01/15/2004 | N2KZ In 1968, I built a Heathkit HW-16 and matching HG-10B VFO with my Dad looking over my shoulder. I would listen to it for hours trying to learn the code along with practicing with a buzzer key complete with a big D cell battery. I never was able to pass the code test, and eventually the Heathkits went into a box.

Fast-forward 32 years to Straight Key Night 2000. On the first day of the new millennium, a newly licensed tech. plus, KC2FPM, completed his first QSO on 3700 kcs 80 meter CW to W1EES. It was a moment of great achievement and reward after three decades of waiting! The pride of that day still makes me glow and now the Heathkit gear continues to glows daily!

Since then, I have earned my extra class and commercial GROL tickets. I have a new CW-friendly call sign, N2KZ. I serve as an active volunteer examiner and Fists code buddy teacher. I am passionate about sharing the joy of CW with everyone!

Each Straight Key Night celebrates the legacies of Mr. Morse and Mr. Vail, their telegraphic code and all the fine amateur radio operators that rely on it daily. Continue the tradition and keep this time-honored language alive! Happy New Year and keep CWing! Karl Zuk -- N2KZ