My Thoughts on the Departure of Howard Michel from the ARRL - A Ham Radio Vlog

[@jsieb]

I agree. As paying members, we deserve to at least know what is going on, otherwise what am I paying for?

[@PNMarkW2]

The meeting minutes should be released soon, that's the normal process. That's not saying what will be in them, but it looks past minutes include at least a summary of the discussion and not just a bullet-point list of what was talked about.

[@SevenFortyOne]

Lets hope for the best!

[@rtrjmk5]

Ria Jairam Thank you. Having served as a chief executive of a public organization I understand why personnel matters have to be handled differently than most other items where your reasons for the vote can be explained publicly. Many times boards would love to explain their decision or be able to defend it but due to confidentiality cannot do so.

[@arlipscomb]

@@n2rj So this is not just an "employee" but a senior officer of the corporation. While we can understand that there may be matters that are expected to remain confidential, there is also an expectation of transparency from the board. And respectfully, if the board is voting in people not suited to maintain a long term tenure in their position, that is to be noted as well.

[@TAKEONEURBANPRODUCTION]

They are as arrogant as the 2 meter club on long island no thanks

[@tpcdude]

Rob, your comments are spot-on. The ARRL at the board level almost seems like a secret society, they never allow negative content. There were times when i wanted to send a letter to the ARRL but i thought why waste my time it will never get answered and clearly will not be published in QST. I think if you don't live within 30 miles of Newington CT your number will be up. Maybe since Howard could spell AM he lost points. KC8ZUL Columbus Oh

[@SevenFortyOne]

I live within 25 miles of HQ here in CT and have no idea what goes on with leadership...it's a closed door and it doesn't need to be.

[@kevfrets]

Well Said! I agree with you 100%. I get a very sketchy and shady feeling for the executive leadership NOT informing its dues paying members.

[@garyrobinson8991]

Several close friends who, like, me, have been hams for a few decades have expressed almost universal agreement (from when Howard first assumed the CEO role) that he was a poor fit other than his stated business acumen. Frequent comments that supported the ‘poor fit’ attribute wished that the Board had found a more experienced (with the technology) candidate. Now, let’s see what happens next. If I can’t personally change something, I’m not going to get an ulcer worrying about it all that much. I certainly HOPE the next occupant is a better ‘fit’, & I still hold out that hope to any of the new hams I might help gain their license. Keep a positive outlook, but don’t ignore mistakes...... 73’s Gary WB8ZGV

[@w8lvradio]

Dear Fellow Ham and KZbinr: SUPPORT THE ARRL. CEO's come and go from organizations based on closed board meetings everyday. There are confidential contractual agreements, and no CEO is King, he answers to the Board of Director in EVERY organization. Goals and Directions change. And if you don't think in a legislative environment there isn't anything to protect: I'll clear it up for you, because you MUST remember: We are VERY MUCH IN COMPETITION WITH COMMERCIAL INTERESTS WHO EYE OUR BANDS. We ALSO have a FEDERAL regulator who has an ear that is MUCH more attuned to those Commercial Interests than Little Old Us. We also have a small pie to cut, and what part goes to the lobbyist, what part to education, what part to publicity, etc. With the eye on both short term and long term goals and the constant surveillance of external commercial interests and the look at "ourselves" and how we are currently doing. Who makes the metrics? Who reads the metrics? Who interprets the metrics? Paying the salaries. The Printer.... Etc., Etc.! CEOs also leave organizations for personal reasons: Being Top Level Managers they are in high demand, but for VERY few "slots" (namely: One) in other organizations. Who might offer more in terms of Salary or Benefits. Or his wife might want to move out of Connecticut because she likes Florida weather better. Or health reasons... Or whatever! I've never heard of an organization that didn't have a BOD that didn't meet behind closed doors (even the YMCA) and I've never heard of a private employment contract of a CEO being made public. Nor have you, because that's not how it's done! For example, if you think that the CAI (the group that represents the Homeowners Associations) is going to tell you their CEO and Board of Director's goings on, not to mention how and what and to whom they are going opening their Financial War Chest to (which I'm guessing is a Hell of a lot bigger than ours!) you are just kidding yourself! The important thing is that we have stability and continuity, and a National Organization that represents our Big Tent! 73 DE W8LV BILL

[@SevenFortyOne]

Thank you for your comments. Perhaps you weren't able to watch the whole video but I DO SUPPORT THE ARRL. That's why I'm puzzled by their decision and lack of an explanation. I feel there should have been at least a one line explanation something like "did not meet performance expectations" or "he left for personal reasons". Because no reason was given from either party it leads some of us in the ham community to dream up all sorts of outlandish ideas that hurt the ARRL's reputation.

[@w8lvradio]

@@SevenFortyOne I get that you support the ARRL, and I'm Glad of that, Brother Ham! But what I don't get that you don't get is that his leaving may be ENTIRELY confidential by agreement. The contract here would be confidential and be between the BOD and the CEO. Nondisclosure is OFTEN part of contractual agreement of all types and happens everyday. So we wish him The Best, and get on best we can, and it's Best for Everybody. 73 DE W8LV BILL

[@SevenFortyOne]

@@w8lvradio Bill - I understand that this could have been the best thing to do but I still want to know why. I understand that there is most likely a binding legal contract behind the silence so this ship has sailed so to speak. But in the future, I'd like to see the contract written such that at least a broad statement reason can be given if the CEO or any leader is let go like this. Look through the comments here. there are tons of good people who would join the ARRL if they felt there was more openness in their decision making progress.

