{"@attributes":{"version":"2.0"},"channel":{"title":"FISTS Europe\/UK News","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html","description":"\n      News items from the FISTS CW Club Eu\/UK\n    ","language":"en-gb","item":[{"title":"August 2026 BrassPounder Newsletter from FISTS CW Club","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2027","description":"\n        The FISTS CW Club August 2026 monthly BrassPounder newsletter https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/bp2608 is now available in the Members' Area.\u00a0 This edition includes results for the FISTS Ladder, Bug Key Week 2026, Bug Key 24 Hour Sprint, & Mechanical Medley.\u00a0\n\n        BrassPounder is written by David G4YVM, Activities Manager.\u00a0 Its focus is on on-air activities provided by FISTS CW Club.\n      ","pubDate":"Fri, 14 Aug 2026 22:15:33 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2027"},{"title":"FISTS On-air activities: Ladder and Mechanical Key 24 Hour Sprint","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2026","description":"\n        Coming up are Ladder sessions (Sunday 09 August) and Mechanical Key 24-Hour Sprint (Saturday 15 August).\u00a0\n\n        - Ladder https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/ladder\n        Sunday 09 August 14:00-15:59 & 18:00-19:59 UTC:\n        Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.\u00a0\n        o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.\u00a0\n        o One QSO per 2-hour session with an operator.\u00a0\n        o Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558\u00a0MHz but any licensed band is allowed except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n\n        - Mechanical Key 24 Hour Sprint https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/mks  Saturday 15 August UTC:\n        Have CW QSOs with you using straight (\"up & down\") keys, sideswiper (aka \"cootie\") keys, semi-automatic (\"bug\") mechanical keys, and fully-automatic (\"bug\") mechanical keys only.\u00a0 It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.\u00a0\n        o No minimum exchange.\u00a0\n        o Any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        o One QSO per day with an operator.\u00a0\n        o If you used a straight key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0SK\u00a0\n        o If you used a sideswiper key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0SS\u00a0\n        o If you used a semi-automatic bug key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0BUG\u00a0\n        o If you used a fully-automatic bug key[*], add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0FAB\u00a0\n        o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n        o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.3 or later https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/flc is required.\u00a0\n\n        [*] A fully-automatic bug key is similar to a semi-automatic bug key but has mechanisms for sending streams of dashes as well as dots.\n      ","pubDate":"Thu, 06 Aug 2026 16:09:39 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2026"},{"title":"Logs for July 2026 FISTS CW Club, EuCW and ICWC Activities","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2025","description":"\n        Please send in your details, logs, comments and photos for the following activities that finish by 01 August 2026.\u00a0\n        \n        - Bug Key 24-Hour Sprint (15\u00a0July, FISTS CW Club) https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/bks no later than 07\u00a0August.\u00a0\n        - Bug Key Week (13\u201320\u00a0July, FISTS CW Club) https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/bkw no later than 07\u00a0August.\u00a0\n        - Ladder (July, FISTS CW Club) https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/ladder no later than 7\u00a0August.\u00a0\n        - Snakes & Ladders (July, EuCW) https:\/\/eucw.org\/sl.html no later than 07\u00a0August.\u00a0\n        - Top9 (July, ICWC) https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/top9 no later than 09\u00a0August.\u00a0\n\n        Notes:\u00a0\n        o If you use FISTS Log Converter to send in Ladder logs, please type in the same callsign during this calendar year even if your callsign has changed.\u00a0\n        o For the Ladder, if you are taking part on both Sundays in the month, please send in a single log towards the end of the month.\u00a0\n        o FISTS CW Club results will be published in the BrassPounder newsletter https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/bp , available around mid-month.\u00a0\n        o Even if you only had one QSO or feel that you won't be highly placed, please do support the activities by sending in logs.\n      ","pubDate":"Sat, 01 Aug 2026 16:59:35 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2025"},{"title":"FISTS On-air activities: Ladder, Top Gun and Mechanical Key 24 Hour Sprint","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2024","description":"\n        Coming up are Ladder sessions (Sunday 26 July), Top Gun (Saturday 01 August - Sunday 02 August), and Mechanical Key 24-Hour Sprint (Saturday 15 August).\u00a0\n\n        - Ladder https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/ladder Sunday 26 July 14:00-15:59 & 18:00-19:59 UTC:\n        Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.\u00a0\n        o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.\u00a0\n        o One QSO per 2-hour session with an operator.\u00a0\n        o Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558\u00a0MHz but any licensed band is allowed except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n\n        - FISTS Top Gun https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/tg Saturday 01 August - Sunday 02 August (inclusive) 24x7 UTC.\u00a0\n        This is focussed on the Kanga Products Rooster kit as part of the FISTS club project.\u00a0\n        Highest points are for QSOs with members using Roosters and other homebrew\/kit-built equipment.\n        o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, Rig, RST & if applicable, member number.\u00a0\n        o Typically around 7.0283\u00a0MHz but also licensed bands except for 12m, 17m, 30m, 60m and bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        o One category for entrants using a Rooster and one category for any other equipment.