The small town of Arlington, Minnesota is always happy to welcome newcomers, particularly at its annual holiday festival, Arli-Dazzle. No doubt there were first-timers among those attending in the estimated crowd size of 10,000 who arrived on December 5th and 6th, feeling the holiday spirit.

Perhaps more importantly, the newcomers included 10 ham radio operators - six of them newly licensed Technicians, with handy-talkies in hand - as part of the team of more than 34 hams who volunteered to ensure that everyone enjoyed this holiday tradition.

Don Burgess, KCØQNA, the emergency radio coordinator for Sibley County, told Newsline in an email: [quote] “This town event is one that a lot of my radio team really looks forward to doing each year regardless of temps or weather conditions. The Local Police Chief looks to us as his reserve officers in many aspects, and we never let him or the community down.” [endquote]

He said the hams traveled from as far away as Minneapolis and St. Paul - the so-called “Twin Cities” an hour away - to make sure things went smoothly, from setting up barricades for the 5K runners to setting up light generators for the parade route. The Sibley Emergency Radio Team Club, with Don as safety and logistics coordinator, have provided that reassuring presence for the past 16 years.

The team is no stranger to community service at dozens of public events - even in nearby towns such as Gaylord. This festival is one that’s special, said Don. [Quote] “It really takes on the mom and pop old days family Christmas vibes for sure.” [Endquote] The team is happy to lend mom and pop a hand.