The 6 O'clock Net Returns to W1GLO 2M
For Friday 12/27/2024 & moving forward - Gloucester W1GLO 2m 145.13 Receive (Dup-) PL Tone 107.2
73
WA1ESU, KC1HHK, KC1SOO, K1KL
Embedded Files
Friday Dec. 27th Topics with KC1SOO: Christmas and Looking back at 2024
How was your Christmas and Looking back on 2024
How was your Christmas and Looking back on 2024
I hope you had a wonderful Christmas filled with joy, laughter, and maybe even some snow! How were the holidays for you? More importantly, did you get to spend quality time with loved ones? How did you celebrate the Christmas Holiday this past Wednesday?
Also, as the year comes to a close, Looking back on 2024. What's one moment from the past year that really stands out in your memory?
Thank you all for being a part of the 6PM Net. This will be the last Friday Net of 2024! I look forward to speaking with all of you on the air in 2025 😀
73,
Brian KC1SOO
Friday Dec. 20th Topics with KC1SOO: Crossword Puzzles
History of Crossword Puzzles
History of Crossword Puzzles
The history of crossword puzzles can be traced back to the 19th century, with early forms appearing in England as word squares in children's puzzle books. However, the modern crossword puzzle as we know it today emerged in the early 20th century. Arthur Wynne, a journalist from Liverpool, is credited with creating the first "word-cross" puzzle, which was published in the New York World newspaper on December 21, 1913. This diamond-shaped puzzle featured a hollow center and simple clues. Crossword puzzles quickly gained popularity in the United States and beyond, with the New York Times introducing them in 1924, further solidifying their place in popular culture. Over time, crosswords evolved in style and complexity, with different variations emerging, such as the cryptic crossword, which is particularly popular in Britain.
The first crossword puzzle was published on December 21, 1913. It was created by Arthur Wynne and appeared in the New York World newspaper.
Net Topic Question:
Are you good at solving crossword puzzles?
Wednesday Dec. 18th Topics with KC1HHK: Joseph Grimaldi and Chris Farley Have Dec. 18 In Common
Joseph Grimaldi – “The First Clown” was Born in 1778
December 18, 1778 — The greatest and most famous clown of them all, and by whose name, Joey, all circus clowns became known, was born on this day. In real life he was Joseph Grimaldi, a man of Italian-sounding origin who, in fact, was born in London. This first "Clown Joey", founding-father of modern-day clowns, later joked about his surname: "I am grim all day, but I make you laugh at night!"
He did, too. First venturing onto the stage when he was only three years old, he delighted the audience at London's famous Sadler's Wells Theatre and from such remarkably early beginnings went on to become the most popular clown in pantomime, appearing regularly at such renowned theatres as Drury Lane and Covent Garden.
It was there, in 1806, at age 28, that he was given a three-year contract, starting at £1 a week, rising in the second year to £2 a week and finally to £3. He had audiences in the palm of his hand as he joked, sang songs, played out sketches and tumbled acrobatically across the stage. One critic wrote that "he shone with unimpeded brilliance".
But all the tumbling and frenetic clowning took its toll and in 1823 the 45-year-old Grimaldi was forced to retire, exhausted and hardly able to walk. By 1828 he was penniless and at a benefit performance told his audience: "Like a vaulting audition, I have overleaped myself and pay the penalty in advanced old age."
He never recovered and died, much lamented, in 1837. To this day he is commemorated annually at the clowns' church of Holy Trinity in East London. After his passing, Charles Dickens said: 'The clown left the stage with Grimaldi, and though often heard of, has never since been seen."
And that's no joke.
Comedian Chris Farley dies of a drug overdose in 1997
Christopher Crosby Farley (February 15, 1964 – December 18, 1997) was an American actor and comedian. He was a member of Chicago's Second City Theatre and later a cast member of the NBC sketch comedy show Saturday Night Live for five seasons from 1990 to 1995. He went on to pursue a film career, appearing in films such as Airheads, Tommy Boy, Black Sheep, Beverly Hills Ninja, and Almost Heroes. Farley was frequently known for his physical performance/comedy and athleticism (similar to Curly Howard and Roscoe Arbuckle). This was used to great effect during his time on Saturday Night Live, and continued through many of his films. From his early acting days, and through the height of his fame, Farley struggled with obesity, alcoholism, and substance abuse. He died of a drug overdose at the age of 33.
