Yo,
I think a lot of us are missing the point about VHF+ activity.
As several have mentioned, the secret is for each of us who
care, to try and be a little more active, and to communicate
the fun of weak-signal VHF, UHF, & microwaves to others.
There are lots of reasons why activity is perhaps declining, but
overall, VHF SSB & CW just doesn't get enough press. We
tend to act like the "lunatic-fringe" of amateur radio, and keep
to ourselves too much. More of us need to get on more often,
and just keep in touch with our peers, and also try to educate
others about the fun of VHF+ operations on SSB/CW. Don't
let newcomers try out their FT-100 or IC706, and go away thinking
there is no life above 10 meters. Make sure you find them, and
help them find some action.
Eventually, there is hope that we could attract some new blood
to the bands. I think the best place to start is to try and be
more active. I've been pretty amazed at how I can raise stations
on 2m SSB, by just making some noise. Even if it's only one
nite-a-week, there are often stations out there who were surprised
to hear me. If we can connect with more guys, the bands might
actually become fun again, in non-contest times. Imagine!
Finally, from my perspective, it is the activity that attracts me to
contests. All the awards and big scores in the world are nothing
compared to the chance of finding someone around who wants
to try a new band or two. Contests just assure us that we can do
this for a weekend at-a-time. So, get on and MAKE SOME NOISE.
Your enthusiasm is contageous!
Remember...even if you've already worked all the grids, and have awards
all over your shack, you could help make someone else happy by
getting on!!
73,
Bill W3IY/R rebuilding the rover
p.s. Listen for the weak ones.
http://members.fcc.net/wseab
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