This Saturday (Dec 14th), the Bedford County Amateur Radio Society hosted its first ever “Ham In A Day”
event. This provided an opportunity for people interested in Amateur Radio to attend a one 
day radio “boot camp” to learn about Amateur Radio, followed by an FCC testing session at 
2 PM. For those that manage to pass this exam session, the FCC will license that
individual as an Amateur Radio Operator, commonly referred to as a “ham”.

Despite the bad weather, 18 people bravely ventured out. Out of these 18 people, 12 people acquired
their Technician License. The Technician class license is the entry-level license of choice for 
most new ham radio operators. To earn the Technician license requires passing one examination 
totaling 35 questions on radio theory, regulations and operating practices. The license gives access
to all Amateur Radio frequencies above 30 megahertz, allowing these licensees the ability to 
communicate locally and most often within North America. It also allows for some limited privileges
on the HF (also called “short wave”) bands used for international communications.

Additionally, 2 of the new Technicians went on to pass their General Class license, along with two 
prior hams upgrading to General and Extra. General and Extra are two additional license classes that
provide additional privileges on the amateur bands.

Amateur Radio is, by definition, a hobby activity that allows interested individuals to participate
in and advance the art of wireless communications. Amateur Radio operators often provide emergency or
auxillary communications during emergency events, as well as providing communication support for
community organizations.

The Bedford County Amateur Radio Society meets the first Thursday of each month at 7:30PM at the
Bedford County Airport Maintenance Hanger. More information about the club can be found online at 
www.bcars.org.