I have faith (as I know Kay does) that the National Emergency Response Committee and other efforts already underway at HQ will bear much fruit in terms of organizing our ARES program and our national organization, which is the theme running through Jerry's rants. Whatever we do won't be soon enough as there is attrition already underway. For example, the guy who announced in the WRRL March 2006 Newsletter that his team in San Francisco is the first ARCT Type 1 certified with the WRRL is, in fact, the ARRL ARES EC for the City and County of San Francisco. I don't know how he thinks he can answer two masters in a time of widespread emergency. And yes, I have suggested that his Section Manager have exactly this discussion with him. But on the other hand, we don't have a regional/national callout / mutual assistance structure formalized, so you can see how attractive this WRRL organization seems to those who want to be in that "cavalry to the rescue" mode. -- Andy Oppel, N6AJO At 10:49 PM 3/14/2006, you wrote:

Fellow Board Members:

I received the April issue of WorldRadio today. On pages 34-35, an article appears titled "Introducing the World Radio Relay League" by Jerry Boyd, N7WR.

This article is critical of the ARRL for not being more active in promoting and updating the Emcomm program. Jerry states that he no longer believes that "the ARRL is supportive, in appropriative ways, of Emcomm". He goes on to wonder about other motivations of the League and Board.

We understand that Jerry is a zealot regarding the Emcomm programs. I think some of his opinions are both true and others are somewhat misleading or uninformed regarding the ARRL's programs. Even though his website (www.wrrl.org) hasn't had much access, I'll bet that this article will generate lots of interest.

I'd advise all of us to review his comments and ascertain if current initatives and plans will improve our programs and especially communication regarding this important element of amateur radio. Remember that perception is reality regardless if it is valid or not.

Jim Fenstermaker K9JF