I blame my father-in-law (KC9HHT) for getting me involved with my addiction of Amateur Radio.  I've started working 20m as my primary band, but thanks to my good 'ol father-in-law, I was able to string up a wire to play on 40m and 80m now.  I'm also doing more on 10m ,15m, and 17m when band conditions are halfway decent.  The latest highlight was establishing my "HAM Cave" in our old garden shed.  It is primitive, but what do expect from a caver!

I was recently awarded my Mixed DXCC #43003 and rounded up my last two states for my Basic W.A.S #53952 (Thanks WA4STO and K4OP!!).  Now, comes the fun of getting DXCC and W.A.S. on different modes and bands.  I have also begun to do some casual contesting to see how different contests work and learn the ropes.  I really enjoy working the state QSO parties and even picked up a bit of wallpaper in the process.

I teach 8th grade Earth Science in Illinois and sponsor our school's science club. We were awarded an ARRL Stations in Schools Grant for 2008 and are excited for our second year of operation.  Students are earning their tickets and I'm sure you've heard their voices on the airwaves calling out "Whiskey 9 Golf Romeo Sierra," especially during School Club Round-Up.

I am active with the Iroquois County Amatuer Radio Club (ICARC), SKYWARN, and ARES and rotate around as Net Control for ICARC Monday night net on 147.030.

As you can probably tell, I am also an avid cave explorer (though WNS has put a bit of damper on that) and member of Cave Research Foundation and Life Member of the National Speleological Society.  I've been fortunate to explore and study some of the more unique natural wonders of the United States.

Look forward to hearing you all either at my station or chatting with one of our up and coming HAMs at our school's station!

73!!