MARA Blog

From Joe WB1WCK and Wendy KC1TLT

Decided to take advantage of the nice day and headed to Cook’s Pond WMA (US-11620) for a short hike and QRP activation. 40m was pretty good today. Thanks to PAWA and MARA club members Fran- KC1NDQ, Gary- NA1R, and John-WI1G (in NH) for the contacts! Just a reminder, time to start wearing an orange cap again in Wildlife Management Areas. We did see a hunter in camo shooting a shotgun on the pond.

73, Joe-KB1WCK and Wendy- KC1TLT

From Wendy KC1TLT and Joe KB1WCK (2 Oct 2026)

Headed over to Beavertail State Park and Lighthouse (US-2868) for some hiking and a QRP CW activation. Beautiful spot on a beautiful day! Definitely a trip worth taking if you haven’t been there yet. Thanks to MARA and PAWA club members Fran-KC1NDQ, Gary-NA1R, Tom-K1TH, Connie-KA1YL and John-WI1G for the contacts!

73, Joe-KB1WCK and Wendy-KC1TLT.

From Tom WA1TOM (16 Sep 2026)

This was an enjoyable activation at Burrage Pond WMA US-11614. Hiked in and did a spot on the tiles app. Worked all the usual suspects toady. Thanks Frank W1FIC, Joe KB1WCK, Wendy KC1TLT, John WI1G, Gary NA1R, Jason N1ZAG and Mike N1NTM. I used the FX4CR with the EFHW and all contacts were QRP. Great Day…..WA1TOM

From Jim KM1TWL:

Are you a traffic handler, or was ever interested in learning more about traffic handling? Maybe you’re not even sure what traffic handling is. Perhaps you’re a Tech that has found their way into DMR, YSF, or other digital modes and have not (yet) known much about traffic handling – a structured way to get messages (radiograms – think of it like an on air telegram), in and out of areas, especially in emergency scenarios where other communication methods are not available.

NEDVTN is a modern traffic net based on traditional methods. It is an independent amateur radio net that bridges modern digital repeater networks and reflectors with traditional National Traffic System/Radio Relay International routing, opening formal messaging to all licensed operators across various operating modes.

This is very much a net where all skill levels of traffic handling are welcome (including no prior experience), and questions are welcome. Mistakes will be made, and we will all learn from each other.

Starting October 1 2026, the net will meet Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays at 2045 ET on the XLS-097 New England Digital Reflector. The net, at this time, is an independent net, and therefore not affiliated with the ARRL or NTS. However, the success of the net paves the way for possible future affiliation.

From net manager Mike W1VEG,

“NEDVTN gives operators an accessible, crystal-clear way to participate in regional traffic handling, extending our message pathways across all of New England.

Stations of all experience levels are welcome to join the net and practice traffic handling. This is an encouraging environment for new traffic handing stations, and we commit to helping you learn to the extent you commit to learning.

Whether you are an experienced traffic handler or checking in for the first time without traffic, your participation strengthens our emergency communications readiness. We encourage you to check into the next net on the XLX-097 Reflector.”

To learn more, visit https://www.nedvtn.net/

From Wendy KC1TLT and Joe WB1WCK:

Took advantage of the nice weather and went on another POTA adventure. Hiked in to Camp Cachalot US-11615 (2.43 miles in total). Found a nice shady spot at the old firing range among the ruins of the camp. We were both able to make our activations.
73, Joe-KB1WCK and Wendy- KC1TLT.

From Tom WA1TOM:

What do you do when your vehicle needs a new windshield. You pack your POTA gear, play Frogger trying to cross 44, get permission from the U-Haul to access US-0891 from behind their building and go play radio. I hunted KB1WCK Joe and WC1N Bob on CW and KB1NNH Gerry on SSB. Not a bad way to make 2 hours fly by. de WA1TOM.