Keith Laube - Silent Key

Keith D. Laube, 81Computer ProgrammerWinter Haven- Mr. Keith D. Laube, age 81, of Winter Haven, FL passed away Friday, December 9, 2011 due to heart failure. He was born August 10, 1930 in Orlando, FL the son of Joseph Laube and Jenny Laube. He moved to the Winter Haven area from Jacksonville 3 years ago. He was a veteran of the US Navy having served during the Korean conflict. He was a computer programmer for the federal government, a member of the American Legion Post # 8, a member of ARRL the National Association for Amateur Radio, a member of the Lakeland Amateur Radio Club, and a member of the Georgia Tech Alumni Association. He attended the First Presbyterian Church.Mr. Laube is survived by his wife, of 55 years, Barbara Lynch Laube, Winter Haven, son Peter Laube (Shane), Auburndale, FL, daughters Karen Raper (Ken), Colorado Springs, CO, Lisa Kunkler (Jeff) Carolton, GA, and Renee Laube, Oklahoma City, OK, brothers Kenneth and Cornelius both of Atlanta, GA, sister Connie Nichols (Charlie), Atlanta, GA, 8 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.ottlaughlinfuneralhome.com

Christmas Party 2011

Click here for Christmas party pictures.
Turn your sound on, of you wish.

And a one, and a two, and a three . . .

Once again, three more success stories. This month we are proud to announce one new Technician, and two upgrades to Extra.

Ernie KG4YNI is seen here congratulating Sarel on his passing the Technician exam. BTW, Sarel happens to be yet another computer programmer. Years ago, the Eastman Kodak company discovered that there seemed to be relationship between the hobby of electronics and the hobby of photography. Are we seeing a new trend these days with ham radio and software engineering? :-)

Bill, KJ4IAI and Ernie KG4YNIcongratulate the two new Extras: Vincent KE4DYX to the right of Bill, and Timothy KK4DVI to the left of Ernie.

Congratulations all. You did good! Also present, Bill KI4ZMV.

Three New Hams With Bragging Rights

We have three new ham Technicians in the fold. They are Jim Johnson, John Roberts, and Matthew Stevens. All did exceptionally well on the test, but Jim takes the prize for getting a perfect score.

Here are all three being congratulated by Bill KJ4IAI. Also present were Ernie KG4YNI and Bill KI4ZMV.


Congratulations John Roberts!


Congratulations Matthew Stevens!

As with all new hams, we invite you to drop by a meeting or two to get to know some of the other hams in the area.

A Few Reminders

The last day to pay for the Christmas Party will be at the November 7th, 2011 meeting. The price is $9.00 per person, no refunds. No money will be accepted at the Tuesday, December 6th, 2011 Christmas Party. This is a pre-paid event. Please bring the exact cash amount to the meeting. If you have any questions, contact Patrick.

We have been asked to try to increase our VISTE donations for the months of November and December. Please remember to bring a few goods to the meeting. The need this season is great, please try to help out our community.

Marvin and Bob Foxworth will be accepting our annual dues at the November meeting. Let's try to get a head start on this.

If any member knows anyone who would like to take a weekend technician class, let Patrick know. There will be a local class during the weekend of November 5th and 6th, 2011.

Nets Near and Far

Once again, Patrick did an outstanding job, this time with his presentation, Nets Near and Far. You can download his presentation by going to Yahoo Groups, and looking under files. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LakelandARC/files/

Encore!

Only a few weeks ago Bill KK4BMJ, Goff KK4EBS, and Jon KK4EBR got their tickets to perform on the air. All three were back, driven by personal interest in ham radio, for upgrades. Goff and Jon earned upgrades to General while Carter made extra with nearly a perfect score.



Pictured above, Bill KJ4IAI looks on while Goff and Carter congratulate each other. Also present, but not shown were Ernie KG4YNI, Jon KK4EBR, and Bill KI4ZMV.

2011 Christmas Party: Place, Date, and Time

Ernie and the board have decided on a location for this year's Christmas Party. It will be catered by Jimbo's BBQ, but held at our normal meeting place. Dinner will consist of a quarter chicken, pulled pork sandwich, two sides, and tea. The price is $9.00 per person which includes the gratuity, no refunds.

