Repeater System Upgrade Completed
Starting Time
Monday at 19:00 on the Sacaton 447.725 MHz repeater
We’re excited to announce that MARA has completed a major upgrade to our digital repeater and reflector systems.
The improvements enhance performance across D-Star, DMR, YSF, and NXDN, offering clearer signals, stronger coverage, and more reliable connections for operators throughout Maricopa and beyond.
Members are encouraged to check in, test the new system, and share feedback with our technical team.
Monday Night Net Growing Strong
Monday at 19:00 on the Sacaton 447.725 MHz repeater
The MARA Monday Night Net continues to gain momentum, bringing together amateur radio operators from across Maricopa and surrounding areas. Held every Monday at 19:00 on the Sacaton 447.725 MHz repeater (–5 MHz offset, PL 100.00 Hz), this weekly gathering is open to everyone—membership is not required.
Joining the Monday Night Net is a great way to learn, connect, and become an active part of our vibrant amateur radio community.
MICHAEL MILLS, MARA PRESIDENT, RECEIVES DX CENTURY CLUB AWARD
02/07/2026 – Michael Mills, NO7S, President of the Maricopa Amature Radio Association (MARA), has been certified by the American Radio Relay League (AARL) as a member of the “DX Century Club”. This designation is given to operators who have participated in verified two-way radio communications with 100 or more different countries. The award is granted by the American Radio Relay League (AARL). Michael (left) is being presented a cerificate from the AARL by MARA Special Board Advisor Steve Miller (W6DSM). Congratulatioins Michael!
NET CONTROLLER SCHEDULE
02/23 -Tom Betz K0DWZ
03/02 – Michael Mills NO7S
03/09 – Tim Swanson WB7SCK
03/16 – Dave Hagan KK7FWJ
03/23 – Mike Hanrion KJ7VZM
03/30 – Tom Betz K0DWZ
04/06 – Michael Mills NO7S
04/13 – Mike Hanrion KJ7VZM
04/20 – Tim Swanson WB7SCK
04/27 – Dave Hagan KK7FWJ
05/04 – Mike Hanrion KJ7VZM
05/11 – Tom Betz K0DWZ
05/18 – Dave Hagan KK7FWJ
05/25 – Mike Hanrion KJ7VZM
CLUB MOURNS THE LOSS OF POPULAR HAM, JOHN POCIUS
The MARA club lost a good friend on February 6th, with the passing of John Pocius. Excerpts in italics below from Dignity Memorial https://tinyurl.com/ykmseb4s. You can leave a remembrance there if you wish.
John was born on December 18, 1954 in Chicago, IL, the son of Vincent and Antonietta ( nee Dal Pozzo). Brother to Mark and Gerald. John married his high school sweetheart Marcia ( Lawton) on January 31, 1976. They had recently celebrated their 50th wedding Anniversary. John is survived by his wife Marcia, daughter Cheryl (Keith) Austin, son Jeremy (Jennifer), granddaughter Gianna Sophia. Brother Gerald (Lois) and many nieces, nephews and adopted kids.
On February 16th, in honor of John, the Maricopa Amatuer Radio Club held a Silent Key ceremony during the club’s weekly Monday Night Net. Many club members testified to John’s kindness, and many remarked on the joy John brought to the Net with his signature rich baritone voice. He’d always start his check in with “Good evening friends and neighbors…” and often could be heard “lurking” on the Sacaton repeater. John’s name and call sign (KJ7HXA), will be moved with honor to the club’s Silent Key Roll.
John will be missed by all, and our hearts go out to his many family and friends.