2021 Pumpkin Patrol

On October 30 and 31, the Schoharie County Amateur Radio Association will conduct the 2021 Pumpkin Patrol, a public service event, aimed at preventing Halloween pranks and protecting motorists along Interstate 88. Working with other amateur radio associations the entire length of I-88 will be “covered” this year as it was in 2020.

The Pumpkin Patrol was created by Katherine St. Jacques in 1976 after the windshield of a truck driver (and fellow radio operator) was struck by an object thrown from an overpass. After the driver sustained injuries from the broken glass, St. Jacques and two companions decided to stand watch on overpasses that crossed the NYS Thruway. Over the years, the Pumpkin Patrol has grown and now is coordinated through 24 Sheriff’s departments, over 46 local police agencies, and New York State Police Troop T.

You can participate in the Schoharie County portion of this event (overpasses covering Interstate 88) by contacting Bert Mayne, KC2ABB at mayneliner@msn.com. Please specify availability for one or both nights, your contact email and phone number, and any location preferences. Assignments are made on a first-come, first-served basis with consideration to commuting distance and past participation.

October 7, 2021