Mt. Beacon Club meeting minutes

MBARC In-Person Meeting
Poughkeepsie Galleria Community Room
January 8, 2026
19 members in attendance
President Rich, W2REV, called the meeting to order at 6:38 pm and led the Pledge of
Allegiance.
He reported that he had received correspondence from ARRL asking if MBARC would like to
be listed in a new digital directory of clubs, for a fee. A show of hands was taken and the
members present unanimously wanted to decline the offer.
Rich reported that the Club will again provide volunteers for emergency communications at the
annual Dutchess County St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Wappingers Falls on March 7. Adam,
AE2AN, discussed the need for as many volunteers a possible and detailed what their
responsibilities would be.
Officer Reports
Treasurer Jeff, KE2I, gave a summary of the Financial Report and circulated a copy of the full
report.
Financial Report
Income 9/1/2025 through 12/31/2025 $ 2,004
Expenses 9/1/2025 through 12/31/2025 $ 1,642
Net $ 362
Total of All Accounts as of 12/31/2025 $21,882
Jeff reported that at this point the September hamfest had taken in $1,477, with $1,072 in
expenses, for a net of $405. Since there is food left over there is still the potential to recover
some additional food costs.
Jeff also reported that he has been unable to get a Google For Non-Profits account for the
Club and will pursue other free alternatives.
There were no new applications for membership.
Vice President Tom, N2FZD, encouraged members to become net control stations for the
Monday Night On-Air meetings. It’s a great way to learn how to be a net control station and is
a valuable service to the Club.
Steve, KB2TAT, read the minutes for the November 13, 2025 meeting. The minutes were
approved unanimously.
Director and Trustee Reports
There were no Director or Trustee reports.
Committee Reports
Adam, AE2AN, gave details for the January 24 Winter Field Day. The location was changed to
60 Wigsten Road, Pleasant Valley, NY, in the property maintenance building. Set up is 9:00
am, operations begin at 11:00 am. A lengthy question and answer discussion followed. Many
thanks to Brian, N2BRY, for obtaining the location for Winter Field Day!
New and Old Business
Discussion of purchasing a projector, originally planned for this meeting, was tabled until the
March meeting.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:12 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Steve Force KB2TAT

MBARC Joint In-Person Meeting With The QSY Society
Poughkeepsie Galleria Community Room
November 13, 2025
27 members and 2 guests in attendance
President Rich, W2REV, called the meeting to order at 6:30 pm, leading the Pledge of
Allegiance. He then asked for a round of self introductions.
President Rich asked that we forgo the usual financial report and reading of the minutes to
allow time for the presentations by our guests from ARRL. He then opened the meeting for
updates, comments, and questions.
Treasurer Jeff, KE2I, reported that he had reserved the Community Room for all our 2026
meetings. The dates are January 8, March 12, May 14, July 9, September 10, and November
12.
QSY President Shirley, N2SKP, announced the birth of her first great grand child.
Congratulations Shirley!
Shirley also invited all to the QSY holiday party, December 6. She also reported that a
volunteer to help with the QSY website is needed.
John, N2OXV, reported that he had recently replaced cables for the 970 repeater.
Adam, AE2AN, reported that he hopes to have Field Day at the Dutchess County training
center again in 2026. He also reported that Winter Field Day is January 24 and that the
whitewater races on Wappingers Creek will resume in 2026; details to follow.
John Fritze, K2QY, ARRL Eastern New York Section Manger, began his presentation with a
description of a section manager’s responsibilities. There are 71 sections and 15 divisions.
Section Managers serve a 2 year term. They recruit section level staff. liaison with the Division
Director, and are responsible for correspondence between section members. They also
oversee ARES/RACES activities in their section and ARRL orientation.
John led a quiz session which brought out some fascinating facts, such as:
There are 3 million amateur radio operators worldwide, and the average age is 65-70. The
average age in the US and Europe is 70, and 26.4 in Canada!
The first wireless club was founded in 1908 at Columbia University.
Government licensing of amateur radio operators in the US began in 1912.
ARES/RACES was established in 1935.
John’s presentation was followed by Dave Galletfly’s. Dave, KM2O, is Vice Director for ARRL’s
Hudson Division. Dave explained that the divisions run ARRL as a legal corporation. Vice
directors sit in for the Director in his/her absence. The divisions write rules for the sections and
propose and conduct projects. A current project is the establishment of more ARL codes for
radiograms.
Dave gave ARRL’s definition of affiliated clubs, such as MBARC. He then elaborated on
ARRL’s major initiative for 2026, “The Year Of The Club”.
A Q&A session followed Dave’s presentation.
Dave and John left 2 ARRL books for MBARC to use as prizes or give aways at a future event
New and Old Business
Adam, AE2AN, suggested the Club buys a projector. The suggestion was well received and it
was agreed to pursue the issue further at the January 2026 meeting with costs and
descriptions available for the discussion.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:20 pm.
Many attendees remained and mingled and talked with others.
Respectfully submitted,
Steve Force KB2TAT

