Category: Minutes

Subject: Meeting Minutes of March 7, 2017

The monthly March meeting was called to order by President John KA9CAR at 7:00 p.m. on March 7, 2017 in the Crystal Lake Bank meeting room.

NT9E led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.

Jack W9MU introduced visitors Mike, K9AJ and XYL Sue, K9XYL to the group. Mike was the speaker for the evening presentation.

President John asked if there had been any license upgrades since last month, with no one responding. John mentioned that there were 2 new hams as a result of the recent testing session, although neither were present.

Pres. John reminded those in attendance that members not paying dues by the March meeting will be dropped from the roster. Treasurer Joe, N9OK was available to collect dues.

Introductions around the room followed. Thirty-five people were in attendance for the meeting.

President John encouraged all to join the club Yahoo reflector, K9RN. Jerry N9AVY is the newsletter editor, and members with newsletter input should submit to Jerry.

The minutes from the February meeting were published for review on the club website by Secretary Roger, KF9D. Jack, W9MU moved to accept the minutes as published, seconded by Ray, N9RWC. The motion passed by voice vote.

Treasurer Joe, N9OK reported a balance of $4995.80 in the club treasury. Paid membership for 2017 stood at 78 at the beginning of the meeting. John, K9JK made a motion to accept the treasurer’s report, seconded by Jim, N7US. The motion passed by voice vote.
Jeff, KC9WSJ is custodian of the club library and has several good books available to club members, including a new book on JT65 mode.

A short Field Day report was given by Chairman Dave, NT9E. President John said that a volunteer is being sought to run the meeting to be held at the FD location as well as coordinate the family picnic.

President John also asked for a volunteer to set up a winter dinner in early 2018.

Under the topic of general announcements, several contests scheduled for this month were mentioned. See the newsletter or QST for further details.

Dave NT9E announced that the Saturday breakfast held on March 4th at the Green St. Café in McHenry had 17 attendees.

It was announced that a ham radio breakfast will be held at the Golden Corral in Algonquin on March 25th at 8 A.M.

Under the topic of Hamfests, Paul W9DWP highlighted several upcoming hamfests in the extended area as well as advanced storm spotter training to be held at DuPage County on Saturday March 25th.

Webmaster Ken, KB9I asked members to notify him if items listed for sale have been sold so that he can remove the posting.

Several members had items for Show and Tell. President John showed a USB TV tuner that he has adapted to use as a Pan Adapter for his HF radio. Paul W9DWP showed a Tytera MD-380 DMR handheld that can be purchased for approximately $100. Mike KC9Q showed a pocket sized signal generator that covers 24 – 6000 Mhz that can be purchased on Amazon for $189.

Everyone was invited to enjoy pizza at the Cottage restaurant following the meeting.

A moment of silence was observed for Skip, K9SA who recently became a silent key.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:17 pm.

After a short break, the club was treated to a fantastic presentation by Mike K9AJ who was a member of the South Sandwich and South Georgia VP8 Dx-pedition team last year. The pictures and videos, along with Mike’s commentary were enjoyed by all.

Respectfully Submitted,
Roger Scott, KF9D, MCWA Secretary

Subject: Meeting Minutes of February 7, 2017

The monthly February meeting was called to order by President John KA9CAR at 7:00 p.m. on February 7, 2017 in the Crystal Lake Bank meeting room.

President John asked if any guests were present. Guests attending the meeting were James AC9PH and Gloria from Huntley along with Matt NM1S from Ingleside.

Mike KB9BIB had upgraded to Extra class since the last meeting. Members congratulated Mike.

Pres. John reminded those in attendance that the new constitution states that members not paying dues by the March meeting will be dropped from the roster. N7US was available to collect dues in the absence of Treasurer Joe, N9OK.

Introductions around the room followed. Thirty-four people were in attendance for the meeting.

President John encouraged all to join the club Yahoo reflector, K9RN. Jerry N9AVY is the newsletter editor, and members with newsletter input should submit to Jerry.

The minutes from the January meeting were published for review on the club website by Secretary Roger, KF9D. Mike, KC9Q moved to accept the minutes as published, seconded by Dave, NT9E. The motion passed by voice vote.

In Treasurer Joe’s N9OK absence, N7US reported a balance of $4865.42 in the club treasury. Paid membership for 2017 stood at 67 at the beginning of the meeting. John, K9JK made a motion to accept the treasurer’s report, seconded by Mike, KC9Q. The motion passed by voice vote.

Jeff, KC9WSJ is custodian of the club library and has several good books available to club members.

President John informed those in attendance of the passing of former club member Bruce Raney, K9KYJ from Wauconda. Mike WB8BZK shared some memories of activities with Bruce.

