From radioguy at tampabay.rr.com  Fri Jul  1 10:04:10 2005
From: radioguy at tampabay.rr.com (Radioguy)
Date: Fri Jul  1 10:26:09 2005
Subject: [QCWA] Radio History On Air
Message-ID: <6.2.1.2.2.20050701100254.03c52d10@pop-server.tampabay.rr.com>

              HISTORIC MORSE CODE RADIO STATION
                             RETURNS TO THE AIR

      Former RCA Station KPH Celebrates Its 100th Anniversary

COAST STATION KSM WILL MAKE ITS INAGURAL TRANSMISSION

COAST STATIONS WLO, KLB, NMC AND NOJ TO BE ON THE AIR

In the sixth annual event that has become known as the "Night of
Nights", historic Morse code radio station KPH will return to the air
in commemoration of the last commercial Morse message sent in the
United States.

This year's Night of Nights is special: it's the 100th anniversary of
KPH, KSM will appear on the air for the first time and four other
US coast stations will be on the air, several of them on MF in addition
to HF.

Frequencies and reception report information for all stations appear
below.

KPH, the ex-RCA coast station located north of San Francisco,  will
return to the air for commemorative broadcasts on 12 July at 1701 PDT
(13 July at 0001 GMT), 6 years and one minute after the last
commercial Morse transmission in the US. These on-the-air events are
intended to honor the men and women who followed the radiotelegraph
trade on ships and at coast stations around the world and made it one
of honor and skill.

Transmissions are expected to continue until at least midnight PDT
(0700GMT).

Veteran Morse operators, including former KPH staff members, will be
on duty at the receiving station at Point Reyes, CA listening for
calls from ships and sending messages just as they did for so many
years before Morse operations were shut down.

The transmitters are located 18 miles south of Point Reyes in
Bolinas, CA at the transmitting station established in 1913 by the
American Marconi Co.  The original KPH transmitters, receivers and
antennas will be used to activate frequencies in all the commercial
maritime HF bands and on MF as well.

Many of the KPH transmitters will be 50s vintage RCA sets.  KSM will use
a 1940s vintage Press Wireless PW-15 transmitter on 12Mc.  Power output
will be 4 to 5kW.  The transmitting antennas include a Marconi T for
MF, double extended Zepps for 4, 6 and 8Mc and H over 2s for 12, 16
and 22Mc.

KPH will send traffic lists, weather and press broadcasts as well as
special commemorative messages, many of which will be sent by hand.
At other times the KPH and KSM "wheel" will be sent to mark the
transmitting frequencies.

Members of the public are invited to visit the receiving station for
this event.  The station will be open to visitors beginning at
1500PDT (3:00pm).  The station is located at 17400 Sir Francis  Drake
Boulevard and is on the route to the Point Reyes lighthouse.  Watch
for a cypress lined driveway on the right about a mile past the entry
to Coast Guard station NMC.

KPH is operated by the Maritime Radio Historical Society in
cooperation with the Point Reyes National Seashore, part of the
National Park Service.

Further information may be found on the Maritime Radio Historical
Society Web site at http://www.radiomarine.org or by contacting
Richard Dillman at +1 415-990-7090 (email: rd@radiomarine.org)
or Tom Horsfall at +1 510-237-9535 (email: wa6ope@hotmail.com).

BT

Station Information follows...

------------

KPH

KPH will transmit on 4247.0, 6477.5, 8642.0, 12808.5, 17016.8 and
22477.5kc on HF and 500 and 426kc on MF.

These frequencies have been made available through the generous
cooperation of Globe Wireless, the current owner of the KPH and KFS
licenses.

KPH operators will listen for calls from ships on ITU Channel 3 in
all bands.  The Channel 3 frequencies are 4184.0, 6276.0,
8368.0, 12552.0, 16736.0 and 22280.5kc on HF and 500kc on MF.

Reception reports may be sent to:

Ms. DA Stoops
P.O. Box 381
Bolinas CA  94924-0381
USA

Denice is a former KPH operator and was the first female telegrapher
hired at the station.

------------

KSM

KSM will transmit on 426, 500, 6474 and 12993kc

KSM will listen for calls from ships on 500kc and HF Channel 3 (see
KPH listing for frequencies).

Reception reports may be sent to:

Ms. DA Stoops
P.O. Box 381
Bolinas CA  94924-0381
USA

------------

WLO

WLO will transmit on 438, 500, 8514.0 and 12660.0kc

WLO will listen for calls from ships on 500kc and HF Channel 3 (see
KPH listing for frequencies).

Reception reports may be sent to:

WLO/KLB
700 RINLA AVENUE
MOBILE, ALABAMA 36619
USA

Or via email to: wloradio@wloradio.com

------------

KLB

KLB will transmit on 6411.0

KLB will listen for calls from ships on 6276kc

Reception reports may be sent to:

WLO/KLB
700 RINLA AVENUE
MOBILE, ALABAMA 36619
USA

Or via email to: wloradio@wloradio.com

------------

NMC

NMC will transmit on 448, 472, 500, 6383.0, 8574.0 and 17220.5kc

NMC will listen for calls from ships on 500kc and HF Channel 3 (see
KPH listing for frequencies).

Reception reports may be sent to:

COMMANDING OFFICER
ATTN ITC ERIC SIMMONS
COMMUNICATIONS AREA MASTER STATION PACIFIC
17000 SIR FRANCIS DRAKE BLVD
POINT REYES STATION, CALIFORNIA 94956-0560
USA

------------

NOJ

NOJ will transmit on 8650.0, 12889.5 and 16909.7

NOJ will listen for calls from ships on Channel 3 (see
KPH listing for frequencies).

Reception reports may be sent to:

COMMANDING OFFICER
ATTN OSCM WILLIAM KECKLER
US COAST GUARD COMMUNICATIONS STATION KODIAK
PO BOX 190017
KODIAK, ALASKA 99619
USA

BT

BV ES VY 73 TO ALL,

MRHS 


From w4tg at bellsouth.net  Mon Jul  4 19:27:56 2005
From: w4tg at bellsouth.net (Harvey&Bessie)
Date: Mon Jul  4 16:37:36 2005
Subject: [QCWA] Test
Message-ID: <42C9C5FC.4090800@bellsouth.net>

Test

From jangus at socal.rr.com  Mon Jul  4 17:07:04 2005
From: jangus at socal.rr.com (Jeffrey D Angus)
Date: Mon Jul  4 17:17:52 2005
Subject: [QCWA] Test
In-Reply-To: <42C9C5FC.4090800@bellsouth.net>
References: <42C9C5FC.4090800@bellsouth.net>
Message-ID: <42C9A4F8.9020000@socal.rr.com>



Harvey&Bessie wrote:

> Test

UR 59 IN LA

Jeff
wa6fwi

-- 
"They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary
safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." Benjamin Franklin
"A life lived in fear is a life half lived."
Tara Morice as Fran, from the movie "Strictly Ballroom"

From jfenn at lava.net  Mon Jul  4 19:23:32 2005
From: jfenn at lava.net (Joseph Fenn)
Date: Mon Jul  4 19:33:51 2005
Subject: [QCWA] Test
In-Reply-To: <42C9C5FC.4090800@bellsouth.net>
References: <42C9C5FC.4090800@bellsouth.net>
Message-ID: <Pine.BSI.4.61.0507041322020.5642@malasada.lava.net>

Hey Harvey and Bessie, where is your QTH?   I use to be a W4 way back
on 1938/39
                Joe/ex W4FAG


**********************************************************
* Ham KH6JF AARS/MARS ABM6JF QCWA WW2 VET WD RADIO SYSTEM*
* Army MARS PRECEDED by AARS (Army Amateur Radio System) * 
**********************************************************


From w4tg at bellsouth.net  Mon Jul  4 22:52:24 2005
From: w4tg at bellsouth.net (Harvey&Bessie)
Date: Mon Jul  4 20:02:02 2005
Subject: [QCWA] Test
References: <42C9C5FC.4090800@bellsouth.net>
	<Pine.BSI.4.61.0507041322020.5642@malasada.lava.net>
Message-ID: <42C9F5E8.5040107@bellsouth.net>

	Joe, we are located 6 miles north of Gray. GA, a small "bedroom" community 14 miles north 
of Macon, GA, in the center of the state.
73
Harvey

From wb5pnm at yahoo.com  Mon Jul  4 19:58:30 2005
From: wb5pnm at yahoo.com (Bob)
Date: Mon Jul  4 20:08:45 2005
Subject: [QCWA] Request
In-Reply-To: <00e501c56b73$7ab328e0$0300a8c0@IBM8C559F2E724>
Message-ID: <20050704235831.14583.qmail@web40703.mail.yahoo.com>

Please send me info. on changing my call on roster. I
requested this about a month ago. You sent a E.Mail
address. I sent in my request and received no answer.
Thanks in advance, Bob/WY5Y  previous WB5PNM

--- N0UF <n0uf@kc.rr.com> wrote:

> Hi Harvey,
> 
> 1. 'No Mail' has been set on your e-mail for the
> QCWA Reflector.
> 
> 2. This isn't my system or my instructions, they do
> seem complicated at 
> times.
>     We, QCWA is using qth.net for our reflector as
> are hundreds of other 
> amateur
>     groups.
> 
> 3.  Enjoy your vacation.
> 
> 73,
> Bob N0UF
> Reflector Administrator
> ----- Original Message ----- 
> From: "Harvey&Bessie" <w4tg@bellsouth.net>
> To: <antennas@mailman.qth.net>;
> <qcwa@mailman.qth.net>
> Sent: Tuesday, June 07, 2005 12:55 PM
> Subject: [QCWA] Request
> 
> 
> > Just get me off this site, I'm trying to follow
> your complicated 
> > instructions with no results! I will be away for
> over a week and don't 
> > want mail to pile up. I keep getting messages that
> I didn't do it the 
> > right way. Why can't you make it user friendly?
> >
> > _______________________________________________
> > QCWA mailing list
> > QCWA@mailman.qth.net
> > http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/qcwa
> > 
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________
> QCWA mailing list
> QCWA@mailman.qth.net
> http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/qcwa
> 



		
__________________________________ 
Discover Yahoo! 
Use Yahoo! to plan a weekend, have fun online and more. Check it out! 
http://discover.yahoo.com/
From n0uf at kc.rr.com  Mon Jul  4 21:34:33 2005
From: n0uf at kc.rr.com (N0UF)
Date: Mon Jul  4 21:45:01 2005
Subject: [QCWA] Request
References: <20050704235831.14583.qmail@web40703.mail.yahoo.com>
Message-ID: <001501c58101$b45de550$0300a8c0@IBM8C559F2E724>

Hi Bob, et al...

However a change is submitted, it ends up with Chuck at HQ where your record 
is updated. The first evidence you may see is when your next Journal label 
is correct because the files on the web are only updated annually.

73,
Bob, N0UF
Webmaster
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Bob" <wb5pnm@yahoo.com>
To: "Discussion of QCWA" <qcwa@mailman.qth.net>
Sent: Monday, July 04, 2005 6:58 PM
Subject: Re: [QCWA] Request


> Please send me info. on changing my call on roster. I
> requested this about a month ago. You sent a E.Mail
> address. I sent in my request and received no answer.
> Thanks in advance, Bob/WY5Y  previous WB5PNM
>
> --- N0UF <n0uf@kc.rr.com> wrote:
>
>> Hi Harvey,
>>
>> 1. 'No Mail' has been set on your e-mail for the
>> QCWA Reflector.
>>
>> 2. This isn't my system or my instructions, they do
>> seem complicated at
>> times.
>>     We, QCWA is using qth.net for our reflector as
>> are hundreds of other
>> amateur
>>     groups.
>>
>> 3.  Enjoy your vacation.
>>
>> 73,
>> Bob N0UF
>> Reflector Administrator
>> ----- Original Message ----- 
>> From: "Harvey&Bessie" <w4tg@bellsouth.net>
>> To: <antennas@mailman.qth.net>;
>> <qcwa@mailman.qth.net>
>> Sent: Tuesday, June 07, 2005 12:55 PM
>> Subject: [QCWA] Request
>>
>>
>> > Just get me off this site, I'm trying to follow
>> your complicated
>> > instructions with no results! I will be away for
>> over a week and don't
>> > want mail to pile up. I keep getting messages that
>> I didn't do it the
>> > right way. Why can't you make it user friendly?
>> >
>> > _______________________________________________
>> > QCWA mailing list
>> > QCWA@mailman.qth.net
>> > http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/qcwa
>> >
>>
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> QCWA mailing list
>> QCWA@mailman.qth.net
>> http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/qcwa
>>
>
>
>
>
> __________________________________
> Discover Yahoo!
> Use Yahoo! to plan a weekend, have fun online and more. Check it out!
> http://discover.yahoo.com/
> _______________________________________________
> QCWA mailing list
> QCWA@mailman.qth.net
> http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/qcwa
> 


From wb5pnm at yahoo.com  Mon Jul  4 22:37:53 2005
From: wb5pnm at yahoo.com (Bob)
Date: Mon Jul  4 22:48:09 2005
Subject: [QCWA] Request
In-Reply-To: <001501c58101$b45de550$0300a8c0@IBM8C559F2E724>
Message-ID: <20050705023753.62401.qmail@web40722.mail.yahoo.com>

Thanks Bob,
wy5y

--- N0UF <n0uf@kc.rr.com> wrote:

> Hi Bob, et al...
> 
> However a change is submitted, it ends up with Chuck
> at HQ where your record 
> is updated. The first evidence you may see is when
> your next Journal label 
> is correct because the files on the web are only
> updated annually.
> 
> 73,
> Bob, N0UF
> Webmaster
> ----- Original Message ----- 
> From: "Bob" <wb5pnm@yahoo.com>
> To: "Discussion of QCWA" <qcwa@mailman.qth.net>
> Sent: Monday, July 04, 2005 6:58 PM
> Subject: Re: [QCWA] Request
> 
> 
> > Please send me info. on changing my call on
> roster. I
> > requested this about a month ago. You sent a
> E.Mail
> > address. I sent in my request and received no
> answer.
> > Thanks in advance, Bob/WY5Y  previous WB5PNM
> >
> > --- N0UF <n0uf@kc.rr.com> wrote:
> >
> >> Hi Harvey,
> >>
> >> 1. 'No Mail' has been set on your e-mail for the
> >> QCWA Reflector.
> >>
> >> 2. This isn't my system or my instructions, they
> do
> >> seem complicated at
> >> times.
> >>     We, QCWA is using qth.net for our reflector
> as
> >> are hundreds of other
> >> amateur
> >>     groups.
> >>
> >> 3.  Enjoy your vacation.
> >>
> >> 73,
> >> Bob N0UF
> >> Reflector Administrator
> >> ----- Original Message ----- 
> >> From: "Harvey&Bessie" <w4tg@bellsouth.net>
> >> To: <antennas@mailman.qth.net>;
> >> <qcwa@mailman.qth.net>
> >> Sent: Tuesday, June 07, 2005 12:55 PM
> >> Subject: [QCWA] Request
> >>
> >>
> >> > Just get me off this site, I'm trying to follow
> >> your complicated
> >> > instructions with no results! I will be away
> for
> >> over a week and don't
> >> > want mail to pile up. I keep getting messages
> that
> >> I didn't do it the
> >> > right way. Why can't you make it user friendly?
> >> >
> >> > _______________________________________________
> >> > QCWA mailing list
> >> > QCWA@mailman.qth.net
> >> > http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/qcwa
> >> >
> >>
> >>
> >> _______________________________________________
> >> QCWA mailing list
> >> QCWA@mailman.qth.net
> >> http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/qcwa
> >>
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > __________________________________
> > Discover Yahoo!
> > Use Yahoo! to plan a weekend, have fun online and
> more. Check it out!
> > http://discover.yahoo.com/
> > _______________________________________________
> > QCWA mailing list
> > QCWA@mailman.qth.net
> > http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/qcwa
> > 
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________
> QCWA mailing list
> QCWA@mailman.qth.net
> http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/qcwa
> 



		
__________________________________ 
Yahoo! Mail 
Stay connected, organized, and protected. Take the tour: 
http://tour.mail.yahoo.com/mailtour.html 

From efeustel at direcway.com  Tue Jul  5 06:27:37 2005
From: efeustel at direcway.com (Edward A. Feustel)
Date: Tue Jul  5 06:38:11 2005
Subject: [QCWA] Chapter 146 Site update
Message-ID: <42CA6099.7070707@direcway.com>

The Twin States (NH & VT) Chapter 146 Site has been updated.