MBARC In-Person Meeting
Poughkeepsie Galleria Community Room
September 11, 2025
17 members in attendance
President Rich, W2REV, called the meeting to order at 6:37 pm. Before leading the Pledge of
Allegiance he asked us to remember Sept. 11, 2001 and the murder of Charlie Kirk, Sept. 10,

2025. Rich reminded us that there is no place for violence in our nation and we need to
      respect each other more. He asked us to please reflect on the meaning of the words in the
      Pledge.
      Steve, KB2TAT, read the minutes for the July 10, 2025 meeting. The minutes were approved
      unanimously.
      Officer Reports
      Treasurer Jeff, KE2I, gave a summary of the Financial Report and circulated a copy of the full
      report.
      Financial Report
      Income 7/1/2025 through 8/31/2025 $ 1,318.75
      Expenses 7/1/2025 through 8/31/2025 $ 209.41
      Net $ 1,109.34
      Total of All Accounts as of 8/31/2025 $21,520.52
      Jeff outlined a proposal to improve the rate of return on Club funds. His proposal is to move
      $15,000 into 3 separate Flex CD’s. Jeff passed out copies of the proposal which described its
      objectives, approach, benefits, risks, and a timetable for implementation. He asked that
      everyone read over the proposal and then, later in the meeting, he would bring it to a vote.
      As approved at the last meeting, Jeff submitted a request to get a Google For Non-Profits
      account. The request is pending approval.
      Four applicants for membership were voted on and unanimously approved:
      Cady Atlas
      Phil Porteus AD2KD
      Ian Porteus KE2GER
      Ryan Edmundson KE2BBS.
      Jeff reported that he had set up a VHF packet radio station and asked that anyone wishing to
      get involved with packet radio let him know.
      Director and Trustee Reports
      There were no Director or Trustee reports.
      Committee Reports
      Adam, AE2AN, gave details for the September 14 hamfest. He reported that he still needs a
      few more volunteers and that all volunteers should arrive at 6:00 am. He said he also needed a
      few more tables. Since the forecast was for good weather, there would be indoor and outdoor
      dining. One of the Club’s Bao-Feng HTs would be a door prize. So far, there were no preregistered
      vendors.
      Lynn, KV2J, reported that three people, and possibly a fourth, would be taking the VE exams at
      the hamfest.
      New and Old Business
      Jeff asked if there were any questions or comments regarding his proposal for improving the
      rate of return for the Club’s funds. A brief discussion followed, with the overall response to the
      proposal very positive.
      Adam moved to go ahead and implement Jeff’s proposal. The motion was approved
      unanimously.
      The meeting was adjourned at 7:29 pm.
      Respectfully submitted,
      Steve Force KB2TAT

MBARC In-Person Meeting

Poughkeepsie Galleria Community Room
July 10, 2025
18 members and 2 guests in attendance
Treasurer Jeff, KE2I, called the meeting to order at 6:35 pm and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Officer Reports
Jeff called for a vote for a new membership applicant, Ryan Zygmunt, W2RZD, who was
elected unanimously.
Jeff gave a summary of the Financial Report and circulated a copy of the full report.
Financial Report
Income 5/1/2025 through 6/30/2025 $ 1,687.18
Expenses 5/1/2025 through 6/30/2025 $ 505.16
Net $ 1,182.02
Total of All Accounts as of 6/30/2025 $20,411.18
Jeff also circulated a copy of the audit he performed on the Club’s finances after he assumed
the office of Treasurer. He reported that the audit found all finances in good order.
Jeff reminded everyone that some membership dues had not yet been paid.
Jeff said that he would like to acquire (at no cost) and use the not-for-profit version of Google
Workshop. Carol, KC2BOC, made a motion to permit Jeff to do so and the motion passed
unanimously.
Michelle, K2MJR, suggested taking whatever funds we don’t anticipate using in the near future
and move them into CD’s. CD’s pay better interest than checking and savings accounts, and if
we purchase several small ones, we can cash them in if needed and not suffer penalties as
great as if we had only a few large ones. There was general acceptance of this idea and it was
noted that former Treasurer Andrew, W2BOS, had already purchased some smaller CD’s.
Jeff suggested we also investigate money market funds, but we should continue these
discussions when all officers are present.
Steve, KB2TAT, read the May 8 meeting minutes, which were accepted unanimously.
New and Old Business
Bill, KB2SSP, passed around some radio related books he was willing to loan to members.
Jeff circulated detailed statistics and charts from data collected at the June Field Day.
Together, MBARC and QSY had a total of 784 contacts. Jeff showed breakdowns of contacts
by time and by operator.
A motion was made to declare 2025 Field Day a success. It passed unanimously. Also, there
was a strong consensus to use the same location for next year’s Field Day.
Cady Atlas was a guest in attendance. She came to the meeting because she wanted to learn
how, when, and where to take an amateur radio licensing exam. She was warmly greeted and
her questions were answered. Jeff called for a round of self-introductions and he asked each
member to also state her/his other radio activities and affiliations to show Cady how broad and
diverse our hobby is.
Jeff reminded all of the need for volunteers for the September 14 hamfest.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:20 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Steve Force KB2TAT

