Taos Amateur Radio Club Minutes of the Meeting on 11-14-2024

OPD, 107 Civic Plaza Drive, Taos, NM 87571 1. Potluck started at 5:30pm. Thanks to everybody for bringing food.

  1. Sign in. Meeting began at 6:15.

  2. Guest and member introductions, 16 members attended in person.

  3. Approval of 10-9-2024 meeting’s minutes. Motion was made to approve by Keith (K5FS) and seconded by Tim (W5TNM). Vote was unanimous with no objections.

  4. Treasurer's Report. Don (K2WQ) was not present at the meeting. Donovan (K2AH) presented Don’s reports. We have a bank balance of $15,324.95. We had $1367.13 in deposits and $283.39 in expenses. Motion was made to approve by Greg (KF5TTO) and seconded by Wayne (W5GWR). Vote was unanimous with no objections.

  5. Vice President Donovan (K2AH) made the president’s remarks.

    a. We had to re-nominate and approve 2 officers. The new nominees for VP and Secretary were Greg (KF5TTO) and Craig (KI5HKU) respectively. Also nominated was Keith (K2FS) for the Board position in charge of Grants. We opened the floor for discussion and there was none. A show of hands for all 3 nominees, they were selected unanimously with no objections.

    b. The results of the election of TARC board members for 2025 are shown below: President – Donovan K2AH Vice President – Greg (KF5TTO) Secretary – Craig (KI5HKU) Treasurer – Ed (KF5EIG) Immediate Past President – Tim (W5TNM) Trustee Multi-Term – Brian (NB5R) Grants – Keith (K2FS) Stem – David (KJ5DFQ) Events and Maintenance – Darien (NM5DF)

    c. All new board members were elected by a unanimous show of hands. New positions are effective January 1, 2025.

    d. On November 9, 2024, 2 people tested for licenses. David renewed/reinstated his General and Pat passed the Amateur Extra. Great work!

    e. The next scheduled exam date is December 14, 2024. As mentioned earlier, TARC is always ready to help people get their licenses and can set up exams at other times.

  6. New Business

    a. Donovan debriefed TARC on the Taos Halloween Event. Gary (W5TAO) and Donovan were there most of the day. In the morning they were helping get the cars on Bent Street and attending the Police/Town safety briefing. The rest of the team showed up around 2:30. There were 10-11 TARC members helping mostly with traffic and pedestrian control. We were helped this year by Taos PD at all the intersections along Camino de la Placita. The event went very smoothly and there were no incidents. This was big community event at which we were a sponsor. The organizers appreciated our efforts. Thanks to all of TARC for great participation.

    b. As a token of appreciation for all TARC who participate in the many Taos events during the year, we purchase hats. Donovan and Ed asked for $700 this year for the hats. This request was unanimously approved by a show of hands. We will try to have them for the December meeting.

    c. Christmas Party Discussion – the Party will be held during our next meeting, 12/11 at 5:30pm. An email will be sent out for participants to indicate what they are bringing. Casual dress! Families are invited. NO Alcohol! David (KJ5DFQ) will bring extra chairs and tables.

  7. Old Business

    a. Grants Update – we are now a finalist for a grant. We originally thought that due to the problems with the mail and late arrival of documents we missed out. However, due to Keith and David’s emphasis on STEM we are in good shape for a grant. David has a good core of 5-6 students who are doing some extra work and study on Radio and electronics.

    b. TARC social media FB and Instagram presence – No updates

    c. ARES update – No updates

  8. Repeater Report/Update – Brian was hoping to put the Red River Repeater at “Sawmill” because it gives better coverage of the upper canyon and back country. However he will have to wait until spring to do any work. Wayne (W5GFR) indicated that EchoLink was down. There was talk about a “Trash” repeater and where to put it, possibly Llano Quemado.

  9. Sheila visited Connecticut to see her brother and ended up visiting ARRL head offices. She talked about the large antenna farm, the old buildings, and W1AW. ARRL offers some good things, even 80 scholarships a year.

  10. Tim mentioned need to buy 10 more “loaner” Tech license books.

  11. We will be meeting with the “Harwood” for some kind of showcasing of TARC’s abilities, experiences, old and new radios, etc. We are not exactly sure of requirements.

  12. David mentioned that he had met a man from “TK1”, some program that works with schools and the “International Amateur Radio Union” on the “AMSAT” (50 years of radio in space). This combination of groups builds a satellite during a multi-year project and requires an investment. We requested more information.

  13. Business Meeting Close. Motion was made to approve by David and seconded by Leonardo (KF5ORZ). Vote was unanimous with no objections.

