Don't be afraid to answer a cq from someone who is sending faster than you. Don't be afraid to chase dx because speeds in the pileup are faster than what you can send. Just call the other station. If you have a problem copying him just say "pse qrs" and 99 times out of a 100 he/she will qrs.

New hams I know who remain intimidated by speed never do have the fun they could with cw or ham radio in general. Just keep plugging away and if you hear me on feel free to call me and say hi at any speed you care to do. Eventually your speed will increase to more comfortable and faster levels.

Good Luck,
Larry

Glad you got the Kent TP-1. That's what I have and it works beautifully for me. It's a very high quality piece of gear. Good luck..........  

I am hoping you fellas can answer this. A friend of mine was given a forty foot section of tower (make unknown). He wants to put it up as a free standing tower on top of which he will center a dipole and install a vhf/uhf vertical, so there's no great wind loading going on. Given this limited info, what size hole should be dug, etc..... He and I have never done this before and don't want to have to take it down after it goes up. Looking for basic tower install info. Any recommendations?

Larry