The question of the day was “What is Zero Sunspots?”  subsequent discussion on lack of sunspot activity and appropriate time(s) of day to seek HF band propagation was led by Randall WD4HVA who introduced the group to the term “Maunder Minimum” which he described as a prolonged period of minimum sunspot activity which we appear to be experiencing at the present time.

Minutes – No additions or corrections. All were in favor of accepting the minutes as written.

Treasurer’s Report – Bill Call reported a deposit of $84.00 (from dues and (2) VE exam sessions); with a present balance of $1,151.45.

VE Report – Bill Call reported that (2) exam sessions had been completed in the past month, with congratulations offered to Mary (KJ4NZU) and Mike (KJ4OPI) Erickson recent graduates of Randall’s test preparation course for successfully completing their Technician licensure requirements. An additional VE session may be held at the conclusion of tonight’s meeting,

Systems Report – Bill Call reported all systems are running. The .94 repeater is still experiencing some noise. Bill is trying to ascertain the source of the noise. All other systems were reported as being in good working order.

Staff Advisor Report – John Hart KO4ZE was not present to offer this report.

Net Report – Matt Freeman reported (4) sessions- no traffic- 42 stations participating with 60.2 operator hours. .

QSL Managers Report – No report was given.

Ham Bits – Presented by Chuck, KJ4HBK; with the question asked “What’s in Your Go-Bag?” A presentation on Go-Bags followed the question with examples offered from a variety of Amateur Radio internet support sites. A discussion followed the presentation with emphasis on frequent inspections of Go-Bags and rotation of rechargeable batteries, etc. needed to assure “readiness” of stored equipment.

Old Business – Bill, KJ4W recognized the (2) recent licensees from Randall are training class. Randall stated the class would continue for those interested in seeking their amateur radio license.

New Business – “Disaster Blaster” is to be held in the parking lot of Lowe’s hardware store on September 19^th. Bill, KJ4W noted those interested should arrive around 8:30 am for setup; noting the event would continue until 2 pm or shortly thereafter. Members stating interest in participating included: Powell, KI4SII, Bob, WD8OWA, Chuck, KJ4HBK, and Randall, WD4HVA.

Program – “Ham Radio Emergency & Public Service Communications” – Bill Call, KJ4W

Noting the cover of QST magazine highlighting the importance of emergency communication and public service in its September issue; Bill also acknowledged September as being national preparedness month.

Noting voluntary emergency communications on the behalf of amateur radio operators being an important portion of the FCC’s Part 97.1 rules for amateur radio operation; Bill discussed his experiences as a volunteer operator prior to becoming Communications Operator and now Director of Emergency Management for Calloway County; Bill introduced the group to John Hudson, KO4XJ who has recently been appointed by KY ARES as DEC (District Emergency Coordinator) for the Purchase District of Kentucky.

Mr. Hudson discussed the need for better organization of amateur radio operators within the Purchase district noting the recent formation of a McCracken county ARES group which is meeting separately from the Paducah Amateur Radio Club. The McCracken ARES group is working in conjunction with the McCracken county Office of Emergency Management to assure equipment and operators are available in different geographical areas of McCracken County to assure prompt response by amateur radio operators throughout the county in the event of an emergency.

Hudson also noted the need for similar organization through the Purchase area, noting the need for more volunteers willing to give their time and talents toward emergency communications preparedness in the event of natural disasters or other unforeseen events in which standard lines of communication are interrupted; using the 2009 Ice Storm as a working example of the need for organization and resources throughout the Purchase area.

Hudson concluded with a discussion of the minimum training required by FEMA for certification/participation in ARES including: IS 100, IS 200, IS 700 and a communications course as minimums for participation.

20:47- Meeting was adjourned with members Bill, KJ4W, Randall, WD4HVA, and Rich, K4ADW, staying behind to conduct a VE session if needed.

Good luck to all of tonight’s examinees.

Respectfully submitted,

Chuck Williams, KJ4HBK

Vice-President