[SCFN] Job Well Done!!

[Lee Barken]

howdy Wireless Fans,
  Our install today at the Golden Villas was one of the best ever!  In
fact, we may have set a new SoCalFreeNet.org record by deploying 2 rooftop
nodes (one master and one repeater) along with a 6-workstation computer
lab all in ONE DAY!  Braving the elements was an impressive group of
volunteers... neither rain, nor snow, nor 2.4 GHz Cordless phones or Rogue
Access Points could slow them down!

Some of the factors behind our great success today included:

*Planning* is key.  The reason today's install went so smoothly was no
doubt the *enormous* efforts and hard work of Michael, Drew and Seren who
performed the site survey, configured the gear and endlessly tested all of
the equipment *prior to install day*.  As we've seen on many occasions,
the more work that goes into planning, the fewer "surprises" we have on
install day and the more fun we all have getting to actually build and
deploy networks.  Thanks to all of their hard work, we even had enough 
time today to get 2 residents online!  Hats off to Michael, Drew and
Seren!!

*Volunteers* are essential.  I want to extend a special THANKS to
first-time volunteers Dave, Dylan and Stuart!  I hope you had a good
learning experience and had fun.  We sure do appreciate that you took time
out of your busy schedules to come help support the mission of
SoCalFreeNet.org.  Please let us know how we can continue to create good
learning opportunities for our volunteers-- your feedback is *always
appreciated*.  We hope you had a good time and will join us at future
events!

*Experience* is a great teacher.  Thank you to Marc, Joe and Ben for
adding your considerable talents to the effort today.  Joe's help in
setting up the lab (and not giving up even we thought all was lost!) and
Marc's extra effort to drive to Home Depot to pick up a few last minute
items were particularly helpful!  Ben's relentless pursuit of finishing
the grounding rod installation was an inspiration for all!  :-)  (BTW-
Thanks to Mike S. for loaning us the "Grounding Rod Battering Ram"... wow,
that thing was a great help!).   We love to see "repeat volunteers"...
thanks for coming back for more!

Hope I didn't forget anybody!  (This flu medicine is making me a little
delirous)...  Stay tuned for a full report and technical de-brief on our
website in the next few days.  Also, stay tuned to the list for our next
volunteer event - El Toyon Rec Center in National City.

Thanks again!!
  -Lee