W4BUG Gold Coast Amateur Radio Association

08/14/2026

Alrighty PARC Hoppers! This month's Field Day at the park is coming this Saturday (August 15th) We meet at 8am for setup.

We have nothing specific on the agenda, but I know someone needs help with an HT setup (KR4ANZ) and Roberto is bringing his FTM-500 for some repeater training. If anyone has one of their J-pole antennas, please bring it so we can work VHF.

However, we are open for anything. Want to make some contacts on HF? How about learning about POTA concepts like activating and hunting? Or maybe you just want to enjoy some social time with like-minded hams? We can do just about anything until the heat-stroke sets in! Bottom line, come out and learn something with us!

If you have not yet registered for the event, please do so here: https://palmettoarc.org/event/parc-hoppers-field-day-august/

The plan will be to grill some hot dogs around noon time then wrap up and jump in the pool. (anyone want to volunteer their pool?)

Look forward to seeing everyone on Saturday morning!

'73
--
Jim Schwantes - KJ4GJB
PARC Treasurer
[email protected]

08/14/2026

..

Gold Coast Amateur Radio Association DINNER!

Sunday Aug 23, 6pm

Wings Plus 9880 W Sample Rd, Coral Springs, FL 33065

07/31/2026

Always a fun time at a Gold Coast Amateur Radio Association meeting!

Not only did we have an amazing speaker, Howard Groveman, W6HDG, who gave a presentation titled “DX-101: Working the World on HF”, we had a great turnout, did a lot of networking, and, ate donuts, of course.

The highlight was the auction item donated by Alan Karden, N4ALK, which was made on his 3-D printer. Jeff Stahl, K4BH was the lucky recipient. Check out the photo so you can see Jeff proudly wearing this around his neck.

07/28/2026

Our VEs were busy at work testing candidates for their FCC amateur radio license

07/28/2026

Upgrade Your Amateur Radio Skills with the Extra Class!

Are you ready to earn your Amateur Radio Extra Class license and gain access to every amateur radio frequency privilege available in the United States? There has never been a better opportunity.

The Gold Coast Amateur Radio Association (GCARA) is proud to offer an 8-week Amateur Radio Extra Class being held on Zoom beginning Friday, September 18, from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM each week. The class will be taught by one of South Florida's most respected amateur radio educators:

Jeff Stahl, K4BH

Jeff has been a licensed amateur radio operator for more than 50 years and has held an Amateur Radio Extra Class license for over 40 years.

Throughout those decades, he has mentored countless operators, taught licensing classes at every level, and shared an incredible depth of technical and practical operating experience.

Whether you're preparing for your Extra Class exam or simply want to deepen your understanding of amateur radio, you'll benefit from Jeff's extensive knowledge, engaging teaching style, and real-world experience.

Can't Attend Every Class?

Life happens—we understand.

Every class session will be professionally recorded, and all registered students will receive access to the recordings. If you miss a class, or simply want to review a difficult topic before taking your exam, you can watch the lessons again at your convenience.

Why Upgrade to Extra?

Earning your Amateur Radio Extra license provides:

• Full operating privileges on all amateur HF bands
• Expanded DX opportunities
• Additional contest frequencies
• Greater operating flexibility
• A deeper understanding of radio theory and operating practices

Whether you're an active operator looking for more privileges or someone who simply enjoys learning, this class is an investment in your amateur radio future.

Reserve Your Seat Today!

Pre-registration is required.

Visit www.w4bug.org under the "Events" tab to register and secure your place in the class.

Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of the area's most experienced instructors and take the next step in your amateur radio journey.

We look forward to seeing you in class this September!

Gold Coast Amateur Radio Association
Amateur Radio Extra Class

📅 Begins September 18
🕕 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
📚 8 Weeks (every Friday)
🎙️ Instructor: Jeff Stahl, K4BH
💻 Register today at www.w4bug.org

07/27/2026

07/27/2026

07/27/2026

w4bug.org/news-articles/2026-summer-field-day-summary/

Dirk presented the Field Day statistics and financial summary, including attendance, membership growth, food service, donations, operating results, and event finances. The Field Day Statistics and Treasurer’s Financial Report are attached to these minutes and incorporated by reference.

07/24/2026

...
GCARA General Meeting

DATE: Tuesday, July 28, 7pm

Guest Speaker: Howard Groveman, W6HDG

Former President, San Diego DX Club • South Florida DX Association

Subject: DX 101: Working the World on HF

Whether you’re just getting started on HF or already enjoy chasing DX,
join us for an exciting and practical presentation by one of South Florida’s most experienced DX operators.

Broward Health North
201 E Sample Road
Deerfield Beach, FL
Conference Room (across from main entrance)