For any clubmates interested in Winter Field Day who may not have any place from which to participate, this may be of interest to you.
Winter Field Day will be conducted on January 25-26, 2025. Although Sumter County ARES itself will not be coordinating this year's event as it has in the past, Sumter ARES is providing a venue where any amateur radio operator can participate in Winter Field Day, regardless of whether or not they are affiliated with any organization.
Click here for more information about Winter Field Day.
Although this event is commonly recognized as a contest to see how many contacts can be made on different bands and using different modes, OUR focus will be on LEARNING. So if you want to learn more about how:
To participate in a contest without the anxiety.
To properly erect antennas in a field environment.
To use a Nano VNA and Antenna Analyzer to check antennas and feedlines.
To operate different types of amateur radios.
To make contacts using phone, CW and digital modes.
To operate various amateur related computer software.
This event will be held at my QTH, 12391 SR 471, Webster, FL 33597. Talk-In frequency is on the KX4LEO repeater on 147.360 (+) PL/ 97.4, and the K4HOG repeater on 147.030 (+) PL/ 123.0. Earl Hassemer, W9EJH, is coordinating this event. If you would like to participate, or if you have any questions about the event, please contact Earl by email at earlh@bloomer.net or on the air on the K4HOG repeater (147.030). We will have a campfire Saturday evening. We may need it Hi Hi. Bring your own hotdogs, marshmallows, drinks, and chairs. Sumter County ARES is providing the equipment, however, if you would like to bring and use your own, you are certainly welcome to. We look forward to seeing you at this learning opportunity.
Mark Newby, KX4LEO
Emergency Coordinator
Sumter County ARES