• ARRL Regular Bulletin

    From Daryl Stout@954:895/7 to All on Thu Feb 24 16:24:34 2022

    SB QST @ ARL $ARLB006
    ARLB006 Section Manager Election Results Announced

    ZCZC AG06
    QST de W1AW
    ARRL Bulletin 6 ARLB006
    From ARRL Headquarters
    Newington CT February 24, 2022
    To all radio amateurs

    SB QST ARL ARLB006
    ARLB006 Section Manager Election Results Announced

    Two Section Manager elections were held during the winter season,
    and the ballots were counted at ARRL Headquarters on Tuesday,
    February 22.

    In Virginia, Jack R. Smith, KE4LWT, of Ruckersville received 889
    votes, and Terry Buzzard, KA8TNF, of Virginia Beach, received 412
    votes. Smith was declared elected and will begin his first 2-year
    term on April 1. Smith has served as an Assistant Section Emergency
    Coordinator for the last 2 years. He will take the reins of the
    Virginia Field Organization from Carl Clements, W4CAC. Clements was
    appointed in mid-December 2021 as interim Section Manager after the
    untimely and unfortunate death of Section Manager Joe Palsa, K3WRY.

    In North Carolina, Marvin Hoffman, WA4NC, of Boone, the incumbent
    Section Manager, received 1,235 votes, and Tony Jones, N4ATJ, of
    McAdenville, received 257 votes. Hoffman was declared re-elected and
    will begin his second term on April 1, 2022.

    These incumbent Section Managers faced no opposition and were
    declared re-elected and will begin new terms on April 1: George
    Miller, W3GWM (Eastern Pennsylvania); John Fritze, K2QY (Eastern New
    York); John Mark Robertson, K5JMR (Louisiana); Joe Speroni, AH0A
    (Pacific); Dave Kaltenborn, N8BKC (San Diego), and Chris Stallkamp,
    KI0D (South Dakota).
    NNNN
    /EX
    --- SBBSecho 3.14-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (954:895/7)
  • From Daryl Stout@954:895/7 to All on Thu Feb 24 16:24:42 2022

    ZCZC AG07
    QST de W1AW
    ARRL Bulletin 7 ARLB007
    From ARRL Headquarters
    Newington CT February 24, 2022
    To all radio amateurs

    SB QST ARL ARLB007
    ARLB007 FCC: Amateur Service Licensees May Not Use Radio Equipment
    to Commit Criminal Acts

    The FCC Enforcement Bureau has re-issued an earlier reminder that
    licensees in the Amateur Radio Service, as well as licensees and
    operators in the Personal Radio Services are prohibited from using
    radios in those services to commit or facilitate criminal acts. The
    FCC did not indicate what, if anything, prompted the renewed
    Enforcement Advisory or if it was just a routine announcement.

    The Enforcement Advisory can be found in PDF format online at, https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DA-22-181A1.pdf .

    "The Bureau recognizes that these services can be used for a wide
    range of permitted and socially beneficial purposes, including
    emergency communications and speech that is protected under the
    First Amendment of the US Constitution," the FCC said. "Amateur and
    Personal Radio Services, however, may not be used to commit or
    facilitate crimes."

    As it did in advisories in 2021, the Enforcement Bureau is reminding
    amateur licensees that they may not transmit, "communications
    intended to facilitate a criminal act" or "messages encoded for the
    purpose of obscuring their meaning."

    "Likewise, individuals operating radios in the Personal Radio
    Services, a category that includes Citizens Band radios, Family
    Radio Service walkie-talkies, and General Mobile Radio Service, are
    prohibited from using those radios "in connection with any activity
    which is against Federal, State or local law.

    "Individuals using radios in the Amateur or Personal Radio Services
    in this manner may be subject to severe penalties, including
    significant fines, seizure of the offending equipment, and, in some
    cases, criminal prosecution.

    "To report a crime, contact your local law enforcement office or the
    FBI," the FCC advised.
    NNNN
    /EX
    --- SBBSecho 3.14-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (954:895/7)
  • From Daryl Stout@954:895/7 to All on Mon Feb 28 15:37:52 2022

    SB QST @ ARL $ARLB008
    ARLB008 ARRL Seeks Exemption from Proposed US Forest Service
    Communication Facility Fees; Comment Period to be Re-Opened Through
    March 31

    ZCZC AG08
    QST de W1AW
    ARRL Bulletin 8 ARLB008
    From ARRL Headquarters
    Newington CT February 28, 2022
    To all radio amateurs

    SB QST ARL ARLB008
    ARLB008 ARRL Seeks Exemption from Proposed US Forest Service
    Communication Facility Fees; Comment Period to be Re-Opened Through
    March 31

    ARRL has filed comments with the US Forest Service (USFS) seeking an
    exemption for amateur radio facilities to a proposed new 1400 dollar
    annual administrative fee. The USFS proposal resulted from
    requirements in the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (aka "the
    Farm Bill"), which directs the Forest Service to collect fees for
    issuing communications use authorizations based on the cost to the
    agency for processing the applications, maintenance, and other
    related activities. These fees would be in addition to annual rental
    and cost-recovery fees already being collected.

    ARRL's comments can be found online at, https://www.regulations.gov/comment/FS-2022-0001-0749 .

    On February 24, the Forest Service filed a Notice in the Federal
    Register that the comment filing window will be re-opened on March 1
    and additional comments will be accepted through March 31. Any radio
    amateurs missing the first comment period or wishing to add to their
    earlier comments are encouraged to do so during this additional
    period.

    "Although the discussion put forward by the Forest Service in its
    proposal focuses on commercial uses, the proposal would sweep within
    its requirements amateur radio uses that are solely noncommercial,"
    ARRL said in comments filed on February 22. "Radio amateurs
    establish and maintain facilities at certain locations for public
    service purposes with no remuneration or reimbursement. Unlike
    broadcasters and commercial wireless and fiber providers, radio
    amateurs are uniquely barred by the terms of their federal licenses
    from receiving compensation of any sort."

    "Non-commercial and uncompensated communication uses by radio
    amateurs within Forest Service areas long have served the public
    interest in many ways, among them by providing the means for
    otherwise unobtainable emergency communication capabilities in times
    of need," ARRL noted. "Amateurs perform this valuable public service
    without cost to taxpayers. The importance of these capabilities
    [has] been demonstrated repeatedly. The skills of amateur operators
    have served our country well with their carefully located equipment
    when enabling exchanges of possibly life-saving messages in
    difficult terrain during forest fires, extending communications
    assistance help during hurricanes, and providing communications
    capabilities during search-and-rescue missions in remote areas."

    ARRL stressed that equipment, maintenance, and other costs
    associated with amateur radio facilities on USFS lands "are borne
    solely by the volunteer radio amateurs themselves."

    ARRL continued, "Commercial applicants usually request more
    extensive use of the lands administered by the Forest Service, and
    these requests necessarily result in more complex issues having to
    be considered and resolved."

