[hpsdr] Why?

[Bill Tracey]

The actions that Phil C. mentions on his web page all occurred after 
Phil disabled hpsdr.org on or about the 12th of April,  by 
redirecting it to a "dummy" site.  In addition to disabling the web 
site, this action also disabled the mailing list so it was impossible 
to communicate to the group what was happening.   This was done with 
no warning to the webmaster or system administrator, and with no 
explanation as to why it was done.  As a result of that action and 
further communications with Phil C,  there was great concern that the 
web site and mailing list were at risk, and that a similar disruption 
could occur in the future.

With great reluctance it was felt we had no choice but to put 
controls in place that would limit the damage that could be done to 
the HPSDR Internet resources.  That included transition to a new 
domain (openhpsdr.org) that Phil C. does not control, as well as 
protecting the wiki from unlimited editing by someone who had clearly 
indicated he was at odds with the direction of the project.  Finally, 
Phil C. is incorrect in saying that he was blocked from posting to 
the mailing list; he was put on moderated status to allow review of 
his messages before posting, but not unsubscribed or otherwise blocked.

I do not believe anyone is trying to deny Phil C's  significant 
contributions to the HPSDR project.  However, his recent actions 
endangered the project itself and actions were taken to protect the 
project that we've all invested much time and effort in.

I was involved in the discussions among many of the HPSDR 
contributors behind these actions and support the actions that were taken.

As to why this was done 'behind the scenes' - it was felt it would be 
better to try and do this without having a nasty ugly fight in 
public.  In hind sight that may not have been the best approach.

I hope this answers everyone's questions on what has happened, and we 
can soon return to working on the HPSDR projects.

Regards,

Bill (kd5tfd)