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Join the Excitement: Winter Field Day 2026 is here! CANCELLED!

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W2RRC Winter Field Day Update — CANCELLED (Field Setup)

After watching the forecast for Jan 24–25, 2026 White River Radio & Communications (W2RRC) is officially canceling our in-the-field participation for Winter Field Day.

We’ve done Winter Field Day in nasty weather before. We already know we can set up and operate portable in adverse conditions — and we do portable stuff regularly (POTA proves that). This weekend just isn’t worth the risk. With the combination of extreme cold and the potential for snow/ice, we do not want anyone traveling or setting up in unsafe conditions just to “play radio.”

Winter Field Day is supposed to be fun. It won’t be fun if somebody gets hurt, gets stuck, or has an accident.

Good news: Winter Field Day can still be done from home. If you want to participate, operate from your shack, or “field it” safely from your yard/driveway/back porch.

Stay warm, stay safe, and we’ll catch the next one.

It’s that time of year again! As the chilly winds start to blow and the calendar pages turn, we at White River Radio & Communications are excited to announce our upcoming Winter Field Day for 2026.

📍 NEW LOCATION FOR 2026
Finister Lane, Batesville, Arkansas

Mark your calendars for January 24–25, 2026 — this is an event you won’t want to miss. All skill levels are welcome, licensed or not. Come operate, observe, learn, and enjoy great food and great company.

Pictures from WFD 2025!

Read about last years Winter Field DAY 2024!

Here is what happened on our first Winter Field DAY 2023!

Winter Field Day 2026 – New Location

Arkansas State Parks on the Air: W2RRC Lights Up Jacksonport

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Jacksonport, AR – October 18, 2025

The morning sun had barely touched the White River when George (AG5CC) rolled into Jacksonport State Park to kick off the White River Radio & Communications Group’s 5th Meet & Greet & Parks on the Air (POTA) event. Not far behind came Wayne (KB9ELS) and Genice (KI5GRX), ready to set up what would become one of our smoothest activations yet.

This year we kept it simple — one well-tuned station, a Yaesu 991A feeding an off-center-fed dipole. That streamlined setup paid off. By the end of the day, W2RRC logged roughly 140 contacts, all recorded flawlessly using the World Radio League logbook. The software performed beautifully, tracking both the club and individual operators — proving once again why WRL is quickly becoming the future of logging.

Food, Friends, and “Flying Monkeys”

By mid-morning the smell of grilled burgers and chili filled the park. Sheri (AB5SC) and Genice (KI5GRX) — lovingly nicknamed The Flying Monkeys — handled food prep like pros. Hamburgers, hotdogs, chili, desserts, chips, and drinks kept everyone fueled and smiling.

Between 25 and 30 guests attended, including plenty of familiar faces and a few new ones. Noel (K5NES) even made the trip in his RV and showed up in style on his blazing pink tricycle — a sight no one will forget!

Among the crowd were Russell (KI5KVU) and his son Raylan, Ed and Joyce (KAUFK/KE4UWI), Jesse (N2VZ) and his dad Mark, Don (N4JYR), and our always-energetic friends Chris (N5CRL) and Leann (K5LPL). We also had Debbie (KI5QQG), Charles (KF5TL), and Nicholas (KI5QQH) joining in the fun.

View More PHOTOS !

Highlights of the Day

One of the biggest moments belonged to David (KJ5GBC). Not only did he receive a certificate for serving as net control for the Happy Hams Net for the first time, but he also won the Fox Hunt — taking home a tri-band radio generously donated by Ed and Joyce (KAUFK/KE4UWI).

We were joined by several future hams currently enrolled in Wayne (KB9ELS)’s licensing class, including Christopher and Lucas, both eager to get on the air soon. We also welcomed Jason (KG5UHY), our newest W2RRC member, who we hope to see at future events and on the airwaves.

A special thanks goes out to David Norris (K5UZ) Delta Division Director of the ARRL for attending and supporting our group once again. His continued encouragement means a lot to everyone at W2RRC.