[@robertdelossantos633]

One thing I can say being in a organization as I am, is that the ARRL must have their bylaws and by having this book it's tells you what the rules and regulations are it also tells you how long is the term for each board member and it also tells you it also tells you the responsibility to each of the members this should be open to the public open is it isnt there a problem. I hope this helps.

[@Radiowild]

I withdrew my membership many years ago. Your thoughts parallel mine. I'm good on QRZ if you wish to have an e-mail QSO.

[@SevenFortyOne]

I do have a tube question I've been meaning to ask so I'll drop you a line on that soon!

[@Radiowild]

@@SevenFortyOne Sure! Be glad to help!

[@mrflashport]

My late mother used to say, "you must not be proud of what you're doing if you do it in secrecy". An NPO that hides what it does usually, but not always, means someone is playing games with money. As a 501 C3, they have to account for every dime. That being said, I think the League has run it's course. In 2020, the amateur community can be just as effective at participating in the process of NPRMs, FCC public comments are accepted from anyone. The ARRL is a small shrimp in a big frying pan when it comes to going up against the telecom cartels who pretty much own the FCC these days, so the effectiveness of their lobbying efforts are based upon what they can dole out. Look at industries like the CTIA- their budget in a week is what the ARRL has in it's kitty for a year. Money talks, ham radio itself is non-pecuniary and the "when all else fails" mantra only goes so far. The only saving grace is there is little commercial interest in HF. Our UHF and microwave allocations only get saved because we're 2nd or 3rd in line as far as use with government/military being the primary allocated user- and with the government now owned by corporate interests, it's only a matter of time. Either way, the ARRL does a good job of promoting emcomm, selling a magazine and other publications, but what does one really get for their dues other than feeding a secret organization with obvious internal issues?

[@SevenFortyOne]

I think the ARRL does a lot for the hobby. I just hope this latest debacle hasn't tarnished their reputation too much. Giving us some explanations would go a long way...

[@snake_eyes_garage]

For any reason they might not renew, but you’re right if he were stepping down voluntarily then he would have made a statement. We don’t know what his contract says but you may find that he was looking for a private ceo position without notifying his employer.

[@donaldsmith3048]

I support the ARRL, but know some that have quit it because we lost some SHF frequencies. I don't know anyone that was using the frequencies. But I am new and don't know who was doing what on what frequencies.

[@TAKEONEURBANPRODUCTION]

Kt2nyc I haven't sub for arrl in years. Too expensive and don't get enough out of it ..

[@JnJTrueOutdoorAdventures]

Good video Rob. I was a member when I first was licensed in 1996 and a member the whole time I was in the hobby until 2006 when I took a cesta from the hobby. When I got back in the hobby in 2017 I didn’t join, but in 2018 I did cause I liked reading some of the articles and the reviews. Yes I could do that on the computer at other websites, but I am old fashioned, I like paper in hand. I still get a newspaper delivered. LOL. I don’t get into the politics of ham radio, no one side ever wins those discussions. There are some good things from the ARRL and there are things they need to do to keep new hams interested in the hobby. But there is a lot of politics in the league. Again good video and information. Juddie

[@paulscomputerandradio6201]

They don't publish board meeting minutes? They should. However, I look at other non-profits, a lot of times they keep the learder on long after they should have been fired, case in point the NRA.

[@SevenFortyOne]

They will eventually publish minutes. But I have a feeling those minutes will be devoid of any real info on the subject. I also feel the press release announcing the change should have contain more detail.

[@DominarMarc]

I too agree with your assessment of the situation. If an organization has to perform its business behind doors, then items of interest are only for the upper class or established management. Perhaps, not even the stakeholders are aware of these closed door meetings, and the content. Especially organizations such as the ARRL must present an open-transparency to all operational issues. Hence, keeping its member’s in mind when it comes to creating regulations, and enforcing such regulations. The ARRL should take a proactive stance when dealing with the FCC and the puppet organizations known as the HOA.

[@Thomas-rl8kw]

Sounds like congress.

[@N0SSC]

I could write an essay on my thoughts on the ARRL, but there’s many of those on the internet already. The CEO wasn’t doing a bad job, but seeds of animosity were sown from the start since the vote for Howard to come on wasn’t unanimous. The difference of opinion amongst the board in which attributes of a CEO were best ultimately caused the renewal rejection, which also wasn’t unanimous. A few directors are in agreement with one thing, that being a more unanimous approval of the CEO should occur, but even now there are differences in opinion on how the selection process should occur - watch K7AGEs video of N6AA. The core problems with the organization IMO seems to be a lack of Board cohesion and fraternity (or the presence of a two-party political divide), an very conservative and antiquated approach to disseminating decision and deliberations of all topics, personnel or not, to its members, and an overall disconnect between how the ARRL recruits and inspires members and affiliated clubs, verses actually good methods of recruiting members and not having a majority of conversations online about them be overwhelmingly negative (I mean their new magazine designed for new hams is only available to members! Wtf?!) Right now the answer for “What does the ARRL do for me?” is typically a readout of current membership benefits, which is obviously not good enough. Ironically Dick Norton said they have so much money in the bank they don’t know what to do with, like tens of millions of dollars. $1M would totally revolutionize almost all aspects of ham radio were it to be injected into things like new satellites, youth camps and outreach, software that enables next generation ham radio activities and common sense integrations that mimic things going on in the video gaming industry (although if LOTW is the best they can do with the clout they have, I have little faith). I low key think they’re afraid to spend it just in case they need to do some major lobbying for spectrum fights. Wait dammit I just wrote an essay 🤦‍♂️🤷‍♂️

