After a long and silent spell RACES and ARES return to Jefferson County as active components of our community's disaster plan. Combined efforts between the ARES Coordinator and the RACES Radio Officer will form a tighter and better functioning response effort. Ric Letson NB2E and myself are spearheading the effort and will soon be verifying the roster. If you are interested in making your talents as a Ham go further during an emergency, please make your voice heard and sign up.

New federal standards will be slightly more difficult to implement, but for those of us who rise to the challenge, a greater understanding of our roles within these organizations awaits us making it easier to perform jobs and tasks once thought reserved for high level government officials.

Also the Red Cross (National) has entered into an MOU agreement with the ARRL (ARES) regarding background checks. More information can be found at: http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/mou/redcro.html

Phil Cox
KC5AMQ
Jefferson County ARES Emergency Coordinator