Wednesday, September 18
9:00 AM
 Monthly Packet Message Passing Exercise
WhenWed, Sep 18, 9:00 AM -
WhereSCC BBS Packet Network
Description The Monthly Packet Message Passing Exercise will be held on the third Wednesday of most months.  Please read the Training page for this event for additional information you need to know before starting this exercise. The intent of this exercise is to provide an environment to pass packet messages that simulate participation in a real event as an experienced county packet operator who has been assigned for mutual aid support for Xanadu County and City.  During the course of each monthly exercise, participants will be asked to pass at least two 3rd party messages in each direction (PacketItForm) and at least two operator-to-operator messages in each direction. The simulated scenario will be different for each month.  Likewise, the messages and the forms used will vary from event to event. This exercise will last for one week.  The session starts at 09:00 on the Wednesday scheduled for the event.  The session ends at 15:00 (note change of end time) on the following Wednesday afternoon.  An "review and debrief" Zoom meeting WILL NOT BE HELD this month. You can join this event at any time during the operational period to participate. An assignment email will be sent to those that signed up before 20:00 on the Tuesday evening prior to the Wednesday start.   Please use your assignment information only for the duration of this practice session. Please email the instructor: If you expected to receive an assignment on Tuesday night and didn't, or If you sign up for the event after the Tuesday 20:00 evening prior, or Have to drop or cannot complete the event for any reason Instructor email for this month: Mark Laubach, K6FJC -at- ARRL -dot- NET To increase preparedness, it is suggested that every 3 to 4 months, you tear down the packet station equipment you would use for a mutual aid assignment and set it up in alternate location (e.g., garage, back yard, local park, etc.).  Create a checklist of all the items you need for the alt location.  This is only a suggestion and if you are inclined to give this a go, let us know with your participation sign-up. ----------------------------------------- The simulated scenario for this month:  T.B.D. Late sign-ups are accepted for this event.  However, you must notify the instructor by Internet email in order to receive the assignment for this practice.  The instructor will try to respond to late signup requests within 24 hours of email receipt. REMINDER: Yes, there are SCC County Standards for packet messages.  See here. ----------------------------------------- Participation will be logged for all participants that send all the requested PackItForms and packet ICS309 for this exercise.  See the training page for details.
Saturday, September 28
8:30 AM
 County-wide Communication Exercise
WhenSat, Sep 28, 8:30 AM -
WhereRaynor Park, Sunnyvale
Description The annual County-wide Communications Exercise for 2024 will be held on Saturday, September 28. A county-wide communications exercise designed to practice mobilization, deployment and demobilization of amateur radio operations.  The activities are varied and have been designed to provide fun and education while, at the same time, developing experience with operating according to the standard procedures required for emergency operations. We will operate much like we would during a real activation.  You will need to be prepared to operate based on the assignment you have signed up for, be able to program your radio when given a new frequency, have all the necessary go-kit forms available, and operate per the Performance Standards and Best Practice and your training. Sign-ups and more details are provided for each of the skill areas to be exercised at this event by clicking on the links below.  You can not sign up on this page, use the links below. Field Operations Net Control Packet Shadow Event Staff Sign-ups will close at 6pm on Friday, September 20th. More Details:  Consult the drill details page for more information.
Saturday, September 28
8:30 AM
 County-wide Communications Exercise - EVENT STAFF
WhenSat, Sep 28, 8:30 AM -
WhereRaynor Park, Sunnyvale
Description THIS SIGN-UP IS FOR EVENT STAFF ONLY.  For other signups see the links below: Field Operations Net Control Packet Shadow Overall Event:  This is a county-wide exercise focused on emergency communications.  It is designed to provide participants with valuable in-field operating experience.  It will include several fun and challenging assignments.  Of course, standard County procedures will be used:  Resource Net, ICS documentation, Performance Standards and Best Practices. Staff Assignment:  Staff members will provide administrator or operational support for the various activities at the drill.  Sign-Ups:  Click on each position name to read the requirements for each position, then pick the position you prefer.  You must have apprioval from the Incident Commander to sign up for genral staff positions, or from the area manager to signup to assist in that specific area. More Information:  Consult the drill details page for more information. Note:  If you do not have a valid county DSW you may sign up and attend but not check into the Resource Net as they will not be able to track you.  You will be able to register as a (county DSW) before the drill.
