The meeting was called to order with 9 members and guests present.

Motion to accept the August minutes by Gene (NA8I), seconded by Roy, accepted.
Edgar read the December minutes at the meeting.

TREASURES REPORT: Suzanne was absent at the meeting so the balance stands at $1,035.92.

NET: Roger (KI8CL) has been reporting the net participation on the KC8CXJ-1 BBS as well as the Traders Net reports.

The subject about the 440mhz radios was brought up again. A suggestion was made to have a professional tune up one of these radios for the use of the American Red Cross Amateur Radio Service.

CLUB STATION:
We have a new 500MMX computer installed in the club station, as well as a new desk to add to the station. We will be adding programs as needed to support the needs of our emergency communication requirements. All existing equipment has been labeled for their purpose in the radio room.

OLD BUSINESS: The subject about equipment insurance was brought up again that would protect our expensive repeater in the event of a lightning strike. The feeling was that this expense should be supported by donation to the trustees of the repeater. Gene is to look into the cost and report to the club.

NEW BUSINESS: There was no new business brought up at the meeting.

Motion to Adjourn: by Gene (NA8I), and seconded by Edgar, approved.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

The Y2K exercise was a big success. Our command center was manned by Mark (N8EGJ), and was supported by several other ARCARS members. We maintained a presence on 2 meters all day. NA8I and others connected the ARCARS Repeater to generator power in case of a major power failure. We also supported the National American Red Cross Y2K preparedness nets on 40 and 80 meters. The Michigan Regional center information was ran from the St Clair County Chapter of the American Red Cross, and communicated with the National Chapter Command as well as other Chapters that participated in this event. The St. Clair Chapter was also ready with a new self supporting building to help in the case that emergency services were required. It has it’s own generator and can run independently of the main Chapter building.

The 147.320 Repeater is back on the air to help support the amateur community.

Next SKYWARN training for the county is to be held February 28^th at 204 Bard St. All amateurs should plan to attend!

There was also discussion about re-certification of ARCARS members in the Introduction to Disaster training as well as training in CPR.

Amateur Radio Examinations will be held in February as well as April 18^th. After that there will be new License Structures as supported by the American Radio Relay League. Please stand by for further information on this subject. A link to the ARRL is on the ARCARS Web Page http://www.bignet.net/~arcars/links.htm that includes some more information.

The Friends of Marconi group meets every Friday at 11:30 am at My Place Restaurant in downtown Port Huron. Everyone is welcome to attend. See the web page http://www.tir.com/~kb8wwe.