    "It is foreseeable that many radio amateurs providing these services
    would have to opt to withdraw and cease their work," if not exempted
    from the proposed fees, ARRL said. "In many cases the most useful
    locations for needed coverage from their stations is uniquely on
    Forest Service lands. In short, the proposal to include volunteer
    uncompensated amateur service applicants with the commercial
    wireless service and broadcast applicants is grossly inequitable.
    There is a disparity in the amount of resources necessary to
    consider applications from radio amateurs as compared to that
    required by commercial applicants."

    "[O]ur best estimate is that there are fewer than 100 covered
    amateur locations, but those likely are unique and essential to
    covering forested areas in times of need, such as forest fires or
    lost hikers," ARRL said. "These dissimilarities in complexity and
    scope should be recognized in this fees proposal and amateur radio
    applications exempted."
    NNNN
    /EX
    --- SBBSecho 3.14-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (954:895/7)
  • From Daryl Stout@954:895/7 to All on Mon Mar 14 15:26:42 2022

    SB QST @ ARL $ARLB009
    ARLB009 W1AW 2022 Spring/Summer Operating Schedule

    ZCZC AG09
    QST de W1AW
    ARRL Bulletin 9 ARLB009
    From ARRL Headquarters
    Newington CT March 14, 2022
    To all radio amateurs

    SB QST ARL ARLB009
    ARLB009 W1AW 2022 Spring/Summer Operating Schedule

    Morning Schedule:

    Time Mode Days
    ------------------- ---- ---------
    1300 UTC (9 AM ET) CWs Wed, Fri
    1300 UTC (9 AM ET) CWf Tue, Thu

    Daily Visitor Operating Hours:

    1400 UTC to 1600 UTC - (10 AM to 12 PM ET)
    1700 UTC to 1945 UTC - (1 PM to 3:45 PM ET)

    (Station closed 1600 to 1700 UTC (12 PM to 1 PM ET))

    Afternoon/Evening Schedule:

    2000 UTC (4 PM ET) CWf Mon, Wed, Fri
    2000 " " CWs Tue, Thu
    2100 " (5 PM ET) CWb Daily
    2200 " (6 PM ET) DIGITAL Daily
    2300 " (7 PM ET) CWs Mon, Wed, Fri
    2300 " " CWf Tue, Thu
    0000 " (8 PM ET) CWb Daily
    0100 " (9 PM ET) DIGITAL Daily
    0145 " (9:45 PM ET) VOICE Daily
    0200 " (10 PM ET) CWf Mon, Wed, Fri
    0200 " " CWs Tue, Thu
    0300 " (11 PM ET) CWb Daily


    Frequencies (MHz)
    -----------------
    CW: 1.8025 3.5815 7.0475 14.0475 18.0975 21.0675 28.0675 50.350 147.555 DIGITAL: - 3.5975 7.095 14.095 18.1025 21.095 28.095 50.350 147.555
    VOICE: 1.855 3.990 7.290 14.290 18.160 21.390 28.590 50.350 147.555

    Notes:

    CWs = Morse Code practice (slow) = 5, 7.5, 10, 13 and 15 WPM
    CWf = Morse Code practice (fast) = 35, 30, 25, 20, 15, 13 and 10 WPM
    CWb = Morse Code Bulletins = 18 WPM

    CW frequencies include code practices, Qualifying Runs and CW
    bulletins.

    DIGITAL = BAUDOT (45.45 baud), BPSK31 and MFSK16 in a revolving
    schedule.

    Code practice texts are from QST, and the source of each practice is
    given at the beginning of each practice and at the beginning of
    alternate speeds.

    On Tuesdays and Fridays at 2230 UTC (6:30 PM ET), Keplerian Elements
    for active amateur satellites are sent on the regular digital
    frequencies.

    A DX bulletin replaces or is added to the regular bulletins between
    0000 UTC (8 PM ET) Thursdays and 0000 UTC (8 PM ET) Fridays.

    Audio from W1AW's CW code practices, and CW/digital/phone bulletins
    is available using EchoLink via the W1AW Conference Server named
    "W1AWBDCT." The monthly W1AW Qualifying Runs are presented here as
    well. The CW/digital/phone audio is sent in real-time and runs
    concurrently with W1AW's regular transmission schedule.

    All users who connect to the conference server are muted. Please
    note that any questions or comments about this server should not be
    sent via the "Text" window in EchoLink. Please direct any questions
    or comments to w1aw@arrl.org .

    In a communications emergency, monitor W1AW for special bulletins as
    follows: Voice on the hour, Digital at 15 minutes past the hour, and
    CW on the half hour.

    FCC licensed amateurs may operate the station from 1400 UTC to 1600
    UTC (10 AM to 12 PM ET), and then from 1700 UTC to 1945 UTC (1 PM to
    3:45 PM ET) Monday through Friday. Be sure to bring a reference
    copy of your current FCC amateur radio license.

    The weekly W1AW and monthly West Coast Qualifying Runs are sent on
    the normal CW frequencies used for both code practice and bulletin transmissions. West Coast Qualifying Run stations may also use 3590
    kHz.

    The complete W1AW Operating Schedule may be found on page 77 in the
    March 2022 issue of QST or on the web at, http://www.arrl.org/w1aw-operating-schedule .
    NNNN
    /EX
    --- SBBSecho 3.15-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (954:895/7)
  • From Daryl Stout@954:895/7 to All on Tue Apr 5 17:06:44 2022

    SB QST @ ARL $ARLB011
    ARLB011 New FCC Application Fee Will Not Apply to Amateur Radio
    License Upgrades

    ZCZC AG11
    QST de W1AW
    ARRL Bulletin 11 ARLB011
    From ARRL Headquarters
    Newington CT April 5, 2022
    To all radio amateurs

    SB QST ARL ARLB011
    ARLB011 New FCC Application Fee Will Not Apply to Amateur Radio
    License Upgrades

    The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) staff has clarified in
    response to an ARRL request that the new $35 application fee will
    not apply to most license modifications, including those to upgrade
    amateur radio licensee's operator class and changes to club station
    trustees. The FCC staff explained that the new fees will apply only
    to applications for a new license, renewal, rule waiver, or a new
    vanity call sign. As previously announced, the new fees take effect
    on April 19, 2022.

    "We are pleased that the FCC will not charge licensees the FCC
    application fee for license upgrade applications," said ARRL
    Volunteer Examiner Coordinator (VEC) Manager Maria Somma, AB1FM.
    "While applicants for a new license will need to pay the $35 FCC
    application fee, there will be no FCC charge for future upgrades and administrative updates, such as a change of mailing or email
    address. Most current licensees, therefore, will not be charged the
    new FCC application fee until they renew their license or apply for
    a new vanity call sign."

    ARRL previously reported that the new $35 application fee for
    amateur radio licenses will become effective on April 19, 2022.
    Further information and instructions about the FCC Application Fee
    are available from the ARRL VEC page at, https://www.arrl.org/fcc-application-fee .
    NNNN
    /EX
    --- SBBSecho 3.15-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (954:895/7)
  • From Daryl Stout@954:895/7 to All on Fri Apr 22 14:12:44 2022

    SB QST @ ARL $ARLB012
    ARLB012 FCC Not Processing License Applications and Exam Session
    Files

    ZCZC AG12
    QST de W1AW
    ARRL Bulletin 12 ARLB012
    From ARRL Headquarters
    Newington CT April 22, 2022
    To all radio amateurs

    SB QST ARL ARLB012
    ARLB012 FCC Not Processing License Applications and Exam Session
    Files

    The ARRL Volunteer Examiner Coordinator (VEC) reports that the FCC
    Universal Licensing System (ULS) electronic batch filing (EBF)
    system has been down since midday Tuesday, April 19, 2022, which is
    the day the FCC application fees became effective for amateur radio.

