Letter To The ARRL: Ham Radio Is More Than A Great Hobby And You Should Know That.
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- Опубліковано 29 вер 2024
- Please watch to the end. I will add again that I am not angry. I just wanted to make a few points to the ARRL leadership. And, express my sincere disappointment in the lack of response and support from the ARRL and the CEO. My video does have a number of edits with some being jumps. Those happened because I had to shorten the video and concentrate on the things that seemed important to me. Thanks for watching and please add constructive comments.
JugSouthgate • 53 minutes ago
I want to ask W6LG one question:
Is that the best you can do?
Jim W6LG
• 12 minutes ago
Very good question! And, the answer is probably I can do better. I am just one guy, 71 years old, using oxygen when not on camera, use a walker, mild emphysema, heart failure, severe osteoporosis, lost part of my lungs, thyroid disease, anemia, blood clots, multiple pulmonary embolisms, heart attack and minor strokes and not likely to live many years longer. I never smoked and hardly ever drank alcohol. Thanks for asking and offering advice. But yes, I can do better and hope to do just than. 73 from your friend, Jim Heath W6LG
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It wasn't anger that came across, more the disappointment and the feeling of being let down. If there was ever a time for the ARRL to step up to the plate........
What would you have "ARRL" do to "step up to the plate"?
@@JugSouthgate Thanks Jugs, My understanding of the ARRL's mission statement is as below. My request is that they should be advocates for growth of and access to the hobby ( as per the mission statement) as opposed to placing barriers in the way. Accepted, it isn't a lot of money now, but this is how it begins. Hence step up to the plate and uphold their views - after all, they are are our views!
"To support the awareness and growth of Amateur Radio worldwide."
"To advocate for meaningful access to the radio spectrum"
@@DrHWO But what does "advocate for growth of and access to" mean in real-world terms?
For example, does "growth" simply mean "more licensed hams", even if huge numbers of them are inactive?
Does "access" mean "make the licenses easier to get, with more privileges"?
As for HOA/CC&R antenna restrictions, how should ARRL proceed when a significant number of amateurs don't agree with overriding such rules?
@@JugSouthgate For me, the ideal type of growth would be a push towards youth. Anything which makes the hobby less attractive ( including cost and HOA covenants) will not help. The ARRL is often followed in its ethos by sister organisations around the globe. In that respect, its effect is like radio waves, they don't respect geopolitical boundaries. Access for me means being presented with an opportunity to go further and not a reduction in the standards we strive to uphold or an extension to the privileges we enjoy.
@@DrHWO But how would a "push towards youth" actually be implemented?
Excellent video Jim! You definitely did not come across as angry but you did convey great concern. I have been a Ham for only about two years but I do not look at Ham radio as just a "hobby". My club, as well as our members, are involved in local emergency management, support of our local community, and provide communications support for various foot and bicycle racing clubs in our area. I fully enjoy all aspects of Ham radio but am most proud of our abilities to provide emergency and community services. The ARRL needs to recognize and fully embrace that if they wish to represent us effectively. K4UVX
THANK YOU Jim for speaking what all of us were/are feeling.
The AARL should only be a support mechanism for the ham operators. Them competing with their advertisers is not a well thought out move on their part. Although I get what I consider important news from the ARRL, I receive even more numerous solicitations from AARL for their merchandise. I do purchase these irems but the primary duties are to support us, the licensed operators.
I would not consider buying an antenna from my supposed to be "Supporting" team at ARRL..
I think ARRL has been out of touch with most Amateur Radio Operators for a number of years just my opinion AH7Y Chuck
ARRL told me to learn by watching youtube videos. And by reading there books and Manuel’s. Same reason I left some of the veteran service organizations. Because they did nothing for me.
Not an ARRL member here... Why do you think I am not a member? Everything Jim says.
sadly the same situation exists in Greece
Thank you Jim for speaking up. I’m a licensed amateur radio operator since 1958. One of my incentives for radio license was to help in emergency’s. My Elmer never thought of amateur radio as a hobby. Operating was simply an exercise in preparation for emergency traffic or communication. Just as I listened to the tragic Nashville, TN floods a few nights ago all municipal communications went down. I did here emergency traffic being forwarded to rescue agencies by calm and organized amateur operators. When I started in radio the ARRL was! amateur radio. I have a very small station now but I keep up with our emergency tornado nets that are necessary where I live in Texas. I regret the loss of the ARRL as our advocate to the FCC.
We dont need an advocate with FCC. We can go directly mow.
Youre living way in the past...
My comments to FCC in re RM 11759 are the reason the free license scam was ended.
See my video on that topuc here on UA-cam..
Thank you Jim for all that you do ! You are certainly my Elmer for years. God bless you and your family.
73 for now sir,
Don WU3D
You could have made your point in 3 minutes or less by not repeating how personally insulted you feel.
I have been licensed, on and off, since 1963. Joined ARRL for one year, because a local Club required it. There was no real benefit from that club membership, either.
I became a life member of NRA for similar reasons, and ever since have regretted it.
But I'm afraid that after 6 minutes of listening to your spiel, admittedly at double speed, I do not know a single thing that I didn't know before.
Some kind of call-for-action might have added meaning. In the meantime, I'm sad that you seem to be getting so little out of something that has consumed a lot of your time and energy for a lifetime.
DE W3STN
Take a look at the poorly written email pointing to the FCC warning sent by the ARRL insulting radio amateurs not to use the HF spectrum for criminal activity.
"That's the best they could do?"
The FBI announced that, in the aftermath of January 6 they seized several handheld radios programmed for amateur radio frequencies. Instead of asking the FBI is they had information that these were licensed amateurs, they just dutifully passed on the warning, assuming that we were guilty of something. It's time that the League actually sticks up for and supports its constituents. Dan, AI4GK.
