McHenry County Wireless Association
May 2009 meeting minutes
The regular meeting of the MCWA was called to order Tuesday May 5,
2009 at 07:30 pm local at the Nunda Township hall located between
McHenry and Crystal Lake on Bay Rd by club vice president Ken, KB9I.
Ken opened the meeting by asking the attendees for self-introductions.
Ken, KB9I announced the evening’s program would be presented by John,
K9DX local ham who has the worlds largest 160 meter antenna array.
An email was received from Jim, N7US MCWA club president resigning
from his post as club president. Jim stated in his email that he
would not be able to attend regular meetings because of his new duties
at work. However, the club in general made a decision not to accept
his resignation but to continue with Jim as club president. One of
the two club vice-presidents would fill in for Jim at those meetings
that he could not attend.
A motion made by Marty, W9MLP and seconded by Ed, KB9GIN, affirmed the
decision. Motion carried.
Secretary’s Report – The April club minutes were emailed to members.
Marty, W9MLP made a motion to accept the minutes from the previous
meeting and Jack, W9MU seconded the motion.
Treasures report – Mary, W9MLP club treasure presented the club
financials for the previous month.
Ham history – none, we have not had any Ham History presentations for
several months and need to reestablish. Jack, W9MU did an overview as
to what it is and what is involved. We encourage all members to
participate.
Ken, KB9I is making a list and asking for volunteers to help with
communications for the Woodstock Challenge coming up June 20th
(Saturday) at 8:00am. The hams usually get together beforehand for
breakfast. The volunteers will receive tee shirts for their effort.
A sign up list is being passed around.
Wendell, N9REP is asking for volunteers again this year for the Udder
Century Invitational 2009. It is a bike run being sponsored by the
McHenry County Bicycle Club on June 7th and starting at 6:30am from
Donley’s Wild West Town in Union, IL (S. of Woodstock) The rides
extend up into Wisconsin and it lasts until late afternoon. They have
over 1000 bikers (bicycles) participating. Wendell asks those who can
help with the communications contact him at n9rep@arrl.net. Whatever
time range you can volunteer for would be appreciated. They also get
together for breakfast beforehand.
KB9I Repeater – Ken, KB9I said they are still waiting for Com Ed to
replace the lightning suppressors and insulators. The 30kV
transmission lines were installed during May of last year and cause a
25 db de-scene to the repeater receiver and consequently reduces its
coverage area. Ken was unsure if ComEd has no money, time, or which
department is supposed to replace them. He estimates 29 or 30 may have
to be changed out. They are, made by Jauslon (sp?), We are still to
hear back on the test of arresters. May contact the FCC, Suggested to
see if the City of McHenry may be experiencing the same problem.
Newsletter – Jerry, N9AVY asks for any items for the newsletter. He
needs at least a week ahead before publishing.
How’s DX – Dave, KA9OZP they have had a few sunspots and all bands had
been open. 40 meters is good.
Future Programs
June program will be informal and on “what members want to talk about
– round table”
It was discussed that Field Day is coming up. Those interested may
wish to visit the McHenry County ARES/RACES location at the McHenry
County Government Center located on Rt 14 and the north side of
Woodstock.
VEC – None to report
Several attended the ham fest in Sandwich last week,
Kent, K9KMD developed “The Cookie Sheet” – a sign-up for those
willing to bring the monthly snacks (cookies).
Good selection at the nights raffle. Ant book, lineman’s pouch, other.
Jack, W9MU is cleaning out his garage and has a couple of antennas
available for someone who wants them for a “good” price.
Evening Program:
Jack, W9MU introduced the evening’s program presenter John, K9DX who
is a major force in low band DX and contesting, he is a former
engineer, and retired executive who is known throughout out the world
in ham radio.
John received his ham license in 1951 and retired from Motorola 10 –11
years ago. John said he always was a goal seeker and when he retired
wanted to do something big on one of the ham bands. His goal was to
be the loudest thing anyone has ever heard. Because of his love for
160 meters he set out to build the biggest ‘honker’ on his 80 acres of
land near hear. John went into detail telling the attendees about his
antenna systems. During 160 contests he usually has the most contacts
in the world although the east coast hams score the higher number of
points because their proximity to Europe. An excellent presentation.
The meeting was adjourned at 09:30.
15 members and 7 visitors in attendance.
Respectfully submitted, Kent, K9KMD Club Secretary
Respectfully submitted,
Kent, K9KMD, MCWA Club Secretary