[SFDXA] Tips for how to enjoy Dayton(Xenia)

[Bill]

Copied from the QuickSilver Radio Retailers who have a large presence at 
the Hamvention.

*Here are some tips* to make the most of your Hamvention.  In fact, a 
lot of these tips are good for most of the bigger Hamfests as well.

1. *Make a list* of companies and forums you want to visit.  My good 
friends at PC Board have a complete listing of both indoor and outdoor 
booths here -- *https://info.pcboard.ca/hamvention/* 
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   Note that booth numbers correspond to buildings or flea market areas. 
For example, we'll be in booths 3503, etc. in Building #3, also called 
the Marconi Building. *Split the list* in three categories -- (a) must 
see, (b) really want to see, and (c) would like to see.  Knock off the 
must see first, then tackle the others.

2.  If a booth is just too crowded, *don't spend a lot of time waiting* 
to talk to someone. Move on to your next stop.  Booth traffic starts to 
drop off after about 2-3PM and you'll have an easier time then.  Of 
course, it's /*ALWAYS*/ worth waiting at the Quicksilver Radio Booth ;-)

3.  Noon 'til 1:30 or so is peak time for lunch. *Eat a bit earlier, or 
later,* and you're likely to encounter much shorter lines at the food 
trucks.  Don't forget to *pack water and snacks,* or be prepared to pay 
typical concession stand prices for them.  If you need medication during 
the day, have that with you.  No sense hiking back to your car to get 
it.  And pack a bottle of your favorite *non-prescription pain 
reliever*, too.  A headache or sore feet can really kill your enjoyment 
of the show. There are just a very few real restrooms on site, but last 
year there were plenty of Porta-Potties that seemed to be well 
maintained throughout the show.  A small pack of baby wipes or similar 
might be handy to have.

4. *Be prepared for the weather*.  It might pour rain.  It might be 
blazing hot and sunny.  It might be damp and chilly.  It might even 
hail.  And all of them might occur over just a few hours!  A hat, 
sunscreen, umbrella, and light jacket should be in your pack.

5.  You're going to be on your feet -- a lot.  Unless you're used to 
standing for long periods, your "dogs will be barking".  One of the best 
tips I've ever heard is to *bring a second pair of shoes and socks*, and 
switch them halfway through the day.  Believe me, it will almost feel 
like you have a new pair of feet.

6. *Bring plenty of cash.*  While the larger commercial dealers probably 
accept credit cards, many in the flea market will not.  Try to get 
"used" bills.  If you have to get crisp new ones out of the ATM, take a 
minute to give each one a "crumple".  That makes them much less likely 
to stick together.  Especially early in the day, it may not be easy for 
a dealer to make change for a small purchase with a large bill.  And 
most (like me) always appreciate small bills to make change for others.

7.  If you plan to use a credit or debit card, *let your bank know in 
advance.*  Banks have ever more stringent anti-fraud practices in place, 
protecting both you and them.  You may typically use your card for a 
tank of gas and a trip to the grocery store once a week at home.  If you 
suddenly make a flurry of purchases in a short period of time, far from 
home, your bank may well flag and suspend the card. There should be a 
customer service number on the back of your card. *Make sure you can 
read it!*

8. *Take advantage of the opportunity to learn*. There are forums 
galore, covering just about every aspect of our great hobby.  They'll be 
presented by experts in the field, and you'll get the chance to meet 
fellow enthusiasts as well.  The same is true for shack accessories -- 
in many cases, you can speak directly with the guy who designed and 
manufactures it.

9.  Take a minute to *thank the hundreds of volunteers* who make the 
Hamvention possible.  I can't imagine how many hours of their time it 
takes to put on a show like this.  At the very least, they deserve a big 
round of thanks. Similarly, most vendors put a huge effort into their 
Dayton booths.  Without them, there's no show.  Let them know you're 
glad to see them.  And (I know it sounds a bit self-serving) keep them 
in mind year-round as you plan your purchases. *I don't see either 
Amazon or E-Bay on the vendor list!*

10.  Whether you go expecting to have a great time, or you think it's 
going to be terrible, you're probably right!  So *ignore that very small 
minority of Negative Ninnies*.  Yep, there will be a few glitches.  If 
you let that ruin your Hamvention, shame on you.  With Ringling 
Brothers' Circus now closed, this is the Greatest Show on Earth.  Enjoy 
all it has to offer, and take home some wonderful memories along with 
some new toys.

Thanks and very 73,
John Bee, N1GNV
Quicksilver Radio Products
www.qsradio.com 
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