[NLRS] UHF Contest Propagation - need your help

[Richard Clem]

I don't think this was propagation related, since it was basically LOS, but
since you asked, I'll put it out there as another data point!

In the June contest, it was a very easy QSO from the Ridgeway site to W0AUS on
222 FM, using a handheld.  In fact, I think we made our 432 contact from there
on FM using a handheld.  I think I also made easy QSO's from handhelds from a
lower location on the other side of the freeway in EN34.

But in the August contest, I just barely made the contact using the same rig,
and my wife wasn't able to make it at all.

I suspect the W0AUS antenna was pointing the wrong direction or something.  I
can't think of any reason why it would be a propagation issue, since it is
pretty much line of sight.  But I was surprised that the contact was so
difficult, since it had been so easy in June.  In June, they had been full
quieting as soon as I turned my rig on.  In August, I had difficulty copying
them, and had to repeat my exchange several times as I walked around looking
for a "sweet spot".

This was Sunday morning.  If you need an exact time, I should be able to find
it in my log.

73,
Rick W0IS