When the Dayton Hamvention® opens May 20, 2011 for its 60th consecutive year, its theme -- Global Friendship -- will reflect an important part of ham radio, said 2011 Hamvention General Chairman Michael Kalter, W8CI: “The theme emphasizes how the technology continues to bond Amateur Radio operators from all over the world.”

The first official meeting of the 2011 Hamvention committee chairmen is scheduled for August 10 in Hara Arena. Kalter, who served as Assistant General Chairman for the 2010 Hamvention, said that part of the success of the 2010 event was attributable to making key decisions earlier in the planning, a practice he plans to continue. “Hamvention would not be possible without the hundreds of volunteers who give their time each year,” he said. “I want to thank all the volunteers for their past support, especially those who have already committed to working in 2011.”

According to Hamvention Media Relations Chairman Henry Ruminski, W8HJR, a number of key vendors have already committed to returning to Hamvention: The Dayton/Montgomery County Convention and Visitors Bureau estimates that Hamvention produces an economic impact of about $4 million for Montgomery County and up to $10 million regionally.”

The 2011 Dayton Hamvention runs May 20, 21 and 22 at Hara Arena, just outside Dayton in Trotwood, Ohio.