Poughkeepsie Galleria Community Room
November 6, 2023
16 members in attendance
President Rich, W2REV, called the meeting to order at 6:40 pm and led the Pledge of
Allegiance. Following the Pledge, Rich asked the Members to remain standing. He spoke
warmly and admiringly of Ted Zulkowski, K2JMY, SK, and asked for a moment of silence in
remembrance of Ted.
Steve, KB2TAT, read the minutes. It was noted that Andrew’s call sign, W2BOS, was
mistakenly written as N2BOS. With that correction, the minutes were unanimously approved.
Officer Reports
President Rich alerted the Membership to a recent scam going on in the area. It involved theft
of checks, parts which were then removed with an ink eradicating substance, and then altered
to be cashed by the thief.
He thanked everyone for participating in the 50/50, the first time all participants paid the $5 for
six tickets option.
President Rich felt it would be highly appropriate for the Club to make a donation to an
appropriate organization in remembrance of Ted Zulkowski. Three possible organizations were
suggested: The American Radio Relay League, the Hudson Valley Honor Flight, and the
LaGrange Fire Department. After discussion, Adam, AE2AN, moved that:
“A donation of $50.00 in Ted’s honor be made by MBARC to the Hudson Valley Honor Flight.”
The motion was seconded by Ed Linde, WB2GXF. It was agreed that if that motion was not
passed a motion would be made to make two donations, one to the Honor Flight and one to
the ARRL. The original motion passed: 12 yes, 1 no, 1 abstention, and one not voting. (There
were 15 members present at the time of the vote.)
Vice President Tom, N2FZC, was joined by Ed, WB2GXF, in reporting on their investigation of
obtaining hats, T-shirts, and polo shirts with the MBARC logo for purchase by Members. They
gave a detailed report on their discussions with three different vendors. There was
considerable variety in colors, materials, etc. In their opinion, however, it seemed that Hudson
Valley Screen Printing offered the best overall value. Tom and Ed said they would try to have
samples at the next meeting. One point which all three vendors have in common is minimum
quantities per order, in most cases 25 of each item. President Rich asked Steve to poll the
membership via email regarding how much interest there was in this apparel. It would not be
worth pursuing this matter if we could not be sure we could meet the minimum quantities.
Tom said he is looking for net controllers for the MBARC Monday On Air meetings and for
notes and photos for the club website.
Treasurer Andrew, W2BOS, reported that he submitted the Club’s annual IRS Form 990-N for
the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023. He then gave the financial report.
The Financial Report:
Current balance (10/31/2023) $15,441.67
Previous balance (9/30/2023) $15,424.57
Previous balance (9/30/2022) $14,370.36
For the period 11/1/2022 to 10/31/2023
Income $ 2,509.89
Expenses $ 1,526.82
Net $ 983.07
Andrew said there are three known expenses coming up for this fiscal year:
repeater rental fee $ 10 (approximate)
post office box $182
St. Patrick’s Day Parade $ 50 (assuming approved by Membership)
Andrew reported on the Radio Test Review Seminars held on Friday evening, October, 27 and
all day Saturday, October 28, and the VE testing session Sunday, October 29. Four individuals
attended the seminars and fourteen attended the test session. As a result there were 10 new
Technician Class operators, a new General, and a new Amateur Extra. Many thanks to
instructors Adam, AE2AN, Lynn, KV2J, Frank, W2GIO, and Andrew, W2BOS, and to those who
helped provide the exam services: Adam, AE2AN, George, N2OXK, Joe, W2BCC, Lynn, KV2J,
Marty, KA2R, and Andrew, W2BOS.
There may be both Technician and General Class seminars and test sessions in the spring.
Andrew reported that the Orange County Amateur Radio Club gave MBARC a BaoFeng HT for
use by a young individual licensed at the recent VE test session. And also, he reported that
there may be a breakfast for the HV Net in the spring.
Steve, KB2TAT, asked Members to send him photographs of their QSL cards and biographical
sketch questionnaires for The Repeeper.
Comments
Tom, KD2UPB, brought items for Members donated by Diane Sutkowski, the widow of former
Club VP, Walt Sutkowski, K2DPL.
Tom mentioned a Zoom class on making amateur radio operating more accessible and easier
held by IEEE (The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) on November 14.
Tom also recounted a story of a young couple who perished while lost in a park where no cell
phone service was available and how they could have been rescued if they had assistance
from an amateur radio operator.
Joe, W2BCC, asked if there would be an MBARC hamfest this year. Adam, AE2AN, responded
there would only be a hamfest if at least 12 to 15 Members committed to serving at the event
in advance of booking a site.
Lynn, KV2J, commented on this year’s successful Pumpkin Patrol and it was universally
agreed that Scott, KC2OBW, did a great job organizing and supervising it.
Fred, WA2GZW, asked how many Club Members are also ARRL members. W2BOS will report
back.
Subsequent to the meeting, W2BOS investigated the question and out of the existing 129
members (all kinds), 93 reported being ARRL members. Our records also do not record 6
member’s status concerning their ARRL membership which W2BOS will verify as well.
The meeting adjourned at 7:49 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Steve Force KB2TAT
Poughkeepsie Galleria Community Room
September 14, 2023
15 members and 2 guests in attendance
The meeting was called to order at 6:31pm by President Rich, W2REV, who led the Pledge of Allegiance.
President Rich reminded us the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks was this week and it is important that we never forget those attacks. He then led us in a moment of silence.
Steve, KB2TAT, read the minutes of the July 13, 2023, meeting. The minutes were approved unanimously.
