FIELD DAY 2003 @ KA2BEO

Our tenth consecutive Field Day since 1994 turned out to be one of the least 
troublesome. Even though nothing was planned, last minute organization led 
to one of our smoothest setups ever. This was our second year operating in 
the Club category, Class A. Jeff, KC2IHZ attempted to receive slow-scan 
television (SSTV) for a non-traditional mode demonstration using his Icom 
PCR-1000, but was forced to abandon the idea due to noisy band conditions. 
John, N2PHX brought his repaired Van Gorden G5RV antenna from last year. 
Amazingly, the wire antenna went up without a hitch, but with some space 
restrictions, ended up pointing south. The southern direction is less-than-
ideal for our East-coast location during an American and Canadian operating 
event, such as Field Day. This year, we avoided VHF, UHF, packet, and PSK31. 
However, we made the minimum contacts required for natural-power bonus points 
using QRP on the 40-meter band. The 5-watt transceiver was powered by John's 
12-volt exercise bike generator that my nephew, Arthur managed to pedal long 
enough for me to work five CW stations, with the furthest QRP contact being 
in Michigan. Our score doubled from last year, and poolside operating helped 
to make this Field Day another fun weekend for all involved. We'll see you 
next year. 73 de Rob, KA2BEO.