Saturday, September 28
8:30 AM
 County-wide Communications Exercise - Field Operator
WhenSat, Sep 28, 8:30 AM -
WhereRaynor Park, Sunnyvale
Description THIS SIGN-UP IS FOR FIELD OPERATORS.  For other signups see the links below: Net Control Packet Shadow Event Staff Overall Event:  This is a county-wide exercise focused on emergency communications.  It is designed to provide participants with valuable in-field operating experience.  It will include several fun and challenging assignments.  Of course, standard County procedures will be used:  Resource Net, ICS documentation, Performance Standards and Best Practices. Field Operator:  Field operators will operate in the park, and will get practice sending and receiving both formal and informal messages. This activity is suitable for both new and seasoned operators. Sign-Ups:  Click on each position name to read the requirements for each position, then pick the position you prefer.  There will be two shifts at this event.  You can elelct to take part in one or both shifts. If you take part in two shifts you will do a different activity during each shift. Shift 1 - Briefing 08:45   Operational Period 09:00-11:00 Shift 2 - Briefing 11:45   Operational Period 12:00-14:00 You must arrive at staging at least 30 minutes before your first shift.  For all shifts you need to be able to set-up and be operational by the start of your shift.  There is a 15 minute briefing right before the start of your shift, so keep that in mind in your planning. You must also pack-up and vacate your work area qucikly after your shift is over.   Credential Evaluations:  Credential evaluations will be offered for F3 and F2 credentials. Credential candidates should review the Credentialing Program Handbook and be prepared for an assignment suitable for the evaluation they are requesting. If you want an evaluation and all the positions are taken, contact the evaluation coordinator via email at ke6tim@arrl.net.  We may try to accomodate you depending on staffing and the number of participants, but no guarantees. More Details:  Consult the drill details page for more information. DSW Registration:  If you do not have a valid county DSW, there will be an opportunity to complete the DSW Registration the morning of the exercise. You will need to sign up for the DSW Registration activity in advance. Note:  Sign-ups for the exercise will close at 6:00 pm on Friday, September 20th.
Saturday, September 28
8:30 AM
 County-wide Communications Exercise - Net Control
WhenSat, Sep 28, 8:30 AM -
WhereRaynor Park, Sunnyvale
Description THIS SIGN-UP IS FOR NET CONTROL OPERATORS.  For other signups see the links below: Field Ops Packet Shadow Event Staff Overall Event:  This is a county-wide exercise focused on emergency communications.  It is designed to provide participants with valuable in-field operating experience.  It will include several fun and challenging assignments.  Of course, standard County procedures will be used:  Resource Net, ICS documentation, Performance Standards and Best Practices. Net Control Assignment:  Manage one or more of the various nets that control the flow of communications for the entire exercise. Sign-Ups:  Click on each position name to read the requirements for each position, then pick the position you prefer.  There will be two shifts at this event.  You can elect to take part in one or both shifts.  Operators taking part in two shifts will generally do a different activity during each shift.  If you'd like to do multiple shifts as net control (including Resource Net before or after the event), please contact the Net Control Manager at halchin@mac.com.  Resource Net Control may also be done from home if desired (but please inform the Net Control Manager if so). Resource Net Control (Morning): 7:00-8:30 Shift 1 - Briefing 08:45   Operational Period 09:00-11:00 Shift 2 - Briefing 11:45   Operational Period 12:00-14:00 Resource Net Control (Afternoon): 14:00-15:30 You must arrive at staging at least 30 minutes before your first shift.  For all shifts you need to be able to set-up and be operational by the start of your shift.  There is a 15 minute briefing right before the start of your shift, so keep that in mind in your planning. You must also pack-up and vacate your work area qucikly after your shift is over. Credential Evaluations:  Credential evaluations will be offered for N3 and N2 credentials. Credential candidates should review the Credentialing Program Handbook and be prepared for an assignment suitable for the evaluation they are requesting. If you want an evaluation and all the positions are taken, contact the evaluation coordinator via email at ke6tim@arrl.net.  We may try to accomodate you depending on staffing and the number of participants, but no guarantees. More Details:  Consult the drill details page for more information. DSW Registration:  If you do not have a valid county DSW, there will be an opportunity to complete the DSW Registration the morning of the exercise. You will need to sign up for the DSW Registration activity in advance. Note:  Sign-ups for the exercise will close at 6:00 pm on Friday, September 20th.