Christmas Party 2011
Westminster Presbyterian Church
730 S. Florida Avenue
Lakeland, FL

Tuesday, December 6th
Time: 6:00 PM

Patrick will be collecting the money for this event at the October and November meetings. Please bring the exact cash amount, change may not be available. Payment must be received by Patrick no later than the November meeting. Please contact Patrick if you have any concerns.

Silent Key -- Bill Stroud Passes

WILLIAM MASON
STROUD, 80
Surveyor

LAKELAND - Mr. William Mason Stroud, age 80, died of heart failure Wednesday (September 21, 2011).
Born in Bradenton, FL, on May 13, 1931, William came here from Bagdad, FL, in 1944. He was a retired surveyor for Edward-Panter Engineering. William was a volunteer at the Van Fleet Trail and a ham radio operator, number WB4DUN.
He is survived by his wife Shirley Stroud, stepson Maurice, stepdaughters Marlene and Shelley, sister Joanne Gill, nieces Laura Mango, Susan Surratt, nephews Phillip Lynn, Tommy Stroud, Michael Stroud and Ricky Stroud, all of Kathleen.
Lanier Funeral Home.

There will be a memorial service Sunday at 3:00 PM at the Mango residence located at the North end of Stroud Rd.


map to the Stroud residence

Picnic Postponed Due to Weather

The picnic scheduled for this Saturday at the Circle B Bar will be posponed due to weather. It will be rescheduled at a later time. When it is, you will receive an announcement.

Picnic September 24th, 2011

LARC Fall Picnic

September 24th
Circle B Bar Reserve
4322 Winter Lake Road
Lakeland, FL 33803

Entrance south side of SR 540 (Winter Lake Road)
between US 98 and Thornhill Road

From 8:00 AM until?

Bring Your Own Food
and if you like something to share,
but each of us will be responsible for our own lunch.

Safety First

Patrick did an outstanding job presenting his safety story at the September club meeting. Unfortunately, all too often, safety is something we don't think about, until there is an accident. The time for attention, however, is before. Prevention is usually better than the cure.

Some of the topics covered were climbing safety, tower maintenance, proper electrical grounding, lightening protection, wiring, power strips, and how not to use them, fire prevention, and just in case, the various kinds of fire extinguishers and their uses.

Presentations like this require a lot of prep. Next time you see Patrick, let him know you appreciate his effort.

Three New Techs!

James Crennea is congratulated by Bill KJ4IAI and Jimmy AI4LE.

Jimmy AI4LE and Bob WA4YFM congratulate Martin Goff. Nice Job Martin. You did good!

Also present, but not pictured, were John Thompson who also received his Technician's license today, Ernie KG4YNI, and Bill KI4ZMV.

A special thanks to Bob and Jim for helping out with this session.

Double Aces, a LARC First!

On rare occasion the LARC VE team has a candidate deliver a perfect score, but today was exceptional. Not one, but two perfect scores! Roberta passed her General, and Blaine Hall got his Technician Grade License. Good going! It pays to study, and our two aces prove the value of hitting the books before the test. Both breezed through in record time.

Roberta WA2FRW and husband Mort WA2ARS hail from Apopka. From time to time, both find themselves on the high seas with friends where cell towers are nonexistent, and where amateur radio is the way to stay in touch with friends. Good sail’n. We landlubbers will be a listen’n for ye!

Show The Instruments

This month, Don Jeerings presented his story on “The Instruments Every Ham Should Know and Love.” Well, maybe not every instrument he showed. Most of us recognized the familiar VOM and even the signal generator and scope, but few of us have had a chance to use a Wheatstone bridge since high school Physics. Just goes to show how things have advanced over the years. Thank you Don.

This month was a first for the club, due in no small part to the efforts of Don and Bob. Together they were able to cook up a procedure for projecting live images during presentations. I am sure this technique will be incorporated in many future presentations.

Getting involved with club presentations takes a lot of time, hard work and planning. Next time you see Don and Bob, make sure you thank them. And, if you have the desire, an idea, and some expertise you think might be of interest to the members, let Patrick know. He is always looking for good ideas for club presentations.

