ARCARS

October 2010

Meeting Minutes

The meeting was called to order on October 3, 2010 with 12 members and guests present.

MOTION: to accept the September minutes by Russ (KD8FRE), seconded by Angela (KD8HMS), approved.

TREASURES REPORT: There was no treasures report presented at the meeting. The last reported balance was $66.00.

DISASTER REPORT: Andrew (KC8SPD) and Russ presented the group with a description of our response to assist local first responders in a barricaded gunman event that happened in Port Huron. Along with a description of our efforts was a reference to things we learned from that event. The Red Cross provided food and beverages to the responding Emergency Agencies. We concluded that every responding Red Cross vehicle should have at least one ARCARS member to provide radio connectivity and provide a coordinated effort. The Chapter House and Director received complements on our efforts to assist the Sheriff and Police Departments.

On October 3^rd, there was a structure fire at a senior citizen assisted living home. While four people escaped, there were three fatalities. Russ (KD8FRE) responded to the site and began relief support operations for the responding agencies. We were able to expedite the arrival of food and beverages to the scene for the responders. The Agencies expressed that they like to have the Red Cross respond at the scene as soon as possible. It was recommended that the person living closest to a disaster to go to the area and request additional help while on the scene. Our truck should be immediately deployed.

NET REPORT: Edgar (KC8VLV) reported that the net has had good turnouts lately.

SPECIAL EVENTS: The devils’ night assistance is still awaiting Sheriff Department approval.

Coming soon; we will be working with the K9 Search and Rescue service along with multiple agencies in a mock disaster exercise. We will be providing communications for the dog teams.

CLUB STATION: The winterizing procedure is planned to be completed in the next couple of weeks. The outside antennas, supports, and feed lines are to be inspected, repaired or replaced as needed.

NEWSLETTER: The web pages are located at www.qsl.net/arcars and www.bandopening.com/arcars . There is a wealth of information available on the website including the RSS feed.

CLUB PROJECT: Now that the 16’x8’ trailer is almost done. The electrical connections and alarm have been installed as well as the wood floor has been sealed. The decal project is still pending. There were repairs made on the truck as well. The members that did the work were recognized at the meeting.

OLD BUSINESS: Geri (KC8YRQ) and Angela (KD8HMS) made the motion to accept the election of officers. The motion was accepted. KC8SPD is Program Director; KD8FRE is Vice Program Director, KB8GRY Treasurer, and KB8OCG Secretary. Other appointed positions will be filled shortly.

Annual dues will be continue to be collected at the meetings. The annual, tax deductible donation is $10 per person or $20 for a family. Members will be receiving Red Cross training and certifications.

The Blue Water Ramble bicycle race event was supported by the amateur community. The event held annually on the first Sunday in October has about 500 participants in the marathon race. The event was finished at about 3pm and there were no injuries reported this year.

Russ distributed apparel order forms at the meeting. Some of the custom embroidered items available include; polo, hoodie, fleece, and hats. Other items are available upon request. Contact Russ to order. The order form will be added to the ARCARS website.

NEW BUSINESS: Pictures will be taken for ID cards at the November meeting.

The truck’s transmission is failing. We will be seeking an immediate repair of the vehicle.

DX SPOTS/ SPECIAL EVENTS: Tom (W8TRC) reported that recent conditions have improved somewhat. The Solar Flux was reported at 85, A-index 0, k-index 0, with 47 sun spots observed. He reported hearing Australia on 20M.

MOTION TO ADJOURN: by Russ (KD8FRE) and Jeri (KC8YRQ), approved.

Ed and Andrew have ordered a copy of a webinar presentation about NIMS to be presented at a future meeting.

ANNOUNCEMENTS and other info:

The ARCARS & International Traders Net is held every Tuesday evening at 8pm on the 146.800 K8ARC repeater.

The International Friendship Net is held every Thursday at 9pm on the 145.370-VA3SAR repeater

The Thumb / Mid Michigan Nets are held Monday through Saturday at 9:30pm on the 147.300 repeater.

HF: The Great Lakes Emergency and Traffic Net is held nightly at 6pm on 3.932 kHz (temporary time change from the customary 8pm slot)