2.    ARES update

       Ted reports that we are officially an ARRL ARES club. There are

       numerous tasks that must be completed to be fully functional  

       and in compliance with ARES protocols. Explained the functions

       of ARES and RACES to members and guests.Discussion followed

       on both. The club decided to get ARES up and running well

       before taking on RACES.

 

3.    In discussions with Emergency Manager Todd Hillman, we will

       be getting an emergency generator for the Elmer tower site

       and it looks good for an additional repeater. Todd said it would

       be 6 to 8 weeks before we know for sure. Discussion followed

       on whether to replace our 2M repeater, get a 70cm repeater,

       or purchase a repeater for the county's Mobile Command

       Center. We will decide after we know if we will get the grant

       or not. Agreed that our current repeater needs some

       preventative maintenance.

 

4.    Dues are $12.00 per year and $1.00 for family members. Students

       and active military are free. We need to contact users of the

       repeater and encourage them to join the club to help pay for

       operating costs.

 

5.    Discussed back-up frequencies for emergencies in case of

       repeater failure. Our primary back-up will be the 145.470

       repeater in Bad Axe. If busy, we will use the Mi Thumb Net

       frequency 146.430 (simplex)

 

6.    Bart gave the Treasurers report.

 

7.    Adam Filkins is working on a new web-site for us. The URL

       will be posted soon.

 

8.    Flower fund-- Decided we would send condolence flowers

       only for immediate family members.

 

9.    New members-- We are to encourage new members and new

       Amateurs to join our club. We also need to work on PR for the

      club. Several suggestions were given. We are currently seeking

      a volunteer to head up the PR committee.

 

10.  Field Day will be held at the old site at Del McCartys. Lake Huron  

      Amateur Radio Club expressed an interest in joining us. They

      would be a welcome addition and greatly appreciated.

 

11.  Tornados spotters class will be held March 29, 2005 7:00 PM

       at the extension office in Sandusky. All are encouraged to

       attend.

 

12.  Next meeting will be June 5, 2005 2:00 PM at the extension

      office in Sandusky.

 

73's    Ted KF8ZO