Robert Kocourek W9RKK Chairman called the meeting to order at 7:00PM
Attendees
Robert Kocourek W9RKK
John Shofield AC9JS
Bill Riess KW9WR
Danny Kafka KD9HIL
Cliff Sowka K9QD
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK
John Douglas AC9JS
Ed Lishka AC9SD
Secretary’s Report
Cliff Sowka K9QD: October BOD Meeting Minutes as published in the RHG; Danny KD9HIL moved to approve, Bill KW9WR seconded. Adopted.
Treasurer’s Report:
Chris Brewer AC9GN not present.
Public Service
Rob Glowacki N9MVO not present.
EMCOMM
John Zietlow K9WIC EmComm Chairman not present.
Repeaters
Rob Glowacki N9MVO, Terry Jarnholm AE9TJ not present. Kent Ochs W9KAO has been partially reimbursed for the first part of planned $300 equipment cabinet upgrade. More equipment will be forthcoming.
Construction Project (CP)
Cliff Sowka K9QD reports CP is back in session and attendance during our first two events have hosted 25~27attendees. Club members are asked to think of appropriate projects that we could entertain.
VE Testing:
John Schofield AC9JS reports there is one candidate reserved at the moment for testing this coming Saturday. All FCC records from last month were updated quickly except one….a single character in that candidate’s eMail had to be corrected and the FCC responded accordingly.
Nets
Don Dewar KD9NJR Chairman needs volunteers willing to take a session.
Radio Hill Gazette RHG
Mike K9KMV No Report.
Membership
Scott DeSantis KB9VRW Membership Committee Chairman not present.
Publicity
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK Publicity Chairman has authored a summary of his recent participation in Fox Hunting and we can anticipate a post to SARC-ALL and FaceBook shortly.
Social
Need Chairperson.
In the interim, John Douglas KD9KSH has offered to manage and has secured a venue for our January Holiday Party.
Location:RICCARDO’S RISTORANTE. Plans for January will be sent to SARC-ALL a few times to remind membership.
Education
Leo N9NBH not present.
Programs
Don Dewar KD9NJR not present. It’s possible we’ll present a WinLInk video during the vote-count later this month.
FOX Hunt: Jim Campbell KB9RGU no report.
Old Business
Don Dewar KD9NJR has proposed updates to our Constitution and Bylaws during the September meeting. He presented valid reasons to edit six Articles that have become outdated (such as TVI Committee). The Board reviewed his suggested text changes and we’ll publish the proposed updates in time for the inclusion on the Ballot in November.
Don KD9NJR moved in September to place proposed Constitution Updates on our November Ballot. Ed Lishka AC9SD seconded. Motion Adopted
Bill KW9WR moved to approved Don’s Bylaw revisions as presented. Danny KD9HIL seconded. Adopted under authority granted to the Board of Directors.
Therefore only the Constitution Revisions will be on the November Ballot since the Bylaws are adopted tonight. Such revisions will be published to SARC-ALL for membership review. The Ballot will ask for an Up-Down vote.
New Business
Talliers for November’s Absentee Requests have received a few responses at the moment. Last year we enjoyed 100% participation so hopefully we’ll receive more response shortly.
[This discussion took place on our SARC-All email reflector – Ed.]
Bruce N9EHA started the discussion with this post.
In older radios, in order to get the tuning dial scale to tune linearly across the band and not “bunch up” frequencies at one end of the scale, they used an air variable capacitor that would change capacitance non-linearly. If it had circular plates, the shaft was installed off center to make the capacitance change non-linear (first pic), or they had a tear drop shape, that looked like the second picture below, to get a logarithmic change in capacitance with rotation of the shaft.
The question is, what was the common name for these type of non-linear variable tuning caps in old radios? Someone at the construction project thought it also used to be a test question on one of the older license exams, but I couldn’t find it. If anyone remembers the name or nickname for them, let me know.
N9EHA followed up a few days later with this, closing the loop on the ongoing discussion.
Good discussion point to keep the thread going. Butterfly is a specific type of construction with a split stator. Butterfly capacitors are where the rotor plates are made in four 90 degree quadrants instead of the usual 2 halves (half circle), hence the so-called butterfly shape looking at the rotor plates from the end. A butterfly capacitor is the first one below, vs a normal variable capacitor below that for comparison.
The difference between standard and butterfly is in where the electrical connections are made. On a standard one (half circle), one electrical connection has to be made to the rotor plates via a moving connection. You can see the connection on the second picture sticking up towards the top right, and that connection needs to slide on the shaft when the cap is adjusted to maintain its connection. That’s fine in a receiver circuit, or other relatively low power design.
On a butterfly, each electrical connection is to each side’s (separate, split) stator, with no sliding connections made to the rotor. RF current goes into one side’s set of stator plates, and comes out the other set of stator plates, coupled through the rotor plates along the way. It’s easier to see in the 3rd pic where the solder connections are made to each side’s stator, with the butterfly rotor having no connections to it. That’s advantageous because you can get more current out of a solid weld, solder, or bolt to the frame where the stator plates are mounted, than you can out of a sliding connection to the rotor. So very high current capacitor needs, like in tank circuits for high power RF amps, have less loss and more power handling capability. You sometimes see them tuning small magnetic loop antennas for that same reason, due to the very high circulating currents when the loop is tuned.
Also note that a butterfly only has useful rotation of 90 degrees, not 180 like a standard. It will repeat the same capacitance value at FOUR points in a single rotation, not two points like a standard. Not a problem for the cap, just something you have to consider if you want to mechanically restrict the rotation on the shaft to not repeat, or to design the face panel markings on gear, etc.
Well , it’s over. Summer that is. Oh, and the Foxhunt season as well. October 28th 2023, the last of the four Saturday Foxhunts is in the books. We changed the hours at the suggestion of a couple participants.
Started at 1500 and finished at 1600, welcomed sunshine on a cool and windy day. The change in hours worked out very well, and may be permanent.
The hunt started with four teams but equipment issues sidelined a couple of the hunters. Participants were K9HIK, W9RKK, K9FNM and son, and W9KAO. W9KAO was first to find.
Howard kd9wsv, the Fox, had the stuffed Fox on the hood of his FOXMOBILE, so it was a little easier to locate.
During a recent construction project club members built dummy loads for testing radios. The loads required a heat sink and club member Bob W9GEW provided materials and machine time from his business to help produce those. He provided this video of the machining process.
Don Dewar KD9NJR President called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.
Attendees:
Robert Kocourek W9RKK
John Thornton KD9VZJ
John Schofield AC9JS
Terry Jarnholm AE9TJ
Paul Burkett KD9FMN
Leo Ribordy N9NBH
John Childress KD9YKF
Charlene Treve K9CMZ
Don Dewar KD9NJR
Danny Kafka KD9HIL
Danny Meyers K9LDM
Bob Lacursia K9SKY
Bill Riess KW9WR
Bob Benwitz N9JAX
Rob Glowacki N9MVO
Howard Mitchell KD9WSV
Bill McGovern W9WEM
Cliff Sowka K9QD
Chris Brewer AC9GN
Richard France N9PAN
Bob McIntire W9DXR
Ed Lishka AC9SD
Sid Puri KD9OLI
Kent Ochs W9KAO
John Douglas KD9KSH
ZOOM Attendees:
Jim Campbell KB9RGU
Pierre Berube K9EYE
Bates Noble N9UVI
Steve Karson AC9EM
John Zietlow K9WIC
Joshua Spivey KD9WDV
Kevin Willard KB9QVX
Bill Schroeder KA9DQB
David Binkowski K9IBM
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK
Secretary’s Report:
Cliff Sowka K9QD: October Business Meeting Minutes were published in the Radio Hill Gazette (RHG).
Danny KD9HIL moved to approve Leo Ribordy N9NBH seconded. Motion Adopted.
Treasurer’s Report:
Chris Brewer AC9GN reported:
SCHAUMBURG AMATEUR RADIO CLUB MONTHLY REPORT
Month: October 2023
Checkbook Balance 09/31/2023 $7,289.30
INCOME MEMO $ 25.00
DISBURSEMENTS MEMO $ 151.77
10/10/2023 AT&T DSL $ 62.82
Check 1289 Lightning Part Replacement $ 28.02
Zelle Payment Repeater Shelf $ 60.93
10/31/2023 Account Balance $7,162.53
10/31/2023 Bank Statement $7,162.53
Checks Outstanding $ 0.00
Adjusted balance $7,162.53
Checkbook balance 10/31/2023 $7,162.53
Petty Cash 10/31/2023 Current balance $ 110.00
Funds Available $7,272.93
107 active members in roster with one additional posting shortly
Danny moved to approve, Paul Burkett KD9FMN seconded. Adopted.
Public Service
Rob Glowacki N9MVO: No Report.
EMCOMM:
John Zietlow K9WIC: No Report.
Repeaters:
Rob N9MVO, Terry Jarnholm AE9TJ: No report.
Pierre Berube K9EYE requested status of 2M machine’s static and momentary attenuation remediation. No specific action at the moment.
Construction Project (CP)
Cliff Sowka K9QD: No Report.
VE Testing
John Schofield AC9JS reports VE Tests Results for November 4, 2023
Name
Call
Class
Kirk
KD9ZDT
Technician
Class
Technician
1
General
0
Extra
0
Total
1
The results were in the FCC ULS system by Wednesday, 11/8.
Participating Volunteer Examiners (VEs):
Bill
Davies
K9WKD
Steve
Karson
AC9EM
Ed
Lishka
AC9SD
John
Schofield
AC9JS
Will
Sperling
W9WSS
Next examination date: December 2, 2023
Nets:
Don Dewar KD9NJR: No Report.
Radio Hill Gazette (RHG):
Mike K9KMV: Not present
Special Events: No Report.
Membership:
Scott DeSantis KB9VRW: Not Present.
Publicity:
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK: No Report.
Social: Chair open.
Education:
Leo Ribordy N9NBH: No report.
Programs:
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK presented a tutorial on Winlink.
Old Business:
Constitution updates: Don Dewar KD9NJR published several editing proposals to SARC-ALL before Election Night. Members will be asked to vote UP/DOWN.
New Business: Don Dewar KD9NJR explained tonight’s Constitutional revisions are simply a ‘clean-up’ of outdated verbiage. There is no new wording. Items such as Budget, Audits, and Club Asset Records are not affected. Tonight’s vote is simply UP/DOWN choice.
Constitution revisions are adopted.
2023 ELECTION NIGHT RESULTS FOR YEAR 2024
President Don Dewar KD9NJR
Vice President Dann Kafka KD9HIL
Treasurer Chris Brewer AC9GN
Secretary Cliff Sowka K9QD
Director Robert Benwitz N9JAX -3 Year Term
Director Paul Burkett KD9FMN -3 Year Term
Danny Kafka KD9HIL moved to adjourn, Leo Ribordy N9NBH seconded.
Bill Riess KW9WR called the meeting to order at 7:00PM
Attendees
John Douglas AC9JS
John Shofield AC9JS
Bill Riess KW9WR
Danny Kafka KD9HIL
Don Dewar KD9NJR
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK
Cliff Sowka K9QD
Scott DeSantis KB9VRW
Secretary’s Report
Cliff Sowka K9QD: November BOD Meeting Minutes as published in the RHG: John Shofield AC9JS moved to approve, Danny Kafka KD9HIL seconded. Adopted.
Treasurer’s Report:
Chris Brewer AC9GN not present.
Public Service
Rob Glowacki N9MVO not present.
EMCOMM
John Zietlow K9WIC EmComm Chairman not present.
Repeaters
Rob Glowacki N9MVO, Terry Jarnholm AE9TJ not present.
Construction Project (CP)
Cliff Sowka K9QD reports CP continues to enjoy strong attendance and we’re planning to host both December sessions even though the fourth Saturday of December aligns closely with family holiday celebrations.
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK is currently crafting Winlink training to be offered to CP attendees during Jan~Feb.
VE Testing:
John Schofield AC9JS reports there is already one candidate reserved at the moment for the January session. John has been supporting student interest in joining an organized Ham Radio organization and his efforts have resulted in several new members for SARC.
WebMaster will be asked to edit our home page layout in order to accommodate a more rapid access to our VE Testing services.
Nets
Don Dewar KD9NJR Chairman needs volunteers willing to take a session.
Radio Hill Gazette RHG
Mike K9KMV No Report.
Membership
Scott DeSantis KB9VRW Membership Committee Chairman noted our status as Affiliated ARRL Club requires update. Bill Reiss KW9WR suggested we also acquire an additional domain SCHAUMBURGARC.COM so that prospective hams can find our entity more easily. The additional domain for our club could simply point to www.N9RJV therefore providing a more efficient search result.
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK moved to approve the $14 annual domain registry expense and Danny Kafka KD9HIL seconded.
Publicity
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK Publicity Chairman has authored a primer for Winlink and anticipates we could offer training during Jan~Feb Construction Project meetings.
Treasurer Disbursements Needed: Previously authorized support payments of $25 each to Newsline, Repeater Association, and Ham QSL.com.
Social
Need Chairperson.
In the interim, John Douglas KD9KSH has secured a venue for our January Holiday Party.
Current reservation is 14 but we’re obligated to provide 25 attendees minimum. John will continue to remind membership via SARC-ALL.
Education
Leo N9NBH not present.
Programs
Don Dewar KD9NJR: planning a December Business Meeting presentation.
Old Business
Talliers for November’s Absentee Requests received only ~ 65% response but those who did respond to several requests and reminders were represented in November’s election.
This contrasts to last year where we enjoyed 100% participation so hopefully we can implement a better scheme for next year’s election; maybe craft a simple, click-enabled document for those who cannot attend election night in person if our mandated SASE US Mail process won’t be followed again in 2024.
New Business
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK noted our website needs 2024 officer update to reflect the November Election Results. Also, Google Groups for SARC-BD requires update.
Dennis submitted a Winlink primer for presentation during our Jan~Feb Construction Project venue for interested members. Cliff Sowka K9QD moved to approve and John Schofield AC9JS seconded. Adopted.
Dennis will communicate with several governmental agencies to reaffirm our Schaumburg resources: Tennis Plus, Bocce Court for SARC-in-the-Park, CRC for BOD and Business Meetings, and any rental/insurance documentation requirements.
Don Dewar KD9NJR reviewed open action items: Determine FTM 300 location and current function, Inventory of club Assets, Annual Audit, and proposed Budget.
Professional Audit of our Treasury could cost ~$2,000 but since our revenue as Non-Profit is well under the IRS-defined threshold, third party review would suffice.
Treasurer requested to present budget proposal during the December Business Meeting. Operating expense of $1,754.00 estimated but Committee requests need to be informed.
Don Dewar KD9NJR President called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.
Attendees:
Robert Kocourek W9RKK
Chris Brewer AC9GN
John Schofield AC9JS
John Douglas KD9KSH
Paul Burkett KD9FMN
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK
John Childress KD9YKF
Charlene Treve K9CMZ
Don Dewar KD9NJR
Danny Kafka KD9HIL
Danny Meyers K9LDM
Daryl Jenks KB9RHR
Bill Riess KW9WR
Leo Ribordy N9NBH
Rob Glowacki N9MVO
Howard Mitchell KD9WSV
Cliff Sowka K9QD
ZOOM Attendees:
Jim Campbell KB9RGU
Pierre Berube K9EYE <-Log>
Bates Noble N9UVI
Steve Karson AC9EM
Jon KD9WNL
John Thornton KD9VZJ
Kevin Willard KB9QVX
Bill Schroeder KA9DQB
Secretary’s Report:
Cliff Sowka K9QD: November Business Meeting Minutes were published in the Radio Hill Gazette (RHG).
Danny KD9HIL moved to approve, Robert Kocourek W9RKK seconded. Motion Adopted.
Treasurer’s Report:
Chris Brewer AC9GN reported:
SCHAUMBURG AMATEUR RADIO CLUB MONTHLY REPORT
Month: November 2023
Checkbook Balance 10/30/2023 $7,162.53
INCOME MEMO $ 30.00
DISBURSEMENTS MEMO $ 223.33
11/08/2023 AT&T DSL $ 62.82
Check 1290 Lightning Detector Replacement $ 11.25
Zelle Payment Repeater Shelf $ 149.26
11/30/2023 Account Balance $6,969.20
11/30/2023 Bank Statement $6,969.20
Checks Outstanding $ 0.00
Adjusted balance $6,969.20
Checkbook balance 11/30/2023 $6,969.20
Petty Cash 11/30/2023 Current balance $ 110.00
Funds Available $7,079.20
111 active members in roster
Danny KD9HIL moved to approve, Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK seconded. Motion Adopted.
Public Service
Rob Glowacki N9MVO: No Report.
EMCOMM:
John Zietlow K9WIC: Not Present.
Repeaters:
Rob N9MVO: Pie 4 upgrade to be installed shortly. There is intermittent noise present (including tonight) with no apparent source. Members are asked to report observations and help us determine what conditions are present when occurs. If we can identify a pattern it may help narrow remediation possibilities.
Construction Project (CP)
Cliff Sowka K9QD: Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK and Daryl Jenks KB9RHR are planning a Winlink presentation during our January 13th CP session.
