ATC no messages

I had to reinstall FS9 due to something causing it to CTD shortly after I would start a flight. I then did a test flight in the FS9 DC-3 from seattle going south. I flew 1.7 hours down into Oregon. When I tried to call up the ATC window to find the nearest airport, I got the text message in the ATC window " No messages to transmit to anyone". I was near at least one airport with a tower. I was able to tune in ATIS and get Wx. What would cause a problem like this? I restarted a flight at Tacoma Narrows and had full ATC working. Very puzzled.