[OKDXA] Banquet

[Clifton Sikes]

Hi All,

A little retrospective, for those who missed the banquet. We had a full
house, and I believe a good time was had by all. I had the pleasure of
presenting two awards this year. Our DX-er of the year is W5ATV Dave
Ratliff, our past President. Dave has given two years of excellent service
to the group, sacrificed much of his own time for the good of the group, was
instrumental in making the Oklahoma QSO Party a reality, put in countless
hours with the bureau as a pre-sorter, and some how found time to get his
first DXCC certificate. Good show Dave! A very deserving recipient of the
award.

The second award is a new one for OKDXA. We awarded a Lifetime Achievement
Award to W5NUT Gil Wood. Gil was first licensed in 1947, the year I was
born. Over the years he has confirmed 380 countries, with 375 on 20 meters
alone. He is still active on the bands, and working stuff nearly every day.
Everyone in the Shawnee area knows Gil as an Elmer, mentor, technical guru,
and friend. He has been my inspiration!

I look forward to the Banquet each year, and hope that everyone has a chance
to attend at least one of them.

73, Clif N5UW