@@ai4gk that's like telling private pilots not to ram their planes into buildings in the wake of 911.
@@mikedevita5558 you're 💯 correct!
@@ai4gk You don't speak for everyone. Some hams are tired of the rude, petty and possessive hams in the airwaves and in the forums. If people think ham radio is dying, snobbery and exclusive cliques is one reason why.
@@sammiller6631 I don't pretend to speak for everyone. Obviously, no one speaks for everyone. @Sam Miller I've looked over my post and for the life of me I cannot see what I may have said that caused you to reply as you did. I don't consider myself parochial at all. I don't think that you and I are in that big of a disagreement. I actually do hold a field position with the ARRL, but I believe that the League could, as Jim said, do better than they are. So, I am sorry if I said something that could be interpreted to indicate that I am not the way that I really am. ( Did that make sense?) 😊
I am happy to discuss this further if you would like. If you don't, that's fine also. Please be well and 73, Dan AI4GK
The ARRL has pretended too long. The recent video has exposed their incompetence and lack of direction for all to witness. The evidence is overwhelming. The ARRL at a minimum needs a house cleaning with all new leadership but many of us would like to see a completely new organization.
Let the ARRL go... start a new one and let them fail on their own doing.
The evidence is overwhelming? What evidence? Which video?
@@sammiller6631 save face? Or honest question?
We hams have a sense of humor, a crummy amateur vid is good for laughs, a lid vid by HQ, hi hi lol lol
Listen to the rubbish talk on 80 meters and ask yourself who enforces the rules...
Frank Jankovich,
Could't agree more. After 3 years on 80 es 20 CW as a novice, I "upgraded" to general. Thought I'd try SSB until I listened to 75M at night (0000Z). One guy told a joke about the president, and the next guy told a dirty joke.
Since all the obnoxious (1500W 100% duty-cycle) CBers went to SSB, the D104 mic went back into the closet where it remains to this day. Still have my G5RV, J-38 es bug, but with all the contests es dx trophy hunters, there's not much rag chewing any more.
Jim, very thoughtful words and thought provoking. I too believe that you didn't come off as mad at ARRL but disappointed. I agree, with the last issue with the FCC over fees, ARRL owes its members an explanation as to what they did as a lobbyist on our behalf. (I am an ARRL member)
Moreso a critic, but constructive criticism, admonishment - ARRL can do better.
I'm not a licensed operator, however I really enjoy amateur radio. Some that I know love it and take it very serious. Keep up the great work!!
Thank you Jim. I left the ARRL many years ago because I felt they were doing a really poor job in representing the HAM radio community to the FCC. Congratulations in having the courage to call them out. 73s
Same here! 73, de N4HNH
When Jim speaks, it’s worth listening
I'm listening but I still don't understand.
Excellent points, why does it always have to be a crisis before someone takes action! No way should they be charging a license fee and the ARRL That used to do so good sticking up for us seems to be lacking. Very sad!
What makes you think the ARRL is not sticking up for you? They fought like hell at the FCC about the fees. But the silly fees are a penny a day. $3.65 a friggin YEAR!
I certainly hope that the fee increase is the magician getting us to look at one hand while something worse is going on in the other.
People who are upset about the license fee are freeloaders riding off the wallets of GMRS license fees for decades ever since ham radio went to no cost around the 1980s.
The ARRL fought to get the fee dropped from $50 to $35. Both fee prices are still lower than the amateur radio license fees cost in the 1970s.
Funny belly aching about a fee, but will spend untold thousands of $ to talk (brag or give a 5/9 location) on a radio, CQ CQ CQ! (crickets)
I quit watching after 3 minutes. This is just an old guy ranting about nothing. Not getting a subscription from me.
I am due to reup with arrl in a few months and I just don’t think I will.
I do like your videos and enjoy watching them. Keep up the great work Jim.
Very good video Jim,
Thank you for standing up for and Representing
The Ham radio community,
You are a Great American,
73
KC3GHC,
I wrote the ARRL a letter 3 years ago with similar concerns as to the direction of the future of ARRL. I included the board of directors, all the vice-presidents, and pretty much everyone else I could find.... I never got any reply from anyone at the ARRL. I have not renewed my membership since.
Well the way I see it.... you don't need the NRA to own a gun. You don't need to join AARP to retire and you certainly don't need the ARRL..
I also feel that the ARRL failed us on the point of renewal fees. You DO speak for us. Thank you for being there and saying your opinions that come from your heart.
How does that renewal fee compare to the money you have invested in your station?
@@blogger1947 Maybe we should be asking the FCC what justification is there for applying the fees. What exactly is the value being provided in terms of services not already available which to my knowledge only consists of accessing a database and printing off documents. Will fees help promote amateur radio to help get new people interested? Is the ARRL asking questions?
I'm new to amateur radio, having been in it for about a year and a half. Personally, it's been a blessing to me during the pandemic as I've learned to explore electronics, learn about how radio communication work, building antennas and small transceivers from kits. Being a new member of my community, I've found and joined a very active club where members encourage learning and getting new members enthused which will only help to further the advancement of technology. We are also very active with our local club as we conduct frequent emergency exercises and activate a weather net to keep each other, and anyone who's listening informed. Long term members help new members learn and grow.
As Jim said, amateur radio is more than a hobby. I'm all for modest fees if they result in providing the value of further promotion of the science of radio communication which results in new people getting excited enough to join and become active.
Mike - W4MWT
@@miketaylor9231 Since FCC is simply rubber stamping the license exam results obtained via ARRL, perhaps only one of the two organizations is justified in collecting a fee.
Honestly, I have not seen very much relevance to amateur radio for the last couple of decades, which is why I'd let my license lapse until 3 years ago. Nothing I have heard at club meetings or on the air since reactivating has changed my thinking.
