Call For Nominations: The Harvey Bell Award

 NOTICE TO ALL YRARC MEMBERS

Each year about this time, the members of our radio club have the opportunity to nominate a member for the Harvey Bell Award by contacting the club secretary no later than May 19th, 2024.

Nominations may be presented by individuals, or may be co-signed by several members. Your nomination should be made in writing or by email to the club secretary Mike Veit VE3BWV, and should include your description, explanation or citation in support of the nominee.

At the January, 1971 meeting of the York North Radio Club, as YRARC was known at the time, the membership established an award in memory of the late Harvey Bell, VE3AFK, of Aurora.

It was the wish of the members that this award be presented annually to a member in good standing with this club, in recognition of substantial achievement involving Amateur Radio, particularly in connection with the York North Radio Club.

The winner would hold the trophy for one year, and would also receive a certificate, or other citation outlining the achievement.

Any club member would be eligible to nominate any other club member for the award. Nominations will be considered by the 2024 Board of Directors at the May 21st meeting.

Harvey Bell died unexpectedly in December of 1970. At that time he was in the process of making his third attempt at keeping the club together and active. He had been a club member for almost ten years, enjoyed the fellowship and the sharing of technical information regarding Amateur Radio. He was especially interested in the Morse Code, and CW operation, but was also very involved with the fairly new SSB technology that was growing with leaps and bounds.

During the late 1960’s activity in the club seemed to wane, and Harvey Bell, along with a couple of other area hams kept up a steady contact with other hams in Newmarket and surroundings. Invitations were sent out on at least three occasions in a an attempt to keep the club active and growing. He had just succeeded, in the fall of 1970, to get the membership back together again, and had turned the leadership over to Frank Rusholme.

His influence and his leadership in club affairs will long be remembered by the Amateurs in this area who knew him personally. In addition to being an active 80-metre DX chaser, Harvey was also involved in RTTY (radio teletype), VHF, and had one of the outstanding stamp collections in the region.

The award, which honours his name, is considered the highest acclaim that the club can give to one of its members.

73,
Chris VE3NRT
President, YRARC

Final Call for Nominations - 2017 Harvey Bell Award

NOTICE TO ALL YRARC MEMBERS

Each year about this time, the members of our radio club have the opportunity to nominate a member by contacting the club secretary no later than May 15th, 2016. Nominations may be presented by individuals, or may be co-signed by several members, to be honoured with this award.

Your nominations should be made in writing or by email to the club secretary David Craig VA3DCY, and should include your description, explanation or citation related to the nominee, and be presented to the

At the January, 1971 meeting of the York North Radio Club, the membership established an award in memory of the late Harvey Bell, VE3AFK, of Aurora.

It was the wish of the members that this award be presented annually to a member in good standing with this club, in recognition of substantial achievement involving Amateur Radio, particularly in connection with the York North Radio Club.

The winner would hold the trophy for one year, and would also receive a certificate, or other citation outlining the achievement.

Any club member would be eligible to nominate any other club member for the award. Nominations will be considered by the 2017 Board of Directors.

Harvey Bell died unexpectedly in December of 1970. At that time he was in the process of making his third attempt at keeping the club together and active. He had been a club member for almost ten years, enjoyed the fellowship and the sharing of technical information regarding Amateur Radio. He was especially interested in the Morse Code, and CW operation, but was also very involved with the fairly new SSB technology that was growing with leaps and bounds. During the late 1960’s activity in the club seemed to wane, and Harvey Bell, along with a couple of other area hams kept up a steady contact with other hams in Newmarket and surroundings. Invitations were sent out on at least three occasions in a an attempt to keep the club active and growing. He had just succeeded, in the fall of 1970, to get the membership back together again, and had turned the leadership over to Frank Rusholme.

His influence and his leadership in club affairs will long be remembered by the Amateurs in this area who knew him personally. In addition to being an active 80 metre DX chaser, Harvey was also involved in RTTY (radio teletype), VHF, and had one of the outstanding stamp collections in the region.

The award, which honours his name, is consider the highest acclaim that the club can give to one of its members.

Call for Nominations: 2016 Harvey Bell Award

NOTICE TO ALL YRARC MEMBERS

Each year about this time, the members of our radio club have the opportunity to nominate a member club secretary no later than June 20th, 2016. Nominations may be presented by individuals, or may be co-signed by several members, to be honoured with this award.

Your nominations should be made in writing or by email to the club secretary David Craig VA3DCY, and should include your description, explanation or citation related to the nominee, and be presented to the

At the January, 1971 meeting of the York North Radio Club, the membership established an award in memory of the late Harvey Bell, VE3AFK, of Aurora.

It was the wish of the members that this award be presented annually to a member in good standing with this club, in recognition of substantial achievement involving Amateur Radio, particularly in connection with the York North Radio Club.

The winner would hold the trophy for one year, and would also receive a certificate, or other citation outlining the achievement.

Any club member would be eligible to nominate any other club member for the award. Nominations will be considered by the 2016 Board of Directors.

Harvey Bell died unexpectedly in December of 1970. At that time he was in the process of making his third attempt at keeping the club together and active. He had been a club member for almost ten years, enjoyed the fellowship and the sharing of technical information regarding Amateur Radio. He was especially interested in the Morse Code, and CW operation, but was also very involved with the fairly new SSB technology that was growing with leaps and bounds. During the late 1960’s activity in the club seemed to wane, and Harvey Bell, along with a couple of other area hams kept up a steady contact with other hams in Newmarket and surroundings. Invitations were sent out on at least three occasions in a an attempt to keep the club active and growing. He had just succeeded, in the fall of 1970, to get the membership back together again, and had turned the leadership over to Frank Rusholme.

His influence and his leadership in club affairs will long be remembered by the Amateurs in this area who knew him personally. In addition to being an active 80 metre DX chaser, Harvey was also involved in RTTY (radio teletype), VHF, and had one of the outstanding stamp collections in the region.

The award, which honours his name, is consider the highest acclaim that the club can give to one of its members.

The 1958 ARRL Convention (Ontario Chapter)

First announced in the April 1958 edition of QST magazine, this convention was held on October 18th in Hamilton, Ontario, at the Connaught Hotel (now a condominium development, pictured below) at 112 King St. East. Admission was $5 including the banquet, which featured a guest speaker. Contact for the event was Bob Parry, VE3DJE (no longer listed as the owner of that call). Bob is listed in the convention register along with his wife Vivian. It's unfortunate that QST didn't report on the actual conventions, so there aren't any pictures or write-ups on the happenings there.



