From Makos327 at worldnet.att.net  Thu Mar  1 00:09:41 2007
From: Makos327 at worldnet.att.net (Larry Makoski)
Date: Thu Mar  1 00:15:12 2007
Subject: [Fists] Need Delaware for WAS?
Message-ID: <45E66015.3070404@worldnet.att.net>

The NAQCC is featuring Charles N3EJS of Delaware as this week's QRP CW 
"Bear".

His schedule for the rest of the week can be found at:

http://www.arm-tek.net/~yoel//wasproject_current.html

Happy Hunting!
73 de Larry W2LJ 
NAQCC #35

From ny2v at twcny.rr.com  Fri Mar  2 17:50:08 2007
From: ny2v at twcny.rr.com (Fred Adsit)
Date: Fri Mar  2 17:56:00 2007
Subject: [Fists] Avalanche of license apps
Message-ID: <003501c75d1d$268f2aa0$0400a8c0@yourb27fb1c401>

>From the ARRL Letter, Mar 2, 2007:
"The avalanche of Amateur Radio license and license upgrade applications 
prompted by the FCC's elimination of Morse code as a licensing requirement 
is well under way with no end in sight. ARRL VEC Manager Maria Somma, AB1FM, 
reports that paperwork from upward of 450 Amateur Radio exam sessions, most 
held since the new rules went into effect February 23, arrived this week, 
more than her department sees in a month under "normal" circumstances. The 
ARRL VEC has had to add personnel and schedule extended hours to keep up 
with the workload. <snip>
-----------------------------------------------

People are tripping over themselves stampeding to get, in effect, something 
that is next to free. The standards have fallen, never to rise again. All 
opinions I have read are fine, but in my opinion, ham radio will never 
regain the stature it once enjoyed, although those are not the words I am 
struggling to find. What we now have goes a LOT deeper than what results 
from becoming a bunch of appliance operators. We have allowed the ARRL and 
the FCC to sell us down the river. It is, at every age level and at every 
license level, symptomatic of what is wrong with the world we live in.

Too few - this organization included - have fought for maintenance of 
standards. We are reaping the consequences. I find life very much worth 
living. Just waking up each morning is exciting.  Ham radio has been a large 
part of my life. That part of life is hardly worth bothering with, at this 
point. It's dinnertime. Good thing nobody has allowed the art of cooking 
great recipes to go to H in a handbasket.

Fred NY2V 

From redailey at alltel.net  Fri Mar  2 19:37:34 2007
From: redailey at alltel.net (Rich Dailey (Laptop))
Date: Fri Mar  2 19:43:36 2007
Subject: [Fists] Avalanche of license apps
In-Reply-To: <003501c75d1d$268f2aa0$0400a8c0@yourb27fb1c401>
References: <003501c75d1d$268f2aa0$0400a8c0@yourb27fb1c401>
Message-ID: <7.0.1.0.2.20070302193109.0235adb0@alltel.net>

I sadly have to agree with fred's quite diplomatic comments.  I don't want to
sound like one of the "moan & groan" types, and I don't consider myself at
age 44 an O.F. (my niece would disagree on this point).  I was licensed at
17 years old, and had always been proud of that accomplishment.  Can anyone
today feel the same amount of pride and accomplishment on obtaining 
an extra class amateur license
that I did?  I don't think so.  I feel sad for the new licensee... 
that he cannot feel that.

N8UX

From kb6nu at w8pgw.org  Fri Mar  2 21:47:39 2007
From: kb6nu at w8pgw.org (Dan KB6NU)
Date: Fri Mar  2 21:53:23 2007
Subject: [Fists] Avalanche of license apps
In-Reply-To: <7.0.1.0.2.20070302193109.0235adb0@alltel.net>
References: <003501c75d1d$268f2aa0$0400a8c0@yourb27fb1c401>
	<7.0.1.0.2.20070302193109.0235adb0@alltel.net>
Message-ID: <631B840A-E79D-4DAD-A0E9-D829AF34A390@w8pgw.org>

Getting a license is an achievement, but come on now, you have to  
admit that in the overall scheme of things it's a relatively minor  
one. Even if there still was a code test and it was still 20 wpm,  
getting an Extra Class license wouldn't be cause for adulation. No  
matter what kind of credential you might hold, be it a college degree  
or an amateur radio license, it's just a piece of paper. It's not  
that you have that piece of paper, but what you do with it, that counts.

Am I proud that I have a piece of green paper hanging on the wall in  
my shack that says "Amateur Extra" on it? Not particularly. I am  
proud of the stuff I've built. I am proud that I've been able to help  
people by teaching a General Class license course. I am proud that  
more that some guys out there would consider me one of their Elmers.  
I am proud that I'm helping our local Red Cross chapter establish an  
amateur radio station that will help provide emergency communications  
in case of a disaster.

So, don't talk to me about what license you have or how you got it.  
Talk to me about what you've done and what you're currently doing.  
That's what matters.

73!

Dan KB6NU
----------------------------------------------------------
CW Geek and MI Affiliated Club Coordinator
Read my ham radio blog at www.kb6nu.com
LET'S GET MORE KIDS INTO HAM RADIO!



On Mar 2, 2007, at 7:37 PM, Rich Dailey (Laptop) wrote:
> I sadly have to agree with fred's quite diplomatic comments.  I  
> don't want to
> sound like one of the "moan & groan" types, and I don't consider  
> myself at
> age 44 an O.F. (my niece would disagree on this point).  I was  
> licensed at
> 17 years old, and had always been proud of that accomplishment.   
> Can anyone
> today feel the same amount of pride and accomplishment on obtaining  
> an extra class amateur license
> that I did?  I don't think so.  I feel sad for the new licensee...  
> that he cannot feel that.
>
> N8UX
From k8xf at netzero.net  Fri Mar  2 23:12:22 2007
From: k8xf at netzero.net (MIKE ZBROZEK)
Date: Fri Mar  2 23:19:03 2007
Subject: [Fists] Avalanche of / this and that
References: <003501c75d1d$268f2aa0$0400a8c0@yourb27fb1c401>
	<7.0.1.0.2.20070302193109.0235adb0@alltel.net>
Message-ID: <001301c75d4a$257d24f0$8faaf704@mikescomputer>



Attention Fists-

Over the years many professional SSB types have complained about the Morse
requirement.
With the avalanche of new Hams who recently passed their writtens exams
guess where all
those green ops are going to wind up?....in the phone band. Ironic isnt
it.........