Net Discussion Questions:
Do you like clowns?
Some people find clowns scary, how about you?
2. Chris Farley was a huge talent in the early to mid-90’s, were you a fan?
Wednesday December 13th Topics with KC1SOO: Holiday Lights / Friday the 13th
Holiday Light Drives
Holiday Light Drives
As the first hints of winter chill touch the air and the days grow shorter, a magical transformation sweeps across neighborhoods. Houses begin to twinkle with festive holiday lights, each display a unique beacon of warmth and cheer. Why not gather your loved ones, fill some travel mugs with hot cocoa, and embark on a merry adventure? Driving around to admire these sparkling displays has become a beloved tradition, a chance to marvel at the creativity and share in the holiday spirit. From dazzling icicle lights outlining rooftops to inflatable snowmen gracing front lawns, the enchanting spectacle creates lasting memories and kindles the joy of the season. So, bundle up, tune the radio to your favorite holiday tunes, and let the twinkling lights guide you on a delightful journey through your neighborhood.
If you go out and look at holiday lights, where are your favorite places to drive by?
Friday the 13th
Friday the 13th
Hey, did you know today is Friday the 13th?
Friday the 13th, a date etched in the tapestry of superstition, evokes a sense of foreboding and unease for many. This fear, termed friggatriskaidekaphobia, arises from a confluence of historical and cultural influences that have intertwined over time. One significant root can be traced to Norse mythology, where a banquet with 12 gods was disrupted by the uninvited arrival of Loki, the god of mischief. This tale linked the number 13 with misfortune and treachery. Friday itself has long been considered an unlucky day, The convergence of Friday and the number 13 cemented the superstition, leaving many wary of this date.
Did you have an unlucky day?
Are you superstitious?
Wednesday December 11th Topics with KC1HHK: National App Day
History of National App Day
It seems wild now to think that there was a life without apps, and the fact that they haven’t even been around for too long is even more unbelievable considering their prominence in today’s society. Although computers are equipped with apps, people primarily use them on mobile devices and tablets. Today, even basic phone functions like sending a text message or making a call are done through apps. Now, many apps allow people to earn from home too just with a simple lift of their fingertips.
In the 1980s, Psion — a London-based company, launched the Psion Organizer, widely considered to be the first-established PDA device. The functions of the Organizer weren’t much, but it did come with features like a calculator, text editor, agenda, and contacts. This set a precedent for future mobile-app developments.
It was the visionary Steve Jobs who first came up with the idea of an ‘App Store’ back in 1983. He envisioned a database where software could be purchased over calls. Along with the advent of the revolutionary iPod by Apple, the iTunes store was launched, paving the way for Apple’s future App Store. In 2007, the first iPhone was introduced to the world, and a year later, the App Store was introduced.
There were only about 500 apps when the App Store was launched originally, meaning it is difficult to identify the official first app ever to be released. Nevertheless, as more and more smartphones were unveiled, various app clients were also launched. These include Google Play for Android, BlackBerry’s App World, and Amazon’s Appstore.
With app downloads reaching more than 175 billion in the year 2017, C.J. Thompson, founder of the mobile marketing agency Platinum Edge Media, created National App Day. The day is celebrated on December 11 and promotes the collective culture of apps and innovation.
5 Facts About Apps That Will Blow Your Mind
King of apps
Facebook reigns as the most downloaded app of all time.
A whole world of undiscovered apps
On the Apple App Store, over 60% of apps have never been downloaded.
Apps > Websites
A recent study showed that people prefer apps over websites.
Loads to play with on the Play Store
Google’s Play Store has the highest number of apps available — over 2.8 million.
China has its own app variations
China has banned mainstream social apps like Facebook and WhatsApp, and instead has its own versions, Weibo and Renren.
Friday December 6th Topics with KC1SOO: APRS & APRS Messaging
Using APRS
Using APRS
APRS, or Automatic Packet Reporting System, is a digital communications protocol used by amateur radio enthusiasts to share location, weather information, and short text messages over the airwaves. By utilizing specialized software and hardware, APRS enables hams to track each other's movements on a map, send alerts, and coordinate activities, making it a valuable tool for emergency response, field operations, and simply staying connected with fellow hams. APRS was first conceived in the early 1980s by Bob Bruninga, WB4APR. It initially started as a system to track the positions of horses during a 100-mile endurance race. Over the years, APRS has evolved into a robust system for sharing various types of information over amateur radio frequencies.
