Our club holds a general meeting of members and visitors on the first Thursday of every month at 7 p.m.
SAVANNA BAND PAGEANT
ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA — November 19, 2011
Well it’s over and I wish all volunteers to be rested up and relaxing this Sunday morning.
We did good again and many compliments were thrown in our direction. Our direct event coordinator “Lori” gave us high 5s for a good job with no complaints. I also spoke with another unidentified man apparently high up in the organization who also complimented us for the many years we have helped this event with zero complaints and an exceptional professional job. He was unaware we were volunteers from a radio club. A few of us also were contacted with interest in us assisting their own event(s) so that speaks wonders.
We were mostly paired up all day with a partner at each post location. A few times we were shy and had to share a partner but the operation went on smoothly and we even got fed – a couple times. First, the event was feeding us at the stadium. Traditionally it has been a hamburger and soft drink. That usually hits the spot by itself. This year, we were surprised by a late donation from the Downey HS Band with chips, salsa, sour cream, natcho cheese, grated cheese, and hamburg mix for our natchos. That was a big hit with us and sincerely appreciated. This occurred late into the evening when they were preparing to leave – I think around 1900. When we had all our fill and were ready to depart ourselves, we took the donated leftovers over to the park and left it for the homeless who camp out there. That food from Downey went much farther than they probably ever dreamed. Of course Chef Barry had his spread for us with hot spiced cider and/or hot chocolate as he prepared it right on the spot. Mmmm. Thanks “Bear”. We also cannot overlook the early morning donuts thanks to “Ducky” and I think perhaps Barry but never found out for sure. Thank you to all of you for your contributions to the cause. It really went over well.
Our “Dirt Lot” was opened by using a “master” key from Paul (426). We had permission to use the lot but it was not left open for us that early. How early? Well, before 0600. Yes, some of us were early risers yesterday. I was up at 3:30 to get there by 6. I heard others on the radio while I was making my commute down Cajon Pass so I know I was not alone at that hour. The day lasted until about 2300 when we finally cleared the parking lot of buses and were able to secure the rented lights. We were out of there by 2330. My drive got me home at exactly 0100 this morning making for a very long day for me but well worth it. I have attached an Excel file of the band line up order, times, and bus count if you would like to see just how many you participated in or directly helped. Remember, even a gate that has little bus contact is important. Just one var or truck coming into the lot can screw it all up for us (as has happened in past years sometimes.)
The event did not go without incident. We had one girl with an apparent leg joint problem and another boy who fainted in the parking lot. Neither required EMS and were released to their parents. There was a false report of car break-ins on La Palma at the stadium which was determined to be an inaccurate report. Once the buses were all parked and during the final awards ceremony we patrolled the lot for an potential bus burglary issues as have occurred in the past. No reports of loss were related to us. Perhaps a new positioning of the lights helped in this crime prevention. We’ll remember that for next year.
One thing missing this year were the port-a-potties in the lot. Past years we had about 8 potties but this year we were directed to tell people the rest rooms at the stadium were open for them. Carl’s Jr across the street and down the block was also an option. I know we used both options.
UCLA did not perform this year due to a timing conflict elsewhere (Rose Bowl I think). We were prepared for them but the need never occurred. Still, we parked 102 buses and who knows how many semi-tractor-trailer rigs, U-Haul/rental trucks, vehicles towing trailers, and other support vehicles. All those vehicles in a not-so-big parking lot with only three skinny access gates. Sometimes we were forced to zig-zag or weave the bus between practicing bands, pit equipment, practicing flag bearers, EZ-Ups, etc. etc. This year is the first year we parked some “all-nighter” buses in three rows bumper-to-bumper down the first isle and then also did the same in isle two late in the evening to fit everyone in. We did not have to resort to parking any buses on Swan or Gomer Streets this year. That made for a nice escape plan for alternate parking should we need it.
From a communications standpoint, I think some improvement can be made with our own capabilities with respect to understanding our equipment and being prepared. The being prepared is a wide subject encompassing too much to discuss in this forum so I will simply comment on understanding our own equipment. At some of our events, some members still do not understand how to work their radio. By this I mean 1) program it or have it programmed ready for use, 2) how to make a change if necessary with respect to frequency or tone, 3) having a battery go dead without a spare or coming to the event and say “let’s see, now I need to program my radio to do . . .”/ That should be done at home in the convenience of proper lighting, available manual if necessary, etc. At the even is not the place to program your radio or ask someone to do it for you. Let’s remember this for future events so the members who do come prepared do not need to take away from their job or time to fix a problem you may have dealt with earlier. It’s getting better but let’s see if we can perfect it next year. If you do not understand your radio or its operations ask now and we will try to find someone or a source to help you. It’s like driving a car; know what all the controls are for and do and how to perform them.
