[Fists] Quitting ARRL?

[Paul Beringer]

To all my FISTS friends,

I've been closely watching both sides of this issue being debated here on
the reflector. To resign or not from the ARRL.

On the one hand, I can see the frustration of those who hold strong views on
the CW issue vis-�-vis the ARRL. These folks have seen the demise of support
by the ARRL for "their" issue, notwithstanding the ARRL's persistence in
fighting for us on other important issues. I'm not exactly unbiased on the
CW issue myself. Having had my original ticket in the 60's, CW for a novice
was the only way to get on the HF airways. There was no alternative as I
recall. (if I'm wrong about this, ignore it please) Nevertheless, I and many
other young folks learned it and then learned to love it, in that order. I
missed 30 some years of ham radio until '98 and when I got back into it, CW
was the only way I could effectively use ham radio as I live in a condo with
restrictive covenants. I must say that Stan's passionate feelings for this
issue touched me in a special way. I too am passionate about Morse and have
no love for those who would denigrate or "CB-ize" this great hobby. I can
empathize with his desire to leave the ARRL.

Now on the other hand, those of us who will remain with the ARRL, despite
our misgivings on the code issue, realize, as Larry has so eloquently
stated, that the ARRL is it....ain't nobody else gonna look out for the ARS.
So, with that said, I plan on renewing my membership into the foreseeable
future and I hope that if you are considering leaving, for whatever reason,
that you can see past the anger and resentment. If you are NOT an ARRL
member, please consider joining. Sure, part of your dues are for marketing,
paychecks and so forth. But at least a part of it is being used for
YOU...and your privilege of getting on the air. And it is a privilege, not a
right as so many no coders believe. You earned it, and worked hard for it as
most of us have. Support the organization that helps you keep it.
73 Paul NG7Z
(not affliliated with the ARRL in any way, shape or form)
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