Parks, People, and POTA: A Day to Remember with the Granite State Amateur Radio Association
The Granite State Amateur Radio Association (GSARA) recently hosted an unforgettable Parks on the Air (POTA) Meetup, and the airwaves were abuzz with excitement. With 26 members in attendance, the event was not just a gathering; it was a celebration of the spirit that amateur radio embodies - camaraderie, exploration, and the thrill of communication. Set against the serene backdrop of one of our local parks, we unfolded our antennas, tuned our transceivers, and set out to make waves, quite literally! Here's a recap of our fun and the memories we created.
As the day progressed, the park was alive with the sounds of Morse code (CW), the clarity of voice communications, and the digital pings of Winlink. The rhythmic tapping of CW, the enthusiastic calls of CQ, and the digital tones of packet radio painted a picture of diversity in operation modes that our club members thoroughly enjoyed.
The excitement was particularly palpable among several of our members who, for the first time, activated a park. Their calls were met with responses from across the country, marking their inaugural foray into the POTA program with success. The sense of accomplishment and the smiles on their faces were a testament to the joy that amateur radio brings.
Between making contacts, our event became a treasure trove of shared knowledge. The park turned into an open-air classroom where experienced operators and newcomers alike exchanged a wealth of ideas about gear setups, go-boxes, and antenna configurations. From the simplest of wire antennas to the more sophisticated directional beams, there was much to learn and admire. The hands-on experience provided invaluable lessons that manuals alone could never convey.
More than just an opportunity to log contacts, our POTA Meetup was a chance to strengthen the bonds within our community. Old friends caught up, new friendships were formed, and stories from the ether were shared. Laughter and good-natured banter complemented the crackle of radio static, creating a warm atmosphere of fellowship.
As the day came to a close and our last QSOs were logged, it was clear that our POTA Meetup with the Granite State Amateur Radio Association was a resounding success. We not only celebrated the joy of amateur radio but also embraced the beauty of nature and the strength of our community.
The good news is, this isn't a one-time event. We are thrilled to announce that we will be holding a fall event for our next POTA Meetup. The anticipation is already building for another day of outdoor radio fun, and we encourage both seasoned hams and those new to the hobby to join us. Keep an eye on our club's announcements for the date and location. Until then, 73, and keep the frequencies alive with the spirit of POTA!
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