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THE AM BULLETIN BOARD => QSO => Topic started by: W1RC on March 01, 2007, 03:30:35 PM



Title: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: W1RC on March 01, 2007, 03:30:35 PM
Hello Friends:

It was three weeks ago today that we all read the ominous statement on the official Hosstraders' Web site that the October 2006 event was the last one. 

Shock and disbelief was apparent as the stunning news spread like wildfire within the amateur radio community in the Northeast and elsewhere.  One of my friends reported that it was a subject of discussion at the Orlando Hamfest over 1500 miles away.  It is clear that everyone is bummed out over the end of the Hosstraders. 

The AM and Military subsets of the Hobby are the biggest losers because Hosstraders was an important social event for us as well as a place to exchange stuff.  After all we can hardly go into HRO and buy what we want over the counter.  We've all seen the great 'Festers deteriorate over the past several years.  Many are blaming ePay and other online resources but the truth is even more basic - there's only so much of this stuff out there to go around.

We have come to take the semi-annual Hosstraders events very much for granted and this was perhaps a mistake.  Everything has a beginning and an end.  Last October was one of the best events on record.  Many of you reading this posting were there and some of you travelled great distances to attend.  I'm thinking particularly of Steve "The HUZ-Man"  Gary W2INR, Dave K3ZRF, Greg and "Johnny Novice" in particular. 

The Norm, Joe and Bob, the three guys who organized it from the very beginning in 1973 have really done a magnificent job over the ensuing years and donated over 1.3 million dollars to the Shriners Burns Units in three hospitals.  But they're tired and probably the tasks involved in organizing Hosstraders twice a year became real work for them and they decided to call it quits on a high note.

Many of you have been cussing and discussing this unhappy situation for three weeks and I have decided to make a statement about what has been happening.  I hope it is not premature because no contracts for the venue have been signed as of this writing (March 1st 2007).  However things look very promising and I can say with some confidence that there will be two new events in the general tradition of The Hosstraders (but not related), tentatively on May 4th and 5th (Friday and Saturday) as well as October 12th and 13th 2007.

In fact right now I do not know what the costs will be but I am anticipating something in the area of $6,000.00 - $7,500.00.  That's a lotta green!  However I feel that this event means so much to so many of us that I really need to do what I can in order to get it off the ground.

At the present time there is no committee or organization.  However once I have secured the venue I will quickly enlist the assistance of several folks to help me host the event.

It is very important the event be held in May of this year so as to maintain the continuity.  Time is short.  Fortunately we can publicize it on the air and over the Net.

Gary W2INR has graciously provided me with a separate Forum Board on this site to facilitate communications between the organizers.  Thank you G. 

Right now I am not at liberty to reveal the venue as I consider such discussion to be bad luck.  However, I assure you that if I am successful in my negotiations everyone will be very pleased with the location.  It will offer all the amenities we have become used to having and MORE!!!!  The venue under consideration will be a bit closer for those travelling from points south and west.  I hope to be able to elaborate further in two weeks after the deal has been sealed. 

I have decided tentatively call the event "The New England Amateur Radio Festival" which produces a nice acronym  "The NEAR-Fest".  Kinda compliments FAR-Fest!    I initially thought that "Ham-Traders" would be nice but it reminded me of the infamous Ham Trader Yellow Sheets aka "The Yellow Peril" of the past.  Besides it sounds too much like "Hosstraders" which this is most assuredly not.

Once a contract is signed and the event is a "go" I plan to take a page from the M.I.T. flea market and offer prepaid admissions to finance the expenses.  As with the policy at M.I.T. the prepaid admissions line enters the flea market first. 

There will of course be as Web site set up as soon as the venue is a done deal. 

Please keep discussion of this limited to this Forum for the time being.  Also I want to discourage any questions by direct e-mail as I have limited time to devote to this and would prefer to focus on getting the venue nailed down and not answering questions for now.  Instead, please feel free to post your comments and suggestions to this topic thread. I will read this thread frequently and if I see anything that I feel is of use be assured that I will note it.

Thank you all for understanding.

See you all on the 4th!