Field Day 2011 Images

Click here to view

No Meeting This July

Because Monday happens to fall on the Fourth of July, there will be no meeting this month. The next meeting will be August 1, 2011. Enjoy the Fourth!

Now, I know some of you just hate to miss a meeting for any reason whatsoever. I can understand that this may be disconcerting for some, but I have some good news. Since 1900 the the Fourth of July only fell on Monday 16 times, including this year. The next time this will happen will be in the year 2016. Ample time to plan. And, for those really really interested, the Fourth of July will also fall on a Monday in the years: 2022, 2033, 2039, 2044, 2050, 2061, and 2067. By this time most of us will be well into our hundreds. :-)

Now that I have convinced most of you that I need to get a life, once again, Enjoy the Fourth! Bill KI4ZMV

New Generation, New Tech

Jason Hibbard is seen here being congratulated by Ernie KG4YNI and Bob WA4YFN. Jason just earned his Technician’s License, and plans to follow in the footsteps of his grandfather, now a silent key. He has fond memories of the hours spent as a young child with his granddad, as he worked the radios in his shack. Perhaps someday he too will pass the enthusiasm for the hobby to the next generation.

Also present Bill, KI4ZMV.

A Busy Weekend For LARC

Steve Warnic passed his Technicians test this morning. He is seen here being congratulated by Bill KJ4IAI and Ernie, KG4YNI.

Only hours later, Steve is seen here chatting with Ren KG4BAS at the Polk County Hurricane 2011 Expo. Ren is flanked by his two children and fellow hams, Gabby KK4ASD and Ansel KJ4ZRU. Judging from the intense look on Ren's face, my guess is that he is talking up QRP and the magic of CW with Steve.

Ren is quite a salesman. After showing Steve how to learn the Morse Code in 2 minutes, Steve can't wait to share this information with Roger, club unofficial chairman of proper attitude. :-)
Every event needs organizers, and this one is no exception. Here Rip AA4HT, LARK organizer, and Robbin, ARES president, chat during a lull in the activities.
And a whole bunch of familiar faces:

QRP Members Get Together

The first get together with the Central Florida QRP Group took place Saturday May 14, 2011 at Lake Parker, in Lakeland. Kelly (K4UPG) and Jim (K4AHO) drove in from Orlando and met our group of QRPers. It was truly a great time for all.


( from left to right in the back row)
Ren (KG4BAS), Kelly (K4UPG), Keith (WB1GGJ), Jim (K4AHO), Jim (AI4LE), (front row) Joe (AD4IH), Jack (K4BYF), Pat (AI4OP)

Photographer, George (KJ4UW), was also present.

Geneva Switzerland To Lakeland On VHF -Incredible!!!

well, not really, but impressive none the less. Jeff, who is jetting around Europe on assignment as a commercial pilot, was able to chat with each of the members of the breakfast club through Echolink in combination with the NI4CE repeater. Reception was excellent.

For more information on the breakfast group, click on the SIGAR, special interest group - amateur radio, button, and select Breakfast at Nana's.

Another New Tech

Bill KJ4IAI left, congratulates new Tech John Tice while Ernie, club president KG4YNI, looks on. Also present was Bill KI4ZMV.

It's Solder Time

Before kit building commenced there were several announcements. Steve KD4MBH gave an update on the status of the Emergency Operations Center, EOC, located at the Lakeland Police Department. We might be able to make the ham radio equipment at this facility available for one weekly LARC net each month. This would demonstrate amateur radio capability in case of an emergency, as well as insure that we are operational at all times.

LARC board member Tom KJ4WFS circulated a questionnaire seeking to uncover club interest in contesting. This information might inspire a future presentation, and perhaps an additional special interest group. The club already has two of these, the SloPok Net dedicated to CW, and QRP Kit Building. (See the menu bar to the right.)

Fred made a pitch for field day, prefaced by Ernie’s overarching view of the purpose of Field Day. He noted that the goal of Field Day was primarily to raise awareness with the public of the kind of support ham radio operators can supply in the event of an emergency, and secondarily, to make contacts. We have other venues for picnics, so this year food will be everyone’s personal responsibility. Bring your own.