VE Testing
John Schofield AC9JS reports VE Tests Results for December 2nd:
Name
Call
Class
Brian
KD9ZIH
Technician
Class
Technician
1
General
0
Extra
0
Total
1
Participating Volunteer Examiners (VEs):
Bill
Davies
K9WKD
Steve
Karson
AC9EM
Ed
Lishka
AC9SD
James
Migalla
KC9UFB
William
Riess
KW9WR
John
Schofield
AC9JS
Next examination date: January 6, 2024
John Schofield
Session Manager
AC9JS
Nets:
Don Dewar KD9NJR: No Report.
Radio Hill Gazette (RHG):
Mike K9KMV: Not present
Special Events: No Report.
Membership:
Scott DeSantis KB9VRW: Not Present.
Publicity:
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK:
Upon checking ARRL listing, Dennis determined SARC is correctly listed as an affiliate club but we’re not seeing appropriate search results when entering either ZIP 60193 or 60194.
Social: Chair open
John Douglas KD9KSH reports we have met our January Holiday Party attendance requirement.
Education:
Leo Ribordy N9NBH: No report.
Programs:
Don Dewar KD9NJR: Planned but technical issues caused the presentation to succumb to Microsoft Undocumented Feature. Try again during our February Business Meeting.
Old Business:
Don Dewar KD9NJR explained November’s Constitutional revisions were simply a ‘clean-up’ of outdated verbiage. There is no new wording. Items such as Budget, Audits, and Club Asset Records are not affected. November’s vote was simply UP/DOWN choice.
Don has enlisted editing help tonight so that our Board of Directors is able to publish a clean document.
New Business:
Chris Brewer AC9GN will be working on our budget for 2024 and requested SARC Committees submit their budget requests to begin the process.
Robert Kocourek W9RKK called the meeting to order at 7:00PM
Attendees
Robert Kocourek W9RKK
John Shofield AC9JS
Bill Riess KW9WR
Danny Kafka KD9HIL
John Douglas AC9JS
Paul Burkett KD9FMN
Cliff Sowka K9QD
Bob Benwitz W9JAX
Robert Kocourek W9RKK was appointed as Chairman of the Board by Acclamation as we begin 2024.
Our two new Directors (Paul Burkett KD9FMN, Bob Benwitz W9JAX) were installed tonight.
Robert Kocourek W9RKK Chairman moved to authorize SARC Officers voting members of the Board. John Shofield AC9JS seconded. Motion Adopted.
Secretary’s Report
Cliff Sowka K9QD: December BOD Meeting Minutes as published in the RHG: Robert Kocourek W9RKK moved to approve, Bill Reiss KW9WR seconded. Motion Adopted.
Treasurer’s Report:
Chris Brewer AC9GN not present but provided the following:
SCHAUMBURG AMATEUR RADIO CLUB MONTHLY REPORT
Month: December 2023
Checkbook Balance 11/30/23 $6,969.20
INCOME MEMO
12/15/23 Zelle, Holiday party $ 28.00
12/15/23 Cash, Holiday party $ 642.00
DISBURSEMENTS MEMO
ACH 12/11/23 AT&T DSL $ 62.82
12/31/23 Account Balance $7,576.38
12/31/23 Bank Statement $7,576.38
Checks Outstanding $ 0.00
Adjusted balance $7,576.38
Checkbook balance 12/31/23
Petty Cash 12/31/23 Current balance $ 110.00
Funds Available $7,686.38
111 active members in roster
34 people attending Holiday Party (total to date is $950, one member short by $2).
Robert Kocourek W9RKK moved to approve and Bill Reiss seconded. Motion Adopted.
Public Service
Rob Glowacki N9MVO not present.
EMCOMM
John Zietlow K9WIC EmComm Chairman not present.
Repeaters
Rob Glowacki N9MVO, Terry Jarnholm AE9TJ not present.
Construction Project (CP)
Cliff Sowka K9QD reports a Winlink presentation is planned for January 13th session. Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK has authored training to be offered to our CP attendees.
Budgeting process for 2024 requires SARC Committees to present their funding requirements for the year. CP will identify consumables that are needed for the season and let Chris Brewer AC9GN know of our request so that we can discuss during our February Business Meeting.
VE Testing:
John Schofield AC9JS reports there are five (5) candidates reserved at the moment for the January session this Saturday. John has been supporting student interest in joining an organized Ham Radio organization and his efforts have resulted in several new members for SARC. John has become our key new member recruiter!
WebMaster AC9IG has edited our home page layout so that more rapid access to our VE Testing services can be found easily…..much thanx to Matt!
Nets
Don Dewar KD9NJR Chairman not present.
Radio Hill Gazette RHG
Mike K9KMV No Report.
Membership
Scott DeSantis KB9VRW Membership Committee Chairman not present.
Publicity
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK Publicity Chairman not present but did report there are no new items.
Social
Need Chairperson but John Douglas KD9KSH, acting as interim Chair, has secured January Holiday Party.
Current reservation is 35 which is near-capacity for the facility.
Education
Leo N9NBH not present.
Programs
Don Dewar KD9NJR: not present.
Old Business
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK noted our website needs 2024 officer update to reflect the November Election Results.
Google Groups for SARC-BD requires following members added to distribution list:
W9JAX
KD9FMN
KW9WR
Dennis submitted a Winlink primer for presentation during our Jan~Feb Construction Project venue for interested members. Cliff Sowka K9QD moved to approve and John Schofield AC9JS seconded. Adopted.
Dennis will communicate with several governmental agencies to reaffirm our Schaumburg resources: Tennis Plus, Bocce Court for SARC-in-the-Park, CRC for BOD and Business Meetings, and any rental/insurance documentation requirements.
Don Dewar KD9NJR reviewed open action items: Determine FTM 300 location and current function, Inventory of club Assets, Annual Audit, and proposed Budget.
Professional Audit of our Treasury could cost ~$2,000 but since our revenue as Non-Profit is well under the IRS-defined threshold, third party review would suffice.
Treasurer requested to present budget proposal during the December Business Meeting. Operating expense of $1,754.00 estimated but Committee requests need to be informed.
New Business
Don Dewar KD9NJR reported the Constitution Grammatical edits have been completed and now need to be published in the RHG.
Robert Kocourek W9RKK called the meeting to order at 7:00PM
Attendees
Robert Kocourek W9RKK
John Schofield AC9JS
Bill Riess KW9WR
Danny Kafka KD9HIL
John Douglas AC9JS
Paul Burkett KD9FMN
Cliff Sowka K9QD
Bob Benwitz W9JAX
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK
Don Dewar KD9NJR
Secretary’s Report
Cliff Sowka K9QD: January BOD Meeting Minutes as published in the RHG: John Douglas KD9KSH moved to approve, Danny Kafka KD9HIL seconded. Motion Adopted.
Treasurer’s Report:
Chris Brewer AC9GN not present but provided the following:
SCHAUMBURG AMATEUR RADIO CLUB MONTHLY REPORT
Checking $7,576.38
Income $551.00
Disbursements $1,021.75
*CHK # 1292 John Douglas $958.93 Holiday Party (~$100 profit donated to Field Day)
Petty Cash $173.00
Funds Available $7,278.63
115 Members on Roster
Don Dewar KD9NJR Moved to approve, Paul Burkett KD9FMN seconded. Motion Adopted.
Public Service
Rob Glowacki N9MVO not present.
EMCOMM
John Zietlow K9WIC not present but communicated the following report:
EmComm Report for February 2024
On March 17, 2024 there will be a Statewide exercise to demonstrate our ability to setup stations in field locations and communicate with other amateurs in and out of Illinois.
1.1. Robert Littler, W9DSR, the Section Emergency Coordinator has established four basic objectives for the exercise:
1.1.1. Activate stations in the field
1.1.2. Communicate with other hams and field locations similar to POTA, IOTA, etc.
1.1.3. Get new hams on the air; similar to FD GOTA, get non-hams involved.
1.1.4. Demonstrate our capabilities to the general public and local officials.
1.2. The hours of operation will be from noon to 4:00 PM. If there is the threat of severe weather, the exercise could be postponed to March 24th. (Could be threat of blizzard or tornadoes, after all, it is March!)
1.3. Details are being worked out tonight and further refined for District 4 at the EmComm meeting at the HE PD on March 16th. Members of SARC invited to attend.
1.4. SARC is encouraged to participate as they see fit.
May 5, 2024 will be the Chicagoland Marathon. An initial assessment of the Schaumburg Emergency Radio Team indicates that we have lost three of our members. SARC may be asked to help with the event. SARC’s role will be defined by the EC, Tracy Raimondo.
This will be my last report as a member of SARC, Inc.
Repeaters
Rob Glowacki N9MVO, Terry Jarnholm AE9TJ not present. Our UPS reports the battery bank has become soft and requires replacement. Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK has researched a source and will be granted purchase authority in the new business discussion.
Construction Project (CP)
Cliff Sowka K9QD reports a Winlink presentation is planned for Saturday February 10th session.
Budgeting process for 2024 requires SARC Committees to present their funding requirements for the year. CP estimates ~$150 will be needed to purchase a table-mount vice and some cool-spray/de-ox chemicals.
VE Testing: John Schofield AC9JS
Results for February 3, 2024
Name
Call
Class
Mariusz
AD9DU
Extra
William
KA9DQB
Extra
Doug
KD9ZOG
Extra
Mariusz did not pre-register for the exam. He walked in with all of the required documentation and took the Technician, the General, and the Amateur Extra exams, passed all three, all within one hour.
Congratulation, Mariusz. Well done.
Class
Technician
0
General
O
Extra
3
Total
3
Participating Volunteer Examiners (VEs):
Steve
Karson
AC9EM
Ed
Lishka
AC9SD
James
Migalla
KC9UFB
William
Riess
KW9WR
John
Schofield
AC9JS
Next examination date: March 2 2024
John Schofield
Session Manager
AC9JS
Nets
Don Dewar KD9NJR Chairman reports attendance remains enthusiastic. Need Net Control volunteer to host on Tuesdays.
Radio Hill Gazette RHG
Mike K9KMV No Report.
Membership
Scott DeSantis KB9VRW Membership Committee Chairman not present.
Publicity
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK Publicity Chairman reports renewed SARC management effort to visit with our various governmental authorities for basic introductions. Scheduled meetings may occur during the next few months.
Our Facebook site is experiencing increased activity.
Social
Need Chairperson.
John Douglas KD9KSH, previous chair, hosted a widely-celebrated summer picnic at a Bartlett facility last year and he intends to query possible availability for this summer. Will update.
Education
Leo N9NBH not present. We’ve indicated our desire to support the Hanover Park Fox School for their STEM event May 2nd. SARC plans to support any budgeting needs and help Leo staff our display. Thinking about trinkets and catchy technology display to capture attention within first ~30 seconds as students pass our table.
Programs
Don Dewar KD9NJR: working on topic for the February Business Meeting.
Old Business
Don Dewar KD9NJR reported the Constitution Grammatical edits have been completed and now need to be published in the RHG.
New Business
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK has professional sourcing support to help us replace our UPS battery bank.
Cliff K9QD moved to provide $200 headroom. W9RKK seconded. Motion Adopted.
Danny Kafka KD9HIL discussed required radio equipment for this year’s Field Day event. We’ll need to itemize the needs for each tent and who/how/when radio equipment is available.
Don Dewar KD9NJR President called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.
Attendees:
Robert Kocourek W9RKK
Jim Campbell KB9RGU
John Schofield AC9JS
Steve Karson AC9EM
Paul Burkett KD9FMN
Kevin Willard KB9QVX
John Childress KD9YKF
Charlene Treve K9CMZ
Don Dewar KD9NJR
Danny Kafka KD9HIL
Danny Meyers K9LDM
Daryl Jenks KB9RHR
Andrew Rafferty K9ABR
Leo Ribordy N9NBH
Rob Glowacki N9MVO
Howard Mitchell KD9WSV
Joe Barela KB9RCR
Roger Young WB9NBA
Eliot Libner N9EPA
Alex Suptela guest
Mariusz Szpryngacz AD9DU
ZOOM Virtual Attendees:
Scott KB9VRW
Pierre Berube K9EYE
Russ KC9NUV
Bill KD9RGX
Kirk K9MSG
John Thornton KD9VZJ
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK
Secretary’s Report:
Cliff Sowka K9QD: Not present; Danny Kafka KD9HIL Vice President will be tonight’s scribe.
Treasurer’s Report:
Chris Brewer AC9GN’s report previously approved at Board Meeting on February 7:
SCHAUMBURG AMATEUR RADIO CLUB MONTHLY REPORT
Checking $7,576.38
Income $ 551.00
Disbursements $1,021.75
*CHK # 1292 John Douglas $958.93 Holiday Party (~$100 profit donated to Field Day)
Petty Cash $ 173.00
Funds Available $7,278.63
115 Members on Roster
Public Service
Rob Glowacki N9MVO: No Report.
EMCOMM:
John Zietlow K9WIC not present: February BOD Minutes repeated here.
On March 17, 2024 there will be a Statewide exercise to demonstrate our ability to setup stations in field locations and communicate with other amateurs in and out of Illinois.
1.1. Robert Littler, W9DSR, the Section Emergency Coordinator has established four basic objectives for the exercise:
1.1.1. Activate stations in the field
1.1.2. Communicate with other hams and field locations similar to POTA, IOTA, etc.
1.1.3. Get new hams on the air; similar to FD GOTA, get non-hams involved.
1.1.4. Demonstrate our capabilities to the general public and local officials.
1.2. The hours of operation will be from noon to 4:00 PM. If there is the threat of severe weather, the exercise could be postponed to March 24th. (Could be threat of blizzard or tornadoes, after all, it is March!)
1.3. Details are being worked out tonight and further refined for District 4 at the EmComm meeting at the HE PD on March 16th. Members of SARC invited to attend.
1.4. SARC is encouraged to participate as they see fit.
May 5, 2024 will be the Chicagoland Marathon. An initial assessment of the Schaumburg Emergency Radio Team indicates that we have lost three of our members. SARC may be asked to help with the event. SARC’s role will be defined by the EC, Tracy Raimondo.
This will be my last report as a member of SARC, Inc.
Repeaters:
Rob N9MVO Not present, Robert W9RKK said that he and Kent Ochs W9KAO are developing documentation for repeater procedures and repair.
Dennis KD9HIK will pick up batteries and Rob N9MVO would possibly install on Saturday (2-17)
Construction Project (CP)
Cliff Sowka K9QD: Not present.
It can be difficult to run a program — very noisy. Don KD9NJR said we could use the space near the elevator.
Also, a club officer must be present and CP can run all year.
Scott KB9VRW offered space at the SA facility on evenings or week ends with prior notice.
VE Testing
John Schofield AC9JS reports VE Tests Results for February 3, 2024
Name Call Class
Mariusz AD9DU Extra
William KA9DQB Extra
Doug KD9ZOG Extra
Mariusz did not pre-register for the exam. He walked in with all of the required documentation and took the Technician, the General, and the Amateur Extra exams, passed all three, all within one hour.
Congratulation, Mariusz. Well done.
Class
Technician 0
Genera l 0
Extra 3
Total 3
Participating Volunteer Examiners (VEs):
Steve Karson AC9EM
Ed Lishka AC9SD
James Migalla KC9UFB
William Riess KW9WR
John Schofield AC9JS
Next examination date: March 2, 2024
Nets:
Don Dewar KD9NJR: Nets are busy and asks people not to talk over another person.
Radio Hill Gazette (RHG):
Mike K9KMV: Not present
Special Events:
Leo N9NBH and Dennis KD9HIK expect to meet with the school staff to review club participation in the upcoming STEM fair on May 2. Leo requests up to four volunteers with someone off site to provide response. Note children’s ages only up to 10.
Membership:
Scott DeSantis KB9VRW: Not Present.
Publicity:
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK: No report.
Social: Chair open
Education:
Leo Ribordy N9NBH: No response to Leos’s request concerning setting up our next class.
Programs:
Don Dewar KD9NJR: Tonight’s program is line-of-sight communication with a review of site scadacore.com
Old Business:
None.
New Business:
Charlene K9CMZ discussed ARRL supported proposed laws protecting Hams from local rules and ordinances forbidding radio equipment at their home.
Adjourn: 7:30 PM
Submitted February 19, 2024 as dutifully plagiarized from Danny Kafka’s KD9HIL notes.
Robert Kocourek W9RKK called the meeting to order at 7:00PM
Attendees
Robert Kocourek W9RKK
John Schofield AC9JS
Bill Riess KW9WR
Danny Kafka KD9HIL
John Douglas KD9KSH
Scott DeSantis KB9VRW
Cliff Sowka K9QD
Bob Benwitz W9JAX
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK
Don Dewar KD9NJR
Darryl Jenks KB9RHR
Secretary’s Report
Cliff Sowka K9QD: February BOD Meeting Minutes as published in the RHG: Bill Reiss KW9WR moved to approve and Robert Kocourek W9RKK seconded. Motion Adopted.
Treasurer’s Report:
Chris Brewer AC9GN not present.
Public Service
Rob Glowacki N9MVO not present.
EMCOMM
John Zietlow K9WIC not present but communicated the following report:
“I have received confirmation that the Chicagoland Marathon would like hams to provide communications for the subject event to be held in the Busse Woods on Sunday, May 5th. The typical hours are from 0600 to 1430.
I am looking for availability from the ham community to help with this event. We would like to have a nominal 30 operators.