73,

MisterMike. W1RC


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: steve_qix on March 02, 2007, 01:46:53 PM
Nice work, Mike !!!!

I will operate a special event station from the event, as usual :-)  Can also hold seminars, etc. if you have any ideas!

Talk later and Regards,

Steve




Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: kc2ifr on March 02, 2007, 01:57:49 PM
Mike,
That is good news indeed...thanks much.
Bill


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: W2INR on March 09, 2007, 05:30:18 PM
I just heard the best rumor I could have heard in years!!!!

There is a rumor that we are going back to Deerfield!!!!  If this is true  WOW !!

Details might be available next week!!!

G


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: KF1Z on March 09, 2007, 07:39:14 PM
Hmmm Deerfield.....

Seems to be TWO Deerfields in NH.....

Which one is it?


Mike indicated the new site would be closer for people treaveling from the South and West.....
Doesn't seem like either Deerfield.nh fits that description...


Oh well.....
sounds like we'll find out soon !!!!!



Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: W2INR on March 09, 2007, 07:42:29 PM
When it comes to Hamfests there is only one Deerfield - - NH


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: Joe Long on March 09, 2007, 07:47:36 PM
At this point I'm willing to settle for Kingston. Remember that horror show?


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: KF1Z on March 09, 2007, 07:52:04 PM
When it comes to Hamfests there is only one Deerfield - - NH


Ok fine......

But WHERE is it   ??


I look it up and there is TWO Deerfield New Hampshires !!


One in Rockingham Co., and one in Grafton Co.


Unfortunately, when I started attending Hosstraders, it was already in Rochester....

So, I have no idea of what part of the state it's in.....

Oh well, I guess they'll put out directions when they get ready, and then I can find out....



Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: W1JS on March 09, 2007, 09:10:25 PM
Hosstraders was held for many years at the Deerfield Fairgrounds in Deerfield NH, which is in Rockingham County, a little north and west (actually north and east!) of Manchester NH off Route 101. 


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: N1ZZN on March 09, 2007, 09:43:50 PM
NE of Manchester actually:

http://www.deerfieldfair.org/OLD%20WEBSITE%20INFO/directns/index.htm

I hope the rumor is true. Hosstraders at Deerfield was well before my time (got my license in 1997) and I've heard a lot about how great it was from others. I hope something official is announced soon, so the word can spread fast!


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: W1RC on March 09, 2007, 10:12:08 PM
I'm not confirming or denying any rumors about Deerfield but just so you'll know here's where it's at:

http://maps.google.com/maps?ie=UTF8&q=deerfield+nh&oe=UTF-8&z=10&ll=43.226193,-71.522369&spn=0.43328,1.487274&om=1

For a good satellite eye view of the fairgrounds take a look at:

http://www.flashearth.com/?lat=43.100586&lon=-71.245871&z=17.1&r=87&src=msa

How many of you can spot the old "AM Corral"?

Again, I am not confirming or denying any rumors as to whether this is the new location!  Gary is correct however when he writes; there is only ONE Deerfield.   It's been 15 years since we were last there in October 1992 but the memories are still strong.

Stay tuned!  Do not adjust your set.

73,

MrMike
   


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: w3jn on March 10, 2007, 06:45:59 AM
OUtstanding, Mike!!  The last Hosstraders was the best hamfest I've ever been to, bar none, and I've attended Dayton probably 20 years.  I've yet to go to a bad hamfest in New Hamsta  ;D


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: W1JS on March 10, 2007, 03:39:50 PM
Quote
NE of Manchester actually

Oh, crap!  I don't know east from west!  Sad part is that I go by the exit off Route 101 twice a day to and from work... 

It is a great place though.  And one of the best agricultural fairs around the first weekend in October.


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: Todd, KA1KAQ on March 12, 2007, 03:14:50 PM
Deerfield is where we came from. I met the AM gang there when I got involved many moon ago after CW, DXing on SSB and so on. Deerfield is really responsible for where I am today in AM. I met all of the modern day OTs there: Tim, Chuck, Tom, Paul etc. Also met a certain N2 who is now a W2, way back when he was looking for a CE 200V.

