Minutes - YRARC Board of Directors Meeting 2017-10-17

Meeting held in the Magna Centre, Multipurpose Room 1.. Called to Order at 19:00 by Chris VE3NRT
Board members attending: Chris VE3NRT (P), Steve VE3UT (VP), Charles VA3TTB (T), Geoff VA3GS, Barry VA3LLT, Eric VE3EB, David VA3DCY (S), Rick VA3VO. Absent: John VE3IPS, Mike VA3MCT.
Others attending: None

1. Approval of Agenda & declaration of conflicts of interest. Amendments: None. MOTION: To adopt the agenda: Moved Rick VA3VO, seconded Steve VE3UT. Carried.
   
2. Minutes: MOTION: To adopt minutes of Board Meeting date 2017-09-19. Moved: Geoff VA3GS, seconded Barry VA3LLT. Carried.
   
3. Actions arising from minutes
   
   1. Bank signatures for the new executive. Done.
      
   2. 'Form 1' needs to be submitted to Service Ontario with updated director information.
      
   3. Canvassing of membership for Hamfest duties. Geoff has reissued a request.
      
   4. Sign-out sheet for club equipment. Done.
      
   5. Mike VA3MCT to contact York regional personnel regarding ARES requirements and participation. Deferred to November meeting.
      
   6. JOTA Event October 21 (trailer/personnel). Geoff VA3GS to attend the event.
      
      • MOTION: To authorize Steve VE3UT as an additional trailer trainer (to Rob VE3RQB). Moved Barry VA3LLT, seconded Rick VA3VO. Carried.
        
      • MOTION: To train Charles VA3TTB and David VA3DCY as trailer pullers. Upon successful completion of the training, be authorized to haul the trailer. Moved Geoff VA3GS, seconded Rick VA3VO. Carried.
        
   7. Investigation of Project Night. Charles VA3TTB reported that Gary VE3NMI would be happy to run a project night. Projects might include an Arduino type antenna analyzer (approx cost $50) or an Arduino clock project.
      
4. York region battery and hardline donation. Steve VE3EZ has picked up the batteries and hardline. They are in his trailer and the batteries will be charged and tested. The batteries are approximately 100 Ah glass mat sealed batteries and the hardline is 100' sections of 1/2” 50 Ohm coax. It was decided to allocate the first batteries to the repeaters and trailer – 3 batteries for YRC-V Bloomington, 3 batteries for YRK Ballantrae and 1 for the trailer. Rick VA3VO has 3 solar panels to exchange for 2 batteries. It was suggested that the batteries be sold at $40 to members and $75 at the hamfest. The price for the coax was to be determined.
   
   • MOTION: To allocate 7 batteries for club use and sell the remaining batteries and hardline, first to members, and then at the hamfest. Moved Geoff VA3GS, seconded Steve VE3UT. Carried.
     
5. Committee Reports:
   
   1. Treasurer’s Report: Charles VA3TTB (several months contained herein). MOTION: To adopt the treasurers report: Moved Geoff VA3GS, seconded Steve VE3UT. Carried.
      
      • Opening Balance 2017-07-01: [Available to members on request to Secretary]
        
      • Hamfest table rental: $43.00
        
      • Trailer Insurance: ($811.00)
        
      • Membership Dues: $50.00
        
      • Hamfest table rental: $86.00
        
      • Banking Fees: ($3.10)
        
      • York Music Festival: $600.00
        
      • Field Day revenues: $354.20
        
      • Hamfest table rental: $70.00
        
      • Membership Dues: $780.00
        
      • Banking Fees: ($2.33)
        
      • Hamfest table rental: ($115.00)
        
      • Banking Fees: ($2.93)
        
      • Closing Balance (available to members on request to Secretary)
        
   2. Trailer: Barry VA3LLT. All is OK, no report.
      
   3. Repeaters: Steve VE3UT. All is OK, no report. Steve gave a receipt to Charles for $10 for the Harvey Bell award label.
      
   4. Web Site: Mike VA3MCT. Deferred to November meeting.
      
   5. Hamfest: Geoff VA3GS
      
      • On Thursday Nov 19 Geoff and David will make a trip to the Markham fairgrounds.
        
      • Trevor VE3SLT will look after coffee, the Lions Club will serve breakfast, Terry VE3ODM will look after admissions, Chris VA3DXY will be in charge of admissions for next year.
        
      • Bill VA3QB will look after security, Brian VE3IBW will look after parking and Barry VA3LLT will look after talk-in.
        
      • The door prized have been bought, and the grand prizes will come from Durham Radio, Radioworld and Maple Leaf Communications.
        
      • Internal communications will be on 446.075 MHz (ARES 43)
        
      • Admissions float cash should be $300 in $2 coins and $300 in $5 and $10 bills.
        
      • Grand prize float cash should be $200 in $5 bills and $200 in $10 bills
        
      • Setup on Friday will be 13:00 at the fairgrounds and arrival on Saturday morning 06:00. (EmComm trailer and container items: P/U Friday morning, Geoff/David Saturday 05:00)
        
      • MOTION 2017-10-17-4e: To pay $2,464.51 - the final instalment for the Markham fairgrounds. Moved Geoff VA3GS, seconded Rick VA3VO. Carried.
        
   6. Property: Rick VA3VO. No report.
      
   7. Public Service: Eric VE3EB. The Run for the Cure had 1600 participants, with 13 volunteers (10 club members, 3 others). It was a problem-free event.
      