If you would like to help with this event, please respond to me at j.zietlow@comcast.net
It is a great opportunity for Technician Class and above. It will give you a great opportunity to use your handheld radios.
We will have a couple of training sessions in April to cover the basics”.
BOD decided to place a staffing plan on the March Business Meeting Agenda
Repeaters
Rob Glowacki N9MVO, Terry Jarnholm AE9TJ not present. Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK accomplished UPS Battery refresh.
Robert Kocourek W9RKK is working to establish an operation manual for our machines with assistance from the Repeater Team and Kent Ochs W9KAO.
Construction Project (CP)
Cliff Sowka K9QD reports we have four (4) sessions remaining this season.
It may be advantageous to offer an additional Winlink work session; a separate SARC-ALL email may announce the offer to hold instruction near the elevator door for a quiet venue. Just need to slide some tables and chairs over to the north end of the basement. Access to our antennas is possible by interrupting the coax at the lightning suppressor ground bar.
Budgeting process for 2024 requires all SARC Committees to present their funding requirements for the year. CP estimates ~$370 will be needed to purchase a NanoVNA, table-mount vice and some cool-spray/de-ox chemicals, as well as battery refresh for our instrumentation.
Cliff Sowka K9QD moved to request $370 headroom. Robert Kocourek W9RKK seconded. Motion adopted.
Some SARC members indicate they would join a nanoVNA purchase effort and possibly benefit from volume discount if possible. Will inform cost before requesting individual purchase commitments.
K9QD will QST via SARC-ALL to determine total purchase quantity of NanoVNA before placing our order.
VE Testing:
John Schofield AC9JS reports 7 candidates arrived for the March 2nd session.
Some meeting room confusion occurred but once space was found, the results were:
4 Tech
2 General
1 Extra
John was sure to offer SARC literature to those requesting information.
Nets
Don Dewar KD9NJR Chairman reports attendance remains enthusiastic. Need Net Control volunteer to host on Tuesdays.
Radio Hill Gazette RHG
Mike K9KMV No Report.
Membership
Scott DeSantis KB9VRW Membership Committee Chairman is handling many requests not necessarily related to potential membership requests.
There is a need for a filter stage to route traffic within our various committees.
Publicity
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK Publicity Chairman reported during our February meeting there will be renewed SARC management effort to visit with our various governmental authorities for basic introductions.
Opportunity presents itself to meet village officials: Village of Schaumburg Community Emergency Management & Cyber Security Awareness Workshop is scheduled for Wednesday March 20.
Dennis sent correspondence acknowledging possible SARC support and asked if we should prepare a venue. Email sent Friday March 1, 2024. No response at the moment.
It was decided tonight our management team will attend the event with notable dress uniformity such as caps with our call letters. We’ll attempt to introduce ourselves to the various governmental authorities to help enhance our visibility.
Fox Elementary School Stem Day May 2, 2024. Waiting for update from Leo. Audience is K~5th grade.
Motion to approve $100 headroom budget, Danny KD9HIL seconded. Motion adopted.
Effort to organize SARC support for October’s Scouting Jamboree on the Air.
Dennis will QST via SARC-ALL to determine membership support.
New Repeater Standby Batteries were handed off to Rob Glowacki (N9MVO) who installed & tested them. Hope to find old batteries in the basement of the Tennis Plus Club so I can get them recycled. Invoice submitted to Chris, waiting for check.
Social
Need Chairperson.
John Douglas KD9KSH, previous chair, hosted a widely-celebrated summer picnic at a Bartlett facility last year and he has organized the facility plan again this summer. Moved to approve $200 rental, Don KD9NJR seconded. Motion Adopted.
WHEN: Sunday, August 18th
TIME: 2:00PM to 6PM
HOW: SARC will fund $200 rental expense.
WHAT: Potluck planned and considers SARC funding for a few higher-expense food items.
Education
Leo N9NBH not present. We’ll support the Hanover Park Fox School for their STEM event May2nd. SARC supports $100 budgeting to help Leo present our display. Trinkets and catchy technology display to capture attention within first ~30 seconds as students/parents pass our table.
Programs
Don Dewar KD9NJR: Need program ideas and membership presenter support. Lots of club talent available to offer interesting presentations. Ancillary topics that directly or indirectly support radio invited.
Old Business
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK has professional sourcing support to help us replace our UPS battery bank.
Cliff K9QD moved to provide $200 headroom. W9RKK seconded. Motion Adopted.
Danny Kafka KD9HIL discussed required radio equipment for this year’s Field Day event. We’ll need to itemize the needs for each tent and who/how/when radio equipment is available.
New Business
Danny Kafka KD9HIL suggests SARC Committees present their budgeting requests to help us comply with our requirement to have an operational budget. She will be working to define Field Day details.
John Schofield AC9JS offers suggestions to codify ISO-like documentation to define each committee’s role, duties, and reporting requirements. John provided guidance for FCC License renewals and the process is now available step-by-step on our website.
Don Dewar KD9NJR President called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.
Attendees:
Robert Kocourek W9RKK
John Douglas KD9KSH
John Schofield AC9JS
Steve Karson AC9EM
Paul Burkett KD9FMN
Kevin Willard KB9QVX
Steve Epstein WA9FZB
Dennis C, Calvey KD9HIK
Don Dewar KD9NJR
Danny Kafka KD9HIL
Danny Meyers K9LDM
Jim McCann W9JRM
Rob Glowacki N9MVO
Leo Ribordy N9NBH
John Thornton KD9VZI
Howard Mitchell KD9WSV
Joe Barela KB9RCR
Cliff Sowka K9QD
Chris Brewer AC9GN
Alex Suptela KD9ZZD
Mariusz Szpryngacz AD9DU
ZOOM Virtual Attendees:
Scott KB9VRW
Pierre Berube K9EYE
Bill KD9RGX
Will KA9DQB
Kirk K9MSG
Bob W9DXR
Jim Campbell KB9RGU
Don Froula K9CLF
Bates N9UVI
Secretary’s Report:
Cliff Sowka K9QD: February Report as published in the RHG. Robert Kocourek W9RKK moved to approve, Leo seconded, Motion Adopted.
Treasurer’s Report:
Chris Brewer AC9GN reported: $7,275.81 funds available with 118 Members on Roster.
Steve Karson AC9EM moved to approve and Danny Kafka KD9HIL seconded. Motion Adopted.
Public Service
Rob Glowacki N9MVO: MS Walk at Harper College is set for May 5th. Detailed SARC-ALL staffing eMail will be published beforehand.
Hoffman Estates Fourth of July Parade will be supported again this year and planning will begin a few weeks ahead of the event.
Chicagoland Marathon in Busse Woods May 5th will be managed by John Zietlow K9WIC. John will be communicating detailed plans shortly.
EMCOMM:
John Zietlow K9WIC not present.
Repeaters:
Rob N9MVO and Robert W9RKK along with Kent Ochs W9KAO are developing documentation for repeater procedures and repair.
Construction Project (CP)
Cliff Sowka K9QD:
We have three CP Events remaining for this season and 2nd and 4th Saturdays will be replaced with SARC-in-the-Park.
VE Testing
John Schofield AC9JS reports VE Tests Results for March 2, 2024
Name
Call
Class
Alexander
KD9ZZD
Technician
Kenji
KD9ZZE
Technician
Adam
KD9ZZF
Technician
Alexander
KD9ZZG
Technician
Oleg
KD9ZZN
General
Dean
KD9ZZI
General
John
KD9QVP
Extra
Class
Technician
4
General
2
Extra
1
Total
7
Results are late because of a delay in entering the information.
Participating Volunteer Examiners (VEs):
Bill
Davies
K9WKD
Steve
Karson
AC9EM
Ed
Lishka
AC9SD
James
Migalla
KC9UFB
John
Schofield
AC9JS
Next examination date: April 6, 2024
John Schofield
Session Manager
AC9JS
Nets:
Don Dewar KD9NJR: Nets are busy. Surely would be good if we could have alternate control operators once in a while.
Radio Hill Gazette (RHG):
Mike K9KMV: Not present
Special Events:
Leo N9NBH and Dennis KD9HIK expect to meet with the school staff to review club participation in the upcoming STEM fair on May 2. Leo requests up to four volunteers with someone off site to provide response. Note children’s ages only up to 10.
Membership:
Scott DeSantis KB9VRW: some message filtering would be helpful in keeping the Membership Chair’s efforts focused on recruitment.
Publicity:
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK: SARC presented a respectable presence for Schaumburg’s safety presentation with our Ham Radio Call letters clearly visible in the audience.
As Tracy Raimondo addressed audience’s questions she stated that Ham Radio is a valuable resource in times of emergency; clearly acknowledging appreciation for our visibility.
Social: Chair open
Education:
Leo Ribordy N9NBH: No response to Leos’s request concerning setting up our next class. It appears the Library remodeling project is moving slowly.
Programs:
Don Dewar KD9NJR: Tonight’s program is SARC COMMITTEE structure, staffing, and need to fulfill some important vacancies.
Old Business:
Charlene K9CMZ discussed ARRL supported proposed laws protecting Hams from local rules and ordinances forbidding radio equipment at their home.
New Business:
Chris Brewer AC9GN presented a recent request from a local Vet in Wonder Lake: they desire to increase the sensory radius for embedded animal ID tags to something like ~ two meters. Current wands can only detect the animal’s passive chip at very close range. No talent within tonight’s group was apparent. Pierre K9EYE mentioned his iPhone was useful in detecting prescription bottle IDs.
Pierre K9EYE suggested we could enhance SARC-in-the-Park activity by participating in POTA at designated sites such as Pate Philips in Bartlett or Moraine Hills.
Robert W9RKK suggested we begin supporting Danny’s Kd9HIL Field Day planning in earnest. Items that require lead time such as Public Works site permit, insurance rider, tent captains, climbers, and support equipment.
Steve Karson AC9EM moved we continue with the Plum Grove Public Works site for Field Day again this year. Leo Ribordy N9NBH seconded the idea. Group tonight agrees.
John Thornton KD9VZI wishes to know if SARC t-shirts could be available or if we could organize procurement for interested members.
Robert Kocourek W9RKK called the meeting to order at 7:00PM
Attendees
Robert Kocourek W9RKK
Chris Brewer AC9GN
Bill Riess KW9WR
Danny Kafka KD9HIL
Paul Burkett KDFMN
Don Dewar KD9NJR
Cliff Sowka K9QD
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK
Long-Time SARC Member Bob Langsfeld WB9TZC (SK) passing was acknowledged with sadness. We will miss his steadfast and wise contributions over his many years membership. Visitation and Funeral details communicated to SARC-ALL.
Secretary’s Report
Cliff Sowka K9QD: March BOD Meeting Minutes as published in the RHG: Don Dewar KD9NJR moved to approve and Bill Reiss KW9WR seconded. Motion Adopted.
Treasurer’s Report:
Chris Brewer AC9GN
SCHAUMBURG AMATEUR RADIO CLUB MONTHLY REPORT
Month: March 2024
Report generated on 4/1/2024
Checkbook Balance
02/31/24
$7,102.81
INCOME
MEMO $188.00
Cash
03/04/24
$103.00Dues + $73 from Petty Cash
Cash
03/11/24
$30.00Dues
Cash
03/19/24
$25.00Dues
Transfer in
03/22/24
$30.00Dues
DISBURSEMENTS
MEMO $469.20
ACH
03/11/24
$62.82AT&T DSL
Check #1291
03/11/24
$54.30Construction Project tools
Check #1293
03/11/24
$152.08Repeater batteries
Check #1294
03/26/24
$200.00Picnic cabin reservation
Account Balance $6,821.61
03/29/24 Bank Statement $6,821.61
CHECKS OUTSTANDING MEMO $958.00
Check #1292 03/09/24
$958.00Holiday party reimbursement
ADJUSTED BALANCE
$5,863.61
Petty Cash 03/31/24
$100.00Excess $73 moved to checking
Funds Available $5,963.61
119 members on roster
Paul Burkett KD9FMN moved to approve, Danny Kafka KD9HIL seconded. Motion Adopted.
Public Service
Rob Glowacki N9MVO not present.
EMCOMM
John Zietlow K9WIC not present.
Repeaters
Rob Glowacki N9MVO, Terry Jarnholm AE9TJ not present.
Robert Kocourek W9RKK continues work to establish an operation manual for our machines with assistance from the Repeater Team and Kent Ochs W9KAO.
Construction Project (CP)
Cliff Sowka K9QD reports we normally would have two (2) sessions remaining this season. However the STP elevator will undergo maintenance starting April 15th (after our first April session on the 13th) and therefore limit basement access to the southern single stairwell for our April 27th meeting.
Therefore BOD decided April 13th will be the END of CP for the season.
It is possible SARC-in-the-Park events could be scheduled to begin early (April 27th).
VE Testing:
John Schofield AC9JS not present.
Bill Reiss KW9WR reported there are presently nine (9) candidates scheduled for this coming Saturday. Two of our VE Team are available and there is need for one more.
Nets
Don Dewar KD9NJR Chairman reports attendance remains enthusiastic. Need Net Control volunteer to host on Tuesdays.
Radio Hill Gazette RHG
Mike K9KMV No Report.
Membership
Scott DeSantis KB9VRW Membership Committee Chairman not present.
Publicity
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK Publicity Chairman reported the scheduled STP elevator maintenance beginning April 15th could conflict with our last CP session so it was decided to end the season on Saturday the 13th.
Fox Elementary School Stem Day May 2, 2024. Audience is K~5th grade. A $100 headroom budget for display items was previously approved.
Social
Need Chairperson.
Education
Leo N9NBH not present. We’ll support the Hanover Park Fox School for their STEM event May2nd. SARC supports $100 budgeting to help Leo present our display. Trinkets and catchy technology display to capture attention within first ~30 seconds as students/parents pass our table.
Programs
Don Dewar KD9NJR: Need program ideas and membership presenter support.
Old Business
Danny Kafka KD9HIL suggests SARC Committees present their budgeting requests to help us comply with our requirement to have an operational budget. She will be working to define Field Day details.
John Schofield AC9JS offers suggestions to codify ISO-like documentation to define each committee’s role, duties, and reporting requirements. John provided guidance for FCC License renewals and the process is now available step-by-step on our website.
New Business
Chris Brewer AC9GN reports he has completed required IRS filing of SARC’s 990-N. The IRS logging/reporting details have been preserved in the club’s files and an additional log sheet copied to club officer(s).
Cliff K9QD moved to provide up to $50 headroom so that Chris can purchase a file case for club records. Bill Reiss KW9WR seconded. Motion Adopted.
Danny Kafka KS9HIL reported Field Day planning underway:
Field Day placed on SARC calendar: June 22-23
Insurance documents received from Chris AC9GN
Plum Grove Water Tower Site application submitted and Permit Received
Event will be entirely held on campus of Harper College.
About 10 volunteers required. Report to campus at 8:30.
Walk begins 10AM.
EMCOMM:
John Zietlow K9WIC not present. Chicagoland Marathon staffing:
Call Sign First Name Last Name Comments
KD9HIL DANNY KAFKA
W9WEM BILL McGovern BIKE MOBILE
W9VTD DAVE CARPENTER BIKE MOBILE
KD9WSV HOWARD MITCHELL
K9MSG KIRK MUSSELMAN
KD9HIK DENNIS CALVEY
KW9KR BILL RIESS
KD9GOL TYLER BUCHINGER CP
KB9RHR DARYL JENKS
WA9PEB TONY JEDLINSKI CP
N9NBH LEO RIBORDY MED TENT
KC9UFB JIM McGALLA BIKE MOBILE
KD9ZZG ALEX SANABRIA
Repeaters:
VE Testing
John Schofield AC9JS Session Manager
Results for April 6, 2024
Name
Call
Class
Alexander
W2DNA
General
David
K9LLC
General
Robert
KE9AHS
Technician
Gerald
KD9YGI
General
Russel
KE9ADR
General
David
KE9AHZ
Technician
Guy
KE9AIA
Technician
Kenneth
KB9LIP
General
Class
Technician
3
General
5
Extra
0
Total
8
Participating Volunteer Examiners (VEs):
Bill
Davies
K9WKD
Steve
Karson
AC9EM
James
Migalla
KC9UFB
Neil
Ormos
N9NL
William
Riess
KW9WR
John
Schofield
AC9JS
For license upgrades, the information was in the FCC ULS System on Thursday, 04-11-24. For new licenses, the information was in the FCC ULS System on Saturday, 04-11-24. The delay was due to the inability of the FCC ULS System to accept the new information.
Next examination date: May 4, 2024
Nets:
Don needs Net Control operators, especially on Tuesday. Rob: “this would be good practice for getting Callsigns”.
Radio Hill Gazette (RHG):
Mike K9KMV: Not present.
Special Events:
Volunteers and materials in place for STEM fair on May 2. Leo requested and received a corner table.
Membership:
Scott DeSantis KB9VRW: No report.
