We have found ourselves into another month. Now we are entering what I call “The Silly Season” That particular kind where we combine thoughtfulness, kindness and giving into the mad-dash rush of gathering stuff to celebrate with and sometimes with a bit of craziness mixed in. I, myself try to reflect on the real meanings of the holiday. Helps keep the sanity in check. 😊 With Thanksgiving only weeks away I want to extend my thanks to all those who have elected to support the ARRL and the Western Ma section. Some deserve special shout out’s as without their efforts and/or leadership this section would not be where we are now:
Gil Hayes, WK1H Gil has been with me since the beginning of my tenure and beyond. Without him there would be no website that you are reading from now. Not to mention the other roles he supports as well.
Chuck Chandler, WS1L Chuck has assumed the role as Section Emergency Coordinator and despite a couple of setbacks has put together an ARES program and support staff that we haven’t seen in a very long time and still developing.
Larry Krainson, W1AST Larry has taken the role as Section Club Coordinator and not only has he been communicating with the clubs, he has gotten the clubs to get their annual reports up to date. He coordinated the 13 Colonies event and the Year of the Club Operating event.
The list is huge, it includes technical support people, traffic handling personnel, Club presidents and other officers, Volunteers from the past who have served, the division staff, the government liaison, the RF detection group we have. So many! I thank each and every one of you! Truly!
I attended a meeting in Springfield with members from the division led by our director, Tom K1KI who provided updates and information of the going’s on with the league and the FCC. We did learn that Phil Temples K9HI is stepping down as vice director to devote more time to writing. (He is published and can find them on Amazon.) There was also discussion about club activity, growth and the usual discussion about attracting hams and membership. As we know, we have a varying idea and reasons for these challenges. Each club has and should look to find what will work for them and share the successes to other clubs.
One thing I wish to mention is as we know, the ARRL’s membership has been on the decline for some time now. All sections in the New England division have been dropping. I have noticed though, in recent months Western Ma. have actually posted increases, not big amounts, maybe 1 or 2 members. We have been the only section in this division to do so. This I feel correlates with the increase in activity by individuals and clubs. The POTA activations as a group, VE and license class sessions. Partnerships at places that can demonstrate the hobby. A space station event, an increase in mentoring to new hams, and more. We need to keep up that momentum. Keep up the great effort and thank you. Hopefully the numbers will grow bigger.
I will finish this by wishing everyone a safe, warm Happy Thanksgiving. Enjoy the feast and football!
73, Ray, AA1SE