The term “Elmer” means someone who provides personal guidance and assistance to would-be hams. The term first appeared in QST in a March 1971 “How’s DX” column. The ham radio mentor who inspired the term “Elmer” — Elmer P. “Bud” Frohardt Jr, W9DY (ex-W9GFF), of Madison, Wisconsin — died on March 22, 2016. He was 93. A friend and co-worker of the late Rod Newkirk, W9BRD (later VA3ZBB), who edited QST’s “How’s DX?” column.. Newkirk called them “the unsung fathers of Amateur Radio.” As you can see, the term is not very old. Prior to the first use of “Elmer”, as the one who guided and encouraged us, what were these folks called? There are a lot of suggestions; teacher, mentor, tutor, guide, helper, sage? All are appropriate, but first and foremost they were probably called “friend”.
The LCARA members listed below have volunteered to serve as Elmers. Contact them for help, guidance or inspiration.
Don Kocsis WA8TWM <dkocsis@ameritech.net> (theory, licensing)
Paul Kopcak KE8PP <wn8pbt@gmail.com> (theory, computer)
Larry Leasko WB8PHI <kb8qib@gmail.com> (theory, home brew, antenna design)
Bill Wehibrink N8IJG <n8ijg@arrl.net> (theory, vhf/uhf, digital, computer)