Minutes - YRARC Board of Directors Meeting - 2018-02-20

Meeting held in the Magna Centre, Multipurpose Room 4. Called to Order at 19:15 by Chris VE3NRT. Board members attending: Chris VE3NRT (P), Steve VE3UT (VP), Charles VA3TTB (T), Barry VA3LLT, John VE3IPS, Mike VA3MCT, David VA3DCY (S). Absent: Geoff VA3GS, Rick VA3VO, Eric VE3EB. Others attending: None

1. Approval of Agenda & declaration of conflicts of interest. Amendments: None. Conflicts of interest declared: None. MOTION: To adopt the agenda, Moved Barry VA3LLT, seconded Steve VE3UT. Carried.
   
2. Minutes: MOTION: To adopt minutes of Board Meeting date 2018/01/15. Moved Steve VE3UT, seconded Barry VA3LLT. Carried.
   
3. Actions arising from minutes: None
   
4. Committee Reports:
   
   1. Treasurer’s Report: Charles VA3TTB
      
      Income Expenditures Balance
      • Opening Balance 2017/12/01 [is available to members from Secretary on request]
        
      • Memberships $25.00
        
      • Total income $25.00
        
      • Cheque $20.00
        
      • Total expenditures $20.00
        
      • Interim balance 2017/12/19[is available to members from Secretary on request]
        
      • MOTION: To adopt the treasurers report. Moved Charles VA3TTB, seconded Barry VA3LLT. Carried.
        
5. Insurance: Charles VA3TTB. The Directors and Officers insurance is due on March 15. This policy does not automatically renew, and must be applied for each year. Again the need for this insurance was debated, since according to RAC and their insurance provider, D&O insurance is not necessary for amateur radio clubs, since we have no shareholders, no employees and not other other parties who would rely on the club for income or other funding. The topic of renewing the insurance was debated. MOTION: To renew the D&O insurance. Moved Barry VA3LLT, seconded Mike VA3MCT. Carried.
   
6. Repeaters: Steve VE3UT. The power supply for VE3YRA is on hand, and ready to be installed. VE3YRK VHF is still off air due to the 4:1 SWR. A new antenna should be available in the spring. Chris VE3NRT noted that the D-Star operating system is no longer maintained.
   
7. Winter Field Day: Steve VE3UT. Steve presented his WFD cost summary:
   

   Item	Advance	Expenditures	Refund
   Advance	$275.00
   Gas bought Steve VE3UT		$90.00
   Gas bought David VA3DCY		$23.40
   Propane	$15.00
   Name plate for Melted Coffee Pot award		$8.00
   Kitchen expenses (drinks/snacks) Peter VE3PBT		$54.20
   Total expenses		$190.60
   Excess gas purchased Steve VE3UT	$21.00
   Total money received		$296.00
   Cash returned to treasurer		$296.00 - $190.60	$105.40

   • Winter Field Day cost: $190.60 - $21.00 = $169.60
8. Web Site: Mike VA3MCT. The new web site is ready to go and we have access to thee products and services offered by Tech Soup, such as 'Google for non-profits'.
   
9. ARES: Mike VA3MCT. There has been no recent activity, but we have been invited to the Barrie ARES Central Ontario meeting on April 7 and have been asked to bring our trailer. MOTION: To allow the trailer to leave York Region to go to Barrie for April 7. Moved Mike VA3MCT, seconded John VE3IPS. Carried. John VE3IPS will attend a GTA ARES meeting in February.
   
10. Auditor: Charles VA3TTB. Charles VA3TTB met with John VA3JI and Doug VE3XV to discuss the auditor's requirements and to establish procedures and guidelines. Charles distributed a draft of the proposed procedures.
    

Minutes - YRARC General Meeting - March 6, 2018

Meeting held in the Sharon Temperance Hall. Called to Order at 19:35 by Chris VE3NRT. Total members and guests attending: 28.

1. Welcome & Introductions: Chris VE3NRT
   
2. Adoption of minutes from 2018/02/06. Moved Brian VE3IBW, seconded Rick VA3VO. Carried.
   
3. Treasurer's Report; Charles VA3TTB. Members may obtain the opening and closing balances from the club secretary. Receipts: Excess money from Winter Field Day $105.00; Expenditures: Serial port adapter $28.24, Scout Winter Camp Gas: $23.39.
   
4. Insurance: Charles VA3TTB. Our membership at RAC has expired, and membership in RAC could have benefits with the future purchase of insurance. MOTION: That YRARC join Radio Amateurs of Canada as an affiliate club for an annual cost of $27.95 plus GST. Moved Rick VA3VO, seconded John VA3JI. Carried.
   
5. Repeaters: Steve VE3UT: VE3YRA will be off the air on Wednesday March 7, at 09:00 for approximately one hour, to replace the power supply that had recently failed. The repeater has been on air using a temporary supply. Doug VE3ATP is waiting for better weather to replace the VE3YRK antenna. Don VE3IXJ mentioned there is a new DMR repeater north of Bradford.
   

Guest Speaker: Due to last minute circumstances, the scheduled guest was unavailable. Charles VA3TTB filled in with some of his thoughts on weather radar. Being an enthusiastic bird watcher, weather radar is of interest to him. Weather radar has an approximately 1 degree beam, which is elevated just above the horizon. At a given distance away from the radar station, the beam will be at a certain height above ground. The pulses can be reflected by small objects such as rain, snow, small insects such as bees and also birds. One of his pictures showed a ring of objects. They were birds, flying at their normal height above the ground. Another picture showed a concentration of migrating birds along the Niagara Peninsula. In conclusion, he wanted us to know that a doctor gave us a talk on the birds and the bees.

Minutes - YRARC General Membership Meeting 2018-02-06

Meeting held in the Sharon Temperance Hall. Called to Order at 19:30 by Chris VE3NRT. Total members and guests attending: 38.

1. Welcome & Introductions: Chris VE3NRT
   
2. Trailer and Membership Report: Barry VA3LLT.
   
   • The club trailer was used at Winter Field Day, and a small clean-up is needed.
     
   • We have a total of 73 paid members, including life members.
     
3. Trailer Item Purchase: Steve VE3UT. MOTION: To approve payment of $28.24 for a USB to RS232 adaptor, purchased for the D- Star radio in the club trailer. Moved Steve VE3UT, seconded Rick VA3VO. Carried.
   
4. Adoption of minutes from 2017/12/05 and 2018/01/02. Moved Brian VE3IBW, seconded Steve VE3UT. Carried.
   
5. Treasurer's Report: Charles VA3TTB. Due to an incompatibility between a USB drive and a computer, there was no official report, only a verbal summary.
   
6. Insurance: Charles VA3TTB. We have 3 insurance policies, liability insurance, trailer road insurance and directors insurance. Charles is investigating getting us coverage at better rates.
   
7. Public Service: Eric VE3EB.
   
   • There are planned events for the year 2018, including but not limited to, the Mount Albert Run, the Newmarket Music Festival, the Aurora Street Sale, Run for the Cure, and various events at the Sharon Temple.
     
   • We participated at the recent 2nd Markham Scouts Winter camp. Steve VE3UT, Geoff VA3GS and David VA3DCY set up on the Friday (in winter conditions). On Saturday Geoff VA3GS and David VA3DCY introduced younger youth to Morse Code and the phonetic alphabet. For the older youth, Eric VE3EB and Brian VE3IBW demonstrated APRS and digital modes with the help of Steve VE3EZ (who was off site).
     
8. Winter Field Day: Steve VE3UT
   
   • WFD weekend was on January 27 and 28. Set up started on Friday with the club trailer, Steve VE3EZ's trailer and one section of the summer shelter. We operated as 3Oscar (maximum 3 transmitters at one time and Outdoors).
     
   • In 2015 our score was 3573, in 2017 our score was 6348 and for 2018 we claimed 10,690. The total number of QSOs were 239 with a multiplier of 7, for a QSO score of 2345. We claimed 1500 bonus points each for non-commercial power (generators), operating outdoors, away from home and a minimum of one satellite QSO. We made 3 Satellite QSOs (although only 1 counted).
     
