01/03/2009 | KB1LZH Straight Key Night 2009

Another Straight Key Night. Another satisfying collection of QSOs.

I spent the time pounding my old Kent (the key in the middle). The old Navy Flameproof was my novice key but needs repair, and the SKCC key is so pretty and shiny, I hate to touch it. The Kent and I get along just fine, and it is an honor for me, no matter what key I use, just to have the privilege to operate.

Here is a list of my QSOs.



W4YE-00:21-Leland-Wirtz, VA - 32 min

K4TP 01:00 Art Gastonia, NC 30 min

W2QF 03:24 Henry Belfast, ME 32 min

KC8MFF 11:27 Robert Buckhannon, WV 16 min

WA9PWP 18:54 Paul Stoughton, WI ?? QRP

WX0V 21:11 Scott Fridley, MN 12 min

K2IOE 22:21 Tom Pulaski, NY 28 min

I thought the best fist was W2QF in Belfast, ME. I thought he had the best fist because, even though he was tapping faster than I can normally copy, his crisp keying style made it possible for me to keep up. Somehow, I was almost able to anticipate the next letters. Listening to Henry was, I'm sure, a good way for me to improve my skills.

The most interesting QSO was with Art, K4TP. Art is 78 and has been a ham for an enormous number of years. Although I am not tremendously younger than Art, I have a great deal of respect for people born in the 30s. They carry life experiences that our young people sorely need to better understand. I also have a staggering reverence for people, like Art, who have gotten into Ham Radio early, and stuck with it. After working Art, I felt like I had just won a prize.

Thanks to all of you who took a little time to share some thoughts with me on New Years Day, and may 09 bring us all peace and health.

Pete -- KB1LZH