KARO ECHO: Enhancing Emergency Communications in Kensington and El Cerrito

Introduction: Hello, today we will introduce KARO ECHO, a dedicated amateur radio club serving the communities of Kensington and El Cerrito with a focus on emergency communications and community service.

Club Overview:

• Club Name: KARO ECHO
• Call Sign: W6ECK
• Contact: Frans A. Kuypers, KJ6IUV
• Daytime Phone: (510) 220-1882
• Evening Phone: (510) 236-7017
• Email: w6eck@arrl.net

Club Details:

• Meeting Time: Membership meetings at 19:00 every second Monday of the month; Weekly NET on Thursday at 19:00, simplex 146.415
• Meeting Place: Kensington Community Center, 59 Arlington Ave (hybrid meetings: in-person/Zoom)
• Affiliation Date: May 14, 2021

Specialties and Services:

• Specialties: Digital Modes, General Interest, Public Service/Emergency, VHF/UHF
• Services Offered: Club Newsletter, Mentor, Packet Radio BBS

Club Description: KARO ECHO, an acronym for Kensington Amateur Radio Operators and El Cerrito Ham Operators, is a non-profit volunteer organization focused on providing auxiliary communications for Kensington and El Cerrito during emergencies. The club collaborates with local Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) but operates independently from them. Members receive practical training and participate in biannual Simulated Emergency Tests (SETs) to enhance their emergency communication skills. KARO ECHO welcomes all individuals interested in emergency communications to join their training sessions.

Club Statistics:

• Club Members: 59
• Voting Members: 35
• Voting Licensed Amateur Members: 35
• Voting ARRL Members: 20

Officers:

• Contact: Frans A. Kuypers, KJ6IUV (Vice President)
• President, Editor: Howdy Goudey, KE6BEE
• Treasurer: James D. Marks, KN6VTC
• Secretary: Thomas G. Fattaruso, KN6BUY

Media:

• Website: KARO ECHO
• Field Day and SET Photos: Various images showcasing their activities

Conclusion: KARO ECHO is an essential community resource in Kensington and El Cerrito, dedicated to enhancing emergency communication capabilities through rigorous training and community involvement. Their commitment to preparedness and service makes them a valuable part of the amateur radio landscape. Thanks for watching. For more supporting, please visit talkpod.com.