Ed Feustel, N5EI

From Schrick at copper.net  Sun Jul 10 17:50:59 2005
From: Schrick at copper.net (Gerd Schrick WB8IFM)
Date: Sun Jul 10 18:02:22 2005
Subject: [QCWA] Chapter 9 Dayton / Cincinnati Meeting Tue
Message-ID: <42D19843.7030700@copper.net>

Our Regular Meetings are on the SECOND Tue with lunch at 11:30 AM at the 
MCL Cafeteria,
4485 Far Hills Av. in Kettering
  
*July 12 meeting:*  Digital Television  by Gerd, WB8IFM

Cu there!
73, Gerd, WB8IFM.

From w4vz at bellsouth.net  Mon Jul 11 14:25:49 2005
From: w4vz at bellsouth.net (Arthur R. Rauch)
Date: Mon Jul 11 14:37:28 2005
Subject: [QCWA] ANDY cLARK cHAPTER # 12 Meeting Notice
Message-ID: <000d01c58645$f67a1af0$6101a8c0@arthurg0ujv4hy>

The next regular meeting of the Andy Clark Chapter # 12 QCWA will be this Saturday July 16th  12 Noon at Longhorn Steak House 1630 NW 87th Ave. Miami FL 33172 Phone 305-477-4122.
Please note this is a NEW MEETING Place.Bring a friend. Visitors are always welcome.
73 Art Rauch W4VZ Secretary...
From n0uf at kc.rr.com  Tue Jul 12 22:26:15 2005
From: n0uf at kc.rr.com (N0UF)
Date: Tue Jul 12 22:40:08 2005
Subject: [QCWA] On the road
Message-ID: <012701c58752$894c1560$0300a8c0@IBM8C559F2E724>

I'll be out of touch from Wednesday through Sunday. 

I'll make any web updates when I return.

73,
Bob

From groach at igs.net  Wed Jul 13 15:42:58 2005
From: groach at igs.net (George Roach)
Date: Wed Jul 13 15:52:40 2005
Subject: [QCWA] On the road
In-Reply-To: <012701c58752$894c1560$0300a8c0@IBM8C559F2E724>
References: <012701c58752$894c1560$0300a8c0@IBM8C559F2E724>
Message-ID: <6.1.2.0.0.20050713154225.03872c80@mailbox.ott.igs.net>

Enjoy yourself !

George


At 10:26 PM 7/12/05, you wrote:
>I'll be out of touch from Wednesday through Sunday.
>I'll make any web updates when I return.
>
>73,
>Bob
>
>_______________________________________________
>QCWA mailing list
>QCWA@mailman.qth.net
>http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/qcwa

From rrucker at verizon.net  Mon Jul 18 08:27:36 2005
From: rrucker at verizon.net (Richard Rucker)
Date: Mon Jul 18 08:43:35 2005
Subject: [QCWA] QCWA Chapter 91's website updated
Message-ID: <6A4E243C-97E6-4C9B-9EE8-F2BE8B9B3DDC@verizon.net>

Our web site was updated this morning.  Point your browser to:

               http://homepage.mac.com/rrucker/chapter91.html

Under Recent Events:
-----------------------------

July 16, 2005: Pete Norloff, KG4OJT, on the Automatic Position  
Reporting System(APRS); Annual Awards Luncheon:
"After a short business meeting, President John Reiser served as  
master of ceremonies for the presentation of awards from QCWA to the  
following Chapter 91 members...

"VP and Program Chairman Len Hook, KG6ZR, introduced Pete Norloff,  
KG4OJT, as our speaker...

"Pete's topic: the Automatic Position Reporting System (APRS). APRS  
is a system for using packet radio to broadcast computer-generated  
data via a radio link operating on a shared ham-band frequency...

"Created by Bob Bruninga, WA3APR, in 1984, the first version of the  
software was written by him on a VIC-20...

"The map on the left shows successive position reports (in green)  
obtained from an Internet website archiving position reports from  
KG4OJT since last November...

"Pete showed how buses carrying the "survivors" of a mock transport  
aircraft crash were tracked on their way to area hospitals by Fairfax  
County ARES during an all-day drill centered on Dulles International  
Airport (IAD)...

"Some other examples shown by Pete...

"a bicycle-mounted APRS station that Maria Norton, KG4JBJ, uses when  
she takes on the role of "tail-end Charlie" in marathon races...

"he flight last year of a balloon-carried APRS station launched by  
the Vienna Wireless Society (VWS)...



Under Photo Albums:
-----------------------------.
Photos from this meeting can be found here:

              http://homepage.mac.com/rrucker/PhotoAlbum63.html


Dick Rucker, KM4ML
Secretary
QCWA Vic Clark Chapter 91




From k4bai at worldnet.att.net  Wed Jul 20 09:49:52 2005
From: k4bai at worldnet.att.net (John Laney)
Date: Wed Jul 20 10:02:55 2005
Subject: [QCWA] Need old W4MMA QSL
Message-ID: <42DE5680.8020204@worldnet.att.net>

Hello all:

I have received a request from NF4A, who is trying to help a relatively 
new ham, W4MMA, obtain a copy of a W4MMA QSL when the call was held by 
his SK father.  W4MMA was apparently active for many years in Panama 
City, Florida.  Would anyone who can find a QSL from W4MMA and would be 
willing to part with the QSL or be willing to send a photocopy of the 
QSL please contact me directly?  Many thanks for your help.

73,


John, K4BAI
QCWA 15,922.

From radioguy at tampabay.rr.com  Wed Jul 20 20:38:19 2005
From: radioguy at tampabay.rr.com (Pete Kemp)
Date: Wed Jul 20 21:01:50 2005
Subject: [QCWA] FCC Proposes Dropping Morse Code 
Message-ID: <6.2.1.2.2.20050720203739.03c3f280@pop-server.tampabay.rr.com>



FCC Proposes to Drop Morse Code Requirement for All License Classes

NEWINGTON, CT, July 20, 2005--The FCC has proposed dropping the 5 WPM Morse 
code element as a requirement to obtain an Amateur Radio license of any 
class. The Commission recommended the change to its Part 97 Amateur Service 
rules in a Notice of Proposed Rule Making 
(<http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/FCC-05-143A1.pdf>NPRM) 
in WT Docket 05-235. Any rule changes proposed in the NPRM would not become 
final until the FCC gathers additional public comments, formally adopts any 
changes to its rules and concludes the proceeding by issuing a Report and 
Order (R&O) spelling out the changes and specifying an effective date. 
That's not likely to happen for several months. The FCC declined in its 
NPRM to go forward with any other suggested changes to Amateur Service 
licensing rules or operating privileges beyond elimination of the Morse 
requirement.

"Based upon the petitions and comments, we propose to amend our amateur 
service rules to eliminate the requirement that individuals pass a 
telegraphy examination in order to qualify for any amateur radio operator 
license," the FCC said in its NPRM, released July 19. This week's NPRM 
consolidated 18 petitions for rule making from the amateur 
community--including one from the ARRL--that proposed a wide range of 
additional changes to the amateur rules. The FCC said the various petitions 
had attracted 6200 comments from the amateur community, which soon will 
have the opportunity to comment again--this time on the FCC's proposals in 
response to those petitions.

The Commission said it believes dropping Element 1--the 5 WPM Morse 
examination--would "encourage individuals who are interested in 
communications technology, or who are able to contribute to the advancement 
of the radio art, to become amateur radio operators." The FCC said it also 
would eliminate a requirement it believes "is now unnecessary and that may 
discourage" current licensees from advancing their skills, and that it 
would "promote more efficient use" of current Amateur Radio spectrum.

The FCC cited changes in Article 25 of the international Radio Regulations 
adopted at World Radiocommunication Conference 2003 as the primary reason 
to go forward with eliminating Morse code as an Amateur Radio licensing 
requirement in the future. Among other changes, WRC-03 deleted the Morse 
testing requirement for amateur applicants seeking HF privileges, leaving 
it up to individual countries to determine whether or not they want to 
mandate Morse testing. Several countries already have dropped their Morse 
requirements.

ARRL CEO David Sumner, K1ZZ, said he was not surprised that the FCC 
proposed altogether scrapping the Morse code requirement. The League and 
others had called for retaining the 5 WPM requirement only for Amateur 
Extra class applicants. Sumner expressed dismay, however, that the FCC 
turned away proposals from the League and other petitioners to create a new 
entry-level Amateur Radio license class.

"We're disappointed that the Commission prefers to deny an opportunity to 
give Amateur Radio the restructuring it needs for the 21st century," he 
said. "It appears that the Commission is taking the easy road, but the easy 
road is seldom the right road."

Sumner said ARRL officials and the Board of Directors would closely study 
the 30-page NPRM and plan to comment further after they've had the 
opportunity to consider the Commission's stated rationales for its proposals.

In 2004, the ARRL filed a Petition for Rule Making asking the FCC to amend 
Part 97 to complete the Amateur Service restructuring begun in 1999 but 
"left unfinished." The League called on the FCC to create a new entry-level 
license, reduce the number of actual license classes to three and drop the 
Morse code testing requirement for all classes except for Amateur Extra. 
Among other recommendations, the League asked the FCC to automatically 
upgrade Technician licensees to General and Advanced licensees to Amateur 
Extra. In this week's NPRM, the FCC said it was not persuaded such 
automatic upgrades were in the public interest.

The FCC said it did not believe a new entry-level license class was 
warranted because current Novice and Tech Plus licensees already can easily 
upgrade to General. "We also note that, if our proposal to eliminate 
telegraphy testing in the amateur service is adopted," the FCC continued, 
"a person who is not a licensee will be able to qualify for a General Class 
operator license by passing two written examinations, and that a person who 
is a Technician Class licensee will be able to qualify for a General Class 
operator license by passing one written examination." The FCC said it does 
not believe either path to be unreasonable.

The FCC also said that it's already addressed some of the other issues 
petitioners raised in its "Phone Band Expansion" (or "Omnibus") 
<http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/FCC-04-79A1.doc>NPRM in 
WT Docket 04-140. In that proceeding, the Commission proposed to go along 
with the ARRL's <http://www.arrl.org/announce/regulatory/refarm/>Novice 
refarming proposal aimed at reallocating the current Novice/Tech Plus 
subbands to provide additional phone spectrum. Under the plan, Novice/Tech 
Plus licensees would be granted CW privileges in the current General CW 
subbands.

A 60-day period for members of the public to comment on the FCC's NPRM in 
WT 05-235 will begin once the NPRM appears in the Federal Register. Reply 
comments will be due within 75 days of the NPRM's publication in the 
Federal Register.

(Tnx to ARRL. webpage)



From k5dle at juno.com  Wed Jul 20 23:42:18 2005
From: k5dle at juno.com (Gene A. Nailon)
Date: Wed Jul 20 23:49:23 2005
Subject: [QCWA] FCC NPRM:
Message-ID: <20050720.224239.-322977.0.k5dle@juno.com>

 
FROM: K5DLE  Gene Nailon  k5dle@juno.com
20 July 2005

Hello QCWA;

You must be very proud!  You are going to get just what you
want and deserve.

Congradulations,

Gene
=========================================================
From k9ps at arrl.net  Thu Jul 21 07:08:34 2005
From: k9ps at arrl.net (Paul L Schmidt)
Date: Thu Jul 21 07:41:07 2005
Subject: [QCWA] FCC NPRM:
In-Reply-To: <20050720.224239.-322977.0.k5dle@juno.com>
References: <20050720.224239.-322977.0.k5dle@juno.com>
Message-ID: <42DF8232.6080308@arrl.net>

Gene A. Nailon wrote:
>  
> FROM: K5DLE  Gene Nailon  k5dle@juno.com
> 20 July 2005
> 
> Hello QCWA;
> 
> You must be very proud!  You are going to get just what you
> want and deserve.
> 

I'm not exactly sure what that means.  It seems to me that the
FCC's process of a rulemaking proposal is supposed to accomplish
just that - determine what we want, need, and deserve.

> Congradulations,

Have we somehow graduated to/from something?  (That popular
mis-spelling of the word is generally reserved greeting cards
at graduation time - was that the intent?)

The worldwide regs no longer require a morse examination.

My state doesn't require someone wanting a driving license to
demonstrate ability with a standard transmission.

Both morse and standard transmissions are still legal to use
if one wants to.  In fact, one of my cars has a standard
transmission -- as do some of those 250+ horsepower 6-speed
sports cars I've seen advertised on TV.

The NPRM shouldn't be seen as a loss of a mode - it should be
seen as an opportunity to evaluate how far we have come with
communications technology, where we are going, and to what
extent tradition and history need to be included in the
requirements for new licensees. The FCC doesn't make those
decisions in a vacuum -- they solicit comments from citizens
before making the decison, and often adjust the proposal to
reflect comments received.

This isn't time to gripe about the proposal.  It's time to
assemble thoughts in a well laid-out format and get them ready
to present to the FCC.