Taos Amateur Radio Club Minutes of the Meeting on 10-9-2024

OPD, 107 Civic Plaza Drive, Taos, NM 87571

  1. Potluck started at 5:30pm. Thanks to everybody for bringing food.

  2. Sign in. Meeting began at 6:10.

  3. Guest and member introductions, 17members attended in person.

  4. Approval of 9-11-2024 meeting’s minutes. Motion was made to approve by Sheila (KI5IPS) and seconded by Randy (AG5QC). Vote was unanimous with no objections.

  5. Treasurer's Report. Don (K2WQ) reported a bank balance of $14,397.21, with $1200.00 in deposits and $270 in expenses. Motion was made to approve by Ed (KF5EIG) and seconded by Keith (K5FS). Vote was unanimous with no objections.

  6. Vice President Donovan (K2AH) made the president’s remarks.

    a. Donovan went over the emailed nominations and then took a voice vote for each nominee.

    b. The results of the election of TARC board members for 2025 are shown below:

    • President – Donovan K2AH
    • Vice President – Don K2WQ
    • Secretary – Mike NM5NK
    • Treasurer – Ed KF5EIG
    • Immediate Past President – Tim W5TNM
    • Trustee Multi-Term – Brian NB5R
    • Grants – Vote Tabeled
    • STEM – David KJ5DFQ
    • Events and Maintenance – Darien NM5DF

    All new board members were elected by a unanimous show of hands. New positions are effective January 1, 2025. Approval of these minutes (October 9.2024) will finalize the election results and make them official.

    c. Tim (W5TNM) indicated that our website has not been updated for a while. It still has old pictures, etc. Some members of the board are able to make updates. May be a good idea to look into this by the end of the year.

  7. New Business

    a. ED debriefed TARC on the Taos HS Homecoming Parade. We were asked to help at the last minute. Ed attended and met with the High School, Town, Police, Roads, and Emergency Management people. They told me that they would need 10 to 12 of us. This was going the be a big event, 3-5000 people, 20 floats, Fire Trucks, Police Cars, all sorts of powerful trucks towing the floats. Roads were going to be blocked. There was a very good briefing with all the above people prior to the event. A detailed document was distributed and this helped TARC position our radio operators. We were stationed where the Police weren’t and we added extra eyes, ears, and communication. The organizers appreciated our efforts. Thanks to all of TARC for great participation on a short notice! We did get 11-12 volunteers.

    b. One more upcoming event is the Halloween Trunk or Treat on the Plaza and Bent Street. This will be held on 10/31/24, from 3 – 6pm. Placement of volunteers for the Halloween event is tricky due to Camino de la Placitas being part of the environment. This event was well attended last year. The organizers would like 10-12 volunteers.

    c. The next planned FCC License test will be Nov. 9, 2024at 10am @OPD.

    d. The US Forest Service Inventory Report has been completed for our presence on Picuris and San Antonio Mountain. The USFS has acknowleged receipt of the report.

    e. Brian (NB5R) indicated that Picuris looks ok but will need some work in the future.

    f. Donovan and Mike (NM5MK) met with the Emergency Management Folks at Taos County Emergency Management in Llano Quemado. Tarc will make plans to assist the county staff to insure the radio equipment is functional.

  8. Old Business

    a. Grants Update – Some anticipatory work is being done.

    b. TARC social media FB and Instagram presence – No updates

    c. ARES update – No updates

    d. David (KJ5DFQ) got some of his middle schoolers on QSOs with TARC while we were waiting for the parade to start. Some of them have the Phonetic Alphabet memorized so that they can clearly identify themselves on the air. Way to go students!

  9. Repeater Report/Update – Brian has the Red River Repeater sitting in his shop waiting for a new placement. He was hoping to put it at “Sawmill” because it gives better coverage of the upper canyon and back country. Brian has a loaner repeater at Angel File. He is putting new repeaters for the PD and FD up above the AF golf course. He would also like to put the AF Ham repeater in the same area. He is waiting on delivery of an antenna and procuring an FCC license. Don mentioned it would be great to have a GMRS repeater on Sawmill.

  10. Business Meeting Close. Motion was made to approve by David and seconded by Randy (AG5QC). Vote was unanimous with no objections.

Taos Amateur Radio Club Minutes of the Meeting on September 11, 2024

OPD, 107 Civic Plaza Drive, Taos, NM 87571

  1. Potluck started at 5:30pm. Thanks to everybody for bringing food.

  2. Sign in. Meeting began at 6:15.

  3. Guest and member introductions, 15 members attended in person and 2 attended virtually.

  4. Approval of August 14, 2024 meeting’s minutes. Motion was made to approve by Mike (KI6KGC) and seconded by John (WB5Q). Vote was unanimous with no objections.