Saturday, September 28
8:30 AM
 County-wide Communications Exercise - Packet
WhenSat, Sep 28, 8:30 AM -
WhereRaynor Park, Sunnyvale
Description THIS SIGN-UP IS FOR PACKET OPERATORS.  For other signups see the links below: Field Ops Net Control Shadow Event Staff Overall Event:  This is a county-wide exercise focused on emergency communications.  It is designed to provide participants with valuable in-field operating experience.  It will include several fun and challenging assignments.  Of course, standard County procedures will be used:  Resource Net, ICS documentation, Performance Standards and Best Practices. Packet Operator Assignment: This activity is for those with some Packet operations experience.  Everyone should be familiar with connecting to the county’s bbs’s and sending and receiving both plain text messages and PackitForms. If you do not have a packet station one may be available for you to use. You will assemble this packet station with the items provided and use it to send message traffic.  Please note priority on this equipment will go to P3 evaluations.   If you have your own portable packet station you are encouraged to bring it and set up in the outdoor location or with your own battery or other power source and send message traffic provided to you. You may need to bring a table and chair and sun shielding.  If you require AC power or have other equipment questions, please contact the Packet Manager / Evaluator as soon as possible.   Sign-Ups:  Click on each position name to read the requirements for each position, then pick the position you prefer.  There will be two shifts at this event.  You can elect to take part in one or both shifts. If you take part in two shifts you will do a different activity during each shift. Shift 1 - Briefing 08:45   Operational Period 09:00-11:00 Shift 2 - Briefing 11:45   Operational Period 12:00-14:00 You must arrive at staging at least 30 minutes before your first shift.  For all shifts you need to be able to set-up and be operational by the start of your shift.  There is a 15 minute briefing right before the start of your shift, so keep that in mind in your planning. You must also pack-up and vacate your work area qucikly after your shift is over. Credential Evaluations:  Credential evaluations will be offered for P3 and P2 credentials. Credential candidates should review the Credentialing Program Handbook and be prepared for an assignment suitable for the evaluation they are requesting. If you want an evaluation and all the positions are taken, contact the evaluation coordinator via email at ke6tim@arrl.net.  We may try to accomodate you depending on staffing and the number of participants, but no guarantees. More Details:  Consult the drill details page for more information. DSW Registration:  If you do not have a valid county DSW, there will be an opportunity to complete the DSW Registration the morning of the exercise. You will need to sign up for the DSW Registration activity in advance.   Note:  Sign-ups for the exercise will close at 6:00 pm on Friday, September 20th.  
Saturday, September 28
8:30 AM
 County-wide Communications Exercise - Shadow
WhenSat, Sep 28, 8:30 AM -
WhereRaynor Park, Sunnyvale
Description THIS SIGN-UP IS FOR SHADOW OPERATORS.  For other signups see the links below: Field Ops Net Control Packet Event Staff Overall Event:  This is a county-wide exercise focused on emergency communications.  It is designed to provide participants with valuable in-field operating experience.  It will include several fun and challenging assignments.  Of course, standard County procedures will be used:  Resource Net, ICS documentation, Performance Standards and Best Practices. Shadow Assignment:  Shadow event staff and provide communications support to them maintaining contact with other staff and nets and passing messages as appropriate. Sign-Ups:  Click on each position name to read the requirements for each position, then pick the position you prefer.  There will be two shifts at this event.  You can elect to take part in one or both shifts. If you take part in two shifts you will do a different activity during each shift. Shift 1 - Briefing 08:45   Operational Period 09:00-11:00 Shift 2 - Briefing 11:45   Operational Period 12:00-14:00 You must arrive at staging at least 30 minutes before your first shift.  For all shifts you need to be able to set-up and be operational by the start of your shift.  There is a 15 minute briefing right before the start of your shift, so keep that in mind in your planning. You must also pack-up and vacate your work area qucikly after your shift is over. Credential Evaluations:  Credential evaluations will be offered for S3 and S2 credentials. Credential candidates should review the Credentialing Program Handbook and be prepared for an assignment suitable for the evaluation they are requesting. If you want an evaluation and all the positions are taken, contact the evaluation coordinator via email at ke6tim@arrl.net.  We may try to accomodate you depending on staffing and the number of participants, but no guarantees. More Details:  Consult the drill details page for more information. DSW Registration:  If you do not have a valid county DSW, there will be an opportunity to complete the DSW Registration the morning of the exercise. You will need to sign up for the DSW Registration activity in advance. Note:  Sign-ups for the exercise will close at 6:00 pm on Friday, September 20th.  