-ps
From w5jo at brightok.net  Thu Jul 21 09:41:51 2005
From: w5jo at brightok.net (Jim Wilhite)
Date: Thu Jul 21 09:55:12 2005
Subject: [QCWA] FCC NPRM:
References: <20050720.224239.-322977.0.k5dle@juno.com>
	<42DF8232.6080308@arrl.net>
Message-ID: <003801c58df9$f378f1d0$0201a8c0@Wilhite>


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Paul L Schmidt" <k9ps@arrl.net>
To: "Discussion of QCWA" <qcwa@mailman.qth.net>
Sent: Thursday, July 21, 2005 6:08 AM
Subject: Re: [QCWA] FCC NPRM:


> Gene A. Nailon wrote:
>>  FROM: K5DLE  Gene Nailon  k5dle@juno.com
>> 20 July 2005
>>
>> Hello QCWA;
>>
>> You must be very proud!  You are going to get just what you
>> want and deserve.
>>
>
> I'm not exactly sure what that means.  It seems to me that the
> FCC's process of a rulemaking proposal is supposed to accomplish
> just that - determine what we want, need, and deserve.
>

Many times what people want is good for them, and in this case, is 
elimination of code a good thing?  Maybe so, maybe not as explained below.



>> Congradulations,
>
> Have we somehow graduated to/from something?  (That popular
> mis-spelling of the word is generally reserved greeting cards
> at graduation time - was that the intent?)
>
> The worldwide regs no longer require a morse examination.
>
> My state doesn't require someone wanting a driving license to
> demonstrate ability with a standard transmission.
>

Holding an amateur radio license is hardly akin to a state driver's license, 
unless you wish to compare the difference between an automobile license and 
commercial truck license.  Some years back states toughened the Commercial 
truckers license because they realized the level of understanding about how 
to load the trailer, systems on the truck and how to operate them is 
critical to, not only safety but to common courtesy.

Since the reduction of the code standard, the theory knowledge level has 
been questionable.  I, personally, know many Extra hams that have no clue 
about the theory of electronics.   This is not bad when the people held a 
lower level license and was considered to be learning the advanced 
operational and theory practices.  At least the code did prevent some people 
from entering the hobby without consulting with existing amateurs who 
explained how we work before the new comers were let loose on the bands. 
Good or Bad?  I think it has been marginal.



> Both morse and standard transmissions are still legal to use
> if one wants to.  In fact, one of my cars has a standard
> transmission -- as do some of those 250+ horsepower 6-speed
> sports cars I've seen advertised on TV.
>
> The NPRM shouldn't be seen as a loss of a mode - it should be
> seen as an opportunity to evaluate how far we have come with
> communications technology, where we are going, and to what
> extent tradition and history need to be included in the
> requirements for new licensees. The FCC doesn't make those
> decisions in a vacuum -- they solicit comments from citizens
> before making the decison, and often adjust the proposal to
> reflect comments received.
>
> This isn't time to gripe about the proposal.  It's time to
> assemble thoughts in a well laid-out format and get them ready
> to present to the FCC.


You are very correct here and I urge we review all bands not just, the 
VHF/UHF/SHF bands .  Most of the complaints center around the activity on 
75/80 and 20 meters.  Maybe we should petition the FCC for yet stricter 
enforcement of the interference rules or a special license to operate on 
those bands.  Additionally, any amateur that operates on the CB band be 
fined and have their license revoked.  I suspicion the reason we in the U.S. 
cannot operate on the lower portion of the MF/HF bands is the overwhelming 
number of U.S. hams that would move to that portion and interfer with 
CW/Digital modes in other parts of the world.

Sometimes rules are streached into areas where the intent of the rule did 
not allow (think of the current K1MAN conterversy).  But certain people will 
hide behind the strict literal translation to mask questionalble operations. 
Do we want that?  I leave that up to you, but the one thing I detest is 
amateurs holding the highest class of license who have very little or any 
knowledge of the rules, the equipment they operate (even basic knowledge of 
antennas) and their general demeanor toward others.  Be careful of what you 
request, you might get it.

>
> -ps


73  Jim
W5JO 


From rrucker at verizon.net  Thu Jul 21 07:53:59 2005
From: rrucker at verizon.net (Richard Rucker)
Date: Thu Jul 21 12:42:28 2005
Subject: [QCWA] Fwd: FCC NPRM for no-code HF licenses
References: <998AD45A83D4F7488AD94C2F9C0EBC4A04E09ECB@sanmail02.nsf.gov>
Message-ID: <6E9598E1-5B7A-4572-9C36-BE245B7C8208@verizon.net>



Begin forwarded message:

> From: "Clegg, Andrew" <aclegg@nsf.gov>
> Date: July 20, 2005 4:38:38 PM EDT

This was forwarded by Andy Clegg, W4JE:

The attached document begins:

"In this Notice of Proposed Rule Making and Order (NPRM), we address  
eighteen petitions for rulemaking.  The petitioners request that we  
amend the Commission?s amateur radio service rules  to implement  
revised international Radio Regulations that were adopted at the 2003  
World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC?03).

"Most of the petitioners request that we entirely or partially  
eliminate the requirement that an individual must pass an  
international Morse code[4] telegraphy examination in order to  
qualify for certain classes of amateur radio operator licenses.

"Others request that we either maintain the current requirement or  
increase the speed in telegraphy that an individual must demonstrate  
in order to qualify for certain classes of amateur radio operator  
licenses.

"In addition, some petitioners request that we establish a new class  
of operator license in the amateur service, or otherwise modify the  
license structure or associated operating privileges. "

-------------------

See the attached 30 page dccument.  I've converted it from a  
Microsoft Word document to a PDF file so that anyone having Adobe  
Reader (a free download from Adobe) or another PDF reader should be  
able to open it.



-------------- next part --------------



From n0uf at kc.rr.com  Thu Jul 21 12:29:00 2005
From: n0uf at kc.rr.com (N0UF)
Date: Thu Jul 21 12:42:32 2005
Subject: [QCWA] Attention
Message-ID: <02e101c58e11$4dfa1370$0300a8c0@IBM8C559F2E724>

As soon as I post this message, I'll allow a message to be sent to the 
reflector. It was held for a number of reasons but the content is of 
interest so I'm letting it through.  The garbled portion is the way the 
attachment was received.  I can't change message content, only accept or 
reject the message as received.

Please contact the individual(s) listed in the message directly for a copy 
of the attachment.

We do not allow attachments on the reflector as a virus prevention measure.

tnx es 73,
Bob N0UF
Reflector Admin



From n2rq at optonline.net  Thu Jul 21 12:32:45 2005
From: n2rq at optonline.net (L M)
Date: Thu Jul 21 12:46:23 2005
Subject: [QCWA] FCC NPRM:
References: <20050720.224239.-322977.0.k5dle@juno.com>
	<42DF8232.6080308@arrl.net> <003801c58df9$f378f1d0$0201a8c0@Wilhite>
Message-ID: <003f01c58e11$e05a4e10$6401a8c0@D81MNR41>

Since the international regs no longer require the code, it is difficult to 
successfully argue that it should be retained in its present form.  I have 
supported the ARRL position seeking to retain code for the Extra.

If we assume the nprm is enacted as proposed, we should then focus on how 
the written element question pools should be changed to better address the 
concerns that Jim raised below.  The predominance of "appliance operators" 
that seems to have been increasing for decades is a challenge for all of us. 
Our local club seems to provide support for new and technically 
unsophisticated operators. All kinds of questions are entertained on our 
repeaters. Some of them I can recall being answered for me, more than 40 
years ago.

In my experience, it seems that most new hams get started because of contact 
with other hams. We must increase those person to person contacts so that we 
both increase the number of new hams as well as their quality.

As an active ARES and RACES member, I am concerned that the increase in 
demand for our service by public agencies, will probably overwhelm our 
numbers.  After 9/11, in NYC, we provided many weeks of around the clock 
shifts of operators for the Red Cross and Salvation Army.  I know first hand 
how much some of our "work" was appreciated at "ground zero".  As we all 
"age out", we must look to our youth to carry more of the load.

73,
Lew N2RQ
n2rq@arrl.net
member #20,800

"They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary
 safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." Benjamin Franklin


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Jim Wilhite" <w5jo@brightok.net>
To: "Discussion of QCWA" <qcwa@mailman.qth.net>
Sent: Thursday, July 21, 2005 9:41 AM
Subject: Re: [QCWA] FCC NPRM:


But certain people will
> hide behind the strict literal translation to mask questionalble 
> operations. Do we want that?  I leave that up to you, but the one thing I 
> detest is amateurs holding the highest class of license who have very 
> little or any knowledge of the rules, the equipment they operate (even 
> basic knowledge of antennas) and their general demeanor toward others.  Be 
> careful of what you request, you might get it.
>
>
> 73  Jim
> W5JO


From christopher.b.hays at lmco.com  Thu Jul 21 12:44:37 2005
From: christopher.b.hays at lmco.com (Hays, Christopher B)
Date: Thu Jul 21 12:57:51 2005
Subject: [QCWA] FCC NPRM:
Message-ID: <929DC9F2A6480F49B38E7ADC544E4B490A69B149@emss07m15.us.lmco.com>

Frankly, the this was to be expected.  The Feds have not wanted to deal
with the amateur radio segment no more then they once did the CB sector.
I think the hand writing is on the wall.  Further deregulation is coming
only slower then it did the CB sector.

Appliance operators will become more the normal as increases in
technology further keep amateurs from understanding let alone able to
work on their store bought gear.  Radios today do not require "tuning
up", adjustment, etc.  About the only thing to adjust next to the VFO
knob is the mic gain.

It is interesting that such a minority of individuals that refuse to
learn entry level 5 WPM CW can change the entire hobby for the majority.

CW is a very popular mode, contrary to what the NCI camp spews out.  It
is the most reliable mode and able to maintain a contact much better
then a voice signal.  Language isn't a barrier either if one uses the Q
signals, etc.

I see a further deregulation on the horizon, a change to perhaps one
license class, an Operator's License and no more license class levels.
Too many NCT's complain already about the stigma associated with being a
NCT or someone being an Extra Class.  I see that as the next shoe to
drop.

Keep your eyes open.  Watch for it.

Afterall, if the Feds were honestly interested in Amateur Radio, why
would they authorize deployment of a harmful interference source (i.e.
BPL)?

It's all about $$ folks! 

-----Original Message-----
From: qcwa-bounces@mailman.qth.net [mailto:qcwa-bounces@mailman.qth.net]
On Behalf Of L M
Sent: Thursday, July 21, 2005 11:33 AM
To: Discussion of QCWA
Subject: Re: [QCWA] FCC NPRM:

Since the international regs no longer require the code, it is difficult
to successfully argue that it should be retained in its present form.  I
have supported the ARRL position seeking to retain code for the Extra.

If we assume the nprm is enacted as proposed, we should then focus on
how the written element question pools should be changed to better
address the concerns that Jim raised below.  The predominance of
"appliance operators" 
that seems to have been increasing for decades is a challenge for all of
us. 
Our local club seems to provide support for new and technically
unsophisticated operators. All kinds of questions are entertained on our
repeaters. Some of them I can recall being answered for me, more than 40
years ago.

In my experience, it seems that most new hams get started because of
contact with other hams. We must increase those person to person
contacts so that we both increase the number of new hams as well as
their quality.

As an active ARES and RACES member, I am concerned that the increase in
demand for our service by public agencies, will probably overwhelm our
numbers.  After 9/11, in NYC, we provided many weeks of around the clock
shifts of operators for the Red Cross and Salvation Army.  I know first
hand how much some of our "work" was appreciated at "ground zero".  As
we all "age out", we must look to our youth to carry more of the load.

73,
Lew N2RQ
n2rq@arrl.net
member #20,800

"They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary
safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." Benjamin Franklin


----- Original Message -----
From: "Jim Wilhite" <w5jo@brightok.net>
To: "Discussion of QCWA" <qcwa@mailman.qth.net>
Sent: Thursday, July 21, 2005 9:41 AM
Subject: Re: [QCWA] FCC NPRM:


But certain people will
> hide behind the strict literal translation to mask questionalble 
> operations. Do we want that?  I leave that up to you, but the one
thing I 
> detest is amateurs holding the highest class of license who have very 
> little or any knowledge of the rules, the equipment they operate (even

> basic knowledge of antennas) and their general demeanor toward others.
Be 
> careful of what you request, you might get it.
>
>
> 73  Jim
> W5JO


_______________________________________________
QCWA mailing list
QCWA@mailman.qth.net
http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/qcwa

From w1eof at hamnutz.com  Thu Jul 21 13:49:37 2005
From: w1eof at hamnutz.com (W1EOF)
Date: Thu Jul 21 14:02:49 2005
Subject: [QCWA] FCC NPRM:
In-Reply-To: <42DF8232.6080308@arrl.net>
Message-ID: <NCBBJCLPMKDDBBMEAPOHMEGKIJAC.w1eof@hamnutz.com>

Paul -

Very well said OM. I've been a ham for 34 years. In that time, I have had
approx 34 non-CW QSOs. So you can see I'm a diehard CW man. Yet I see no
point in keeping this as a prerequisite to getting a amateur radio license.

I just don't buy the argument that the CW test is a barrier to riff-raff. If
it is, then how did we get some of those hams on 75m who use inappropriate
language and poor operating tchniques? Me? I'd much rather that they make
the tests harder.

The thing that is the largest potential barrier to getting GOOD people into
radio is the classest and rude comments I read all the time regarding new
hams. When I became a ham the Old Men treated me as an equal, not as a
second-class citizen. We really need to ge together to make ham radio
better, not to fracture it into factions that war with each other.

73,

Mark W1EOF


> -----Original Message-----
> From: Paul L Schmidt [mailto:k9ps@arrl.net]
> Sent: Thursday, July 21, 2005 7:09 AM
> To: Discussion of QCWA
> Subject: Re: [QCWA] FCC NPRM:
>
>
> Gene A. Nailon wrote:
> >
> > FROM: K5DLE  Gene Nailon  k5dle@juno.com
> > 20 July 2005
> >
> > Hello QCWA;
> >
> > You must be very proud!  You are going to get just what you
> > want and deserve.
> >
>
> I'm not exactly sure what that means.  It seems to me that the
> FCC's process of a rulemaking proposal is supposed to accomplish
> just that - determine what we want, need, and deserve.
>
> > Congradulations,
>
> Have we somehow graduated to/from something?  (That popular
> mis-spelling of the word is generally reserved greeting cards
> at graduation time - was that the intent?)
>
> The worldwide regs no longer require a morse examination.
>
> My state doesn't require someone wanting a driving license to
> demonstrate ability with a standard transmission.
>
> Both morse and standard transmissions are still legal to use
> if one wants to.  In fact, one of my cars has a standard
> transmission -- as do some of those 250+ horsepower 6-speed
> sports cars I've seen advertised on TV.
>
> The NPRM shouldn't be seen as a loss of a mode - it should be
> seen as an opportunity to evaluate how far we have come with
> communications technology, where we are going, and to what
> extent tradition and history need to be included in the
> requirements for new licensees. The FCC doesn't make those
> decisions in a vacuum -- they solicit comments from citizens
> before making the decison, and often adjust the proposal to
> reflect comments received.
>
> This isn't time to gripe about the proposal.  It's time to
> assemble thoughts in a well laid-out format and get them ready
> to present to the FCC.
>
> -ps
> _______________________________________________
> QCWA mailing list
> QCWA@mailman.qth.net
> http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/qcwa
>
>

From w5jo at brightok.net  Thu Jul 21 17:58:20 2005
From: w5jo at brightok.net (Jim Wilhite)
Date: Thu Jul 21 18:11:50 2005
Subject: [QCWA] FCC NPRM:
References: <NCBBJCLPMKDDBBMEAPOHMEGKIJAC.w1eof@hamnutz.com>
Message-ID: <00cd01c58e3f$54722de0$0201a8c0@Wilhite>


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "W1EOF" <w1eof@hamnutz.com>
To: "Discussion of QCWA" <qcwa@mailman.qth.net>; <k9ps@arrl.net>
Sent: Thursday, July 21, 2005 12:49 PM
Subject: RE: [QCWA] FCC NPRM:



>
> I just don't buy the argument that the CW test is a barrier to riff-raff. 
> If
> it is, then how did we get some of those hams on 75m who use inappropriate
> language and poor operating tchniques? Me? I'd much rather that they make
> the tests harder.


