On Fri, 27 May 2005 20:39:09 -0400, Jayson Davis
wrote:

Lots of college age
kids have become quite knowledgeable about microwaves and RF by
experimenting with their 802.11 wireless gear.

Hi Jayson,

An observation that is borne out here often enough, but equally so
with those who want to extend their cell-phone range.

I see no reason they
couldn't do this in the amateur bands because DXing, working SSB on 40
meters and all of that just doesn't appeal to them.

This observation seems to both offer the question, and give the
answer. The rhetorical speculation that follows borders on redundant.

Or, you can let them do their thing, gain their knowledge and push
amateur radio into further irrelevancy.

Trying to force fit Ham radio into what "seems" to be their interest
(HF download of 30MB PDF files? By RTTY for hardcopy?) will rate a
goggle eyed response. This is about as successful as Bush selling
Social Security.

I think we all know where the prevailing winds are blowing.
I've heard this dirge sung at wake rehearsals for more than 30 years.
Perhaps if we just pushed a pillow over the old geezer's face, then we
wouldn't have to wonder when.

Try something like new modes such as Amateur Radar, Amateur SETI
transmissions, or Amateur HAARP, or -gasp!- Amateur Broadcasting.

We get more broadcast pirates here than 802.11 or cellular, and across
the board the regulatory thumb is gouged into their eye with a
vengeance. Visitors might interpret this as though we had something
to lose ('cause we ain't gonna upset the FCC applecart coming to their
aid).

73's
Richard Clark, KB7QHC