Roy AC9DN told the list about the Pittsburgh area FM
Simplex contest. The zip code idea is interesting. What a
hoot it would be to make zip codes the prize in SSB contests!
You sure would hear a lot less, "I didn't bother working him,
I have that grid square already."
I admit to having a thinking problem, lol at myself. :)
Back to the topic --
In WI, the Milwaukee Radio Amateurs Club has a
popular, multi-band FM Simplex contest every February.
This year it's on Feb. 10th, from 1:00-3:30pm.
http://w9rh.org/fm_simplex_contest.htm or
http://w9rh.org/documents/FM-Contest-Rules-2013.pdf
This contest has been around for at least 10 years. I'm
sure it's part of why SE WI and N ILL had a good FM
turnout this past weekend -- there's already some familiarity.
FM Simplex contests are popping up all over the country.
I've read of others in IL, IN, OH, PA, NJ and ME. I'm
sure there are many more. Ask around and see if there's
one in your area. If not, do something about it. Could
always slide a SSB portion or angle into it, too. Think
about meeting the FM'ers halfway. :)
Also think about having some sort of modest plaque/
trophy/certificates for those who compete. Having some-
thing on your ham shack wall is a great reminder of the
fun you had. Keeps the contesting idea in their heads.
There was a nice article in the Jan 2010 QST about FM
contests being a great training ground for VHF/UHF contes-
ters. It was written by ARRL Contest Branch Manager
KX9X. The article is on page 79 of the Jan, 2010 QST.
Check it out, take it to your club meeting and try some-
thing new in your area. Then follow up by making sure
your club knows about the ARRL VHF/UHF Contests in
January, June, August, and September. Plus the CQ WW
VHF Contest in July, and the V/U Spring and Fall Sprints
in April and October. Actually, I would think the Sprints
might be the best time to "break-in" contesting rookies.
It's a limited time commitment and only one band to worry
about. Remember how your head was spinning the first
time you played in a V/U contest?
Hams want to know where and when the on-air activity is.
Let them know, and they may stay interested.
73,
Todd KC9BQA EN63ao 40 N of Milwaukee
www.kc9bqa.com For Frequent VHF/UHF Updates
www.wivuch.com WI VHF/UHF County Hunters Award
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