\u00a0\n        o If QSO partner is using a Rooster, add to your logbook's 'Comment' (or similar) field: RIG_ROOSTER\u00a0\n        o If QSO partner is using homebrew\/kit-built, add to your logbook's 'Comment' (or similar) field: RIG_HOMEBREW\u00a0\n        o If you are using a Rooster, add to your logbook's 'Comment' (or similar) field: MYRIG_ROOSTER\u00a0\n        o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n        o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.4 or later https:\/fists.co.uk\/flc is needed.\u00a0\n\n        - Mechanical Key 24 Hour Sprint https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/mks Saturday 15 August UTC:\n        Have CW QSOs with you using straight (\"up & down\") keys, sideswiper (aka \"cootie\") keys, semi-automatic (\"bug\") mechanical keys, and fully-automatic (\"bug\") mechanical keys only.\u00a0 It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.\u00a0\n        o No minimum exchange.\u00a0\n        o Any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        o One QSO per day with an operator.\u00a0\n        o If you used a straight key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0SK\u00a0\n        o If you used a sideswiper key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0SS\u00a0\n        o If you used a semi-automatic bug key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0BUG\u00a0\n        o If you used a fully-automatic bug key[*], add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0FAB\u00a0\n        o LIf you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.3 or later https:\/fists.co.uk\/flc is required.\u00a0\n\n        [*] A fully-automatic bug key is similar to a semi-automatic bug key but has mechanisms for sending streams of dashes as well as dots.\n      ","pubDate":"Sat, 25 Jul 2026 22:02:44 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2024"},{"title":"July 2026 BrassPounder Newsletter from FISTS CW Club","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2023","description":"\n        The FISTS CW Club July 2026 monthly BrassPounder newsletter https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/bp2607 is now available in the Members' Area.\u00a0 This edition includes results for the FISTS Ladder, Straight Eight 2026, Straight Key 24 Hour Sprint, & Mechanical Medley.\u00a0\n\n        BrassPounder is written by David G4YVM, Activities Manager.\u00a0 Its focus is on on-air activities provided by FISTS CW Club.\n      ","pubDate":"Wed, 15 Jul 2026 20:33:20 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2023"},{"title":"FISTS On-air activities: Ladder, Bug Key Week and Bug Key 24 Hour Sprint","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2022","description":"\n        Coming up are Ladder sessions (Sunday 12 July), FISTS Bug Key Week (Monday 13 July - Monday 20 July), and Bug Key 24-Hour Sprint (Wednesday 17 June).\u00a0\n        When activities coincide, a QSO can count for each one.\n\n        - Ladder https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/ladder Sunday 12 July 14:00-15:59 & 18:00-19:59 UTC:\u00a0\n        Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.\u00a0\n        o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.\u00a0\n        o One QSO per 2-hour session with an operator.\u00a0\n        o Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558\u00a0MHz but any licensed band is allowed except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n\n        -  Bug Key Week 2026 https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/bkw Monday 13 July - Monday 20 July UTC (inclusive):\u00a0\n        Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.\u00a0\n        o If sending in a log, you must use semi-automatic or fully-automatic bug keys.\u00a0\n        o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.\u00a0\n        o QSOs at any time but operating around these UTC times is recommended: 0000, 0300, 0600, 0900, 1200, 1500, 1800 & 2100.\u00a0\u00a0\n        o Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558\u00a0MHz but any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        o If you used a semi-automatic bug key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0BUG\u00a0\n        o If you used a fully-automatic bug key [*], add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0FAB\u00a0\n        o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n        o If you use FISTS Log Converter,version 4.9.4 or later https:\/\/fists.co.flc is required.\u00a0\n\n        - Bug Key 24 Hour Sprint https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/bks Wednesday 15 July UTC:\u00a0\n        Have CW QSOs with you using semi-automatic (\"bug\") mechanical keys and fully-automatic (\"bug\") mechanical keys only.\u00a0 It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.\u00a0\n        o No minimum exchange.\u00a0\n        o Any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        o One QSO per day with an operator.\u00a0\n        o If you used a semi-automatic bug key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0BUG\u00a0\n        o If you used a fully-automatic bug key[*], add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0FAB\u00a0\n        o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n        o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.3 or later https:\/\/fists.co.flc is required.\u00a0\n\n        [*] A fully-automatic bug key is similar to a semi-automatic bug key but has mechanisms for sending streams of dashes as well as dots.\n      ","pubDate":"Fri, 10 Jul 2026 17:31:53 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2022"},{"title":"Logs for June 2026 FISTS CW Club, EuCW and ICWC Activities","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2021","description":"\n        Please send in your details, logs, comments and photos for the following activities that finish by 01 July 2026.\u00a0\n\n        - Straight Key 24-Hour Sprint (15\u00a0June, FISTS CW Club) https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/sks no later than 07\u00a0July.\u00a0\n        - Straight Eight (08\u201315\u00a0June, FISTS CW Club) https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/sk8 no later than 07\u00a0July.\u00a0\n        - Ladder (June, FISTS CW Club) https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/ladder no later than 07\u00a0July.