9. Repeaters: Steve VE3UT. VE3YRA was off the air recently due to a failed power supply. It was returned to air using a temporary supply. A replacement supply will arrive soon.
   
10. ARES (EmComm) Report: Don VE3IXJ. The UHF frequencies used on the cross-band repeaters at the EOCs, may conflict with digital frequencies. Don is working to resolve the situation.
    

Break: 20:10 – 20:25

Guest Speaker: Alex VE3ASE

Topic: Amateur Radio Satellites.

It can be inexpensive to start working satellites with a minimum of equipment. Alex started with a simple 'tape measure' yagi and a dual band handheld radio. Satellites can be worked regardless of band conditions, since they are worked with line of sight VHF and UHF communications. The satelites are in low-earth orbit (not geosynchronous orbit like communications satellites) and have a 10 to 20 minute maximum window when they can be 'seen'.

FM satellites operate on 1 cross-band channel, and like a terrestrial repeater, allow only one QSO at a time. Linear satellites have a 50 to 100 kHz bandwidth and allow multiple SSB/CW QSOs.

For FM satellite operation, the handheld radio should be capable of full duplex operation, first to ensure you are actually being heard by the sattelite and secondly to be able to respond quickly to a QSO. Alternately 2 separate radios could be used. Because of the satellite movement, you can expect a doppler shift, so at least 5 pre-programmed transmit and receive frequencies are necessary – (2 lower, 1 on frequency, 2 higher). In addition, a voice recorder is necessary to record the exchange in the QSO. In order to know when satellites will be 'visible', satellite pass prediction software is invaluable.

The most critical antenna is the downlink antenna. It should be a high gain Yagi. While the antennae can be hand-held, it can also be permanently mounted, and motor driven as done by Brad VE3HII. The setup can also be more expensive.

Minutes - YRARC General Meeting 2018-01-02

Meeting held in the Sharon Temperance Hall. Called to Order at 19:30 by Chris VE3NRT. Total members and guests attending: 26

1. Welcome & Introductions: Chris VE3NRT
   
2. Adoption of minutes from 2017/12/05. Postponed until February 2018.
   
3. Repeater Committee: Steve VE3UT
   
   • The voice IDs on the repeaters are now muted when the repeater is in use. VE3YRK-V is still off the air due to a 4:1 SWR.
     
   • Winter field day will be on January 27 and 28, and we will be at Al's Tack Shop on Vandorf Rd. A show of hands indicated approximately 10 people plan to attend. The cost of fuel and snacks will be covered by the club. Peter VE3PBT will prepare a light meal for those wishing to stay for supper at a cost of $3 per person.
     
4. Don VE3IXJ noted that VE3BAL is now on a new frequency.
   

Break: 19:50

Guest Speaker: Don VE3IXJ
Topic: The Power of the HT Repeater.

Don demonstrated a simplex repeater, Surecom SR-112, costing approximately $80 Cdn bought on eBay from China. It attaches to the mic/speaker of the HT radio. On receive it records the audio, then re-transmits the recorded audio. It is a very simple solution for use in a local environment. Then Don demonstrated a crossband repeater, Surecom SR-628, costing approximately $90Cdn. The lightweight and inexpensive repeater could be set up easily and quickly in a typical emergency where simplex operation might be ineffective.

The crossband repeater was connected to an inexpensive Chinese radio capable of crossband. Anything received on VHF was retransmitted on UHF, and anything received on UHF was retransmitted on VHF. To extend the range, Don added a second crossband repeater/radio combination and then a third repeater/radio combination. From end to end a typical path would be VHF Freq#1 – repeater – UHF Freq#2 – repeater – VHF Freq#3 – repeater – UHF Freq#4.

A conversation could be heard on any frequency along the path. A radio in the middle could transmit on UHF Freq#2 or VHF Freq#3 and be heard at both ends of the path on VHF Freq#1 and UHF Freq#4.

YRARC General Meeting - Minutes 2017-12-05

Meeting held in the Sharon Temperance Hall. Called to Order at 19:30 by Chris VE3NRT. Total members and guests attending: 27

1. Welcome & Introductions: Chris VE3NRT
   
2. Adoption of minutes from 2017/11/07. Moved Rick VA3VO, seconded Jack VA3UU. Carried
   
3. Ontario VHF Association: Bob VE3WY; The Ontario VHF Association is having a 1 day meeting in June, with antenna testing in the morning, and technical talks in the afternoon, followed by dinner. Bob asked if we as a club would host the event.
   
4. ARES Report: Mike VA3MCT; The recent SET in Markham was based on a 5 day power outage. Messages were passed using only simplex communication, however hand written messages using standard voice relaying are slow, and not the way to go forward. Eric VE3EB and others are experimenting with Fldigi to transfer messages of UHF and HF. Steve VE3UT and others have tested D-Star to transfer messages. John VE3IPS would also like to encourage the use of NVIS antennae for short range HF links.
   
5. Treasurer’s Report: Charles VA3TTB; There was no working projector and no definite treasurers report, just figures from memory. Charles spoke about a proposed project night Arduino antenna analyzer. He has been sourcing parts for the project, and the cost should be approximately $100.
   
6. Repeater, Winter Field Day Reports: Steve VE3UT; The D-Star VHF repeater is off the air until further notice. The antenna has a 4:1 VSWR. Steve asked for a headcount of potential WFD participants, to estimate refreshment requirements (approximately 10 to 12). Proposed bands for operation will be 160m, 80m, 40m and 20m...Phone, CW and digital modes. Rob VE3RQB wanted to know when the 'brag messages' on the repeaters would be lowered when there was a conversation in progress.
   
7. Public Service Report: Eric VE3EB; There are still items remaining from the estate of Bernie VE3OTR. John VE3POJ is disposing of the assets. Contact Eric for details.
   
8. Hamfest Report: Geoff VA3GS; Geoff thanked all who were involved with the Hamfest. He also noted that as of December 1, all cell phones can be unlocked without charge for the unlock code.
   
9. Membership Report: Barry VA3LLT; We have a total of 70 paid members including life members.
   
10. Name Tags: Doug VE3VS;Anyone a name tag, please contact Doug. When there are enough orders, the name tags can be made. There is a DXpedition at the Galapagos Islands, and Doug received his Vimy 100 certificate.
    

Meeting adjourned at 20:15. Moved Rick VA3VO, seconded Jack VA3UU. Carried.

The Christmas party followed the business meeting.

Minutes - YRARC General Meeting 2017-03-07

Meeting held in the Sharon Temperance Hall. Called to Order at 19:32 by Chris VE3NRT

1. Welcome & Introductions – Chris VE3NRT
   
2. Adoption of the Minutes from the 2017/01/03 and 2017/02/07 general meetings, moved Rick VA3VO and seconded Jack VA3UU. Carried.
   
3. Treasurer’s Report – John VA3JI
   
   • Opening Balance 2017/02/01 [Available to members on request to club Secretary]
     
   • Income: Membership dues $25.00
     
   • Expenditures: None
     
   • Closing Balance 2017/03/07 [Available to members on request to club Secretary]
     
   • Moved the treasurer's report be adopted, by Glen VE3AU, seconded Jack VA3UU. Carried
     
4. Trillium Grant – Eric VE3EB. We will probably not have a proposal by June, for a July submission.
   
5. Field Day – Steve VE3UT.
   
   • At Winter Field Day, Charles VA3TTB made his first ever QSOs. Our final score (6348) was much better than 2 years ago (2015), however the ground rods were frozen into the ground after thaw/freeze cycles, and we need a solution to lower our generator fuel costs. For Summer Field Day, Steve will be away in May and June, and Rick VA3VO will be in charge. We will be at the same location – Al's Tack Shop, 4812 Vandorf Rd. The property has been divided and all stations will be on one property.
     
   • Peter VE3PBT has checked food costs, which were up by 3.7% in 2015 and up 2.3% in 2016. The increase for 2017 could be 13% over last year because of rising food costs and basic supplies (plates, knives, forks) also need to be replaced.
     
   • The cost per person for food could possibly increase from $10 to $15 or $20 if he club only pays for fuel and toilets, and does not subsidize the food costs.
     
