I would like to take this opportunity to invite you to a net that should be interesting. We have set-up a Chat room on the Internet. It is named #ARES/RACES. The reason is so that we can all exchange information on what is working and what isn't in various ARES groups around the country as well as the world. In addition it would be nice to know a bit about each others programs and just become a closer group. IF you don't have the software that is fine, let me know and I'll see about getting you a copy or you can look on the web under "mirc-chat" and you will find it. If you have problems let me know and I'll help you out. The net is held on Sunday mornings at 12:00 AM Central Standard time. This would be 1:00 PM on the east coast and still not too early for the West coast. So far we have had a check in’s from Italy and Australia!! the purpose is to have a dialog with as many ARES/RACES groups as possible so we can better function as one organization in time of need.

The nice thing about using Internet Relay Chat is that it's free. There are not charges other than your monthly fee paid to your provider. It also does not matter if you have an IBM, Apple or Mac computer. There are communications programs available for all formats. So come join the latest way to meet others involved in disaster communications.

Some might not be aware that the Internet has chat rooms as America online and other services offer. The nice thing about IRC, is there are not additional charges beyond your normal Internet access. If you are interested in joining us in IRC, just follow the instructions on the site where you can download a free copy of MIRC 4.6. There is also a HELP file that can be downloaded, or read the help files on line. Just follow the prompts.

Here are the 2 channels setup for us on DALNET. ARES/RACES is the Net and general topic Channel, and #ARES is a secondary channel incase the first channel to too busy. It is possible to be in both channels at the same time, but it does tend to become a little confusing. #ARES and #ARES/RACES All 5 letters plus the # sign this is important to getting into the channel.