I have kept quiet over the past few weeks on the seemingly contentious issues regarding new summits, the awards program and censorship. After Jon’s comments about the reflector and his actions I do now feel happier to make some comments.
I have never felt intimidated by comments or individuals on the reflector. I have however felt that there had been a lack of respect for others views and too many rather caustic one line replies. We are all entitled to our views and are entitled to air them without being “flamed” or mocked. Radio and SOTA is important to me as a hobby and a distraction from life. There are plenty of times and situations in my life that require me to be robust even confrontational. However they are in areas of my life that are vitally important. Radio is for me an escape from all of that. I simply don’t wish to take part in debates on this reflector with the attitude that some individuals have shown.
The MT are in charge here. They make the rules and by our participating in SOTA we agree to them. If we choose to ignore those rules then we must accept the consequences. So is it really a black day when someone is removed for not following the rules of a program they willingly take part in?
Oddly enough I find that to an extent I agree with some of the individuals who choose to air their views, and shoot down opposing views, in such an abraisive manner. I have simply not been prepared to be associated with their stand and methods. I think that an example of the right way to go about these concerns has been shown by Ian G7KXV. He seems able to create well thought out posts that are polite and respectful to others whilst still getting the point across.
Fundamentally I do feel that if the activators require more summits, then more should be added. Whether this be Humps or some other method I do not know. I don’t think this will devalue SOTA or the accomplishments of its participants, in fact it should widen the appeal yet further of a very popular program. I do think though that it will be very difficult to get a level playing field for all associations. That is something we will just have to live with. This is after all for fun. If you live in the Alps it is going to be “easier” to reach MG than if you live in Norfolk. Not much any of us can do about geography I guess!
I agree that the awards system is now less challenging than it was, although I think it is fair to point out that for many SS and MG will still present a sizeable challenge. However what is the solution? Do we keep creating new awards for the top few as time goes by? The football analogy could be used. The top three in the football premiership appear unreachable. (I’m a Spurs supporter but please don’t extend that part of the analogy to me ;-)) Likewise the top chasers and activators will probably never be caught. Could we not simply have endorsements for reaching SuperSS, double or triple MG or activating/chasing all summits in a given area/association? How about a trophy for the most points chased/activated in a year?
I have never had a SOTA qso with Mick HJD. I hope that I will soon and that he can be reinstated to SOTA once he has given the MT the assurances they require.
Mike and John, I will be very sad to see the SOTA news and your input to it on hold. It is a superb read and must take a lot of work. I hope you will reconsider and use the news to help us all discuss these subjects in a calm and pleasant manner. You are both valuable parts of SOTA.
To the MT. If I were you I would be on the verge of throwing in the towel. I hope you won’t. I for one am very grateful for what you have setup. It belongs to you and it is up to you what you do with it. I have no doubt that you will take into account the views of the participants and come up with a reasonable solution.
In the end I feel we have all got a bit too serious, this is all for fun. Its a hobby, not life and death.
I look forward to the weather improving and more points to be had. I did want to make double SS by the end of the bonus period you know…(hint hint)
This is all about radio’s and mountains isn’t it?
Cheers
Q GW3BV