Under the topic of general announcements, President John announced a VE test session to be held in February 21, 2017 at the Free Methodist Church in Woodstock. Contact Steve KB9OLD at KB9OLD@arrl.net for further information.

Dave NT9E announced a Saturday breakfast on March 4th at the Green St. Café in McHenry.

VP Mike, WB8BZK updated the group on the Amateur Radio Parity Act of 2017 HR555 which has passed the US House and is on the way to the Senate for consideration.

Under the topic of Hamfests, Convention Reports and Announcements, Jim N7US discussed several contests coming up in February. See the newsletter and QST for further details.

Under the topic of old business, Dave NT9E the club Field Day chairman for 2017 reports working with John W9ZE on the possibility of combining efforts with the ARES/RACES group.
John, K9JK made a motion with a second from NT9E that the club approve up to a $500 expenditure for Field Day expenses. The motion carried by voice vote.

A brief review of the January 24th Board of Directors Meeting was given by President John. VP Mike is collecting and scanning past club information and hopes to give a presentation to the group on club history next year on the club’s 40th anniversary.

Of note from the BOD meeting is the fact that the regular July meeting would fall on the July 4th holiday. The board decided to forego the July meeting in favor of a gathering on Field Day Saturday June 24th.

Another item from the BOD meeting concerned reciting the Pledge of Allegiance at the start of the club meeting. The club members discussed points for and against reciting the pledge. Following the discussion, Dave NT9E moved, with a second from K9RUF, to put the Pledge of Allegiance on the agenda for future meetings. The motion passed by a show of hands.

Jack, W9MU mentioned that the March program is scheduled to be Mike McGirr, K9AJ who was a member on the DX-pedition to two rare VP8 Islands in the Antarctic region. Mike is a well known DX-peditioner and the program promises to be very interesting.

Several members had items for Show and Tell. Dave K9RUF showed the new wireless headset from Apple. President John showed a loading coil he had made in order to bring a 43 foot vertical wire on 160 meters into tuning range for his auto tuner. Steve K9DCI demonstrated an oscilloscope app running on an 8 inch Android tablet. Steve also had an early HT220 for which he had built a synthesizer board. Mike KC9Q showed a 2 meter halo antenna, one of his latest offerings on his website.

Wendell N9REP announce that club members are being sought for the communications and SAG support for the Udder Century Bike Ride held on Sunday June 4th, starting at MCC.

Pierre, K9EYE reminded members of the 6 meter forum held each Wednesday night at 7 pm on 50.130 Mhz. Mike KC9Q commented that a total of 22 different stations have participated to date.
Tom W9NBG requested that if future meetings are changed, he would like to get a text message instead of other electronic notification.

Everyone was invited to enjoy pizza at the Cottage restaurant following the meeting.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:52 pm.

After a short break, an Electro Voice noise-cancelling dynamic microphone model 622 donated by Paul W9DWP was raffled off. The winner of the microphone was Dave, KD9ESL. Thanks to Paul for the donation.

After the raffle, Jack W9MU presented a program on propagation which included some theory on propagation along with very useful online and resident tools to predict HF paths to distant stations.

Respectfully Submitted,
Roger Scott, KF9D, MCWA Secretary

Subject: Meeting Minutes of Dec 6, 2016

The monthly December meeting was called to order by Vice-President Mike, WB8BZK at 7:00 p.m. on December 6, 2016 in the Crystal Lake Bank meeting room.

VP Mike led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance.

VP Mike extended a welcome to all and asked if there were visitors or guests present. Bill W9DD from Woodstock, and Ben, son of K9RUF were visiting the group.

Introductions around the room followed. Forty people were in attendance for the meeting.

VP Mike encouraged all to join the club Yahoo reflector, K9RN, visit the club website at mcwa.org, and join the MCWA Facebook page to keep up on club news and information. Jerry N9AVY is the newsletter editor, and members not receiving the newsletter via email should notify Jerry. Dave NT9E keeps the Facebook page up to date while Ken KB9I is the webmaster.

The minutes from the November meeting were published for review on the club website by Secretary Roger, KF9D. Kent, K9KMD moved to accept the minutes as published, seconded by Jerry, N9AVY. The motion passed by voice vote.

Treasurer Joe, N9OK passed along a report of $4349.88 in the club treasury. Paid membership for 2016 is now up to 93 plus 1 associate member. Three new members had paid this evening. Dues for the year 2017 are being accepted at this time. Olaf, W9FY made a motion to accept the treasurer’s report, seconded by Ken, KB9I. The motion passed by voice vote.