Poughkeepsie Galleria Community Room
May 8, 2025
14 members in attendance
President Rich, W2REV, called the meeting to order at 6:35 pm and led the Pledge of
Allegiance.
Officer Reports
President Rich, W2REV, said he enjoyed the latest issue of The Repeeper.
Vice President Tom, N2FZC, said he is looking for additional net control stations for the weekly
club on-air meetings.
Treasurer Jeff, KE2I, discussed the format he will use for financial reports. He reported that he
will be doing an audit of the Club’s finances to make sure everything is in place now that he
has assumed the office of Treasurer.
The Financial Report
Sheet1
Page 1
Mount Beacon Amateur Radio Club (MBARC)
Financial Report
March 1, 2025 through April 30, 2025
Balance Sheet Income/(Expense) Month SUB Balances
March 1 Starting Combined Account Balance $19,307.70
Donations (including 50-50) $101.50
Dues 62.50
Interest 18.44
Annual Quicken Subscription (77.76)
Hamfest Venue Expense (225.00)
Month SUBTOTAL (120.32)
March 31 Combined Account Balance 19,187.38
Interest $17.49
VE Fees Collected 325.00
ARRL VE Fee Paid (165.00)
VE Tablets Purchased (300.71)
Month SUBTOTAL (123.22)
April 30 Ending Combined Account Balance $19,064.16
Rolling 12 Month Income/Expense Attached
Submitted by
Jeffrey Baker
Treasurer
8 May 2025 in person meeting
Steve, KB2TAT, read the March 15, 2025, minutes. Adam, AE2AN, pointed out a mistake in the
minutes: QSY is selling equipment donated to QSY by the family of a recently deceased
member of QSY. With the correction, the minutes were unanimously approved.
Steve suggested we set up a procedure for lending radio-related books among the
Membership. A number of members pointed out that that was not necessary: books and other
items are already easily requested and shared via the reflector and the weekly on-air meetings.
Director and Trustee Reports
Marty, KA2R, had nothing to report
Adam, AE2AN, reported that QSY Society was unable to reserve the site they wanted for Field
Day and was looking for another site.
Adam asked that every Member attending MBARC’s September hamfest bring something for
the Veterans’ Food Bank.
Adam and Lynn, KV2J, reported on the recent license preparation seminars and the VE test
session. Seven attended the seminars and all earned a license. One went from no license to
Amateur Extra! The exam sessions resulted in 13 new Technicians and 4 Amateur Extras.
The new electronic testing proved great for both test takers and test examiners.
A motion was made and accepted, to hold aside $3 of the Club’s $7 portion of the ARRL $15
testing fee as a donation to the Exam Tools testing company since they don’t charge us to use
it, but other clubs using the testing platform also send a donation several times a year and it
makes testing very easy, accurate and fast! Also, a motion was made and accepted to
purchase 4 more tablets totaling $150, giving MBARC a total of 10 tablets to use for testing.
Marty, KA2R, said we owe Lynn a show of appreciation for all she did to make our transition to
electronic testing go so smoothly. A loud round of applause followed.
Lon, KB2UPZ, commented on how difficult the FCC’s on-line license renewal application is to
use. He said you must have a Microsoft browser to use it.
Jeff, asked if the Millbrook repeater was having problems. Lon reported that it was and that
John, N2OXV, was aware of the problem and working to correct it.
Wayne, KC2EPS, mentioned an article about amateur radio in a local publication which
included an interview with Anesta, KD2YFF.
Jeff mentioned the Armed Forces Day cross band event Saturday, May 10.
The meeting adjourned at 7:25 pm.
After the adjournment, Frank, W2GIO, did a presentation on batteries and battery charging and
discharging. He also demonstrated a small 2P3 AM radio assembled from a kit.
Respectfully submitted,
Steve Force KB2TAT