   • We will need to know by the AGM how many members will want meals at Field Day in order to purchase adequate food.
     
6. Projector – Steve VE3UT. We need a new projector, and the proposed cost is $500 plus tax. Moved by Mike VE3MKX, seconded by Rick VA3VO, that we purchase the projector for $500 plus tax. Carried
   EmComm – John VE3IPS. At the last Fox Hunt, 15 people participated. The next Fox Hunt will be on March 25, meeting at McDonalds in Aurora, between 08:00 and 08:30. All go-kits need to have their batteries charged. There will be an EmComm SET in May.
   
7. Membership – Barry VA3LLT. We have 3 new members, 40 regular members, 5 associate members, 17 family members and 9 life members. Total members 71.
   

Break 20:04 – 20:20

Guest Speaker Mike VE3MKX. Mike spoke on one his other hobbies - Weather Observation and Recording.

He spoke about the data that can be collected with a weather station and observation, including temperature, precipitation, wind speed and direction, visibility, atmospheric pressure, hours of sunshine, cloud cover and types of clouds. Quality equipment is better, since it will often last longer and can yield more accurate information that lower end equipment.

The data obtained could just be retained for personal reference, or shared with others.

Popular web sites include weather.gc.ca (Cdn weather) ncdc.noaa.gov (US weather) lightningmaps.org and wundergound.com

Minutes - YRARC General Meeting 2017-02-07

Meeting held in the Sharon Temperance Hall. Called to Order at 19:30 by John VA3JI. Total members and guests attending: 12. (Note: Freezing rain conditions)

1. Welcome & Introductions – John VA3JI
   
2. Adoption of the Minutes from the 2017/01/03 general meeting postponed until March.
   
3. Treasurer’s Report – John VA3JI
   
   • Opening Balance 2017/01/01 [Available to members on request to secretary]
     
   • Income: Membership dues $80.00
     
   • Markham Fair refund $1856.00
     
   • Total: $1936.00
     
   • Expenditures: None
     
   • Closing Balance [Available to members on request to secretary]
     
   • Moved the treasurer's report be adopted, by Barry VA3LLT, seconded GlenVA3AU. Carried
     
4. Membership – Barry VA3LLT. We have 37 regular members, 5 associate members, 17 family members and 9 life members. Total members 68.
   
5. Repeaters – John VA3JI for Steve VE3UT. All repeaters are OK.
   
6. Winter Field Day – John VA3JI for Steve VE3UT. Winter Field Day was held on January 28 and 29 in the parking lot (near the road) at Al's Tack Shop on Vandorf Rd. There were 3 stations with 5 antennae, and we operated as “3O” (3 transmitters Outdoors not in a regular location with generator power). We made 107 QSOs with a submitted score of 6348 which included 4500 bonus points. Charles VA3TTB made his first ever QSOs at WFD.
   
7. EmComm – No report. The February meeting will be cancelled.
   
8. Trailer – Barry VA3LLT. The trailer Hilomast has been temporarily fixed. The top section, which has a crack, has been locked to the second section, to prevent the top section from being extended.
   
9. Examinations – Doug VE3VS. Doug wanted to mention that Terry VA3TYB approached Doug in January, asking to take his basic exam, in which he received 99% (and knew the correct answer to his 1 mistake), then passed his advanced exam a few days later and received 100%.
   
10. Trillium Grant – No report
    
11. Other business
    
    • Question from Mike VA3MCT – Are we able to send emails to members if a meeting is to be cancelled? Answer from John VA3JI – The ability to send emails from the membership database does not currently exist. If requested by the board, John will investigate a means to send bulk emails to members.
      
    • Doug VE3VS has a projector available if needed.
      
    • We will need a new auditor, since Bob Rennie is no longer able to carry on.
      
    • There was no guest speaker. Steve VE3EZ who was scheduled to fill in at the last minute was unable to get to the meeting due to poor road conditions.
      

Minutes - YRARC Board of Directors Meeting 2017-01-17

Meeting held in the Magna Centre, Multi Purpose Room 1. Called to Order at 19:05 by Chris VE3NRT. Board members attending: Chris VE3NRT Pres, Geoff VA3GS, Eric VE3EB, Steve VE3UT, Doug VE3ATP, Rick VA3VO, David VA3DCY Secty. Absent: Barry VA3LLT, John VE3IPS V. Pres. John VA3JI Treasurer. Others attending: None

1. Approval of agenda and declaration of conflict of interest: Chris VE3NRT. Additions: None. Motion to adopt the agenda, moved Eric VE3EB, seconded Geoff VA3GS. Carried.
   
2. Minutes: David VA3DCY. Minutes of the 2016/12/20 meeting to be adopted at the February meeting.
   
3. Treasurer's Report: Geoff VA3GS for John VA3JI.
   
   • Opening Balance 2016/01/01 [Available to members on request to Secretary]
     
   • Income: Dues $80.00
     
   • Refund from Markham Fair $1,856.00
     
   • Total income $1,936.00
     
   • Expenditures: None $0.00
     
   • Closing Balance 2017/01/17 [Available to members on request to Secretary]
     
   • Note: The December statement received and balanced. JI
     
   • Moved by Geoff VA3GS, seconded by Steve VE3UT to adopt the treasurer's report. Carried.
     
4. Meetings: Geoff VA3GS. The speakers planned for the upcoming general meetings are: February - Steve VE3EZ, March - Mike VE3MKX, April - Bob VE3WY and May John VA3KOT.
   
5. Winter Field Day: Steve VE3UT. WFD will have 6 people attending. The proposed budget is $140 for food and $100 for gas. Rick VA3VO's trailer will be used for cooking and there will be 2 trailers for radios. Norma, the owner of Al's Tack Shop, enquired about the club's insurance, since the site may be icy. David VA3DCY will contact the insurance company to provide Norma with proof of our insurance.
   
6. Repeaters: Steve VE3UT
   
   • There have been some recent D-STAR outages, likely caused by a malfunctioning firewall.
     
   • The UPS at the site is being upgraded.
     
7. Trillium Grant Proposal
   
   • Eric VE3EB. Eric is waiting for proposals from EmComm. Steve VE3UT: There are no available pairs available in the GTA for a DMR repeater. We could use the UHF pair from the D-Star repeater. Chris VE3NRT asked is there DMR coverage or adequate coverage in the GTA? It was noted that a used Motorola DMR repeater costs approximately $850 US on E-Bay.
     
   • Should replacement of one or more existing analogue repeaters be included in the Trillium Grant proposal? The existing repeaters are older than 30 years and it is difficult to replace parts. Replacements could include: 2 VHF repeaters, 1 UHF repeater, 3 controllers and switching power supplies. The radios should be commercial frequency agile radios. The priority for replacement is the VE3YRC VHF repeater.
     
   • Chris VE3NRT proposed including a HamWan 'back-bone' data network.
     
   • Eric VE3EB suggested upgrading the club web site.
     
8. D-Rats: Although D-Rats works on D-Star, it can only send files 'point-to-point', ie from one radio to another. Files can not be sent through an intermediate station, ie from radio 1, via 2 to 3.
   

Minutes - YRARC Board of Directors Meeting 2016-12-20

Meeting held in the Magna Centre, Multipurpose Room 1. Called to Order at 19:03 by Chris VE3NRT. Board members attending: Chris VE3NRT Pres, John VA3JI Treasurer, John VE3IPS V. Pres., Geoff VA3GS, Eric VE3EB, Steve VE3UT, Doug VE3ATP, Rick VA3VO, David VA3DCY Secty. Absent: Barry VA3LLT. Others attending: None

1. Approval of agenda and declaration of conflict of interest: Chris VE3NRT
   
   • Additions: 7 Floral motion.
     
   • Motion to adopt the agenda, moved Eric VE3EB, seconded Rick VA3VO. Carried.
     
2. Minutes: David VA3DCY. Moved by Steve VE3UT, seconded by Rick VA3VO to adopt minutes of the Board Meeting. 2016/11/15. Carried.
   
3. Meetings: Geoff VA3GS
   
   • The January general meeting will consist of a short business meeting, with a mini “for sale” table, and following the break there will be 5 minute talks from members.
     