Please enjoy those fine green horns........they wont bother CW ops....HI....
10-4 good buddy, my personal on this end is..........3's to U.......


73
Mike, K8XF
Viva CW



From redailey at alltel.net  Sat Mar  3 03:23:45 2007
From: redailey at alltel.net (Rich Dailey (Laptop))
Date: Sat Mar  3 03:29:58 2007
Subject: [Fists] Avalanche of license apps
Message-ID: <7.0.1.0.2.20070303031929.02356690@alltel.net>

I said:
 >> I feel sad for the new licensee... that he cannot feel that.

Let me expand on that by saying that I will enjoying hearing new callsigns
on CW, as some of the new licensees discover our mode.  I found it
ironic and amusing that the no-code techs gained code portions on HF.
I think that was a great move, actually.

N8UX

From jaevans at pcisys.net  Fri Mar  2 19:42:54 2007
From: jaevans at pcisys.net (John A. Evans - N0HJ)
Date: Sat Mar  3 09:43:26 2007
Subject: [Fists] Avalanche of license apps
In-Reply-To: <7.0.1.0.2.20070302193109.0235adb0@alltel.net>
References: <003501c75d1d$268f2aa0$0400a8c0@yourb27fb1c401>
	<7.0.1.0.2.20070302193109.0235adb0@alltel.net>
Message-ID: <45E8C48E.9080008@pcisys.net>

Rich Dailey (Laptop) wrote:
> ..  Can anyone
> today feel the same amount of pride and accomplishment on obtaining an 
> extra class amateur license
> that I did?  I don't think so.  I feel sad for the new licensee... 
> that he cannot feel that.
>
> N8UX
I must respectively disagree.  The exam is just an entrance 
requirement.  The real pride and sense of accomplishment comes from what 
one does every day, with the license and in other areas of ones life.  
If we limit ourselves in feeling pride in the way that some government 
organization or other person measures our progress, we are truly 
limiting ourselves.  It is the path that each of us chooses, both when 
someone is watching and when others are not watching, that we should be 
proud of.

Now, go out there, talk up the joys of code and others will follow.

73 - john - n0hj

From JimPrice at n4st.com  Fri Mar  2 19:47:18 2007
From: JimPrice at n4st.com (Jim Price)
Date: Sat Mar  3 09:43:27 2007
Subject: [Fists] Avalanche of license apps
In-Reply-To: <003501c75d1d$268f2aa0$0400a8c0@yourb27fb1c401>
References: <003501c75d1d$268f2aa0$0400a8c0@yourb27fb1c401>
Message-ID: <000301c75d2d$91178e20$6501a8c0@dadse6400>


Fred,

I had to think about your analogy of gourmet cooking and ham radio.  I think
that can be extended even further.  One can go to the grocery store and
pretty much buy any "meal" in a can or microwaveable package. There are many
"gourmet" meals prepared, frozen and ready to be nuked.  Quick and easy, and
it's really the same thing isn't it?  Why go to the trouble of picking up
fresh meat and produce, peeling and chopping it yourself?  Why worry about
the proper seasoning, appropriate mixtures and cooking temperatures when you
can just pull it out of the freezer and have it on your plate in 15-minutes?
It eats the same, doesn't it?  Anyone who has ever had fresh fish they just
caught, or vegetables grown in their own garden knows better.  Anyone who
has worked to develop a skill knows how sweet success can be.

Ham licenses have become microwavable TV dinners.  That's the society in
which we live.  That's all we have time for. As the no-code crowd likes to
point out, "times are changing".  Why yes they are, but there are still
those of us who enjoy a good meal, sails in the wind, a horseback ride, or
good CW in our headphones. 

Jim - N4ST

-----Original Message-----
From: fists-bounces@mailman.qth.net [mailto:fists-bounces@mailman.qth.net]
On Behalf Of Fred Adsit
Sent: Friday, March 02, 2007 17:50
To: fists@mailman.qth.net
Subject: [Fists] Avalanche of license apps

Sending CC's may delay your post. If you feel that your post needs to go to
more than one destination please send them separately. 



>From the ARRL Letter, Mar 2, 2007:
"The avalanche of Amateur Radio license and license upgrade applications 
prompted by the FCC's elimination of Morse code as a licensing requirement 
is well under way with no end in sight. ARRL VEC Manager Maria Somma, AB1FM,

reports that paperwork from upward of 450 Amateur Radio exam sessions, most 
held since the new rules went into effect February 23, arrived this week, 
more than her department sees in a month under "normal" circumstances. The 
ARRL VEC has had to add personnel and schedule extended hours to keep up 
with the workload. <snip>
-----------------------------------------------

People are tripping over themselves stampeding to get, in effect, something 
that is next to free. The standards have fallen, never to rise again. All 
opinions I have read are fine, but in my opinion, ham radio will never 
regain the stature it once enjoyed, although those are not the words I am 
struggling to find. What we now have goes a LOT deeper than what results 
from becoming a bunch of appliance operators. We have allowed the ARRL and 
the FCC to sell us down the river. It is, at every age level and at every 
license level, symptomatic of what is wrong with the world we live in.

Too few - this organization included - have fought for maintenance of 
standards. We are reaping the consequences. I find life very much worth 
living. Just waking up each morning is exciting.  Ham radio has been a large

part of my life. That part of life is hardly worth bothering with, at this 
point. It's dinnertime. Good thing nobody has allowed the art of cooking 
great recipes to go to H in a handbasket.

Fred NY2V 

_______________________________________________
Fists mailing list
Fists@mailman.qth.net
http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/fists

From k3pid at sbcglobal.net  Sat Mar  3 09:42:09 2007
From: k3pid at sbcglobal.net (K3PID)
Date: Sat Mar  3 09:47:58 2007
Subject: [Fists] Avalanche of opportunities!
Message-ID: <001e01c75da2$2002fba0$6601a8c0@CYCLOPS>

Well if it adds a couple hundred thousand hams to the roster I think it is a great opportunity! They can't possibly listen around and not get at least a little curious about CW.  Let's make it our action item to nudge them to "try it you'll like it"! But by all means be considerate and helpful! What these new HF hams do not need is a bad first impression!!