If you missed the meeting, yet wish to participate in field day exercises either by supplying equipment or signing up for a operation slot, email Fred K1DU at K1DU@aol.com . There will be plenty to do, and I am sure Fred will welcome your support. Field day is a big event, and a complex undertaking. Many hands make the work light. So plan to volunteer.

Rip reported that the March of Dimes Walk was a great success. He had more than enough ham volunteers to fill the positions along the route. He thanked all who participated.

Lastly, Ren KG4BAS invited all interested in QRP to an outing of the Central Florida QRP Group West. The event will take place Saturday, May 14, starting at 9:00 AM, at Lake Parker Park, Bring your QRP rig and join in, or just bring your self. Bring a picnic lunch if you plan to stay a while.

The remainder of the meeting was devoted to kit building. Some completed their projects at this time. No small feat considering all the activity in the room. It takes incredible concentration to work under such adverse conditions, a trait not lacking in most hams. Those who didn’t quite finish at the meeting will complete their projects at home.

Judging from the activity in the room, everyone had a good time, and in spite of a few frustrating moments and a burnt finger or two, the soldering project was an outstanding success. Kudos to the board, especially to Patrick KI4CDY for driving this project, and to Gary KS4JI for presenting the project overview last month, and his guidance this month.


Caught deep in concentration, Laura NO4OO and Mike KT2T work or their kits. I was told that both were first time kit builders, and I know for a fact that both completed their project before they left.

Also caught in deep concentration, Charley KI4CRI.

Volunteer To Support The Walk

There are still slots available for the March Of Dimes Walk Scheduled for this Saturday. Please contact Rip or simply show at:
March Of Dimes Walk
Date: Saturday, April 30, 2011
Location: First Presbyterian Church on Lake Hollingsworth
Arrange to be there for assignments by: 7:30 AM
The event should be over by 10:30 AM.
Hams will need an HT, or possibly a mobile rig. Please contact Rip at aa4ht@tampabay.rr.com to volunteer.

View Larger Map

Know anyone who would like to take classes leading up to a ham radio license? Click here for more information.

But Wait, There's More!

If you thought the kit's flashing lights and siren were a bit to fast for a realistic Euro Police Vehicle you were right. As Ren and son Ansel pointed out, you always have to Read The Instructions. Guess I didn't. Had I, I would have noticed that they directed me to remove two resistors I so carefully soldered in place, and to replace them with two resistors twice their values. This in turn doubled the RC time constants controlling the flash rate, effectively cutting it in half. See and hear for yourself.

It Works!

The kits are in, and ready to be distributed at next month’s meeting. Fortunately, I was able to get one in advance, in order to present it on the blog. Here are a few things to think about before next months meeting.
1. Take your time. Under excellent working conditions it took me 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete the kit. You will probably have to complete yours at home.
2. Come prepared with soldering iron, magnifier, extension cord, something to protect the table, and any other tools you think you might need, like needle nose pliers, wire stripper, wire cutter and tweezers.
3. Follow the assembly instructions, checking off after installation of each part.
4. Be especially careful when choosing resistors from the card. They are all identified, but it is still easy to pick the wrong one. Check the color code, or use an ohmmeter to be absolutely sure.


These are the tools I used. Click the image to enlarge it.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Start Your Soldering Irons

Kit Building Prelim
Gary gave a rousing overview of the project scheduled for next month’s meeting. There is something for everyone here. For some it is brushing up on old skills, for others a first time experience, and for many, it is a chance to help others develop the skills needed for successful kit building. Last count, nearly twenty members have signed up for the kits. For more details you can download the instructions in advance. Click here for instructions
Kit builders and Elmers, we need soldering irons, power cords, and a scrap of something to protect the tables from damage.

March Of Dimes Walk
Rip AA4HT made a plea for assistance at March Of Dimes Walk
Date: Saturday, April 30, 2011
Location: First Presbyterian Church on Lake Hollingsworth
Arrange to be there for assignments by: 7:30 AM
The event should be over by 10:30 AM.
Hams will need an HT, or possibly a mobile rig. Please contact Rip at aa4ht@tampabay.rr.com to volunteer.

