Subject: McHenry County Wireless Association

Regular Meeting minutes  - July 2008

The regular meeting of the MCWA was called to order Tuesday July 1, 2008 at 19:30 hrs local at the Nunda Township Hall north of Crystal Lake by Dave, KA9OZP club vice-president.

Introductions – Around-the-room self introductions included a brief statement from each attendee describing any activities they did regarding ham radio during the last month.  All enjoyed listening to the others.

Past Month Meeting Minutes –, minutes were read by club secretary Kent, K9KMD from the June MCWA meeting.  Marty, W9MLP made a motion to accept the minutes.  Motion was seconded by Don, K9ZJK.  Motion passed.

Treasures Report –   Dennis, N9TZL provided the balance in the club treasury.

Special Project – Kent, K9KMD indicated that there were still 3 WorldRadio subscription certificates for sale for $12.00 each.  This is a great savings over the published price of $21.00 per year.

Repeater Report  – Ken, KB9I – Range is down and is unsure if it relates to tree/leaf growth.  Steve, K9DCI  had measured and determined that it was 15 dB down in signal from the Micro repeater and a  year ago.

Volunteer Examiner (VE) testing – testing is ongoing.

General Reports/discussions:

Bill, KA9TVU shared information on towers and Ham radio equipment insurance through the ARRL. Discussion followed.

Woodstock Challenge – Ken, KB9I reported on the ham radio support for the bike ride on June 14^th Both the breakfast and weather was good.

Steve, KA9NPT reported on the Utter Century Bike Run that usually has about 1500 entries.  The bike club really appreciates the ham radio support.

How’s DX – Dave, KA9OZP said 20 meters has been open until midnight.  Not much Sun spots.  The Italian’s have now been granted more of the 40 meter band.

Amateur Radio History – non this month.

Up-coming Hamfests -  This Sunday is Oak Creek in WI.   FRRL is also coming up and will be in Aurora.   Lee, KC9JQX has some FRRL tickets available.

Evenings Program – Steve, K9DCI presented a very informative program on APRS with demonstration.  The informative presentation brought out a lot of interest and questions.

Attendance: 18 members with 6 visitor/guests.

Dave, KA9OZP entertained a motion to adjourn the meeting.  Meeting ended at 9:20.

Respectfully submitted,

Kent, K9KMD – club secretary.  July 1, 2008