Back in the '80's, up in the Albany NY area, we used to have a commuter net. Jock Elliot, KB2GOM ran it. We would all check in on our way to work in the morning. We would report weather conditions, construction, accidents, breakdowns, etc. Back then, you would listen to commercial AM and FM stations on your standard car radio and hear your report VERBATIM for all to hear, your net report. Jock would actually contact the proper authorities to help the person in need to send assistance. Fast forward 40 years. Everybody has cell phones. Radio stations have new sources. But, much to my surprise....
The net is STILL ACTIVE! Jock is still running it. It is currently running from about 7:00 AM to 8:15 daily M-F. It is located on the 146.94 repeater, Troy NY. -600 Khz shift, no PL tone. I spoke with Jock this morning. He was very happy to hear from me after 8 years! As Paul, AC2UUP mentioned, we need to justify our need as an amateur club. Community service is a vital part of this. Jock asked me to check in whenever I can. Checkins make the numbers look good. I make his stats extend down to Saugerties.
Here is our chance to help out our neighbor radioamateurs. And, maybe it will help us extending their commuter net down to Ulster and Dutchess Counties.
Jock, KB2GOM is a polished professional. He has been running this net for around 40 years now. His dedication is legendary! When you check in, please tell him Jim, K2BHM from Cohoes sent you there! He would really appreciate our support.
Jim, I’m hoping the combined team of my Diamond v2000 antenna at about 435 feet and my trusty Yaesu 857D will at least let me hear Jack KB2GOM this morning. Thanks.