The annual EAWA Ham Radio Symposium, held on Saturday, April 18, offered attendees five presentations, several information tables, a raffle, light refreshments, and wonderful conversation. The event started at noon with greetings from John KQ1P, the President of the Ellsworth Amateur Wireless Association, and Jeff KA1DBE, the Symposium Coordinator. Below is a quick review of the presentations and photos of special interest groups represented at the symposium.
The first presenter, Marion W1GRL, shared ways to get the most from a free app called “HamAlert.” The app sends notifications when certain callsigns or locations are active. She demonstrated how to set conditions using several examples, including setting alerts for when a friend is activating a POTA park on a particular band, a needed state for WAS (worked all states) for a particular band and mode, specific needed POTA parks are activated, and when needed DXCC entities are active. One item she emphasized is the use of the spotters’ locations, choosing spotters that make it more likely a ham can hear the other station. A second item was the value of connecting ClubLog to HamAlert.
The second presenter, Gerry W1VE, demonstrated how easy it is to use a remote radio connection to make a QSO. He shared stories to illustrate the value of remote radio, and busted the myth that remote radio is always an expensive operation. The information he presented can be found at https://remote.radio. Gerry also shared an app he created to show operators where propagation is in their favor, the RBN S-Meter. This app is found at https://rbsm.rm.gl/.
The third presentation, given by David and Dakota, was an introduction to MaineMesh, an off-grid Mesh Network. They shared reasons why this off-grid communication system is useful, and why they chose Meshtastic over Meshcore for their needs. For someone who would like to be a part of the mesh network, they shared tips on choosing mobile and base station hardware, and filters, as well as ways to configure the settings. You can learn more at MaineMesh.org. The pair highly recommended the Discord to find more information.
Greg KC1RID was the fourth presenter, sharing tips for 3D printing ham radio-related items. He summarized some of the evolution of 3D printers, comparing previous high cost/early development printers to the current wide-ranging cost points and capabilities available today. The talk began with an introduction for anyone unfamiliar with 3D printing, moved to equipment and CAD software considerations, and then explored ham-radio related projects. Greg brought many actual examples of the items he discussed in his slide presentation. His primary message was that with current capabilities and resources, anyone can master the basics of 3D printing for ham radio-related items.
The fifth and final presentation was given by Jeff KA1DBE, highlighting the various uses for APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System). The primary focus of the talk was to show that APRS can be used for messaging as well as tracking. He reviewed how to send messages and bulletins, check your inbox, and use QRX and APRSLink.
Between sessions, attendees had an opportunity to browse several information tables as well as talk with presenters and enjoy some snacks. Members of three special interest groups set up information tables and stayed close to answer any questions.
The 2026 annual symposium ended with a 50/50 raffle drawing and many declarations of success! Special thanks goes out to Jeff KA1DBE for taking the lead on this event, the presenters, and the many helpers who made this special afternoon possible. All who attended left with new knowledge and inspiration to try some new things. It’s clear why the annual symposium is a highlight in the yearly schedule of the EAWA.
Written by Marion W1GRL
W1TU 