The 2005 Virginia QSO Party will be held on 19-21 March 2005. This is an opportunity for all ARES volunteers to test their equipment and operating skills.

Ultimately the success of the QSO Party depends upon participation of Virginia Amateur Radio Operators. The more Virginia participants, the more fun it is to make that last contact in one of Virginia's 95 counties and 39 independent cities. There are over 17,032 amateur radio operators in Virginia and we would like to hear everyone of them on the air during this Party.

The Sterling Park Amateur Radio Club organizes the event and they have made some changes in the rules this year. The most significant change is a new plaque category for digital communications, such as RTTY and PSK, in addition to CW and Mixed modes. Additional information on the 2005 Virginia QSO Party may be found at theSterling Park ARC web page.

Please take a few hours, get on the air, and help make this a fun event.

Source: Tom Gregory, N4NW, Section Emergency Coordinator - Virginia Section ARES