Hey everyone,
I hope your Halloween went well!
I made a how-to video to get you started using the MyGMRS Network. The video and full transcript can be found here, or under the Information tab on the menu.
I hope the video helps explain how to use the new equipment with your radio(s).
I should be installing the new equipment here within a week. So, make sure you know how to use it before you jump on. 😎
The next item, and possibly the most oversized item…
I had an excellent hour+ call on Tuesday (10/31/23) with one of the Front Range GMRS administrators, and he informed me that they are going the route of a non-profit. They have started talking to the people they need to and filling out the appropriate forms.
Their club does align with everything I believe in and the path I’ve wanted to take our club. But, the options that I pose to you are…
- 1. Should we merge with them and become a part of their large club? If we do that, all of my equipment will become theirs as “business items.” If we need new equipment or something breaks down, the club’s treasury will pay for it from the intake (pool) of donations. They also want to do some “NWS Skywarn,” Emergency, and other activities utilizing GMRS. We could have separate meetings here in the springs so we all don’t have to drive as far. But of course, we would still be able to be a part of the main activities via our repeater(s), even if we didn’t attend the Denver ones.
- 2. Should we keep everything as it is but become an “Affiliate” of theirs, meaning we would have to keep taking care of all of the bills on our own from either member donations or repeater owners, the only difference being is that we would have to sign a contract (MOU Agreement). At any point, any side could cancel that contract. We would have to start from the beginning again.
- 3. Or, we could also say no and stay out of all this? Nothing changes from what they are right now.
I also learned from their admin. that starting January 1st, 2024, all donations that are processed through PayPal will be taxed and have to be reported to the IRS! If we do nothing and stay as we are now, I will be forced to consider a different donation option. If we join up with the “Front Range GMRS” group, then not only would it be pooled with all of the members they have (1500+), but it would also become tax deductible.
I wanted to get feedback from all of you since this club is all about the members!
I will have to decide within the next month or so.
So, let me know down below, in the comments section, what your thoughts are and which number you like/think is the best.! 
I also wanted to give a huge shout out to “Dan Aquilina” for your donation! It is very much appreciated and will go towards equipment, and bills that are coming up. 🥳
Thanks, everyone,
Your Pikes Peak GMRS President
Alex, this is very exciting news! Not being in the area yet, I don’t know how busy the COS repeater is. If it’s a slow repeater, I choose #1! Link up with the Front Range group. I’ve already become a member with that group also. I love the fact they are involved in Sky Warn also. I’m a trained spotter here in NC. Things are moving along nicely here. I should be living in COS by Jan 8th! We can hardly wait to get there. I plan to donate to the cause once I am using the system. Just kind of laying back until I get there and see how it all works. Thank you for the hard work!
John
I think it might be a positive and a good idea but except for the money you have put into getting 650 running. Some sort of compensation would be nice. The idea of if something were to break down and most likely be covered is maybe a large part of that compensation. Is it enough? I don’t know enough to answer that question. Either way I support any decision you make. You have done well so far. Thanks, Howard