By Lisa Carolin
Ham radio operators and collectors may want to clear their schedules this Sunday morning, June 1. There will be a Ham Radio Swap ‘n’ Shop at the Chelsea Fairgrounds. There will be plenty of parking and gates will open for sellers at 6 a.m. and for the public at 8 a.m.
The Chelsea Amateur Radio Club, which is open to all area amateur radio operators and electronic enthusiasts, runs the Swap ‘n’ Shop, which is in its 36th year, and traditionally takes place on the first Sunday in June.
Activities include both indoor and outdoor sales areas, door prizes, and food from the Chelsea Kiwanis Club.
“The main purpose of the swap is an electronic flea market where radio, computer, and electronic enthusiasts can purchase new or used equipment,” said Frank Pohs, president of the Chelsea Amateur Radio Club. “The swap is aimed at amateur radio operators and computer and electronic enthusiasts, and anyone who is interested in new and used electronic gear.”
Table space costs $10 for an 8-foot table and $15 for an 8-foot corner. Trunk sales are $5 per space.
First prize is a 2M radio. The cost is $4 in advance, $5 at the door and it’s free for anyone under 12. There is handicapped access.
This is the Radio Club’s largest money-maker of the year. Ham radio operators are part of the emergency response chain and work closely with Washtenaw County Emergency Services. When power is out, they can keep communications open with their radio skills.
The Chelsea Amateur Radio Club provides weather spotting through the “SKYWARN” national weather reporting program, supporting disaster relief through the Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service. The club also provides communications assistance to the Chelsea Police Department when requested.
“The funds raised through our Swap-n-Shop help to support these types of activities,” said Pohs. “Anyone interested in obtaining an amateur radio license can find help studying for the required FCC test through our club members.”
Amateur radio operators can use the “talk in” procedure to talk directly to the club table Sunday with communications provided at 145.450-WD8IEL though the Chelsea club repeater
The Swap-n-Shop runs until noon Sunday.