You really don't want to know the answer to the first question.  If you 
knew, you would be really mad.  As for the tests being harder, check any old 
ARRL License Guide.  I have one from 1976 and the test I took in 2000 came 
from study material much harder than the 76 exam material.

As for stupid comments from old timers, I don't see that as true.  Most true 
old timers welcome new comers, What I have seen is the influx in the last 15 
or so years of people who think they own a frequency and believe any 
brochure Yaecomwood publishes and gets mad when someone is within 3 kc of 
them.   Now you may find on the repeaters guys who won't talk to anyone who 
is not local with whom they are not familiar.  That is very prevalent.

So since the FCC has decided that CW is not necessary, then the tests should 
be about receivers, 3rd order intercept, adjacent interference and the 
practices necessary to make new comers feel welcome.  Drop the Earth Station 
and Keplerian information and focus on operation skills and practices. 
Include how to manipulate the menu of a software radio so as not to be 4 Kc 
wide on SSB.

After all I think most of the argument is not about CW skills but basic 
knowledge and operating practices.  Instead of Smith Charts, questions on 
how to build a dipole.  I have even seen questions about how much current a 
wire can carry on some reflectors.  If we are doomed to appliance operation, 
then make the questions about operating and rules much more stringent.

What about petitioning the FCC to relinquish Amateur rules, regulations and 
enforcement to a quasi-governmental agency?  Have, say 5 or 10 members of 
the Amateur community from the QCWA, ARRL, IARA (please forgive me), W5YI 
group or other substantial groups plus Mr. Hollinsworth who would represent 
the FCC.  They could perform the duties the FCC is reluctant to involve 
itself in and promulgate rules and perform enforcement actions that would be 
referred to the FCC for final action.  Following extensive investigation and 
solicitation of our community, they could write rule changes and enforce 
them.

73  Jim
W5JO 


From jfenn at lava.net  Thu Jul 21 19:19:46 2005
From: jfenn at lava.net (Joseph Fenn)
Date: Thu Jul 21 19:32:57 2005
Subject: [QCWA] FCC NPRM:
In-Reply-To: <003f01c58e11$e05a4e10$6401a8c0@D81MNR41>
References: <20050720.224239.-322977.0.k5dle@juno.com>
	<42DF8232.6080308@arrl.net>
	<003801c58df9$f378f1d0$0201a8c0@Wilhite>
	<003f01c58e11$e05a4e10$6401a8c0@D81MNR41>
Message-ID: <Pine.BSI.4.61.0507211314530.6666@malasada.lava.net>

In my estimation this new rule proposal will accentuate the
talents of CW people on all bands.  They will be looked on
with an era of "AWE" by the younger generations.  Soon they
will be saying to themselves "Gee I wish I could read what they
are talking about".  So eventually will it not only be considered
an oddity, instead it will be considered an ART FORM which the
MASTERS locate in.  Sorta like Van Gough, and the other greats.
                    Joe  (aka kokomo Joe)



**********************************************************
* Ham KH6JF AARS/MARS ABM6JF QCWA WW2 VET WD RADIO SYSTEM*
* Army MARS PRECEDED by AARS (Army Amateur Radio System) * 
*       Hi State ARMY MARS COORDINATOR                   *
**********************************************************


From jghall at mail.fea.net  Thu Jul 21 19:44:29 2005
From: jghall at mail.fea.net (James G. Hall)
Date: Thu Jul 21 20:06:11 2005
Subject: [QCWA] FCC NPRM:
Message-ID: <200507211644.AA144375872@mail.fea.net>

They will just get code readers and automatic code senders like they have now.  I have a Robot that does both and RTTY.  I think the best way is to make the test harder. WD6CRG-General
---------- Original Message ----------------------------------
From: Joseph Fenn <jfenn@lava.net>
Reply-To: Discussion of QCWA <qcwa@mailman.qth.net>
Date:  Thu, 21 Jul 2005 13:19:46 -1000 (HST)

>In my estimation this new rule proposal will accentuate the
>talents of CW people on all bands.  They will be looked on
>with an era of "AWE" by the younger generations.  Soon they
>will be saying to themselves "Gee I wish I could read what they
>are talking about".  So eventually will it not only be considered
>an oddity, instead it will be considered an ART FORM which the
>MASTERS locate in.  Sorta like Van Gough, and the other greats.
>                    Joe  (aka kokomo Joe)
>
>
>
>**********************************************************
>* Ham KH6JF AARS/MARS ABM6JF QCWA WW2 VET WD RADIO SYSTEM*
>* Army MARS PRECEDED by AARS (Army Amateur Radio System) * 
>*       Hi State ARMY MARS COORDINATOR                   *
>**********************************************************
>
>
>_______________________________________________
>QCWA mailing list
>QCWA@mailman.qth.net
>http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/qcwa
>
 




________________________________________________________________
Sent via the WebMail system at mail.fea.net


 
                   
From jangus at socal.rr.com  Thu Jul 21 21:26:09 2005
From: jangus at socal.rr.com (Jeffrey D Angus)
Date: Thu Jul 21 21:39:13 2005
Subject: [QCWA] FCC NPRM:
In-Reply-To: <NCBBJCLPMKDDBBMEAPOHMEGKIJAC.w1eof@hamnutz.com>
References: <NCBBJCLPMKDDBBMEAPOHMEGKIJAC.w1eof@hamnutz.com>
Message-ID: <42E04B31.6030105@socal.rr.com>

W1EOF wrote:

>Very well said OM. I've been a ham for 34 years. In that time, I have had
>approx 34 non-CW QSOs. So you can see I'm a diehard CW man. Yet I see no
>point in keeping this as a prerequisite to getting a amateur radio license.
>  
>
In all honesty, I don't think I've had a CW QSO in about 5 years. That was
for SKN on the 30th aneversary of my novice license (With the same gear.)

>I just don't buy the argument that the CW test is a barrier to riff-raff. If
>it is, then how did we get some of those hams on 75m who use inappropriate
>language and poor operating tchniques? Me? I'd much rather that they make
>the tests harder.
>  
>
I've also wondered about that. If CW is the "One True Test" to keep the
morons off of HF, then why are there Morons there?

>The thing that is the largest potential barrier to getting GOOD people into
>radio is the classest and rude comments I read all the time regarding new
>hams. When I became a ham the Old Men treated me as an equal, not as a
>second-class citizen. We really need to ge together to make ham radio
>better, not to fracture it into factions that war with each other.
>
I've seen it from 1967 and forward. Always the "old guys" (of which I am
now one) bitching about the newbies. Damn Novices, techs, generals and
advanced class licensees. Not to mention those "morons" on SSB, FM,
RTTY, slow scan tv, packet, amtor, psk and etc..

However, I _DO_ remember that there were a bunch of people around
that _DID_ make it a point to get the new guys up and running properly.

A few years ago, the lastest "old gomer rant" was the "slow code extras"
who, obviously, were less than human because they already did 13 WPM
and took the written test to upgrade.

Jeff
wa6fwi
(Another one of those less than human operators.)

-- 
"They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary
safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." Benjamin Franklin
"A life lived in fear is a life half lived."
Tara Morice as Fran, from the movie "Strictly Ballroom"

From k5dle at juno.com  Sat Jul 23 22:52:14 2005
From: k5dle at juno.com (Gene A. Nailon)
Date: Sat Jul 23 23:00:10 2005
Subject: [QCWA] SILENT KEY REPORT:
Message-ID: <20050723.215219.-377985.1.k5dle@juno.com>

 
Remarkable SILENT KEY report:

  Today we mourn the passing of a beloved old friend, Mr. Common Sense.
Mr. Sense had been with us for many years.  No one knows for sure how
old he was since his birth records were long ago lost in bureaucratic
red tape.

  He will be remembered as having cultivated such value lessons as
knowing when to come in out of the rain, why the early bird gets the
worm and that life isn't always fair.  Common Sense lived by simple,
sound financial policies (don't spend more than you earn) and reliable
parenting strategies (adults, not kids, are in charge).

  His health began to rapidly deteriorate when well intentioned but
overbearing regulations were set in place.  Reports of a six-year-old
boy charged with sexual harassment for kissing a classmate; teens
suspended from school for using mouthwash after lunch; and a teacher
fired for reprimanding an unruly student, only worsened his condition.

  Mr. Sense declined even further when schools were required to get
parental consent to administer aspirin to a student; but, could not
inform the parents when a student became pregnant and wanted to have an
abortion.

  Finally, Common Sense lost the will to live as the Ten Commandments
became contraband; churches became businesses; and criminals received
better treatment than their victims.

  Common Sense finally gave up the ghost after a woman failed to realize
that a steaming cup of coffee was hot, she spilled a bit in her lap, and
was awarded a huge financial settlement.

  Common Sense was preceded in death by his parents, Truth and Trust,
his wife, Discretion; his daughter, Responsibility; and his son, Reason.

  He is survived by two stepbrothers; My Rights and Ima Whiner.

  Not many attended his funeral because so few realized he was gone. If
you still remember him, pass this on; if not, join the majority and do
nothing.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
From jfenn at lava.net  Mon Jul 25 21:50:41 2005
From: jfenn at lava.net (Joseph Fenn)
Date: Mon Jul 25 21:49:53 2005
Subject: [QCWA] old timers
Message-ID: <Pine.BSI.4.61.0507251548200.24262@malasada.lava.net>


Jeff
Well how about that Jeff.  OT (old timers).   I went to KHS and got
first ticket as a Sophomore there in 1937.  I know John Delong
and exchange email with him and spouse now and then.   Also know
Dane Ridenour as He once worked at Delco plant while I was working
there too. Old Budy Ralph Duke W9ZUW passed away back in  the 70's.
Also our line foreman.  Ralph Dane and I were all  in the National
Guard at Kokomo Armory in those days. Had a ham stn setup there too.
Just wanted to chat with some of you Hoosiers.   All the OT's are

gone except me I guess.  Cant even remember our line boss at Delco
right now but he passed away in Fla some time back.  He had an original
2 letter W9 call, but believe someone in his family asked for and
got his call sign.
                        Joe Fenn/KH6JF


**********************************************************
* Ham KH6JF AARS/MARS ABM6JF QCWA WW2 VET WD RADIO SYSTEM*
* Army MARS PRECEDED by AARS (Army Amateur Radio System) *
* Hawaii State Army MARS coordinator                     *
**********************************************************
















From jfenn at lava.net  Mon Jul 25 21:52:56 2005
From: jfenn at lava.net (Joseph Fenn)
Date: Mon Jul 25 21:52:10 2005
Subject: [QCWA] Old timers
Message-ID: <Pine.BSI.4.61.0507251551110.24262@malasada.lava.net>


Jeff
Well how about that Jeff.  OT (old timers).   I went to KHS and got
first ticket as a Sophomore there in 1937.  I know John Delong
and exchange email with him and spouse now and then.   Also know
Dane Ridenour as He once worked at Delco plant while I was working
there too. Old Budy Ralph Duke W9ZUW passed away back in  the 70's.
Also our line foreman.  Ralph Dane and I were all  in the National
Guard at Kokomo Armory in those days. Had a ham stn setup there too.
Just wanted to chat with some of you Hoosiers.   All the OT's are

gone except me I guess.  Cant even remember our line boss at Delco
right now but he passed away in Fla some time back.  He had an original
2 letter W9 call, but believe someone in his family asked for and
got his call sign.
                        Joe Fenn/KH6JF


**********************************************************
* Ham KH6JF AARS/MARS ABM6JF QCWA WW2 VET WD RADIO SYSTEM*
* Army MARS PRECEDED by AARS (Army Amateur Radio System) *
* Hawaii State Army MARS coordinator                     *
**********************************************************














From wb0dul at wb0dul.com  Tue Jul 26 21:15:52 2005
From: wb0dul at wb0dul.com (wb0dul)
Date: Tue Jul 26 21:15:31 2005
Subject: [QCWA] FW: [Mobileer] Gordon West on Licensing
Message-ID: <004001c59248$c2049cf0$6401a8c0@DickWB0DUL>

I picked up the following on the Mobileer Reflector (a Ham Camping
Group).  I thought you folks would find it interesting.  Gordon West
brings out some very good points.  

I know it is "Off Topic" on some reflectors, but I felt it needed to be
sent out.  Hopefully some will forward it on to others. I normally don't
post messages to reflectors that are OT, but this one may pique some
interest. I won't re-post it and won't answer any queries on reflectors.


Dick
WB0DUL
________________________________________________________________________
____

Gordon West, WB6NOA, is a popular Ham Radio instructor and study guide
author.  He is also a fellow Sam's Radio Hams member and has the
following essay posted on the SRH web page:

"IF YOU NEED THE HAM TICKET, WE MAY TALK YOU OUT OF IT!"
http://www.srhams.org/Gordon%20West%20letter.htm

I'm not finger pointing at any particular public service activities, but
there is a lot of food for thought there from a Ham on the exam front
lines.  Pass it on to anyone that needs it.

P.S. The FCC has asked for formal comments on doing away with all code
tests.

Les, W6TEE



From k1aa at cfl.rr.com  Wed Jul 27 08:19:26 2005
From: k1aa at cfl.rr.com (Norm Gertz)
Date: Wed Jul 27 08:19:46 2005
Subject: [QCWA] FW: [Mobileer] Gordon West on Licensing
References: <004001c59248$c2049cf0$6401a8c0@DickWB0DUL>
Message-ID: <000601c592a5$6e7b9860$9702a8c0@owneruvoe3e5c5>

Yes indeed.....there are a large number of pleasure boaters and other 
skippers who have obtained amateur radio licenses but never participate in 
amateur radio activities.  They all know how to get on 14300 or 7268 when 
they have an emergency or when they need to have someone make a phone call 
for them.