  5. Treasurer's Report. Don (K2WQ) was not in attendance but he forwarded reports to leadership. Donovan reported a bank balance of $13,313.75, with $671.48 in deposits and $2120.77 in expenses. Motion was made to approve by Tim (W5TNM) and seconded by Leonardo (KF5ORZ). Vote was unanimous with no objections.

  6. Vice President Donovan (K2AH) made the president’s remarks. a. He will email a ballot with nominations to the group. b. Elections to elect new officers is held at the October meeting.

  7. New Business

    a. Donovan debriefed TARC on the Dwight Yoakum concert. The opening act played a set and then the Mavericks came on stage around 6pm. During their third song, the heavens opened up and it poured for several hours. The event was called off and Dwight Yoakum did not play.

    b. Upcoming events are Paseo Project, 10/3 – 10/6 and Halloween on the Plaza and Bent Street. Placement of volunteers for the Halloween event is tricky due to Camino de la Placitas being part of the environment. Lots of kids and parents attend.

    c. The next planned test will be Nov 11, 2024. However, TARC will accommodate all who are interested in becoming hams.

    d. John (W5BQ) mentioned that there are 2 hamfests coming up. One is in Albuquerque and the other in Socorro. The event at Socorro may provide an opportunity to visit the VLA.

  8. Old Business

    a. Grants Update – No updates.

    b. TARC social media FB and Instagram presence – No updates

    c. ARES update – No updates

    d. David (KJ5DFQ) described some successes in getting his middle schoolers interested in Ham Radio and electronics. Four students have indicated interest in getting ham licenses. David would like some of TARC to come to school at some point and talk about Ham Radio and testing. He has taken a study guide and will continue to stoke interest. Great job David!

  9. Repeater Report/Update – nothing pressing.

  10. Business Meeting Close. Motion was made to approve by Ed (KF5EIG) and seconded by David (KJ5DFQ). Vote was unanimous with no objections.

Taos Amateur Radio Club Minutes of the Meeting on 8-14-2024

OPD, 107 Civic Plaza Drive, Taos, NM 87571

  1. Potluck started at 5:30pm. Thanks to everybody for bringing food.

  2. Sign in. Meeting began at 6:10.

  3. Guest and member introductions, 16 members attended in person and 1 attended on line.

  4. Approval of 7-10-2024 meeting’s minutes. Motion was made to approve by Don (K2WQ) and seconded by Tim (W5TNM). Vote was unanimous with no objections.

  5. Treasurer's Report. Don (K2WQ) reported a balance of $12,689.25. Motion was made to approve by Greg (KF5TTO) and seconded by Ed (KF5EIG),

  6. Vice President Donovan (K2AH) made the president’s remark.

    a. Elections to elect new officers is held at the October meeting. We will be looking for nominations at the next meeting (September).

  7. New Business

    a. Donovan debriefed TARC on the Fiestas and Car Show Events during late July and August 10. Town of Taos takes lightning very seriously and had to clear the park during Fiestas. Our role was supporting the vendors’ incoming and exiting the park. We performed a similar role during the Car Show. Dwight Yoakum (8/24) is the next summer event. Donovan indicated that more volunteers will be needed.

    b. Nobody showed for the FCC License Testing on 7/27. The next planned test will be 11/9. TARC will accommodate all who are interested in becoming hams.

    c. Philmont – Brian (NB5R) indicated that they are trying to get a permanent station built.

    d. The club purchased 8 additional BridgeCom HTs, mics, and batteries. We were not able to get the gang chargers and are still looking for those. We will buy more ear pieces but that is a separate item. All this equipment is used to support the Town of Taos and other events.

  8. Old Business

    a. Grants Update – Keith (K5FS) thinks that due to the mailing fiasco, i.e. delivered to multiple wrong addresses and delayed, the paperwork was probably not accepted. He had worked hard to put together a very good application but this was not to be this time. Keith and others will continue to look for other opportunities.

    b. TARC social media FB and Instagram presence – No Updates

    c. ARES update – As a club, we practice ARES. Tim setup a SAFE ALERT test. This was very successful, 8 people responded. Tim also learned how to add new members to the SAFE alert notification group (another application mastered!). Brian (NB5R) is involved with SAFE ALERT at the state level.

    d. David (KJ5DFQ) described his travels to the Teacher Institute Training Camp at ARRL (W1AW) headquarters in Newington, CT. There were 11 teachers present and a very motivational presenter. David was involved in creating the radios for the “fox hunt” in which he participated. He learned a lot and took home good ideas for his middle school students. David did give a good shoutout to TARC for their support of Education in Taos. He indicated that most of the other teachers had no idea about local radio clubs. We do have some older materials that ARRL supplied when we sent a teacher to ARRL training earlier in our existence. David is welcome to these. There will be another Science Fair at the Middle School in February 2025. David wants us to help as judges again. He will be teaching 111 kids this year and will need our support!