@@blogger1947 "I have not seen very much relevance to amateur radio for the last couple of decades"
Just don't try to convince one of the young club members in my local amateur radio club who just earned his degree in electronic engineering of that.
Thank you for taking the the time to do this. I believe you speak for all of us.
Is there any link to the video in question? I would like to witness it first hand.
Hear, hear... well said! - de WA3MCK
It's really hard to feel like we get our money's worth to pay the membership dues. There are many of us that would gladly help out but the heirarchy doesn't seem interested.
What is it that you would do to "help out"?
Respect for Jim. He is one of the reasons of me being a HAM operator and love and enjoy what i am doing. Greetings from The Netherlands.
John, PD8JMG
Why I will not join! And many like me!! Are you listening ARRL? Help us with our HOA’s! Nationwide with our antenna’s!!!!!!! Or we will boycott the ARRL!
You want help getting out of the mess you signed up for?
Why should you become a member of the ARRL? That is a great question, Jim. I have been an Amateur Radio Operator since July of 2017. I upgraded to General Jan 2ND this year. I became a member of the ARRL in 2018 because the club that I am a member of needed 50% of it's membership to also be members of the ARRL to keep the association with the ARRL. I love our club. I respect the members. We were close to not having the 50%, so I joined to improve the percentage. I look at the ARRL as a publisher, and not as an advocate or lobby group. They have never done anything on my behalf. The club has asked for our regional rep to talk to us many times, but it has never happened. Why should you join the ARRL? I have no idea. 73 KE0OAP
Why should you join the ARRL? QST has been published since 1915. It's a treasure trove of information.
@@sammiller6631 That is true ,but QST can be purchased at HRO.
It really is no longer that treasure trove of info. I have a collection dating back 60+ years. The last 10 years or so seems a boring read, to me.
@@davehockaday5247 Well said!
@@sammiller6631 If you enjoy seeing ads for ham gear and contest scores enjoy your QST.
Hello Jim and respect to you, my name is Alexi and I live in Athens Greece.
So touched by your video so here are some ham facts from Greece.
1) In 1986 the city of Kalamata was badly hit by an earthquake. Communications were all cut off during the first week, disabling rescue operations and mobile co-ordination. It was only thanks to ham operators that bridged Kalamata with Athens via HF (and provided local V/UHF) that enabled operations until normal comms were restored. There was no internet in Greece back then. Hams struggled and successfully provided a round the clock infrastructure that saved peoples' lives. They were honorably mentioned in the news, hats off!
2) Every year we have trouble with summer forest fires, and before the advent of GSM mobile networks and digital trunked radio optimized comms, it was the hams (again) who would bridge VHF & UHF frequencies so that the fire brigade / ambulances / police / civil protection services could DIRECTLY communicate with each other. This used to happen year after year after year.
3) So many kids started with ham radio and gained such an interest they continued to study physics / electronics, so I am saddened to hear the mighty ARRL's views regarding ham radio as just a hobby, this is really paranoid demeaning inconsiderate and erroneous, all at once.
Take care my friend and I'm glad to have met you! If I had an HF rig I'd love to chat with you on the air. '73 and aloha from Athens. PS: how can people thumbs down this video, what is wrong with you?
I watched this entire video and hear all of your concerns. A lot of us *do* listen, and share the frustration. If you'd like to reach out, feel free. My phone number is in QST, but I do better with email. It's listed in QST. This goes for anyone. 73, Ria, N2RJ - Director, Hudson Division.
My letter to the ARRL:
To the Board:
Amateur radio is not just a hobby!!!!!!! If I wasn’t a life member back when you use to represent the Ham Radio community I would not give you a dime after you call Ham Radio JUST a Hobby. As a LIFE MEMBER maybe I should run for President of the ARRL and get it back to doing what the member’s expect of the ARRL!!! You are PAID to represent the member in FCC matters and premotion of Ham Radio. BTW, I will never buy a Antenna from the ARRL, I’d rather buy it from a manufacture of Ham Radio gear not the origination like the ARRL, the NRA doesn’t sell guns either for a reason..
Pissed off member
James E Bowen
KB6DX
I just passed the test for Technician. I don't see it as just a hobby. The reason for me getting into HAM was for emergencies.
Bill-N6EF-Congratulations on passing Technician. Welcome to the amateur service.
@@FreeStuffGuy916 thank you.
Jim, you are on point. 2 years in Amatuer Radio and still trying to understand what ARRL is doing to support us. I do like their On the Air magazine, sad they can only get it our quarterly. Newbies need more positive reinforcement.
I see ham radio called a "hobby" everywhere on youtube. I hope im wrong, but it almost seems like its planed that we dont call it a service. If its just a "hobby" then we will not have so much to loose when they come and take it away from us.
What AARL video are you referring to?
Little help?
AARL member here, asking about the video? I don't see any keynote speeches that are recent. Is there a link? Thanks.
I alway hear that amateur radio is a service. Please, if you can tell a story of a time you affected change of some kind where amateur radio was the only form of communication. I never really hear any actual stories. That might help. 73
Jim,
Thanks for your insight. I’ve been an amateur for 37 years. I’ve struggled a long time with the decisions, priorities, and behaviors of the ARRL leadership. As we lost the 3.5 GHz band to the well financed mobile phone providers, the league kept its focus on raising the Titanic’s radio gear from its watery North Atlantic grave. As league membership has contracted even as the number of licensed amateurs has grown, the board has focused on censuring its members and internal political strife. As the membership gentrified the league wasted millions on fighting BPL (which never amounted to anything...). It’s no surprise to me that you received no support or so much as a phone call. It also doesn’t surprise me to see the poor presentation from the league.
