For the past five years, licensed hams 25 and younger were challenged to write an essay on a topic relevant to ham radio's place in the world. It's part of the Intrepid-DX Group's mission to encourage the growth of amateur radio in all nations around the world, especially in areas that are still developing.

This year's challenge focuses not just on words but action - the contest is being called "Amateur Radio for the Greater Good." In a departure from previous contests, this one asks the young hams to submit proposals to establish a public-access radio station somewhere in the US. The station can be intended for any public building - a school, a house of worship, a fire station, a hospital or a community center.

The winner will receive a complete HF, VHF/UHF station, including coax and antennas, to make their proposal a reality where it can be used for club use, mentoring, training and emergency communication. The winner will also receive an own HF radio for personal use.

The deadline for submission of proposals is the 10th of December, with the awardee's name announced on the 15th. They will be required to provide written permission from the facility that they have chosen, authorizing the installation of the station and antenna. The awardee may become the station's trustee.

See the text version of this week's newscast script at arnewsline.org for the email or US mail address where inquiries or submissions may be sent.