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     Presidents Message
a readily available, time tested, and  low maintenance communication network which can complement the high-intensity and often unavailable network of telephones and trunked radio systems.
I think packet presents exactly the same service opportunity. It's become clear that commercial telephone systems, both landline and cellular, are among the first to go down in an emergency. At the same time, data flow increases in both volume and priority. The establishment of alternative routes for that flow is critical to the success of emergency operations. On a local and regional level, packet networks probably offer one of the most complementary infrastructures around - they're cheap and economical.
Fortunately or unfortunately, packet is not simple to use, however, and that's what's brought me to my conclusion that the club should commit some time and resources to it. Although an individual can obtain the necessary equipment for a little as $40, that equipment has no utility whatsoever in the absence of trained operators who are able to access a properly maintained packet network. Thus the reason for club involvement: packet is an intrinsically communal undertaking which is most effectively implemented on a local level by individuals working as a group. It is roughly analogous to the maintenance and operation of VHF and UHF repeaters and should be accorded similar weight in the club's scheme of priorities. The

user base is a fraction of that enjoyed (or suffered) by voice repeaters, but this is offset by the network's overall utility.
Furthermore, in order to properly discharge its responsibility to the amateur radio service, I think its incumbent on general interest amateur radio clubs to maintain at least a basic packet presence by providing both equipment and training to the local amateur community. I don't think every club needs to become Tucson Amateur Packet Radio, but it seems to me that these activities blend into the landscape of what makes an amateur radio club a club at all - accomplishing together what is difficult or impossible to accomplish alone. For that reason, I strongly support the continued development of our packet capabilities and will be in favor committing club resources to reach that goal. This doesn't mean I think we should go hog-wild, but I do think that PARC should provide support to the extent that members are actively pursuing a packet agenda, and I'll continue to encourage members to do just that.
As always, I'd be delighted to discuss this or any other club matter with anyone at any time. I usually listen on 146.94. I can be reached via telephone at 503.709.7620 and via email n7rx@arrlnet.
September Meeting Notes
We had another fine meeting in September. The meeting combined technical education, hands-on radio demonstrations, and discussion about future club programs, and, again, the topic was packet. Wayne, WA7NE, had a terrific PowerPoint presentation

about the club's packet system. The presentation described how our system integrates into the packet network, how the BBS software works, and included a GIS demonstration of the geographic relationship between some of the major nodes and BBSs in the Portland area. Pete W7PR, Ed KC7GFX and Neal N7RX set-up the 147.18 machine and two packet stations, and members were able to get some hands on experience using the packet repeater.
We also discussed at length the future of PARC's packet system. In terms of features and access, there appears to be overall consensus that the primary utility of the system lies in emergency services, and that a goal should be to integrate the system into the ARES network. Assistant EC Ken Wilhelmi once again attended the meeting, and there was some discussion about PARC sponsoring an ARES packet roundtable on 147.18 once the new equipment is installed in Damascus. To this end, many members questioned the future of packet in general, although others felt that the mode has some long-term vitality provided that the systems are reliable. It appeared that one of the principal obstacles to viability is training, however.
In terms of future cash outlays, Wayne thought that they existing system is pretty close to meeting our basic needs, although we could use another computer
for the node. Otherwise, this is a long-term process of adding radios and linking nodes. Similar for 147.18 -  the machine will
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