[@SevenFortyOne]

Thanks for your thoughts! Maybe it's time to rethink the leadership model of the ARRL. If the board is going to constantly be at adds with itself and the membership the problems are going to get worse, not better.

[@pcastonguay]

Like you I was impressed with Howard Michel's recent editorials. To me they seemed to be pointing the hobby in a better direction, a direction where as a recent ham (one year) I might feel more welcome. My biggest complaint about ham radio is how so many people are fixed in their old ways and don't realize that by being that way they are alienating new comers who typically are interested in more modern technologies and operating techniques. A good example is in CW. I'm very passionate about CW. In one year I have earned the ARRL 15 wpm certificate and I'm working on my 20 wpm endorsement sticker. As a modern thinking person my passion is to use the most up-to-date technology available for sending the most perfect code, code that I can be proud of. Hence I use the electronic iambic keyer feature of my IC-7300 with a double arm paddle. I don't own a straight key and I don't want one. And please, I don't want a bug either. But most of the band seems occupied by old geezers who can't stop bragging about their straight keys and bugs. As I tune across the band all I seem to hear is CQ SKCC, an organization that does not approve of electronic keyers. Why would I ever join an organization that specifically excludes me? No way. But all I hear on the band is CQ SKCC, which I never answer for obvious reasons. I might add that these SKCC calls are typically sent with a fist that I would be ashamed of. These SKCC people are so numerous that finding an honest QSO where the person doesn't brag about his ancient WW2 straight key or burping maladjusted bug is getting to be darn right difficult. The other day I answered a general CQ and the person immediately came back with MY SKCC NR IS ##### , UR SKCC NR PSE. He wasn't even asking for SKCC when he called CQ, and yet he expected me to have an SKCC number? In the past I've responded politely that I have no SKCC number, but then I got lectures that I should join. When I reply that I cannot because I use an electronic keyer. I then get TNX QSO 73, and two minutes later I hear him calling CQ again. Can you think for just one minute how unwelcome that makes me feel, and how much it deflates my pride in using a technologically better way to send CW? I think Howard Michel was spot on in his editorials that said that hams had better start adapting to the interests of new members or their hobby will suffer. The SKCC needs to modify their membership policy to include all hams, even those using electronic keyers. It's so simple to do. A good example is POTA and SOTA. You don't have to be in a park to participate in POTA. You can be a seeker. Surely the SKCC could think of something similar. And SKCC people have to stop pushing straight keys in everyone's face and down their throat. Hey! A straight key is ancient technology. Get used to it. I even hear them calling CQ SKCC on the calling frequency of FISTS (3558). Really? They know what they are doing. They already have two calling frequencies on 80 (3528 and 3550), but they choose to call right on top of another club, just to show how much better they are. Really? What bastards. But even if the SKCC people were to back off, I wouldn't join. What interest could I possibly have in hearing an old fart brag about his outdated equipment with a fist that is almost impossible to comprehend. What a waste of time. It was refreshing to read Howard Michel's editorials suggesting that hams need to change (modernize) themselves if they want to attract new people to the hobby. But I don't see much evidence that anyone was listening to him. Could that be why he was fired? Anyway, the whole SKCC thing has made me feel so unwelcome that now when I'm asked for my SKCC number is simply stop sending. I love to listen to the bimbo on the other end sending my call sign with question marks several times until he finally realizes that I have no interest in his stupid SKCC. Howard Michel was one of the few voices that I heard in ham radio that seemed to realize that unless hams progress beyong the ancient world of WW2 and evolve to use more modern technologies and operating techniques, people like me will not be attracted to the hobby. Indeed, I'm beginning to regret it. I will miss Howard Michel. KC1LBL

[@SevenFortyOne]

What happened here is really weird. Its indicative of a fractured leadership. Howard wasn't doing a bad job - the ARRL has even said that. So its now looking purely political...

[@BillyLapTop]

Well written FBOM

[@orezenoowt9265]

I agree that Howard Michel's editorials very correctly pointed out the need for amateur radio operators to adapt to changing times. I sincerely hope that his successor continues in that effort. For what it's worth, I tried CW. I invested $200 in a top quality iambic paddle and I was really excited about learning how to use it. But once I mastered copying code sufficiently to read QSOs, I realized that it was mostly frustrated old men using straight keys and bugs with lousy fists who made me feel unwelcome over the fact that I was using a modern electronic keyer. I was stunned by this bigotry. I went back to SSB.

