Local Kids Earn Licenses and Radio Equipment
Two local boys from Alocna County earned their Federal Communications Commissions licenses, and some pretty cool equipment to go along with it. 12 year olds Mark Collins and Robby Mills received the equipment after successfully completing an Amateur Radio FCC License class.
The class was sponsored by the Alcona County Radio Group– a non-profit organization of amateur radio enthusiasts seeking to advance their hobby. Each class consists of a three level course offered to people of all ages, and includes reading material as well as hands on experience.
“For them to be a licensed amateur radio operator they have to pass the FCC test which takes quite a bit of work,” said Stan Darmaforl, Emergency Radio Operator. “It’s a good ten twelve chapters which can be anything from ohm’s law to how to build antennas, how to operate radios, what are the international radio laws and things of that nature…I’m not going to say its easy.”
Not everybody passes the test the first time—–but these kids did.
“It’s exciting, really exciting especially because now I can talk to people who a few months ago I didn’t even know existed.” Said Mark Collins, 4-H member.
“I’m excited that I have my radio and that i don’t have to study anymore.” Said Robert Mills, 4-H member.
To learn more about the Alcona County Amateur Radio Group visit www.alconaradio.org
