President's corner

Written by Mikie Friday, 19 June 2009 13:48

 
 
 
Hey Gang,  For those who don't remember Jim Linton, (W4KBL), here's an old photo of a past field day.  Our one operating station was out in the open.  The cook shack, in the background, was screened.  Yeah, that's me doing something in the cook shack.  Those were some of the good old days.  But, there are more good days to come.  I am really looking forward to this year's event.  I think it's gonna be a real winner.................I'd like to think we are in the upward swing of a cycle in ham radio.  Just a few years ago, the computer and the cell phone took their turn in the spotlight and squeezed ham radio to the side for a bit.  Though we still rely on both for entertainment and communication, the radio business, and also the club, are gaining ground quickly.................As we prepare for next weekend, let's all try to remember the tradition we are trying to uphold.  Can you imagine how many hams have 'hollered' CQ FIELD DAY into an old microphone in anticipation of a distant reply?  The contest part is a major factor in getting together, but let's not forget the emergency prep part, as well.  Still, to me, equally important is just getting together and having a good time...............So, PLEASE, take time this year to come out to field day to see your old friends, and let them see you.  Operate one of the stations if you like, or just give some one a break.  Make plans to eat with us and hang out a bit at the very least.  Come out and help keep the tradition alive and kickin' and the club goin' and growin'. .....................CUL.............and 73.................Mikie.......................
 
 
 

Written by n4mht Thursday, 04 June 2009 14:15

Hello and 73, (Best wishes for those non hams who might read this entry).  Here we go on Chapter 1 of the President's Corner.  I should insert a long pause, here, as I try to un-ravel the tangled thoughts in my older brain, trying to find the best place to start.  My first consideration is to keep everything positive.  Informative and intertaining falls in there, as well.   OK, here we go!   We've been through some challenging times with the club, of late, and now it's time to move on.  We've seen major changes in the club officials, membership, VE testing, ARES leadership and participation.  The club 2m net is in full swing, again, with very promising results.  16 check-ins last night and growing.  The up-coming Field Day event has generated more interest, anticipation, and genuine enthusiasim than I can recall in all my years with the club.  The mood of the membership, while still a bit tender, is electrifying.  Makes me want to throw my head back and holler YAHOOO!!!  Oops!  I just had to let the hillbilly out for a bit................We are at a crossroad, of sorts, not only in the club, but as a nation as well.  Everyone, everywhere, is wishing for change.  A change for the better.  That can't be accomplished, locally or nationally, without people putting aside their bias, and working together toward their common goals.  (WHEW !!  I ought to be a politition.)   A bit lofty there, but true.  And, while no one is going to be able to please everyone, every time, let's all remember a phrase heard at a recent meeting.  "OK, I guess we can agree to disagree, and move on".  Golly gee whiz, cowboys and girls.  What a concept.  What makes the world go 'round is that we are all different.  Opinions, attitudes, backgrounds, and on and on, we are all unique individuals.  And I've seen some very unique individuals in the ranks of 'Ham Radio Operators'.  My point is, don't get upset when someone views something differently than you.  Embrace it.  After all, it's what makes the world go 'round.  And that's some heavy stuff!!!.............The clock's a tickin' toward Field Day '09 and the plans and ideas are coming together nicely.  Don't forget, the regular club meeting for this month will be held at the City County Park, not at the ambulance building, if the weather permits.  The regular time is still good at 7:00 PM.  Be early if you like.  More time to chit chat.  BRING YOUR LAWN CHAIRS. Topics of discussion will include Field Day, VE testing, ARES, REACT, Black Patch, and who knows what else.  If you have other topics, please call or e-mail, so we can add to the list.  See ya' on the 16th.  Bring a friend..................As always, don't forget the nets in the area, and hang out when possible on our repeater.  It's really a treat when you hear someone you haven't heard in a while, back on the air.  Please advertise the website in your e-mails to others.  John Miller, KC8DAX, is doing such a fantastic job with it, it would be a shame not to let the whole world in on it.  Send questions, comments, and suggestions to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .  And as always, Happy Trails Cowboys and Girls.  Hope to see ya' somewhere on the path real soon..............Mikie....................