[Alexandria Radio Club Reflector] Fwd: The ARRL Letter for February 19, 2026

Thu Feb 19 18:59:12 EST 2026

FYI, in case you're not an ARRL member or don't get the newsletter.  Of
note is the new FCC requirement to update your contact info within 10 days
when there are changes.
73, Ian N8IK

---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: ARRL Letter <memberlist at arrl.org>
Date: Thu, Feb 19, 2026 at 4:07 PM
Subject: The ARRL Letter for February 19, 2026
To: <iann8ik at gmail.com>

view this email in your browser
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[image: The ARRL Letter]

John E. Ross, KD8IDJ <jross at arrl.org>, Editor | February 19, 2026
ARRL Home Page
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTA4OA/index.html>
ARRL Audio News
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTA4OQ/index.html>
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTA5MQ/index.html>

*In this Issue:*

   - FCC Requires That FRN Contact Information Be Updated Within Ten Days
   of a Change <#m_-4016494994671916275_Bookmark_AFD73466B>
   - 2025 ARRL Sweepstakes Icom Dream Station Winner Announced at Orlando
   HamCation® <#m_-4016494994671916275_Bookmark_A04CC7B5D>
   - Ham Radio Helped During Hawai’i Severe Weather
   <#m_-4016494994671916275_Bookmark_AC4769A50>
   - POTA SOTA BOTA <#m_-4016494994671916275_Bookmark_A1D34C25F>
   - New Book Release: Digital Networking for Ham Radio
   <#m_-4016494994671916275_Bookmark_A5C287503>
   - 3YØK DXpedition Back on Track
   <#m_-4016494994671916275_Bookmark_A8200425F>
   - Amateur Radio in the News <#m_-4016494994671916275_Bookmark_A6483C1F9>
   - ARRL Live Events and Podcasts
   <#m_-4016494994671916275_Bookmark_A0BC6B559>
   - Announcements <#m_-4016494994671916275_Bookmark_A40862E68>
   - In Brief... <#m_-4016494994671916275_Bookmark_A5B88255A>
   - The ARRL Solar Report <#m_-4016494994671916275_Bookmark_A55BB93B9>
   - Just Ahead in Radiosport <#m_-4016494994671916275_Bookmark_ADD19161E>
   - Upcoming Section, State, and Division Conventions
   <#m_-4016494994671916275_Bookmark_AE9A4991A>
   - Save the Date <#m_-4016494994671916275_Bookmark_A2CE02ABE>

*FCC Requires That FRN Contact Information Be Updated Within Ten Days of a
Change*
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTA5Mg/index.html>

ARRL reports that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted
changes to its rules to require that every holder of an FCC Registration
Number (FRN) update their contact information in the CORES
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTA5Mw/index.html>
system (email and postal addresses) within ten business days of a change.

Because every FCC licensee—including amateur radio operators—must have an
FRN to file applications, this requirement applies to all licensed
amateurs. FRN contact information is handled separately and apart from
contact information related to a license in the License Manager System
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTA5NA/index.html>.
Both records must be kept up-to-date, and each requires a separate update.

Until now, no specific deadline existed for updating FRN or license contact
information. Instead, the amateur rules at sections 97.21 and 97.23 provide
that a license may be suspended or revoked “if FCC correspondence is
returned as undeliverable because of an incorrect address/email.” These
provisions remain in effect as well as the 10-day deadline applicable to
FRN information.

If your FRN information is current and has not changed, no immediate action
is required, but you must adhere to the 10-day rule for future changes. It
is recommended to periodically check both the CORES
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTA5Mw/index.html>
and License Manager Systems
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTA5NA/index.html>
to ensure contact information is accurate, even if no changes have occurred.

The new deadline [section 1.8002(b)(2) of the Commission’s Rules] became
effective on February 5 as part of a proceeding that was limited to further
constraining robocalls. Although the proceeding focused on robocall issues,
the 10-day update requirement applies broadly to all FRN holders. On
February 6 the FCC confirmed in a Public Notice that the new deadline
applies to all FRN holders. The amendment replaces language adopted in 2001
that required FRN holders to keep their contact information up-to-date but
had not imposed a deadline for doing so.