[@tristanmills4948]

On SKCC: I think it's gone beyond it's aim of promoting manual keys and into award gathering for too many. Sorry it's such a bad experience for you.

[@tristanmills4948]

@@orezenoowt9265 I have a theory that the serious, high speed CW ops use keyers. Keyers have also been around for well over 50 years, any grumpy old man who hates them is just being stupid...

[@twwtb]

I agree. I have seen other leaders of charitable organizations try to act in secrecy and their credibility suffers. Members start to wonder if they are being taken to the cleaners for their financial contributions.

[@SevenFortyOne]

I feel they are providing value, I just worry they are tarnishing the reputation of the hobby...but who knows? They could have saved it by doing what they did....we may never know.

[@twohandsandaradio]

Maybe they simply figured out he wasn't a good fit. You look at his employment history and he had nothing in communications. I remember when he was first appointed grand poobah people were pointing out he only had 200 or so lookups on QRZ implying he wasn't very active in amateur radio? The only perception I have is I listened to him speak at Hamvention and wasn't impressed. Like the typical CEO he could string big words together and really say nothing. Looking at the ARRL website it says "More details on this and other matters which took place at the board meeting will be released shortly." I think we get too consumed with wanting instant answers. Love em or hate em I'll continue to support the ARRL just because it's the only voice we have. Just like eating ramen... might not be the best but it's better than nothing. On a happier note... Dollar Tree tape measures..they laughed I bought so many, but I digress. 73 Sir.

[@SevenFortyOne]

Dollar Tree!!! I always forget about them even though they are right next door to my local Harbor Freight. Thanks for the tip Two Hands! I hope you show us what you are cooking up with your tape measures! As for the ARRL, you may be right about Howard just not being a good fit. The problem is we won't know until someone talks about it.

[@just_in_time5518]

I was 😮 surprised to. We will see I guess... not sure what happened? I agree with your thoughts about this whole thing though. Good video!

[@SevenFortyOne]

Thanks! I hope they give us some info on this at some point.

[@just_in_time5518]

SevenFortyOne me too! We should not be left in the dark completely .

[@AD6DMDennis]

I had no idea. Thanks for your video on the matter.

[@roydavis6110]

I agree with you. As a life member, I like to think membership matters. Someone, an SK, used to be accused of "hating" the League used to say, if you are not a member, you do not have a voice. I would like to know some details and was it that the proposed changes were going to rock the boat? Hey a little sunlight cleanses many things.

[@watsok]

Even as a member you do not have a voice. There is a saying," If it made a difference they would not let you vote." It is the good old boy club of the north east...Thanks for sending your money in it helps us a lot.. Anything like the stations the ARRL has built in your neck or the woods? Everything is focused there. We get to visit they get to control. Keep sending in your money their relatives need the work.

[@ve4mm]

Howard was trying to make ham radio more attractive to people. It is a tough thing to do. I agreed with him. Old fogies do not want change. They want their old boys club to continue. I am a ARRL Life Member since 1991.

[@kensmith5694]

Its "guys and gals". If you want to use that form. The other option is "boys and girls" Mixing the two phrases is not good in a serious comment. BTW: I have a 1944 ARRL handbook. It was a great learning resource when first getting into electronics. Organizations like ARRL need to always be inviting new people in and promoting the hobby and indirectly the profession of electronics and radio. That is how they will survive.

[@SevenFortyOne]

See my response to Perry Chamberlain below on this matter.

[@tcarney57]

This issue and your response to it reminds me of the chess club I joined in high school. All our meetings were about the politics of the club--its rules, by-laws, and who's running for "office." We never talked about chess at all. Regarding the ARRL, isn't there enough nauseating politics in the real world that we have to drag some into our hobby? Is there no refuge from the fact that a certain percentage in any association of people (nation, church, corporation, or club) will always be pissed off no matter what? Another percentage claiming they're being screwed or that some secret society is plotting to screw them? A third percentage that's sure the nation-church-corporation-club is on the road to ruin and that its leadership is made up of fools and jackals? Maybe it's a big role-playing game. If you're outside the tent, that means you piss into it. If you're inside, you piss out. I'm a member of the ARRL for the same reason I joined the AARP and other associations that represent and further my interests. I don't expect they'll always (or even more than half the time) do things I *personally* agree with. Frankly, that's a good thing since I'm not always right or have my own head screwed on straight. Who is or does? One last thing: aside from the laws regarding employment and personnel confidentiality, maybe Michel doesn't want the reasons made public. Todd K7TFC

[@SevenFortyOne]

I support the ARRL - I'm just not happy with this decision. I'm not implying the general public needs to know every detail about every decision. But something as high profile as this, especially given that this seems to be a reoccurring problem is something I feel the membership should have some insight into. As you said, I know I'm not going to agree with everything an organization like the ARRL does but I don't feel that gives it the right to act in secrecy. Perhaps I'm an optimist but I feel there doesn't have to be any pissing one way or the other. We can just have a tent with an open door for people to go in and out of whenever they want without any negativity.

[@jhmcglynn]

Let’s not tear down the ARRL. THEY ARE OUR ONLY VOICE IN WASHINGTON. I have no idea how many ARRL members there are but they do a great job of lobbying on our behalf.