   8. EmComm: Mike VA3MCT. No report.
      
   9. Winter Field Day: Steve VE3UT. Steve VE3UT, Peter VE3PBT and David VA3DCY met to discuss WFD. Band conditions, cost of gas, weather conditions and the number attending could all affect the WFD costs. It was proposed that the club pay for fuel and refreshments at WFD. Those attending would be responsible for their own meal(s). MOTION 2017-10-17-4i: To pay $275.00 for WFD fuel and refreshments. Moved Steve VE3UT, seconded Rick VA3VO. Carried. The motion to be approved by the general membership, and payable in January 2018.
      
   10. Basic Qualification Course: Geoff VA3GS. There were 6 at the last class, where the participants built a J-Pole antenna. They will write exams soon.
       
   11. Membership: Barry VA3LLT. We have 51 paid members, 8 life members, and 24 unpaid members at the moment. Barry transferred $300.00 for membership to Charles
       
6. Other Business:
   
   1. Liability and Property Insurance: David VA3DCY. We have the insurance bill to pay immediately.MOTION 2017-10-17-5a: To pay $1,112.40 for Liability and Property Insurance. Moved David VA3DCY, seconded Geoff VA3GS. Carried.
      
7. Meeting adjourned.
   

Soldering - An Important “Tip” from VA3VFO

"Reprinted" from a past issue of Splatter.

By Greg VA3VFO

Good to hear about the Project Nights and interest in soldering skills.

My tips for those starting out are often over-looked or underestimated by even experienced folk, but should especially help our new project builders.

One of the first lessons taught is the requirement of “tinning” the new tip of your iron or gun, (much like “seasoning” a new cast-iron fry pan).It is equally important to continue to make sure the tip remains tinned as it ages and wears down. When neglected, it leads to much frustration, and the beginner may not realize this is the cause of so much grief.

If the joint is not quickly “wicking-up” the wet solder, or if you find you have to really heat up the joint ONLY, chances are you have an oxidized tip that is not holding its “tinning”.

It is very important to apply the solder to not only the joint of the connection, but at the intersection of the joint AND where the tip makes contact with the joint. A dark or blackened tip that seems to repel the solder should be repaired or replaced. For the tip to transfer heat properly, it MUST be “silver/light grey” in colour and accept solder over its total tip contact area. Simply wiping the tip on a cloth or damp sponge won’t work! You have to remove the build up of oxidization and this can be tricky on some types of tips.

Tips usually come with factory plating on the tip. I am not sure of the various plating materials used, but would guess silver or similar alloy. Some tips you have may be copper only. You may tempt to sand, grind or file down the tip to renew its surface. This can destroy or remove the coating of its plating material, which is so important to its ability to hold the “tinning” and to transfer heat. Yes, you may find it necessary to grid down a tip- go for it. Make a specialized tip to solder that micro-small surface mount part, or to squeeze into a tight space, but beware! If you do this, accept that the tip will lose its proper plating finish and will be subject to FAST re-oxidation. So keeping it fresh becomes an ongoing concern.

You will have to watch for poor heat transfer caused by “cold spots” on the tip. These are areas, which stubbornly repel solder- usually from solder flux residue or spots of oxidization. The longer a tinned copper tip sits plugged in, the more it will oxidize! After a good tinning, unplug, let cool and store away. Don’t store a plated or copper tip without a good fresh coat of solder. You may ruin a good tip trying to restore it to take full tinning. When possible, always buy the properly plated tip for your work! Only file or grind a “custom” or old tip if you have to.

Since an oxidized tip will not transfer heat well, it will take longer to heat the material. You likely know that too much heat can render some electronic parts (transistors etc) useless. But often, not enough heat is just as bad. I would much rather apply a high heat to a part for a quick, shorter period of time, than having the part and its support connections, like plastic insulators or the centre core of coax, melt away or become deformed. So “turn UP” the heat by simply keeping a well tinned tip at all times. If you are still having problems with nice wet joints, you may want to use a higher-powered iron (or gun for the heavy stuff, like coax connectors).

One last trick for stubborn tips that just won’t tin properly is to dip them into acid solder flux (used for plumbing, NEVER for electronics). Re-tin them IMMEDIATELY. You can try this if a very light sanding or steel wool pad fails to clean a plated tip. Plated tips can be gently “refinished” but careful not to “peel-way” the factory applied plating. An old tip can be sacrificed or filed into a fine point, but extra special attention to maintaining a “good tin” is paramount once the copper under the platting is exposed. It is just as likely to have a new plated tip “go cold” and not accept solder, so watch for that problem at all times!

Keep the oxidization off your tip. Keep it shiny and hot and you will have mastered the biggest secret of becoming a master solderer…er!

Greg
VA3VFO

Eclipse on the Raspberry Pi 2

One of the things I picked up at Dayton this year was a Raspberry Pi 2. The Pi 2 features 4 USB ports (vs. 2 in the original), a faster, quad-core processor, a gigabyte of memory, more GPIO pins, and a micro SD card slot (vs. the standard SDHC card in the original). Composite video out has been dropped.

I wanted to test the Pi 2 as a development environment for Atmel AVR microprocessors as the PI 2 can directly program them using the GPIO port without needing a USB interface. That rationale is a bit weak but on the other hand I stand a good chance of learning something new as well.

So after acquiring and installing a version of the Raspbian operating system for the device, the next order of business was to install the Eclipse integrated development environment, the same one we used for Brad's (VE3HII) project night 2 years ago. This was pretty straightforward. Being used to the command line on Linux, I chose to install from there.

After making sure both the package database and system were up-to-date (using sudo apt-get update followed by sudo apt-get upgrade installing Eclipse is done with a single command: sudo apt-get install eclipse. That was easy and Eclipse installed and ran fine. However, it was missing the C/C++ tools, so the next step was to install those with sudo apt-get install eclipse-cdt. That's where things got tough. Eclipse would now crash shortly after launch and leave a log file behind which was little help in figuring out the problem.

