Category: BandBits

July 2022 BandBits

President’s Report

Even though we got rained out and the gnats were bad, it was still a fun time at Field Day 2022. We had several people from a far away as Ohio stop and say hi. We even received a $20 donation from a non club ham just for thanking us for doing what we do.

Young Toni, K0TYT, Seth’s daughter made several contacts (click on the video link below). She even made one to Puerto Rico! Her mother got to get on the air for the first time in 8 years, she said.

Again, I want to thank those who helped set up and especially those who stuck it out during the rain to tear down.

Sorry to all those who wanted to come out Sunday, but it was just too much work to have to come back and set up again with the little sleep.

73! Justin N9WX

https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=812904249589355

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Meeting Minutes: Membership

Justin introduces himself and Scott… other attendees take turns.

Motion to approve Bandbits … Tom first, Mark seconds. Unanimous approval

TREASURER’S REPORT:
$235.30 in savings
$3,072.09 in checking
$8,394.63 in money market
$98.75 in PayPal

Looking to move W9UVI repeater (075) from current location to Supreme
Radio tower in East Peoria. It’ll be at 300 feet in height, with
hopefully a better footprint. The owner of Midwest 2-way doesn’t want
to renew our lease and was going to raise our rent, so this is our
best option.

We’re permanently taking down the UHF D-Star repeater. Neither D-Star
system gets much use. Matt has set up an agreement to place the VHF
D-Star repeater on the top of Proctor Hospital. No tower rent! And
there’s already an antenna and internet access ($25/month).

At the Midwest site, we have intermod issues due to others on the
tower. And our antenna is only at 180 feet. The Proctor site is the
highest point on this side of the river in Peoria, says Tom. We’ve
also been having issues with network firewall problems that prevent
Echolink use.

The cost? $2,520 a year for five years at Supreme. After five years,
we have an option to renew at a 3% rate increase. Supreme Radio was
originally going to charge $3500/year for tower space, but we got that
down quite a bit.

Justin says we’re waiting to sign the contract because we don’t have a
climber available just yet… our first climber dropped out, this
second one is just busy. He was recommended by Craig Thompson – we
can’t just have any climber, as they must be insured and bonded. The
rate for a climber is usually $100/man/hr, but dropped to $85/man/hr
to help us out.

The new tower site is on Cole Hollow Road, near a church. We’ll have
24/7 access to the site, secured by a gate. There’s also a generator
there, although we already have battery backup. Internet access is
already out there.

Other towers we looked at were super expensive. The new site has been
approved by the board and some members, but Justin wanted to bring it
to all membership because of the time crunch: Our current lease is up
July 1 with Midwest. We may need volunteers to help move the repeater
when it’s time. We’ll only have 3 or 4 days notice to Supreme when a
tower climber is finally free.

We’re still okay with Bill, owner of Midwest 2-way… this is just a
financial decision. If we can’t get the repeaters moved, we’ll be able to work
month-to-month with Midwest.

Finally, there’s nothing 100 feet above or below on Supreme tower
that’s anywhere near the frequency range of our needs.

Any old or unfinished business? No.

FIELD DAY 2022:

  • June 25/26 at Bartonville VFW in the back lot that we reserved
  • Justin is bringing a generator and battery.
  • We’re not going to contest seriously, but just out to have fun.
    Bring out your go rig. Bring chairs, drinks, etc.
  • Not just about being on the air, either.. also about getting things
    set up and learning.
  • Justin will be there 11:30ish on the day and will stay there the whole time.
  • Will set up a couple of club stations (including a GOTA station),
    but feel free to bring your own.
  • Don’t need to be licensed to come play
  • 10×20 canopy for shade
  • Will have access to restrooms out back

Scott says that this was going to be his last day as VP of the club.
When he does training, 3 or 4 people show up… just want to know that
people are interested in this stuff. He’s been frustrated with a lack
of interest. If wanting to do/learn something, please do let Scott
know! He’s trying to expand learning beyond voice-only ham activities.

If new to the hobby, we can help get you on the air! We have access to
our radio room at the Red Cross in Peoria and the equipment within.
Scott will meet anyone out at Jubilee State Park to do Parks on the
Air, etc.

There’s a suggestion from someone at the meeting to do a better job
promoting a willingness to train/teach/have fun during the Sunday
night nets. Or even announcing a single topic in advance that we’ll
talk about after the net. The audience is there.

7:45pm: Jim (KD9JDP) motions to end meeting, Jon (NM0O) seconds. All
in favor… the meeting has ended.

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Peoria County ARES

July 6, ARES Net @ 7:00 PM CDT on the W9UVI (147.075) repeater
July 12, Emergency Expo from 4-7 pm at the Grand Prairie Shopping Center
July 13, ARES Net @ 7:00 PM CDT on the W9UVI (147.075) repeater
July 20, Monthly Meeting On-line @ 7:00 PM CDT (Watch your email for Zoom conference info)

Call or email Rich if you are not on the ARES Roster and desire to join the Zoom Conference.

Monthly Meeting will include a short update on Infrastructure activities but will focus on Training. Please submit your Training Documentation in advance of the meeting.

ARES website: http://www.peoriacountyares.org/

Help promote aARES and Amateur Radio at the Emergency Expo. Contact Rich, KD9ANU for more information.

Rich Holtman, KD9ANU, Emergency Coordinator for Peoria County ARES
email: kd9anu@arrl.net
Winlink: kd9anu@winlink.org

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June Net Logs

6/5
K9XJT KD9ANU W9JDP N9SJZ KB9ATO W9WGN W8NWG KD9JXR NK0O KD9IVV KD9AER N9WFT K9RCS KD9ERS K9UQF KD9QQU NA9LE K9HJZ KD9IBC WF9E KD9RYH KD9PXZ WW9DLM N9GUE K9TNT KB9TNZ KD9SZZ KD9STL Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

6/12
KD9ANU W9WTF W9JDP K9TNT N9NDF NM0O KD9NYE W9WGN KD9AER KD9IBC KD9PXZ N0XOH KD9JXR N9GUE KD9IVV KD9ERS N9WFT K9RCS NP2JW WF9E K9UQF KT9TB KD9HZZ K9QZ N9GZ KC9YTT KB9YVN KD9RYH KD9HZZ KB9ATO WW9DLM K9HJZ KD9STL KB9TNZ Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

6/19
K9TNT KD9SZZ W9WTF NM0O KB9ATO KD9NYE N9NDF KD9PXZ W8NWG KD9JXR N9WFT KD9QQU/AG KD9IVV KD9TAE N9GUE KD9MPI W9JDP WF9E K9RCS KB9TNZ K9HJZ KD9RYH NP2WJ K9XJT KD9ERS KD9STL W9SEB Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

6/26
N9WX KD9ANU JD9HZZ KD9SZZ K9TNT KB9ATO KD9IVV KD9AER K9RCS KD9PXZ N9WFT KD9IBC KD9VAM N9GUE KD9JXR K9XJT N9NDF NM0O K9HJZ WF9E KC9YTT WW9DLM KB9TNZ KD9QQU KD9STL KT9TB Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

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July Club Events

July 6 – 7:00 pm: ARES Net – 146.075 Repeater

July 7 – Board of Directors – Zoom

July 12 – 4-7 pm: Emergency Expo at the Grand Prairie Shopping Center. Contact Rich, KD9ANU for more information

July 13 – 7:00 pm: ARES Net – 146.075 Repeater

July 14 – Membership Meeting – details to be announced

July 20 7:00 p,m, ARES Meeting – via Zoom

July 28 – Superfest Meeting

June 2022 BandBits

President’s Report

All,

I think you will all agree that the last couple of years have been challenging. With pandemics, the economy, politics and world events, we have had to deal with uncertainties and change. Some people would say that life is all about change, and change is inevitable.

Our Club has had to deal with change as well. At one time, the W9UVI repeater was located on free tower space. The tower’s ownership changed and we had to move the repeater, resulting in a smaller coverage area and an annual rental fee. This is a challenge, since the 147.075 is one of the most used repeaters in the area.

The PAARC Board is taking positive steps to meet these challenges, among them making dramatic improvements to the 147.075 repeater’s location and coverage. Recognizing that free tower space is a thing of the past, the Board and several members polled have agreed to move the 075 repeater and to relocate and consolidate the D-Star repeaters.

Yes, this is change. In the long run, it will be positive change for the success and future of this club. The repeater will be moved to the Supreme Radio Communications tower in East Peoria. It will nearly double our antenna height to 300 feet (we are currently 180 feet). The move will also help with some internet problems we have had impacting EchoLink and Wires-X. The rent has been locked in for a five year contract which will help our budgeting process.

We currently operate two D-Star repeaters on VHF and UHF. They do not get much use, so we will consolidate and relocate to one repeater.

We will discuss all of this in detail at our upcoming June meeting at the Bartonville American Legion. We hope you attend and that you make your voice heard with your vote. We want to hear from you because this is YOUR CLUB!

Don’t forget Field Day June 25-26 at the Bartonville American Legion. We will post details on the website and Facebook. This month has also been declared “Amateur Radio Month in Illinois” by the Governor.

