The picture in the upper right is my humble little station which has brought me many hours of enjoyment. My operating time is split between CW and PSK31 digital but, do participate in a few HF SSB nets on occasions.

My first contact with ham radio was when I was 12 years old. Mission Ham Radio Supply was located about six blocks from my home in what was West Riverside, CA. in the early 60's. I used to ride my bike to the store and look at all the meters, dials, switches and knobs as well as try them out until the store guys would tell me to keep my hands in my pocket or leave! One summer day a fellow was talking on a radio and I was standing a few feet away just listening and totally fascinated. He asked me if I would like to say 'hello' and to tell the guy on the other end my name. Once I did, the fellow came back and said hi to me, told me he was in Florida and I was amazed! The radio was a new Gonset 6-meter AM rig and the guy sounded like he was next door. I was instantly hooked and had to know more about this ham radio hobby. From then on, I started learning about making my own equipment and listening to an old Zenith console radio we had that would tune the shortwave bands.

I passed the novice test in 1965 during high school and operated from the school club station many times. I never could afford my own station at home. That license expired before I was able to upgrade. After high school, started to college but, also received my first draft card which was 1A. I knew I would be receiving my greeting letter from Uncle Sam pretty soon.

I enlisted in the Marine Corps and served as a Radiotelegraph Operator from '68 to '74. After my release from active duty, I tested for a new Novice license in 1974, upgraded to General in '76, Advanced in '77 and passed my extra class exam at the FCC field office on Battery Street in San Francisco in December 1979.

Much of what I learned in the Marines helped in my becoming a ham and find a life-long hobby and interest. The Marines also taught me personal discipline and instilled in me a sense of purpose and determination that has become part of my life. I am very thankful for my years in the Corps and have a fine brotherhood of veterans that I stay in contact with, many of whom are also hams.

I June of '91 I met the love of my life, Peggy, N7MTL, at the Ham Radio Outlet store in San Diego. We married in October of '91. Peggy is not active on the air at this time but, I am working on that. She does like PSK31 and if I can get her to study for her general class, I may have to buy another radio so I can keep operating!

Much of my operating time is trying out new digital modes and I am still learning but, find them fascinating. Below is a picture of my 'vintage' station in San Diego.

SKCC-687 30MDG-5528 ARMS Net Member

73, Paul Cavnar

1 Cor. 2:9 ><>

When this life is over, where will you spend eternity? All of life is just a moment but, eternity lasts 'forever'. Our military is willing to sacrifice their lives to preserve our freedom, Jesus is the only one who can preserve your soul! Consider John 3:16 and how you will spend your eternity.