[Boatanchors] The Death of BA Civility

[Gerry Steffens]

Dave's words are wise.

As I think back to the late 1950s and my introduction to radio, if I had run
into some of the attitude seen today, I would not have associated with those
portraying the attitude.

Rather I found a bunch of helpful, interesting folks who had an interest in
me and assisted me in my learning endeavors.

Times were such that some of those fine people offered me parts & older
equipment (nothing fancy) to get started.  Even to the point when two
fellows went silent, they left me some of their gear to "provide it a good
home".  One of those guy's upper body was paralyzed so he operated his 80
meter gear with his feet.  Now I have heard some folks say that they would
rather toss their beloved items in the trash before letting someone else
benefit or have it.  What a waste.

I believe that it is attitudes like the latter that hasten the demise of an
otherwise shrinking community.

Today, I restore mostly classic radios (Scott & McMurdo Silver, although I
do have about 60 Hallicrafters & Nationals).  The Scott community has seen
the beginning of an influx of younger people.  I believe it is partly
because that old helpful spirit still lives in those groups.

Good fortune to all and let's hope the radio hobby hangs on for a while.

Gerry