   • The speakers planned for March, April and May are Mike VE3MKX, Bob VE3WY and Cliff VE3KOP.
     
   • We need a February speaker, or the meeting may be devoted to the proposed Trillium grant.
     
4. Treasurer's Report: John VA3JI
   
   • Opening Balance 2016/12/01 [Available to members on request to secretary]
     
   • Income: Dues $25.00
     
   • Expenditures: Flowers for Barry's wife $45.20
     
   • Food for Christmas party $187.71
     
   • Total expenditures: $232.91
     
   • Closing Balance 2016/12/20 [Available to members on request to secretary]
     
   • Moved by Rick VA3VO, seconded by Eric VE3EB to adopt the treasurer's report. Carried.
     
   • John went on to explain why we need to control our expenses so that we do not deplete our bank balance, and also because of the recurring expenses that need to be paid throughout the year, before we receive any income from dues or the hamfest.
     
5. Repeaters: Steve VE3UT
   
   • All repeaters are working well.
     
   • Chris VE3NRT may have time to work on the hardware for the IRLP and Echolink. The software is OK.
     
6. Winter Field Day: Steve VE3UT
   
   • The WFD site is now confirmed – it will be the same site as used for Summer FD at Al's Tack Shop. The dates are January 28 and 29.
     
   • Steve proposed a budget assuming 20 people would attend: Food $350, Propane for cooking and heating $100, Toilet $125 and Gasoline $300.
     
   • Geoff suggested having members indicate at the January meeting if they would attend, and collect food money from each member wanting to attend.
     
   • Moved by Rick VA3VO, seconded by Eric VE3EB that the board postpone approval of any motion to fund WFD until the membership approved of any funding. (There was no motion made to fund WFD following John VA3JI's cautioning about club expenses.)
     
   • Of interest for Summer FD, the property (Al's Tack Shop) has been subdivided and a portion of the property has been sold. This means future SFD station layouts will be different from past years.
     
7. Hammond Museum: John VE3IPS. There are probably no fees for entrance to the museum. Hours are 09:00 to 12:00. April could be a possible time to visit. Car pooling was suggested.
   
8. Trillium Grant Proposal: Eric VE3EB. There may be a new structure for seeking a grant. June is the target date for submitting a proposal. A financial statement may be required in the proposal. We will need letters of support from served agencies. A Yahoo group has been set up to communicate with members of the committee. We need committee members and each will be assigned with a responsibility. he committee will report to the board and membership monthly. Eric is asking for a proposed list of what should be included in the application.
   
9. Floral Motion: John VA3JI. Motion 2016-12-20-7 to approve payment $45.20 for flowers sent to Barry's wife. Moved by Geoff VA3GS, seconded by Eric VE3EB. Carried
   Fox Hunts: John VE3IPS. A winter date will be chosen with possibly 4 events for the year, perhaps once per month, and participation could be opened to other clubs.
   
10. Other business:
    
    • John VA3JI. Will replacing batteries in the existing D-Star radios be a club expense or will it be included in a Trillium grant?
      
    • John VE3IPS would like to get a D-Star radio to be loaned to a new member.
      

Minutes: Board of Directors 2016-10-18

Meeting held in the Magna Centre, Multipurpose Room 1. Called to Order at 19:00 by Chris VE3NRT. Board members attending: Chris VE3NRT Pres, John VA3JI Treasurer, Geoff VA3GS, Barry VA3LLT, Eric VE3EB, Steve VE3UT, David VA3DCY Secty, Doug VE3ATP, Rick VA3VO, Absent: John VE3IPS V. Pres. Others attending: None

1. Approval of agenda and declaration of conflict of interest: Chris VE3NRT
   
   • Additions: 6 Correction to August BoD minutes and 7 Winter Field day.
     
   • Motion to amend the agenda, moved Steve VE3UT, seconded Barry VA3LLT. Carried
     
   • Motion to adopt the agenda, moved Geoff VA3GS, seconded Rick VA3VO. Carried.
     
2. Minutes: David VA3DCY. Moved by John VA3JI, seconded by Doug VE3ATP to adopt minutes of the Board Meeting 2016/09/20. Carried.
   
3. Trailer: Barry VA3LLT. There is an 8” crack in the Hilomast, lower portion of the top section. Costs to repair options from the manufacturer: $250US plus brokerage fees (1 way) if shipped via UPS from Canada, $125US (1 way) if shipped from within the USA (Buffalo), $250US forrepair including parts and labour. If the mast was delivered to the factory (in Florida) the repair time would be approximately 2 hours. Other options suggested were to attempt to repair the mast section locally, pick up a replacement section in the spring and place a sleeve around the crack as a temporary fix. The agreed plan is to 1/ get a manual, 2/ order parts and ship if feasible and 3/ Chris or another club member could take the mast to Florida in the spring for repairs.
   
4. Hamfest: Geoff VA3GS. At the moment 80 tables (including 5 courtesy tables), have been sold out of 100. Setup will be at 13:00 Friday November 4. We will only be bringing the EmComm trailer, not the tower trailer to the hamfest. Don VE3IXJ will have a static display outside the trailer. We hope to have 'QSL' cards with club information available as a handout.
   
5. Meetings: Geoff VA3GS. There will be a silent auction at the November meeting with items from a donation to the club. Rick VA3VO will set the reserve bid prices. The January meeting could either be a 'junk-in-the-trunk' with mini presentations or, a Saturday visit to the Hammond Museum instead of the Tuesday meeting. The February meeting is undecided, March a talk from Mike VE3MKX, and the April and May meetings would be talks from Bob VE3WY and Dr Paul Delaney (dates to be determined).
   
6. Treasurer's Report: John VA3JI
   
   • Opening Balance 2016/10/01 [Available to members on request to secretary]
     
   • Income: Hamfest vendors: $422.00; Dues: $185.00; Donation: $7.02; Total:$614.02
     
   • Expenditures: Repeater: $75.00
     
   • Closing Balance 2016/10/18 [Available to members on request to secretary]
     
   • Hamfest Income: Tables: $588.00 (to date); Admissions: $210.00; Grand prize: $60.00; Total: $858.00
     
   • Moved by John VA3JI, seconded by Geoff VA3GS to adopt the treasurer's report. Carried.
     
7. Repeaters: Steve VE3UT.
   
   • Steve asked a question from Grant VE3ATV, do we want to promote an ATV repeater? It was decided to ask the club if there is any interest, and if there is to ask Grant to talk to the club members.
     
   • Motion 2016-10-18-4d to approve $75.00 for a mast section and cables used at the MacKenzie Richmond Hill Hospital when installing the link antenna for VE3YRA. Material supplied at cost by Rick VA3VO. Moved Steve VE3UT, seconded by Geoff VA3GS. Rick VA3VO abstained from voting. Carried.
     
8. Public Service: Eric VE3EB
   
   • The last events were 2 weddings at the Sharon Temple on Saturday October 1, and the Run for the Cure on Sunday October 2. There was a good turnout for the event, with 11 hams and 1 student participating.
     
   • Eric proposed getting QSL cards for public service events and hamfests, and 10 to 20 lightweight club jackets, instead of vests, which would be owned by the club.
     
   • We should set up a Trillium committee for funding these and other projects.
     
9. York Region Astronomy Association (YRAA): Chris VE3NRT. The YRAA is responsible for operation and maintenance of the equipment at the David Dunlap Observatory and also provides education to youth groups, schools and adults. In addition to optical astronomy, YRAA wants to incorporate radio astronomy into their offerings, and would welcome collaboration from YRARC. Chris will send a letter of YRARC support, to YRAA.
   
10. Correction of August BoD Minutes: David VA3DCY. The motion number for item 5b to purchase plaques for the Harvey Bell Award and the Melted Coffee Pot Award, was incorrectly published as “motion 2016-07-19-5b”. The correct motion number is 2016-08-16-5b. Motion 2016-10-18-6, moved by David VA3DCY, seconded by Geoff VA3GS that the minutes be corrected. Carried.
    
11. Winter Field Day: Steve VE3UT. We need to investigate the source of the noise at the Sharon Temple / Temperance Hall location, and we should ask Steve VE3EZ for assistance. 10 people attending a WFD event would be considered a success. WFD this year is on January 28 and 29.
    