Numerous requests for clarification from non-robocaller interests led the
FCC to issue a Public Notice on February 6
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTA5Mg/index.html>
(see also PDF
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTA5NQ/index.html>)
clarifying that fines imposed on those subject to the robocall rules for
not keeping contact information up-to-date do NOT apply to licensees such
as radio amateurs, but that the 10-day deadline does apply to all FRN
holders.

See the following resources for updating FRN and license information.

FCC Tutorial on updating FRN information:

*https://apps.fcc.gov/cores/html/Update_FRN_Information.htm
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTA5Ng/index.html>*

ARRL information on how to update license information:

*https://www.arrl.org/call-sign-renewals-or-changes
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTA5Nw/index.html>*

*For assistance, call the FCC FRN Help Desk:* (877) 480-3201 (available 8
AM to 6 PM ET).

<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTA5OA/index.html>

*2025 ARRL Sweepstakes Icom Dream Station Winner Announced at Orlando
HamCation®*

ARRL announced the winner of the 2025 ARRL Sweepstakes Icom® Dream Station
on Saturday, February 14, at 2026 Orlando HamCation. The announcement was
made by ARRL President Rick Roderick, K5UR, with Icom America Senior Sales
Manager Ray Novak, N9JA.

The ARRL Sweepstakes ran from January 3 to December 31, 2025, as the
centerpiece of a year-long membership drive designed to encourage new
members to join and current members to renew their support.

*Congratulations to Lee Warren, KI5YDR*

Roderick announced that the ARRL Sweepstakes winner is member Lee Warren,
KI5YDR, of Honolulu, Hawaii.

<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTA5OQ/index.html>

ARRL President Rick Roderick, K5UR (middle), with Icom America Senior Sales
Manager Ray Novak, N9JA (left), announced that the sweepstakes was won by
member Lee Warren, KI5YDR (right), of Honolulu, Hawaii.

Warren earned his amateur radio license in 2022 after thinking about the
value of having radios available in case of a disaster. “With all the
research I was doing, I realized I might as well get my Technician
license,” he said. He upgraded to General Class in 2023 so he could operate
KH6BB, the radio room aboard the *USS Missouri* museum ship in Pearl Harbor.

His first contact was with a Parks on the Air® (POTA) operator at Lake
Mead, Nevada. Now, he’s learning Morse code so he can operate using the
keys once used by his grandfather, Thomas Lee “Buddy” Dykes (SK, 2000).

Roderick and Novak congratulated Warren via Zoom from the convention floor.
“I’m very excited about winning the sweepstakes — especially since I was
going to renew my ARRL membership anyway,” Warren said. “The publications
and public outreach are great, but the real value for me is knowing that an
organized, motivated group of people are lobbying Congress to make sure we
keep the airwaves free enough for the hobby to thrive. I also appreciate
Icom’s donation of the prize to help keep ARRL top of mind for my fellow
hams and future licensees.”

*Icom Dream Station Prize*

Warren received the grand prize “Dream Station” featuring the latest
amateur radio equipment, generously donated by Icom America:

   - IC-7760 HF/50 MHz 200 W Transceiver – Icom 60th Anniversary Signature
   Edition, which also includes a limited-edition Seiko watch commemorating
   Icom’s anniversary
   - IC-PW2 1 kW Linear Amplifier
   - SM-50 Advanced Desktop Microphone

*Watch the winner announcement on YouTube
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTA5OQ/index.html>*

The winner, Lee Warren, KI5YDR, received a complete ham radio station
featuring a limited-edition IC-7760 HF/50 MHz transceiver, IC-PW2
amplifier, desktop microphone, and a special Icom 60th Anniversary Seiko
watch -- all generously donated by Icom America.

ARRL CEO David Minster, NA2AA (left), presented recognition awards to Icom
America Inc. and Senior Sales Manager Ray Novak, N9JA, for their generous
support of ARRL, including the 2025 ARRL Membership Drive. The presentation
was made at the 2025 Huntsville Hamfest in August.

*Board of Directors Recognizes Icom America and Ray Novak*

In recognition of the extraordinary support behind the 2025 membership
drive, the ARRL Board of Directors formally honored Icom America Inc. and
Ray Novak, N9JA.

