Amateur radio has always been about connection — connecting with people across town, across the country, and across the world. But more importantly, it connects people through shared experiences, mentorship, and community.

Events like this remind us that the hobby has the power to bring people together and open new doors, especially for veterans who already understand the value of communication and teamwork.

At the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center, the Granite State Amateur Radio Association showed more than 100 children (ages 6–12) and their parents what Amateur Radio is all about, with 13 club volunteers running hands-on stations and cheering on first-time operators.

Tom Perkins, W1FMF, spent a week at the ARRL Teachers Institute on Wireless Technology—a donor-funded program that equips teachers to bring hands-on radio and STEM learning to schools. His takeaway: simplify complex tech for students, and bring back practical tools and activities that work in the classroom.

This past Saturday (Sept 6th), our GSARA returned for its second year at the 4H Agricultural Fair in New Boston, turning the fairgrounds into a quick-learning playground for all ages. We kept things hands-on, friendly, and—dare I say—pretty contagious for anyone curious about radios and community service.

One of the highlights was introducing the concepts of Parks on the Air (POTA) and Summits on the Air (SOTA)—amazing activities that combine outdoor adventure with radio operation. Several parents and teens eagerly picked up 2-meter handheld transceivers (HTs), ready to try their hand at local communication. We even coordinated with other local hams on repeaters, allowing the teens to experience the thrill of making contact with operators from nearby communities.

Throughout the day, a series of captivating lectures and presentations drew enthusiastic crowds, eager to learn from renowned experts. The topics ranged from the intricacies of antenna design to the groundbreaking applications of artificial intelligence in ham radio. Attendees sat in rapt attention, furiously scribbling notes trying to capture every precious insight.

What a whirlwind of excitement we had at the recent 4H Science Bonanza at the University of New Hampshire! The Granite State Amateur Radio Association was thrilled to be a part of this fantastic event, where science, exploration, and creativity came together in one vibrant space.