JUNE MEETING MINUTES

President: Garry Wheatley, KD4GCY
Vice President: Jeff Wielgos, KB9BVL
Treasurer: Roger Good, KC4WPS

Meeting called to order 7:00 P.M. by President Garry Wheatley. West Kentucky Community and Technical College, 4810 Alben Barkley Dr. Paducah KY 42001 in the Conference Room. There were 20 persons in attendance.

President Wheatley opened the meeting with a moving father’s day tribute and led the group in a pledge to the American flag.

Treasurer’s report given by Roger Good.
The minutes from the May meeting were read.
The Treasurer’s report and minutes were voted on and accepted. Roger announced that we had 2 new PARA members
Much time was spent on Field Day planning. Mike Newman (WA4ER) has donated the use of his property for Field Day on June 26 this year. Antennas would be erected at 1:00 on the day before.
Bruce Huyck announced that Todd Young had passed the tech test.
President Wheatley reminded us that there will be a “swap meet” on the parking lot of WKCTC at 6:00 p.m. before next month’s July 12 PARA meeting.

FEBRUARY MONTHLY MEETING

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Paducah Amateur Radio Association (PARA) was held, 7:00 PM, Monday, February 8th, 2021 with Roger Good (KC4WPS) in charge. The virtual meeting was opened and hosted by PARA President, Jeff Wielgos (KB9BVL). There were 19 members in attendance.

Club Business Items:

The Secretary’s Report of the January meeting was given by Ron Cowherd and the Treasurer’s Report was given by Roger Good. A motion was made to accept the two reports and subsequently were unanimously voted to accept.

Treasurer Good informed us that our liability insurance is no longer in force. It was brought up whether we need insurance at this time since our activities have ceased due to Covid restrictions. After some more discussion, it was moved, seconded and voted in favor of the club to purchase the ARRL insurance.

The rest of the meeting was devoted to choosing officers. There was quite a bit of discussion as to how to go about the selection of the individual offices. President Wielgos opened the procedure by asking the current officers who would be willing to serve another year. President Wielgos offered to be considered for Vice President which would open the President position. Garry Wheatley was nominated and after some arm twisting, Garry agreed to be considered for President. Treasurer, Roger Good volunteered to continue one more year. Secretary Ron Cowherd asked to be relieved of his secretarial duties after 5 and 1/2 years of service. Aimee Mitchell was nominated and she agreed to be considered for the position. After additional discussion, it was agreed to accept those the nominees by acclamation. Subsequently a motion was made, seconded to accept the above slate by acclamation. The motion was passed.

Congratulation to 2021 PARA officers;

President: Garry Wheatley (KD4GCY)

Vice President: Jeff Wielgos (KB9BVL)

Treasurer: Roger Good (KC4WPS)

Secretary: Aimee Mitchell (WI2P)

NET CONTROL OPERATORS

Sunday night nets are at 9:00 PM on 147.060 MHZ. PL 179.9

February 14 – Maury KD9MZD – 25 ck-ins (best on record)

February 21 – Maury KD9MZD – 21 ck-ins

February 28 – Frank KY4LDS – 20 ck-ins

March 7 – Michael KN4TIP – 18 PARA ck-ins

March 7 – Logan KG4VKB – 12 ARES ck-ins

Remember:

PARA meetings happen each month on the 2nd Monday, 7 pm, except December. We will meet on ZOOM monthly meetings until Covid19 subsides. Roger Good will email ZOOM app instructions, ID and password, before each meeting date to those who are on the member list. The next PARA meeting will be March 1, 2021.

New License and upgrade exams are normally given at the close of each meeting night throughout the year, however, Please Notice: We won’t be able to administer exams until we are able to resume use of the WKCTC facility after Covid restrictions are lifted. See W4NJA web site for info. Click button at the top of the page: About Us, then VE License Testing. Prospective hams in search of general info concerning the hobby may Google ARRL.com and click on relevant headings.

The Sunday Night PARA Emergency Training Net meets each Sunday night at 9 PM. All amateur radio operators are invited to check in. 147.060 PL 179.9 The ARES monthly net convenes immediately following PARA net on the first Sunday night of each month. Echo Link check-ins are welcome.

CW round table for on-the-air operating practice, 6:30 pm Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Meet on W4NJA 147.060 repeater at 6:30 to get instructions.

Amateur Radio Emergency Services (ARES) meetings are normally held at 7:00 pm on 3rd Thursdays . The next meeting will “not” be at Logan Blewett’s home facility but will be on ZOOM.

Metropolis net Thursdays 8:15, 146.655 – 600, PL179.9, The Massac club call is now known as W9DUE. 147.225 is old repeater freq.

