Lookout765

- one in every crowd. Doesnt read, and just wants to put their 2 cents in.. i'll give you back your change. Yeah, Trolls be living under all kinds of bridges these days.

I would like to point out that the club is not charging anything.. to anyone. That was corrected a long time ago and I corrected it on the club discussion posts. There was at one point a consideration for a "Supporting Member" option, but abandoned because we dont have anything that costs money. yet. and unlikely to change.

There was a lot to unpack there, but i'm just going to be simple about it and say that there were internal discussions made about the group that were taking place. Anyone that has created any group will always want to start off with something they feel is epic and scale it down. There has been many changes and amendments. For the club, the language was a quick fill and has since been changed to address what the club is about. Many of the thoughts, concerns, or suggestions you had most likely were addressed in our internal discussions. But thank you for the inputs.

My god man, is there anything that can be done that is not an affront to you? Thank you for your permission as to what I may call my group/club.

Great question, but are you saying this is THE ONLY place we can do that? ie, gatekeeping? EDIT: No other club is required to only be on here. I only put ours on here in case there were people who wanted to go to other places. Like Discord, where we have other tools to 'hangout and chat' when not on radios somewhere.

It seems that some of my posts didn't quite clear the air, and some folks are still spinning GMRUS into a big, complicated deal. My apologies if the language was too formal. Let me try again and be as simple as possible. We're just a club. That’s it. A place for people who like GMRS to hang out and chat. myGMRS is a great place for people to chat, too. This is just another place, with different tools, if people want to join. Nobody is forcing anyone. The only reason the word "national" is even involved is because our clubhouse is online, so anyone can join the conversation, even if you live on the other side of the country. GMRS is a local thing, we all get that. But the people who use it are everywhere. The whole point of this is to have a place to connect with others outside of your immediate radio range. It's a way to swap ideas, ask questions, and see what other GMRS users are up to. There is no big agenda here. There never was any intentions to be the GMRS police, we're not lobbying anyone, and we are definitely not trying to be in charge of anything. It’s just a group of people who share a common interest. And thank you for the constructive criticisms, even if some of them are far off base. So, let's put this to rest. It's simple: you don't have to join, and it won't affect your life or your radio use in any way if you don't. Please, stop trying to turn this simple club into something it's not.

I wanted to address this quote separately. For the most part this is correct. There is explicit additions for the use of "public service" type activities, (ie CERT and SkyWarn) - and businesses. But I also see that they are trying to push the businesses side out even though they have them grandfathered (for now).

I really like the way you said this. That is one of the big reason I (and a few of my friends) have no interest in HAM. Many of the things we do are very much - locally. There is no need to chat with people a couple states away who are disconnected to what we're doing or going through (storms, etc). That's what email, social media, and cell phones are for. (although the prepper types will point out that potential issue here, and that, I understand the need for a dedicated communications expert to get information from further distances. but not everyone needs that)

ah yes, You're right on that. That is my bad. However, I do generally see some of the unwelcome vibe in social media sites. It does seem more 'specific' I guess here on this site. Thank you for pointing out my mistake.

I'm not completely convinced about the HAM part. but I am going to defer my opinion and agree with this. I do feel that each of the systems have many great uses for them.

I had not considered all of that, but now that you mention it. I see it, and have to agree whole heartedly. I myself used to only listen from my FRS and an old Baofeng UV-82 for years. I was lazy and was convinced at one point that if I even tried to talk on GMRS without a license I was going to jail. So I was content with listening in like a car radio. I remember when the repeaters around me all started going silent too. Thank you for that perspective.

I did, and thank you. I might go out on a limb here and say for the most part that seems like the only "nice" section. It's gets a little wild outside of there.

I can understand. The part of " Nor should there need to be." is my hang up. For a radio service that advertises itself as being for families and group activities, there really should be some kind of friendly nature or support for and around it. YES. mostly agreed. A lot of the people I personally have interacted with and know that use GMRS (and FRS) tend to see it as the happy middle between CB's wild west cavalier users, and the well structured HAM. There is a bit of structure to GMRS, hence its used for EmComm activities and CERT where CB really has no practical use, and not much utility to HAM in local emergency response. I could be wrong though. That is why I really had preferred not to discuss much of anything here. But, since I was prompted elsewhere. Why not?! Also, thank you for the response.

Oh no, this topic wasn't introduced because of that. That was just one more thing on the list, yes. I've wandered this forum a lot before considering posting. and other places such as YouTube, etc. on the subject.

Absolutely correct. So that means there is room for ideas from other places. That is probably also why there is such lack of support for GMRS outside of a scattering of HAM operators who casually play around with GMRS.

It did not start as a top down, and I don't see it that way still. I pretty much left it open. However, I did intentionally include the thought of "hey here is some national level ideas" for the GOTA program idea. Perhaps the club and the GOTA program should have been posted separately some how. I'll have to consider it. As I said to UncleYoda, I didn't see anywhere that said I had to ask permission to start a club or what it's purpose would be for. and I do say that with all due respect. Please don't take that as me being dismissive or come off as rude. There was enough interest in the group of people I spoke too long before I posted it on here. We shall see if anyone is interested. If not, then perhaps we'll all get lucky and it will fade away like a bad dream. haha. I agree, and thats unfortunate that this site is the only one. GMRS needs much more representation from the dedicated GMRS users. I have respect for HAM operators, but that is a WHOLE different purpose and use cases. Thank you for all of your thoughts, opinions, and considerations. We shall see how it goes.

