I still have my VHF packet node running 24x7 on the Virginia Digital Emergency Network (VDEN) but I need to contact the group to establish connectivity so I can receive bulletins, route mail, etc.
I operate the node as a digipeater, a PBBS TNC based node, and a VHF Winlink node.
1-26-2017 update: I took down packet (no activity) and setup an APRS igate on a raspberry pi/tnc pi instead. I also, almost never ever, run a Winlink node anymore.
73, David kk4zuu