I hope to see everyone at the next Club Meeting on Thursday, June 9th.

Justin Flick – N9WX President PAARC

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Meeting Minutes: Board of Directors

7:03 p.m. call to order. Deb, Scott, Rob, Justin, Matt, Tom and Adam.

OLD BUSINESS:

Talked at the emergency executive board meeting last week that we need
to get tower climbs going. Craig talked to Supreme and they didn’t get
back; Justin will do as well, along with other places.

BandBits: Tom moves approval, Matt seconds. Motion passes.

TREASURER’S REPORT: The treasurer’s report is not available since John
isn’t in attendance.

REPEATER COMMITTEE: Matt has been sick and hasn’t been out to the
repeater site. May look into getting a second set of keys so Scott or
someone else can help with repeater issues as well.

SUPERFEST: Deb got the contract from Three Sisters for 2023. A few
things need to be discussed with them, but overall very happy with it.
$3500 annually… $1500 non-refundable deposit, with remaining $2000
prior to access. The contract is for five consecutive years through
2027, with an option to renew for another five years at a potentially
new rate. Three Sisters Park retains rights to concessions.

Tickets will go to RapidPrint for printing so we can have tickets by
the end of May.

Tom is still working on the SuperFest logo and details on signs.

NEW BUSINESS:

POTA is this weekend at Starved Rock. Justin is planning to get there
a little later at 6:30 or 7 p.m. Friday due to rain, but Darrin and
Rich will be there a few hours earlier.

7:20 p.m.: Meeting adjourns after Deb motions, everyone seconds.

____________________________________________________

Peoria County ARES

June 1, ARES Net @ 7:00 PM CDT on the W9UVI (147.075) repeater 

June 8, ARES Net @ 7:00 PM CDT on the W9UVI (147.075) repeater 

June 15, ARES On-line Conference @ 7:00 PM CDT (Watch your email for Zoom conference info)

Call or email Rich if you are not on the ARES Roster and desire to join the Zoom Conference.

On-Line Conference Agenda includes but is not limited to: a presentation on Emergency Communication Readiness.

ARES website: http://www.peoriacountyares.org/

Rich Holtman, KD9ANU, Assistant Emergency Coordinator for Peoria County ARES

email: kd9anu@arrl.net

Winlink: kd9anu@winlink.org

Cell: 309-256-4272

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SuperFest

Superfest is fast approaching, we have our forums confirmed and we will soon be distributing tickets for sale. The June Superfest meeting will be held on Thursday June 30th at 7pm. It will be an in person meeting with the location to be announced.

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May Net Logs

5/1
W8NWG KD9ANU KC9IH K9HJ, K9XJT N9GUE K9TNT KD9SZZ N9NDF KB9ATO NM0O KD9JXR WF9E N9WFT W9JDP N9SJZ KD9XPZ KD9AER K9QZ K9UQF N9SJZ NP2WJ KB9TNZ KD9RYH KD9PXZ W9WGN KD9DBQ Submitted by KD9QQU 73

5/8
KD9ANU KD9AER KD9IVV W8NWG KD9PXZ W9JDP N9WFT KD9JXR K9HJZ N9GUE KD9NYE K9TNT KD9TAE KD9SZZ K9XJT KD9MPI N9GZ WD9EGV KD9ERS AD9DM K9CEW KD9TEG KD9RYH KD9STL KB9TNZ KD9NYI WF9E W9WGN Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

5/15
KD9ANU N9GUE W8NWG W9JDP W9FYR K9XJT N9NDF KD9IVV W9WGN KD9PXZ KD9JXR KD9IBC W9TTX KD9SZZ KB9ATO N9SJZ KB9ATO N9SJZ N9WFT KD9RYH K9RCS WW9DLM K9HJZ KD9ERS KT9TB KD9NYE NP2WJ KD9STL W9SEB KD9TEG KD9AER K9CEW Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

5/22
KD9ANU WD9EB W9JDP KD9SZZ NM0O W8NWG KD9PXZ WW9DLM KD9ERS W9WGN KD9JXR KD9AER K9XJT WF9E KD9MPI K9TNT N9GUE NP2WJ KD9STL KD9RYH KB9TNZ K9HJZ KD9IBC Submitted to KD9DBQ 73

5/29
N9WX KD9SZZ N9SJZ W9JDP N9NDF W8NWG KB9ATO WF9E KD9PXZ W9WGN KD9JXR N9GUE K9XJT KD9IVV K9HJZ KD9AER K9UQF KD9QQU K9TNT KD9STL KD9MPI KD9RYH N9CN N9IUA KD9ERS KD9NYE Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

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June Club Events

June 1 – 7:00 pm: ARES Net – 146.075 Repeater

June 2 – 7:00 pm: Board of Directors Meeting via Zoom.

June 9 – 7:00 p.m. Club Meeting – Bartonville American Legion – Repeaters.

June 18 – FCC License Testing: Morton Knights of Columbus, 616 W. David Street, Morton, IL. FRN Required. Bring two forms of identification and a copy of your license (if upgrading). Testing Fee: $15.

June 23 – 7:00 p.m. Superfest Meeting – Location TBA

June 25 – 26: ARRL Field Day – Bartonville American Legion.

May 2022 BandBits

Pink flower clipart may flower pencil and in color pink - Clipartix

President’s Report

April showers bring May Flowers. Let’s hope that we have pleasant weather for our Parks On The Air event that is fast approaching. I know I am excited to actually test my gear past the one-day mark. Again, this is a public event. May 6th through 8th. Check in is at 3pm on Friday and we will be wrapping up by 1pm on Sunday. Bring out your gear and have some fun! If you do not have any gear, there will be a GOTA or Get On The Air station set up. We will be using our own callsigns for the main event and the GOTA will be the Club call. If you want to grill out… There is a grill cover over the fire pit. Please bring all food/drinks/condiments you may want/need. Also, if you want to use charcoal… Bring that as well. There are primitive restrooms near the site.

My personal site is 033. Look for the Club POTA sign. We have a couple of members that have reserved spaces across the path from me and another that is next to me. We are going to be towards the back of the campground so hopefully we will not disrupt anyone. Please, always follow all rules and regulations of the park. I want this to be a magnificent event for everyone, not just us, but the public as well.

In other news: Field Day 2022 is booked at the American Legion in Bartonville! June 25th and 26th from 1200p Saturday to 1p Sunday. We will most likely be in the garaged area and have the back field opem for our antennas. Bathrooms will be open, but we’re unsure about concessions at this time.

As always, be weather aware for the next few months.

Justin Flick, N9WX
President PAARC 2022

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Meeting Minutes: Board of Directors

Before the meeting…

From Thom Beebe, W9RY, Illinois section manager:

  • will start sending us a new ham report with contact info that we can use to reach out to new possible members
  • confirmed that we’ll host the Illinois division at the 2022 SuperFest and have officially expressed a desire for hosting both Illinois and Central divisions for the 2023 at Three Sisters Park. He’ll get back to us on the Central hosting.

7:15 p.m.: regular meeting portion begins…

We lost the Knights of Columbus testing site, but are now going to have exams in Hopedale at the Winter Field Day site.

Motion to approve April Bandbits… approved unanimously.

TREASURER’S REPORT:

  • Deb will meet with John tomorrow to hand off deposits.
  • Deb will email Adam with new members who sent in via snail mail… and Adam will update member roll in Google Drive.
  • $875.15 in PayPal… will move $775 over to checking.
  • CEFCU: $235.28 in savings, $2,683.99 in checking, $8,393.48 in money market
  • Deb makes motion to approve report. John seconds. Motion carries unanimously.
  • Deb asks if we have too much in checking and should move some to savings. Proposes $1000 in checking, $2000 in savings and the rest to money market. No vote taken on this.

Next club meeting is at American Legion in Bartonville. Scott has to join Sons of the American Legion for $40/year to have free use of the facilities during the year. They would also like us to do classes for their members and have testing sessions held there. Justin makes motion to pay Scott’s membership fee of $40. Tom seconds and the membership approves unanimously.

REPEATER COMMITTEE REPORT:

  • Justin will reach out about the third antenna on the tower… will likely have to get it removed ourselves with a climber. (Scott will find out if Civic Center riggers can do the work with proper
    insurance.)
  • Matt reports that they have internet installed for the .85 repeater. He’ll go out and get it set up for Fusion use.

We apparently didn’t send in our not-for-profit paperwork to the Secretary of State’s office last year, so we’ll need to get it reinstated. John asks if we filed our state tax info last year… uncertainty among group if we’ve done that recently. Could be why our corporation was dissolved? Deb will get with John on the letter we received and try to get things squared away.