Under the topic of announcements, VP Mike announced a VE test session to be held in February 2017 at the Free Methodist Church in Woodstock. Contact Steve KB9OLD at KB9OLD@arrl.net for further information.

Mike asked the group if anyone had upgraded in the past month. The group congratulated Dave, KD9ESL on his upgrade to general class.

Under the topic of hamfests, reports, and announcements, the group was reminded of the Waukesha hamfest on Saturday January 7th. The Wheaton hamfest will be Sunday January 22nd at the Kane Co. Fairgrounds in St. Charles.

Dave, NT9E gave a report on the recent ham breakfast in McHenry, with record attendance. The breakfast is held the first Saturday of each month at 8:30 am at the Green Street Café. VP Mike reported on the Algonquin ham breakfast that was held at the Golden Corral on November 5th.

Several members reported on their recent contest experiences and band conditions in ARRL Sweepstakes, CQWW CW and ARRL 160 contests.

Bob, K9FS told the group about the CW Operators Club and invited those interested in improving their CW skills to register and join SKYPE practice sessions. Bob will be running sessions beginning in January, 2 times per week. For more information see K9FS.cc or cwops.org.

VP Mike announced several contests and operating events coming up in December. See the newsletter or QST for further details.

Under the topic of old business, Roger, KF9D gave the group a briefing on the 2016 ARRL Field Day results, in which MCWA placed 34th overall in the 2A category, 6th in the Central Division, and 1st in Illinois. Thanks to all who participated.

Dave, NT9E is the club Field Day chairman for 2017 and gave an update on the plans for the upcoming year.

VP Mike asked again if the club was interested in having a flea market table at the Wheaton hamfest on January 22. Tables cost $30 and chairs are $2 each. It was determined that not enough interest existed to pursue further.

Under new business, webmaster Ken, KB9I asked members using the barter page on the website to send him a note when listed equipment has sold so the listing can be removed.

Jack, W9MU informed the group that next month’s program will be from Dave, K9RUF on System Fusion. Sanjay, KG9FA is scheduled to present a program on modulation techniques at the February meeting.

Everyone was invited to enjoy pizza at the Cottage restaurant following the meeting.

Dave, KD9ESL expressed thanks to John, KA9CAR and Pierre, K9EYE for their assistance in erecting Dave’s antenna. VP Mike reminded the group not to be shy in asking for help or advice from fellow club members.

Ken, KB9I informed the group about a 60 foot aluminum Heights tower for sale by W9OS.

A motion to adjourn the business meeting by Dave, NT9E and seconded by Ken, KB9I was made and approved. The meeting was adjourned at 7:35 pm.

After a short break, Kermit, W9XA gave a presentation on the ARRL. Kermit is the Central Division Director for the ARRL, and he gave the group insight into the faces, functions, and interworking of the staff at headquarters. He also explained the field organization and major concerns, initiatives, and changes within the League.

Respectfully Submitted,
Roger Scott, KF9D, MCWA Secretary

Subject: Meeting Minutes of November 1, 2016

The monthly November meeting was called to order by President John, KA9CAR at 7:00 p.m. on November 1, 2016 in the Crystal Lake Bank meeting room.

President John extended a welcome to all and asked if there were visitors or guests present. Paula K9IR, guest speaker, was introduced to the group. Also Francis, KC9ZSC from Huntley and Mark from Lakemoor, not licensed yet, were visiting.

Introductions around the room followed. Thirty-four people were in attendance for the meeting.

President John encouraged all to join the club Yahoo reflector, K9RN, visit the club website at mcwa.org, and join the MCWA Facebook page to keep up on club news and information. Jerry N9AVY is the newsletter editor, and members not receiving the newsletter via email should notify Jerry. Dave NT9E keeps the Facebook page up to date while Ken KB9I is the webmaster.

The minutes from the October meeting taken by Mike, WB8BZK were published for review on the club website by Secretary Roger, KF9D. Mike, KC9Q moved to accept the minutes as published, seconded by Dave, NT9E. The motion passed by voice vote.

Treasurer Joe, N9OK passed along a report of $4275.80 in the club treasury. Paid membership for 2016 is now up to 93 plus 1 associate member. John, K9JK made a motion to accept the treasurer’s report, seconded by Dave, KD9ESL. The motion passed by voice vote.

President John announced a VE test session to be held Tuesday November 15th at the Free Methodist Church in Woodstock. Contact Steve KB9OLD to reserve a spot.

Under the topic of hamfests, reports, and announcements, the group was reminded of a Milwaukee hamfest on Saturday Nov. 5th near the HRO store.

