Support Your Parks Weekend: A Celebration of Community and Amateur Radio - POTA Meetup
Over 14 hams gathered at Bear Brook State Park, bringing their equipment and expertise to the event. The atmosphere was electric as operators set up their stations, eager to make contacts and share their experiences. Whether it was participating in on-air contests, experimenting with new equipment, or simply enjoying the camaraderie, the weekend was filled with laughter and learning.
This October, amateur radio enthusiasts from across the region came together for the highly anticipated Support Your Parks weekend, an event that celebrates the beauty of our national and state parks while promoting the spirit of community among ham operators. One of the standout gatherings took place at the picturesque Bear Brook State Park, thanks to the remarkable coordination by John (KB1ICL).
A Perfect Venue
Bear Brook State Park, known for its stunning landscapes and serene atmosphere, served as the perfect backdrop for this year’s meetup. With its vast woodlands and tranquil surroundings, it provided an ideal setting for both seasoned operators and newcomers to connect, share stories, and enjoy the hobby we all love. The park’s facilities, including campgrounds and picnic areas, made it easy for attendees to settle in and make the most of the weekend.
John (KB1ICL) played a pivotal role in organizing the event. His meticulous planning and outreach efforts ensured that the meetup was not only well-attended but also ran smoothly. From coordinating the logistics of the campsite to setting up communication channels for the event, John’s dedication was evident. His enthusiasm for amateur radio and passion for the outdoors inspired many to join in and participate.
A Gathering of Enthusiasts
Over 14 hams gathered at Bear Brook State Park, bringing their equipment and expertise to the event. The atmosphere was electric as operators set up their stations, eager to make contacts and share their experiences. Whether it was participating in on-air contests, experimenting with new equipment, or simply enjoying the camaraderie, the weekend was filled with laughter and learning.
In addition to operating from the park, several attendees opted to camp out, adding a layer of adventure to the weekend. As the sun set and stars filled the sky, the campfire became a hub for sharing stories and discussing techniques, further strengthening the bonds formed over the airwaves.
The Spirit of Support Your Parks
Support Your Parks weekend isn’t just about amateur radio; it’s about giving back to the natural spaces we cherish. Many participants took time to engage in park clean-up activities, ensuring that Bear Brook State Park remains a beautiful destination for future visitors. This commitment to preserving our environment reflects the values of the amateur radio community and highlights the importance of stewardship.
Looking Forward
As the weekend came to a close, the spirit of community and collaboration lingered in the air. The relationships formed and the experiences shared at Bear Brook State Park underscored the essence of what it means to be part of the amateur radio community. Thanks to John (KB1ICL) and all the participants, the event was a resounding success, leaving everyone eager for next year’s gathering.
In conclusion, Support Your Parks weekend is not just an event; it’s a reminder of our shared love for nature, community, and amateur radio. We look forward to more adventures in the great outdoors, where we can continue to connect with each other and with the world around us. Until next time, keep the airwaves alive and the spirit of camaraderie strong!
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 the fun we had and the memories we created.
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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