The league has taken our money, spent it on all the wrong priorities, and declines accountability. Perhaps now is the time for creative destruction. Let us disband the ARRL and start with a clean slate of leadership in a new organization. Maybe then there will be real vision for a sustainable future for our service.
New technician studying for General next month before the fees start. Joined a local club and doing vhf/uhf on repeaters. Just finished my HF setup - an older Yaesu with an SDR addition + SDRuno going to a wire ground loop antenna for receive only with OFC wire dipole for transmit. Even after just 2 months, it's clear that it is a community of Individuals that helps and serves. All the resources I needed for technical questions, process, operating procedures and general how to have come from individual sources. Thanks Jim and the rest of the you tube Ham radio presenters. As in the rest of life, it is the individuals and their efforts that will make Amateur Radio what it should be.
Hi Jim,
You hit the proverbial nail on the head. All your points are valid. A good video and you didn't seem to be angry, just a concerned amateur radio operator. I have often thought the same of the ARRL, but still became a life member as it's really the only game in town with respect to having a voice concerning our Amateur Radio needs with the FCC and Congress. Wonder if you will ever get a reasonable response to you letter. You and the family stay safe. 73 from your ham friend. WJ3U
Not all the points are valid. If he thought he could make a better presentation, he has the video equipment already. Why does he need to wait to be handed a response? Be proactive. His reasons might not be the president's reason, but that gives it a personal touch. If he can't think of any reasons, then his time would be better spent on a different topic.
Well said Jim. We provide a service. We buy our own equipment, and pay for all installations to our homes and vehicles at our own expense. All the time we spend studying to pass exams and practicing to master our craft is for free.
We volunteer all of our services as we are not allowed to receive compensation.
The FCC is charging a fee and provides no additional services or benefits.
This should have been an open and shut discussion a long time ago.
Jim, I left the ARRL because they raised their dues a few years ago. I then turned to UA-cam for information regarding the amateur radio community and to check out the latest radio gadgets.
After watching your video, I won't be reconsidering rejoining the ARRL anytime soon.
If they can't give you the courtesy of an audience after several invites, or even a single reason to join the ARRL; I just don't see any reason to deal with them at all.
Your letter was genuine and professional.
I feel ARRL management really has no choice but to respond.
I hope they do address your concerns.
When they do, please share with us what they have to say.
Kind regards,
Steve
NS9DX
I left them when they raised their fees as well.
Well they did change the name of "hints and kinks" to "hints and hacks" . Doesnt that make you want to come back ? kf0ka
There are lots of reasons why one should belong to the ARRL, and it's sad that the ARRL did not respond to you Jim. People that say the ARRL does nothing for them are really short sighted and they have no understanding on some things the ARRL does that benefits us all which are not necessarily obvious. One example is the work being done by the ARRL regarding RFI which involves a direct line of communications between the ARRL and the FCC as well as the ARRL working directly with manufacturers to change their designs to mitigate RFI and an example of this is the ARRL working with several manufacturers of solar systems that are wreaking havoc on our bands.
I'm glad you're asking the ARRL to do better, but it's very short sighted for people (many of the people responding to your video) to not belong to the ARRL as there really is no one else that has the resources to represent us like the ARRL.
Some other obvious benefits of the ARRL are publications such as QST and QEX, as well as the contests, special events, and rewards that the ARRL sponsors which helps keep our bands active and enjoyable for many.
Way too many people are short sighted in not supporting the ARRL.
73, Don (wd8dsb)
I understand your disappointment!!I have never seen this video, but if I get a chance I would like to see, so I can get a good understanding.
I agree with you 100% Jim. I was first licensed around 1980 WL7AKW. I subscribed to them back then but not anymore. The organization is a shadow of its former self. Jim have you looked at their UA-cam channel? 10 videos in the last year! 34 videos in the last 4 YEARS! They have 13.4k subs. What is the average age of viewers on UA-cam? And this is the best ARRL can do? Here they have a great and vast audience just waiting to be taped and ARRL blows it with crappy videos spaced out so far apart that no wounder they only have 13.4k subs! They are never going to attract younger people to Ham radio working this way. No disrespect to Bob Allison WB1GCM but his "review" videos are a joke. A first year UA-cam creator can do a better job. The videos are supper sort and very vague. And this is the best the ARRL can do? They have failed in my option and have lost my support. A ham friend of mine from Great Britain asked me what was going on with ARRL these last several years and all I could say was "I have no clue". Its a shame it really is. Its time for a major shakeup at ARRL and bring in younger talent or older talent just get some talent!. 73 Joe
ARRL is over priced and you get nothing for paying them a lot of money, just an over priced magazine...big deal
The ARRL I agree is going in the wrong direction as well. They are our last stopping point to help clarification with the FCC from the amateur radio, and why it is important to have a service we provide, around the world, globally. Without amateur radio, a lot of technology would of never been created. Thank you Jim, for a well thought of presentation. You never disappoint! You are always right on key.
I have started a conversation with someone at the ARRL. I don't know if it will help. We have agreed to continue the conversation and to be civil. The first conversation went very good. From the other side, I am very much out of phase with where the ARRL seems to be headed on several areas of concern. Both of us realize that what happens there at the ARRL is very important. At some point, we will open the discussion to comments and perhaps a "town hall" if they agree. The other person was cordial, responsive and listened. And I can't ask for much more than that. 73 Jim
Thanks Jim for speaking the truth! I'm a new guy next to you, only 34 years here. The ARRL should step up to the plate for us, they never do and I only see that continuing in the future.
Amateur Radio for me began while serving my country in Viet Nam, they were doing me and my family a great service. I was just a young kid, fighting a war nobody at home agreed with. It meant so much to be able to talk to my family via MARS, it was then I knew one day I would become a Operator and try to give back. You are 100% correct, and yes I do believe that is the best they can do. It's like government, some times things need to be cleaned out and start over fresh. I enjoy you being so honest, many great viewings you have made, this is one of the best yet.
