07/07/2008 | K8DV We set up everything outside on the picnic table, but had to run for cover when the rains arrived. Total time to set up was maybe ten minutes... (had trouble figuring out the menu to get the autotuner to work on the new radio)... total time to dismantle and move inside... three minutes max.

We experimented with:

New portable vertical antenna - it worked great - two minute setup and takedown

Honda Generator purchased from Hamvention - it worked great

RTTY - made several contacts and learned the mode a little better

Different mics to see how they performed - the Heil dual element didn't win

Learned a little more about a new radio (ICOM 7000)

Had great food and beer including shrimp cocktail, filet mignon sandwiches (with bernaise, tzaziki and horseradish sauces), salsa, chips, 2 pasta salads, cucumber salad, assorted cheeses, assorted desserts from Fresh Market, and a bunch of other stuff.

Operators: AA8HH, AA8MC and K8DV -- K8DV