Radio, Friendship, and the Spirit of Arkansas

Throughout the day, operators took turns at the mic and key, often drawing a crowd around the large screen that mapped our live contacts in real time. Every contact proudly carried the name “Jacksonport State Park, Arkansas” — a reminder of how Amateur Radio can literally broadcast the beauty and history of Arkansas State Parks across the world.

In total, W2RRC logged around 140 contacts with stations across 30 states, two Canadian provinces. Our activation has been uploaded to the POTA database, where you can view it under Jacksonport State Park (US-1086).

We missed our friends Nathan (KI5EDP) and John (KF5JJ) this time around, but their presence was definitely felt.

Appreciation and a Great Day for Arkansas State Parks

The weather couldn’t have been better — a bit breezy, but clear and cool. Everyone helped with teardown (thanks to K5NES for wrestling that 200-foot coax!), and spirits were high all around.

A heartfelt thank-you goes to Superintendent Mark Ballard, Assistant Superintendent Jason, and Candy at Jacksonport State Park for their help in making this event possible. Their hospitality and support once again showed why Arkansas State Parks are some of the best in the nation — beautiful spaces where history, nature, and community come together.

W2RRC presented a Certificate of Appreciation to the park staff for their ongoing support and commitment to connecting people with nature and recreation through events like ours.

Until Next Time

The W2RRC Meet & Greet & POTA has become a true tradition — equal parts radio, friendship, food, and fun. If you missed this one, make sure you don’t miss the next.

Because at Jacksonport State Park, it’s never just about the contacts — it’s about connecting people, parks, and the passion for radio that keeps us all on the air.

Please leave a Comment/Reply below and let us know how we did!

Join Us for an Amazing Day of Radio Fun – Fox Hunt & POTA Oct 18

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Jacksonport, AR – W2RRC, along with Arkansas State Parks, is excited to announce our 5th Meet & Greet & POTA event. This special gathering is set for Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the main pavilion in Jacksonport State Park, Jacksonport, Arkansas. As part of the International Fall “Support Your Parks” weekend, this public event offers a unique blend of radio, community, and outdoor fun.

Help spread the word — download and share our event flyer!

The main pavilion provides an ideal and accessible location, with plenty of parking and ADA-compliant restrooms and facilities nearby. While official event times are 10 AM – 3 PM, operators will be there early and plan to stay as long as contacts are being made.

Event location pavilion provided by Jacksonport State Park, Arkansas

🎯 NEW: Our First Fox Hunt at Jacksonport!

At 1:00 PM, join us for W2RRC’s first-ever Fox Hunt (hidden transmitter hunt) within the park grounds! This is a fun, hands-on activity open to all ages and skill levels. Learn how to use a directional antenna to locate a hidden radio transmitter — a real-world skill with surprising applications, from locating interference and lost gear to participating in radio contests and search-and-rescue operations.

If you have a directional antenna (like a tape-measure Yagi), bring it! If not, come anyway — we’ll have a few setups available and plenty of people willing to help you learn.

🛠 Want to build your own inexpensive directional antenna? Check out this Tape-Measure Yagi How-To Guide to get started.

Highlights of the day include:

  • 🎙 Live POTA activations at Jacksonport State Park (US-1086).
  • 🛰 Amateur Radio demonstrations with multiple stations operating.
  • 🤝 Public meet & greet with local ham operators, gear, and info tables.
  • 🌭 Cookout at the pavilion — hot dogs, buns, chili, cheese, condiments, and bottled water provided by W2RRC, funded by our Play Radio Fund (you’re welcome to bring anything extra to throw on the grill or share).
  • 🧒 Family-friendly atmosphere with food, fellowship, and the beauty of Jacksonport State Park.

As with past events, this is a public, free-to-attend gathering, and everyone is welcome — whether you’re a seasoned operator, newly licensed, or simply curious about amateur radio.

2024 event with KI5EDP, KI5LPJ and Jacksonport State Park Superintendent – Mark Ballard

The collaboration between W2RRC and Arkansas State Parks underscores a shared mission of recreation, education, and community engagement. Through amateur radio, every contact we make proudly shares “Jacksonport State Park, Arkansas” with the world — promoting both the hobby and the beauty of Arkansas State Parks on a national and international stage.