  9. Repeater Report/Update – Brian gave us updates on Iron Mountain, Picuris, SAM, Angel Fire, Red River and other places. There is planning and organizing going on for moving the Angel Fire and Red River repeaters. TARC has indicated to Brian that we can help with some of the tasks at the repeater sites. Ed (KF5EIG) asked about the move of the Holy Cross repeater to OPD. It will be done sometime and will be an improvement, as is the move of the Angel Fire repeater, because there is internet access at both sites. Brian has a lot of work on his plate but also is a great source of information.

  10. TARC unanimously agreed to spend another $500 to get the gang chargers and ear pieces.

  11. Business Meeting Close. Motion was made to approve by Ed (KF5EIG) and seconded by Don (K2WQ). Vote was unanimous with no objections.

Taos Amateur Radio Club Minutes of the Meeting on 7-10-2024

@OPD, 107 Civic Plaza Drive, Taos, NM 87571

  1. Potluck started at 5:30pm. Thanks to everybody for bringing food.

  2. Sign in. Meeting began at 6:10.

  3. Guest and member introductions, 14 members attended in person and 2 attended virtually.

  4. Approval of 6-12-2024 meeting’s minutes. Motion to approve by Don (K2WQ) and seconded by Keith ((K5FS). Vote was unanimous with no objections.

  5. Treasurer's Report. Don (K2WQ) reported a bank balance of $12,445.00. Motion to approve by Sheila (KI5IPS) and seconded by Randy (AG5QC). Vote was unanimous with no objections.

  6. Tim (W5TNM) made the president’s remarks in Donovan’s absence. Donovan (K2AH) stepped up early in 2024 to fill the role of president. a. We are still looking for a new president. Elections to elect new officers is held at the October meeting. b. David is in transit to CT to attend ARRL training for school teachers. TARC is helping with expenses and ARRL is paying for the training. ARRL is a good organization and has resources into which clubs like us can tap.

  7. New Business

    a. Don (K2WQ) debriefed TARC on the 3 Town of Taos Summer Events during 4th of July Weekend. Attendance at the events ranged from 4500 to 5500. The weekend was mostly uneventful. Don mentioned the need for more volunteers. The town appreciates our assistance because we add value by assisting the police by providing additiional eyes and ears (we carry radios) and doing some easy tasks that free up the police for more important and dangerous tasks. The Town has 5 more events. TARC will need volunteers to support these events; more bodies for each event is good.

    b. There will be FCC License Testing on 7/27. Three people are sheduled to test. The next planned test will be 11/9/24. TARC will accommodate all who are interested in becoming hams.

    c. Philmont - Angel Fire/Eagles Nest. Dale (KB5NFT) described the 3 different stations that have been setup to show the scouts. They are using an ICOM 9700 with an 80m satellite antenna, an end fed, and “egg beaters” for UHF. They are mostly using FT8 but will use all modes and all bands. A lot of effort and expertise are available to help the scouts get started in Ham Radio. Dale, Mike (W5EVT) and Gary (N5GDR) are providing a great learning experience!

    d. We have 8 HTs that we use to support the Town of Taos and other events. These radios are all set up, charged up, and ready to go at all times. We have had them for several years and they have been very dependable and durable. There was discussion about the future of these radios and they may be coming to the end of their “shelf” lives. The club decided to buy 8 more with gang chargers and batteries so that we will have no problems supporting the community for several more years. It was a unanimous decision by TARC to spend about $4000 on this purchase.

  8. Old Business

    a. Grants Update – Keith (K5FS) filled out the paperwork and with some effort mailed/transmitted the documentation and it was received on time. He will find something out in 4 weeks or so. He is being proactive in anticipating the next steps.

    b. TARC social media FB and Instagram presence – No Updates

    c. ARES update – As a club, we practice ARES. Tim will try to setup a SAFE ALERT test. He may have to get some input from Brian (NB5R).

    d. Field Day was held at OPD on June 22. Randy (AG5QC) attended our Field Day and joined the club. He has already been active on the UHF net and has helped at the July events. Everybody please welcome Randy to TARC. We are happy to have you!

  9. Repeater Report/Update – We will have a planning session at the next monthly meeting concerning work on SAM and Picurus Mountains. There was some discussion about moving the “hospital” repeater to the OPD. Brian may have to help us with all this work. There was also discussion about GMRS repeaters.

