I'm even more sorry that these intolerant attitudes are likely not  
making our newcomers feel very welcome. Say, has anyone read the  
Amateur's Code lately? I paste it below for your consideration. More  
than using RF to do our communicating, I think we'd do well to  
remember that it isn't the license class but the class of the amateur.  
Unfortunately, some holders of amateur radio licenses are not acting  
in any manner becoming of a ham. At least, not the ones that brought  
me up in this wonderful hobby, the ones that treated a new 14-year-old  
kid with the same respect they showed the 50-year ham veterans. Where  
has that gone?

The Amateur's Code
The Radio Amateur is

CONSIDERATE...never knowingly operates in such a way as to lessen the  
pleasure of others.

LOYAL...offers loyalty, encouragement and support to other amateurs,  
local clubs, and the American Radio Relay League, through which  
Amateur Radio in the United States is represented nationally and  
internationally.

PROGRESSIVE...with knowledge abreast of science, a well-built and  
efficient station and operation above reproach.

FRIENDLY...slow and patient operating when requested; friendly advice  
and counsel to the beginner; kindly assistance, cooperation and  
consideration for the interests of others. These are the hallmarks of  
the amateur spirit.

BALANCED...radio is an avocation, never interfering with duties owed  
to family, job, school or community.

PATRIOTIC...station and skill always ready for service to country and  
community.

--The original Amateur's Code was written by Paul M. Segal, W9EEA, in  
1928.