Hamventure to Dayton Hamvention

May 17th and 18th, 2014

Since 1952 the Dayton Amateur Radio Association has been sponsoring an annual 3-day Hamvention held mostly at Hara Arena, a facility just outside the city limits of Dayton, Ohio. This year W7AH and I were there among 24,000 plus other ham radio enthusiasts. What an amazing experience for a new ham or any ham for that matter!

First of all, the arena...Hara is a very large complex that includes many interconnected buildings. Outside is a flea marketer's dream come true. A map and comfortable walking shoes were definitely a must. Although the doors opened on Friday, we did not arrive until Saturday. But once there, our adventure quickly began.

With over 550 indoor exhibits and a constant sea of people, there was a lot to take in.  For a new ham with very little actual hands on radio experience under her belt, it felt a little like "ham radio on steroids!" A little overwhelming at first, but I quickly settled in. I even came away with a shiny new engraved name badge and and a very functional hiking hat, both sporting my new call sign.

Ready for the Flea Market Sun

One of the highlights of Saturday for me was meeting my first Elmer, Gordo West, WB6NOA. After using his Technician and General Class books to study for my first two license exams, I felt like I knew him and wasn't shy at all walking up to his booth, introducing myself and asking him to sign my Extra Class book and pose for a photo. Later we were able to witness Gordo in action as he hosted a live broadcast of my new favorite show, Ham Nation, along with Bob, George and Valerie.

KG7LNG Meeting WB6NOA

Bob, Gordo, George and Valerie

Early Sunday morning, W7AH and I were lucky enough to "hang out" with Gordo outside while wandering among the largest collection of electronic goodies I have ever seen in one place. Okay let's be honest. That I have ever seen period!

My Two Elmers, WB6NOA and W7AH

After bumping into WB6NOA in the Flea Market, the next big event on Sunday was a party celebrating the 100th birthday of ARRL, American Radio Relay League, the largest membership association of amateur radio enthusiasts in the USA. And no celebration is complete without cake (really good cake)...

Happy Birthday, ARRL

ARRL President Kay Craigie, N3KN

So, for an overview, I think I have hit most of the high points. Stay tuned for my next two posts with more on my Hamventure to Dayton Hamvention: "Best of Dayton Hamvention in Photos" and "First QSO."

73, KG7LNG