The Board expressed its sincere gratitude for Icom’s donation of the
complete amateur radio station and acknowledged Novak’s instrumental role
in making the contribution possible. The Board also noted Icom’s ongoing
partnership to strengthen ARRL’s mission and help ensure a vibrant future
for amateur radio.

<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEwMA/index.html>

*Ham Radio Helped During Hawai’i Severe Weather*
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEwMQ/index.html>

While most of the contiguous US states were experiencing severe winter
weather over the past two weeks, Honolulu, Hawai’i had a different kind of
severe weather and amateur radio was ready.

On February 8 – 9, 2026, severe weather brought high winds, heavy rainfall,
flash flooding, power outages, and hazardous surf conditions across
Honolulu and the State of Hawai’i. The National Weather Service predicted
that heavy rain, flash flooding, and damaging winds would affect all
islands. Officials warned of possible flooding, hazardous travel, and power
outages. Both Governor Josh Green and Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi issued
emergency proclamations to mobilize resources and protect public safety.

Amateur radio operators were activated inside the Emergency Operations
Center (EOC) to support the Department of Emergency Management (DEM), City
and County of Honolulu
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEwMg/index.html>.
Volunteer communicators operators reported in and stood ready to provide
backup communications should cellular or internet systems fail. They joined
statewide HF nets at 9:00 AM, 12:00 Noon, and 4:00 PM on 7.090 MHz (LSB)
and updated and posted the ICS-205 Communications Plan on *HawaiiARES.net
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEwMw/index.html>*
for download and offline reference.

The storm hit with 70-mph winds, knocked down trees, and dumped 30 inches
of rain and mountain snow.

Radio traffic remained light, though, as outages were quickly addressed
through coordinated efforts between city and state agencies and utility
partners. Shelters and volunteers remained ready in case conditions
worsened. This wasn’t a drill and amateur radio operators were prepared to
move quickly and efficiently.

“It was encouraging to work alongside such engaged and supportive
leadership from the department management,” said Deputy RACES Program
Coordinator Michael Miller, KH6ML. “Their awareness of our role in a larger
grey or black sky event ensures the Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service
(RACES) remains fully integrated into emergency operations.”

Mark Kaku, KH6LT, coordinated amateur radio operations inside the EOC. “Our
goal is simple, be ready before we’re needed. We focus on coverage,
documentation, and coordination so that if primary systems fail, we can
immediately step in.”

<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEwNA/index.html>

*POTA SOTA BOTA*
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEwNQ/index.html>

You have probably heard about POTA - Parks on the Air®, and SOTA - Summits
on the Air. Well, now there’s BOTA, Bunkers on the Air!!

Officially known as WWBOTA — Worldwide Bunkers on the Air — it is an
amateur radio activity open to amateur radio operators and shortwave
listeners everywhere. Similar to its counterparts, radio amateurs
‘activate’ historic bunker locations around the world with portable and
mobile operations. Bunkers are fortified shelters, usually underground,
used for protection against attacks and for storage of military goods.
Hunters and chasers can have QSOs with those activating stations and can
collect special ‘bunker reference’ numbers. Awards for activating and
hunting bunkers are available but you can get involved by just making a QSO
or shortwave listening.

There are 20 member countries in the BOTA program so far, with two new
countries added in February as membership continues to grow. USBOTA
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEwNQ/index.html>
joined WWBOTA on January 7, 2026.

Most bunker operations center on 40- and 20-meter SSB, but other bands are
increasingly popular, including the higher HF bands, VHF, and above. CW,
FT8 and other modes are also popular, including SSB, FT4, RTTY, PSK, and
SSTV.

“CQ Bunkers on the Air” is the official calling signal and USBOTA offers
three awards:

• Activator - Lifetime Award

• Activator’s Lifetime Bunker-to-Bunker Award (all bands)

• Activator - Annual Reference Award

There will be USBOTA National Awards coming in March 2026.

A lot of history is involved with BOTA activations from inside, outside and
nearby.

For more information, visit WWBOTA – Worldwide Bunkers on the Air
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEwNg/index.html>
.

