The BVRC Board of Directors has appointed two members to key positions on the club’s Leadership Team: Stephen Ponder, N5ZE, as Nets Committee Chair, and Drake Rush, KJ5MXM, as EMCOM Committee Chair.
Stephen Ponder will take over the Nets Committee Chair role from Dana Widboom, KI5TGY, who has served the club well in that position for the past several years. Under Dana’s leadership, BVRC’s weekly nets have remained active and relevant, with several new and younger Net Control Station operators stepping up to help lead club nets.
The Board thanks Dana for his years of service and his steady leadership in this important role.
Stephen is already well known to many in the BVRC community through his volunteer work, enthusiasm, and commitment to learning and serving in amateur radio. His contributions to the club were recognized when he was named BVRC’s Ham of the Year in 2025. The Board is excited to welcome Stephen into this new leadership role.
The Board also appointed Drake Rush, KJ5MXM, as EMCOM Committee Chair. This position has been vacant for the past couple of years, leaving emergency communications as an area of BVRC’s mission that has needed renewed attention.
Drake has already begun researching how a BVRC EMCOM program can fit into the larger Arkansas amateur radio emergency communications effort, while also working alongside the club’s Community Service program led by Alex Smith, KI5EQK. Drake met with the Board and made a strong impression with his preparation, interest, and willingness to lead this important initiative.
Please join the BVRC Board in thanking Dana Widboom for his service and welcoming Stephen Ponder and Drake Rush to their new Leadership Team positions.