Finally, I only have two eyes and ears to make notes and I can use yours to document how we might improve next time whether it is this event or another event. So please, take a moment and drop me a note of your thoughts, ideas, suggestions, critique, etc. and I will store it for next time as I always do with each event. If you have any photos you wish to share please do.
By the way, before I forget, we wish to acknowledge and thank Savanna for their generous donation of $500 to our team. This helps us in our general fund to pay for repeater site rentals, repairs and upkeep to equipment, and other expenses (such as licensing) that we have come up in order to continue as a viable team. THANK YOU SAVANNA.
One more thank you is in order. THANK YOU to all of YOU who volunteered to make this event a success. Without YOU it would not be an event. Thank you for communicating back to Kevin, Mike, or myself with your availability and for bringing your enthusiasm, professionalism, and smile to Savanna. It REALLY makes it all worthwhile and the question of the day is “for whom?” Why, the band kids, our next generation, of course!
73
Ed Greany, Crest 25
2003 Fireworks show in Corona
CORONA, CALIFORNIA — July 5, 2003
The gates are secure, the debris is being picked up, the tear-down crew is removing the ignition set-up in what was one of the the best fireworks shows so far at the Corona High School.
The show was a success although a smaller crowd in attendance due to limited parking this year caused by school construction. All gates were manned, the head event coordinator was shadowed, the parking lot was patrolled, the ignition area was safe, and the school was in good hands. The 16 participants this year did an excellent job and my hat’s off to all who helped. Each and every one of you did your part to make it happen. Some were exposed to some “head’s up” periods and I give you my personal thank you for performing in a professional manner and resulting in Crest again being highly respected for what we do.
The coordinator (Elaine) was very nervous and apprehensive this year. Our regular coordinator (Rick) was off and this was the first time for Elaine. She was advised by Rick to let Crest handle things. When Rick did that in past years, the event went well and we performed as expected. This year was no different. Elaine eventually became more confident by the casual demeanor of Clint and Karen as we assured her the stations were posted and things were under control. Nice job you two.
We had some newcomers to the event this year and they did very well in their posts. Thank you “newbie’s”. My special thanks to San Gabriel 55 who just joined their team and this was his first event and to Crest 87 who recently joined the team and this was his first fireworks show participation. These two were even put in a situation at their gates whereby two children were lost and the police department put out an order “secure the gates nobody gets out”. SG 55 and Crest 87 were at two of the primary gates to be secured. The gates were secured and the children were soon located. Great work!
Crest 86 was also new to the event this year. He and Crest 44 manned the “back gate” which leads to the ignition area. They volunteered for this position which traditionally has been for the “newbie’s” to the event. Next year they will be eligible to work closer in and perhaps get a different view from what they had. Their position is among one of the most important to keep out those who are not directly involved with the fireworks company. They did just that and did a good job.
This year the school classroom and recreation areas were easily brought to a secure situation by Crest 95 on bicycle patrol which made him very quick to get to a situation quickly. He also was very helpful in passing out cold drinks during the event to our volunteers. Good job, Mark. Likewise, our parking lot was patrolled by Crest 107 in a mobile unit and no reports were received this year of any vandalism to vehicles. It was also patrolled by two mounted police officers as back-up for David.
Our main gate and gate leading to the ignition area lower field were critical areas for crowd control. Both Tom and SG 10 kept things peaceful and under control.
A typical area of concern is the area surrounding the gym, the basketball courts, the pool area, and the baseball fields. Those areas were guarded and patrolled very well by Crest57, Crest 6 and SG 9. These are tough positions to fill as people attempt to get closer and closer to the ignition area and are kept back for their safety and per Fire Department requirements.
All would not be possible without our “Ignition Control”. Dean (Crest 59) was welcomed with open arms by the fireworks professional personnel and as usual, Dean was an excellent asset to us. His eagle eye and consciousness always toward safety allowed the performance to go without a hitch. Even the semi-cooperative off-duty custodian and his 15 visitors could not outwit the rath of Crest teamwork although they tried.
A final tribute to the help given us by my brother Tom again this year. This is his fourth or fifth time assisting me at this event and is always a welcome asset. He drives all the way from San Diego each year to give Crest a hand and make sure we are comfortable with sufficient personnel. Thank you Tom. You were a balance all by yourself to 5 no-shows this year. I appreciate your unselfish dedication to CREST Communications even though you don’t even own a radio or have an interest in 2-way.