Very much appreciated. I am not interested in getting into HAM, as I don't see any value or use to my needs or future plans. It's a good thought though. Networking? We have a Discord channel, and will chat with email to discuss over arching ideas and thoughts. The GOTA website would end up having a forum like set up to place 'reports' for those who want to do it, and get rewards similar to POTA - and then some. Still working out ideas on that. Since GMRS is more of a local comm thing, there really isn't much more of a use for state, and national communications outside of email and social media programs to help each other out. re: fees addressed. Yeah. sorry, I posted in the club discussions that the fees and even membership levels are still undetermined but listed the latest idea. Still gathering a best way forward idea with transparency to where the money goes. The idea is a bit small right now to really be considering this as a hot ticket item. Thank you again, for addressing things that may need more looking into.

for the point. as to discussing it here? I wasn't and still not aware that I needed to discuss any of the idea here. Just because someone wants to start a national level club doesn't mean that people have join, respond, give notice, or even acknowledge it. You pretty much point that out with ARRL too. This is not a "the sky if falling situation". Nobody has to ask permission to start a club, anywhere, or for what purposes. Would it have made it different if I started a business instead that sells radios and offers training services for anyone in the country? No, but I could see that as more of a threat (by your concerns). It requires no approval other than through the business licensing body for whatever state I am in. Then why this whole thread? THIS is how my idea started off. Locally I have talked to a few people and their suggestions were that an organization (non-profit of course) would have more credibility in helping to set up demo events, and leading activities, and helping to teach people. Clubs have some but, anyone can create a club and say they are doing the right thing. Non-Profits are kind of required to act in good faith. I guess part of that is fair, and I'll also agree in part. Such as POTA being one of the more useless things out there. Except if you look at practicing in a park with other HAM an interesting thing. I spoke with some county park ranger friends of mine about the GMRS radios in regards to POTA and they liked my idea for GOTA. They also said it would be a very helpful idea at the camps and RV sites - at least locally. GMRS users dont have to just listen to other users, It would help to remember that outsiders are also interested in what we as a complete community do too. Another opinion. Although I do think free tier for club members is a great idea. There are others who like to give back and assist clubs and groups, and offering a benefit for it feels rewarding to many. How to create that reward is a larger topic, including additional levels of membership (The current discussion is a paid tier, but has not been set as finalized). You do you. I can tell you never would've budged anyway. If watched your other posts on topics. Kudos on sticking to convictions.

Hey everyone, I wanted to start a discussion and get a pulse check from the community on something I've been thinking about lately. GMRS has always been touted as the simpler, more accessible, and frankly, friendlier radio service compared to some others out there. It's been seen as a place for people who just want effective, no-fuss communication for everything from family camping trips to coordinating small business operations. The barrier to entry is low, and the community has generally reflected that with a welcoming and helpful attitude. But is that still the case? Lately, I've noticed a shift. Reading through forums and listening on the air, I'm sensing a current of negativity and gatekeeping that feels very out of place in the GMRS world. It feels less like a community of users helping each other and more like a new territory for seasoned hobbyists to stake a claim, bringing with them the same elitism and disdain that many of us sought to avoid in the first place. So, I have to ask: Is GMRS still the friendly, practical service it's meant to be? Or are we seeing it become just another playground for disgruntled HAMs to spread negativity? I'm genuinely interested to hear what you all think. Have you noticed this too, or am I just tuning into the wrong frequencies? Let's discuss.

I appreciate your honesty. But if those simple qualifications are all you base your ideas on instead of asking more questions, good luck to you Sir. As to my background, I have a long extensive background in communications, Emergency Management, and Organizational Leadership. It might also help to know that I was a career military professional as well using advanced communications and control systems (such as GPS and APRS style systems). But, my guess that doesn't mean much to a simple "Guy doesn’t even have a repeater, only had his license for a month" consideration. CERT is a great program, and I applaud those who ACTUALLY join and perform any work with them. Fees for GMRUS was already addressed, and I will say that some of these comments have made me look into it more. I can see plenty of good reason to include a free/unpaid membership tier for those who are not interested in helping the group, or the GMRS community as a whole.

Here is the invite link: https://discord.gg/YsutNfxe3H Hope to see you there. There is a lot to discuss if this group will work. OR, if we need to evolve the idea.

