Biography

Formerly known as KE7RZR !!!

Where to start....I have been interested in Amateur Radio for a long time, and took ( and passed!) both the tech and general sections in February 2008. I understand the removal of the code requirements, however out of respect for amateur history, I am learning it. It has proven to be difficult, more difficult than I imagined. But I think that is because my progress keeps getting interrupted by family demands. The joy of being a father...

I reside in beautiful Southern Oregon, approximately 40 miles North of the California border. I am surrounded by breath taking scenery in every direction! I live with my YL of 33 years and our 4 children.

Among my other interests are music. I have more music projects in the works than I will probably ever be able to complete.

I recently simplified and entered the 21st century by buying a new Yaesu FT-450D, which I am learning to love. Nothing to buy as an add on-it comes with most of the options you would need, and all of the options I need. I am running an Ameritron AL-811 at this station.. The antenna is an off center fed "Buckmaster" wire, with one 90 foot leg, and the other measuring 45 feet. At the 95 foot level I have it at, it has performed well, and the radio and antenna match up on all the frequencies with no issues or reduction in power (Thanks Leon @ HRO Portland!) So far, after setting the Yaesu MD-100 desk mic correctly for my voice, I get consistent good reports.

My net activity has been reduced great;y after my recent diagnosis. I have esophageal cancer (Squamous Cell Carcinoma)and my voice has been reduced to a whisper. I monitor the noontime net from the pre-session at 1000PST to the main session at 1200 PST on 7268.5. A great group there you should check out.
I participate heavily in the HHH Net, a great controlled net where you can earn your WAS and other awards. Info can be found at: http://www.hhhnet.net The net starts at 0700UTC (2400PST) om 7190.0 and runs till around 0900UTC. As they have gotten jused to my voice and don't mind listening a little closer come my roumd, I RARELY miss a session there.

IRLP Node: #7700 (Courtesy of W9PCI)

#3383 Preferred (Courtesy of W9PCI)

I would like to say a special "thank you" to Tim, KK7HO. Since Stan Clark, the original K6SSA and my original Elmer passed away, Tim has been a very patient and helpful continuation of Stan.

I changed my call sign from KE7RZR to K6SSA at the request of Stan Clark, the original call sign holder, who expressed his desire that I do so as soon as it became available. Stan passed away, and I applied for his original call sign in honor and memory of him, the meanest, most demanding, and best Elmer any potential amateur could have asked for!

RIP Stan..

Thank you Tim!!!

Worked DXCCs:

Equipment

Yaesu FT-450D
Icom 706MK2G
Kenwood TS-820SE
Dentron AT-1K external tuner
Yaesu MD-100 Desk mic
Ameritron AL-811H
Heath SB-220
BuckMaster 135' OCF dipole @105'