  10. The UHF net had 11 attendees and the DMR net had 7 attendees.

  11. One of our online guests had some comments. Justin (KF5JNX) indicated that he can hit the Picuris repeater from Chacon. Good to know!

  12. Business Meeting Close. Motion was made to approve by Greg (KF5TTO) and seconded by Don (K2WQ). Vote was unanimous with no objections.

Taos Amateur Radio Club Minutes of the Meeting on 4-10-2024

April 10, 2024 OPD, 107 Civic Plaza Drive, Taos, NM 87571

  1. Potluck started at 5:30. Donovan (K2AH) thanked everybody who contributed to the meal.

  2. Sign in. Meeting began at 6:18 pm

  3. Guest and member introductions, 13 members attended. There was one virtual attendee, Zach from Angel Fire (NM5RF). There were no guests.

  4. Approval of Prior Meeting Minutes held on 3/13/2024. Motion for approval by Don (K2WQ) and seconded by Tim (W5TNM), vote was unanimous with no objections.

  5. Treasurer's Report. Don (K2WQ) reported our bank balance of $11698.11 with $378 of expenses for the month. He also mentioned that there were small donations from members, Bridgecom, and $250 from a cyber grant. He also indicated that he posts various monthly reports in the club. He also thanked the members for donations and membership. Motion to approve the report made by Ed (KF5EIG) and seconded by Kieth (K5FS), vote was unanimous with no objections.

  6. Brian (NB5R) told us of a recent/ongoing incident. Possibly some technician crossed some wires or inadvertently modified some software at the repeater site. Brian and others are working the problem.

  7. Donovan(K2AH) is still acting president and made the president's remarks:

    a. No updates for new, full time president, we are still searching...

    b. Donovan asked for a show of hands for 2 credit cards to be issued. Donovan and the treasurer will get the cards. The membership agreed with this request. Currently Mike (KF5KGC), the former president had the bank card. Donovan will go to the bank to take care of the account.

  8. New Business:

    a. Twirl Invent Event, Saturday April 13, 12pm – 4pm. Event will be held at Enos Garcia Elementary School. Tim (W5TNM) will be there and David (KJ5DFQ) will be there in an official capacity as STEM teacher. The club’s involvement will be TBD.

    b. NM QSO Party, Saturday April 13, 8am – 8pm. Donovan mentioned that TARC members will be at OPD at around 8:30am. Gary (W5TAO) indicated that he will be at OPD.

    c. David (KJ5DFQ) has an after school STEM session on Wednesdays. Usually, around 3:15 he is operating on the Picuris repeater and lets students participate in QSOs. Various club members (today Zach (W5ZAC)) are listening and are on the other end of the QSOs. David also mentioned that the TARC’s participation at the Middle School Science was well received and appreciated. Each student talked with at least 3 judges. Good Stuff!

    d. Brian and Tim are working on signs for our shacks on SAM and Picuris. The signs have some USFS and other requirements like contact information. Don (K2WQ) is doing research and using his other technical skills to get a TARC “Google Phone” number. A permanent phone number is needed on the signs.

  9. Old Business:

    a. Keith (K5FS) mentioned that he is waiting on word from LANL about our grant. LANL will announce our standing on April 15, 2024.

    b. No update on TARC’s presence on Facebook and Instagram.

    c. ARES Update – no update. However, with the winds starting to blow, it would be great to set up a “Safe Alert”. Brian mentioned that there is a new “Safe Aler” app.

    d. Field Day, June 22-23, Ideas for location: last year “Field Day” was held at Kit Carson Park. ECO Park, Rec Center on Paseo del Canon, OPD, and Kit Carson Park were all mentioned as possible locations. We may have to reach out to Linda M. if a town location in used. Linda is now head of the Parks and Recreation. Parks and Rec are now operated out of the Family and Youth center on Paseo del Canon. Donovan is working on this contact.

  10. Membership Dues: Ed (KF5EIG) said that 28 people have paid so far in 2024. The dues are due in March every year. Best way to determine membership is at year end due to the Paypal “Autopay” feature.

  11. MEGALINK was not discussed.

  12. Net Report: UHF Net occurs every 4th Wednesday @7pm on the Picuris Repeater. HF Net occurs every 4th Friday @8pm on 80M. April Nets have not met yet.