Officer Reports
President Rich reflected upon the various radio-related experiences he had on his recent cross country vacation trip. He noted how large and how active radio clubs are elsewhere in the country and shared his thoughts on the need for MBARC members to think about how to get more of the Membership active and involved in club activities.
Rich announced that Jeff, K2JDG, was stepping down as a director and asked if someone would like to volunteer to fill that directorship. Vernon, KD2VQP, volunteered to do so. Vernon received a round of applause and welcome by all present.
Rich started a round of self introduction by all present.
Vice President Tom encouraged members to view the Club’s website and invited everyone to submit photos. He also said that he is always looking for additional net controllers for the Saturday Breakfast Club Net and the weekly Monday night on-air club meetings.
Treasurer Andrew, W2BOS, reminded everyone of the Technician Class License sessions that will be held October 27 through 29, at the Dutchess County Office of Emergency Management. He stated that the sessions will now be designated Radio Test Review Seminars. He distributed flyers for the October seminar to all present and offered additional flyers to anyone wanting more.
The Financial Report:
Current balance (8/31/2023) $15,312.48
Previous balance (6/30/2023) $14,832.01
Previous balance (8/31/2022) $13,528.40
For the period 9/1/2022 to 8/31/2023
Income $ 4,069.05
Expenses $ 2,284.97
Net $ 1,784.08
The Hudson Valley Credit Union CD has earned $100.31 in interest since May 26, 2023, the equivalent of four annual membership dues.
Andrew reported that a number of members asked him about the possibility of moving the due date for membership dues to January 1 of each year. The feeling of those members, and others he spoke with, was that since the dues are annual, it would be easier to remember and plan for them if they were based on the calendar year. He asked those present for their thoughts on a change to January 1.
Some present liked the idea or felt a change would not impact them. Others, however, felt that with the end-of-year holidays, other bills and expenses, and tax issues, the change would just add another burden to an already busy and expensive time of year. Since there was no consensus, and there was the belief that this is really an issue for which the entire membership should have input, Andrew offered to send a questionnaire out to the entire Membership regarding the issue.
Director of Engineering John, N2OXV, reported that he had been to the MBARC site on Mt. Beacon on August 1. He changed the 146.970 repeater’s call sign to N2FZC and found all of the Club’s equipment to be working well. All present at this meeting agreed that it is working very well! John also mentioned that he had been asked to lower the courtesy tone on the WA2GZW repeater.
Comments
President Rich shared his disappointment at the cancellation of the September 17 hamfest. He said we really needed another fund raiser for this year. On his cross country trip he learned that a lot of groups have members who are experienced at grant writing and have successfully obtained federal community service grants for their organizations.
Rich said that he had been giving some thought to asking anyone selling an item on our Swap and Sell, or selling something at our hamfests, give 10 per cent of the sales to the Club. Fred, WA2GZW, cautioned that we probably could not do that because the IRS would consider that as doing business. However, we could request, or suggest, a donation be given to the Club by the seller. Further discussion will be given on the issue in the future.
Steve, KB2TAT, reported on his plan to restart MBARC’s newsletter, The Repeeper, as an email publication. He said the main objectives of the newsletter would be to bridge the two month news gap between in-person meetings, provide the entire membership opportunities to share interests and experiences, and to get to know more about each other and also about new members. He said that one feature he hoped to have in each issue is biographical sketches of one or more members. There was overall support of the idea and President Rich urged Steve to start the biographical sketches soon.
Lon, KB2UPZ, talked about the impact of recent storms he witnessed in rural, northern Pennsylvania and how amateur radio helped out tremendously. He noted that many cell phone towers designed to continue functioning in such storms were knocked out of action.
There was a lengthy discussion of getting the Club more active. It was suggested that we do some joint events and meetings with the QSY Society and explore the possibility of the two clubs merging. It was noted that such a merger would take advantage of each club’s strengths: MBARC’s business acumen
and operating infrastructure and skills, and QSY’s social planning experience and membership involvement and camaraderie. Andrew offered to explore linkages with QSY.
The meeting adjourned at 7:55 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Steve Force KB2TAT
Poughkeepsie Galleria Community Room
July 13, 2023
26 members and 1 guest (who was voted in as a member during the meeting) in attendance
The meeting was called to order at 6:41 pm by Vice President Tom, N2FZC.
Steve, KB2TAT, read the minutes of the May, 11, 2023, meeting. The minutes were approved unanimously.
Officer Reports
Vice President Tom reported on the QSY Society’s Field Day activities and the participation of MBARC members. MBARC helped sponsor and support the Field Day. He also reminded members of the September 17 MBARC Hamfest and the need for volunteers. The need for volunteers was also emphasized by Adam, AE2AN. Anyone wishing to volunteer was urged to send an email message to Tom, N2FZC, at: N2FZC@hotmail.com, or to Adam, AE2AN, at: ae2an@aol.com.
Treasurer Andrew, W2BOS, reported that Damon Grace, N2DAM, had applied for membership In MBARC. Damon was asked to leave the room, a vote was taken, and he was unanimously accepted for membership.
The Financial Report:
Current balance (6/30/2023) $14,832.01
The Club bought a CD in May with the Hudson Valley Credit Union for $8,000. We have already received in two months more interest on it than in the original account last year.
Dues received since June 1, the start of the renewal period,: $1,380.
One member included an $80 donation with his/her dues which we’ve thanked.
Renewals: 59 renewals received during the renewal period.
