đź§µ General Discussion Highlights
- Host W3MFB opened with a reminder about AllStar/EchoLink check-ins, repeater etiquette, and local power issues. He ran the session off battery power due to flickering mains.
- N4MRW participates in a few VHF nets in Raleigh, NC when work allows. HF is currently unavailable at his QTH.
- W3JAM reminisced about past traffic nets on 75m and local VHF nets. He’s planning to rebuild his ham shack, with interest in rejoining nets once equipment is set up.
- K3DZM (Dylan) expressed dislike for overly formal nets. Enjoys the relaxed tone of 985 nets and prefers spontaneous QSOs, contests, and digital modes.
- W1RC echoed Dylan’s sentiment, preferring one-on-one QSOs. Mentioned past participation in 75m AM nets and local Massachusetts nets.
- WA3VEE mentioned multiple nets:
- Bruce Kelley Memorial Net (75m)
- eCars & SouthCars (HF)
- Red Rose Welfare Net (VHF)
- CARES (Christiana ARES/RACES)
- First State ARC Net
- Various six-meter nets (currently off-air due to equipment issues)
- WHCRW participates in:
- Salem NJ HF/VHF/UHF nets
- Saturday Simplex Net
- Red Rose nightly net
- NA3CW runs the AWA PM AM Net (Sundays). Strong preference for AM operation and old gear.
- W3GMS (Joe) reflected on CW traffic handling in the 1960s via EASN. Continues to run the W3AOA Memorial Net and the AM-focused AWA net. Described “fishing” for QSOs as his favorite style.
- AF3Z noted involvement in CW traffic nets during the 1980s. Now active in informal CW ragchew nets like the Lion and Cub nets.
- KC3YSM mostly active on 985. Mentioned C-CAR Net participation and Red Rose listening.
- KC3OOK, KD3EMS, N3CRE joined later, with brief mentions of net activity or apologies for not making the upcoming breakfast/field day.
- Barry KD3X checked in via text. Active on 6m sideband, eCars, and the 17m propagation net.
đź”§ Field Day and Event Prep Notes
- Multiple stations were actively preparing for a Field Day site visit the next morning following the net.
- Chuck (NA3CW) brought up his DIY coax fixture.
- Joe (W3GMS) handled logistics like meters, dummy loads, door prizes, and Field Day site coordination.
- Ron (WA3VEE) mentioned site gear status and previous loaned items still at the location.
đź“… Reminders
- Monday Workbench Net is still on as usual at 8 PM on 146.985 MHz.
- Stay hydrated and prepare for hot weather over the weekend.
- Check the Field Day agenda if attending, and come to the breakfast meetup if you're local.