To: ARRL ODV I would like to update everyone on the status of DXCC processing. We are currently about where we were last year at this time with DXCC processing and we are working hard to keep up. The delay has crept up to about 8 weeks. This is an approximation that varies depending on the type of application (cards only, LoTW, or hybrid) the number of cards in a given application and other factors such as the complexity of the application itself. Other factors, particularly the weather, have contributed to this situation,. We set a record for snowfall here in CT for January and February is off to a good start already. We already have officially closed for a day and a half in January due to weather. Our DXCC employees are sometimes not able to be here at all or come in for reduced hours because they need to clear their driveways, drive during poor road conditions, and deal with school closures. Some are suffering the usual rash of winter illnesses and injuries. In addition, we have been unable to find a suitable candidate for the full time DXCC position that is currently open. We stopped looking during the break between Christmas and New Year but we have begun to look again and we hope to have the position filled shortly. As you know, we just added VUCC to Logbook of the World and this has caused an increased number of LoTW applications and subsequent user support. Dave Patton, MVP Manager, is aware of this situation and he is taking a number of actions to prevent us from slipping further behind. These include: 1. Some employees of the existing DXCC staff have been working voluntary overtime. Not all are able to put in additional hours due to family and other responsibilities. 2. MVP employees, who are not usually assigned DXCC responsibilities, are also working, as necessary, in DXCC to keep up with the workload. 3. Other employees in the building have been cross trained in DXCC and they are also helping with the processing. 4. Our dedicated group of DXCC volunteers are giving us as much of their time as possible editing applications. With the volume of work, staffing issues and the weather, it is a continuing challenge to keep up with this processing but we are trying to stay on top of it. 73, Harold Harold Kramer, WJ1B Chief Operating Officer ARRL -the national association for Amateur Radio 225 Main Street Newington, CT 06111 (860) 594 -0220