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Author: N1UGK
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2025 Holiday Gathering and 10-meter Contest
WEARC wrapped up the year with a hybrid event that combined good food, great company, and on-the-air operating. On Saturday, December 13th, members gathered at the American Red Cross building in Fairfield, New Jersey from 10 AM to 2 PM for an end-of-year holiday party alongside a 10 meter contest operation.
Prep work: getting 10 meters ready
Prior to the event, a team of WEARC members handled the behind-the-scenes work that makes everything else run smoothly. They mounted a 10 meter antenna on the roof, verified the feedline in the building riser, and checked antenna performance at the roof location. They also matched those readings to what was seen in the radio room, confirming the feedline and connectors were solid end-to-end.
Social + operating, side by side
During the event, people naturally rotated between socializing and operating the 10 meter contest station. Contacts were made on both voice (SSB) and CW, and everyone had a chance to jump in, learn, and contribute.
Lunch
Lunch was delivered around noon and was a hit. Highlights included antipasto salad and hot roast beef with mushroom gravy, plus plenty of rolls and desserts to keep the operators fueled.
Guests and future members
Several guests attended, asked great questions, and showed genuine interest in becoming new WEARC members. It was a nice reminder that a welcoming, hands-on operating environment is one of the best ways to introduce people to the club.
A format worth repeating
Attendance was strong, and the post-event feedback was very positive. This kind of operating, socializing, and lunch gathering worked well for both members and visitors, and it’s a format WEARC will likely consider again in the future.