Sunday, September 12, 2010. 
Ham Radio operators needed!
 
For the past 4 or 5 years, the North Shore Radio Club has been the communication lead for the Evanston Bike Club’s North Shore Century.  Basically, they operate 4 routes of varying distances (up to 100 miles) as a charity fundraiser.  They attract up to 2000 bikers of various skills.  Ham radio has been a growing part of the support for the activity.

Basically, we provide support for their SAG cars (cars that follow the route to help bikers who have injuries or broken bikes). We use APRS technology to track the SAG cars, and we have deployed people at the 5 rest stops along the route (Northcroft, Viking Park/Gurnee, Lincoln Park, Bowen Park/Waukegan, Sunset Park/Highland Park and at headquarters in Evanston.  This year Headquarters will be indoors, inside the enormous gym at the high school.  Most bikers carry cell phones, so they often call into an 800 number with their issue – we collect the information and work ouut a solution using our network of deployed resources.  It is fun, and the bikers really appreciate the support we provide.
 
The event is Sunday, September 12, 2010, starting at Evanston High School.  We are looking for hams to help out.  We are writing to the veterans (so there may be some duplication of email) and hoping to find some new folks to help out.  You do not need to be a member of the North Shore Radio Club to assist.  I am writing to all of the people on our old roster and reaching out to some new people as well.  Even if you have no equipment, we can find a place for you!
 
Typically, most people work all day and SAG drivers do receive a small stipend for gas.  However, If you can only work a portion of the day, please indicate that as well.  Within reason, we will try to accommodate people’s requests for assignments.  The event starts around 6 a.m. in Evanston and goes most of the day.   
 
We use the NSRC 440 machine are our primary channel, but we are seeking some alternatives this year as well.  Suggestions?
 
We need:
1.       Hams with portable/mobile rigs, ideally with SUV or bike racks (hams travel with a Bike club member)
 
2.       Hams with base station capability to work the rest stations
 
If you would like to help out, please let me know:
 
Your name:
Your call:
Your interest
                SAG?
                What type of car?
                Rest station?
                                Preferred location:
                Headquarters?
                               
Email:
Phone number:
Preferred time frame:
 
I will be following up with you with more information.
 
Thanks for helping support this event.  This has been a great way to put a face on ham radio and to show our community that we can deliver when needed.
 
Rob
K9RST
Chief bottle washer and SAG car
Rob Orr
Rob Orr Productions, Ltd.
1336 Pine St.
Glenview, Il 60025
847-724-5228
847-400-4694 cell