73   Norm   K1AA


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "wb0dul" <wb0dul@wb0dul.com>
To: "Butternut Antenna Reflector" <Butternut-antennas@yahoogroups.com>; 
<Countyhunters@countyhunter.com>; <FT817-Commander@yahoogroups.com>; "Pikes 
Peak DX Group" <ppdxg@ppdxg.com>; "PPRAA Reflector" 
<ppraanet@mailman.qth.net>; <qcwa@mailman.qth.net>; "RTTY Reflector" 
<rtty-request@contesting.com>; "Writelog Reflector" 
<writelog@contesting.com>
Sent: Tuesday, July 26, 2005 9:15 PM
Subject: [QCWA] FW: [Mobileer] Gordon West on Licensing


>I picked up the following on the Mobileer Reflector (a Ham Camping
> Group).  I thought you folks would find it interesting.  Gordon West
> brings out some very good points.
>
> I know it is "Off Topic" on some reflectors, but I felt it needed to be
> sent out.  Hopefully some will forward it on to others. I normally don't
> post messages to reflectors that are OT, but this one may pique some
> interest. I won't re-post it and won't answer any queries on reflectors.
>
>
> Dick
> WB0DUL
> ________________________________________________________________________
> ____
>
> Gordon West, WB6NOA, is a popular Ham Radio instructor and study guide
> author.  He is also a fellow Sam's Radio Hams member and has the
> following essay posted on the SRH web page:
>
> "IF YOU NEED THE HAM TICKET, WE MAY TALK YOU OUT OF IT!"
> http://www.srhams.org/Gordon%20West%20letter.htm
>
> I'm not finger pointing at any particular public service activities, but
> there is a lot of food for thought there from a Ham on the exam front
> lines.  Pass it on to anyone that needs it.
>
> P.S. The FCC has asked for formal comments on doing away with all code
> tests.
>
> Les, W6TEE
>
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> QCWA mailing list
> QCWA@mailman.qth.net
> http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/qcwa 

From PWalcott at smartbus.org  Wed Jul 27 11:16:22 2005
From: PWalcott at smartbus.org (Walcott, Paul)
Date: Wed Jul 27 11:15:36 2005
Subject: [QCWA] FW: [Mobileer] Gordon West on Licensing
Message-ID: <DD5C4A2968A71A4C93150F717E075A0CB72098@smartmail.smartbus.org>

I too have had the experience of discouraging someone from getting a ham
license when they needed another form of communications.  In my case it
was someone who wanted to use auto-patch on a local repeater, obviously
enough years ago that the cell-phone wasn't yet commonplace.

Still, after reading the posting from the Gordon West organization, I
basically agree, but I do want to make one distinction:  Ham radio
should NEVER be looked at as the main form of communications for non-ham
functions.  At the same time, I have no problem with someone puts a ham
rig on their boat or whatever for use as a back-up mode of
communications.  For that sort of person, my real hope is that while
they'll hear just enough of the other facets of ham operation to become
interested and perhaps become involved in areas which they previously
were not interested.  That would be one example of healthy growth for
ham radio.

73's
Paul
WD8H

-----Original Message-----
From: qcwa-bounces@mailman.qth.net [mailto:qcwa-bounces@mailman.qth.net]
On Behalf Of Norm Gertz
Sent: Wednesday, July 27, 2005 8:19 AM
To: qcwa@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [QCWA] FW: [Mobileer] Gordon West on Licensing

Yes indeed.....there are a large number of pleasure boaters and other 
skippers who have obtained amateur radio licenses but never participate
in 
amateur radio activities.  They all know how to get on 14300 or 7268
when 
they have an emergency or when they need to have someone make a phone
call 
for them.

73   Norm   K1AA


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "wb0dul" <wb0dul@wb0dul.com>
To: "Butternut Antenna Reflector" <Butternut-antennas@yahoogroups.com>; 
<Countyhunters@countyhunter.com>; <FT817-Commander@yahoogroups.com>;
"Pikes 
Peak DX Group" <ppdxg@ppdxg.com>; "PPRAA Reflector" 
<ppraanet@mailman.qth.net>; <qcwa@mailman.qth.net>; "RTTY Reflector" 
<rtty-request@contesting.com>; "Writelog Reflector" 
<writelog@contesting.com>
Sent: Tuesday, July 26, 2005 9:15 PM
Subject: [QCWA] FW: [Mobileer] Gordon West on Licensing


>I picked up the following on the Mobileer Reflector (a Ham Camping
> Group).  I thought you folks would find it interesting.  Gordon West
> brings out some very good points.
>
> I know it is "Off Topic" on some reflectors, but I felt it needed to
be
> sent out.  Hopefully some will forward it on to others. I normally
don't
> post messages to reflectors that are OT, but this one may pique some
> interest. I won't re-post it and won't answer any queries on
reflectors.
>
>
> Dick
> WB0DUL
>
________________________________________________________________________
> ____
>
> Gordon West, WB6NOA, is a popular Ham Radio instructor and study guide
> author.  He is also a fellow Sam's Radio Hams member and has the
> following essay posted on the SRH web page:
>
> "IF YOU NEED THE HAM TICKET, WE MAY TALK YOU OUT OF IT!"
> http://www.srhams.org/Gordon%20West%20letter.htm
>
> I'm not finger pointing at any particular public service activities,
but
> there is a lot of food for thought there from a Ham on the exam front
> lines.  Pass it on to anyone that needs it.
>
> P.S. The FCC has asked for formal comments on doing away with all code
> tests.
>
> Les, W6TEE
>
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> QCWA mailing list
> QCWA@mailman.qth.net
> http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/qcwa 

_______________________________________________
QCWA mailing list
QCWA@mailman.qth.net
http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/qcwa
From dmulloy at pacifier.com  Wed Jul 27 20:39:19 2005
From: dmulloy at pacifier.com (Doug)
Date: Wed Jul 27 20:38:46 2005
Subject: [QCWA] FW: [Mobileer] Gordon West on Licensing
References: <DD5C4A2968A71A4C93150F717E075A0CB72098@smartmail.smartbus.org>
Message-ID: <001e01c5930c$cab1d5b0$6400a8c0@ecsgia2x4n1zro>

I work as a service tech for a marine electronics dealer.  The number of 
non-hams with an ICOM IC-706 on a boat is disgusting. Also there are the 
non-hams getting a ham ticket just so they can use email on the  WinLink 
frequencies instead of paying for the commercial SailMail. I suspect APRS is 
another mode they use for tracking a boat trip by non-ham relatives using 
FindU on the web link.
I think it is about time for the dealers to decide they want proof of an 
amateur license before they sell a ham rig.  I used to work for a ham store 
as a service tech and the number of 2 meter and 440 MHz handhelds we sold in 
case lots or more to obviously foreign nationals with no knowledge of radio 
except a list in their hand of what to buy was astounding. Most of these 
were middle eastern or south/central American. It does not take much thought 
to realize ham handhelds are being used overseas as cheap throw aways for 
such things as drug smuggling and terrorism. Frankly, I am surprised 
Homeland Security has not required proof of license and detailed sales 
records of all USA radio sales.
73
Doug K7ABX

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Walcott, Paul" <PWalcott@smartbus.org>
To: "Discussion of QCWA" <qcwa@mailman.qth.net>
Sent: Wednesday, July 27, 2005 8:16 AM
Subject: RE: [QCWA] FW: [Mobileer] Gordon West on Licensing


I too have had the experience of discouraging someone from getting a ham
license when they needed another form of communications.  In my case it
was someone who wanted to use auto-patch on a local repeater, obviously
enough years ago that the cell-phone wasn't yet commonplace.

Still, after reading the posting from the Gordon West organization, I
basically agree, but I do want to make one distinction:  Ham radio
should NEVER be looked at as the main form of communications for non-ham
functions.  At the same time, I have no problem with someone puts a ham
rig on their boat or whatever for use as a back-up mode of
communications.  For that sort of person, my real hope is that while
they'll hear just enough of the other facets of ham operation to become
interested and perhaps become involved in areas which they previously
were not interested.  That would be one example of healthy growth for
ham radio.

73's
Paul
WD8H

-----Original Message-----
From: qcwa-bounces@mailman.qth.net [mailto:qcwa-bounces@mailman.qth.net]
On Behalf Of Norm Gertz
Sent: Wednesday, July 27, 2005 8:19 AM
To: qcwa@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [QCWA] FW: [Mobileer] Gordon West on Licensing

Yes indeed.....there are a large number of pleasure boaters and other
skippers who have obtained amateur radio licenses but never participate
in
amateur radio activities.  They all know how to get on 14300 or 7268
when
they have an emergency or when they need to have someone make a phone
call
for them.

73   Norm   K1AA


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "wb0dul" <wb0dul@wb0dul.com>
To: "Butternut Antenna Reflector" <Butternut-antennas@yahoogroups.com>;
<Countyhunters@countyhunter.com>; <FT817-Commander@yahoogroups.com>;
"Pikes
Peak DX Group" <ppdxg@ppdxg.com>; "PPRAA Reflector"
<ppraanet@mailman.qth.net>; <qcwa@mailman.qth.net>; "RTTY Reflector"
<rtty-request@contesting.com>; "Writelog Reflector"
<writelog@contesting.com>
Sent: Tuesday, July 26, 2005 9:15 PM
Subject: [QCWA] FW: [Mobileer] Gordon West on Licensing


>I picked up the following on the Mobileer Reflector (a Ham Camping
> Group).  I thought you folks would find it interesting.  Gordon West
> brings out some very good points.
>
> I know it is "Off Topic" on some reflectors, but I felt it needed to
be
> sent out.  Hopefully some will forward it on to others. I normally
don't
> post messages to reflectors that are OT, but this one may pique some
> interest. I won't re-post it and won't answer any queries on
reflectors.
>
>
> Dick
> WB0DUL
>
________________________________________________________________________
> ____
>
> Gordon West, WB6NOA, is a popular Ham Radio instructor and study guide
> author.  He is also a fellow Sam's Radio Hams member and has the
> following essay posted on the SRH web page:
>
> "IF YOU NEED THE HAM TICKET, WE MAY TALK YOU OUT OF IT!"
> http://www.srhams.org/Gordon%20West%20letter.htm
>
> I'm not finger pointing at any particular public service activities,
but
> there is a lot of food for thought there from a Ham on the exam front
> lines.  Pass it on to anyone that needs it.
>
> P.S. The FCC has asked for formal comments on doing away with all code
> tests.
>
> Les, W6TEE
>

From rwpeters at swbell.net  Wed Jul 27 20:49:12 2005
From: rwpeters at swbell.net (Bob Peters)
Date: Wed Jul 27 20:48:50 2005
Subject: [QCWA] FW: [Mobileer] Gordon West on Licensing
In-Reply-To: <001e01c5930c$cab1d5b0$6400a8c0@ecsgia2x4n1zro>
Message-ID: <010501c5930e$2c47b7d0$6501a8c0@W1PE>

My God guys Get a grip on reality...You can buy GMRS radios off any
Wal-Mart or K Mart shelf... You can buy a Marine radio for $125 that
runs 25 watts...
You can buy a Broadcast Xmtr off e bay for $1000.00  You can get a 50KW
FM Xmtr that was given to a Listener that love KLUV in Dallas....So what
if a dealer sells a radio to a non ham...They can buy it on E Bay...This
is called FREE TRADE and that is what America stands for...  Next you
will say that we can not sell a MW Oven in the MID East...  WOW we need
to grow up and smell the roses guys...Are we all in QCWA getting so old
that we want to become seperationists????  Off my high horse...Have fun
folks....

Bob W1PE

-----Original Message-----
From: qcwa-bounces@mailman.qth.net [mailto:qcwa-bounces@mailman.qth.net]
On Behalf Of Doug
Sent: Wednesday, July 27, 2005 7:39 PM
To: Discussion of QCWA
Subject: Re: [QCWA] FW: [Mobileer] Gordon West on Licensing

I work as a service tech for a marine electronics dealer.  The number of

non-hams with an ICOM IC-706 on a boat is disgusting. Also there are the

non-hams getting a ham ticket just so they can use email on the  WinLink

frequencies instead of paying for the commercial SailMail. I suspect
APRS is 
another mode they use for tracking a boat trip by non-ham relatives
using 
FindU on the web link.
I think it is about time for the dealers to decide they want proof of an

amateur license before they sell a ham rig.  I used to work for a ham
store 
as a service tech and the number of 2 meter and 440 MHz handhelds we
sold in 
case lots or more to obviously foreign nationals with no knowledge of
radio 
except a list in their hand of what to buy was astounding. Most of these

were middle eastern or south/central American. It does not take much
thought 
to realize ham handhelds are being used overseas as cheap throw aways
for 
such things as drug smuggling and terrorism. Frankly, I am surprised 
Homeland Security has not required proof of license and detailed sales 
records of all USA radio sales.
73
Doug K7ABX

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Walcott, Paul" <PWalcott@smartbus.org>
To: "Discussion of QCWA" <qcwa@mailman.qth.net>
Sent: Wednesday, July 27, 2005 8:16 AM
Subject: RE: [QCWA] FW: [Mobileer] Gordon West on Licensing


I too have had the experience of discouraging someone from getting a ham
license when they needed another form of communications.  In my case it
was someone who wanted to use auto-patch on a local repeater, obviously
enough years ago that the cell-phone wasn't yet commonplace.

Still, after reading the posting from the Gordon West organization, I
basically agree, but I do want to make one distinction:  Ham radio
should NEVER be looked at as the main form of communications for non-ham
functions.  At the same time, I have no problem with someone puts a ham
rig on their boat or whatever for use as a back-up mode of
communications.  For that sort of person, my real hope is that while
they'll hear just enough of the other facets of ham operation to become
interested and perhaps become involved in areas which they previously
were not interested.  That would be one example of healthy growth for
ham radio.

73's
Paul
WD8H

-----Original Message-----
From: qcwa-bounces@mailman.qth.net [mailto:qcwa-bounces@mailman.qth.net]
On Behalf Of Norm Gertz
Sent: Wednesday, July 27, 2005 8:19 AM
To: qcwa@mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [QCWA] FW: [Mobileer] Gordon West on Licensing

Yes indeed.....there are a large number of pleasure boaters and other
skippers who have obtained amateur radio licenses but never participate
in
amateur radio activities.  They all know how to get on 14300 or 7268
when
they have an emergency or when they need to have someone make a phone
call
for them.

