Group Planning a Day to Test the Emergency Ham Radio System:

Cedar Springs residents may soon be getting a first-hand look at how an amateur radio operation might work in an emergency. The Grand Rapids Amateur Radio Association has applied to the City of Cedar Springs for an Amateur Radio Field Day, celebrating the 100th anniversary of Michigan State Parks, to be held in late June at the staging area for the Fred Meijer White Pine Trail State Park. Henry Greib, on-air director for the radio association, told the Cedar Springs City Council that the event is a 24-hour test of radios to ensure they are ready in case of an emergency. If the event gains city approval, several amateur radio stations will be set up on the site, demonstrating how such a station might be deployed in case of a major disaster in the city or county, which could knock out or overload other communication systems. Antennas will be located on trailers, portable masts and a communications van. Generators, designed for campground use, will also be used. The entire event will take place in a continuous 30-hour period over a two-day period, June 24 and June 25. The group will also set up a booth so interested visitors can learn more about amateur radio operations.

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