I am proud to say I am CWops member #2915. First and foremost, I want to thank Serge KK7RR for nominating me for membership to CWops, as well as I would like to thank those who sponsored me. Thank you for the honor and the opportunity. Also, thank you to my CWA Advisors–again Serge KK7RR, Mark K5GQ, and Eric NM5M. A special thanks to Eric who put up with me for both the basic and beginner classes and kept me going during times when I could have easily quit. I’ve learned so much from all of you and every CW operator I’ve had the chance to meet thus far.
I haven’t been a ham for long, but I think the seed of interest was planted many years ago in my childhood. I remember my father N9BKT (SK) down in his basement shack pounding out CW, which he used exclusively. My childhood self didn’t take much interest at the time (but I wish I had and had asked more questions). Unfortunately, my dad passed before we could ever really share the hobby. My interest emerged years later. Funny how things work.
I earned my ticket in August 2016, but didn’t get on the air until about February 2017. Then, in June 2017, I upgraded to General. I pushed forward and eventually upgraded to Amateur Extra in March 2019.
I was born and raised in Chicagoland where I currently live with my XYL Christine KD9KGG, my son Aidan KD9LGI (who is a third generation ham), and my 60 pound Australian cattle dog Briggs. My wife and I are both community college teachers. I teach English and she teaches anthropology. Life is good. We enjoy traveling when we can and spend a lot of time in the UP (upper peninsula) of Michigan where we have a cabin in the woods–truly off the grid, quiet, and remote. It’s a great place to throw a wire in a tree and hear the signals booming in.
My radio interests are broad and ever growing. I’ve yet to settle on a single niche (other than CW, of course). This is truly a hobby of hobbies and I love all of it. I’m active on local 2 meter, 70 centimeter, and 1.25 meter repeaters and serve as net control operator for several nets. I enjoy the occasional rag chew and am a casual contester. I also enjoy working as a Volunteer Examiner and an instructor for licensing classes through one of my local clubs. I’m a member of my local ARES group, as well.
My latest thrill, however, is Parks on the Air, as it combines two things I love–radio and the great outdoors. If I’m not playing radio, you might find me camping, hiking, or trail running.
I hope to hear you all on the air, and thank you again for inviting me to this great club. CW forever!
This biography is what appeared in Solid Copy when the member joined CWops.