I am personally looking forward to helping a few to discover the thrill of a first CW contact. The "clandestine" nature of communicating in a language that most of the world does not understand yet it transcends the verbal language barrier.  What fun!

CUL on CW! 
K3PID - Ron H.


This email was scanned by 
Norton Antivirus Corp. Edition
and found to be virus free!
From w8eh-Ernie at cinci.rr.com  Sat Mar  3 10:24:37 2007
From: w8eh-Ernie at cinci.rr.com (Ernie Howard)
Date: Sat Mar  3 10:30:29 2007
Subject: [Fists] Avalanche of opportunities!
In-Reply-To: <001e01c75da2$2002fba0$6601a8c0@CYCLOPS>
References: <001e01c75da2$2002fba0$6601a8c0@CYCLOPS>
Message-ID: <45E99335.4020605@cinci.rr.com>

Yes, I look at the 20 people we tested last Saturday. Each one is a new 
opportunity to advance amateur radio. Each one paid their admission to the 
ham fraternity, which gave them the 'license to learn' and advance their 
knowledge. Get busy and teach.

Ernie

K3PID wrote:
> Sending CC's may delay your post. If you feel that your post needs to go to more than one destination please send them separately. 
> 
> 
> 
> Well if it adds a couple hundred thousand hams to the roster I think it is a great opportunity! They can't possibly listen around and not get at least a little curious about CW.  Let's make it our action item to nudge them to "try it you'll like it"! But by all means be considerate and helpful! What these new HF hams do not need is a bad first impression!!
> 
> 
> I am personally looking forward to helping a few to discover the thrill of a first CW contact. The "clandestine" nature of communicating in a language that most of the world does not understand yet it transcends the verbal language barrier.  What fun!
> 
> CUL on CW! 
> K3PID - Ron H.
> 
> 
> This email was scanned by 
> Norton Antivirus Corp. Edition
> and found to be virus free!
> _______________________________________________
> Fists mailing list
> Fists@mailman.qth.net
> http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/fists
> 

-- 

------------------------------------------------------
Ernie Howard, Jr    W8EH    Middletown, Ohio
E-mail: w8eh@cinci.rr.com
Web Page: http://home.cinci.rr.com/w8eh
------------------------------------------------------
From k-zero-hb at earthlink.net  Sat Mar  3 10:26:43 2007
From: k-zero-hb at earthlink.net (K0HB)
Date: Sat Mar  3 10:32:27 2007
Subject: [Fists] Avalanche of license apps
Message-ID: <380-22007363152643281@earthlink.net>


Fred wrote:

> Ham radio has been a large part of my life. That part of life
> is hardly worth bothering with, at this point. 

Sorry to hear that Fred.  I've been licensed only 45 years, and for me
Amateur Radio justs keeps getting better and better.

CU in the contest this weekend?

73, de Hans, K0HB



From Makos327 at worldnet.att.net  Sat Mar  3 11:02:55 2007
From: Makos327 at worldnet.att.net (Larry Makoski)
Date: Sat Mar  3 11:08:36 2007
Subject: [Fists] Avalanche of license apps
In-Reply-To: <45E8C48E.9080008@pcisys.net>
References: <003501c75d1d$268f2aa0$0400a8c0@yourb27fb1c401>	<7.0.1.0.2.20070302193109.0235adb0@alltel.net>
	<45E8C48E.9080008@pcisys.net>
Message-ID: <45E99C2F.8000400@worldnet.att.net>

I have to agree with BOTH  John and Fred!

Now how's THAT for the ultimate in "wishy-washy-ness"?

But seriously ...... I see where Fred is coming from.  I'm glad I had 
the chance to get my license the "old-fashioned" way; by going through 
the Novice route - paying my dues on the Novice bands; and then 
upgrading before a duly sworn FCC employee.  There's a sense of 
accomplishment in that; that you just can't get now.  Hey, I'm a VE and 
I'm sure as heck that I'm not the same imposing figure as the stern "FCC 
guy" who gave out the exams.  It's just as valid today; but it's just 
not the same. When you passed that test; you floated out of that FCC 
office!  I think more than anything, those of us who did it that way are 
sad to see that future generations aren't going to be able to get that 
EXACT same sense of euphoria and accomplishment. Plus there's a sadness 
to see decades of tradition go by the wayside.  There are a lot of folks 
who see these changes as "no big deal".  Well, to those of us who are 
enamored with history and tradition - THIS IS A BIG DEAL.  And I think 
it irritates a bunch of us that the League seems to be so giddy with 
excitement over the changes; while at the same time not even showing the 
least bit of appreciation for the history of the process.  It smacks of 
being mercenary; and just worrying more about "How many license manuals 
can we sell?" rather than "An era has passed.  Let's proceed in an 
enthusiastic, but dignified manner."

Now, on the flip side", as a volunteer teacher of licensing classes, the 
thing I tell all my students is that license you earn is a license to 
learn.  Studying and passing a test is only the beginning.  "Real Hams" 
are the folks who get out there and do something with their privileges. 
So ....who's the real Ham here .......

A)  A guy who earned his Extra the "old way" complete with 20 WPM code 
requirement; but only to lose interest and let his rig moulder in the 
corner for years until it's covered with so much junk that you can't 
even see it any more?

or

B) A guy who just got his "No Code" General who is on the air every day, 
trying all kinds of new modes, including CW, who is getting on the VHF 
ARES nets, is performing all kinds of public service, who is taking a 
shot at building kits, building and experimenting with building his own 
antennas, etc. etc. etc.?

Well, I guess the answer is that they're both "Real Hams"; but to be 
honest with you, I think I'd rather hang out with Ham B instead of Ham 
A.  And I  hope that the majority of new applicants end up being as 
enthusiastic and involved as Ham B.