    On Wednesday, in a notice to all VECs, the FCC asked them to refrain
    from submitting any session or application files while they work to
    resolve the issue.

    ARRL VEC Manager Maria Somma, AB1FM, said the FCC did not estimate
    how long the system would be down. Some applications were processed
    through the system before the FCC notice was released to the VECs.

    Applicants should expect delays with license and application
    processing.

    ARRL VEC will provide an update when the FCC communicates that the
    filing system is back online.
    NNNN
    /EX
    --- SBBSecho 3.15-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (954:895/7)
  • From Daryl Stout@954:895/7 to All on Sat Apr 23 11:50:14 2022

    SB QST @ ARL $ARLB013
    ARLB013 FCC Has Resumed Processing License Applications and Exam
    Session Files

    ZCZC AG13
    QST de W1AW
    ARRL Bulletin 13 ARLB013
    From ARRL Headquarters
    Newington CT April 23, 2022
    To all radio amateurs

    SB QST ARL ARLB013
    ARLB013 FCC Has Resumed Processing License Applications and Exam
    Session Files

    The ARRL Volunteer Examiner Coordinator (VEC) reports that the FCC
    Universal Licensing System (ULS) electronic batch filing (EBF)
    system is back online and functioning normally. VECs may resume
    transmitting sessions and applications. The backlog of files will be
    processed through the system.
    NNNN
    /EX
    --- SBBSecho 3.15-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (954:895/7)
  • From Daryl Stout@954:895/7 to All on Fri Apr 29 17:29:52 2022

    SB QST @ ARL $ARLB014
    ARLB014 A New Colorado Section Manager Begins July 1

    ZCZC AG14
    QST de W1AW
    ARRL Bulletin 14 ARLB014
    From ARRL Headquarters
    Newington CT April 29, 2022
    To all radio amateurs

    SB QST ARL ARLB014
    ARLB014 A New Colorado Section Manager Begins July 1

    ARRL Colorado Section Manager Robert Wareham, N0ESQ, has resigned
    from the position, effective June 30, 2022. ''I appreciate all the
    hard work that you have put in and wish you the best for the
    future,'' responded ARRL Field Services Manager Mike Walters, W8ZY.

    Wareham has a long history of leadership within ARRL, serving as
    State Government Liaison, Public Information Coordinator, Section
    Emergency Coordinator, Division Vice Director, and finally, Section
    Manager since 2006. Wareham told Walters he was stepping down
    because he didn't feel he could devote the time necessary to the
    Section Manager role for the remainder of his term.

    On the recommendation of Wareham and Rocky Mountain Division
    Director Jeff Ryan, K0RM, Walters has asked Amanda Alden, K1DDN, to
    serve the remainder of Wareham's term, which ends September 30,
    2023. Alden has served as an Assistant Section Manager, and Region
    Emergency Coordinator for the south and southeast All-Hazards
    Regions of Colorado.
    NNNN
    /EX
    --- SBBSecho 3.15-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (954:895/7)
  • From Daryl Stout@954:895/7 to All on Fri May 27 16:32:26 2022

    SB QST @ ARL $ARLB016
    ARLB016 Section Manager Spring Election Results

    ZCZC AG16
    QST de W1AW
    ARRL Bulletin 16 ARLB016
    From ARRL Headquarters
    Newington CT May 27, 2022
    To all radio amateurs

    SB QST ARL ARLB016
    ARLB016 Section Manager Spring Election Results

    The results of two Spring Section Manager (SM) elections were
    determined when the ballots were counted at ARRL Headquarters on
    Tuesday, May 24, 2022.

    Because no nominations were received by the original nomination
    deadline of September 10, 2021, it was necessary to re-solicit
    nominations for Delaware SM. Joseph Grib, KI3B, a resident of Bear,
    Delaware was appointed Interim Delaware SM in January 2022 until the
    election could be held. John Ferguson, K3PFW, a resident of
    Georgetown, received 162 votes and Grib received 96 votes. Ferguson
    will begin his 18-month term (instead of a 2-year term) as SM on
    July 1.

    In Indiana, Bob Burns, AK9R, received 625 votes, and incumbent
    Section Manager Jimmy Merry, KC9RPX, received 344 votes. Burns, a
    resident of Brownsville, will begin his 2-year term on July 1.
    Merry, a resident of Ellettsville, has served as SM for the past 4
    years.

    Wisconsin will have a new SM on July 1. Jason Spetz, KC9FXE, a
    resident of Menomonie, was the sole nominee. Spetz will take the
    reins of the Section's Field Organization from Patrick Moretti,
    KA1RB. Moretti, a resident of Dousman, decided not to run for a new
    term of office after serving as SM since 2016.

    Scott Roberts, KK4ECR, the only nominee for the Northern Florida
    Section, will become SM on July 1. He has been serving as the
    Assistant Section Manager and Public Information Coordinator for the
    Section. He'll succeed Kevin Bess, KK4BFN, who decided not to run
    for a new term. Bess, a resident of Edgewater, has been SM since
    2018.

    The following incumbent Section Managers, who did not face
    opposition, were declared re-elected and will begin new terms on
    July 1: Thomas Beebe, W9RY (Illinois); Philip Duggan, N1EP (Maine);
    David Kidd, KA7OZO (Oregon); James Armstrong, NV6W (Santa Clara
    Valley), and Paul Gayet, AA1SU (Vermont).

    ARRL extends its thanks to all incumbent SMs for their past valued
    service and congratulations to those who will take office on July 1.
    NNNN
    /EX
    --- SBBSecho 3.15-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (954:895/7)
  • From Daryl Stout@954:895/7 to All on Mon Nov 7 15:59:10 2022

    SB QST @ ARL $ARLB020
    ARLB020 W1AW 2022 Winter Operating Schedule

    ZCZC AG20
    QST de W1AW
    ARRL Bulletin 20 ARLB020
    From ARRL Headquarters
    Newington CT November 7, 2022
    To all radio amateurs

    SB QST ARL ARLB020
    ARLB020 W1AW 2022 Winter Operating Schedule

    Morning Schedule:

    Time Mode Days
    ------------------- ---- ---------
    1400 UTC (9 AM EST) CWs Wed, Fri
    1400 UTC (9 AM EST) CWf Tue, Thu

    Daily Visitor Operating Hours:

    1500 UTC to 2045 UTC - (10 AM to 3:45 PM EST)

    Afternoon/Evening Schedule:

    2100 UTC (4 PM EST) CWf Mon, Wed, Fri
    2100 " " CWs Tue, Thu
    2200 " (5 PM EST) CWb Daily
    2300 " (6 PM EST) DIGITAL Daily
    0000 " (7 PM EST) CWs Mon, Wed, Fri
    0000 " " CWf Tue, Thu
    0100 " (8 PM EST) CWb Daily
    0200 " (9 PM EST) DIGITAL Daily
    0245 " (9:45 PM EST) VOICE Daily
    0300 " (10 PM EST) CWf Mon, Wed, Fri
    0300 " " CWs Tue, Thu
    0400 " (11 PM EST) CWb Daily


    Frequencies (MHz)
    -----------------
    CW: 1.8025 3.5815 7.0475 14.0475 18.0975 21.0675 28.0675 50.350 147.555 DIGITAL: - 3.5975 7.095 14.095 18.1025 21.095 28.095 50.350 147.555
    VOICE: 1.855 3.990 7.290 14.290 18.160 21.390 28.590 50.350 147.555

    Notes:

    CWs = Morse Code practice (slow) = 5, 7.5, 10, 13 and 15 WPM
    CWf = Morse Code practice (fast) = 35, 30, 25, 20, 15, 13 and 10 WPM
    CWb = Morse Code Bulletins = 18 WPM

    CW frequencies include code practices, Qualifying Runs and CW
    bulletins.

    DIGITAL = BAUDOT (45.45 baud), BPSK31 and MFSK16 in a revolving
    schedule.

    Code practice texts are from QST, and the source of each practice is
    given at the beginning of each practice and at the beginning of
    alternate speeds.

    On Tuesdays and Fridays at 2330 UTC (6:30 PM EST), Keplerian
    Elements for active amateur satellites are sent on the regular
    digital frequencies.

    A DX bulletin replaces or is added to the regular bulletins between
    0100 UTC (8 PM EST) Thursdays and 0100 UTC (8 PM EST) Fridays.

    Audio from W1AW's CW code practices, CW/digital bulletins and phone
    bulletin is available using EchoLink via the W1AW Conference Server
    named "W1AWBDCT." The monthly W1AW Qualifying Runs are presented
    here as well. The audio is sent in real-time and runs concurrently
    with W1AW's regular transmission schedule.

    All users who connect to the conference server are muted. Please
    note that any questions or comments about this server should not be
    sent via the "Text" window in EchoLink. Please direct any questions
    or comments to w1aw@arrl.org .

    In a communications emergency, monitor W1AW for special bulletins as
    follows: Voice on the hour, Digital at 15 minutes past the hour, and
    CW on the half hour.

    All licensed amateurs may operate the station from 1500 UTC to 2045
    UTC (10 AM to 3:45 PM EST). Be sure to bring a reference copy of
    your current FCC amateur radio license.

    The weekly W1AW and monthly West Coast Qualifying Runs are sent on
    the normal CW frequencies used for both code practice and bulletin transmissions. West Coast Qualifying Run stations may also use 3590
    kHz.

    The W1AW Operating Schedule may also be found on page 28 in the
    November 2022 issue of QST or on the web at, http://www.arrl.org/w1aw-operating-schedule .
    NNNN
    /EX
    --- SBBSecho 3.15-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (954:895/7)
  • From Daryl Stout@954:895/7 to All on Fri Feb 3 11:41:26 2023

    SB QST @ ARL $ARLB003
    ARLB003 Leadership Changes in ARRL Atlantic Division

    ZCZC AG03
    QST de W1AW
    ARRL Bulletin 3 ARLB003
    From ARRL Headquarters
    Newington CT February 3, 2023
    To all radio amateurs

    SB QST ARL ARLB003
    ARLB003 Leadership Changes in ARRL Atlantic Division

    The ARRL Atlantic Division has new leadership. Tom Abernethy, W3TOM,
    who had served as an ARRL Director, representing the Atlantic
    Division since 2015, stepped down on January 6, 2023.

    Vice Director Robert "Bob" Famiglio, K3RF, of Media, Pennsylvania,
    is the new Division Director. ARRL Section Manager for Maryland/DC
    Marty Pittinger, KB3MXM, of Owings Mills, Maryland, has been
    appointed Vice Director by ARRL President Rick Roderick, K5UR.

    Famiglio was initially Atlantic Division Vice Director from 2015
    until 2017, appointed in 2019 to fill a vacancy, and then elected
    unopposed for a term beginning in 2021. A practicing lawyer, he has
    served as an ARRL Volunteer Council for decades. Famiglio is also an
    electrical engineer and former broadcast station owner and engineer.
    He is an FAA-certificated pilot. He is a Life Member of the
    Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE). He earned
    his amateur radio license in 1967, and is an ARRL Life Member.

    In an email to the Atlantic Division members in early January,
    Abernethy said he still plans to be involved, stating, "After having
    served for over 20 years in ARRL elected offices, it is my intention
    to remain very active in support of ARRL, and I wish everyone all
    the best as we head into the future of amateur radio and ARRL."

    Pittinger was the Section Manager for Maryland/DC, one of seven ARRL
    Sections that make up the Atlantic Division. He has an extensive
    background in radio, served in the US Navy on submarines, and works
    for a federal agency in his professional life.

    Assistant Section Manager and Affiliated Club Coordinator for
    Maryland/DC, Christopher D. Van Winkle, AB3WG, has been appointed
    Section Manager by ARRL Field Services Manager Mike Walters, W8ZY.

    Famiglio and Pittinger will each serve the remainder of 3 year terms
    ending December 31, 2023.
    NNNN
    /EX
    --- SBBSecho 3.15-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (954:895/7)
  • From Daryl Stout@954:895/7 to All on Mon Mar 13 12:43:18 2023

    SB QST @ ARL $ARLB004
    ARLB004 W1AW 2023 Spring/Summer Operating Schedule

    ZCZC AG04
    QST de W1AW
    ARRL Bulletin 4 ARLB004
    From ARRL Headquarters
    Newington CT March 13, 2023
    To all radio amateurs

    SB QST ARL ARLB004
    ARLB004 W1AW 2023 Spring/Summer Operating Schedule

    Morning Schedule:

    Time Mode Days
    ------------------- ---- ---------
    1300 UTC (9 AM EDT) CWs Wed, Fri
    1300 UTC (9 AM EDT) CWf Tue, Thu

    Daily Visitor Operating Hours:

    1400 UTC to 1945 UTC - (10 AM to 3:45 PM EDT)

    Afternoon/Evening Schedule:

    2000 UTC (4 PM EDT) CWf Mon, Wed, Fri
    2000 " " CWs Tue, Thu
    2100 " (5 PM EDT) CWb Daily
    2200 " (6 PM EDT) DIGITAL Daily
    2300 " (7 PM EDT) CWs Mon, Wed, Fri
    2300 " " CWf Tue, Thu
    0000 " (8 PM EDT) CWb Daily
    0100 " (9 PM EDT) DIGITAL Daily
    0145 " (9:45 PM EDT) VOICE Daily
    0200 " (10 PM EDT) CWf Mon, Wed, Fri
    0200 " " CWs Tue, Thu
    0300 " (11 PM EDT) CWb Daily


    Frequencies (MHz)
    -----------------
    CW: 1.8025 3.5815 7.0475 14.0475 18.0975 21.0675 28.0675 50.350 147.555 DIGITAL: - 3.5975 7.095 14.095 18.1025 21.095 28.095 50.350 147.555
    VOICE: 1.855 3.990 7.290 14.290 18.160 21.390 28.590 50.350 147.555

    Notes:

    CWs = Morse Code practice (slow) = 5, 7.5, 10, 13 and 15 WPM
    CWf = Morse Code practice (fast) = 35, 30, 25, 20, 15, 13 and 10 WPM
    CWb = Morse Code Bulletins = 18 WPM

    CW frequencies include code practices, Qualifying Runs and CW
    bulletins.