Fortunately, we have an Internet at our service and several sources advised replacing the default Java JDK (Java Development Kit) with the one from Oracle. Eclipse is written in Java, by the way, so it executes within the Java run-time environment. A fairly terse description of the installation procedure can be found here.

There were some gotchas that had to be worked through.

• Oracle has moved the ARM (the processor architecture found on the Raspberry Pi) version of to another web page. The web page referenced by the description has a link to new web page so that was relatively straightforward.
  
• The directory /opt/jdk1.8.0/bin/javac mentioned is actually /opt/jdk1.8.0_33/bin/javac. This might change again in the future so the best thing would be to look in /opt and use whatever you find there.
  
• The sudo update-alternatives --config javac will provide a list of several options for which JDK to run. The default will be not to change anything which isn't going to help you, so choose the one that looks like the Oracle SDK. If you get it wrong don't worry just run the command again and choose something else. The same goes for the sudo update-alternatives --config java command, of course.
  

After doing this, Eclipse will run fine. That's where I've made it to so far. There is still a long way to go, including installation of the tools to build AVR programs. I know from what I've read that this is possible to do on the Raspberry Pi so I will be trying that out soon.

General Meeting Minutes - 2014-10-07

Meeting held at the Sharon Temperance Hall. The meeting was called to order at 19:30. Chaired by Chris VE3NRT. 41 members and 3 guests in attendance.

1. The agenda for the meeting was presented by Chris VE3NRT (attachment #1)
   
2. News – Chris VE3NRT reported that
   
   • Aurora is getting LED lighting
     
   • Aurora council adopted a new tower protocol
     
   • W1AW moving to Virginia, Missouri, and the Mariana Islands at 0000Z
     
3. Project Night – Brad VE3HII discussed / proposed a microcontroller project night. Please contact Brad if you are interested in participating.
   
4. Financial Report – John VA3JI presented the financial report (Attachment #2).
   
   • Closing Balance August 31st [available to members upon request to Secretary]
     
   • Income (Dues and Hamfest) $1,140.00
     
   • Disbursements (Field Day, Trailer, Misc) $745.36
     
   • Closing balance Sept 30th $15,608.19
     
   • Income (Dues and Hamfest) $837.00
     
   • Disbursements (Fees) $8.21
     
   • Balance as of Oct 7th [available to members upon request to Secretary]
     
   • Motion 2014-10-07-01 by John VA3JI to accept the report, seconded by Geoff VA3GS. Motion carried.
     
5. Minutes of the last meeting:
   
   • Motion 2014-10-07-02 by Geoff VA3GS to accept the minutes of the last general meeting, seconded by Brad VE3HII. Motion carried.
     
6. Field Day Report – Steve VE3UT reported that
   
   • The field day trophy (broken coffee pot award), now has proper plaques installed to record the winners
     
   • Anyone interested in participating in the winter field day event contact him so that he can gauge interest among the club
     
7. Repeater report – Steve VE3UT reported that the repeater committee needs members who have the technical skills to support our repeaters. He provided an update (attachment #3) on the projects underway as follows:
   
   • Communications trailer – Work is underway to tune the duplexer previously installed in Richmond Hill to the new frequency pair. The repeater will also need to be programmed to the new frequency.
     
   • Tower trailer – repeater needs to be installed and tuned. There will need to be a budget approved to purchase materials required (antenna and feedline) and to cover any repairs necessary.
     
   • Tentatively planning to increase the power of the YRK/B D-Star UHF repeater to 75W in the next 2 or 3 weeks
     
   • Looking into the feasibility of a linked UHF repeater in Georgina to improve coverage
     
8. Public service – Eric VE3EB thanked those who volunteered to support the CIBC Run for the Cure and highlighted the concern that the club was short of a full complement of volunteers to support the event. Eric VE3EB asked if the club planned to enter the Newmarket Santa Clause parade. Chris VE3NRT confirmed that the club will support the event. Plans are also underway to support the Bradford Santa Clause parade.
   
9. EMCOMM – Russell VE3WTR reported that
   
   • YRARC served as emergency dispatch to EMS, St John Ambulance, and YRP again this year at the Markham fair. The communications trailer was deployed to the event
     
   • He is working to secure a parking space for the tower trailer at Bales Road site.
     
   • EMCOMM group is looking for more volunteers to act as site owners
     
   • Richmond Hill council has indicated they can fund an amateur radio equipment installation at their site. A volunteer is needed to take the EMCOMM lead with Richmond Hill.
     
10. Hamfest report – Geoff VA3GS reported that set up will start at 1pm on Friday Oct 31st. On Saturday vendors will arrive at 6:30am. Yaesu will be presenting Saturday morning. Volunteers are needed.
    

After the break at 8:06pm Doug VE3VS presented Fox Island Activation (Canadian Islands on the Air - CISA) and Steve VE3EZ presented Durham’s Next Gen Regional radio upgrade project. The meeting adjourned at approximately 21:41

YRARC General Meeting Minutes 2014-09-02

Meeting held at the Sharon Temperance Hall. The meeting was called to order at 19:35. Chaired by Chris VE3NRT. 39 members and 2 guest in attendance.

1. Agenda
   
   • The agenda for the meeting was presented (attachment #1). Barry VA3LLT requested that an item be added to the agenda to discuss the trailer. Item was added.
     
2. Minutes of the last meeting:
   
   • Motion 2014-09-02-01 by Bill VA3QB to approve the minutes of the June 3rd General Meeting as published in the Splatter Blog, seconded by Barry VA3LLT. Motion carried.
     
