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
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