My introduction to the hobby was during a Cub Scout den meeting ages ago when my friend, Mark's father, Owen/K8SIM (SK) showed us what could be accomplished from his shack in the basement.  Mr. Berkman turned on the rig, tuned up, turned the beam he had attached to the chimney and called "CQ".  He made a contact into the middle of the country and I thought, "Wow!"  My parents and I looked into the cost of the hobby and what it would take to become a ham.  I wondered about making it past the code requirement.  No need, it was deemed too expensive.  I went on to DX AM broadcasts, played with CB radio, then became a shortwave listener.  Eventually, I went into broadcasting on a professional basis.

I was first licensed in July, 1987. Many thanks to my Elmer, WC6Q/Chuck (SK) for his help getting me past the code requirment. I'm proud to have done it.  My main interest had been SSB DX, but over the past few years, contesting has become my primary passion. For this I have to thank KA1NCN/Dave and WX3B/Jim. Thanks again to KA1NCN/Dave and WN3R/Dick for introducing me to the fine folks of the Potomac Valley Radio Club .  I mainly contest from WX3B (Taneytown, MD). But, when not there, from K4VV/Jack's (Leesburg, VA).

I currently hold an Extra class license.  Highlights have been my first Field Day when my Elmer, then a transmitter engineer at a shortwave station above Simi Valley, CA loaded up the antenna with 100w before putting the shortwave transmitter on the air.  It was a 210 ft. double log-periodic pointed toward the Caribbean.  No problem.  Coverage into the U.S. off the side was no issue.  Shortly after that Field Day, I had the good fortune to work with the international broadcasters at the Pan American Games in Indianapolis, IN for a month.  I had just obtained my novice license and sat down at the controls of W87PAX.  There was no preparing for what I experienced. 

I hope to hear you on the bands.  A quick exchange, a nice QSO, or a contest contact are all appreciated.  When QSLing direct, please include an SASE.  It will be appreciated.