   • Motion 2014-09-02-02 by Bill VA3QB to approve the minutes of the June 3rd Annual General Meeting as published in the Splatter Blog, seconded by Glen VA3AU. Motion carried.
     
3. Opening remarks:
   
   • Chris VE3NRT presented the new board, highlighting that there is still one open position to be filled.
     
     • Chris VE3NRT - President
       
     • Rob VE3RQB – Vice-President, Property
       
     • Chris VA3DXZ - Secretary
       
     • John VA3JI - Treasurer
       
     • Eric VE3OIC VE3EB – Events chair
       
     • Dave VA3DCY - Events
       
     • Geoff VA3GS – Membership, Hamfest, …
       
     • Barry VA3LLT - Property
       
     • Steve VE3UT – TBA…
       
     • Open
       
   • Club’s accomplishments of the last year
     
     • the purchase of a large storage container to house club property,
       
     • reconstruction of the tower trailer,
       
     • improvements to the communications trailer,
       
     • the basic license class,
       
     • the microprocessor project night, and
       
     • a very successful field day
       
   • Old news and gossip
     
     • Two letter calls OIC->EB, PIP->EZ
       
     • Brad VE3HII moved to Beeton
       
     • Chris VA3DXZ moved to Schomberg
       
     • Anthony VE3HIS put up a tower
       
     • Chris VE3NRT talked to his neighbour about maybe putting up a tower
       
     • Bruce retired to his country home in FN05
       
     • Hamfest back to Markham Fairgrounds
       
     • Equipment donations received
       
   • Goals for the coming year
     
     • Increase membership; Another class in the Spring, Marketing (mostly free) activities, Member survey
       
     • Another project night – Thanks Brad!
       
     • Special Event Station – 177th anniversary of the Toronto Rebellion
       
     • Community Service Tracking
       
     • Balanced Budget
       
4. Financial update, John VA3JI (Attachment #2)
   
   • FY 2015 Opening balance [available to members on request to Treasurer]
     
     • Income (July and August) $500.00
       
     • Disbursements (July and August) $1,215.70
       
     • Closing balance Aug 31st [available to members on request to Treasurer]
       
   • Pending items
     
     • Payments for field day
       
     • income for Hamfest tables
       
   • A special meeting will be called to approve the audit
     
5. Field day Steve VE3UT
   
   • Participation by members was up this year. A lot of fun had by many people.
     
   • Total score submitted to ARRL was 3,598, slightly higher than last year at 3,496 See Field Day report prepared by Steve VE3UT
     
6. Public service update Eric VE3EB
   
   • Eric thanked those people who volunteered their time over the summer to support the community events
     
   • Volunteers needed for upcoming events; Sharon Temple Illumination, Markham Fair, and CIBC Run for the Cure
     
7. Hamfest Geoff VA3GS
   
   • Hamfest is the largest fundraising event for the club and volunteers are needed to support the event
     
   • Don VE3IXJ thanked Russell VA3WTR for his work and support of the Markham Fair organizers which led to improved pricing for the club and the ability to relocate the Hamfest to the Markham Fairgrounds site
     
8. Communications trailer Barry VA3LLT
   
   • Barry reported that the communications trailer has been deployed to many public service events throughout the summer
     
9. 6m Net is still on 8PM Monday evenings at 50.135 USB
   

Meeting adjourned at 21:30 following a presentation by Don VE3IXJ on his work with portable repeaters. Don has been experimenting with the Surecom SR 328 Duplex Repeater Controller and the SR 112 Simplex Controllers interfaced to various HTs. The duplex controller is used with a Sinclair MR356E Duplexor (F1 458Mhz, F2 468Mhz).

YRARC Board of Directors - Minutes 2014-08-19

Board of Directors: The following were present. Chris VE3NRT, John VA3JI, Geoff VA3GS, Rob VE3RQB, Representing EmComm: Russell VA3WTR
The meeting was called to order at 1909 with VE3NRT in the chair. In the absence of a quorum no motions were tabled or voted on. What follows is a summary of matters discussed.

1. Governance:
   
   • Report from ad-hoc insurance committee (John VA3JI)
     
     • Only 1 trailer is covered. (the Car Mate CM6.) It is covered for $2 million liability (only) on the auto policy and for damage under the Lloyds policy.
       
     • The auto policy insures the trailer while it is being towed and is in addition to any coverage provided by the vehicle doing the towing. If the trailer is NOT being towed, then the auto policy doesn't cover it. (Lloyds does).
       
     • The tower trailer is NOT insured for towing. ie it is NOT covered by an auto policy [Motion passed in July to prohibit towing until insured].
       
     • The limit of liability coverage for the club under the Lloyds policy is $2 million for whatever happens (that is a covered type of loss of course). This is for whatever types of activities we carry on like the Hamfest, Field Day, public service, or whatever.
       
     • There is no directors and officers liability coverage for the board.
       
     • The limit of coverage for loss for the covered trailer is $15,000. Do we know how much the equipment mounted on it is valued at? Can we prove it?
       

       Here is what the insurance company says about the trailers when being towed by a PRIVATE vehicle (doesn't apply if the tow is a commercial vehicle).
       “In regards to the trailer - this would be the case for Liability coverage only while towing, however that only applies to personal trailers. Commercial trailers must be listed on a commercial auto policy in order to be covered for Liability purposes."
       

     • RECOMMENDATIONS:
       
       • We need to cover BOTH trailers on the auto policy. That way no matter who/what is towing them we know we have enough and proper insurance.
         
       • We need directors and officer insurance. The board is managing a significant financial asset and we are not protected if something goes wrong.
         
       • We should determine a value for the stuff stored in the trailer and be sure that it is less than $15,000 or increase the coverage to enough.
         