MBARC In-Person Meeting
Poughkeepsie Galleria Community Room
March 13, 2025
26 members and 1 guest, who became a member, in attendance
President Rich, W2REV, called the meeting to order at 6:34 pm and led the Pledge of
Allegiance.
Steve, KB2TAT, read the January 9, 2025 minutes. The minutes were unanimously approved.
Officer Reports
President Rich, W2REV, noted that a new trustee is needed for the 895 Millbrook repeater. A
motion was made to elect John, N2OXV, trustee of the 895 receiver, since he is also the trustee
of the 045 repeater and the two are linked. A phone call to John was made and he agreed to
serve as trustee for both repeaters. The motion was unanimously passed.
Rich asked Lynn, KV2J, to give an overview of the computerized EXAM TOOL VE testing. Lynn
said there are two version at present: one for practice testing and familiarization and a
production version for actual test taking. She explained how each worked and said digital VE
testing will move to tablets. Lynn said we have 3 immediate issues to address:

1. How many tablets will the Club need?
   It was noted that we sometimes have as many as 20 test takers. It will be possible for test
   takers to bring their own devices and monitors, both on-line and in-person, should be able to
   spot cheating rather easily.
2. How will tests be monitored?
   It was noted that monitoring could be done by on-line monitoring and by in-person monitors
   walking around in the test area.
3. How will the test fees be transferred to ARRL? ARRL will only be accepting electronic
   transfers and credit cards/debit cards. There was considerable discussion about this point and
   it was determined we could do this without a dedicated credit card or a separate account.
   President Rich asked Lynn how much money was needed to start moving to the use of EXAM
   TOOL. Lynn estimated $300. Rich moved that:
   Up to $300 of Club funds be made available to Lynn, KV2J, to begin the transition to
   use of EXAM TOOL.
   Adam, AE2AN, seconded the motion. A vote was take and 24 voted in favor, 1 opposed.
   Vice President Tom, N2FZC, said he was looking forward to the trip to ARRL headquarters
   March 20. He also said he’s looking for volunteers to be net control stations for Monday night
   MBARC on-air meetings.
   President Rich asked everyone to please stand. He stated that this would be Andrew’s,
   W2BOS, our long time treasurer, last meeting. He reflected upon Andrew’s many years of
   membership in the Club and upon his dedicated, responsible, and accurate service as Club
   Treasurer and Corresponding Secretary. He noted the tremendously positive impact his
   management of the Club’s finances has made and how it has enabled the Club to grow and
   prosper. The room exploded in applause.
   Rich presented Andrew a farewell card and a gift of a Visa gift card of $150. Another round of
   applause took place.
   Treasurer Andrew, W2BOS, provided his last Treasurer’s report as his term ends at the
   end of the month.
   The current bank balance as of the end of the preceding full month (28 February 2025)
   was $19,307.70. The meeting before (31 December 2024) was $19,203.60.
   Over the past rolling 12 months (1 March 2024 to 28 February 2025), income was
   $5,523.04, expenses were $1,589.39 for a net gain of $3,933.65.
   Two applications for new memberships were received:

• Bryan Plog N2BRY, a returning previous member
• Thomas Kulaga KE2FAP, a new member
  Both were voted in unanimously. Welcome back Bryan and thank you Thomas for
  joining.
  Andrew distributed flyers that Adam, AE2AN, Lynn, KV2J, and he had developed for
  both the Technician Review Class next month on Friday through Sunday 25-27 April
  2025 and the hamfest to be held on Sunday, 14 September 2025. A question was
  asked if the flyer was on our club website; Andrew replied that we had just finished it
  earlier in the day and he will provide it to Tom, N2FZC, for website posting.
  Subsequently, it was emailed to Tom on the next day, 14 March 2025.
  The annual club election of Officers and two Directors for the term 2025-2026 took
  place. The following slate, all running unopposed, were voted in unanimously. Their
  terms of office begin on 1 April 2025:
  Officers for a one year term:
• President: Rich Valentine W2REV
• Vice President: Tom Quackenbush N2FZC
• Treasurer: Jeff Baker KE2I
• Recording Secretary: Steve Force KB2TAT
• Director of Engineering: John Davison N2OXV
  Two new Directors for 2 year terms:
• Marty Lifgren KA2R
• Jeff Grey, K2JDG
  Thanks to those members above who volunteered to serve.
  Andrew addressed the Club and offered his thanks for the generous Club’s ovation and
  gift card donation for having served for many years in various roles as Director,
  Treasurer, Secretary. He appreciated the Club’s generosity and appreciation.
  Director and Trustee Reports
  Adam, AE2AN, gave details and answered many questions regarding the September
  14 hamfest. He stressed the importance of the participation of as many Club members
  a possible. We not only need enough volunteers to cover all the operations and
  activities, but also to relieve each other so that every volunteer has the opportunity to
  experience the hamfest: visit the vendors, enjoy the food, talk with fellow hams and
  visitors, etc. Set-up will begin at 6:00 am.
  Adam reported that an ARES/RACES meeting will be held March 29, 10 am-12 pm, at
  the Duchess County Emergency Management offices on Creek Road in Poughkeepsie.
  The primary topic is a review of the Dutchess County St. Patrick’s Day Parade on
  March 1, in Wappingers Falls. There will be other topics, as well. Adam invited and
  encouraged all to attend, regardless if he/she participated in the parade event.
  Vernon, KD2VQP, gave details on the trip to ARRL headquarters on March 20 (details
  available on the Club website). He said about 10 to 12 members said they were going.
  Adam reported that he had discussions with the QSY Society about joining them for
  this year’s Field Day in June. He said Wilcox Memorial Park in Stanfordville is a site
  under consideration by QSY. Adam also mentioned radio equipment for sale by the
  widow of a QSY member.
  Andrew brought up the fact that as Treasurer he had been using his own copy of
  Quicken software for keeping records of the Club’s finances, generating reports, etc.
  He recommended acquiring Quicken to facilitate a smooth transition of the Club’s
  financial files and record keeping for the incoming treasurer, Jeff, KE2I, and for future
  Club treasurers. This seemed like a good idea to those present and Jeff was in
  agreement with using Quicken. A motion was made to purchase a subscription to
  Quicken at approximately $70 per year. It was passed unanimously.
  The meeting adjourned at 7:46 pm.
  Respectfully submitted,
  Steve Force KB2TAT

