[CW] Introduction and a request

[N2EY@aol.com]

In a message dated 7/12/03 4:03:43 AM Eastern Daylight Time, k8la@arrl.net 
writes:


> .  He pointed out that he's no code 
> extra to set the stage for what was to come.  And that is that he's 
> going to get on the CW subbands to practice at the code and hopefully 
> have it up to a decent speed by this upcoming winter.  And so he's 
> probably worried that people will ignore his calls because of his 
> obvious lack of skill with CW. 

I won't ignore his calls. While I like to slide the weights back and let 'er 
roll at a good clip, the main point is to have the QSO at a speed that works 
for both ops. 

Recently I called CQ on 40 and was answered by a 1x2 Extra at about 6-7 wpm. 
We had a great QSO. Since my shack is in the basement, his signal and fist 
were good, and our transmissions were long enough, I turned up the gain and did a 
few laundry chores when he was sending. Folding clothes is about the most 
boring household chore I know of but with the sweet sound of CW for company it 
was a breeze. At the speed we were going, I had enough warning at each turnover 
to get back to the key.

Now, was the other guy a "no code Extra", a "5 wpm Extra", an Extra with a 
medical waiver, a "20 wpm Extra" who was really rusty with his skills, or some 
combination or variation? Newcomer or oldtimer? I dunno. Don't really care, 
either. Main thing was that he could do the speed we were working at reasonably 
well, and we had a good time. 

So if you hear N2EY calling CQ, or ending a QSO, don't hesitate to call. 

> 
> However, I for one would have no qualms engaging in a QSO with him.  
> All of us were struggling beginners at one time.  And it has been one 
> of the traditions of Amateur Radio to help out the struggling beginners.
> 

Yup. And compared to some folks, I'm a struggling beginner. 

73 de Jim, N2EY




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