SUPERFEST REPORT:

  • Deb would like to pay the deposit and sign a contract to make it official where we’ll be for SuperFest in 2022. Thinks deposit is $500? Whole thing at $1450, which is $1000 off from last year due to broken A/C. Motion to do so… approved.
  • Three Sisters is working on our contract for 2023. $2500 was the original spending plan, but haven’t heard if approved yet. They’ll be doing concessions, not us. We’ll be using the chapel for forums. For the museum, we’ll use one room for testing if need be. Campground will
    be for the flea market. The old event manager died of a heart attack, so we have a new one now (his niece.)
  • John suggests a place in Morton that loans out skinny orange cones to help label the different sections for the flea market. Matt says that we have a bunch of the shorter cones. John says that the taller ones are free, but we just need to reserve them… he’ll check and see if any are available that aren’t reserved for Pumpkin Fest.
  • Matt has prize letters ready to go out, so will start on that in the next couple of weeks.
  • Deb will mock up tickets, send out for approval, then give to Rapid Printing for a quote (they beat other options last year by a lot.) John does mention a ticket printing website as an alternative option (raffletickets.com)
  • Trying to figure out where to have the next Super Fest meeting…

Adam mentions that he changed w9uvi.org from HTTP to HTTPS (SSL secure) and did some other behind-the-scenes work to make our website a little faster. Deb mentions wanting to change the website theme, so will plan a time to discuss in the future.

Deb will try to stop by the Red Cross and take the silent key plaque off of a door in the radio room… Fritz and Ron aren’t on there. Will get their names added along with a couple other former members. Will also check on the status of using the building in the future… will table any formal discussion until we have a chance to check out the American Legion facilities. Scott asks for access to the radio room and Justin will make that happen.

Deb asks where we’ll have summer Field Day in two months. If American Legion is available, we’ll book it (motion by John, membership passes.) Beyond our canopy and such, they also have a giant pavilion that could be used on-site.

Meeting adjourned at 8:14 p.m.

Meeting Minutes: Membership

4/247:13p meeting begins

Justin makes introductions and everyone attending takes a turn.

Band Bits from last month? Rob motions, Matt seconds. Approved.

On May 3, Matt is meeting Russ at the repeater site; will take a
laptop out to set up WIRES-X.
EchoLink should be working fine on the .075 repeater.

As of April 7, treasury report
$235.28 in savings
$2683.9 in checking
Deb pulled envelopes from our PO BOX, along with several new memberships.
$155/6 years for use of the American Legion
Deb accepts report, Scott seconds. All in favor and it passes.

SuperFest report:
It’s the third weekend in September and has been renamed Midwest
Superfest since it is no longer in Peoria.

Next year will be the first year out at Three Sisters Park.
Deb is meeting tomorrow to hand over a check for $1000 for this year’s
East Peoria site.

She’s still waiting on the contract from Three Sisters for 2023.
This year, the club will host the Illinois ARRL section conference.
Next year, we will do Illinois again AND have asked to host the
Central division.

Matt is working on prizes already.
Scott will do a satellite demonstration at Superfest. And other
members will do sessions as well.

Will host SuperFest meeting at 7pm in two weeks on Zoom. If you have
any ideas for Superfest, let the committee know.

No old business.

New business:
Thinking of having Field Day at American Legion. Just need to check
the date to see if it’s available. There’s a pavilion with garage doors available, bathrooms, and a field out back. John has motion to host it at the Legion, Rob seconds, all approve.

Mother’s Day weekend is Parks on the Air at Starved Rock. Three spots
already booked for camping, maybe more (may be some extra space
available from members). If anybody wants to come for the day, they’re
welcome to join. Details will be on website/social, but Friday 3 pm
until around 3pm on Sunday.

Don’t think alcohol is technically allowed out there… wink wink.

Rich says that if you’re interested in all things emergency, there’s a
big event at Grand Prairie (Emergency Expo) with departments showing off their gear:
July 12 at 4:30pm.

At 7:34pm, Rich moves to adjourn, Jim seconds… the business portion
is over. Scott begins his presentation on OpenSpot.

____________________________________________________

Peoria County ARES

May 4, ARES Net @ 7:00 PM CST on the W9UVI (147.075) repeater
May 11, ARES Net @ 7:00 PM CST on the W9UVI (147.075) repeater
May 19, ARES Monthly Meeting @ 7:00 PM CDT – Bartonville American Legion Hall, 4501 S. Airport Road, Bartonville IL, 61607. This is a Thursday, rather than a Wednesday. No Zoom.

If coming from Peoria, continue south through the 4-way stop at Limestone High School. Take the second entrance (near the jet aircraft) for the Legion building, then come inside on the south side of the building.

The monthly meeting agenda is To Be Determined (TBD). Come and find out. I hope to make it interesting and informative.

ARES website: http://www.peoriacountyares.org/

Rich Holtman, KD9ANU, Assistant Emergency Coordinator for Peoria County ARES

____________________________________________________

SuperFest

The May Superfest meeting will be Thursday May 26th, location to be determined. Midwest Superfest 2022 will also be hosting the ARRL Illinois Convention and for our forums we are planning to highlight different contact modes. We have confirmed a satellite demonstration and a WinLink demonstration. We would like to have other modes, like FT8, EchoLink, DMR, RTTY or PSK31. If anyone would like to volunteer to do a presentation on one or more of these modes it would be appreciated, just let Deb (wd9eb@arrl.net) know.

____________________________________________________

April Net Logs

4/3
N9WX KD9ANU W9JDP K9QZ KD9IBC K9TNT KD9PXZ N9NDF NM0O KD9JXR KD9NYE KD9SZZ N9GUE W8NWG KD9IVV N9WFT KB9SF KD9ERS W9SEB K9RCS K9CEW KD9STL KD9RYH K9HJZ WF9E K9UQF WW9DLM W9WGN K9XJT WB4GLM W9TTX KB9ATO KD9SPJ KD9QQU N9GZ KT9TB KC9IH Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

4/10
W9WTF KD9ANU KD9IBC K9RCS K9HJZ W9JDP K9TNT N9SJZ N9NDF KD9PXZ W8NWG KD9SZZ KB9ATO KD9JXR W9TTX N9WFT WW9DLM KD9NYE KD9QQU NM0O KB9SF N9GUE WF9E K9XJT KC9IH K9RYH KD9STL W9SEB N9GZ KD9ERS K9CEW K9QZ KB9TNZ Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

4/17
W9WTF KD9ANU KC9IH K9HJZ W9JDP W8NWG K9RCS KD9IBC KD9ERS KD9SZZ KD9PXZ KD9NYE KB9ATO NM0O KD9JXR K9XJT W9SEB KD9IVV N9GUE K9TNT WF9E N9NDF WW9DLM KD9AER KD9TEG NP2WJ KD9STL K9CEW KD9RYH Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

4/24
KD9ERS W9JDP KD9IBC KC9IH K9XJT K9HJZ W8NWG N9GUE KD9PXZ N9NDF KD9IVV KD9AER NM0O KD9MPI W9WGN KD9JXR KB9ATO K9QJ N9WFT K9RCS KD9QQU N9SJZ KD9TEG K9UQF WF9E KD9NYE KD9SZZ W9SEB K9TNT Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

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May Club Events

May 4 – 7:00 pm: ARES Net – 146.075 Repeater

May 5 – 7:00 pm: Board of Directors Meeting via Zoom.

May 6-8 – Parks On The Air (POTA) camping trip/activation: Starved Rock State Park. Contact Justin, N9WX (site 33) for details.

May 11 – 7:00 pm: ARES Net – 146.075 Repeater

May 12 – 7:00 p.m. Club Meeting – CANCELLED

May 19 – THURSDAY: ARES Meeting.  This will be live, in-person, at the Bartonville American Legion, 4501 S. Airport Road, Bartonville IL, 61607

May 26 – 7:00 pm: Superfest Meeting – location TBA

April 2022 BandBits

Free April Cliparts, Download Free April Cliparts png images, Free ClipArts on Clipart Library

President’s Report

Greetings, Fellow Club Members!

March came in like a lamb and is going out like a lion. Let us hope for pleasant weather for our club meeting on the 14th of April. The tentative plan is to meet in person. The program is going to be covering the OPENSPOT3 and Satellite modes of communication. We hope to do demonstrations and to make contacts via the OPENSPOT and Satellite. The location of the meeting is still being determined, but it will likely be in Bartonville.

As a reminder:

We have a Testing Session on Saturday the 16th of April 2022. Hope to see all of Deb’s students out to test. New persons who come out and get at least their Tech license will be offered the rest of the year Membership Free! If you would like to join the club, please contact a board member and we will get you taken care of.

Shop - POTA

May is coming up Fast! Our PARKS ON THE AIR event is May 6-8th, 2022 at Starved Rock State Park in Utica, IL. Several members of the Club and myself are going to be camping at the park and making as many contacts as possible. There is still a short amount of time left to get a spot next to the 3 that we have already. This is a Semi Public Event! Everyone from the Club (family/friends included) are welcome to come out and play. You will be responsible for all food/drinks/chairs etc. We are limited to 20 people at one time. No alcohol is permitted, and the Quiet Hours will be observed. I will be at the campgrounds around 3PM on Friday. Checkout is 3PM Sunday.

One last reminder: Superfest will be here before you know it. We need all the help we can get to make this year at least as good, if not better than last. Superfest meetings are open to all members who would like to help or have ideas. Contact Deb KD9EB for details.

I want to say Thank You to all of the members who have paid your dues. Without your help from dues… we cannot continue as a club. I hope that we are keeping your interest peaked. Please let me or a board member know what you would like to learn about. What events would you like to do?

