It
seems to me ...
de
Bob-K1KVV editor*semara.org
that
"Without involvement, there is no commitment.
Mark it down, asterisk it, circle it, underline it.
No involvement, no commitment."
(from the ARRL Club News for August 2007).
“Amateur Radio has always been
an activity of exploration and discovery as well as
personal growth and social interaction. The people
who often receive the most satisfaction from Amateur
Radio are those who have spent time developing skills.
They have made a commitment to increase their knowledge
of the subject and who have become a part of the fabric
of the amateur community. Obtaining a license and purchasing
a radio does not make you a radio amateur any more
than purchasing a tennis racket makes you a tennis
player.”
“Active radio operators are effective
communicators and are essential to maintaining
a reservoir of trained communicators, as stated
in FCC Part 97 as the basis and purpose of the Amateur
Radio Service. Not only do active hams make good communicators,
active hams enhance international goodwill
which is also part of the FCC's basis and purpose of
the service.
“Activity introduces new hams
to other operators and offers opportunities for new
friendships and resources that can help develop communication
skills. Contests and awards are not just for collecting
certificates and other wallpaper. More time spent on-the-air
with other hams not only increases an operator's ability
to be able to pass information, but it cultivates good
listening skills, creates a familiarity and comfort
level in using the equipment, and it helps to understand
complex topics like propagation.
“Proficiency comes by doing,
and as one becomes more proficient at something, the
more enjoyment there is to be derived from it. People
who enjoy what they are doing are more likely to share
their avocation with others who show an interest. Activity
kick starts the machine that generates momentum in
a club."
So says the ARRL Club News for
August 2007! What say you?