When we hear the term “Field Day,” most of us are reminded of the fun day that was held during the last week of the school year.
   In the amateur radio circle, “Field Day” is a 24-hour period in which amateur radio operators get together and communicate with other amateurs in other parts of the country and sometimes the world.
   RACES (Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Services), ARES (Amateur Radio Emergency Services), and JARS (Jayhawks Amateur Radio Society) participated in a Field Day on June 26-27. The event was held at Fire Station No. 6 near the Schlitterbahn on State Avenue.
   Field Day is a time for fun and camaraderie for amateur radio operators. The radios that were set up in the Communications Trailer and Mobile Command Vehicle were alive with voices from all parts of the United States. As a first-timer, the challenge was breaking in on the chattering voices and announcing oneself over the radio waves. (That is easier said than done.) However, after one has succeeded in putting in one’s “two cents” over the radio, nothing but pride in oneself is enjoyed. This is an event that seasoned radio operators look forward to each year. This event is one way to combine work and socializing.
   In addition to enjoying communicating over the radio waves, the amateur operators also enjoyed sharing a potluck meal and each other’s company. A potluck meal can be a most surprising event, as far as food is concerned. This one was a delectable spread.
   The Field Day was organized by Rob Brannon, exercise director, Larry Eker, UG emergency management, Ed Novak, JARS president, and Curt Robinson, RACES chief radio officer.
   Until the next time we meet, I’ll sign off.
   Helen Marie Fotovich is a Kansas City, Kansas, resident.