Publicity:
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK:
Traffic continues to build on the SARC Facebook page. Roberto (WA9E) is the most frequent contributor. Posts to the site drive visits, and site visits lead to engagement. While anyone can view the site, posting is restricted to SARC members in good standing, within the guidelines presented in the SARC Charter. Enrollment can be requested thru John Script N9IJS or Dennis Calvey (KD9HIK@gmail.com)
Saturday April 20th will provide two opportunities for SARC members to get involved in Amateur radio activities:
John Zietlow (K9WIC) will be holding a planning meeting from 09:00 AM to 12:000 Noon at the Hoffman Estates Police Department for the May 5th Chicagoland Marathon. We need more operators to provide the level of coverage we have provided in the past. Please contact John at zietlow@comcast.net if you’re interested in volunteering. PLEASE NOTE: Participation is coordinated with the Village of Schaumburg, not the event organizers. SARC benefits from a close relationship with the Village – this is a great way to reinforce that relationship.
Don Dewar (KD9NJR) is coordinating support of the Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) at the Mount Prospect Emergency Management Expo. The expo will be held at Mount Prospect Fire Station 14, 2000 E. Kensington Road in Mt. Prospect, and will run from 10:00AM (09:00 AM setup) until 2:00 PM. Please contact Don at kd9njr@yahoo.com for more information.
Thursday May 2nd, Leo Ribordy (N9NBH) is coordinating SARC’s participation in a Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Expo at Anne Fox Elementary School in Hanover Park.
Anne Fox School is in School District 54, with a student population of about 325 students, Kindergarten thru 6th grade.
Leo, Daryl Jenks (KB9RHR), Bill Riess (KW9WR), Robert Benwitz (N9JAX) and myself will be setting up demonstrations of QRP operation, Raspberry Pi, FT8 and local repeater operations.
Leo has arranged to get free promotional materials from the ARRL, and I’ll be handing out copies of QST and CQ magazines.
Right now it looks like we’ve got sufficient representation, but we welcome any suggestions for additional activities.
Social: Chair open
Education:
Leo Ribordy N9NBH: No report
Programs:
Old Business:
none
New Business:
Danny Kafka KD9HIL
Field Day
Permit application submitted April 16.
We have our 2nd tower climber (Jorge), with thanks to Paul for describing what this entails)
Robert RKK will be SSB tent captain
Daryl will provide a 2nd generator and donate a laptop.
Leo, John VZJ and Daryl will transport tables and chairs.
Adjourn: 7:40 PM
Program:
Don KD9NJR presented information about Skywarn, especially when and when not to report storm conditions.
Posted April 23, 2024 as transcribed from KD9HIL notes.
Robert Kocourek W9RKK called the meeting to order at 7:00PM
Attendees
Robert Kocourek W9RKK
John Shofield AC9JS
Daryl Jenks KB9RHR
Danny Kafka KD9HIL
Paul Burkett KD9FMN
Bob Benwitz N9JAX
Cliff Sowka K9QD
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK
Visitation held for Long-Time SARC Member Bob Langsfeld WB9TZC (SK) was well attended by fellow SARC members. We will miss him.
Secretary’s Report
Cliff Sowka K9QD: April BOD Meeting Minutes as published in the RHG: Bob Benwitz N9JAX moved to approve and seconded by Danny Kafka KD9HIL. Motion Adopted.
Treasurer’s Report:
Chris Brewer AC9GN not present.
Public Service
Rob Glowacki N9MVO not present.
EMCOMM
John Zietlow K9WIC not present.
Repeaters
Rob Glowacki N9MVO, Terry Jarnholm AE9TJ not present.
Robert Kocourek W9RKK continues work to establish an operation manual for our machines with assistance from the Repeater Team and Kent Ochs W9KAO.
Construction Project (CP)
Cliff Sowka K9QD reports CP is on summer hiatus and will return in September.
VE Testing:
John Schofield AC9JS reports there are two (2) candidates for Saturday. John will need one more VE to conduct the session else he will postpone until June.
Nets
Attendance remains enthusiastic. Need Net Control volunteer to host on Tuesdays.
Radio Hill Gazette RHG
Mike K9KMV No Report.
Membership
Scott DeSantis KB9VRW Membership Committee Chairman not present.
Publicity
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK Publicity Chairman reports the following:
Village of Schaumburg told John Zietlow (k9WIC) that the Village would not be utilizing volunteer Radio Operators at the Chicagoland Marathon. I’ll be calling the Village of Schaumburg to find out more.
Don Dewar (KD9NJR) coordinated support of the Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) at the Mount Prospect Emergency Management Expo. The expo was held at Mount Prospect Fire Station 14, 2000 E. Kensington Road in Mt. Prospect. Several SARC members provided support.
Thursday May 2nd, Leo Ribordy (N9NBH) will be coordinating SARC’s participation in a Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Expo at Anne Fox Elementary School in Hanover Park.
Anne Fox School is in School District 54, with a student population of about 325 students, Kindergarten thru 6th grade. Leo, Daryl Jenks (KB9RHR), Robert Benwitz (N9JAX) and myself will be setting up demonstrations of QRP operation, Raspberry Pi, FT8 and local repeater operations. Leo has arranged to get free promotional materials from the ARRL, and I’ll be handing out copies of QST and CQ magazines.
Bill Riess (KW9WR) and Don Dewar (KD9NJR) are in transit to Omaha NE with the Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network to provide materials and assistance in the disaster area.
Preparation work for Field Day publicity is under way.
Club Website requires update with current officers and board members.
Social
Need Chairperson.
Education
Leo N9NBH not present. There is currently no answer from the Library regarding fall classroom availability for us.
Programs
Don Dewar KD9NJR: Need program ideas and membership presenter support.
New Business
Danny Kafka KD9HIL continues to fill gaps for Field Day; several roles undetermined at the moment.
Paul Burkett KD9FMN moved to approve $1K headroom for meals over the three days. Bob Benwitz K9JAX seconded. Motion Adopted.
BOD approved the Field Day expense estimates as follows:
Friday Afternoon set-up: $300
Saturday Dinner: $600
Sunday Dawn: $100
Friday: Will have rather extravagant foodstuffs (who said hams don’t like food?) such as pizza available to those who help us set-up the site starting ~4PM. A $5 donation is requested to help offset the uncalled-for expense but we’ve heard such high praise and observed high attendance for this set-up effort that we’re doing it again this year.
Need to decide if Lou Malnatis, Garibaldi’s or other suggestions.
Saturday Field Day placed on SARC calendar: (for June 22-23) April 5
Insurance documents received from Treasurer (Chris AC9GN) April 10
Site application submitted April 16.
ARTICLE for website requested April 18.
Promotional Materials for Welcome Desk.
TAKE INVENTORY of supplies and equipment
STATION RESERVATION SCHEDULES
STATIONS / TENT CAPTAINS
CW Bob: W9DXR
Single Side Band: Robert W9RKK (with computer donated by Daryl)
VHF/UHF: ___________________
GOTA: ___________________
GENERATORS will be supplied by Rob N9MVO and Daryl KB9RHR
FURNITURE TRANSPORT: Tables and chairs from/to Tennis Club
SETUP: John KD9VZJ, Daryl KB9RHR
TEARDOWN: Leo N9NBH, Daryl, John T, Paul KD9FMN, Jorge W9TMX, need a few others to help
TOWER CLIMBERS Friday Set-up: Paul KD9FMN, Jorge W9TMX
SAFETY OFFICER : Dennis KD9HIK
FOOD / MEALS
FRIDAY setup Pizza, Water, Ice, Snacks
_______________
_______________
SATURDAY
________________
________________
SUNDAY breakfast coordinator: Cliff K9QD
Frank Giampa N9QPD SK Memorial Buttermilk Pancakes
Not sure yet about Hotel Bacon, Sauuuusage, Hash Browns, Scrambled eggs, OE, OM, OH, real orange juice, and real Maple Syrup, surely we have enough budget headroom for pancakes.
Frank always made the best pancakes and I begged him to teach me how to do it. He did!
We’ll enjoy Frank’s secret recipe on Sunday morning once again.
BTW: Breakfast starts when the birds start singing and breakfast is usually over as the sun just comes up over Lake Michigan….in other words:
7AM is too late.
ICE / ICE CHESTS / WATER
________________
________________
PUBLIC INFORMATION TABLE: Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK
EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITY Fox Hunt: Jim KB9RGU
MSSAGE ORIGINATION to ARRL Section Manager
MESSAGE HANDLING _____________________
W1AW BULLETIN Rob N9MVO
ADDITIONAL/SPECIAL EVENTS
Robert Zuttermeister W9GEW
TEARDOWN / CLEANUP vacuum cleaner
cleaning and bathroom supplies
REVIEW SITE AND LOCK
SUBMIT FD RESULTS TO ARRL
John Schofield AC9JS has been providing SARC informational materials after his VE sessions and wishes to have printing budget to enhance the offerings.
Moved to approve $60 budget for VE team expenses. Danny KD9HIL seconded. Motion Adopted.
Discussion regarding Annual Dues. As new Hams obtain their FCC Licenses and consider joining SARC, John notes there is some consternation regarding our cyclical renewal date of June 30. John suggested SARC offer Complimentary Membership until the nearest Renewal Date. Paul Burkett KD9FMN ponders a possible solution.
For example, a new member joins in May. This new member will enjoy Complimentary Membership for ~2 months and added to SARC-ALL immediately. Therefore will not incur a ~$60 expense for a 14-month duration.
For example, a new member joins in July. This new member will enjoy Complimentary Membership for ~11 months and added to SARC-ALL immediately. Therefore will only incur first Dues expense the following June.
Paul Burkett KD9FMN agreed and BOD tabled discussion for our next Business Meeting.
Daryl Jenks KB9RHR will assist to organize Scouts JOTA this coming October 19th but he will be traveling that month. Therefore suggests we find another SARC Member who can coordinate local Scout Leadership.
Don Dewar KD9NJR President called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.
Attendees:
Robert Kocourek W9RKK
John Douglas KD9KSH
Don Dewar KD9NJR
Bob McIntyre W9DXR
Paul Burkett KD9FMN
Mariusz Szpryngacz AD9DU
Steve Epstein WA9FZB
Danny Meyers K9LDM
Alex Suptela W2DNA
Danny Kafka KD9HIL
Joe Barela KB9RCR
Guy Stanek KE9AIA
Rob Glowacki N9MVO
Daryl Jenks KB9RHR
Kent Ochs W9KAO
Howard Mitchell KD9WSV
Chris Brewer AC9GN
Cliff Sowka K9QD
ZOOM Virtual Attendees:
Scott KB9VRW
Charlene Treve K9CMZ
Bill KD9RGX
John KD9VDJ
Steve AC9EM
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK
Jim Campbell KB9RGU
Dave N9IBM
Leo N9NBH
Secretary’s Report:
Cliff Sowka K9QD: April Meeting Minutes as published in the RHG: John Douglas KD9KSH moved to approve and Danny Meyers K9LDM seconded. Motion Adopted.
Treasurer’s Report
Chris Brewer AC9GN reported:
Month:April 2024 – Report generated on 4/6/2024
Checkbook Balance03/31/24
$6,821.61
INCOME
MEMO
$55.00
Cash
04/15/24
$25.00 Dues
Cash
04/22/24
$30.00 Dues
DISBURSEMENTS
MEMO
$262.82
ACH
04/08/24
$62.82 AT&T DSL
ACH
04/09/24
$200.00 Club insurance
Account Balance
$6,613.79
04/30/24
Bank Statement
$6,613.79
CHECKS OUTSTANDING MEMO $958.00
Check #1292 03/09/24 $958.00 Holiday party reimbursement
ADJUSTED BALANCE$5,655.79
Petty Cash04/30/24 $100.00
Funds Available$5,755.79
120 members on roster
Robert Kocourek W9RKK moved to approve and Rob Glowacki N9MVO seconded. Motion Adopted.
Public Service
Rob Glowacki N9MVO: MS Walk at Harper College held on May 5 was successful with some effort required to re-install several course signs that were knocked-down during the storm the night beforehand. Eleven (11) SARC members supported the event and forty-four (44) person hours were contributed.
Hoffman Estates Fourth of July Parade will be supported again this year and planning will begin a few weeks ahead of the event.
EMCOMM:
No report.
Repeaters:
Rob N9MVO addressed the reoccurring static observed on the 2M machine. Much discussion about possible cause and detailed analysis that should be undertaken to determine the trouble. The existing antenna is more than 20-years old and may require replacement (~$1K+). Else there may be compromised feed line underground and up to the top of the tank. Analysis will require professional equipment and skill because Kent W9KAO reminded our Station Master Antenna is DC grounded at the tank top. If the antenna is at fault, we’ll need to climb the tank to determine what termination is in place so we’re able to procure the correct antenna model.
Construction Project (CP)
Cliff Sowka K9QD: Construction Project is on hiatus until the fall. I’ll be watching for a table-mount vice while shopping at the many Hamfests this summer to complete our build-capabilities enhancement.
VE Testing
John Schofield AC9JS reports VE Tests Results:
May 4, 2024
Name
Call
Class
Kirk
KD9ZDT
General
Gerald
KD9YGI
Amateur Extra
Class
Technician
0
General
1
Extra
1
Total
2
Participating Volunteer Examiners (VEs):
Bill
Davies
K9WKD
Neil
Ormos
N9NL
John
Schofield
AC9JS
For some reason the entering of the information into the FCC ULS system was delayed until Friday, 5-10-24. Since these were upgrades to the present licenses, the updates were almost immediate.
Since issuing an email to the club asking for volunteers to be VEs, I have received 5 responses from members to help.
Next examination date: June 1, 2024
John Schofield
Session Manager
AC9JS
Nets:
Don Dewar KD9NJR: Nets are busy. Sure would be good if we could have alternate control operators once in a while.
Radio Hill Gazette (RHG):
No Report
Special Events: Dennis C. Calvey posted the following report on our website.
Leo Ribordy N9NBH SARC Education Chair organized participation in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) Night at Anne Fox Elementary School in Hanover Park on Thursday May 2nd.
Daryl Jenks (KB9RHR), Robert Benwitz (N9JAX), SARC Board Member, Bill Riess (KW9WR) SARC Board Member, and Dennis Calvey (KD9HIK), SARC Publicity Chair were present with a radio display. Our setup included a large supply of hand out literature, giveaway pens, a 32” monitor running a slide show about Amateur Radio, two base stations with antennas, and a couple of straight keys connected to buzzers.
The event was staged in several school hallways and the gym. SARC was assigned a tabletop in the gym.
Leo and Daryl had brought radios and antennas for demonstrations, but it was quickly determined that all we could get was noise. HT’s were able to hit the SARC repeaters with difficulty.
Tough RF conditions – LED ceiling lights, built up steel deck roof, interior cinder block walls, no way to get an antenna outside, and to make matters worse, a storm outside and a Van de Graf generator demonstration about 25 feet away.
So, while we couldn’t use the radios, we were able to talk about them, and stuff that HAMs do on the air.
The big hit for SARC was Robert’s Morse Code demonstration. Almost every kid that saw his straight keys asked what they were and that’s all it took. He gave a brief history of Morse Code (The Original Text Messaging!), and then wrote their name, with the letters arranged vertically, on a piece of paper. Then he showed them the classic dots and dashes for each letter. A quick lesson with the key, and then he had them send their name. They walked away with a souvenir – their name written in Morse Code – and the parents got a bunch of literature.
Membership:
Scott DeSantis KB9VRW: No report.
Publicity:
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK: Successful STEM display (see above).
Social: Chair open
Education:
Leo Ribordy N9NBH: No report.
Programs:
Don Dewar KD9NJR: Tonight’s program is Field Day Planning as directed by Danny Kafka KD9HIL.
Old Business:
Pierre K9EYE suggested we could enhance SARC-in-the-Park activity by participating in POTA at designated sites such as Pate Philips in Bartlett or Moraine Hills.
Robert W9RKK suggested we begin supporting Danny’s Kd9HIL Field Day planning in earnest. Items that require lead time such as Public Works site permit, insurance rider, tent captains, climbers, and support equipment.
Steve Karson AC9EM moved we continue with the Plum Grove Public Works site for Field Day again this year. Leo Ribordy N9NBH seconded the idea. Group tonight agrees.
John Thornton KD9VZI wishes to know if SARC t-shirts could be available or if we could organize procurement for interested members.
Charlene K9CMZ discussed ARRL supported proposed laws protecting Hams from local rules and ordinances forbidding radio equipment at their home.
New Business:
Danny Kafka KD9HIL SARC Vice President and Field Day (FD) Chair provided and update for FD planning.
GOTA tent is now staffed, our Welcome Tent should be ready, and we’ll take inventory on Friday afternoon set-up to determine any shortages. For example, one of our storage bins (21 Gal) suffered damage and needs replacement. We think there may be a ‘deck box’ available to help us avoid expense of a new purchase. Our large canopy cover uses elastic ball bungee hold-downs…..damaged during last summer’s storm and we’ll need about 12 replacements.
Head-count will be needed for the three (3) f’n food events (Friday set-up, Saturday dinner, Sunday breakfast) so Danny will send SARC-ALL to ascertain anticipated attendee head-count for each event.
Danny plans to use the same catering service as last year for Saturday. Sunday breakfast may be as simple as a few egg-muffins from the local 24-hour McD’s because not many folks want to work through the night.
Extra points offered for NTS traffic: ARRL Section Manager Contact details and ability to make a connection requires confirmation beforehand.
Howard Mitchell KD9WSV observed there are many new members who haven’t experienced FD, have no vision of how to assist/participate, and he has offered to send SARC-ALL to gather some Elmer’ing talent to help us enlist help we’ll need for FD.