<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEwNw/index.html>

*New Book Release: Digital Networking for Ham Radio*
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEwOA/index.html>

ARRL’s new book, *Digital Networking for Ham Radio
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEwOA/index.html>*,
a practical, hands-on guide to designing and implementing high-speed data
networks for amateur radio stations, is now shipping.

Written by Glen Popiel, KW5GP, the book brings together in one
comprehensive resource the knowledge needed to build, configure, and expand
digital networks for ham radio. From TCP/IP fundamentals to deploying mesh
technologies such as AREDN®, HamWAN, and Meshtastic®, readers will find
clear explanations and step-by-step guidance.

“When I began experimenting with amateur radio data networking, I realized
there wasn’t a single resource that clearly explained how it all works —
especially TCP/IP in terms the average ham could relate to,” said Popiel.
“That inspired me to create a practical guide to designing and implementing
high-speed amateur radio networks. Since there’s no speed limit above 70
centimeters, operators can integrate webcams, IP phones, and other
networked devices. I hope this book encourages hams to explore, experiment,
and enjoy networking on the microwave bands.”

*Digital Networking for Ham Radio
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEwOA/index.html>*
covers selecting hardware, choosing network topologies, configuring
systems, and staying compliant with FCC Part 97 rules. The book is designed
for both newcomers and experienced operators who want to expand their
stations with resilient, high-speed networking capabilities.

*Digital Networking for Ham Radio* is now shipping. Order from the ARRL online
store
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEwOA/index.html>
or through an ARRL publication dealer
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEwOQ/index.html>.
ARRL Item No. 2349, ISBN: 978-1-62595-234-9, $29.95 ARRL member price,
$34.95 retail.

For additional questions or ordering, call 1-888-277-5289 toll-free in the
US, Monday through Thursday 8 AM to 7 PM and Friday 8 AM to 5 PM Eastern
Time. Outside the US, call (860) 594-0200.

<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTExMA/index.html>

*3YØK DXpedition Back on Track*
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTExMQ/index.html>

The latest DXpedition to Bouvet Island, 3YØK, is back on track after a
2-week delay for mechanical repairs to its ship, the Argus. Team Media
Manager James Gallo, KB2FMH, confirmed reports from earlier this week that
the ship had arrived in Cape Town, South Africa, and was being loaded with
the expedition’s equipment. The team of 24 operators includes 22-year-old
Max Freedman, N4ML, an ARRL staff member.

In an earlier statement on the 3YØK website, the team leadership explained
that “Our vessel requires additional maintenance to ensure it is fully
prepared for the demanding voyage to one of the most remote and challenging
locations on Earth.” The announcement added that “While this delay is
disappointing, the safety of our team remains our highest priority. The
adjustment does not change the overall strategy of the DXpedition, which
has been carefully planned over the past three years.”

Gallo says the ship will head out soon and that arrival time will be
weather-dependent. Updates will be posted on the expedition website,
*www.3y0k.com
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTExMQ/index.html>*
.

*Amateur Radio in the News*

“Ham radio operators bridge UP200 communications
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTExMg/index.html>”
/ WLUC (Michigan) February 14, 2026 -- 60 amateur radio operators monitor
15 road crossings in the UP200 - 200 mile dog sled race.

“Amateur radio station keeps Columbiana students connected
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTExMw/index.html>”
/ Morning Journal (Ohio) February 19, 2026 -- The Columbiana Clippers
Amateur Radio and Electronics Club.

*ARRL Live Events and Podcasts*
[image: ARRL Audio News]
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTExNA/index.html>

*ARRL Audio News*

Listen to ARRL Audio News
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTExNA/index.html>,
available every Friday. ARRL Audio News is a summary of the week's top news
stories in the world of amateur radio and ARRL, along with interviews and
other features. More info
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTExNQ/index.html>
| Listen on Blubrry
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTExNg/index.html>
| Also available on iTunes and Apple Podcasts.

[image: ARRL On the Air]
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTExNw/index.html>

*On the Air*

*Sponsored by Icom*

*Repeater Basics*

The On the Air podcast goes back to basics in the February 2026 episode,
when *QST* Technical Editor Conrad Trautmann, N2YCH, joins the podcast to
discuss what repeaters are, how they work, and what you need in order to
access your local repeater. More info
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTExNw/index.html>
| Listen on Blubrry
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTExOA/index.html>
| Also available on iTunes and Apple Podcasts.

