1995 06 00 73 Magazine - Comment on editorials

Magazine Overview

Title: 73 Amateur Radio Today
Issue: #417
Date: June 1995
Publisher: WGI Publication
Country: USA
Price: $3.95 USA, $4.95 CANADA

This issue of 73 Amateur Radio Today, dated June 1995, presents a cover story on a "SUPER CW STATION!" and highlights several "BUILD YOUR OWN" projects and "73 Reviews." The magazine aims to provide practical information and construction guides for amateur radio enthusiasts.

Cover Features

The cover prominently features a device labeled "SUPER CW STATION!" with the call sign "THE N4UAU" and a display showing "73 DE NAUAU ! M=TONE S=CODE R=80CHR P=KEY". Below this, the text "SUPER CW STATION" is visible. The cover also lists several "BUILD YOUR OWN" projects, including a Battery Monitor & Charge Controller, Tone Burst Generator, Morse Code Keyer, and a 2m 5/8-Wave Collinear Omni Antenna. Additionally, it advertises "73 Reviews" of the AEA KK-1 Keyer, SGC Longwire Antenna Tuner, and Swiech Yagi.

Letters to the Editor

The "Letters" section features correspondence from several readers:

• Clayton Schmitt (N7DKZ) from David, Chiriqui, Panama, reflects on his 50 years in amateur radio and his progression through various modes and technologies, influenced by the magazine's content. He suggests that 73 Magazine consider publishing its entire archive on CD-ROMs, possibly in thematic collections. He also proposes reorienting the editor's editorials towards ham radio-related subjects, expressing a disinterest in topics like UFOs, ESP, and cold fusion, and preferring to focus on the state of the art in ham radio. He mentions his current work helping local club members build 2-meter antennas based on a "Copper Dual-Band Super J-Pole Antenna" article.

• Paul Chapio (KK5EF) from Stephenville, TX, praises Wayne's "Never Say Die" column and recommends Malaysia and Singapore for travel. He agrees with the editor's challenge for people to "get off their duffs" and explore. Chapio shares his background in corporate video production and his appreciation for the arts, including music. He writes to express his opinion on "boring QSOs," drawing a parallel to the arts where technical proficiency can overshadow meaningful expression. He suggests that amateur radio technicians need to become better communicators and that perhaps licensees should be encouraged to use simpler equipment to focus on content rather than just technical operation.

• Rege D. Dvorsky (WA3LKT) from Grasonville, MD, commends the magazine's articles on lightning and grounding, finding them excellent and useful. He discusses his own grounding system installation. He expresses a desire for more articles addressing common ham radio problems like TVI, grounding, operating tips, DX QSL routes, and hidden antennas. He also suggests an article on shortwave listening, specifically mentioning "numbers stations" and maritime frequencies, to spark reader interest.

• James Alderman (KF5WT) from Carrollton, TX, agrees with the editor's editorials and shares an experience on a repeater where he was criticized for discussing politics. He argues that there is no rule against discussing politics or religion on amateur radio frequencies and that the criticism was unwarranted. He recounts hearing a wide range of opinions on repeaters, from legalizing drugs to discussions about rebuilding Japan. Alderman echoes the sentiment that many conversations on repeaters are uninteresting, referencing a past editorial question about making drive-time conversations more engaging. He expresses concern that if intelligent and educated people are driven away from amateur radio due to a lack of stimulating content and a negative atmosphere, the hobby could lose its bands to commercial interests.

• Atlee Kohl from Irving, TX, comments on the editor's March 1995 editorial about the Internet, stating it was "too close for comfort." He admits to considering downsizing his ham radio activities to focus more on specialized Internet subjects, suggesting that ham radio could have evolved further if better decisions had been made by ARRL leadership over the past decades.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects a strong editorial stance, primarily driven by "Wayne's" (presumably the editor's) viewpoints, which are often discussed and debated in the "Letters" section. Recurring themes include the importance of practical construction projects, the need for more engaging and meaningful communication in amateur radio (addressing the issue of "boring QSOs"), and the broader implications of technology and communication trends, such as the rise of the Internet. There's a clear emphasis on technical skill, home-brewing, and staying informed about the latest advancements in the field. The editor's willingness to tackle controversial or thought-provoking topics, as evidenced by the reader responses, suggests an editorial approach that encourages critical thinking and discussion within the amateur radio community.