I became licensed with the Basic Qualification on December 21, 1991.

Some memorable moments for me were:

- March 3, 2003 - I passed the CW endorsement.

- My first HF SSB contact was with Chuck - W7EGO on March 5, 2003.

- My first CW QSO was with Jill - KF4ZEO on March 13, 2003.

- My first contest was the WPX QSO Party for 2003.

- My ARRL WAS #51,824 was issued on 15 Feb 2006

My contesting interests, I especially enjoy RAC contests, smaller QSO Parties and digital modes during this era of poor propegation. Look for my contest call: VA4TV.

 As with many amateur stations evolution has brought my station equipment to the following:

1. Primary residential HF transceiver is a IC-746 Pro with Heil GM-5 mike and boom.

2. FT-8800 dual band VHF / UHF mobile is station FM and ARES rapid response rig.

3. FT-897D, digital rig, backup HF to UHF all mode. This rig is also my portable HF and ARES all purpose rig.

4. Station antenna's include: Diamond dual band verticle for VHF and UHF local communications. HF antenna is an Alpha Delta DXCC multi band dipole.

5. I have migrated to a Yaesu VX-7R HT last spring.

Mobile and portable:

1. FT-897D with Tarheel model 100A - HP and 2m quarter wave antennas are motor home mounted.

2. FT-857D is my family mobile all purpose rig and my HF antenna is a ATAS-120.

The purpose for such interest in mobile and portable operation is to enjoy my hobby while camping and travelling but, also allows A.R.E.S. operation here in Manitoba and if needed while travelling.

I look forward to hearing from you on the air in the near future.