[SixClub] new general ticket.

[Rick Fletcher]

> The excuse I can't do it, it's too hard or I'm not capable of learning
> the code is not valid here. What is the problem? If you can't hear
> that's one thing but if you just don't have the time, patience or
> intestinal fortitude to work for it then you are in a helpless way.

You miss the point, which is:  Why should one have to learn CW at all in
order to gain HF privileges?  That requirement made sense back when it was
the primary mode of operation but times have changed.

The two primary arguments I've heard for retaining the code requirement are:

(1)  I had to learn it so you should too!  Like many others, I had to master
a manual transmission in order to get my driver's license; however, most
folks drive automatics so continuing this requirement was wisely abandoned a
long time ago.

(2)  Ham radio will "dumb down" if we drop this requirement.  Yeah, right.
Many of the most technically-challenged hams I've every known have some of
the best fists I've ever heard; however, they come to me when they have a
problem in the shack.  All of them are strictly "appliance operators".
Another ham I know who is the most prolific builder I've ever met of his own
gear and antennas is a Tech who has no interest in CW - he'd rather write
DSP code for his home-built AF DSP.

Folks, it's time we acknowledged that CW is just another mode of operation.
It deserves to have some portions of the bands reserved for its use but
nothing more.

Putting on the fire-retardant suit now.  O.K.  Flame on!

73,

Rick
KG6IAL