Draffenville net Wednesdays 9:00 145.390 PL118.8

Wickliffe, recently put a new repeater (KA9SKT) on line, using the same machine that was formally located at Cairo, IL, using the same freq. (147.180 mh.), and tone (88.5 PL).

JANUARY MONTHLY MEETING

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Paducah Amateur Radio Association (PARA) was held, 7:00 PM, Monday, 11, 2021 with Roger Good (KC4WPS) in charge. The virtual meeting was opened and hosted by PARA Treasurer, Roger Good. There were 15 members in attendance.

Club Business Items:

The Secretary’s Report of the September meeting was given by Ron Cowherd and the Treasurer’s Report was given by Roger Good. A motion was made to accept the two reports and subsequently were unanimously voted to accept.
Several topics were discussed concerning the inability to meet together. Secretary Cowherd reported a recent discussion from the office of the WKCTC Dir. of Community Ed. who advised that the two rooms in the Emerging Technology Center would not be available in the foreseeable future. However, we will be welcome and notified when when Covid conditions improve.
Several locations were mentioned and the suggestion made that perhaps we should organize a group to look into a place to have live meetings again. The question was asked whether more people would meet in live environment than meeting virtually. After quite bit of discussion, a poll of those present was taken by a show of hands and we found about half of us did not feel comfortable attending together live at this time. Roger, expressed the feelings of all of us that we miss the social aspects of live meetings but we probably should continue with the Zoom setup for now.
A motion was made to suspend the election of officers for the 2021 year until we have a better representation of club members. The question was asked as to whether we had a quorum for voting. Treasurer reported that presently there are 21 paid members and 15 present, therefore, the quorum requirement was met. The motion was seconded and passed by the members present.
Paul Smith (N4DX) reported that Kentucky Contest Group had agreed to take over the KY QSO Party. Paul sent them them the paper work and has the opinion that the group will do a good job.

NET CONTROL OPERATORS

Sunday night nets are at 9:00 PM on 147.060 MHZ. PL 179.9

January 17 – Jeff KB9BVL – 16 ck-ins

January 24 – Michael KN4TIP – 15 ck-ins

January 31 – Frank KY4LDS – 22 ck-ins

February 7 – Steve NW9W – 14 ck-ins

February 7 – Logan KG4VKB – 14 ARES ck-ins

Remember:

PARA meetings happen each month on the 2nd Monday, 7 pm, except December. President Wielgos Jeff suggested that we should plan on future ZOOM monthly meetings until Covid19 subsides. Roger Good will email ZOOM app instructions, ID and password, before each meeting date to those who are on the member list. The next PARA meeting will be February 8, 2021.

New License and upgrade exams are normally given at the close of each meeting night throughout the year. See W4NJA web site for info. Click button at the top of the page: About Us, then VE License Testing. Also, you may call Fred Carter (AI4EY) and leave a message at (270)210-3628 if you wish to take a test at the next meeting. Please notice: We probably won’t be able to administer exams until we are able to resume use of the WKCTC facility. Prospective hams in search of general info concerning the hobby may Google ARRL.com and click on relevant headings.

The Sunday Night PARA Emergency Net meets each Sunday night at 9 PM. All amateur radio operators are invited to check in. 147.060 PL 179.9 The ARES monthly net convenes immediately following PARA net on the first Sunday night of each month. Echo Link check-ins are welcome.

CW round table for on-the-air operating practice, 6:30 pm Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Meet on W4NJA 147.060 repeater at 6:30 to get instructions.

Amateur Radio Emergency Services (ARES) meetings are normally held at 7:00 pm on 3rd Thursdays . The next meeting will “not” be at Logan Blewett’s home facility but will be on ZOOM.

Metropolis net Thursdays 8:15, 146.655 – 600, PL179.9, The Massac club call is now known as W9DUE. 147.225 is old repeater freq.

Draffenville net Wednesdays 9:00 145.390 PL118.8

Wickliffe, recently put a new repeater (KA9SKT) on line, using the same machine that was formally located at Cairo, IL, using the same freq. (147.180 mh.), and tone (88.5 PL).

DECEMBER MONTHLY MEETING

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Paducah Amateur Radio Association (PARA) was held, 7:00 PM, Monday, December 14, 2020 with Roger Good (KC4WPS) in charge of the double ZOOM link (90minutes). The virtual meeting (in place of the regular December Christmas Party) was opened and hosted by PARA President, Jeff Wielgos (KB9BVL) 26 members and guests were checked in.

