Hello Again Everyone,
Once again, our busy season is winding down, and it’s been a whirlwind for some time now.
On June 28th & 29th, the OVH took part in ARRL Field Day 2025. Under the guidance of returning Field Day Chairwoman Cat, KM4PBD, we had another good Field Day weekend. I look forward to reading our official stats.
Despite the humidity and light rain, preparation started the day before, on Friday. Antenna lines were shot into the trees Friday afternoon.
We also had our second weather balloon launch (or second and third if you are going to be a stickler for such things) on Saturday. Please see the July 9th article on our OVH webpage for an in depth look as well as great graphics (a slideshow) of that event.
A big thank you to our project team: returning Chairman Bruce, KN4GDX; Bryon, AK4XR; Gil, KM4OZH & John, KG4NXT.
After the balloon launch, we had our Pot Luck Supper, and there was no shortage of camaraderie.
While still talking about June, I would like to remind you that hurricane season is June 1st to December 1st. Now would be a good time to review your preparation plans and supplies.
Even though the linked article was written in 2021, I believe it is a good read for our new hams as well as a good refresher for our grizzled vets. Family Comes First during Hurricane Preparation for Home and Station (arrl.org)
Back on the 4th of July, the OVH supported what used to be called “The Freedom Firecracker 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run”. They have since rebranded as “The IMDC Freedom Firecracker 5k and Sparkler 1 Mile”. The event was short & sweet. We were there by 7:30 AM & gone by 9:30-ish. And what a colorful group. Not as many in costume as the Turkey Trot, but still quite imaginative. Many in patriotic shirts & shorts, as well as an abundance of grown women in colorful and sparkly tutus. A big thank you to John, KG4NXT and his team of spotters – Greg, KM4CCG; Theresa, KG4TVM; Al, KB4BHB and Jerry, KR4EZZ..
Also, back in the first week of July was the popular 13 Colonies Special Event – 2025. It ran July 1st thru July 7th. Always a popular event.
You don’t have to wait until our in-person meetings to see everyone again; you can come out this Saturday, July 12th at 8:00 AM for the resumption of our monthly breakfasts! Pioneered by Byron, AK4XR, way back in the olden days (2019), we get together on the Saturday immediately before our Tuesday meetings at a table or two in the back of Yorkshire Restaurant for some good food and good conversation.
Yorkshire Restaurant
7537 Centreville Rd
Manassas, VA 20111
(703) 368-4905
We hope to see you there.
Next, our monthly meeting is Tuesday, July 15th, at 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM EDT
Buckhall VFD Hall
7190 Yates Ford Road
Manassas VA 20111
July’s presentation will be on AI (Artificial Intelligence). This will be my first time back since my wife’s and my medical issues, and I am really looking forward to this presentation.
If you are itching for some Hamfest action, the SVARC 74th Berryville Hamfest is just around the corner. I know a number of OVH members attend regularly, so you’re sure to see some of us. It’s just a few of weeks away on Sunday, August 3rd at the Clarke County Ruritan Fairgrounds in Berryville. For more details, visit the website: Berryville Hamfest – Shenandoah Valley Amateur Radio Club
Also, a reminder to check in to the OVH’s Thursday night VHF/UHF repeater net at 8 PM.
The details for that are on the OVH’s web site: https://w4ovh.net This is a great way to stay in touch.
Questions, comments or war stories can be directed to my e-mail: KN4DD@arrl.net
73,
Ken
KN4DD