[@SevenFortyOne]

I agree and said that in this video. I'm just confused by what is going on with the leadership decisions right now

[@Tater26013]

I am a member of the ARRL and went for my life membership, but had a local issue with my section (that I won't get into here), and I stopped my pledge and wrote a letter to my section and HQ and never received a response. I am unfortunately still a member because I am paid up till whenever, I still get QST and some mailings throughout the year, but I am not a big fan any more and they are just another big political machine, that's purpose is now unknown to me.

[@tristanmills4948]

Agreed. I was shocked, and the handling of this has been inept. I wish those who voted for removal would explain their actions.

[@SevenFortyOne]

I agree!

[@bluesdude758]

I worked for over 25 years at member-based non-profits. If you are an ARRL member, you have the right to know the details of what the ARRL and the board are doing and how they are spending your money. The only exception is personal details of staff and officers. If you don't like what ARRL is doing, tell HQ and your local officers. Become a pain in their asses until you get the answers and info you need.

[@SevenFortyOne]

I'm hoping that this video will serve the purpose you outline above. We aren't asking for much, just a little info to help us understand why this decision was made so abruptly.

[@bluesdude758]

@@SevenFortyOne Actually as ARRL members, you are entitled to lots of info about almost everything ARRL does .

[@fizickul71]

What is the amateur radio service? Is it the radios? Is it for the need of the government to use those radios in an emergency? Is it a part of radio spectrum for the government to use if it needs it? Or is it a pool of trained and educated radio technicians familiar with the radio arts? Descention within the ranks of the amateurs themselves is what will destroy the amateur culture. I have heard recently some hams on youtube saying things like "the league" has to go because they charge too much and they don't do anything for the members. Almost everything that I know about radio I learned because of the league. Reading QST, the Handbook, Antenna book, all of the the publications put out by the league. The educational aspect of the ARRL is its most important function. To educate and produce amateur operators.

[@SevenFortyOne]

I agree. I'm not happy with all the dissension in Amateur radio right now. I feel there are things that the ARRL can improve but feel these things are being blown way out of proportion by a rather vocal minority.

[@EricWettstein]

Well said! That initial announcement was poorly done. If the Board President had a statement with his name on it with the announcement, I would have felt a lot better about it. If the CEO is the voice of the organization, the president is the backup voice. I'm suspicious that he (I don't even remember his name) is the one that doesn't like transparency. The lack of details, also leads me to believe the board was NOT prepared for the vote. If they were prepared to vote Michel out, I think they would have had a better announcement prepared and quick replacement plan laid out. Actually, as a member, I expect this of them. I'm waiting to see what Kermit Carlson, my board members, says. The time for changes seems to be running out. Can we afford a long process to find a replacement? Even when we get a new CEO, will be board be unhappy again? How long will the new CEO last? If I could cancel my membership today, I would. I think it is up for renewal in August, I'll see how I feel then!

[@SevenFortyOne]

I agree with your comments but I won't cancel my membership. I think the organization is fundamentally good.

[@mikesimpson7748]

Thank you for this video. It has really got me thinking. How is the orginization representing me as a member? In many respects you are correct in more information needs to be made publics about where the senior managements wants to steer the group. Explain how it effects the group as a whole. I have only been involved in Ham radio about 5 years now, but people I have talked to who are hams have lost faith in ARRL. I am currently a member, but some of my fellow hams have stopped supporting ARRL because they don't see the direction the organization is moving benefits them. I don't want to see ARRL end up like the NRA. I want ARRL to be open and honest with thier members. If they can't do that then what is the point of supporting them?

[@SevenFortyOne]

This is one of the points I'm trying to make. The lack of transparency is alienating the ham community and causing people to loose faith in an otherwise great organization

[@breakerbroke23]

Shhhhh don't ask questions. Yea, I quit the AARL puppet show years ago.

[@SevenFortyOne]

The rank and file employees are great - I'm questioning the leadership though.

[@chrisvanlue3599]

We lost involvement With Civil Defence , lost Plenty Of spectrum Time an time again ,interference from braodband, the 5 G thing !!!lost involvement IN Cali wildfire sys, I wish there was more promotion /Public Awareness that We,re still out here , and still Viable backup Comms, lots of fun things to do young and old...Need to keep This Hobby Going strong !!!

[@fr.timothyhall3082]

well put my friend ... well put.

[@m005kennedy]

It is interesting today we expect transparency in bussness and government that previous generation never did.

[@SevenFortyOne]

What's interesting about it?

[@m005kennedy]

@@SevenFortyOne we have much greater expectation now. it is usually a good think. in the case of someone losing a job sometimes the facts have to stay behind closed doors. there is a liability issue for the company. if a company states a reason for termination and can't prove they did everything they could to help the employee it is just better to say nothing. liability drives many issues.

[@SevenFortyOne]

@@m005kennedy I understand. If this were the case, the ARRL could have said they can't comment because it is a legal issue. But they haven't said that...they have said nothing. It leads me to believe the guy was fired for political reasons even though he may have been executing the job just fine.