Field Day
Finally, Fred K1DU spoke about the upcoming field day. His message was clear. It is all about points. This is why we will be using the same antenna we have always used, the delta loop. Please check the Web Site for information on this design. This is why the number of stations will be fewer than last year. The fewer the stations, the less chance for interference, especially between CW and phone. This is why QRP will be limited only to contacts by solar power until the max of 100 points is met, and then it will be shut down. Fred will speak again at a later time to ask for volunteers to set up, take down, prepare food, clean up, and any other support activities needed on this day.

Check out the number of days until and directions to field day on the right side of this blog.

Information regarding support for the bike event coming.

New Extra, General and Tech!

Congratulations go out to Robert Stevens, KF6ENO, who earned his Extra ticket today. Robert is seen here being congratulated by Ernie KG4YNI and Bill KJ4IAI. Bill Carter, far left, and David LaFave, far right, are in a fine mood after passing respectively the General and Tech licence exams. Bill deserves additional kudos for getting a perfect score on both exams. We don't see that happen very often. Good work Bill.

47 Members And Eight Visitors!

The first LARC picnic of the year was a resounding success. Everything was great! Great location, Circle Bar B, great weather, complements of a higher authority, great food, complements to some great cooks, and great conversation, the stuff hams are made of. Left to Right, our VP and program director Patrick KI4CDY, Ernie, Club President KG4YNI, and our club Treasurer, Marvin KI4CDZ. If I missed taking your picture, and I am sure I missed some of you, I will do my best catch you having fun next time. Click here for more pictures Bill KI4ZMV

Radio Picnic Details Finalized

Mark your calendars
Date: Saturday, March 26th 2011, park opens at daybreak
Location: Circle B Bar reserve
Directions: click here
Food: club will supply ribs, dogs, burgers and buns. Each family will bring a dish to pass, and what ever they want to drink. The club will supply paper plates, plastic ware and condiments for the burgers and dogs.
Activities: Come early, play radio, eat about noon. Bring your Go-kit, bring your QRP rig, bring your binoculars, bring your bikes, or just bring yourself, and plan to have a great time!
Chat with Patrick and Gary about the upcoming programs in the months of April and May which will focus on a kit building for newbies. Pros will be expected to mentor those less familiar with kits, parts, and soldering irons. More to follow at a later time.

Promoting The Hobby

Mike KT2T extols the benefits of the J-pole antenna to an interested passerby. Secretary Bob WA4YFN is in the background taking copious notes for the club on his laptop.

Ren KG4BAS, son Ansel KJ4ZRU, and daughter Gabby KK4ASD pose before the QRP radios each has built. Ham Radio is an excellent learning opportunity for both young and old alike. Having a supportive dad helps too.

April's Meeting-Intro To Kit Building

These days when it comes to radio gear we are more likely to try it, buy it, add batteries or plug it in, and maybe even read the instructions that came with it. There was a time when things were different, except possibly for the ultra rich. These days it is often cheaper and better to buy most equipment factory made, but the tradition lives on. Homebrew is still alive and as intoxicating as ever. During April's meeting Gary will present a project for the beginner that will be completed during May's meeting. It is directed at the newbie, but the more experienced are expected to help those less familiar with the various techniques for loosing components and burning yourself with a soldering iron. The project will be a kit, cost $10 dollars, which can be paid either at the March 27th picnic or at the April meeting. I can tell you first hand that the kit is worth the price, having spent more than $10 for only half the components I needed to mock up this project from parts I had on hand.
So what is the project? Briefly, it is an astable multivibrator driving two LEDs and a 555 timer to produce both flashing lights and wailing sounds. Everything you need to complete the project is included. You supply the soldering iron. Those who have one are asked to bring it, even if they will not be building the kit themselves.
OK so you are not convinced. Here is the breadboard version of the circuit you will be building. Yours will function the same, but will look much more professional. A work of art.

Still like to learn more. The complete plans, including parts, theory, and soldering tips is available by clicking here.

Kathleen Area Historical Society Picnic

Date: March 19th, 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Location: 8950 Campbell Rd, Lakeland (Across from Bethel Baptist Church)
Directions:

Plan to attend this fun event. There will be lots of food, entertainment, and be sure to drop by the LARC booth and visit with club members who will be demonstrating their craft throughout the day.