Paul, W9DWP told the group of the upcoming Ft. Wayne, In. hamfest on November 12 – 13. Also on Saturday Nov. 5th there will be a ham breakfast at the Golden Corral in Algonquin on Randall Road at 8:00 am for all to attend.

President John noted that contest season is underway and to check QST for contest details.

President John also announced that he will be unavailable for the December meeting and VP Mike, WB8BZK will be filling in.

Under Old Business, Dave NT9E volunteered to be Field Day Chairman for 2017. Mark, K9MS volunteered to champion the HF SSB station. A cw station captain is still being sought.

President John asked again if the club was interested in having a flea market table at the Wheaton hamfest on January 22. Tables cost $30 and chairs are $2 each. It was suggested to leave the final decision for the December meeting.

For show and tell, Dave, K9RUF brought his Elecraft KX3 all mode, 15 watt, 160 – 6 meter radio.

Mike KC9Q brought a 220 MHz Moxon, a 6 meter halo, and a 2 meter halo antenna which he had constructed and are for sale on his website.

The group was reminded of the club 6 meter SSB net every Wednesday night at 7:00 pm on 50.130 Mhz.

Everyone was invited to enjoy pizza at the Cottage restaurant following the meeting.

A motion to adjourn the business meeting by Jerry, N9AVY and seconded by John, KE9NDY was made and approved. The meeting was adjourned at 7:23 pm.

After a short break, Paula, K9IR gave a very interesting and informative program entitled “Before and After the Q”, which gave members great tips on preparing for, working, and following up on those DX contacts.

Respectfully Submitted,
Roger Scott, KF9D, MCWA Secretary

Subject: Meeting Minutes of January 8, 2019

The January meeting was called to order by President Mike, WB8BZK at 7:00 p.m. on January 8, 2019 in the Crystal Lake Bank meeting room.

The Pledge of Allegiance kicked off the meeting, led by Dave K9RUF.

President Mike, WB8BZK extended a welcome and asked if there were visitors or guests present. We had 0 guests:

President Mike, WB8BZK asked for any License Upgrades, New awards etc. issued since Last meeting. President President Mike WB8BZK received Worked All States FT8 for 160 Meters.

Introductions around the room followed. 45 members were in attendance for the meeting.

Minutes from the December meeting were posted on the mcwa.org website for review at the meeting by Secretary Dan KD9M. Kent K9KMD KA9CAR moved to accept the minutes, and the motion was seconded by Roger KF9D. The motion passed by voice vote.

Treasurer Joe N9OK read the Treasurer’s January report:
Started with $5573.70, December Deposits ($412.50): Dues $412.50;
December Expenses ($0.0); December Interest $0.74..
Ending balance: $5986.94
Member count is now 112 Voting members, and 10 family members. John K9JK moved to accept the Treasurer report, and the motion was seconded by Dave NT9E. The motion passed by voice vote.

Announcements
President Mike WB8BZK Reminded that dues for 2019 of $10 are due to Joe N9OK
President Mike WB8BZK Reminded that the MCWA K9RN Reflector will be members only starting this year.
President Mike WB8BZK showed Field Day QSL that was received.

Several Ham Fests/Gatherings recently and upcoming.

• • 47th Annual Midwinter Swapfest (Waukesha) January 5th, It was well attended litter bigger crowd than last year.
  • WCRA 2019 Mid-Winter Hamfest (Wheaton) January 20th

Contests

• • ARRL RTTY Roundup (w/ FT8) Jan, 5-6
  • Kid’s Day Jan, 5
  • North American QSO Party, CW Jan, 12-13
  • North American QSO Party, SSB Jan, 19-20
  • ARRL January VHF Contest Jan. 19-21
  • CQ 160-Meter Contest, CW Jan, 25-26
  • Winter Field Day Jan, 26-27
  • 10-10 Int. Winter Contest, SSB Feb, 2-3
  • See the contest calendar for more…

Other Announcements
Breakfast Algonquin the Last Saturday in January
Dave K9RUF posted his EMI issue to Facebook and will send it out on the reflector as well.
Piere K9EYE will be hosting 2M SSB and 220 Nets on Tuesday.

President Mike WB8BZK anounced a Board of Directors Meeting will be coming soon. The date will be announced through the reflector.
President Mike WB8BZK announced the February meeting will be a show and tell Bring in something to share.

The business meeting was adjourned at 7:38 PM.
Joe N9OK W9FY moved to adjourn, and the motion was seconded by Mike ND9G. The motion passed by voice vote.

Following a short break, John N9DJ gave a presentation on Tower Grounding. The program wrapped up at 9:08 PM.

Minutes recorded by Secretary Dan, KD9M