SB QST @ ARL $ARLB027
ARLB027 ARRL Board Calls for Congressional Action on CC&Rs
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ARRL Bulletin 27 ARLB027
From ARRL Headquarters
Newington CT July 24, 2001
To all radio amateurs
SB QST ARL ARLB027
ARLB027 ARRL Board Calls for Congressional Action on CC&Rs
Meeting July 20-21 in Connecticut, the ARRL Board of Directors
adopted a goal of legislative action to provide amateurs the same
protections from real estate covenants, conditions and restrictions
now enjoyed under FCC rules by home satellite dish owners and others
receiving over-the-air broadcast signals.
Board members felt that amateurs should be granted the right to
install an antenna having a visual impact similar to that of a home
television satellite dish or other antenna that falls under the
FCC's Over the Air Reception Devices (OTARD) policy. In 1999, the
FCC reaffirmed the OTARD rule that prohibits restrictions that
impair the installation, maintenance or use of antennas used to
receive video programming.
The Board also approved the filing of a petition seeking a domestic,
secondary allocation for the Amateur Service at 5.250 to 5.400 MHz.
The petition will ask that amateurs General and above be allowed to
operate in the so-called 60-meter band at up to maximum authorized
power. No mode subbands will be proposed at this time.
The Board also adopted the revised band plan for 160 meters based on
a proposal from the ad hoc 160-Meter Band Plan Committee. The plan
adopted sets aside a segment for digital modes from 1.800 to 1.810
MHz, maintains CW operation for the entire 1.8 to 2.0 MHz band,
recommends a lower limit of 1.843 for SSB operation, and designates
QRP calling frequencies--1.810 for CW and 1.910 for SSB.
The 1.830 to 1.850 MHz ''DX window'' was eliminated. The committee
recommended that contest sponsors ''consider the use of DX windows as
necessary.'' The plan accommodates established frequencies used on
160 for AM.
The ARRL Board of Directors also endorsed the Logbook of the World.
An electronic alternative to collecting traditional QSLs for awards,
the project goes beyond simply replacing printed cards with
electronic versions. Logbook of the World will make use of
electronic confirmations within a giant repository of QSO
information maintained by ARRL. Digital security methods will ensure
data integrity and authenticity.
The Board also approved a new QRP DXCC award. Applications likely
will be accepted starting early next year. No QSL cards would be
required, and there would be no time limits or endorsements.
The Board approved a plan to invite all International Amateur Radio
Union Region 2 countries to take part in Field Day starting in June
of 2002. This would expand participation in the popular annual event
to include stations in both North and South America.
The Board also resolved to encourage hamfest and convention sponsors
to offer free admission to anyone under 16 years old and accompanied
by a paying adult.
The Board also recognized ARRL Southeastern Division Vice Director
Evelyn Gauzens, W4WYR, for her 22 years of service. Gauzens has
announced that she will not seek another term.
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