The AM Forum

Although mentioned in a previous thread, readers may want to go here, to read the entire Executive Committee Meeting Minutes, dated March 11, 2006:

http://www.remote.arrl.org/announce/ec_minutes_479.html

Of interest, Item 7:
7. Mr. Roderick distributed draft terms of reference for an ARRL MF/HF Band Planning Committee. The document responded to the need to develop a sound process for HF band planning, with broad participation by the amateur community, in the near term as discussed at Minute 37 of the January 2006 Board Meeting. After discussion, it was agreed that a final draft incorporating the comments made would be circulated to the Executive Committee for a mail vote.

And Minute 37 from January 2006 Meeting:
37. After the Chair presented several awards to Board members and officers, he yielded the floor to Mr. Harrison, who led discussion about the need and importance for the Board to develop a sound process for HF band planning, with broad participation by the amateur community, in the near term.

Pete quoted:
Last time when there was a proposal about 160M band planning several years ago, Paul, WA3VJB, asked if there could be some members of the AM community to be on that committee. If memory serves me, he was promptly "Pooh Poohed" and that our services woouldn't be required. I imagine their "broad participation by the amateur community" will be cherry picked people sympathetic to their ideals or who load their coffers. Sorry for my skepticism but once bitten, twice shy.

Pete, broad support means just that: Broad Support, which includes people to represent all modes and interests,  AM, FM, SSB, Digital, etc.  You understand don't you? Are the ARRL board members trying to reform, or are they just blowing smoke?  For the past 30 years they have blown smoke.

Hi Pete:

Thanksfor posting this.

I hope they do the right thing.

Where can I offer my ideas in the future?

Dan
W1DAN

My concern:

7. "Mr. Roderick distributed draft terms of reference for an ARRL MF/HF Band Planning Committee."
Where are these draft terms of reference coming from??

The document responded to the need to develop a sound process for HF band planning, "with broad participation by the amateur community",

How do they plan doing this; What criteria are they going to use to form a band plan committee; How are they going to solicit input; ARRL members, all amateurs

 in the near term as discussed at Minute 37 of the January 2006 Board Meeting. After discussion, it was agreed that a final draft incorporating the comments made would be circulated to the Executive Committee for a mail vote.