I'm Bob. It's confusing to people when you go by your middle name.

I'm working to improve my CW skills with the goal to be able to QSO without having to write copy. I use a Vibroplex Vibrokeyer. My home rig is a Yaesu FT-897 with a Dentron Supertuner and a Yaesu FL-2100B amplifier. Antenna is a 140' double Zep at 35-40 feet. My mobile rig is a Yaesu FT-857D with a Scorpion SA-680 screwdriver antenna mounted in the bed of my F-150 truck. I'm still amazed at how well this antenna works! 57-59 reports almost always. It makes the 30 minute drive to work much more enjoyable.

I enjoy building QRP kits and have built quite a few so far, most for 40m. I've also built the Black Widow CW Paddles. Great product and fun to use.

I am the trustee for the Peoria Area Amateur Radio Club. I run the local VE test group for the Peoria area. I am the former Director of Communications for Tazewell County EMA. I'm a Paramedic (25 years so far) with my local volunteer ambulance. It's amazing that my wife puts up with it all. :)

vy 73 de W9WTF