I am the license trustee for HamWAN's IP allocations and to this date have never publicly expressed an opinion on this matter. So, I would hope we're not in danger of retaliation because of the statements of someone who isn't technically a member of our leadership at the moment. ;) Let's all try to keep this civil and professional.
The relationship between ARDC and the community was rocky even before the sale which was seen as a huge breach of trust. However, it's clear that what was done cannot be undone, so holding a grudge is not very productive. Especially since we regrettably lost Brian Kantor who was likely the main decision maker. I hope that going forward ARDC can be more transparent and try to earn our trust back over time.
Personally, I don't favor large sums of money being involved in amateur radio. Frugality is one of the major drivers of innovation and tends to give way to other things when spending money on a problem is an option. However, if someone has an idea for a benevolent purpose for that money, I would not fault them for applying for it.
Luckily, HamWAN is blessed with many generous donors who contribute $10 a month or more and that really adds up. We're in a financially healthy place right now and don't need to pursue any grants, but thank you for telling us about them (any everything else you do), John. ;)
-Cory NQ1E
HamWAN Director/Treasurer