So....who remembers the regular SSB Sacrifices off the back of the grandstand? We might not be as likely to send an old B&W or Heath SSB adaptor over the rail these days, but back then it was a sight to behold. Parts flying everywhere...

If it's true that ham radio as we know it is dying, Deerfield would be the place to spend our time. A sort of 'rest home' for old radio farts and other things from the good ol' days. Who knows? It might be responsible for a Renaissance of sorts, a revitalization of interest and participation. The legend and mystique of Deerfield is well known.


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: KE7NL - Jack on March 12, 2007, 08:28:57 PM
Does the Fairgrounds have a "SWINE" barn?  That's what I'm going to be looking for.


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: W1RC on March 13, 2007, 09:11:00 PM
Everyone wants a hint as to where the new event will take place.  Here's a fairly recent snapshot.  Any ideas?

http://mysite.verizon.net/w1rc/new_venue.jpg

The official announcement will come very soon.  I'm just waiting for the signed contract to arrive and then the guessing will end.

73,

MrMike


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: K1KFI on March 13, 2007, 11:18:15 PM
...70' flat top...nice!


 :D


Title: NEARFest
Post by: WA3VJB on March 14, 2007, 05:51:38 AM
How's the camping ?



Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: Todd, KA1KAQ on March 14, 2007, 10:35:31 AM
Everyone wants a hint as to where the new event will take place.  Here's a fairly recent snapshot.  Any ideas?

Having an unfair advantage of experience along with inside knowledge, I won't register my guess. It almost brings tears to my eyes, Mike. Can't wait. :D

Of course, Paul's camping picture is an attention getter also. Personal space heaters never looked so good...


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: n1nqc on March 14, 2007, 08:08:44 PM
 Hey All. I ALSO recognize this location! Yeah baby!    Yes indeed, the home for old radio farts, I LIKE it!     .........Well the old Hosstraders seemed to have "evolved" into more of  an over night "campfest" with a flea market on the side. It is  a shame that the number of Saturday day trippers had crashed to near zero (thanks to Ebay?). But the overnighter's numbers seemed to have held steady, even up to the last Hosstraders. I am sure that this new reality and situation hasn't been lost to those working on the rebirth. I am sure this  reality will be factored in.  My thanks to all involved. de N1NQC


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: Todd, KA1KAQ on March 15, 2007, 11:10:55 AM
I recall sleeping in the back of a pickup truck with cap at Deerfield years ago during a HUGE rainstorm. I woke up to what sounded like a truckload of marbles being dropped on me. Also slept under a motorhome and a 4x4 once. Camping at Hosstraders and other hamfests has been a part of it since they became 2 day events. The age factor and disposable income has meant RVs and hotels in place of roughing it.

And as easy as it is to blame ebay, inevitably it comes back to us. Most of us use ebay, and many of us no longer sell at hamfests. That doesn't mean the two are related beyond. Some of us discussed this last fall and concluded that as we've gotten older, we've come to appreciate the social aspects more. Seeing friends, going to dinner, hanging around or just wandering, it's a lot more fun than being chained to a table.

Add to that the fact that most were picking up this old junk long before it became fashionable or an "investment" and you have another reason: we've got enough already. That doesn't mean we don't find more, we're just not as likely to. We also tend to redistribute to others we know, precluding the big need to purge as often. Pieces-parts seem to be the great quest now.

The biggest thing we can do now is help expose others to the wonders of radio in a form they can relate to. It's been said that radio isn't recognizable anymore for what it is, and there's some truth to that. The old commercial and home brew gear is nice for grabbing the interest of some as 'radio', and the Class E along with SDR stuff is attractive to those who prefer a newer approach. The Yaecomwood plug-n-play stuff fills in the remaining gaps.

So whether we support this into the future by helping out with a fest or simply help financially by attending and telling others, we can all take part.


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: Carl WA1KPD on March 15, 2007, 01:06:44 PM
If it is indeed Deerfield, the RADIO TART approves.

She has very happy memories of those nights ......er... days.

(http://www.tiberiusfilm.de/bilder/cover_a/tart.jpg)


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: WA1GFZ on March 15, 2007, 04:32:15 PM
Oh yea Miss Bullpucky the stealth woman


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: Carl WA1KPD on March 15, 2007, 07:18:34 PM
Oh yea Miss Bullpucky the stealth woman

Frank- Stealth can be good- If an XYL is involved.!

