White River Radio & Communications

A Place To Play Radio & Have A Good Time

Parks On the Air

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!

W2RRC Meet and Greet POTA Event – October 2024

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On Saturday, October 19, 2024, the White River Radio & Communications group (W2RRC) held our fourth Meet & Greet & Parks on the Air (POTA) event at Jacksonport State Park. This year was extra special as it marked one of our first major activations under our new group callsign, W2RRC.

A Perfect Setting: Jacksonport State Park

Jacksonport proved to be the perfect setting for the event. With its rich history, beautiful riverfront, and well-maintained facilities, the park offered the ideal combination of scenery and convenience for welcoming both amateur radio operators and the public. Events like this are a reminder of how fortunate we are to have Arkansas State Parks preserving places like Jacksonport — where history, nature, and community come together.

Community, History, and Radio

George (AG5CC), Ruger, Nathan (KI5EDP), and John (KF5JJ) arrived early to set up equipment and get ready for the day’s contacts. Soon after, friends and fellow operators began to gather — from locals like Billy (KI5LPJ) who camped at the park’s campground, to visitors from across the region.

Ki5EDP, KI5LPJ and Jacksonport State Park Superintendent – Mark Ballard

We were pleased to have Mark Ballard, Jacksonport’s Superintendent, join us for a while. He even took some pictures and mentioned that he would include a note about Parks on the Air and the White River Radio Group in his report. Mark was very kind and helpful, giving us his card and letting us know to call him anytime if we needed anything. His encouragement highlights just how well Arkansas State Parks embraces community-focused events like ours

A little before 10 a.m., folks began gathering. Billy (KI5LPJ) was the first to arrive, having camped at the Jackson Port Campground. Jesse (KJ5CAC), aka as YouTuber “Three Little Goats Homestead,” joined us and helped log some contacts. We also had Bill (K5OGR) and Jeff (W5SNG) join us, with Bill doing us a favor by activating the park using W2RRC on CW – thanks, Bill! Wayne (KB9ELS) SugarBear, himself came out, as did Emma and Genice (KI5GRX) and her friend Martha.

Chris (N5CRL) and Leanne (K5LPL) also attended. Chris is our net manager for all White River Radio W2RRC nets, the Happy Hams Net along with his 11-meter CB nets. We’re pretty sure he runs about a million nets a week!

Sheri (AB5SC) brought a big pot of beans and cornbread, which everyone enjoyed. and Nathan grilled hotdogs. Noel (K5NES) and Sherry dropped by with Sherry trying her luck fishing on the White River and Noel fishing for a new radio. We were also graced with the presence of the one and only John Godfrey (KE5NZY) and Alice Godfrey (KE5NZZ).

Ask John about the one and only KE5NZY Baofeng Blaster,

John and Alice got the chance to break in the KE5NZY Baofeng Blaster, which was presented to John. As you can see from the photos, you can expect to see this at future HAM events where John will be attending.

Promoting Arkansas Parks Worldwide

Over five hours of operation, WRRC made 116 contacts and 113 QSOs, reaching 30 U.S. states, 2 Canadian provinces, and DX contacts in Germany, Cyprus, and Madeira. That means each contact included the proud announcement of “Jacksonport State Park, Arkansas” — sharing the name of this great park with listeners across the country and around the world. Amateur radio is not only a hobby, but also a unique way to promote Arkansas tourism and history on an international stage.

116 Contacts for W2RRC

We also reached 30 U.S. states and 2 Canadian provinces, operating on three bands and in two modes. We worked 40m on SSB, 20m on CW and SSB, and 15m as well. Special congratulations to Nathan (KI5EDP) for being our DX QSO winner, and a big shoutout to Bill (K5OGR), who was the first to activate W2RRC using CW.

Lots of people heard from Arkansa’ Jacksonport State Park & W2RRC!

Here is a list of everyone that activated the park. using W2RRC.

David (KJ5GBC) also activated the park and will be listed as soon as he creates his POTA account. Ed (KF5ETZ) drove over from Jonesboro, It was grest to see and meet you, Ed. Also from Jonesboro way was Ken (KB6EMH). Thanks for making the trip Ken.

W2RRC also earned five Parks on the Air awards during the event. We achieved our Gold Hunter award for 30 contacts, Platinum Hunter for 40 contacts, Diamond Hunter for 50 contacts, Parks to Park for 50 contacts, and we also received the award for the Support Your Parks Weekend this fall.

Here are some pictures from the event. Thanks again to everyone who joined us!

