Weaver's Words - Dayton Hamvention Upon Us

+++ FCC must review BPL rules. +++

In a decision released April 25, a three-judge panel of the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia directs the FCC to reconsider rules it made concerning technical rules for the operation of Broadband over Powerlines (BPL). This ruling came as a result of the lawsuit ARRL brought against the Commission. The case is identified as No. 06-1343. This decision is nearly as much as we could have wanted, and is a victory for ARRL and Amateur Radio.

What is the practical meaning of this decision? It means that the FCC must reconsider its technical rulings concerning BPL and the technical bases for these rulings, and the level of interference that should be allowed. It also means that the Commission must make data it says it uses in reaching conclusions to all interested parties to review. In essence, FCC cannot hide data as it had done in issuing BPL regulations.

We don't know the final cost of the suit, yet, but the Board had allocated $300,000 for it. This should indicate the great importance my 14 fellow directors and I placed on the suit. The effort and expense the Board authorized was made possible by members who contributed to the relevant ARRL fund drives over the last few years. Without these contributions the League would not have had funds available to wage a suit, let alone to wage the quality of action that proved good enough to win most of the points we made in our argument.

Does this put a little different perspective on the "please donate" pleas Mary Hobart, N1MMH has been sending to each of us? Our money served a valued, precedent-setting purpose. Thanks to you who contributed.

+++ Ohio amateur sounds the alarm! +++

On March 25, Geauga ARA President Eric Bartholomew, KF8YK sent me an e-mail warning that an Ohio university had submitted a request asking the FCC to assign five frequency pairs in the 420-430 MHz band to it. He pointed out that the higher frequency of each pair was in the Amateur Band and not legally available for commercial assignment. The following is an abbreviated summary of how his warning very likely saved the university and the ARRL (i.e. you) a significant amount of money, effort and hassle.

After re-reading the relevant portion of Part 97 of the FCC regulations, I initially thought Eric's assessment was not correct. To be certain, I forwarded his memo to ARRL President Harrison, W5ZN, CEO Sumner, K1ZZ and Chief Counsel Imlay, W3KD to obtain expert review. K1ZZ and W3KD promptly confirmed Eric's assessment. My problem was that I did not read FCC's commercial radio rules -- Part 30 in this instance -- which apply in this situation.

Our unanimous view was that ARRL should voice a formal objection to the frequency assignment request to the FCC even though its denial should have been automatic. Even as the ink on this formal objection was drying, the FCC granted the university's request for the frequencies. The FCC in essence violated its own rules -- again.

Counsel Imlay tossed our objection into the round file even before its final in-house review was completed. In its place, a formal request for review was sent to the Commission in its place.

Concurrent with submitting the petition for review to the FCC, General Counsel Imlay notified the university administration of the problem. Its spokesman immediately offered to withdraw the request and to modify it by resubmitting it to cover frequencies that are consistent with FCC rules. In turn, ARRL agreed to withdraw our petition for review as soon as the university's revised petition was submitted. The problem had been the result of an error by a consulting firm.

Arguments over frequency assignments typically cover long periods of time and eat many thousands of dollars. In this instance though, everyone acted promptly in good faith to avoid a potential, major and costly problem. All this was accomplished thanks to the watchfulness and action of KF8YK, and to the capability of ARRL that he called on to resolve the problem.

Thanks, again, Eric. Good eyes! Thanks, also, to General Counsel Imlay for knowing the appropriate prompt action to take with the right people.

+++ Hamvention travel advisory +++

"Finally, after . . . 6 weeks, the construction info is now on the Hamvention(r) web page," wrote Robert Lunsford, KB8UEY of the Hamvention Committee. The information provides valuable tips on avoiding difficulties that could result from highway construction near the 2008 Hamvention. You will recall the Hamvention Committee is expecting a bumper crop of Ohio "orange barrel" State flowers to be in full-bloom at Hamvention time.

If you will be driving or riding shotgun to the Hamvention, you will want to review the information Bob has prepared. Navigating the final several miles to HARA will be much easier if you have studied his suggestions.

Bob added, "As always if anyone has any Talk-In related questions they can email me at talkin@hamvention.org."

+++ ARRL at the Hamvention +++

ARRL Expo --

The 2008 offering of the Hamvention promises to be another fine example of one of the world's greatest Amateur Radio festivals. As part of the annual event, the ARRL will present another edition of the ARRL EXPO. The EXPO has been so successful its previous two years that many vendors ask to have their booths placed near it to benefit from the high level of traffic it receives from hams from throughout the US and overseas.

Read QST and watch ARRL web announcements to learn of the many features that will be available at the EXPO this year.

The ARRL EXPO is at the same location as in 2006 and 2007. It promises to be even better than before.

Great Lakes Division --

As was true last year, the Great Lakes Division will have a booth for members and appointees to stop by, rest a few minutes if they wish and talk with Division and Section leaders who are likely to be there. Drop by to say hello, to ask questions, to make suggestions or simply to see the faces.

+++ From the Great Lake Division Legislative Action Chairman +++

Since assuming the role of Great Lakes Division Legislative Action Chairman I have been bringing myself up to speed on fulfilling the position. Now that I have a couple of months under my belt we are beginning to move, again.

First and foremost I am very happy to announce that Louis A. Gembolis, KG8NK of Ishpeming, MI has accepted appointment as Legislative Action Coordinator (LAC) for Michigan. In this position, he will coordinate the activities of Legislative Action Assistants (LAA) in the Legislative Action Program (LAP) in Michigan. Lou is president of the Hiawatha Amateur Radio Association, AEC of Marquette County, Official Observer and MARS operator AAR5AD. He also directs over 100 amateurs in communicating for a major, annual dogsled race in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

What is the ARRL Legislative Action Program (LAP), you ask? It is a grass roots program that makes it possible for ARRL members to promote and protect Amateur Radio through coordinated, legitimate political action at the Federal government level. Federal Legislators frequently vote based upon their understanding of the wishes of their constituents. As a constituent, your opinion is important to them.