  13. Reminder – Statewide ARES Net – HF 3939, 1st Sunday, 7pm

  14. Business Meeting Close. Motion by Mickey(N5TSV) and seconded by Zach (W5ZAC), was unanimous with no objections. Meeting adjourned at 6:48 pm

Taos Amateur Radio Club Minutes of the Meeting on 3-13-2024

March 13, 2024 OPD, 107 Civic Plaza Drive, Taos, NM 87571

  1. Potluck started at 5:30. Donovan (K2AH) thanked everybody who contributed to the meal.

  2. Sign in. Meeting began at 6:15 pm

  3. Guest and member introductions, 15 members attended. There were no virtual attendees and no guests.

  4. Approval of Prior Meeting Minutes held on 2/15/2024. Motion for approval by Ed (KF5EIG) and seconded by Wayne (W5GWR), vote was unanimous with no objections.

  5. Treasurer's Report. Don (K2WQ) reported our bank balance and showed and described several of our reports. These are available on request. He also thanked the members for donations and membership. Motion for approval by Patrick (KJ5DGO) and seconded by Greg (KF5TTO), vote was unanimous with no objections.

  6. Mike (KI6KGC) resigned as president. Donovan(K2AH) has become acting president and made the presidents remarks:

    a. Mike resigned due to demands of his new career in the horse and barn business. He will remain a TARC member and TARC wishes him well. We may lean on him for help with the Angel Fire repeater! b. A BOD meeting was held prior to this monthly meeting. We discussed the bylaws and are looking for a new president.

  7. New Business: a. Twirl Invent Event, Saturday April 13, 12pm – 4pm. Event will be held at Enos Garcia Elementary School. It is mostly an indoor event and we are not sure what is expected. We are looking for volunteers

    b. NM QSO Party, Saturday April 13, 8am – 8pm. Donovan mentioned that TARC members will be at OPD. “Shack in the Box” was discussed as possibility for either April 13 event. Still looking for ideas and volunteers. Tim(W5TNM)mentioned we can sign up as club or individuals.

    c. TARC donated/used equipment program ideas: We have some old equipment and Mike(NM5MK) and Tim obtained several additional pieces of equipment from the widow of a “silent key”. Unfortunately, most of the equipment does not have cables or power cords. Scouring the web or attending HAM fests/conventions may help us find cables and power supplies and help us find like-minded people to fix them up. We would like to keep the old Heathkits, however.

  8. Old Business:

    a. Keith (K5FS) informed the club that he is waiting on word from LANL about our grant. LANL will announce our standing on April 15, 2024. b. Keith is also working with David (KJ5DFQ) on participation at the ARRL “Summer Teachers’ Institute”. David is filling out the application. He will need $100 for the application; a motion was made by Keith and seconded by Mike to advance the $100. The vote was unanimous with no objections. Eventually, David will need an advance for airfare.

    c. No update on TARC’s presence on Facebook and Instagram. d. ARES Update – no update. However, with winter ending and the winds starting to blow, it may be good to set up a “Safe Alert”. e. Field Day, June 22-23, Ideas for location: last year “Field Day” was held at Kit Carson Park. ECO Park, Rec Center on Paseo del Canon, OPD, and Kit Carson Park were all mentioned as possible locations.

  9. There was much discussion during the Repeater Report. Don (K2WQ) hits the Red River repeater but has never made a QSO. Mike (KI6KGC) and Zack (KJ5ACC) did make a QSO via the AF repeater to the RR repeater. Mike indicated that the RR repeater and Taos Hospital repeater do not connect. Wayne (W5GWR) mentioned the “TRASH” network. He has had QSOs with Las Cruces and Albuquerque. There was some discussion about antenna height. Tim mentioned that the locks have changed where the “TRASH” network/repeater is located and if people are coming from afar to work on this repeater, they should call first.

  10. Membership Dues: Ed (KF5EIG) said that 17 people have paid so far in 2024. The dues are due in March every year. However, there are members who have automatic Paypal payments throughout the year.

  11. MEGALINK was not discussed.

  12. Net Report: UHF Net occurs every 4 th Wednesday @7pm on the Picuris Repeater. HF Net occurs every 4 th Friday @8pm on 7257khz. March Nets have not met yet.

  13. Reminder – Statewide ARES Net – HF 3939, 1 st Sunday, 7pm

  14. Business Meeting Close. Motion by Ed (KF5EIG) and seconded by Mike (NM5MK) was unanimous with no objections. Meeting adjourned at 7:50 pm

Taos Amateur Radio Club Minutes of the Meeting on 2-15-2024

February 15, 2024 OPD, 107 Civic Plaza Drive, Taos, NM 87571

  1. Sign in. Meeting began at 6:10 pm

  2. Guest and member introductions, 15 members & guests attending. There were no virtual attendees.

  3. Approval of Prior Meeting Minutes held on 1/10/2024. Motion for approval by Don (K2WQ) and seconded by Tim (W5TNM), vote was unanimous with no objections.

