.NET controls have a thing called ViewState. It takes care of repopulating DropDown values and last selected values. You probably redefining all dropdowns on postback too and that is why they reset.

private void Page_Load()
{
   if (!this.IsPostBack)
   {
     //Code that defines the dropdown
   }
}

>Second, when the list is exposed, how do I allow keystrokes to be used? A to Z as well as Arrows Up and Down?

Set DropDownList.AutoPostBack property to false.

>I have a bunch of drop down lists. One has 500 items, most have around 50 or less. Anyway, how do I keep the item SELECTED in view on a postback?
>
>Second, when the list is exposed, how do I allow keystrokes to be used? A to Z as well as Arrows Up and Down?
>
>TIA
>
>__Stephen