Bill-N6EF-Thank you for your service to our country.
THAT is exactly why I haven't wasted fifty bucks on an overpriced magazine subscription! Thanks, Jim!
I have watched the ARRL go downhill when first licensed I had joined- a year and half later- I was done with them.. they have become a joke and self centered as long as your in there click! N8SDR
It would be nice to have a link to the video Jim is talking about. I can't find it.
When I saw his finger point. Bingo. New video. The sad state of the states. They want us gone. And US gone too
As a brand-new Ham, I guess I don't know what I'm missing when I look at what ARRL has to offer. It would have been interesting to see them in their glory days, if they had them.
In addition, when I heard that the FCC was going to start charging for licensing operations, I shrugged it off. I was a bit surprised that there was no fee for getting my license (besides the one I paid at testing) or when I applied for a vanity. After all there are fees when we register our vehicles or get a driver's license or fishing permit. Going straight to $35 from zero is probably excessive, however. Just my newbie opinion. Thanks, Jim, for your videos. They are very informative.
The FCC charged for amateur licenses until the 1980s. It wasn't "free" because there are still government workers and computer system upkeep that needs paid, but GMRS licenses had to pay $70 for 5 years to pay for hams too. Now it's a balanced $35 per 10 years for both.
Well said, can someone point out why I should renew my membership when it expires soon?
ARRL survived over 100 years
I recently joined because nobody else will fight for our spectrum. It was an act of desperation, to be honest. To give that up is to give up the whole service and hobby.
Good grief. What does it take to come up with 4 good reasons to join the ARRL? Without even looking I can think of LOTW, QST and all the magazines with the new ones being free, support for field day and contests, the bureau, books, legal support, representation, etc. etc. Just spend some time and explore their webpage. Did you contact any of the public information officers? Did you know that ARRL has PIOs?
I've only been a ham for a year and joined the ARRL when I got my tech license. I was very disappointed with the ARRL for not fighting these new license fees so I didn't renew my ARRL membership. I'll put that money towards the fees they weren't interested in fighting.
They had zero chance. The FCC was obligated by law to impose them. They managed to get them reduced I believe, but there's no way they'd succeed in changing the law.
So the ARRL has nothing for you?
It has does Zero for those that embrace our hobby?
I am very sorry to hear that.
The ARRL in my view point has done much for our hobby, yes it is a hobby it is not a Profession
Just because it is a hobby does not mean, we are not passionate about it, I am very passionate about our hobby
You blame the ARRL for much, have you thought about crediting them for anything?
Apparently in your view sir, the glass is not half empty it is bone dry.
You are of course welcome to that view and since you are in fact a Life member of the ARRL
I must respect your view, even though I disagree with it I do respect you and your view.
I know the ARRL is far from perfect, it is a large organization and like most large organizations
can loose touch with members.
Is that a failure that falls squarely solely on the leaderships shoulders?
I feel the answer to that last question is no, because it takes a team of people to make positive changes.
As a relatively new ARRL Section Manager, I saw changes that I desired for myself and fellow amateurs.
So I decided to participate in making some positive changes, have I made everyone within North Texas happy, probably not.
However I feel confident that I have made some positive contributions, am I done, no there is much more that we can all do
to make our hobby better as well as help the league make positive strides.
The new CEO David Minster NA2AA has helped us see some positive changes
A few that I personally know of: 1) Communicate with those in the ARRL Field Staff (Section Managers for one), 2) Provide Section Managers with more tools in which we can better do our job in communicating with the members within our section and beyond, 3) Embrace and instill positive changes.
Recently Mr. Minster has been using his All Hand's On Deck Zoom conferences with Section Managers
These conferences are usually bimonthly and they allow SM's that participate to not only listen to new things taking place at ARRL Headquarters, but also chime in and voice our concerns.
These conferences average an attendance of about 30 SM's, that is far too few in my opinion.
I must admit, I have missed one such conference, my bad.
He also asked us Section Managers in a survey, what we need to do our job better, in the All Hands on Deck conference
following that survey, it was very apparent many of us that attend and provided input were thinking the same things.
One of these was the need for all SM's to have a copy of all four ARRL Publications so we could showcase at events we attend within our
section ( QST, On The Air, QEX and NCJ), not just QST. I am very happy to be able to show case all four of these periodicals in my travels as a Section Manager.
Mr. Minister while not having embraced your desire for a Interview and a disappointing key note speech in your view
during the virtual ham fest early this year, has embraced more than a few You Tubers as a tool set to communicate with members and beyond.
Jim, I am sure you will agree that positive change takes time and changes are being made.
Is the new CEO an answer to our prayers, well I will not go that far in making that statement, however I do see he has a positive vision
and the resolve currently to push people at Head Quarters to work harder for our members.
Can we solve everyone's issues, no of course not.
Fact is many people place themselves right square into their own issues.
How about asking what can we do to help and better our hobby.
How many of our fellow amateurs even consider where we would be without the ARRL
Without spectrum, are we going to resort to internet chat rooms or discord server chats
Sure many of our members and shockingly even non members are beside themselves over any license fee,
and maybe the league should not even strived to get that $50 fee reduced to $35
after all $5 a year for a hobby is so expensive, yes I know it is not that amount it is the principle of it
however there are so battles we might not want to fight if it cost us dearly.
IOW Is less than $5 a year worth a positive relationship with the FCC, everyone will have different opinions
on that one and many of those that voice it have never even posted a formal comment on a proposed rule making with the FCC.
