State QSO Party Contest Focus Turns to "Yellowhammer State"

By Jamie Dupree NS3T  radio-sport.net 
Posted June 2, 2008

After a few week break from state QSO parties, Alabama gets things going again in the USA this weekend, with a contest that's been generating more and more participation in recent years.

Submitted logs in 2007 went up to 149 from 88 the year before, and almost all of Alabama's 67 counties were active during the test.

"KC4HW, Jim, has really put a great deal of time into making our AQP a good QSO party," said Tom Hardison K4ZGB. "Log entries have increased each year because of his efforts

"The real bottom line is getting everyone talking about the AQP as much as possible," said AQP contest director Jim Johnson KC4HW, who has been beating the bushes again this year to get people on the air.

"2007 was our first year for plaques--we had 23 plaques sponsored by Amateur Radio Clubs in Alabama, individuals and private companies," said Johnson. "I really think the plaque program will have a bigger impact this year.

So far at least, the recent jump in gasoline prices in the US to almost $4/gallon in some areas has not dampened the spirit of contest mobiles.

"We had 5 mobiles last year. I think there will be 6 to 8 this year...As most know, mobile really make the QSO party zing!"

One of those mobiles will be Hardison K4ZGB, who won the Mobile Plus Driver category, but this time he's on his own.

"I'll be mobile again this year but will not cover as many counties (only 13 this time) and will be without a driver," Hardison told radio-sport.net. "Navigator/wife said she would be retiring from this event."

"Mobile QSO party operation is great fun when you're being the hunted. I try to allow 30/35 operating time in each county. The first 15/20 minutes in each county is the most fun," Hardison added.

Also on the road again will be the contest organizer, making sure a number of counties are covered.

"Yes, my wife (driver) and I are planning about 14 to 18 counties this year. I don't really KNOW CODE, but will try my best to do a CW only effort again this year," said Johnson KC4HW.

As for high gas prices, "I am sure there is a point of return on the expense, but thus far, I don't think it has had any negative impact," said Johnson.

For Johnson, the start of the contest will hopefully bring a flourish of activity on the bands, both in Alabama and out of state.

"I have had a big effort to get publicity out to all the clubs throughout Alabama. I have really thought that the local clubs is where the "shoe leather meets the pavement" as far as gaining support and publicity for the AQP," said Johnson.

"The Alabama club competition is gaining more interest, this is something to build on in the future."

The 2008 Alabama QSO Party runs 1600Z June 7 to 0400Z June 8. More information at the Alabama QSO Party website.