This is from our Shilshole Prepares. There is a basic HAM radio class coming up. If you are thinking about long distance cruising, or using your SSB for long range communication (using HAM channels), consider this starter class..

The Mike & Key Amateur Radio Club sponsors regular classes to help people obtain a Technician level ham license. This is the entry level license, and gives you access to the ham frequencies we primarily use in Hub (emergency preparedness) communications.

They have announced two classes coming up. One in Federal Way on January 14^th and 21^st, the other in Ballard on February 11^th and 18^th. Both classes are free, but it costs $15 to take the test at the end of the class.  You do not have to participate in the class in order to take the test, you can just show up and test if you want (but do some online studying first, and it will still cost $15).  The classes have a very high pass rate, it is rare to see someone fail the test after taking the class. The training occurs over two consecutive Saturdays, with the test in the afternoon of the second Saturday.

If you are interested, you can register for the classes, or get more information, by contacting Daniel Stevens, KL7WN, by email at kl7wm at aol dotcom

Ham vs ssb website conversations…

http://www.practical-sailor.com/blog/Marine-SSB-Ham-Radio-or-both-11487-1.html

http://www.latitude38.com/features/SSB.html#.WG8Lc1LTmvF

With the tightening of restrictions on marine sanitation devices, both here in Puget Sound and in Canada, many boaters are considering composting toilets.  Some of the key benefits for conversion are 1) no pumpout needed, 2) potentially less smell, 3) less weight on board (no holding tank, valves, hoses), 4) less maintenance/repair/expense and more…

Check out this website for their decision to make the conversion…the boat galley-choosing a composting toilet

With the Seattle Boat Show coming up at the end of the month, you can check out the different models.