[Fists] Some observations

[K0HB H. Brakob]

----- Original Message -----
From: "Tomas Hood - NW7US" <nw7us@hfradio.org>

>
> 1.  What is the real purpose of belonging and participating in
> FISTS?
>

I joined FISTS because I wanted to associate with a group
who use CW, a mode which I enjoy.  I didn't join for certificates,
to swap numbers, to make a political statement, to have
special "insider" frequencies, nor to become a "CW mentor".
Just enjoy CW, and joined just as I've joined DX clubs, contesting
clubs, etc., as clubs which draw other hams from activities which I
enjoy.

> 2.  If it is more than just getting certificates, then why do some
> members ignore other members and requests on-air for assistance?

I don't seek out other members, but I've never turned down any
request for assistance (nor has anyone ever asked me for
assistance).  Maybe I don't understand the question, but
membership doesn't place us under some obligation that
we don't already have to be good amateurs.



> 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.

Not clear to me why you'd blame FISTS for that experience.


> 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 wouldn't get too hung up in some strict protocol during ragchews
There is none that is 100% accepted -- this is "Amateur" radio, so
kick back and enjoy.  The ARRL Operating Manual is a nice book,
but it is not the Bible -- just a nice book from a nice radio club out
in Newington, Connecticut.

73, de Hans, K0HB/4ID