W4BUG Gold Coast Amateur Radio Association

06/10/2026

Please join us Tuesday, June 23rd at 7:00 PM at the Broward Health North Conference Center.

This month’s featured presentation will be “AllStarLink – Connecting Amateur Radio Around the World” presented by Mike Sams, KF4ZW.

Mike’s Amateur Radio journey began at the age of 14 when he earned his first amateur license. Since then, he has spent decades exploring and advancing communications technology, with particular interests in repeater systems, networking, and modern radio communications. We are fortunate to have Mike share his knowledge and experience with GCARA members as he introduces us to the world of AllStarLink.

AllStarLink has become one of the most popular networking technologies in Amateur Radio, allowing operators to connect repeaters, personal nodes, and radio systems across town, across the country, and around the world. Mike will explain how AllStarLink works, what equipment is required, and how amateur radio operators can take advantage of this powerful and rapidly growing network.

Whether you are new to AllStarLink or already considering setting up your own node, this presentation promises to be both informative and practical.

In addition, Field Day Chairman Kenny Hollenbeck, KE4NC, will provide our Final Field Day Preparations Update

05/29/2026

05/29/2026

05/27/2026

🌟 GCARA Meeting PACKED HOUSE 🌟

We had a fantastic turnout for the monthly meeting of the Gold Coast Amateur Radio Association. It was a PACKED HOUSE!

Our guest speaker, Shirley Ritchie, N4JKI, wife of SK Chuck Ritchie, W4BUG, shared a heartfelt photo tour of Chuck’s life, giving everyone a chance to reflect on his legacy and celebrate the impact he had on so many in our amateur radio community. Chuck was one of the founders of GCARA and hearing about his life was truly a special tribute.

The evening also included recognizing two outstanding members with Life Membership honors. Receiving the awards presented by Melanie Fernandez, KJ4VCT, were Alan Karden, N4ALK and Shirley Ritchie, N4JKI.

NOW . . .
What would an evening be without some very special customized SWAG? We had Jim and Diane Schwantes from HamReady showing us samples of their customizable items that we can order. They also surprised us with lots of great SWAG that was raffled off.

This was a memorable night of fellowship, honoring our history and celebrating the people who make our club so special.

Thank you to everyone who joined us!

05/25/2026

https://www.instagram.com/p/DYq7ZI4lizv/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

Amateur radio plays a critical role during emergencies and natural disasters when normal communication systems fail or become overloaded. Ham radio operators provide reliable, independent communications that can support public safety agencies, hospitals, shelters, and emergency management teams during hurricanes, floods, wildfires, and other crises. Organizations such as the Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) and the Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES) train licensed volunteers to rapidly deploy communication networks when they are needed most.

Using portable radios, emergency power, and proven communication skills, these operators help relay vital information, coordinate resources, and maintain contact between emergency responders and affected communities. In South Florida, where severe weather can quickly disrupt infrastructure, amateur radio continues to be an essential part of emergency preparedness and community resilience.

05/25/2026

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Dear Members and Friends,

Just a last-minute reminder that our GCARA club meeting will take place this Tuesday, May 26 at Broward Health North in Deerfield Beach.

We will also have several interesting auction and raffle items, along with coffee, donuts & refreshments.

Guests are always welcome — bring a friend interested in amateur radio!

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

Networking at 7:00pm
Meeting at 7:30pm

We look forward to seeing everyone there.

73
Dirk Basting N4AN
Treasurer
Gold Coast Amateur Radio Association
W4BUG.org

05/24/2026

05/23/2026

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GCARA Meeting – Tues, May 26

At this meeting, we will honor Shirley Ritchie as a Life Member Honoree.

Shirley will also share a personal presentation about her late husband,
Chuck Ritchie, a co-founder of our club. This will be a unique opportunity to hear firsthand about the early days of our club and the people who helped build it.

After Chuck’s passing, his call sign W4BUG was adopted as the official club call sign a legacy that continues to represent GCARA on the air today.

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

Networking at 7:00pm
Meeting at 7:30pm