In the same year the ARRL National Convention was in Washington, DC. It looked like an interesting program with tours of the White House, The Naval Research Laboratory, the Pentagon and a Nike Installation, the Voice of America, the Capitol, the Smithsonian, and the Arlington Cemetery. The amateur radio program included sessions on VHF, Mobile, TVI, RACES, Antennas, Contests, Code, RTTY, DX. A Wouff Hong Ceremony was held as well. The registration fee was $5, although the banquets, including the Hiram Percy Maxim memorial banquet ($6.50) were extra.

A night in the Sheraton Park Hotel was $7.50 to $14. The "parlor suites" were $17.50 to $22.00. That same year, the Sheraton Park Hotel also hosted the 3rd Annual AFA Jet Age Conference, the 2nd National Conference on Aviation Education, and the American Helicopter Society 14th Annual Annual National Forum. The Cold War was at its peak. Less than two years later, John F. Kennedy said "The enemy is lean and hungry and the United States is the only strong sentinel at the gate" at that same hotel.

The convention was organized by a consortium of 15 radio clubs in the Washington area. That's an impressive degree of cooperation!

Our club's own meeting register, dating from 1963 to 1969 matches the convention register in only one respect - that Harvey Bell VE3AFK, a prominent figure in club history, is listed in both. Neither Frank Preuten VE3FEP nor Jim Spence VE3BBX (SK), who attended the 1957 Convention in Toronto and also appear in the club register, weren't there in 1958. Fred Hammond, VE3HC was there in 1958 but not in '57.

History of the York Region Amateur Radio Club

I notice in my web searches an excerpt from the history of the club, noting that it was taken from the club web site. This led me on another series of searches because the history of the club is no longer on our web site, having been lost in the ravages of being passed from person to person.

Finally (a dramatic way of saying after about 20 minutes or so) I retrieved it from the "Wayback Machine". I'm not sure whether this is the full posting as it ends rather abruptly with Geoff's ascent to the position of Chairman. So I'm posting it here for your reading pleasure while I search for more. If anyone has more documents or even recollections I'd be happy to share them with the club. Maybe an old-timer or two would even consent to a video interview to help newer members know what the good old days of the club and ham radio were like.

If anyone remembers if there was a "Second Twenty Years" article let me know. Also if anyone knows Frank Rusholme's call, I'd like to add that as well. It looks like the author of the article didn't know. [Update 2024-07-13; Since writing this I have seen the 1969-1971 meeting sign-in book and the first meeting that Frank attended was January 27th, 1971. Unlike many others, he did not write a call sign in the book so perhaps he did not have one. Rusholme appears to be an uncommon name and my web searches found only 1 possible lead, which is an obituary for Eva Rusholme Earle, listing (a) Frank Rusholme as her first husband, from January 30th, 2023.

I've also found a reference to Art Stevens VE3YS, the club's first president. He was listed in the Winter 1938 Amateur Radio Callbook. 

VE3YS — A.  J.  Stephens,  57  Gorham  St, Newmarket, Out.

 Looks like a typo on the province. The current holder of the call VE3YS lives near North Bay, Ont.

History of the York North Amateur Radio Club

The first twenty years

On March 11, 1959, a meeting of the Newmarket area amateurs was held in the Newmarket council chambers on Main St. Acting as chairman of this meeting was Harry Richardson, VE3ACN. The meeting was held to form a radio club for amateurs in Newmarket and area. Bill Kingston, VE3EXH proposed the name York North Radio Club which was adopted.

The club’s first executive was elected, with Art Stephens, VE3YS being named president. Dues for membership in the club would be $1.00 per year, and $0.25 a month with two meetings held each month. By May of 1959, the club had grown to 24 members. They held their first social activity - a dance at the Stouffville Legion Hall. They also received their first club station licence - VE3YCD - which reflected their close relationship with the York Civil Defence organization.

In September of 1959 a second executive committee was elected with Bill Kingston, VE3EXH being chosen president. During the early part of 1960, the club began including special programs, such as guests speakers and films, blending the technical with the social aspects of the club. In May of 1960 the club purchased its first transmitter, a Heathkit DX-40 and used an HQ-110 receiver, on loan. The first QSL card was received from K4TYF, a ham in Tennessee. Gus Grant, VE3EQR and Max Boag, VE3NP chipped in extra funds to make the station possible. That summer, the club held its first Field Day.

Bill Kingston was re-elected as president for the 1960-61 year, and was responsible for code and theory classes being organized. In March of 1961, the club moved its meetings to 80 Bayview Ave. Field Day during the summer of 1961 was a successful event, even though the whole weekend was cold and rainy. By the end of the 60-61 season, the club treasury was in good shape, with $48.92 in the bank.

For the 1961-62 season, Gus Grant, VE3EQR was elected president of a club that had grown to a membership of 36. (A little trivia - Newmarket telephone numbers were TWining5-xxxx, but if you lived out in the country, such as Al Dike, VE3AFW, his phone number was 8W4. Of course you couldn’t dial it, you had to tell the operator. And if you didn’t know the number, the operator did!). During September and October, amateurs participated in an EMO (Emergency Measures) course. Remember, this was in the cold war era. The 1962 Field Day was quite a success with towers supplied and erected by Allen’s TV.

1962-63 - Information not available

The president for the 1963-64 season was Bill Findlay, VE3CLK. Attendance at meetings had fallen of a bit during this period of time with only 10 or 12 attending some of the monthly meetings. Early in 1964, the club received the call sign VE3YNA (York North Amateurs) replacing VE3YCD. A motion was passed at one of the meetings that the SPLATTER be issued on a monthly basis with members contributing items of interest and news about their station and operation. (Another bit of trivia - In October of 1964 the club recorded the purchase of a gift for newlyweds Doug & Heather Holmes - Doug was already licensed, VE3CWO, but it was another ten years before Heather took the courses for her ticket.) During the following year, meetings were held only on an occasional basis, with John Lewis, VE3EXC as the president. During the next couple of years only a few informal get-togethers took place.

