[IRCA] Broadcaster/DXer relationship

[Bill Harms <philcobill@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

I agree Powell. That is unfortunate because in the beginning of 
broadcasting, DXers were an integral part of the picture. They were 
involved in helping to let stations know how their signal was doing and 
a large number of the early radio listeners were de facto DXers because 
they simply enjoyed listening to distant stations. Stations used to 
actively seek out the assistance of DXers.

As much as I enjoy hard core DXing, I actually spend much of my time 
just simply listening to distant stations just to enjoy the content. 
Several stations here on the East Coast come into mind. WBZ, KDKA, WSM, 
the NYC stations, WGY, WHAM, etc. especially when they are running local 
content. That to me is relaxing.  I would like to think I enjoy 
listening to distant radio stations for listening sake and that DXing is 
an adjunct. I bet a lot of DXers feel the same way. That I think is the 
major reason I have a problem with the break down of the clear channels 
even though it gives DXers more targets to listen to.

Although I have not been directly involved in radio with a career, I 
love radio broadcasting and the history of radio. For the past two years 
I have been writing a history of radio broadcasting in Spokane. The 
deeper I get into it, the more fascinating it becomes. Many radio 
stations had to go through a lot just to stay on the air. And of course, 
the intrigue is fascinating as is learning about the station personnel 
as people. Just recently I spoke with Art MacKelvie, one of the founders 
of KZUN in Opportunity, Washington. It was fun hearing his stories and 
his views about broadcasting.

I also believe that DXers could do more to foster good relationships 
with radio stations. When I visit radio stations and talk with the 
station personnel, I sometimes detect through body language or the tone 
of their voice that they do not have much appreciation for DXers. It 
could be that some bad apples have ruined our reputation. I HATE IT. One 
CE told me that he threw reception reports in the trash without looking 
at them can as soon as he received them. It seems that one certain DXer 
made some unreasonable demands of him. Sure, a few station personnel may 
have thin skins, but what have we as DXers done to foster good 
relationships with stations? I think we can do more. Something to consider.

Powell E. Way III W4OPW wrote:
> Flame wars are only good during the winter, so you can
> heat your house. 
>
> Some DX'ers don't understand that radio stations
> aren't there for DX'ers just to DX. Some radio station
> owners don't understand DX'ers.
>
>   

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