Members who would like to learn more about the LAP are invited to contact me at nb4k@arrl.org or Director Weaver at k8je@arrl.org.

73,

John D. Meyers, NB4K Great Lake Division Legislative Action Chairman

+++ Michigan QSO Party +++

The annual Michigan QSO Party is April 19, 1200 to 2400 EDT (1600Z Saturday April 19 until 0400Z Sunday April 20) The major objective is to work as many stations possible in as many Michigan counties as possible. Details are at miqp.org.

Current information on who will be/is operating and other information about participating stations is available through the Michigan QSO Party reflector.

+++ Ohio State Parks contest +++

Here is an interesting, new contest. The Portage County (OH) ARS is sponsoring the very first Ohio State Park on the Air Contest. The contest will be Saturday, September 6, 2008 from noon to 8 p.m. EDT (1600Z to 2400Z). The contest is open to all amateurs from their base, portable or mobile stations and from inside or outside an Ohio State Park.

This contest presents an opportunity to visit and enjoy Ohio's parks. Information on them and their features is available at this link.

Full information on the contest is available at http://parks.portcars.org" target=_blank>parks.portcars.org or from the contest chairman, Chuck, K8CMP, at k8cmp@portcars.org.

+++ What's you opinion? +++

This is the sixth year I've stressed that I would like to know what about ARRL or Amateur Radio bothers or confuses you, or what you think could be done better. Over the months, asked a number of questions that were answered by many of you. Your answers provided guidance to me in reaching positions I have taken on issues studied by my 14 best friends and me on the ARRL Board of Directors. I would like to have your help again.

What I would like you to do is to tell me which single issue regarding ARRL and its activities you feel has not been explained to your satisfaction or that in some other manner concern you. This doesn't need to be a complaint, but is the single point that confuses you the most, makes the least sense to you, bothers you the most or however you view it.

Please send your top-choice issue to me by e-mail. Please also be brief in doing this. As much as I may like to receive full discussions from you, there simply aren't enough of me to deal with anything that approaches the size of a Funk & Wagnall's Dictionary. If I need more information on your top-choice issue, I'll ask.

Be certain to include your name and call. Send your single, top-choice issue to k8je@arrl.org. In addition to getting an answer from me, you just may plant a seed that may grow into action at HQ.

+++ Radios On-Line, offline +++

Effective April 30, the ARRL Radios On-Line person-to-person want-ad site will go the way of the telegram. Declining use as well as abuse by a few hams caused the demise of this ARRL program intended to assist hams sell equipment.

+++ Passing commercial traffic +++

"Is it legal, and if so when, to handle business traffic during emergencies?"

This is a frequent question by amateurs. The question partly comes about as a result of changes made by FCC in Part 97 in December 2006. The changes dropped reference to Emergency Communications Declarations (ECD) by the FCC. The result of this change is that the FCC no longer declares when an emergency exists and, therefore, when amateurs may deviate from FCC Amateur Radio rules to protect the public.

The bottom line is that other clauses in Part 97 allow amateurs to deviate from standard Amateur Radio practices when legitimate emergencies warrant such actions. Provided the purpose of businesslike communication is to protect life and property during an emergency, hams should have no fear of being threatened with enforcement action.

+++ Hamvention forums announced +++

The list of forums at the Dayton Hamvention has been released by the Hamvention Committee. To see the list, go to this link.

+++ Do you want to be GLD Director or Vice Director? +++

If you think you would like to become the Director or Vice Director for the Great Lakes Division, you probably already know that Gary's and my seats will be up for election this summer (see Tentative Schedule, below). The July QST will contain details of the requirements for these positions as well as instructions for obtaining, completing and submitting nomination forms to become a candidate.

These (non-paying) jobs are steady, involve a significant amount of travel and require one to be attached to a computer by a strong umbilical cord. I personally find that meeting many fellow amateurs is more than ample reward for the time and effort.

+++ Tentative Schedule +++

30 Apr: Meet on Ohio antenna bill (Columbus) - Jim
(I am a volunteer in the Ohio Section organization in this action.)
7 May: Mound ARA - present Certificate of Affiliation - SM Phillips, Jim
15 May: ARRL Donor Reception, Dayton - Jim
16 May: Hamvention(R), Dayton - Jim, Gary
17 May: Hamvention, Dayton - Jim, Gary
Meet with Legislative Action staff, Dayton - Jim
18 May: Hamvention, Dayton - Jim, Gary
Hamvention Awards Dinner, Dayton - Jim, Gary
30 May: Dixie Heights HS ARC (KY), Present Certificate of Affiliation - SM Brooks, Gary, Jim
21 Jun: Milford (OH) Hamfest - Jim
28-29 Jun: Field Day - Jim
Jul QST-noon 8 Aug: Nominations open for Director/Vice Director
10 Jul: Mahoning Valley ARA, Youngstown - Jim
17 Jul: A&F Meeting, Newington - Jim
18-19 Jul: Board Meeting, Newington - Jim, Gary
22 Jul: Quarterly GLD Teleconference
1 Aug: Massillon (OH) RC - Jim
10 Aug: Central Kentucky Hamfest, Lawrenceburg - Jim
15 Aug: Genesee County RC, 75th Anniv., Flint, MI - Jim
13 Sep: OH Section Conf, Columbus - Jim
21 Sep: Cincinnati Hamfest - Jim
23 Sep-1 Oct: Director/Vice Director ballots mailed.
7 Oct: OH-KY-IN ARS (Cincinnati) ARRL Night - Jim
12 Oct: Michigan State Convention, Kalamazoo - Jim
28 Oct: Quarterly GLD Teleconference
21 Nov: (Noon) Deadline for return of ballots. Ballots counted
22 Nov: (by end of day) Candidates notified of election results

Weaver's Words -- DX Is Beginning To Bloom!