Something had to be done about that, so in 1969, Harvey Bell, VE3AFK, Frank Preuten, VE3FEP and Nels Gradeen, VE3GLK got together and personally mailed out invitations to about 50 amateurs in the area to attend a reorganization meeting. Harvey Bell chaired this meeting and arranged for Phil Wesbury of the EMO to be guest speaker. He spoke about the need for trained radio operators in York County, and encouraged those present to reactivate the York North Radio Club. Those present unanimously agreed, and that evening, Frank Preuten, VE3FEP was named president. Meetings were held every second month during the remainder of 1969-70, but nothing was planned to continue meeting in the fall. So, in the late months of 1970, Harvey Bell once again called a meeting of all surrounding amateurs to see if there was enough interest to keep the club going. Again, there was strong support and Frank Rusholme, VE3--- was elected as president, and a schedule of meetings was arranged for the next couple of years. Unfortunately, Harvey Bell did not get to attend any, as he passed away shortly after this meeting. At the very next meeting of the group, in January of 1971, a motion was passed that the club establish the Harvey Bell Memorial Award to be presented annually to a member of the club who had made significant achievements in amateur radio; and in particular had made a significant contribution to the York North Amateur Radio Club. That award still carries on today.

The next club president, beginning in 1972 was John Epworth, VE3GQF, led the club through a period of modest growth. Then in September 1973, Bob Knowles, VE3DLJ (now VA3IL) began his term as president. Since there had not been a club newsletter for some period of time, Doug Holmes, VE3CWO and Lyle Leyland, VE3DCC volunteered to be the editors/publishers. Bob Knowles was re-elected as president in 1974. It was during this year that the Lake Simcoe Repeater (VE3LSR) was established. The first organizational meeting was held at the residence of Joe Yuricek, VE3GAS/VE3WG. Several members of our club, as well as members from Barrie and Orillia were present at that meeting. For a period of time, the fledgling repeater operated out of the shack of VE3CWO, later to be moved to the CKVR television property in Barrie.

In the fall of 1975, Ted Dubois, VE3HOI was elected president. During 1974-75 there was considerable growth in the club and in amateur radio in our area. Many who had played with CB radio had become keenly interested in the technical aspects of radio and joined our club to learn more about radio, to get their licences and enjoy the privileges and advantages of being a ham. Ted continued as president for another term.

In 1977, Bill, VE3GRE became president of the club. That fall the meeting place was changed to Meadowbrook school, where Doug, VE3CWO had been transferred as vice-principal. This was a very suitable location for meeting and teaching new people about ham radio. Past president, Ted Dubois remained hard at work on behalf of the club, making the preparations for having the club incorporated. It was on July 19, 1978 that the York North Amateur Radio Club, Inc. received its charter and letters patent. It was with sadness that the members of the club learned that the first president of the club, Harry Richardson, VE3ACN had become a silent key.

In the fall of 1978, the first board of directors of the new corporation were elected. Geoff Smith, VE3KCE, now VA3GS (SK) was elected as their first chairman of the board.

Harvey Bell's QSL from 1964

Part of the club archive that Bob VE3WY presented to the board was a QSL card from our own Harvey Bell, VE3AFK (SK) to Tony Loftus, VE3FRK (SK). The most important award that the club gives out (more or less) annually is named after him.

The date? Sunday, November 29, 1964. Lyndon B. Johnson was President of the USA, Lester B. Pearson was Prime Minister of Canada, and "Baby Love" by the Supremes was the #1 song in the US and the UK. Expectations of DX must have been low at the time as his card shows the time as EST. I didn't move to Ontario until 1967 but daylight savings time was certainly in place by then. It must have been confusing.

We also have a guest book for meetings of the York North Amateur Radio Club (our former name) from Wednesday, April 10, 1963 to Tuesday, October 14th, 1969. Both Harvey VE3AFK and Tony (no call at the time) were present at that first meeting held at the QTH of R. Cronk VE3EED SK. Harvey was not at at the January 22, 1964 meeting but it is the first meeting where Tony's call sign appears, although Doug VE3VS (formerly VE3CWO) was there. Tony must have got his call sign sometime after January 8th.



His transmitter is listed as a Johnson Viking, which came in several models. There is also a handwritten note on the left hand side written sideways which mentions a new (Hallicrafters) HT44 transmitter and a Drake 2B receiver.

This picture is of a Viking Ranger. According to the Hammond Museum web page the Ranger put out the 75 watts mentioned on the QSL.



His R 1155 receiver was manufactured for the larger British aircraft like the Lancaster Bomber and the Short Sunderland by several manufacturers. It is the top unit in the next picture.



The back of the card shows that VE3FRK lived very close to our current meeting hall and the postage at the time was a mere 5 cents, no postal code was needed, and the mail was delivered right to your door!

Minutes - YRARC Board May 19th, 2015

Meeting held in the Magna Centre. Called to order at 19:03. Chaired by Chris VE3NRT. Board members attending; Chris VE3NRT, Rob VE3RQB, Chris VA3DXZ, Eric VE3EB, Steve VE3UT, David VA3DCY, John VA3JI, Geoff VA3GS. Board members absent: Barry VA3LLT. Guests attending; Bob Rennie VA3BSJ

1. Agenda (attached)
   
   • Motion 2015-05-19-01 by John VA3JI to adopt agenda, seconded by David VA3DCY.
     
     • Steve VE3UT requested that Field Day be discussed under other business
       
     • John VA3JI requested that the audit report be added as item b under governance
       
     • Eric VE3EB requested that the board discuss a recent EmComm email
       
     • Motion carried.
       
2. Adoption of Apr 21, 2015 board meeting minutes
   
   • Motion 2015-05-19-02 by Eric VE3EB to adopt Apr 21, 2015 board meeting minutes as published in the splatter blog at http://yrarc-splatter.blogspot.ca/, seconded by Geoff VA3GS. Motion carried.
     
3. Governance
   
   • Treasurer’s report (John VA3JI)
     
     • No change in the bank balance vs that last reported at the general meeting
       
     • Auditor’s report (John VA3JI)
       
       • Conclusion stated in the report "While my examination of the records did not unearth any major concerns there are a few administrative items to which I have provided to the Board of Directors with my recommendations"
         
       • The board, together with the auditor discussed the auditor’s recommendations
         
       • The auditor’s report is attached for further reference
         
4. Property
   
   • In reference to motion 2015-04-21-05 that Chris VE3NRT contact EMS at Bales Road, to determine who we should contact or notify to access our trailers, Chris VE3NRT reported:vHe called the general number 905 830-4444 x74750 April 22 and was put through to security where he spoke with Adam. Adam was not aware of any restriction on access or protocol to be followed at this time and advised that we speak with Blair Croker (Commander & Program Manager) at x74744 for further information or questions if necessary.
     