12. Brad VE3HII noted that that VE3YRA was not listed in the AMSAT report for Summer Field Day.
    

Meeting adjourned at 20:50. Moved Rick VA3VO, seconded Geoff VA3GS. Carried

Minutes: Board of Directors Meeting 2016-11-15

Meeting held in the Magna Centre, multi purpose room. Called to Order at 19:04 by Chris VE3NRT. Board members attending: Chris VE3NRT Pres, John VA3JI Treasurer, John VE3IPS V. Pres., Geoff VA3GS, Barry VA3LLT, Eric VE3EB, Steve VE3UT, Doug VE3ATP, Rick VA3VO, David VA3DCY Secty. Others attending: None

1. Approval of agenda and declaration of conflict of interest: Chris VE3NRT. Additions: 8 WYNSORC. Motion to adopt the agenda, moved Rick VA3VO, seconded Geoff VA3GS. Carried.
   
2. Minutes: David VA3DCY. Moved by John VA3JI, seconded by Eric VE3EB to adopt minutes of the Board Meeting 2016/10/18. Carried.
   
3. Hamfest: Geoff VA3GS
   
   • The non-final results from the hamfest – we made a profit of approximately $2400 plus any possible deposit refund. Geoff thanked all involved for their efforts.
     
   • The question was asked 'should we consider another venue?' The answer was 'yes' if we can find a suitable location with ample parking.
     
   • The Lions Club sold out of their food.
     
   • Renting the third hall costs only $200, and it is good to have a place to keep the attendees out of the rain/cold.
     
4. Meetings: Geoff VA3GS
   
5. Bring non-perishable food items to the December meeting for the food bank.
   
6. There will be no speaker for the January meeting, but there will be time for '5 minute' show and tell presentations.
   
   • Dr. Delaney will be the guest speaker in February or March.
     
   • Mike VE3MKX will be the guest speaker in March or February.
     
   • Cliff VE3KOP will be the guest speaker in April.
     
   • Bob VE3WY will be the guest speaker in May.
     
   • The AGM will be in June.
     
   • Motion 2016-11-15-3b to approve $200.00 (maximum) for food at the December meeting, moved by Rick VA3VO, seconded by Eric VE3EB. Carried.
     
7. Treasurer's Report: John VA3JI
   
   • Opening Balance 2016/10/31 [Available to members on request to secretary]
     
   • Income: Hamfest tables $1455.00; Dues:$365.00; Auction: $140.25; Donation (COARC): $175.00; Hamfest door: $4614.90; Silent auction (Nov Mtg): $113.00; Total Income: $6863.15
     
   • Expenditures: Hamfest prizes: $196.00; Bank fees (Pay Pal): $1.03; Repeater (WYNSORC): $10.00: -$207.03
     
   • Closing Balance 2016/ 11/15 [Available to members on request to secretary]
     
   • Membership to date: Full voting: 33; Associate: 5; Family:17; Life: 9; Total: 60
     
   • Moved by John VA3JI, seconded by Geoff VA3GS to adopt the treasurer's report. Carried.
     
8. Repeaters: Steve VE3UT
   
   • The CW identifiers on VE3YRC-V and VE3YRA have been lowered.
     
   • The Fox Hunt is being announced on the VE3YRC-V and VE3YRA repeaters.
     
   • The link radio at the Bloomington site is now working, levels have been set up, but may need some final adjustments. We need to return to using the mic input on the link radio for better audio.
     
9. John VE3IPS: Members from the DDO will be attending the Fox Hunt. The starting location will be 12916 Yonge St. on November 19.
   
10. Public Service: Eric VE3EB
    
    • There are no public service events at the moment.
      
    • Eric would welcome suggestions from the membership and the board for the QSL cards.
      
    • Certificates of recognition will be prepared.
      
    • Barry VA3LLT: Should we have coffee mugs, either with the club logo only, or logo and the individual member's name and call? He will check prices, in possible lots of 10, 20 and 30, and enquire about interest at the next meeting. Chris will check the Costco prices as well.
      
11. Winter Field Day: Steve VE3UT. The David Dunlap Observatory might be a possible site for Winter Field Day. Steve will check to see if it is available, and we could also include the Maker's Group and Astronomy Group in WFD. Paul Mortfield is the astronomy contact.
    
12. Summer Field Day: Steve VE3UT. Peter VE3PBT may possibly not be available to cook be due to health concerns, however he may be able to advise and/or assist. Geoff has enquired if the Aurora Lions might be able to provide 3 or 4 meals, and is awaiting a reply.
    
13. Hammond Museum: John VE3IPS. At the next general meeting,John will propose a trip to the Hammond Museum.
    
14. PACTOR for EmComm: John VE3IPS. John is exploring the cost of PACTOR modems 1, 2 and 3. – Pactor 1 is the least expensive, Pactor 3 is the most expensive. It might be an item for a wish list on a Trillium Grant application, but a good business plan would be needed.
    
15. WYNSORC: John VA3JI and Geoff VA3GS. The annual dues of $10.00 are now due. Motion 2016-11-15-8 to approve $10.00 for WYNSORC dues, moved by John VA3JI, seconded by Geoff VA3GS. Carried.
    

Meeting adjourned at 21:00. Moved Barry VA3LLT, seconded Geoff VA3GS. Carried

Minutes - YRARC Board of Directors Meeting 2016-09-20

Meeting held in the Magna Centre, Multipurpose Room 1. Called to Order at 19:05 by Chris VE3NRT

Board members attending: Chris VE3NRT Pres, John VA3JI Treasurer, Geoff VA3GS, Barry VA3LLT, Eric VE3EB, Steve VE3UT, David VA3DCY Secty, Doug VE3ATP, Rick VA3VO. Absent: John VE3IPS V. Pres. Others attending: None

On-Line motion 2016-08-30-1, moved by Steve VE3UT, seconded by Geoff VA3GS that we approve the purchase of a yagi antenna from Maple Leaf Communications (Bob WY) in the amount of $75.00. On 2016/08/30 the following had voted 'yes' to the motion: Steve VE3UT, Geoff VA3GS, David VA3DCY, John VA3JI and Rick VA3VO. On 2016/09/02 Barry VA3LLT voted 'yes' to the motion. 6 of 9 directors voted in favour of the motion. The following were not heard from: John VE3IPS, Eric VE3EB, Doug VA3ATP and Chris VE3NRT who could only cast a deciding vote.

1. Agenda: Chris VE3NRT. Additions: Audit report discussions and membership. Moved by Barry VA3LLT, seconded by Rick VA3VO to adopt the agenda. Carried.
   
2. Minutes: David VA3DCY. Moved by Geoff VA3GS, seconded by Steve VE3UT to adopt minutes of Board Meetings dates 2016/07/19 and 2016/08/16. Carried.
   
3. Trailer: Barry VA3LLT. Motion 2016-09-20-3 to approve $200.00 for trailer maintenance for the EmComm and tower trailers. Moved by Barry VA3LLT, seconded by Eric VE3EB. Carried.
   
4. Winter Field Day: Steve VE3UT. Steve proposed we participate in WFD this Year (January 28 & 29). If held at the Sharon Temple site, we should investigate the source of the noise, enquire if there is interest at the next general meeting, and book the building with Caitlin Wagg. Other sites mentioned were the summer FD site and Bales Rd.
   
5. Hamfest: Geoff VA3GS. The date is Saturday November 05. Information has been sent to the vendors and publicity has been arranged. Club members will be asked to sign-up for jobs at the next general meeting. There is no information yet to whether or not Bob Heil will be attending or his requirements. Chris will prepare posters.
   
6. Meetings: Geoff VA3GS. Grant VE3XTV will talk about ATV in October and John Corby will be the speaker in November talking about QRP. Paul Delaney may be the speaker in May.
   
