Ham radio is here to stay!

I remember when I was playing with packet radio in the 1980's and telling everyone how cool it was. None of my friends could understand why it was "cool" to be able to type a short message to a friend nearby, or far away, when you could just pick up the phone and talk to them.

Now that they call it "texting" I guess it is finally cool.

This past weekend, 13 March, I attended the first Masscon 2010 in Westford, Massachusetts. It was organized by some local hams who wanted a convention "that we would want to attend" (or words to that effect).

I found myself sitting there enjoying myself!

That is what the hobby, and hobbies in general, are all about, I think: doing something that you want to do, instead of doing something that you have to do.

This past year was a banner year for new Amateur Radio licensees, according to the ARRL. See the story here, and thanks to Southgate Amateur Radio News:

http://www.southgatearc.org/news/january2010/licence_surge.htm

What about licensing figures in other countries? Does anyone have more information?

Have you ever wondered where the band is open RIGHT NOW? Check out http://www.wsprnet.org and click on the link at the top that says "map"

There are three ways you can get involved: one is by simply clicking the link and looking. Check it out.

It's been a while since our last podcast.

We are getting back in to the swing of things, and we think you will enjoy what we have in store.

Also, if you would like to comment, or suggest new interviews, you can call us and leave a message at 1-317-HAMRADIO (that is, 317 426-7234). Be sure to leave your name, number, email address, or whatever you would like us to use when we return your call. Or you can be anonymous if you would like.