hoffmann%marie@mit-mc.mit.edu (Ron M. Hoffmann) (12/06/85)
Let's face it folks, it's hard to imagine a code requirement of 5 wpm keeping more than a VERY small number of prospective amateurs from getting a ticket. Given that Technician class amateurs have virtually all amateur priveleges on the VHF bands where 90% of "experimental digital" work is being done why do we need anything else? It has been my experience, after 5 years of teaching annual novice classes, that not one motivated student has been kept out of ham radio due to the code requirement. Emphasis on MOTIVATED. Maybe what we really need are more and better advertised ham radio classes. As a result of a recent article about volunteer exams in a Boston area newspaper, I receive about 2-3 calls weekly from people wanting to know how to get started, where they can get material, and where they can find a class. There is no lack of interest out there, just a lack of information. Let's get cracking! 73, Ron WA2EYC