Saturday, September 28
8:00 AM
 DSW Registration - for Santa Clara County RACES / ACS
WhenSat, Sep 28, 8:00 AM -
WhereRaynor Park, Sunnyvale
Description  Santa Clara County Disaster Service Worker Volunteer Registration Where:   Raynor Park, 1565 Quail Ave., Sunnyvale Background (i.e. Why): The State Disaster Service Worker Volunteer Program provides certain protections for volunteers helping in a disaster and some training events.  Registration with the Santa Clara County DSW program is needed by anyone who will be activated under SCCo DSW rules.  This includes people participating in county-sponsored drills/exercises and, of course, real incidents with some limitations. Who: This activity is for anyone who plans to participate in county sponsored exercises or be activated by the county for real emergency incidents (including *ALL* Mutual Aid Communicators and "hospital net" personnel) and those who DO NOT already have a current Santa Clara County DSW registration. If you have lost your DSW ID card, plan to attend this event and just re-register. What: This will be a group DSW registration session with a representative from the County Office of Emergency Management.  The OEM representative will administer the oath, sign your DSW form, and you will be provided with a new signed DSW ID card. NOTE:  This is being held before the County Wide Communications Exercise.  If you need to register for county DSW, sign up here, whether or not you plan to also attend the drill.  This will give us a count of how many people to expect. If you are attending the drill, sign up for those activites separately. How: Download the DSW Registration form and the exemplar with instructions below.  Print out and fill in the DSW form according to the instructions in the examplar.  Be sure to follow the instructions carefully.  Your form must be legible to be accepted.  Bring the completed form with you to the registration event. DSW Registration Form Instructions for completing DSW Registration Form Instructions for completing DSW ID Card   Bring this to complete the card provided at the event. Also, bring a clipboard or notepad or something else to write on when signing your form and when filling out the DSW ID card that you will receive at the event.  There will not be any tables available. When: We will start promptly at 8:00 am.  If you are late you may miss out on the registration opportunity.  Plan time to travel, park, walk to the DSW location, and complete the necessary paperwork. When you arrive your paperwork will be checked and you will be given a DSW ID card to fill out.  All of this needs to be completed before 8:15 am when the swearing in will take place. After the swearing in, you will be provided with a signed DSW card.  If you are taking part in the exercise held on the same day and location, proceed directly to Staging and check in after you received your signed DSW card.  To take part in the exerercise, you must sign-up in advance for the activities that you wish to take part in. Notes: Sign-ups for DSW registration will close at 6 pm on Thursday, September 26th. Sign-ups for the exercise will close at 6 pm on Friday, September 20th.  
Sunday, September 29
9:30 AM
 Palo Alto Airport Day
WhenSun, Sep 29, 9:30 AM -
Where1925 Embarcadero Rd, Palo Alto
Description The annual Palo Alto Airport Day/Open House offers aircraft displays, food, tower tours, fly-bys, and displays from vendors and public service organizations.  The event is free to the public.  More info at https://paloaltoairport.org/airport-day/.   Radio operators are needed to communicate between multiple remote parking locations.  Depending on the number of signups, there may be operating positions on the field. This is an opportunity to practice net control and field ops in a low traffic environment.   Lunch will be provided.    