73 de Larry W2LJ
FISTS #1469

-- 
73 de Larry W2LJ
QRP - When you care to use the very least!

http://www.w2lj.qrpradio.com
http://w2lj.blogspot.com/

From kb1dsb at sover.net  Sun Mar  4 07:48:16 2007
From: kb1dsb at sover.net (Karl)
Date: Sun Mar  4 07:54:16 2007
Subject: [Fists] Upcoming FISTS operations
Message-ID: <001a01c75e5b$623a20c0$c4a872d8@your55e5f9e3d2>



Upcoming FISTS Operations

March 9th - Frank, W2IX, NY

March 17th - George, N2JNZ, NY


From jaevans at pcisys.net  Sun Mar  4 11:50:56 2007
From: jaevans at pcisys.net (John A. Evans - N0HJ)
Date: Sun Mar  4 11:57:12 2007
Subject: [Fists] Avalanche of license apps
In-Reply-To: <5.2.0.9.2.20070304114130.03365ea8@pop.mikrotec.com>
References: <7.0.1.0.2.20070302193109.0235adb0@alltel.net>
	<003501c75d1d$268f2aa0$0400a8c0@yourb27fb1c401>
	<7.0.1.0.2.20070302193109.0235adb0@alltel.net>
	<5.2.0.9.2.20070304114130.03365ea8@pop.mikrotec.com>
Message-ID: <45EAF8F0.5050802@pcisys.net>

Hi Anthony,

  Perhaps I did miss his point.  However, there is nothing to keep a new 
ham from feeling the same amount of pride - all the ham has to do is 
learn the code and get their skills up to 13 or 20 wpm or beyond.  It 
just isn't an enforced measurement any longer.  I, too, worked hard to 
learn the code and pass the 20 wpm exam.  Now it is simply up to the 
individual to choose the path they take.  Of course, it is a source of 
pride when one reaches a goal one sets for themselves whether it is a 
test requirement or a personal goal.   RIght now it is just no longer a 
requirement that we force some requirement on every ham who may want to 
operate on HF.

73 - john  -n0hj

Anthony W. DePrato wrote:
>
> John i am sorry but i have to agree with Rich you missed his point . 
> Rich was talking about the pride that he and I felt after working hard 
> and seeing our hard work pay off. 

From ny2v at twcny.rr.com  Sat Mar  3 11:00:24 2007
From: ny2v at twcny.rr.com (Fred Adsit)
Date: Sun Mar  4 16:04:16 2007
Subject: [Fists] Avalanche of license apps
References: <380-22007363152643281@earthlink.net>
Message-ID: <002401c75dad$135daca0$0400a8c0@yourb27fb1c401>

Hans, there are no antennas yet at this new location --same general 
territory, different community. And no, even with them, I am not a contester 
... never have been. I either chew the rag or move on. I wrote a really long 
overall response last evening, but as I was about to send it, Windows XP 
announced that it had to close my emailer, and did so unceremoneously, with 
no recovery of what was written. Perhaps that was a good thing?  My station 
is still over where it was when I got active again, but the perfume and 
other fragrances in that house make me and my wife ill, so I go there very 
little nowadays, least of all to spend a few daily hours operating. Such is 
life.

I am trying to figure out how to install a half-decent antenna here for HF. 
There are few viable prospects, and all involve at least one wire or one guy 
that cannot be installed at all. It's a small mobile home park, where we 
rent lots but own the MH's. My lot is almost twice normal size, out front 
where cars on the state highway can readily see it, so I like to keep it as 
attractive as possible. This place has prohibitions against antennas, but 
the CBers got grandfathered in, and when I told them I have been a ham 
operator with emergency communications capabilities since 1948, the 
management said OK, you can have one antenna similar to theirs, if it isn't 
ugly or dangerous to others. In this era, that was a rare concession, and I 
accepted the terms.

My chief concern here is wind. We get a lot of 40-70MPH gusts, based on my 
experience in the overall area, and those really do a number on multi-band 
verticals. So guying is mandatory. Radials will be a problem too, but I have 
ideas. There are lots of trees, mostly in all the wrong places, else I'd 
erect what is at the other place. I don't DX much, so using a vertical will 
be quite a change. Have never - in six decades - had a good property for 
antennas, so this dilemma is not new to me. *sigh*

Good luck in the contest. I miss CW. I miss operating in general. I WILL be 
back. Not with a little mobile whip either. I'm too old to put up with 
mediocrity if I know I can somehow do better. Cost is also a huge 
consideration. In that department, I have no good news to report. Can't take 
$$ with you, but they sure are handy while you're here. *smile*

Fred NY2V

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "K0HB" <k-zero-hb@earthlink.net>
To: "FISTS Reflector" <fists@mailman.qth.net>
Sent: Saturday, March 03, 2007 10:26 AM
Subject: RE: [Fists] Avalanche of license apps
>
> Fred wrote:
>
>> Ham radio has been a large part of my life. That part
>> life is hardly worth bothering with, at this point.
>
> Sorry to hear that Fred.  I've been licensed only 45 years,
> and for me Amateur Radio justs keeps getting better
> and better.
> CU in the contest this weekend?
> 73, de Hans, K0HB

From wa4jqs at mikrotec.com  Sun Mar  4 12:08:50 2007
From: wa4jqs at mikrotec.com (Anthony W. DePrato)
Date: Sun Mar  4 16:04:16 2007
Subject: [Fists] Avalanche of license apps
In-Reply-To: <631B840A-E79D-4DAD-A0E9-D829AF34A390@w8pgw.org>
References: <7.0.1.0.2.20070302193109.0235adb0@alltel.net>
	<003501c75d1d$268f2aa0$0400a8c0@yourb27fb1c401>
	<7.0.1.0.2.20070302193109.0235adb0@alltel.net>
Message-ID: <5.2.0.9.2.20070304115853.0337b958@pop.mikrotec.com>


>
>So, don't talk to me about what license you have or how you got it.
>Talk to me about what you've done and what you're currently doing.
>That's what matters.
>
>73!
>
>Dan KB6NU

Well Dan
looks like you have done a lot . but could or would you have done it with 
out that piece of paper.? What i have or have not done in my life of ham 
radio is a personal matter. i think i have done well in almost 50 yrs of 
hamming. I taught over 100 theory classes not questions and answer classes 
for hams and i get a thrill out of each new ham that took the test. and i 
remember most of them the young 6 yr old yl who got her novice then her 
general and the 90 yr old man who got his tech because he missed the code 
the first time but came back a month later and passed his 13wpm test for 
his general. his eyes light up when he heard he passed. the bottom line Dan 
is what you do for others in your life no matter what field it is in that 
brings pleasure to you. I am sorry you did not have the thrill that myself 
and others did when we passed the tests. but each of us were made different 
by God . I for one would like to thank you for what you have done to help 
new hams. keep up the good work.
73 Tony