\u00a0\n        - Snakes & Ladders (June, EuCW) https:\/\/eucw.org\/sl.html no later than 07\u00a0July.\u00a0\n        - Top9 (June, ICWC) https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/top9 no later than 09\u00a0July.\u00a0\n\n        Notes:\u00a0\n        o If you use FISTS Log Converter to send in Ladder logs, please type in the same callsign during this calendar year even if your callsign has changed.\u00a0\n        o For the Ladder, if you are taking part on both Sundays in the month, please send in a single log towards the end of the month.\u00a0\n        o FISTS CW Club results will be published in the BrassPounder newsletter https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/bp , available around mid-month.\u00a0\n        o Even if you only had one QSO or feel that you won't be highly placed, please do support the activities by sending in logs.\n      ","pubDate":"Tue, 30 Jun 2026 17:06:28 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2021"},{"title":"June 2026 Key Note newsletter from FISTS CW Club Europe","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2020","description":"\n        The June 2026 Key Note newsletter from FISTS CW Club Europe https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/members is now available to all current FISTS CW Club members as PDF and audio (.mp3) files.\u00a0\n\n        Please visit the Members' Area to get your copy: https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/members \u00a0\n        \n        Items in this issue include:\n\n        o A 1kW CW dummy load - DL2AAA.\u00a0\n        o CW Hotline - G5VZ.\u00a0\n        o US Navy straight key restoration - M8WRW.\u00a0\n        o CW Monitor & general amplifier - G3XIZ.\u00a0\n        o Stand up for Morse Code! - G3ZOD.\u00a0\n\n        ... and more besides!\u00a0\n        \n        Note: If you don't know your password:\u00a0\n        - FISTS Americas members ONLY: you can reset it at https:\/\/fistsna.org\/memresetpw.php \u00a0\n        - FISTS Europe, East Asia, & Down Under members: please send an email using the 'Membership' address on the Contact Us https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/contactus.html web page.\n      ","pubDate":"Fri, 26 Jun 2026 21:59:13 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2020"},{"title":"FISTS On-air activities: Ladder, Bug Key Week and Bug Key 24 Hour Sprint","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2019","description":"\n        Coming up are Ladder sessions (Sunday 28 June), FISTS Bug Key Week (Monday 13 July - Monday 20 July), and Bug Key 24-Hour Sprint (Wednesday 17 June).\u00a0\n        When activities coincide, a QSO can count for each one.\n\n        - Ladder https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/ladder Sunday 28 June 14:00-15:59 & 18:00-19:59 UTC:\n        Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.\u00a0\n        o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.\u00a0\n        o One QSO per 2-hour session with an operator.\u00a0\n        o Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558\u00a0MHz but any licensed band is allowed except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n\n        - Bug Key Week 2026 https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/bkw Monday 13 July - Monday 20 July UTC (inclusive):\n        Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.\u00a0\n        o If sending in a log, you must use semi-automatic or fully-automatic bug keys.\u00a0\n        o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.\u00a0\n        o QSOs at any time but operating around these UTC times is recommended: 0000, 0300, 0600, 0900, 1200, 1500, 1800 & 2100.\u00a0\u00a0\n        o Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558\u00a0MHz but any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        o If you used a semi-automatic bug key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0BUG\u00a0\n        o If you used a fully-automatic bug key [*], add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0FAB\u00a0\n        o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n        o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.4 or later https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/flc is required.\u00a0\n\n        - Bug Key 24 Hour Sprint https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/bks Wednesday 15 July UTC:\n        Have CW QSOs with you using semi-automatic (\"bug\") mechanical keys and fully-automatic (\"bug\") mechanical keys only.\u00a0 It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.\u00a0\n        o No minimum exchange.\u00a0\n        o Any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        o One QSO per day with an operator.\u00a0\n        o If you used a semi-automatic bug key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0BUG\u00a0\n        o If you used a fully-automatic bug key[*], add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0FAB\u00a0\n        o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n        o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.3 or later https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/flc is required.\u00a0\n\n        [*] A fully-automatic bug key is similar to a semi-automatic bug key but has mechanisms for sending streams of dashes as well as dots.\n      ","pubDate":"Fri, 26 Jun 2026 19:00:11 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2019"},{"title":"UK amateurs: Annual RSGB 6m CW Contest Sunday 28 June 0900-1200 UTC","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2018","description":"\n        Graham G3ZOD writes:\n        UK amateurs, the annual RSGB 6m CW contest https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/rsgb6cw is Sunday 28 June, 0900-1200 UTC.\u00a0\n\n        The exchange is RST, serial number and 6 character locator, with most European CW activity between 50.080-50.100 MHz.\u00a0 Unlike HF contests, though, don't expect to get 599 for each QSO!\u00a0 This should be interesting with the added likelihood of sporadic E propagation.\u00a0\n\n        QSOs with FISTS CW Club members count towards FISTS Awards such as the Century and Millionaire series.