Hobbies, well almost as long as I have read SciFi, I have been interested in radio communications (in general, broadcast radio and two-way type comms) and long distance listening, too. This hobby (sometimes called SWLing, AKA shortwave listening) has evolved into a collection of equipment that includes several shortwave receivers, several radio scanners (AKA 'police' scanners, very much the misnomer since these units receive so much more than police calls), and amateur radio handi talkies.
Additionally, I have an amateur radio license. And have been the Vice President and President of my local amateur radio club. Our local club helps with communications for various local community events, for example, walkathons, triatholons, parades, and charity bike rides. taraswizard
Allan Rosewarne N9SQT/WDX6HQV
Chicago area
W/T forever, always
Plan C -
http://planc.bravepages.com/main.html<i></i>