   • Club generator repair: Rob VE3RQB reported that the spark plug threads on the black generator last used at the winter field day had been repaired and that the generator is working properly. He determined that the electrical output breaker needs to be “OFF” in order to start the generator and that this may have been the cause of the trouble starting the generator during field day.
     
   • Disposal of equipment cabinets: Motion 2015-05-19-03 by Geoff VA3GS that we accept Doug VE3ATP’s offer to dispose of the 2 surplus equipment cabinets (excluding the fans which will be retained for spares) located at Mackenzie Health in Richmond Hill, seconded by Steve VE3UT. Motion carried
     
   • “Drive-on” antenna support bracket
     
     • Rob VE3RQB suggested that the club should consider purchasing two additional drive-on antenna supports. These could be used in combination with the existing unit in the communications trailer to secure guy ropes for the tower trailer when deployed on surfaces where it is not possible to drive anchors into the ground (example would be a deployment on pavement).
       
     • Rob VE3RQB will investigate our options and report back to the board
       
5. Repeaters (Steve VE3UT)
   
   • The 6m repeater cans are with Rob VE3RQB and ready to be taken to Bob VE3WY for adjustment / tuning
     
   • Trevor VE3SLT has volunteered to retune the 6m radio to the repeater frequency
     
   • Steve VE3UT reported that he has spent $142.28 against the maintenance float of which $128.00 was on parking at the Mackenzie Health site. Additional funding is needed to purchase the 6m antenna.
     
   • Motion 2015-05-19-04 by John VA3Ji to allocate $150.00 for the purchase of the 6m antenna, seconded by Geoff VA3GS. Motion carried.
     
6. Events (Eric VE3EB)
   
   • May 31 York - Simcoe Riders MADD Charity Ride - Volunteers are secured
     
   • June 5 Mt. Albert Sports Parade - 5 of 8 volunteers secured
     
   • June 6 Mt. Albert 5K Run - 6 of 8 volunteers secured
     
   • June 7 Aurora Street Festival
     
     • 11 of 16 volunteers secured
       
     • Eric VE3EB to announce the deployment of the communications trailer for the Aurora Street Festival via Yahoo group
       
7. EMCOMM
   
   York Region emergency preparedness fair May 2
   • Very successful event with EmComm participating once again
     
   • The communications trailer was deployed to the site
     
   • The EmComm team on site were able to supply power from the communications trailer generator to the York EMS team
     
8. Membership (Geoff VA3GS)
   
   • AGM
     
     • Steve VE3UT will ask for permission to operate the barbeque once again for the AGM
       
     • Steve VE3UT will secure a volunteer from the club to chair the AGM
       
     • John Dundas (Pan Am Communications) has volunteered to present at our meeting. Eric VE3EB will discuss with him. We anticipate that there will be time for a short presentation.
       
   • Harvey Bell Award
     
     • Chris VA3DXZ reported that three board members had been nominated by club members for the Harvey Bell award. There were no other nominations.
       
     • Motion 2015-05-19-05 by Chris VA3DXZ that the Harvey Bell Award nominees excuse themselves from the board meeting to allow the remaining board members to review the nominations and select a winner, seconded by David VA3DCY. Motion carried.
       
     • After a lengthy review of the nominations, Chris VA3DXZ moved (Motion 2015-05-19-06) that Eric VE3EB and Steve VE3UT be selected as co-winners of the 2015 Harvey Bell Award, seconded by Geoff VA3GS. Motion carried.
       
   • “For Sale” policy for the Yahoo group
     
     • The board discussed setting conditions under which it would allow club members in good standing to post amateur radio equipment for sale onto the yahoo group. This would be in addition to the capability already in place allowing club members to upload ads to the files section of the group.
       
     • Chris VE3NRT will announce the change in policy
       
9. Trillium Grant Ideas (Chris VE3NRT)
   
   • Next generation high bandwidth data communications system employing fixed point to point links between EOC’s and remote amateur EmComm operations
     
   • Chris VE3NRT will report further high speed communications technology the next board meeting
     
   • Involvement with Scouts and Rangers
     
     • The question was raised as to whether or not there was a badge awarded for amateur radio communications and if so, would the club be interested in supporting this
       
     • Eric VE3EB will investigate and come back to the board
       
10. Other Business
    
    • Field Day (Steve VE3UT) - Motion 2015-05-19-07 by Steve VE3UT that the club allocates $800.00 for field day expenses, seconded by Geoff VA3GS. Motion carried.
      
11. Motion 2015-05-19-08 by Eric VE3EB to adjourn meeting, seconded by John Va3JI. Motion carried
    

Meeting adjourned at 21:36

Minutes - YRARC Board of Directors, February 17, 2015

Meeting held in the Newmarket Community Centre. Called to order at 19:00. Chaired by Chris VE3NRT. Board members attending; Chris VE3NRT, Rob VE3RQB, Chris VA3DXZ, Eric VE3EB, Barry VA3LLT, Steve VE3UT, David VA3DCY, John VA3JI. Board members absent; Geoff VA3GS. Guests attending; Russell VA3WTR

1. Adoption of Jan 21, 2015 board meeting minutes
   
   • Motion 2015-02-17-01 by Barry VA3LLT to adopt Jan 21, 2015 board meeting minutes as published in the splatter blog at http://yrarc-splatter.blogspot.ca/, seconded by Rob VE3RQB. Motion carried.
     
2. Agenda
   
   • Motion 2015-02-17-02 by John VA3JI to adopt agenda, seconded by David VA3DCY. Motion carried
     
3. Governance
   
   • Treasurer’s report – John VA3JI
     
     • Bank balance at January month end is [available to club members on request to club secretary]
       
     • No transaction activity in February
       
4. Property – Rob VE3RQB
   
   • Hilomast– Rob VE3RQB and Barry VA3LLT to discuss a plan to deal with the frozen mast
     
5. Property Insurance – John VA3JI
   
   John VA3JI will report back to the board on the additional cost to cover club property
6. Repeaters
   
   • VE3YRK – Chris VE3NRT
     
     • Move of the registrations from VE3YRK to VE3LSR is under process. An issue has been found which Chris is talking to US Trust about.
       