73, Justin N9WX

____________________________________________________

Meeting Minutes: Board of Directors

No Board meeting this month due to lack of a quorum.

Meeting Minutes: Membership

7:02pm meeting begins with Justin calling it to order.

Motion to accept Bandbits as posted online… Tom and Mark. Motion carries by all.

Treasurer’s report was presented and approved.
Motion to accept … Mark and Tom. Motion carries.

SuperFest meeting coming up on March 24th. Anybody and everybody is welcome to come help.

Feedline (hardline) from old repeater site needs to be stored somewhere. The coil is 4.5 to 5.5 feet in diameter, so needs a bit of space.

Rich asks if we’d talked in the past about not publishing our treasury numbers in a public forum. Thinks it should be resolved… by people actually attending the meetings. Rich makes motion to not publish financial details in Bandbits. K9RCS seconds…. motion carries.

Rich also asks about a donation of $1000 sometime in the past that was in someone’s will (Al?)… did we ever get it? It was a letter from an estate’s lawyer. Deb says that we did get it 2.5 years ago.

Next board meeting, there will be a short presentation about state/regional affiliation for upcoming SuperFests.

K9RCS asks how many members we have. Justin says 30-35 members are paid up on dues. Will get Adam a member list via Google Drive soon.

Scott (K9XJT) starts presentation on OpenSpot3 by SharkRF. Unfortunately, a firmware update bricked his device – but is a trooper and carries on.

____________________________________________________

ARES News

Note time change for the ARES Net, no longer at 8:00 PM, going forward to be at 7:00 PM.

April 6, ARES Net @ 7:00 PM CST on the 075 repeater
April 13, ARES Net @ 7:00 PM CST on the 075 repeater
April 20, ARES On-line Conference @ 7:00 PM CST (Watch your email for Zoom conference info)

Call or email Rich if you are not on the ARES Roster and desire to join the Zoom Conference.

On-Line Conference Agenda includes: ARES Local Parks On The Air, Weather Spotting, Training, Winlink News, Antenna of the Month, Upcoming RATPAC Sessions, Help Wanted, & More!

ARES website: http://www.peoriacountyares.org

Rich Holtman, KD9ANU, Assistant Emergency Coordinator for Peoria County ARES
email: kd9anu@arrl.net
Winlink: kd9anu@winlink.org

____________________________________________________

SuperFest

The April Superfest meeting will be held on Thursday, April 28th at 7:00pm, please use the link on the Club meeting page to join.

____________________________________________________

March Net Logs

3/6
KD9ERS KD9ANU K9HJZ KD8SZZ W9DAY KC9IH NM0O KD9IBC K9RCS W9JDP N9NDF KD9PXZ KD9IVV KD9JXR KB9ATO KD9AER W8NWG N9GUE KD9NYE KD9RJH N9WFT KD9QQU K9CEW WF9E K9UQF K9XJT W9WGN KD9HZZ KD9QQT KD9RYH WW9DLM NP2WJ KD9STL Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

3/13
K9XJT KD9ANU KD9SZZ N9WX KD9IBC W9SEB KC9IH KD9AER W9JDP K9TNT KD9IVV KD9PXZ N9NDF KB9ATO W9TTX NM0O W8NWG KD9JXR W9WGN K8JLX9JLX K9RXS KD9ERS WF9E KD9STL N9WFT N9GUE K9UQF WW9DLM KC9YTT K9CEW NP2WJ KD9TAE KD9QQU KT9TB KD9RYH KD9RJH KD9MPI KD9SPJ NA9LE Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

3/20
AD9I/SK WD9EB KD9ANU KD9IBC N9WX W8NWG K9HJZ KC9IH W9JDP KD9SZZ KD9NYE K9XJT N9GUE N9NDF KD9PXZ KD9JXR W9TTX NM0O W9WGN K9CEW KD9ERS N9WFT KD9IVV KB9ATO W9SEB KD9UIM K9UQF KD9STL K9RCS KD9TEG KD9QQU KD9RJH KD9SPJ Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

3/27
KD9ANU K9XJT KD9IBC KB9SF W9JDP N9SJZ KD9IVV KB9ATO W9WGN W9TTX KD9PXZ KD9ERS NM0O N9GUE K9HJZ KD9JXR W8NWG N9WFT K9RCS W9SEB WW9DLM KD9QQU KD9STL NP2WJ WF9E KD9SZZ KD9SPJ KD9TAE KC9IH KD9LSV Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

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April Club Events

April 6 – 7:00 pm: ARES Net – 146.075 Repeater

April 7 – 7:00 pm: Board of Directors Meeting via Zoom.

April 13 – 7:00 pm: ARES Net – 146.075 Repeater

April 14 – 7:00 pm: Club Meeting – openSPOT3 internet gateway demonstration at the Bartonville American Legion, 4501 S. Airport Rd., Bartonville. Restaurant and Bar will be open.

April 16 – Noon: License Testing, CHANGE OF LOCATION: Hopedale Community Center, 101 SE Main St., Hopedale, IL. LAST CHANCE BEFORE NEW LICENSE FEES GO INTO EFFECT.

April 20 – 7:00 pm: ARES Meeting on ZOOM

April 28 – 7:00 pm: Superfest Meeting via ZOOM

Looking Ahead: May 6-8 – Parks On The Air (POTA) camping trip/activation: Starved Rock State Park. Contact Justin, N9WX for details.

March 2022 BandBits

President’s Report

Hello, and welcome to Tornado Season! Five years ago this month a tornado hit Chillicothe, IL. It is time to be Weather Aware. The National Weather Service has several online classes coming up for those interested in becoming weather spotters. If you’re interested in weather spotting, or have further questions, join the Peoria County ARES Team headed by Rich Holtman – KD9ANU.

With the weather becoming warmer soon, the hope is to get out into the field more. The plan is to move our meetings outside to be able to enjoy our surroundings. Does anyone have suggestions for locations? Bradley Park? Red Cross parking lot? I feel if we get out into the public eye more, we might just grow interest and our club.

I still need to contact a couple of surrounding clubs to see if there is any interest in joint projects. That being said, planning is in the works to have a Fox Hunt in the summer. If you know anyone who is interested in joining us, please inform them that more information will be coming.

Also, as a reminder, our Starved Rock POTA expedition is coming up! Mark your calendars for May 6-8th, 2022. I am really getting excited about this trip. I have already started getting stuff together. The hope is to have a grill set up for all to use. Please bring what you want to grill. Hope to see you there!

If anyone has any information about public/private events that are coming up and may need communications support, please contact Justin Flick N9WX at n9wx.ares@gmail.com

____________________________________________________

Meeting Minutes: Board of Directors

7:07 pm call to order

Minutes from last board of directors meeting were approved unanimously.

Justin: Glad we had good turnout for Winter Field Day. Very glad Bradley radio club came by to help out. We’ve invited them to join us for events throughout the year. Connor made 35 CW QSOs in a short amount of time…. doubled our contacts! 92 total.

Lift rental really helped. Put another 20m antenna up on Sunday. Rob said W9UVI didn’t appear on spot clusters… but Field Day rules say we’re not supposed to spot.

Nothing new from repeater committee. Justin talked to Bill about Midwest repeater situation… he’s still up in the air about buying the antenna and feed line from us. Unless we can find someone to take it or buy it, we’ll need to take it down. Will check back in March.

Scott says that riggers at the Civic Center might be able to do it for less money. But need to make sure that they’re licensed and insured for such work. Antenna is up 120 feet. Bill did say he has a guy who does tower work for him.

Have not done anything with the .85 repeater at the fire station yet. Still need Matt and Tom to set up WIRES-X. Internet is set up, but uncertain about configuration.

Super Fest meeting update: Deb says we got an invitation from the ARRL to host the Central division convention at Super Fest this year. Deb suggests saying no, but instead tell them we’ll do it in 2023 at Three Sisters Park. Need to confirm with the park if we need to give them money now for our reservation. ARRL will do advertising for us for three states if we host.

This year, no big speaker – Scott will do satellite demo, Jerod/Nick/Tim? will hopefully do DMR demo. All in-house for Super Fest this year.

Treasurer report from John:
$235.25 in savings
$8,392.46 in money market
$2,773.89 checking (includes monthly withdrawal for Noiz Communications for internet at repeater site)
$330 for Morton rentals for Field Day lift
$212 for P.O. Box
two deposits from Amazon marketplace $156.70, $10.86 (returning of solar panel and connectors for trailer)

Deb will pay $113 for her share of the lift.

10 payments in January, 1 in February via PayPal for member dues

$443.30 in PayPal since December

Unfinished business:
Scott will make a couple of extra sets of keys for the trailer hitch.

Still haven’t replaced tires on the trailer. Rethinking the idea of the trailer… moving away from idea of a portable communication center. Will still be moving it around events, so still need tires (and possibly also exterior lights.)

New business:

For upcoming POTA camping trip, reserving a shelter is an extra $50, so will just plan to use someone’s camping site (so far have 033 and 032 reserved.)
Checkin is 3 p.m. Saturday, checkout 3 p.m. Sunday.
Up to four people and two vehicles for site.

