ARRL-Roanoke Division

09/02/2026

You can use your September preparation for the October 3-4 ARRL Simulated Emergency Test https://www.arrl.org/simulated-emergency-test

When All Else Fails... 📻⚡

September is National Preparedness Month, a timely reminder that emergencies can happen anywhere, anytime. When severe weather hits or power grids and cellular networks go down, one communication channel remains steadfast: Amateur Radio.

Through organized emergency networks like the Amateur Radio Emergency Service® (ARES®), licensed volunteers provide crucial backup communications to first responders, local emergency managers, and neighbors in need.

How can you get prepared this month?

✅Build a Kit: Include a battery- or hand-crank powered emergency radio.
✅Make a Plan: Establish a family communication strategy for when phone lines are overloaded.
✅Get Involved: Discover how easy it is to earn your amateur radio license and join a network of trained volunteers in your area!

👉 Learn more about emergency communications and getting licensed with ARRL: www.arrl.org/ares

09/01/2026

Good tips on shopping at a hamfest flea markets

08/26/2026

Remember - students under age 21 can join ARRL for free

Back-to-school isn't just for kids. In , we're ALL students. 📚⚡

Whether you’re 15 and building your first antenna, or 55 and tackling digital modes for the first time, there’s always something new to learn on the airwaves.

With back-to-school in full swing, ARRL is making it easier than ever for students and lifelong learners alike to get on the air

🎓 For Full-Time Students (Under 21):
Claim a 100% FREE 1-Year Digital Student Membership to dive into STEM, radio physics, and global communications at zero cost.

🎙️ For Hams of All Ages:
Not in school? Join or renew your ARRL membership to unlock QST, comprehensive technical archives, advocacy for our bands, and technical lab support. Plus, your dues directly sponsor youth programs that bring radio into local classrooms!

👉 Join ARRL today and step into a nationwide community dedicated to lifelong learning, public service, and pushing the boundaries of wireless tech: arrl.org/join

08/22/2026

08/22/2026

08/16/2026

On the Air LIVE is back on August 25 at 8 PM Eastern:
👉ARRL National Traffic System

What if you need to send a message from a disaster area, but all forms of communication are down? The ARRL National Traffic System could be your tool to get the message out. Join ARRL Education Specialist Wayne Greene, KB4DSF, and learn about the history of the National Traffic System, how it works, and how you can become a regular user and be prepared to send and relay traffic.

REGISTER➡️ learn.arrl.org/events

08/13/2026

Come see us in Shelby !!

ARRL Forum featuring Roanoke Division Director Jim Boehner N2ZZ, Vice Director-Roanoke Division Bill Morine N2COP and NC Section Manager Marv Hoffman WA4NC. The forum will be held beginning at 9:30am to 11:00am in the Dorton Hall located on the Fairgrounds.

08/12/2026

There’s something surreal about transmitting a signal into deep space, having it bounce off the dusty surface of the Moon, and hearing it return to your own speakers 2.5 seconds later 🌖🤯

This weekend, microwave operators from across the globe are turning their antennas toward the sky for the ARRL EME 2.3 GHz and Up Contest!

🔹 When: 0000 UTC on Saturday through 2359 UTC Sunday
🔹 Bands: 2.3 GHz and higher bands
🔹 Modes: CW, Digital, or SSB—whatever gets you to the Moon and back!

👉 Full rules, log submission details, and band breakdown: www.arrl.org/eme-contest

08/11/2026

Great link! Especially for newer Hams