Just my nickel's worth
73
Steve
KG5VK
Thank you for writing. It is a very long message and I only have a few minutes before a meeting with my oncologist about my cancer in my blood. With respect to the CEO, he was not telling the whole story and change what I said and what I did.. So, for that, it is the end of the story of my association with that clown. A good CEO would not have done the things that he did. I am way past thinking of him or his friend on the Board. Keep in mind that I am a Life Member. There are two on the wall of my radio room. As for hobby, sure it is a great hobby. But it is not just a hobby. It is in fact, unique. A word that mean there is nothing else like it. And, that is true.
The ARRL is in a death spiral and I don't want that to happen. I am pleased to read your narrative and hope that you can make some changes to improve the situation in Newington.
Got to go. 73, Jim W6LG
Well said.
Never joined the ARRL. Thought about it simply for QST and the archives, but the irrelevance of the organization as a whole prevents me from going through with it. The FCC defines amateur radio as a radio service, why would the ARRL minimize us by calling us a hobby? Are they working against us, to diminish us? Making it easier to give away some our spectrum, perhaps?
I realize, for some, it is an occasional hobby, but there is a vast amount of innovation that occurs in amateur radio. It's more than a hobby and it deserves a better advocate than the ARRL.
Exactly. Thanks, Jim
And people wonder why I no longer am a member of the ARRL ... or the NRA. In the age of UA-cam, it is so much easier to "get the word out" and get people to communicate directly with legislatures is a great way to get OUR voices heard ... and the ARRL need to realize that. W9HJ
I feel that both NRA and ARRL are in it for themselves more than the people that they are supposed to represent
Is there a link somewhere to the original video? Why you should join the ARRL is a very simple question. I got my general license 4 years ago, and I would love to know the answer to that.
I have been looking for the video myself without success. If Jim’s assessment is halfway accurate, and I have no reason to believe it isn’t, then that might be a blessing... the FCC commissioners will have a hard time finding it as well!
Why do you need the ARRL to hand you the answer? Be proactive instead of waiting on a response, like in the video.
@@sammiller6631 If they want to sell memberships, it's on them to hand us the answer. I'm not going to go out of my way when everything's just fine on this end.
@@paul.phillips It's not on them to hand you the answer. The 80/20 rule says that 20% of clients make up the bulk of revenues. There are YT channels for ham radio that put out loads of content and have over 100k subs. Would they be a better investment of time than those channels who wait for someone to hand them an answer? If they can't think of any reasons to talk about the ARRL, then why would they consider doing that?
@@sammiller6631 If the ARRL considers themselves relevant, the burden is on them. They can't even bother to respond to a 50+ year veteran who has made an effort. Right now, I don't really care that they exist. Are you saying that I should care and that it's on *me* to figure out why I should support them? I've got a job and a family to care for, I'm not jumping through unnecessary hoops to ascribe value to an organization for which it may not exist. Apparently the ARRL considers ham radio nothing more than a "hobby". Doesn't sound like an organization that has the best interest of amateur radio in mind. Why should I waste my time trying to prove otherwise when they don't really even care?
Good job we need a voice think you n9puc
I wish we knew what Video he is referring to? Maybe it is only an ARRL Video on their web site?
My comments are these:
1. I don't mind the $35 / 10 Years. If you spent $$$$$ on your Ham equipment, then $$ isn't going to hurt you. You pull more from an ATM in a day or spend at Starbucks in a week (day?).I know from spending 40 years working at Government sites that most Departments do not have a lot of cash on hand. The greedy Politicians siphon it off for their own political gains and give it where it is not needed. Case in point: They sold off parts of L and S band (1435-1540, 1750-1900, 2200-2500 MHz) that were designated for decades to the Military for Telemetry Bands for Billions. They forced the Military to C-band, which cost Millions, but on their Annual maintenance budgets. The FCC is no different. We have CBers running amok without licenses and with 5kw Linears? And no one is catching them or the Manufacturers of these "kits" they sell on Ebay. The FCC no longer has the Field Agents or Mobile Vans (Uncle Charlie) to catch them. Which brings up my next point:
2. Re-instate the CB Radio License. Wishful Thinking here, but MAYBE what is afoot is to re-instate PAID CB licenses again. Back in the 70's and 80's you paid upward of $35 / year for a CB license. And, with LEGITIMATE CBers you had better behavior. People were content to stay within 5 / 12 Watts and behave like human beings. If you wanted farther reach, you bought a Beam like a Moonraker. It 2was a stepping-stone to Ham Radio. If you couldn't grasp Morse Code, then it was a way to get in. After the lawsuit and dropping the Licenses and fees it fell apart IMHO. Now we have every kind of trash on 11 Meters. If the FCC takes in more money and prosecutes the offenders, I am all for it.
73's.
KF0ETS
Me too, and several others, ...
I think you made some fair points especially about the keynote video but I don't believe that you can blame the ARRL for the new fees. The fee was part of a congressional act that requires the agency to become revenue neutral. Personally I would pay an additional fee to provide more enforcement but that's another discussion.
As the leader of the ARRL I expect David NA2AA to respond to polite criticism such as this, not take his ball and go home. I am an ARRL member and am very disappointed in his response, I thought he was going to be a better leader than this. Dave - N2OA
Very well put. Whether or not your a new amateur operator or one that's been here for 57 years a national organization should be a positive and professional representative of the membership. Ask for help from the membership, we have a huge representation of every profession you can think of! Speaking of thinking, was any thought into how the big picture will look like to the general public out there!
Thanks for speaking up Jim. This is for every ham, there is only one you. You are unique so share your knowledge and experience to promote amature radio. Only thing I've found useful from joining the ARRL is QST, and it's full of advertising. Very little in the form of information. From Kentucky, station KN4PLR saying 73.
