Bruce, the center frequency of my skeleton-slot design is 144.2 MHz, as it is specifically intended for SSB operation. The Jaybeam was a commercial implementation of the skeleton-slot which it used as a driver with rows of reflectors and directors aligned with the top and bottom driven elements. Jaybeam was sold to Parabeam and the ham radio line dropped, but Parabeam appears to still manufacture TV antennas, using the skeleton-slot driver and reflector, but a single row of directors.
Regarding the ARRL protocol request, I was as confused as everyone else! However, the rumor is that ARRL has become disenchanted with Winlink (and their proprietary modems and protocols) and that is why the request was made. It was on that assumption that I submitted what I did. One thing I feel Winlink got right is the idea of a bridge to the Internet, which other hams can also provide in emergencies. However, instead of robot forwarding, I proposed live operator forwarding instead so there is always someone in the loop who can insure delivery to the final recipient, and also listen to see if the frequency is clear before transmitting. It is about time we got rid of all transmitting without listening first on each frequency used. I think ARRL is finally getting this message! Since Email, cell phone, telephone, and SMS are so pervasive today, I don't see as great a need for message relay by radio like we used to do, but hams can provide a message bridge to a person outside the disaster zone when nobody else can. 73, Skip KH6TY