  4. Treasurer's Report. Don (K2WQ) sent out reports prior to the meeting.

  5. Mike (KI6KGC) president's remarks & discussion topics:

a. Tech Fest is Feb 25 in Albuquerque. This is sponsored by Rocky Mountain Ham Radio and is ARRL-sanctioned event. Mike and Tim (W5TNM) have signed up.

b. Mike participated in a 10m contest early in the month and made many contacts on a wide open 10m band.

c. The club has completed its IRS 990 filing and annual ARRL Membership report. Mike indicated that is important to be an ARRL member and TARC club member for ARRL affiliation and liability benefits. Club Dues are due during March.

d. Mike talked at length about Teenage Engineering, an audio/AI company that manufactures “Rabbit R1” an AI appliance. He indicated there must be some ham radio/AI connection that could be exploited. He also indicated that the inventor of the Rabbit R1 is an amateur radio operator.

e. Patrick (KJ5DGO) emailed TARC membership with a problem/observation about grounding. Many members shared suggestions, information, and experiences about this topic. Mike gave a good shout out to all who helped Patrick.

  1. New Business:

a. Standing - New Member(s) Vote for acceptance. This is part of the bylaws. Possibly change to a “Vote Out” type of membership.

b. Keith (K5FS) informed the club that LANL had accepted our grant. LANL will announce our standing on April 15, 2024. Keith has worked very hard on this.

c. David (KJ5DFQ) presented another STEM opportunity for members of TARC. Every Wednesday between 3 and 3:15pm, Keith lets the students listen to the traffic on the Picuris repeater. It was mentioned that he is able to let the kids talk on the radio as long as he follows the ARRL regs. David also mentioned the annual “Invent-Event” at the Enos Garcia school held on April 13, 2024.

d. Inventory / Asset Tags, Don (K2WQ) and Mike (KI6KGC) are working on ways to track and inventory equipment. They bought the asset tags have started this slow process. Assets are located at OPD, SAM, Holy Cross, Picuris and other places.

  1. Old Business a. Darien (NM5DF) has put TARC on Facebook and Instagram. He is now looking for content and followers.
    b. ARES Update – no update. However, with winter ending and the winds starting to blow, it may be good to set up a “Safe Alert”. c. OPD Shack facilities update - no update.

  2. There was much discussion during the Repeater Report. The AF repeater works in AF only. I am not sure of the repeaters in TSV and Red River. The Picuris repeater works fine. They may all work but possibly do not connect with each other. John (W5JHW) talked about TSV repeaters and stuff needed at Holy Cross and to be sure that the old “Phone Patch” hardware works. Holy Cross is a very important asset.

  3. MEGALINK and its monthly meeting were discussed in detail. Some links are not working. Gary (W5TAO) tunes in monthly and is only able to reach Megalink via link at Sandia Peak (Albuquerque).

  4. Net Report: UHF Net occurs every 4th Thursday @7pm on the Picuris Repeater. HF Net occurs every 4th Friday @8pm on 7257khz. February Nets have not met yet.

  5. Business Meeting Close. Motion by Tim (W5TNM) and seconded by Don( K2WQ) was unanimous with no objections. Meeting adjourned at 7:50 pm

June Meeting Agenda

TAOS AMATEUR RADIO CLUB

Meeting Minutes: June 10,2020

The meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM by President Mike Kittredge, via the Picuris Repeater, “Taos (Picuris Mountain) 147.120+, 67.0”.

Attendees: Mike Kittredge, Glen Romero, Shelia Shortell, Karen Stoldt, Jane Futch, Brian Williams, Tim Henson, Phillip Anseth, JJ Jamison, Dave Johnson, and Greg Medina.

Voted to accept the May 13, 2020 minutes, motion to accept by Tim Henson , second by Brian Williams.

President’s report:

-10M is open now for HF.6M opens this summer for best transmissions. 501c3 non-profit status suspended and then reinstated, with much thanks to Tom Trojinar work sorting this out. Testing is this Saturday. Tim H reports approximately 8 candidates inquired.

Repeater report:

-Brian reported that the San Antonio Mountain (SAM) equipment (antenna and solar panel) are ready and he will be going up the mountain soon to install the equipment. -The Picuris equipment is ready, but will not be installed until The Rocky Mountain Club is also ready to have their hardware installed on Picuris.

Other: -After this weekend’s (6/13) test, the next test is 11/14/2020. -Mike has an antenna for Shelia.

Treasurer’s Report: -Glen Romero stated there is 2,409.45 in the account.