Friday, March 28, 2008
By Jim Weaver, K8JE, Director ARRL Great Lakes Division

+++ Kosovo and DXCC +++

Kosovo (or Kosova, if you prefer) has come under the DXCC microscope these days thanks to our friends Martti Lane, OH2BH, Bob Locher, W9KNI, Kip Edwards, W6ZN and Bernie McClenny, W3UR. I say friends because each of these amateurs has contributed greatly to the DXCC program. I especially appreciate the QSLs I have received through several of Martti's DXpeditions. In spite of this, I believe these friends are off base concerning Kosovo.

For you who aren't familiar with the situation, Bob, Kip and Bernie are each quoted on a post card Martti sends along with QSLs for a DXpedition he headed to Kosovo in February. Kosovo declared independence February 17. Martti and the group want ARRL to ignore its DXCC rules and declare Kosovo a new entity.

I applaud the determination and dedication each of the four amateurs have displayed. However, I don't view the issue the same way as they see it. They want us to ignore the following rule for determining when a political entity can become a new DXCC entity:

"1. Political Entities:

"Political Entities are those areas which are separated by reason of government or political division. They generally contain an indigenous population which is not predominantly composed of military or scientific personnel.

"An Entity will be added to the DXCC List as a Political Entity if it meets one or more of the following criteria:

"a) The entity is a UN Member State.

"b) The entity has been assigned a callsign prefix bloc by the ITU. (The exceptions to this rule are international organizations, such as the UN and ICAO. These Entities are classified under Special Areas, 3.a); and Ineligible Areas, 4.b).) A provisional prefix bloc assignment may be made by the Secretary General of ITU. Should such provisional assignments not be ratified later by the full ITU, the Entity will be removed from the DXCC List.

"c) The Entity contains a permanent population, is administered by a local government, and is located at least 800 km from its parent. To satisfy the "permanent population" and "administered by a local government" criteria of this sub-section, an Entity must be listed on either (a) the U.S. Department of State's list of "Dependencies and Areas of Special Sovereignty" as having a local "Administrative Center," or (b) the United Nations list of "Non-Self-Governing Territories."

"New Entities satisfying one or more of the conditions above will be added to the DXCC List by administrative action as of their 'Event Date'."

So far, Kosovo is not qualified to be listed as a DXCC entity by the above criteria. When it qualifies, it will be listed.

I won't take the space in this e-letter to discuss each point Martti cites as reason for considering Kosovo a special case and making it a new entity. Let's take a look at a three of the points, though:

- "With Russia on the UN Security Council, Kosovo is not likely to become a UN member for quite some time." This may or may not be true. Regardless, UN membership is not the only way to become recognized as a new entity.

- "Kosovo is analogous with East Timor and therefore should be recognized." The fact is that Kosovo is not analogous with E. Timor. The argument does not apply.

- "An Independent Kosovo is part of the UN roadmap of it." There is/was no UN roadmap for its independence. One was proposed, but was not adopted.

- "Contacts with Kosovo after February 17 should count as Kosovo; not Serbia." The fact is that US recognition notwithstanding, Kosovo has yet to receive sufficient recognition worldwide to be considered independent.

- "ARRL reacted abruptly in proclaiming Kosovo was not eligible to become a new entity." In the true sense of the word, ARRL did not proclaim Kosovo was ineligible to be an entity. League members asked if contacts from the February DXpedition counted toward DXCC. The HQ staff merely answered these questions by stating that DXCC rules prevent these contacts from counting. We did not rush out to move against Kosovo's declaration of independence.

It is noteworthy that the February DXpedition was sanctioned by Serbia -- not by Kosovo. The Callsign used by the operation is Serbian. Provided Kosovo is, indeed, an independent country, it will come to receive worldwide recognition and will be listed as a new entity by ARRL.

Incidentally, it has been said that US soldiers died to make Kosovo an independent country. I may be wrong, but the way I remember it the US military was involved in Serbia to stop "ethnic cleansing," not to bring independence to anyone. Conversely, it did nothing to prevent independence.

Final comment: The ARRL staff and Board of Directors have worked hard and long to take the DXCC program out of politics. The issue surrounding Kosovo as a new country is fully political. As for me, I'm pulling for Kosovo to become recognized internationally. Changing DXCC rules to list it as an entity will not help them gain this recognition.

+++ Elmering newbies -- more +++

Several members wrote concerning my comments on nurturing newbies in the March issue of Weavers' Words. Included in these was a reminder by Phil DeRuiter, K5PDR of a golden oldie article named Your Novice Accent. Phil went so far as to trace it down -- to KB6NU's web page. KB6NU happens to be none other than Dan Romanchik, Michigan Affiliated Club Coordinator (ACC).

The article was written many years ago when Morse code proficiency was required for licensing. Even so, a little judicious mental editing makes it just as appropriate for phone operating as it is for code operating. Dan had updated the article some time in the past. It could probably stand further updating to become Your Technician Accent.

I encourage clubs, licensing class teachers and individuals who are interested in developing quality new hams to review the article, add items related to phone operating and include relevant portions of it in club activities, newsletters and as supplemental material to license training classes.

Your Novice Accent can be found at kb6nu.com/your-novice-accent. Thanks to Dan for posting it.

+++ NB4K appointed DLAC +++

I am very happy to announce that former Kentucky SM John Meyers, NB4K has accepted appointment as the Division Legislative Action Chair (DLAC) for the Great Lakes Division. In this position, John will coordinate the activities of the Legislative Action Coordinators for each of our states. With John as DLAC you can expect to see more activity assigned to our LACs and Legislative Action Assistants (LAAs).

John has considerable experience in promoting Amateur Radio to local and state legislators and officers in Kentucky. He will be a great asset to the Legislative Action Program in the GLD.

+++ Nominate an outstanding young ham +++

The ARRL invites nominations for the 2007 Hiram Percy Maxim (HPM) Memorial Award. The League's premier youth recognition, the HPM Memorial Award goes annually to a radio amateur under age 21 in recognition of the recipient's accomplishments and contributions "of the most exemplary nature" to the ham community and general-public communities during the previous calendar year -- 2007 in this instance.

Examples of criteria for nomination include:

- Participation or leadership in organizational or operational affairs at the local or national level (e.g. radio club, ARES/EMCOMM, net control, participation in civic groups). - Technical achievement (building radios, putting up an antenna and such). - Operating record (for example, nets, disaster drills, contests, ARRL November Sweepstakes, etc). - Recruitment and training of new amateurs (for example, helped teach a license class, JOTA, etc). - Public relations activities (for example, create a ham radio Web page.

+++ President Harrison suffers second tragedy +++

ARRL President Joel Harrison, W5ZN has suffered the second personal tragedy when his father, Barney Harrison passed away on Monday, March 10. The funeral service was held on Thursday, March 13. I expressed the condolences of the Division to Joel.

+++ President Harrison named by Arkansas governor +++

Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe has appointed ARRL President Joel Harrison, W5ZN, to a four year term to the Board of Directors of the Arkansas Science & Technology Authority. The appointment was ratified by the Arkansas Senate.

It is about time that something good happened to Joel!

+++ Hamvention road construction +++

As many people know, the orange barrel is the unofficial state flower of Ohio. Dayton Hamvention® Robert Lunsford, KB8UEY has given notice that several routes to HARA in the Dayton area may prove slow due to reconstruction. Robert is Talk-In Chairman for the Hamvention and has posted clear instructions on avoiding most of the slow spots on the Hamvention web site.

+++ ARRL at the Hamvention +++

Speaking of the greatest gathering of amateurs in the world, the Dayton Hamvention(R), ARRL again will feature an ARRL Expo. The Expo will feature several mini-seminars, displays of ARRL programs and products, many of the League officers, directors, vice directors and members of management.

A Great Lakes Division booth will be included in the XXXXXX area. Members in this Division are invited to stop by the booth to say hello and discuss any issues they may have. Section and Division officers are invited to spend time at the booth to chat with people who stop by.

+++ Michigan QSO Party +++

The Michigan QSO Party is April 19, 1200 EDST to 2400 EDST (16Z Saturday April 19 until 04Z Sunday April 20) Details at http://www.miqp.org. The MiQP is REALLY fun - we folks in Michigan are the bait for all the folks outside the state who are looking for contacts!

For up to date info on who is operating, etc., please join the Michigan QSO Party reflector.

Mni tnx to Hank Greeb, N8XX for the above item. I especially like to publicize our Section QSO parties -- as well as to operate in them.

+++ Why I love this job +++

I don't believe I've ever explained the reason I enjoy being your Great Lakes Division Director. I've made individual comments about this, but let me put it all together.

The first reason I enjoy being your Director is that I have the opportunity to see many of you personally, and to correspond with still many others on a one-on-one basis. Hams are the greatest. Sure, there are a few stinkers who have sneaked in among us, but in my mind, Amateur Radio operators generally are a cut above the average member of the general population.

Getting to know you even on a limited basis adds much to my life.

Doing my best to ensure the future of Amateur Radio is safe and enjoyable for everyone in it is my second reason. Of course, there are many amateurs who devote part of their available time to promote and preserve hamming and its value to the public. I applaud each of you who do this. My thrill is that I am favored through good fortune and your support to be able to work at the national level and even to attempt to influence our great radio service internationally.

For some reason, I've also always enjoyed problem solving. The more difficult or complex the problem, the more I enjoy trying to help solve it.

As GLD Director, I certainly have plenty of opportunity to tackle problems. These problems often require the cooperation and assistance of many additional people. Fun. Especially when the problem is solved.

Finally, I really enjoy hearing from you -- your wishes, your complaints, your general comments. I want to know what you think. Please keep it up.

+++ Map your FD site +++

ARRL has opened a new online locator service. Through this service, Field Day (FD) groups may post their location on a map to help workers and visitors reach the site. This new service is described at this link on the ARRL web site.

I was privileged to participate in the beta test of this locator service. It is neat.

+++ Clubs are teaching CW +++

It's nice to see a few clubs are offering Morse code classes and are having members sign up for them. Before you get me wrong, I'm not someone who thinks one cannot be a ham unless they have shown proficiency in CW. What I believe is that Morse has a definite place in Amateur Radio for those who wish to use it. I said this knowing I would displease some members, but this is what I think.

Code is wonderful when one is trying to pull a weak signal out of QRM or QRN. It is great for DXing. So are many of the digital modes.

Where does this leave me? I favor having as many amateurs who wish to use them use any mode the FCC makes legal for us to use.

+++ One-day licensing courses +++

I have nothing against making it possible for wannabe hams to become licensed through 1-day intensive courses. I have a concern that too many of these courses are being unfair to the student as well as to Amateur Radio. Why?

My guess is that many cram courses do not include meaningful discussion of good operating practices. For this matter, few longer-term license courses contain such discussion. It is ignorance of good operating practices that is one of the biggest problems Amateur Radio faces today.

I suggest that one objective of any licensing course should be to help instill awareness of good operating practice as well as to get people licensed.

+++ April Fools' Day fun +++

After all of these years (I won't tell you how many), I will 'fess-up to being as nasty an older brother as most young guys. I am the oldest "kid" in the family and my next younger sibling is my only sister. I particularly gave her a rough time (before she grew old enough to beat me up) on her birthday. When was this? April 1. What else would you expect?

+++ Tentative Schedule +++

2008

Apr 2: Lake County ARC, Painesville, OH - Jim
Apr 14: Portage County ARS (OH) Meeting - Jim
Apr 22: Quarterly Division Cabinet Teleconference, 9 PM
May 7: Mound ARA Meeting, Miamisburg, OH - Jim
May 16-18: Dayton Hamvention(TM) - Gary & Jim
Jun 21: Milford, OH, Hamfest - Jim
Jul QST 'til noon Aug 8: Nominations for Director/Vice Director open.
Jul 10: Mahoning Valley ARA, Youngstown, OH - Jim
Jul 17-20: Board of Directors Meeting, Newington, CT - Jim & Gary
Jul 22: Quarterly Division Cabinet Teleconference, 9 PM.
Aug 10: Central KY ARRL Hamfest, Lawrenceburg, KY - Jim
Sep 21: Cincinnati Hamfest, Cincinnati, OH - Jim.
Sep 23-Oct 1: Ballots mailed for Director/Vice Director election.
Oct 7: OH-IKY-ARS Meeting, ARRL Night - Jim
Oct 12: Michigan State Convention & Hamfest, Kalamazoo, MI - Jim
Oct 28: Quarterly Division Cabinet Teleconference, 9 PM.
Nov 21, noon: Deadline for return of ballots. Ballots counted.
Nov 22 end of day: Candidates notified of election results.

73,

Jim

Weaver's Words -- 'Tis The Irish Rising

Monday, March 3, 2008
By Jim Weaver, K8JE, Director ARRL Great Lakes Division

+++ New ops: A curse or an opportunity? +++

The answer to the above question depends on each one of us. New ops are curses for people who prefer to "curse the darkness," but they are opportunities for people who would much rather "light one single candle" to clear the darkness. The darkness in these instances being the darkness of inexperience and ignorance. Note that I said ignorance; not stupidity. I am referring to a case of not having had the opportunity to learn rather than of being unable to learn.

I believe that all amateurs are inherently intelligent. Education to become knowledgeable is what we all need in one or more respects.

I fairly frequently receive e-mail complaining about how some new hams continue to operate using non-ham practices. This is particularly true when a group of several friends come into Amateur Radio from Citizens' Band at the same time. This is natural. They know each other well and may have operated on CB together using CB procedures for a long time. Long-established practices are often difficult to change.

Long-standing practices are particularly difficult to change when no one has shown that alternate practices are more appropriate. But, who is it that should introduce aspiring and new licensees to the ways of Amateur Radio?

The most logical people to show or teach newbies the "way of light and wisdom" are local hams. These are the hams who meet new licensees in person at license classes, club meetings and events, or at breakfast or lunch.

How do neophytes learn proper procedure? They could read on their own or could listen to established hams operate. The latter is a good way to learn, provided the hams they listen to use good procedure.

Another excellent way to help newbies learn and to get them involved in a local club at the same time, is to present a short-course on proper operating. This course could be targeted strictly to new folks by adding it on as a single discussion or in few-minute bites during a license course. It could also be given at club meetings.

The training might include the proper use of pro-words and pro-signs, how to begin and end a QSO. It could stress courteous operating and prepare new hams to deal with the truly few LIDs who are discourteous and piggish, as well as other commonly-encountered features of day-to-day operation.

You might choose to open the training up to old timers. If you do, prepare to be surprised at the number of old timers who learn that practices they thought were correct, aren't. This is sort of like the King of Siam in "The King and I." Remember, he was the supreme honcho who suddenly realized that what he had thought was true for decades actually isn't.

As just one example of a highly common error, consider the all-familiar ending for Amateur Radio QSOs. Which is proper . . . 73s or 73?

Regardless of the fact that nearly many new and old ops alike say 73s, this is incorrect. The correct term is 73. Don't misunderstand, saying 73s won't result in FCC enforcement action. It won't even result in a friendly reminder from an OO. Even so, if one really wishes to operate correctly, it is 73, not 73s.

The code term, 73, is already plural. It was initially set up by telegraphers to say "best wishes," "good luck" or similar thoughts to fellow telegraphers. Adding an "s" to 73 to turn it into 73s turns it into "best wisheses" or "bestes wisheses" or some other distortion of the language. At best it becomes a plural plurality, whatever this may be.

Not too long ago, I listened to a QSO on a local repeater in which two newcomers were debating the meaning of a few Q signals. Among other things, they were trying to figure out whether QRA means "I am at" or "there is a lot of interference," and whether QTH means "my call is ___," or "your signal is very weak."

New ops need help -- need an Elmer. It is best if the help comes from people who choose to take the effort to teach correct information. +++ DXCC turnaround time +++

A number of you have written me concerning the relatively long turnaround time being experienced in processing DXCC card submissions. Flatly speaking, as hard working as our folks in the Awards area are, the ball was fumbled on this. When things began to unravel, people were so busy trying to push and shove the system to work more efficiently that they did not see the full view of the issue. By the time the total picture came into view, the situation had gotten out of hand.

Things are beginning to look. One hopes this will translate into real progress quite soon. I will say only that additional measures are being taken to prevent major delays from recurring at any time in the future.

Some of the "never-again" changes that will be made will not be evident until near the end of 2008. These latter changes will be discussed nearer to this time. In the meantime, mea culpa.

+++ President Harrison's mother passes away +++

It is with deep regret that I report the passing of Betty Harrison, mother of ARRL President Joel Harrison, W5ZN. Mrs. Harrison passed away February 21 in Searcy, Arkansas. I have extended the condolences of the Great Lakes Division.

+++ FCC action +++

Travel cut back --

Don't expect to see Riley Hollingsworth, K4ZDH, at many hamfests this year. The FCC has clamped down on the amount of travel its employees, including Hollingsworth, can make to events sponsored by organizations it regulates. The only event in the GLD that I know Riley can be expected to attend this year is the Dayton Hamvention(R). The number of hams who attend the Hamvention each year makes his travel to it very cost effective.

One word of caution: Do not misinterpret this recent cutback as indicating a decrease in effort to regulate against improper and illegal action. As relatively slow as the wheels of the FCC mill turn, they will continue to grind very fine. The lists of FCC action taken against bad actors on the Amateur Radio bands will continue to demonstrate that FCC rules and regulations are being enforced. This enforcement action includes measures taken against pirate operation, inadvertent radiation into the ham bands and illegal activities of licensed amateurs.

FCC Rejects Morse code requirement - again --

The FCC rejected two submissions that would have restored the requirement to demonstrate Morse code proficiency as a component of the General Class or Extra Class ham exams. The submissions were turned down on procedural grounds.

+++ Renewed pledge to you +++

I came across the following resolutions as I was looking through old editions of Weaver's Words for something totally different. They struck a chord, though, and I thought they would be good to issue them again just to let you all know I continue what I believe. This isn't the turn of the New Year, which is when the following was initially published, but the coming of St. Patrick's Day is as good a time as any to renew this (and maybe other) pledges.

From the December 2004 Weaver's Words --

"MY RESOLUTION TO YOU

"Before I tossed my hat into the ring to become GLD Director I made a few resolutions to myself and to each of you. I didn't tell you this at the time, so I've decided to renew the resolutions and let you in on them.

"RESOLUTION No. 1: I will continue to act at all times in the best interests of Amateur Radio and ARRL. I will not cater to any individual or group when fulfilling the duties of Director.

"RESOLUTION No. 2: I will continue to seek input and direction from you GLD members before voting on items of substance, whenever this is possible.

RESOLUTION No. 3: I will continue to consider very seriously any recommendations and opinions of GLD ARRL members before determining my vote on items of substance, whenever this is possible.

"RESOLUTION No. 4: I will continue to include the best available information regarding: 1) FCC, and US Communications Law and regulations, 2) International Communications Law and regulations, 3) lessons drawn from the best Amateur Radio practices as well as 4) member wishes/preferences in determining my vote on issues before the ARRL Board of Directors.

"All of the above is based upon my strong belief that ARRL members are partners in Amateur Radio who can, and do, contribute substantial knowledge and enlightened guidance to ARRL actions. ARRL exists for its members."

+++ Family members as ARRL members +++

Questions occasionally arise over how members of the immediate family of an ARRL member can join the League -- as family members. The answer is pretty simple. Any spouse or child(ren) of an ARRL member may join ARRL for $8 per year provided the spouse or child(ren) live with the member. The point that has raised questions relates to when these family members may join ARRL.

The fact is that a family member may join ARRL at any time throughout the year. However, the term of the family membership will be tied to the term of the "senior" member. For example, assume that dad's membership term ends in April and that his son joins as a family member in July. The son's family membership will end in April along with Dad's (or Mom's).

For the first year of his membership, the dues paid for the son will pay for 10 months. After this first year, the son's membership will begin and end at the same time as Dad's. The family, in fact, will receive only one statement regardless of the number of family members.

Although a couple of details are a little different, family members of Life Members may also join at the Family rate. It would be best to telephone Membership at ARRL HQ at 1-860-594-0303 to discuss the details of these memberships.

Each member of a family membership receives the same services as does a single member with one exception. Only one copy of QST is sent to a household under the Family plan.

+++ Michigan State Convention scheduled +++

The Kalamazoo ARC (KARC) and Southwest Michigan Amateur Radio Team (SMART) are combining to present the Michigan State Convention & Hamfest on October 12. Details of the Convention are being finalized. These include DXCC card checking, a lunch, VE exams and educational forums. Ruth Bates-Hill, WB8VEV (Ruth.M.Bates-hill@pfizer.com) is the contact person. Information will also be posted at www.kalamazoohamfest.com as it becomes available.

+++ Division Convention note +++

With our Division conventions occurring in odd-numbered years and our State conventions in even-numbered years, it will soon be time to begin planning for the 2009 Great Lakes Division Convention. Clubs interested in sponsoring the Division convention next year may want to begin to think about which features they would like to present in and around the convention -- which forums, speakers, location and other features.

TO assist in developing your thinking, it may be helpful to review the 2007 and 2005 conventions. Information on the 2007 convention is at www.2007gldc.com/. This site also has a link to the 2005 convention.

Earlier Division conventions were paired with the Findlay, Toledo and Cleveland Hamfests with the hamfests being on Sunday and the convention on Saturday. Watch for calls for requests to host the 2009 convention in coming weeks.

+++ 8th Area director appointed +++

No, none of the ARRL directors have resigned and been replaced. The 8th Area director referenced in this case is for The 3905 Century Club, Inc. and is W8JMF, John Fisher of Berea, OH. Congratulations John.

The 3905 CC is a group of AM operators who conduct nets on 80 and 40 meters. It was organized during the US Bicentennial celebration to offer a variety of operating awards to commemorate the bicentennial. The club's bicentennial activities were so successful that it has continued operating ever since.

For more information about The 3905 CC award and nets, go to 3905ccn.comwww.3905ccn.com.

73,

Jim

Amateurs Lend A Hand As Deadly Storms Sweep Across Southern United States

Friday, February 8, 2008
By ARRL

At least 54 people were killed and hundreds injured Tuesday and Wednesday by dozens of tornadoes that plowed across Mississippi, Arkansas, Tennessee, Kentucky and Alabama in the nation's deadliest barrage of twisters in almost 23 years. In spite of the disasters, state and local emergency management officials once again discovered that they could call on Amateur Radio operators to help out and get communications up and going again after the infrastructure failed.

According to ARRL Southeastern Division Director Greg Sarratt, W4OZK, "Four people were killed in Alabama as the storms damaged homes, caused flooding and downed trees and power lines. North Alabama SKYWARN, ARES and scores of Amateur Radio operators were up all night long, providing vital communications to the National Weather Service and Emergency Management Agencies all across the region. Once again, Amateur Radio operators played a critical role before, during and after the storms. I am proud of the level of professionalism and critical information that these operators provided our served agencies."

Hundreds of houses were damaged or destroyed across the region. Authorities had no immediate cost estimate of the damage. The storms flattened entire streets, smashed warehouses and sent tractor-trailers flying. Houses were reduced to splintered piles of lumber. Some looked like life-size dollhouses, their walls sheared away. Crews going door-to-door to search for bodies had to contend with downed power lines, snapped trees and flipped-over cars. Near hard-hit Lafayette, Tennessee, cattle wandered through the debris. At least 12 people died in and around the town; more than 30 were killed in Tennessee alone.

"It looks like the Lord took a Brillo pad and scrubbed the ground," Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen said as he surveyed the damage from a helicopter. "I don't think that I have seen, since I've been governor, a tornado where the combination of the intensity of it and the length of the track was as large as this one," he said. "That track had to be 25 miles long. [The twister] didn't skip like a lot of them do...It's just 25 miles of a tornado sitting on the ground."

Most communities had ample warning that the storms were coming. Forecasters had warned for days that severe weather was possible. The National Weather Service issued more than 1000 tornado warnings from 3 PM Tuesday-6 AM Wednesday in the 11-state area where the weather was heading. The conditions for bad weather had lined up so perfectly that the Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma put out an alert six days in advance.

Tennessee

Tennessee Section Emergency Coordinator Lowell Bennington, WD4DJW, said that approximately 25 hams in Madison County had participating in SKYWARN activities before the storm arrived; one ham actually spotted the twister. "Two hams reported to the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency-West, assisting in passing radio communication. A couple of hams assisted Madison County EMA in setting up their Mobile Command Post. On Wednesday, 10 teams were dispatched to do Damage Assessment. These teams were composed of 3 individuals, one of whom was an Amateur Radio operator," he said.

Bennington said that hams in Middle Tennessee "utilized our vast networks of linked 2 meter repeater systems as well as our UHF-linked system in support of the National Weather Service, Tennessee Emergency Management, law enforcement agencies and participating local EMA offices. Operators from Wilson County were dispatched to the Nashville NWS office and they operated from there until around 3:30 AM Thursday, giving and taking weather reports."

Alabama

Alabama ARES District 6 Emergency Coordinator Doug Hilton, WD0UG, said his area was hit hard by a fast-moving line of severe weather; District 6 covers the Northern counties of Alabama. Hilton contacted the NWS office in Huntsville early Wednesday regarding possible SKYWARN activation. "After discussing the situation with NWS personnel, it was decided that since this was going to be a long event, that would probably last all night, it was best not to tie up the local repeaters early on. I opened an informal SKYWARN net to get weather information out to the amateur community during the afternoon, and several Madison County hams participated in the net. We closed the net after about an hour and re-opened it that evening at 7," he said. Madison County ARES was activated that evening and other hams in the area joined in. Hilton said Northern Alabama has a linked-repeater system that covers all 10 counties during emergency conditions.

The storm churned into Western Alabama from Mississippi about 9 PM. The main part of the storm started its destruction at 3 AM. Hilton said, "The storm was a killer, and the extra lead time that people got from the great staff at NWS probably led to a reduction in casualties." A massive long-track EF-3 tornado hit Lawrence County and caused 3 fatalities and more than 20 people were injured." Hilton said the NWS estimated the twister to be 1/2 mile wide with a path length of 18.7 miles, causing "extreme destruction of property." An EF-4 tornado with peak winds of 180 MPH went through Jackson County, causing 1 fatality.

Hilton said hams were able to provide many timely situation reports, "and 'ground truth' is always the best indicator of reality. Many of the hams who stayed up all night were also prepared to leave their homes at a moment's notice to go anywhere in the District, if needed. The incredible teamwork of this ARES/SKYWARN team and the level of professionalism was something to behold."

Kentucky

Chris Shaw, W4BGN, Kentucky District Emergency Coordinator, said several confirmed tornadoes touched down throughout his state. "Kentucky hams activated weather nets, while others were out and about spotting for severe weather. Allen and Monroe Counties in South Central Kentucky were especially hard hit. Some repeaters lost power and hams quickly adapted, going to emergency simplex frequencies on 2 meters. The communications went very smooth and seemed to be beneficial to many. Hams worked throughout the night to help provide communications, especially to those areas without power."

Federal Response

President Bush gave assurances that his administration stood ready to help. Teams from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) were sent to the region and activated an emergency center in Georgia, Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff said Wednesday. "We're going to keep watching this."

"Loss of life, loss of property -- prayers can help and so can the government," Bush said. "I do want the people in those states to know the American people are standing with them." On Wednesday, Bush called the governors of the affected states to offer help and to tell them that "the American people hold those who suffered up in prayer."

While the weather was unusually severe, winter tornadoes are not uncommon. The peak tornado season is late winter through midsummer, but the storms can happen at any time of the year with the right conditions. "All the clues were there. It was just unfortunate that it came out the way it did," prediction center director Joseph Schaefer said. Greg Carbin, warning coordination meteorologist at the Oklahoma center, said there were 67 eyewitness accounts of tornadoes, but some of those were probably twisters that were counted more than once; the actual number is probably more like 30 or 40, he said.

Some information provided by The Weather Channel.

Weaver's Words -- Be My Valentine

Friday, February 8, 2008
By Jim Weaver, K8JE, Director ARRL Great Lakes Division

+++ ARRL v. FCC +++

I received a question after the last issue of Words concerning the status of ARRL's suit against the FCC. The situation is that we are on hold. Arguments in the case were heard late last year. This is a "bench" trial -- i.e. there is no jury. The judge will rule on the case.

It often takes several months before a ruling is handed down in cases such as ours. The ruling could come at any time, but don't be surprised if it is not released for a couple of more months.

+++ Senior dues discount -- more +++

A point I neglected to make regarding the future of the ARRL Senior Citizen dues discount is that Seniors may renew their memberships using the discount for as many as five years if this is done by the end of 2008. If the details of this multi-year extension have not been announced by the time your renewal comes due, feel free to call toll free at 1-888-277-5289.