Club Business Items:

The Secretary’s Report of the September meeting was given by Ron Cowherd and the Treasurer’s Report was given by Roger Good. A motion was made to accept the two reports and subsequently were unanimously voted to accept.
Treasurer Good gave instructions for paying 2021 PARA Club dues which will be payable on January 1, 2021! “If you would like to get ahead of the game, you may pay your dues electronically via https://paypal.com by sending $20 for individual or $25 for you and your spouse to paypal74@rogerg.com . PLEASE select “Sending to a friend” when checking out or PayPal will charge a fee. You may also pay your dues by check via USPS mail to : Roger Good, 2825 Krebs Station Road, Paducah, KY 42003. I can also accept $20 individual or $25 family (or more if you feel generous) eGift cards from Amazon.com! Make sure to make the gift card to Roger Good rogerg@rogerg.com and NOT to PARA. I will reimburse the club for your dues. I’m just trying to make it easy to pay your dues since the end of the covid restrictions do not appear to be on the horizon.“
The highlight of the evening was a drawing for the door prize of an Icom 207, 144/440 mhz. transceiver that belonged to Bob Beadles, now a Silent Key. The radio was donated to the club by Bob’s family. The lucky winner was Brian Medlin (KK4OKW) of Paducah.

NET CONTROL OPERATORS

Sunday night nets are at 9:00 PM on 147.060 MHZ. PL 179.9

December 20 – Jeff KB9BVL – 17 PARA ck-ins

December 27 – Frank KY4LDS – 16 PARA ck-ins

January 3 – Roger KC4WPS – 18 PARA ck-ins

January 3 – Logan KG4VKB – 14 ARES ck-ins

January 10 – Michael KN4TIP – 16 PARA ck-ins

Remember:

New License and upgrade exams will be offered. Address above. Exams or normally given at the close of each meeting night throughout the year. See W4NJA web site for info. Click button at the top of the page: About Us, then VE License Testing. Also, you may call Fred Carter (AI4EY) and leave a message at (270)210-3628 if you wish to take a test at the next meeting. Please notice: We probably won’t be able to administer exams until we are able to resume use of the WKCTC facility.

Prospective hams in search of general info concerning the hobby may Google ARRL.com and click on relevant headings.

CW round table for on-the-air operating practice, 6:30 pm Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Meet on W4NJA 147.060 repeater at 6:30 to get instructions.

Amateur Radio Emergency Services (ARES) meetings are normally held at 7:00 pm on 3rd Thursdays, however the next meeting will be on October 22nd, to be located at Logan Blewett’s home/church located at 227 Farley Place, Paducah, 42003. Farley Place is just off Clements St. which connects Bridge Street with I-24 loop.

Metropolis net Thursdays 8:15, 146.655 – 600, PL179.9, The Massac club call is now known as W9DUE. 147.225 is old repeater freq.

Draffenville net Wednesdays 9:00 145.390 PL118.8

Wickliffe, recently put a new repeater (KA9SKT) on line, using the same machine that was formally located at Cairo, IL, using the same freq. (147.180 mh.), and tone (88.5 PL).

November MONTHLY MEETING

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Paducah Amateur Radio Association (PARA) was held, 7:00 PM, Monday, November 9, 2020 with Roger Good (KC4WPS) in charge of the double ZOOM link (90minutes). The meeting was opened and hosted by PARA President, Jeff Wielgos (KB9BVL) 15 members were checked in.

Club Business Items:

The Secretary’s Report of the September meeting was given by Ron Cowherd and the Treasurer’s Report was given by Roger Good. A motion was made to accept the two reports. The two reports were unanimously voted to accept.
President Jeff reminded us that dues for the coming year should begin with the month of December. It was also suggested that without a time to give the money to Roger in person, that an address be given where the dues can be mailed. Roger will look into Pay Pal as an alternate means of collecting dues.
Jeff introduced us to a website that gives information to weather spotters via sharing mini courses. eg. basic radar, winter weather tornado safety etc. Jeff’s wife, who is employed by the local weather service, is the author of several of the courses within the series. These courses already have been drawing outstanding reviews.
President Jeff showed us a website that showed sunspot activity which may be evidence that it is the beginning of sunspot Cycle 25. See additional info, https://www.nasa.gov Jeff also mentioned meteor scatter activity with the Leonids (Nov.6 to Nov. 30) See additional info, https://www.amsmeteors.org/meteor-showers/meteor-shower-calendar/ There are several PARA members that use JSJT MSK144 to make contacts. This app requires special 6 meter or 2 meter operating techniques but works well with modern transceivers. See Ron Cowherd K4GYD and Ken Wontor KW4ID for more information.
It was brought up that since we aren’t having a December Christmas party this year, we should have another virtual Zoom meeting in its place. Ed Pflueger suggested we have a Christmas door prize to make the meeting special. Ed has has in his closet an Icom 207, two meter, 440 mc. transceiver that belonged to Bob Beadles, now a Silent Key. The radio was donated to the club by Bob’s family. We talked about the need to advertise this special event. The Zoom meeting is scheduled for December 14th, 7:00 pm. Roger will send us details later.
Rueben Fuentas announced that there will be a fund raiser for Harold Hicks (KC9ZZA), a member/leader in the Metropolis ham club. He recently fell, broke his arm, and a then to add to his bad luck, a few days later his house burned down. Unfortunately the house was uninsured. The time of the fund raiser is Saturday, Nov. 14th, 10:00-3:00, at Fort Massac State Park, Metropolis, IL. It’s a good cause and much fun.