Old boy scout cabins are close by with dog friendly cabins that are cheaper than Starved Rock. (Kishauwau)

It’s also Mother’s Day weekend!

Deb needs headshots of new club officers.

Will also put up more details on POTA event on website.

Meeting Minutes: Membership

7:06pm: meeting commences.

SuperFest meeting on Feb. 24th at 7 p.m. For those with ideas or can’t make it, email Deb.
Minutes published in Band Bits from last club meeting approved by membership.

Treasury report from Justin, N9WX:$235.36 savings$2,773.89 in checking$8,392.46 in money marketPayPal has almost $600 in itScott moves to present it, Jim Polson seconds. Membership approves.

Scott Tranchitella, K9XJT did a presentation on EchoLink.

Unsure why EchoLink not active on our repeater… but Scott giving presentation on how to use it with N9NWI-R as stand-in. Matt says that he needs to install an adapter at the repeater site, then W9UVI will be up.

____________________________________________________

Peoria County ARES

Note time change for the ARES Net, no longer at 8:00 PM, going forward to be at 7:00 PM.

Mar 2, ARES Net @ 7:00 PM CST on the 075 repeater
Mar 9, ARES Net @ 7:00 PM CST on the 075 repeater
Mar 16, ARES On-line Conference @ 7:00 PM CST (Watch your email for Zoom conference info)

Call or email Rich if you are not on the ARES Roster and desire to join the Zoom Conference.

On-Line Conference Agenda includes: ARES Local Parks On The Air, Training, Winlink News, Antenna of the Month, Upcoming RATPAC Sessions, Help Wanted, Volunteer Opportunities, & more!

ARES website: http://www.peoriacountyares.org/

Rich Holtman, KD9ANU, Assistant Emergency Coordinator for Peoria County ARES
email: kd9anu@arrl.net
Winlink: kd9anu@winlink.org
Cell: 309-256-4272

____________________________________________________

EchoLink

In late February EchoLink was installed on the W9UVI/o75 repeater. EchoLink allows users to get on the air from any location with internet using a smart phone, tablet or computer.

Learn more.

____________________________________________________

SuperFest

The March Superfest meeting will be held on Thursday 24th at 7:00pm, please use the link on the Club meeting page to join.

____________________________________________________

February Net Logs

2/6
W9JDP KD9HZZ N9SJZ NM0O W8NWG K9TNT KD9JXR KD9IVV KD9PXZ K9RCS K9FIT KD9RYH N9GUE K9XJT KD9STL WF9E KD9ANU KB9TNZ N9NDF KD8SZZ KB9ATO K9UQF W9WTF WW9DLM KD9NYI KD9IBC W9SEB W9WGN Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

2/13
KD9IVV N9NDF W9JDP K9XJT N9GUE W8NWG KD9PXZ KB9ATO K9FIT KD9JXR KD9QQU KD9ERS WF9E WW9DLM KD9STL K9TNT KD9LSV Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

2/20
W9JDP K9TNT KD9PXZ W9WGN KB9ATO N9NDF W8NWG KD9JXR NM0O N9WFT K9FIT KD9IVV KD9AER KD9QQU WW9DLM N9GUE KD9ANU WD9EGV K9RCS W9SEB NP2WJ KD9LSV N9WX KD9NYE K9UQF KD9SZZ KD9IBC WF9E KD9RYH KT9TB KD9SPJ KD9STL K9XJT WD9EB KD9ERS Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

2/27
W9WGN N9GUE KD9ERS KD9ANU KD9SZZ KD9IBC K9HJZ K9TNT W9JDP KD9QQU KD9JXR NM0O KD9PXZ KD9IVV W8NWG KD9AER K9XJT KD9NYE KD9UIM KD9RYH W9SEB N9NDF KB9ATO K9UQF NA9LE K9CEW WD9EGV KD9NYI WW9DLM K9FIT N9WFT Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

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March Club Events

March 3 – 7:00 pm: Board of Directors Meeting via Zoom.

March 10 – 7:00 p.m.:  Club Meeting via Zoom – openSPOT3 demonstration. openSPOT3 is a battery powered, portable, stand alone digital radio internet gateway (hotspot) designed mainly for amateur radio. Zoom login information available here.

March 31 – Superfest Meeting via ZOOM

February 2022 BandBits

Valentine Heart Border Clipart Free Download

President’s Report

Winter Field Day 2022 was a great event. Good food, good fellowship and good weather made it a fun weekend. We had lots of help setting up and tearing down. We used a bucket lift to get the feed point of a 40 meter inverted V nearly 50 feet in the air, and that made a big difference!

Again, thank you to all who came out. Also, a big thank you to the Bradley University Amateur Radio Club. Several of their members came out on Sunday and helped us tear down. They helped Deb and Mark with a tower project as well.

I hope everyone had a good time. Justin – N9WX

Above: Getting Started with a few CW contacts.
Right: Bird’s eye view from the top of the 40 meter inverted V antenna.

____________________________________________________

Meeting Minutes: Board of Directors

January 6, 2022 – 7:10p call to order

(No meeting notes available from December BOD.)

Winter Field Day 2022 coming up January 29th/30th at Hopedale Community Center. Have already started advertising on Facebook, but need to do more.

Deb says she’ll get the address, map it and put up on website. Recommends chili soup cookoff on Saturday night. KD9HZZ says he’ll make some. Deb will do breakfast on Sunday as usual.

Set up for Field Day around 2 to 3 p.m., get on air around 4 to 5 p.m. Then overnight, breakfast and see how many people are still around. If nobody there, can tear down and go home. (Make sure to contact Justin before coming out on Sunday!)

Discussion of antennas that we can bring – there may be a few nearby trees that can be used. There’s also a nearby park and parking lot.

No updates on Superfest. Last year, we’d talked about making a deposit but didn’t do it. Because of last year’s issues, we got $1K off. A door was supposed to go in, but KD9HZZ doesn’t think it has happened yet. Also unsure if HVAC system issues have been resolved.

Tom sent Darrin an email a while back about new signs being made for Superfest. Darrin went down to talk to Plumber Signs about 2 ft X 3 ft signs – but he warned that the signs start to fold at that size. Suggested 18″ X 24″ instead. About 15 inches out of the ground. Maybe we get metal frames that can be used for several different events? All will be single-sided for on-site signs. Arrows will be double sided. $22/each, but some may be $16/each after learning we are poor as a club. Also asked about a 3ft x 8ft banner with logo of Illinois and W9UVI welcome text. $288 for a banner that size – but will do them for $240 for us. Sign vendor says that red or black stands out the best. Will talk about final signs needed at next Superfest meeting, then ask for mockups of designs.

Treasurer report:
Have been getting people using PayPal for dues. Deb has a few membership forms that she’ll forward to Adam. (Need to separate back out treasurer and secretary roles.)
Savings: $235.25
Checking: $3,193.28 (still need to pay $200 for mailbox)
Money market: $8,391.88
PayPal: $291.98 (usually keep $100 in there – $198 in dues for past month) Eight or nine people have paid online.

Will make announcement on the Sunday night net about memberships.

Justin would like to get more stickers of the new design. Sold all of them at Superfest. Can hand out for POTA, sell at events, etc. If we sign up for new account with vendor, can get 50 stickers for $29. Otherwise, 50 for $68 with existing account. 100 stickers is $94. 200 stickers for $133. Could we get discount as not-for-profit club? Maybe, maybe not. Deb will make account on Stickermule for the club. Justin asks for $150 allocated for stickers; Tom and Darrin second, yes from board members present.

Repeaters:
Taking the UHF D-Star repeater offline at end of June at the latest. Giving Bill a month decide what he wants to do with antenna, coax, etc. At end of July, rent ends.
$2100 is new cost for a year (saving $1000.)
D-STAR usage was better on VHF, very little on UHF. Not worth maintaining.
Justin asks if we want to get rid of the VHF D-STAR to save even more money? A few board members say no, but maybe we need to pull stats and bring in front of membership.

How many repeaters are under our responsibility? Four. One in Glasford doesn’t cost us anything. W9UVI is $1100. Two current D-STARS are $1000/each.
PIA .85 machine in Glasford is Fusion-only. Costs $1/year.
Going to tap into Glasford Fire Department for internet to enable Wires-X. Time to follow-up on this. May take Fusion off .075 repeater eventually to make only analog.

New Business:
Finding shirt guy (Chris) for club. Need design. Deb wants new logo on one side with “PAARC 100+ years of making waves.” (We have second-oldest club in United States, after all.) Two sides is usually more expensive, but may not be in this case. Deb would like to also put his biz info on the website.

8:15 p.m. Motion to adjourn. Seconded by many and approved.

Submitted by Adam Gerik, KD9NYE

Meeting Minutes: Membership

January 13 – 7:05p call to order

Winter Field Day on 29th and 30th of January at Hopedale Event Center. Setup at 2:30 p.m. on 29th. Chili/soup cookoff for bragging rights on Saturday night. Sunday morning, will be breakfast by Deb. Justin is renting a 50ft tall boom lift – trees that are on Google Maps are no longer there. Will also have trailer out there, although not a whole lot there other than coax and a few antennas.

Exit 119, turn right at Caseys. Veer left keeping on main road. At 101 SE Main, pass it and turn left. Sign out front saying “Hopedale Police Department.” Community center is in back.

Winter Heat competition going on for the rest of the month on VHF/UHF, if interested.

Superfest meeting is on January 27th via Zoom link on website.

Tonight’s presentation by Scott, K9XJT, on WIRES-X.

Meeting adjourned at 8pm.

Submitted by Adam Gerik, KD9NYE

____________________________________________________

Peoria County ARES

Feb 2, ARES Net @ 8:00 PM CST on the 075 repeater
Feb 9, ARES Net @ 8:00 PM CST on the 075 repeater
Feb 16, ARES On-line Conference @ 7:00 PM CST (Watch your email for Zoom conference info)

Call or email Rich if you are not on the ARES Roster and desire to join the Zoom Conference.

On-Line Conference Agenda includes: ARES Local Parks On The Air, Winter Training, Winlink News, Upcoming RATPAC Sessions, Help Wanted, Volunteer Opportunities, & more!

ARES website: http://www.peoriacountyares.org/

Rich Holtman, KD9ANU, Assistant Emergency Coordinator for Peoria County ARES
email: kd9anu@arrl.net
Winlink: kd9anu@winlink.org
Cell: 309-256-4272

Winterheat 2022

The third annual edition of Winterheat has come and gone! The very successful, month long amateur radio simplex event was aimed at getting folks on the air making voice contacts on 2 meter, 70 centimeter, 6 meter, 1.25 meter, 33 cm, DMR Simplex, D-Star Simplex, and Fusion Simplex. Over 134,000 contacts were made by 1070 participants. Roughly a dozen or so hams from the Greater Peoria Area participated. The majority of the contacts were made on 2 meter and 70 centimeter, but every designated band did have event traffic. This event was conceived and executed by some hams in the Springfield area and supported by others from around the state. Some excellent computer programming made it quick, fun, and easy to see the statistics, who was on the air, and even maps of all your contacts’ location. You can see the Winterheat site at https://hamactive.com/WH22/index.php.

____________________________________________________

SuperFest

The Midwest Superfest 2022 meeting for February will be Thursday the 24th at 7:00pm using the link on the club meeting page.

We have a lot of members with great ideas and we strongly encourage you to share them, remember Superfest is for the entire club and allows us to stay on the air by subsidizing our tower rent. If you are unable to participate in the scheduled meeting but have ideas you would like to share please send them to WD9EB@arrl.net or W9UVI@arrl.net.

____________________________________________________

January Net Logs

1/2
KC9TCM KD9SZZ KD9IBC K9TNT NM0O KD9PXZ KD9JXR W8NWG W9JDP W9WGN KD9ATO N0XOH K9XJT KD9NYI KD9QQU K9HJZ KB9TNZ KD9STL KD9IVV N9NDF K9RCS W9SEB KD9ANU WW9DLM K9CEW WF9E KD9RYH N9GUE NA9LE KD9SPJ Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

1/9
K9RCS W9SEB KD9JXR W8NWG KB9TNZ KD9PXZ NM0O KD9RJH KD9IVV KD9RYH KD9ANU K9HJZ KD9STL KT9TB KD9IBC N9GUE K9XJT W9WGN KD9ERS KB9ATO N9NDF WW9DLM KC9YTT K9TNT KD9NYE KD9AER WF9E N9WFT NA9LE KD9NYI NP2WJ Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

1/16
N9NDF KD9IBC W9WGN KD9NYE KD9JXR W8NWG KD9PXZ KD9AER K9XJT KD9STL K9HJZ NA9LE KB9ATO KB9TNZ NM0O KD9RJH WW9DLM KD9ERS KD9ANU WF9E N9GUE KD9QQU K9TNT N9WX KD9SZZ K9CEW KD9RYH KD9SPJ WD9EB Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

1/23
W9JDP K9XJT W9WGN KD9PXZ WD9EB KD9NYE NA9LE K9TNT KD9JXR NP2WJ KD9STL N9SJZ KB9ATO NM0O N9NDF KD9RJH KD9IBC KC9WRK W9SEB KD9DBQ KC9YTT KD9SZZ KD9RYH N9GUE N0XOH KD9QQU Submitted by W8NWG 73

1/30
W9JDP K9TNT N9SJZ W9WGN KD9JXR W8NWG KD9PXZ K9RCS K9XJT KD9SZZ KD9IVV KD9NYE KD9ERS KD9STL KD9QQU KD9LSV KD9ANU W9SEB WW9DLM KT9TB W9FYR KB9TNZ N9GUE KB9ATO KD9MPI K9HJZ K9UQF WF9E N9NDF KD9SZZ K9CEW WD9EB KC9YTT KD9IBC Submitted by KD9DBQ 7

____________________________________________________

February Club Events

February 3 – 7:00 pm: Board of Directors Meeting via Zoom.

February 10 – 7:00 p.m.:  Club Meeting – Learn how to use the EchoLink app that lets you use your phone or tablet to communicate – with Scott Tranchitella, K9XJT. Via Zoom. 

February 19 – Noon: License Testing, Morton Knights of Columbus Hall. Click here for details.

February 24 – Superfest Meeting via Zoom.

January 2022 BandBits

President’s Report

Hopefully this message finds you in good spirits and ready for the New Year. I know that the past several years have been tough on everyone, including the club. I truly hope that we can grow back to what we once were. I want to continue to grow this club. New Hams, Old Hams, Non-Hams…. WE WANT YOU!

This is a fun and exciting hobby. Not only is it fun and exciting, but it is also extremely useful. Just the other night I used my HT to contact another ham for police assistance. There was a semi who had jackknifed on the interstate right in front of me and several other vehicles. We all slammed on our brakes and luckily missed being involved. But, in the process, my phone slid down to where I could not reach it. My HT somehow had stayed on the seat. I was able to call out on the local repeater for emergency assistance. Luckily, I was in a high use area. The person on the other end of the repeater was a newer operator. Although he was new, he did an amazing job at helping to relay the information needed to 911. Never sell yourself and your experience level short.

As I said, we have a great hobby. Unfortunately, this hobby can be expensive, and Club Dues are due again. These dues help us as a club have several repeaters in the area (Approx. $3,200 a year with rent and internet). They help us to be able to have fun and interesting club meetings. Superfest is our big money maker yes, but we still need the help of members. Membership Dues can be made via PayPal on the Club Website www.w9uvi.org under the MEMBERSHIP tab or by check/cash. Dues for PAARC membership are payable anytime between January 1 and March 1 of a calendar year. Following March 1, members who have not renewed will be removed from the roster.

Any persons interested in joining PAARC may obtain a membership application form at a club meeting, by contacting the club secretary or by downloading the PDF form. This PDF form is a fillable form so you can fill it out, save it and email it to the club by sending it to w9uvi@arrl.net

MembershipRenewal:

VP Scott T. and I are working on a wonderful list of programs for this coming year. A few of these are Satellite and Digital Communications, POTA (hopefully an overnight camping trip), APRS and Winlink fun, high altitude balloon launch, FOX HUNT (and antenna making if needed).

One more thing; I am going to be reaching out to the surrounding clubs in the area to see about merging. If not merging, working together to have fun and interesting meetings for all members involved. The Bradley Ham Club has already reached out to me for doing Fox Hunts and Public Events!

As a reminder, Board and Club Meeting are open to ALL MEMBERS. If you have suggestions for club meetings and know of any public events that may need communications support, please contact either myself or the club. N9WX.ARES@gmail.com or W9UVI@arrl.net
We also have a Technician Class going on. See the website or contact Deb Suhs WD9EB@arrl.net for more information.

Happy New Year Everyone!

Justin Flick – N9WX
President PAARC

Peoria County ARES

Jan 5, ARES Net @ 8:00 PM CST on the 075 repeater
Jan 12, ARES Net @ 8:00 PM CST on the 075 repeater
Jan 19, ARES On-line Conference @ 7:00 PM CST (Watch your email for Zoom conference info)

Call or email Rich if you are not on the ARES Roster and desire to join the Zoom Conference. On-Line Conference Agenda includes: ARES LPOTA, Winter Training, Winlink News, Upcoming RATPAC Sessions, Help Wanted, Volunteer Opportunities, & more!

ARES website: http://www.peoriacountyares.org/

Rich Holtman, KD9ANU, Assistant Emergency Coordinator for Peoria County ARES
email: kd9anu@arrl.net
Winlink: kd9anu@winlink.org
Cell: 309-256-4272

____________________________________________________

SuperFest

Our next meeting is Thursday January 27th at 7pm using the Zoom link on the Club Meetings page. September will be here before we know it and a lot of work is needed before then. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend the meeting and share your ideas for making Superfest better.

