• The meeting was attended by 13 SPARC members (11 in-person, 2 via Zoom)
• Kevin W4KLS, led the meeting and reviewed the agenda for the evening
• Karin KD4DXX of RT Systems provided a presentation on RT Systems programming software for HAM radios. RT Systems has been in business since 1995 (31 years) serving the radio community with programming software that covers 600 + radio models from 47 different manufacturers. Karin demonstrated some of the features of their software as used for memory programming and radio controls. Karin answered several questions from club members and reminded everyone of the large number of “How to” videos posted on their website. Karin also offered SPARC members a 10% discount on products through April 22 by using the code SPARC2026 when checking out.
• Each club member had an opportunity to introduce themselves and to discuss recent activities in Ham radio.
• The QSL Bureau has recently received a large shipment of cards from Europe after several months of no shipments. Sorted cards will be sent out soon to the various letter managers for distribution after Jeff KB4IWD returns from his recent cruise.
• There was a “Get to Know a Member” presentation by Evan Mann KM4SK. Rich Storzaker KB8MIS is scheduled to present at the May meeting.
• General club administrative topics were discussed by the Secretary and. The position of President and Vice President remain open at this time.
• Amit WY2Z discussed planning for an upcoming Technician training class with a need to secure adequate space for a class in early Fall 2026.
• Gordon NQ4K provide a summary of the recent QSO Party with 400+ logs already submitted. All logs are due by 4/15 with plaques being presented in June at the Manassas Hamfest.
• Kevin W4KLS discussed Field Day planning and suggested that the upcoming June meeting be conducted virtually and cover the details surrounding Field Day operations.
• The next SPARC club meeting is scheduled for May 6th with Gordon NQ4K leading a session of the “Running Game”. Refreshments will be provided by Paul KK4AIA.
• Kevin adjourned the meeting at 9:00