"Dwight Stewart" wrote in message
k.net...
"Bert Craig" wrote:
Ok, Dwight. Very easy. It's not. While the FCC is the
regulatory body to whom we answer, they are definitely
NOT the sum total of who or what defines OUR hobby/
service. We, as amateurs radio operators, are a big part
in retaining those element that define our rules, tradition,
and culture. This is why the NCTA's battle cry is "well,
the FCC doesn't think so" and/or "it serves no regulatory
purpose." (snip)
As you know, that's only one part of the "battle cry," Bert. The rest is
that about half the radio amateurs today (Technicians) don't know code
(culture), that most who do know code don't use it (tradition)
Of course you can quote your source for these assertions, yes? I'd love to
see 'em put it to a vote. No internet polls...just a "one ham, one ballot"
vote. Oh, it shouldn't be just hams? Horsefeathers, WE define OUR
hobby/service. If a prospective ham feels that strongly about it, enter the
fold and then be heard.
, that code is
not used for our service to those outside Amateur Radio (rules), and so
on.
Amateur radio is all we're talking about, Dwight.
(snip) Calling the 5-wpm exam a barrier is just plain silly (snip)
It is a barrier to those who have no interest in Morse Code. Nothing
more
and nothing less.
That's odd, I've QSO'd via phone with a number of ops on 20 that have no
interest in Morse code, yet they did not let the code elements (Much less,
solely Element 1.) deter them from earning HF privies. It's just a
requirement to be fulfilled. Nothing more, nothing less.
Frankly, I have much more respect for someone with the
stones to just admit that they're too lazy or insufficiently
motivated to bother meeting the requirements than all this
"regulatory" mumbo jumbo.
I've repeatedly said I have no interest whatsoever in learning code.
Doesn't that qualify as "insufficiently motivated?"
It would if it remained your individual issue, sure. Instead it's morphed
into an "international" movement, the result of which will devalue AR as a
whole. Then it's our issue...and many may hold you responsible. I know I'd
NEVER snub a licensed ARO OTA...but it'd be foolish to believe that
everybody will roll out the welcome mat for known NCTA's. (Sad as it is.)
Welcome to HF, Dwight. Be careful what you wish for.
Because it beats a blank. BTW, were you one of those who
said that the VHF and up privies of your license were sufficient
for your needs? How long after Element 1 is dropped can I
address you as W5NET/AE, hmm?
Actually, I probably wouldn't rush out to upgrade. I have no place to
install HF antennas, and probably will not for several more years. In
fact,
I'm in a situation now where my participation in VHF/UHF is even somewhat
hindered. As such, upgrading my license will serve no purpose anytime
soon.
Therefore, I'll probably just leave what I have well enough alone.
Try QRP, Dwight. You'll love it. Some of the newer antennas are made to be
used in just your situation and are no bigger than VHF mobil antennas.
There's also a special feeling of accomplishment with making a contact with
2-1/2 Watts into an "invisible" wire dipole or longwire strung temporarily
from a window.
Dwight Stewart (W5NET)
http://www.qsl.net/w5net/
--
73 de Bert
WA2SI