As one who hasn't connected with our National Traffic System since forever I'd encourage Field Day planners to consider carving out a few hours this year and connect via point-to-point communications using the ionosphere as the medium.
I'm going to encourage Beach Boys ARC participants to be prepared to practice traffic handling during our national emergency communication's exercise scheduled for later this month. We can well afford to take a few hours for training because Field Day is all about emergency preparedness.
Public Outreach with NTS Messaging: The ARRL National Traffic System (NTS) routinely passes practice messages to help operators build and maintain their traffic-handling skills. One way to create such messages is to solicit them from the public at preparedness fairs, exhibit booths and, of course, Field Day.
Disaster preparedness for individuals and families includes having out-of-state contacts that can be notified in case of an emergency. When curious visitors approach the table, explain the importance of having such information. Be sure to emphasize the fact that in a real incident Amateur radio may be the best way to reach their designated contacts.
It’s a terrific way to engage the public and it will heighten their appreciation for our disaster-communication capabilities.