Metrocrest Amateur Radio Society
News
October 11, 2025
Beyond Windows 10
Microsoft ends support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. At the October 10 meeting, David Gilpin, K5GIL, gave an excellent talk about what you can do to upgrade to Windows 11 even if your machine doesn’t meet specs. He offered advice about buying a new machine if you want to do that. You’ll find his presentation video and links on MARS’ YouTube channel.
MARS Sets Raffle for Christmas
Our annual Christmas raffle prize for 2025 is a very nice Kenwood TH-D75A tri-band (144-220-430 MHz) HT. Sporting a TFT color display, the rig features D-STAR, APRS, a KISS TNC, and built in GPS. MARS is including a copy of RT Systems programming software and Kenwood’s TH-75A Operating Tips book as well. Tickets are $5 each or 5 for $20—a bargain! Go now to our RAFFLE page to buy yours.
Meanwhile mark the date, December 11 at 7:00 PM. MARS again will convene at the American Legion Post 597 in downtown Carrollton for our annual Christmas party and dinner. New on the menu will be your choice of salmon as well as chicken and steak. The price remains the same as before, $25 per plate. A cash bar will be ready to serve you as well. You can make your online reservations soon so monitor the EVENTS page for updates.
Next Regular Meeting
Thursday, November 13, 2025, 7:00 PM
You’ll find more details on the EVENTS page.
License Testing
Allan Batteiger, WB5QNG, will have an in-person test session on the third
Saturday, October 18, 2025.
Check the EVENTS page for details. Allan continues to offer remote testing sessions as well. Please visit https://wb5qng.org/ to learn how to sign up.
Jamboree on the Air
MARS will join Carrollton Cub Scout Pack 121 for Jamboree On The Air Sunday, October 19. We will set up one or two stations and help Scouts learn about amateur radio and get on the air.
We’re needing volunteers to set up and work the event. Contact George Williams, KG5GXU, vpresident@KB5A.org to let him know you’re ready to help.
Switchyard Fest on for November
MARS plans to have a booth again at this year’s Festival at the Switchyard in downtown Carrollton. As in years past this is our best opportunity to showcase Amateur Radio.
Back again will be the popular “Kid Code Key.” Youngsters (and oldsters) will try their fists with a straight key (no, it’s not on the air).
We invite and encourage hams from all over to stop by for an eyeball QSO. If you are in another club, bring some of your brochures to hand out.
It’s not yet confirmed, but our usual spot is at the corner of Broadway and 2nd Avenue in downtown Carrollton. https://goo.gl/maps/WDVDf8LWEywyaDe87
We can use your help making this another great event. We need volunteers to set up, work the rigs, greet guests, and encourage potential hams. The Festival is Saturday, November 8. Two-hour shifts are available from 8 AM to 10 PM Saturday. We usually wrap before 10 PM. Contact George Williams, KG5GXU, vpresident@KB5A.org to let him know you’re ready to help.
Support MARS When You Shop
A percentage of your purchases can be donated when you visit Tom Thumb, or Kroger at no extra cost to you. Please go to the SUPPORT page to learn how.
Donate to MARS
Is your FCC license information up to date? Go now to review and make changes if needed.
“ARES®” and “Amateur Radio Emergency Service®” are registered service marks of the American Radio Relay League, Incorporated and are used by permission.
Carrollton
Farmers Branch
Addison
ARES/RACES
Next scheduled nets
ARES® Training
October 12, 2025, 8:00 PM CT
145.210 Tone 110.9
RACES Training
October 19, 2025, 7:45 PM CT
145.210 Tone 110.9