Looking Ahead

W2RRC is grateful to Jacksonport State Park and its staff for their hospitality. We look forward to returning and continuing this partnership, combining the excitement of amateur radio with the beauty and history of Arkansas State Parks. Our group is proud to play a role in showing the public new ways to enjoy these incredible parks — from making international radio contacts to simply sharing a meal by the river.

If anyone else reading this attended or knows of anyone who did, please add their names in the comments so we can have a full record. We want to thank everyone for joining us, our group continues to grow, and most importantly, we continue to play radio and have a great time. If you’re interested in joining us, feel free to contact us here or reach out through our White River group on Facebook.

Unleash Your POTA Power With Powerful HAM2K Logger!

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AG5CC POTA rig with an iPad running HAM2K Portable Logger (POLO)

Initial Impressions

On a crisp Sunday morning, Nathan, KI5EDP, and AG5CC (that’s me) set out with a clear mission: to activate Jacksonport State Park (US-1078) as part of the Parks on the Air (POTA) program. While the fresh air and the thrill of radio were draws in themselves, our primary objective was to put a new open-source logging software to the test: Ham2K Portable Logger, or PoLo as it’s affectionately known.

Introducing PoLo

PoLo is a powerful, free application available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, making it easily accessible for iPads, iPhones, and Android devices. The developer, Sebastian KI2D, has plans for a Windows version, and Mac users with Apple silicon processors can already download the iPad version on their devices.

What sets PoLo apart is its focus on simplicity and efficiency. The app’s main screen is intuitively designed, placing all essential logging fields front and center, making it easy to log contacts, spot yourself, and grab spots—all from a single interface.

A particularly standout feature of PoLo is its handling of multiple operators or parks. Rather than inputting the same information multiple times, you can simply enter both callsigns or park numbers, separated by a comma. This is especially useful for N-Fers, saving time and reducing errors.

PoLo apps unique way of displaying a logged contact with multiple operators/parks.
PoLo app displaying a logged contact with multiple operators/parks.

User Experience

Customization is a key strength of PoLo. The app allows you to filter the spots window by band and mode, making it easier to find what you need. When you click on a spot, the app automatically fills in your logging window with the relevant details. After logging the contact, the spot is lined out, giving you a clear visual of what’s been completed.

Filtering spots by band and mode in the PoLo app.

For those who prefer a more visual approach, PoLo also includes a Map window, which can be expanded to full screen. This feature allows you to see your activations in a geographical context, enhancing the overall logging experience.

The Map view in PoLo, showing activated parks and contact locations.

Sebastian has integrated support for a wide range of activities, including POTA, Summits on the Air (SOTA), Field Day, Winter Field Day, and more. The application is completely free, with an option to support its development through a “Buy me a coffee” link.

Another impressive feature is the ability to export your activated park logs into a file that can be effortlessly imported into your Parks on the Air logbook, streamlining the process even further.

Final Thoughts

After just a few POTA activations using PoLo, it’s clear that this app is a strong contender in the realm of portable logging. While it may not replace my primary logger just yet, it has certainly earned its spot in my toolkit. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight option for a long hike or simply prefer to log on your phone or tablet, PoLo offers a reliable and efficient solution.

I highly recommend that all ham radio operators give PoLo a try. It’s an excellent app that’s still evolving, and I’m excited to see where it goes from here. You can stay up to date with the latest features and offer feedback directly to Sebastian through his Google Groups, Discord server, and website.

For those looking to log QSOs on the go with speed and ease, PoLo is definitely worth the download. I bet you’ll enjoy it as much as I do!

Visit the PoLo website and explore it for yourself!

73,
AG5CC

Join the Excitement: Winter Field Day 2024 is here!

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Hello fellow radio enthusiasts!

It’s that time of the year again! As the chilly winds start to blow and the calendar pages turn, we at White River Radio & Communications are thrilled to announce our upcoming Winter Field Day & POTA for 2024. Mark your calendars for January 27-28, 2024, because this is an event you won’t want to miss!

View/Download & Share the 2024 WFD & POTA Flyer.

Last Year’s Success – A Quick Recap

Before we dive into what’s in store for 2024, let’s take a moment to reminisce about last year’s Winter Field Day. Despite the snowy challenge, our spirits were undeterred, and the turnout was phenomenal. Special shout-out to Nathan, KI5EDP, and George, AG5CC, who braved the entire 24 hours, showcasing true dedication and passion for the hobby.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Jamestown Mountain WMA, we combined the thrill of radio communications with the serene beauty of nature. The camaraderie was amazing, with everyone pitching in to set up tents, radios, and antennas, and not to forget, the roaring campfire that became the heart of our gathering.