Robert Kocourek W9RKK called the meeting to order at 7:00PM
Attendees
Robert Kocourek W9RKK
Bill Reiss KW9WR
John Douglas KD9KSH
Danny Kafka KD9HIL
Paul Burkett KD9FMN
Bob Benwitz N9JAX
Cliff Sowka K9QD
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK
Secretary’s Report
Cliff Sowka K9QD: May BOD Meeting Minutes as published in the RHG: Paul Burkett KD9FMN moved to approve and seconded by Bill Reiss KW9WR. Motion Adopted.
Treasurer’s Report:
Chris Brewer AC9GN not present.
Public Service
Rob Glowacki N9MVO not present. Rob has provided advance notice on SARC-ALL regarding Hoffman Estates Fourth of July plans:
There is a radioactivity event on Thursday, July 4 in Hoffman Estates.
As in many previous years, the Schaumburg Amateur Radio Club is requested to organize the parade this year. So, at 7:30 AM, we will meet at Illinois Ave and Paris Lane, a couple blocks north of Schaumburg Road to get our location assignments.
The parade will be on Illinois Ave. this year, as in some previous years. The task requires a few blocks of walking. Each operator is given a list of the parade units to be located on his block, and what address each unit is planned to be staged. You will also be given a map of the area to indicate the addresses. And if I could figure out how to get this thing to include a map I could edit I could draw in the areas where we will be staging units and show the parade route.
Prior to the start of the parade at 9:00 AM, we ensure that the units are in place. Then at the start of the parade, we direct our units out to the parade route, in order. Parade units line up on Payson St. and Paris, Newark, Norridge, and Morgan lanes. The Reviewing stand is near Illinois and Evanston street.
We need to report to the reviewing stand any units that are missing, or if there is a conflict between units (like two adjacent units playing music) so we can get permission to change the order of those units. Of course, some units arrive late, so we get to try to insert them into the parade where they belong, and tell the reviewing stand when they are appearing in the parade if we can’t get them in order.
This year, the person I used to work with in getting information has moved on to another job, so we may have some documentation problems. (The new people have not yet verified the IHOP breakfast as has been traditional).
At the appointed time, we direct units in order onto the streets leading to Paris Lane, from which they will turn into Illinois Blvd for the parade.
It makes for a lot of fun, with a little work, mostly walking and checking unit numbers, and communicating by radio.
If you have not done a Public Service event before, this is a good one to start on.
All you need is an HT with the EMCOMM channels programmed into it, a hat and maybe sunscreen for protection from solar energy, and probably a bottle of water or two, if the weather is hot. A clipboard for holding the list of units can be helpful. We have some yellow safety vests for the club, but if you have one of your own, bring it.
Communications distance (as the radio wave travels) is about a mile, so no repeater is necessary. We will use EMCOMM 4 (147.420 MHz Simplex) as the normal operating frequency, with EMCOMM 5 (146.490 MHz Simplex) as a backup.
We need at least 10 operators to support the parade.
If you are willing to assist, please let me know. If we have more volunteers, we can double up on some blocks, so you won’t have to walk as far.
Thanks and 73 de N9MVO,
Rob Glowacki Public Service Chair
Schaumburg Amateur Radio Club
EMCOMM
No Report.
Repeaters
Rob Glowacki N9MVO, Terry Jarnholm AE9TJ not present.
Robert Kocourek W9RKK continues work to establish an operation manual for our machines with assistance from the Repeater Team and Kent Ochs W9KAO.
Construction Project (CP)
Cliff Sowka K9QD reports CP is on summer hiatus and will return in September.
VE Testing:John Schofield AC9JS reports results for june1, 2024
Name
Call
Class
Neil
KE9ATK
Technician
Scott
KB9LCD
General
Julianna
KE9ATL
Technician
Chase
KE9ATM
Technician
Class
Technician
3
General
1
Extra
0
Total
4
Participating Volunteer Examiners (VEs):
Joe
Barela
KB9RCR
Bill
Davies
K9WKD
Bill
Riess
KW9WR
John
Schofield
AC9JS
Mariusz
Szpryngacz
AD9DU
Kevin
Willard
KB9QYX
Jon
Wit
KD9WNL
Four of our new VEs, all SARC members, assisted in this session, which was greatly appreciated.
Next examination date: July 6, 2024
John Schofield
Session Manager
AC9JS
Nets
Attendance remains enthusiastic. Need Net Control volunteer to host on Tuesdays.
Radio Hill Gazette RHG
Need Editor. No Report.
Membership
Scott DeSantis KB9VRW Membership Committee Chairman not present.
Publicity
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK Publicity Chairman reports the following:
1) Added SARC to ARRL Field Day Website. Other publicity getting ready for release.
2) Email from Tracy Raimondo – Village of Schaumburg does not have events coming up that would require participation from SARC.
Social
Need Chairperson.
Education
Leo N9NBH not present. There is currently no answer from the Library regarding fall classroom availability for us.
Programs
Don Dewar KD9NJR: Need program ideas and membership presenter support.
Old Business
John Shofield AC9JS has been providing SARC informational materials after his VE sessions and wishes to have printing budget to enhance the offerings.
Moved to approve $60 budget for VE team expenses. Danny KD9HIL seconded. Motion Adopted.
Discussion regarding Annual Dues. As new Hams obtain their FCC Licenses and consider joining SARC, John notes there is some consternation regarding our cyclical renewal date of June 30. John suggested SARC offer Complimentary Membership until the nearest Renewal Date. Paul Burkett KD9FMN ponders a possible solution.
For example, a new member joins in May. This new member will enjoy Complimentary Membership for ~2 months and added to SARC-ALL immediately. Therefore will not incur a ~$60 expense for a 14-month duration.
For example, a new member joins in July. This new member will enjoy Complimentary Membership for ~11 months and added to SARC-ALL immediately. Therefore will only incur first Dues expense the following June.
Paul Burkett KD9FMN agreed and BOD tabled discussion for our next Business Meeting.
Daryl Jenks KB9RHR will assist to organize Scouts JOTA this coming October 19th but he will be traveling that month. Therefore suggests we find another SARC Member who can coordinate local Scout Leadership.
New Business
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK proposed New Business Topics:
A) Should we show up at the “Coffee with the Council Meeting”?
B) During hybrid SARC Business Meetings, remote participants can’t see board members behind the camera, and can’t clearly hear speakers. Is it possible to add another camera and / or a remote microphone?
C) DX Engineering Zoom Webinars during Club Meetings
D) A couple of members have suggested purchasing EVOLVE laptop computers. They could be used for logging during Field Day, connected to transceivers for Digital Modes, training. Cost about $90.00 +tax. Daryl (KD9RHR) and Scott (KB9VRW) both suggest adding a solid state hard drive.
SARC Website needs updates to outdated Club Officer List.
Field Day:
Danny Kafka KD9HIL continues to fill gaps for Field Day; several roles undetermined at the moment.
Don Dewar KD9NJR President called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.
Attendees:
Robert Kocourek W9RKK
Danny Meyers K9LDM
Don Dewar KD9NJR
Bob McIntyre W9DXR
Paul Burkett KD9FMN
Mariusz Szpryngacz AD9DU
Steve Epstein WA9FZB
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK
Alex Suptela W2DNA
Danny Kafka KD9HIL
Joe Barela KB9RCR
Guy Stanek KE9AIA
Rob Glowacki N9MVO
John Schofield AC9JS
Daryl Jenks KB9RHR
Howard Mitchell KD9WSV
Chris Brewer AC9GN
Cliff Sowka K9QD
Bill Reiss KW9WR
Terry Jarnholm AE9TJ
Kirk Musselman K9MSG
Roberto Beltramelli WA9E
Jorge Carrillo W9TMX
Charlene Treve K9CMZ
Gary Bernstein N9VU
Jim Campbell KB9RGU
Paul Bocci K9NO
ZOOM Virtual Attendees:
Scott DeSantis KB9VRW
Pierre Berube K9EYE
John KD9VZJ
Rick Dickens KY0Q
Secretary’s Report:
Cliff Sowka K9QD: May Meeting Minutes as published in the RHG: Danny Kafka KD9HIL moved to approve and Guy Stanek KE9AIA seconded. Motion Adopted.
Treasurer’s Report
Chris Brewer AC9GN reported:
SCHAUMBURG AMATEUR RADIO CLUB MONTHLY REPORT
Month:May 2024 Report generated on 5/19/2024
CheckbookBalance
04/30/24
$6,613.79
INCOME
MEMO
$80.00
Cash
05/16/24
$25.00 Dues
Cash
05/23/24
$25.00 Dues
Cash
05/31/24
$30.00 Dues
DISBURSEMENTS
ACH
05/08/24
MEMO
$62.82 AT&T DSL
$142.33
Check #1295
05/23/24
$79.51 Zoom subscription
Account Balance
$6,551.46
05/31/24
Bank Statement
$6,551.46
Dues to be deposited
MEMO
$80.00
ADJUSTED BALANCE
$6,631.46
Petty Cash
05/31/24
$100.00
Funds Available$6,731.46
127 members on roster
Rob Glowacki N9MVO moved to approve and Danny KD9HIL seconded. Motion Adopted.
Public Service
Rob Glowacki N9MVO: Hoffman Estates (HE) Fourth of July Parade will be supported by SARC again this year. HE Management will host breakfast at IHOP on Barrington Road and the Tollway 6AM. Assemble at Paris and Illinois Ave 7:30AM for route assignment if skipped the breakfast meeting.
EMCOMM:
No report.
Repeaters:
Rob N9MVO no report.
Construction Project (CP)
Cliff Sowka K9QD:
On hiatus until the fall.
VE Testing
John Schofield AC9JS no report
Nets:
Don Dewar KD9NJR: Nets are busy. Sure would be good if we could have alternate control operators once in a while. Ker-Chunk abuse is unfortunate and we’re asking members to utilize *850 Parrot Mode to confirm solid copy instead.
Radio Hill Gazette (RHG):
No Report
Special Events: Dennis C. Calvey no report.
Membership:
Scott DeSantis KB9VRW: No report.
Publicity:
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK: SARC Field Day plans published.
Social: Chair open
Education:
Leo Ribordy N9NBH: No report.
Programs:
Don Dewar KD9NJR: Tonight’s program is Field Day Planning
Old Business:
None
New Business:
Danny Kafka KD9HIL SARC Vice President and Field Day (FD) Chair provided and update for FD planning.
It was determined transport for tables/chairs Friday and Sunday may require us to rent a truck. Scott KB9VRW and Don KD9NJR talked about the possibility of utilizing Salvation Army’s equipment. Arranged to have a truck available for transport both days.
Rob N9MVO will bring 6M Squalo and Gary N9VU will bring HF rig.
Chris Brewer announced availability of a large storage bin that is 5’x2’x27”.
Robert Kocourek W9RKK Chairman called the meeting to order at 7:00PM
Attendees
Robert Kocourek W9RKK
Don Dewar KD9NJR
Chris Brewer AC9GN
Danny Kafka KD9HIL
Paul Burkett KD9FMN
Bob Benwitz N9JAX
Cliff Sowka K9QD
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK
John Schofield AC9JS
Bob Benwitz N9JAX
Secretary’s Report
Cliff Sowka K9QD: Jun BOD Meeting Minutes as published in the RHG: Paul Burkett KD9FMN moved to approve and seconded by John Schofield AC9JS. Motion Adopted.
Treasurer’s Report:
Chris Brewer AC9GN reports DRAFT (some Field Day expenses/income as well as petty cash will be provided shortly):
SCHAUMBURG AMATEUR RADIO CLUB MONTHLY REPORT
Month:
June 2024
Report generated on 6/2/2024
Checkbook Balance
05/30/24
$6,551.46
INCOME
06/xx/24
MEMO
$915.00
20 Zelle deposits
$580.00 Dues (summarized)
Cash
06/10/24
$100.00 Dues
Teller deposit
06/18/24
$25.00 Dues
Cash
06/27/24
$210.00 Dues
DISBURSEMENTS
06/10/24
MEMO
$62.82
ACH
$62.82 AT&T DSL
Account Balance
$7,403.64
06/30/24
Bank Statement
$7,403.64
Petty Cash
06/30/24
$100.00
Funds Available
$7,503.64
57 members on roster
Public Service
Rob Glowacki N9MVO not present. Rob has provided advance notice on SARC-ALL regarding Hoffman Estates Fourth of July plans:
There is a radioactivity event on Thursday, July 4 in Hoffman Estates.
As in many previous years, the Schaumburg Amateur Radio Club is requested to organize the parade this year. So, at 7:30 AM, we will meet at Illinois Ave and Paris Lane, a couple blocks north of Schaumburg Road to get our location assignments.
The parade will be on Illinois Ave. this year, as in some previous years. The task requires a few blocks of walking. Each operator is given a list of the parade units to be located on his block, and what address each unit is planned to be staged. You will also be given a map of the area to indicate the addresses. And if I could figure out how to get this thing to include a map I could edit I could draw in the areas where we will be staging units and show the parade route.
Prior to the start of the parade at 9:00 AM, we ensure that the units are in place. Then at the start of the parade, we direct our units out to the parade route, in order. Parade units line up on Payson St. and Paris, Newark, Norridge, and Morgan lanes. The Reviewing stand is near Illinois and Evanston street.
We need to report to the reviewing stand any units that are missing, or if there is a conflict between units (like two adjacent units playing music) so we can get permission to change the order of those units. Of course, some units arrive late, so we get to try to insert them into the parade where they belong, and tell the reviewing stand when they are appearing in the parade if we can’t get them in order.
This year, the person I used to work with in getting information has moved on to another job, so we may have some documentation problems. (The new people have not yet verified the IHOP breakfast as has been traditional).
At the appointed time, we direct units in order onto the streets leading to Paris Lane, from which they will turn into Illinois Blvd for the parade.
It makes for a lot of fun, with a little work, mostly walking and checking unit numbers, and communicating by radio.
If you have not done a Public Service event before, this is a good one to start on.
All you need is an HT with the EMCOMM channels programmed into it, a hat and maybe sunscreen for protection from solar energy, and probably a bottle of water or two, if the weather is hot. A clipboard for holding the list of units can be helpful. We have some yellow safety vests for the club, but if you have one of your own, bring it.
Communications distance (as the radio wave travels) is about a mile, so no repeater is necessary. We will use EMCOMM 4 (147.420 MHz Simplex) as the normal operating frequency, with EMCOMM 5 (146.490 MHz Simplex) as a backup.
We need at least 10 operators to support the parade.
If you are willing to assist, please let me know. If we have more volunteers, we can double up on some blocks, so you won’t have to walk as far.
Thanks and 73 de N9MVO,
Rob GlowackiPublic Service Chair
Schaumburg Amateur Radio Club
EMCOMM
No Report.
Repeaters
Rob Glowacki N9MVO, Terry Jarnholm AE9TJ not present.
Robert Kocourek W9RKK continues work to establish an operation manual for our machines with assistance from the Repeater Team and Kent Ochs W9KAO.
Construction Project (CP)
Cliff Sowka K9QD reports CP is on summer hiatus. The elevator remains out of service but we’re expecting restoration before we resume CP meetings in late September. We have received a donation of a very clean Hallicrafters SX 122A with Xtal Cal Option and factory speaker. Stored in CP cabinets and ready for slow-bring-up when we return in September.
VE Testing:John Schofield AC9JS (W5YI tabulates John has hosted 117 sessions) reports next session is July 6th. Currently have 4 students registered.
Nets
Attendance remains enthusiastic. Need Net Control volunteer to host on Tuesdays.
Radio Hill Gazette RHG
Need Editor. No Report.
Membership
Scott DeSantis KB9VRW Membership Committee Chairman not present.
Publicity
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK Publicity Chairman reports the following:
Publicity he submitted to Daily Herald yielded ~10 visitors for our Field Day event.
Facebook activity is building strongly.
SARC will possibly support Schaumburg September Fest. Details shortly.
Social
Need Chairperson.
Education
Leo N9NBH not present. There is currently no answer from the Library regarding fall classroom availability for us.
Programs
Don Dewar KD9NJR: Need program ideas and membership presenter support. Next presentation will cover antennas.
Old Business
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK proposed New Business Topics:
A) Should we show up at the “Coffee with the Council Meeting”?
B) During hybrid SARC Business Meetings, remote participants can’t see board members behind the camera, and can’t clearly hear speakers. Is it possible to add another camera and/or a remote microphone?
C) DX Engineering Zoom Webinars during Club Meetings
D) A couple of members have suggested purchasing EVOLVE laptop computers. They could be used for logging during Field Day, connected to transceivers for Digital Modes, training. Cost about $90.00 +tax. Daryl (KD9RHR) and Scott (KB9VRW) both suggest adding a solid state hard drive.
SARC Website needs updates to our outdated Club Officer List.
Bruce Warrington W9EHA is SARC-BD admin
Field Day
Danny Kafka KD9HIL Vice President reports a successful Field Day this year.
Board of Directors thanked her for excellent organization and performance.
