Normandy Park City Manager’s Report for week ending June 20, 2025

Emergency Preparedness in Action at the Annual Field Day

Saturday, June 28 | 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM | Marvista Park

Emergency preparedness is a top priority for the City of Normandy Park, and one essential aspect of our readiness strategy is effective emergency communication. To help build community awareness and resilience, we invite all residents to attend and participate in the annual American Radio Relay League (ARRL) Field Day, hosted by the Highline Amateur Radio Club (HARC) at Marvista Park on Saturday, June 28, from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

What is Field Day?

Field Day is amateur (ham) radio’s open house. Every June, more than 31,000 licensed operators across North America set up temporary radio stations in parks, schools, and other public places to demonstrate how amateur radio plays a vital role in emergency communications. The event showcases the science, skill, and public service of amateur radio while fostering community engagement, technical training, and emergency preparedness.

In Normandy Park, the event is led by HARC, a dedicated group of emergency communications volunteers who support the cities of Burien, Des Moines, Normandy Park, SeaTac, and the unincorporated North Highline area. These volunteers are trained to assist during disasters such as earthquakes, flooding, tsunamis, extreme weather events, and other major incidents where conventional communication systems may fail.

What to Expect at Field Day

This is a hands-on opportunity to observe how Normandy Park’s emergency volunteers operate in real-world scenarios:

  • Three High-Frequency (HF) Stations capable of nationwide communication will be in operation.
  • One of the High Frequency Stations is intended for a “Get on the Air” station that will allow visitors to try their hand at radio communication. Volunteers will guide participants in making real-time contacts with other stations across the country.
  • This year’s theme, “RADIO CONNECTS,” celebrates the many ways that wireless technology helps us stay in touch—locally and globally.

Why It Matters

In an emergency, timely and reliable communication can save lives. Amateur radio operators provide a crucial service by maintaining connectivity when cell towers, internet, and power may be unavailable. Normandy Park residents are encouraged to learn about this vital system and how it supports public safety. Community engagement in events like Field Day strengthens our collective preparedness and resilience. For more information, go to the ARRL Field Day website or contact Gerrie Kellogg, KI7EIV, at (206) 334-1611.

If you have any questions about the information above or any other City topic, please get in touch with me at aarrington@normandyparkwa.gov.

“Have a great week!”

Amy Arrington, City Manager
City of Normandy Park
801 SW 174th Street
Normandy Park, WA 98166
(206) 248-8246 (Direct Phone)