07/12/2008 | K0CD The St. Croix Valley Radio Amateurs held Field Day at the Government Center in Hudson, Wisconsin. It was nice to have a roof over our heads, as the day was on and off rain. Contacts were good using an IC 7000 and multi-band dipole antenna.

A Proclamation from Hudson mayor, Dean Knudson, declared June 22-29 as "Amateur Radio Awareness Week." We felt this year's event reached into the community in a bigger way, and 4 visitors indicated an interest in becoming licensed.

A display showing the growth in radio technology was set up: A 1940's Hallecrafter, 1970's Yaesu 101FT, and current equipment such as transcievers, hand helds, various antennas, voltmeters, etc. This was an effective "show and tell" for visitors. Books like "Radio Rescue," and Ham Radio manuals were included.

An emphasis was put on involving young people, and several were able to make contacts. Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts were welcomed. Public officials were invited to attend. Fire and Rescue departments around the county were also invited, and this resulted in one unit deciding to install ham radio equipment in their emergency vehicle.

On Saturday evening a pot luck supper was enjoyed by hams, family members and other guests, such as the 911 operators working in the adjacent room. The night owls who stayed the course through the night reported good contacts on CW.

We are already looking forward to Field Day 2009! -- KC9GYM -- KC9GYM