NET CONTROL OPERATORS

Sunday night nets are at 9:00 PM on 147.060 MHZ. PL 179.9

November 15 – Roger KC4WPS – 21 ck-ins

November 22 – Jeff KB9BVL – 16 ck-ins

November 29 – Frank KY4LDS – 21 ck-ins

December 6 – Steve NW9W – 16 ck-ins

December 13 – Michael KN4TIP – 21 ck-ins

December 13 – Logan KG4VKB – 13 ARES ck-ins

Remember:

Prospective hams in search of general info concerning the hobby may Google ARRL.com and click on relevant headings.

CW round table for on-the-air operating practice, 6:30 pm Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Meet on W4NJA 147.060 repeater at 6:30 to get instructions.

Metropolis net Thursdays 8:15, 146.655 – 600, PL179.9, The Massac club call is now known as W9DUE. 147.225 is old repeater freq.

Draffenville net Wednesdays 9:00 145.390 PL118.8

Metropolis Ham Study Class: October 3rd, 0900 TO 1400, Grace Church, 10th street, Study.org. Review session with test to follow. 90% pass rate, email Charlie Richey (K9DUE) or call (618) 309-6911 to preregister. Questions answered at same number.

Wickliffe, recently put a new repeater (KA9SKT) on line, using the same machine that was formally located at Cairo, IL, using the same freq. (147.180 mh.), and tone (88.5 PL).

OCTOBER MONTHLY MEETING

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Paducah Amateur Radio Association (PARA) was held, 7:00 PM, Monday, October 12, 2020 with Roger Good (KC4WPS) in charge of the single ZOOM link (45 minutes). The meeting was opened and hosted by PARA President, Jeff Wielgos (KB9BVL). 13 members were checked in.

The Secretary’s Report of the September meeting was given by Ron Cowherd and the Treasurer’s Report was given by Roger Good.

Club Business Items:

There was discussion about the KY QSO Party. The September meeting voted not to sponsor KY QSO Party this year. Roger Good reported that ND4Y (Harlan) & N4TY (Georgetown) have expressed an interest and are thinking about taking over the administration of the KY QSO Party.

There was quite a bit of discussion concerning a Christmas party this year. A motion was made and passed to postpone the 2020 Christmas party in favor of an outside 2021 spring picnic/swap meet, etc.
President Wielgos voiced his concern about a lack of club meeting attendance and the lack of younger member’s within the PARA club. A number of suggestions were offered to increase interest and membership.
It was suggested that we should monitor the .06 repeater to welcome and give new hams the opportunity to make simple contacts early in their amateur radio experience. Michael (KN4TIP) sent us an email plea, “Join with myself and others to strive for “No Call Unanswered!” during daylight hours, seven days a week. I’m sure nearly all of you have a 2m HT… let’s turn them on and make radio fun for the new guys. I tried truly believe we will see an increase in interest.”
It was also suggested that we include interesting demonstrations in meetings such as kit building and antenna building.
It was also noted that the count of the Sunday night PARA Emergency training net has held up well with as many as 21 check-ins the previous Sunday.
Everyone agreed that the Covid19 effect has had a lot to do with low club attendance.

NET CONTROL OPERATORS

Sunday night nets are at 9:00 PM on 147.060 MHZ. PL 179.9

October 18 – Roger KC4WPS 17 ck-ins

October 25 – Frank KY4LDS 18 ck-ins

November 1 – Michael KN4TIP 21 PARA ck-ins

November 1 – Logan KG4VKB 19 ARES ck-ins

November 8 – Jeff KB9BVL 16 ck-ins

Remember:

Prospective hams in search of general info concerning the hobby may Google ARRL.com and click on relevant headings.

CW round table for on-the-air operating practice, 6:30 pm Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Meet on W4NJA 147.060 repeater at 6:30 to get instructions.

