Two members of the EAWA, Phil N1EP and Barbara KC1SSY, had a great time at the recent Northeast HamXposition (HamX) and ARRL New England Division Convention (August 21-24, Marlborough, MA). Phil reported that the convention was well attended and well supported with vendors, booth displays, tailgaters, and presenters. Some of the program topics that caught his attention were satellite communications, loop antennas, and end-fed wire antennas. One of Phil’s highlights was to meet fellow Seaguller Jim KC1TQN. Jim is a regular check-in to the Seagull Net sessions that Phil leads on Wednesday evenings.
Barbara KC1SSY also reported strong attendance and commented on the hard choices to made between the many informative presentations and activities. Some of the presentations Barbara attended focused on the SKYWARN Storm Spotter Program, FEMA Region 1, an Antarctica expedition, contesting with a modest station, and MARS (Military Auxiliary Radio System). One of Barbara’s highlights was to meet up with Barbara KC1KGS, the District One Chair for the YLRL (Young Ladies Radio League) and attend the YL Meet-Up. Barbara KC1KGS has grown familiar with active women in the EAWA through the YLRL monthly newsletter. She often says she wishes she lived closer to us so she could join in our supportive, vibrant group.
Phil and Barbara enjoyed the speakers at the banquets and the morning gathering. Barbara was particularly taken with the presentation given by Thomas K4SWL. He reminded the attendees that we represent the global ham radio community, and of the importance of being welcoming. Thomas’s community was devastated by Hurricane Helene in September 2024. This experience and others are prompting him to share, as he did in the keynote address, the need to be empathetic and focus on the present moment.
Both Phil and Barbara remarked on the joy of seeing old friends and meeting new hams. These kinds of gatherings, as well as Hamfests, Field Days, and other shared radio activities strengthen our world-wide ham community. Speaking of gatherings, mark your calendars:
**Windsor Hamfest, September 6
**Alexander Hamfest, September 20
**NEAR-Fest, October 3-4
If you see Phil or Barabara, ask them about ‘Marlborough’ — they may just talk you in to attending next year!
Written by Marion W1GRL
W1TU 