<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTExOQ/index.html>

*Announcements*

*NCVEC Question Pool Committee Issues Revision to 2026 – 2030 Technician
Pool*

The National Conference of Volunteer Examiner Coordinators (NCVEC
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEyMA/index.html>)
Question Pool Committee (QPC
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEyMQ/index.html>)
has released a February 19, 2026, revision to the new 2026 – 2030
Technician Class question pool. Questions drawn from that pool are valid
for exams given on, or after, July 1, 2026.

The revision includes minor wording clarifications to four questions in the
pool. The revised questions are:

   - T1C01
   - T5A05
   - T7A09
   - T0A10

These updated questions have been incorporated into the published
Technician question pool documents and are available on the NCVEC website
at *www.ncvec.org/index.php/2026-2030-technician-question-pool
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEyMg/index.html>*.
The 2026 – 2030 Technician question pool will be in effect from July 1,
2026, through June 30, 2030. The current Technician Pool is only valid
through June 30, 2026.

The ARRL VEC
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEyMw/index.html>
advises the amateur radio community to regularly check the NCVEC
website at *www.ncvec.org
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEyNA/index.html>*
for updates to the question pools, which may include errata and withdrawn
questions.

*The World Wide Radio Operators Foundation, Inc
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEyNQ/index.html>.
(WWROF) announced that it has assumed responsibility for WRTC.info
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEyNg/index.html>,
the long-standing community website dedicated to preserving the history of
the World Radiosport Team Championship (WRTC)*. WRTC is an on-site ham
radio competition held every two-to-six years. Previous WRTCs have been
held in Seattle (1990), San Francisco (1996), Slovenia (2000), Finland
(2002), Brazil (2006), Russia (2010), Boston (2014), Germany (2018), and
Italy (2023). The next competition will take place this July in the United
Kingdom. WRTC event information is in many places on the internet and the
website is dedicated to collecting information from all WRTC events. “This
site matters,” said Doug Grant, K1DG, WWROF Vice Chair and Secretary of the
WRTC Sanctioning Committee. “WRTC.info has become the most complete public
record of WRTC, how the events were run, who participated, and how the
competition has evolved. Ensuring that history is preserved accurately and
responsibly is important to the entire radiosport community, and WWROF is
pleased to help provide continuity for that work.”

*In Brief...*

*Join the GERATOL Net special event celebrating over 55 years of service*.
Station N1KL in Wheelwright, Massachusetts, will be in operation every
evening March 3 - 14, 2026, 0001Z-2359Z, on the net frequency of 3.668 MHz.
A QSL card will be available. The GERATOL Net is a Worked All States (WAS)
net for Extra Class operators. Its purpose is to help amateur radio
operators obtain the award affectionately known as the Unbelievable
Operating Achievement Award, which is a variation of the ARRL WAS Award for
working all 50 US states with hams holding two-letter Extra Class call
signs on 75 meters. More information is available at *geratol.net
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEyNw/index.html>*.

*Open Positions at ARRL*

Come join the headquarters staff of ARRL The National Association for
Amateur Radio®! We are currently seeking qualified applicants for the
following positions:

*Operations Administrative Assistant*

*Membership Manager*

*RFI Lab Engineer*

*Public Relations and Outreach Manager *

*IT Support Specialist*

Full details may be found on the ARRL HR web page at *www.arrl.org/careers
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEyOA/index.html>.*

ARRL is an equal opportunity employer.

<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEyOQ/index.html>
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEzMA/index.html>
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEzMQ/index.html>

<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEzMg/index.html>
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEzMw/index.html>
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEzNA/index.html>

*The ARRL Solar Report*
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEzNQ/index.html>

Solar image courtesy of NASA/SDO February 19, 2026.