Metropolis net Thursdays 8:15, 146.655 – 600, PL179.9, The Massac club call is now known as W9DUE. 147.225 is old repeater freq.

Draffenville net Wednesdays 9:00 145.390 PL118.8

Wickliffe, recently put a new repeater (KA9SKT) on line, using the same machine that was formally located at Cairo, IL, using the same freq. (147.180 mh.), and tone (88.5 PL).

SEPTEMBER MONTHLY MEETING

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Paducah Amateur Radio Association was held 7:00 PM, Monday, September 14, 2020 at the home/business of Amy and Logan Blewett (KG4VKB). There were 9 present in the auditorium and 5 on Zoom. The church is located at 227 Farley Place, Paducah, 42003. Farley Place is just off Clements St. which connects Bridge Street with I-24 loop.

Masks and social distancing, as per the Governor’s edict, was observed. Garry Wheatley (KD4GCY) hosted a ZOOM link for members who could not be present. The meeting was opened and hosted by PARA President, Jeff Wielgos (KB9BVL).

Club Business Items

The Secretary’s report was given by Ron Cowherd (K4GYD). In addition to a review of the past month’s business Logan and Amy were thanked for their kindness, allowing us to meet at their home/business for the last two meetings.

The Treasurer’s report was given by Secretary Cowherd in place of Treasurer Roger Good who was home recuperating from surgery. Both the Secretary and Treasurer reports were moved to a vote and accepted.

Old Business:

Meeting location was discussed and the need for getting back together again. Secretary Cowherd related a phone call from the office of WKCTC Workforce Solutions stating that the rooms we usually use for monthly meetings would not be available through the end of September. However, they will call us back before October 1st to report the status of the facilities depending on state pandemic rules which may be less strict by then. Fortunately, again Logan offered his facilities until we can move back to the college.
Logan reminded us that we should have a signup sheet for those who are present as per the Covid-19 Pandemic requirements. It is normal that we do this at all meetings but it is just another item that is overlooked because of the Covid-19 disruption.
A lot of time was devoted to the need for two volunteers to oversee the upcoming PARA KY QSO Party. The planning for award plaques has been discussed with a positive vote from club at the last meeting, but at this time we have no facilitators. Dave Perry and Paul Smith have served in this capacity and have done a masterful job with the past two year’s events. However, they have asked that they be relieved of the job with the coming QSO Party. It was brought up that it might be time to turn over the event to another club. It was also suggested that if we want to turn it over, it should be done before January 1st. Several clubs and organizations were suggested to be contacted.

NET CONTROL OPERATORS

Sunday night nets are at 9:00 PM on 147.060 MHZ. PL 179.9 ARES net follows Sunday PARA net, same frequency, 1st Sunday of the month.

September 20 – Jeff KB9BVL 15 ck-ins

September 27 – Frank KY4LDS 17 ck-ins

October 4 – Jeff KM4LDP 16 PARA ck-ins

October 4 – Logan KG4VKB 12 ARES ck-ins

October 11 – Jeff KB9BVL 21 ck-ins

Remember:

PARA meetings are 2nd Monday, 7 pm, each month except December. The next meeting place (October 12) is undetermined at this time. We are waiting for a call from WKCTC concerning the use of two classrooms in the Emerging Technologies building. If the WKCTC facility is not available, we will meet again at Logan Blewett’s home/church located at 227 Farley Place, Paducah, 42003. Farley Place is just off Clements St. which connects Bridge Street with I-24 loop. Covid-19 masks and distance rules observed.

New License and upgrade exams will be offered. Address above. Exams or normally given at the close of each meeting night throughout the year. See W4NJA web site for info. Click button at the top of the page: About Us, then VE License Testing. Also, you may call Fred Carter (AI4EY) and leave a message at (270)210-3628 if you wish to take a test at the next meeting.

Prospective hams in search of general info concerning the hobby may Google ARRL.com and click on relevant headings.

CW round table for on-the-air operating practice, 6:30 pm Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Meet on W4NJA 147.060 repeater at 6:30 to get instructions.

Amateur Radio Emergency Services meetings are normally held at 7:00 pm on 3rd Thursdays, however the next meeting will be on October 22nd, to be located at Logan Blewett’s home/church located at 227 Farley Place, Paducah, 42003. Farley Place is just off Clements St. which connects Bridge Street with I-24 loop.

Metropolis net Thursdays 8:15, 146.655 – 600, PL179.9, The Massac club call is now known as W9DUE. 147.225 is old repeater freq.

Draffenville net Wednesdays 9:00 145.390 PL118.8

Metropolis ARES Earthquake presentation 6:30 on Oct. 15th. West 10th Street Community Center.