Club total of 125 individual members (includes 2 honorees).
20 members due for renewal have yet to renew.
For the period 7/1/2022 to 6/30/2023
Income $ 4,535.14
Expenses $ 2,315.03
Net $ 2,220.11
Comments
Adam reported that five Baofeng HT’s were purchased (for a total of $102.70) for use by new hams, as approved by the Membership at the May 11, in-person meeting. These radios are now being programmed and use policies will be developed soon.
It was noted that the Club once had attractive T-shirts for members. Ed Linde, WB2GXF, volunteered to investigate getting T-shirts again.
Andrew initiated a discussion of the Club’s current reflector policy, which requires that messages for the roster be moderated and approved by a club officer before release to the roster. It was noted that this policy was put in place, by a vote of the Membership, during a time when there was on-going interference with the repeaters and Club operations. Since put in place, there have been no attempts to send inappropriate messages to the roster and the policy only seems to put an unnecessary step and delay into routine communication within the roster. A discussion followed and Lon, KB2UPZ, reported President Rich’s thoughts on the matter. A motion to open up the reflector to all again was made by Adam and seconded by Ed Linde. The motion passed unanimously.
Adam announced that the next review (aka “class”) for the Technician Class License will be October 27 through 29, at the Dutchess County Office of Emergency Management. He said he was looking for suggestions for a more descriptive name for the sessions.
Adam asked the members in attendance for their thoughts on the possibility of offering review and test sessions for the General Class License in the future. Most thought it was a good idea.
Former Club Vice President Walt K2DPL’s widow Diane Sutkowski donated a number of tee-shirts to the Club for distribution to those that wish them, and many of these will be brought to the hamfest. Also donated was a mobile antenna. Thanks to Tom Donovan, KD2UPB, for bringing these to the Club meeting!
The Club deposited $50.50 from the 50/50 drawing.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:26 pm.
After the meeting, Frank, W2GIO, gave a very interesting demonstration and audio-visual presentation on network analyzers. He showed how they work and the different ways hams can use them.
Frank also showed how to make an inexpensive tri-band antenna from PVC pipe and fittings and other easily obtainable parts.
Respectfully submitted,
Steve Force, KB2TAT
Poughkeepsie Galleria Community Room
May 11, 2023
16 members and 2 guests In Attendance
(The two guests were voted in as members during the meeting)
The meeting was called to order at 6:32 pm by President Rich, W2REV, who led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Following the Pledge, Rich introduced two new hams who were welcomed by the Members: Carol, KE2BGW (now W2CKM), and Amanda, KD2BGE.
The March 9 minutes were read by Steve, KB2TAT. Steve thanked Marty, KA2R, and Andrew, W2BOS, for taking and posting the minutes in his absence. Adam, AE2AN, suggested a correction to the minutes: the Technician License classes and VE testing session took place at the Dutchess County Office of Emergency Management, not Emergency Preparedness. With that correction the minutes were approved unanimously.
Officer Reports
President Rich announced that the QSY Society expressed their gratitude for MBARC’s contribution to their field day.
President Rich said that he would soon be sending an e-mail to the Membership with two important questions he would like each of us to consider.
Vice President Tom, N2FZC, reported that the date and place of the Club’s hamfest had been finalized: September 17, at the Slater Chemical Fire Company, Glenham (Fishkill), NY. Sellers: 6:00 to 8:00 am, Attendees: 8:00 am to 1:00 pm, and FCC exams starting at 9:00 am. Andrew distributed a flyer with the details. Tom said volunteers are needed!
Tom reported there will be an indoor room for the VE session at the hamfest. Adam spoke to the need for more club members to get involved in the hamfest. He reflected on hamfests in previous years which attracted many more attendees and vendors and that it will take more participation and effort to get back to those types of hamfest.
There was discussion of parking and tailgating plans, as well as general parking. It was also noted there needs to be a more active sale of 50/50 tickets.
Treasurer Andrew, W2BOS, reported that dues notices will be coming out soon.
He also reported that 3 individuals applied for Club membership:
KE2BGK Bob David
KE2BGW (now W2CKM) Carol Morin
KD2BGE Amanda Maresca
Votes were taken to admit each one and each was admitted unanimously.
The Financial Report:
Current balance (4/30/2023) $13,680.79
For the period 5/1/2022 to 4/30/2023
Income $ 6,032.44
Expenses $ 3,415.85
Net $ 2,616.59
Andrew reported that he is also investigating depositing excess funds currently in a low-interest bearing credit union account into a CD if reasonable to capture higher interest rates.
He also reported that after consultation with President Rich it was decided to extend the date of the election of officers to allow for further nominations. Nominations will now be accepted through May 31. It is asked that anyone wishing to nominate someone get the approval of that potential nominee first.
A neutral club member will be appointed to count the votes.
Comments
Steve, N2JXL, reported on his thoughts concerning the Technician License class held in April and gave a thorough critique of the class sessions, test, study and instructional materials, formats, and the reactions and suggestions from both students and examiners. A lengthy and productive discussion followed.
It was noted that on the Sunday after the class, there was a VE Session for 24 class participants and other walk-ins that yielded 17 new Techs and 4 new Generals. The Club thanks the following VE’s for their time: Adam AE2AN, Raymond KE2Z, Lynn KV2J, George N2OXK, Joe W2BCC, Andrew W2BOS, Bob WA2JQK, and Mark WW2RDO.
Some excellent suggestions came out of the discussion. Fred, WA2GZW, suggested MBARC purchase some inexpensive HT’s to loan to new hams. Steve, N2JXL, suggested we put links to CHIRP files on our website.