Stay tuned to the W2RRC website and Facebook Page for updates as the event approaches. We look forward to another great day of fun, learning, and community at Jacksonport!

Event Details: (so far)

  • Date: Saturday, October 18, 2025
  • Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
  • Fox Hunt: 1:00 PM start, on-site only
  • Location: Main Pavilion, Jacksonport State Park, Jacksonport, AR
  • Features: ADA Accessible, POTA Activation, Public Amateur Radio Demos, Family-Friendly, Food & Fellowship, First Fox Hunt!

About W2RRC & Arkansas State Parks:

W2RRC is an Amateur Radio group based in Independence and surrounding Counties in Arkansas. Our goal is to promote amateur radio, encourage public involvement, and to “Play Radio & Have Fun!” across our community.

Arkansas State Parks preserve and protect the state’s most treasured natural, cultural, and historic places while providing opportunities for recreation, education, and community engagement.

Shine at ARRL Field Day 2025 with W2RRC – Start Now from Your QTH!

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Hey White River Radio & Communications (W2RRC) crew! ARRL Field Day 2025 is just around the corner, and whether we’re gathering for an official club event or not, YOU can still make this an unforgettable ham radio adventure! This year’s Field Day is set for June 28–29, 2025, kicking off at 2:00 PM EDT (1800 UTC) on Saturday and wrapping up at 4:59 PM EDT (2059 UTC) on Sunday. It’s the fourth full weekend of June, as always, and it’s your chance to join thousands of hams across the globe in the ultimate test of skill, preparedness, and camaraderie.

We know things are a bit up in the air this year. George (AG5CC), shared in our Facebook group that personal medical challenges will limit his ability to help organize a big W2RRC Field Day event. But here’s the exciting part: Field Day isn’t just about one big gathering—it’s about the spirit of amateur radio, and that spirit lives in every one of you! Whether you’re operating from your home shack, a mobile setup, or stepping up to host an official W2RRC Field Day event, you can contribute to our club’s legacy and rack up points for the White River Radio & Communications aggregate score. Let’s dive into how you can make it happen, why it’s worth it, and how to get everyone involved!

Why Field Day 2025 is a Can’t-Miss Opportunity

Field Day is more than a contest—it’s a celebration of what makes ham radio special. It’s about pushing your skills to the limit, operating in less-than-ideal conditions, and showing the world what amateur radio can do. You’ll work stations on bands from 160 meters to VHF/UHF, rack up QSOs, and maybe even spark a new ham’s passion by inviting a neighbor to check out your setup. Plus, every contact you make can help boost W2RRC’s score, even if you’re operating solo from your QTH!

This year, we’re calling on YOU—our amazing members—to keep the W2RRC flag flying high. Whether we have an official club event or not, your individual efforts will add up to a collective win for our club. And if you’re feeling the Field Day fever, why not take the lead and organize an official event using the W2RRC callsign? Let’s make some noise on the airwaves!

How to Participate from Your Own QTH
(Class D or E)

You don’t need a big club event to join the Field Day fun! You can operate from your home station as a Class D (using commercial power) or Class E (using emergency power, like batteries or solar) and still contribute to W2RRC’s aggregate score. Here’s how it works:

  1. Set Up Your Station: Fire up your rig at home—whether it’s a full-blown shack or a simple portable setup. Class D stations use commercial power (up to 100 watts PEP), while Class- E stations use emergency power for extra bragging rights (and a shot at bonus points!).
  2. Use Your Own Callsign: Operate under your personal callsign. You’ll exchange your operating class and ARRL/RAC section (e.g., “2D AR” for a Class D station in Arkansas). No need to use the W2RRC callsign unless you’re part of an official club event.
  3. Log Your QSOs: Work as many stations as possible on Phone, CW, or Digital modes across the 160-, 80-, 40-, 20-, 15-, and 10-meter HF bands, plus 50 MHz and above. Each contact counts: Phone QSOs earn 1 point, while CW and Digital QSOs earn 2 points each.
  4. Claim Bonus Points: Boost your score with bonuses like operating 100% on emergency power (100 points per transmitter, up to 2,000 points), getting media publicity (100 points), or copying the W1AW Field Day bulletin (100 points). Check the ARRL Field Day 2025 Rules for the full list.
  5. Submit Your Log with White River Radio & Communications as Your Club: When you submit your entry to ARRL (by July 29, 2025), include “White River Radio & Communications” as your club affiliation. You can submit via the ARRL web app at field-day.arrl.org/fdentry.php. Your individual score will be listed, and your QSO points will also count toward White River Radio & Communications aggregate club score.
  6. Share Your Story: Post about your Field Day setup, QSOs, or fun moments in our Facebook group or tag us on social media. Let’s inspire each other! Bonus: Promoting Field Day on social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram) can earn 100 bonus points for club-organized groups.