    DIGITAL = BAUDOT (45.45 baud), BPSK31 and MFSK16 in a revolving
    schedule.

    Code practice texts are from QST, and the source of each practice is
    given at the beginning of each practice and at the beginning of
    alternate speeds.

    On Tuesdays and Fridays at 2230 UTC (6:30 PM EDT), Keplerian
    Elements for active amateur satellites are sent on the regular
    digital frequencies.

    A DX bulletin replaces or is added to the regular bulletins between
    0000 UTC (8 PM EDT) Thursdays and 0000 UTC (8 PM EDT) Fridays.

    Audio from W1AW's CW code practices, and CW/digital/phone bulletins
    is available using EchoLink via the W1AW Conference Server named
    "W1AWBDCT." The monthly W1AW Qualifying Runs are presented here as
    well. The CW/digital/phone audio is sent in real-time and runs
    concurrently with W1AW's regular transmission schedule.

    All users who connect to the conference server are muted. Please
    note that any questions or comments about this server should not be
    sent via the "Text" window in EchoLink. Please direct any questions
    or comments to w1aw@arrl.org .

    In a communications emergency, monitor W1AW for special bulletins as
    follows: Voice on the hour, Digital at 15 minutes past the hour, and
    CW on the half hour.

    FCC licensed amateurs may operate the station from 1400 UTC to 1945
    UTC (10 AM to 3:45 PM EDT) Monday through Friday. Be sure to bring
    a reference copy of your current FCC amateur radio license.

    The weekly W1AW and monthly West Coast Qualifying Runs are sent on
    the normal CW frequencies used for both code practice and bulletin transmissions. West Coast Qualifying Run stations may also use 3590
    kHz.

    The complete W1AW Operating Schedule may be found on page 28 in the
    March 2023 issue of QST or on the web at, http://www.arrl.org/w1aw-operating-schedule .
    NNNN
    /EX
    --- SBBSecho 3.14-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (954:895/7)
  • From Daryl Stout@954:895/7 to All on Wed Mar 29 16:12:36 2023

    SB QST @ ARL $ARLB005
    ARLB005 ARRL Announces Leadership Changes in the Hudson Division

    ZCZC AG05
    QST de W1AW
    ARRL Bulletin 5 ARLB005
    From ARRL Headquarters
    Newington CT March 29, 2023
    To all radio amateurs

    SB QST ARL ARLB005
    ARLB005 ARRL Announces Leadership Changes in the Hudson Division

    ARRL Director Ria Jairam, N2RJ, who has represented the Hudson
    Division since 2019, has stepped down, effective March 31, 2023, at
    5 PM Eastern.

    Vice Director Nomar Vizcarrondo, NP4H, of Englewood, New Jersey,
    will accede to the Director's chair. Vizcarrondo, who earned his
    amateur radio license in 1978 at the age of 11, will serve as
    Director for the remainder of a 3-year term ending December 31,
    2024. He was appointed as Vice Director of the Hudson Division in
    February 2022, following the retirement of previous Vice Director
    William Hudzik, W2UDT, who held the position from 2011 to 2022.

    ARRL President Rick Roderick, K5UR, will announce a successor to
    Vizcarrondo to fill the vacant Vice Director's seat. The ARRL Hudson
    Division is comprised of the ARRL Sections of Eastern New York, New
    York City - Long Island, and Northern New Jersey.
    NNNN
    /EX
    --- SBBSecho 3.14-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (954:895/7)
  • From Daryl Stout@954:895/7 to All on Fri Apr 28 13:03:22 2023

    SB QST @ ARL $ARLB006
    ARLB006 ARRL Advocates for Radio Amateurs as FCC Proposes Changes to
    60-Meter Band

    ZCZC AG06
    QST de W1AW
    ARRL Bulletin 6 ARLB006
    From ARRL Headquarters
    Newington CT April 28, 2023
    To all radio amateurs

    SB QST ARL ARLB006
    ARLB006 ARRL Advocates for Radio Amateurs as FCC Proposes Changes to
    60-Meter Band

    The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is seeking comments
    about changing the secondary allocation available to radio amateurs
    on 60 meters. The FCC issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM)
    on April 21, 2023, that deals with the band. In a prior petition,
    ARRL, The National Association for Amateur Radio, urged protecting
    the existing use of the band by amateurs when adding a new
    allocation adopted internationally.

    Currently, radio amateurs in the US have access to five discrete
    channels on a secondary basis: 5332 kHz, 5348 kHz, 5358.5 kHz, 5373
    kHz, and 5405 kHz. Users of these channels are limited to an
    effective radiated power (ERP) of 100 W PEP.

    The FCC proposes to allocate 15 kHz of contiguous bandwidth between
    5351.5 - 5366.5 kHz on a secondary basis with a maximum power of 15
    W EIRP (equivalent to 9.15 W ERP). This allocation was adopted at
    the 2015 World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-15).

    The federal government is the primary user of the 5 MHz spectrum.
    The government's manager of spectrum use, the National
    Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), has
    expressed support for implementing the allocation as adopted at
    WRC-15. Doing so would result in amateurs losing access to four of
    the five discrete channels, and power limits would be reduced from
    100 W ERP to 9.15 W ERP. However, it would provide access to a new
    contiguous 15 kHz band that includes one of the current five
    channels.

    In 2017, ARRL petitioned the FCC to keep the four 60-meter channels
    that fall outside the new band, as well as the current operating
    rules, including the 100 W PEP ERP limit.

    The ARRL petition stated, "Such implementation will allow radio
    amateurs engaged in emergency and disaster relief communications,
    and especially those between the United States and the Caribbean
    basin, to more reliably, more flexibly, and more capably conduct
    those communications."

    ARRL said that years of amateur radio experience using the five
    discrete channels have shown that amateurs can coexist with primary
    users at 5 MHz while complying with the regulations established for
    their use. The petition also stated, "Neither ARRL, nor, apparently,
    NTIA, is aware of a single reported instance of interference to a
    federal user by a radio amateur operating at 5 MHz to date."

    In the NPRM, the FCC recognizes that Canada has already adopted
    60-meter allocations and related rules that align with those
    proposed by ARRL. The Commission wrote, "Finally, we note that
    Canada has essentially implemented the same rules as ARRL has
    requested." The NPRM can be found online at, https://www.fcc.gov/ .

    The FCC proposed to allocate the 15 kHz bandwidth but stopped short
    of making a proposal on whether the existing channels should remain
    allocated to amateur radio and what the power limitations should be.
    They requested comments on their proposal and the related channel
    and power issues.

