• ARRL/VEC VE Newsletter

    From Daryl Stout@432:1/101 to All on Fri Mar 1 11:01:23 2019
    ARRL VE Newsletter March 1st, 2019

    ========================================================================

    Inside this VE E-Newsletter:

    FCC Universal Licensing System Maintenance Impacts License Applications

    Exam Session Reminders

    ========================================================================

    FCC Universal Licensing System will be Down for Maintenance

    The FCC has announced that the Universal Licensing System (ULS), which processes Amateur Radio license applications, will be offline for
    scheduled maintenance from 0300 UTC until 1300 UTC on Saturday, March 2 (starting late on Friday, March 1, in continental US time zones).

    The FCC said all applications, which includes Amateur applications,
    submitted on Friday, March 1, and Monday, March 4, will be processed on Tuesday, March 5.

    The outage will affect ULS Application Search, License Search, License
    Manager, Tower Construction Notification System, E-106 System, Antenna Structure Registration, ASR Application Search, ASR Registration Search, Application GeoSearch, 800 MHz, and Ownership Information Search.

    We will continue to transmit license applications (individual, club, and
    exam session applications) into the FCC system even though FCC will not
    process any applications until Tuesday, March 5.

    ==============================================

    Exam Session Reminders

    GRADING EXAMS: Each VE must grade each exam taken, or must agree to the
    score given. After all three VE's agree to the number of correct answers
    shown, the score is announced to the examinee. The VE's must inform the examinee of their grade (pass or fail, and state the score {e.g., 26 out
    of 35}) upon completion of the grading.

    NEW GENERAL EXAMS COMING: The new General class question pool will take
    effect on July 1, 2019 for all Element 3 General class license written
    exams. With the General class exams changing July 1st, new test designs
    must be created, and used on that day. ARRL VEC will be supplying all its
    (near 1,000) Field Stocked VE teams with new test booklets about the 3rd
    week in June. Do not destroy the 2015 versions of the General exams until
    June 30.

    BASIC QUALIFICATION QUESTION PROCEDURES: The detailed instructions are available on the ARRL website.

    At the exam session, candidates that answer "YES" to the qualification
    (felony) question should be given the "Applicant Instructions for FCC
    Basic Qualification Question" document.

    Print or download here:

    http://www.arrl.org/files/file/VEs/Applicant%20Info%20Qualification%20 Question%202019.pdf

    (above URL all on one line)

    Applicants can also be referred to our Basic Qualification Question web
    page for information and instructions.

    View page: http://www.arrl.org/fcc-qualification-question

    After the application data from the session is submitted to FCC, and an
    FCC file number is created, the applicant is required to provide an
    explanation directly to the FCC within 14 days. Do not collect
    information from the candidate, and do not send any documents to the VEC.

    ========================================================================

    The ARRL VEC Staff is Ready to Serve You!

    As always, the dedicated VEC staff are here to answer any questions you
    may have.

    ARRL VEC: 1-860-594-0300

    Address: ARRL VEC, 225 Main St, Newington CT 06111

    Email: VEC@arrl.org

    Web: www.arrl.org/volunteer-examiners

    ARRL VEC Fax: 860-594-0339

    Maria Somma, AB1FM, Manager

    Amanda Grimaldi, N1NHL, Assistant Manager

    Stephanie Borden, W2MAU, Service Representative

    Ann Brinius, Service Representative

    Lisa Riendeau, Service Representative

    Joshua Nance, Service Representative

    We thank you for your efforts and interest in the ARRL VEC program.

    ==========================================================================

    ARRL VEC VE Newsletter is published by the American Radio Relay League,
    Inc. - the national association for Amateur Radio®.

    Material from the ARRL VE E-Newsletter may be republished or reproduced
    in whole or in part in any form without additional permission. Credit
    must be given to The American Radio Relay League VEC.

    ARRL VEC
    225 Main Street
    Newington CT 06111 USA

    Sincerely,

    Maria Somma, AB1FM - VEC Manager / Editor

    ARRL, the national association for Amateur Radio (R)
    225 Main Street
    Newington, CT 06111 USA
    msomma@arrl.org ==========================================================================

    ===
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  • From Daryl Stout@432:1/101 to All on Thu Jan 23 11:54:28 2020
    In checking the National Conference Of Volunteer Examiner Coordinators (NCVEC) as of Jan. 23, 2020 -- I have discovered that the NEW 2020-2024
    Amateur Extra Class Question Pool, for use on exams as of July 1, 2020,
    have been RELEASED into the public domain.

    The following links are available for download:

    1) 2020-2024 Extra Class Pool (in Microsoft Word (DOCX) format)
    2) 2020-2024 Extra Class Pool (in ASCII text format)
    3) 2020-2024 Extra Class Schematic Diagrams (in PDF format)
    4) 2020-2024 Extra Class Schematic Diagrams (in JPEG format, in one
    ZIP file)

    You can obtain these at:

    http://www.ncvec.org/page.php?id=356

    The main site for the NCVEC is www.ncvec.org -- check there for any
    updates.

    For the above files:

    A) OpenOffice, LibreOffice, or Microsoft Word, is required to view the Microsoft Word document.

    B) A regular ascii editor, such as Windows Notepad, is required to view
    the ASCII text file. Clicking on it in your browser will open it for
    viewing (I personally use Mozilla Firefox under Windows 10).

    C) The Adobe Acrobat Reader is required to view the PDF file.

    D) An archiver, such as WinZip or WinRAR is required, to extract the
    JPEG files within the ZIP file -- and a graphics viewer is required to
    view the JPEG files.

    The Question Pool Committee (QPC) is comprised of the following
    members:

    Roland Sanders, K3RA - Anchorage VEC (Chairman)
    Maria Somma, AB1FM - ARRL VEC
    Michael Maston, N6OPH - SANDARC VEC
    Larry Pollock, NB5X - W5YI VEC
    Ralph Roberts, W5VE - WCARS VEC

    You can submit feedback or questions to the QPC by email to:

    qpcinput at ncvec dot org

    There will likely be several changes and corrections for questions
    that are vague, have errors, etc., but a final release should be done
    by Hamvention in Xenia, Ohio, in mid-May, 2020...so new study guides
    can be prepared.

    You should study these ONLY if you plan to take the Amateur Extra
    exam between July 1, 2020 and June 30, 2024. I would wait until "the
    final release" before you begin "serious study", but this will give
    you an idea of the new pool.

    As of July 1, 2020, the 2016-2020 Amateur Extra Class exams, books,
    study guides, etc., will no longer be valid. You should study these
    ONLY if you plan to take the Amateur Extra exam on or before June 30,
    2020.

    I have had numerous examinees in the 12+ years that I've been a VE,
    come into an exam session, having studied the WRONG material...some
    more than 1 pool cycle out of date!! So, VE Teams need to admonish
    prospective examinees to be studying the CORRECT Question Pool...or
    they'll be in for a RUDE AWAKENING on exam day...and they will likely
    fail the exam.

    The current Question Pools and dates are as follows:

    Technician: July 1, 2018 through June 30, 2022

    General: July 1, 2019 through June 30, 2023

    Extra: July 1, 2016 through June 30, 2020 -- the NEW pool takes
    effect on July 1, 2020. VE Teams should be sure that the 2016-2020
    books are discarded/destroyed as of July 1, 2020.

    Note that there will NOT be a Question Pool Update in 2021...but
    the cycle will start again in 2022, with Technician...then 2023 for
    the General...then 2024 for the Amateur Extra. Then, the pools take
    2025 off, and start over in 2026.

    Daryl Stout, WX4QZ, UALR Ham Radio Club VE Team Liaison
    ===
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  • From Daryl Stout@432:1/101 to All on Fri Jan 24 15:15:30 2020
    ARRL VE Newsletter - January 2020

    ========================================================================

    Inside this E-Newsletter:

    New Amateur Extra class (Element 4) pool will take effect on July 1, 2020
    Exam Session Registrations and Supplies

    ========================================================================

    New Amateur Extra class (Element 4) pool will take effect on July 1, 2020
    will be valid until June 30, 2024

    The new Amateur Extra class question pool was released to the public by
    the NCVEC question pool committee and is available on the NCVEC website
    at 2020 - 2024 Extra class pool.

    This pool will take effect for all Element 4 Extra class license written examinations on July 1, 2020. Current ARRL VEC supplied Extra class exam booklet versions (4-1-2016, 4-2-2016, 4-3-2016 4-4-2016, and 4-5-2016)
    are valid until midnight June 30, 2020.

    Current ARRL VEC printed exam booklets are listed on our web site at www.arrl.org/vec-exam-booklets. Field stocked VEs should check this page periodically to make sure they have the valid exam designs.

    As a reminder, if you are not officially field stocked (box of supplies)
    by the VEC, the team must return all unused exams and supplies after
    each session to ensure the most up to date materials are being used.

    Candidates that are given obsolete exams unfortunately cannot be granted
    a license until they retest with current exam designs and any exam
    session irregularities must be reported to FCC.

    With the Extra class exams changing July 1st, new test designs must be
    created and used effective that day. ARRL VEC will be supplying all its
    (near 1,000) field stocked VE teams with new exam booklets about the
    3rd week in June. VE Exam Maker software will also be updated with the
    new pool around that time.

    Do not destroy the 2016 versions of the Extra exams until June 30!

    ========================================================================

    Additional Information about the Amateur Extra Question Pool Release

    The new Amateur Extra class license examination question pool, effective
    from July 1, 2020, through June 30, 2024, has been released and is
    available at the National Conference of Volunteer Coordinators (NCVEC)
    website.

    The 2020 - 2024 Extra class pool incorporates significant changes
    compared to the current 2016 - 2020 question pool, which expires on
    June 30. The number of questions in the pool was reduced from 712 to
    622. The result was 239 modified questions, 49 new questions, and 139
    questions removed due to changes in what was felt to be an abundance
    of outdated questions, while areas of new technology and subjects were
    added.

    In addition, an effort was made to balance the difficulty level,
    removing or replacing some questions deemed too easy or too difficult
    compared to the rest of the pool. The 2020 pool has 10 diagrams, which
    have been renumbered because the new Question Pool has two fewer than
    the 2016 Question Pool.

    ========================================================================

    Exam Session Registrations and Supplies

    Please continue to send in your session dates for 2020 using the
    interactive ARRL Exam Session Registration Form or via email to vetests@arrl.org.

    Remember to schedule your yearly listings [specific date(s) and
    location(s)] with us near the beginning of every year. This ensures
    we have the most up to date information posted in our database
    and on the ARRL VEC Exam Session Search web page.

    Under normal situations, the team should try to register 3 to 4 weeks
    in advance of the session. This way, we can make certain the materials requested reach the team in a timely and cost-effective manner.

    Field Stocked teams should be especially vigilant about keeping us
    informed of who has possession of the exam supplies. Notify us
    immediately when the teams Field Stock changes hands, to ensure that
    any exam updates will be mailed to, and received by the proper person. Periodically check your supplies to make sure they are current and that
    the quantities are sufficient.

    We thank you for your ongoing exam session support!

    ========================================================================

    The ARRL VEC Staff is Ready to Serve You!

    As always, the dedicated VEC staff are here to answer any questions you
    may have.

    ARRL Voice Number (8am to 5pm Eastern Time, M-F) (860) 594-0300
    Address: ARRL VEC, 225 Main St, Newington CT 06111
    Email: VEC@arrl.org
    Web: www.arrl.org/volunteer-examiners
    ARRL VEC Fax: 860-594-0339

    Maria Somma, AB1FM, Manager
    Amanda Grimaldi, N1NHL, Assistant Manager
    Stephanie Borden W2MAU, Service Representative
    Ann Brinius, Service Representative
    Lisa Riendeau, Service Representative
    Joshua Nance, Service Representative

    We thank you for your efforts and interest in the ARRL VEC program.

    ========================================================================

    ARRL VEC VE Newsletter is published by the
    American Radio Relay League, Inc. - the national association for
    Amateur Radio (R).

    Material from the ARRL VE E-Newsletter may be republished or reproduced
    in whole or in part in any form without additional permission. Credit
    must be given to The American Radio Relay League VEC.

    ARRL VEC
    225 Main Street
    Newington CT 06111 USA

    Sincerely,
    Maria Somma, AB1FM - VEC Manager / Editor
    ARRL, the national association for Amateur Radio (R)
    225 Main Street
    Newington, CT 06111 USA
    msomma@arrl.org
    ===
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  • From Daryl Stout@432:1/101 to All on Tue Apr 14 08:45:21 2020
    ARRL VEC Issues Statement on Video-Supervised Online Exam Sessions
    04/13/2020

    Very few ARRL Volunteer Examiner teams have successfully conducted
    in-person exam sessions (following social distancing guidelines)
    and video-supervised exam sessions using fillable PDF exams and
    documents.

    So far, we have found that both types of sessions take volunteer teams
    two to three times longer to conduct and accommodate fewer candidates
    than sessions conducted prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. So far, the
    video sessions have included only one examinee per session.

    We ask the community to be patient with our volunteer teams as they
    navigate uncharted territory. Please remember with the introduction
    of significant new processes such as these, that there should be
    proof of concept, establishment of protocols and procedures, and beta
    testing before expanding to a larger audience. Video-supervised exam
    sessions require a different skillset than in-person exam
    administration. Not all teams will be equipped to deliver video
    exams right away.

    The ARRL Volunteer Examiner Coordinator (VEC) has been investigating
    options for an online examination system.

    Fillable PDFs are cumbersome within a video-supervised exam session
    process. We recognize that online testing would represent a large-scale solution for our thousands of VEs, and would make session procedures
    easier for our teams, but this will not happen overnight.

    The ARRL VEC will continue to adapt and respond to the evolving crisis
    as we search for viable and easy-to-use online examination system
    solutions and conduct exam sessions in innovative ways.
    ===
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  • From Daryl Stout@432:1/101 to All on Thu Apr 16 16:07:16 2020
    From the ARRL website, April 16, 2020:

    Remotely Administered Amateur Exam Systems Showing Promise

    Facing a growing demand for amateur radio exam sessions in a time of
    social distancing and stay-at-home orders, sponsors of some Volunteer
    Examiner (VE) teams have risen to the challenge, and are developing
    systems to remotely proctor test sessions.

    "Many of our VEs and VE Teams have been working on remotely proctored
    exam session ideas, employing both video, and in-person components,
    following social distancing protocols," ARRL Volunteer Examiner
    Coordinator (VEC) Manager Maria Somma, AB1FM, said. "We have been
    receiving interesting and innovative suggestions, and we appreciate
    the dedication and ingenuity our examiners have shown."

    The Spalding County Amateur Radio Club in Georgia is among those that
    have come up with plans to remotely administer amateur exams, while
    complying with ARRL VEC testing standards during COVID-19 stay-home
    mandates, and social distancing guidelines. Current systems leverage
    Zoom video-teleconferencing technology, the "Fill And Sign" feature
    of Adobe PDFs, reliable email, appropriate computer equipment, and
    internet connection, and no volunteer examiners (VEs) present at
    individual remote test sites. The Georgia club collaborated and
    shared ideas with the Emergency Amateur Radio Club (EARC) in Hawaii,
    which has successfully conducted sessions since 2011 with its own
    remote testing system, initially with paper exams with a proctor on
    site and now with fillable PDFs, with no on-site proctor.

    The Georgia club obtained ARRL VEC approval to administer
    video-supervised exams. The club's David Robinson, K4WVZ, said the
    first exam session took place this week, with another set for next
    week, and "many more in the pipeline" going forward.

    "We have started with testing just one candidate at a time, but are
    planning to ramp up to multiple candidates - probably two or three - simultaneously," Robinson told ARRL. "Before we do that, we want a
    few more single sessions under our belt, and a few more Video VEs
    trained. It also gives us an opportunity to garner lessons learned
    from each test session, and upgrade our procedures accordingly."

    Robinson said this week's session went "exceedingly well," and the
    candidate passed the test.

    The club's procedures entail a pre-exam video interview with candidates
    to ensure they understand all the requirements and procedures. "This
    also allows us to test the candidate's ability to work with the video
    and computer technology before the actual exam," Robinson explained.
    "Training sessions were conducted for VEs to make sure they understood
    their role and how to use the technology."

    Following the exam, the VEs score the test, and sign off on the
    paperwork, with the VE Team Leader submitting the application online
    and by mail, per ARRL VEC instructions. Application and successful
    exam are first accepted and then submitted to the FCC for processing.

    New England Amateur Radio Inc (NE1AR), an affiliate of New England
    Sci-Tech, (NESciTech), has taken it one step further, Somma said.
    It got the approval of ARRL VEC to begin trials of what it describes
    as "completely online testing with strict rules and protocols for
    maintaining the integrity of the testing environment." NE1AR is
    limiting candidates to one exam per candidate, due to the current
    candidate backlog and the "difficulty of administering exams online." Candidates must agree to a list of protocols, which include no visitors
    (or pets) in the exam room, and a cell-phone camera scan of the entire
    room and exam area "to show that there are no materials or people [in
    the room] that could aid in taking the exam." If the VE team suspects
    the possibility of cheating, the exam may be terminated, and the
    candidate barred from future online exam sessions.

    "We began a series of trials on April 1 under ARRL VEC review, and
    have now been asked to help train more VE Teams on the process,"
    NE1AR President Bob Phinney, K5TEC, told ARRL. "We have now tested
    12 applicants, and are still working on streamlining the process.
    We are working with the software developer of the exam delivery
    system to help them adapt the system for video-supervised testing."
    At present, Phinney said, only one person at a time can be tested.
    Another time-related issue is how long it takes a candidate to go
    through the NE1AR security protocol. "Sometimes, the setup and
    follow-up for an exam take far longer than the exam itself, in order
    that we provide complete integrity of the exam session," he said.

    With pressure continuing to build to provide testing compatible with
    COVID-19 guidelines and stay-home orders, ARRL VEC Manager Maria Somma,
    AB1FM, has asked the amateur radio community to be patient. "Please
    remember that with the introduction of significant new processes such
    as these, that there should be proof of concept, establishment of
    protocols and procedures, and beta testing, before expanding to a
    larger audience," she said this week. Somma said video-supervised
    exam sessions require a different skillset than in-person exam
    administration, and not all teams will be equipped to deliver video
    exams right away.

    "ARRL is pleased to be one of the leaders in providing an opportunity,
    although limited initially, for video-supervised exams in this time of
    social distancing and isolation required by the current health situation," Somma said.
    ===
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  • From Daryl Stout@432:1/101 to All on Fri Jun 19 14:47:08 2020
    ARRL VE Newsletter June 2020 - EXTRA EXAMS

    ========================================================================

    Inside this VE E-Newsletter:

    New Extra Exams take effect July 1

    Field Stocked Teams

    VEC Exam Maker Software

    Plastic Grading Templates - REMINDER

    Our Sincere Thank You

    ========================================================================

    New Extra Class Element 4 Exams will take effect for exam sessions
    beginning Wednesday July 1, 2020

    The newly revised pool, released in January 2020 (updated and re-released
    in February and March 2020) by the Question Pool Committee (QPC) of the National Conference of Volunteer Examiner Coordinators (NCVEC), must be
    in use starting July 1. There are ten graphics required for this pool.

    With the Extra class exam questions changing July 1, new test designs
    must be used effective that day. Previous ARRL VEC supplied Extra class
    exam booklet versions (2016 series) and computer-generated Extra class
    exams created from the 2016 question pool are only valid until midnight
    June 30, 2020. At that time, VE Team leaders should destroy or throw
    away the old versions of the Extra exams (do not return them to VEC).
    To avoid a mix-up at the session, do not save old exam versions.

    ========================================================================

    Field Stocked Team Leaders

    For ARRL VE teams who are officially Field Stocked by the ARRL VEC, new
    Extra class exam design booklets were shipped out via first class mail
    this week (June 15 - 18) to nearly 1,000 teams. Field Stocked VE Team
    leaders should have the package in their hands well in advance of July
    1. When you receive the package, please check the content to make sure
    all quantities have been received. Again, please do not use the new
    exam until July 1st. The existing Extra class exam booklets (2016
    series) can be discarded on or after Midnight, June 30, 2020, as they
    will no longer be valid.

    An updated package will not be provided to field stocked teams that no
    longer meet the field stock requirements, to teams that have not
    conducted a session in the past year, and to non-field stocked teams
    that have been keeping supplies without qualifying through the VEC.
    Non-stocked VE teams should be returning their exam packages and
    supplies to ARRL VEC after each session is completed.

    Officially stocked VE Teams receive their exam supplies in a padded
    FedEx Pak with a green colored field stocked instruction document.
    The packet is usually a year's supply, depending on the team's
    activity levels. To see if your team qualifies to be field stocked
    with a bulk quantity of our test materials visit http://www.arrl.org/field-stocked-ve-teams.

    Field Stocked teams should be especially vigilant about keeping us
    informed of who has possession of the exam supplies. Notify us
    immediately when your address changes or the team's Field Stock
    changes hands, to ensure that any exam updates will be mailed to,
    and received by the proper person. Periodically check your supplies
    to make sure they are current, and that the quantities are sufficient.
    Current exam booklets are listed on our web site at www.arrl.org/vec-exam-booklets. Field Stocked VEs should check this
    page periodically to make sure they have the proper exam designs.

    ========================================================================

    VEC Exam Maker Software Update

    The new Element 4 Extra class question pool is available in the VE
    Exam Maker exam generating software.

    Exam Maker Instructions

    Exam Maker should automatically prompt users to check for Software
    updates.

    If not, select "Update" and then "Check for Software Updates" from the
    menu.

    Check YES to update to Exam Maker version V 1.51.

    In Exam Maker from the menu bar, select "Update", and then "Update
    Exam Data". A log-in area will appear on screen.

    Next, type your call sign in the "ARRL/VEC Username" box AND in the
    "Password" box.

    Then click the "Execute" button. It will only take several seconds
    for all the question pool files to download.

    The screen must read "Exam Database Initialized" when the task is
    complete for the question pools to be revised to the most up-to-date
    pools for exam generation.

    The New Extra class question pool (2020-2024) will be available for
    use for exams starting July 1.

    The current Extra question pool (2016-2020) will be available only
    until June 30.

    ========================================================================

    Plastic Grading Templates - REMINDER

    Officially Field Stocked teams must keep your supply of the BLUE
    plastic overlay grading templates used to grade the exams. The
    plastic templates should never be thrown away, or destroyed when
    new exam versions are introduced and shipped.

    A New KEY For Templates (paper instructions) for the plastic grading
    templates has been updated, and shipped with your new Extra exams,
    to let you know how to match up the plastic templates with the new
    exam designs.

    ========================================================================

    Our Sincere Thanks

    In the last few months, we've all had to navigate unprecedented
    challenges that we never imagined we'd be facing. Your understanding, flexibility, and loyalty, have filled the ARRL VEC, with immense
    gratitude.

    We thank you for your flexibility in embracing a new way to remotely
    deliver examinations to the public, and are grateful for your
    understanding, and your adjustment to these changes quickly.

    As we are grappling with an issue of enormous scale and human impact,
    we want to assure you that we are here offering support every step of
    the way.

    ========================================================================

    The ARRL VEC Staff is Ready to Serve You

    As always, the dedicated VEC staff are here to answer any questions
    you may have.

    ARRL VEc: (860) 594-0300 (leave message after regular business hours)
    Address: ARRL VEC, 225 Main St, Newington CT 06111
    Email: VEC@arrl.org
    Web: www.arrl.org/volunteer-examiners
    ARRL VEC Fax: 860-594-0339

    Maria Somma, AB1FM, Manager
    Amanda Grimaldi, N1NHL, Assistant Manager
    Stephanie Borden W2MAU, Service Representative
    Ann Brinius, Service Representative
    Lisa Riendeau, Service Representative
    Joshua Nance, Service Representative

    We thank you for your efforts and interest in the ARRL VEC program.

    ========================================================================

    ARRL VEC VE Newsletter is published by the
    American Radio Relay League, Inc. - the national association for Amateur
    Radio (R).

    Material from the ARRL VE E-Newsletter may be republished or reproduced
    in whole or in part in any form without additional permission. Credit
    must be given to The American Radio Relay League VEC.

    ARRL VEC
    225 Main Street
    Newington CT 06111 USA

    Sincerely,
    Maria Somma, AB1FM - VEC Manager / Editor
    ARRL, the national association for Amateur Radio ®
    225 Main Street
    Newington, CT 06111 USA
    msomma@arrl.org

    ========================================================================
    ===
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  • From Daryl Stout@432:1/112 to All on Wed Oct 21 19:38:01 2020
    ARRL VE Newsletter October 2020 - EXAM MAKER

    ========================================================================

    Inside this VE E-Newsletter:

    FRNs at Exam Sessions

    ARRL VEC Exam Maker Software Being Phased Out

    Remote Video-supervised Online Examinations

    Session Documents Upload Webpage

    Current ARRL VEC Exam Booklets

    Basic Qualification Question

    ========================================================================

    There is a considerable amount of information covered in this newsletter.
    As always, if you have any questions please contact us.

    ========================================================================

    FRNs at Exam Sessions

    The FCC has indicated VECs/VE teams should DISCONTINUE the practice
    of accepting Social Security Numbers at exam sessions.

    Examinees should register in the FCC CORES registration system, and
    receive an FRN *BEFORE* exam day.

    The FCC also advised VE teams to make it clear to candidates that
    some information about them will be made publicly available on the
    FCC's website, including their name, mailing address, and felony
    conviction status.

    Dorothy Stifflemire, the Associate Division Chief of the WTB
    Technologies Systems and Innovation Division, told VECs that new
    license applicants should create an FCC user account, and register
    their Social Security Number in the FCC Commission Registration
    System (CORES) before attending exam sessions. Registrants will be
    assigned a Federal Registration Number (FRN) which will be used in
    all license transactions with the FCC.

    She explained that auto-registration in CORES for examinees using a
    Social Security Number will be going away. In addition, since no mail
    is being sent because of the COVID-19 pandemic, applicants will not
    receive their auto-created password and FCC FRN, and will NOT be able
    to access their personal license record in the FCC License Manager
    database, or their FRN record in CORES. Going forward, she said, VECs
    should make sure all applicants are registered, and have an FRN before
    exam day.

    Additionally, FCC Mobility Division (MD) Deputy Chief Tom Derenge
    recommended that VECs make it clear to applicants that their address
    will be public information when the new license is issued. He suggested advising that an alternative address, such as a PO Box or work address,
    would be acceptable. Derenge pointed out that once an address is in the
    FCC database, it's nearly impossible to be permanently removed.

    See the news item about FRN use at exam sessions and other VEC/FCC
    information.

    NCVEC Conference News item link:

    http://www.arrl.org/news/ncvec-holds-its-annual-meeting-via-teleconference

    Examinees can be directed to this information on our website, or directly
    to the FCC website.

    FRN registration information (see item #4):

    http://www.arrl.org/what-to-bring-to-an-exam-session

    FCC Privacy information:

    http://www.arrl.org/fcc-licensee-privacy

    FCC CORES User Account and Registration:

    https://apps.fcc.gov/cores/userLogin.do

    We urge our VE teams to change procedures BEFORE the FCC turns off the
    Social Security Number auto-registration feature.

    Otherwise, this could cause a delay in processing applications to the FCC
    later on.

    **

    Instructions for Examinees Registering for an FCC FRN before Exam Day

    Applying for a new Amateur Radio license?

    Register in CORES (COmission REgistration System), and receive your FRN (Federal Registration Number) before sitting for your exam, to ensure
    your new license is processed quickly and easily through the FCC's ULS (Universal Licensing System).

    To conduct business with the FCC, you must register through FCC CORES,
    and be assigned an FRN. This number will be used to uniquely identify
    you in all transactions with the FCC.

    View the FCC web page New Users guide to ULS for step by step
    instructions on the registration process, or the Commission
    Registration System Video Tutorials page for videos that help
    guide CORES users through a variety of situations.

    For assistance, submit a help request on the FCC's Support Services
    page, or call FCC at 877-480-3201 (Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-6 p.m. ET).

    **

    What if a candidate shows up on exam day without an FRN?

    Please have the candidate register in CORES at the session on their
    smart phone or on a computer.

    Candidates should not need to be turned away from the session, because
    the registration process only takes a few minutes to complete.

    Additionally, candidates that pre-register in CORES will have all their
    login and password information, and can access their FCC license record
    as soon as it's issued.

    ========================================================================

    ARRL VE Exam Maker Software Being Phased Out

    ARRL VEC's Exam Maker test generating software will no longer be
    supported after December 2020. Adobe Flash player is being discontinued
    at the end of this year, which is our software's installation platform.

    An already downloaded and installed copy of Exam Maker should continue
    to work on computers. The program runs in its own environment on the
    computer, whereas the Flash Player problem is in web browsers during
    download. Even though the program will continue to function, we will
    not be able to push out any important updates to the software, question
    pools, or questions after December.

    We recommend that anyone using Exam Maker re-initialize their databases
    at some point before the end of the year. We've made a few changes to
    the pool files, and this will help ensure that everyone has updated
    their local databases, and has the most current versions of the pools.
    In the Exam Maker program from the menu bar, select "Update" and then "Initialize database". This will reload the complete set of exam
    question pools.

    Going Forward

    Rather than trying to find a solution for our outmoded software, we
    are urging our VEs to start using Exam.Tools, which is a more
    sophisticated computer system.

    The Exam.Tools website can be used for printed or online exams (see
    information below for creating an account). VE teams have been using
    the online exams for remote video testing, and at in-person sessions
    to minimize contact between VEs and candidates. ExamTools printed
    exams have the option to use the GradeCam program for grading tests.
    GradeCam will automatically grade exams in seconds using the camera
    on a phone or computer, which eliminates the need to manually score
    the tests.

    **Online or Printed Exams: Exam.Tools Instructions**

    The Exam.Tools system works well for online or printed examinations,
    and includes registering and and tracking candidates throughout the
    session, on screen exams and grading, online signing of CSCE and 605
    forms by the candidate and examiners, logging and compiling session
    stats, and VE participation list (test report summary), and output
    files for upload to the coordinating VEC. The program manages/handles
    almost everything needed to conduct a test session.

    1. Watch the Exam.Tools training video playlist.

    2. Read all the Process Tips especially process tip #2, and create
    an account. Other helpful information is located in the exam.tools documentation site.

    3. Register in the sandbox/development site at http://hamstudy.dev/
    and then login at https://beta.examtools.dev/ with your team members.

    DO NOT use a Facebook or Google login: Make a "real" user. The sandbox/development site is used for any training purposes, and runs
    on its own database to avoid any issues with the Exam.Tools production environment.

    4. Review the ARRL/VEC ExamTools Tier 2 Frequently Asked Questions.

    5. Join the VE Discord discussion group at https://discord.gg/CsKrBmA
    where you'll find lots of useful information, including how to register
    for ExamTools.org as a VE, and how to upgrade your VE Discord membership access. Specifically, this information is in the #process-tips channel.

    Make sure to read all the process tips in this channel. This is the place
    where all the relevant information you need can be found, unlike other channels, which may overwhelm you with the amount of information they
    contain.

    6. Join an existing ARRL VE team as a VE for a live training session. Volunteer in the #arrl Discord channel so you can see the real system
    in action.

    VE team leaders require VEC authorization to use the Exam.Tools exam
    sessions system. ARRL team leaders should email ARRL VEC (VEC@arrl.org)
    for the emailed authorization approval after the VE team members have
    created accounts, and trained with an experienced team.

    ========================================================================

    Remote Video-supervised Online Examinations

    The remote video exam session is conducted using an online video
    conferencing platform, and a web-based examination system with
    on-screen tests.

    ARRL VE teams must meet the following criteria, and adhere to the
    following rules/policies, to participate in the Remote Video
    sessions program. Long-standing, well established teams with a
    history of adhering to the highest degree of examination integrity,
    and that consistently submit accurate exam documents consistent
    with ARRL VEC standards will be selected to participate.

    Time and experience with in-person exam sessions is invaluable when transitioning to video sessions.

    Team leader experience at in-person sessions and/or training with
    an established team as a team leader for video sessions is required.

    VE teams have been using the Exam.Tools online exams for the remote
    video sessions. See the preliminary Exam.Tools instructions in the
    section above to get started.

    Interested ARRL VE team leaders must contact the VEC department
    (VEC@arrl.org) to be approved, and receive the complete
    video-supervised online testing procedures and instructions.

    ========================================================================

    Session Documents Upload Webpage

    The US Postal Service has been slow and unreliable with moving mail
    and packages through their system. Some exam session packages have
    been unexpectedly delayed.

    Uploading completed sessions as a PDF file (scanned documents) via
    the web allows for quicker processing to FCC. Please contact the VEC
    department (VEC@arrl.org) for the information on e-filing exam session documents through our secure upload page. Authorized VEs will be sent
    the upload page URL which is hidden from the public.

    The VE team must only accept FRNs (Federal Registration Numbers) at
    the session. Social Security Numbers are NOT permitted on any exam
    documents or session files that are uploaded. Candidates will have
    to be registered in the FCC system, and have FRNs already issued.
    Refer to the FRNs at Exam Sessions item above for the examinee
    registration instructions.

    ========================================================================

    Current ARRL VEC Exam Booklets

    Field Stocked VE team leaders should ensure they are using the current
    ARRL VEC Exam Booklets created from the current public question pools.
    Visit the Exam Booklets web page periodically to confirm your booklets
    are up to date.

    ========================================================================

    Basic Qualification Question

    Applicants are required to answer the FCC basic qualification question
    if they are filing for any of the following purposes indicated:

    New, Amendment, Modification (Upgrade or Call sign change), Renewal
    or Renewal/Modification. Applicants filing for any other purpose are
    not required to answer this question (e.g.: address change).

    If an applicant answers "YES" to the basic qualification question
    (felony question), they must submit the required documentation
    directly to FCC.

    Please instruct your candidate to follow the outlined FCC procedures,
    and reference the application file number. The candidate must take
    action within 14 days of the application filing date, or the
    application will be dismissed by FCC. The candidate should not
    communicate any information or documents to the Volunteer Examiner
    team, or the VEC.

    ========================================================================

    The ARRL VEC Staff is Ready to Serve You

    As always, the dedicated VEC staff are here to answer any questions
    you may have.

    ARRL VEC Number: (860) 594-0300
    Address: ARRL VEC, 225 Main St, Newington CT 06111
    Email: VEC@arrl.org
    Web: www.arrl.org/volunteer-examiners
    ARRL VEC Fax: 860-594-0339

    Maria Somma, AB1FM, Manager
    Amanda Grimaldi, N1NHL, Assistant Manager
    Stephanie Borden W2MAU, Service Representative
    Ann Brinius, Service Representative
    Lisa Riendeau, Service Representative
    Joshua Nance, Service Representative

    We thank you for your efforts and interest in the ARRL VEC program.

    ========================================================================

    ARRL VEC VE Newsletter is published by the American Radio Relay League,
    Inc. - the national association for Amateur Radio (R).

    Material from the ARRL VE E-Newsletter may be republished or reproduced
    in whole or in part in any form without additional permission. Credit
    must be given to The American Radio Relay League VEC.

    Sincerely,
    Maria Somma, AB1FM - VEC Manager / Editor
    ARRL, the national association for Amateur Radio ®
    225 Main Street
    Newington, CT 06111 USA
    msomma@arrl.org

    ========================================================================
    --- SBBSecho 3.11-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - tbolt.synchro.net (432:1/112)
  • From Daryl Stout@432:1/112 to All on Fri Mar 19 22:24:33 2021

    ==================================================================
    ARRL VE Newsletter March 2021 ==================================================================

    Inside this VE E-Newsletter:

    $35 Application Fee – does NOT take effect yet

    FRNs at Exam Sessions

    Remote Video-supervised Online Examinations

    Session Documents Upload Webpage

    Resources For VEs

    ==================================================================
    $35 FCC application fee in the Federal Register - does NOT take
    effect yet.

    The final rule change was published in the Federal Register today
    March 19, 2021:

    Federal Register - schedule-of-application-fees-of-the-commissions-rules

    Even though the document has an effective date of April 19, the
    Amateur Radio fees will not yet be required.

    The fee changes outlined in this order will not take effect until
    the requisite notice has been provided to Congress, the FCC's
    information technology systems and internal procedures have been
    updated, and the Commission publishes notice(s) in the Federal
    Register announcing the effective date. This will most likely be
    in the summer.

    The following application types will be subjected to the fee when
    the rule finally takes effect.

    New, Modification (Upgrade and Sequential call sign change),
    Renewal, and Vanity callsign requests will be subjected to the
    $35 application fee. There will be no fee for Administrative
    Updates (email or mailing address changes, name changes).

    The instructions on the FCC Fee Schedule are for the applicant
    to pay application fees directly to FCC via the License Manager
    System or Fee Filer System. VECs and VE teams will not have to
    collect the $35 fee at the session.

    The ARRL VEC exam fee will remain at $15.

    When the FCC application fee eventually takes effect, new and
    upgrade applicants will pay the $15 exam session fee to the VE
    team as usual, and then pay the $35 application fee directly
    to the FCC.

    ==================================================================
    FRNs Only at Exam Sessions

    The FCC has indicated VECs/VE teams should no longer be accepting
    social security numbers at exam sessions.

    Examinees should register in the FCC CORES registration system and
    receive an FRN before exam day.

    FCC CORES User Account and Registration:

    https://apps.fcc.gov/cores/userLogin.do

    ==================================================================
    Remotely administered Online Examinations

    The remote video exam session is conducted using an online video
    conferencing platform and a web-based examination system with
    on-screen tests.

    ARRL VE teams must meet the following criteria and adhere to the
    following rules/policies to participate in the Remote video
    sessions program. Long-standing, well established teams with a
    history of adhering to the highest degree of examination integrity,
    and that consistently submit accurate exam documents consistent
    with ARRL VEC standards will be selected to participate.

    Time and experience with in-person exam sessions is invaluable when transitioning to video-supervised online exam sessions.

    Team leader experience at in-person sessions and/or training with
    an established team as a team leader for video sessions is required.

    VE teams have been using the Exam.Tools online exams for the remote
    video sessions. Interested ARRL VE team leaders must contact the VEC
    department (VEC@arrl.org) to receive the remote video sessions
    procedures and ExamTools instructions.

    ==================================================================
    Session Documents Upload Webpage

    The US Postal Service has been slow and unreliable with moving mail
    and packages through their system. Some exam session packages have
    been unexpectedly delayed.

    Uploading completed sessions as a PDF file (scanned documents) via
    the web allows for quicker processing to FCC. Please contact the VEC
    department (VEC@arrl.org) for the information on e-filing exam
    session documents through our secure upload page. Authorized VEs
    will be sent the upload page URL which is hidden from the public.

    The VE team must only accept FRNs (Federal Registration Numbers)
    at the session. Social security numbers are not permitted on any
    exam documents or session files that are uploaded. Candidates will
    have to be registered in the FCC system and have FRNs already issued.
    Refer to the FRNs at Exam Sessions item above for the examinee
    registration instructions.

    ==================================================================
    Resources for ARRL VEs

    The ARRL VEC VE Resources page (www.arrl.org/resources-for-ves) offers information you will need to help conduct exam session business. Our
    support page offers easy access to exam forms and session information,
    online exams and remote video sessions, question pools, FCC Rules,
    basic qualification question information, and much more!

    ==================================================================
    The ARRL VEC Staff is Ready to Serve You

    As always, the dedicated VEC staff are here to answer any questions
    you may have.

    ARRL VEC: 1-860-594-0300
    Address: ARRL VEC, 225 Main St, Newington CT 06111
    Email: VEC@arrl.org
    Web: www.arrl.org/volunteer-examiners
    ARRL VEC Fax: 860-594-0339

    Maria Somma, AB1FM, Manager
    Amanda Grimaldi, N1NHL, Assistant Manager
    Stephanie Borden W2MAU, Service Representative
    Ann Brinius, Service Representative
    Lisa Riendeau, Service Representative
    Joshua Nance, Service Representative

    We thank you for your efforts and interest in the ARRL VEC program.

    ==================================================================
    ARRL VEC VE Newsletter is published by the
    American Radio Relay League, Inc. - the national association for
    Amateur Radio (R).

    Material from the ARRL VE E-Newsletter may be republished or reproduced
    in whole or in part in any form without additional permission. Credit
    must be given to The American Radio Relay League VEC.

    ARRL VEC
    225 Main Street
    Newington CT 06111 USA

    Sincerely,
    Maria Somma, AB1FM - VEC Manager / Editor
    ARRL, the national association for Amateur Radio (R)
    225 Main Street
    Newington, CT 06111 USA
    msomma@arrl.org

    ==================================================================
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  • From Daryl Stout@432:1/112 to All on Wed Apr 28 17:34:38 2021
    ==================================================================

    ARRL VE Newsletter April 2021

    ==================================================================

    Inside this VE E-Newsletter:

    FRNs must be used at exam sessions – FCC announcement

    Session Documents Upload Webpage

    Resources For VEs

    ========================================================================

    FCC Auto-Registration Feature for Exam Applicants to be Discontinued on
    May 20

    Auto-registration in the FCC Commission Registration System (CORES) for
    amateur radio exam candidates using a Social Security number will be discontinued on May 20, 2021.

    VECs/VE teams should stop accepting social security numbers at sessions immediately.

    Applicants must use an FCC Registration Number (FRN) for all license transactions with the FCC. Examinees must register in CORES and receive
    an FRN before exam day. Starting on May 20, electronic batch filed
    applications that do not include a candidate's FRN will be rejected.
    The Social Security/Licensee ID Field will be disabled.

    An instructional video provides step-by-step instructions on how to
    establish a CORES account, which is necessary for licensees to make administrative updates and download electronic license authorizations.

    After June 29, all filers must provide an email address on all
    applications. When an email is provided, applicants will receive an
    official electronic copy of their licenses once granted (allow incoming
    email from authorizations@fcc.gov). If no email is provided when filing
    on or after June 29, applications will be rejected. ARRL VEC suggests
    that those without access to email to use the email address of a family
    member or friend.

    Licensees need to log in to the Universal Licensing System (ULS) to
    download their authorizations. The FCC no longer issues paper copies.

    (Information provided by FCC).

    ========================================================================

    Session Documents Upload Webpage

    The US Postal Service has been slow and unreliable with moving mail and packages through their system. Some exam session packages have been unexpectedly delayed.

    Uploading completed sessions as a PDF file (scanned documents) via the
    web allows for quicker processing to the FCC. Please contact the VEC
    department (VEC@arrl.org) for information on e-filing exam session
    documents through our secure upload page. Authorized VEs will be sent
    the upload page URL which is hidden from the public.

    The VE team must only accept FRNs (FCC Registration Numbers) at the
    session. Social security numbers are not permitted on any exam documents
    or session files that are uploaded. Candidates will have to be registered
    in the FCC system and have FRNs already issued. Refer to the FRNs at Exam Sessions item above for the examinee registration instructions.

    ========================================================================

    Resources for ARRL VEs

    The ARRL VEC VE Resources page (www.arrl.org/resources-for-ves) offers information you will need to help conduct exam session business. Our
    support page offers easy access to exam forms and session information,
    online exams and remote video sessions, question pools, FCC Rules, basic qualification question information, and much more!

    ========================================================================

    The ARRL VEC Staff is Ready to Serve You

    As always, the dedicated VEC staff are here to answer any questions you
    may have.

    ARRL VEC: (860) 594-0300
    Address: ARRL VEC, 225 Main St, Newington CT 06111
    Email: VEC@arrl.org
    Web: www.arrl.org/volunteer-examiners
    ARRL VEC Fax: 860-594-0339

    Maria Somma, AB1FM, Manager
    Amanda O'Brien, N1NHL, Assistant Manager
    Stephanie Borden, W2MAU, Service Representative
    Ann Brinius, Service Representative
    Lisa Riendeau, Service Representative
    Joshua Nance, Service Representative

    We thank you for your efforts and interest in the ARRL VEC program.

    ========================================================================

    ARRL VEC VE Newsletter is published by the
    American Radio Relay League, Inc. - the national association for
    Amateur Radio (R).

    Material from the ARRL VE E-Newsletter may be republished or reproduced
    in whole or in part in any form without additional permission. Credit
    must be given to The American Radio Relay League VEC.

    ARRL VEC
    225 Main Street
    Newington CT 06111 USA

    Sincerely,
    Maria Somma, AB1FM - VEC Manager / Editor
    ARRL, the national association for Amateur Radio ®
    225 Main Street
    Newington, CT 06111 USA
    msomma@arrl.org

    ========================================================================
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    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - tbolt.synchro.net (432:1/112)
  • From Daryl Stout@432:1/112 to All on Wed May 19 20:20:33 2021
    ==================================================================

    ARRL VE Newsletter May 2021

    ==================================================================

    Inside this VE E-Newsletter:

    FRNs MUST Be Used at Exam Sessions

    Session Documents Upload Webpage

    ==================================================================


    First-Time Exam Applicants Must Obtain FCC Registration Number before
    Taking Exam

    Effective Thursday May 20, 2021, all amateur examination applicants
    will be required to provide an FCC Registration Number (FRN) to the
    Volunteer Examiners (VEs) BEFORE taking an amateur exam. This is
    necessary due to changes the FCC has made to its licensing system.

    Social security numbers are NO LONGER ACCEPTED at exam sessions.

    Amateur candidates who already have an FCC license, whether for
    amateur radio or in another service, already have an FRN, and can
    use the same number. All prospective new FCC licensees, however,
    will be required to obtain an FRN before the examination, and provide
    that number to the volunteer examiners on the Form 605 license
    application. An FCC instructional video provides step-by-step
    instructions on how to obtain an FRN through the FCC's COmmission
    REgistration System (CORES).

    The FRN is required for all new applicants to take an amateur exam
    and is used afterward by the applicant to download the license
    document from the FCC Universal Licensing System (ULS), upgrade the
    license, apply for a vanity call sign, and to submit administrative
    updates (such as address and email changes) and renewal applications.

    In addition, after June 29, all applications will be required to
    contain an email address for FCC correspondence. Applicants will
    receive an email direct from the FCC, with a link to the official
    electronic copy of their license whenever a license is issued or
    changed. ARRL VEC suggests that those without access to email to
    use the email address of a family member or friend. Licensees will
    be able to log in to the ULS using their FRN and password to download
    the latest version of their license at any time. The FCC no longer
    provides paper license documents.

    ==================================================================

    Session Documents Upload Webpage

    The US Postal Service has been slow and unreliable with moving mail
    and packages through their system. Some exam session packages have
    been unexpectedly delayed.

    Uploading completed sessions as a PDF file (scanned documents) via
    the web allows for quicker processing to the FCC. Please contact the
    VEC department (VEC@arrl.org) for information on e-filing exam
    session documents through our secure upload page. Authorized VEs
    will be sent the upload page URL which is hidden from the public.

    The VE team must only accept FRNs (FCC Registration Numbers) at the
    session. Social security numbers are NOT permitted on ANY exam
    documents or session files that are uploaded. Candidates will have
    to be registered in the FCC system, and have FRNs already issued.
    Refer to the FRNs at Exam Sessions item above for the examinee
    registration instructions.

    ==================================================================

    The ARRL VEC Staff is Ready to Serve You

    As always, the dedicated VEC staff are here to answer any questions
    you may have.

    ARRL/VEC: (860) 594-0300 (A toll free number is available to
    currently accredited ARRL/VEC VE's for their use regarding exams;
    but it is not listed here for obvious reasons).
    Address: ARRL VEC, 225 Main St, Newington CT 06111
    Email: VEC@arrl.org
    Web: www.arrl.org/volunteer-examiners
    ARRL VEC Fax: 860-594-0339

    Maria Somma, AB1FM, Manager
    Amanda O'Brien, N1NHL, Assistant Manager
    Stephanie Borden W2MAU, Service Representative
    Ann Brinius, Service Representative
    Lisa Riendeau, Service Representative
    Joshua Nance, Service Representative

    We thank you for your efforts and interest in the ARRL VEC program.

    ==================================================================


    Please do NOT respond to these automated emails.

    A "reply" to this bulk email address will not reach us as only
    the list administrator may post to the list.

    To unsubscribe from these messages, forward this message to
    VEC@arrl.org.

    ==================================================================


    ARRL VEC VE Newsletter is published by the
    American Radio Relay League, Inc. - the national association for
    Amateur Radio (R).

    Material from the ARRL VE E-Newsletter may be republished or
    reproduced in whole or in part in any form without additional
    permission. Credit must be given to The American Radio Relay
    League VEC.

    ARRL VEC
    225 Main Street
    Newington CT 06111 USA

    Sincerely,
    Maria Somma, AB1FM - VEC Manager / Editor
    ARRL, the national association for Amateur Radio (R)
    225 Main Street
    Newington, CT 06111 USA
    msomma@arrl.org

    ==================================================================
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    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (432:1/112)
  • From Daryl Stout@432:1/112 to All on Wed Oct 6 16:46:52 2021
    ARRL/VEC VE Newsletter, Oct. 6, 2021

    ========================================================================

    Inside this VE E-Newsletter:

    Grading Templates and New Booklet Designs Available

    Field Stocked Team Leaders to Expand Field Stock

    Grading Templates - REMINDER

    Session Documents Upload Webpage

    Additional Reminders

    ========================================================================

    Grading Templates and New Booklet Designs Available

    For nearly a decade, ARRL VEC has been unable to reproduce our blue
    plastic overlay grading templates, causing most designs to be low in
    stock, and some to be completely out of stock. Fortunately, we have
    found a new manufacturer, and our template supply is back to 100%!

    ARRL VEC adds more booklet designs.

    Now that we have a full set of templates again, we have expanded our
    exam booklet collection with new designs, and have utilized template
    numbers that have been unavailable for years. Our additional exam
    booklet versions (designs 6-12 at each level) are immediately available
    for use.

    These new designs are meant to expand the number of exam versions
    offered at each level. They do NOT replace any booklets. Moving forward,
    we are looking to start gathering statistics on these new exam designs
    through the end of year 2021. Therefore, we will be primarily using the
    new exam designs 6-12 until then. We will reintroduce exam designs 1-5
    after January 2022.

    To view the complete list of exam booklets (designs 1-12), and important information pertaining to the exams, visit www.arrl.org/vec-exam-booklets.

    ========================================================================

    Field Stocked Team Leaders - Shipment to Expand Field Stock

    For ARRL VE teams that are officially Field Stocked by the ARRL VEC, the
    new booklet designs were shipped out via first class mail (between Oct
    1-5) to nearly 1,000 teams. When you receive the package, please check
    the contents to make sure all quantities have been received.

    Exams: The new examination booklets are to expand the number of exam
    versions offered for each license class level, and they can be used immediately.

    Do not throw away any existing exams.

    KEEP the previously supplied booklet versions of all exams at all levels,
    as they are all still valid.

    A letter is included in the shipment explaining the quantities and
    versions.

    Templates: Field stocked teams that are missing any of the template design numbers, such as #4, #5, or #7 that have not been sent with the initial
    field stocked package for years, should contact the VEC department
    immediately to complete your set of templates (vesupplies@arrl.org).

    A complete set of templates consists of 36 total overlays: 3 of each
    design, numbers 1 through 9. The KEY For Templates (paper instructions)
    for the grading templates has been updated and is included in the package.

    An updated package will not be provided to field stocked teams that no
    longer meet the field stock requirements, and to non-field stocked teams
    that have been keeping supplies without qualifying through the VEC.
    Non-stocked VE teams should be returning their exam packages and supplies
    to ARRL VEC after each session is completed.

    To see if your team qualifies to be field stocked with a bulk quantity
    of our test materials visit http://www.arrl.org/field-stocked-ve-teams.

    Field stocked teams should be especially vigilant about keeping us
    informed of who has possession of the exam supplies. Notify us
    immediately when your address changes, or the team's field stock changes
    hands to ensure that any exam updates will be mailed to and received by
    the proper person. Periodically check your supplies to make sure they are current, and that the quantities are sufficient. Current exam booklets
    are listed on our web site at www.arrl.org/vec-exam-booklets. Field
    stocked VEs should check this page periodically to make sure they have
    the proper exam designs.

    ========================================================================

    Grading Templates - REMINDER

    Officially Field Stocked teams must keep their supply of the BLUE plastic overlay grading templates used to grade the exams. The plastic templates
    should never be thrown away or destroyed when new exam versions are
    introduced and shipped. The KEY For Templates (paper instructions) for
    the grading templates has been updated to show teams how to match up the templates with the new exam designs.

    ========================================================================

    Session Documents Upload Webpage

    The US Postal Service has been slow and unreliable with moving mail and packages through their system. Some exam session packages have been unexpectedly delayed.

    Teams can upload in-person or remote session documents via the ARRL VEC's secure session upload webpage for quicker service.

    New and upgraded licenses are issued within 1 to 2 business days (for
    weekend sessions) and are usually issued on the same day for weekday
    sessions.

    Please contact the VEC department (VEC@arrl.org) for information on
    e-filing exam session documents through our secure upload page.
    Authorized VEs will be sent the upload page URLm which is hidden from
    the public.

    ========================================================================

    Additional Reminders

    The ARRL VEC VE Resources page (www.arrl.org/resources-for-ves) offers
    the information you will need to help conduct exam session business.
    Our support page offers easy access to session forms and information,
    online exams and remote video sessions information, VE Manual
    supplemental information, FCC Rules, basic qualification question
    information, and much more!

    VE team leaders can register exam sessions and order supplies via our easy-to-use online form: http://www.arrl.org/arrl-exam-session-form

    Field stocked team leaders can request a restock of session materials
    on the ARRL website, using our online re-stock form: www.arrl.org/field-stocked-ve-teams

    Emails and FRNs are mandatory on 605 Forms, and for any FCC license transaction. This is an FCC requirement.

    In May, the FCC discontinued accepting Social Security numbers, and in
    June, began requiring an email address on all applications.

    ========================================================================

    The ARRL VEC Staff is Ready to Serve You

    As always, the dedicated VEC staff are here to answer any questions
    you may have.

    ARRL VEC (860) 594-0300
    Address: ARRL VEC, 225 Main St, Newington CT 06111
    Email: VEC@arrl.org
    Web: www.arrl.org/volunteer-examiners
    ARRL VEC Fax: 860-594-0339

    Maria Somma, AB1FM, Manager
    Amanda O'Brien, N1NHL, Assistant Manager
    Stephanie Borden W2MAU, Service Representative
    Lisa Riendeau, Service Representative
    Joshua Nance, Service Representative
    Ann Brinius, Service Representative

    We thank you for your support of the ARRL VEC program.

    ========================================================================

    Please do NOT respond to these automated emails.

    A "reply" to this bulk email address will not reach us as only the list administrator may post to the list.

    To unsubscribe from these messages, forward this message to VEC@arrl.org.

    ========================================================================

    ARRL VEC VE Newsletter is published by the
    American Radio Relay League, Inc. - The National Association for Amateur
    Radio (R).

    Material from the ARRL VE E-Newsletter may be republished or reproduced
    in whole or in part in any form without additional permission.

    Credit must be given to The ARRL VEC.

    ARRL VEC
    225 Main Street
    Newington CT 06111 USA

    Sincerely,
    Maria Somma, AB1FM - VEC Manager / Editor
    ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio®

    225 Main Street
    Newington, CT 06111 USA
    msomma@arrl.org

    ========================================================================
    --- SBBSecho 3.14-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (432:1/112)
  • From Daryl Stout@432:1/112 to All on Wed Jun 15 20:42:27 2022
    ARRL VE Newsletter June 2022 - TECHNICIAN EXAMS

    ========================================================================

    Inside this VE E-Newsletter:

    New Technician Exams take effect July 1

    Plastic Grading Templates - REMINDER

    ========================================================================

    New Technician Question Pool Takes Effect July 1

    The newly revised pool, released in January 2022 (updated and re-released
    on 03/07/2022) by the Question Pool Committee (QPC) of the National
    Conference of Volunteer Examiner Coordinators (NCVEC), must be in use
    starting July 1. There are three graphics required for this pool and
    412 questions in this pool, down slightly from 423 in the previous pool.
    To view all three question pools, visit the NCVEC web site at
    www.ncvec.org.

    For ARRL VE teams who are officially field stocked by the ARRL VEC, new Technician class exam design booklets are being shipped out via first class mail this week (June 13 - 17) to nearly 1,000 teams. Field Stocked VE Team leaders should have the package in their hands well in advance of July 1.
    When you receive the package, please check the content to make sure all quantities have been received. Again, please do not use the new exams until July 1st. The existing Technician class exam booklets (2018 series) can be discarded on or after Midnight, June 30, 2022, as they will no longer be
    valid.

    With the Technician-class exam questions changing July 1, new test designs
    must be used effective that day. Previous ARRL VEC supplied Technician-class exam booklet versions (2018 series) and computer-generated Technician-class exams created from the 2018 question pool are only valid until midnight
    June 30, 2022. At that time, VE Team leaders should destroy or throw away
    the older versions of the Technician exams (do not return them to VEC).
    To avoid a mix-up at the session, do not save old exam versions.

    Field-stocked teams that no longer meet the field stock requirements, or
    who have not conducted a session in the past year, and non-field stocked
    teams that have been keeping supplies without qualifying through the VEC,
    will not receive an updated package. Non-stocked VE Teams should be
    returning their exam packages and supplies to the ARRL VEC after their
    session is completed. The officially stocked VE Teams receive their exam supplies in a large box which is a 6-month-to-1-year supply depending on
    the team's activity levels. To see if your team qualifies to be field
    stocked with a bulk quantity of our test materials visit https://www.arrl.org/field-stocked-ve-teams.

    ========================================================================

    Plastic Grading Templates - REMINDER

    Officially Field Stocked teams must keep your supply of the blue PLASTIC overlay grading templates used to grade the exams. The plastic templates
    should never be thrown away or destroyed when new exam versions are
    introduced and shipped.

    A new KEY For Templates (paper instructions) for the plastic grading
    templates has been updated and shipped with your new Technician exams
    to let you know how to match up the plastic templates with the new
    exam designs.

    ========================================================================

    The ARRL VEC Staff is Ready to Serve You

    As always, the dedicated VEC staff are here to answer any questions you
    may have.

    ARRL VEC: (860) 594-0300 (leave message after regular business hours)
    Address: ARRL VEC, 225 Main St, Newington CT 06111
    Email: VEC@arrl.org
    Web: www.arrl.org/volunteer-examiners
    ARRL VEC Fax: 860-594-0339

    Maria Somma, AB1FM, Manager
    Amanda O'Brien, N1NHL, Assistant Manager
    Stephanie Borden W2MAU, Service Representative
    Lisa Riendeau, Service Representative
    Joshua Nance, Service Representative
    Ann Brinius, Service Representative

    We thank you for your support of the ARRL VEC program.

    ========================================================================

    ARRL VEC VE Newsletter is published by the American Radio Relay League,
    Inc. - The National Association for Amateur Radio (R).

    Material from the ARRL VE E-Newsletter may be republished or reproduced
    in whole or in part in any form without additional permission. Credit
    must be given to The ARRL VEC.

    ARRL VEC
    225 Main Street
    Newington CT 06111 USA

    Sincerely,
    Maria Somma, AB1FM - VEC Manager / Editor
    ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio®
    225 Main Street
    Newington, CT 06111 USA
    msomma@arrl.org

    ========================================================================
    --- SBBSecho 3.15-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (432:1/112)
  • From Daryl Stout@432:1/112 to All on Thu Jun 30 17:16:31 2022
    ARRL VE Newsletter June 30 2022 - TECHNICIAN EXAMS REMINDER

    ========================================================================

    New Technician Class Element 2 Exams will take effect for exam sessions beginning Friday July 1, 2022.

    With the Technician class exam questions changing July 1, new test designs
    must be used effective that day. Previous ARRL VEC supplied Technician
    class exam booklet versions (2018 series) and computer-generated Technician class exams created from the 2018 question pool are only valid until
    midnight June 30, 2022. At that time, the existing Technician class exams
    (2018 series) can be discarded on or after Midnight, June 30, 2022, as they will no longer be valid (do not return them to the VEC). To avoid a mix-up
    at the session, do not save old exam versions.

    ARRL VE teams who are officially Field Stocked by the ARRL VEC, new
    Technician class exam design booklets were shipped out via first class
    mail the week of June 13-17, 2022 to nearly 1,000 teams. The packages
    should have already been delivered to field stocked team leaders.

    ========================================================================

    Plastic Grading Templates - REMINDER

    Officially Field Stocked teams must keep your supply of the blue PLASTIC overlay grading templates used to grade the exams.

    The plastic templates should never be thrown away or destroyed when new
    exam versions are introduced and shipped.

    A new KEY For Templates (paper instructions) for the plastic grading
    templates has been updated to let teams know how to match up the existing plastic templates with the new exam designs.

    ========================================================================

    The ARRL VEC Staff is Ready to Serve You

    As always, the dedicated VEC staff are here to answer any questions you
    may have.

    ARRL VEC: (860) 594-0300 (leave message after regular business hours)
    Address: ARRL VEC, 225 Main St, Newington CT 06111
    Email: VEC@arrl.org
    Web: www.arrl.org/volunteer-examiners
    ARRL VEC Fax: 860-594-0339

    Maria Somma, AB1FM, Manager
    Amanda O'Brien, N1NHL, Assistant Manager
    Stephanie Borden W2MAU, Service Representative
    Lisa Riendeau, Service Representative
    Joshua Nance, Service Representative
    Ann Brinius, Service Representative

    We thank you for your support of the ARRL VEC program.

    ========================================================================

    ARRL VEC VE Newsletter is published by the American Radio Relay League,
    Inc. - The National Association for Amateur Radio (R).

    Material from the ARRL VE E-Newsletter may be republished or reproduced
    in whole or in part in any form without additional permission. Credit
    must be given to The ARRL VEC.

    ARRL VEC
    225 Main Street
    Newington CT 06111 USA

    Sincerely,
    Maria Somma, AB1FM - VEC Manager / Editor
    ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio®
    225 Main Street
    Newington, CT 06111 USA
    msomma@arrl.org

    ========================================================================
    --- SBBSecho 3.15-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (432:1/112)
  • From Daryl Stout@432:1/112 to All on Mon Jul 11 12:17:05 2022
    Important Message from ARRL VEC

    INFORMATION ABOUT THE FCC APPLICATION FEE AND VEC FILED APPLICATIONS

    It has been three months since the FCC application fee was implemented on
    April 19, 2022. Here's what we know so far...

    1. MAKE SURE EXAMINEES UNDERSTAND THEY MUST PAY WITHIN 10 DAYS.

    Examinees do NOT have to wait for the email from the FCC to pay the fee.
    As soon as an application file number is issued by the FCC, they can pay
    by logging into the CORES Payer FRN System (easier to use but only
    temporarily available) or the CORES FRN Registration system:

    CORES - Login at https://apps.fcc.gov/cores/userLogin.do

    Application File Number search using an FRN: https://wireless2.fcc.gov/UlsApp/ApplicationSearch/searchAppl.jsp?fromRefine=Y

    CORES payment system background information and instructions: https://www.fcc.gov/licensing-databases/fees/cores-payment-system

    CORES step-by-step payment instructions: https://www.fcc.gov/wireless/support/knowledge-base/universal-licensing- system-uls-resources/payment-process-uls

    (above URL all on one line).

    2. The FCC help center stated there is a known issue with individuals paying the $35 application fee via a smartphone or tablet. This is not a new issue
    and they haven't been able to help troubleshoot the issue at the support center. Encourage candidates to login and pay the FCC application fee from
    a computer instead.

    3. Examinees *should NOT amend any applications* that a VEC submits on their behalf, especially NEW license applications. Amending VEC filed applications will cause the application to be dismissed without action in the FCC system, and potentially require the applicant to pay another $35 fee. If there is a minor mistake on the application, either call us and we can correct and resubmit the application, or the individual can pay the fee, be issued the
    call sign, and then log back in and make corrections.

    4. Individuals should review their application BEFORE paying the fee. If
    there is a MAJOR error on the application, such as the licensee's name
    or license class earned is incorrect, or the answer to the felony question
    is wrong, DO NOT PAY the fee. Call the VEC immediately.

    5. When in doubt, call the VEC! Even if you think you shouldn't bother
    us with your question, call us anyway.

    6. Distribute these instructions to candidates as needed, and refer them
    to our FCC application fee webpage for information and instructions. That
    page is at https://www.arrl.org/fcc-application-fee

    ========================================================================

    FCC Legacy CORES System to be Retired

    Important information about registering in the new CORES system and
    creating an FCC Username account.

    View the story on the ARRL website: https://www.arrl.org/news/fcc-legacy-cores-system-to-be-retired

    ========================================================================

    The ARRL VEC Staff is Ready to Serve You

    As always, the dedicated VEC staff are here to answer any questions you
    may have.

    ARRL VEC: (860) 594-0300 (leave message after regular business hours)
    Address: ARRL VEC, 225 Main St, Newington CT 06111
    Email: VEC@arrl.org
    Web: www.arrl.org/volunteer-examiners
    ARRL VEC Fax: 860-594-0339

    Maria Somma, AB1FM, Manager
    Amanda O'Brien, N1NHL, Assistant Manager
    Stephanie Borden W2MAU, Service Representative
    Lisa Riendeau, Service Representative
    Joshua Nance, Service Representative
    Ann Brinius, Service Representative

    We thank you for your support of the ARRL VEC program.

    ========================================================================

    ARRL VEC VE Newsletter is published by the American Radio Relay League,
    Inc. - The National Association for Amateur Radio (R).

    Material from the ARRL VE E-Newsletter may be republished or reproduced
    in whole or in part in any form without additional permission. Credit
    must be given to The ARRL VEC.

    ARRL VEC
    225 Main Street
    Newington CT 06111 USA

    Sincerely,
    Maria Somma, AB1FM - VEC Manager / Editor
    ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio®
    225 Main Street
    Newington, CT 06111 USA
    msomma@arrl.org

    ========================================================================
    --- SBBSecho 3.15-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (432:1/112)
  • From Daryl Stout@432:1/112 to All on Thu Nov 10 14:29:34 2022
    Veterans Day Closures

    ARRL Headquarters will be closed on Friday, November 11, in observance
    of Veterans Day. ARRL HQ will reopen on Monday, November 14, at 8 AM EST.

    The FCC will also be closed in observance of Veterans Day.

    Exam sessions and amateur applications will not be processed by the FCC
    from close of business Thursday, November 10 until Monday, November 14,
    at 8 AM EST.

    ========================================================================

    The ARRL VEC Staff is Ready to Serve You

    As always, the dedicated VEC staff are here to answer any questions you
    may have.

    ARRL VEC: (860) 594-0300 (leave message after regular business hours)
    Address: ARRL VEC, 225 Main St, Newington CT 06111
    Email: VEC@arrl.org
    Web: www.arrl.org/volunteer-examiners
    ARRL VEC Fax: 860-594-0339

    Maria Somma, AB1FM, Manager
    Amanda O'Brien, N1NHL, Assistant Manager
    Stephanie Borden W2MAU, Service Representative
    Lisa Riendeau, Service Representative
    Joshua Nance, Service Representative
    Ann Brinius, Service Representative

    We thank you for your support of the ARRL VEC program.

    ========================================================================

    ARRL VEC VE Newsletter is published by the American Radio Relay League,
    Inc. - The National Association for Amateur Radio (R).

    Material from the ARRL VE E-Newsletter may be republished or reproduced
    in whole or in part in any form without additional permission. Credit
    must be given to The ARRL VEC.

    ARRL VEC
    225 Main Street
    Newington CT 06111 USA

    Sincerely,
    Maria Somma, AB1FM - VEC Manager / Editor
    ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio®
    225 Main Street
    Newington, CT 06111 USA
    msomma@arrl.org

    ========================================================================
    --- SBBSecho 3.15-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (432:1/112)
  • From Daryl Stout@432:1/112 to All on Wed Dec 7 11:26:22 2022
    New General Question Pool Released, Effective July 1, 2023

    The National Conference of Volunteer Examiner Coordinators (NCVEC)
    Question Pool Committee (QPC) has released the 2023-2027 General
    Class FCC Element 3 Question Pool and Syllabus into the public domain.
    It's available as a Word document or PDF. The graphic required for the
    new General question pool is available within the documents, or
    separately as PDF or JPG files.

    The new pool incorporates some significant changes compared to the
    2019-2023 pool. Its 432 questions were modified slightly to improve
    wording, or to replace distractors; 51 new questions were generated,
    and 73 questions were eliminated. This resulted in a reduction of 22
    questions, bringing the total number of questions in the pool from
    454 to 432. The difficulty level of the questions is now more balanced,
    and the techniques and practices addressed have been updated.

    The new 2023-2027 question pool is effective July 1, 2023 to June 30,
    2027, and must be used for General-class license exams administered on
    or after July 1, 2023.

    - Information provided by the NCVEC Question Pool Committee.
    Committee members: Chairman, Roland Anders, K3RA, of Anchorage VEC
    and members Maria Somma, AB1FM of ARRL VEC, and Larry Pollock, NB5X,
    of W5YI-VEC.

    New General Examinations will take effect for exam sessions on July 1,
    2023

    The newly revised general pool must be used starting July 1, 2023. VECs
    and VEs will have new test designs available starting on that date.
    Previously supplied versions of ARRL VEC General-class exam booklets
    (2019 series) and computer-generated General-class exams from the 2019
    question pool are valid until midnight on June 30, 2023. The ARRL VEC
    will supply its officially appointed, field-stocked VE teams with new
    General exam booklet designs around mid-June.

    Our Sincere Thanks

    Even though we're all getting caught up in the hustle and bustle of the
    holiday season, we wanted to take the time to THANK YOU for being an
    important part of the ARRL VEC program this year.

    We look forward to welcoming you, and continuing to serve you wherever
    your examining takes you in 2023.

    Best wishes for a joyous holiday season and wonderful New Year!

    ========================================================================

    The ARRL VEC Staff is Ready to Serve You

    As always, the dedicated VEC staff are here to answer any questions you
    may have.

    ARRL VEC: (860) 594-0300 (leave message after regular business hours)
    Address: ARRL VEC, 225 Main St, Newington CT 06111
    Email: VEC@arrl.org
    Web: www.arrl.org/volunteer-examiners
    ARRL VEC Fax: 860-594-0339

    Maria Somma, AB1FM, Manager
    Amanda O'Brien, N1NHL, Assistant Manager
    Stephanie Borden W2MAU, Service Representative
    Lisa Riendeau, Service Representative
    Joshua Nance, Service Representative
    Ann Brinius, Service Representative

    We thank you for your support of the ARRL VEC program.

    ========================================================================

    ARRL VEC VE Newsletter is published by the American Radio Relay League,
    Inc. - The National Association for Amateur Radio (R).

    Material from the ARRL VE E-Newsletter may be republished or reproduced
    in whole or in part in any form without additional permission. Credit
    must be given to The ARRL VEC.

    ARRL VEC
    225 Main Street
    Newington CT 06111 USA

    Sincerely,
    Maria Somma, AB1FM - VEC Manager / Editor
    ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio®
    225 Main Street
    Newington, CT 06111 USA
    msomma@arrl.org

    ========================================================================
    --- SBBSecho 3.15-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (432:1/112)
  • From Daryl Stout@432:1/112 to All on Thu Feb 16 13:10:05 2023
    ARRL VE Newsletter February 2023 - General Pool Errata
    and Federal Holiday on Monday

    ========================================================================

    Inside this VE E-Newsletter:

    General Class Element 3 Question Pool Errata Released

    New General Class Exams Take Effect July 1st

    FCC and ARRL Headquarters will be Closed on Monday, February 20

    ========================================================================

    General Class Element 3 Question Pool Errata Released

    The NCVEC Question Pool Committee (QPC) has released the latest errata
    for the 2023 - 2027 General Element 3 question pool, which goes into
    effect on July 1, 2023. Nine questions were modified (G1B01, G1C01,
    G1C02, G5C02, G7C10, G9B05, G9C09, G9D09, and G9D10) and two questions
    (G9C06 and G9D13) were withdrawn from use.

    The pool is available as a Microsoft Word document and PDF. These changes
    are reflected in the new General Pool download file dated February 1,
    2023.

    New General Examinations will take effect for exam sessions on July 1,
    2023.

    The newly revised General pool must be used starting July 1, 2023. VECs
    and VEs will have new test designs available starting on that date.
    Previously supplied versions of ARRL VEC General-class exam booklets
    (2019 series) and computer-generated General-class exams from the 2019
    question pool are valid until midnight on June 30, 2023. The ARRL VEC
    will supply its officially appointed, field-stocked VE teams with new
    General exam booklet designs around mid-June.

    FCC and ARRL Headquarters will be Closed on Monday, February 20

    The FCC and ARRL Headquarters will be closed on Monday, February 20,
    2023, for Presidents' Day and will reopen on Tuesday, February 21, at
    8 AM EST. Exam sessions and amateur applications will not be processed
    by the FCC on Monday.

    ========================================================================

    The ARRL VEC Staff is Ready to Serve You

    As always, the dedicated VEC staff are here to answer any questions you
    may have.

    ARRL VEC: (860) 594-0300 (leave message after regular business hours)
    Address: ARRL VEC, 225 Main St, Newington CT 06111
    Email: VEC@arrl.org
    Web: www.arrl.org/volunteer-examiners
    ARRL VEC Fax: 860-594-0339

    Maria Somma, AB1FM, Manager
    Amanda O'Brien, N1NHL, Assistant Manager
    Stephanie Borden W2MAU, Service Representative
    Lisa Riendeau, Service Representative
    Joshua Nance, Service Representative
    Ann Brinius, Service Representative

    We thank you for your support of the ARRL VEC program.

    ========================================================================

    ARRL VEC VE Newsletter is published by the American Radio Relay League,
    Inc. - The National Association for Amateur Radio (R).

    Material from the ARRL VE E-Newsletter may be republished or reproduced
    in whole or in part in any form without additional permission. Credit
    must be given to The ARRL VEC.

    ARRL VEC
    225 Main Street
    Newington CT 06111 USA

    Sincerely,
    Maria Somma, AB1FM - VEC Manager / Editor
    ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio®
    225 Main Street
    Newington, CT 06111 USA
    msomma@arrl.org

    ========================================================================
    --- SBBSecho 3.20-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (432:1/112)
  • From Daryl Stout@432:1/112 to All on Tue Jun 13 15:14:59 2023
    From the ARRL Website, June 13, 2023:

    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.
    --- SBBSecho 3.20-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (432:1/112)
  • From Daryl Stout@432:1/112 to All on Wed Jun 14 20:05:52 2023
    ARRL VE Newsletter June 2023 - FCC Systems Unavailable and New General Exams

    ========================================================================

    Inside this VE E-Newsletter:

    FCC Systems Unavailable

    New General Class Exams Take Effect July 1st

    ========================================================================

    FCC Universal Licensing System Applications Are Unavailable

    Please be advised that the FCC Universal Licensing System (ULS) is
    currently down. The affected FCC ULS systems 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.

    A Public Notice was issued by the Commission late on Tuesday alerting the public to the ULS being unavailable.

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

    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 PM 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. 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 3 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'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.

    At this time, the FCC has stated they do not have a target for the ULS
    systems to be back online.

    As soon as the FCC staff corrects the EBF system problem, the ARRL VEC
    will immediately file the application backlog via the automated system,
    which would take only a few hours or less to release.

    Please continue to check the ARRL website for updates.

    ARRL News Story: https://www.arrl.org/news/updated-fcc-uls-unavailable-filing-deadlines- extended

    (above URL all on one line)

    New General Examinations will take effect for exam sessions on July 1, 2023

    The newly revised general pool must be used starting July 1, 2023. VECs
    and VEs will have new test designs available starting on that date.
    Previously supplied versions of ARRL VEC General-class exam booklets (2019 series) and computer-generated General class exams from the 2019 question
    pool are valid until midnight on June 30, 2023. The ARRL VEC will start
    mailing the new General exam booklet designs to its officially appointed, field-stocked VE team leaders the week of June 19 to 23. The booklets are
    being sent via USPS priority mail and should reach teams before July 1.

    ========================================================================

    The ARRL VEC Staff is Ready to Serve You

    As always, the dedicated VEC staff are here to answer any questions you
    may have.

    ARRL VEC (860) 594-0300 (regular business hours US Eastern Time)
    Address: ARRL VEC, 225 Main St, Newington CT 06111
    Email: VEC@arrl.org
    Web: www.arrl.org/volunteer-examiners
    ARRL VEC Fax: 860-594-0339

    Maria Somma, AB1FM, Manager
    Amanda O'Brien, N1NHL, Assistant Manager
    Stephanie Borden W2MAU, Service Representative
    Lisa Riendeau, Service Representative
    Joshua Nance, Service Representative

    We thank you for your support of the ARRL VEC program.

    ========================================================================

    Please do NOT respond to these automated emails.

    A "reply" to this bulk email address will not reach us as only the list administrator may post to the list.

    To unsubscribe from these messages, forward this message to VEC@arrl.org.

    ========================================================================

    ARRL VEC VE Newsletter is published by the
    American Radio Relay League, Inc. - The National Association for Amateur
    Radio (R).

    Material from the ARRL VE E-Newsletter may be republished or reproduced
    in whole or in part in any form without additional permission.
    Credit must be given to The ARRL VEC.

    ARRL VEC
    225 Main Street
    Newington CT 06111 USA

    Sincerely,
    Maria Somma, AB1FM - VEC Manager / Editor
    ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio®
    225 Main Street
    Newington, CT 06111 USA
    msomma@arrl.org

    ========================================================================
    --- SBBSecho 3.20-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (432:1/112)
  • From Daryl Stout@432:1/112 to All on Thu Jun 22 09:34:12 2023
    ARRL VE Newsletter June 2023 - FCC Batch Filing System Still Unavailable

    ========================================================================

    Inside this VE E-Newsletter:

    FCC ULS Systems Reopen, Except EBF System

    New General Class Exams Mailed Out

    ========================================================================

    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 as of 9:00 am Thursday
    June 22, the Electronic Batch Filing (EBF) system, used by all 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.

    We will continue to email updates as information becomes available.

    Read the full ARRL News Story here:

    www.arrl.org/news/fcc-uls-reopened-except-electronic-batch-filing-system

    Please continue to check the ARRL website for updates.

    **

    New General Examinations Were Mailed Out This Week

    The ARRL VEC mailed the new General exam booklet designs (2023 series)
    to its officially appointed, field-stocked VE team leaders this week
    (June 19 to 23). The booklets are being sent via USPS priority mail
    and should reach teams before July 1.

    The newly revised General pool must be used starting July 1, 2023. VECs
    and VEs will have new test designs available starting on that date.
    Previously supplied versions of ARRL VEC General class exam booklets
    (2019 series) and computer-generated General class exams from the 2019
    question pool are valid until midnight on June 30, 2023.

    ========================================================================

    The ARRL VEC Staff is Ready to Serve You

    As always, the dedicated VEC staff are here to answer any questions you
    may have.

    ARRL VEC: (860) 594-0300 (regular business hours, Eastern Time, Monday
    through Friday -- leave a message afterwards)

    Address: ARRL VEC, 225 Main St, Newington CT 06111
    Email: VEC@arrl.org
    Web: www.arrl.org/volunteer-examiners
    ARRL VEC Fax: 860-594-0339

    Maria Somma, AB1FM, Manager
    Amanda O’Brien, N1NHL, Assistant Manager
    Stephanie Borden W2MAU, Service Representative
    Lisa Riendeau, Service Representative
    Joshua Nance, Service Representative

    We thank you for your support of the ARRL VEC program.

    ========================================================================

    ARRL VEC VE Newsletter is published by the
    American Radio Relay League, Inc. - The National Association for Amateur
    Radio (R).

    Material from the ARRL VE E-Newsletter may be republished or reproduced
    in whole or in part in any form without additional permission.
    Credit must be given to The ARRL VEC.

    ARRL VEC
    225 Main Street
    Newington CT 06111 USA

    Sincerely,
    Maria Somma, AB1FM - VEC Manager / Editor
    ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio®
    225 Main Street
    Newington, CT 06111 USA
    msomma@arrl.org

    ========================================================================
    --- SBBSecho 3.20-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (432:1/112)
  • From Daryl Stout@432:1/112 to All on Sat Jul 1 13:51:53 2023
    ARRL VE Newsletter July 2023 - New General Exams Take Effect Today

    ========================================================================

    Inside this VE E-Newsletter:

    New General Class Exams Take Effect Today

    FCC ULS EBF System Restored

    ARRL Headquarters is Closed on Tuesday, July 4, for Independence Day

    ========================================================================

    New General Class Element 3 Exams Will Take Effect for Exam Sessions
    Beginning Saturday, July 1, 2023

    To ARRL VE teams who are officially Field Stocked by the ARRL VEC: new General-class exam design booklets were shipped out via first-class mail
    on Thursday, June 22. The packages should already have been delivered to field-stocked team leaders. Please discard all previous General-class
    exam versions. To avoid a mix-up at the session, do not save old exam
    versions.

    FCC EBF System Restored

    On Friday afternoon, June 23, the FCC's Electronic Batch Filing (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.
    See the ARRL News story at http://www.arrl.org/news/update-fcc-uls-system-restored.

    There have been a few lingering issues with the FCC Universal Licensing
    System (ULS) and EBF System.

    A few exam sessions and applications did not process in the EBF
    system, and they had to be refiled. Hopefully, all files have now
    been accepted and processed by the FCC.

    Some applicants are reporting that they are not receiving the FCC
    payment email. As a reminder, applicants do not have to wait for
    the FCC email to pay the fee. As soon as the application is in the
    FCC system, the applicant can log into the FCC's CORES system
    (https://apps.fcc.gov/cores/userLogin.do) and pay the fee. CORES
    payment system information can be found at
    https://www.fcc.gov/licensing-databases/fees/cores-payment-system.
    Additional information and instructions are located on the ARRL
    VEC's FCC Application Fee web page at
    http://www.arrl.org/fcc-application-fee.

    Other applicants are reporting that they are not receiving the
    automated email with the link to their new, upgraded, renewed, or
    modified license. The FCC instructions for obtaining the official
    authorization (official license) is located at
    https://www.fcc.gov/wireless/support/knowledge-base/
    universal-licensing-system-uls-resources/how-obtain-official.

    (above URL all on one line).

    ARRL Headquarters is Closed on Tuesday, July 4, for Independence Day

    ARRL Headquarters will reopen on Wednesday, July 5, at 8 AM EDT.

    ========================================================================

    The ARRL VEC Staff is Ready to Serve You

    As always, the dedicated VEC staff are here to answer any questions you
    may have.

    ARRL VEC: (860) 594-0300 (8am to 5pm Eastern Time, Monday through Friday, except holidays)
    Address: ARRL VEC, 225 Main St, Newington CT 06111
    Email: VEC@arrl.org
    Web: www.arrl.org/volunteer-examiners
    ARRL VEC Fax: 860-594-0339

    Maria Somma, AB1FM, Manager
    Amanda O’Brien, N1NHL, Assistant Manager
    Stephanie Borden W2MAU, Service Representative
    Lisa Riendeau, Service Representative
    Joshua Nance, Service Representative

    We thank you for your support of the ARRL VEC program.

    ========================================================================

    ARRL VEC VE Newsletter is published by the
    American Radio Relay League, Inc. - The National Association for Amateur
    Radio (R).

    Material from the ARRL VE E-Newsletter may be republished or reproduced
    in whole or in part in any form without additional permission.
    Credit must be given to The ARRL VEC.

    ARRL VEC
    225 Main Street
    Newington CT 06111 USA

    Sincerely,
    Maria Somma, AB1FM - VEC Manager / Editor
    ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio (R)
    225 Main Street
    Newington, CT 06111 USA
    msomma@arrl.org

    ========================================================================
    --- SBBSecho 3.20-Win32
    * Origin: The Thunderbolt BBS - Little Rock, Arkansas (432:1/112)