[MNham] Raising the chatter level

[J Craswell]

I wasn't even aware that I was subscribed so I will start with a quick intro
and put in my two cents worth on verticals.

I've been haming since (only) 1976 - Happy Independance Day!   Old call was
WB0VNE.  I opted for the B-less call since I was under the mistaken
impression that I might be able to ditch it when I upgraded (My original
License Manual was OLD!)  My XLY is N0KJH.  She is active (once in a while)
on 146.88 repeater.  I spend most of my time building widgets but I get on
the air HF or local chatter on the above mentioned 88 repeater.  I'm active
in the http://www,qsl.net/aav5th Army MARS program and Civil Air Patrol
http://www.mnwg.cap.gov/130th

My latest project was motivated by the guy that wanted the regs changed so
that only "repairable" Ham Radio equipment could be sold.  I took that as a
challange and put a message on the FT-100 and IC-706 E groups "Wanted - Your
Broken Radio"  I bought a broken FT100 and fixed it myself.  Two broken SMT
resistors.  I replaced them with 1/4 watters I had on hand.

I've always had bad luck with Verticals.   I like Folded Dipoles or G5RV
antennas much better.  How about one of those Minibeams on the Garage roof?

73 Jay W0VNE