     • DTMF linking is in place
       
     • Chris VE3NRT is looking into talk groups
       
   • 6m Repeater – Steve VE3UT
     
     • The club has received a donation of a 6m repeater which is targeted to be installed at the Mackenzie Health (Formerly York Central ) hospital with the antenna to be installed on the existing mast.
       
   • VE3YRC-UHF – Steve VE3UT
     
     • Still off the air on the bench at Steve VE3UT’s home. RC-85 controller is malfunctioning. The cost to repair the unit is expensive and it must be shipped to and from the USA for repair.
       
     • Steve VE3UT proposed that the club would be far better served by the purchase of an S-COM 7330 repeater controller (the same unit in operation at VE3YRC-VHF and VE3YRA)
       
     • The S-COM 7330 is a 3 port controller which will support the linking to the VE3YRC-VHF, VE3YRA and the new 6m repeater.
       
     • The cost of the S-COM 7330 is $499.00 USD plus taxes and shipping.
       
     • Motion 2015-02-17-03 by Steve VE3UT that subject to approval by the club, the board allocate $600.00 for the purchase of the S-COM 7330 to replace the faulty RC85, seconded by Eric VE3EB.
       
     • John VA3JI asked if there was a computer based solution available that could be used rather than dedicated hardware. Chris VE3NRT is aware of asterisk based systems but these require internet access
       
     • Eric VE3EB indicated that he felt it was a good idea to purchase the same controller used at other YRARC repeater sites
       
     • Motion carried
       
7. Events and Public Service – Steve VE3UT
   
   • Winter Field Day
     
     • The summer field day generator would not start. The unit should be started periodically
       
     • Event came in under budget. A surplus of $52.80 has been returned to the club treasurer
       
   • Summer Field Day
     
     • Planning is in the preliminary stages
       
     • There was a short discussion concerning whether or not the club should stick with a similar approach as last year. Steve VE3UT is open to other ideas.
       
8. Membership
   
   • Motion 2015-02-17-04 by John VA3JI to enter into contract with the Markham Fairgrounds for the 2015 Hamfest Oct 31st seconded by Barry VA3LLT. Motion carried.
     
   • Presentations for upcoming meetings
     
     • March: Antenna Patterns
       
     • April: Contest Club
       
     • May: Dr. Paul Delaney
       
   • Call for Harvey Bell Award nominations to take place at the next general meeting
     
9. Other Business
   
   • EMCOMM – Russell VA3WTR
     
     • Ambulance proposal is targeted to be ready for review by the board in April. Terry VE3ODM is running with this and is using operating data from Red Cross and to build a proposal that will be reviewed by EMCOMM and then sent to the board for review
       
     • YRP has amateur radio repeater in their command vehicle and would like assistance from the club in fitting their new trailer with an amateur repeater
       
     • The EMCOMM frequency list is being updated
       
     • The board requested a copy of the parking agreement that is sitting with York EMS. Russell VA3WTR will send a copy of the document to the board.
       
   • VE3YRC VHF and UHF repeater call signs – Steve VE3UT
     
     • Steve VE3UT has confirmed that the club does not need separate call signs for the VE3YRC-VHF and UHF repeaters
       
   • There was a short discussion on ideas for a future Trillium grant application
     
10. Motion 2015-02-17-05 by Chris VA3DXZ to adjourn meeting, seconded by John VA3JI. Motion carried. Meeting adjourned at 21:01
    

Harvey Bell Award - Update

Below are the winners from the past. There may be more we don't know about.

• Howard Morton VE3AQL 1973
• Maurice Challenger VE3GBN 1974
  
• John Epworth VE3GQF 1975
  
• Doug Holmes VE3CWO 1976
  
• Bob Knowles VE3DLJ 1977
  
• John Cutts VE3INP 1978
  
• Ted Dubois VE3HOI 1979
  
• Heather Holmes VE3HQH 1979
  
• Eileen Madden VE3KQQ 1980
  
• Geoff Smith VE3KCE 1981
  
• Elman Campbell VE3IET 1982
  
• John Ellison VE3WHY 1989
  
• Bruce Clements VE3AAY 1989
  
• Murray Powell VE3ATO 1989-90
  
• Rick Simpson VE3LSZ 1991
  
• David Adams VE3HBF 1992
  
• Al Dike VE3AFW 1994
  
• Chris Dean VE3TBP 1996
  
• Dave Marzetti VE3SLM 1997
  
• Ron Gibson VE3CGR 1998
  
• Jan Gibson VE3ZYL 1999
  
• Tom Bygnes VE3JPN 2000-1
  
• Roger Miller VE3ROG 2002
  
• Dave Oman VE3HCR 2004
  
• Judy Yanocko VE3JYF 2006
  
• Neil Macklem VE3SST 2007
  
• Doug Holmes VE3CWO 2009
  
• Bob Morton VE3BFM 2010
  
• John Meskes VE3POJ 2011/12
  
• Steve Brady VA3SRV 2013/14
  
• Steve Holland VE3UT & Eric Brown VE3EB 2014/15
• Rob Barnett VE3RQB 2015/2016
• TBA 2016/2017
• Peter Burgess VE3PBT 2017/18
• Brian Waterworth VE3IBW 2018/19
• Alex Sutherland VA3ASE 2019/20
• David Craig VA3DCY 2020/21
• Barry Byrom VA3LLT 2021/22
• Steve Holland VE3UT 2022/23
• Benny Muus VE3MUU 2023/24

Update (2015-08-13). I discovered in a list I made a couple of years back the name of Howard Morton, VE3AQL as the 1973 winner. Based on club history I believe there may have been one or two earlier winners, as the award was established at the January 27th, 1971 meeting. (2024-07-13) I'm also missing 2016. I will have to dig through the records. I'm sure it must be somewhere.

Call for Nominations for the 2015 Harvey Bell Award

NOTICE TO ALL YRARC MEMBERS

Each year about this time, the members of our radio club have the opportunity to nominate a member to be honoured with this award. Your nominations should be made in writing or by email, and should include your description, explanation or citation related to the nominee, and be presented to the club secretary no later than May 8, 2015. Nominations may be presented by individuals, or may be co-signed by several members.

At the January, 1971 meeting of the York North Radio Club, the membership established an award in memory of the late Harvey Bell, VE3AFK, of Aurora.