\n      ","pubDate":"Fri, 26 Jun 2026 11:51:04 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2018"},{"title":"Revised June 2026 BrassPounder Newsletter from FISTS CW Club","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2017","description":"\n        Due to problems with the Mechanical Key Week, Mechanical Key 24 Hour Sprint and Mechanical Medley results, there is now a revised FISTS CW Club June 2026 BrassPounder newsletter https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/bp2606 in the Members' Area.\n      ","pubDate":"Sun, 21 Jun 2026 22:25:59 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2017"},{"title":"June 2026 BrassPounder Newsletter from FISTS CW Club","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2016","description":"\n        The FISTS CW Club June 2026 monthly BrassPounder newsletter https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/bp2606 is now available in the Members' Area.\u00a0 This edition includes results for the FISTS Ladder, Mechanical Key Week, Mechanical Key 24 Hour Sprint, & Mechanical Medley.\u00a0\n\n        BrassPounder is written by David G4YVM, Activities Manager.\u00a0 Its focus is on on-air activities provided by FISTS CW Club.\n      ","pubDate":"Wed, 17 Jun 2026 20:20:56 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2016"},{"title":"FISTS On-air activities: Straight Eight, Ladder, and Straight Key 24 Hour Sprint","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2015","description":"\n        Coming up are FISTS Straight Eight (Monday 08 June - Monday 15 June), Ladder sessions (Sunday 14 June), and 24-Hour Straight Key Sprint (Monday 15 June).\u00a0\n        When activities coincide, a QSO can count for each one.\u00a0\n\n        - Straight Eight 2026 https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/sk8 Monday 08 June - Monday 15 June UTC (inclusive):\u00a0\n        Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members using your straight (\"up & down\") keys or sideswiper (aka \"cootie\") keys only.\u00a0 It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.\u00a0\n        o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.\u00a0\n        o QSOs at any time but operating around these UTC times is suggested: 0000, 0300, 0600, 0900, 1200, 1500, 1800 & 2100.\u00a0\n        o Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558\u00a0MHz but any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        o If you used a straight key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0SK\u00a0\n        o If you used a sideswiper key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0SS\u00a0\n        o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n        o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.4 or later https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/flc is required.\u00a0\n\n        - Ladder https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/ladder Sunday 14 June 14:00-15:59 & 18:00-19:59 UTC:\u00a0\n        Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.\u00a0\n        o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.\u00a0\n        o One QSO per 2-hour session with an operator.\u00a0\n        o Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558\u00a0MHz but any licensed band is allowed except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n\n        - Straight Key 24 Hour Sprint https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/sks Monday 15 June UTC:\u00a0\n        Have CW QSOs with you using straight (\"up & down\") keys and sideswiper (aka \"cootie\") keys only.\u00a0 It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.\u00a0\n        o No minimum exchange.\u00a0\n        o Any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        o One QSO per day with an operator.\u00a0\n        o If you used a straight key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0SK\u00a0\n        o If you used a sideswiper key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0SS\u00a0\n        o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n        o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.3 or later https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/flc is required.\u00a0\n      ","pubDate":"Sat, 06 Jun 2026 08:43:30 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2015"},{"title":"Logs for April 2026 FISTS CW Club, EuCW and ICWC Activities","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2014","description":"\n        Please send in your details, logs, comments and photos for the following activities that finish by 01 June 2026.\u00a0\n\n        - QRS Week - https:\/\/eucw.org\/euqrs.html (27 April \u2013 01 May, EuCW) no later than 31\u00a0May.\u00a0\n        - Mechanical Key 24-Hour Sprint - https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/mks (15\u00a0May, FISTS CW Club) no later than 07\u00a0June.\u00a0\n        - Mechanical Key Week https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/mkw (11\u201318\u00a0May, FISTS CW Club) no later than 07\u00a0June.\u00a0\n        - Ladder https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/ladder (May, FISTS CW Club) no later than 07\u00a0June.\u00a0\n        - Snakes & Ladders https:\/\/eucw.org\/sl.html (May, EuCW) no later than 07\u00a0June.\u00a0\n        - Top9 https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/top9 (01\u201331\u00a0May, ICWC) no later than 09\u00a0June.\u00a0\n\n        Notes:\u00a0\n        o If you use FISTS Log Converter to send in Ladder logs, please type in the same callsign during this calendar year even if your callsign has changed.\u00a0\n        o For the Ladder, if you are taking part on both Sundays in the month, please send in a single log towards the end of the month.\u00a0\n        o FISTS CW Club results will be published in the BrassPounder newsletter https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/bp , available around mid-month.\n        o Even if you only had one QSO or feel that you won't be highly placed, please do support the activities by sending in logs.\u00a0\n      ","pubDate":"Sat, 30 May 2026 15:08:12 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2014"},{"title":"FISTS On-air activities: Ladder, Straight Eight, and Straight Key 24 Hour Sprint","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2013","description":"\n        Coming up are the FISTS Ladder sessions (Sunday 24 May), Straight Eight (Monday 08 June - Monday 15 June), and 24-Hour Straight Key Sprint (Monday 15 June).