Juan Skinner wrote:
The trouble with a code is that it is designed to keep people out. Once
you've learned the 'secret' code, it makes you feel that you have
something that you, and a select group of others can participate in.
Once you're up there, see how quickly you pull the ladder up.
Does a proficiency in CW make for a better operator? Yes, in a way. It
shows a studious interest in the hobby and is a worth achievement but
does it make a more courtious or interesting operator? Certainly not,
and this group is witness to that.
"People who don't use code are lazy", What? Is that the only discipline
available to allow someone to experiment with radio? Absolutely not!
How about learning electronics and building your own equipment? Is that
a lesser or a greater achievement?
How about taking the hobby forward by progressing and leading cutting
edge technologies? It was after all the amateur fraternity who brought
this new fangled SSB phone mode. Were are at the dawn of a new digital
age on all you people can do is look backwards and remain firmly rooted
in the seventeenth century.

SSB is a period stain on the panties of radio communication. I hate
SSB. I prefer narrowband FM, or AM even, for quality and lack of
annying squawk. Baudot RTTY is fun too.

Make people build something to get the General license and make them
show competence to where a two way or broadcast facility would hire
them for the Extra.

"The True Ham Builds!"