>----------------------------------------------------------


QBE  ZUT  DE WA4JQS

ANTHONY W. (Tony) DePrato WA4JQS EXTRA
Since 1962
CQ DX HALL OF FAME # 35
A1-OP      FISTS  # 10573 SKCC #1227
South Sandwich Island Dxpedition Group
CALLS HELD:
WA4JQS/ZS1, WA4JQS/KC4, WA4JQS/4K1
ZD8JQS, V31SS,
VP8BZL, VP8SSI, 3Y0PI

From kiyoinc at attglobal.net  Mon Mar  5 08:02:37 2007
From: kiyoinc at attglobal.net (kiyoinc@attglobal.net)
Date: Mon Mar  5 08:08:44 2007
Subject: [Fists] Fred's Antennas.
In-Reply-To: <20070305090105.EEFE2859C54@mailman.qth.net>
References: <20070305090105.EEFE2859C54@mailman.qth.net>
Message-ID: <45EC14ED.9050001@attglobal.net>

<ny2v@twcny.rr.com> wrote:

...

> I am trying to figure out how to install a half-decent antenna here for HF. 
> There are few viable prospects, and all involve at least one wire or one guy 
> that cannot be installed at all. It's a small mobile home park, where we 
> rent lots but own the MH's. My lot is almost twice normal size, out front 
> where cars on the state highway can readily see it, so I like to keep it as 
> attractive as possible. This place has prohibitions against antennas, but 
> the CBers got grandfathered in, and when I told them I have been a ham 
> operator with emergency communications capabilities since 1948, the 
> management said OK, you can have one antenna similar to theirs, if it isn't 
> ugly or dangerous to others. In this era, that was a rare concession, and I 
> accepted the terms.
...
> Good luck in the contest. I miss CW. I miss operating in general. I WILL be 
> back. Not with a little mobile whip either. I'm too old to put up with 
> mediocrity if I know I can somehow do better. Cost is also a huge 
> consideration. In that department, I have no good news to report. Can't take 
> $$ with you, but they sure are handy while you're here. *smile*

Fred,

I've been thinking about your situation for several years.  I've been 
looking toward a "retirement" on the road.  Not in a motor home but 
something smaller, a camper-van like the 1960's hippies but updated with 
modern technology.

My "retirement" would be a continuation of my software engineering 
consultancy but using cell phones, wireless Internet, VPN, and my 
laptop. This technology is almost here, except for the price and 
universal access.

And of course, there is the question of Ham Radio.

2 meters is easy but HF is a problem.  What I've been thinking is using 
the metal frame of the van (the mobile home in your case) as the 
counterpoise.

I realize that it's not as good as a full ground plane but it is better 
than nothing.

The radiating element would be 1/2 of the driven element of my TH3jr. 
Essentially a trap vertical.   In fact, a TH3jr is 6 trap verticals 
arranged in 3 pairs.  I'm guessing that this rig would be 3-6 db below a 
proper dipole which isn't horrible.

The other possibility is to take the full TH3jr and hide it on the roof. 
  With a motor or pulley system, do an "Up Periscope" at night when no 
one can see it.

That doesn't address 40 or 80 meters.  I've never operated on 80. I have 
used a "low dipole" on 40, like 4 feet above ground.  The near vertical 
radiation pattern lets you work out to 300-400 miles with good results.

For 40 meters, I've been thinking about a dipole that starts as two 
horizontal aluminum poles attached to the top of the van.  At the ends 
of each pole, I'd add a flexible wire extension that I unroll and tie or 
toss over a branch.

Each side of the dipole is an aluminum pole, a run of wire, a quick 
disconnect, a length of nylon cord and a weight for tossing over a branch.

The commercial solutions look good but are pricey, the Hygain 18AVQ, 
14AVQ, and the new AV-640 give you the band coverage.

Another possibility is to just stick up 20 feet of aluminum, use an 
antenna tuner and hope for the best.  You'd certainly do better than 
those QRP KX1 backpackers.

de ah6gi/4


From k-zero-hb at earthlink.net  Mon Mar  5 10:55:28 2007
From: k-zero-hb at earthlink.net (K0HB)
Date: Tue Mar  6 12:01:39 2007
Subject: [Fists] Avalanche of license apps
Message-ID: <380-2200731515552846@earthlink.net>




> [Original Message]
> From: Fred Adsit <ny2v@twcny.rr.com>

.
>
> I am trying to figure out how to install a half-decent antenna here for
HF. 
> There are few viable prospects, and all involve at least one wire or one
guy 
> that cannot be installed at all. It's a small mobile home park, where we 
> rent lots but own the MH's. 

Have you considered a "screwdriver" style, like the High Sierra?

I mounted one on the pin-box of my 5th-wheel RV.  Don't know if your MH has
a similar concentration of metal to act as a counterpoise, but it works
pretty well for me when we're out RVing.

73, de Hans, K0HB



From qrpp at yahoo.com  Mon Mar 12 08:54:24 2007
From: qrpp at yahoo.com (frank lauri)
Date: Mon Mar 12 08:58:30 2007
Subject: [Fists] w2ix pending operation at  w1aw today monday 3/12/07
In-Reply-To: <002301c74e0b$94531c70$98a772d8@your55e5f9e3d2>
Message-ID: <20070312135424.15697.qmail@web50110.mail.re2.yahoo.com>

If all goes well, I will be operating the ARRL
station,W1AW, starting around 1pm eastern.