Saturday, October 5
9:00 AM
 Packet Operations Type III, Part B
WhenSat, Oct 5, 9:00 AM -
Where55 W. Younger Ave., San Jose
Description Course Details: Click here to visit the course description and download the course materials Attendees should have their own printed or electronic copy of the course materials. Homework: Packet Operations Type III, Part B is a follow-on course to Packet Operations Type III, Part A. It includes both lecture and hands-on packet activity. The lecture is focused on details of Outpost and PacFORMS setup. Message addressing within the Santa Clara County ARES/RACES BBS network is also discussed. For the post-class exercises, students will need to use a packet station to send and receive messages and answer questions about packet operations. The packet station can be one that the student owns or one that they borrow. It must be capable of connecting to at least one of the Packet BBSs via RF (2M, 220, or 440) Location of the training:  This class will be held in the Sheriff's Auditorium in the County Sheriff's building at 55 W. Younger Ave. in San Jose. Please park in the large lot across the street from the Sheriff's Office building. Do not park in the lot next to the building. Click here for information about Covid precautions and in-person classes. NOTE: Depending on the number of participants, class questions and interactions, be prepared for the class to run over the scheduled time by up to 15 minutes.   Class size is limited to the first 35 people who sign up. Sign-ups will be closed at 6:00 pm on Wednesday, October 2.  Monitor AA6BT, 146.115 MHz, + offset, PL of 100.0 Hz, the morning of the class for any changes relative to the class, location, etc.    
Sunday, October 6
7:00 AM
 2024 Bike to the Future
WhenSun, Oct 6, 7:00 AM -
Where70 W. Hedding St., San Jose
Description The 4th annual Bike to the Future is a bicycle tour with 3 routes ranging from family-friendly to advanced. Start/finish staging is at the Santa Clara County building at 70 W. Hedding Street, San Jose.    This is a fundraising event benefiting Silicon Valley Bicycle Coalition (SVBC), a nonprofit organization working to make bicycling safer and more accessible to everyone.    Event website: https://biketothefuture.funraise.org/ SVBC website: http://bikesiliconvalley.org/    Radio operators are needed for rest stops, SAG vehicles, operating mobile on bicycle, and Net Control. Specific assignments will vary  in length.    
Saturday, October 12
8:00 AM
 Pancake Breakfast Fundraising Event
WhenSat, Oct 12, 8:00 AM -
WhereSunnyvale Fire Station 2
Description Sunnyvale Fire will have a fundraising pancake breakfast at Fire Station 2.  The Sunnyvale Mobile EOC vehicle will be on display.  SARES will have a booth explaining amateur radio and emergency communicartions to the public and will give tours of the MEOC.
Tuesday, October 15
8:30 PM
 Training Net - Message Passing Practice
WhenTue, Oct 15, 8:30 PM -
WhereResource Net Repeaters
Description This is the quarterly Tuesday evening Training Net. The training net will be be held on the Resource Net Repeaters (AA6BT 146.115, N6NAC 444.625, and W6ASH 145.270) which will be linked for the net. This net will consist of passing 3rd party messages.  The messages will be beginner to intermediate level with the use of prowords.  Read the job description for the positions. We will take participants in the order noted.  Expected Difficulty: Easy to Difficult It is recommended that you have taken the Message Passing Class to participate as a message sender or receiver; but, is not required if you have sufficient experience and understanding of SCCo message passing procedures, techniques and prowords. Message senders/receivers will be given a critique on their techniques and use of procedures. You should expect that the first message to be passed will only include prowords required in F3 evaluations (see page 36 of the Credentialing Program Handbook). Overall, it is anticipated that the messages will progress from easy to more difficult for each message sent. The first message will be the easiest and the last more difficult. Anyone wishing to receive pre-event communications (plans for the net, advance look at messages to be used, etc.) should sign up. While not required, sign ups are encouraged  Everyone is encouraged to copy the messages being sent for practice. Several blank message forms will be needed. If you have all the recommended go-kit forms you will be covered. https://www.scc-ares-races.org/operations/go-kit-forms.shtml
Wednesday, October 16
6:00 PM
 Introduction to Emergency Communications - NIGHT CLASS
WhenWed, Oct 16, 6:00 PM -
WhereSunnyvale Public Safety HQ
Description Congratulations! You just got your Ham Radio license and are anxious to get started... but how? There were plenty of new terms and concepts that you came across as you studied for your FCC exam, but what do they really mean? Puzzled by simplex vs. repeaters? Can't tell a PL tone from an offset? And, how do I get on the air with my radio? If this sounds like you, then this class – An Introduction to Emergency Communications – will give you plenty of the basics about your new hobby with hands-on exercises that should get you started with Ham Radio and Emergency Communications. This is the first of two basic courses designed to get new hams familiar with some common operating procedures, emergency communications, and getting on the air. Attendees must have their own printed or electronic copy of the course materials.    Click here to see a printable flyer and the course materials Location of the training: The location for this training is the Sunnyvale Department of Public Safety at 700 All America Way in Sunnyvale. Class attendees may need to show a photo ID (driver's license or agency-issued ID) to be admitted. Click here for information about Covid precautions and in-person classes. Class size is limited to the first 30 people who sign up. Sign-ups will be closed at 6:00 pm on Tuesday, October 15.