Wickliffe, recently put a new repeater (KA9SKT) on line, using the same machine that was formally located at Cairo, IL, using the same freq. (147.180 mh.), and tone (88.5 PL).

August Monthly Meeting

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Paducah Amateur Radio Association was held 7:00 PM, Monday, August 10, 2020 at the home/business of Amy and Logan Blewett (KG4VKB). There were 11 present in the auditorium and 7 on Zoom. The location provided ample room because the building was originally constructed as a Methodist Church with available meeting space in the sanctuary and fellowship hall. The church is located at 227 Farley Place, Paducah, 42003. Farley Place is just off Clements St. which connects Bridge Street with I-24 loop.

Masks and social distancing, as per the Governor’s edicts, was observed. Garry Wheatley (KD4GCY) hosted a ZOOM link for members who could not be present.

The meeting was opened and hosted by PARA Treasurer, Roger Good (KC4WPS).

Club Business Items

The Secretary’s report was given by Ron Cowherd (K4GYD). In addition to a review of the past month’s business Ron related a phone call from the office of WKCTC Workforce Solutions stating that the rooms we usually use for monthly meetings would not be available through the end of September. They will call us back before October 1st to report the status of the facilities depending on state pandemic rules which may be less strict by then. Fortunately, Logan offered his facilities until we can move back to the college.

The Treasurer’s report was given by Roger Good. Both the Secretary and Treasurer reports were moved to a vote and accepted.

New Business:

A good bit of time was spent discussing KY QSO matters. The last two years we have awarded 10 wooden plaques to the winners of the KY QSO party. This year, the coordinators felt we should expand it to 15 winners. Roger made a motion to increase the number of winners from 10 to 15. The motion passed.
This year we have two sources of wooden plaques. The wood blanks in the shape of the state of KY as used last year were very labor intensive due to sanding, staining and sealing and required acquisition of engraved plates before mailing out. The new source was less expensive and would come to us ready to be mailed. A motion was made by Roger to accept the second source of 15 red oak, laser engraved, ready to drop in the mail plaques. The motion was passed.
We’ve had sponsors for the 10 plaques awarded for the last two years. A motion by Roger was made to hold the price of sponsorship of the plaques at $50. The motion was voted on and passed.
A motion was made by Paul Smith to add a line item to the Treasurer’s report to keep income from the KY QSO Party as a separate fund from the general fund – Passed.

Bruce, KS4V, gave the program for the night. He has been building projects from kits over the covid-19 lock down and shared his success with us.

Motion to adjourn, Passed, next month meeting will again be held at Logan’s home/business. See Remember below for street address and time.

Ron Cowherd, W4NJA website administrator, expresses his appreciation to Roger Good for assisting with web page information for the August Monthly Meeting.

From Dave (N4QS) The KYQP and PARA were recognized in this week’s addition of the ARRL Contest Update. Scroll down and click on the link for Results (about half way in the list of links below). This extra publicity about this year’s results will help to build participation for next year! See link below:

Results: NAQP RTTY, KyQP, Summer Stew

Important info from Charlie Richey (K9DUE): Notes from living in ground zero of a derecho. https://www.reddit.com/r/preppers/comments/idulfz/notes_from_living_in_ground_zero_of_a_derecho/?utm_medium=android_app&utm_source=share

NET CONTROL PARA/ARES OPERATORS

Sunday night PARA nets are at 9:00 PM on 147.060 MHZ. PL 179.9. ARES net follows Sunday PARA net, same frequency, 1st Sunday of the month.

August 16 – Jeff KM4LDP 14 ck-ins

August 23 – Jeff KB9BVL 15 ck-ins

August 30 – Frank KY4LDS 11 ck-ins

September 6 – Logan KG4VKB 16 PARA ck-ins

September 6 – Logan KG4VKB 16 ARES ck-ins

September 13 – Michael KN4TIP 17 ck-ins

Remember:

PARA meetings are 2nd Monday, 7 pm, each month except December. The next meeting (September 14) will be at Logan Blewett’s home/church located at 227 Farley Place, Paducah, 42003. Farley Place is just off Clements St. which connects Bridge Street with I-24 loop. Covid-19 masks and distance rules observed.
New License and upgrade exams will offered now that we have Logan Blewett’s facility. Address above. Exams or normally given at the close of each meeting night throughout the year. See W4NJA web site for info. Click button at the top of the page: About Us, then VE License Testing. Also, you may call Fred Carter (AI4EY) and leave a message at (270)210-3628 if you wish to take a test at the next meeting.
Prospective hams in search of general info concerning the hobby may Google ARRL.com and click on relevant headings.
The Sunday Night PARA Emergency Net meets each Sunday night at 9 PM. All amateur radio operators are invited to check in. 147.060 PL 179.9 The ARES monthly net convenes immediately following PARA net on the first Sunday night of each month.
CW round table for on-the-air operating practice, 6:30 pm Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Meet on W4NJA 147.060 repeater at 6:30 to get instructions.
Amateur Radio Emergency Services meetings are normally held at 7:00 pm on 3rd Thursdays, however the next meeting will be on Sept. 17th, to be located at Logan Blewett’s home/church located at 227 Farley Place, Paducah, 42003. Farley Place is just off Clements St. which connects Bridge Street with I-24 loop.
Metropolis net Thursdays 8:15, 146.655 – 600, PL179.9, The Massac club call is now known as W9DUE. 147.225 is old repeater freq.
Draffenville net Wednesdays 9:00 145.390 PL118.8

JULY MONTHLY MEETING (VIRTUAL)

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Paducah Amateur Radio Association was held 7:00 PM, Monday, July 13, 2020 via the ZOOM app. This virtual meeting was necessary due to the Covid-19 pandemic which required the closure of public buildings and social distancing. 15 members and guests were checked in. The meeting was opened by PARA Treasurer, Roger Good (KC4WPS).

Club Business Items

Both the Secretary and the Treasurer’s reports were were read by Secretary, Ron Cowherd and Treasurer, Roger Good. A call for motions to accept reports were made, and subsequently both were voted to accept.
Secretary Cowherd read excerpts from a letter to PARA from Tina Clark, Administrative Assistant at WKCTC, which listed requirements that are in place for the use of meeting rooms ETC 141 and ETC 140. For example, 6 ft social distancing, no more than 15 people + instructor, a list of those attending to be submitted in advance to security. Those not listed will not be able able to enter the building. We just assumed we would continue with Zoom until further notice.
Logan Blewett (KG4VKB) invited PARA to meet at his home/business on the next August 10th meeting date. Logan explained that he had plenty of room because the building was originally constructed as a Methodist Church with ample meeting space in the sanctuary and examinations in fellowship hall. The church is located at 227 Farley Place, Paducah, 42003. Farley Place is just off Clements St. which connects Bridge Street with I-24 loop.
Richard Odell Perry, 89, Father of fellow ham, Dave Perry, N4QS, passed from this life July 7, 2020. It was moved and voted to make a monetary donation in Richard Perry’s name to the Mayo Clinic in keeping with the family’s wishes.
There was much discussion about whether anything had been done about plaques for the last QSO Party. No one present knew for sure, so the only decision made was that it was time to do something about it. After the meeting, Ron Cowherd talked with Wallace Shankle (W4KU) who has been our contact person for the construction of the plaques in past years. He said that all he needed was to get the official go-ahead from the club and he will put it into motion. He needs to know how many plaques we will be needed. It was discussed in the June meeting that due to the success with numbers of entries in the 2020 KYQSO Party, perhaps more plaques may be needed, but nothing definite was decided.

NET CONTROL OPERATORS

Sunday night nets are at 9:00 PM on 147.060 MHZ. PL 179.9

July 19 Michael KN4TIP 14 ck-ins

July 26 Roger KC4WPS 19 ck-ins

August 2 Logan KG4VKB 16 PARA

August 2 Logan KG4VKB 13 ARES

August 9 Frank KY4LDS 14 ck-ins

August 16 Jeff KB9BVL

Remember:

PARA meetings are 2nd Monday, 7 pm, each month except December. The next meeting (August 10) will be at Logan Blewett’s home/church located at 227 Farley Place, Paducah, 42003. Farley Place is just off Clements St. which connects Bridge Street with I-24 loop.
New License and upgrade exams will offered now that we have Logan Blewett’s facility. Address above. Exams or normally given at the close of each meeting night throughout the year. See W4NJA web site for info. Click button at the top of the page: About Us, then VE License Testing. Also, you may call Fred Carter (AI4EY) and leave a message at (270)210-3628 if you wish to take a test at the next meeting.
Prospective hams in search of general info concerning the hobby may Google ARRL.com and click on relevant headings.
The Sunday Night PARA Emergency Net meets each Sunday night at 9 PM. All amateur radio operators are invited to check in. 147.060 PL 179.9 The ARES monthly net convenes immediately following PARA net on the first Sunday night of each month.
CW round table for on-the-air operating practice, 6:30 pm Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Meet on W4NJA 147.060 repeater at 6:30 to get instructions.
Amateur Radio Emergency Services meetings are normally held at 7:00 pm on 3rd Thursdays, however the next meeting will be on July 23rd, to be located at Logan Blewett’s home/church located at 227 Farley Place, Paducah, 42003. Farley Place is just off Clements St. which connects Bridge Street with I-24 loop.
Metropolis net Thursdays 8:15, 146.655 – 600, PL179.9, The Massac club call is now known as W9DUE. 147.225 is old repeater freq.
Draffenville net Wednesdays 9:00 145.390 PL118.8