She keeps saying she wants to see your pickled eggplant!
(http://tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:s0CnVvFQMWDXJM:http://www1.istockphoto.com/file_thumbview_approve/472581/2/istockphoto_472581_eggplant_character.jpg)


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: W1RC on March 16, 2007, 12:03:48 PM
I didn't receive anything from the "venue" in today's mail but called my contact who told me that he personally mailed the contracts to me yesterday so as the old saying goes: "They're in the mail!" 

You might want to listen to Al Weiner Worldwide on WBCQ The Planet tonight at 8:30 PM on 7.415.  If the signal skips over ya listen online:

www.wbcq.com

In the meantime here's another clue.  If this doesn't give it away I don't know what will......

http://mysite.verizon.net/w1rc/Boatanchor_Central.jpg

Who knows? This may be the new "AM Corral / MIL HQ".

Also a new message will be started in the ANNOUNCEMENTS forum to continue this discussion.

73,

MrMike W1RC


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: WA1HZK on March 16, 2007, 04:42:35 PM
That's Deerfield alright. The home of the original swine barn & the location of the last Timtron barf fest on a Saturday morning! I begged and moaned to get us back there when we got kicked out the last time. Those people were sorta greedy so Hosstraders moved. I hope you cut a better deal.
Keith
WA1HZK


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: kc2ifr on March 16, 2007, 08:50:58 PM
YAHOO........just listened to BCQ and it looks like Deerfield is a go.....
Great news for us all.

Bill


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: W1RC on March 16, 2007, 08:53:10 PM
It's official.  The Grand Tradition will continue!  The NEAR-Fest will be held at the Deerfield Fairgrounds on  May 4th and 5th.  But we've got to behave ourselves if we want to continue hosting the Near-Fest there.  The Web site will be up within a day or two and will be the only official source of information about the 'Fest.

CUL,

73,

W1RC


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: kc2ifr on March 16, 2007, 08:56:31 PM
Mike...cant thank you enough.
When the web site is up I will be buying at least 3 tickets in advance.

Thanks again,
Bill


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: N1ZZN on March 16, 2007, 09:14:58 PM
Thank you Mike, This is GREAT News!

I'll be starting to plan setting up a small FM radio station at this new event as well. Hopefully I can find a spot under trees, or something to hang an antenna from again.


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: KF1Z on March 16, 2007, 09:16:00 PM
Cool...much too cool for words....


Wonder what the website will be (dns name)...

nearfest. COM  is taken of course...
NEARfest is the largest progressive music festival in the United States........


Don't matter what it is... as long as we can find it!


All I have to do now... is GET THERE....
Rode to Hosstraders last Fall with wa2cyt....

NEAR-Fest will be much longer drive though from central Verminmont.....

Still 8 ish weeks away.... time to figure something out....


THANKS MIKE!!! (and whoever...)



Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: W1RC on March 16, 2007, 09:19:31 PM
Yes indeed, micro-broadcasters are welcome.  I expect there will be a few so I'll leave it up to you guys to coordinate frequencies.  Maybe we'll have a Bulletin Board added to the NEAR-Fest Web Site so folks can coordinate their activities. 

My main goal is for everyone to have as much fun as you can without getting us booted out again!

73,

MrM

Thank you Mike, This is GREAT News!

I'll be starting to plan setting up a small FM radio station at this new event as well. Hopefully I can find a spot under trees, or something to hang an antenna from again.


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: N1ZZN on March 16, 2007, 09:24:42 PM
I'll probably take a ride up to the area sometime in the next couple weeks. I expect that 103.1 will be useable there as well. I know the guys that ran the other one (those copycats!), so I'll be in touch with them.

Sorry about the bit of interference we caused to AM ops for a while last time. We've got plans to use a much better, cleaner TX this time. I expect this won't be an issue anymore, but we will test it to make sure.


