[KYHAM] Common Decency and Respect

[David A. Smith]

We all need to work hard to keep frequencies used by the amateur radio
service both active and all conversation humorous or otherwise within the
bounds of common decency. Yes, our constitution as amended by the bill of
rights provides for freedom of speech. Slanderous statements directed at any
individual have no place on the air�this speech is not protected by our
construction.

The same is true of directed or implied threats of violence�this is not
protected speech if directed in anger toward someone who has an opinion with
whom someone disagrees. The state of Kentycky uses the frequency 3960 KHz
for two brief nets a day. The remainder of the time, the frequency is open
for general amateur use. No one in Kentucky or any other state owns the
frequency of has a special self-appointed duty to define his or her own
version of good amateur practice.

The nets have been cleaned up through general agreement to put an end to
catcalls such as �What a Lid!� Likewise, the term �What a Guam�, a small
island in the Pacific is heard less and less. The practice of lidsmanship is
thankfully declining.

The frequency of 3960 KHz state of Kentucky and is blessed with a great many
stations that set good examples. The practice of 20 stations being on
frequency and one station running a 65% talk cycle including always doubling
with any station greeting a newcomer because he or she feels compelled to be
in charge is suspect. The 65% duty cycle station feels that he or she is in
total control is just an example of a frustrated disk jockey or talk show
host, yet no rule is violated except deliberate doubling and rudeness which
is not a good amateur practice.

There is no set rule on what is discussed on amateur radio. Keeping the
frequency discussions friendly and fluid is essential. An MD working on a
masters degree in EE might show up to discuss an antenna design. A young
person may state how much he or she is benefiting from classes leading up to
being an underground coal miner. Both are equally welcome and their
endeavors are to be encouraged.

Persons making arbitrary demeaning comments terming a three-minute comment a
dynaflow, a General Motors trademark, or fillabuster are way off base.
Likewise, these persons have no right to trash the comment just because they
live a few hundred yards from each other and can talk over a station several
states away. The ARS is a national resource only so long as we behave in a
professional manner as amateur communicators. In addition, accept
differences in opinions expressed and practice operating technique governed
by courtesy and avoidance of imposing your will on another who holds a
different opinion.

Respectfully,

David Alkire Smith W8YZ
dsmith@smithassoc.com


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