Hi, there!

My name is Earl Oaks, N4ZFA. I live in Kingsport, Tennessee and this is my attempt at a bio.

I originally got my novice ticket (KC4PLD) a whole lot later in life than I wanted to: 1990 (I was born in 1960 - now you know my age!). A month or so later, I upgraded at the Shelby hamfest to Technician and got my current call. I never really wanted to go past that point until January 2008. One afternoon, on a lark or the spur of the moment, I decided to go take the test for general in Blountville. I couldn't believe it! I actually passed! Woot! Later, in October 2008, at the Gray Hamfest, I got another wild hair and decided to try for extra.(Note: I did study the extra question pool for 4 days before taking the test, and wasn't really expecting to pass.) Guess what? I did it again! Go figure. So, now I'm an Extra & loving every minute of it!

On March 21st, 2011 I got my first HF rig. (I know, it only took me 21 years to get it.) She's a real sweetheart, too! A Yaesu FT-950. I sold my Subaru Impreza to buy her, and haven't regretted it for a minute! Here's a good picture of the Yaesu FT-950:

And of course, here is the obligatory screenshot of Ham Radio Deluxe connected to my FT-950.

One of my best friends, Ed Williams (originally KE4BCD then AC4ED and now Silent Key) got to fussing at me about bragging on being an Extra on two meters. So what does Ed do? He took the General and Extra on the same day and passed them both! He sure knew how to bring me down a notch or two when I needed it! He passed away in Janurary of 2011. He was an awesome friend! We sure do miss you, Ed! Rest in peace, old friend! Rest in peace.

Let's see. Some of my hobbies include Amateur Radio, Computers and Gun Collecting. I passed the A+ Computer Technician Certification in 2004 while working for a local computer company, and got my carry permit in 2007. I really enjoy carrying my Glock 23 or my Glock 27 with me. It's funny to see the changes in some people when they find out that you are "packing heat".

Some of my other hobbies include electronics, welding, construction and I am very excited about alternative power sources.

I am also a V.E. for the A.R.R.L. as well as W5YI and also Western Carolinas VEC's. So, if you need a V.E. to lend you a hand on a test session, just gimme notice of where and when, and I'll try my best to be there and help you out with your session.

I have been (s)elected(?) as webmaster for my Amateur Radio Club's website. If you'd like to see it, the URL is w4trc.org. I know it's not the greatest webpage in the universe, so shut up before you start (I'm an amateur and I know it, plus no one else wanted the job). I enjoy playing with HTML and learning new things. I try to keep the club's page updated as often as possible.

I'm married to a beautiful and wonderful lady and life partner. Her name is Robin, she is currently a Registered Nurse (with Chemo certification) at Holston Valley Hospital. She got her Amateur License in June of 2009 and her call is KJ4NAW. We have been together since October 22, 1980. We were married on June 14, 1985 by my dad, and have been stuck together like glue ever since.

Robin, the love of my life! (The pup's name is Cotton)

We have only had one child, our gorgeous daughter, Christy. She was Born on November 1, 1988 and is the sweetest and most charming person I have ever known. She is one of God's truly wonderful gifts to the world. I had the very distinguished honor and privledge of walking her down her wedding isle on May 17th, 2008. She is married to a fine man by the name of Hunter Williams. (Who, interestingly enough shares a lot of the same interests as Christy's father!)

Christy is currently working on her Masters Degree in family counseling and is working as a family counselor at Youth Villages in Johnson City, TN. She and her husband Hunter live here in Kingsport and we get together with them several times a month.

Christy (At age 22) Tolja she was gorgeous!

Other members of our family include: 10 dogs, 4 cats and a hermit crab.

As you can see, it never gets lonely around our home.

Welp, that's pretty much me in a nutshell. If ya wanna know more, check out my homepage on qsl.net!

Of course, I do facebook, too. http://www.facebook.com/n4zfa

Thanks for taking time to look me up and read my bio!

No, this isn't my antenna farm! It's a picture I took from the top of Bays Mountain here in Kingsport where our W4TRC 146.970 (123.0 PL) repeater is at.

73's and have a fantastic day!

From Earl, Robin and Cricket!

Say 'Hi' to Dad for me, Mom! I love you both and miss you terribly! RIP.

I will always love you and remember you, Bear Bear! Rest in peace my little friend. Rest in peace.