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: n1wil on March 16, 2007, 10:31:49 PM
This is great news!  A heartfelt thanks to all who made this possible.  I have gotten a few friends into the previous fests and we were going regularly and thoroughly enjoyed them!  We even set up a broadcast station as well (we were on 95.5FM at Hosstraders)  We are "The Pirate Ship".  During the day, we entertain with hits of the 80s, and 90s, and after sundown, we air nostalgic old time radio is heard in the old days of AM. 

We plan on joining forces with Jeff, and his gang, WHTR and remain dedicated to enjoying and participating in the clean social atmosphere that we've come to know and love.

Look to our website for more info as it will be available shortly www.pirateshipradio.com

Since I am not sure if 95.5 is clear in Deerfield, we will have to do research and post a new operating frequency on our site as soon as info becomes available.  So be sure to check us out and offer comment!  See pics of our setup at this site from the old Hosstraders! 

I'm looking forward to joining with the other micro casters at the fest in the spirit of clean fun with a emphasis on festive music, nostalgia, and programing.

Station Specifications:

Transmitter: 30 Watt RVR Commercial Exciter
Antenna: tuned J-pole for operating frequency
Encoding: Software generated MPX and RDS sub-carriers
Audio: Professional audio mixing and processing chain
Mics: Wireless UHF Hand Vocal

On behalf of the "Pirate Ship Radio" crew, we look forward to this event and we will be buying our tickets in advance!

Regards to all!

John :D


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: steve_qix on March 17, 2007, 01:09:08 AM
Cool...much too cool for words....


Wonder what the website will be (dns name)...

nearfest. COM  is taken of course...
NEARfest is the largest progressive music festival in the United States........


Don't matter what it is... as long as we can find it!


All I have to do now... is GET THERE....
Rode to Hosstraders last Fall with wa2cyt....

NEAR-Fest will be much longer drive though from central Verminmont.....

Still 8 ish weeks away.... time to figure something out....


THANKS MIKE!!! (and whoever...)



Hi Bruce,

The Deerfield fairgrounds are not much further from where you are than Hopington.  You just have to go past Concord (down 89), and get on route 93 south.  That that to route 101 to the route 43 exit (that's how I used to go)....  They'll be official directions, but it is NOT that much further, considering how far you are coming anyway !

Mike - you really did great work here.  Looking forward to setting up the special events station again :-)

Regards,

Steve


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: Ed KB1HVS on March 17, 2007, 02:32:06 AM
 :) :) :) I went to Hosstraders once. Seems like since then when I planned to go again something came up (death in the family -work etc.) So Im just gonna hafta :).


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: W1TAV on March 17, 2007, 10:06:11 AM
 ;D Thank you Mister Mike and to all those that have been working with you to make this happen!   I have many wounderful memories of Deerfield. Perhaps I will find the 75-A3 and 32V1 I sold there back in the 80’s!  :'(

See you all in May!  :D

Steve - W1TAV :)


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: W1RC on March 17, 2007, 11:40:35 PM
The NEAR-Fest Web Site is up and running.  Webmeister Gary W2INR has done an outstanding job on the site and a forum/bulleting board is featured to discuss the 'Fester and operates exactly like this one.  Let's move the discussions over there and get the show on the road.

http://near-fest.com

73,

MisterMike, W1RC


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: W1QWT on March 18, 2007, 12:37:57 AM
So Mr. Mike,
You asked me to come in my Great Poohpah regalia complete with my E.F. Johnson horned hat. I can do that. You also asked me to come with my grounding rod and a pail of ground (dirt) inorder to ground our bretheren. We both know that they will feel much better after being grounded. After all, after a year of sticking our fingers into the B+ circuitry we do build up a potential!
One question though.
Can Brentina bring his motorized John Deer Poohpah deliverance vehicle?
We can put a toilet in the cart towed behind as an appropriate thrown for me to perch on.
Are guitars allowed?
Thank you all who are responsible for this.
I look forward to making a complete ass out myself again!

Regards and Happy Saint Patricks Day
O'Q


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: n1bnc on March 18, 2007, 07:11:12 AM
Great job Mike. We will be there in a big way! bring the guitars, amps, and swill!

Thanks!

