[HCRA] Code or No Code?

[Mike DeChristopher]

WHAT???????  NO CODE?

If the very simple and very easy to pass Morse Code requirement is taken
away for operation below 30MHz, it would be an insult and an outrage.

HF without code is like 18 holes with a pitching wedge, or camping without a
tent, or skiing without boots.  It is like sneezing without a tissue or
bathing without soap.  I even venture to say that it is like operating
without an antenna.  In fact, it is like operating without a license - which
in fact it darn well is!

I apologize to all the new technicians who are looking forward to general
class, but regarding the code hurtle as a major roadblock.  Sorry guys and
gals, but you need the code.  Don't worry, though, I can level with you all.

It took me so many tries to get code, it was rediculous.  When I finally did
pass, I only did by a solid stream of 26 characters - one more than
required!  It is a major rock to climb on your road up.  At the time I was
12 years old (now 14), and felt the same way.  "Code?  Who needs it!"  Well,
when I finally did see HF, I realized why people were so adament about it.

HF is becoming something of a VHF.  I am not against VHF, but am seeing that
it is nothing more than a group of politicians knocking it out on the local
level (not everyone, but a few cases).  I enjoyed that for a while until I
saw some of the true colors associated with certain modes, or what have you.
So I moved to HF.  I noticed the same thing starting.

At least 5wpm, please.  At least.  It is the best thing we can do to keep
our airwaves clean, and make it just that much harder to get, and that much
better a feeling when you do get it.  Thank you.

73', de Mike DeChristopher, KB1FWN