Topic: Second the Bravo!

[W1KQ]

Even though I was one of the volunteers for the event...helping to keep the trash cans useable for more trash... it didn't really feel like work and I had a great time.  Other than Dayton '89 this was the best event I ever had the pleasure to attend.  The whole crew we had was really great to work with and other than the few self appointed law afficianados we ran into - whom we hope had a good time in spite of their being ignored - the entire event was super enjoyable.

One suggestion/comment I would put forth is to ask folks not to turn the upside barrels over to use for trash.  If they need a trash barrel they should contact an official who could contact the trash crew to get over and place a plastic bag in the barrel.  On the whole there were probably only five or six barrels turned over and used without plastic bags.  If the folks want to empty the barrels themselves then by all means let them have at it but it would really be appreciated at future events if they let the trash crew or committee take care of the barrel placement.  Nuff of that.

It was really fun watching everyone have fun.  Lots of people were thanking us for doing our volunteer work and I would like to add my own thanks to everyone who attended.  You made NEAR-Fest I what it was.

Thank you Mr. Mike.  Thank you Twoof.  Thank you Ed, Tim, Holly (the prize drawing girl)...and the others I don't really know who helped run the show.  GREAT JOB!! 

[W1MRN]

I agree, Bravo!
My personal favorite was the fact that the vast majority of the sellers were actually selling ham related gear!  I think I saw more HF rigs here than at any 2 recent Hosstraders.

Personally, I brought home a piece of "heavy metal" strictly because the owner did not want to.  I may find a use for it, otherwise it will go when the town has their "bulky day" collection.

[Todd, KA1KAQ]

I think the sellers did an overall excellent job in being thoughtful about what they brought with them. There are always a few knotheads in every crowd and this event was no exception. But from one of the grunts on the ground, I say a hardy 'Thank You' to folks for respecting the rules and making our lives much easier.

And you're right - there was a lot more radio gear there, more than in years before. Just goes to show that we in the amateur radio community indeed have a say and can decide just how well an event like this goes, or how much ham radio is really 'dying'. Our input and participation are the real determining factors.

We can and will make it even better, with forums, displays, guest speakers, etc. related to RADIO as we know it.