By Beth KN4FZB, Photos by Susan WA4AKB
and Peter N4PVH
Wow, was that the THIRD annual PARC and BARC picnic that we just enjoyed? It’s really picked up steam and seems to be something that is expected to take place in the ENC area each year now. Although most attendees were from PARC and BARC, with a heavy presence from NBARC as well, I was told that we had visitors from as far away as Cary and Wilmington too.
The day started with a tailgate style swap meet where there were some good deals to be found. Lots of equipment was offered, and a few treasures changed hands and went to new homes.
The food is one of the most looked forward to parts of the day. Gary NG9T does a great job on the grill, and the sides and desserts provided by everyone else are a delight to behold. I love the variety and seeing all the specialities that others bring to share. We always fear that there won’t be enough, but in the end, we are sending home leftovers. Maybe next year we need to tell everyone to bring containers with them.
But the fellowship and connections are the real highlight of the day. Sharing memories, razzing old friends and making new ones are ongoing throughout the day. Offering help to newer hams, and encouraging others to try new modes, antennas, or soldering techniques abounds, sometimes with strongly held opinions. I heard chatter about how to grow the clubs, elmer the new hams, raise an antenna, learn CW, make banana puddin’ (look at the proper southern spelling), and where the best local POTA sites are. It’s great to see longtime friends having a chance to get together, and new friendships being established. Many thanks to PARC and BARC for the opportunity to make memories.
73 Beth KN4FZB
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