Friday, November 1
9:00 AM
 Cross-Band Repeating / Antenna Fundamentals
WhenFri, Nov 1, 9:00 AM -
WhereSNY Public Safety HQ main bldg
Description NOTICE: This class has been postponed until October or later. Sign-ups are still open, and everyone signed up will be contacted when we have a new date for the class. The November 1 date is only a placeholder. Two topics are covered in this class: Cross-Band Repeating and Antenna Fundamentals.   Follow this link for the description and class materials for the Cross-Band Repeating class. Follow this link for the description and class materials for the Antenna Fundamentals class. Note: There are separate presentations for the Cross-Band Repeating section and the Antenna Fundamentals section. Be sure to print out one of each set.  Attendees should have their own printed or electronic copy of the materials. Handouts may be updated prior to the class and those registered will be notified via email. Location of the training: The location for this training is Sunnyvale Department of Public Safety at 700 All America Way in Sunnyvale. Use the main entrance to the DPS building. Class attendess may need to show a photo ID (driver's license of agency-issued ID) to be admitted. Click here for information about Covid precautions and in-person classes. NOTE:  Depending on the number of participants, class questions and interaction, be prepared for the class to run over the scheduled time by up to 15 minutes. Class size is limited to the first 40 people who sign up. Sign-ups will be closed at 6:00 pm on Friday, September 6.
Saturday, November 2
9:00 AM
 Packet Operations - Type II - Adv / Troubleshooting
WhenSat, Nov 2, 9:00 AM -
Where55 W. Younger Ave., San Jose
Description Course Details: Click here to visit the course description and download the course materials Attendees should have their own printed or electronic copy of the course materials. Handouts may be updated prior to the class, and those registered will be notified via email. Homework: For the post-class exercises, students will need to use a packet station to send and receive messages and answer questions about packet operations. The packet station can be one that the student owns or one that they borrow. It must be capable of connecting to at least one of the Packet BBSs via RF (2M, 220, or 440) Location of the training:  This class will be held in the Sheriff's Auditorium in the County Sheriff's building at 55 W. Younger Ave. in San Jose. Please park in the large lot across the street from the Sheriff's Office building. Do not park in the lot next to the building. Click here for information about Covid precautions and in-person classes. NOTE: Depending on the number of participants, class questions and interactions, be prepared for the class to run over the scheduled time by up to 15 minutes.   Class size is limited to the first 30 people who sign up. Sign-ups will be closed at 6:00 pm on Wednesday, October 30. Monitor AA6BT, 146.115 MHz, + offset, PL of 100.0 Hz, the morning of the class for any changes relative to the class, location, etc.    
Thursday, November 7
7:00 PM
 EC/AEC Council Meeting
WhenThu, Nov 7, 7:00 PM -
WhereSanta Clara County EOC
Description Purpose: Discuss organizational and management ideas, strategies, best practices.  Synchronize planning, operations, expectations. Attendees: City ECs and AECs and county ADECs are welcome. Agenda: TBD (will be pubished to the EC list the week before meeting) Roundtable (All) Location: Santa Clara County EOC, 4th Floor, 55 W Younger Ave., San Jose (Sheriff's Bldg) Parking: Please park in the lot across the street from the Sheriff's building. The front doors of the Sheriff's office are locked at 6pm. You will need to push the buzzer to the right of the double doors to gain entrance and provide your name.  We will provide a list of attendees before the meeting.  EVERYONE will need to sign up here in advance to be on that list by Monday evening 11/4.
