County honors amateur radio operators

STAFF REPORT
Posted 9/12/16

After a request from Baldwin County’s EMA, the Baldwin County Commission took time earlier this week to recognize the efforts of the county’s amateur radio clubs for the work they do helping …

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County honors amateur radio operators

Posted

After a request from Baldwin County’s EMA, the Baldwin County Commission took time earlier this week to recognize the efforts of the county’s amateur radio clubs for the work they do helping county residents.

Commissioner Chris Elliott spoke on behalf of the commission, telling the North Baldwin Amateur Radio Club and South Baldwin Amateur Radio Club members that everyone in the county should be grateful for their contributions and public service.

“I appreciate the work that y’all do to help us be prepared for disasters and everything else you do,” Elliott said. “There are times that everything else may quit working, but y’all are always prepared.”

Amateur radio involves amateur radio operators communicating locally and worldwide using store-bought or homemade radios, computers, satellites and the internet.

Many amateur radio operators or "hams" serve as emergency communicators during the initial stages of emergencies and disasters.

Amateur radio operators must be licensed and pass an examination for the FCC license to operate on radio frequencies known as the Amateur Bands.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) established amateur radio as a voluntary, non-commercial, radio communications service, which allows licensed operators to improve their communications and technical skills while providing the nation with trained radio operators and technicians who can provide essential communications during emergencies.

The North Baldwin Amateur Radio Club was established in 1995. They offer amateur radio licensing classes and testing utilizing FCC certified volunteer examiners, and the club participates in various civic events such as bike events, fun runs and swap meets throughout the North Baldwin area, and provides volunteers at Bay Minette area shelters in times of evacuation.

Dennis Goodwin with the North Baldwin club said he and other members were glad to be able to help their community.

“We do this as a hobby, but we call it a professional hobby,” Dennis “Our club and the South Baldwin Club are ready and available any time we’re needed.”

The South Alabama Amateur Radio Club was established in 1984. In addition to holding classes and testing for new amateur radio operators, the club participates in various civic events throughout South Baldwin County, including providing communication support for the MS150 Tour de Beach Bike Ride which takes place along the back roads of coastal Alabama.

Richard Lee, an officer in the South Baldwin club, said it was the duty of amateur operators to try to make sure they’re providing help and service to local residents.

“One of the most important parts of our relationships is public service,” Lee said. “Part of having these bands assigned to us being ready and willing to help our communities in any way we can.”