7. Treasurer's Report: John VA3JI
   
   • Opening Balance 2016-09-01 [available to members upon request to secretary]
     
   • Income: Hamfest – 4 tables $168.00
     
   • Dues - 20 regular, 1 family $530.00
     
   • Expenditures: Name plates for awards $10.00
     
   • Repeater link antenna $75.00
     
   • PO Box rental $240.69
     
   • Bank fees (PayPal) $3.04
     
   • Closing Balance 2016-09-20 [available to members upon request to secretary]
     
   • Moved by John VA3JI, seconded by Eric VE3EB to adopt the treasurer's report. Carried.
     
8. Repeaters
   
   • Steve VE3UT. Motion 2016-09-20-5d to approve $200.00 for repeater maintenance. Moved Steve VE3UT, seconded by Geoff VA3GS. Amendment by Rick VA3VO, seconded by Geoff VA3GS that fuel expenses for repeater service trips over 100km be considered as repeater expenses. Amendment and motion carried.
     
   • The input frequency 147.825 MHz for VE3YRC-V repeater has a cycling on/off with an unknown carrier being received. Steve has disabled the repeater. Barry noted that the cross-band radio at YREOC had also been 'kerchunking' as noted previously by Don VE3IXJ.
     
   • The PA replacement at VE3YRC-V is on hold until a better power supply is installed.
     
   • The link antenna at Richmond Hill, VE3YRC-U for VE3YRA will be installed on Thursday.
     
   • D-Star coverage (VE3YRK-V) has shrunk. A site visit will be required to investigate the problem. Reception seems to be the problem, transmission appears to be good. (Note: After the meeting, Eric VE3EB traced the 147.825 MHz carrier to be originating at or near the YREOC.)
     
   • YRK Gateway: Chris VE3NRT. The gateway is OK
     
   • IRLP: Chris VE3NRT. The Raspberry Pi is now running solidly with a new SD card. The next requirement is to build a case.
     
9. Public Service: Eric VE3EB. The last event was at the Sharon Temple. The next event is Run for the Cure, Sunday October 2. We need a minimum of 12 volunteers for this event.
   
10. YRLAB: Geoff VA3GS. The new amateur licensing class is now running.
    
11. PO Box. Motion 2016-09-20-7 to approve payment of 240.69 for rental of the PO Box, moved by John VA3JI, seconded by Geoff VA3GS. Carried.
    
12. Audit Report Discussion: John VA3JI. It was agreed that the use of personal credit cards for large purchases or expenses, incurred on behalf of the club, has been resolved.
    
13. Membership Tracking: John VA3JI. John has been creating a data base to track club membership, which will include members' names, call signs, address, email addresses, phone numbers and payment of dues. The information will be available to board members, however only the names and call signs of members will be available to the public. It was agreed that John should proceed with the project.
    

Meeting adjourned at 20:35. Moved Geoff VA3GS, seconded Rick VA3VO. Carried

Minutes - YRARC Board of Directors Meeting 2015-12-15

Meeting held in the Magna Centre, multi purpose room 1.
Called to Order at 19:00 by Chris VE3NRT

Board members attending: Chris VE3NRT, Steve VE3UT, John VA3JI, Geoff VA3GS, Eric VE3EB, Barry VA3LLT, David VA3DCY, Rob VE3RQB, Doug VE3ATP and Alf VA3BLE.
Others attending: none

1. Agenda: Chris VE3NRT. Agenda adopted without changes.
   
2. Minutes: David VA3DCY. Moved by Steve VE3UT, seconded by Barry VA3LLT to accept the minutes of the 2015/10/20 BoD meeting. Noted by Alf VA3BLE that item 7b Membership, should be changed to read “60 voting members and 64 paid members” (not 64 paid members). Amendment moved by Rob VE3RQB, seconded by Eric VE3EB. Carried
   
3. Treasurer's Report: John VA3JI.
   
   • Opening balance 2015/12/01
     
   • Income: Refund Markham Fair $502.51 (Hamfest overpayment)
     
   • Expenditures: Hamfest facilities $4,901.35
     
   • Food for Dec. meeting $209.82
     
   • Trailer maintenance: $28.28
     
   • Balance 2015/10/20 [Available to club members on request to secretary]
     
   • Moved by John VA3JI seconded by Eric VE3EB to adopt the treasurer's report. Carried.
     
4. Web site: Chris VE3NRT reported that the club web site has been hacked due to a Joomla problem and has been temporarily shut down.
   
5. Repeaters: Steve VE3UT.
   
   • Note that VE3YRK has failed (today). Steve will investigate.
     
   • Steve proposed that we purchase two Low Loss PWRGates at $49.95 US each for the repeaters at Bloomington and Richmond Hill.
     
   • Motion 2015-12-15-5 moved by Steve VE3UT, seconded by Barry VA3LLT that we allocate $200 for the purchase of two Low Loss PWRGates to include shipping, exchange, duty and cables. Carried.
     
6. Go Kits: Barry VA3LLT is trying to locate all of the D-STAR go kits and confirm the accuracy of the equipment list. Plans are to recall all kits for the January general meeting. Members will be asked to bring kits in their possession or arrange to have the kits bought to the January meeting.
   
7. EmComm:
   
   • Rob VE3RQB expressed concern that Russell VA3WTR is not a paid member and may be involved with EmComm activities.
     
   • Chris VE3NRT noted that the club bylaws do not allow non-members to operate club equipment.
     
   • Steve VE3UT enquired could non-Canadian amateurs be club members [Ed: Yes - but according to the club by-laws to be a voting member the member must hold a Canadian amateur radio licence]
     
8. Membership: Alf VA3BLE reported on paid memberships to date. We now have 63 voting members and 67 paid members.
   
9. Hamfest: Geoff VA3GS proposed 2016-11-05 as the date for next year's hamfest at the Markham Fair grounds. This is the same date as the Markham Fair's banquet which will be in hall #1, avoiding the problems from this year with 2 events happening at the same time.
   
10. Winter Field Day: Steve VE3UT asked how much interest there was in holding Winter Field Day this coming January – there was little board interest. It was noted that last year's site was noisy (RF, not acoustic) and we had very few contacts. The membership will be asked to comment at the January meeting. It was suggested that we not repeat Winter Field Day until we find a better site. We might possibly try to participate in the Canada Winter Contest in December 2016, perhaps at the Bales Rd location.
    

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
    

Analysis of Winter Field Day 2015

1. THINGS THAT WENT WRONG:
   
   1. The mast on the club comm trailer is not up to the task of operating in cold weather. First, it was frozen, and then, would not hold air after being thawed out. The seals are likely the source of the troubles.
      
   2. The club portable generator would not start. I recommend we store it with some gas plus stabilizer and start it up at least once a month.
      
   3. The Sharon Hall location is extemely noisy (RF noise) and conditions were extremely poor all weekend.
      
   4. The Sharon Hall acoustics are poor for voice communications and the chatter of guests and members present make it difficult to operate.
      
2. THINGS THAT WENT RIGHT:
   
   1. The location was excellent for visibility to the general public creating some “off the street” visits.
      
   2. The site worked very well for antenna placement with no interference between the stations noticed. Six antennas deployed (160,80, three muti band verticals, 2m beam)
      
   3. The kitchen facilities worked extremely well for food and refreshment prep.
      
   4. The press showed up giving us additional advertising of the hobby and club.
      
   5. Using just a home made hand held antenna with a hand held radio, two satellite contacts were made.
      
   6. The trailer generator starts and works very well, handles the load, including a heater in the trailer.
      
   7. The tower trailer worked perfectly in the cold weather conditions.
      
   8. Everything went according to schedule and we were able to start by noon and the clean up went quickly.
      
3. SUMMARY:
   

   Overall, the event went very well for a first time activity for the club. We met our objective, to quickly (in 4 hours) establish an emergency communications site in winter conditions. Band conditions are out of our control but we did make contacts in spite of this. Local RF noise was an issue here but the other advantages of the site made it a good choice overall. Also, we were able to discover where we have weakness in cold weather operation (generator and mast) and hopefully we can work to resolve these issues.
   

