Several states, counties, and communities across the US have officially recognized the public contributions of amateur radio in advance of World Amateur Radio Day http://www.arrl.org/world-amateur-radio-day (WARD) on April 18.
Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont has released an official statement designating April 16 - 22, 2023, as Amateur Radio Recognition Week. Members of the Meriden Amateur Radio Club https://www.w1nrg.com/ (MARC) in Connecticut pursued the proclamation with the Governor's office. "We want the public to know that many of their friends and neighbors are amateur radio operators," said MARC President Ed Snyder, W1YSM. "Amateur radio is a worldwide community of volunteers who use their knowledge and skills to serve our communities," added Snyder.
Snyder said that his radio club participates in many outreach activities to help introduce ham radio to the public. Club members support demonstrations for schools, student groups, and scouts. The club also provides communications support for the National Weather Service storm spotting program, SKYWARN®, and an annual cycling event that benefits the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp. An annual scholarship is awarded to a deserving, local high school senior.
Snyder also cited the club's involvement with training members to provide emergency communications when disasters or other incidents damage or disrupt critical communications infrastructure, including cell towers. MARC is closely linked with the Wallingford Fire Department and the town's Medical Reserve Corps (MRC), and holds its monthly meetings at the Wallingford Emergency Operations Center.
"There are over 40 radio clubs in Connecticut. We're grateful for the Governor's recognition of our amateur radio community," noted Section Manager of the ARRL Connecticut Section Bud Kozloff, W1NSK.
A similar resolution was made by the Maine State Legislature, recognizing April 18, 2023, as World Amateur Radio Day, and acknowledging "the accomplishments and public service provided by amateur radio operators." The resolution was advanced by ARRL Maine Section Manager Phil Duggan, N1EP. Duggan said he pursued the resolution on behalf of all radio amateurs in the state of Maine.
The March issue of ARRL Club News http://www.arrl.org/club-news encourages radio clubs to seek local government proclamations to build relationships and foster recognition for club events, and amateur radio in general. Proclamations are typically sought leading up to World Amateur Radio Day and ARRL Field Day. Radio clubs and other amateur radio groups are encouraged to share a copy of their proclamations with ARRL via pr@arrl.org. ARRL will often share the proclamations to advance legislative efforts, creating additional support of awareness for amateur radio among lawmakers.
Read the full text of the proclamations at ARRL News https://www.arrl.org/news/ct-governor-proclaims-april-16-22-amateur-radio-recognition-week.
ARRL members can subscribe to the free monthly Club News e-newsletter by visiting their account on the ARRL website https://home.arrl.org/action/My-Account/Opt-In-Out (requires log in).
Source:
The ARRL Letter