Entry received at: 2024-07-01 00:02:39 UTC
Submitted by: Danny Kafka, KD9HIL
Call Used: N9RJV GOTA Station Call: KD9FMN ARRL/RAC Section: IL Class: 2A
Participants: 77 Club/Group Name: Schaumburg Amateur Radio Club
Power Source(s): Generator, Solar
Power Multiplier: 2X Preliminary Total Score: 4,916
Bonus Points:
Bonus Points Status 100% emergency power 200
Media publicity 100 Documented by publicity.docx
Public information table 100
W1AW Field Day message 100 Documented by This is W1AW.docx
Natural power QSOs completed 100 Documented by N9RJV_2024 Emergency Power Contacts.txt Site visit by invited served agency 100
Educational activity 100
Safety officer 100 Documented by 1_91-FD Safety Officer SIGNED.pdf
Social media 100
GOTA Station 250
GOTA Coach 100
Entry submitted via web 50
Total bonus points 1,400
CW
Digital
Phone
Total
Total QSOs 653
62
328
Total Points 1306
124
328
1758
Claimed Score = 3,516
Band/Mode QSO Breakdown:
CW Digital Phone Band QSOs Pwr(W) QSOs Pwr(W) QSOs 160m
80m
40m 180 100
20m
457
100
276
100
15m
14
100
2
100
10m 6m 2m
222
2
100
62
100
432
Other Satellite
GOTA
50
100
Total
653
62
328
GOTA Station: GOTA Coach – 100 Bonus Points
Name
Call
QSOs
Bonus Points
Rob Glowacki
N9MVO
6
30
Kirk Musselman
K9MSG
41
205
Paul Burkett
KD9FMN
3
15
John Schofield AC9JS moved to authorize $100 purchase of replacement Welcome Tent (damaged during storm) and Paul Burkett KD9FMN seconded. Motion Adopted. Dennis KD9HIK will procure a replacement.
New Business
Paul Burkett KD9FMN moved to purchase a replacement Alps tent for Field Day at expense of $125 ($300 retail). John Schofield seconded. Motion Adopted.
Chris Brewer received PO Box Renewal and the Board authorized him to execute properly with annual fee.
Don Dewar KD9NJR President called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.
Attendees:
Robert Kocourek W9RKK
Danny Meyers K9LDM
Don Dewar KD9NJR
Bob McIntyre W9DXR
Paul Burkett KD9FMN
Mariusz Szpryngacz AD9DU
Steve Epstein WA9FZB
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK
Burch Seymour
Danny Kafka KD9HIL
Joe Barela KB9RCR
Guy Stanek KE9AIA
Rob Glowacki N9MVO
John Schofield AC9JS
Leo Ribordy N9NBH
Howard Mitchell KD9WSV
Chris Brewer AC9GN
Cliff Sowka K9QD
Charlene Treve K9CMZ
John Douglas KD9KSH
Chuck Gold KC9VO
Dave Carpenter W9VTD
Jim Campbell KB9RGU
Bill McGovern W9WEM
ZOOM Virtual Attendees:
Steve Karson AC9EM
Daryl Jenks KB9RHR
Secretary’s Report:
Cliff Sowka K9QD: June Meeting Minutes as published in the RHG: Danny Meyers K9LDM moved to approve and Robert Kocourek W9RKK seconded. Motion Adopted.
Treasurer’s Report
Chris Brewer AC9GN reported:
Month: June 2024 Report Generated on 6/17/2024
Checkbook Balance 05/30/24 $6,551.46
INCOME
20 Zelle deposits
06/xx/24
MEMO
$580.00 Dues (summarized)
$915.00
Cash
06/10/24
$100.00 Dues
Teller deposit
06/18/24
$25.00 Dues
Cash
06/27/24
$210.00 Dues
DISBURSEMENTS
ACH
06/10/24
MEMO
$62.82 AT&T DSL
$62.82
Account Balance
$7,403.64
06/30/24
Bank Statement
$7,403.64
Petty Cash
06/01/24
$100.00
From petty cash
06/21/24
-$36.00 Food tip
From petty cash
06/22/24
-$45.00 Food tip
Current
06/30/24
$19.00
Funds Available $7,422.64
76 members on roster w/ 5 more added tonight
Leo Ribordy N9NBH moved to approve and Danny Kafka KD9HIL seconded. Motion Adopted.
Public Service
Rob Glowacki N9MVO: Schaumburg Park District’s Triathlon is August 28th. Organizers haven’t informed their support requirements of SARC at the moment. If we’re called to help with this year’s event, we’ll be required to in position by 6AM.
Rob will publish updates to SARC-ALL as soon as information is known.
EMCOMM:
No report.
Repeaters:
Rob N9MVO no report.
Construction Project (CP)
Cliff Sowka K9QD: On hiatus until the fall.
VE Testing
John Schofield AC9JS reports: VE Tests Results for July 6, 2024
Name
Call
Class
David
KW9BAT
Technician
Benjamin
KE9BAU
Technician
Douglas
KE9BAP
Technician
Keith
KD9WDU
General
Class
Technician
3
General
1
Extra
0
Total
4
Participating Volunteer Examiners (VEs):
Joe
Barela
KB9RCR
Dave
Carpenter
W9VTD
Bill
Davies
K9WKD
Steve
Karson
AC9EM
Ed
Lishka
AC9SD
James
Migalla
KC9UFB
John
Schofield
AC9JS
Mariusz
Szpryngacz
AD9DU
Kevin
Willard
KB9QVX
This VE Testing session had 4 of our newer VEs assisting. They were very welcome!
Next examination date: August 3, 2024
Nets:
Don Dewar KD9NJR: No Report.
Radio Hill Gazette (RHG):
No Report
Special Events:
Dennis C. Calvey reports our FaceBook page has >150 followers. Remember only SARC Members are able to upload content.
Fox Hunt:
Jim Campbell KB9RGU Chairman: Next Hunt July 27th. Meet CRC 1:30PM with 2:00PM start.
Social: John Douglas KD9KSH Acting Chair
Summer Picnic August 18th
Once again SARC has reserved the Log Cabin in Bartlett for a summer picnic. This is the club’s reward to all members for their efforts to improve the Amateur Radio hobby and for fulfilling our obligations for the services we provide to the community and to amateur radio.
SARC has rented the log cabin in Bartlett for Sunday, August 18, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM so mark your calendars. The log cabin has air conditioning and indoor bathrooms to make our life easier if the weather does not cooperate.
The log cabin is located on the grounds of a park which has a great playground for children and adults alike. Sarc will also have radio related games and surprises for those who wish to participate and improve their knowledge of the hobby. The last time we held the summer picnic we had a fox hunt on the park grounds allowing those who had antennas made during a session of the construction project to put them to use in a competitive and informative way. This turned out to be a fun time for all. Those new to the club will enjoy a chance to sit down and talk with other members of the club who have a wealth of knowledge and are extremely happy to share it.
Keep watch for additional messages which will provide further information on this event and details of the location along with some of the activities planned.
If you wish to sign up right now, please send me an E-mail and I will place you on the list. The cabin has chairs and tables for approximately 45 to 50 people.
Membership: Scott DeSantis KB9VRW: No report.
Publicity:
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK: SARC’s Trusted Radio Operators for Village of Schaumburg will meet with management next week for Septemberfest support planning.
Social: Chair open
Education:
Leo Ribordy N9NBH: No report.
Programs:
Don Dewar KD9NJR: Tonight’s program is affordable antenna known as Hamstick Octopus as described in December 2007 QST ARRL article. Physical Demo of actual antenna tonight.
Old Business:
Danny Kafka KD9HIL SARC Vice President and Field Day (FD) Chair provided an update of FD planning.
It was determined transport for tables/chairs Friday and Sunday may require us to rent a truck. Scott KB9VRW and Don KD9NJR talked about the possibility of utilizing Salvation Army’s equipment. Arranged to have a truck available for transport both days.
Rob N9MVO will bring 6M Squalo and Gary N9VU will bring HF rig.
Chris Brewer announced availability of a large storage bin that is 5’x2’x27”.
Pierre K9EYE announced Sporadic E is opening up.
New Business:
Larry K9DUJ needs assistance for Dongle SDR radio and Chris Brewer AC9GN will send info.
Danny Meyers K9LDM is assisting with liquidation of Barrington resident who has father’s WWII radio equipment/vacuum tube in garage storage. Danny will update SARC-ALL as plans continue.
Chris Brewer AC9GN updated the Antique Radio Club Illinois flea market announcement at Shriners August 2nd-3rd
Robert Kocourek W9RKK Chairman called the meeting to order at 7:00PM
Attendees
Robert Kocourek W9RKK
Don Dewar KD9NJR
Chris Brewer AC9GN
Danny Kafka KD9HIL
Paul Burkett KD9FMN
Bill Reiss KW9WR
Cliff Sowka K9QD
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK
John Schofield AC9JS
John Douglas KD9KSH
Secretary’s Report
Cliff Sowka K9QD: July BOD Meeting Minutes as published in the RHG: John Schofield AC9JS moved to approve and seconded by Chris Brewer AC9GN. Motion Adopted.
Treasurer’s Report
Chris Brewer AC9GN reported:
MonthJuly 2024 Report generated on 7/8/2024
CheckbookBalance06/31/2024 $7,403.64
INCOME
12 Zelle deposits
07/xx/24
MEMO
$350.00 Dues (summarized)
$1,055.00
Teller deposit
07/01/24
$55.00 Dues
Teller deposit
07/01/24
$450.00 Dues
Teller deposit
07/22/24
$145.00 Dues
Teller deposit
07/24/17
$25.00 Dues
Transfer in
07/22/24
$30.00 Dues
DISBURSEMENTS
MEMO
$810.32
Zelle payment
07/03/24
$223.28 FD Pizza reimburse
ACH
07/10/24
$62.82 AT&T DSL
PPD check fee
07/23/24
$42.75 New checks
Check 1371
07/30/24
$281.47 FD food reimburse
Check 1372
07/30/24
$200.00 PO Box yearly pay
Account Balance
$7,648.32
07/31/24
Bank Statement
$7,648.32
Petty Cash
06/31/24
$19.00
Current
07/30/24
$19.00
FundsAvailable$7,667.32
83 members on roster
Public Service
Rob Glowacki N9MVO not present. Schaumburg Park District held annual Triathlon with the support of 12 of our SARC radio operators. 5:30AM Set-up, event management, and orderly closure was well conducted with no troublesome occurrences (other than some wet weather) observed.
EMCOMM
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK is our acting Chairman until someone may step-up to assume the role. There have been some membership inquiries regarding our Club’s insurance coverage while supporting governmental agencies, or even remote Parks-on-the-Air activities, so we’re checking with our broker to determine where our coverage limits. Cliff K9QD will inquire and report shortly.
Village of Schaumburg (VOS) informed Dennis that SARC members can register as Volunteers with the village’s website on-line application. Holding the Village Harmless is a condition (as expected) but there appears to be no longer a need for FBI Clearance, Credit Rating, Finger Prints, nor Annual Income disclosure as was required for the SARC Trusted Radio Operators supporting the Fire Department/EOC during our initial initiation several years ago.
Rob Glowacki N9MVO, Terry Jarnholm AE9TJ not present. Net Log-In etiquette seems to be in need of review. Several attendees are stepping on each other due to lack of following Net protocol:
Key-up (TX) with Call
Drop
Determine clearance for subsequent TX
Announce Call, name, location, with/ without traffic
Drop for the next person’s Log-in
There may be some additional calibration needed with the squelch tail, antenna noise can become bothersome at times, and professional services Duplexer/COAX/Antenna diagnosis at the 2M site is in order. If our Stationmaster on top of the tank on Barrington Road/Schaumburg Road is in need of replacement, our Treasury is happily capable to purchasing new equipment at the present time.
Robert Kocourek W9RKK continues work to establish an operation manual for our machines with assistance from the Repeater Team and Kent Ochs W9KAO.
Construction Project (CP)
Cliff Sowka K9QD reports CP is on summer hiatus. The elevator service is now restored. We return in September.
VE Testing:
John Schofield AC9JS reported 5 candidates attended our session and 4 have passed. Unfortunately one additional candidate arrived without proper FCC preparation and was unable to be admitted without documentation for this session.
Nets
Attendance remains enthusiastic. Don Dewar KD9NJR supported the successful NIGHT-OUT event. Net Log-In protocol was discussed (see above).
Radio Hill Gazette RHG
Need Editor. No Report.
Membership
Scott DeSantis KB9VRW Membership Committee Chairman not present.
Publicity
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK Publicity Chairman reports the following:
Facebook: SARC members in good standing can request membership on the site. It does not happen automatically. Current membership for the Facebook page has not been reviewed. I might be able to get to it in October or November. Frequent posts from enrolled members like Roberto (W9AE) and Robert (W9RKK). Currently about 123 followers not including members.
VoS (Village of Schaumburg) Emergency Radio Cache: Monday July 22nd, Leo Ribordy (N9NBH), Rob Glowacki (N9MVO) and myself returned equipment used during Field Day to the storage locker in the basement of the Schaumburg Police Station. (Photos attached). A notice posted on the front of the storage locker needs to be updated with current information. We looked for a list of SARC members that are credentialed volunteers with the Village, but couldn’t find one.
VoS Emergency Operations Center: Tuesday July 23rd, Don Dewar (KD9NJR), Cliff Sowka (K9QD) and myself met with VoS Emergency Management & Accreditation. We reviewed how SARC provides trained volunteers for served agencies, for various events including parades & festivals. VoS explained that the Village had decided to limit personnel for the Chicagoland Marathon because it was a for profit event, causing significant liability and cost exposure for the Village.
We also talked about Schaumburg Septemberfest (August 31st thru September 2nd at the Village Hall grounds). VoS felt the event planning was too far along to try to include SARC, but that we might be able to participate next year.
In a subsequent email, VoS thought we might be able to assist during the parade on Monday September 2nd, subject to review and approval by the Schaumburg Police Department. We don’t have confirmation from the Police Department yet, but could go to the Parade Route to check for deployment locations and radio connectivity.
In the same email, VoS did not have a separate list of SARC volunteers and that the Village HR Department requested that volunteers register through their website. A copy of the registration form was forwarded to SARC-BD. Please note that the Village requires volunteers to hold the Village harmless in the event of personal property damage or injury. It would be a good idea to check with our insurance broker about the extent of coverage provided by our policy for volunteer events and club events like POTA.
Schaumburg Park District Triathlon: After a number of attempts we were able to contact the Schaumburg Park District about providing support during the Triathlon. Waiting for a report from Rob Glowacki (N9MVO) for the names of the volunteers and the number of volunteer hours provided.
Schaumburg Township District Library, SARC Radio Classes: Leo Ribordy (N9NBH) finally found the right person to speak with at STDL regarding scheduling classes. Right now it looks like January 2025.
Social
Need Chairperson.
Education
Leo N9NBH not present. We found a Library contact and determined we may be able to restart our education activity in January (see above).
Programs
Don Dewar KD9NJR: Need program ideas and membership presenter support.
Old Business
Paul Burkett KD9FMN moved to purchase a replacement Alps tent for Field Day at expense of $125 ($300 retail). John Schofield seconded. Motion Adopted.
Chris Brewer received PO Box Renewal and the Board authorized him to execute properly with annual fee
New Business
Several members met with VOS Emergency Management & Accreditation to plan for possible support of Septemberfest. We held our meeting at the EOC and were also able to test our radio equipment in the radio room on the north side of the conference room before break for lunch with VOS management at Maxfield’s.
Cliff K9QD asked for Board reimbursement of $86 expense. Don Dewar KD9NJR moved to approve, Robert Kocourek W9RKK seconded. Motion Adopted.
The good news is SARC has many opportunities for radio-active participation through our numerous Committees.
However, a few recent Club events and activities have revealed some concern regarding an aura of less-than-favorable-engagement by some new members. While several new members have enthusiastically joined our various activities there seems to be a feeling of distancing from any new organizational suggestions.
Paul Burkett KD9FMN presented some recent membership correspondence to the Board. Much discussion ensued with a general acknowledgement that we can find many ways to improve the acceptance and engagement with these new ideas. Individual response will be initiated by Paul as we begin discovery of improvement.
SARC Picnic Bartlett Log Cabin August 18th:
14 members have reserved attendance at the moment. John Douglas KD9KSH is managing the event and notified the grills have been removed meaning that we’re not going to be able to cook our own burgers.
Cliff K9QD moved to budget $400 headroom for food purchase. Danny Kafka KD9HIL seconded. Motion Adopted.
Rob Glowacki N9MVO has an idea for a fun event during our picnic: A communication test.
You get a small assembly of Lego blocks of various colors and shapes. Others get a set of blocks of the same colors and shapes. Your mission: describe your assembly over the radio such that the listener(s) can assemble another set of blocks the same as yours.
Perhaps the activity is timed, and the ones who are able to duplicate the assembly, in the same shapes and colors in the shortest time can be awarded prizes. (or maybe the ones who are able to correctly construct the assembly can win. . .)
Now, the requirement is Lego blocks and HT’s. Most of us have an HT. We would need several sets of maybe 16 – 20 Lego blocks of assorted colors and sizes. I am thinking 1 x 2, 2 x 2, 3 x 2 and 4 x 2 blocks so they can be assembled into a simple 3D ‘sculpture’. 4 or 5 sets *might* be enough.
Does anyone have Lego blocks in a reasonable quantity to permit us to do this? I have heard grandkids sometimes use them.
