It's seems everyone is taking time to put together a "Top Ten" list for the end of the year, so I thought I'd post some of my highlights for 2008 when it comes to significant achievements in Tech Ministries at Abundant Life Church this year.
10. Shifting ALC web streaming away from A/V Web to Audio Acrobat (October)
It's great to find a great vendor, and this move not only saved us money, but it has opened unique opportunities for staff to be able to do some web-casting of their own, and allowed us to return an audio podcast to the ALC line-up. Along this same line is our implementation of "Planning Center Online" as a tool to schedule volunteers for ministry.
9. Running IMAG Camera at Portland City Fest (August).
This is a personal item, but is a favorite memory for this year. I really enjoyed getting a chance to get behind the scenes at an amazing event, and to run a camera that was worth more than my current home!
8. Attending Catalyst Conference - Atlanta, GA (October)
I really enjoyed this conference, and found it a breath of fresh air in busy year. I left with new encouragement and great ideas - and ate the best ribs I ever had.
7. Installation of the IMAG System and Broadcast Pix Switcher at HV Campus (March)
The most significant tech purchase at ALC - and set us up for a future of great video production for years to come.
6. Installation of sound and lighting system and launch of the Parkrose Campus (February)
This was a great project, and it was so exciting to be able to use the talent of great volunteers and vendors and the collective knowledge we had learned from the HV campus to make it a good install.
5. "Songs of Christmas" - 1st extensive use of automated fixtures at ALC. (December)
If you attended this program, you witnessed a unique first for Abundant Life - the utilization of automated fixtures to create a great look for the program. We utilized the talents of Indigo Design, and they did a great job for us. It was also the first program we did knowing that IMAG was going to be a critical aspect of the service, so we built set looks and lighting to take advantage of that.
4. Super Summer Spectacular IMAG support. (July)
I was so excited that we were able to really enhance the SSS program at ALC with the introduction of IMAG for the live worship and teaching. It was a great use of technology across the other aspects of the ministries at ALC.
3. The airing of a film I created call "The Hall Closet" on Egyptian Television (to an estimated audience of over 10 million). (November)
Another personal item that made this list, but I'm continued to be humbled and flattered by how God is using this short little film to send a great message around the globe. Changes are pretty good this is the largest audience that will (or will ever) see anything I've created. Wow.
2. Creation of a radio recording studio at Abundant Life Church. (September)
The installation that converted (hats off to Bridgeport Productions) Greg's old office into a radio recording studio made way for my favorite Tech achievement at ALC in 2008...
1. The debut of Cool Church Radio w/George Powell - KPAM 860, September 7, 2008.
This is significant for many reasons, but as we "continue to reach as many people as possible for Jesus Christ.." the use of mass media will be a big part of that. As we enter the new year, we'll continue to evaluate the impact of the radio show on Portland and Abundant Life. To date we've done 18 episodes, and will continue through February 2009.
As I reflect on these things, each item has behind it a huge list of dedicated friends, family, fellow staff and volunteers that have made each of these items possible. To all of you - thanks! Come to think of it, what never makes list like this - which is as significant - is the day in and day out support of the weekly ministry volunteers that make tech happen at both campuses each week a reality. We honestly could not do any of this without you!
If your read this - and want to add your own favorite memory or item, feel free to post a comment.
A heart felt "Happy New Year" to all - and an honest resolution to post a little more often.
Dave
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