Carl R. Stevenson wrote:
Clearly, welcoming newcomers to our ranks is something that we need to do ...

Just as clearly, some present hams will not welcome any
newcomers even if they have a PhD in EE and can do 50
wpm Morse code. They took the present exams and that
is enough to condemn them to the untouchable class
of amateur radio operators. It's a pity that my
grandsons will be exposed to such nonsense.
--
73, Cecil http://www.w5dxp.com