Nat


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: kb1jcy on March 18, 2007, 11:29:58 AM
I'm simply amazed that W1RC has stepped up to the plate. And I'm amazed that he was able to get a fester site so quickly. Thank you!


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: N1KJN on March 18, 2007, 11:47:43 AM

I am glad that Mike stepped up to the plate and was able to get a site as quickly as he did.

Thank you for all of the hard work

73

Daniel
N1KJN


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: Steve - WB3HUZ on March 18, 2007, 02:30:09 PM
Bravo Mike. Excellent job. Not only the AM community, but all amateurs in the Northeast owe you a big thanks for keeping the spirit of Hosstraders and the wonderful location of Deerfield alive. Have fun!


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: W1RKW on March 18, 2007, 04:28:08 PM
Oh my god, no beer!


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: Ed KB1HVS on March 18, 2007, 06:07:38 PM
http://www.deerfieldfair.org/OLD%20WEBSITE%20INFO/directns/index.htm


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: n1bnc on March 19, 2007, 09:55:46 AM
Oh my god, no beer!


What will we do??? :o


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: Todd, KA1KAQ on March 19, 2007, 10:09:37 AM
Oh my god, no beer!

I think if you look back a ways at Hopkinton, you'll find the same rules existed there, part of the fairground rules (no alcohol, no pets, no glass containers) and requirements for signing an agreement. I recall being checked at the gate in the not too distant past, then later asked, then nothing. I figure it wasn't pushed because it didn't become an issue. Common sense plays a big role here. ;)


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: Carl WA1KPD on March 19, 2007, 12:36:33 PM
Mike,
Thanks for the efforts. It will be fun to have NEARfest as a new traddition


Title: The Shriners Get a Shiner......
Post by: W1RC on March 19, 2007, 05:46:09 PM
As a funny coincidence, my wife (VE2KW) found this in today's
NEW YORK TIMES.  Interesting to say the least.

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/03/19/us/19shrine.html?ex=1174968000&en=0795bf53efdd08a6&ei=5070&emc=eta1

73,

MrMike


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: WA1QHQ on March 21, 2007, 12:28:12 PM
Mike,

Does that mean the Shriners will not be helping out anymore?

Mark QHQ


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: Steve - WB3HUZ on March 21, 2007, 12:51:16 PM
Irb always said the Shriners were satanic.


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: W1RC on March 21, 2007, 02:00:56 PM
Perhaps it is unfair to post this link to the NYT and it has no bearing on our decision not to involve the Shriners.  They are human too.  They do a lot of good work for sick and burned kids which is a wonderful way to be benevolent.

The Shriners were almost a trademark of the Hosstraders.  We are not associated or affiliated in any way with them which is the way they want it.  We have to start from scratch financially and are counting on the entire New England community to help us get the $$$ for the Fair Association before they open the gate.  We hope that after we pay our bills we will be ahead enough so we can pay the Fair people for October.

I honestly don't think this enterprise will ever make a profit.  If we ever have a surplus of funds it is our intention to funnel it back into the Hobby in some fashion.  Personally I think scholarships for high-school hams to help a bit with college might be a fitting thing to do.

73,

MrMike


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: KB2WIG on March 21, 2007, 02:05:44 PM
          "Personally I think scholarships for high-school hams to help a bit with college might be a fitting thing to do."

Good idea. Anything to enhance our section of the hobby.  After were gone, who will keep the filaments lit? klc


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: Steve - WB3HUZ on March 21, 2007, 02:22:02 PM
Quote
Personally I think scholarships for high-school hams to help a bit with college might be a fitting thing to do.

This is what the Foundation for Amateur Radio (FAR) does. FAR was long the sponsor of the now defunct (or so it seems) Gaithersburg hamfest.


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: WU2D on March 21, 2007, 03:46:54 PM
This kind of sums it up...

http://www.jibjab.com/jokebox/jokebox/jibjab/id/523368/jokeid/119052

Mike WU2D


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: KB2WIG on March 21, 2007, 07:21:04 PM
Who is Ray Stevens???


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: Steve - WB3HUZ on March 21, 2007, 07:56:39 PM
Who is Ray Stevens???


You aren't serious, are you?


