Politics are everywhere these days, not just in DC or on the TV news. For the first time in more than 10 years, there will be an election within Maine’s American Radio Relay League membership community.

Anytime there is a contested election, whether in party politics or in the ham radio community, there is bound to be some unnecessary political commentary. I am a big believer in the freedom of speech and welcome the expression of opinions in and outside of the amateur radio field, but I am also fond of civility and maintaining a positive image of my favorite hobby and service. I hope that every Maine ham, whether on or off the air, discuss and/or debate the merits of this upcoming election in a positive manner, respectful to both candidates.

I have posted Bill Crowley’s statements on his candidacy on the news section of www.qsl.net/hrde, and am hoping Bill Woodhead will email me his thoughts on the election. I sincerely want to give all Ham Radio Down East visitors both candidates’ views. (N1KAT has since emailed me his portfolio, which is now available on Ham Radio Down East.

That being said, I feel I must disclose to you that I am supporting Bill Crowley K1NIT in his effort to become Maine’s Section Manager.

I respect Bill Woodhead’s service to Maine’s hams in his 10 years as section manager. No one else stepped forward in all that time to do the time consuming and important work representing Maine hams to the League, and keeping the machinery of the state’s various ARRL nets and positions moving. Without his effort, no amount of WD-40 would have prevented the Maine ARRL parts from rusting and grinding to a halt. Bravo Zulu N1KAT!

Ten years is a long time and now I believe it is time for some fresh leadership. We need to start growing and not just maintain the status quo. I know that Bill Crowley is highly motivated to address the nagging problem of decreasing number of youth entering Maine’s amateur radio community. Although there are many Maine hams in their teens, twenties, and thirties, they are not evident on many of the state’s nets, especially on HF. Yes, many are busy with school and family life. Still, I am one of the youngest regular check-ins to the Maine Sea Gull Net on 3940 Khz, and I am nearly 57 years old. That is great if this were the AARP, but folks, that is an ominous outlook for the future of ham radio.

Bill Crowley has made the outreach to Maine’s younger generations a primary focus of his candidacy and a key goal if he is elected. Crowley’s vast experience in communications, both within the ham community and the state’s public service system is extensive and a valuable asset he would use as SM. From his military service to his present day activities, Crowley has used his leadership skills to make things happen. That is the recipe we need to re-energize Maine’s Ham Radio outlook and help secure a future for our fantastic hobby.

I, for one, am eager to help him achieve his goals. I thank Bill Woodhead for his 10 years of service, but it is my opinion that Maine could use some fresh ideas and new leadership.  We need to move forward and identify and implement actions that will bring new blood into the amateur radio service, something that is required nationwide, but especially in Maine.

Whether you agree with me or not, please, if you are an ARRL member, make sure when you receive your ballot in the mail in April, you cast your vote and mail it back. Vote early & often, oops, maybe you should just vote early! Good luck to both guys in the epic Battle of the Bills!

Check the News tab Ham Radio Down East for more info on the upcoming election.