*ARRL Solar Report February 19, 2026*

Solar activity returned to low levels this past week. The strongest event
of the period was a C1.8 flare on February 17 from region 4374. This region
was also responsible for a C1.4 flare on February 18. The only other flare
of note was a C1.1 flare on February 17 from an unnumbered plage region
near S05E85. Region 4374 exhibited minor decay through the dissipation of
its trailing spots. Regions 4375 and 4377 were largely unchanged in area
and complexity.

A large filament eruption beyond the southwest limb was seen in SDO and
SUVI imagery starting approximately February 18. It was associated with a
Type II radio sweep that began on February 18 with an estimated shock
velocity of 310 km/s. The eruption was first visible in coronagraph imagery
on February 18 but initial analysis indicates no Earth-directed component.
Solar activity is forecast to be at low levels, with a slight chance for
M-class (R1-R2/minor-moderate) flares through February 20.

Solar wind parameters continued to reflect the waning influence of a
positive polarity coronal hole high-speed stream (+ CH HSS). Solar wind
speed followed a general declining trend, decreasing from an initial peak
near 600 km/s to approximately 500 km/s by the end of the reporting period.
The solar wind environment is expected to remain enhanced through February
20 due to continued but weakening CH HSS influences.

The 10.7-centimeter flux: February 19 – 20, 110; February 21, 105: February
22,120; February 23, 130; February 24, 135; February 15, 130.

Predicted sunspots: February 19, 120; February 20, 116; February 21, 125;
February 22, 112; February 23, 131; February 24, 108; February 25, 135.

For more information concerning radio propagation, visit
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEzNQ/index.html>
the ARRL Technical Information Service, read A Quick Guide to HF
Propagation Using Solar Indices
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEzNg/index.html>,
and check out
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEzNw/index.html>
the Propagation Page of Carl Luetzelschwab, K9LA.

For customizable propagation charts, visit the VOACAP Online for Ham Radio
website
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEzOA/index.html>
.

<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTEzOQ/index.html>

*Just Ahead in Radiosport*

   - February 19 - 20 -- Walk for the Bacon QRP Contest (CW)
   - February 21 - 22 -- ARRL International DX Contest
   <https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE0MA/index.html>
   (CW)
   - February 21 - 22 -- REF Contest SSB (phone)
   - February 21 - 22 -- South Carolina QSO Party (CW, phone, digital)
   - February 21 -- Feld Hell Sprint (digital)
   - February 22 -- World Wide Argentina DX Contest (CW, phone, digital)
   - February 22 -- High Speed Club CW Contest (CW)
   - February 23 -- RSGB FT4 Contest (digital)
   - February 25 -- SKCC Sprint (CW)
   - February 25 -- UKEICC 80m Contest (CW)
   - February 27 - March 1 -- CQ 160-Meter Contest SSB (phone)
   - February 28 - March 1 -- UBA DX Contest (CW)
   - February 28 - March 1 -- North American QSO Party RTTY (digital)
   - February 28 - March 1 -- NA Collegiate Championship RTTY (digital)
   - March 1 -- NSARA Contest (CW, phone, digital)
   - March 1 - 2 --North Carolina QSO Party (CW, phone, digital)
   - March 3 -- ARS Spartan Sprint (CW)
   - March 3 -- AGCW YL-CW Party (CW)
   - March 4 -- UKEICC 80m Contest (phone)

Remember to visit the ARRL Contest Calendar
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE0Mg/index.html>
for more events and information.

*Upcoming Section, State, and Division Conventions*

   - February 20 - 21 | Greater Houston HamFest
   <https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE0Mw/index.html>,
   hosting the ARRL Texas State Convention, Rosenberg, Texas
   - February 27 - 28 | ARRL Southwestern Division Convention
   <https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE0NA/index.html>,
   Yuma Arizona
   - February 28 | HAM-CON
   <https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE0NQ/index.html>,
   ARRL Vermont State Convention, Colchester, Vermont
   - March 6 - 7 | BirmingHAMfest
   <https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE0Ng/index.html>,
   hosting the ARRL Alabama Section Convention, Trussville, Alabama
   - March 15 | WINTERFEST 2026 - The National Capital Area Ham Radio Fair
   <https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE0Nw/index.html>,
   ARRL Virginia State Convention, Vienna, Virginia
   - March 21 | St. Patrick's Day Hamfest
   <https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE0OA/index.html>,
   hosting the ARRL West Texas Section Convention, Midland, Texas
   - March 28 | Central Dakota Amateur Radio Club Hamfest
   <https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE0OQ/index.html>,
   hosting the ARRL North Dakota State Convention, Bismarck, North Dakota
   - April 4 | RARSfest
   <https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE1MA/index.html>,
   hosting the ARRL Roanoke Division Convention, Raleigh, North Carolina
   - April 10 - 11 | Green Country Hamfest
   <https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE1MQ/index.html>,
   hosting the ARRL Oklahoma Section Convention, Claremore, Oklahoma
   - April 18 | Delmarva Amateur Radio and Electronics Expo
   <https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE1Mg/index.html>,
   hosting the ARRL Delaware State Convention