\u00a0\n        QSOs on 15 June can count for both the 24-Hour Straight Key Sprint and Straight Eight; for best points in Straight Eight, do exchange member numbers if available.\n\n        Ladder https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/ladder Sunday 24 May 14:00-15:59 & 18:00-19:59 UTC:\n        Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.\u00a0\n        o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.\u00a0\n        o One QSO per 2-hour session with an operator.\u00a0\n        o Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558\u00a0MHz but any licensed band is allowed except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n\n        - Straight Eight 2026 https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/sk8 Monday 08 June - Monday 15 June UTC (inclusive):\n        Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members using your straight (\"up & down\") keys or sideswiper (aka \"cootie\") keys only.\u00a0 It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.\u00a0\n        o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.\u00a0\n        o QSOs at any time but operating around these UTC times is suggested: 0000, 0300, 0600, 0900, 1200, 1500, 1800 & 2100.\u00a0\n        o Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558\u00a0MHz but any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        o If you used a straight key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0SK\u00a0\n        o If you used a sideswiper key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0SS\u00a0\n        o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n        o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.4 or later https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/flc is required.\u00a0\n\n        - Straight Key 24 Hour Sprint https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/sks Monday 15 June UTC:\n        Have CW QSOs with you using straight (\"up & down\") keys and sideswiper (aka \"cootie\") keys only.\u00a0 It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.\u00a0\n        o No minimum exchange.\u00a0\n        o Any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        o One QSO per day with an operator.\u00a0\n        o If you used a straight key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0SK\u00a0\n        o If you used a sideswiper key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0SS\u00a0\n        o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n        o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.3 or later https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/flc is required.\u00a0\n      ","pubDate":"Sat, 23 May 2026 18:44:02 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2013"},{"title":"May 2026 BrassPounder Newsletter from FISTS CW Club","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2012","description":"\n        The FISTS CW Club May 2026 monthly BrassPounder newsletter https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/bp2605 is now available in the Members' Area.\u00a0 This edition includes results for the FISTS Ladder, Bug Key 24 Hour Sprint, & Mechanical Medley.\u00a0\n\n        BrassPounder is written by David G4YVM, Activities Manager.\u00a0 Its focus is on on-air activities provided by FISTS CW Club.\n      ","pubDate":"Tue, 19 May 2026 21:31:25 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2012"},{"title":"FISTS On-air activities: Ladder, Mechanical Key Week, and Mechanical Key 24 Hour Sprint","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2011","description":"\n        Coming up are the FISTS Ladder sessions (Sunday 10 May), Mechanical Key Week (Monday 11 - Monday 18 May), and 24-Hour Mechanical Key Sprint (Friday 15 May).\u00a0\n        QSOs sent with a mechanical key on 15 May can count for both the 24-Hour Mechanical Key Sprint and Mechanical Key Week; for best points in the 'Week activity, do exchange member numbers if available.\n\n        - Ladder https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/ladder Sunday 10 May 14:00-15:59 & 18:00-19:59 UTC:\u00a0\n        Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.\u00a0\n        o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.\u00a0\n        o One QSO per 2-hour session with an operator.\u00a0\n        o Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558\u00a0MHz but any licensed band is allowed except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n\n        - Mechanical Key Week 2026 https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/mkw Monday 11 - Monday 18 May UTC (inclusive):\u00a0\n        Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.\u00a0\n        o If sending in a log, you must one of the key types listed below.\u00a0 It does not matter what type of key your QSO partner uses.\u00a0\n        o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.\u00a0\n        o QSOs at any time but operating around these UTC times is recommended: 0000, 0300, 0600, 0900, 1200, 1500, 1800 & 2100.\u00a0\n        o Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558\u00a0MHz but any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        o If you used a straight key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0SK\u00a0\n        o If you used a sideswiper key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0SS\u00a0\n        o If you used a semi-automatic bug key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0BUG\u00a0\n        o If you used a fully-automatic bug key[*], add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0FAB\u00a0\n        o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n        o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.4 or later https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/flc is required.\u00a0\n\n        - Mechanical Key 24 Hour Sprint https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/mks Friday 15 May UTC:\u00a0\n        Have CW QSOs with you using straight (\"up & down\") keys, sideswiper (aka \"cootie\") keys, semi-automatic (\"bug\") mechanical keys, and fully-automatic (\"bug\") mechanical keys only.\u00a0 It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.\u00a0\n        o No minimum exchange.\u00a0\n        o Any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        o One QSO per day with an operator.