As one would expect after the largest event on the club calendar, this meeting centered on Field Day reflections and what’s ahead in the second half of the calendar year. It was clear from the personal stories and total points scored that Field Day 2024 was a great success. Those who were new to the event shared how they learned so much from the various stations. Those who are veterans focused on how well things came together — publicity, equipment, food, teamwork, effort, and focus. As for the scoring, we outperformed last year with a score of 6,645 points.
Among the other topics was the popular “13 Colonies Special Event” that catches the attention of many club members. It is an 8 day event requiring the hunter to find 13 stations and 3 extra bonus stations. Several people shared their hunting strategies, modes, and their ‘hardest to catch’ stations. This special event is part of a summer triad:
Lewis & Clark Trail On The Air, first two weeks of June
13 Colonies Special Event, first week of July
Route 66 On The Air, second week of September
A new program just getting off the ground is the EAWA Lend and Learn Library. We are encouraging club members to bring radio-related books they want to lend or give away to other members to the August club meeting. If successful and helpful, there are plans to make this a part of each August and January club meeting. Of course, sharing information is always a good thing and club members may exchange books at any club gathering.
Another announcement for the August 8th meeting, the program will be about GADGETS! All members and friends are encouraged to bring that radio-related gadget that makes a big difference in the workings of their shacks.
Finally, during the break between the business meeting and the program, Steve W1DTX shared some news. His station is now providing coverage for all of Maine and significant portion of neighboring Canada to the existing NVIS (Near-Vertical-Incidence-Skywave) Packet HF Forwarding Network. This allows packet message forwarding in and out of the state.
W1TU 