First licensed in 1958 as WV2EWD. Held other call signs of WA4IKJ, N4ARJ, and KI4BI. Primary interest is emergency communications. In ARES, I have held positions as EC of Clay County, Fl and DEC of a 7 county area in North Florida known as the Crown District. Currently functioning as District Emergency Coordinator of the Florida Swannee District, an 8 county area in North Central Florida. Also, held position of Affiliate Club Coordinator for North Florida for several years.

My wife, Carolyn, KB4SHL, and I are now retired in North Florida enjoying the quiet and solitude of country living. UPDATE: I regret to update this bio by saying that my wife, Carolyn, passed away from Cancer in August of 2001. Despite the extreme loneliness that her passing has created, I am staying in Live Oak and attempting at this time (July 2002) to get somewhat more active in Ham Radio. As Assistant Chief of a local fire department, my time is pretty well dedicated but I'm sure there will be time in the future for some more Ham activity. For now, I might be considered a rare contact. Who knows, maybe I'll get some pile ups!! Hi Hi. Watch for me in the mornings on 3950 and give me a shout. Update:Jan, 2005 - I figured it was time for another update just to say that all is going well. In addition to the DEC appointmant, I have accepted the position of STM for No. Florida. I guess you could say I am Ham Active so give me a shout. Joe W2DWR

Time for another quick update. Things are getting busier as we approach another hurricane season here in Florida. I have agreed to accept the appointment of Section Emergency Coordinator and, just as I did, the Hurricane Center started saying things this year were probably going to be worse than last! Oh boy, what did I get into? If you live in North Florida and would like to help out, send me an email or catch me on 3.950khz at either 9:00am or 7:30pm on the nets. Y'all have a good and safe summer. 73.

UPDATE 11/9/2007: We've almost made it through another summer without any serious storm activity. Since this completes my last year as SEC, I am most thankful. I will still be around to help the new SEC next year, hopefully, but at least I will be able to travel and not worry that I am ignoring my responsibility. That will feel great. If you would like to help with emergency commmunications in North Florida, Please contact me by email or drop in on the the AREC net at 9:00am eastern on 3950khz. 73, Joe.

UPDATE 12/24/08 We are now ending a quiet year hurricane wise.  Hopefully, this trend will continue.  Not much change here other than some rig updates and radio room renovation.