I sincerely hope I have not neglected anyone who helped out. It was truly a team effort and we appreciate the three San Gabriel team members who came out to play with us. As you know, this is the second annual event that Crest does to directly assist the City of Corona in exchange for no-cost meeting place every month. This partnership has been a successful one for many years and in addition to keeping our communications skills up and ready for a real emergency, IT’S JUST PLAIN FUN!
THANKS ALL.
E. “Ed” J. Greany,President
CREST Communications Unit 25
CREST Communications HELPS DURING 2003 STORM BASEBALL GAME
LAKE ELSINORE, CALIFORNIA — May 24, 2003
It’s already past 2 PM and I’m going to Lake Ellsinore some 95 miles away. Radio was quiet for the first hour. I called for Traffic Watch since I’m not familiar with the area and needed some help. As always, I got a prompt response and the helpful voice of Mel (Crest 41) came on the speaker. He checked my route and provided me with a shortcut from the 210 fwy to the 91 (last time, I got a bit lost and did it the long way around).
During the next hour and a half other Communications units where checking in on their way to the game. There was some concern that the game could be cancelled due to weather conditions. Weather was overcast in the San Fernando Valley when I left but as I approached Corona, the sky began to gradually clear. From my advanced position I complemented the weather and traffic information that Mel (and David, Crest 107) were providing the rest of units on their way to the game.
Soon after I got to The Storm Professional Baseball Team Stadium, the chatter of units checking in increased. Crest 51 was the first one to arrive there then 28, 41, 107, 44, 68, 85, 95… all of them with a big smile on their faces and ready to have a good time.
This event was offered to CREST as a way to earn income for our treasury. The local high school students are hired part-time by the stadium to act a concession servers and attendants but since the park sells beer and they are underage, there is a need for beer servers. The baseball team decided to offer it to non-profit organizations and give the organization a donation. CREST took the challenge. This is our second year and we will be doing it again towards the end of the season.
Once we all were there (a total of 9 units) we were briefed on what our duties where to be for the day: serve beer, pizza, hot dogs, coffee and other beverages, and prepare nachos. No radios would be needed. This is very different to what our usual assignments usually are but hey, it looked like a lot of fun! We formed teams of three and each one headed towards their respective stand. We had just a few minutes to practice before the people began to come.
For the next three hours we rushed up and down the stands preparing, grabbing, and pouring whatever the stand attendants needed.
Just before 9 p.m. the stand closed and it was time to rest, chat with the standattendants, and have some pizza. Then we just sat outside to enjoy the end of the game. This was actually my first baseball game. Baseball is not popular in Spain where I hail from but at the end, I could see just the last 5 minutes of it. Radios began to work again as we checked on the other Communicationsers and we all left the stadium with a big smile and the satisfaction of having done a great job.
At the end of the day we all where exhausted, but had a great time and willing to do it again at another occasion.
It was now time for the long drive home and the anticipation for next team event.
Juan S. Fernandez
CREST 87
Run for the Crown 2003
CORONA, CALIFORNIA — May 10, 2003
The “2003 Run for the Crown 5k 10K” was held on Saturday May 10, 2003 at Corona High School and Communications was there to help. This race winds through the city streets of Corona with the start and finish at the High School. Two different circuits, one 5K the other 10K were run.
Crest Communications, together with members of Saddleback and San Gabriel Valley Communications Teams, manned point intersections assisting runners with direction, water and first aid if needed. We also kept Organization and Emergency services updated on the run development as runners went past our control points.
Runners of all ages and conditions enjoyed this event, and there where even moms pushing their strollers that made the 10k! Our applause to all participants and the organization for an event well done.
Rob Clark / Crest 89
2003 Riverside’s Rod Show and Go
RIVERSIDE, CALIFORNIA — May 3, 2003
The Rod Run ” Show and Go” was held on Saturday May 03, 2003 on Market St in Downtown Riverside. Classics cars, parts and exhibits lined the city streets.The Classic cars cruised Market St up and down showing their stuff, and were judged for their appearances. Trophies were awarded at the end of the day. There was even a “Header Contest”. Despite the rain over 600 Classic Cars participated in this event.
Crest Communications, assisted by San Gabriel Valley Communications members, performed pedestrian control and coordination tasks, so the Classic Cars could cruise safely.
By Rob Clark – Crest 89
2001 Traveland Chili Cook-Off
IRVINE, CALIFORNIA — It was a partially-cloudy day as volunteer communicators with Crest Communications – Team 4252 woke up from their sleep. The weather was very prominent on their minds. Cloudy weather frequently means rain, and Traveland U.S.A. Our first event of the 2001 Year.
The weather cooperated, and just like that … it was over!!
