The event is over and the votes are in - it was a success. As is usually the case, we learned several lessons that will make it so much better for next year. One additional benefit, on which we may not have full resolution for a while, will make a huge difference next year in terms of improving our campsite!!! More on this later.
For those who may not know about the details of the event, we should mention that it takes place in the mountains of the Los Padres National Forest, at an altitude of about 7,500 feet. The climate at this altitude is always much cooler than in the cities, and this is a welcome relief in the summer. Everyone camped, dined, and operated radios in the forests.
Propagation for Field Day was less than optimal, but good enough to allow our Field Day contestants to score some excellent contacts. Our meals were an outstanding display of wonderful foods, from breakfast to dinner. For those who needed a time to relax, this was a fantastic opportunity. And, of course, the wine tasting was sensational.
There was some discussion during the weekend whether it was possible for an event like this to succeed well at doing a Field Day operation, promoting Ham Radio, enjoying the outdoors, learning how to operate communications in less than ideal conditions, and camping. In this campers opinion, we succeeded well on all counts!!!
As most know, our Field Day is a blend of events, which is why we also refer to it as "Summer Fest". We will go in to this in more detail on the net. And lastly, this is an opportunity for anyone to post up about your Field Day. We all benefit from hearing about other events!!!
In the meantime, here are a few pictures which will give you an idea of how we operate.
SETTING UP FOR FIELD DAY
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CAMP
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RELAXIN' AT CAMP
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WORKING CONTACTS
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. Amateur radio, camping, eating, hanging out with old friends, making new ones, great conversations, and just spending time away from the daily grind in the great outdoors. I want to thank everyone who was kind enough to indulge my appetite, and my discussions, and those who braved the radios with me trying to make contacts all across North America. Yes, I had a fantastic time, and I look forward to getting together at another event soon 