[@m005kennedy]

@@SevenFortyOne yes i could of. I was in a company where several management people disappeared. For one they made up a decided to take a better position story wish them the best. it wasnt true. A choice between two people had to be made so one was out. one other was the one of the founders of the company. they were escorted off the premises during a high level meeting never to return. they didnt bother with a cover story, they just said they no longer worked there and that was that.

[@edwinpd0sot503]

This is exactly why I stopped my support, I had already shaking trust in our Ham radio society's in the Dutch realm (mini USA to some) and I come by without it relative good. I hope the organization learns and adapts. Switching management is a big burden for any group of people. Good luck! Well done video, allso in contrast to one of the previous where you explained about the article in qst.

[@SevenFortyOne]

I still support the ARRL but I'm frustrated and confused by this change. I really thought Howard Michel was doing a good job and until someone explains to me why the board thought he wasn't I'm going to continue to be confused and skeptical of ARRL leadership.

[@rubyait]

I hope I won’t anger you if I say we seem to be a lot alike. I used to be more active but have dropped back quite a bit. I have kept my ARRL membership up, and I disagree with the commenter who said that ARRL doesn’t matter, and that any “one” can do it effectively. Hope to catch you on the air. Rus, KY1E

[@SevenFortyOne]

It would take a lot to anger me - especially over ham radio....this is just a hobby. 73!

[@Thomas-rl8kw]

@@SevenFortyOne Me either. I don't get mad, but if AR is just a hobby, then why bother with ARRL?

[@jimcoulter5877]

To me the ARRL is back in the Horse and buggy days, and too much contest and name mentioning. I feel they should worker closer with Public service and first responders, but I think the ARRL should swallow hard and send out questioneers to the members about what they like and don't like about it about the ARRL and QST. I do realize I have been a Ham since about 1957, and we have new members that do not know what they want or what is out there with all the new Technology.

[@waltjoynes8001]

Well said! I agree 100%

[@newswrthy]

I’m a new ham, and was steered away from ARRL by comments made by quite a few older hams. It’s really sad that a hobby that produces such benefit is weighed down by a poorly run organization.

[@SevenFortyOne]

I'm sorry you feel that way. I feel the ARRL is a good organization that does a lot of good for the hobby. its just going through a rough patch.

[@newswrthy]

SevenFortyOne I may reconsider in the future, but nothing I have seen so far makes me want to join.

[@normjacques6853]

I don't know about the ARRL in particular. They have a long, admirable history as an advocacy and organizational group. Non-profit organizations in general, though, can be just as ruthlessly run as any for-profit corporation! Some people think that NP organizations live hand-to-mouth when, in fact, there can be staggering amounts of money being managed, and earned by the upper management positions! While we'd like to assume that a CEO change is a purely ideological change, in fact it may be just as ugly, and stem from the same reasons, as a similar change at General Motors, for instance! To me, the bottom line is seeing what happens next. How much changes, and how fast. How positive are those changes? Do we begin to see action that moves the hobby forward....rather than just maintaining the status quo and 'not making waves?' (BTW, did you notice that the run time on this video is exactly 7:41?? Hmmm....) 73 W1NLJ

[@SevenFortyOne]

The ARRL is a great organization - no question about that. I think maybe the current leadership has lost its way though. I'm hoping this is the bottom of the trough so to speak and that things improve from here.

[@SevenFortyOne]

Oh - and yes, the original finished duration was 7:35 so I played with the editing to get it right at 7:41

[@James_Bowie]

I think this is symptomatic of ham radio organizations. They are orchestrating own demise, with perfect pitch. (PS: You might like to fix the spelling of Howard in your description text.)

[@SevenFortyOne]

Thanks - I'll fix that!

[@bulldogbrower6732]

Probably one of the biggest things in radio right now is the rise of China Com. The radios that are taking the world by storm are a direct threat to the companies that pioneered mass production of amateur equipment. I thought that the AARL was silent on many of the issues that arose out of this transformation. As an example, Chinese Anytone introduced a two way hand held labeled as the Terminator that allowed a amateur transceiver to be coupled with a key combination that allowed it to be used on MURS, and GMRS. Wow, this is a radio dream for those involved in search and rescue. It seems that the existing Japanese and other producers of radios complained to the FCC, which was followed by a ban on any radio that could transmit on more than one licensed service. There is no logic or reason to the decision. Why should a person volunteering their service have to carry three radios on their person when someone has devised a solution. The AARL should have taken a public stand on this and other consumer issues. The entire controversy over unlicensed persons purchasing inexpensive radios out of China could be solved simply by the FCC requiring any retailer to check the FCC database before shipping. The AARL should be the leading in the effort to protect our bands from the unlicensed and also against radios that don’t meet spectral purity. Why isn’t the AARL involved in endorsing or rejecting radios that aren’t up to snuff. With all the money the AARL spends administratively, I would hope that these people are advocates for inexpensive solutions, no matter where in the world they are coming from.

[@SevenFortyOne]

I think they have addressed this. Bob Allison and others have published many reviews and tests showing these radios defects. Perhaps they could and should do more. I don't have an opinion on this at the moment as I don't know a whole lot about it.

[@geekverve]

I agree to some extent as well. They want me to pay $50/year for their representation and efforts to push the hobby forward, but they don't want to give me any perspective on what they're doing at a most fundamental level.

