New England QRP Club : The Excitement is Building....

Hi Gang, just returned from Near-Fest IV at the Fairgrounds in Deerfield, NH. Absolutely perfect weather for this great event. Last time we had a full weekend of sunshine and beautiful weather was Near-Fest I in the spring of 2007. That was the "Return to Deerfield" 'fest, after "Hosstraders" came to an end. The last four Near-Fest gatherings have proven the viability of this successor to a great tradition.

Linda and I had a wonderful time. We went over on Thursday night for some pre-event camping. Met up with Norm W1DFU and Arnie, K0ZK. Spent a very pleasant evening before lining up Friday morning to enter the gate to the main fairgrounds. Special note to Arnie: Next time - YOU provide the refreshments! (just kidding...) Found ourselves a nice spot Friday morning, and popped up the camper again. The Aliner is so nice with it's quick setup. We are very pleased with it.

I laid out the wares on the table and waited for the ensuing masses. The New England hamfests are such great social events. We had great conversations all weekend, with friends new and old. Some additional members of the New England QRP crowd we got to chat with included Dennis K1LGQ, Dave NT1U, Bill AB1AV, Alex AI2Q, Mike AA1TJ, Jim W1FMR, Bill W1PA, Chuck K1CL, Jim W1PID, John KN1H, Ken W1KRT, Dick, N1LT, Mike K1WVO, Brian N1FIY, Rex W1REX, Dave KD1NA, and of course Carl WA1ZCQ. There were several others who stopped by and I was just unable to keep up with all the callsigns. If you stopped by to chat with Linda and me- THANK YOU. The people make the event.

The Fall 'fest has traditionally had to bide us over until the spring rolls around, and this one was a great way to cap a fun filled season. The late Fall and Winter building season will be upon us soon, and I have more than enough ham projects stocked up to get me through the coming ice age.

Thanks to all we've had the pleasure of spending a few moments with this Summer and Fall. We will be looking forward to the next time we get to chat with each of you, and enjoy the pleasure of your company.

Take care, and remember ...The Excitement is Building

Bruce N1RX and Linda Beford
Newport NH