It was the wish of the members that this award be presented annually to a member in good standing with this club, in recognition of substantial achievement involving Amateur Radio, particularly in connection with the York North Radio Club.

The winner would hold the trophy for one year, and would also receive a certificate, or other citation outlining the achievement.

Any club member would be eligible to nominate any other club member for the award. Nominations would normally be considered by the Executive Committee, or alternatively, the selection of a recipient could be voted on by the members present at a regular meeting.

Harvey Bell died unexpectedly in December of 1970. At that time he was in the process of making his third attempt at keeping the club together and active. He had been a club member for almost ten years, enjoyed the fellowship and the sharing of technical information regarding Amateur Radio. He was especially interested in the Morse Code, and CW operation, but was also very involved with the fairly new SSB technology that was growing with leaps and bounds. During the late 1960’s activity in the club seemed to wane, and Harvey Bell, along with a couple of other area hams kept up a steady contact with other hams in Newmarket and surroundings. Invitations were sent out on at least three occasions in a an attempt to keep the club active and growing. He had just succeeded, in the fall of 1970, to get the membership back together again, and had turned the leadership over to Frank Rusholme.

His influence and his leadership in club affairs will long be remembered by the Amateurs in this area who knew him personally. In addition to being an active 80 metre DX chaser, Harvey was also involved in RTTY (radio teletype), VHF, and had one of the outstanding stamp collections in the region.

The award, which honours his name, is consider the highest acclaim that the club can give to one of its members.

General Meeting Minutes, 2014.06.03

Meeting held at the Sharon Temperance Hall. The meeting was called to order at 19:41. Chaired by Chris VE3NRT. Introductions completed. 36 members and 2 guests in attendance

1. Motion 2014-06-03-01 by John VA3JI to approve the minutes of the May 6th General Meeting as published in the Splatter Blog, seconded by Bill VA3QB. Motion carried.
   
2. Finance – John VA3JI
   
   • Opening balance [available to members from Secretary on request]
     
   • Receipts totaling $75.00 in dues plus proceeds from sale of old tower $200.00
     
   • Disbursements $529.15 go kits, $2,401.24 container including delivery
     
   • [available to members on request] closing balance
     
   • Upcoming expenses: $344.00 for food for AGM
     
3. Events – Eric VE3EB
   
   • MADD Poker Run – Eric thanked volunteers for MADD, repeater coverage was good
     
   • Girl Guide event went well, 5 volunteers
     
   • This weekend MT Albert Parade on Friday, run on Saturday
     
   • Canada Day at Sharon Temple
     
   • Need volunteers
     
   • Don VE3IXJ noted that August long weekend will be a big challenge with the Newmarket Jazz festival Aug 1-4th due to the expanded footprint. This is the same weekend as Al’s Ride.
     
4. Membership Drive – Steve VE3EZ
   
   • Steve has worked with the board to design a club QSL card with the intention to mail these out to 500 local amateurs, inviting them to join us at field day and our regular meetings
     
   • Motion 2014-06-03-02 by Anthony VE3HIS to allocate up to $800.00 to fund the production and distribution of the cards, seconded by Glen VA3AU. Bill VA3QB suggested we focus distribution on newer amateur licenses; for example the VA3’s. Don VE3IXJ could use 411 to cross check mailing list. Chris VE3NRT will send a request through Yahoo to look for volunteers to vet the list. Phil raised the concern that this did not address targeting people who may want to become licensed. Motion carried.
     
5. Field Day – Steve VE3UT
   
   • Al’s ride is an important event to support because they provide the club with the use of their property for field day.
     
   • Steve thanked Rob VE3RQB for his work on the tower trailer and mentioned that the project is moving along very well and should be ready for field day
     
   • The military have contacted Steve and may not be able to join us at field day due to other commitments
     
   • Volunteer operators are needed as well as volunteers to help with setup will start on Friday Jun 27th. On the air at 2pm Saturday to 2pm Sunday.
     
   • Peter VE3PBT has received a donation from Tim Horton’s to support our event
     
6. EMCOMM – Russell VE3WTR
   
   • EMCOMM has grown over the year. Site owners are assigned to EOC’s in the region
     
   • D-Star training was completed
     
   • Russell recently completed a number of renovations to the trailer over a period of 9 days. New internal layout to improve workability and weight distribution, installation of a UPS, accommodations built for storage of chairs, spare tire, etc… plus reflective tape outside, improvements to the generator storage cage
     
   • Russell VE3WTR has personally invested just under $1,300.00 into this project (for which he has receipts) and estimates that $3000-$4000.00 in total was invested in cash and in kind. He requested the club reimburse ½ of his personal expenses; an amount equal to $633.00
     
   • Motion 2014-06-03-03A by Brian VE3IBW, to reimburse Russell $633.00 seconded by Mike VE3FGU.
     
   • Secondary Motion 2014-06-03-03B by Steve VE3UT to amend the primary motion 2014-06-03-03A requesting that the issue be put to the board for review and final approval. Seconded by Ron KG4CVL.
     
   • Motion 2014-06-03-03A was carried as amended by 2014-06-03-03B
     
   • John VA3JI clarified that the board did not approve this expenditure, and authorized funding repairs to weight distribution system
     
7. Ron KG4CVL was appointed chair AGM
   
8. Chris VA3DXZ was appointed secretary for AGM
   
9. General meeting is adjourned Motion 2014-06-03-04 by Terry VE3ODM to adjourn the general meeting, seconded by Garrett VA3PYP. Motion carried
   
10. Chris VE3NRT announced that Steve VA3SRV is the winner of the Harvey Bell Award
    

Minutes of the May 2014 Board of Directors meeting

Meeting held in the multipurpose room of the Magna Centre. Called to order at 19:07. Chaired by Chris VE3NRT

• Board members attending; Chris VE3NRT, Rob VE3RQB, Chris VA3DXZ, Publius VE3XS, John VA3JI, Eric VE3EB, Steve VE3EZ, Barry VA3LLT, Geoff VA3GS
  
• Board members absent; Richard VE3NSD
  
• Guests attending; none
  

1. Agenda was approved as proposed by Chris VE3NRT with the addition of the two email motions;
   
   • 2014-04-24-01 Email Motion - Movement of trailer out of region
     
   • 2014-04-28-01 Email Motion - Trailer Renovations
     
2. Adoption of April 4th, 2014 board meeting minutes
   
   • Motion 2014-05-20-01 by Chris VA3DXZ to adopt minutes, seconded by Publius VE3XS. Motion carried.
   • Finance report John VA3JI –
     
     • Income; $200.00 for the sale of the old tower, $75.00 for 3 memberships
       
     • Disbursements; $529.15 for Go Kit Items, $2,401.25 for purchase of the storage container
       
     • Balance [Available to members from Secretary on request]
       
     • John VA3JI reported that an earlier Motion for $500.00 for Go Kit materials was recorded in the minutes with the incorrect motion number.
       
