Members of Polk County Iowa ARES are encouraged to participate in these events as a way to train for and be prepared for emergency situations. If you want to volunteer or need more information, visit the Polk County ARES website at PolkCountyARES.com.

General classes will be held at the Johnstone Supply Classroom, 11000 Justin Drive in Urbandale, on Wednesday nights starting January 13th from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

This past year was a banner year for new Amateur Radio licensees. According to ARRL VEC Manager Maria Somma, AB1FM, the FCC issued more than 30,000 new ham radio licenses.

Click the headline for more information on the Minnesota QSO Party.

The DMRAA’s own Dean Madsen, N0XR, will give a presentation on the use of software-defined radio in amateur radio.

Harold passed away December 24th after a long struggle with cancer. His funeral will be at 11:00 AM Saturday January 9th in the Saylorville Baptist Church, 6429 Northwest 6th Drive.

The Fort Dodge Amateur Radio Association and National Weather Service would like to invite you to Radar Fundamentals and Interpretation to be held on Tuesday January 19th 2010 at 7PM. This is open to anyone wishing to attend.

The final 2009 issue of the Static Sheet has been posted… click here. Lots of information about DMRAA holiday events and 2010 schedules, among other special articles.

Mark your calendars! This year’s Christmas party will be Tuesday, December 1st. Click here for more information.

All interested ham radio operators and SKYWARN spotters will want to mark the first weekend in December on your calendar.