Morse Code __ ___ ._. ... . _._. ___ _.. .

Morse Code was invented by Samuel Morse for use over telegraph lines in 1835. The code uses a series of dashes and dots to represent letters of the alphabet. However, morse code can be sent using flash lights, whistles, horns, the tapping of stone on stone, a laser light reflected on an object or even by flag. When sending Morse Code by flag, a flag swung to the right represents a dot, to the left a dash. This is a really cool way to send secret messages and to communicate over distance without a phone or walkie talkie. Below is the alphabetic and numeric key for Morse Code.

In addition to the above codes there are procedural conventions for use by the sender and receiver of messages.

Used by Sender

AAAA = Attention; I have message are you ready?

EEEEEEEE= Error; Mistake made, I will begin with the last word sent correctly.

Pause= Period; End of word.

AR= End of Message; Did you get it?

Used by Receiver

K= Go Ahead; Start sending.

IMI= Repeat signal; Send again, I missed it.

T= Word received; to be used upon receipt of each word.

R= Message received; ok.

All of the signals using multiple letters are sent as if one letter. That is there is no pause between letters during transmission of these procedural signals. So the code for "Attention" which is 4 A's, would be dot dash dot dash dot dash dot dash, then a pause.

This can take time to learn, but may one day prove invaluable. Practice with a friend and get good, you'll have a blast!

Grass Whistle

A Grass whistle is a great way to make some noise. If you aren't lucky enough to be able to blow a schrill whistle you now can with a simple tool; a blade of grass. pick a sturdy piece of grass, as flat as possible and long enough to easily span the distance from the first thumb joint to the second. The blade is held tightly between opposing thumbs first and second joints, and then blown through. It is important to get the positioning just right. A little movement will change the pitch of the whistle. The blade of grass works on the same principle as a kazoo. The grass vibrates between the two thumbs. Set your blade of grass up as in the picture below.


The grass must remain stretched tight. Make your lips thin, press them lightly against your thumbs between the top and bottom joints. Now blow lightly and consistantly. Make the gap between your thumbs bigger and smaller until you find the right spot. This noise will carry for a good distance.

The same trick can be accomplished by blowing through a small "Sun Made" raison box. Tear off the lid flaps, wrap your mouth around the end and blow. The result is a Very loud whistle. Have Fun making noise!