     • Motion 2014-05-20-02 by John VA3JI to amend the earlier motion numbered 2013-11-19-04 for allocation of $500.00 for Go Kit items to 2013-12-17-04 seconded by Chris VA3DXZ. Motion carried.
       
     • Motion 2014-05-20-03 moved by Geoff to increase funding allocated under motion 2013-12-17-04 for go kits by $29.15, seconded by John VA3JI. Motion carried.
       
   • Motion 2014-05-20 -04 by Chris VA3DXZ to recognize and confirm approval of 2014-04-24-01, an email motion approving the movement of the communications trailer out of region, seconded by Eric VE3EB. Motion carried.
     
   • Motion 2014-05-20 -05 by Chris VA3DXZ to recognize and confirm approval of 2014-04-28-01, an email motion approving certain renovations to the interior of the communications trailer, seconded by Rob VE3RQB. Motion carried.
     
   • Trailer Weight Distribution System – Rob VE3RQB
     
     • Rob VE3RQB reported that the weight distribution brackets on the tongue of the communications trailer were damaged during towing for the recent renovations and subsequently removed without prior approval of the board.
       
     • In response to a concern raised that the weight distribution kit was not compatible with the braking system on the trailer, Rob VE3RQB provided a report from D.D. Eagles & Sons (see attachment #2), (the installer of the weight distributor kit), noting the manufacturer of the kit; Reese Hitch, had confirmed that the weight distribution kit would present no issue. Problems arise when a sway control system is used. In the case of the club’s trailer, a sway control system has not been installed nor used.
       
     • Motion 2014-05-20 -06 by Eric VE3EB to allocate up to $300.00 to repair the weight distribution system in accordance with the recommendation of the trailer committee, seconded by Geoff VA3GS. Motion amended by John VA3JI to request a written validation by the installer that the system meets or exceeds the manufactures recommendations, seconded by Chris VA3DXZ. Motion carried.
       
     • Rob VE3RQB recommended that the generator be removed from the trailer during towing, until such time that the weight distribution system is repaired.
       
     • Motion 2014-05-20-07 moved by Barry that Steve VE3EZ, Chris VA3DXZ, Bill VE3QB, and Rob VE3RQB, be solely authorized to tow the trailer until the trailer committee has reviewed / amended the trailer policy to ensure the club's interests are protected. Seconded by Publius VE3XS. Motion carried.
       
     • Motion 2014-05-20-08 by John to request that the board seek cost recovery for the damage to the weight distribution system. Seconded by Rob VE3RQB. Motion defeated.
       
   • Tower Trailer – Rob VE3RQB
     
     • Discussion concerning modifications of the new tower necessary to install it on the existing tower trailer
       
     • It was noted that the existing tower trailer was originally a Toronto Police tower trailer
       
     • The trailer committee suggested that only the 3 inner sections be used to reduce weight
       
     • Rob will call out for volunteers, to disassemble the new tower
       
   • Storage unit – Rob VE3RQB
     
     • The storage container was purchased (see attachment #3) and delivered to site. Rob VE3RQB will donate a lock. Property manager will hold one key and club secretary will hold second key.
       
     • Barry VA3LLT will begin work on interior shelving
       
   • Bylaws – Eric VE3EB
     
     • Bylaws have been distributed to the club secretary who will distribute to club members on request
       
     • The secretary reported that there have been no requests for a copy of the bylaws
       
   • Membership drive – Steve VE3EZ
     
     • The draft version of the post card was presented for feedback. Edits will continue for the following week at which time Steve VE3EZ expects to finalize the design
       
     • Steve VE3EZ provided a budgetary cost estimate totaling $762.00 including tax to produce and mail 500 cards. He will secure additional quotes prior to the next general meeting.
       
     • Steve VE3EZ will send the mailing list for review and comment.
       
     • Motion 2014-05-20-09 by Geoff GS to go to general membership with a motion to allocate up to $800.00 for membership drive seconded by John VA3JI. Motion carried.
       
   • IRLP – John VA3JI
     
     • IRLP was brought on line 4 weeks ago but is presently down due to a lightning strike. System will be back online once the internet access is restored
   • Field Day
     
     • Chris VE3NRT & Steve VE3UT to meet to discuss details
   • Harvey Bell Award
     
     • The Harvey Bell award nominations were reviewed and a winner was selected by majority vote of the board. The winner will be announced at the AGM
   • Events update – Eric VE3EB
     
     • Eric noted the upcoming events, all of which are on the calendar on the club web site WWW.YRARC.org
   • AGM Food
     
     • Motion 2014-05-20-10 by Barry VA3LLT to allocate the $50 in addition to the amount allocated for food for the 2013 AGM.
     • Seconded by Rob VE3RQB
       
   • Motion 2014-05-20-11 by Eric VE3EB to adjourn meeting, seconded by Geoff VA3GS. Motion carried at 21:10
     

Minutes, YRARC Board Meeting, March 18th, 2014

Meeting held in the multipurpose room of the Magna Centre. Called to order at 19:00. Chaired by Chris VE3NRT

• Board members attending; Chris VE3NRT, Rob VE3RQB, Chris VA3DXZ, Barry VA3LLT, Steve VE3EZ, Geoff VA3GS, Publius VE3XS, John VA3JI, Eric VE3OIC
  
• Board members absent; Richard VE3NSD
  
• Guest attending; Steve VE3UT
  

1. Agenda
   
   • Agenda as proposed by Chris VE3NRT (Attachment #1)
     
   • Motion 2014-03-18-01 by Geoff VA3GS to adopt agenda seconded by Barry VA3LLT. Motion carried.
     
2. Adoption of Feb 18, 2014 board meeting minutes
   
   • Motion 2014-03-18-02 by John VA3JI to adopt the minutes of the Feb 18th board meeting seconded by Geoff VA3GS. Motion carried.
     