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: W1RC on April 02, 2007, 06:12:06 PM
This is so amazing I can hardly believe it!!!  I attended a very small flea market in NH on Saturday.  Many of the tables were empty.  Those that had "stuff" on them were most uninteresting.  I took a table and had tickets and vehicular passes available for NEAR-Fest.

Business was brisk and I saw a lot of happy faces at the prospect of going back to Deerfield.

When I got home and counted the loot there was $1,100.00!!!!!

It gets better!

My buddy went to Framingham MA the following day to sell tickets and passes.  Many of the folks there were at the NH flea the day before.  Nonetheless he brought home $840.00! 

That's almost TWO GRAND in as many days.

I am still in shock.


73,

MrMike, W1RC

WE'RE ALMOST THERE!!!!!!


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: WA1HZK on April 02, 2007, 06:24:35 PM
Where's the site link for pointing people to?


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: W2VW on April 02, 2007, 06:37:25 PM
If you still need to raise money then why not invite a certain person who "runs a net on 75 meters" and set him up with a dunk tank. You would make a fortune.


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: Pete, WA2CWA on April 02, 2007, 08:26:51 PM
The real test is to see how many sellers show up. Nothing turns buyers off to a hamfest, in my opinion, is finding only a handful of sellers selling electronic junk, lawn ornaments, and used computer parts.


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: Ed KB1HVS on April 03, 2007, 06:14:07 AM
If you still need to raise money then why not invite a certain person who "runs a net on 75 meters" and set him up with a dunk tank. You would make a fortune.

 ;D ;D ;D.A dunk tank full of pissoline..............


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: Carl WA1KPD on April 03, 2007, 10:18:48 AM
in my opinion, is finding only a handful of sellers selling electronic junk, lawn ornaments, and used computer parts.

You sir, are welcome to your opinion. However I have gotten some of my favorite electronic junk, lawn ornaments, and used computer parts. at hamfests !

Seriously, I agree with you Pete


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: Todd, KA1KAQ on April 03, 2007, 10:40:55 AM
Yep, I've found some good 'non-radio' things on tables too, like the rounds counter out of a WWII fighter aircraft. Gave it to an ex-gf, never again to be seen.  ::)

I wrote up a seller's policy for Mike about this very thing a few weeks ago, basically saying that we don't want to be table nazis or such, but we discourage sellers whose wares are non-radio. There's a lot of latitude, but it's meant to keep away the jewelry, lawn ornament, junk sellers. He told me it will be included in a handout at the gate, hopefully he will post it as well since 'at the gate' is a bit late for someone who has traveled 100 miles to sell Ginsu knives....

Selling computer items on your table is fine, bringing a truckload of old computer junk you can't get rid of, to leave for NEAR-Fest to dispose of, is not fine. We'll see how it goes.


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: The Slab Bacon on April 03, 2007, 10:41:14 AM
Thatz half the fun of hamfests!! You never know what kind szht someone will try to sell! If nothing else itz always good for a giggle.
There was one well known tailgater in the Baltimore area that had a bathroom sink (we used to tease him about the proverbial "kitchen sink") and a "thighmaster" for sale!! I actually bought 2 good slightly used tv's from him, and someone else bought the thighmaster! Never bought any lawn ornaments though.

                                                       The Slab Bacon

                                            


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: Carl WA1KPD on April 03, 2007, 11:58:05 AM
I literally bought a "boat anchor" at Hosstraders one time. A real nice heavy Danforth with a good hunk of chain. I have a pic at home I will have to post later.


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: W1TAV on April 03, 2007, 01:12:29 PM
Back 15 years ago or so, I remember advising my two son's not to accept any "Free" heavy gifts!  It used to be a way some folks got rid of there BA's. Boy how times have changed!  :o

Steve - W1TAV


Title: Re: Northern New England Amateur Radio Event May 4th and 5th 2007 ???
Post by: W1RC on April 17, 2007, 07:48:03 AM
I'm pretty sure that you all know about the NEAR-Fest Web site and forum, but just in case....

www.near-fest.com

73,

MrMike
W1RC

AMfone - Dedicated to Amplitude Modulation on the Amateur Radio Bands