+++ All-risk, all-gear insurance +++

My guess is that most of us have insurance of some form on our radio equipment. It may be everything that we want. On the other hand, it may be a little lacking.

You may not know that ARRL has had "all-risk" and "all-gear" insurance available to ARRL members for many years. This is the type of insurance that will cover every piece of ham equipment, your computer(s) and the programs used with your ham activities . . . and give you the full replacement value of any insured item that is lost through any accidental occurrence. Yes, I said replacement value. I should also add that people I know who have benefited from this insurance say collecting on it is fully no-hassle.

You can check into this insurance "from the comfort of your own home". Whether you decide to buy this insurance, it is still a good deal.

+++ Who is KI8JE? +++

For our DXers as well as others in the know, KI8JE could be referred to as a "pirate." In reality, he is a typo. I suspect most of you realize that KI8JE is to whom I said replies to the last Words should be directed. I hope it was obvious that this should have read K8JE.

If you noticed I referred to KI8JE as a pirate and not as a "slim." You who know me, know I could not consider myself a slim!

Oh, yes . . . as of the end of January, there is no KI8JE.

+++ Complete minutes of January meeting +++

The complete minutes of the January Board of Directors Meeting are posted on the ARRL web site. If you have any questions after reading these, let me know.

+++ Conduct of ARRL Board meetings +++

I doubt if many readers have looked through the ARRL Constitution, Bylaws and Standing Orders to see how we conduct Board of Directors meetings. With the exception of rules of specific procedure contained in these ARRL documents, meetings are conducted following Roberts' Rules of Order. The difference seen in Board meetings vs. most local club meetings is that the Board has a Parliamentarian who is very knowledgeable in parliamentary procedure. He keeps us on the straight and narrow.

The structure of Board meetings is similar to that of the US House and Senate. Much of the work done by the Board is assigned to standing committees or ad hoc committees. These committees generally work throughout the year to reach recommendations that are made in reports to the Board at each Board meeting. The Board accepts, rejects or modifies committee reports; thereby, adopting or rejecting the provisions contained in them.

The two standing committees of the Board are the Administration & Finance Committee and the Programs & Services Committee. Ad hoc and Advisory Committees come and go; however, the standing committees remain in one form or another over the years.

ARRL Board meetings are set for January and July. The rules typically require them to be held in the vicinity of Newington, CT. They can be moved around the country at the discretion of the Board. This was done for our meeting in January which was held in Houston. Incidentally, the reason for the move to Houston was severe weather that hit Newington the past two years. Weather forced a couple of Board members to miss the meeting completely and caused several directors to stay an extra day for the airport to open for their trip home. I was one of the latter Directors.

Housing, and meeting and dining facilities are at a local hotel. When we meet in Newington, committees meet at our HQ building. Rooms at HQ are far too small to host Board sessions or dining.

Before we decided to meet in Houston, the Board set a requirement that the total cost of the meeting there must be essentially the same or less than the cost we would have incurred in Newington.

Standing committees and miscellaneous other meetings take place on Thursday before the Board meeting.

The sequence of events related to actual Board meetings typically begin on Thursday evening with dinner. After dinner, we get together in an informal discussion of one or more topics that are expected to come before the Board on Friday and Saturday. The Board meeting, itself begins on Friday morning and includes the adoption of an agenda. You can see the agenda for this past meeting by reviewing the minutes for it.

In most instances, the meeting ends mid-to-late Saturday afternoon.

+++ 8th Region Incoming QSL Bureau - 2007 +++

8th Region Incoming QSL bureau Manager Jay Slough, K4ZLE has summarized the activity of this Bureau for 2007. He and the Letter Sorters in 8-land received and redistributed approximately 89,028 overseas QSL cards over the year. This figure compares with 111,734 in 2006, 110,905 in 2005, 138,236 in 2004 and 154,054 handled in 2003. The effect of the bottom of the sun cycle is evident.

Regardless of the lower number of cards processed this past year, the gang at the 8th Region Bureau did a splendid job. This job will start to become larger for the next several years as the new cycle begins to show itself and grows in strength.

I want to thank Jay for his excellent leadership of the Bureau, and for the great work of the letter sorters who have supported him and the Bureau.

Incidentally, the 8th Region Bureau serves only the amateurs who have 8s in their call signs. At one time, of course, this was amateurs in Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia. Now, an amateur's incoming Bureau is the one that has the same number in its name as the amateur's call sign, regardless of where the amateur lives.

Following this format, 4-land amateurs use the 4th Region Bureau.

+++ What to do when someone becomes a SK +++

It is not necessary ". . . to mail the physical license (ed. to the FCC) but the next of kin should contact the FCC with either a death certificate or obituary and letter asking the license be cancelled." Among other reasons for this, it prevents a pirate from stealing the call and using it with impunity until the term of the call expires.

The second action to take is to notify the ARRL Silent Key Administrator (sk@arrl.org). This notification should include a copy of the obituary or other means to establish the accuracy of the report and the call sign.

Why the need to confirm the report? I think it was W. C. Fields who one time said, "The report of my death has been greatly exaggerated." The fact is that none of us wishes to be involved in reporting the death of a friend or acquaintance when they have not died!

In the case of ARRL members, their loved ones are eligible to receive QST and other ARRL periodicals, if they wish, that had been going to the SK.

+++ Members only choices +++

This is just a reminder that there are a number of e-publications and forms of messages that are available to ARRL members. Essentially all of these are opt-in or opt-out depending on one's preference. Go to Members Only at arrl.org to make your selections -- in or out. I certainly hope you continue to opt-in on receiving these messages from me as well as from your Section Manager.

Of particular noteworthiness is the fact that HQ on fairly rare occasion partners with outside companies that provide services of value to amateurs. When this happens, you are likely to receive an e-mail from HQ that promotes the partnership. You can opt-in or opt-out of receiving these messages.