Too often we fault an organization because of one pet objection. The ARRL screws up now and then, but, unfortunately, they are the one big voice that we have. It is important to support them, but continue doing as Jim has done and call them on the carpet when the do screw up. Bad as they are now and then, they are what we have to work with in order to preserve our hobby. And, as a personal note, when they had their 100th anniversary, they set up a booth at a hamfest my wife and I attended and, when I went by the booth, a couple of old, fat men with red badges were chewing the fat, totally ignoring anyone who went by the booth. I told my wife, who has also been a ham for a couple of decades, "they won't see their second hundred years". And, sadly, I think they won't be around for their second century.
Yes. True. Even worse presentations that I have seen in the last few months. With the current Board and CEO it looks doomed. The pivvit to calling us just hobbyists is a huge mistake. Hobbies have much less importance to the Board at the FCC. 73, Jim W6LG
Bravo, Jim, very well put! The ARRL is currently a disgrace to its former self, and their lack of adequate response to the FCC is just one example that speaks volumes regarding its lack of interest and professionalism. Their blatant disregard of the invaluable services performed by so many capable amateur radio operators is frankly disgraceful. In short, I heartily agree with everything you've said here. Please keep up the great work!
Thank you. It is very sad! Sad that the ARRL's move into new directions seems so poorly presented and so poorly thought out. Time when tell us if what they are going to be doing benefits the Amateur Radio Service. 73, Jim W6LG
Amateur Radio is a way of life.
This is spot on, Jim! I saw the same keynote address, and I had the same thoughts. Sure, amateur radio is a hobby, but it's so much more.
As a relatively new ham, I am looking forward to serving my community and fellow citizens. In fact, when looking for a way to spend my time in retirement, I was specifically seeking something in which I could build a skill, maybe advance the state of the service, and, most of all, be of personal service to the community.
I'm sure you will get some push-back on this, but thanks for saying what's on a lot of people's minds. It's the right thing to do.
73!
I felt the same was when the fees were announced. This was also the Ajit Pai FCC under Donald Trump. This new administration perhaps would go back to appreciating the community again? There was good reason why the fees were dropped in the first place. Do they need another national emergency to change their minds? This is not being handled well, you are right.
I couldn't agree with you more, Jim.
Well said
JIm, I share your concerns. I joined ARRL 30 plus years ago when first licensed. At that time I thought it was important to support the ARRL as an advocate for the amateur service. The only reason I remain a member is for the QSL service, awards tracking, and LOTW. KR7LD
Thought to Join ARRL several times over the years but always have not since ARRL action/inaction and Hamfest Presentations and ARRL staff interactions. ARRL is not for me and if they promote Amateur Radio as "just" a hobby they are not for Amateur Radio either, end of story.
I dropped ARRL membership years ago for many reasons. One was that instead of using .PDF format for digital QST, they chose a really crappy and hard to use DRMed online format. Another was the increasing number of ads, and decreasing number of articles in QST. Others are bad policies about contests, unattended winlink stations, and not fighting the FCCs license fees.
Why have licenses renew? There is no reason to have licenses expire, NONE!
It frees up the callsign pool so inactive hams don't forever consume desirable callsigns. I wouldn't have gotten my vanity callsign if it hadn't previously expired. Also, I'd imagine silent keys aren't always updated against death records, since those are each handled by different levels of government that don't do a good job at talking to each other. (According to a quick records search, if the previous owner of my callsign is still alive, he's now 82.) 73 de K7COI
Great video Jim, hopefully it’s constructive for the ARRL. I haven’t renewed my membership that lapsed last July. I don’t see the value in it anymore.
During Hurricane Bob here years ago, amateur radio operators were key in providing communications for the city where I live.
Amateur radio operators also provide communications at the Boston Marathon, and other local events.
Much more is done than those two examples.
ask yourself one question "what is a hobby" there you have the answer. I love your film always have, best regards from the UK.
ARRL has easy direct access to its logos and use policy on ARRL.org. Every QST has a list of your local ARRL representatives and their contact information as well as services, and ARRL.org shows even more detail. Past ARRL videos did indeed emphasize public service - but remember that was in the days before reliable cell service and the internet. If you look at what is really happening with Amateur Radio in the day-to-day lives of the typical user, you will see hobbyists, not "public service communicators". That is just a fact. While some clubs support EMCOMM and host severe weather spotting classes with regular nets, the reality is that most hams do not participate in them and many of those who do, do so half-halfheartedly are woefully under prepared for any real emergency. So yes, we are hobbyists, along with other hams around the world who participate in what they call "Radiosport" instead of some kind of public service.
Frankly, it is simply not productive to keep pushing the fiction that the "service" in the Amateur Radio Service means more than that some hobbyists may be available as communications support in a public emergency. In the bigger scheme of things, Amateur Radio perhaps has more to offer in the furthering of interest and education in RF technologies and science for young people. To me, liaising with the local school district's science teachers makes as much, if not more, sense than EMCOMM. But if it's EMCOMM you want, the ARRL courses are available and up to date on ARRL.org.
The trick here is for the Amateur Radio Service to stay viable in the 21st century, and that means change, uncomfortable as change can be. We have to begin with acknowledging reality, and reality is what most hams are and what they do - and that's not public service communications. We cannot and should not pretend otherwise, and that means ARRL needs to operate in the world where hobbyists with interests from electronic design and construction, software engineering, competitive on the air operation in contests, antenna design, mobile operating, EME, satellites, and all the rest must be served by their services and publications.
I would argue they are doing so, and as with any organization confronting change, they could do better. Nonetheless, the publications have gotten better and more welcoming to newbies while still supporting traditional activities. And I will help them do better by continuing my ARRL membership.