       • The offsite repeaters are specifically covered on the Lloyds policy but the storage container is not. We should value the equipment stored in the container and see if it
         warrants coverage. Previously it would have been covered under Bruce's house insurance. We should send a list of what we have and what we expect to the insurance company for a professional review to make sure we are not buying too much or the wrong insurance. They know the policies, we don't.
         
       • The insurance company requires more information on the tower trailer.
         
       • We need to locate the old tower trailer operations manual, re-write it to apply to the new tower trailer, and submit it to the insurance company.
         
     • VE3RQB determined that the club trailers could be towed without an annual inspection as they were below the legal loads limits.
       
2. Newmarket street lamp issue.
   
   • VA3GS had contacted VE1JBL, who lives in Amherst, NS. This is where the LED street lights are manufactured. VE1JBL had heard no reports of interference to Amateur Radio by the lights but would investigate further.
3. Changes to budget estimates? in the absence of the full board this was deferred to the next meeting.
   
4. Property
   
   • GO Kit Storage
     
     • The GO Kits have been moved from the VE3HII QTH to the storage container with the exception of the hand held radios which are with VE3NRT (not including cases).
   • Inventory
     
     • 5 Aluminum cases that house the ICOM HT's (ID-80D)
       
     • 3 Black cases for Mobile Go-Kits (ICOM IC-880H)
       
     • 1 ID880H and Samplex Power Supply
       
     • 1 12 Volt charger
       
     • 2 large cases that house the Field Supplementary Kits
       
     • 2 Bags of 4' Poles
       
     • 2 Jet Stream 144/432 Antennas
       
     • 9 12 Volt Batteries
       
   • Maintenance
     
     • Recharge HT`s on a monthly basis and before any public service events. I keep the HT`s out of the kits for easy transport to Events. Every 4 months I discharge the units prior to recharge.
       
     • Every two months I top off the 9 12Volt small car Batteries
       
   • Missing items from trailer: To be determined
     
   • Necessary maintenance & upgrade recommendations: To be determined
     
5. Repeaters
   
   • Transfer of the VE3YRA call from Bruce VE3BV to another member of the club has to be orchestrated and the necessary documents sent to IC. VE3NRT would look after this.
6. Events
   
   • Tracking volunteers for recognition and lack of support from members was discussed.
     
   • A request to use the trailer at the Markham Fair in October was approved,.
     
   • Recent and upcoming events were discussed
     
     • Aug. 25: Remembering Renata walk is along the Nokiidaa Trail. Chris DXZ is driving this event.
       
     • Sept 6/7: Caribbean event in Newmarket, being driven by Don Matthews.
       
     • Oct 5: Run for the Cure, No confirmation on our requirements. Use of the trailer would nice but will be bumped by the Markham Fair.
       
     • October 2, 3. 4 & 5 Markham Fair Russell VA3WTR is driving this event
       
     • Date not posted Newmarket Santa Parade in November, no bookings yet (driven with independent hams by Don Matthews., not a club event). Does the club enter the COMM trailer and/or the tower trailer as a float?
       
7. Membership Matters
   
   • Information about members would be collected at the September meetings. VA3GS would produce a sign-up form. The logistics of this is to set up early, before 1900, with lots of extra pens on hand. As soon as the forms are completed members can pay their dues.
     
   • Up-coming programs are, subject to change:
     
     •  02 Sep: Don VE3IXJ on his "home brew" 2 m repeater
   • Project Night: VE3HII has offered to look after this
     
   • Basic Amateur Class: VA3GS said that he would offer a course in April – June 2015.
     
   • Hamfest: VA3GS said that planning was well underway
     
8. Motion to purchase Field Day trophy tags ($30): Deferred to the next meeting
   
9. Budget - the budget for 2014-15 was discussed:
   
10. VE3NRT pointed out the club’s dependence of revenue from our hamfest.
    
11. EmComm:
    
    • VA3WTR reported that there was a possibility for the club to secure an out-of-service ambulance that the region would maintain.
      

Meeting adjourned at 2110.
Geoffrey Smith VA3GS
Secretary pro-tem

Links of the Month, May 2014

The following links were submitted by club members. I hope you find the interesting and useful.

• ARRL Field Day Locator [Steve VA3SRV]
  
• Resurrection of the ISEE-3 satellite [Steve VA
  
• CHIRP open source radio programming software. Too bad it doesn't support my IC-7100. [Patrick VE3WST]
  
• Decoding radiosonde telemetry with RTL-SDR. [Steve VA3SRV]
  
• Man Found In Hara Arena, Days After Hamvention Ends [Steve VA3SRV]
  
• The Eclipse Software Development Framework Video (used on project night) [Matt VA3MGN]
  
• Information on C structures [Brad VA3HII]
  
• Recording of an "Anvil Screamer", a thunderstorm related phenomenon [Steve VA3SRV]
  
• Problems with the kicksat satellite [Steve VA3SRV]
  

Minutes of the May 2014 General Meeting

Meeting held at the Sharon Temperance Hall. The meeting was called to order at 19:30. Chaired by Chris VE3NRT

1. Introductions completed. 41 members and 7 guests in attendance
   
2. Motion 2014-05-06-01 by Brian VE3IBW to approve the minutes of the April 1st General Meeting as published in the Splatter Blog, seconded by Brad VE3HII. Motion carried.
   
