I want to tell you a story that happened to me and my son. This story is an example of the kindness that exists within the ranks of Amateur Radio.
When my son (Mike, KD7UUB) got his Technician license, it was just before his 12th birthday. He had been studying the code, and was anxious to get on the HF bands. I was looking for a birthday present for him. I thought that the perfect gift would be a set of paddles that he could have for himself. The problem was that money was tight. I was working in the computer networking industry, and I had lost my job several months earlier because the company I was working for closed the office I worked in. Even though money was tight, I still wanted to get him a good set of paddles.
I had exchanged emails with Jerry - K8RA. Jerry makes paddles, and I had read some great reviews about his products. During the course of several email exchanges and/or phone conversations, Jerry learned of my son's love of CW. I don't recall if Jerry knew about my employment situation, but in any case, Jerry sent a set of paddles to my son for his birthday!!!!!
Words cannot express the appreciation I have for Jerry and his wonderful gift. It came at a time when I really needed it, and my son loves the paddles! He now does CW at about 20 wpm! Now that's proof of a great gift!!
My son lets me use his paddles. They are great! It's the prototype of the P-3 paddle.
Click here (or on picture) to visit Jerry's web site
By the way, Jerry built an HF amplifier project that was selected for inclusion in the ARRL 2006 Handbook. Not only does his project appear inside the book, but it is also the project that adorns the cover of the that prestigious publication. This is a tribute to Jerry's building abilities. Nice job, Jerry!