2 Meters is way to quite

I am concerned that 2 meters is still so quite.  I know we have new tech’s out there and other HAMs home from work in Florida where we are right now and still the crews are quite. I pulled out my 2 and 11 meter radios to check traffic.  I even built a new 2 meter J Pole to boost my capabilities.

 Here you can see a CB (11) & 2 meter radio on the table and the 8 & 20 amp batteries for them.

Here is my new Home made J pole on a temp pole.  Till things get better I will use what I have to make things here no need to go to a store.  I did drive out a few miles to test the 2 meter back to a HT next to a tape recorder I know it works.  I just used the ruler duck mag mount on the ammo can and was heard over 1/3 a mile, I have a fire stick but am using that mag mount for my 80 meter.  HF 20 - 80 is alive and well just not the 2 meter bang.  Hope this changes soon.