3. AGM – All attendees were reminded that the AGM will be held next month and that volunteers are needed for the BBQ, and to chair the AGM elections for 5 new members
   
4. Treasury – John VA3JI - No transactions in April
   
5. Field Day – Steve VE3UT
   
   • Need some idea of the numbers to plan for food
     
   • There will be a military presence although less than last year as they have been asked by other clubs to attend their field day activities
     
   • 80m station to be located further south
     
6. Bylaws – Eric VE3EB - Members are encouraged to review the proposed bylaw amendments prior to the AGM. The bylaws are available from the club secretary (Chris VA3DXZ). To request a copy, please email secretary@yrarc.org
   
7. Public Events – Eric VE3EB
   
   • New GMAIL calendar will be made available. For more information members can email events.yrarc@gmail.com
     
   • Upcoming events are:
     
     1. MADD Poker Ride May 25
        
     2. Girl Guide Rally May 31
        
     3. Aurora Street Festival June 1
        
     4. Mt Albert Sports Day (Parade and Run) June 6&7
        
     5. Ontario Medical First Response Competition June 14
        
     6. Field Day June 28&29
        
     7. Sharon Temple Canada Day celebration July 1
        
     8. Tentative - Sher St Kits Event July 1
        
     9. Newmarket Jazz Festival August 1-4
        
     10. Al’s Ride August 3
         
     11. Remembering Renata Walk – Raising Awareness for Eating Disorders August 24
         
     12. Sharon temple Illumination September 5
         
8. Hamfest – Geoff VA3GS - Saturday Nov 1st has been confirmed
   
9. Property – Rob VE3RQB
   
   • Storage Container – Looking into an alternative supplier. Hope to have purchase completed next week
     
   • Tower Trailer – Waiting for access to new tower to get trailer modifications underway
     
10. Meeting adjourned at 21:35
    

The club would like to thank Dr. Paul Delaney from York University for his fascinating talk entitled “A Quick Taste of Modern Astronomy”

Minutes: YRARC Board of Directors Meeting April 15th, 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, Richard VE3NSD, Geoff VA3GS, Publius VE3XS, John VA3JI, Eric VE3OIC, Steve VE3EZ. Board members absent; Barry VA3LLT. Guests attending; Carlos VA3CAZ, Russell VA3WTR

1. Agenda
   
   • Agenda as proposed by Chris VE3NRT (Attachment #2)
     
   • Motion 2014-04-15-01 by Rob VE3RQB to adopt agenda seconded by Richard VE3NSD . Motion carried.
     
2. Adoption of Feb 18, 2014 board meeting minutes
   
   • Motion 2014-04-15-02 by John VA3JI to adopt the minutes of the Mar 18th board meeting seconded by Publius VE3XS. Motion carried.
3. Treasurer's report John VA3JI
   
   • Current balance [Available to members upon request to club secretary]
4. Richard VE3NSD
   
   • Announced that he is stepping down from Community Events / Public Service leadership
     
   • Eric VE3OIC volunteered to take over until the end of his term in June 2014 with assistance from Geoff VA3GS
     
5. Old Business
   
   • Tower Trailer – Rob VE3RQB
     
     • Rob VE3RQB towed the tower trailer to Tricked Toys where the tower was removed from the trailer. Rob VE3RQB then returned the trailer to the York region yard
       
     • Contact at York Region yard is Scott Stover [phone numbers in secretary's minutes]
       
     • Tower is on Mark VE3SDF’s trailer at his home
       
     • Tower was weighed to estimate scrap value which is estimated to be $50-$75
       
     • Rob is in need of the key for the trailer storage boxes
       
     • Chris VE3NRT will coordinate with Steve VE3EZ load new tower on the tower trailer
       
   • Trailer Emcomm – Russell VA3WTR
     
     • Russell VA3WTR presented a letter (attachment #3) outlining proposed improvements / upgrades to the trailer to improve functionality and increase storage capacity at the front of the trailer
       
     • Recommendations were discussed and debated. Concerns were raised about the costs and discussion ensued about reducing the scope of work and associated costs
       
     • Decision made by the board to authorize Russell VA3WTR to undertake the improvements that can be done without added cost utilizing donations of the members
       
     • Work to be undertaken in region
       
   • Storage Container – Rob VE3RQB
     
     • The ground is too wet to place the container in the next 2-3 weeks
       
     • Bruce VE3BV needs to have the material in the garage moved out within the next two weeks
       
     • Rob proposed renting a storage unit for one month as an interim solution to allow us to move the material from Bruce VE3BV’s home while we wait for the proper ground conditions to move the container
       
   • By-laws – Eric VE3OIC
     
     • Eric and Geoff will be meeting to finalize the draft amendment
       
     • At the next general meeting, Eric and Geoff will announce the availability of the final draft and schedule for voting in the fall. Copies will be made available to paid up club members. Members requesting a copy will be asked to contact the club secretary Chris VA3DXZ at secretary@yrarc.org
       
   • Hamfest – Geoff VA3GS
     
     • Motion 2014-04-15-04 by Geoff VA3GS to relocate the Hamfest to Markham Fairgrounds, seconded by Eric VE3OIC.
       
     • Geoff VA3GS presented the rental agreement for discussion
       
     • Secondary Motion 2014-04-15-04b by Publius VE3XS to study the historical Hamfest financial statements, seconded by John VA3JI. Motion not carried.
       
     • Secondary Motion 2014-04-15-04c by Steve VE3EZ to amend Motion 2014-04-15-04 to include a review of the historical Hamfest financial statements in order to do a better job in 2014. Seconded by John VA3JI. Motion carried.
       
     • Discussion concerning the 2013 Hamfest profits. John VA3JI voiced his concern to the chair that the discussion was once again questioning if there were errors in the accounting. Geoff VA3GS addressed the chair to say that he accepts full responsibility for the Hamfest. John VA3JI noted that he had reviewed the figures at the request of the board more than once and confirmed the numbers were accurate. This point was accepted and the discussion then focused on how to do a better job this year. The following points were discussed:
       
       • More focus and resources needed on promotion and sale of the tickets for the grand prize draw
         
       • Need to improve security around ticket sales and cash boxes.
         