Adam moved that the Club purchase five (up to a total of $150) Baofeng HT’s to loan to new hams. The motion was seconded by Steve, KB2TAT, and passed unanimously.
Adam and Andrew said they will look into holding quarterly test sessions.
The 50/50 prize was $30, won by KB2SSP.
The meeting adjourned at 7:51 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Steve Force, KB2TAT
Addendum to the January 18, 2023, meeting minutes:
Bill, KB2SSP, suggested MBARC develop a list of alternative meeting sites in the event our usual site is unavailable to us for any reason.
One way to identify such sites could be through letters of introduction regarding our club’s purpose, membership, not for profit status, emergency preparedness, community service, etc. Members of MBARC could give these letters to friends and associates who are members of such organizations as service clubs, fire departments, community organizations, etc.
March 9, 2023
MBARC In-Person Meeting
Poughkeepsie Galleria Community Room
In lieu of our Steve, KB2TAT, Recording Secretary’s vacation absence, Marty, KA2R took the minutes.
21 people were in Attendance.
The meeting was called to order at 6:33 pm by Vice President Tom, N2FZC in lieu of Rich, W2REV, who was on vacation.
Minutes from the previous meeting were read. Motion to accept with corrections were approved.
Club Treasurer Andrew, W2BOS gave his report:
– A letter of receipt from the ARRL of the club’s $50 donation to their General Fund in memory of our former President Wanda Traver, N2JBK, was read aloud.
– A new Poughkeepsie Galleria Community Room Contact has been assigned, and the club is now able to schedule our meetings for the entire 2023 calendar year. At 6:30 PM, every other second month on Thursdays. The remaining 2023 dates are: Thursday 5/11/2023, Thursday 7/13/2023, Thursday 9/14/2023, and Thursday 11/9/2023.
– New member Vernon Thorpe III, KD2VQP, who was in attendance, was voted in as a member and welcomed by all.
– Financially, our club’s balances total $13,843.92 in all accounts as of 2/28/2023. For the last 12 months (3/1/2022 to 2/28/2023), our income over expenses was $2,508.41.
Adam, AE2AN, provided some information on club activities:
– A recap of the Dutchess County St. Patrick’s Day parade that was held on March 4th. Club members and local hams that assisted were: KE2ADH James, AE2AN Adam, W2CRM Craig, K2ECO JoJo, N2FZC Tom, KV2J Lynn, KD2UFD Brian, AC2TM John, and KD2YFF Anesta.
– The club is running a no-charge Ham Technician class and VE exam at the Dutchess County Office of Emergency Management on Creek Road (the usual QTH) over the 3 day weekend of Friday evening-Sunday afternoon 4/21-4/23. Contact Adam, AE2AN (AE2AN@aol.com) for class registration and info, and Andrew, W2BOS (W2BOS@arrl.net) for VE exam session (Sunday 4/23 at 1PM). Need not take the class to sit for an exam (new or upgrade).
– Discussion of online VE testing occurred. Adam thought perhaps WECA did this; turns out that WECA does not to this.
– Field Day, weekend of June 24-25. Adam mentioned that the QSY Society is looking to rent the pavilion at Bowdoin Park again this year, but is financially strapped. A motion was made by AE2AN and carried unanimously that MBARC provide QSY Society $200 if they indeed rent the pavilion to assist in having Field Day. Our MBARC members, as usual, are welcome to attend.
– ARES/RACES Updates:
– 69 members on the email list. 60 +/- of them are active
– A new communications vehicle has been supplied to/by Dutchess County
– A Sunday morning voice net: 80 meters approximately 3.9935 mhz. 9 AM local. Looking to do a Sunday Digital net 930 AM local, frequency TBD.
Mention was made of the Orange County Hamfest on May 7th at a different venue.
Andrew, W2BOS, asked about the status of our club’s 2023 fall hamfest. We’re looking to get the same location at the Fire House in Glenham as we did last fall. A date of September 17th was proposed. Tom, N2FZC, will meet with the Fire Department folks and bring back status. It was noted that obtaining better signage for food, more volunteers to assist, and an indoor VE session room would be improvements.
Frank, W2GIO, gave a demonstration of a full wave loop antenna w/PVC. Cut for FM BC band 100 mhz frequency. The spokes were obtained from Harbor Freight and connected to a PVC hub. Pieces of old bicycle tires were used to secure wire to spokes. He is also giving a STEM presentation on building flashlights shortly.
Some guests showed off a WW2 radio receiver they brought in. Andrew, W2BOS, provided them with information on who to contact (WW2RDO, Mark) in QSY Society who is interested in this WW2 radio equipment.
Andrew, W2BOS, added an additional about Morse Code being on the Boston Red Sox scoreboard, and subsequent to the meeting provided a picture on the club’s Facebook page.
Tom, N2FZC, showed a video of Slow Scan TV (SSTV) on his laptop. MMSSTV
(https://hamsoft.ca/pages/mmsstv.php) on the PC, and Robot36 (https://charlesreid1.com/wiki/Robot36) on Android.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:55 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Marty, KA2R (minutes taker) and Andrew, W2BOS (minutes transcriber)
January 18, 2023
22 members and 1 guest In Attendance
The meeting was called to order at 5:35 pm by President Rich, W2REV, who led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Following the Pledge, Rich asked for a moment of silence in remembrance of Past MBARC president Wanda Traver, N2JBK, who passed away January 15, 2023.
Recording Secretary Steve, KB2TAT, read the minutes of the November 16, 2022 meeting. The minutes were accepted unanimously.
Officer Reports
President Rich reported that the letter regarding suspension was sent to the individual found to be causing interference on the Club’s repeaters. There seems to be little or no interference since. Rich read a copy of the letter aloud.
Mikey, KD2NMG, stated that there had been some minor interference with recent Breakfast Club nets and on a recent Monday night on-air meeting.
President Rich announced that the Wappingers Falls St. Patrick’s Day parade will be held Saturday, March 4. The Club has participated in the safety operations of the parade for several years. He asked for a show of hands from those who might participate this year.
Vice President Tom, N2FZC, reported that net control operators are needed for the Monday night on-air meeting net and the Saturday morning Breakfast Club net.
Treasurer Andrew, W2BOS, reported that 2 individuals applied for Club membership:
KD2UFD Bryan Hopper
KE2ADH James A. Smith
Votes were taken to admit each one and both were admitted unanimously.
The Financial Report:
Current balance (12/31/22) $14,299.79
For the period 1/1/22 to 12/31/22
Income $ 6,707.41
Expenses $ 3,052.87
Net $ 3,654.54
Andrew made a motion for the Club to take out a quarter page ad in the Wappingers Falls St. Patrick’s Day parade program (which the Club does every year) for $25. The motion passed unanimously.
Andrew, Rich, and others talked about the services to the Club and amateur radio that were given by Wanda Traver and her late husband Ray. The Travers were remembered with great appreciation and fondness by those present who knew them. It was clear that they were both wonderful people. Andrew made a motion for the Club to donate $50 to ARRL in memory of Wanda. The motion passed unanimously.
Andrew reported that the mechanism and policy for review of full roster postings to the reflector, as voted in at the November 16, 2022 meeting, were put into place and operating smoothly.
Andrew stated that the next Club meeting will be Thursday, March 9th, in the Poughkeepsie Galleria Community Room at 6:30 pm. The change from Wednesday, 5:30, meetings to Thursday, 6:30, meetings came about in response to a poll of the Membership.
President Rich led a vigorous round of applause of thanks to Director of Engineering John,N2OXV,
for the time and effort he put into the successful resolution of the repeater interference problem.
John reported that he will not be going to the top of Mt. Beacon to check on our equipment in the immediate future due to the difficulties inherent in the cold weather season.
Frank, W2GIO, reported that the 223.920 repeater was operating well and its use has increased.
Tom, N2FZC, reported that the 146.970 repeater was operating well.
Rob, K2ROB, reported that the 6-meter repeater was operating well.
Old Business
None
New Business
Mikey, KD2NMG, reported that he was planning an in-person Breakfast Club event.
Andrew, W2BOS, reported that he was considering holding a Spring test training session.
The 50/50 prize was $55, won by W2REV. Rich generously donated his winnings to the club.
Andrew won a second drawing: a portable antenna made and donated by Frank, W2GIO. Since Andrew had bought one from Frank at the hamfest, he donated it back to the Club for a re-do and it was one by Greg, W2GDG.
Presentations
Frank, W2GIO, demonstrated different antennas he made and gave an overview of recent and upcoming Repair Café activities.
Steve, N2JXL, and John, N2OXV, displayed an upgraded, multi-element version of the tape measure Yagi they demonstrated at the November meeting.
Tom, N2FZC, gave an introduction and overview of digital radio
The presentations were fascinating and enjoyed by all. Thank you Frank, Steve, John, and Tom.
Tom, thank you for providing us with a full slate of informative, entertaining presentations!
The meeting was closed unanimously at 6:40 pm.
Respectfully submitted by KB2TAT.
MBARC In-Person Meeting
Poughkeepsie Galleria Community Room
November 16, 2022
15 Members and 1 guest In Attendance
The meeting was called to order at 5:30 pm by President Rich, W2REV, who led the Pledge of Allegiance.
President Rich began the meeting with a review and update of the repeater deliberate interference issue. He stated that since the last club meeting the problem had not gone away, but had in fact gotten worse. As a result, a meeting of the Executive Board was convened on November 12. The Executive Board unanimously decided to bring a recommendation to the Membership at the November 16, 2022 meeting. The recommendation was that the individual found to be causing the deliberate interference be separated from the club.
Rich said that if the recommendation were accepted it would be up to the Membership to decide if the separation is permanent or a conditional suspension with a review after a specified period of time. The Executive Board recommended a suspension of a year with a review of the individual’s membership being restored if there was no further verified interference. Any further verified interference would result in a formal complaint to the ARRL and FCC.
Considerable discussion followed. A number of members spoke in favor of letting the FCC handle the issue immediately. It was noted, however, that the repeaters belong to MBARC and the repeater trustees have the right to determine who can and cannot use them. Rich reminded us that there was strong support for going to the FCC at the September meeting, but it was decided to see if word of the club’s intention to pursue it with the FCC would deter further interference. Rich noted that the Executive Board believed that expulsion from the club, going to the FCC, and possible loss of license might do serious harm to the individual’s career and ability to earn a livelihood in his field of employment; therefore, the recommendation of a suspension.
Questions about proof were raised. Director of Engineering John, N2OXV, listed the evidence, including: close- proximity monitoring of transmissions, recordings, logs, contradictory statements by the individual, and observations by club members.
At the conclusion of the discussion, a motion was made by Vice President Tom, N2FZC:
“To suspend the individual from the MBARC membership for a period of 13 months. This includes all rights and privileges the club has to offer. Any further access or interference of our various repeaters operations will result in the forwarding of data collected as a formal complaint submission to the ARRL and FCC for the appropriate action against his FCC license.”
The motion was seconded by Treasurer Andrew, W2BOS, and passed unanimously.
Lon, KB2UPZ, suggested that the club’s reflector use policies be reviewed. His concern, shared by others, was that individuals could post inflammatory and inappropriate messages that would be immediately sent to the entire roster. He suggested there be a screening of messages prior to their distribution to the entire reflector roster. A brief discussion of the need for such screening, as well as the mechanism for doing so, followed. At the conclusion of the discussion, Lon made a motion:
“All messages for full distribution to the club via the reflector must be approved by at least one member of the Executive Board.”
The motion was seconded by Jim, WE2FAT, and passed with 14 “yes” and 1 abstention.
Andrew, W2BOS, said he would put the necessary mechanisms in place.
Officer Reports
President Rich said he had one thing to add to his earlier comments regarding the deliberate interference with the rosters. If any other individuals are proven to be involved in the interference the matter will be taken to the FCC and swift action will be taken within the club.
Vice President Tom reported than net control operators are needed for the Monday night on-air meeting net and the Saturday morning Breakfast Club net. He also reported that he is preparing a schedule of presentations for 2023 in-person meetings.
Treasurer Andrew, W2BOS, gave financial and membership reports.
The Financial Report:
Current balance (10/31/22) $14,458.60
For the period 11/1/21 to 10/31/22
Income $ 6,821.49
Expenses $ 2,941.62
Net $ 3,879.87
Andrew reported that the September hamfest netted $731. Previous hamfests netted:
June 4, 2017 $1,295
Oct. 1, 2017 $ 468
June 3, 2018 $1,023
May 5, 2019 $ 286
Andrew stated that he had a recent conversation with the manager of the Poughkeepsie Galleria and it is not certain if the Community Room will be open after 5:30 pm in 2023. Andrew circulated a sheet asking members to write down there preferences for either Wednesday 5:30 pm or Thursday 7:30 pm meetings.
Andrew reported that the next in-person meeting will be at the Galleria, Wednesday, January 18, 2023, at 5:30 pm.
Director of Engineering John reported that he will be going to the top of Mt. Beacon to check on our equipment soon.
Recording Secretary Steve, KB2TAT, read the minutes of the September 14, 2022 meeting. The minutes were accepted unanimously.
Old Business
None
The 50/50 prize was $46, won by W2REV. Rich generously donated his winnings to the club.
Presentations
Frank, W2GIO, demonstrated the 2P3 radio and showed how to test and repair LED lights.
Steve, N2JXL, and John, N2OXV, discussed how to make a portable tape measure Yagi, which is especially useful for fox hunting and satellite communications. Their antenna was made of a piece of metal tape measure, PVC pipe, and bracket parts made by a 3D printer.
The presentations were fascinating and enjoyed by all. Thank you Frank. Steve, and John.
The meeting was closed unanimously at 6:55 pm.
Respectfully submitted by KB2TAT.
Poughkeepsie Galleria Community Room
September 14, 2022
16 Members and 2 guests In Attendance
The meeting was called to order at 5:35 pm by President Rich, W2REV, who led the Pledge of Allegiance.
President Rich welcomed all, then welcomed W2NTV, representing ARRL, and James Smith, who will be taking the Technician Class exam at our September 18 hamfest.
President Rich proceeded directly to the issue of intentional repeater interference and asked John, N2OXV, our Director of Engineering , to report on his investigations. John reported that he has been tracking and recording the interference for over a month. He also noted that the interference was not limited to the .970 repeater, but also had been happening on the .895 repeater as well. John reported that he was confident that he had an identification of at least one source and was ready to turn his information over to FCC Enforcement.
There was considerable discussion of the problem and all felt that it was a serious issue that should be pursued via the FCC and the ARRL. Treasurer Andrew, W2BOS, suggested that in addition to pursuing the issue through the FCC and the ARRL we could also “publicize” the Club’s awareness of the problem via meeting minutes and discussions on our on-air meetings, as a way of deterring further interference. Mikey, KD2NMG, urged dealing with the matter quickly and strongly for the sake of future hams. Lon, KB2UPZ, warned of the consequences of such interference if there were another crisis such as the 9/11 attacks. It was also mentioned that the specific interference on the Monday, 12 September Hudson Valley Net could possibly be considered a Federal hate crime based on the content of the spoken interference, and not simply malicious interference.
A vote was taken and all present voted to support John’s plan to go ahead and report the problem to the FCC and the ARRL.
Officer Reports
Vice President Tom, N2FZC, reported that he was regularly maintaining the Club website and reminded everyone of the upcoming hamfest.
Treasurer Andrew, W2BOS, gave financial and membership reports.
The Financial Report:
Current balance (8/31/22) $13,468.13
For the period 7/1/21 to 8/31/22
Income $ 5,480.37
Expenses $ 2,539.23
Net $ 2,941.14
Andrew reported that he had recently filed the Club’s annual 990N tax form.
A new member, Christopher Mills, KD2NVQ, was unanimously voted-in.
Andrew reminded us that the next in person meeting would be November 16, 5:30 pm, in the Poughkeepsie Galleria Community Room. It is noted that the Galleria is open to 9 PM on Thursday and the Club should consider moving our meeting time to 7-9 PM on Thursday for 2023. A membership canvass will be made by end of year.
The dates for the upcoming Technician Class exam class are October 1 and 2 at the Dutchess County Office of Emergency Management, 392 Creek Road, Poughkeepsie. Those preparing for the exam should use the new 5th Edition license manual and ensure it contains the new Technician Class license pool questions in effect from July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2026. Typically, this is listed on the cover.
Steve, KB2TAT, read the July 14, 2022 meeting minutes. Two mistakes were noted. 1) in the financial report the “for the period” dates should be “7/1/21”, not “7/1/22”. 2) the location of the Technician license class is the Dutchess County Office of Emergency Management , not Emergency Preparation.
Tom, N2FZC, was unanimously elected Repeater Trustee for the .970 repeater. John, N2OXV, said that he will change the call sign on the repeater as soon as he can travel up Mt. Beacon. He said it depended on when he gets his new eyeglasses. Mikey, KD2NMG, immediately and graciously offered John his eyeglasses!
Adam, AE2AN, reported on the preparations for the hamfest. Among the many details he covered were:
-the parking lots for tailgaters, general admission, and test-takers
-admission charge: $5 (test only: free)
-test location and arrangements
-door prizes
-50/50
-wristbands
-location of the Club table
-location of refreshments
-rest rooms
Nice work, and thanks, Adam!
Adam said that volunteers were still needed! Anesta, KD2YFF, immediately volunteered.
Tom, N2FZC, had covered the fire station rental fee of $100. All present agreed he should reimbursed, despite his protests.
The 50/50 prize was $68. The winner, Gary, W2GDG, generously donated his winnings to the Club.
The meeting adjourned at 6:40 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Steve Force KB2TAT
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
MBARC In-Person Meeting
Poughkeepsie Galleria Community Room
July 13, 2022
16 Members In Attendance
The meeting was called to order at 5:45 pm by President Rich, W2REV, who led the Pledge of Allegiance.
President Rich welcomed all.
The minutes of the May 18, 2022 in-person meeting were read by Steve, KB2TAT. President Rich asked if there were questions or comments regarding the minutes. There were none.
Officer Reports
Vice President Tom, N2FZC, reported on the June 11 Hudson River Radio Relay held at College Hill Park. The event was very successful – there was good equipment on hand and the set-up and performance were excellent. The mayor of Poughkeepsie stopped by the event. One hundred two contacts were logged, including one in Russia. Adam, AE2AN, provided further details.
President Rich suggested using the College Hill Park location as the site for a future hands-on clinic on HF operations. There was universal support of this suggestion.
Treasurer Andrew, W2BOS, distributed flyers for the club’s September 18 hamfest.
He reminded us that the next in-person meeting will be Wednesday, September 14, at 5:30 pm in the Poughkeepsie Galleria Community Room.
Andrew circulated a list of paid members as of July, 13, 2022, and reported no new membership applications had been received. He sent out a ‘last call for renewals’ email message on July 13 and would soon begin removing unpaid memberships from the membership list and reflector over the coming weeks.
Lon, KB2UPZ, asked how many members does MBARC have? The current number (as of July 15) is 116, including honorees and individual family members.
The Financial Report:
Current balance (6/30/22) $12,611.90
For the period 7/1/22 to 6/30/22
Income $ 5,492.65
Expenses $ 2,513.35
Net $ 2,979.30
Andrew reported there will be a Technician Class license class October 1&2 at the Dutchess County Office of Emergency Preparation, 392 Creek Road, Poughkeepsie. Those preparing for the exam should use the new 5th Edition license manual and ensure it contains the new Technician Class license pool questions in effect from July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2026. Typically, this is listed on the cover.
He reported that the exam system, especially regarding payment of fees, is very cumbersome at present. The club administering the exam collects the fee for the exam, but the test-taker passing the exam has to pay the FCC license fee within 10 days, otherwise the test results will become invalid.
Director and Trustee Reports
Rob, K2ROB, reported that the 53.310 repeater was up and running well.
Adam, AE2AN, reported on the club’s upcoming hamfest. The hamfest will be Sunday, September 18, 2022, at the Slater Chemical Fire Company, 76 Old Glenham Road, Glenham (Fishkill), NY.
Doors will open for volunteers and vendors at 6:00 am, and open to attendees 8:00 am to 1:00 pm. VE test registration is 9:00 am to 10:00 am.
Adam said volunteers are still needed! He mentioned the plans for food and cooking and said that the vendor Quicksilver might exhibit.
Adam also reported that if an ARRL applicant identifies an affiliated club when applying for or renewing an ARRL membership, two dollars of the membership fee will go to that club.
Comments and Questions
Roxanne, KD2URJ, asked if, as a result of discussions at the May meeting, any classes had been scheduled for club members and other interested people.
In response to Roxanne’s question, President Rich introduced Vice President Tom and his presentation. Tom gave an excellent live and AV presentation on the Winlink Global Radio Email Network. The presentation was enjoyed by all. Nice job Tom!
The 50/50 prize was $35.
The meeting adjourned at 6:55 pm.
Respectfully submitted, Steve Force KB2TAT.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
MBARC In-Person Meeting
Poughkeepsie Galleria Community Room
May 18, 2022
18 Members and 2 guests in Attendance
The meeting was called to order at 5:40pm by President Rich, W2REV, who led the Pledge of Allegiance.
President Rich congratulated Anesta, KD2YFF , on her new license.
Officer Reports
President Rich, W2REV, announced that the FCC licensing process now seems to be moving along fairly well.
