Along with the above mentioned topics, I think it would be a good time to welcome the Technicians to their new priveleges. I remember when the FCC made the ruling on the "No Code" Technician license, and all the next meeting centered on how bad this would be for Amateur Radio. A couple months later, one of the new licensees put on a talk and demonstration of packet radio, and offered to install a digipeater for all to use.

What I am trying to say is I believe we will gain a more diverse group of hams that will further help to advance the technology we now have. As far as the issue with CW, I believe some of the newcomers will get interested in it and learn and use it on their own initiative.

Please, lets make something positive out of this, and help our hobby grow.

73,
Jimmy,  W9JDH

The need to talk directly between PS agencies is one thing; between hams and PS agencies is another and there is already a system in place, as I said before, to facilitate that. It's called a command post or command center. Hams in the center have access to the PS radios, if the agency allows it.
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There will undoudtedly be some who disagree with my opinion, but it comes with experience!!
 The need for amateur operators to communicate directly with PS agencies is very rare. With this in mind I will describe what I work with frequently.
 #1- Security measures that prevent most people including Hams from access or entry to a command post.
Handle the needed exchanges as written messages carried to the command by an authorized individual.
  If you think the security issue is not real, try to gain access to your local 911 dispatch center, or other command post.

 #2- The inter mod intereference works both ways, they interefere with our equipment, and we interefere with their equipment. This does not happen regularly, but it is real when the stations are located close to one another.
   This is a lose-lose situation for both communications and the citizens.

 #3- If the PS agencies need your assistance, they will ask for it, and will also give specific instructions as to your duties. Follow the instructions you have received specifically, or you may be escorted away. No freelancing.

Above all, set up meetings with your local officials so that both will know and respect one anothers positions and needs. This will go a long way towards a good working relationship between all those concerned in an emergency.

The need to talk directly between PS agencies is one thing; between hams and PS agencies is another and there is already a system in place, as I said before, to facilitate that. It's called a command post or command center. Hams in the center have access to the PS radios, if the agency allows it.
******************************************************

There will undoudtedly be some who disagree with my opinion, but it comes with experience!!
 The need for amateur operators to communicate directly with PS agencies is very rare. With this in mind I will describe what I work with frequently.
 #1- Security measures that prevent most people including Hams from access or entry to a command post.
Handle the needed exchanges as written messages carried to the command by an authorized individual.
  If you think the security issue is not real, try to gain access to your local 911 dispatch center, or other command post.

 #2- The inter mod intereference works both ways, they interefere with our equipment, and we interefere with their equipment. This does not happen regularly, but it is real when the stations are located close to one another.
   This is a lose-lose situation for both communications and the citizens.

 #3- If the PS agencies need your assistance, they will ask for it, and will also give specific instructions as to your duties. Follow the instructions you have received specifically, or you may be escorted away. No freelancing.

Above all, set up meetings with your local officials so that both will know and respect one anothers positions and needs. This will go a long way towards a good working relationship between all those concerned in an emergency.