Steve VE3UT
Club Field Day Chair

YRARC General Meeting - February 3, 2015

Meeting held at the Sharon Temperance Hall. The meeting was called to order at 19:30. Chaired by Chris VE3NRT. 32 members and 2 guests in attendance

1. Adoption of the minutes. There was no motion to adopt the minutes of the last meeting due to the late publication
   
2. Winter Field Day – Steve VE3UT
   
   • Steve VE3UT reported that there was a surplus of $52.80 to be returned to the treasurer
     
   • Chris VE3NRT reported that he is working on the scoring and will make an announcement when completed
     
   • Steve VE3UT submitted a report summarizing what went well and what went wrong (Attachment #1)
     
   • John VE3POJ announced that the Polar Bear Car Rally will be held Saturday and Sunday Feb 21 and 22nd near Bancroft. Amateur radio operators are needed at each check point
     
3. Emcomm – Russell VA3WTR
   
   • Emcomm has asked the club to consider an offer available from Yaesu, which combines a Fusion Repeater and 6 HTs for $500.00 USD. The deadline for the offer is March 31
     
   • REOC Drill is coming up on Feb 9th at York Regional Headquarters in Newmarket. This drill involves setting up the EMC and testing / updating equipment.
     
   • Courses in emergency management will be offered again by the region to Emcomm members. Russell VA3WTR will post a schedule.
     
4. Repeaters – Steve VE3UT
   
   • VE3YRA is back on the air. The antenna position was changed which has resulted in better coverage to the north. Coverage in Georgina is improved.
     
   • VE3YRC-UHF is off the air. There are issues with the link radio and the controller. The controller is very old, and is malfunctioning. A new controller will cost $499.00 USD plus shipping. Purchase of a new controller will be discussed at the next board meeting.
     
   • Chris VE3NRT reported an issue with the VE3YRK D-Star registration page and gateway. Similar issues have been reported in Vancouver. The solution requires a complete reload of the system software and configuration. However, the current system uses 10 year old software which is no longer supported, and prevents us from installing the latest patches in the operating system. To resolve the issue and get the system running current software, Chris VE3NRT will migrate VE3YRK away from the US Trust Registration system and run the g2_link software which is part of the free*star system . There will be limited impact to users and there is no cost to change.
     
5. Doug VE3VS presented a short summary of the DXpedition to Navassa Island which is presently underway and is planned to be in operation for another 8-10 days. The last time amateur operators were allowed on the island was 1993. It is not expected to be on the air again for 25-30 years.
   
6. Doug VE3VS presented the “YRARC Field Day Melted Pot Award” to Steve VE3UT. Steve VE3UT and Geoff VA3GS were awarded the Melted Pot Award at Field Day last year. Doug VE3VS volunteered his time to craft a wooden Trophy featuring the burnt element from the melted coffee pot. Special thanks were extended to Doug VE3VS for taking the time to build such a beautiful trophy for the Club.
   
7. Don VE3IXJ presented a new HT (TYT-DM-UVF10) that he has been experimenting with. This is an analogue and DPMR Digital radio that sells for $85.00 USD plus shipping. The radio supports individual calling, group call, all call, short message services (SMS) messaging, and GPS (although Don does not recommend purchasing the GPS option due to weak performance of the GPS receiver).
   
8. Meeting adjourned at 21:26pm
   

Minutes - YRARC Board of Directors, January 20th, 2015

Meeting held in the Newmarket Community Centre. Called to order at 19:10. Chaired by Chris VE3NRT. Board members attending; Chris VE3NRT, Rob VE3RQB, Chris VA3DXZ, Eric VE3EB, Barry VA3LLT, Steve VE3UT, Geoff VA3GS. Board members absent; David VA3DCY, John VA3JI. Guests attending; Russell VA3WTR, Doug VE3ATP

1. Adoption of Dec 16/14 board meeting minutes
   
   • Motion 2015-01-21-01 by Chris VA3DXZ to adopt Dec 16/14 minutes as published in the splatter blog at http://yrarc-splatter.blogspot.ca/, seconded by Geoff VA3GS. Motion carried.
2. Governance
   
   • Insurance
     
     • Report from Chris VE3NRT concerning PARC insurance discussion
       
       • Chris VE3NRT attended the Peel Amateur Radio Club meeting noting that they had planned to discuss insurance coverage
         
       • PARC subscribes to RAC insurance, but 2015 RAC insurance is not yet finalized
         
       • It was noted during the meeting that the GTA areas group has requested a copy of the RAC insurance policy from RAC but nothing has been received as yet
         
       • PARC will be involved in supporting the 2016 Canada 55+ Games to be hosted by the City of Brampton
         
       • PARC and the Mississauga Amateur Radio Club are working together on MESH and have successfully tested a 10km path
         
     • Directors and officers insurance
       
       • A quote was received by John VA3JI for directors and officers Insurance and was forwarded to the board via email ahead of the meeting
         
       • Motion 2015-01-21-02 by Geoff VA3GS to allocate $601.00 for the purchase of directors and officers insurance, subject to approval by the club, seconded by Rob VE3RQB.
         
       • Chris VE3NRT clarified that the directors and officers Insurance would be in addition to the liability policy currently in place on the communications trailer, and the club's general liability policy.
         
       • Motion carried
         
     • Property insurance
       
       • John VA3JI had reported via email prior to the board meeting that he had received a quote for loss and theft coverage of the clubs key assets (valued at $60,000.00). The quote amounts to $1,063.00 and it includes the existing liability coverage in addition to the new loss and theft coverage.
         
       • Further discussion was deferred to next board meeting
         
   • Property Rob VE3RQB
     
     • Russell VA3WTR will send a copy of the parking agreement (letter of understanding) to the board members. The agreement has not been executed. It is with the office of the Chief, York Paramedics Services for review and signature. Once signed it will be sent to the board for review and signature.
       
     • Russell VA3WTR reported that Terry VE3ODM is working on a proposal and operating budget for the acquisition of a retired ambulance which would be donated to YRARC by the region. The proposal is to be reviewed and approved by the board prior to any commitments being extended to York region or the regional municipalities.
       
     • Motion 2015-01-21-03 by Rob VE3RQB that Doug VE3ATP be added to the list of persons approved to tow club trailers, seconded by Geoff VA3GS. Motion carried.
       
     • Russell VA3WTR requested that the list of persons approved to tow club trailers be added to the towing policy. Chris VA3DXZ agreed to update the policy and distribute to the board.
       
     • The policy will reflect the following list of persons approved to tow club trailers
       
       • Rob VE3RQB
         
       • Steve VE3EZ
         
       • Steve VE3UT
         
       • Chris VA3DXZ
         
       • Doug VE3ATP
         
     • Motion 2015-01-21-04 was carried to temporarily rescind motion 2014-07-15-04 ” That the tower trailer not be towed or deployed until further notice” to allow it to be re-located to York EMS site and then subsequently deployed in support of Winter Field Day, then transported back to the York EMS site for storage.
       
     • The tower trailer now has a lock box installed. Russell VA3WTR and Steve VE3UT have the combination.
       
     • Barry VA3LLT reported that he was at the communications trailers today to start the generator, test the heater, and perform a radio check.
       
   • Repeaters
     
     • VE3YRK: Chris VE3NRT reported that the VE3YRK gateway has malfunctioned. There are reports that people are unable to get the C module linking but that B module is working. Also the registration web page is malfunctioning. The existing gateway is using 10 year old software which is no longer supported, and prevents us from installing the latest patches in the operating system. Chris VE3NRT has proposed that we migrate away from the US Trust Registration system and just run the g2_link software which is part of the free*star system . There will be limited impact to users and there is no cost to change.
       
     • Motion 2015-01-21-05 by Steve VE3UT that the club move VE3YRK to the free*star system, seconded by Eric VE3EB. Motion carried.
       
     • Chris VE3NRT will advise the club at the next general meeting and communicate updates via the Yahoo group.
       
   • VE3YRC: Steve VE3UT reported that VE3YRC has been reprogrammed with the updated custom audio library. Steve VE3UT and Bruce VE3BV are working to resolve an issue which results in a long tail occasionally coming in on port 2.
     
   • VE3YRA: Steve VE3UT reported that VE3YRA is operating with improved coverage to the north. The link radio project to VE3YRC is still in progress.
     
   • Steve VE3UT asked the board if separate calls should be used for VE3YRC VHF and UHF. This will be investigated by board members.
     