MBARC In-Person Meeting
Poughkeepsie Galleria Community Room
January 9, 2025
21 members and 3 guests in attendance

President Rich, W2REV, called the meeting to order at 6:37 pm and led the Pledge of
Allegiance. Following the Pledge, he asked everyone to remain standing for a moment of
silence for the late Former President Jimmy Carter.
President Rich called for a round of self-introductions.
Steve, KB2TAT, read the November 14, 2024 minutes. The minutes were unanimously approved.

Officer Reports
President Rich, reporting for Adam, AE2AN, said Adam has been in contact with the Knights of
Columbus regarding the rental of their Hopewell hall for MBARC’s spring hamfest. He hopes to
have a date finalized soon.
President Rich mentioned news reports of someone who was charged with interfering with the
radio communications of the US Forest Service while it was coordinating firefighting efforts
during a forest fire in Idaho. That individual was fined approximately $34,000. An article
detailing the incident can be found in the ARRL Newsletter for June 9, 2022. Other members in
attendance also commented on this incident.
Vice President Tom, N2FZC, reported that he is looking for net control stations for the weekly
MBARC on-air meetings.
Treasurer Andrew, W2BOS, provided the Treasurer’s report:
The current bank balance as of the end of the preceding full month (December 31, 2024) was
$19,203.60. The meeting before (October 31, 2024) was $19,482.50. Expenditures since the
last meeting were for the Post Office box renewal, 045 tower rental fee, and club insurance.
Over the past 12 months (January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024), income was
$5,616.16, expenses were $1,526.49, for a net gain of $4,089.67.
Andrew confirmed the membership numbers he reported to the Membership after the
November meeting: 148 members, consisting of: 26 Family Members, 64 Full members, 2
Honorary members, and 56 Senior members.
The members present voted unanimously to purchase a half page ad in the Annual Dutchess
County St. Patrick’s Day Parade program for $50. (The ad was subsequently purchased).
Two new members were voted in unanimously:
K2CAT, Adam Iannazzone
K2DTW, David T. Warshaw
Lon, KB2UPZ, asked if we should continue to hold funds for the upcoming antenna
project. Andrew responded that they are not held in a separate account and there is no
need to do anything special with them before the project is completed.
Andrew reminded everyone that nominations for Club Officers, Directors, and Trustees
were due to him by January 31. There were two director positions open and Jeff,
K2JDG, offered to fill one and Marty, KA2R offered to fill the other. There were no
candidates for Treasurer.
Andrew also reported that MBARC will offer another Technician License Review
Seminar in the spring at the Dutchess County Office of Emergency Management on
Creek Road in Poughkeepsie. A VE testing session, open to all, will be held following
the seminar.

Trustee and Director Reports
Vernon, KD2VQP, reported that an amateur operator on the Hudson Valley Net recently
suggested that the Club charter a bus for a trip to ARRL headquarters in Newington,
Connecticut. A discussion followed and there was considerable interest in such a trip.
There was almost unanimous agreement that driving and carpooling would be more
practical and affordable than chartering a bus. Vernon offered to put together a trip to
ARRL headquarters.