June Monthly Meeting (Virtual)

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Paducah Amateur Radio Association was held 7:00 PM, Monday, June 8, 2020 via the ZOOM app. This virtual meeting was necessary due to the Covid-19 pandemic which required the closure of public buildings and social distancing. 17 members and guests were checked in. The meeting was opened by PARA President, Jeff Wielgos, KB9BVL. The meeting had elements of both an emergency net and a formal club meeting.

PARA Lunch Bunch@Michael’s Pizza (6/11/2020) L to R: Ron Cowherd (K4GYD) Garry Wheatley (KD4GCY) Jeff Wielgos, (KB9BVL) Ed Sobkowiak (AC9OO) Ed Pflueger (AB4IQ) Roger Good (KC4WPS) Wallace Shankle (W4KU) Paul Smith (ND4X) Don Fuller (KC4DR) Guest grandson & John Hudson(KO4XJ)

Club Business Items

The Treasurer’s report was given by Treasurer Roger Good. Roger reminded us there are 10 club members who have not paid their dues for this year.
President Jeff Wielgos read the Secretary’s report prepared by Sec. Ron Cowherd. The minutes reviewed the business items of the May 11th virtual meeting which was concerned primarily with the KY QSO Party and Field Day.
Motion made and 2nd to accept the Secretary and Treasure report.
The June 8th meeting continued the discussion of the previous month but nothing was discussed concerning the location of a 2020 Field Day site. Jeff reviewed the ARRL’s decision to allow a change of rules concerning item 1D.
Many comments were made concerning the interpretation of 1D rules, logging of contacts and how ARRL will score 1D contacts this year.
Jeff proposed that we take advantage of this years 1D ruling. Of those commenting it appeared that all were planning to operate from home stations, several with generators for additional bonus points.
Secretary Cowherd commented that he he would take care of the publicity. However, as it turned out, The Paducah Sun did not respond as it has done in past years.
The balance of the meeting concerned the success of the Kentucky QSO Party which was held on June 6-7.

Important message from Roger Good (KC4WPS): Regularly scheduled PARA club meetings will be ZOOM produced until further notice each 2nd Monday of the month@7 pm until further notice. Please sign up as a user prior to the meeting!

Join Zoom Meeting by clicking on link below and enter ID and Password below.

https://zoom.us/j/95273713934?pwd=aGdyUlcyS3c0MVNFVFh4ME5zUlp3QT09

Meeting ID: 952 7371 3934 Password: w4nja

Net Control Operators

Sunday night nets are at 9:00 PM on 147.060 MHZ. PL 179.9

June 14 Frank KY4LDS 8 PARA Ck-ins

June 21 Roger KC4WPS 14 PARA Ck-ins

June 28 Frank KY4LDS 13 PARA Ck-ins

July 5 Logan KG4VKB 15 PARA Ck-ins

July 5 Logan KG4VKB 10 ARES Ck-ins

July 12 Dave W4WKN 15 PARA Ck-ins

Remember:

When Covid19 restrictions are cancelled PARA will resume meeting at the Emerging Technology Center, WKCTC on 2nd Monday, 7 pm, each month except December. Prospective hams in search of general info concerning the hobby may Google ARRL.com and click on relevant headings.
New License and upgrade exams will not be offered until we get back in the WKCTC facility. Exams or normally given at the close of each meeting night throughout the year. See W4NJA web site for info. Click button at the top of the page: About Us, then VE License Testing. Also, you may call Fred Carter (AI4EY) and leave a message at (270)210-3628 if you wish to take a test at the next meeting.
The Sunday Night PARA Emergency Net meets each Sunday night at 9 PM. All amateur radio operators are invited to check in. 147.060 PL 179.9 The ARES monthly net convenes immediately following PARA net on the first Sunday night of each month.
CW round table for on-the-air operating practice, 6:30 pm Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Meet on W4NJA 147.060 repeater at 6:30 to get instructions.
Amateur Radio Emergency Services meetings are held at 7:00 pm on 3rd Thursdays, 3700 Coleman Road EOC building in the Jack Johnston meeting room.
Metropolis net Thursdays 8:15, 146.655 – 600, PL179.9, The Massac club call is now known as W9DUE. 147.225 is old repeater freq.
Draffenville net Wednesdays 9:00 145.390 PL118.8