SDSSARC Field Day 2006
Success is in the eye of the beholder
The American Heritage Dictionary of the Engish Language defines SUCCESS as, "n 1: an event that accomplishes its intended purpose...".
Keeping that definition in mind, we can safely say that The San Diego Six Shooters ARC first attempt at a solo Field Day operation was a success. Oh, you'll hear other groups tout about the number of contacts made, or the great food served. That is not what this Field Day event was about for this club.
Our success was measured by the reception we recieved by the local community of Crest, by the fun local kids and Scouts had while being introduced to our hobby of amateur radio, by the inquiries we had regarding our service and how one can become involved in amateur radio, and finally by the participation of club members.
The key to this success was, first and foremost, the drive and dedication of the Field Day Chairperson, Mike Lebo, N6IEF. Mike's personal efforts in securing the site, constructing antennas, coordininating the movement of materials, and keeping the club appraised of his progress from month to month was crucial to getting this event off the ground.
Many thanks also go out to Kahndy Franklin, of the Crest Fire Safe Council, for inviting the San Diego Six Shooters to South Lane Park. She was instrumental in locking up the permit for the site, as well as publicizing the event to the local community. We look forward to a long lasting relationship with Kahndy and the good folks of Crest.
The role that other club members played, either at the Field Day site, or behind the scenes, also played an intrigal part towards attaining success. By nature, amateur radio operators are a "Show me" group, meaning that their participation in an event will hinge on a smaller groups ability to assure success, and Mike planned through the doubt that was cast by some and, along with the help of others, made Field Day 2006 an example that we can work together as a team and provided the opportunity for this club to move forward and plan future events.
NOTE: Click on image to slightly larger picture.
Welcome to the Six Shooters Field Day '06 at South Lane Park in Crest
Allen, K6FQR, and Pat, WA6MHZ
Visitors signing in upon arriving to the Six Shooter Field Day Site in Crest.
Keri, Tom (N6TNC), and Ron (KG6PDW) man the 15 meter station.
Mike, KG6WLS, and his son work the VHF station (6m & 2m)
Lou (KE6PMS), Mel (NX6Q), and Mike (N6IEF) set up the 20/40m station
Testing the equipment, making sure we're ready to roll!
The IC-748 served as out VHF station
Large commercial batteries were employed at the stations
Lots of information about amateur radio was also made available for the public
On display at the visitor sign in station was this emergency "Go-Kit" with radio, antenna , and power source
Pat (WA6MHZ) greets visitors as they arrive to the Field Day Site in Crest
A look at the antenna configuration on the portable tower
Visitors gather around the 40m station as Field Day begins
Burgers, dawgs, chips, and drinks were made available by the Crest Fire Safe
Local Boy Scouts observe Mike (N6IEF) as he works 40m
The Crest Fire Dept. stopped by and paid us a visit as well
Crest Fire Dept. puts one of their vehicles on display for the public at the SIx Shooters Field Day site
Another look at the fire truck on display at Field Day in Crest
This generator was used to power the lights and laptops at each station
Donald (KF6AHX) and Bob (KE6MDJ) stop by to check in on the action at Field Day
Mike (N6IEF) was hands-on everywhere, working hard to make this event a success for everyone
Errol (KE6CBJ) answers questions from visiting Boy Scouts
Tom (N6TNC) logs on the laptop while visitors try their hand at making contacts
This furry guy belongs to Ron (KG6PDW). This battery powered the 15m station
Meanwhile, the food station stayed busy almost all day long.
This young lady was with a group of County officials that visited our site, as well
