As of 11-01-08, age 56, married 23 years with two sons, ages 19 & 21. Lifelong resident of Cleveland, Ohio, area. Began radio hobby at age 13. Became interested in ham radio in 1967 at age 15 & spent next 4 years as an SWL collecting amateur DX QSL's. Obtained an Associate degree in Electronic Technology at Akron University, then in 1972 I started my career in radio communications, which involved the building and maintaining of mobile radio, mobile telephone, SMR, & radio paging systems. After starting work in the radio business, and struggling with CW, I put the hobby on hold for 28 years. I was first licensed in Feb, 2000, got on the air in late March, and been having fun ever since. I work HF (160 thru 10) both CW & SSB with my Elecraft K3 and TS-570 D(G) with HRD remote control, VHF (6 & 2) with my FT-897, and have a vintage Drake setup consisting of R-4 & T-4XB tube rigs. I also work mobile/portable with an IC-706 MK II-G & AH-4 Tuner. I am still employed in the radio business, but now in the field of mobile GPS tracking. Member ARRL, Medina 2-Meter Group & FISTS CW Club (#7957). I still collect paper QSLs, but I really like LOTW. Favorite contests are ARRL-160, Ohio QSO Party, and FISTS Sprints.