APRS has a wide range of applications for amateur radio enthusiasts:
Real-time Tracking: APRS allows you to track the location of other hams on a map, making it ideal for field operations, emergency response, and simply staying connected with fellow hams.
Message Exchange: You can send and receive short text messages, alerts, and announcements to other APRS users in your area.
Weather Information: Many APRS users share weather data, such as temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure, providing real-time weather updates.
Emergency Response: APRS can be used to coordinate emergency response efforts, track the location of responders, and share critical information.
SOTA and POTA Activations: Summit-on-the-Air (SOTA) and Park-on-the-Air (POTA) operators use APRS to announce their activations and share their locations with other hams.
Digital Communication: APRS can be used for digital communication, including sending and receiving emails and files.
Community Building: APRS fosters a sense of community among amateur radio enthusiasts, allowing them to connect and collaborate on various projects.
Overall, APRS is a versatile tool that enhances the amateur radio experience, providing valuable information and enabling communication in various situations.
Net Topic Question:
Have you used APRS? If so, what information did you send? Location, messages?
Do you have a Digipeater or an i-gate setup?
Wednesday December 4th Topics with KC1HHK: SKYWARN
SKYWARN™ Recognition Day on the
First Saturday in December, on December 7
SKYWARN™ Recognition Day on the first Saturday in December, on December 7 this year, honors the services of all those amateur radio operators who work around the clock to submit information about any severe weather patterns, including tornados, storms, or strong winds. Such weather conditions could cause severe damage to people’s lives and properties. A warning by a SKYWARN™ volunteer helps lessen any casualties. The volunteers come from all walks of life and backgrounds. They are specially trained by the National Weather Service (N.W.S.) to be able to accurately report on weather conditions. So, if your day’s plans are dependent on the weather outside, tune in to the radio to learn more about the weather patterns being reported by SKYWARN™ volunteers.
History of SKYWARN™ Recognition Day
The first SKYWARN™ Recognition Day was observed in 1999. It was created by the N.W.S. and the American Radio Relay League (A.R.R.L.). The two organizations decided that the day would be commemorated on the first Saturday of every December. N.W.S. is an American governmental agency whose focus is to report on usual and unusual weather conditions. They issue warnings and emergencies if the weather is expected to take a turn for the worst. N.W.S., which is headquartered in Maryland, Washington, believes it is their responsibility to protect people from harm caused by adverse weather. The agency collects its information through more than 120 offices all over the country.
The American Radio Relay League (A.R.R.L.) is another organization that helps N.W.S. receive and report accurate weather conditions. Formed in 1914, it is the largest non-profit organization for amateur radio enthusiasts. The co-founders, Hiram Maxim and Clarence Tuska, were both associated with the radio agency. Their interest in the field saw them coming together to create A.R.R.L. in order to give a chance to those who were not from the field but still wanted to contribute to it. The organization provides technical training, education, sponsorships, and assistance to its members, many of whom have gone on to volunteer as SKYWARN™ reporters for N.W.S. An A.R.R.L. membership is not limited to America as more than 7,000 members of the total 161,000 members belong to other countries. The organization holds several conventions and publishes a special journal called “QST”. Every year, about 290,000 report on any weather irregularities. Such reports have worked to lessen the overall damage, allowing people and organizations to save money as well.
Below are few resources hosted locally at the National Weather Service in Norton, MA, as well as National and Amateur Radio resources concerning SKYWARN™.
SKYWARN Virtual Training (if you cannot attend a live class or want a refresher)
Forecasters from the National Weather Service (NWS) in Norton conduct storm spotter training sessions each year to help prepare spotters for the upcoming severe weather season. These sessions are free and open to anyone who is interested in learning about hazardous weather and the role of a spotter.
The live training sessions are 1.5-2 hours in length, and once you complete the training, you will be an official SKYWARN™ spotter. The goal of the training is to train spotters to assist local officials and the NWS with early detection of hazardous weather and provide ground truth during severe weather events. The learning objectives of our live training sessions are:
Understand the how the NWS Integrated Warning System works and how the spotter fits into this system
Identify the ingredients needed for organized thunderstorms
Recognize the visual and environmental clues suggestive of severe weather
Distinguish between legitimate clues and non-significant features associated with severe weather
Learn how to stay safe when storm spotting
Learn proper storm reporting procedures
To learn more please click:
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse