Cody Gehlert(KE0FOT) February 10, 2022
Sullivan Amateur Radio Club
Minutes
A survey seeking various HAM interests was passed to those that missed last month’s meeting.
The February 2022 club meeting began at 6:15 PM at Sullivan Fire House #5.
The Pledge of Allegiance, Prayer, and Moment of Silence for Silent Keys were observed.
Minutes from the January meeting were read and approved.
Treasurer’s Report: Current bank balance is $466.65.Mark Ervine listed a number of expensesthat had been paid. One was the post office box rental of $186.00. After discussion due to the increase in price it is suggested that we review this charge next fall and consider other options.
Old Business
Bill Higgins collected the HAM surveys and will work on compiling information to report next month.
Winterfest: Those attending the Collinsville event January 22nd agreed that it was fun and fabulous. Purchases, sales and food were enjoyed. Paul Barber made a motion to reimburse Chris Williams for the two tables he rented at the event for club sales. Brandon Brown seconded the motion – passed.
Winter Field Day: With 3 radios in service, January 29th & 30th Field day was a success. Total points were 2,228. Mike Benton was declared JS8Call king. John McReynolds along with others made the highlight of the day by creating a CW key from an old metal ashtray, alligator clips and cardboard.
Paul Barber was able to make contacts with this creation. All enjoyed lots of fun and fellowship.
Repeater Committee Report: Chris Westrick advised the committee had met and set up a test bench for the controller and it is ready to go. They have plans to meet once each week for the next few weeks and will continue to test and improve the tone board and controller before they make the installation and updates.
SATURN: A possible demonstration and discussion may be arranged for the future.
Trivia Night: Dave Johnson reported he has a late March date in the works. Everyone is encouraged to get a team together to participate. More teams – more income, more fun. He suggested that a cash bar may be provided by the Eagles. It was also suggested that we invite other clubs to join us for the evening.
New Business
Bill Higgins suggested that we hold another gun raffle. Chris Westrick will check to see what’s available for this.
AREDN: Reliable, long range mesh network equipment for data and transmission to be used in coordination with other links is something we should consider. It would require multiple specialty routers. Jim Rhoades can do a presentation so that we can further learn and determine if we will participate.
WinLink: Bill Higgins encouraged member use of this program. There is a new gateway now up in Owensville. If interested, check with Bill for assistance. More gateways are needed for better communication.
APRS: Automatic Packet Reporting System is an upcoming interest among HAMS. We will discuss more in the future.
Knucklehead Dinner: The next dinner is going to be on February 15th at Moe’s in Washington, MO at 6:30 PM.
COMEX: Jim Rhoades announced that a county wide exercise is scheduled for March 12th. It supports county emergency management agencies by manning radios until authorities arrive. A disaster scenario will be run to accustom relaying of information in similar situations. Voice and digital modes will be employed. Participation can be done from home is desired. Should be less of an hour of your time required.
HARN: The monthly meet is scheduled for tomorrow. Dave Johnson and Bill Higgins are planning on attending. Dave will make an effort to speak with the management at the hospital regarding their equipment and antennae.
Summer Field Day: Several sites have been mentioned for this event. Onondaga, Owensville Memorial Park, Tea Lakes, Steelville, Walmart in Sullivan were all suggested. A decision needs to be made soon for reservation purposes. Our goal is to be certain by the next meeting.
At 7:34, Paul Barber made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Mark Ervine. Passed.
Thanks to our wonderful secretary Barb Durbin for taking the notes and sending them to me.