73   Norm   K1AA


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "wb0dul" <wb0dul@wb0dul.com>
To: "Butternut Antenna Reflector" <Butternut-antennas@yahoogroups.com>;
<Countyhunters@countyhunter.com>; <FT817-Commander@yahoogroups.com>;
"Pikes
Peak DX Group" <ppdxg@ppdxg.com>; "PPRAA Reflector"
<ppraanet@mailman.qth.net>; <qcwa@mailman.qth.net>; "RTTY Reflector"
<rtty-request@contesting.com>; "Writelog Reflector"
<writelog@contesting.com>
Sent: Tuesday, July 26, 2005 9:15 PM
Subject: [QCWA] FW: [Mobileer] Gordon West on Licensing


>I picked up the following on the Mobileer Reflector (a Ham Camping
> Group).  I thought you folks would find it interesting.  Gordon West
> brings out some very good points.
>
> I know it is "Off Topic" on some reflectors, but I felt it needed to
be
> sent out.  Hopefully some will forward it on to others. I normally
don't
> post messages to reflectors that are OT, but this one may pique some
> interest. I won't re-post it and won't answer any queries on
reflectors.
>
>
> Dick
> WB0DUL
>
________________________________________________________________________
> ____
>
> Gordon West, WB6NOA, is a popular Ham Radio instructor and study guide
> author.  He is also a fellow Sam's Radio Hams member and has the
> following essay posted on the SRH web page:
>
> "IF YOU NEED THE HAM TICKET, WE MAY TALK YOU OUT OF IT!"
> http://www.srhams.org/Gordon%20West%20letter.htm
>
> I'm not finger pointing at any particular public service activities,
but
> there is a lot of food for thought there from a Ham on the exam front
> lines.  Pass it on to anyone that needs it.
>
> P.S. The FCC has asked for formal comments on doing away with all code
> tests.
>
> Les, W6TEE
>

_______________________________________________
QCWA mailing list
QCWA@mailman.qth.net
http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/qcwa

From n4pgw-list1 at towncorp.net  Wed Jul 27 23:28:29 2005
From: n4pgw-list1 at towncorp.net (Buck - N4PGW)
Date: Wed Jul 27 23:27:53 2005
Subject: [QCWA] FW: [Mobileer] Gordon West on Licensing
In-Reply-To: <010501c5930e$2c47b7d0$6501a8c0@W1PE>
Message-ID: <20050728032751.C1BAA859C14@mailman.qth.net>



> -----Original Message-----
Are we all in QCWA getting so old
> that we want to become seperationists????  Off my high horse...Have fun
> folks....
> 
I think it is more of a police state than separatist.  

Buck
N4PGW





> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: qcwa-bounces@mailman.qth.net [mailto:qcwa-bounces@mailman.qth.net]
> On Behalf Of Doug
> Sent: Wednesday, July 27, 2005 7:39 PM
> To: Discussion of QCWA
> Subject: Re: [QCWA] FW: [Mobileer] Gordon West on Licensing
> 
> It does not take much
> thought
> to realize ham handhelds are being used overseas as cheap throw aways
> for
> such things as drug smuggling and terrorism. Frankly, I am surprised
> Homeland Security has not required proof of license and detailed sales
> records of all USA radio sales.
> 73
> Doug K7ABX
 

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Checked by AVG Anti-Virus.
Version: 7.0.338 / Virus Database: 267.9.5/58 - Release Date: 7/25/2005
 

From w5wlb at sbcglobal.net  Thu Jul 28 14:46:37 2005
From: w5wlb at sbcglobal.net (Larry)
Date: Thu Jul 28 14:46:21 2005
Subject: [QCWA] Gordon West
Message-ID: <20050728184637.68920.qmail@web80808.mail.yahoo.com>

Thats interesting about Gordon West. Thats really taking it a liitle far imho.What he is saying is that a man is not worthy of a license if all he want to do is fly a rc plane.This of course is nonsense.The fcc makes provision for that. The idea that  a man has to do certain things to merit anothers approval in the hobby is nonsense.I know several people who have a tech license and could not tell you the difference between a capacitor and a resistor.These people are amateur radio ops and have earned the ticket that says so. All it takes to be a amateur radio op is a ticket. A ham on the other hand is someone who not only has a ticket but respects the culture and tradion of  ham radio and this is another thing all together.There are lots of people  with an amateur license but most are not "hams", there is a difference imho.The guys that fly rc planes with a tech lic are just as worthy as anyone to have a license.Atre they hams? Some are and some are not.
w5wlb
ootc
From jfenn at lava.net  Thu Jul 28 20:40:34 2005
From: jfenn at lava.net (Joseph Fenn)
Date: Thu Jul 28 20:40:18 2005
Subject: [QCWA] Gordon West
In-Reply-To: <20050728184637.68920.qmail@web80808.mail.yahoo.com>
References: <20050728184637.68920.qmail@web80808.mail.yahoo.com>
Message-ID: <Pine.BSI.4.61.0507281423550.23630@malasada.lava.net>

You Know you hit the nail right on the head Gordon.  I personally think
that my ham license and particularly my skill at CW as a sophomore
in High School days was the beginning and passport to the rest of my
life.   I mean those 2 events determined all that hapened from that
point on.  Worked in Panam, old CAA, ARINC (aeronautical radio inc),
all because ot the CW capability.  Also had choice spots in the
Signal Corps War Dept Radio system throughout WW2.   Never had to fire
a gun or even learn how to use one.   They discovered on my record
3 years later that I had not even gone thru basic training, as they
needed CW oprs so badly they skipped the whole process.   When they
finally discovered this discrepancy in my record, I was forced
to go out on a firing range in 1943 with the old Colt 45 with a
clip in it.  The sgt and I were the only ones around.  He told
me ok you can see the target, point and shoot.  I pointed and
pulled on the trigger.  Shots started rolling out and each one
after the other knocked my hand upwards till it was pointing almost
straight up at the sky.   At this point the Sgt screamed stop stop
take your finger off the trigger, but the clip was empty already.
I guess he thought I was about to shoot myself or him take your pick.
Once again later after being "crypto" certified I was actually
in charge of that room too but knew nothing about it.   I was
instructed by the OIC to spend time in the crypto room and find
out what they are doing.   I did and noted they had a Thompson
Sub machine gun hanging on brackets in there.   If someone broke
the door open I woul'nt have the slightest idea of how to use
it against intruders.  So a skill at CW was of no use in that
code room.   I never did get basic training during the war and
opted out after VJ day.    But as I said the ham thing carried
my thru the rest of my life and still serves me well at least
in my volunteer service with MARS even today at 84 years young.
                       Joe KH6JF/ABM6JF


**********************************************************
* Ham KH6JF AARS/MARS ABM6JF QCWA WW2 VET WD RADIO SYSTEM*
* Army MARS PRECEDED by AARS (Army Amateur Radio System) * 
*       Hi State ARMY MARS COORDINATOR                   *
**********************************************************


On Thu, 28 Jul 2005, Larry wrote:

> Thats interesting about Gordon West. Thats really taking it a liitle far imho.What he is saying is that a man is not worthy of a license if all he want to do is fly a rc plane.This of course is nonsense.The fcc makes provision for that. The idea that  a man has to do certain things to merit anothers approval in the hobby is nonsense.I know several people who have a tech license and could not tell you the difference between a capacitor and a resistor.These people are amateur radio ops and have earned the ticket that says so. All it takes to be a amateur radio op is a ticket. A ham on the other hand is someone who not only has a ticket but respects the culture and tradion of  ham radio and this is another thing all together.There are lots of people  with an amateur license but most are not "hams", there is a difference imho.The guys that fly rc planes with a tech lic are just as worthy as anyone to have a license.Atre they hams? Some are and some are not.
> w5wlb
> ootc
> _______________________________________________
> QCWA mailing list
> QCWA@mailman.qth.net
> http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/qcwa
>
From k5sbu at grandecom.net  Thu Jul 28 20:49:51 2005
From: k5sbu at grandecom.net (Sitting Bulls Uncle)
Date: Thu Jul 28 20:49:54 2005
Subject: [QCWA] Amrad devices misuse on recreational vessels
Message-ID: <000201c593d7$6e58c410$6801a8c0@K5SBUMOBILE>



-----Original Message-----
From: Sitting Bulls Uncle [mailto:k5sbu@grandecom.net] 
Sent: Thursday, July 28, 2005 9:43 AM
To: qcwa@mailman.qth.net
Subject: RE: QCWA Digest, Vol 15, Issue 16


Having been in the USCG and in the marine electronics consulting business I
must say that there is only one side to this issue:  maritime safety!

Under the terms of the international treaty regarding marine safety
regulations set by the Radio Technical Commission Maritime [RTCM] which is
directed by the USCG the simple mission is safety at sea.  The FCC is the US
representative member of the RTCM, incidentally.

Amateur radio service devices are simply not designed nor are they
appropriate maritime safety devices such as the channelized marine HF SSB
radios.  The reference in earlier posts was to amateur radio HF devices such
as the Icom IC706 being used my non licensed radio amateurs at sea aboard
recreational vessels in place of the authorized marine SSB radios.  

There are several reasons it is a bad idea for the recreational mariner to
make this substitution, all related to the perceived notion that amrad
equipment is less expensive than the marine SSB radios.  It is, of course
when you consider the IC706 runs about $600 and the Icom marine ssb radio is
three times that prices.  It does look attractive.  What we are really
looking at is the difference of about $900 to $1200 in life insurance, not
radios.  A disaster at sea, including the Gulf of Mexico, is a life
threatening situation, be it storms demasting a SV, a MV without an engine,
fire at sea, man overboard, et al ad nausium.  These senarios require
rescue.  Rescue comes from USCG vessels and aircraft, commercial and
military vessels at sea and international land or shore HF SSB stations. All
these rescue sources monitor, are required to monitor, certain HF SSB
frequencies.  The safety and operational channels are designated by the RTCM
and come preinstalled on all marine ssb radios.  The channels are monitored
by all interests at sea and those relevant on shore.

Amateur radio frequencies are NOT monitored.  Which non licensed seaman or
crew, if the vessel is not under command, is capable of putting an IC706 on
a 5 mHz working and rescue frequency and making an emergency call?  None!
Not only because the equipment is not easily set to frequency by the
uninformed, even with book in lap, there is no prior experience in the
drill.  Further, would the uninformed know how to tune the antenna?  Would
they be on the correct sideband?  Do they understand propogation and times
of day?  The marine sideband radios are furnished with channel
recommendations by range and time of day.  Simple:  at noon for 400 mile
range use channel 12.  Pick up mic and call for support.  

A last comment about amateur radio devices, not many will operate on marine
ssb frequencies.  The IC706 will not hit the five megahertz band at all as
delivered out of the box. You may rebut that the user may hit the 20m marine
sideband net and request support.  That is very true.  Will that work at
midnight at all ranges?  Is there a suitable alternative band or frequency?
Are they monitored even during marginal propogation times?  No.  

So, the difference in using amateur radio devices aboard a recreational
vessel at sea, and using a type accepted approved and required marine ssb
radio is significant:  Life and death at sea is the difference in the cost
difference in the price of a radio.

Finally, I will add to those making negative comments directed to the post
attached below, experience overrides opinion.  

73
DE K5SBU CRP
NNNN


=======
Message: 3
Date: Wed, 27 Jul 2005 17:39:19 -0700
From: "Doug" <dmulloy@pacifier.com>
Subject: Re: [QCWA] FW: [Mobileer] Gordon West on Licensing
To: "Discussion of QCWA" <qcwa@mailman.qth.net>
Message-ID: <001e01c5930c$cab1d5b0$6400a8c0@ecsgia2x4n1zro>
Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset="iso-8859-1";
	reply-type=original

I work as a service tech for a marine electronics dealer.  The number of 
non-hams with an ICOM IC-706 on a boat is disgusting. Also there are the 
non-hams getting a ham ticket just so they can use email on the  WinLink 
frequencies instead of paying for the commercial SailMail. I suspect APRS is

another mode they use for tracking a boat trip by non-ham relatives using 
FindU on the web link.
I think it is about time for the dealers to decide they want proof of an 
amateur license before they sell a ham rig.  I used to work for a ham store 
as a service tech and the number of 2 meter and 440 MHz handhelds we sold in

case lots or more to obviously foreign nationals with no knowledge of radio 
except a list in their hand of what to buy was astounding. Most of these 
were middle eastern or south/central American. It does not take much thought

to realize ham handhelds are being used overseas as cheap throw aways for 
such things as drug smuggling and terrorism. Frankly, I am surprised 
Homeland Security has not required proof of license and detailed sales 
records of all USA radio sales.
73
Doug K7ABX



-- 
No virus found in this outgoing message.
Checked by AVG Anti-Virus.
Version: 7.0.338 / Virus Database: 267.9.6/59 - Release Date: 7/27/2005



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From k5sbu at grandecom.net  Fri Jul 29 10:18:51 2005
From: k5sbu at grandecom.net (Sitting Bulls Uncle)
Date: Fri Jul 29 10:19:09 2005
Subject: [QCWA] Recreational marine misuse of amateur radio devices
Message-ID: <000601c59448$71ccf1e0$6801a8c0@K5SBUMOBILE>

[There is a reference post restated below this one, to which I am making
comment.  The post writer makes several valid points but I will only address
the HF radio uses.]

Having been in the USCG and in the military and marine electronics
consulting business 
I must say that there is only one side to the issue of amateur radio devices
used by non radio amateurs for marine applications:  Maritime safety!

Under the terms of the international treaty regarding marine safety
regulations set by the Radio Technical Commission Maritime [RTCM] which is
directed by the USCG the simple mission is safety at sea.  The FCC is the US
representative member of the RTCM, incidentally and does not certify nor
approve of amateur radio equipment for marine use aboard recreational
vessels.  

Amateur radio service devices are simply not designed nor are they
appropriate maritime safety devices such as the channelized marine HF SSB
radios.  The reference in earlier posts was to amateur radio HF devices such
as the Icom IC706 being used my non licensed radio amateurs at sea aboard
recreational vessels in place of the authorized marine SSB radios.  

There are several reasons it is a bad idea for the recreational mariner to
make this substitution, all related to the perceived notion that amrad
equipment is less expensive than the marine SSB radios.  It is, of course
when you consider the IC706 runs about $600 and the Icom marine ssb radio is
three times that prices.  It does look attractive.  What we are really
looking at is the difference of about $900 to $1200 in life insurance, not
radios.  A disaster at sea, including the Gulf of Mexico, is a life
threatening situation, be it storms demasting a SV, a MV without an engine,
fire at sea, man overboard, et al ad nausium.  These senarios require
rescue.  Rescue comes from USCG vessels and aircraft, commercial and
military vessels at sea and international land or shore HF SSB stations. All
these rescue sources monitor, are required to monitor, certain HF SSB
frequencies.  The safety and operational channels are designated by the RTCM
and come preinstalled on all marine ssb radios.  The channels are monitored
by all interests at sea and those relevant on shore.

Amateur radio frequencies are NOT monitored.  Which non licensed seaman or
crew, if the vessel is not under command, is capable of putting an IC706 on
a 5 mHz working and rescue frequency and making an emergency call?  None!
Not only because the equipment is not easily set to frequency by the
uninformed, even with book in lap, there is no prior experience in the
drill.  Further, would the uninformed know how to tune the antenna?  Would
they be on the correct sideband?  Do they understand propogation and times
of day?  The marine sideband radios are furnished with channel
recommendations by range and time of day.  Simple:  at noon for 400 mile
range use channel 12.  Pick up mic and call for support.  

