SOTA REPORT, HORSE HEAVEN, (W4V/WV-22) 23 APRIL 2016

Horse Heaven is a 3900 ft, 8 point peak in the Jefferson National Forest, north of Independence,VA, situated near other summits Comer's Rock and Perkin's Knob.  This was my first SOTA activation as I accompanied Jack, W4TJE, on this event.  It was a beautiful day.  The hike was long going up to the peak and a relief to finally get to the top.  Jack and I immediately set up our gear, wire antennas in the trees and each found a fine spot to finally rest.  Jack began running CW and quickly got 10 CW contacts before I had even got my laptop on (a real pro on the paddle!).  Woe!  My intent was to run PSK31, which I thought would be great idea since there's so many stations on one frequency, 14.070.  Well, my great idea was not so great after all.  I got no responses to my CQ call. Jack suggested I try phone and had N4LA spot us.  Once spotted by N4LA the stations began to pile up immediately.  After my first call I had numerous stations responding to my CQ.  I ended the event with 10 phone contacts.  Definately enough to make the day a success.  Thanks to N4LA for spotting us.  Thanks to W4TJE for encouraging and inspiring me to make the hike and for mentoring me in the HAM Radio Hobby.  And lastly, thanks to the stations who answered my call.  Without all of these people my first SOTA event would not have been a success. 

Here I am.... a bit tired, but ready to go!

W4TJE (Jack) showing the way....                             ....and doing what he does best...CW!

Welcome!

Hello. I live in Pilot Mountain, NC, USA.  I received my Tech license September 2012, received my General license November 2012. My original callsign was KK4LLZ.  My vanity callsign, granted December 2012, is W4LLZ. I enjoy DX conversations with other stations; even if it's just a signal report. I find that fascinating to talk with people around the world with only a radio, an inexpensive antenna and (if need be), a 12 volt battery. I am also a member of our county's ARES group and local Skywarn and I like the ability to offer my services to the community if I am called upon to do so. Emergency preparedness is one reason I got into Amatuer Radio in the first place - as a backup to "paid" communication if it ever fails.

My equipment is fairly simple but effective. For my base station I run a Kenwood TS570D with a G5RV wire dipole antenna at about 30 ft for HF comms.  I also use a Yaesu 857D for portable use.  I also enjoy Dstar and many digital modes. 

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