[NLRS] 2009 August UHF Contest - W0AUS - response

[Jim Froemke]

Hi Jon. Thanks for the post. There has been some erosion in the level of
participation so we probably need to continue encouraging any and all weak
signalers; regardless of their setup and/or previous experience. Maybe we
need a focus on those that choose to optimize a single band versus multiple
bands. Sometimes I get the feeling that they are underappreciated and may
lay back during the contests. 

You're right-on with the notion of upgrading our VHF+ stations. Perhaps
another club purchase from DEMI, DB6NT, Directive Systems, M2, etc. may be
in order even though the economy is still in rough shape. Low cost
construction projects are always good for improvement and participation.
There are many, good, low-cost DIY antenna projects that may satisfy our
urge to improve our VHF+ stations on a budget. Some clubs chose to promote a
specific "band-of-the-year". Sometimes this is with specific projects,
another beacon or group purchase. 
A far out thought might be an award for replicatable, cost/performance VHF+
improvement DIY projects that are documented and demonstrated at the next
NLRS meeting. Perhaps antennas, transverters, amplifiers, etc. may be likely
categories for a competition? 

We probably can't launch an W0AUS multi-op every year but it sure acts as a
catalysis for major participation improvement.

73, Jim