[Boatanchors] New Ham vs Old Ham

[Charlie , W5COV]

Yes it has indeed changed !! When I was licensed as a Novice in 1965 , the 
SK W0PSE , that gave me my novice test took me to my first hamfest and he 
had a special red suit jacket and tie to wear to only hamfests .

Many people actually dressed up to attend them and everyone except one old 
guy that was at every hamfest that I attended for years , was always squeaky 
clean and well mannered . It was a hobby of honor and distinction . A 
hamfest was a real event in those days .

I have no obsessive disorders , but in recent years I find myself taking my 
own hand sanitizer to use and paper towels .

I could recommend a shower or clean clothes to some of the people that 
attend today and so naturally I try not to buy anything from them , if they 
have a table .

Getting old , but staying clean ,

Charlie , W5COV