GMARC MEETING MINUTES 20-JUN-06

 

I.  Call to Order by President, Scott W1BIC at 7:06 PM

 

II.  Introductions

            We have 1 visitor, and one new member!

 

III. Minutes

 

            A motion to approve the minutes from the 16-May-06 meeting is made by T.J. N8RUH, and is seconded by Rich K8OX.  Motion passes.

 

IV.  Treasurers Report

            T.J. N8RUH reports that we have a total of $2219.14, not including the money received from the Dayton Swap.

            A motion to approve the Treasurer's report is made by Jeff N8YIO and seconded by Brian N8KDL.  Motion passes.

 

V.  Membership Report by Bobby N8CY

            We have 81 members, 63 have paid their 2006 dues.  Our newest members are KL5BO and KD8AAK.

 

VI.  Nets and Newsletter by Dave W8RIT

            The new member of the month for June is Stefanie KC8TLB!

            Dave asks the members to turn in some reviews about the Club Newsletter!

            We're trying to get a few more people to check into the Monday Night 8:00 PM InfoNet, so Scott W1BIC will be sending an eMail on Sunday giving a heads-up to the Monday night net.

 

VII.  Club Liaison Report

            The MS-150 is coming up!  It's Saturday July 15th through Sunday, July 16th.  Volunteering jobs range from riding with staff or a medical team to riding in a SAG vehicle and being stationed at a rest-stop.  Contact George K8GEO for more information.

 

            The Woodward Cruise is Saturday August 19th. Shifts are from 10am to 4pm, and 4pm to 8pm.  Contact George K8GEO if you’re interested.

 

VIII.  Tech Committee Report

            We didn't end up buying the 2-meter cavities because it was more expensive than what was approved. And the repeaters have been linked-up for about a month.  There have been some complaints made.  Feel free give your input to Jeff N8XN.

 

IX.  President's Remarks

            Trustee Larry Rinke N8WJ was in the hospital, keep him in your thoughts and prayers.

           

            At the Monroe Swap, GM donated a Sierra truck.  The Club’s tower was sold along with mostly everything else, and the club came home with about $217.

           

            Scott displays a certificate that was given to the original founding members.  If anyone knows where more certificates are located, contact Scott W1BIC.

 

            Be prepared for a quiz at September's meeting!  Scott quizzed the club on recent editions of the Club Newsletter!  Winners received amazing prizes!

 

            OnStar ran a hardline coax from the 10th floor to the roof of the 400 Tower.  OnStar is looking for a materials and radios list (VHF AND UHF) that is similar to the equipment used by the Oakland County Hospitals.

 

X.  New Business

            The 2-Meter Cavities require additional funds.  George K8GEO motions to add $300 to the original $1,000 approved in May, and Dave WD8IFL seconds.  The motion passes.

 

            Oakland County is buying orange vests for $30 each.  The vest has "Emergency Communication" silk-screened on the back at a low price of $30 each.  The club decides to purchase 8 to 10 vests to look more professional when volunteering etc.  Members were offered the opportunity to purchase a vest for their own personal use.

           

            Bobby N8CY and Chuck N8ZA designed some QSL cards for the club.  With some discussion on which design should become official, the club approved the design that features the GM Renaissance Center Complex, and a Radio Tower on the back.

 

            A shelter is suggested for the August 26th Club picnic at Stony Creek, just in case of rain.  Dave W8RIT motions to spend money for a shelter, and Dave WD8IFL seconds. Motion passes.  Doug N8KDL motions to spend up to $200 for a shelter, and T.J N8RUH seconds. Motion passes.

 

            Bobby asks for any donations to the ARRL Spectrum Defense Fund.  See Bobby if you're interested in making a $20 donation for which you will receive acknowledgment for the ARRL and a 2006 Spectrum Defense Fund Pin.

 

XI. Break from 8:10 to 8:30pm

 

            50/50 winner is Rich K8HMJ

 

XII.  Presentation by Ingo, our newest member, on Amateur Radio in Germany

 

            Ingo DL5AL began his presentation by highlighting the differences between Amateur Radio in North America and Germany.
 

            Some interesting facts include:

·         Unlike the U.S, Germany has only 2 license classes, and a CW isn't required. 

·         Germany's ARRL (essentially) is called HAREC.

·         Power and frequency use is more limited in Germany.

·         EchoLinkÒ is very popular, and most repeaters are UHF.

·         Don't worry!  If you're planning on traveling to Europe, our U.S. licenses can be used in most countries.

 

XIII.  Special Presentation

           

            Scott W1BIC presents Stefanie KC8TLB with a Certificate of Appreciation!

 

XIV.  Motion to adjourn at 9:50pm from George K8GEO and seconded by Eddy N8RUE.  Motion passes.