Robert Kocourek W9RKK Chairman called the meeting to order at 7:00PM
Attendees
Robert Kocourek W9RKK
Don Dewar KD9NJR
Chris Brewer AC9GN
Danny Kafka KD9HIL
Paul Burkett KD9FMN
Bill Reiss KW9WR
Cliff Sowka K9QD
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK
John Schofield AC9JS
John Douglas KD9KSH
Bob Benwitz N9JAX
Secretary’s Report
Cliff Sowka K9QD: August BOD Meeting Minutes as published in the RHG: Bill Reiss KW9WR moved to approve and seconded by Paul Burkett KD9FMN. Motion Adopted.
Treasurer’s Report
Chris Brewer AC9GN reported:
Month:August 2024 Report generated on 9/3/2024
Checkbook Balance
07/31/24
$7,648.32
INCOME
2 Zelle deposits
08/xx/24
MEMO
$55.00 Dues (summarized)
$105.00
2 Teller deposits
08/xx/24
$50.00 Dues (summarized)
DISBURSEMENTS
ACH
08/08/24
MEMO
$62.82 AT&T DSL
$62.82
Account Balance
$7,690.50
08/31/24
Bank Statement
$7,690.50
PETTY CASH
08/31/24
$19.00 MEMO
$19.00
PENDING CHECKS
Check #1373
08/07/24
MEMO
$125.00 Club tent replacement
-$125.00
Funds Available
$7,584.50
88 members on roster
Danny Kafka KD9HIL moved to approve and seconded by John Schofield AC9JS. Motion adopted.
Public Service
Rob Glowacki N9MVO not present but provided the following report:
Schaumburg Park District held annual Triathlon with the support of our SARC radio operators. 5:30AM Set-up, event management, and orderly closure was well conducted with no troublesome occurrences (other than some wet weather) observed. Special thanks to toe volunteers for the Schaumburg Triathlon. The following members were involved in the event:
Charlene K9CMZ
Danny KD9HIL
Bill W9WEM
Bruce N9EHA
Matt KD9EBV
Sarah W9SEW
Cliff K9QD
Kent W9KAO
Kirk K9MSG
Paul KD9FMN
John KD9KSH
In all, including preparation time, there was approximately 51 man – hours of service for this event.
Special thanks to Charlene for providing support at the transition area at Meineke pool.
Thank you all for your support of the Triathlon.
73 de N9MVO,
Rob
EMCOMM
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK is our acting Chairman until someone may step-up to assume the role.
Schaumburg Septemberfest parade support on Labor Day
Our mission was to provide additional situational awareness (eyes and ears) for the event. Wearing high visibility safety vests added some deterrence value. We also wore small badges with “Schaumburg Amateur Radio Club” and a QR code that directs to the club website (N9RJV.org).
We provided 13 volunteers to assist the Village of Schaumburg at the Septemberfest Parade and contributed over 93 hours of volunteer time, including pre-event preparation and event operator hours. Additional operators participated from their home stations.
Howard Mitchell [KD9WSV, “Shadow”] has submitted an ICS 214 Form for the Command Center. Don Dewar [KD9NJR, “Net Control”] maintained a manual log which will be kept with other event records.
One of the pre-event tasks was checking radio communication between designated operator sites, Net Control Don Dewar, KD9NJR, at Summit & Weathersfield), and Shadow Howard Mitchell, KD9WSV at the Event Command Center. Testing by Don, Howard, Rob Glowacki N9MVO and myself KD9HIK determined that the best profile was operating Simplex, so we used SARC 4 as primary with SARC 5 as back up. Communication worked as expected during the event, but occasionally noise from parade participants led to having to make repeated calls from Net Control to operator locations.
One of the original criteria for operator locations was trying to keep them within visual range of each other. Crowds on the sidewalk, parkway, and in the street made that all but impossible.
The Village Hall will be demolished sometime before next year’s Septemberfest. The construction area will force significant changes to the Festival Area, parking and street closures and possibly the Parade route.
There may be an opportunity for additional participation during the entire event next year and possibly an opportunity to have a SARC booth in the festival area.
Please Note: SARC Club membership is required to volunteer as part of SARC at Public Service Events. Volunteer registration with the Village of Schaumburg is required to volunteer at Village events.
(A number of SARC members have started the volunteer registration process, including being fingerprinted. More volunteers are needed. Please contact me by email if you are interested.)
After event interviews with operators provided suggestions for improvement:
This year we entered the planning process late. Next year we hope to be involved earlier.
Access to parking near assigned stations was difficult because of street closures. Suggested changes include getting to the assigned areas earlier and seeing if golf cart transportation might be available.
Parking in the Vendor / Craft area or volunteer area may or may not be available. If available this only helps those assigned to the north end of the parade route or in the festival grounds.
More detailed maps of access routes are needed.
Some operator locations should be staffed with more than one operator. Limiting factor: Number of volunteer operators.
Tom O’Boyle (N9GUN) shared his experiences doing similar events with other amateur radio clubs:
Possible issues to report
Health issues — A person falls, becomes ill, collapses
Safety issues — Crowd disturbance, fighting, people blocking the street, climbing on equipment
Call into net control, identify the issue and location, follow net control’s lead
Communicate with law enforcement personnel in the area
Dial 911 on your cell if needed
Part of the reason we do these events is to assist the Village and give back to our community and provide value for the use of the spectrum. The other reason is a marketing/branding exercise to show who we are, what we do, and create awareness for ham radio and our club.
It is my opinion that we need to be sure we are approachable, friendly, and open to answer any questions we can. Because I had a yellow vest and was standing there, I was asked by quite a few folks about locations of portable toilets, can they stand/setup in certain areas, and when is the parade starting and ending. I directed some of the questions about setting up to the police office at the corner. I answered the other questions and made sure they knew I was a volunteer with the Schaumburg Amateur Radio Club helping out the Village of Schaumburg.
Several operators also commented about talking with public safety (Police, Fire) personnel. As Tom suggested above, a great opportunity to engage, show who we are and the value we provide to the community.
My most frequently asked question: “Where are the portable toilets?” (A: Only at the festival grounds)
My second most frequently asked question: “Can you move that truck so I can drive across Summit?” (A: The Village will move the truck after the parade)
Others reported “Can I cross the street? Can I park here?” (A: I’m a volunteer radio operator. Let’s ask this parade official / police officer)
After the event I received a very nice email from Schaumburg’s Emergency Management and Accreditation thanking us for our efforts. The email has been shared with Club membership through a SARC-ALL email.
Final Comment: A lot of work from a lot of people. Thanks to all that participated. Next year will be better….73
Dennis C. Calvey
Repeaters
Rob Glowacki N9MVO, Terry Jarnholm AE9TJ not present.
The intermittent static on the 2 Meter machine continues to appear during wet weather. The Board discussed ideas to investigate and mitigate the poor performance during these times; especially while the summer/fall season allows tower access.
Bill Reiss KW9WR moved to budget initial $2K expense to hire professional antenna analysis talent with Don Dewar KD9NJR seconding. Motion Adopted.
Any subsequent StationMaster upgrade expense will be considered and budgeted accordingly.
Professional team of KC9BKP and KH6KI will be contacted by the Repeater Team for schedule.
Robert Kocourek W9RKK continues work to establish an operation manual for our machines with assistance from the Repeater Team and Kent Ochs W9KAO.
Construction Project (CP)
Cliff Sowka K9QD reports CP will resume September 28th. The elevator has been placed back in service.
We have offered some construction project ideas for the season with some membership feedback they would be interested in antenna builds. The one idea enjoying sufficient support is constructing an
Octopus Antenna for HF Bands
Commercial HamStick elements would be procured with SARC CP Team building the hub, mast, and coax assembly. We’ll survey for sufficient interest when we meet for our first time later this month.
Additionally Pierre Berube K9EYE supplied sources for possible HF QRP projects.
VE Testing:
John Schofield AC9JS reports there are 2 candidates scheduled for Saturday’s session at the moment. He currently has 5 reliable and available VEs on staff with additional VE volunteers in reserve.
Nets
Attendance remains enthusiastic. Don Dewar KD9NJR reports it would be appreciated if additional members would come forward to handle Net Control at times.
Radio Hill Gazette RHG
Need Editor. No Report.
Membership
Scott DeSantis KB9VRW Membership Committee Chairman not present.
Publicity
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK Publicity Chairman reports preparation underway for November 13th Village of Schaumburg event where SARC is invited to participate.
Social
Need Chairperson.
Education
Leo N9NBH not present. We found a proper Library contact and determined that we will be able to schedule for class in January. The publication requires 90-day class schedule submission so we’ll need to prepare our class announcement this month.
Programs
Don Dewar KD9NJR: DX Engineering is scheduled for Antenna Presentation.
Old Business
SARC Picnic Bartlett Log Cabin August 18th was successful with more than 30 attendees. Two Fox Hunts were held: one indoor and one outdoor with members successfully finding the fox in both cases.
Rob Glowacki N9MVO held a fun event during our picnic: A communication test.
You get a small assembly of Lego blocks of various colors and shapes. Others get a set of blocks of the same colors and shapes. Your mission: describe your assembly over the radio such that the listener(s) can assemble another set of blocks the same as yours. Some assemblies were more accurate than others!
New Business
Don Dewar KD9NJR is crafting Committee Booklets to help Committee Chairs in understanding roles, responsibilities, and authority. SARC Officer’s obligations are defined in our organizational documents but there is only minimal material describing Committee roles so Don has created new guides for our use.
Nominating Committee met to discuss potential candidates for November’s Election. Additional recruitment continues to be underway. Nominating Committee’s publication requirement is to be 30-days prior to Election Night so we’re hopeful of additional members stepping forward in the next several weeks.
Here are the members submitting their willingness and candidacy to serve at the moment:
Robert Kocourek W9RKK Chairman called the meeting to order at 7:00PM
Attendees
Robert Kocourek W9RKK
Don Dewar KD9NJR
Chris Brewer AC9GN
Danny Kafka KD9HIL
Paul Burkett KD9FMN
Bill Reiss KW9WR
Cliff Sowka K9QD
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK
Elliot Libner N9EPA
John Douglas KD9KSH
Bob Benwitz N9JAX
Kent Ochs W9KAO
Howard Mitchell KD9WSV
Secretary’s Report
Cliff Sowka K9QD: September BOD Meeting Minutes as published in the RHG: Paul Burkett KD9FMN moved to approve and seconded by Don Dewar KD9NJR. Motion Adopted.
Treasurer’s Report
Chris Brewer AC9GN previously reported:
Month:August 2024 Report generated on 9/3/2024
CheckbookBalance
07/31/24
$7,648.32
INCOME
2 Zelle deposits
08/xx/24
MEMO
$55.00 Dues (summarized)
$105.00
2 Teller deposits
08/xx/24
$50.00 Dues (summarized)
DISBURSEMENTS
ACH
08/08/24
MEMO
$62.82 AT&T DSL
$62.82
Account Balance
$7,690.50
08/31/24
Bank Statement
$7,690.50
PETTY CASH
08/31/24
$19.00 MEMO
$19.00
PENDING CHECKS
Check #1373
08/07/24
MEMO
$125.00 Club tent replacement
–$125.00
FundsAvailable
$7,584.50
88 members on roster
Bob Benwitz W9JAXmoved to approve and seconded by Paul Burkett KD9FMN. Motion adopted.
Public Service
Rob Glowacki N9MVO not present.
EMCOMM
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK is our acting Chairman until someone may step-up to assume the role.
After a series of communications with Emergency Management and Accreditation Manager, Village of Schaumburg about whom was the point of contact between SARC and the Village, I sent the following note:
Communications on behalf of the Schaumburg Amateur Radio Club (SARC) to external groups such as publicity releases, Social Media Posts, communications with served Agencies, governmental agencies and non-governmental organizations is reviewed, approved and authorized only by the SARC Board of Directors and its officers.
The Board of Directors and Officers may authorize communications on an ad hoc basis for Committee Chairs for matters directly related to their responsibilities, based on prior discussion and agreement. In such cases, the Committee chair is responsible for updating the Board of Directors and Officers on those communications.
The Emergency Communications Committee (EmComm):
Coordinates Club support of local Emergency Management Agencies
Maintains a Memorandum of Understanding with local governmental agencies and non-governmental organizations.
facilitates training sessions on Emergency Communications and the ARRL National Traffic System.
Trains club members and local Amateur Radio Operators on the Incident Command System (ICS) and the use of Auxiliary Communications (AuxCom) to support emergency communications.
Supports statewide and local training exercises and emergency simulations.
Introduces emergency services communication functions to club members, including possible affiliation with Radio Amateur Civil Service (RACES) or Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES).
Augments the Village of Schaumburg Emergency Radio Team with trained operators and equipment.
3. Currently SARC does not have an Em Comm Chair. Until such time as a volunteer for the Chair position is approved by the Board of Directors and Officers, Dennis Calvey (KD9HIK) has been appointed as interim Chair.
Communications regarding EM Comm between external organizations and SARC should be directed to the EM Comm chair and / or the Board of Directors and officers.
It should be noted that nothing prohibits a member of SARC from working with any agency on their own. However, they may not represent themselves or their actions as sanctioned by SARC without prior authorization from the Board of Directors and / or officers of SARC.
The current SARC Aux Comm Rapid Response Team consists of the following volunteers:
Cliff Sowka (K9QD)
Jim Campbell (KB9RGU)
Leo Ribordy (N9NBH)
Dennis C. Calvey (KD9HIK)
There have been no meetings, classes, or exercises for the SARC Em Comm group in a long time. It is the intent of SARC to restart these activities when a permanent Em Comm chair is appointed.
With respect to the November 13th “Fall Workshop” at the Prairie Arts Center, SARC would be grateful for the opportunity to do a 10 minute presentation. Are there any topics that you think should be included? Will you be using an overhead projector? We could use “PowerPoint” for our presentation.
SARC has been offered a 10-15 minute time slot at the Village of Schaumburg November 13th “Fall Workshop” to talk about Amateur Radio. It’s suggested that our presentation include discussion about Emergency Communication. I’ll be writing the presentation and will submit it to the SARC Board for approval before publishing.
SARC received a large donation of equipment from the estate of Gary Wirth (KC9LZM). His sister and her husband asked that some of the equipment be donated to new Hams or those that may not have the resources to acquire equipment.
I have asked for, and received permission to, name a portion of that equipment set aside in his memory and would propose the following to that end:
– The SARC Board voted to approve the creation of a committee to manage the “Gary Wirth (KC9LZM), SK Equipment Cache”.
– The committee will select which of the donated equipment would be suitable for the cache.
– Until the cache is depleted, any new Ham who becomes a member of SARC would be eligible to receive, at no charge, equipment as selected by the committee.
– Additionally, at the sole discretion of the committee, equipment from the cache could be made available at no charge to external not-for-profit groups, or for individuals that may lack resources to acquire their own equipment.
– The remaining equipment would be made available for sale to SARC members through a bidding process. Any remaining equipment would be made available for sale at Hamfests. Any proceeds would accrue to SARC’s general operating fund.
Leo Ribordy (N9NBH) has secured dates for the next Technician class to be held at the Schaumburg Township District Library (Hoffman Estates Branch). The classes would start on Saturday January 11, 2025 and continue each Saturday until Saturday March 15th. As soon as the classes are published on the Library website (org), I’ll start the publicity machine to promote through our Facebook page and the Daily Herald.
Earlier this year a number of SARC Members applied to the Village of Schaumburg to be registered as volunteers. The process is dragging along, with some members being contacted this week to set up an appointment for fingerprinting. I should have a status update next month.
BOD approved Dennis’ SK Cache proposal. Gary Wirth SK Committee will now be established.
Repeaters
Rob Glowacki N9MVO, Terry Jarnholm AE9TJ not present.
Discussed current 2M repeater static interference, professional service company for diagnostics, and our possible use of the 2M 2-Bay antenna that previously served at the Plum Grove Water tower that is now surplus. StationMaster is now owned by Commander Technologies part number 220-3BN ($1,652.00) and since its length requires truck freight from Louisiana we’ll have to allow some extra expense. There is concern our hardline may also need attention and ~150ft replacement could be as much as ~$6 per foot. Repeater Team will be contacted immediately to determine service visit plans before inclement fall weather sets-in.
We could also use the service visit to produce a short video of our equipment, describe each station element, and place the video product onto our website (club resources section).
Construction Project (CP)
Cliff Sowka K9QD reports CP sessions have begun and we’re currently polling for HF Octopus HamStick antenna build interest. Since the anticipated cost will be something around $200, the current interest is lethargic. Maybe we could build the hub sans Hamsticks and that could allow the cost to drop to ~$40 and allow members to populate their choice of bands as they wish.
There is a large cache of radio equipment stored in the cabinets. Paul Bocci K9NO, Chris Brewer AC9GN, will be managing inventory/model/value of a large SK donation as described in his report above. It may be possible to offer an internal auction to our membership shortly.
There seems to be a dearth of chairs and we’re somehow missing a table or two. Requesting BOD for procurement of two or three new 8’ plastic tables and search for 10 used metal folding chairs. Not sure of final amount needed but probably ~$250 and someone to haul furniture to the basement. Suggestions tonight indicate the Park District needs to be contacted before we do any furniture/equipment additions.
