BARS December Brunch

Saturday, 16 December, the weather outside wasn't frightful and the company inside was decidedly delightful and none of us had thoughts of let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.  Although the northern hemisphere's first day of  astronomical, winter is only five days away, today felt like a fall day.  Sunny skies, sixty-degree temperature and dry roads made it a perfect day for BARS December brunch and Christmas celebration. 

In addition to 10 GHz beacons and 24 and 47 GHz transverters, a recurring BARS theme is wineries.  Today we met at Chandler Hill Winery in southern St. Charles County (EM48) just a scant few miles from the historic Daniel Boone home.  Herbert, AF4JF accidentally discovered the winery while out on a "Sunday" drive with his wife Alice in search of potential, suitable microwave locations.  Great discovery H!

The winery opened at 11:00 am and Ron, KO0Z and Debbie arrived at 11:30 am to join Herbert, AF4JF; Mike, N0OBI; Harry, WA0CNS and Rich, N0PQU inside.  The food was delicious and the company excellent.  Inside we didn't cover many microwave topics.  The winery provided live music and the band, although very good, made carrying a group conversation somewhat difficult.

Before too long, we went outside to the parking lot and Harry showed us his 24 GHz transverter and dish project.  Herbert showed us his early Christmas present - a DB6NT 47 GHz transverter!  Herbert wasn't even a bit hesitant and allowed us to touch it!  

Mike, N0OBI, while at work, noticed a technician getting to discard a number of wall-wart power supplies.  So Mike took them off his hands and gave them to Herbert.  As luck would have it, I needed to replace my Peet Brother's Weather Station "Big Picture" power supply which was failing.  I needed a 12 VDC, 1 amp supply and Mike had 12 VDC, 2.5 amp supplies which turned out to be perfect.  Mike's wasn't sure if they all worked, but I am here to tell you that the two I selected work just fine and my home weather station display is once again working!  Tnx Mike and Herbert!

   
  Mike's wall-wart acquisition's proved to be just what I needed to power my weather display

 
                    The view from Chandler Hill Winery in St. Charles County, Missouri

                                    Chandler Hill Winery, EM 48 in St. Charles County

                  A splendid view of the vineyard in St. Charles County Femme Osage Valley

        BARS members present from left to right:  Debbie, KC9ULA; Mike, N0OBI; Harry, WA0CNS; Herbert, AF4JF; Rich, N0PQU and Ron, KO0Z enjoying brunch at the winery.

           Herbert, AF4JF, Mike, N0OBI and Harry, WA0CNS examining Harry's 24 GHz rig.

            Herbert, AF4JF's Christmas present - a Kuhne Electronics 47 GHz transverter!

                     Some of the sights seen in the Femme Osage Valley near the winery

    
                                                      73 and happy holidays to all!