, results, number of participants, interesting outcomes,” Corey said, in describing what he’s looking for. Contact Corey via e-mail.

The presentation will be available via YouTube following the webinar.