TAARA Club Meeting Update
February 19, 2021
Hello, everyone!
I just wanted to give everyone that was unable to make the February meeting of TAARA a brief rundown on what was discussed:
1. By-Law amendments- during the first reading of the proposed by-laws, a discussion arose concerning the dues structure and the initiation fee that has been on the books for a long time. The consensus after discussion was to remove that fee, because it has not been collected for some time. So, the readings were suspended at that time, and an updated proposed change is being prepared for reading at next month’s meeting.
2. VE Team- Discussion was opened again on the creation of an in-house VE team to give exams to members or prospective hams that are being mentored by a member. We have at least 2 VE’s at this time, and Mick, N3OJP has submitted his paperwork to the ARRL to be accredited. Matt, N3NWV is going to be submitting paperwork as well, shortly, Tim, K2EA is going to get his credentials renewed, and a few other members have expressed an interest in getting theirs as well. I believe we’re going to have a VE team shortly!
3. There was also discussion about memorials for members that pass away. Several ideas were discussed, including sponsoring a prospective ham through class and testing in a member’s name, and possibly donating amateur radio books to the local library. More ideas are requested to be discussed and enacted next month.
After the meeting, a large group remained in the Zoom session to chat, and a discussion began about public relations/ education and recruiting new hams/ members. One idea that took hold was a possible combination of a Field Day type activity and Parks On the Air. While a full fledged Field Day may still be a little ways away, a good compromise might be a tied to Parks on the Air; we could have operating positions, some PR people to explain what ham radio is and how someone could get licensed, and spend enough time to enjoy operating and have a hot dog/ hamburger type cookout for those that come out and support the event and enjoy some club fraternity.
Also- a little hint for an upcoming meeting- we’re going to have a special program at the April meeting! Now, I’m not going to divulge it just yet, but I’ll tell you that the topic is one of the most popular in field operations today! More to come!!
And for those who may not be aware, our numbers are growing! We’re now up to 42 members, and we’re looking to add more. If you hear a new call on the repeater, I encourage you to answer that call and make that person feel welcome. That’s a potential new member you’re talking to!
I thank everyone for their support, ideas, opinions and discussion; this is everyone’s club, and with your help, we’re going to get bigger and better!!
73,
Dom