[Fists] Some observations

[Tomas Hood - NW7US]

I have some observations.  And a question or two.  Maybe three.

While I realize that only about ten people are on this reflector
(at least that is all I count in daily traffic -- could there
really be more than this?), perhaps they represent all FISTS
members...

1.  What is the real purpose of belonging and participating in
FISTS?  Is it, as Fred stated, to "get certificates?"

2.  If it is more than just getting certificates, then why do some
members ignore other members and requests on-air for assistance? 
For instance:  I copy about 20 wpm on a good day.  When I have had
a rough day, and my head is spinning, I might do about 17 wpm.  If
I answer a CQ that seems close to my ability to copy, but then find
that the OM is going just a tad too fast and I am losing more than
60% of the message, I send PSE QRS PSE QRS TNX.  More than 50% of
the time, the OM does NOT slow down.  And at least 30% of the time,
the OM *speeds up*.  I did not know that FISTS was about this kind
of mentoring.

3.  There are some ops that send BK at the BEGINNING of a
transmission, after I have finished my side of the conversation. 
Like:  "...thanks for the nice report.  bk to u de nw7us kn" --
then the other op goes "bk (pause) fb tom... "

Is that a good practice?  I want to improve my protocol on the
air.  Can anyone tell me the REAL scoop as to what a conversation
should or could look like?  The ARRL operating manual does not show
this at all.

FWIW:  I am really starting to feel relaxed with the higher speeds
that I have attained.  I try to listen to code whenever I am mobile
-- just to head copy.  I am following more and more of the
conversations on the bands.  It really is enjoyable.  I also
participated in the Straight Key Night activity.  It was fun going
back to the key - I used a straight key for most of my 11 years
now.  But about two years ago I switched to the side paddle /
keyer.  I like both.  I might like straight key more, however!

See ya on the air.


-- 
73 de NW7US, Tomas

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