____________________________________________________

December Net Logs

12/5
N9WX KC9TCM KD9SZZ W9JDP K9TNT W9WGN W9TTX W8NWG KD9JXR K9QJ KD9AER N9WFT K9RCS KB9TNZ KD9QQU KD9PXZ K9HJZ KB9SF KD9ERS WW9DLM K9XJT KD9IVV KB9ATO N9NDF KNGUE KD9RYH N0XOH KD9STL KC9YTT W9SEB Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

12/12
KD9HZZ W9WTF N9NDF W9JDP NM0O W8NWG KD9JXR W9WGN KD9PXZ W9SEB KD9AER KD9IVV W9TTX K9XJT N9GUE KB9TNZ KD9RYH N9SJZ K9HJZ K9TNT KD9STL WF9E KB9ATO KD9QQU WW9DLM KD9ANU K9FIT NA9LE KD9ERS N9WFT KD9NYE Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

12/19
KD9HZZ KD9SZZ K9RCS K9TNT N9JDP KD9JXR KD9PXZ KD9AER N9SJZ KD9IVV N9WFT KD9NYI W9WGN K8ROY N9NDF K9QZ KB9ATO W8NWG WF9E K9FIT KD9STL WW9DLM NA9LE KD9RYH KD9ANU KC9YTT Submitted by KD9DBQ 73 & Merry Christmas all!

12/26
KD9SZZ W9JDP KD9JXR N9GUE K9RCS W9SED W9WGN KD9NYE KD9PXZ KD9AER KD9IVV N9WFT K9TNT KD9STL KD9ANU KB9ATO KB9TNZ K9XJT WF9E KD9IBC N9NDF K9FIT KD9ERS KD9FEI KD9RYH KD9DBQ K9QZ Submitted by K9CEW

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January Club Events

January 6 – 7:00 pm: Board of Directors Meeting via Zoom.

January 13 – 7:00 p.m.:  Club Meeting – TBA

January 17, 2022 – 7:00 pm – Technician license classes begin on Zoom. Email w9uvi@arrl.net to register. More information

January 27 – 7:00 p.m. – Superfest Meeting via Zoom. Meeting link on the Club Meetings page

January 29-30 – Winter Field Day: Hopedale Community Center, 101 SE Main St. Hopedale, Illinois

December 2021 BandBits

Ham Radio Santa is On the Air at OF9X

President’s Report

It is that time of year again. Time to be around friends and family. Hopefully this year is more normal than the last. With that being said, It’s Christmas Party Time! I hope to see everyone at the restaurant. We have decided to change the scenery a bit this year. We will be meeting at the Pizza Ranch in Morton. As a reminder, the start time is at 6:30 PM on Thursday December 9th. Please RSVP to the club email W9UVI@arrl.net by December 6th.

May be an image of 3 people and outdoors

POTA update: We had our first activation of Jubliee State Park. Thank you to those who came out to play on that cold and windy day. We had over 110 contacts, 90 of them being voice! Hopefully we, as a group, can get together again in the Spring for another run at it.

I want to wish everyone a happy and festive holiday season. It has been a rough year for everyone. I look forward to working with you and the new Board members next year!

73! Justin Flick – N9WX President – PAARC

May be an image of one or more people and text that says 'Club Meeting Thursday December 9 Peoria Area Amateur Radio Club Holiday Dinner~ December 9! Morton Pizza Ranch, 903 w Jackson St. Morton, IL (near Kroger and CVS) Spouses welcome! email to w9uvi@arri.net by Monday December 6th with your name and number attending.'

Peoria County ARES

Dec 1, ARES Net @ 8:00 PM CST on the 075 repeater

Dec 8, ARES Net @ 8:00 PM CST on the 075 repeater

Dec 14, ARES On-line Conference @ 7:00 PM CST (Watch your email for Zoom conference info)

Call or email Rich if you are not on the ARES Roster and desire to join the Zoom Conference.

On-Line Conference Agenda includes: Training, Winlink News, Upcoming RATPAC Sessions, Help Wanted, Volunteer Opportunities, & more!

ARES website: http://www.peoriacountyares.org/

Rich Holtman, KD9ANU, Assistant Emergency Coordinator for Peoria County ARES

email: kd9anu@arrl.net

Winlink: kd9anu@winlink.org

Cell: 309-256-4272

Free Christmas Lights, Download Free Christmas Lights png images, Free ClipArts on Clipart Library

SuperFest

The December Superfest meeting will be on Thursday December 30th at 7:00pm. You can join the meeting by clicking on the Zoom link on the Club Meetings page. We will be discussing the forums we are planning and welcome your input as we are going to be trying some new ideas this time around.

Free Christmas Lights, Download Free Christmas Lights png images, Free ClipArts on Clipart Library

November Net Logs

11/7
W9JDP N9SJZ N9NDF W8NWG K9RCS W9WGN KD9TNZ KC9TCM KD9PXZ KB9SF KD9QQU KD9IVV NA9LE N9GUE N9WFT K9XJT WW9DLM WF9E WD9EGV KD9RYH KC9YTT NM0O KD9IBC KD9TQX KD9ANU KD9NYE KD9STL KC9CEW/M N9FAM KD9TAE Submitted by KD9DBQ, 73

11/14
WD9EB K9RCS N9NDF W9JDP KD9JXR KD9NYE K9TNT W9TTX KD9TQX KD9PXZ
N9WFT KB9TNZ KD9AER KD9IVV KD9ANU N9SJZ W9WTF NM0O K9XJT N9GUE K9HJZ KD9HZZ KC9TCM WF9E KB9ATO N9FAM WW9DLM KT9TB KD9RYH KD9STL KD9QQU KB9SF Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

11/21
KD9SZZ N9SJZ NM0O KD9IBC KD9PXZ N9WFT K8ROY KD9AER KD9JXR K9TNT KD9STL K9TNT KD9STL KB9TNZ KD9QQU KD9NYE WD9EB K9XJT KD9TQX KD9HZZ K9HJZ KB9SF N9NDF WW9DLM KD9RYH KD9ANU Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

11/28
K9RCS N9SJZ W8NWG KD9JXR NM0O KD9PXZ W9SED W9TTX KT9TB K9XJT W9WGN K9FIT N9WFT KD9AER KD9IVV KB9ATO K9HJZ KB9TNZ KD9STL N9FAM WF9E KD9SZZ N9NDF W9JDP N9GUE K9UQF WW9DLM K9TNT KB9MJA KD9RYH KD9NYE K9QZ KD9ANU NA9LE KD9RJH KD9TAE Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

November 2021 BandBits

The History of Thanksgiving, Explained

President’s Report

Hello, One and All,

Another month closer to the end of the year and toward the Holidays. As a reminder, Elections are on November 11th, 2021. We have a full slate that was presented, and posted, in October (see Meeting Minutes below). Thank you to all who volunteered to be on the Board. I received a lot of new ideas for the upcoming year. I hope to make a lot of them come to light.

I am excited to announce that we are a GO for POTA in November. I have spoken with Jubilee State Park Officials, and they are all for us coming out. We will have to figure out a shelter on the day of due to not being able to reserve any of them at this time of year. Because of the unknown location, we will be monitoring the W9BFD Repeater. This is the 146.970 machine. It has a negative offset and a 103.5 tone. Simplex 146.52 will also be monitored as a backup frequency. I have been informed that there are grills and power outlets at the shelters. Bring any food/drink (except alcohol) that you may want to grill out. I am hoping for good weather and decent temperatures so that we are comfortable. Dress appropriately! We are meeting at the Jubilee Café in Kickapoo at 630 AM for breakfast. I plan to be out at a shelter around 745/800 AM until around 800 PM. Bring your gear, friends, family, neighbors out to have some fun making contacts!

N9WX Activating Jubilee College State Park for Parks on the Air

JOTA 2021
Jamboree On The Air was a success. We had many Scouts come up to our stations and have a blast learning about Amateur Radio. Although I was not able to see it, I heard from quite a few Scouts that they enjoyed Deb Suhs’ presentation.

During JOTA, Scouts learn about Ham Radio at the Ingersoll Scout Reservation.

Craig Worrick and Ben Knapp had a ton of Scouts come up to them to see digital modes. Yes, we are in a digital world! I had several older Scouts ask how they could learn to get their license. That right there was as success! Thank you to Scott T. and Mark S. who also came out and helped! Thank you to the Boy Scouts of America for letting us be at their facility for the weekend. I am hoping this is the start for a lasting relationship. Please do not hesitate to contact me via email: N9WX.ARES@gmail.com with any questions or concerns. I only ask, if you have a concern, come to me with a solution as well!

Justin Flick – N9WX President PAARC

Meeting Minutes

At the October 14 Membership Meeting, the following slate of candidates for the Board of Directors was presented:

President – Justin Flick N9WX
Vice President – Scott Tranchitella K9XJT
Secretary – Adam Gerik KD9NYE
Treasurer – John Zdanowski KD9QQU
Director 2 yr – Rob Herrin KD9DBQ
Director 1 yr Director – Darren Weir KD9HZZ
Trustee – Tom Hunt W8NWG (appointed)
Superfest – Deb Suhs WD9EB (appointed)
Repeater Chair – Matt Behnke KD9ERS (appointed)

At the November meeting, the club will be asked to approve this slate.