Lakeland Police Department Open House

The Lakeland Police Department will be hosting an open house for the community on March 19, 2011, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, at the main station located at 219 N Massachusetts Avenue in Lakeland. This event is free to the public and drinks and refreshments will be served. One of the exhibits will be feature the Lakeland Amateur Radio Club demonstrating ham radio in action.

Dynamic Duo on DX

It was clear from the intensity of their presentations that Bob K2EUH and Glen W4JGC are serious about DX. Each shared their enthusiasm and substantial knowledge on the subject. Anyone who has presented knows the kind of work that goes into putting on a successful presentation like this. Kudos to the duo! Let them know how much you appreciate their effort next time you see them.

Two New Hams, One New Ham Family!

We are happy to announce two new hams in the fold. Mike and Gabby passed the Technician test with flying colors. They both studied hard, and it paid off.

In order, left to right, Ernie KG4YNI, Gabby, Mike, and Bill KJ4IAI.
We hope to see more of Mike in the future and encourage both Gabby and Mike to go on for their General. And, if any of you hams out there have some ideas for stealth antennas, please share them with Mike next time you see him.

Now they are a family of hams. Left to right: Ren KG4BAS, Gabby, and brother Ansel KJ4ZRU. It was only a short time ago that Ansel got his Technician’s License. Now the race is on to see which one will get their General first.

Bear hugs are in order, or should I say ham hugs. Amateur radio operators are an extended family, and it doesn’t hurt to show this from time to time.

Ernie is seen here congratulating Ren, dad and fellow board member for the encouragement and support he gave to son Ansel and daughter Gabby.

And finally, Gabby and brother Ansel share a moment. Are they discussing strategy for moving up to General? I see some friendly competition in the future.

Also present, VE Bill KI4ZMV.

Coming Soon, Radio Picnic

Set aside the date, March 26th for a radio picnic. This year we will meet at the Circle B-Bar Reserve. Click here for directions.
Stay tuned, more information to follow.

CENTRAL FLORIDA CW NET (CFLN)

The CENTRAL FLORIDA CW NET (CFLN)meets every Wednesday, at 8:00 p.m. N4EH on 3.533 MHz.

This is a semiformal Central Florida CW net sponsored by LMARS.org. The net is open to anyone in the central Florida area who wishes to participate. Central Florida is described as those six counties making up the nucleus of central Florida: Orange, Seminole, Lake, Volusia, Brevard and Polk.

Local CW operators from any of the central Florida Amateur Radio Clubs are invited to participate with the intent of building a more active local CW formatted interest group and to further foster morse fellowships.

Email to Tom Small: kj4hui@gmail.com
Lake Monroe Amateur Radio Society

Kicking Off Another Great Program

Ernie KG4YNI is seen here making the intro for our presenter Don Jeerings KI4EFL. His topic: Lightning.

Few put themselves into a presentation like Don. Seen here he is about to reveal something really shocking. We are warned to stand back, and prepare ourselves.

In addition to the many lightning demos, Don showed off some of the technology designed to protect our equipment from lightning. The device he is holding is designed to protect phone lines from a lightning strike. He also discussed two methods of measuring the quality of a station's ground, and populated his talk with images of local ham stations, commenting on each from the lightning point of view.

Another General in the Ham Army

Jim KG4MAT is seen here being congratulated by the VE crew on the successful completion of his General Exam. Fine Business Old Man! Also in the photo are left to right Jim AI4LE, Ernie KG4YNI, and Bill KJ4IAI. Not shown but also present is Bill KI4ZMV.

Great Start To A New Year

The club kicked off the New Year with an action packed meeting.
Richard Sharp KQ4KX, above, the clubs repeater trustee discussed the FRC’s proposal for narrow band 2-meter and 70-centimeter. The jury is out on this one. He suggests that each of us acquaint ourselves with the proposal, and then make our feelings known. The following link should be helpful More information
Patrick and Ernie review some of the suggestions made for future programs, while asking the group to submit additional ideas to the program committee. Programs along with Service and Comradery form the tripod upon which the club is built.

And last, but not least, I am happy to report that we have a new General. Let’s join in to congratulate Joy. Only a few short months ago she got her Technician’s license. Good work Joy!