[VHFcontesting] Input on Initial VHF-UHF-Microwave Contest Rule Changes

[Les Rayburn]

I'm nothing short of amazed at the forward-thinking, leadership, and 
courage displayed by the Ad Hoc Subcommittee, and the American Radio 
Relay League. As many VHF operators have long-predicted, I honestly feel 
that this change in the rules will have no effect whatsoever on the 
callsigns that grace the winners circle--but I do believe that the total 
number of contacts will greatly increase.

Over time, increased enjoyment, ease in making contacts, and less time 
spent "listening to white noise" will attract more casual operators to 
these contests, and hopefully help to revitalize weak signal operations 
on the VHF Bands.

I'd also like for the Committee to consider the creation of a Five Band 
VUCC Award (5BVUCC). An award of this nature would recognize the 
achievement of earning VUCC on five or more bands, including satellites. 
As a further incentive, I would recommend the creation of an "Inaugural 
Five Band VUCC Award" that could only be earned in the first 365 days 
that the award goes into effect. Rather than awarding lifetime 
achievements as the 5BVUCC Award would do, the Inaugural Award would 
start all VHF operators back at zero and give everyone a chance to earn 
VUCC on five bands in the first year of the award, thus earning this 
special edition of the parent award, perhaps in the form of a plaque or 
trophy.

I believe that such an award would help to inspire grid expeditions to 
less active grids, and encourage more activity especially on the 
microwave bands.

Regardless of the Committee's views on a 5 Band VUCC, I really must 
congratulate you on the bold proposal that is already before us. While 
some may object to it, the wisdom of the decision will be fondly 
remembered in the years to come. Bravo Zulu!

--
73,

Les Rayburn, N1LF
121 Mayfair Park
Maylene, AL 35114
EM63nf

6M VUCC #1712
AMSAT #38965
Grid Bandits #222
Southeastern VHF Society
Central States VHF Society Life Member
Six Club #2484

Active on 6 Meters thru 1296, 10GHz & Light