VE Testing:
John Schofield AC9JS, Session Manager, reported test results during our September Business meeting:
VE Tests Results for September 7, 2024
Name
Call
Class
John
KE9BIZ
General
Jeff
KE9BJB
Technician
James
KE9BJA
Technician
Class
Technician
2
General
1
Extra
0
Total
3
Participating Volunteer Examiners (VEs):
Bill
Davies
K9WKD
Ed
Lishka
AC9SD
James
Migalla
KC9UFB
John
Schofield
AC9JS
Joe
Barela
KB9RCR
Dave
Carpenter
W9VTD
Jon
Wit
KD9 WNL
Next examination date: October 5, 2024
Nets
Attendance remains enthusiastic. Don Dewar KD9NJR reports it would be appreciated if additional members would come forward to handle Net Control at times.
Radio Hill Gazette RHG
Elliot Libner N9EPA has offered to fill this open Committee and the Board has gleefully accepted. No report at the moment.
Membership
Scott DeSantis KB9VRW Membership Committee Chairman not present.
Publicity
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK Publicity Chairman reports – see EMCOMM above
Social
John Douglas KD9KSH is temporarily continuing his leadership role and has reserved Pollyanna facility in Roselle for our Holiday Party:
Friday January 17th 2025 6~9PM.
Education
Leo N9NBH not present. See Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK EMCOMM report above.
Leo Ribordy (N9NBH) has secured dates for the next Technician class to be held at the Schaumburg Township District Library (Hoffman Estates Branch).
The classes would start on Saturday January 11, 2025 and continue each Saturday until Saturday March 15th. As soon as the classes are published on the Library website (stdl.org), I’ll start the publicity machine to promote through our Facebook page and the Daily Herald.
Programs
Don Dewar KD9NJR: DX Engineering is scheduled for Antenna Presentation.
Old Business
Don Dewar KD9NJR is crafting Committee Booklets to help Committee Chairs in understanding roles, responsibilities, and authority. SARC Officer’s obligations are defined in our organizational documents but there is only minimal material describing Committee roles so Don has created new guides for our use.
Nominating Committee met to discuss potential candidates for November’s Election. Additional recruitment continues to be underway. Nominating Committee’s publication requirement is to be 30-days prior to Election Night so we’re hopeful of additional members stepping forward in the next several weeks.
Here are the members submitting their willingness and candidacy to serve at the moment:
President Don Dewar KD9NJR
Vice President Danny Kafka KD9HIL
Treasurer Chris Brewer AC9GN
Secretary Howard Mitchell KD9WSV
DirectorOne Position
Bill McGovern W9WEM
Kevin Willard KB9QVX
John Douglas KD9KSH
New Business
Nominating Committee has prepared a list of election candidates at the moment and we’ll be publicizing to SARC-ALL in order to be in compliance with our Constitution/Bylaw requirements.
NOTE: Any member with at least one year membership and in good standing can also submit candidacy the night of our election in November.
Trusted Talliers John Schofield AC9JS and Bill Reiss KW9WR will be managing this year’s Absentee Ballot Requests similar to the process we used in 2023.
Robert Kocourek W9RKK Chairman called the meeting to order at 7:00PM
Attendees
Robert Kocourek W9RKK
Don Dewar KD9NJR
Oleg Harizanov KD9ZZN
Danny Kafka KD9HIL
Paul Burkett KD9FMN
Bill Reiss KW9WR
Kent Ochs W9KAO
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK
Elliot Libner N9EPA
John Schofield AC9JS
Bob Benwitz N9JAX
Cliff Sowka K9QD
Howard Mitchell KD9WSV
Sid Puri KD9OLI
Secretary’s Report
Cliff Sowka K9QD:October BOD Meeting Minutes as published in the RHG: Paul Burkett KD9FMN moved to approve and seconded by Danny Kafka KD9HIL. Motion Adopted.
Treasurer’s Report
Chris Brewer AC9GN not present.
Public Service
Rob Glowacki N9MVO not present.
EMCOMM
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK is our acting Chairman until someone may step-up to assume the role.
·November 13th Fall Workshop at the Prairie Arts Center, SARC is grateful for the opportunity to do a 10 minute presentation beginning 6PM. We’ll be using PowerPoint.
·SARC has been offered a 10-15 minute time slot at the Village of Schaumburg to talk about Amateur Radio. It’s suggested that our presentation include discussion about Emergency Communication. I’ve provided a copy of our presentation and thank the Board for approving the material.
Repeaters
Rob Glowacki N9MVO, Terry Jarnholm AE9TJ not present.
Rob N9MVO and Cliff K9QD hosted professional site diagnostics at our 2M Repeater site last week.About three hours were invested in comprehensive testing of VSWR, impedance match, transmission line observation, and general health of plant electrics.Our 2M machine’s innards specifically underwent bench test; can’t find any noise anywhere….even with first-class test gear and knowledgeable talent at the controls.
Also went out to ladder tunnel, disconnected lightning suppressor, analyzed at that point, checked for moisture, re-wrapped with sticky Ham Radio goo. All fine.
Professional opinion offered: New Antenna indicated; all else is fine so that must be the culprit.
Lucky to have good wind conditions (no moisture unfortunately) to help irritate things up on the tank but still nothing out of whack.
Board decided to approve expense, begin procurement, and hire professional installation of a new StationMaster antenna.
Construction Project (CP)
Cliff Sowka K9QD reports CP sessions are well attended and we’ve asked the Board for ~$200 budget headroom to purchase two or three 8’ tables and probably ~10 chairs.
·Paul Burkett KD9FMN and Eliot Libner N9EPA will check local Marketplace for bargains and find transport to get new/used equipment downstairs to the meeting area.
There is a large cache of radio equipment stored in the cabinets.Paul Bocci K9NO, Chris Brewer AC9GN, and Tom O’Boyle N9GUN are managing inventory/model/value of a large SK donation as described in the report below.It may be possible to offer an internal auction to our membership before the holidays and have equipment available to view during normal CP sessions beforehand.
Radio Hill Gazette (RHG)
Eliot Libner N9EPA Editor is continuously updating our main page with items of interest derived from internal postings of our membership.This allows our site’s visitors to learn of activities that may normally be only visible inside our club.
VE Testing:
John Schofield AC9JS, Session Manager, reported test results:
Class
Technician
4
General
1
Extra
1
Total
6
Participating Volunteer Examiners (VEs):
Bill
Davies
K9WKD
Ed
Lishka
AC9SD
James
Migalla
KC9UFB
John
Schofield
AC9JS
Joe
Barela
KB9RCR
Dave
Carpenter
W9VTD
Jon
Wit
KD9 WNL
Next examination date: December 7th, 2024
Nets
Attendance remains enthusiastic.Don Dewar KD9NJR reports it would be appreciated if additional members would come forward to handle Net Control at times.
Membership
Scott DeSantis KB9VRW Membership Committee Chairman not present.
Publicity
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK Publicity Chairman reports Tom O’Boyle’s N9GUN description of Donation Plans for an equipment donation:
Gary Wirth KC9LZM SK Equipment Cache Program
The purpose of this program is to appropriate the donated equipment from the family of Gary Wirth SK to the Schaumburg Amateur Radio Club.The club is responsible for selling or donating the equipment as deemed necessary.The family desires some of the equipment to be given to new or needy hams in honor of Gary.
Equipment List
Club members inventoried all of the equipment over the course of a few sessions.The list generated included equipment make/model and serial number, if appropriate.The program manager then completed internet searches on the equipment to find list price and/or current market prices.In the event that a used price could not be identified, the value of 50% of the new price was used.
The equipment list includes:
·41 Ham Radio Handheld Transceivers
·16 VHF/UHF Mobile Transceivers
·2 HF All band Transceivers
·2 10m HF Transceivers
·Many mobile antennas and accessories
Many of the transceivers are of the low-cost variety though some are higher end models.
The total estimated resale value of all this used equipment is $11,864.
Program for New Hams and Existing Hams Needing Financial Assistance
The following program is designed to allow Gary Wirth’s legacy to enable new hams and financially assist existing hams who can’t afford new VHF/UHF radios.These radios will allow the receiving hams the ability to access the SARC repeaters and assistance will be provided to program the radios for SARC repeaters.
The proposed program will allocate the following:
·24 Handheld VHF/UHF radios with antennas, each under $50 in current value
·3 VHF/UHF mobile transceivers with mobile antennas, each radio under $75 in current value and antennas under $50 in current value
The target recipients will be:
·New hams graduating from the SARC technician classes who join the club as new members in good standing
·Club members who demonstrate to the SARC board their inability to afford a VHF/UHF radio and otherwise would not be able to access the SARC repeaters.
·Target recipients include not-for-profit youth groups or school based HAM Radio Clubs
A recipient will only be allowed to receive one radio from the cache and must be a club member in good standing to be eligible.
Resale to Club Members
The items not included in the legacy cache will be made available to the club members.The proceeds of the items sold will be deposited into the club bank account.The list of available equipment will be published via the SARC-ALL reflector.There will be a minimum bid value established for each item.Each piece of equipment is sold “as-is” and no returns are authorized.It is the responsibility of the purchasing party to look up the technical specifications of each item.
Before bidding begins, the club will hold an open house at the Schaumburg Tennis Club where members can look at current items to determine if they want to bid.TESTING OF EQUIPMENT WILL NOT BE ALLOWED!
After the open house event, club members will be given an email address to send in their bids.The winning bid will be:
·Highest bidder
·If value is the same, the bidder with the earliest email date/time stamp will be declared the winner
Winning bidders will have 7 days to pay for the item via cash or Zelle online.If the winning bidder fails to pay for the item within 7 days, a new bidder will be chosen if multiple bids are received.If multiple bids were not received, the item will be resubmitted to the available list. Club members will have 30 days to complete the bidding process.
Resale to General Ham Community
Any items not sold to club members will be sold to the general ham population through the use of QRZ.com, EBAY, and through hamfests.The proceeds will be deposited to the club’s bank account.This process will be managed by the program manager.
Unsold Items
If items are not sold through any of the processes, they will be donated to club members or disposed of.The items list will be published in SARC-ALL and will be on a first come, first served basis.
Social
John Douglas KD9KSH (not present) is temporarily continuing his leadership role and has reserved Pollyanna facility in Roselle for our Holiday Party:
·Friday January 17th 2025 6~9PM.
Education
Leo N9NBH not present.Leo Ribordy (N9NBH) has secured dates for the next Technician class to be held at the Schaumburg Township District Library (Hoffman Estates Branch).
The classes would start on Saturday January 11, 2025 and continue each Saturday until Saturday March 15th. Classes are published on the Library website (stdl.org).
Programs
Don Dewar KD9NJR: A short video will be presented during the November Election Night count, January meeting will be supplanted by our Holiday Party, and Presentation for February will be decided in the next few months.
Old Business
Nominating Committee is managing an internal list of November Election Night absentee requests.
NOTE:Any member with at least one year membership and in good standing can also submit candidacy the night of our election in November.
·Trusted Talliers John Schofield AC9JS and Bill Reiss KW9WR have received 9 Absentee Ballot Requests at the moment.
New Business
Cliff Sowka K9QD moved for $200 budget request to purchase tables/chairs for Construction Project.Robert Kocourek W9RKK moved to approve and Bill Reiss KW9WR seconded.Motion Adopted.
Don Dewar KD9NJR suggested we plan better room rental agreement/clarification for meeting reservations.Since SARC is a non-revenue entity for the Park District, they maintain their options for alternant room placement and will vary our meeting locations as needed.
Robert Kocourek W9RKK Chairman called the meeting to order at 7:00PM
12/07/2025: Corrected Holiday Party to Saturday Jan 18th, 2025
Attendees
Robert Kocourek W9RKK
Don Dewar KD9NJR
Howard Mitchell KD9WSV
Danny Kafka KD9HIL
Paul Burkett KD9FMN
Bill Reiss KW9WR
Cliff Sowka K9QD
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK
Elliot Libner N9EPA
John Schofield AC9JS
Bob Benwitz N9JAX
Bill McGovern W9WEM
Secretary’s Report
Cliff Sowka K9QD:November BOD Meeting Minutes as published in the RHG: John Schofield AC9JS moved to approve and Bill Reiss KW9WR. Motion Adopted.
Treasurer’s Report
Chris Brewer AC9GN reports:
Month:
November 2024
Report generated on 12/3/2024
Checkbook Balance
10/31/24
$7,266.42
INCOME
MEMO
$131.00
2 Zelle deposits
11/xx/24
$60.00
2 Dues
1 Teller deposit
11/29/24
$71.00
1 Dues + $46 SK parts sales
DISBURSEMENTS
MEMO
$78.52
ACH
11/07/24
$78.52
AT&T DSL
11/30/24
Account Balance
$7,318.90
11/30/24
Bank Statement
$7,318.90
Petty Cash
Original balance
10/31/24
$69.00
New balance
11/30/24
MEMO
$69.00
PENDING CHECKS
MEMO
$0.00
(none)
$0.00
Funds Available
$7,387.90
108 members on roster
AT&T dataline charges are changing in both directions and our records are devoid of our original password to enable Customer Service’s ability to investigate our account.
·Cliff Sowka K9QD moved to approve and Paul Burkett KD9FMN seconded.Motion Adopted.
Public Service
Rob Glowacki N9MVO not present.
EMCOMM
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK is our acting Chairman until someone may step-up to assume the role.
Repeaters
Rob Glowacki N9MVO, Terry Jarnholm AE9TJ not present.
Board requests a detailed Scope of Work from TOWERWORKS in replacing our 2M StationMaster.Rob N9MVO is working with the vendor; no report at the moment.
Construction Project (CP)
Cliff Sowka K9QD reports there will be a special 2-Hour gathering at CP this Saturday to allow SK Bid Winners to pick-up their items.
Radio Hill Gazette (RHG)
Eliot Libner N9EPA Editor is continuously updating our main page with items of interest derived from internal postings of our membership.This allows our site’s visitors to learn of activities that may normally be only visible inside our club.
VE Testing:
John Schofield AC9JS, Session Manager reports there are two (2) candidates for this coming Saturday.
Next examination date: December 7th, 2024
Nets
Attendance remains enthusiastic.Don Dewar KD9NJR reports it would be appreciated if additional members would come forward to handle Net Control at times.
Membership
Scott DeSantis KB9VRW Membership Committee Chairman not present.
Publicity
Dennis C. Calvey KD9HIK Publicity Chairman reports:
January Technician Class at Schaumburg Township District Library, Hoffman Estates Branch:
·As of 12/03/2024 4 enrolled, 11 seats available
·Submitted to & published on ARRL Web Site
·Posted on Facebook page
·Published on N9RJV
·Submitted to Daily Herald Events and Calendar. Waiting for confirmation email. Copy sent to sarc-bd separately.
Bids under minimum were rejected.New, Lower reserves will be listed and Auction repeated
Bids for items blocked for donation pool? Policy not resolved yet.
Items not sold – hold for HamFests? Offer for sale on eBay? (It’s a lot of work!) Will Stage a second round at reserve price reduction
Schaumburg Park District Facility Utilization Request
It’s time for the annual letter to SPD. Some personnel changes at SPD.
Request will be sent to current employees.
Add to “Construction Project”: Desire a total of Ten tables, 30 – 35 chairs
Need to confirm dates, including Winter Field Day.
Need a current copy of our insurance letter. Strongly encourage having the Schaumburg Park District named as an additional insured.
Education Request:
WinLink Classes. Could be set up in the West area of the Tennis Plus Club basement, OR held on a different day – 3rd Saturday of the month OR held at a different location such as the Schaumburg Township District Library (Hoffman Estates Branch, on Main Library. Not sure if the Hanover Park Branch has rooms available). We have a couple of members with expertise with WinLink, including Daryl Jenks KB9RHR and others. We need someone willing to take charge.
Several members have suggested holding Extra License classes. In discussions with those inquiring, I’ve suggested a Study Group, rather than a class. Members of the study group would be assigned a specific topic and then teach it to the group before a discussion / question / answer period. Again, the interest is there, we just need someone to take charge.
EMCOMM
Still looking for someone to take over.
Social
John Douglas KD9KSH (not present) is temporarily continuing his leadership role and has reserved Pollyanna facility in Roselle for our Holiday Party:
·Saturday January 18th 2025 6~9PM.
John will be sending periodic reminders over the next several weeks.
Education
Leo N9NBH not present.Leo Ribordy (N9NBH) has secured dates for the next Technician class to be held at the Schaumburg Township District Library (Hoffman Estates Branch).
The classes will start on Saturday January 11, 2025 and continue each Saturday until Saturday March 15th. Classes are published on the Library website (stdl.org).
Programs
Don Dewar KD9NJR: working on Program Schedule for February start.There are plans to host DX Engineering during the early months of 2025.
Old Business
Cliff Sowka K9QD moved for $200 budget request to purchase tables/chairs for Construction Project.Robert Kocourek W9RKK moved to approve and Bill Reiss KW9WR seconded.Motion Adopted.
Don Dewar KD9NJR suggested we plan better room rental agreement/clarification for meeting reservations.Since SARC is a non-revenue entity for the Park District, they maintain their options for alternant room placement and will vary our meeting locations as needed.
New Business
Don Dewar KD9NJR discussed possible SARC support for Salvation Army meeting facility access.
Adjourn 8:17 PM
Submitted Dec 6, 2024 with help from Howard Mitchell KD9WSV