North Okaloosa Amateur Radio Club: A Supportive Community for Hams in Florida

The ARRL website details the North Okaloosa Amateur Radio Club (NOARC - W4AAZ) as a welcoming and diverse club catering to ham radio enthusiasts in the Florida Panhandle. Here's a breakdown of what they offer:

Key Points About NOARC:

• Meeting Schedule: They hold bi-weekly meetings on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month at 7:00 PM at Live Oak Baptist Church in Crestview, Florida.
• Focus and Activities: NOARC caters to a wide range of interests, including digital modes, DXing, general ham radio topics, public service/emergency communication, and repeater operations. This variety ensures there's something to spark the enthusiasm of most hams.
• Support for New Hams: Their commitment to growing the amateur radio community is evident through their entry-level and general license classes, license test sessions, and a mentorship program. These resources provide valuable assistance to aspiring hams.
• Community Focus: NOARC goes beyond ham radio activities. They promote the positive aspects of the hobby to the community, potentially through events or outreach programs. They also support Emergency Operation Center operations, demonstrating their dedication to public service.
• Publications and Communication: They keep members informed through on-the-air bulletins, fostering communication and a sense of community.
• Strong Local Presence: With members from Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Walton Counties (Florida), and Covington County (Alabama), NOARC boasts a diverse and geographically spread membership base.
• Informative Website: The ARRL listing provides a link to the NOARC website (http://www.w4aaz.org). This website likely offers more details about the club's activities, resources, and potentially a membership application process.

Why Consider Joining NOARC?

• Diverse Range of Activities: If you're passionate about various aspects of ham radio, NOARC offers something for everyone.
• Supportive Environment for Newcomers: Their focus on education and mentorship creates a welcoming atmosphere for new hams. Experienced hams can also benefit from the knowledge exchange and community spirit.
• Commitment to Public Service: Those passionate about contributing to their community will find alignment with NOARC's values.

Is NOARC a Good Fit for You?

The bi-weekly meetings and focus on a wide range of activities suggest a dynamic and active club. Consider your preferences for meeting frequency and desired level of activity.

Connect with NOARC and Ignite Your Ham Radio Experience!

• Contact: Reach out to Michael R. Behr W4BZM, the secretary, via email (info@w4aaz.org) to inquire about meetings, classes, or general club activities.
• Explore Their Website: Visit their website for more details on club activities, resources, and potentially a membership application process.

Overall, NOARC appears to be a well-rounded and welcoming club in the Florida Panhandle. Their diverse activities, commitment to education, public service, and strong community focus make them a valuable resource for anyone passionate about ham radio in the region.