The meeting was called to order at 8:34 a.m. EST by President Jay, KI4TXP. One new member was present, Bryan Stephens, KG4UPR and there were no visitors in attendance. There were 30 members present.

Minutes from the January meeting were approved as posted.

Jeff, KE5APC, presented the Treasurer's report, which was approved as presented.

Committee Reports

Public Service: Gary, NC4S thanked the club members for their willingness to provide communications support had the shelters had to be opened during the recent snow storms. Fortunately, the shelters were not activated. The upcoming Dulles Drill, which will be on May 8th 2010 was discussed. The details of the Amateur Radio involvement are still being developed but may include communications support to buses and the two hospitals (Reston and Prince William) taking part in the Drill. The Drill is held every three years and has had varying levels of support required. The details of the chosen Scenario will determine the required support. Jay Greeley, KI4UTB stated that the Virginia Defense Force (VADF) will likely be providing 100-140 actors to support the Drill. Two reports are available on the LARG website for the previous 2 Drills:

http://history.k4lrg.org/Service/Dulles_DD_2004/Dulles_EDD_Helo_MedEvac_Operation_by_NA4MA_es_AI2C.htm

http://history.k4lrg.org/Service/Dulles_Emergency_Exercise_2007/index.html

WebEOC training should be available shortly and members should watch for the email with details.

Interference: Paul, N4PD reported that there were no interference issues to report.

Contesting: John, W4AU reminded everyone that the ARRL DX CW contest would be held this weekend, 20-21 February 2010 and that the Phone DX contest would be held 6-7 March 2010. John also reminded everyone that the VA QSO Party, sponsored by the Sterling Park Amateur Radio Club (SPARC) (http://www.qsl.net/sterling/uf1.htm) will be taking place the same weekend as our next meeting, 20-21 March 2010. John encouraged everyone to think about how they might want to participate and to enjoy this contest.

Website: Norm, AI2C, indicated that with potential increased interest by Boy Scouts that old Scout related web pages could be posted, though the photographs would need to be modified to reflect the Boy Scout policy of not showing clear pictures of Scout faces. Also, the transition to a new Web server has been completed and MicroNeil Research Corporation was thanked for hosting the LARG Web site and their continued support.

Legislation Affairs: Norm, AI2C indicated that bills that might have affected Amateur Radio have excluded 2-way radios. Norm will put out an email on the status of current legislative activity.

Programs: Luther, K5NOB, gave a run down of the upcoming programs:

March – John, W4AU will talk on contesting and the Virginia QSO Party.

April – Mr. Riley Hollingsworth will speak at the VFW Hall on 17 April 2010 at 9:00 a.m. in lieu of the regular LARG monthly meeting.

May – Jeff, KE5APC will give a presentation on EchoLink.

June – Doug, KJ4BRN will cover final planning for the 2010 Field Day.

Field Day: Doug, KJ4BRN reminded everyone that there would be a Field Day committee meeting on Wednesday, 24 February 2010 at 7:00 p.m. at the Purcellville Public Library. Anyone interested was encouraged to attend.

Old Business

Jeff, KE5APC noted that a one year membership in ARRL was returned to the club by the member who won it at the Christmas party. Jeff also reminded everyone that renewing or joining ARRL through the LARG benefits the club ($2 for each renewal and $15 for each new ARRL membership).

Denny, KF4TJI, reminded everyone of the availability of the 2010 LARG calendars for sale and that the proceeds go to the club treasury.

Jay, KI4TXP asked for suggestions on what outside clubs should be invited to Mr. Hollingsworth's talk in April. The SPARC, DARG, AMRAD, and Winchester clubs were suggested.

Jay Greeley, KI4UTB indicated that the agreement with the VFW was still being worked.

New Business

In response to an action stemming from the last Balloon Launch, Dodson, AJ4EY, passed out copies of designs for a LARG brochure and business card designs for club members to review. Norm, AI2C, acting as LARG Webmaster, agreed to put the business card design on the web site so the membership could download them for printing or modification.

Norm, AI2C, suggested the formation of a committee to evaluate having the LARG establish an award for people contacting LARG members. The details, as well as the committee membership will need to be worked out. Anyone interested in this committee should email Norm ([email protected]) or John, W4AU ([email protected]).

Rick, AI1V, indicated the very positive response for the Tiger Cub meeting that was supported by LARG members. A discussion was also brought up about possible support to Boy Scouts who might be interested in the re-activated Signaling Merit Badge as part of the Boy Scout Centennial celebration.

Jay Greeley, KI4UTB volunteered to be the new Training Chairman.

A motion was made and passed to provide $250 from the club treasury to Mr. Hollingsworth.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:48 a.m. EST.

Following the meeting, Gary, NC4S gave a presentation on antennas based on member requests for information. The material covered antenna basics as well as ideas for antennas on small lots and stealth antennas.

Respectfully submitted, Dodson B. Brown, AJ4EY, LARG Secretary

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A reminder to all about Holy Trinity's inclement weather policy: if Loudoun County Schools are closed (or would be if it were a school day), all activities at the church are cancelled – this includes outside groups. This policy allows for parking lot clearing so snow is not packed down; and it is also a safety issue.