Catch Phrase Is Catch-22 For Local Ham

By WBØRUR, on the scene

BILKINGTON LANE, Vermont – Edinborough County Amateur Radio Operator Roston Johnstower had what he thought was a great idea – develop a “catch-phrase” for his radio club that would be both a unifying statement and a rally cry.

The 29-year-old professional maple syrup distiller says he came up with the idea of “Loosen up the squelch, Bro!” to demonstrate tolerance of diversity and welcome new hams and fresh ideas into the brotherhood of ham radio. He also thought it would look cool printed on t-shirts.

“I had these rockin’ 70/30 cotton-polyester blend t-shirts printed. They are blue with white lettering. I wanted a BIG iconic squelch knob right in the center, but couldn’t get that done,” says Johnstower.

“Then I had some great window stickers produced. Oh, I was flying high, man. I was loosening up the squelch, for sure!”

Johnstower says the reception by his radio club was less than enthusiastic. “How can I describe it? Hmmmm. Luke warm? That might be too generous. Several members couldn’t get past the idea of literally loosening the squelch knob. The club didn’t understand why they should listen to static all the time.” Johnstower says he’s bitterly disappointed and his radio club buddies can – quote – “Bite me!”

He says he’ll continue to promote the catch-phrase for the time being – at least until he sells all his t-shirts and bumper stickers – because he has to replenish his “new radio slush fund.”

He’ll be selling his “SQUELCH” items next month at the Edinborough Regional Hamfest in Morgantown.

Editor’s Note: T-Shirts and bumper stickers sold to date: 0.

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