   • Winter Field Day – Steve VE3UT
     
     • Russell VA3WTR has sent invitations to 30-40 emergency management personnel for a walk through at 1pm. 5-10 people have responded.
       
     • Steve VE3UT has notified SNAP as well.
       
3. Membership Geoff VA3GS
   
   • Geoff has secured the following presenters for the upcoming general meetings
     
     • February – Don VE3IXJ will present inexpensive handhelds
       
     • March – Bob VE3WY will present on antennas
       
     • April – Ontario contest club
       
     • May – Dr. Paul Delaney
       
   • Chris VE3NRT has done work on the web site
     
   • Geoff VA3GS is looking into holding a basic class in April
     

Motion 2015-01-21-06 by Geoff VA3GS to adjourn meeting, seconded by Barry VA3LLT. Motion carried.

YRARC General Meeting - January 6th, 2015

Meeting held at the Sharon Temperance Hall. The meeting was called to order at 19:30. Chaired by Chris VE3NRT. 31 members and 3 guests in attendance; Brian Hopkins VA3BAH, Alex Sutherland VE3ASE, Ian Sutherland

1. Agenda
   
   • The agenda for the meeting was presented by Chris VE3NRT (attachment #1)
2. Adoption of the minutes
   
   • Motion 2015-01-06-01 by Brian VE3IBW to adopt the minutes of the XX general meeting minutes, second by Steve VE3EZ. Motion carried
3. Opening remarks – Chris VE3NRT
   
4. Repeaters – Steve VE3UT
   
   • VE3YRA 145.350Mhz is going off the air next Wednesday Jan 14 2015 at 10am, and will be off the air for 2 weeks to complete work.
     
   • Work is continuing on the project to link VE3YRA to VE3YRC. Bob VE3WY has loaned the club a filter to reduce interference.
     
   • There was a question from the audience asking if VE3YRA will go back to original location. Steve VE3UT reported that it is unlikely we will be relocating.
     
   • New audio messages have been recorded and sent to Steve VE3UT for use on the repeaters. Special thanks to Cindy.
     
   • Question from the audience on the status of the 6m repeater. Geoff VA3GS reported that the frequency pair was unused for 3 years and has been relinquished. A new frequency pair can be acquired but there is presently no location available to host the repeater.
     
5. Treasurer’s Report – John VA3JI
   
   • Bank balance at the end of November $22,967
     
   • Income $50.00 dues plus $500 security deposit
     
   • Expenses $5,279 for Hamfest, $278.20 for the Christmas party, $200.00 for Winter Field Day, and $64.21 for the Trailer
     
   • Current balance is $17,695.59
     
6. EMCOMM – Don VE3IXJ
   
   • There were no on air, or face to face meetings held in December
     
   • The group is continuing the work to improve sites
     
   • Work at the East Gwillimbury EOC will begin this year. Don VE3IXJ will take the lead on this site on behalf of EMCOMM
     
   • Next EMCOMM meeting will be held this Thursday Jan 8, 2015 at 7:30pm at the Newmarket Community Centre
     
7. 6m Net – Chris VE3NRT
   
   • Chris VE3NRT has been hosting the net for over a year. Idea is to move the net to different bands / modes (between 6m and 80m) and continue to operate at the same time each Monday.
     
   • Suggestion to use 30m PSK next week. Chris will announce the frequency and mode on the YRARC Yahoo group
     
8. Winter Field Day – Steve VE3UT
   
   • There has been lots of interest expressed by club members
     
   • Reviewed the list of equipment pledged by the participants; Radios, Antennas (R5 in trailer, R8, G5RV, 75m dipole cut to 3.75 MHz, 160m), Coax: Steve asked participants to bring coax, Participants are asked to bring their laptops, Chris VE3NRT will take the lead on logging using N1MMplus, which will be networked across all PCs. Participants are asked to install N1MMplus ahead of the event
     
   • Discussed the station layout inside the Temperance Hall
     
   • Need volunteers to transport Communications Trailer from Bales Road, and tower trailer from the summer Field Day site
     
   • Space heater for the club trailer is needed
     
   • Everything except lights, coffee pots and space heaters to be operated on generators
     Kitchen: we have 14 people who have purchased meal tickets.
     
   • Two generators are available which should meet our needs. Participants are asked to bring extension cords
     
   • Concrete blocks are needed for antenna anchors
     
   • Chris VE3NRT indicated that the rules will allow us to make repeater contacts. All club members are asked to monitor VE3YRC.
     
   • CW and digital contacts on each band count as multipliers.
     
9. Sable Island and Navassa – Doug VE3VS
   
   • There is an amateur radio operator presently working on Sable Island who will try to be on 15m each day around 2220z for about an hour during the month of January
     
   • Navassa Island will be activated for approximately 2 weeks near end of January to mid February, with 5 to 6 stations operating. This is a very rare opportunity. Call is K1N1
     

SPAR Winter Field Day - N1MM User Defined Contest File

If you’ve been trying out N1MM Logger+ in preparation for SPAR Winter Field Day, you may have noticed that it is not one of the predefined contests. Don’t panic! N1MM Logger+ allows the creation of “User Defined Contests” which are quite flexible. I found an old contest definition on the web and modified it a bit. I took out the unnecessary signal report fields and made separate fields for the class, section and temperature. I also set it up to track sections even though they are not multipliers (just like Summer Field Day). There is no provision for SSTV or Satellite, just phone, CW and RTTY/PSK. I don’t expect we’ll be racking up a ton of contacts in SSTV or Satellite so those can be tracked (semi-) manually.

The new user defined contest file should be saved in the /My Documents/N1MM Logger+/User Defined Contests/ folder.

73,
Chris

Notes from the Shack - January 2015

In the lead up to our SPAR Winter Field Day at the Temperance Hall on January 24th and 25th, we've been reviewing the rules and especially the scoring. Unlike ARRL Field Day in the Summer, Winter Field Day doesn't emphasize community outreach but is a more traditional contest, but with some twists.

One of the biggest of these is the way multipliers are calculated. For the non-contesters out there, multipliers encourage certain achievements by creating a separate tally, with which the main score is multiplied. Many contests, like the North American QSO Party SSB that ran yesterday, use geographic entities (in the case of the NAQP, they were US States, Canadian Provinces, and North American DXCC entities), but Winter Field Day is different.

Winter Field Day offers a multiplier for each band and 'mode'. The bands are counted as any amateur band from 1.8MHz and up excluding the 60, 30, 17 and 12 metre bands. The modes for the purpose of the contest are: Phone (SSB, FM, AM, etc.), CW, Digital (RTTY, PSK, Thor, etc), SSTV and Satellite. The astute reader will realize that satellite is not a mode in the traditional meaning of the word, but them's the rules.

A single contact on any combination of bands and the 5 'modes' will yield a multiplier. We know from reports of previous years that the vast majority of contacts are by phone, so it will be important to crank out as many contacts as possible on the most productive bands which will probably be 20, 40 and 80 metres. However it will be equally important to make a contact on as many bands and modes as possible, as score multipliers will be the key to putting in a good showing by the club.

This brings us to SSTV. Not knowing whether any of our members coming to Field Day will be equipped, I decided to give it a try a couple of weeks ago. It was really easy to set up using the MMSSTV program which can operate stand alone or integrate with DXLab using the MM to DXLab Bridge. The main benefit of bridge is log integration and easy access to spotting information (by the way, there's no limits on using spotting in Winter Field Day).

I've managed to make a couple of QSOs and even received an SWL report from Europe, but so far I haven't seen a crystal clear picture. On the other hand if you can read the call sign and signal report it's a contact, and that is similar to what we need to do on Saturday (where we'll need to exchange the class and temperature, which is supposed to be about -8C).

The call signs are quite readable in the extra large font, while the picture is pretty much unrecognizable. I didn't notice at the time, but that picture received from WB0YDI was taken by me. He'd actually send my own picture back to me, which is a sunrise over the St. Lawrence river near Brockville, Ontario. Since that time I've seen better pictures than the above which are more easily recognized.

The lesson is perhaps to not expect too much detail and not to send too much. If we have any SSTV operators out there please come on down or try to contact us during the event.