What to Expect in 2024

This year, we’re upping the ante! Here’s a sneak peek into what we have planned:

  • Extended Radio Operations: Like last time, we will have a 24-hour non-stop operation, but with more stations and antennas to maximize our reach and contact potential.
  • Skill-Sharing: Newcomers and veterans alike, there will be something for everyone. Come with your questions about radios, antenna building, towers, etc. We have the most sharing and knowledgeable elmers in the area.
  • Community and Fun: The essence of Winter Field Day & POTA is not just about making contacts; it’s about building a community. Join us for some fun activities, great food, and of course, the much-loved campfire sessions.
  • Stunning Location: Once again, we’ll be at the beautiful Jamestown Mountain WMA. This location not only provides a fantastic setting for radio operations but also offers opportunities for hiking and wildlife photography for those who want to take a break from the radios.

How to Get Involved

Whether you’re a seasoned ham or just curious about amateur radio, we welcome you with open arms. Here’s how you can join in:

  • RSVP: Let us know you’re coming. Send us an email at news@whiteriverradio.com or use our website contact form.
  • Volunteer: We always need helping hands for setup, logistics, and safety monitoring.
  • Spread the Word: Share this event with your friends and family. The more, the merrier!

More information about Winter Field Day. We are on the map!

More information about POTA.

Final Thoughts

Winter Field Day & POTA is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of the spirit of amateur radio, bringing together people from all walks of life to share, learn, and enjoy. We’re excited to see new faces and old friends. So, pack your gear, bundle up, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure with White River Radio & Communications.

See you there!

73,
White River Radio & Communications Group

Play Radio: A Local Net and POTA Activation Adventure!

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Hey there, fellow amateur radio enthusiasts! It’s George (AG5CC) here, and today I’m thrilled to share an incredible experience Nathan (KI5EDP) and I had recently. You see, we’re always on the lookout for something new and exciting in the world of ham radio and wwe love to play radio. We firmly believe that why settle for boredom when there’s a whole array of possibilities waiting to be explored?

Playing radio and having a good time!

How this all happened.

Let me start by giving you a bit of background. I’ve had the honor of being the net control for the White River Radio & Communications 2m simplex net and the 10m HF net a few times now. These weekly nets take place every Wednesday at 7:30 PM and 8:00 PM, respectively. However, after going through the routine a few times, I couldn’t help but feel a desire for a fresh adventure. That’s when I approached KI5EDP with an idea that would take us into new territory.

I shared with him my plan of becoming a mobile net control operator, taking our operation to different locations. Nathan was immediately intrigued and suggested Jamestown Mountain as the perfect spot. Not only that, he proposed scheduling the event on the Parks on the Air (POTA) website, opening up a whole new world of possibilities. We wasted no time turning this idea into reality.

Setup for 2m and 10m Nets and POTA activation.

How it all went.

Now, you might be wondering about the logistics involved. Well, let me tell you, it was pretty smooth sailing all the way. We received an overwhelming response and well over the required 10 check-ins(27 total) to activate the Jamestown Mountain Wildlife Management Area (WMA) park, designated as K-7298 in the POTA system. It was a fantastic feeling to know that our efforts paid off, and we were able to contribute to the POTA community.

Here’s a video of the 10m net!

Watch how we combined a local net with a POTA activation!

I have already posted the activation on the POTA website, ensuring that all the check-ins would receive their well-deserved POTA Hunter credit.

Speaking of Parks on the Air (POTA), let me take a moment to express my admiration for this incredible initiative. It truly is one of the greatest things for playing radio and having a good time, especially for new operators. POTA provides an excellent platform to explore and activate various parks, combining the joy of amateur radio with the thrill of discovering new locations. It’s a win-win situation that brings together a passionate community and creates lasting memories.

What we learned.

The feedback we received from our fellow hams was overwhelmingly positive, and it was evident that everyone enjoyed this change of pace for our regular Wednesday night nets. It’s experiences like these that remind me why I enjoy amateur radio in the first place.

KI5EDP & AG5CC celebrate their first combination Net and POTA (Parks On The Air) event.

So, my fellow hams, if you haven’t delved into the world of POTA yet, I highly encourage you to give it a try. Explore new parks, activate them, and connect with fellow operators who share your passion. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who joined us on our Jamestown Mountain adventure. Your support and enthusiasm made this experience truly unforgettable.

Now, it’s your turn to share. Have you participated in a net and POTA activation? What was your experience like? I’m eager to hear your thoughts, so please don’t hesitate to leave a comment and share your stories.

Until next time, fellow hams, keep pushing the boundaries, exploring new avenues, and most importantly, “Play Radio & Have A Good Time!”