Join Us for Radio Conversation & Support

Posted on by Marion Mason

Every Wednesday, and twice a month on Sundays, EAWA members and friends gather for ham radio conversations and workshop-style support for kits, home-brew builds, and troubleshooting. Perhaps you will join us sometime?

“Clandestine Coffee” provides an easy, enjoyable way to get know ham radio operators in the Downeast area. We usually have 10 to 20 EAWA members and friends around the tables, some coming from as far away as Belfast and Millbridge. Conversations often touch on many radio topics, reflecting the diverse interests of EAWA members.

We meet around 9:30, at Flexit Cafe, 142 Main Street, in downtown Ellsworth. As you walk in, look for the “Reserved” tables to the right.

Like Clandestine Coffee, everyone is welcomed to join in the Weekend Sessions as well. These workshop-style sessions begin at noon at the Meadow View Phase 4 Community Room, 25 Tweedie Lane in Ellsworth (see map here). We regularly have hams come just to hang out and see what everyone else is working on. People often bring in items they are working on, both hardware and software, to share or assemble, and perhaps get advice. Lately there have been soldering activities, assistance with logging programs, and trouble-shooting older equipment.

In the top left photo, Dick W1KRP is working on a kit, Mark W1ABY is working on logging, and Phil N1EP, along with Barbara KC1SSY and Tracey AC1UN, are checking out the club station equipment. The top right shows Phil hunting for QSOS. In the lower left, while Dick is working, Mark, Barbara, and Phil are exploring LOTW. The lower right photo shows Stan W1BOY and Mel W1MEB examining an antenna tilt mount.

Unlike Clandestine Coffee, which happens every Wednesday, the Weekend Sessions are held only in the fall and winter months. We have 4 sessions left: March 8 and 22, and April 12 and 26. While you are thinking of what’s on your calendar, make a note that the EAWA’s Annual Ham Radio Symposium, held at the same location, is scheduled for Saturday, April 18. Check this website for more Symposium details as they are announced.

Chris K1WJY and Mark W1ABY, were sharing in Dick’s (W1KRP) build of a Meshtastic node. Dick shared how the Meshtastic network system works, much like texting on a phone.

The EAWA is an active group! Whether you are a member of the club or not, don’t be shy about joining us for any event, or get to know us through our EAWA Facebook group. Amateur radio is an awesome “hobby of a thousand hobbies,” and part of that is joy comes from sharing in a community. We hope to see you soon!
Written by Marion W1GRL

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