    Comments will be due 60 days after the NPRM is published in the
    Federal Register, which is expected within the next two weeks.
    NNNN
    /EX
    --- SBBSecho 3.20-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (954:895/7)
  • From Daryl Stout@954:895/7 to All on Tue May 30 15:23:30 2023

    SB QST @ ARL $ARLB007
    ARLB007 Section Manager Update: Austin Elected, Bigley Re-elected,
    Gendron Appointed

    ZCZC AG07
    QST de W1AW
    ARRL Bulletin 7 ARLB007
    From ARRL Headquarters
    Newington CT May 30, 2023
    To all radio amateurs

    SB QST ARL ARLB007
    ARLB007 Section Manager Update: Austin Elected, Bigley Re-elected,
    Gendron Appointed

    The results of two balloted Section Manager elections held this
    spring were determined when the ballots were counted at ARRL
    Headquarters on Tuesday, May 23, 2023.

    John Bigley, N7UR, incumbent Section Manager of the ARRL Nevada
    Section, was re-elected when he received 277 votes, and Jim
    Shepherd, W6US, of Sparks, received 177 votes. Bigley, of Las Vegas,
    has been serving as Section Manager since 2015 and has held other
    ARRL Field Organization and club leadership positions for more than
    20 years. Bigley's new 2-year term of office starts July 1.

    Nancy Austin, KC1NEK, was elected as ARRL Rhode Island Section
    Manager when she received 129 votes, and incumbent Section Manager
    Bob Beaudet, W1YRC, received 127 votes.

    Austin, of Middletown, is the President of the Newport County Radio
    Club, and she will begin a 2-year term of office on July 1.

    Beaudet, of Cumberland, has served as ARRL Rhode Island Section
    Manager for 21 years.

    The following incumbent Section Managers were the only nominees in
    their respective Sections when the nomination period closed on March
    10, and were declared re-elected. Their new 2-year terms of office
    begin July 1: Chris Van Winkle, AB3WG (Maryland-DC); Peter Stohrer,
    W1FEA (New Hampshire); Bob Buus, W2OD (Northern New Jersey); John
    Litz, NZ6Q (San Joaquin Valley); Pat Malan, N7PAT (Utah), and Dale
    Durham, W5WI (West Texas).

    ARRL has named John Gendron, NJ4Z, as the South Carolina Section
    Manager. He will complete the term of Marc Tarplee, N4UFP, who
    passed away after a brief illness.

    Gendron, an Amateur Extra-class operator, is President of the York
    County Amateur Radio Society (YCARS) and a member of the Swamp Fox
    Contest Group. In addition to being an avid contester and DX chaser,
    Gendron enjoys participating in Parks on the Air. He has earned
    numerous ARRL awards, including the Worked All States and Triple
    Play Worked All States awards, and is closing in on 5-Band DXCC.

    Gendron also hosts a YouTube channel, called "From the Hamshack." In
    2022, he became the 55th recipient of the Vic Clark Roanoke Division
    ARRL Service Award, the Division's highest honor.
    NNNN
    /EX
    --- SBBSecho 3.20-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (954:895/7)
  • From Daryl Stout@954:895/7 to All on Fri Jun 2 16:03:32 2023

    SB QST @ ARL $ARLB008
    ARLB008 ARRL Elected to Serve on SAFECOM

    ZCZC AG08
    QST de W1AW
    ARRL Bulletin 8 ARLB008
    From ARRL Headquarters
    Newington CT June 2, 2023
    To all radio amateurs

    SB QST ARL ARLB008
    ARLB008 ARRL Elected to Serve on SAFECOM

    ARRL, The National Association for Amateur Radio has been elected to
    serve on SAFECOM. SAFECOM is a group of national thought leaders and
    officials within the emergency communications and response space
    that works to set standards used at every level. The program is
    managed by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency
    (CISA), an agency of the US Department of Homeland Security.

    SAFECOM sets the standards of interoperability procedures, and ARRL
    being a part of the group solidifies the Amateur Radio Service as a
    robust resource before and during times of crisis.

    In a letter from SAFECOM Chair, Chief Gerald R Reardon said "On
    behalf of the SAFECOM Executive Board, it is with great pleasure
    that I inform you of our offer to join SAFECOM as a member
    association. SAFECOM aims to improve multi-jurisdictional and
    intergovernmental communications interoperability through
    collaboration with emergency responders and policymakers across
    federal, state, local, tribal, territorial, and international
    partners. SAFECOM recognizes the organization's dedication to
    emergency communications and interoperability, and therefore is
    pleased to extend a membership offer."

    ARRL Director of Emergency Management Josh Johnston, KE5MHV, said
    "Gaining a seat at the table is a major step in strengthening the
    role and capability of Amateur Radio with emergency communication
    agencies. This will give us the sounding board and resources we need
    to set standards and create training for our Amateur Radio Emergency
    Service (ARES) volunteers that will better suit AHJ's (Agencies
    Having Jurisdiction) and partner organizations." The opportunity
    for ARRL to provide a more comprehensive Emergency Communications
    program is part of the goal the Board and ARRL leadership has begun
    to emphasize over the past few years, and this is one more example
    of the commitment to do so. ARRL will provide premier resources for
    the served agencies to support them in all phases of Emergency
    Management.

    Johnston will serve as the Representative for ARRL on SAFECOM and
    will be meeting with that leadership over the coming days to begin
    the process of better understanding all the roles and
    responsibilities that come with being a member association. "I look
    forward to working with the SAFECOM leadership as we move forward
    and with the ARRL Leadership to better serve the Ham community and
    our Served Agencies and Partners." Johnston said.

    For more information about ARES and other ARRL Emergency Programs
    and training visit our web page at: http://arrl.org/public-service .

    For more information about SAFECOM go to:
    https://www.cisa.gov/safecom .
    NNNN
    /EX
    --- SBBSecho 3.20-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (954:895/7)
  • From Daryl Stout@954:895/7 to All on Mon Jun 5 14:39:38 2023

    SB QST @ ARL $ARLB009
    ARLB009 ARRL Hudson Division has New Vice Director

    ZCZC AG09
    QST de W1AW
    ARRL Bulletin 9 ARLB009
    From ARRL Headquarters
    Newington CT June 5, 2023
    To all radio amateurs

    SB QST ARL ARLB009
    ARLB009 ARRL Hudson Division has New Vice Director

    Ed Wilson, N2XDD, of Shirley, New York has been appointed Vice
    Director of the ARRL Hudson Division by ARRL President Rick
    Roderick, K5UR.

    Wilson succeeds Nomar Vizcarrondo, NP4H, who was appointed Director
    of the ARRL Hudson Division in March. Wilson will serve in the
    position for the remainder of the 3-year term that ends December 31,
    2024.

    Having developed an interest in radio as a child, Wilson has been
    active in projects that developed new digital protocols for amateur
    radio.

    Wilson has served as an Emergency Coordinator and Public Information
    Officer and is accredited as a Volunteer Examiner.