[@mdouble100]

I'm a Canadian HAM so my comments will have no direct bearing on any matter relative to the operations of AARL. However there are general issues regarding the hobby which do apply universally. I that regard I think my comments will be relevant. Amateur radio faces a number of challenges in the near future as demand for bandwidth from commerical interests increases. These pressures may well be creating tensions within the AARL if there are differences of opinion as to how best to meet such challenges. With a little imagination I can see the potential for disagreement between hobby purists and those seeking to advance the hobby as new technology may create additional opportunities and the need to explore how the hobby will move into the future. There is a lot to chew on as to why CEO's have come and gone. These are just a few thoughts on that point.

[@SevenFortyOne]

Thanks for your thoughts!

[@billn3ry662]

W6LG SIZED IT UP WHEN MICHEL WAS APPOINTED. CHECK OUT WHAT LG SAID. I WAS EXPECTING THIS.

[@SevenFortyOne]

I'll try to find that. Jim is a a very respected ham and has a great perspective. I'm looking at this from the standpoint of a casual observer who isn't as deep in the hobby as Jim is.

[@leethompson5274]

Rob, When he was first put in that position there were several stations on KZbin complaining that he "wasn't a real ham", you heard that mentioned in the video link I sent you at least twice. Folks went so far as to post his number of look-ups on QRZ.com. I thought maybe that was a good thing and they could use his business expertise and not his activity. I've been licensed 56 years and what I heard on These KZbin videos was more like I would expect to hear on some of the 75 meter nets at night. Lee, WA8QFE

[@SevenFortyOne]

Part of the reason I'm upset is because I went around telling everyone how great I thought Howard's ideas were and then they fired him with no reason given. Now I look like a chump.

[@leethompson5274]

@@SevenFortyOne Don't feel that way Rob, your no chump, It's a shame that maybe politics have leaked in.. Lee

[@1958johndeere620]

My only experience with Non profit mismanagement was a Ambulance service that was run into the ground by its CEO. He had made many high end purchases that was for his benefit but paid for by the non profit. He bankrupt the company. He purchased a " company retreat " camp on a lake that was for his use only. Stuff like that. Non profits sound great on paper, but the old human greed always finds a way to flourish. I hope there was no big payout from the ARRL to not renew his contract. That's another issue. A company or organization fires someone, yet they have to pay a ridiculous amount of money out.

[@SevenFortyOne]

I really hope something like that didn't happen here. The problem is that because of the lack of info, all we can do is speculate right now.

[@1958johndeere620]

@@SevenFortyOne I am sure in this case it was a direction spat between the directors and him.

[@nt4g1]

I am a member of ARRL, off and on for 40 years. Upper management arrl needs a wake up. It exists for the few elite contesters. Can’t even get a real review of a transceiver... Everything is fluff. Need a new lobbyist..

[@SevenFortyOne]

This is a common theme in the comments. The board is alienating members past present and potential with these seemingly arbitrary descions

[@raymondkb2nzo788]

I still have my license but ham radio is in trouble the bands are mostly dead and I don't see a happy ending arrl has done nothing to address this problem.

[@SevenFortyOne]

I disagree. The bands are not dead. Ham radio is alive and well. So is the ARRL - it just has a leadership problem right now.

[@warplanner8852]

Raymond, like what? Alter the laws of physics and propagation? Pretty neat trick if they could do that!

[@reallybadaim118]

Maybe the late K1MAN was onto something.

[@SevenFortyOne]

Good old K1MAN. I grew up listing to W1HLR and W2VJZ fight with him.

[@624radicalham]

This video is exactly 7:41 lol

[@superalpha]

It is the equivalent of the NRA for hams

[@kensmith5694]

As an outsider, I have long noticed a trend away from "here is how to build" towards "here is what to buy". The NRA is the gun maker's lobby. The ARRL could be as you say turning into something like the NRA but that would not be them being "for hams". It would be "fer gear manufacturers".

[@peteoconnor8808]

It’s either sex or money, I’m betting on money. Lol

[@SevenFortyOne]

I don't think it was either of those which is why the ARRL needs to step up and say what happened or these types of rumors will continue to fester.

[@billmoran3812]

Follow the money. Everything in a business is about money. ARRL is a business, first and foremost. Where there is money, there is often corruption. Secrecy begets corruption. Daylight is the cure. The ARRL membership should demand a full, complete and independent audit.

[@kensmith5694]

More likely it is power.

[@Shastasays]

We saw Howard give a speech at Ham Fest in Milwaukee last Sept. It was about The Future of ARRL. He didn't know his audience. It was obvious he didn't know ham operators or ham radio. He was more interested in getting money, increasing membership. He spoke as if we hams were the product. He was also boring and many shared our view. My friend and I got up and walked out along wwith a few others. His appearance and presentation told me everything I needed to know. It actually turned me off to be an ARRL member.

[@SevenFortyOne]

This is the thy of info people like me who have never met him or seen him speak don't have. All we see are the editorials and the new changes taking place and we feel things are going well. Then, all of a sudden the guy is gone. Unless someone speaks up in an official capacity and says what you did what are the rest of us supposed to think?