New and Old Business
Lon, KB2UPZ, brought up a suggestion from a previous meeting that new Club
members be required or encouraged to volunteer for Club events. He suggested
participation in at least one event be required in the first year of membership.
Considerable discussion followed. Jeff, KE2I, a returning member, said he thought it
was a good idea, but thought it could turn off individuals who wish to join the Club as a
way of supporting the repeater, but are not necessarily interested in participating in club
events or meetings. This was viewed as a good point. Andrew, W2BOS, and Marty,
KA2R, said we do have different categories of membership and suggested this could be
addressed by designating one or more categories as “non-volunteering”. A number of
possible events and activities for fulfilling a volunteer requirement were mentioned. One
was acting as Net Control Station for an MBARC on-air meeting.
Bill, KB2SSP, told a story about a positive use of drones involving hams using a drone
and their HT’s to locate a lost dog and guide its owner to it.
Joe, W2BCC, asked how many of those present had read the most recent issue of QST.
Only a few raised their hands. Joe said he asked the question to point out changes at
ARRL and in its membership. He also mentioned that VE exams were going to be
paperless.
Steve, N2JXL, reported on an experience he had with working with Central Hudson to
solve a serious RFI problem. Steve said he would do a presentation on the problem
and solution at the next in-person meeting.
The meeting adjourned at 7:35 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Steve, KB2TAT

MBARC In-Person Meeting
Poughkeepsie Galleria Community Room
November 14, 2024
25 members and 1 guest in attendance
President Rich, W2REV, called the meeting to order at 6:31 pm and led the Pledge of
Allegiance.
President Rich shared remembrances of long time club member Rich Bodin, N2EYH, who
passed away November 6. He was well known, liked, and respected by many of today’s club
members for his helpfulness and his many contributions to radio in the Hudson Valley,
particularly with Skywarn, the Weather Underground, and his own weather website. President
Rich asked for a moment of silence to remember N2EYH and also to remember Veterans Day.
Steve, KB2TAT, read the September 12, 2024, minutes taken and written by Andrew, W2BOS.
The minutes were unanimously approved.
Officer Reports
President Rich, reporting for Adam, AE2AN, said there will be another Technician Class review
seminar and VE test session this spring. President Rich reported that Adam had been in touch
with two possible sites for a spring hamfest: the American Legion hall in Rhinebeck and the
Knights of Columbus hall in Hopewell. President Rich said the Knights of Columbus hall did
not have a room for VE testing but the Club could use the bar room for testing. Both sites had
adequate suitable parking. A discussion of the pros and cons of each site followed. A vote
was taken and the majority of voters chose the Hopewell site.
President Rich reminded the membership that for the hamfest to be successful members had
to turn out to help run it. A quick show of hands indicated that 12 of those present could
attend and several others felt they probably could once the date was established.
Vice President Tom, N2FZC, reported that he needs net control stations for the MBARC weekly
on-air meetings.
Treasurer Andrew, W2BOS, provided the Treasurer’s report:
The current bank balance as of the end of the preceding full month (31 October 2024) was
$19,482.50. The meeting before was $19,407.87.
Over the past 12 months, income was $5,610.49, expenses were $1,569.66 for a net gain of
$4,040.83.
Our club’s annual financial report (IRS Form 990-N) was submitted and accepted by the IRS on
23 September 2024.
Andrew recommended that the $10,000 from the recently matured CD, now temporarily held in
a savings account, be re-invested in a CD, which are now returning 4.25%. Frank, W2GIO,
suggested a stock-based fund could yield a higher return. Considerable discussion followed.
Lon, KB2UPZ, made the following motion:
“The Treasurer is permitted to invest this $10,000 in increments in any investment
vehicles paying at least a 4% annual percentage rate.”
The motion was seconded by Vernon, KD2VQP, and passed unanimously.
The club voted in four new members:
KE2I Jeffrey Baker
KE2EFN March S. Gallagher
KE2EFP Ernest William D’Ambrose IV
KE2EEY Patrick Becker
Andrew reported that he has booked the following 2nd Thursdays of every other month in 2025
for our club meetings:
Thursday, January 9th
Thursday, March 13th
Thursday, May 8th
Thursday, July 10th
Thursday, September 11th
Thursday, November 13th
Recording Secretary Steve, KB2TAT, was given the key to our club’s PO Box in Wappingers
Falls in lieu of Andrew’s physical absence from Poughkeepsie in the future. He will coordinate
the mail pickup with Andrew for the remainder of the current officer’s term.
Fred, WA2GZW, asked how many club members we had; Andrew did not have that figure
immediately in front of him, but relayed the following information to Fred via email the next day:
148 members, consisting of: 26 Family Members, 64 Full members, 2 Honorary members, and
56 Senior members.
Bill, KB2SSP, asked for the members to express their opinions about skipping a holiday party
this year and saving the money for a party next year. A discussion followed. President Rich
made a suggestion that most were in favor of: since it is already very late in the year to start
planning a holiday party, let’s build some sort of party or event around the spring hamfest.
Trustee and Director Reports
Frank, W2GIO, reported that the 220 repeater was working well and encouraged
everyone to use it.
Vernon, KD2VQP, did not have a formal report but saiid he was available to help the
Club and members any time and all should feel free to contact him.
Comments
Al, K2ATY, reported that the K2ATY DMR repeater, 441.01875, is working well and now
supports Starlink. He encouraged all to use it.
Frank, W2GIO, circulated an economical lithium iron phosphate battery and discussed
its construction and features. Rob, K2ROB, circulated an HT badly burned from a
lithium ion battery not intended for use in that device.
Bill, KB2SSP, commented on the Israeli Defense Force’s use of iCom HT’s as exploding
devices.
Frank showed a portable antenna he made using PVC pipe cap and telescoping rods.
Andrew reported that Adam suggested that the Club purchase a portable repeater.
There was some discussion but no action was taken.
Roxanne, KD2URJ, asked a question regarding antenna placement in her townhouse.
Frank responded.
The meeting adjourned at 7:35 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Steve, KB2TAT

