Two Ham Radio Bills Introduced in Congress – One would pre-empt HOA antenna restrictions, the other relates to HF digital communications. No word if they have been re-introduced in the new Congress
Ohio Distracted Driving Law Exempts Hams – New law generally bans holding cellphone or other device in your hand while driving; makes it a primary offense
Milestones: Orlando Award Winners Named – KN4MDJ and AB8YK share Carole Perry Educator of the Year award; N7UR receives first Gordon West Ambassador of the Year award
Milestones: W7SAR Receives National Award – Jerry Wellman named National Volunteer Emergency Manager of the Year by the International Association of Emergency Managers
Milestones: Arnie Coro, CO2KK, Silent Key – Longtime shortwave radio host, professor and former CQ VHF columnist passed away in early January. Also leaving us recently were noted contester Fred Laun, K3ZO, and longtime CQ technical illustrator Hal Keith.
RRI Extends Digital Network to Puerto Rico – Radio Relay International’s Digital Traffic Network infrastructure has expanded to Puerto Rico for future disaster communication needs
Volunteers On the Air Are On the Air – Yearlong ARRL program under way; use of Logbook of the World is required for participants
Nominations Open for RCA “Young Ham Lends a Hand” Award – Radio Club of America seeks to recognize community service by young hams
No-Scan TV on Space Station – The International Space Station’s slow-scan TV system is off the air while awaiting delivery of new hardware compatible with upgraded on-board computers
FO-118 Puts HF Back on Satellites – Cubesat built by Chinese high school students includes 15-meter uplink among several options
_________________________