[@Shastasays]

@@SevenFortyOne We saw his name on the agenda and was actually looking forward to hearing his speech. It was a huge let down. We did stop by the ARRL booth. The ARRL staff were great, very friendly and accommodating. We enjoyed speaking with them. I was also dismayed by ARRL's response to the Ham repeater crisis in California. I don't know all sides of the issue, however, ARRL's response to a very thoroughly written explanation by the ham group's lawyer deserved more than a cursory dismissal and blowoff. It gave me the feeling that ARRL was "gotten to" by the state government. It seems that in important matters where ARRL's input is requested, ARRL is absent.

[@johnkullman1615]

After 20+ years I am done.

[@SevenFortyOne]

sorry to hear that...

[@warplanner8852]

Thank you for the video. You DID ramble on too much. Did not need 5 minutes of qualification to express your opinion. One minute would have done it and then one minute of opinion. As far as the ARRL is concerned, they lost me when they bumped the annual fees to $49. QST is worthless and there books (which you don't need a membership to purchase) are basically hacked together reheats of their articles and far too expensive. Finally, the governance IS like a some star chamber secret society based on what they put their SW Division rep through with a lawsuit.

[@SevenFortyOne]

Thanks for your thoughts

[@leethompson5274]

Oh, I did sub your vids. WA8QFE

[@SevenFortyOne]

Thank you for the support!

[@Chuck_Carolina]

They don't do that....

[@SevenFortyOne]

Don't do what?

[@MickeyD2012]

NUG, LOL.

[@SevenFortyOne]

That's not a vanity by the way. That's what I got from the FCC in 1992

[@MickeyD2012]

@@SevenFortyOne That's awesome.

[@jeffferrell.k9hca531]

The ARRL has become a useless organization solely focused on their own internal interests, and is plagued with poor leadership. Membership continues to decline since this video posted 4 years ago.

[@SevenFortyOne]

I don't think it is useless, but it doesn't seem to be keeping up with current trends.

[@thehunter3386]

The ARRL is a publishing rip-off! But, don’t take my word for it. Go back thirty or so years...look at the “Handbook” and “Antenna” books. Just take one every five years. Look at the content. If there are four NEW, relevant articles in them, be surprised! The rest is reprint! Yet the price went up and up and up!! What does it cost today? Rip off!! Ain’t even good to hang in the outhouse!

[@SevenFortyOne]

I disagree. Certain things don't change so there is no reason to change the publication every year. Even college textbooks follow this model. I'd rather they spend resources focusing on the things that do change and publishing books about those things.

[@SevenFortyOne]

I disagree. Certain things don't change so there is no reason to change the publication every year. Even college textbooks follow this model. I'd rather they spend resources focusing on the things that do change and publishing books about those things.

[@PerryChamberlain]

Guys and GIRLS? Shouldn't it be Women and BOYS? We need to check your language. My daughter who is a ham and engineer as well, and I, found this insulting. Old habits die hard. There are no girls working in business, only WOMEN. I'm sure the Dinosaurs will flame this comment.

[@SevenFortyOne]

My word choice in this video was just the result of a twisted tongue. I find it difficult to always express and articulate my thoughts clearly in front of a camera and don't always find exactly the right words to say. Nor did I intend to imply one gender is superior to another - that was actually the furthest thing from my mind during this recording. I have healthy respect for women and men in all capacities. I work along side some very smart and talented female engineers who are vastly more valuable to the company than I. In fact, our division leader is a very capable woman who is doing a great job at the helm. My wife is also a very talented and bright woman whom I have the utmost respect for. I'm lucky to have her in my life. I feel like you've jumped to conclusions here before knowing the whole story and that insults me. Also, by making conclusions like this I feel like you are the one creating an issue, not I. As I said, there was no thought or intent in this video or in my day-to-day life to imply one gender is superior to another. By pointing out this tiny flaw in my choice of words you are the one that is implying there is inequality and bringing it to light with your comment.

[@kensmith5694]

@@SevenFortyOne I found and read your reply but I think you mistook my comment slightly. My point was about the fact that your "slip of tongue" distracted from the serious comment. I am also going to disagree with Perry in this thread. In the process I may start a flame war. Please feel free to ignore it.

[@kensmith5694]

I am going to disagree with a few things in your remark but not flame. Yes there are girls involved just like there are boys involved. We should assume/hope that there are some children getting interested. If not amateur radio is in trouble for the future. Based on your name, I am going to assume you are male. This means you are being outraged on someone else's behalf. If your daughter has an objection we should be hearing that. You stepping forward to speak on her behalf and be offended on her behalf is not the same thing. You took power away from her.

[@mewcomm]

Don’t watch this if you want information. There is little here. Poorly done. Random commentary with all sorts of “great people” great job propaganda and “I’m confused”. Remarks. The Gettysburg address was 272 words. Learn how to present your case at the level of a college freshman. Don’t insult your audience with this meaningless blather.

[@SevenFortyOne]

Have you ever watched a "vlog" before? The title of the video clearly states that these are my thoughts and that the video is a vlog. This implies the video is more or less going to contain mostly meaningless blather rather than a polished dissertation. Lighten up - this is KZbin, not a PBS documentary.