\u00a0\n        o If you used a straight key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0SK\u00a0\n        o If you used a sideswiper key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0SS\u00a0\n        o If you used a semi-automatic bug key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0BUG\u00a0\n        o If you used a fully-automatic bug key[*], add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0FAB\u00a0\n        o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n        o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.3 or later https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/flc is required.\u00a0\n\n        [*] A fully-automatic bug key is similar to a semi-automatic bug key but has mechanisms for sending streams of dashes as well as dots.\n      ","pubDate":"Fri, 08 May 2026 14:02:33 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2011"},{"title":"RSGB 4m (70MHz) VHF CW Contest 2026 Sunday 10 May 0900-1200 UTC","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2010","description":"\n        Graham G3ZOD writes:\n        The RSGB 4m (70 MHz) VHF CW Contest 2026 https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/rsgb4cw is Sunday 10 May 0900-1200 UTC.\u00a0\n\n        The exchange is: RST, Serial Number (starting at 001) and a 6 character (e.g. IO92JL) locator and UK\/CD stations send a 2-letter code from the RSGB postcode list https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/rsgbpcl .\u00a0\n\n        This is one of three RSGB VHF CW contests (6m, 4m, & 2m).\u00a0\n        These are more relaxed than HF contests and typically 'real' RSTs are exchanged, so have fun and listen carefully!\u00a0\n        If you have QSOs with FISTS CW Club members, these can count towards the FISTS Awards and on-air Activities.\n      ","pubDate":"Mon, 04 May 2026 10:59:39 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2010"},{"title":"Logs for April 2026 FISTS CW Club, EuCW and ICWC Activities","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2009","description":"\n        Please send in your details, logs, comments and photos for the following activities that finished by 01 May 2026.\u00a0\n        \n        o Bug Key 24-Hour Sprint https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/bks (15\u00a0April, FISTS CW Club) no later than 07\u00a0May.\u00a0\n        o Ladder https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/ladder (April, FISTS CW Club) no later than 07\u00a0May.\u00a0\n        o Snakes & Ladders https:\/\/eucw.org\/sl.html (April, EuCW) no later than 07\u00a0May.\u00a0\n        o Top9 https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/top9 (April, ICWC) no later than 09\u00a0May.\u00a0\n        o QRS Week https:\/\/eucw.org\/euqrs.html (27 April - 01 May, EuCW) no later than 31\u00a0May.\u00a0\n\n        Notes:\u00a0\n        - If you use FISTS Log Converter to send in Ladder logs, please type in the same callsign during this calendar year even if your callsign has changed.\u00a0\n        - For the Ladder, if you are taking part on both Sundays in the month, please send in a single log towards the end of the month.\u00a0\n        - FISTS CW Club results will be published in the BrassPounder newsletter https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/bp , available around mid-month.\u00a0\n        - Even if you only had one QSO or feel that you won't be highly placed, please do support the activities by sending in logs.\u00a0\n      ","pubDate":"Fri, 01 May 2026 16:39:49 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2009"},{"title":"On-air activity: EuCW QRS Week Monday 27 April -  Friday 01 May","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2008","description":"\n        Please join in the EuCW QRS Week https:\/\/eucw.org\/euqrs.html Monday 27 April -  Friday 01 May (inclusive) UTC.\u00a0\n        \n        o Maximum speed is 14 wpm.\u00a0\n        o Call 'CQ' or 'CQ QRS'.\u00a0\n        o Minimum QSO duration is 5 minutes.\u00a0\n        o Logs to be received no later than 31 May.\u00a0\n      ","pubDate":"Sat, 25 Apr 2026 11:39:30 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2008"},{"title":"FISTS On-air activities: Ladder, Mechanical Key Week, and Mechanical Key 24 Hour Sprint","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2007","description":"\n        Coming up are the FISTS Ladder sessions (Sunday 26 April), Mechanical Key Week (Monday 11 - Monday 18 May), and 24-Hour Mechanical Key Sprint (Friday 15 May).\u00a0 QSOs sent with a mechanical key on 15 May can count for both the 24-Hour Mechanical Key Sprint and Mechanical Key Week; for best points in the 'Week activity, do exchange member numbers if available.\u00a0\n\n        - Ladder https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/ladder Sunday 26 April 14:00-15:59 & 18:00-19:59 UTC:\n        Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.\u00a0\n        o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.\u00a0\n        o One QSO per 2-hour session with an operator.\u00a0\n        o Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558\u00a0MHz but any licensed band is allowed except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n\n        - Mechanical Key Week 2026 https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/mkw Monday 11 - Monday 18 May UTC (inclusive):\n        Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.\u00a0\n        o If sending in a log, you must one of the key types listed below.\u00a0 It does not matter what type of key your QSO partner uses.\u00a0\n        o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.\u00a0\n        o QSOs at any time but operating around these UTC times is recommended: 0000, 0300, 0600, 0900, 1200, 1500, 1800 & 2100.\u00a0\n        o Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558\u00a0MHz but any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        o If you used a straight key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0SK\u00a0\n        o If you used a sideswiper key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0SS\u00a0\n        o If you used a semi-automatic bug key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0BUG\u00a0\n        o If you used a fully-automatic bug key[*], add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0FAB\u00a0\n        o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n        o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.4 or later https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/flc.html is required.