3. Treasurer's report John VA3JI
   
   • Report detailed bank balance and transactions in February. Information is available to members upon request.
     
   • 1 cheque outstanding for 88th Baden Powell. Geoff, VA3GS, will ask them to cash it.
     
4. Old Business
   
   1. Antenna Trailer – Rob VE3RQB
      
      • Contractor is estimating 20-30 hours at $70.00 per hour plus an estimate of $1,000 for material for outriggers, all plus HST. Rob VE3RQB intends to be there to assist
        
      • Discussion concerning how high the tower could be deployed with/without outriggers and/or guy wires. It was agreed that outriggers should be included for added safety. There was an agreement that the board would create a policy to set out the maximum deployable height with and without guy wires to ensure safe operation of the tower trailer. There was further discussion about whether a mechanical means could be installed to limit the deployed height of the tower. This idea will be discussed with the contractor.
        
      • Motion 2014-03-18-03 by Eric VE3OIC to bring to the membership a motion to authorize $3,500 for services and materials rendered by Trick Toys to repair the antenna trailer (outriggers, and other modifications) to make it ready for field day and other events, seconded by Geoff VA3GS. Motion carried.
        
   2. Bylaws – Eric VE3OIC and Geoff VA3GS
      
      • Updated draft to be finalized and sent to board members by Mar 19th
        
      • Comments by the board required by Mar 26th
        
      • The bylaw committee will communicate through the Splatter Blog and Yahoo group that interested club member should contact the club secretary for a preliminary copy of the bylaws for review prior to the AGM, not withstanding that the Preliminary draft will also be sent to the membership 3 weeks prior to AGM
        
      • Publius VE3XS will send membership list to the club secretary to validate club members requesting a copy of the preliminary draft
        
   3. Hamfest Location – Geoff VA3GS
      
      • Geoff is targeting Nov 8th
        
      • Location is not finalized.
        
      • Geoff has requested a quote from Markham Fairgrounds
        
      • Geoff is looking for additional parking that could be made available near the Newmarket Community Centre
        
   4. Storage – Rob VE3RQB
      
      • Quotation for 20’L x 8’W x 8.5’H “construction grade” container is $1,700.00
        
      • Peter VE3PBT has volunteered to store the unit on his property
        
      • Costs range from $225 to $290 to transport the container to Peter VE3PBT’s property
        
      • Geoff to research monthly storage costs so the board can compare an upfront purchase option vs on-going rental fees for storage
        
   5. Field Day Budget – Steve VE3UT
      
      • Steve VE3UT presented the field day budget. Very slight increase planned over 2013 expenditure.
        
      • Motion 2014-03-18-04 by Geoff VA3GS to allocate $1,200 for Field Day expenses seconded by Rob VE3RQB. Motion carried.
        
   6. Membership Drive – Steve VE3EZ / Publius VE3XS
      
      • Steve presented a mock up of the proposed mailing card for feedback
        
      • There was a discussion concerning the anticipated increase in postage costs planned by Canada Post. It was agreed that if the cards were mailed prior to the increase, they would arrive far too early to be effective in drawing amateurs out to field day. It was agreed that the cards would be mailed 3 weeks before field day.
        
   7. Status of IRLP – John VA3JI
      
      • Tower is inaccessible. John will repair cable and re-locate the antenna as soon as he can access the tower.
        
5. New Business
   
   1. Harvey Bell Award – next steps – Chris VE3NRT
      
      • One nomination has been received
        
      • Chris VE3NRT will send a reminder note
        
   2. YRARC QSO Award – support from the board – Chris VE3NRT
      
      • Chris VE3NRT will create a form listing club members and bands for interested members to use to track points
        
   3. Life Membership Award Criteria
      
      • Wording in the current Bylaws was reviewed and deemed acceptable for its purpose
   4. Equipment Donation from VE3RTO – Chris VE3NRT
      
      • VE3RTO is a silent key who’s son donated his amateur equipment to YRARC
        
      • Proposal by Chris VE3NRT to lend (or rent cheaply) the equipment to a newly licensed amateur or failing that, to be sold with funds to go into the club treasury
        
      • Geoff VA3GS to come back with a suggested recipient
        
      • In the mean time the equipment will be held by the club and be made available for loan to club members
        
6. Motion 2014-03-18-05 by John VA3JI to adjourn meeting, seconded by Rob VE3RQB. Motion carried at 21:02
   

The Harvey Bell Award - Call for Nominations

At the January, 1971 meeting of the York North Radio Club, the membership established an award in memory of the late Harvey Bell, VE3AFK, or Aurora.

It was the wish of the members that this award be presented annually to a member in good standing with this club, in recognition of substantial achievement involving Amateur Radio, particularly in connection with the York North Radio Club.

The winner would hold the trophy for one year, and owuld also receive a certificate, or other citation outlining the achievement.

Any club member would be eligible to nominate any other club member for the award. Nominations would normally be considered by the Board, or alternatively, the selection of a recipient could be voted on by the members present at a regular meeting.

Harvey Bell died unexpectedly in December of 1970. At that time he was in the process of making his third attempt at keeping the club together and active. He had been a club member for almost ten years, enjoyed the fellowship and the sharing of technical information regarding Amateur Radio. He was especially interested in the Morse Code, and CW operation, but was also very involved with the fairly new SSB technology that was growing with leaps and bounds. During the late 1960's activity in the club seemed to wane, and Harvey Bell, along with a couple of other area hams kept up a steady contact with other hams in Newmarket and surroundings. Invitations were sent out on at least three occasions in an attempt to keep the club active and growing. He had just succeeded, in the fall of 1970, to get the membership back together again, and had turned to leadership over to Frank Rusholme.

His influence and his leadership in club affairs will long be remembered by the Amateurs in this area who know him personally. in addition to being an active 80 metre DX chaser, Harvey was also involved in RTTY (radioteletype), VHF, and one of the outstanding stamp collections in the region.

The award, which honours his name, is considered the highest acclaim the club can give to one of its members.

Notice to all YRARC members

Each year about this time, the members of our radio club have the opportunity to nominate a member to be honoured with this award.

Your nominations should be made in writing, and should include your description, explanation or citation related to the nominee, and be presented to the club secretary no later than April 2014 general meeting. Nominations may be presented by individuals, or may be co-signed by several members