MBARC In-Person Meeting
Poughkeepsie Galleria Community Room
September 12, 2024
President Rich, W2REV, called the meeting to order at 6:30 pm.
Twenty-nine members and guests were in attendance.
In lieu of Recording Secretary Steve KB2TAT’s absence, Treasurer Andrew
W2BOS recorded these minutes.
Director Adam AE2AN indicated the club still maintains an inventory of
Baofeng radios and that they were not being loaned to new students as we
originally thought as demand was not there. (We thanked Joe W2BCC on
behalf of the Orange County ARC for donating a radio to one of our
students in the earlier 2024 Technician License review class). Adam made
a motion to donate one of these radios to a worthy student (picked by the
instructors) during each subsequent MBARC Technician License review
session. The motion passed unanimously.
Adam also reminded the club of the upcoming Technician License Review
Seminar to be held at the Dutchess County Department of Emergency
Response’s operations center in Poughkeepsie over the weekend of
October 4-6, 2024.
Treasurer Andrew W2BOS gave his report:

1. Because of the pending technical presentation by Steve N2JXL, the
   reading of the July meeting minutes was withheld, and Andrew
   distributed a hard copy of those minutes asking for any corrections to
   be indicated. None were provided, and Andrew subsequently asked
   Vice President Tom N2FZC to post them on the club’s website as
   accepted.
2. He indicated that he and his wife have closed on a residence in
   Westchester County after being a Dutchess County resident for over
   40 years. He has been an officer for the club in various capacities for
   many years, and Treasurer (with a year’s break) since 2014. He will
   be leaving the Poughkeepsie area this fall or early winter after being
   a club member for over 30 years.
   a. He will remain Treasurer until his term ends in the Spring of
   2025, assisted by Club Recording Secretary Steve KB2TAT
   who will hand the PO Box once Andrew moves south.
   b. Andrew mentioned that anyone who wishes to learn the ropes
   of being either the Corresponding Secretary and/or Treasurer
   should get ahold of him as the club will need to replace him
   early next year. He mentioned that any candidates would need
   to be approved by the Board if done in mid-term and voted on
   in the next election.
   c. Lynn KV2J has taken on the role of the club’s VE team liaison
   to the ARRL, and the league’s VE office has been notified of
   this change.
3. New club members George KE2DXO and Matt KE2ANN were voted
   into the club unanimously.
4. Andrew distributed a letter of endorsement of Ed Wilson N2XDD from
   our ENY Section Manager John Fritze Jr. K2QY. Ed is running for the
   Hudson Division Director position. Andrew mentioned that he would
   distribute the same type of endorsement for any other candidate as
   well to the membership should he receive same.
5. Andrew distributed a letter to the New Hackensack Fire Department
   that he wrote on August 12th acknowledging and thanking them for a
   $500 donation to the club. We had aided in their recent event by
   cooking hot dogs for their participants.
6. Andrew provided the current Treasury report:
   a. The current bank balance as of the end of the preceding full
   month (as of August 31, 2024) was $19,407.67.
   b. Two months before was $17,792.88
   c. Last year, at August 31, 2023, the balance was $15,312.48.
   d. Over the past 12 months, income was $5,493.02, expenses
   were $1,397.63 for a net gain of $4,095.39.
   The business meeting closed, and Steve N2DXL gave a well-received
   slide presentation on “Grounding and Bonding: A practical Overview” of
   antennas and electrical systems in the amateur’s home. The club
   thanked both Fred WA2GZW and Joe W2BCC for providing and
   assisting in the video projector procurement and other visual aspects of
   the presentation.
   The meeting adjourned at 8:10 PM.
   Respectfully submitted,
   Andrew W2BOS