\u00a0\n\n        - Mechanical Key 24 Hour Sprint https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/mks Friday 15 May UTC:\n        Have CW QSOs with you using straight (\"up & down\") keys, sideswiper (aka \"cootie\") keys, semi-automatic (\"bug\") mechanical keys, and fully-automatic (\"bug\") mechanical keys only.\u00a0 It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.\u00a0\n        o No minimum exchange.\u00a0\n        o Any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        o One QSO per day with an operator.\u00a0\n        o If you used a straight key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0SK\u00a0\n        o If you used a sideswiper key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0SS\u00a0\n        o If you used a semi-automatic bug key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0BUG\u00a0\n        o If you used a fully-automatic bug key[*], add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0FAB\u00a0\n        o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n        o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.3 or later https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/flc.html is required.\u00a0\n\n        [*] A fully-automatic bug key is similar to a semi-automatic bug key but has mechanisms for sending streams of dashes as well as dots.\n      ","pubDate":"Fri, 24 Apr 2026 20:28:13 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2007"},{"title":"FISTS On-air activities: Ladder and Bug Key 24 Hour Sprint","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2005","description":"\n        Coming up are the FISTS Ladder sessions (Sunday 12 April) and 24-Hour Bug Key Sprint (Wednesday 15 April).\u00a0\n\n        - Ladder https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/ladder Sunday 12 April 14:00-15:59 & 18:00-19:59 UTC:\n        Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.\u00a0\n        o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.\u00a0\n        o One QSO per 2-hour session with an operator.\u00a0\n        o Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558\u00a0MHz but any licensed band is allowed except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n\n        - Bug Key 24 Hour Sprint https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/bks Wednesday 15 April UTC:\u00a0\n        Have CW QSOs with you using semi-automatic (\"bug\") mechanical keys and fully-automatic (\"bug\") mechanical keys only.\u00a0 It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.\u00a0\n        o No minimum exchange.\u00a0\n        o Any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        o One QSO per day with an operator.\u00a0\n        o If you used a semi-automatic bug key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0BUG\u00a0\n        o If you used a fully-automatic bug key[*], add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0FAB\u00a0\n        o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n        o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.3 or later https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/flc.html is required.\u00a0\n        o [*] A fully-automatic bug key is similar to a semi-automatic bug key but has mechanisms for sending streams of dashes as well as dots.\u00a0\n      ","pubDate":"Sat, 11 Apr 2026 08:52:30 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2005"},{"title":"Logs for March 2026 FISTS CW Club, EuCW and ICWC Activities","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2004","description":"\n        Please send in your details, logs, comments and photos for the following activities that finished by 01 April 2026.\u00a0\n        \n        - Straight Key 24-Hour Sprint (15\u00a0March, FISTS CW Club) https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/sks no later than 07\u00a0April.\u00a0\n        - Ladder (March, FISTS CW Club) https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/ladder no later than 07\u00a0April.\u00a0\n        - Snakes & Ladders (March, EuCW) https:\/\/eucw.org\/sl.html no later than 07\u00a0April.\u00a0\n        - Top9 (March, ICWC) https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/top9 no later than 09\u00a0April.\u00a0\n\n        Notes:\u00a0\n        \n        o If you use FISTS Log Converter to send in Ladder logs, please type in the same callsign during this calendar year even if your callsign has changed.\u00a0\n        o For the Ladder, if you are taking part on both Sundays in the month, please send in a single log towards the end of the month.\u00a0\n        o FISTS CW Club results will be published in the BrassPounder newsletter https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/bp , available around mid-month.\u00a0\n        o Even if you only had one QSO or feel that you won't be highly placed, please do support the activities by sending in logs.\u00a0\n      ","pubDate":"Wed, 01 Apr 2026 11:25:43 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2004"},{"title":"FISTS On-air activities: Ladder and Bug Key 24 Hour Sprint","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2003","description":"\n        Coming up are the FISTS Ladder sessions (Sunday 22 March) and 24-Hour Bug Key Sprint (Wednesday 15 April).\u00a0\n        \n        - Ladder https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/ladder Sunday 22 March 14:00-15:59 & 18:00-19:59 UTC:\n        Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.\u00a0\n        o Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.\u00a0\n        o One QSO per 2-hour session with an operator.\u00a0\n        o Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558\u00a0MHz but any licensed band is allowed except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n\n        - Bug Key 24 Hour Sprint https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/bks Wednesday 15 April UTC:\n        Have CW QSOs with you using semi-automatic (\"bug\") mechanical keys and fully-automatic (\"bug\") mechanical keys only.\u00a0 It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.\u00a0\n        o No minimum exchange.\u00a0\n        o Any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        o One QSO per day with an operator.