Remember to search the ARRL Hamfest and Convention
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE1Mw/index.html>
Database to find events in your area.

*Save the Date*

   - March 14 - 15 | HamSCI 2026
   <https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE1NA/index.html>
   Workshop, hosted by ARRL in New Britain & Newington, Connecticut
   - April 4 | RARSfest
   <https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE1NQ/index.html>,
   hosting the ARRL Roanoke Division Convention, Raleigh, North Carolina
   - May 15 - 17 | Dayton Hamventio
   <https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE1Ng/index.html>n,
   Xenia, Ohio
   - June 5 - 7 | SEA-PAC
   <https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE1Nw/index.html>,
   hosting the ARRL Northwestern Division Convention, Seaside, Oregon
   - June 26 - 28 | HAM RADIO
   <https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE1OA/index.html>,
   International Amateur Radio Exhibition, Friedrichshafen, Germany
   - August 7 - 8 | Shreveport-Bossier Hamfest
   <https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE1OQ/index.html>,
   hosting the ARRL Delta Division Convention, Shreveport, Louisiana
   - August 13 - 16 | Northeast HamXposition
   <https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE2MA/index.html>,
   ARRL New England Division Convention, Marlborough, Massachusetts
   - August 15 | Cincinnati Hamfest
   <https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE2MQ/index.html>℠,
   hosting the ARRL Great Lakes Division Convention
   - August 22 - 23 | Huntsville Hamfest
   <https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE2Mg/index.html>,
   hosting the 2026 ARRL National Convention
   <https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE2Mw/index.html>,
   Huntsville, Alabama
   - October 10 | North Star Radio Convention
   <https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE2NA/index.html>,
   hosting the ARRL Dakota Division Convention, Brooklyn Park, Minnesota
   - October 16 - 18 | Pacificon
   <https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE2NQ/index.html>,
   ARRL Pacific Division Convention, San Ramon, California

<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTA4OA/index.html>

*ARRL -- Your One-Stop Resource for Amateur Radio News and Information*

Join ARRL or renew today!
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE2Ng/index.html>
No other organization works harder to promote and protect amateur radio.
Membership supports benefits, services, programs, and advocacy to help you
get (and stay) active and on the air. Membership includes access to digital
editions of all four ARRL magazines
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE2Nw/index.html>:
*QST*, *On the Air*, *QEX*, and *NCJ*.

Listen to ARRL Audio News
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTExNA/index.html>,
available every Friday.

The *ARRL Letter* is available in an accessible format, posted weekly to
the Blind-hams Groups.io
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE2OA/index.html>
email group. The group is dedicated to discussions about amateur radio as
it concerns blind hams, plus related topics including ham radio use of
adaptive technology.

*NCJ -- National Contest Journal
<https://arrl.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0zNTU3MDA2JnA9MSZ1PTUyMDM1NzcwNyZsaT00MTY2NTE2OQ/index.html>*.
Published bimonthly, features articles by top contesters, letters, hints,
statistics, scores, NA Sprints, and QSO parties.

*QEX -- A Forum for Communications Experimenters
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Published bimonthly, features technical articles, construction projects,
columns, and other items of interest to radio amateurs and communications
professionals.

Free of charge to ARRL members...

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Find ARRL on Facebook
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The ARRL Letter is published Thursdays, 51 times each year. ARRL members
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distribution of this publication, or any portion thereof, is permitted for
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