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

MBARC In-Person Meeting
Poughkeepsie Galleria Community Room
July 11, 2024
29 members and 3 guests (2 of whom were voted in as members) in attendance
President Rich, W2REV, called the meeting to order at 6:40 pm and led the Pledge of
Allegiance.
Steve, KB2TAT, read the minutes. The minutes were unanimously approved. He also reported
that he would order MBARC logo apparel again. An order form and instructions will go out on
the reflector.
Officer Reports
President Rich said that he was very pleased at the Club’s turnout and service at the New
Hackensack Fire Department event on June 8. He mentioned that there have been a number
of major events recently, including Field Day, the Dayton Hamfest, and the Thirteen Colonies
special event. He asked if any Members had participated and what were their experiences. A
number of Members shared their experiences.
Five new members were unanimously voted in:
◦ KE2DGY Douglas Ford
◦ N3NRT Nicholas R. Trio
◦ KE2DIA Jennifer Horan
◦ KE2BHG David Mosher
◦ N2JXL Steve A Uckerman
Vice President Tom, N2FZC, reported that he is looking for Net Control Stations for the Monday
night MBARC Weekly On Air Meeting.
Steve, KB2TAT, gave the Treasurer’s Report in Treasurer Andrew’s, W2BOS, absence.
He reported the following:

• The current bank balance as of the end of the preceding full month (as of 30
  June 2024) was $17,792. The month before was $16,371. Last year, at June
  30, the balance was$14,832.
• Over the past 12 months, income was $2,727.66, expenses were $1,197.74 for a
  net gain of $1,529.92.
  Extraordinary items:
• $772 check to Steve (KB2TAT) for the apparel order that we did in June
• Our $8,381 CD matured and is in the cash savings account at end of May
• We had $150 in donations this year from 7 different members
• We’ve collected a total of $2,187 dues in the 2024-2025 renewal cycle that
  started on 1 June. 71 people renewed during this period (the difference is those
  that did not need to renew as they had multiple years left in their membership.)
  Thank you Members!
• We have a total of 129 members as follows:
  •
  ◦ 23 family members
  ◦ 52 full members
  ◦ 2 honorary members
  ◦ 52 senior members
• Sometime during the week of 14 July, Andrew will be performing the annual
  roster cleaning exercise and all non-currently paid up members will have their
  reflector emails purged, but they also will get an automatic note that says this is
  happening. Often, we get their attention when this happens.
  John, N2OXV, reported that he recently went to the summit of Mt. Beacon to inspect our
  equipment and investigate a few things related to the upcoming antenna project. With
  that information he will present project details and recommendations to the
  Membership.
  Trustee and Director Reports
  There were no Trustee or Director reports.
  Comments
  Joe, W2BCC, asked about the Club holding a hamfest this year. There was discussion
  on what it would take to do it. Rich, asked Joe to chair a hamfest committee and asked
  those in attendance who would work at the hamfest. Twelve hands went up. Tom said
  he would look into renting the Slater Chemical FD firehouse again.
  Fred, WA2GZW, asked about having a club picnic this year. Most present were in favor
  of holding a picnic.
  Rich asked the Members about interest in a holiday party. Again, most present were in
  favor of holding a party.
  It was reported that MBARC will offer a Technician Class Review Seminar in October
  at the Dutchess County Office of Emergency Management on Creek Road in
  Poughkeepsie. A VE testing session, open to all, will be held following the seminar.
  Rich encouraged any new or potential members considering taking the exam to read
  the test manual thoroughly.
  Roxanne, KD2URJ, offered a 10-40 meter loop antenna at no charge for anyone
  interested in taking it.
  Steve, N2JXL, suggested helping those new to the hobby with the very basics of radio
  theory, operation, and basic math. He suggested these basics could be the topics for
  in-depth discussions at our meetings. Everyone thought this was an excellent idea.
  Rich said, as an example, he would like to learn more about lightning and electrical
  bonding and grounding. A very interesting discussion followed, led by Steve, who then
  offered to do a presentation on this subject at the next in-person meeting. He
  recommended “Grounding and Bonding For The Radio Amateur, 2nd edition (or later)”,
  by Ward Silver, as a great book on the subject.
  The meeting adjourned at 7:27 pm.
  Respectfully submitted,
  Steve, KB2TAT