\u00a0\n        o If you used a semi-automatic bug key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0BUG\u00a0\n        o If you used a fully-automatic bug key[*], add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0FAB\u00a0\n        o Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n        o If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.3 or later https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/flc is required.\u00a0\n        o [*] A fully-automatic bug key is similar to a semi-automatic bug key but has mechanisms for sending streams of dashes as well as dots.\u00a0\n      ","pubDate":"Sat, 21 Mar 2026 10:20:36 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2003"},{"title":"March 2026 Key Note newsletter from FISTS CW Club Europe","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2002","description":"\n        The March 2026 Key Note newsletter https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/members from FISTS CW Club Europe is now available to all current FISTS CW Club members as PDF and audio (.mp3) files.\u00a0\n        \u00a0\n        Please visit the Members' Area to get your copy: https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/members \u00a0\n        \u00a0\n        Items in this issue include:\n        \u00a0\n        - Simple local remote operation - G3XIZ.\u00a0\n        - Radio-my first encounter - G3YZZ.\u00a0\n        - The tour d\u2019Arles (3200km \/p operation) Part two - DL2AAA.\u00a0\n        - Amateur radio club thoughts - G0ILN.\u00a0\n        - Paddles- and a bit of TLC - G4MLW.\u00a0\n        - The Strawberry basket - M0BPT.\u00a0\n        \u00a0\n        ... and more besides!\u00a0\n        \u00a0\n        Note: If you don't know your password:\u00a0\n        \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0o FISTS Americas members ONLY: you can reset it at https:\/\/fistsna.org\/memresetpw.php .\u00a0\n        \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0o FISTS Europe, East Asia, & Down Under members: please send an email using the 'Membership' address on the Contact Us web page https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/contactus.html\n      ","pubDate":"Wed, 18 Mar 2026 16:21:02 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2002"},{"title":"March 2026 BrassPounder Newsletter from FISTS CW Club","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2001","description":"\n        The FISTS CW Club March 2026 monthly BrassPounder newsletter https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/bp2603 is now available in the Members' Area.\u00a0 This edition includes results for the FISTS Ladder, Mechanical Key 24 Hour Sprint, & Mechanical Medley.\u00a0\n\n        BrassPounder is written by David G4YVM, Activities Manager.\u00a0 Its focus is on on-air activities provided by FISTS CW Club.\n      ","pubDate":"Tue, 10 Mar 2026 11:22:52 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2001"},{"title":"FISTS On-air activities: Ladder and Straight Key 24 Hour Sprint","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2000","description":"\n        Coming up are the FISTS Ladder sessions (Sunday 08 March) and 24-Hour Straight Key Sprint (Sunday 15 March).\u00a0\n\n        o Ladder https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/ladder Sunday 08 March 14:00-15:59 & 18:00-19:59 UTC:\n        Collect points for CW QSOs with members and non-members.\u00a0\n        - Exchange a minimum of Name, QTH, RST & if applicable, member number.\u00a0\n        - One QSO per 2-hour session with an operator.\u00a0\n        - Activity is typically around 14.058, 7.028, & 3.558\u00a0MHz but any licensed band is allowed except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        - Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n\n        o Straight Key 24 Hour Sprint https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/sks Sunday 15 March UTC:\n        Have CW QSOs with you using straight (\"up & down\") keys and sideswiper (aka \"cootie\") keys only.\u00a0 It does not matter what type of key your QSO partners use.\u00a0\n        - No minimum exchange.\u00a0\n        - Any licensed band except for 60m, 30m, 17m, 12m & bands lower in frequency than 160m.\u00a0\n        - One QSO per day with an operator.\u00a0\n        - If you used a straight key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0SK\u00a0\n        - If you used a sideswiper key, add to your logbook's Comment (or similar) field: MYKEY\u00a0\u00a0SS\u00a0\n        - Logs to be received no later than 07 of the following month.\u00a0\n        - If you use FISTS Log Converter, version 4.9.3 or later https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/flc.html is required.\n      ","pubDate":"Fri, 06 Mar 2026 23:00:53 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news2000"},{"title":"Logs for February 2026 FISTS CW Club, EuCW and ICWC Activities","link":"https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news1999","description":"\n        Please send in your details, logs, comments and photos for the following activities that finished by 01 March 2026.\u00a0\n        \n      - Mechanical Key 24-Hour Sprint https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/mks (15\u00a0February, FISTS CW Club) no later than 07\u00a0March.\u00a0\n      - Ladder https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/ladder (February, FISTS CW Club) no later than 07\u00a0March.\u00a0\n      - Snakes & Ladders https:\/\/eucw.org\/sl.html (February, EuCW) no later than 07\u00a0March.\u00a0\n      - Top9 https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/top9 (January, ICWC) no later than 09\u00a0February.\u00a0\n\n        Notes:\u00a0\n        o If you use FISTS Log Converter to send in Ladder logs, please type in the same callsign during this calendar year even if your callsign has changed.\u00a0\n        o For the Ladder, if you are taking part on both Sundays in the month, please send in a single log towards the end of the month.\u00a0\n        o FISTS CW Club results will be published in the BrassPounder newsletter https:\/\/fists.co.uk\/bp , available around mid-month.\u00a0\n        o Even if you only had one QSO or feel that you won't be highly placed, please do support the activities by sending in logs.\u00a0\n      ","pubDate":"Sun, 01 Mar 2026 20:12:16 GMT","guid":"http:\/\/fists.co.uk\/news.html#news1999"}]}}