Superfest

Midwest Superfest 2022 will be Saturday September 17th and Sunday September 18th. Your assistance will be needed to make 2022 better than 2021. Please put this on your calendar and plan on helping as much as you can. Help will also be needed on Thursday and Friday getting ready that week.

We are looking for suggestion on topics you would like for forums and/or a possible hands-on demonstration. Please send an email to the club’s mailbox: w9uvi@arrl.net with any ideas you may have.

Due to Thanksgiving the next Superfest meeting will be Thursday Nov. 18th at 7pm using the link on the Club Meetings page. All club members are encouraged to attend and share their ideas to help make Midwest Superfest 2022 a success.

Peoria County ARES

Nov 3, ARES Net @ 8:00 PM CST on the 075 repeater
Nov 10, ARES Net @ 8:00 PM CST on the 075 repeater
Nov 17, ARES On-line Conference @ 7:00 PM CST (Watch your email for Zoom conference info)

Call or email Rich if you are not on the ARES Roster and desire to join the Zoom Conference.

On-Line Conference Agenda includes: Training, Winlink News, Upcoming RATPAC Sessions, Help Wanted, Volunteer Opportunities, & more!

ARES website: http://www.peoriacountyares.org/

Rich Holtman, KD9ANU, Assistant Emergency Coordinator for Peoria County ARES
email: kd9anu@arrl.net
Winlink: kd9anu@winlink.org
Cell: 309-256-4272

October Net Logs

10/3
K9RCS K9YNT NM0O W8NWG KD9IBC KD9PXZ W8JDP KB9TNZ KB9SF N9WFT KD9JXR KD9QQU K9XJT KD9AER WW9DLM KD9IVV KD9STL KG5WOY K9HJZ KD9TAE KD9HZZ N9GUE N9NDF N9FAM WD9EB KT9TB KD9ERS KD9ANU N9SJZ W9WGN KB9ATO NA9LE KC9YTT KD9RYH K9QZ Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

10/10
KD9ERS N9NDF W9JDP KD9SZZ W8NWG KD9PXZ KD9JXR K9TNT N9WFT NA9LE KB9TNZ KD9IVV KD9AER N9GUE KD9RYH KD9HZZ KD9STL KD9NYE KB9ATO KD9TAE WF9U WW9DLM KD9QQU W9WGN NM0O KC9YTT KD9MPI K9HJZ KD9ANU K9RCS N9GZ KC9TCM KT9TB Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

10/17
W9WGN, KD9DBQ, K9RCS, W9JDP, KD9PXZ, W8NWG, K9TNT, KD9HZZ, N9SJZ, KB9ATO, KD9RJH, N9WFT, KD9JXR, N9NDF, KD9IVV, KD9STL, K9HJZ, KD9TAE, KD9AER, KD9NYE, KD9ERS, KD9RYH, KD9QQU, WF9E, WW9DLM, N9GUE, KD9ANU, KB9KBC, K9XJT, NM0O, W9DAY, KC9YTT Submitted by WD9EB 73

10/24
WD9EB KD9ERS KD9SZZ NM0O KD9JXR W9WTF W9JDP K9HJZ K9XJT KD9PXZ W9DAY KD9AER KD9IVV N9GUE KD9RYH N9FAM KB9TNZ K9TNT KD9MOA N9WFT W9WGN WF9E KD9ANU KD9IBC WW9DLM KC9YTT W8NWG KB9ATO KD9QQU KD9STL K9QZ KD9MPI KT9TB KB9SF Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

10/31
K9TNT K9RCS W8NWG W9JDP KD9SZZ KB9ATO NM0O KD9JXR KD9PXZ KD9TQX K9QZ KD9STL KD9AER KD9IVV K9HJZ N9WFT KC9YTT N9NDF KB9TNZ WF9E K9UQF KD9RYH KD9ERS KD9IBC K9XJT KD9ANU Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

More Pictures from JOTA

Ben Knapp, KD9RYH explaining the parts of the station setup to the boy scouts
Ben Knapp, KD9RYH showing the boy scouts how the radio works
Ben Knapp, KD9RYH talking about the antenna to the boy scouts
Deb Suhs, WD9EB talking about radio waves with the boy scouts
Deb Suhs, WD9EB discussing the history of radio with the boy scouts
Mark Suhs, W9WGN answering questions from the boy scouts
Craig Worrick, K9CEW demonstrating PSK31 for the boy scouts
Craig Worrick, K9CEW working with the boy scouts to make contacts on PSK31

October 2021 Bandbits

President’s Report

Greetings Everyone,

What a month this has been!

During the weekend of 9/11 I participated with Ron KD9IPO & members of Chicago Suburban Radio Association at special event station held at Hickory Hills Campground in Secor, HOOAH Deer Hunt for Hero’s W4V. I can’t wait till next year ! Stay tuned more details coming soon !

Superfest 21
In the middle of a global pandemic, having some hurdles to work through we as a club came together and made it happen. We know it wasn’t perfect, but we set out with a list of goals for this year, and every one was met. With a very long list of people, a huge thank you to everyone that volunteered their time and resources, and showed support for the club. It was great to see fellowship and camaraderie within our amateur radio community. Personally it was great to see old friends and make new friends, take suggestions from our vendor’s and attendees in ways we can improve our club hamfest.

Club Elections
Well folks it’s that time of year, If anyone would like to nominate someone for a board position, or be considered for a position, please make nominations before the close of business at the October club meeting.

JOTA 21
Finally after months of planning & working with 3 other radio clubs it’s time !
The weekend of October 15,16,17th at Ingersoll Scout Reservation, We will have 3 HF Stations setup though out the camp, youth lounge and a scavenger hunt. Sign up sheets will be available soon. All are welcome ! For activities schedule contact Craig K9CEW@arrl.net

Meeting Minutes

The September club meeting was all about Superfest and what help would be needed that weekend.

Peoria County ARES

Oct 6, ARES Net @ 8:00 PM CST on the 075 repeater
Oct 13, ARES Net @ 8:00 PM CST on the 075 repeater
Oct 20, ARES On-line Conference @ 7:00 PM CST (Watch your email for Zoom conference info)

Call or email Rich if you are not on the ARES Roster and desire to join the Zoom Conference.

On-Line Conference Agenda includes: PAWS Fun Run, Fall Simulated Emergency Test, Training, Winlink News, Upcoming RATPAC Sessions, Help Wanted, Volunteer Opportunities, & more!

ARES website: http://www.peoriacountyares.org/

SuperFest

The Superfest chairs, Deb WD9EB Superfest Chair, Tom W8NWG Raffle/Ticket Chair and Matt KD9ERS Prize Chair really want to express our gratitude to everyone who assisted with Superfest 2021.

Superfest 2021 was a tremendous success despite the disadvantages we found ourselves in this year. In the midst of everything that has happened in the last year and a half, we managed to pull it together and yes there were a few problems. Most of them have already been addressed and we will be back better and stronger next year.

Next year we will be returning to the East Peoria Event Center so mark your calendars for September 17th & 18th of 2022

October’s Superfest meeting will be on Thursday October 28th at 7:00pm. The Zoom link is on the Club Meetings page, all club members who want to assist are welcome to attend.

September Net Logs

9/5
WD9EB N9SJZ KB9ATO KD9IBC KD9PXZ KD9NYE W8NWG KD9JXR KD9SZZ K9XJT N9GUE N9WFT K9TNT W9WGN KD9AER K9HJZ KD9ERS N9NDF KD9STL WW9DLM WF9E KD9TAA KC9YTT KD9RYH KD9NYE KB9TNZ K9CEW KD9IPO KD9NYI KT9TB KD9TAE – Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

9/12
WD9EB KD9HZZ KD9PXZ KB9ATO N9SJZ W9JDP KD9IBC W8NWG KD9JXR K9XJT K9TNT W9WGN N9WFT NA9LE KD9ERS N9NDF N9FAM KG5WOY KD9IVV NM0O KD9NYE WW9DLM KD9QQU KD9SZZ KC9YTT KB9TNZ KD9STL KT9TB WF9E K9RCS KD9SPI N9GUE KD9AER K9HJZ WB9UMM KB9KBC K9QZ KD9RYH KD9TAE KD9QQT Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

9/19
WD9EB KD9HZZ KD9PXZ KB9ATO N9SJZ W9JDP KD9IBC W8NWG KD9JXR K9XJT K9TNT W9WGN N9WFT NA9LE KD9ERS N9NDF N9FAM KG5WOY KD9IVV NM0O KD9NYE WW9DLM KD9QQU KD9SZZ KC9YTT KB9TNZ KD9STL KT9TB WF9E K9RCS KD9SPI N9GUE KD9AER K9HJZ WB9UMM KB9KBC K9QZ KD9RYH KD9TAE KD9QQT Submitted by KD9DBQ 73

9/26
WD9EB KD9SZZ KB9ATO N9TNT KD9JXR W8NWG W9JDP N9NDF KD9IBC N9WFT W9WGN KD9PXZ KD9JXF KD9IVV N9JFG KD9QQU KD9RYH KD9STL W9WTF KC9YTT KD9SPI KB9SF KD9ANU KB9TNZ KD9NYE Submitted by KD9DBQ 73