[CQ-Contest] QST Contest Results

[Eric Hilding]

Rpn, WN3VAW, wrote:

> Like Jim, I couldn't tell you the last time I saw QST on a magazine rack at a
> magazine/bookstore or in the magazine aisle of a supermarket.  And I do see CQ,
> but it's sporadic.

Hey folks, here's something to chew on, especially since the concern over getting "new blood" into Ham Radio (and CONTESTING!!!) has been the subject of discussion on varoius Reflectors...as well as OH2BH's admonition at Visalia 2005.

Picture this as a possibility of how to attract more young people into the hobby (or healthy "addiction", in the case of Contesting)...

An alternative to newstand placement(s) or school libraries, etc. might be strictly a .pdf version with a reference link/URL promoted in places like myspace.com and other known youth Internet hangouts.  A great potential avenue might be distributions in conjunction with several Rotary International programs such as RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) and the Interact kids.  

What I'm talking about is a STANDALONE, ONE-TIME "ANTHOLOGY" type mini-QST publication maybe titled "BEYOND TEXTING" or "REAL WIRELESS", etc.  On the front page is a pix of 13 Year Old Extra Class YL DXER Rebekah Dorff, WG4Y, operating from PJ2T.  She gave a great presentation at Visalia, and although I don't remember the callsign of the young man who also got up and spoke there ("Reed"?), he was one heck of an articulate fella whom I am sure could write a great article.  The pages of this mini-pub would be filled with articles & photos of ONLY young people invovled in some aspect of Ham Radio, and why they find it so cool.

Speaking from experience, I've met many young people with "Public Service" interests through my involvement with these Rotary youth programs.  Talk about ideal candidates for articles dealing with the role of Ham Radio in Emergency/Disaster scenarios along with links on how to get a license!!!  Of course, advertising content from all the "HT" manufacturers could help offset some production costs :-)

An article on why "Contesting" is the ULTIMATE "Reality Video Game" might help in getting some new blood into our niche area.  If every major Contest Multi-Multi station would make provisions for one chair to be filled by a young Contester Newbie, and maybe combine it with a "Contest" for a chance to win one or more operating seats in a major (SSB) Contest from a Contesting Super Station, consider the possibilities!

This does not have to be a 100+ page deal. 

Put on YOUR thinking caps, folks.  I see opportunity knocking...don't let it pass US by.

FYI & 73...

Rick, K6VVA * The Locust