       • Eric VE3OIC proposed to dedicate a board meeting to discuss management of the 2014 Hamfest
         
       • John VA3JI suggested a leader for each function and that the float would be split among leaders and delivered by the treasurer
         
   • Membership Drive – Steve VE3EZ
     
     • Steve VE3EZ reported that the mailer is still on track for a final draft at next meeting
   • IRLP – John VA3JI
     
     • Eric VE3OIC will help John VA3JI to fabricate a new cable
6. Field day – No update
7. Harvey Bell Award – Chris NRT
   
   • Secretary will consolidate nominations and send to the board for review at the next board meeting
8. Upcoming Community Events – Eric VE3OIC
   
   • See attachment #1
9. Motion 2014-04-15-05 by Chris VA3DXZ to adjourn meeting, seconded by Rob VE3RQB. Motion carried at 21:10
   

ATTACHMENT #1 – Community Events

1. MADD Poker Ride Event, May 25, 2014
   
   • Newmarket (City Hall) west to Tottenham road area (tentative route)
     
   • Call out is for 8-10 Hams
     
   • Trailer Needed
     
2. Girl Guide Event, May 31, 2014.
   
   • Call out is for 4-6 HAMs
     
   • Good opportunity to show off the trailer, provide demos and “sell” Amateur Radio.
     
   • The Girl Guides of Canada, Ontario Council are holding a huge Province wide rally on Saturday May 31. Anticipated attendance is 5-8 thousand. We already have 3000 + members registered and the deadline isn't until May 2.
     
   • We were wondering if the club would be interested in setting up a ham radio display and demonstration where the girls could come by and see things and perhaps even try and contact people.
     
   • The event is being held at Canada's Wonderland, in the Kingswood Theatre Section. This section is blocked off from the public for the day and only Girl Guide members will be allowed in this section. (except of course, the presenters, demonstrators, etc.). We have checked with the officials at Wonderland and though they have a 'no radio' policy they have told us that we can go ahead and set this up with no issues using the radios.
     
   • I know that 3 (or 4) years ago, when we held our last Rally Day at Ontario Place in Toronto, there was a HAM display set up where the girls could see and use equipment throughout the day (under the supervision of the licensed Hams).
     
   • The day starts for the girls at 9:00 am and ends at 4:00. The presenters would have to be there earlier of course, to set up. I can get those details later for you. Girl Guides event May 31 Wonderland
     
   • Trailer Needed
     
3. Aurora Street Festival Sunday June 1, 2014
   
   • (Opening and closing)
     
   • Call out is for 14-16 Hams
     
   • Trailer Needed
     
4. Mt Albert Sports Day, June 7 (Tentative)
   
   • 5K run and Parade
     
   • Call out is for 6-8 Hams
     
   • Trailer Needed
     
5. Remembering Renata - Walking Across Canada, Sunday August 24
   
   • This was a new event for our club last year and our first opportunity to extend our support to a deserving organization; Eating Disorders of York Region (EDOYR). Few people know that eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of all mental illnesses but sadly, our healthcare system does not adequately fund the needs of the community. We can & did help make a difference!
     
   • Chris VA3DXZ is coordinating. Call out is for 4-5 hams
     
   • Trailer Needed
     
6. Newmarket Jazz Festival, August 1, 2, 3 & 4, 2014
   
   • Newmarket Community Centre
     
   • Many HAMs for multiple shifts (details to follow)
     
   • Trailer Needed
     
7. AL's Ride August 3rd, 214
   
   • Al’s Tack Sop, Vandorf Side Road
     
   • Call out is for 10-12 Hams
     
   • Trailer requested but not Needed!
     
8. Coming soon…
   
   • Sharon Temple events (2-3)
     
   • CIBC Run for the Cure
     
   • Markham Santa Parade
     
   • Newmarket Santa (Freelance Hams via Don Matthews)
     

YRARC General Meeting Minutes - April 1, 2014

Meeting held at the Newmarket Community Centre due to a last minute scheduling conflict with the Sharon Temperance Hall. The meeting was called to order at 19:30. Chaired by Chris VE3NRT. 36 members and 3 guests in attendance.

1. Minutes Mar 4th general meeting; Motion 2014-04-01-01 by Steve VA3SRV to approve the minutes, seconded by Rob VE3RQB. Motion carried.
   
2. Treasury – Chris VE3NRT on behalf of John VA3JI
   
   • Two memberships paid in March otherwise no other transactions in the month
3. Project Night – Brad VE3HII
   
   • Very positive response. 11 people have signed up
     
   • Motion 2014-04-01-02 by Brad VE3HII to allocate $83.00 for 3 months rental of a room at the Newmarket Community Centre to host project night. Seconded by Doug VE3VS. Motion carried.
     
4. Tower Trailer – Rob VE3RQB
   
   • Rob VE3RQB was asked by the board to investigate if the new tower donated to the club by the RCMP, could be installed on the existing tower trailer in place of the existing tower.
     
   • Rob received an estimate totaling $3,500.00 which included the removal of the existing tower from the trailer, the repair of the new tower, modification of the trailer to accommodate the new tower, installation of the new tower, fabrication and installation of new outriggers on the trailer. Given the new tower is significantly lighter than the existing tower, it is expected that the new tower will substantially reduce the load on the trailer
     
   • Motion 2014-04-01-03 by Steve VE3UT to allocate up to $3,500.00 for the work required, seconded by Steve VA3SRV. Motion carried.
     
