Jimmy,   
      
   JA> DS>   First, HT's weren't designed for HF. Second, it's good to hear of   
   JA> DS> 'old timers' willing to help you get started, gear wise. I bought my   
   JA> DS> first HT from a ham in the area.   
      
   JA>I've been pleasently surprised with the comradarie and willingness to   
   JA>help!   
      
     In ham radio, one who helps a new ham, or another ham, is known as an   
   "Elmer". Being designated an "Elmer" (helping someone, or giving back   
   to the hobby, as in being a VE) is the highest compliment that a ham   
   radio operator can receive.   
      
   JA> DS>   I would rather have more than enough VE's for several reasons:   
      
   JA>   
      
   JA>Hmm... All valid points! Will definately consider it then!   
      
     I originally was going to stay as a Technician Class ham...but, when I   
   heard of them "begging and pleading for VE's at a local hamfest", I   
   thought "I need to upgrade to Amateur Extra to become a VE".   
      
     The rest, as they say, is history. :)   
      
   Daryl, WX1DER   
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