[South Florida DX Association] Young People Get “Radio-active” on Kids Day

[wa4aw at juno.com]

Young People Get “Radio-active” on Kids Day

Newington, Conn., January 3, 2006 -- On January 8, 2006, hundreds of
young people throughout the country will be chatting with other kids, not
via the Internet or cellphone, but over the airwaves using Amateur Radio
(or "ham radio") technology during Kid's Day.   Now in its twelfth year,
Kid's Day is sponsored by ARRL -- the national association for Amateur
Radio.   

Many of today's scientists, radio engineers, astronauts and Amateur Radio
enthusiasts became involved with science and technology in their youth. 
Often this was through a relative or a neighbor that took the time to
show them how things worked.  During this event, licensed Amateur Radio
operators will encourage children, young people from the neighborhood or
even a local scout troop to experience the enjoyment of ham radio
firsthand.   

“Getting kids on the air is an enjoyable experience for everyone
involved.” says Mark Spencer, WA8SME, of the ARRL’s Field and Educational
Services.  According to Spencer, “To make it a productive experience we
try to keep it simple.  Contacting rare foreign locations is fun, but
local, quality contacts often work better and in most cases make a more
lasting impression.”  

Today there are nearly 680,000 Amateur Radio operators in the United
States and more than 2.5 million worldwide. Information on how to become
involved in Amateur Radio is available from ARRL--the national
association for Amateur Radio, 225 Main Street, Newington, CT 06111 or by
calling 1-800-32-NEW HAM. Visit ARRL on the Web at www.arrl.org .   You
can also contact a local club in your area.  To find a ham radio club
near you, go to www.arrl.org/findaclub .