--- Karl <kb1dsb@sover.net> wrote:

> Sending CC's may delay your post. If you feel that
> your post needs to go to more than one destination
> please send them separately. 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> February 13th - Frank, W2IX, NY
> 
> February 24th through March 2nd - Johnny, AC0BQ, KS
> 
> March 17th - George, N2JNZ, NY
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________
> Fists mailing list
> Fists@mailman.qth.net
> http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/fists
> 



 
____________________________________________________________________________________
The fish are biting. 
Get more visitors on your site using Yahoo! Search Marketing.
http://searchmarketing.yahoo.com/arp/sponsoredsearch_v2.php
From qrpp at yahoo.com  Mon Mar 12 12:01:33 2007
From: qrpp at yahoo.com (frank lauri)
Date: Tue Mar 13 11:08:57 2007
Subject: [Fists] w2ix at  w1aw today monday 3/12/07 starting on 30m now
In-Reply-To: <20070312135424.15697.qmail@web50110.mail.re2.yahoo.com>
Message-ID: <20070312170133.3300.qmail@web50102.mail.re2.yahoo.com>


--- frank lauri <qrpp@yahoo.com> wrote:

> Sending CC's may delay your post. If you feel that
> your post needs to go to more than one destination
> please send them separately. 
> 
> 
> 
> If all goes well, I will be operating the ARRL
> station,W1AW, starting around 1pm eastern.
> 
> 
> --- Karl <kb1dsb@sover.net> wrote:
> 
> > Sending CC's may delay your post. If you feel that
> > your post needs to go to more than one destination
> > please send them separately. 
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > February 13th - Frank, W2IX, NY
> > 
> > February 24th through March 2nd - Johnny, AC0BQ,
> KS
> > 
> > March 17th - George, N2JNZ, NY
> > 
> > 
> > _______________________________________________
> > Fists mailing list
> > Fists@mailman.qth.net
> > http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/fists
> > 
> 
> 
> 
>  
>
____________________________________________________________________________________
> The fish are biting. 
> Get more visitors on your site using Yahoo! Search
> Marketing.
>
http://searchmarketing.yahoo.com/arp/sponsoredsearch_v2.php
> _______________________________________________
> Fists mailing list
> Fists@mailman.qth.net
> http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/fists
> 



 
____________________________________________________________________________________
Bored stiff? Loosen up... 
Download and play hundreds of games for free on Yahoo! Games.
http://games.yahoo.com/games/front
From roncasa at verizon.net  Tue Mar 13 12:00:34 2007
From: roncasa at verizon.net (ron)
Date: Tue Mar 13 12:03:27 2007
Subject: [Fists] w2ix at  w1aw today monday 3/12/07 starting on 30m now
In-Reply-To: <20070312170133.3300.qmail@web50102.mail.re2.yahoo.com>
References: <20070312170133.3300.qmail@web50102.mail.re2.yahoo.com>
Message-ID: <45F6D8B2.7040507@verizon.net>

whoever sent this confusing email, please trim unwanted parts so we may 
be able to determine the message.

thank you
Ron, wb1hga
"CW, an esoteric experience"


frank lauri wrote:
> Sending CC's may delay your post. If you feel that your post needs to go to more than one destination please send them separately. 
>
>
>
>
> --- frank lauri <qrpp@yahoo.com> wrote:
>
>   
>> Sending CC's may delay your post. If you feel that
>> your post needs to go to more than one destination
>> please send them separately.  

"SNIP"
From kb1dsb at sover.net  Thu Mar 15 06:18:46 2007
From: kb1dsb at sover.net (Karl)
Date: Thu Mar 15 06:20:47 2007
Subject: [Fists] Cancelled KN0WCW operation
Message-ID: <001801c766f3$b3c7cb90$e6a772d8@your55e5f9e3d2>

George, N2JNZ has had to cancel his planned operation of KN0WCW this coming
Saturday, March 17th.  Look for him another date when his rig is back from
the doctor.

Karl, KB1DSB
KN0WCW Trustee, Scheduler and QSL MGR



From Makos327 at worldnet.att.net  Sat Mar 17 19:53:44 2007
From: Makos327 at worldnet.att.net (Larry Makoski)
Date: Sat Mar 17 19:55:46 2007
Subject: [Fists] March RFTB Announcement
Message-ID: <45FC8D98.2080304@worldnet.att.net>

This Sunday evening, the Flying Pigs Amateur Radio Club International 
will be holding its monthly Run For The Bacon.  This is a friendly, two 
hour QRP CW Sprint, which is open to ALL radio amateurs, will last from 
9:00 - 11:00PM EDT (0100-0300 UTC Monday).

You may work stations once per band on 160, 80, 40, 20, 15 or 10 
Meters.  Suggested starting frequencies are 1.812, 3.562, 7.044, 14.062, 
21.062, and 28.062 MHz.

The exchange is RST, S/P/C (State, Province, Country) and Flying Pigs 
membership number.  If you're not a member of the Flying Pigs, and would 
like to be; then please click on the "membership" hyperlink on 
.http://www.gentzow.com/fpqrp/  Otherwise, non-members can just use 
their output power figure.

You can report your score via the Autolog page which can be found at : 
http://gentzow.com/fpqrp/autolog.asp
or you can mail your logs to the address given on the Autolog page.  The 
deadline for logs is March 25th at 2400 UTC.

Hope to catch you on the air Sunday evening!

72 es "oo"
Larry W2LJ   FP#612

-- 
73 de Larry W2LJ
QRP - When you care to use the very least!

http://www.w2lj.qrpradio.com
http://w2lj.blogspot.com/

From Makos327 at worldnet.att.net  Mon Mar 19 21:32:48 2007
From: Makos327 at worldnet.att.net (Larry Makoski)
Date: Mon Mar 19 21:35:12 2007
Subject: [Fists] March NAQCC Sprint
Message-ID: <45FF47D0.5010805@worldnet.att.net>

This Wednesday evening, the North American QRP CW Club will be holding 
its monthly sprint.

Here are the particulars:

Date and time:
Thursday, March 22nd, 0030-0230 UTC
(Remember that's Wednesday evening here in the USA)  That's  8:30 - 
10:30 EDT, 7:30 - 9:30 CDT, 6:30 - 8:30 MDT and 5:30 - 7:30 PDT.

Bands - Frequencies:
80M - 3555-3565 kHz (Be courteous to FISTS operating on 3558 kHz)
40M - 7039-7050 kHz (Avoid W1AW on 7047.5 kHz).
20M - 14059-14065 kHz. General:
A particular station may be worked once on each band. Operate CW only.
All licensed amateurs are invited to participate, but only those 
operating QRP (5 watts or less) are eligible for awards.

Call: CQ NA

Exchange:
RST - SPC (State Province or Country) - NAQCC Nr.
(non-Members substitute power level for NAQCC Nr., e.g. 5W, 1W, etc. Be 
sure to add the W.)