Spelling matters, submit it exactly as shown below:

White River Radio & Communications

The beauty of this approach? Every member can participate, no matter where you are or what gear you have. Your 5-watt QRP setup in the backyard? It counts. Your 100-watt home station? It counts. Even if you only make a handful of contacts, you’re helping W2RRC shine in the national rankings!

Hosting an Official W2RRC Field Day Event? Let’s Do This!

If you’re feeling inspired, why not step up and organize an official Field Day event using the W2RRC callsign? George’s Facebook group post reminded us that W2RRC thrives because members like you make things happen. Whether it’s a portable setup in a park (Class A), a battery-powered operation (Class A-Battery), or an Emergency Operations Center activation (Class F), hosting an event is a chance to bring our community together and show off amateur radio to the public.

W2RRC thrives because members like you make things happen.

AG5CC

Here’s how to make it happen:

  • Pick a Location: Choose a public spot like a park, school, or community center to qualify for the 100-point Public Location bonus. Set up antennas and gear within a 1,000-foot circle, as per the rules.
  • Operate as Class A or F: Use the W2RRC callsign and operate as a club portable station (Class A) or at an EOC (Class F). You can have multiple transmitters (e.g., 3A for three simultaneous signals) and even add a Get On The Air (GOTA) station to let new or inactive hams join the fun (limited to 100 watts, or 5 watts if claiming the QRP multiplier).
  • Invite the Public: Set up a Public Information Table (100 bonus points) and welcome visitors. Invite local media (100 bonus points) or an elected official (100 bonus points) to boost your score and spread the word about ham radio.
  • Recruit Helpers: Post in our Facebook group to rally members. As George said, “If you want to do something… just decide to do it and folks will step up to help.” Wayne (KB9ELS) might be tied up with family, but others might jump in!
  • Submit as W2RRC: Submit the club’s entry under the W2RRC callsign, including the club name for the aggregate score.

Not sure where to start? Reach out to George (AG5CC) or other club members for tips, or check out last year’s Field Day photos for inspiration: Field Day 2024 Gallery. Hosting an event is a chance to create memories, mentor new hams, and put W2RRC on the map!

Why It Matters: The W2RRC Spirit

Field Day is about more than points—it’s about the W2RRC community. Whether you’re operating solo from your QTH or leading a club event, you’re part of something bigger. Every QSO you log adds to our club’s story, and every visitor you inspire could be the next W2RRC member. As George put it, “That’s always been the core spirit of our group.” Let’s keep that momentum going, even if this year looks a little different.

Plus, your efforts today are paving the way for future events—like George’s “special plans” for Winter Field Day 2026. Let’s make Field Day 2025 a warm-up for an even bigger 2026!

Get Started Now!

Ready to make Field Day 2025 epic? Here’s your action plan:

  • Mark Your Calendar: June 28–29, 2025, from 2:00 PM EDT Saturday to 4:59 PM EDT Sunday.
  • Plan Your Station: Decide if you’ll operate Class D, Class E, or join a club event. Test your gear and antennas now!
  • Spread the Word: Post in our Facebook group if you want to host or join an official W2RRC event. Let’s get the ideas flowing!
  • Review the Rules: Dive into the ARRL Field Day 2025 Rules for details on scoring, bonuses, and submission. Need more info? Email fdinfo@arrl.org or call (860) 594-0232.
  • Submit logs by July 29: Use the ARRL web app, email, or mail to submit your entry, and don’t forget to list “White River Radio & Communications” as your club.