5. Equipment Storage – VE3RQB
   
   • Rob VE3RQB proposed to the board during the Mar 18th board meeting, that the club purchase a 20’ “construction” grade storage container to house all of the club equipment. Bruce VE3BV has a number of club assets in his garage that must be re-located as his home is up for sale. In addition, various club members are presently storing other club assets. There is a desire among the club to consolidate all the assets into one location.
     
   • Peter VE3PBT has offered to the club a area on his property to locate the storage container
     
   • Total cost for the storage container, plus shipping to Peter PBT’s location is estimated to be $2,500.00
     
   • Geoff VA3GS determined that purchasing a container, would pay for itself in 13 months given current storage rental rates in the area
     
   • Motion 2014-04-01-04 by Steve VA3SRV to allocate up to $3,000.00 to cover the purchase, transportation, and outfitting of the storage container. Seconded by Glen VE3AU. Further comments by Steve VE3EZ suggesting the inside of the container be spray foamed to reduce condensation inside the container, and by Eric VE3OIC suggesting that the storage container and its contents be clearly documented as club property, and that this be set out in written agreement with Peter VE3PBT. Motion carried.
     
6. Community Events – Eric VE3OIC on behalf of Richard VE3NSD. Volunteers are requested to support the following upcoming events
   
   • May 13 - Girl Guides at Wonderland
     
   • May 25 - MADD Poker Run
     
   • June 1 – Aurora Street Festival
     
   • June 6-8 – Mount Albert Sports Day Fair
     
   • Aug 1-4 – Newmarket Jazz Festival
     
   • Aug 3 – Al’s Ride
     
7. Motion 2014-04-01-05 to adjourn the meeting by Doug VE3VS seconded by Rob VE3RQB. Motion carried.
   

Next meeting will be held at the Sharon Temperance Hall.

New YRARC Calendar

The most comprehensive, up-to-date and detailed club calendar is now available. Thank you Eric VE3OIC for starting it. The club web site menu now links to it under the Calendar entry.

March 2014 General Meeting - Minutes

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

1. Introductions completed. 35 members and 1 guest in attendance
   
2. Minutes Feb 4th general meeting; motion by Richard VE3NSD to approve the minutes, seconded by John VA3JI. Motion carried.
   
3. Reports
   
   1. Treasury – John VA3JI
      
      • Balance is [Available to members on request]. Two memberships paid in February otherwise no other transactions in the month
   2. Field Day – Steve VE3UT
      
      • Peter VE3PBT has volunteered to run the kitchen this year. Peter VE3PBT has prepared a menu and Steve VE3UT will provide an estimate of the number to be accommodated for dinner.
        
      • Location: Preference is to continue using the field behind Al’s Tack Shop
        
   3. By-law Committee – Geoff VA3GS, Eric VE3OIC
      
      • Minor clean up and corrections completed. Member input has been consolidated. There is a concern that in its current form, there will be insufficient time at the AGM to discuss and vote on all the proposed changes. The by-la committee has proposed to hold a town hall meeting for interested members to review all changes with a goal to finalize the list of changes to be put to a vote at the AGM.
   4. Trailer – Barry VA3LLT
      
      • New RCMP tower, spoke with manufacturer of tower stripped down trailer $17K
        
      • Looking at old trailer, RCMP tower is 300lbs vs old tower is ~1,000 lbs.
        
      • Rob VE3RQB, Barry VA3LLT and welding contractor went to look at the old trailer. The Welder will supply an estimate. The trailer will not be moving until there is an okay from the BOD to do the work.
        
      • If estimate is approved, the target is to have the trailer fitted with new tower for field day.
        
4. Member QSO awards – Bob VE3WY
   
   • Started June 2006 9pm however, only one certificate issued to date. The goal is to work as many York region amateur club members on as many bands as possible. There was a strong show of interested hands at meeting. Club members are encouraged to review the rules and begin making QSO’s. Bob VE3WY will issue certificates at the general meetings. Bob’s presentation will be placed on the Splatter Blog.
5. Project Night – Brad VE3HII, Steve VASRV
   
   • Brad VE3HII presented an overview of his and Steve VA3SRV’s proposal to re-activate project night. The plan is to begin mid April. Project nights to be held at the Newmarket Girl Guides office or the Newmarket Community Centre on Wednesday evenings 7-9pm. Looking for a minimum of 6 participants. Initial project will be an introduction to micro controllers with the objective to build a simple proto typing system estimated to cost between $30 and $50. Presentation will be posted on the Splatter Blog.
6. EMCOMM project Plan – Russell VE3WTR
   
   • Russell VE3WTR presented an update on EMCOMM activities and structure. EMCOMM is looking for volunteers. No specialized training is required. Looking for people to fulfill core roles, EOC site owners, or general responders. Presentation will be posted on the Splatter Blog.
7. Digital voice communications – Chris VE3NRT
   
   • Chris presented an overview of Open Source Digital Voice Communications. Presentation will be posted on the Splatter Blog.

Meeting adjourned at 21:14

Project Nights: Starting mid-April

Steve VA3SRV and Brad VE3HII have offered to restart project nights on Wednesdays starting in mid-April in Newmarket. These have been very popular in the past and allowed YRARC members to get some hands-on experience with electronics construction.

This is a great opportunity to get some experience with the inexpensive but powerful microcontrollers that are now available. These can be put to all sorts of interesting uses and the first project will be able to perform some useful tasks around the shack.

You can also come to project night and get some assistance with any other electronic project (like that Softrock kit you never built?) you're trying to complete.

Please get in touch with Steve or Brad to express your interest, or just leave a comment right here.

73,
Chris