QSO Points:
QSO with a Member, 2 points.
QSO with a Non-member, 1 point.

Multipliers:
Each USA state
Each VE province
Each country except W/VE
All multipliers count only once in the contest.

Bonus:
If you use only a straight key for the entire sprint, multiply your 
score by 2.
If you use only a bug for the entire sprint, multiply your score by 1.5.
If you key with anything other than a straight key or bug, there is no 
bonus multiplier.

Categories:
SWA - simple wire antennas - for those using a simple wire antenna per 
NAQCC definition.
GAIN - gain antennas - for those using other than a simple wire antenna.

Special Award:
For the one making the highest score using an indoor antenna. At least 
1/2 of the radiating portion of the antenna must be indoors.


Entry Deadline:
All entries must be RECEIVED before 2400Z on March 28, 2007. So submit 
as soon as possible, especially regular mail entries.

For further information, please visit:  
http://www.arm-tek.net/~yoel//sprintrules.html
To join the NAQCC, please visit: http://www.arm-tek.net/~yoel//joinup.html

73 de Larry W2LJ
NAQCC #35

-- 
73 de Larry W2LJ
QRP - When you care to use the very least!

http://www.w2lj.qrpradio.com
http://w2lj.blogspot.com/

From nw7us at hfradio.org  Wed Mar 21 23:43:54 2007
From: nw7us at hfradio.org (Tomas Hood (NW7US))
Date: Wed Mar 21 23:46:33 2007
Subject: [Fists] QRP/Fists frequency and rig questions...
Message-ID: <a80c89080703212143g20dd2be4j775f8f9f975a8c30@mail.gmail.com>

Hey, fellow coders...

I'm interested in building a QRP transceiver kit of some sort (I'm
still researching the options).

I am curious on which band I might want to focus my QRP operation.
I'm looking at evening or morning operation.  I am not a fast fist,
but someday with good practice, I will increase.  But, for now, I want
to find a good segment of the various bands on which I can pace myself
and 1) meet fellow coders, 2) slowly challenge myself without getting
frustrated.

What I am wonder about, specifically, are the following questions:

1) With current propagation (start of the new cycle 24), what band is
most used for my sort of operation during the morning, early to late
evening, or weekend days?

2) What frequencies on that band are great for QRP, but not for
mainstream speeders who are DXing and chasing lots of points (i.e.,
what are good chat frequencies for a QRPer)?

3) What QRP kits (transceivers) are good for RECEIVING (filters/stability)?

I appreciate any help you might offer.  My budget is low -- under $100
if possible.

Thanks!!

73 de NW7US


Heliophile http://propagation.hfradio.org/

: Propagation Editor for CQ, CQ VHF, Popular Communications :
: Creator; live propagation center http://prop.hfradio.org/ :
: Associate Member of Propagation Studies Committee of RSGB :
: 122.93W 47.67N / Brinnon, Washington USA CN87 CW/SSB/DIGI :
: 10x56526, FISTS 7055, FISTS NW 57, Lighthouse Society 144 :
: Technical Writer for http://entirenet.net  (Microsoft KB) :
: Contributing editor on Wikipedia - Amateur Radio/Space WX :
: The journey of life http://ic-discipleship-ministries.org :
From dobrie10 at optonline.net  Fri Mar 23 12:45:39 2007
From: dobrie10 at optonline.net (denis obrien)
Date: Fri Mar 23 12:48:19 2007
Subject: [Fists] Radio Maritime Day
Message-ID: <000f01c76d73$1269aad0$6b00a8c0@FAMILY>

Please check out following web site which will commemmorate CW use at sea and onshore on 14th Apr.
It is also open to amateur ops so please check in that day and work some former coast stations and maybe some ships.
Thanks
denis n2jjf
From dobrie10 at optonline.net  Fri Mar 23 14:39:26 2007
From: dobrie10 at optonline.net (denis obrien)
Date: Fri Mar 23 14:42:08 2007
Subject: [Fists] Radio Maritime Day
Message-ID: <001001c76d82$f9289170$6b00a8c0@FAMILY>

Please add web site to my previous post as I omitted it.

radiomaritimeday.com

thanks
denis n2jjf
From dobrie10 at optonline.net  Fri Mar 23 15:38:26 2007
From: dobrie10 at optonline.net (denis obrien)
Date: Fri Mar 23 15:41:09 2007
Subject: [Fists] Radio Maritime Day
Message-ID: <001c01c76d8b$359b9960$6b00a8c0@FAMILY>

Thanks to Randy w4xj for pointing out my error in the web site.

radiomaritimeday.org

Regards
denis n2jjf
From Makos327 at worldnet.att.net  Fri Mar 23 18:54:33 2007
From: Makos327 at worldnet.att.net (Larry Makoski)
Date: Fri Mar 23 18:57:13 2007
Subject: [Fists] QRP Homebrewer Sprint
Message-ID: <460468B9.3060305@worldnet.att.net>

Just a reminder to everyone that this Sunday evening is the Spring 
edition of the Homebrewer Sprint.

While the contest is open to everybody, our purpose is to promote the 
use of homebrewed equipment, whether it be built from scratch; or a kit 
..... it matters not.  QSO points will be higher depending on just how 
much homebrewed equpiment you happen to be using.

The time is Monday morning, March 26th from 0000-0400 UTC; or on Sunday 
night, March 25th from 8:00 until Midnight EDT. Both CW and PSK-31 are 
encouraged, and the suggested frequencies for operation are the 
"watering holes" for QRP CW or PSK-31 on 80, 40, 20, 15 and 10 Meters.

