ICQPodcast discusses K1JT, VOA, and RSGB

I once again joined the ICQPodcast panel for episode 209. We discussed the following:

• SSB/CW Filter Modules
• K1JT is Amateur of the Year
• Implosions Removes 48 Surplus VOA towers
• RSGB Announces New General Manager
• ARRL Establishes ‘Youth Nets’ Web Page
• Sisters called to White House
• DSTAR Satellite in Space

I talked a little bit about the D-STAR satellite in a previous post. Of the other topics, the dynamiting of the VOA towers and the changeover at the RSGB (and more importantly for U.S. amateurs at the ARRL) are the most interesting.

On the ICQPodcast, Marin, W9ICQ/M1MRB said that watching the demolition video (see below) nearly brought him to tears. I wasn’t quite so affected, but I do find it sad that the antennas weren’t being used anymore and that there were no plans to use them in the future. It’s just another indication of the decline of shortwave broadcasting. At least they won’t be putting up an apartment complex or a shopping mall; the land is slated to be a wildlife preserve.

I don’t have much to say about the new RSGB CEO, but what I find interesting is that both the RSGB and the ARRL are gaining new CEOs at the same time. I recently listened to the QSO Today interview of NY2RF, the ARRL’s new CEO, and he certainly said all the right things. The times they are a’changin’