    The ARRL Hudson Division is comprised of the ARRL Sections of
    Eastern New York, New York City - Long Island, and Northern New
    Jersey.
    NNNN
    /EX
    --- SBBSecho 3.20-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (954:895/7)
  • From Daryl Stout@954:895/7 to All on Wed Jun 14 19:52:54 2023

    SB QST @ ARL $ARLB010
    ARLB010 FCC Universal Licensing System Applications Are Unavailable

    ZCZC AG10
    QST de W1AW
    ARRL Bulletin 10 ARLB010
    From ARRL Headquarters
    Newington CT June 14, 2023
    To all radio amateurs

    SB QST ARL ARLB010
    ARLB010 FCC Universal Licensing System Applications Are Unavailable

    The FCC Universal Licensing System (ULS), which includes Electronic
    Batch Filing (EBF) used by VECs for new and upgrade license
    submissions and club license applications, Application Search,
    License Search, License Manager system used for filing applications
    directly with the FCC, Tower Construction Notification System, E-106
    System, Antenna Structure Registration Online Filing and searches,
    TOWAIR and all ULS Specialized Searches, are currently down.

    The FCC's EBF and License Manager Filing systems have stopped
    accepting and processing all amateur radio exam session files and
    applications. The EBF system has not processed any VEC license
    applications and examination session files since Monday afternoon.
    The other systems have not been available since Friday June 9 at the
    close of business.

    ARRL VEC Manager Maria Somma, AB1FM, said her office contacted the
    FCC staff, which said systems are down due to maintenance but did
    not estimate how long the systems would be down. "As soon as the FCC
    staff corrects the EBF system problem, we will immediately file the
    backlog via the automated system, which would take only a few hours
    or less to release," Somma estimated. When the License Manager
    system is again available, amateurs will be able to file license
    renewals, vanity call sign applications, and other license updates
    online directly with the FCC.
    NNNN
    /EX
    --- SBBSecho 3.20-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (954:895/7)
  • From Daryl Stout@954:895/7 to All on Wed Jun 14 19:53:02 2023

    SB QST @ ARL $ARLB011
    ARLB011 Legislation to Remove Private Land Use Restrictions on
    Amateur Radio Introduced in Congress

    ZCZC AG11
    QST de W1AW
    ARRL Bulletin 11 ARLB011
    From ARRL Headquarters
    Newington CT June 14, 2023
    To all radio amateurs

    SB QST ARL ARLB011
    ARLB011 Legislation to Remove Private Land Use Restrictions on
    Amateur Radio Introduced in Congress

    Congressmen Bill Johnson (OH-06) and Joe Courtney (CT-02)
    reintroduced a bill in the US House of Representatives on June 12 -
    H.R.4006 - to remove private land use restrictions that prohibit,
    restrict, or impair the ability of Amateur Radio operators from
    operating and installing reasonable antennas on property that they
    own or control. Similar legislation, H.R. 9670, was introduced by
    Congressman Johnson in 2022.

    The full text of the bill can be found in PDF format at, https://billjohnson.house.gov/uploadedfiles/amateur_radio_emergency_ preparedness_act_signed_bill_text.pdf

    (above URL all on one line)

    "I reintroduced the Amateur Radio Emergency Preparedness Act to
    remove barriers to disaster and emergency communications and
    training, and to promote education in STEM subjects related to
    critically needed wireless technology," Congressman Johnson said in
    a release. "Passage of this bill will promote developing and
    sustaining our nation's wireless future and facilitate and encourage
    amateur radio operations as a public benefit."

    "As their actions during recent natural disasters such as Hurricane
    Sandy proved, amateur radio operators in Connecticut can be a
    critical component of disaster response and emergency management. It
    is in our communities' best interest that we give them the
    capabilities to operate at the highest level, and with the
    re-introduction of this bill, we've taken a strong step in that
    direction," said Congressman Courtney.

    The exponential growth of communities bound by private land use
    restrictions that prohibit both the operation of Amateur Radio and
    the installation of amateur station antennas has significantly
    restricted the growth of the Amateur Radio Service.

    The ARRL continues its multi-year efforts to eliminate private land
    use restrictions that prevent Amateur Radio operations and has
    pledged to strongly support Congressman Johnson and Congressman
    Courtney in their efforts on behalf of Amateur Radio.

    Rick Roderick, K5UR, President of ARRL, on behalf its Members and
    America's Amateur Radio community extended his thanks and
    appreciation for the leadership of Congressman Johnson and
    Congressman Courtney in their tireless efforts to support and
    protect the rights of all Amateur Radio Operators and to further
    STEM education and the advancement of American expertise in wireless technology.
    NNNN
    /EX
    --- SBBSecho 3.20-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (954:895/7)
  • From Daryl Stout@954:895/7 to All on Thu Jun 15 12:48:32 2023

    SB QST @ ARL $ARLB012
    ARLB012 Updated: FCC ULS Unavailable, Filing Deadlines Extended

    ZCZC AG12
    QST de W1AW
    ARRL Bulletin 12 ARLB012
    From ARRL Headquarters
    Newington CT June 15, 2023
    To all radio amateurs

    SB QST ARL ARLB012
    ARLB012 Updated: FCC ULS Unavailable, Filing Deadlines Extended

    In an email to all VECs, the FCC indicated that a Public Notice was
    issued by the Commission on June 13, 2023:

    FCC Public Notice DA 23-506: UNIVERSAL LICENSING, TOWER
    CONSTRUCTION NOTIFICATION, E-106, AND ANTENNA STRUCTURE REGISTRATION
    SYSTEMS UNAVAILABLE; FILING DEADLINES EXTENDED

    The FCC Public Notice can be seen at: https://www.fcc.gov/document/uls-tcns-e-106-and-asr-unavailable-filing- deadlines-extended-0

    (above URL all on one line).

    The notice states that the FCC's Universal Licensing System (ULS),
    Tower Construction Notification System (TCNS), E-106 System, and
    Antenna Structure Registration System (ASR) have been unavailable
    since approximately 6:30 p.m. EDT on Friday, June 9, due to
    technical issues that the agency anticipates resolving in the near
    term.

    Further the FCC is extending deadlines for regulatory filings in ULS
    and ASR because parties have not and will not be able to make
    electronic filings or view the contents of the affected systems
    while they are unavailable. Therefore the FCC is extending the
    filing deadlines for all regulatory filings that needed to be or
    will need to be made in these systems starting June 9, 2023 and
    until the Commission announces ULS operations, for at least three
    business days after access to the systems resumes.

    The FCC's Commission Registration (CORES) System used to pay fees is
    unaffected and will remain operational and available to pay any
    regulatory fee or application fee payments during this period.

    The FCC ULS systems affected that are used by amateurs are the
    Electronic Batch Filing (EBF) used by VECs for new and upgrade
    license submissions and club license applications, Application
    Search, License Search, and the License Manager system used for
    filing applications directly with the FCC.