New Business: -Discussion rotating the 4th Wednesday, 7PM net control function so others could gain the experience. Tabled for future discussions. -Tim H announced a member is setting up an HF station and will need antenna tuner.

Motion to adjourn (approximately 18:30) by Brian Williams, second by Shelia Shortell.

Next Meeting: 7/8/2020 6pm Next Net: 6/24/2020, 7pm

May Meeting Agenda

Taos ARC Meeting on the Air

May Meeting on the Air Minutes, May,13 2020

The meeting was called to order on the Picuris Repeater at 6:00 PM by President Mike Kittredge.

Mike checked in 17 operators in the roll call.

Suspended the reading of the minutes from 4/8/2020 meeting.

President’s Report:

Government restrictions are continued, with information the governor requiring masks in public and max 5 people meeting. We probably have to test 2 at a time, with 3 VE’s, likely outdoors.

The club intends to do the testing May 30 for 2, 1 off’s and June 13, ARRL. Tim stated the ARRL material is on the way.

Club noted the Comet CHA-205B antenna working Slovenia just before the meeting. Thanks for sharing Brian. Two club members have this all band HF antenna.

Treasures Report: (Gen) We have $2,539.09 in the bank.

Led to a discussion on PayPal wanting a physical address. John W. suggested using the physical address of the Post Office were the PO Box is located. Mike might have to call PayPal.

New Business:

Repeaters - Brian W. update: The 76 repeater is tuned up and ready to go back up San Antonio Mountain.

Restoring the microwave link to Picuris later this year.

Plan to get up Picuris in a few weeks and add an antenna to tie to Colorado for the “Colorado Connection”.

Waiting on DSTAR and internet, and later XXXX.

ARRL Field Day discussion. We should have a field day. Suggestions were Kit Carson Park, out in the forest, Glen’s picnic area. Some post meeting discussion on outdoor event purpose and the dates of Field Day are 6/27-28.

Shelia has a new/used mobile antenna (thank you Stephen), needs assistance to set it up on her house. Brian W. pointed out it will require a ground plain.

Call to adjourn by Mike.

Motion to adjourn by Brian W., 2nd by Greg M. , unanimous.

Adjourned at 6:34.

Post meeting Philip A. got his Echo Link working, listened in to the meeting

TARC Minutes - March 11, 2020

TAOS AMATEUR RADIO CLUB

Meeting Minutes: March 11, 2020

The meeting was called to order at 6:07 PM by President Mike Kittredge, at the Taos County EOC, after a great pot luck.


Attendees: Mike Kittredge, Gary Ferguson, Craig Grillio, Glen Romero, Shelia Shortell, Greg Medina, Dan Pritchard, Brian Williams, Tim Henson

Voted to accept the February 12, 2020 minutes with revision to name corrections.


President’s report:

ARRL testing occurred March 7 with five licenses earned, 2 Tech, 2 General, and 1 Extra.

The next test is June 13, 2020 right before the Extra questions change.

Mike led the discussion on the need to have ARRL books to lend to members for license study. The suggestion was to buy 4 books for each license type, each time the questions changed, that way we will have the books for their 4 year life. Also suggested we should start with the new extra questions when they rollout 7/1/2020. Then is subsequent years Tech and General purchases of 4 books each. General agreement, but we did not vote on the discussion.

501c3 Status is we will use the postcard form to file our taxes for the 9 questions on the form and will become an IRS recognized non-profit. Thanks to Tom T for the research on this topic.


Treasurer’s Report:

Glen Romero, we have $2,531.75 in the bank. We paid 2 government bills.


New Business:

Brian Williams gave us an update on future happenings on Picuris and San Antonio (SA) Mountains. Rocky Mountain Radio Club is putting up a D-Star repeater on SA mountain. Digital UHF. There is fiber to SA mountain. TARC would like to piggyback as much as possible.

Brian also indicated there is a broken microwave link from SA to Picuris to be fixed this summer.

Brian continued to discuss the plan to add a DMR repeater on Picuris linked to Colorado and New Mexico. Brian also stated the need for solar backup update on SA.

In general discussion noted repeaters with the call sign NM5ML in the repeater book are linked for the state megalink, when you transmit on “1” you transmit on perhaps “30” repeaters all over the state.

Mike reminded us that the TaosARC Net is on the 4th Wednesday of the month at 7:00 PM. Tune in to the Picuris repeater “Taos (Picuris Mountain)  147.120+, 67.0 “ and join in.


Craig Grillio made a motion to adjourn at 7:01 PM, 2nd by Shelia Shortell, unanimously approved.


The formal meeting ended and many members continued into a workshop for about 40 minutes with Chirp programming HT’s and Q&A.