Wednesday, November 13
6:00 PM
 Fundamentals of Emergency Communications - NIGHT CLASS
WhenWed, Nov 13, 6:00 PM -
WhereSunnyvale Public Safety HQ
Description Can you describe all of the major nets used within Santa Clara County? Do you know which nets are used for mobilization and message passing? Can you describe the three operational levels of the Resource Net and the procedures for each level? Do you understand how all of the fields of the Message form are to be used? Do you know what you need in order to get started as a net control? This Fundamentals course covers basic operating principles that Santa Clara County hams responding as DSWs should know and understand. This is the second of two basic classes designed to get new hams feeling comfortable with city and county operating procedures. It is also an excellent introduction for experienced hams who are new to Santa Clara County operations and an excellent refresher for experienced Santa Clara County hams as well. Attendees must have their own printed or electronic copy of the course materials.   Click here to see a printable flyer and the course materials Location of the training: The location for this training is the Sunnyvale Department of Public Safety at 700 All America Way in Sunnyvale. Class attendees may need to show a photo ID (driver's license or agency-issued ID) to be admitted. Click here for information about Covid precautions and in-person classes. Class size is limited to the first 30 people who sign up. Sign-ups will be closed at 6:00 pm on Tuesday, November 14.  
Saturday, November 16
9:00 AM
 County EOC Radio Room Orientation
WhenSat, Nov 16, 9:00 AM -
Where55 W. Younger Ave., San Jose
Description   Prerequisites, Course Description, and Course Materials: Please read the EOC Radio Room Orientation page for complete information on prerequisites, course details, and course materials. We will follow the prerequisites closely for this class. Location:  This class will be held in the EOC, located in the County Sheriff's building at 55 W. Younger Ave. in San Jose.  Park across the street. No permit is required on the weekend. Do NOT park in the visitor spots next to the Sheriff's office. Push the button on the intercom outside the front door to the building, and inform the deputy that you need to go up to the 4th floor EOC for a training class. After asking your name and verifying that you’re on the attendees list, the deputy will unlock the front door.  Enter and go to the window on the left. The deputy will unlock the door to your right. Go through the door and up the elevator to the fourth floor.  Exit the elevator to the left. You will see the double doors for the EOC. Sign in at the reception counter, then go down the hall to the right, past the radio room, to the main EOC room. Click here for information about Covid precautions and in-person classes. NOTE: Depending on the number of participants, class questions, and interactions, be prepared for the class to run over the scheduled time by up to 15 minutes.   Class size is limited to the first 30 people who sign up. Sign-ups will be closed at 6:00 pm on Tuesday, November 12.            
Sunday, December 1
4:00 PM
 Los Altos Festival of Lights Parade
WhenSun, Dec 1, 4:00 PM -
WhereDowntown Los Altos
Description Assistance is needed for the Festival of Lights Parade.  Briefings will be around 4:45 to 5:50 so you can be on station for the 6 PM parade start.  Dress warmly, bring fresh batteries and join in the fun. 5 watt HT required and headset highly encouraged. Shadows will work on 440. There are three positions available: Checkpoint, Shadow and Net Control.  Shadows: eight Shadows are required. Net Control: will be around 4-6.  When signing up, indicate your preference.  We will do the best we can to accommodate your request, but we reserve the right to move hams to other positions based on the needs of the parade.  Thank you for understanding. Evaluations for N3 and S3 should be available at this event. We are still working out the details. DSW Information: DSW  coverage for the County of Santa Clara -or- the City of Los Altos is required.  If you do not have either of these, you will be sworn in at the event.  Non-DSW personnel are required to arrive 15-30 minutes because of this.
Saturday, December 14
9:00 AM
 2024 End of Year Updates
WhenSat, Dec 14, 9:00 AM -
Where55 W. Younger, Ave., San Jose
Description This class presents any training material that was updated in the current year.  Missed a class but still want to know what's new?  You can attend this class to get a quick overview of this year's changes.  Note that this class is not a substitute for taking the original class - only updated material will be covered.  Agenda: The high-level agenda is similar each year, although the specific topics covered will vary year to year.  We cover the following: A summary of things that changed over the past year Reinforce key information or procedures Preview things to come in the new year Course Details: The course details page, and the course handouts will be available a few days prior to the class.  Attendees must have their own printed or electronic copy of the course materials.  Intended Audience: Any new or experienced ARES/RACES members. NOTE:  Depending on the number of participants, class questions and interaction, be prepared for the class to run over the scheduled time by up to 15 minutes. Location of the training: This class will be held in the Sheriff's Auditorium in the County Sheriff's building at 55 W. Younger Ave. in San Jose. Park in the large lot across the street from the building. Do not park in the smaller lot next to the building. NOTE: Sign-ups will close at 6:00 pm on Friday, December 13.  Class size is limited to the first 100 people who sign up.