KD5KUF writes "I, as many other hams, some who won't admit it, came from a background in CB radio. Many of them don't know anything about ham radio. Plus they don't know that many of the radios on the shelf at CB shops are not legal to operate." They simply think, "Hey, these guys are the experts, and they wouldn't steer me wrong". And these modified radios usually don't have FCC part 95 rules included in the box. Many otherwise good people are just not aware that they are breaking the rules. They don't know that 10meters and 12meters are reserved for licensed operations only. Instead of complaining, we can listen to those 40 legal channels with an FCC type accepted unmodified radio, and when we hear a polite, considerate operator with a clean signal (instead of overmodulated, cheap amplifier distorted, incomprehensible voices and roger beeps), ask that operator if you can meet for a cup of coffee at a local cafe or such. Explain Amateur Radio to him and encourage him to test, offering your assistance in learning the required knowledge. Let him know that you were much more impressed with his clear, clean signal than with anyone running amplifiers and power mikes cranked up to the max. This person may only be on CB because they don't know there is anything else that the average person can do. We won't convert the die hard freebander with his 2kw amp and roger beep power mike. Many knowingly enjoy breaking the rules and stirring up trouble. But if we snag every good but unenlightened operator we can, then we eventually stop the cycle of abuse of the airwaves. After all the polite operators are just looking for someone to talk to. Show them that there is someone out there worth talking to, instead of snubbing them and turning them into the enemy. You will know in short order, in a face to face QSO, if this person is a good prospect by his or her behavior. At best, you help clean up 11 meters and bring a new ham into the fold, at worst, you're out the price of a cup of coffee. This is just my personal viewpoint, 73, Joe KD5KUF
