re: ARRL did indeed lose big time

As noted in a past post, I analyzed the ARRL's 1996/1997 survey of amateur radio operators and found that they had misrepresented the statistical conclusions of that survey to show a "pro-code" sentiment that did not exist. They had jiggled the numbers to reach their desired conclusion. I filed an extensive analysis of that survey as Reply Comments to the ARRL's original comments (since the ARRL submitted the survey as part of their arguments) and proved that there own survey actually showed a "no code" bias.

The ARRL has lost, completely. The FCC has said unquivocably that the ARRL does not represent Amateur Radio in the U.S. today. Will the ARRL "get it" though? I really doubt it. It took them this long to only grungingly propose new changes, or to recently solicit input on ideas for incorporating new technology into Amateur radio. All of it is, in my view, too little, too late. The ARRL is not an organization that moves quickly and decisively. Even if they "get it", it will take them 3 years to do anything about it.

Also, rest assured that I did not know anyone (including me) offended by your opinions. We just didn't understand what was to be accomplished by posting the same short message "So long (CW), Farewell Amateur Radio" every single day." I favor a diversity of opinion and I do not censor this BBS at all.

Thank you, LW Longbow for your comments. May I ask a favor? Feel free to sign your posts with "So long (CW)", but do you have to keep the negative sounding "Farewell Amateur Radio"? The license restructuring presents us with an opening to continue with fundamental, forward looking changes to the Amateur service. We have it within ourselves to make Amateur radio successful, dynamic and an exciting place for everyone as we enter the 21st century.

73, Ed, KF7VY