Let’s make ARRL Field Day 2025 a blast, whether we’re scattered across our QTHs or gathered under the W2RRC banner. Grab your mic, key, or laptop, and let’s light up the bands together. Who’s in? Drop your plans in the comments or our Facebook group—we can’t wait to hear from you!

73,
The White River Radio & Communications Team
#W2RRC #FieldDay2025 #HamRadio

A Heartfelt Magic Christmas Story With W2RRC!

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‘Twas the night before Christmas, and across the ham bands,
Not a signal was stirring in all of the lands.
The members of W2RRC tuned in with care,
Hoping St. Ham-ta Claus soon would be there.

The radios hummed with a faint static tone,
When a booming CQ came through, clear and alone.
“Ho ho ho, this is Santa! QRZ?”
And the group jumped to answer, their faces all red!

Alex Claxton (N5ALC) was the first on the mic,
“Santa, you’re booming, your signal’s a spike!”
“Thank you,” Santa said, “I’m glad you’re here,
I’ve got gifts in my sleigh for all to cheer!”

Nathan Tanksley (KI5EDP) chimed in with cheer,
“This is a QSO we’ll remember all year!
Santa, what treasures are packed in your sleigh?
Perhaps some dipoles or coax on the way?”

“Indeed!” said Santa, “I’ve packed plenty of gear,
To bring Christmas spirit and good cheer this year.
For Amee Tanksley (KI5ORQ), a notebook to log with ease,
And for Brad Apple (AI5HM), a harmonica tuned to radio frequencies!”

Charles McKenzie (KF5TL) was next on the air,
“What’s my gift, Santa? Please do share!”
“For you,” said Santa, “a 3 phase power supply,
And Debbie McKenzie (KI5QQG), an antenna that reaches the sky!”

David Norris (K5UZ) and John Godfrey (KE5NZY) chimed in,
“Santa, our stations could use a win!”
“For John, a tuner, for David, a mast,
And Ed Swartz (K8UFK), an amp built to last!”

Edward Jones (K5EJ) and Randy Wade (AF5RW) gave a shout,
Santa laughed, “I’ve got something for you without a doubt!
For Edward, a new transceiver so fine,
And for Randy, a guitar with a built-in CW chime!”

Nicholas Bacon (KI5QQH) and Ithyca Bacon (KI5QOS) joined the air with flair,
“Santa, do you have something special to share?”
“For Nicholas, a powerful signal booster to shine,
And for Ithyca, a sleek new headset, top-of-the-line!”

Chris Lowe (N5CRL) and Leann Lowe (K5LPL) spoke next,
“Santa, we’ve been good this year, no contest!”
“To Chris, an analyzer for your antenna array,
And Leann, a versatile antenna for any outdoor play!”

John Johnson (KF5JJ) and Barry Wilkes (NI5C) jumped in the fray,
“Santa, we’ve been listening—what do you say?”
“For John, a rugged handheld for when you’re on the move,
And for Barry, a signal enhancer for perfect audio groove!”

Glendal Floyd (W5WEC) was thrilled to reply,
While Noel Seeley (K5NES) waved from nearby.
“Santa, this is amazing, a gift for each ham!”
“That’s right,” said Santa, “I’m a big radio fan!”

Genice Berry (KI5GRX) and Wayne Berry (KB9ELS) joined in the cheer,
While George Cavaness (AG5CC) and Sheri Cavaness (AB5SC) wrapped up the year.
“For Genice, a preamp to catch weak calls,
And for Wayne, a tower that never falls!”

As Santa’s signal began to fade into the night,
He paused to send one more message so bright:

“To all the hams of W2RRC, whose names I didn’t say,
You’re the heart❤️ of this group in every way!
Whether you’re working the bands or running a net,
Your contributions are ones I’ll never forget.
So here’s to the crew, from seasoned pros to the new,
Merry Christmas to all, and 73 to you!”

And with that final QSO, Santa signed off,
Leaving W2RRC warm and their spirits aloft.
This Christmas would be one they’d never outgrow,
A reminder that hams are a family, you know.

🎄 Merry Christmas from W2RRC! 🎅