I had some plans for the Labor Day holiday but I wanted to get out to play radio for a bit. I threw my KX3 and Alexloop into my truck and drove to nearby Upper Schuylkill Valley Park. Although there were more people picnicking than usual, I found an isolated spot along the river.
It only took a few minutes to set up. It was a little breezy along the river, so I clamped the Alexloop to the picnic table.
I started out on 30 meters and gave KB6NU a call. Dan heard me out in Michigan but the QSB was really bad. He gave me an RST of 229. Next up was a nice chat with John WW4DX in North Carolina. He was really booming into Pennsylvania this morning.
I moved up to 20 meters and had a short QSO with Sam WZ4L in Tennessee. I wrapped up with a nice two-way QRP chat with Grady AJ4YA in North Carolina. We experienced some QRM but managed to complete the QSO.
The bands seemed to be a little “short” this morning and I definitely had a pipeline to the South. I have used the Alexloop at this location a few times before and it always seems to favor a southerly direction.
Although I could have stayed out there all day in this great weather, I needed to get home to throw some chicken on the smoker and make sure the beer is cold. As always, I have my priorities in order!
I hope all of my U.S. friends have a safe and enjoyable Labor Day holiday.
72, Craig WB3GCK
WB3GCK QRP Amateur Radio 