A last comment about amateur radio devices, not many will operate on marine
ssb frequencies.  The IC706 will not hit the five megahertz band at all as
delivered out of the box. You may rebut that the user may hit the 20m marine
sideband net and request support.  That is very true.  Will that work at
midnight at all ranges?  Is there a suitable alternative band or frequency?
Are they monitored even during marginal propogation times?  No.  

So, the difference in using amateur radio devices aboard a recreational
vessel at sea, and using a type accepted approved and required marine ssb
radio is significant:  Life and death at sea is the difference in the cost
difference in the price of a radio.

Finally, I will add to those making negative comments directed to the post
attached below, experience overrides opinion.  

73
DE K5SBU CRP
NNNN


=======
Message: 3
Date: Wed, 27 Jul 2005 17:39:19 -0700
From: "Doug" <dmulloy@pacifier.com>
Subject: Re: [QCWA] FW: [Mobileer] Gordon West on Licensing
To: "Discussion of QCWA" <qcwa@mailman.qth.net>
Message-ID: <001e01c5930c$cab1d5b0$6400a8c0@ecsgia2x4n1zro>
Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset="iso-8859-1";
	reply-type=original

I work as a service tech for a marine electronics dealer.  The number of 
non-hams with an ICOM IC-706 on a boat is disgusting. Also there are the 
non-hams getting a ham ticket just so they can use email on the  WinLink 
frequencies instead of paying for the commercial SailMail.

I suspect APRS is another mode they use for tracking a boat trip by non-ham 
relatives using FindU on the web link.  I think it is about time for the 
dealers to decide they want proof of an amateur license before they sell a
ham rig.  

I used to work for a ham store 
as a service tech and the number of 2 meter and 440 MHz handhelds we sold in
case lots or more to obviously foreign nationals with no knowledge of radio 
except a list in their hand of what to buy was astounding. Most of these 
were middle eastern or south/central American. It does not take much thought

to realize ham handhelds are being used overseas as cheap throw aways for 
such things as drug smuggling and terrorism. Frankly, I am surprised 
Homeland Security has not required proof of license and detailed sales 
records of all USA radio sales.
73
Doug K7ABX



-- 
No virus found in this outgoing message.
Checked by AVG Anti-Virus.
Version: 7.0.338 / Virus Database: 267.9.6/59 - Release Date: 7/27/2005



-- 
No virus found in this outgoing message.
Checked by AVG Anti-Virus.
Version: 7.0.338 / Virus Database: 267.9.7/60 - Release Date: 7/28/2005

From jangus at socal.rr.com  Fri Jul 29 10:30:17 2005
From: jangus at socal.rr.com (Jeffrey D Angus)
Date: Fri Jul 29 10:31:40 2005
Subject: [QCWA] FW: [Mobileer] Gordon West on Licensing
In-Reply-To: <004001c59248$c2049cf0$6401a8c0@DickWB0DUL>
References: <004001c59248$c2049cf0$6401a8c0@DickWB0DUL>
Message-ID: <42EA3D79.7090403@socal.rr.com>

wb0dul wrote:

>Gordon West, WB6NOA, is a popular Ham Radio instructor
>and study guide author.
>
I find this particularly amusing. Gordon, who's made a buisiness out of
amateur radio, and prides himself in the sheer numbers of people that
have passed  the licensing tests by memorizing his study guides.

Jeff
wa6fwi

-- 
"They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary
safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." Benjamin Franklin
"A life lived in fear is a life half lived."
Tara Morice as Fran, from the movie "Strictly Ballroom"

From newsline at ix.netcom.com  Fri Jul 29 12:09:04 2005
From: newsline at ix.netcom.com (William M. Pasternak)
Date: Fri Jul 29 12:10:33 2005
Subject: [QCWA] FW: [Mobileer] Gordon West on Licensing
In-Reply-To: <42EA3D79.7090403@socal.rr.com>
References: <004001c59248$c2049cf0$6401a8c0@DickWB0DUL>
	<42EA3D79.7090403@socal.rr.com>
Message-ID: <6.1.1.1.0.20050729090036.07117eb0@popd.ix.netcom.com>

A simple question:  Since when is it either illegal or immoral to make ones 
living from Amateur Radio?  Those working for Alinco, Icom, Kenwood. Yaesu 
and even the almightily ARRL get PAID for working in the hobby.  Every one 
of then is taking your ham radio dollars so that they can have a home, a 
family, a nice car and all the good things in life.  And I suspect none of 
them would do it for free.

West sells ham radio education instead of transceivers.  Likewise, CQ and 
others sell magazines and Hy-Gain sells antennas.  Why are you all 
complaining about the former and not the latter?  There is absolutely no 
difference as business is business is business.

Bill Pasternak, WA6ITF 
From jangus at socal.rr.com  Fri Jul 29 12:19:56 2005
From: jangus at socal.rr.com (Jeffrey D Angus)
Date: Fri Jul 29 12:21:19 2005
Subject: [QCWA] FW: [Mobileer] Gordon West on Licensing
In-Reply-To: <6.1.1.1.0.20050729090036.07117eb0@popd.ix.netcom.com>
References: <004001c59248$c2049cf0$6401a8c0@DickWB0DUL>
	<42EA3D79.7090403@socal.rr.com>
	<6.1.1.1.0.20050729090036.07117eb0@popd.ix.netcom.com>
Message-ID: <42EA572C.3050500@socal.rr.com>

Ironic isn't it?

For years, people have been bitching about Gordon selling his licensing
guides. "That's NOT teaching anything, just rote memorization of the
question pool." (Of course, it was mostly aimed at the codeless techs.)

Now suddenly, Gordon's the "hero of the revolution."

What changed?

Jeff
wa6fwi

William M. Pasternak wrote:

> A simple question:  Since when is it either illegal or immoral to make 
> ones living from Amateur Radio?  Those working for Alinco, Icom, 
> Kenwood. Yaesu and even the almightily ARRL get PAID for working in 
> the hobby.  Every one of then is taking your ham radio dollars so that 
> they can have a home, a family, a nice car and all the good things in 
> life.  And I suspect none of them would do it for free.
>
> West sells ham radio education instead of transceivers.  Likewise, CQ 
> and others sell magazines and Hy-Gain sells antennas.  Why are you all 
> complaining about the former and not the latter?  There is absolutely 
> no difference as business is business is business.
>
> Bill Pasternak, WA6ITF _______________________________________________
> QCWA mailing list
> QCWA@mailman.qth.net
> http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/qcwa
>

-- 
"They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary
safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." Benjamin Franklin
"A life lived in fear is a life half lived."
Tara Morice as Fran, from the movie "Strictly Ballroom"

From jangus at socal.rr.com  Fri Jul 29 13:06:45 2005
From: jangus at socal.rr.com (Jeffrey D Angus)
Date: Fri Jul 29 13:08:05 2005
Subject: [QCWA] FW: [Mobileer] Gordon West on Licensing
In-Reply-To: <6.1.1.1.0.20050729092948.07116eb0@popd.ix.netcom.com>
References: <004001c59248$c2049cf0$6401a8c0@DickWB0DUL>
	<42EA3D79.7090403@socal.rr.com>
	<6.1.1.1.0.20050729090036.07117eb0@popd.ix.netcom.com>
	<42EA572C.3050500@socal.rr.com>
	<6.1.1.1.0.20050729092948.07116eb0@popd.ix.netcom.com>
Message-ID: <42EA6225.2080408@socal.rr.com>

William M. Pasternak wrote:

> Nothing has changed.  From the dawn of the hobby there have always
> been those who have made their living by profiting from it.  Its only that
> some people live under a mistaken belief that -- if its ham radio -- it is
> wrong to derive income from it.  Tell that to your favorite radio 
> store the
> next time you go in and see what the salesman has to say!

I wasn't wasn't complaining about Gordon making money. He is after all
a business. Having worked at LA Electronics, Signal One and Daiwa, I'd
be hardly one to complain about taking money from other amateurs.

However, there's three ways to prepare for a license exam.

(1) Buy a copy of of a technical book. Either Orr's or the ARRL's
     "Handbook" and LEARN how this stuff works. They both include
     sections on regulations and operating practices..
(2) Have a local Elmer take the time to show how things work and
     explain the rules and regulations to you.
(3) Buy a copy of the answer pool and memorize it.

I was pointing out the irony that Gordon has been defiled in the past for
providing a "rote memorization" method of passing a licensing exam.

Over the past 15 or so years, I've heard all the "old guys" at several
local clubs bitching about "Them damn newbies....How can a guy with
an extra class license NOT know how to hook up a Henry 2K?" And
so forth. Scattered comments about the availability of question pools.
"Memorization is not knowledge" etc.

Jeff
wa6fwi

-- 
"They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary
safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." Benjamin Franklin
"A life lived in fear is a life half lived."
Tara Morice as Fran, from the movie "Strictly Ballroom"

From w2bzy at cfl.rr.com  Fri Jul 29 20:11:07 2005
From: w2bzy at cfl.rr.com (Robert Cumming)
Date: Fri Jul 29 20:06:25 2005
Subject: [QCWA] Gordon West on Licensing
In-Reply-To: <42EA6225.2080408@socal.rr.com>
References: <004001c59248$c2049cf0$6401a8c0@DickWB0DUL>
	<42EA3D79.7090403@socal.rr.com>
	<6.1.1.1.0.20050729090036.07117eb0@popd.ix.netcom.com>
	<42EA572C.3050500@socal.rr.com>
	<6.1.1.1.0.20050729092948.07116eb0@popd.ix.netcom.com>
	<42EA6225.2080408@socal.rr.com>
Message-ID: <6.2.1.2.2.20050729154144.02bd0ff0@pop-server.cfl.rr.com>

Enough complaining on how people use or obtain (legally) their license.

1 - If you can make (or supplement) your living from ham radio - great - 
more power to you.

2- As to how you pass - as long as it is done legally don't complain - more 
hams make for a more powerful lobby with the government.
  2a.  Its a Technical Hobby with many facets - rather than shun RC model 
buffs we should embrace them, even learn from them.  One of my "most missed 
mentors", the late W3GU, was an avid RC airplane enthusiast.  I learned 
from him and also turned him into a VHF/UHF weak signal enthusiast.
  2b. It is the responsibility of the Amateur Radio community to Recruit, 
Train and mentor new hams.  My question to all those who complain about 
"Newbies" - What have you done lately to train or mentor new hams.  The 
possibilities are endless.  First Does your local radio club offer classes 
for Tech or higher classes of license.  If so volunteer to help with the 
classes.  as past President of a local    club (and the local QCWA Chapter) 
I can attest to the need for trainers.  If the club (or QCWA Chapter) 
doesn't offer classes then start them.

As to the content of the classes we use the ARRL manual for the class of 
license being taught  and go through each chapter covering all the key 
points - If it is on components, then we show  resistors, caps, inductors 
of various types even cutting open caps and resistors to show what  they 
are and how they are made.  If its antennas and feed lines then show and 
tell with various types of antennas and feed lines is in order.    The 
students are told to review the chapter and the next class begins with a 
review of the exam questions from the question pool.  Then on to the text 
for the next chapter.  This promotes knowledge of theory as well as all 
questions in the exam pool.

As to learning by rote, towards the end of the series of classes we tell 
the students to start going up on qrz.com and start taking the practice 
exams - over and over until they feel they are ready for the test.  Not 
every one grasps all the theory but most pass using a combo of instruction 
and review (repetitive review).

The numbers about 30-50%  persist through the entire series of classes and 
go on to take the exam.  Many feel lost after the first week and don't come 
back both the Tech and General.  The last series of classes we lost the 
entire Tech class and all but 2 in the General class.  So it bees.

3. As to "all the "old guys" at several local clubs bitching about "Them 
damn newbies....How can a guy with an extra class license NOT know how to 
hook up a Henry 2K?" And so forth. Scattered comments about the 
availability of question pools.  "Memorization is not knowledge" etc."
  - The optimal solution is "Elmering" them and  the place is the monthly 
meeting of the local club (or QCWA Chapter) there needs to be a  Ham Radio 
related program covering some aspect of the hobby that teaches members 
newbies and OTs alike the varied facets like how to hook up a station 
(including that Henry 2K).  I have given numerous programs on how to 
correctly install a PL-259 on coax, power supply hookup, antennas and so 
on.  Every club needs a "elmer" coordinator who knows who can answer 
questions about most aspects of the hobby.

For what its worth, after 35 years in the hobby I decided to upgrade to 
"Extra",  Not that I needed it - my interests lie mainly 50 Mhz and up but 
I wanted to be a VE (and pressure from many fellow Hams).  So I took the 20 
WPM code, the Advanced and Extra  theory tests - not perfect (missed 3 on 
Advanced and 1 on the Extra) after using Gordo's excellent manuals and the 
Practice exams for about 2 weeks.  CW wasn't the problem - I could have 
just taken the theory parts years earlier as I had a 2nd class Telegraph 
license but let it lapse over 10 years so had to take it again.

So stop complaining and start "Elmering".  By the way, we here in Orlando 
are ready to welcome Gordo back to our annual "HamCation" any time.  A few 
years back he had a "pack" of young people following him around the hamfest 
as he explained the various aspects of the hobby.  His Forums were well 
attended and feedback from attendees was extremely positive.  His positive 
outlook inspires both prospective hams, newbies and OTs alike.  - Gordo 
thanks for being in Orlando - we'll have you back again - soon.

VRY 73
Bob Cumming
W2BZY
Past President - Orlando Amateur Radio Club and Citrus Chapter #45 - QCWA
QRV 160M-9CM + 3CM
from EL98hr




   At 01:06 PM 7/29/2005, Jeffrey D Angus wrote:
>William M. Pasternak wrote:
>
>>Nothing has changed.  From the dawn of the hobby there have always
>>been those who have made their living by profiting from it.  Its only that
>>some people live under a mistaken belief that -- if its ham radio -- it is
>>wrong to derive income from it.  Tell that to your favorite radio store the
>>next time you go in and see what the salesman has to say!
>
>I wasn't wasn't complaining about Gordon making money. He is after all
>a business. Having worked at LA Electronics, Signal One and Daiwa, I'd
>be hardly one to complain about taking money from other amateurs.
>
>However, there's three ways to prepare for a license exam.
>
>(1) Buy a copy of of a technical book. Either Orr's or the ARRL's
>     "Handbook" and LEARN how this stuff works. They both include
>     sections on regulations and operating practices..
>(2) Have a local Elmer take the time to show how things work and
>     explain the rules and regulations to you.
>(3) Buy a copy of the answer pool and memorize it.
>
>I was pointing out the irony that Gordon has been defiled in the past for
>providing a "rote memorization" method of passing a licensing exam.
>
>Over the past 15 or so years, I've heard all the "old guys" at several
>local clubs bitching about "Them damn newbies....How can a guy with
>an extra class license NOT know how to hook up a Henry 2K?" And
>so forth. Scattered comments about the availability of question pools.
>"Memorization is not knowledge" etc.
>
>Jeff
>wa6fwi
>
>--
>"They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary
>safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." Benjamin Franklin
>"A life lived in fear is a life half lived."
>Tara Morice as Fran, from the movie "Strictly Ballroom"
>
>_______________________________________________
>QCWA mailing list
>QCWA@mailman.qth.net
>http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/qcwa

From n0uf at kc.rr.com  Sat Jul 30 11:59:19 2005
From: n0uf at kc.rr.com (N0UF)
Date: Sat Jul 30 12:05:05 2005
Subject: [QCWA] Going Home!
Message-ID: <00d201c59520$62053e10$0300a8c0@IBM8C559F2E724>

Greetings and Salutations from the newest employee of the Hutchinson 
Telephone Company.  Hutch Tel is located in MinneSNOWta about 
50 miles west of Minneapolis on hwy 7,  50 miles south of my home
town St Cloud and 18 miles from Linda's folks.