FCC doesn't support hobbies. Amateur Radio's mandate is that of being a public service. Most clubs around my locale are public service-oriented and their activities and procedures keep them honed for when they are going to be needed. Public education for what to do during an emergency and letting the general public know that their community has a disaster plan in place is just part of what they do and frankly, are whole-heartedly prepared for real emergencies. I know because I was the recipient of Amateur Radio Services when my house burned down last year.
They were not "pretending" to be a public service and you are kidding yourself if you think they are not.
Enjoy your hobby.
K7GYB
@@notgiven3114 I'm glad that you point these other aspects out as delineated in part 97.1. You actually start to make sense when compared with the ignorant statement that Hams "keep pushing the fiction that the "service" in the Amateur Radio Service means more than that some hobbyists may be available as communications support." which was your point, not mine.
Our state recently challenged the privilege of Amateurs being allowed to use microphones while driving (like law enforcement has or other emergency services which are not "hobbies") as we were, as a state, updating our distracted driving laws. It wasn't the subsidiary argument that Amateure Radio is a "hobby" and that the State Legislature should allow us to use our mobile systems because we are "pretending to be a public service". Your argument is bankrupt when looked at from a utilitarian and historical perspective. We now continue to have the privilege of communicating while mobile because we provide a public service as is the primary mandate put forth in Part 97.1.
I certainly want you to enjoy your "hobby" and there is a vast continuum of activities contained within the broader discipline of the Amateure Service which all end up, in the end, serving our community.
You merely stand on the shoulders of those who preceded you.
Again, enjoy your hobby.
K7GYB
@@notgiven3114 First, I"m talking to you. Second, it's a direct quote from your post (I cut-and-pasted it). Your deflection and ad-hominem response pretty much says it all. I'm not going to engage in a tit-for-tat dialogue with you. Good luck with all that.
Again, enjoy your hobby.
K7GYB
Never been to a bicycle race or an ultramarathon in the hills, have ya sport?
HOA!’s And ANTENNA’s!!!!!!!! Where’s the HELP! ARRL?
Include me. The City of Rocklin sent a guy to my home in a former police car and parked it in front of the house while he waited for me to answer the door. I did not answer. 73, Jim W6LG
The ARRL just sent me a letter asking if I would renew my membership, with the current state of affairs I am going to wait and see if the ARRL is worth my money. Log Book of the World is still not working. Why pay if there is NO service. 73 & stay safe.
I'm less than thrilled with what I seen and how they play us down as just a hobby. My RFC to the FCC over the fee was dismissed as a secondary service for ecomm operations. Ok, if I am secondary then take that money from my fees and pay someone to be trained. I surely won't volunteer my hobby for free anymore.
Nope, won't join so I can send ARRL execs to exotic places. Was a time they were our voice to protect and develop the application of amateur radio.
You were spot on about the current ARRL.
We are being killed by contests on most every weekend, high power stations make it impossible for new hams and those who just want to ragchew. Digital modes operated by computers make the term control operator a joke. Many times there is no control Operator present, just the computer. 7:52
If he won't support someone of your experience and longevity in the "hobby", what chance do the rest of us have? And I'm a diamond club member. It makes me reconsider my ongoing investments in the organization.
Yes Jim kudos to yourc4 points. Spot on!
There is another sore spot among us as well. That is the new membership fees. From $35 to $50. I can see the hike but they also removed our subscription to the printed copy of CQ and now want another $50 for the once included printed copy of CQ. That makes it not just a $15 hike but a ,$65 hike for our normal "past practice" subscription. Couple that with the 4 topics you presented and I'm not so sure I'll be a member next renewal time
KB9OAU James (Tommy) 73
Glad to see some discussion around this. After email exchanges with the new ARRL CEO, it seems to me they are at a loss as to what their mission is, and they have no defined, or measurable, objectives. I wasn't convinced they really wanted opinions beyond those that align with their current direction. If they are not serious about why they exist or unwilling, or unable, to protect amateur spectrum then who will? Manufacturers wont. When I asked a prominent Yaesu Rep if they, Yaesu, are part of an amateur radio products manufacturers association to lobby governments about the benefits of amateur radio, I was told no, they, Yaesu, depended on the ARRL to do that. I'm not confident about the future. VE3LU.
Good video Jim. Sad reality is there are a lot of incompetent people nowadays in powerful positions.
I was licensed two years ago and never joined. Still looking for good reasons. Looks like they don't know either.
By the way thank you for all your videos. This channel is probably the best source a beginner can find. 73
Organizations have a primary concern for their own interests first and the membership second
Thank you for reaching out to the ARRL. It would have been nice if they had commented. Mike - K2CDM
Many fraternal organizations give their members a break on all purchases. ARRL? We pay them more, directly, than public merchants sell the same goods to everyone else. So what's the incentive for us to buy things from the ARRL? None. That's another failure.
Thank you Jim for your input/Video. I love the hobby and yes it has far fewer young people than I would like to see. If the A.R.R.L. were to do anything, it would be to get more younger people interested. The cell phone seems to have their attention right now. Maybe they could focus on using the computer more as an interface to the RADIO i.e. FT8 and other modes. Be safe, Go POTA.
Sad how so many amateurs equate ARRL membership solely with the QST subscription and nothing more. ARRL is not perfect but it is the ONLY organization that can represent the hobby's interests. There is no realistic alternative.
Thanks, Jim. I agree with the heart of your message. We need the ARRL and for it to be the ARRL we need. Your words are kindness, indeed. Keep working to get us back on track. I appreciate it.
73 de W1OT
What video is he talking about?
$97.1 B Basis and purpose. Is it a hobby or "Radio Art" "Continuation and extension of the amateur proven ability to contribute to the advancement of the radio art".
Sounds like the ARRL has become your typical American corporation. You didn't come across as angry. More frustrated than anything and that's understandable.