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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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!