In 1965, a small group of HAMs gathered in a garage to study for their FCC Ham tests. Their interest in radios were the beginnings of the Gulf Coast Amateur Radio Club. Today, approximately 50 members meet at our clubhouse in Port Richey and we have a “radio shack” there ,where we can use the club radios and antennas to make contacts all over the world.
Bill Pfaff Jr (KI4QJK), President and Public Information Officer of the Gulf 
Coast Amateur Radio Club, says there are lots of great reasons to be a HAM.
“First it is fun! Talking to and meeting people with the same interests, even on the other side of the world, is a lot of fun. And it’s interesting because you can build antennas and such while learning about communications.
A lot of HAMS are into radio not only for the fun, but for community service,” explains Bill. “Volunteer operators use there time and equipment for communications during civic events like fundraisers, parades and
the like. Others volunteer for emergency communications after a hurricane, tornado, etc. where no other communications is available.
“This often happens within hours after the devastation strikes. Our club has an Emergency Communications trailer that may be taken to a scene and communicate directly with the Pasco County Emergency Operations Center.. All of the disasters that you see on the TV, have HAM radio operators that support police, fire, EMS and the Red Cross. “
At our 2013 Tampa Bay Mini Maker Faire, the club will have radios set up for guests to make a radio contact with someone and to answer your questions about the club, HAM radio, and its service to the community.
Now that’s something worth repeating!
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