Author Archive: Paul Harrington

The 2024 Winter Field Day was a great success!! We had three HF stations and operated from 1:00pm Saturday until 1:00pm Sunday. Hats off the die-hard hams who braved the cold and stayed all night. Fueled by propane heaters and hot coffee they operated through 33 degree temps until the early morning light began to warm their frozen feet and fingers.

We had lots of food. Travis N5UB smoked brisket and pork shoulder. It was delicious! Later in the evening Rebecca KJ5CSJ brought homemade beef stew that warmed the heart and soul. There were sides and plenty of snacks.

We setup several antennas including one or two of the EFHWs we built in October. We operated mostly on battery power but had a generator as well. Frozen fingers searched the bands (15, 20, 40) for contacts. We made over 100 contacts, but In the wee hours there was more huddling around the heaters that members graciously provided, than actual contacts. The bands were pretty dead late into the night. Perhaps next year we’ll incorporate 80 and 160 meters.

We’ve already started planning for Summer Field Day, June 22, 2024. Both summer and winter field days are great ways to get operating experience and learn about our hobby. Please plan to join in on the fun, operate outside your license class and get some great experience at this year’s summer field day next year’s winter field day!