06/23/2026
Please read the exciting information from our ARRL Field Day coordinator, Mike Martell:
When all systems are down Amateur Radio Works”
This Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th the ARRL Field Day will be happening. The Gainesville Amateur Radio Society (GARS) has out done them selves in preparing for this big event. Many hours were spent to make this the best GARS Field Day ever.
Two additional antennas have been prepared for a total of 6 antennas available with the Hex Beam
and filters providing the use of multiple radios on one antenna.
The Get On The Air (GOTA) station installed on the first floor will allow visitors that may not
be able to climb stairs to experience what Amateur radio is all about. The first test of the GOTA
station contacted an amateur in Mississippi. Visitors with no experience will be able to make contacts
and talk to amateurs all over the US. There will be experienced amateurs available to assist
visitors in making contacts. We also have a computer connected to the GOTA station and can log all contacts. These GOTA contacts will count toward GARS total points.
On the second floor, amateurs will be able to build an emergency roll-up VHF antenna. For the cost of parts-$15, fourteen kits are available. Members
will be there to show you how to construct the antenna using cutting tools and soldering wires. Plans will be available if all the kits are gone.
After you assemble the antenna we will show you how to test your antenna and make adjustments.
Jim Carr will have an array of test equipment which he will demonstrate. Jim can guide you
through the operation of this test equipment and provide recommendations of less expensive
options.
Terry Gordon will be conducting a tour of the four stations in the Waldo Emergency Operations
Center (EOC). These stations will be available through out the GARS field day. Terry will show
how to operate and log the radio contacts you make.
We also will have a 12 noon pot-luck lunch
I hope you can join us at the Waldo City Square. All are welcome and you don’t need to be an amateur.
GARS encourages anyone, regardless of age, to experience amateur and the thrill of connecting with someone across the country. Amateur radio makes point to point contacts without the use of any public communication system.
“When all systems are down Amateur Radio Works”
For more information, Contact Mike Martell:
[email protected]
Mike Martell, KK4KRZ
Gars.club for direction and hours
Our Next Club meeting (open to anyone) will be held Tuesday, June 16th. See the link on the left for Meeting Schedule and Programs.
