This is a letter from the ARRL concerning the permanent closure of HAM Com Here in North Texas
If you haven’t heard, the Virus has claimed another victim — an
institution that has brought wonder and joy (and the rare tailgate
treasure) to the Amateur Radio community for 41 years. The 5th largest
hamfest in the United States — Ham-Com —announced today that it
reluctantly made the decision to close its doors after 41 years of
operation.
The shock of Ham-Com’s closing has not been limited to Texas. Calls
and emails have been pouring in all day from across the United States,
including from 225 Main, sharing fond memories of previous Ham-Coms,
dismay and sadness at the loss of this unique institution and concern
about the future that awaits our beloved hobby.
For those who are troubled by what Ham-Com’s closing portends for the
future, as disheartening as this loss may be, the future is not yet
written, and Amateur Radio will survive due to the creativity and
imagination of our Members.
The message sent out this morning by Ham-Com leadership is reprinted
below.
_________________
It is with a heavy heart that I write this letter about the future
of Ham-Com. After 41 years, Ham-Com has decided to close its doors in
lieu of the restrictions in place for COVID-19 and the rising costs of
putting on a show. The decision was not made lightly, but the safety and
wellness of our volunteers, vendors, clubs, presenters, and attendees is
our paramount concern.
We sincerely thank each and every person for their support over the
past years. This starts with clubs who have participated in offering
forums, transmitter sessions, VE sessions, talk-ins, and many more
things through the years. Next, to the commercial and flea market
vendors who have helped new hams get their first radio to established
hams who are building the ultimate ham shack, we thank you for returning
year over year. To the volunteer staff, functional directors, and access
control, your dedication and hard work have contributed to the continued
success of the show for 41 years. Finally, to our attendees. Without
you, there is no show. Over 41 years, we have met a variety of people
with one common passion, amateur radio. Ham-Com is proud to contribute
to bringing people together to enjoy this passion. We will definitely
miss this gathering of the broader community.
Our thoughts and best wishes to you and your families and “see
you on-the-air”.
73
Bill Nelson
President of Ham-Com Inc
_________________________________________
John Robert Stratton
N5AUS
Director
West Gulf Division
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ARRL West Gulf Division
Director: John Robert Stratton, N5AUS
n5aus@arrl.org
Thanks for reading
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