The suggested call is "CQ HB" and the exchange is RST / SPC / Power Out

For further contest details please visit: 
http://www.njqrp.org/data/qrphomebrewersprint.html

73 de Larry W2LJ

-- 
73 de Larry W2LJ
QRP - When you care to use the very least!

http://www.w2lj.qrpradio.com
http://w2lj.blogspot.com/

From k8xf at netzero.net  Sat Mar 24 20:14:42 2007
From: k8xf at netzero.net (MIKE ZBROZEK)
Date: Sat Mar 24 20:18:06 2007
Subject: [Fists] NASA - Solar Storm Warning
Message-ID: <000201c76e7a$f850f870$3caaf704@mikescomputer>



WARNING WARNING WILL ROBINSON


http://science.nasa.gov/headlines/y2006/10mar_stormwarning.htm


73
Mike, K8XF



From nancy at tir.com  Sun Mar 25 15:59:47 2007
From: nancy at tir.com (nancy@tir.com)
Date: Sun Mar 25 16:02:47 2007
Subject: [Fists] EUCW Fraternizing CW QSO Party
Message-ID: <410-220073025205947734@tir.com>

Please direct questions to the writer of this email, I don't have any
details other than presented here.
73
Nancy WZ8C

Dear friends and CW fellows,

you are invited to join the

EUCW Fraternizing CW QSO Party

which has got a new date and new rules.

Until 2006 the FP was held on the third weekend of November. This caused
a lot of trouble and complaints by the participants because the QSO
party interfered with the LZ DX Contest and the INORC contest. Finally
we got a request from IARU Region 1 officials because they are planning
a major multinational contest on this weekend.

It took some time to find a new date for the FP which would not
interfere with other contests. After many talks, telephone calls and
emails (TNX IK2RMZ) we found a solution that should work well for all.

>From 2007 the EUCW Fraternizing CW QSO Party will take place on the
second weekend in May. The schedule of operation was chosen in a way
that there is no overlapping with other contests (CQ-M, FISTS Spring
Sprint), except of one hour on Saturday where the FP meets the
SL-Contest. But the latter one seems to be a minor national event and -
honestly spoken - it's just impossible to find a place without any
coincidence with other contests.

Looking for a new date for the FP we decided to revise the rules aiming
to make this event more attractive and interesting and to improve the
equal opportunities for all participants.

Here are the main changes:

1. There are just two parts of the FP (part I on Saturday, part II on
Sunday).

2. The FP takes place on five bands now (80,40,20,15,10). In the month
of May conditions should allow high band propagation. This should make
the FP more interesting for stations "on the edge" of Europe
respectively to DX stations (see below).

3. The Party is now open for participants from all over the world.
Members of associated CW clubs (CWAS, GACW, QRP-ARCI) will count as
multipliers.

4. The exchange was slightly simplified.

You will find the complete rules of the EUCW FP further down this message.

You are encouraged to spread this news whereever it should be of
interest (club newsheets, bulletins, magazines and of course among your
CW friends). Your help to promote and make known this event is very
appreciated.

I look forward to receive many of your logs after the EUCW Fraternizing
CW QSO Party in May 2007.

73 cwfe
Joe DK7VW


############################################################################
##

EUCW Fraternizing CW QSO Party
CONTEST RULES

DATE: Second weekend of May (May 12/13, 2007)

TIMES: Saturday: 10:00 - 12:00 UTC
Sunday: 18:00 - 20:00 UTC

BANDS: 80, 40, 20, 15, 10 mtrs

preferred segments:
3530-3550 kHz, 7015-7035 kHz, 14030-14050 kHz,
21030-21050 kHz, 28030-28050 kHz

IARU-Region-1 bandplans must be observed (contest free
segments).
Violations will entail a disqualification.

PARTICIPANTS: All amateur radio stations and SWLs

CLASSES: A: members of EUCW clubs - QRP Power Output 5W maximum
B: members of EUCW clubs - LOW POWER Power Output 100W
maximum
C: non members - QRP Power Output 5W maximum
D: non members - LOW POWER Power Output 100W maximum
E: SWL

CALL: CQ EUCW TEST

EXCHANGE: Class A and B: RST/Name/Club/Membership no.
Class C and D: RST/QTH/Name/NM
Class E logs info of both stations

SCORING: Classes A, B, C, D: 1 Pt per QSO
Class E: 3 Pts for a complete info set.
Stations may be logged once per day and band.

MULTIPLIERS: 1 multiplier point for each EUCW club (also associated
EUCW clubs) per day and band. A participant may represent
only one EUCW club during the complete party.

LOGS: Electronic logs (ADIF, ASCII, Excel, Cabriollo, STF file)
via email preferred. Cover sheet: Callsign, Name, Address,
Class, Club, [Email], Station Setup; Summary sheet with
total score. Log sheet must contain: Date, UTC, Band,
Callsign, Exchange, Points, Multi
Send log to: eucwfp@agcw.de

Send paper logs to:
Werner 'Joe' Jochem, DK7VW
Wendelsborn 34
D-66606 St.Wendel
GERMANY

Deadline: June, 30.

CLUB SCORE: Places 1 to 10 in each class count 10 to 1 points. For
each club and class a maximum of 4 participants are
eligible. The club with the highest summary score will
receive a special certificate.


AWARDS: Places 1 - 3 of each class.

EUCW Clubs: AGCW-DL, BQC, BTC, CFT, CTC, CTCW, EACW, EA-QRP-C, EHSC,
FISTS, FOC, G-QRP, GTC, HACWG, HCC, HSC, HTC,INORC,
IS QRP, I-QRP, ITC, LZCWC, MCWG, OE-CW-G,OHTC, OK-QRP,
RTC, SCAG, SHSC, RU-QRP, SPCWC, UCWC, UFT, U-QRQ-C, VHSC,
YL-CW-G, 3A-CWG, 9A-CWG
associated: CWAS, GACW, QRP-ARCI

See also http://www.agcw.de/eucw/eucw.html for a
comprehensive up-to-date list.

#########################################################################
-- 
Werner 'Joe' Jochem - DK7VW [N7VW]
Wendelsborn 34
66606 St.Wendel - GERMANY
phone +49 6851 808121

affiliated to:
AGCW-DL - ARRL - BCC - DARC - DIG - DL-QRP-AG
FISTS - FOC - G-QRP - HSC - REF - RT

From k8xf at netzero.net  Thu Mar 29 22:25:58 2007
From: k8xf at netzero.net (MIKE ZBROZEK)
Date: Thu Mar 29 22:30:15 2007
Subject: [Fists] Anybody Recd Nancy V31 qsl yet?
References: <410-2200730251365015@tir.com>
Message-ID: <000901c7727b$23acf5b0$b1b0f704@mikescomputer>



Fists -

I wonder if anybody has recd the Nancy V31 qsl yet.????

If you subscribe to CQ magazine have you recd the April 07 issue?


73
Mike, K8XF

