I wrapped the weekend with a final activation on Sunday at US-0548 Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge.

A typical activation, typical for this weekend because it was dark and drizzly driving in but I single handedly changed the weather North Texas by choosing a spot under cover.  You’re welcome.

Loadout:

• Yaesu FT-891
• MFJ-921 Travel Tuner
• ExpertPower 12V 20Ah Lithium LiFePO4
• BaMaKeY TP-III Paddles
• Spiderbeam 10m Mini fiberglass pole
• PackTenna Mini Random Wire Antenna (9:1 UNUN)
• ABR Industries RG-316 w/ ferrite beads

I’ve driven by this covered picnic area countless times and never considered it.  Today, every other spot was under water, so I gave it a try.  Turned our it was comfortable and RF-quiet.  Though I did subject several nature walkers to incessant beeps and boops.

I was joined by two good radio friends, KG5FDT Ricky Jessen and W5DRT David Turner.  Both are veteran POTA activators and I really enjoyed their company and humor.  Funny thing:  They both prefer SSB – talking to people.  Weird.

Activation

I got set up with FT-891 and my Packtenna EFRW on a 10-meter mast at about 13:00. I found an empty frequency on 20 meters, called QRL, spotted, and got down to business.  The band was a bit better than yesterday with just a little QSB.  I was in a small pile up when Dave arrived and once I’d cleared the que with 25 QSOs, I called QRT and we sat for a nice chat about CW, POTA, and radios in general.  Dave never fails to impress me with his intelligence: He’s a man who does significant research when he’s curious.

Ricky joined us and after the usual nods and handshakes, the three of us enjoyed more conversation.  For me, POTA has been a solitary adventure.  I do enjoy that, but it’s nice to share an activation with like minded friends.  It’s endlessly interesting to hear other activator’s perspectives, preferences, and priorities.

I dug in and got another dozen or so QSOs then shut down and gave 20m to Ricky and Dave.  It’s a real treat to watch and listen to these guys work side band.  They’re both calm and easy and can think on their feet like the best phone operators.  They leave every activator feeling noticed and valued without dragging things out.  Unlike me, who leaves my sideband contacts a little confused.  I just lack their cool presence of mind.  I get a simple question like, “Is it summer yet, there?”  and blurt out, “Chicken tacos!  73!”  I’m better in the DitWit world.

Thanks for coming out, guys.  I had a better day because you were there!

TNX ES 73,
KA5TXN
DitWit

15m	2
CW	1
SSB	1
20m	37
CW	36
SSB	1
Grand Total	39