Since it was a long time since our last in-person meeting he asked if anyone had questions or comments. Two questions were:
-What is the date of our hamfest? Sunday, September 18
-Are we having a Field Day this year? We are not, but we hope we can get back to having a Field Day soon when the pandemic subsides. QSY may be having one at Fahnestock StatePark. In the past, MBARC has done Field Day with QSY and there were usually big turnouts.
Rich announced 2 new Directors: Kenny, K2KRP, and Jeff, K2JDG. They will be serving two year terms.
Election of officers was held and all current officers were re-elected unanimously: Rich, K2REV, President; Tom, N2FZC, Vice President; Andrew, W2BOS, Treasurer and Corresponding Secretary; Steve, KB2 TAT, Recording Secretary.
Vice President Tom, N2FZC, reported our Hamfest wiil be Sunday, September 18, at the Glenham Fire House on Old Glenham Road in Fishkill. A flyer with details was e-mailed to the membership on April 11. He mentioned that ARRL is limiting transmissions to a maximum of 100 watts on Field Day.
Treasurer Andrew, W2BOS, reported on this year’s Hudson River Radio Relay. An important feature of this year’s HRRR will be traffic handling: visitors will be encouraged to create messages which club members will pass along via the Hudson Valley Net. Our HRRR site will be College Hill Park in Poughkeepsie. Set up will begin at 9 am and the event will run from 1 to 5 pm. There will be no generators this year.
Treasurer Andrew, W2BOS, gave the financial report:
Current balance $11,208.82
For the period 5/19/2021 through 5/18/2022:
Income $4,498.92
Expenses $1,022.70
Net $3,476.22
Dues notifications will be sent in June.
Andrew noted there may soon be new Galleria hours in effect and asked for a show of hands for any objections to holding the in-person meetings on Thursdays at 7:00 pm. There were no objections.
Two new members were unanimously voted in: Louis, KD2TVS, and Jennifer, WD2FLR (rejoining).
In response to a question regarding the difference of foci between the QSY Society and MBARC, Andrew said that QSY tends to focus on HF and MBARC tends to focus on higher frequencies and repeaters.
President Rich went around the room asking if anyone had suggestions or questions. Some were:
-A suggestion to develop a list of members’ areas of expertise which others could turn to for assistance
-Suggestions for equipment for new hams: an number of excellent suggestions came up
-More in-person meetings and get-togethers
-How does Echolink work?
-What is APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System)? Mikey, KD2NMG, gave an overview
The meeting adjourned at 6:55 pm.
Respectfully submitted, Steve Force, KB2TAT
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
MBARC In-Person Meeting
Poughkeepsie Galleria Community Room
November 10, 2021
20 Members and Visitors, 1 Guest Speaker in Attendance
The meeting was called to order at 7:30pm by President Rich, W2REV, who led the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silent remembrance.
Guest Speaker
ARRL Hudson Division Eastern New York Section Manager John Fritze, K2QY, was the guest speaker. Among the many topics and updates discussed by John were:
- The impact of the Covid 19 pandemic on ARRL operations
- Personnel changes at ARRL
- The appointment of Adam Novik, AE2AN, as Affiliate Club Coordinator
- Status of ARES
- Status of the new $35 license fee for new licenses, renewals, and vanity call signs; implementation now awaits Congressional approval
- Possible acquisition of three additional satellites
- Dayton Hamvention set for May 20-22, 2022
- Exam preparation courses being offered at some SUNY schools
Officer Reports
President Rich gave Adam’s, AE2AN, report on interference with the 146.970 repeater. Every effort is being made to locate the source of the interference and stop it. Rich asked for everyone’s help in keeping track of the interference and notifying Adam about the time, strength, and possible direction of the interference. Director of Engineering John, N2OXV, added that now that the new amplifier has been installed the repeater’s signal is strong and more people are receiving it, which also makes it attractive to trouble-makers.
Vice President Tom, N2FZC, reported that a site the club previously used for hamfests will not be available in 2022.
Treasurer Andrew, W2BOS, gave the financial report:
Current balance $10,696.25
For the period 11/11/2020 through 11/10/2021:
Income $17,674.64
Expenses $27,364.34
Net (due to tower project) – $9689.70
A number of members commented on the steadily growing health and strength of the club’s finances and everyone’s appreciation of Andrew’s stewardship of the finances.
Andrew presented the applications for two new club memberships:
Jason Congedo, AD2BX, and Frank Congedo, N2MTK, for a family membership
Richard Huff, KD2YBJ, individual membership
Lon, AC2TM, moved that both applications be accepted, seconded by Mark, W2COD. A brief discussion and a vote followed. Both applications were unanimously approved.
Andrew reported on the success of the October, 23, license exam session and thanked the club members involved.
Steve, KB2TAT, did not have minutes of the September meeting because he did not attend the meeting. He asked if anyone still had reports or notes from the September meeting to please email them to him if possible so that he could make an official record of the meeting.
Directors and Trustees Reports
The directors and trustees present reported during previous discussions in the meeting, particularly during the discussion of repeater interference.
Frank, W2GIO, reported that the 223.920 repeater was operating well and encouraged members to use it.
Lon reported that he has contacted several potential hamfest sites but has not found a suitable one available.
Questions and Comments
President Rich said it did not seem likely there would be a holiday party this year due to the disruption of schedules and activities caused by the pandemic.
Frank reported on a recent Repair Café session held in Fishkill.
The 50/50 drawing brought in $38.50 for the club. Frank contributed an antenna as a second prize.
The meeting adjourned at 8:20 pm.
Respectfully submitted by Steve, KB2TAT.
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