    At this time, the FCC has stated they do not have a target for the
    ULS systems to be back online.
    NNNN
    /EX
    --- SBBSecho 3.20-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (954:895/7)
  • From Daryl Stout@954:895/7 to All on Thu Jun 22 10:53:48 2023

    SB QST @ ARL $ARLB013
    ARLB013 FCC ULS Reopened, Except Electronic Batch Filing System

    ZCZC AG13
    QST de W1AW
    ARRL Bulletin 13 ARLB013
    From ARRL Headquarters
    Newington CT June 22, 2023
    To all radio amateurs

    SB QST ARL ARLB013
    ARLB013 FCC ULS Reopened, Except Electronic Batch Filing System

    On Wednesday morning, June 21, 2023, the FCC had reopened the
    Universal Licensing System (ULS) and supporting systems, according
    to an email distributed to VEC organizations. However, as of 4:00 PM
    on Wednesday, the Electronic Batch Filing (EBF) system, used by VEC organizations for filing exam sessions, individual applications, and
    club license applications, was still not available as promised.
    Unfortunately, this means applications for new and upgraded
    licenses, and individual and club license filings still cannot be
    uploaded in the system for issuance.

    When the EBF system becomes available, the Commission is requesting
    VECs to limit submissions into the filing system. In an email sent
    by the FCC, all EBF filers were asked to adhere to a restricted
    upload schedule in order to keep the EBF system stable and to avoid
    any potential technical problems. The FCC will be monitoring to
    ensure the EBF system is stable during this reopening period. If
    they assess that the upload volume is too high, they will send out
    another notice with directions to reduce the amount of uploads per
    hour.

    ARRL VEC will comply with the FCC directive, limiting our
    transmissions but sending as many backlogged sessions as possible
    without overloading their system. The files will be submitted to the
    FCC in the order in which they were received, starting with the
    files from Monday, June 12, and moving forward from there. ARRL VEC
    will begin submitting the backlogged applications as soon as the EBF
    system becomes available, and assuming all FCC systems remain
    stable.

    In an FCC notice published on June 21, 2023 (please see, https://www.fcc.gov/document/uls-tcns-e-106-and-asr-available), the
    Commission provided a deadline extension for filings in the ULS and
    the Antenna Structure Registration (ASR) system, explaining,
    "Because parties could not make electronic filings or view the
    contents of the affected systems while they were unavailable, we are
    extending the deadlines for all regulatory filings that were due in
    the affected systems between June 9, 2023, and June 29, 2023, until
    Friday, June 30, 2023.

    "We note that we have provided for a longer extension for these
    filings than initially contemplated in the June 13 Public Notice in anticipation of high traffic volumes on these systems in the coming
    days. In that regard, we encourage filers to consider deferring
    discretionary filings this week, and we encourage filers preparing
    large submissions to coordinate in advance with [the] staff of the
    Bureaus."
    NNNN
    /EX
    --- SBBSecho 3.20-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (954:895/7)
  • From Daryl Stout@954:895/7 to All on Tue Jun 27 16:13:48 2023

    SB QST @ ARL $ARLB014
    ARLB014 FCC ULS System Restored

    ZCZC AG14
    QST de W1AW
    ARRL Bulletin 14 ARLB014
    From ARRL Headquarters
    Newington CT June 27, 2023
    To all radio amateurs

    SB QST ARL ARLB014
    ARLB014 FCC ULS System Restored

    The FCC Universal Licensing System (ULS) has resumed operations,
    including the Electronic Batch Filing system (EBF).

    As of June 27, 2023, all systems have been reported to be working.
    However, visitors to the website will see a message referring them
    to Public Notice DA 23-529 for additional information and guidance
    on filing deadline extensions.

    The systems were first reported unavailable on June 9, 2023. On
    Friday afternoon, June 23, the EBF system was restored. All VEC
    organizations use that system for filing exam sessions, individual applications, and club license applications. ARRL VEC staff worked
    late into Friday night to ensure all backlogged sessions and
    application files were transmitted to the FCC before the weekend.
    Approximately 350 backlogged files were successfully submitted to
    and processed by the FCC before the system's normal shutdown at 8
    PM.

    ARRL is still monitoring the ULS system, and any further updates
    will be available at ARRL News.
    NNNN
    /EX
    --- SBBSecho 3.20-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (954:895/7)
  • From Daryl Stout@954:895/7 to All on Wed Jul 12 10:36:16 2023

    SB QST @ ARL $ARLB015
    ARLB015 Commercial Interests Petition FCC for High Power Allocation
    on Shortwave Spectrum

    ZCZC AG15
    QST de W1AW
    ARRL Bulletin 15 ARLB015
    From ARRL Headquarters
    Newington CT July 12, 2023
    To all radio amateurs

    SB QST ARL ARLB015
    ARLB015 Commercial Interests Petition FCC for High Power Allocation
    on Shortwave Spectrum

    The ad hoc group "Shortwave Modernization Coalition" petitioned the
    Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to allow data communications
    on multiple bands within the HF 2 - 25 MHz range with up to 20 KW,
    including in bands immediately adjacent to spectrum allocated to the
    Amateur Radio Service. This group appears to represent high-speed
    stock trading interests.

    The FCC has assigned it RM-11953. Comments are due by July 31, 2023,
    and reply comments by August 15.

    While the petitioners exclude the amateur bands, high power
    operations on immediately adjacent bands are proposed. The ARRL is
    reviewing the petition.

    A copy of the petition can be found in PDF format at: https://www.fcc.gov/ecfs/document/1042840187330/1 .
    NNNN
    /EX
    --- SBBSecho 3.20-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (954:895/7)
  • From Daryl Stout@954:895/7 to All on Tue Aug 1 11:17:02 2023

    SB QST @ ARL $ARLB016
    ARLB016 Filers Seek Extension on Shortwave Petition. ARRL to File
    Comments.

    ZCZC AG16
    QST de W1AW
    ARRL Bulletin 16 ARLB016
    From ARRL Headquarters
    Newington CT August 1, 2023
    To all radio amateurs

    SB QST ARL ARLB016
    ARLB016 Filers Seek Extension on Shortwave Petition. ARRL to File
    Comments.

    Since May, ARRL has been reviewing the rules proposed in a petition
    before the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) from the
    "Shortwave Modernization Coalition" (SMC). The ARRL Laboratory has
    been studying the petition out of concern for potential interference
    to Amateur Radio communications.

    Comments on the petition, RM-11953, were due to FCC by July 31, 2023

    (see,
    https://www.arrl.org/news/commercial-interests-petition-fcc-for-high- power-allocation-on-shortwave-spectrum ) .

    (above URL all on one line)

    However, a 30-day extension of time was requested by both Skywave
    Networks LLC and FlexRadio Systems.

    The timely request from Skywave automatically triggered an extension
    to the filing deadline. Under FCC rules, when a request for
    extension is made within the appropriate timeframe, commenters may
    file comments until a date set by FCC when it rules on the extension
    request, or no earlier than two business days after the FCC
    decision. On Monday, July 31, the FCC denied the request for
    extension. Comments therefore may continue to be filed through
    Wednesday, August 2.

    In its petition, SMC, a group that appears to represent high-speed
    stock trading interests, has proposed amending the FCC Part 90 rules
    to allow introduction of high-power digital communications to the
    shortwave spectrum that in many instances is immediately adjacent to
    the amateur HF bands.

    ARRL's comments on the matter will be based on the analysis by its
    laboratory and guided by its experienced Washington, D.C. regulatory
    affairs counsel. ARRL will use the extension to best represent the
    interests of its members and the Amateur Radio Service.
    NNNN
    /EX
    --- SBBSecho 3.20-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (954:895/7)