They provide dial tone, long distance, cable tv, dsl, web hosting, pay per
view, cell service and more.  I have responsibility for the Cisco routers
that handle E-mail and DNS to start with and am expected to know
about everything else eventually.  We just finished a trial period with Sky
Pilot to provide wireless internet service for around the many lakes in the
area and it didn't live up to it's marketing hype. They advertise a 20 mile
range, we couldn't get two miles out from a 60 foot antenna location.

The Company Picnic was yesterday, timing is everything! Great People, 
Great Job, Great Company,  wish I'd went to work for them 36
years ago and not Northwestern Bell.

Were hope to be moved before the first snow fall.

See You Later!
Bob, On The Road Again,  Roske, N0UF


From n5bia at arrl.net  Sat Jul 30 13:24:42 2005
From: n5bia at arrl.net (Bill Buoy)
Date: Sat Jul 30 13:25:00 2005
Subject: [QCWA] Recreational marine misuse of amateur radio devices
In-Reply-To: <20050730080114.38608859E5C@mailman.qth.net>
Message-ID: <001a01c5952b$93a89b00$f3ccfea9@WBN1000>

While I cannot attest to this through first-hand knowledge or experience, I
have been told that the marine mis-use of the 706 and similar radios is not
unique. It seems that some aircraft international ferry flights use a
'wide-banded' 706 or similar on ferry flights if the aircraft they are
delivering is not equipped with HF gear. I'm not condoning it, just passing
this along as part of the discussion. The previous posters have already
given good reasons to use proper equipment when safety-of-life is at stake.

73,

Bill Buoy
N5BIA

Web page http://www.geocities.com/buoy@sbcglobal.net/home.html
Linux is actually quite user friendly, it's just very selective who it
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============================================================================
==========================
Message: 1
Date: Fri, 29 Jul 2005 09:18:51 -0500
From: "Sitting Bulls Uncle" <k5sbu@grandecom.net>
Subject: [QCWA] Recreational marine misuse of amateur radio devices
To: <qcwa@mailman.qth.net>
Message-ID: <000601c59448$71ccf1e0$6801a8c0@K5SBUMOBILE>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

[There is a reference post restated below this one, to which I am making
comment.  The post writer makes several valid points but I will only address
the HF radio uses.]

Having been in the USCG and in the military and marine electronics
consulting business
I must say that there is only one side to the issue of amateur radio devices
used by non radio amateurs for marine applications:  Maritime safety!

<snip>


From jfenn at lava.net  Sat Jul 30 15:25:03 2005
From: jfenn at lava.net (Joseph Fenn)
Date: Sat Jul 30 15:25:14 2005
Subject: [QCWA] NTIA Compliance by Jan 2008
Message-ID: <Pine.BSI.4.61.0507300918280.14758@malasada.lava.net>

I haven't heard much if any discussion about the NTIA compliance
on Bandwidth of freqcys being narrowed down.  MARS freqcus are included
in this also.  Dont think any of us are going to buy all new ham
gear in order stay active.  I read even more diatribes about the
BPL system also is going into action per latest info from FCC.
Was told by local civil defense personnell that the heaviest affect
of all the NTIA compliance will be felt mostly on the VHF/UHF
fqcy areas, but HF bandwidth will apply on (non ham fqcys) as well.
                       Joe


**********************************************************
* Ham KH6JF AARS/MARS ABM6JF QCWA WW2 VET WD RADIO SYSTEM*
* Army MARS PRECEDED by AARS (Army Amateur Radio System) * 
*       Hi State ARMY MARS COORDINATOR                   *
**********************************************************

From n4pgw-list1 at towncorp.net  Sat Jul 30 18:21:39 2005
From: n4pgw-list1 at towncorp.net (Buck - N4PGW)
Date: Sat Jul 30 18:21:22 2005
Subject: [QCWA] NTIA Compliance by Jan 2008
In-Reply-To: <Pine.BSI.4.61.0507300918280.14758@malasada.lava.net>
Message-ID: <20050730222120.13EC0859C1C@mailman.qth.net>

Do you know the required bandwidth and what radios are currently in
compliance?  I had a mars member ask me if I could find the information
today.  Another person said it would only affect Homeland Security, EMA,
etc.  When I did a search on Google, I came up with thousands of hits
referring to BPL and frequencies above 60 MHz.  

Thanks for an help you can provide.

Buck
N4PGW


> -----Original Message-----
> From: qcwa-bounces@mailman.qth.net [mailto:qcwa-bounces@mailman.qth.net]
> On Behalf Of Joseph Fenn
> Sent: Saturday, July 30, 2005 3:25 PM
> To: qcwa@mailman.qth.net
> Subject: [QCWA] NTIA Compliance by Jan 2008
> 
> I haven't heard much if any discussion about the NTIA compliance
> on Bandwidth of freqcys being narrowed down.  MARS freqcus are included
> in this also.  Dont think any of us are going to buy all new ham
> gear in order stay active.  I read even more diatribes about the
> BPL system also is going into action per latest info from FCC.
> Was told by local civil defense personnell that the heaviest affect
> of all the NTIA compliance will be felt mostly on the VHF/UHF
> fqcy areas, but HF bandwidth will apply on (non ham fqcys) as well.
>                        Joe
> 
> 
> **********************************************************
> * Ham KH6JF AARS/MARS ABM6JF QCWA WW2 VET WD RADIO SYSTEM*
> * Army MARS PRECEDED by AARS (Army Amateur Radio System) *
> *       Hi State ARMY MARS COORDINATOR                   *
> **********************************************************
> 
> _______________________________________________
> QCWA mailing list
> QCWA@mailman.qth.net
> http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/qcwa
> 
> 
> --
> No virus found in this incoming message.
> Checked by AVG Anti-Virus.
> Version: 7.0.338 / Virus Database: 267.9.5/58 - Release Date: 7/25/2005
> 

-- 
No virus found in this outgoing message.
Checked by AVG Anti-Virus.
Version: 7.0.338 / Virus Database: 267.9.5/58 - Release Date: 7/25/2005
 

From kkotch at earthlink.net  Sat Jul 30 19:57:49 2005
From: kkotch at earthlink.net (Keith Kotch)
Date: Sat Jul 30 19:57:52 2005
Subject: [QCWA] Elmer question - running a fax machine
Message-ID: <20050730235750.89C30859C09@mailman.qth.net>

In one of the learning units for the ARECC Level 3 course, there was a
question for thought posed asking if you know how to hook up a fax machine
to your radio.

 

The scenario is you're an ARES operator with a fax machine at hand but phone
lines are out.  You have traffic to send that is best sent by fax due to
details or drawings, etc.

 

I've found articles on HAL interfaces to hook up to HF but can you use VHF
or UHF?  If so, does anyone know how or what interfaces you'd need?

 

Keith, KF4BXT

From jangus at socal.rr.com  Sat Jul 30 20:11:20 2005
From: jangus at socal.rr.com (Jeffrey D Angus)
Date: Sat Jul 30 20:12:48 2005
Subject: [QCWA] Elmer question - running a fax machine
In-Reply-To: <20050730235750.89C30859C09@mailman.qth.net>
References: <20050730235750.89C30859C09@mailman.qth.net>
Message-ID: <42EC1728.4070805@socal.rr.com>



Keith Kotch wrote:

>The scenario is you're an ARES operator with a fax machine at hand but phone
>lines are out.  You have traffic to send that is best sent by fax due to
>details or drawings, etc.
>
The short answer is to have two FAX machines that are BOTH capable of
manual send and receive. The big problem comes with fooling a machine
into answering (i.e. going off hook) with an incoming ringer signal.

If you can get the machines to work "back to back" (without the phone
company ringing signal, dial tone dialing etc.) the next step is using a
phone patch of sorts to connect them to either the receiver (incoming)
or transmitter (out going)

Jeff
 

-- 
"They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary
safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." Benjamin Franklin
"A life lived in fear is a life half lived."
Tara Morice as Fran, from the movie "Strictly Ballroom"

From k1vg at starc.org  Sat Jul 30 21:01:28 2005
From: k1vg at starc.org (Tom Repstad - K1VG)
Date: Sat Jul 30 21:02:38 2005
Subject: [QCWA] Elmer question - running a fax machine
References: <20050730235750.89C30859C09@mailman.qth.net>
	<42EC1728.4070805@socal.rr.com>
Message-ID: <005901c5956b$88b15710$2b02a8c0@Sheldon.biweekly.com>

I don't think you can fool a modern fax machine without providing at least a
dial tone. Somebody may have made an interface for fax/radio. Also, faxes
send/receive at the same time... don't think they could do the hand-shake to
connect. Phones only require two wires (tip & ring) ... yet they are capable
of sending/receiving at the same time. You'd probably need two radios on
different frequencies.Also faxes don't like "line-noise", I've done SSTV,
and you can see the static in the pictures sometimes. I think the fax would
barf on that one.

Maybe I'm being pessamistic here, but I've never heard of anybody
accomplishing that or exploring that technology.

--Tom
K1VG

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Jeffrey D Angus" <jangus@socal.rr.com>
To: "Discussion of QCWA" <qcwa@mailman.qth.net>
Sent: Saturday, July 30, 2005 8:11 PM
Subject: Re: [QCWA] Elmer question - running a fax machine


>
>
> Keith Kotch wrote:
>
> >The scenario is you're an ARES operator with a fax machine at hand but
phone
> >lines are out.  You have traffic to send that is best sent by fax due to
> >details or drawings, etc.
> >
> The short answer is to have two FAX machines that are BOTH capable of
> manual send and receive. The big problem comes with fooling a machine
> into answering (i.e. going off hook) with an incoming ringer signal.
>
> If you can get the machines to work "back to back" (without the phone
> company ringing signal, dial tone dialing etc.) the next step is using a
> phone patch of sorts to connect them to either the receiver (incoming)
> or transmitter (out going)
>
> Jeff
>
>
> -- 
> "They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary
> safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." Benjamin Franklin
> "A life lived in fear is a life half lived."
> Tara Morice as Fran, from the movie "Strictly Ballroom"
>
> _______________________________________________
> QCWA mailing list
> QCWA@mailman.qth.net
> http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/qcwa
>

From jfenn at lava.net  Sat Jul 30 21:27:18 2005
From: jfenn at lava.net (Joseph Fenn)
Date: Sat Jul 30 21:27:26 2005
Subject: [QCWA] NTIA Compliance by Jan 2008
In-Reply-To: <20050730222120.13EC0859C1C@mailman.qth.net>
References: <20050730222120.13EC0859C1C@mailman.qth.net>
Message-ID: <Pine.BSI.4.61.0507301520510.6497@malasada.lava.net>

Well we just got informed by chief Carmy MARS that no further equipment
will be issued by the DRMO that is not fully compatible with NTIA
specs.   (they probably have none anyway).   That starts Jan 8
this year I believe, and the absoluts date for full compliance is
Jan 1 2008.   Its not so much a problem with being exactly on fqcy
on hf etc, but the severly reduced mod index being narrowed down
to 15 khz on vhf uhf etc.  I presume that will will include
(ouside the ham bands) hf freqs such as MARS assigned freqs also.
Most of the Icoms, Kenwoods etc except the real ancient ones
like the TS430 are pretty stable already as to being exactly
on freq on hf.    The DRMO's have been instructed not to issue
any further equipment that is not fully compliant right away.
The actual implentation will be Jan 1 2008.   So haveing deviation
meters and bandwidth indicators or scopes is something not too
many of us have nowadays.
                       Joe/ABM6JF


**********************************************************
* Ham KH6JF AARS/MARS ABM6JF QCWA WW2 VET WD RADIO SYSTEM*
* Army MARS PRECEDED by AARS (Army Amateur Radio System) * 
*       Hi State ARMY MARS COORDINATOR                   *
**********************************************************


From k4lvz at cfl.rr.com  Sun Jul 31 10:20:07 2005
From: k4lvz at cfl.rr.com (Gerry  Skinner)
Date: Sun Jul 31 10:20:41 2005
Subject: [QCWA] Going Home!
References: <00d201c59520$62053e10$0300a8c0@IBM8C559F2E724>
Message-ID: <000701c595da$f3e66920$6600a8c0@o4y7c6>

Bob:  Congratulations and our sincerest hope for a great future.
73    Gerry, K4LVZ, ARLHS#455
----- Original Message -----
From: N0UF <n0uf@kc.rr.com>
To: QCWA - Reflector <qcwa@mailman.qth.net>
Sent: Saturday, July 30, 2005 11:59 AM
Subject: [QCWA] Going Home!


> Greetings and Salutations from the newest employee of the Hutchinson
> Telephone Company.  Hutch Tel is located in MinneSNOWta about
> 50 miles west of Minneapolis on hwy 7,  50 miles south of my home
> town St Cloud and 18 miles from Linda's folks.
>
> They provide dial tone, long distance, cable tv, dsl, web hosting, pay per
> view, cell service and more.  I have responsibility for the Cisco routers
> that handle E-mail and DNS to start with and am expected to know
> about everything else eventually.  We just finished a trial period with
Sky
> Pilot to provide wireless internet service for around the many lakes in
the
> area and it didn't live up to it's marketing hype. They advertise a 20
mile
> range, we couldn't get two miles out from a 60 foot antenna location.
>
> The Company Picnic was yesterday, timing is everything! Great People,
> Great Job, Great Company,  wish I'd went to work for them 36
> years ago and not Northwestern Bell.
>
> Were hope to be moved before the first snow fall.
>
> See You Later!
> Bob, On The Road Again,  Roske, N0UF
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> QCWA mailing list
> QCWA@mailman.qth.net
> http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/qcwa
>
>
> --
> No virus found in this incoming message.
> Checked by AVG Anti-Virus.
> Version: 7.0.338 / Virus Database: 267.9.7/60 - Release Date: 7/28/05
>
>

