[CQ-Contest] anti-contest petition MMSN

[AA6DX]

I am getting to where I can be officially called an "old timer" -- on air 
for 45 years now ..  and I have this to say about that, the MMSN whine ...
First off -- yes, there are more avenues for communications now as opposed 
to 20 or so years ago, and I think that is one reason you see fewer 
incidents calling for aid on the ham bands of late.  But, there is sure a 
lot of chit -chat traffic, much of which is being transmitted by non--or 
faux -- "ham operators"!
Secondly, methinks there are many emergency situations that are handled on 
other than net frequencies! Years ago, I recall 2 SOS yachting incidents 
where I was a primary communicator, and neither were on "net" frequencies. 
I have helped at other times, by keeping frequencies clear during the 
emergency, etc....
I guess my point is that an ocean going vessel with problems does not HAVE 
to call for aid on a net frequency, there may be other hams perfectly 
capable of handling traffic, and have better equipment and perhaps enjoying 
superior propagation than the net has at the particular moment.  A ham that 
contests is usually able to deal with emergency traffic, and just might have 
his (or her) station equipment in top-notch operating condition, and also 
know propagation, beam headings, etc.
In younger years, I gave a few convention seminars/club meeting 
presentations called "Contesting --Why and How" -- keynoting that contesting 
promotes experienced hams, who are capable of handling emergencies, in the 
public service ... which is the primary reason Amateur Radio as we know it 
exists.
Merry Christmas to all ... 73, Mark  AA6DX    ARRL Life Member