Hello everyone, Thank you for the discussion surrounding the General Mobile Radio Users Society (GMRUS). I appreciate the passion everyone has for the GMRS service, and I understand that any new club or organization will naturally be met with questions and a healthy dose of skepticism. I'd like to take a moment to clarify our mission and address some of the concerns raised here. Our Goal: Advocacy and Education, Not an Empire First and foremost, I want to be crystal clear: GMRUS was created to be a community-focused advocacy and education group, not a top-down regulatory body. Our mission, as laid out in our founding documents, is "to create a supportive and educational community for GMRS and FRS users, empowering them with the knowledge and skills to effectively use these services." We see a large and growing community of radio users who are drawn to the simplicity and accessibility of GMRS and FRS. These are hikers, campers, RVers, families, and small businesses who have found the perfect communication tool for their needs without wanting or needing to step into the world of amateur radio. GMRUS aims to be a resource for them. We believe they deserve a national-level organization that provides resources, fosters community, and advocates for their interests, much like the ARRL does for the HAM community. Addressing Your Concerns Directly Let's tackle some of the specific points mentioned: Is this a "takeover" of GMRS? Absolutely not. We are not seeking any authority over the service. Our goal is to support users, not govern them. We want to offer optional resources like training workshops, "Elmer" mentorship for licensing, and community events. The idea is to strengthen the GMRS community through collaboration, not control. Will this "promote more junk on the air"? Our core mission is the exact opposite. We believe that education is the best tool to combat misuse of the airwaves. By providing accessible training on proper radio etiquette, programming, and emergency protocols, we aim to elevate the standard of operation and make the GMRS experience better for everyone. An educated operator is a responsible operator. Is this a "pay-to-play" scheme? The discussion of a modest membership fee is about sustainability for a non-profit organization. Any funds collected would go directly toward operational costs like hosting a website, developing training materials, and covering insurance for events. The goal is to provide tangible value to members, not to create a barrier. We are still working on the details, but the focus is on keeping it accessible for everyone. We have immense respect for the HAM community, but we also recognize that GMRS serves a considerably different and equally valid purpose. Our goal is to build a welcoming, inclusive, and practical community for all GMRS users. I hope this clears up some of the misconceptions. We're excited about the continuing future of GMRS and believe that a supportive national club can be a tremendous asset to all of us. I'm happy to answer any more constructive questions you may have.

Working on all of that. The discord is a great place to get started and when the program is ready, i'll make sure the training is ready very shortly after. Thanks for bringing that up!

I wanted to introduce an idea for a public service mission: the GMRS On The Air (GOTA) Program! Please let me know what you think of it. IT IS NOT A GMRUS program. --------------------------------------------------------------------- GMRS on the Air (GOTA) 1. Vision & Mission Vision: To see a GMRS radio in the hands of every family and individual recreating in the outdoors as a primary tool for safety, convenience, and community. Mission Statement: To establish a network of licensed General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) operators who volunteer their time and equipment in public recreational areas to provide communication assistance, promote safety, and build a stronger, service-oriented GMRS community. 2. Core Concept: The "Helpful Neighbor on the Trail" GOTA is a volunteer-based program focused on public service through communication. It is not a security patrol or an official watch group. The role of a GOTA operator is to be a friendly, visible, and helpful source of information and communication for the public. Operators act as a reliable point of contact in areas where cell service may be unavailable, offering assistance and enhancing the safety and enjoyment of the recreational area for everyone. 3. Organizational Structure A two-tiered structure allows for national cohesion and local autonomy: National Level (The GOTA Association): Manages the GOTA brand, website, and a central database of operators and locations. Develops the general rules, code of conduct, and operating procedures. Issues national-level awards and recognition for participation. Maintains a master list of eligible Areas of Operation (AOs). State/Local Level (Coordinators & Clubs): The driving force of the program, consisting of volunteer coordinators or existing GMRS clubs. Builds relationships with local park management and recreational groups. Organizes local events, such as a "GOTA Day" or coordinated watches. Serves as the primary point of contact for new operators in their region. 4. Areas of Operation (AOs) Primary AOs: Parks (State, County, & National): The foundation of the program. Recreational Trails & Trail Systems: Hiking, biking, and equestrian trails. OHV (Off-Highway Vehicle) Areas: Designated areas for ATVs, 4x4s, etc. Secondary AO (Optional): Inland Waterways (Lakes & Rivers): Smaller, inland bodies of water where Marine VHF radio is not required. A GMRS license is required for all GOTA operations. 5. Operator Roles & How Value is Provided An operator who is "On Station" serves the public in several key ways: Information Source: Providing directions, park/trail conditions, points of interest, etc. Safety Monitoring: Acting as a point of contact for individuals who are lost, separated, or need minor assistance. Weather Updates: Relaying current weather forecasts and alerting people to hazardous conditions. Emergency Relay: In critical situations without cell service, a GOTA operator can relay information to the proper authorities (Park Rangers, 911 dispatch). 6. Technology & Equipment To maximize effectiveness, operators are encouraged to use quality equipment. Base Station: A mobile GMRS radio (15-50 watts) connected to a vehicle or portable power source, with a high-quality, externally mounted antenna for best performance. Signage: A small, friendly sign ("Volunteer GMRS Operator - Monitoring Channel XX for Assistance") makes an operator visible and approachable. Mobile GMRS Repeaters: This is a key force multiplier for the GOTA program. Function: An operator can deploy a portable, low-power GMRS repeater at a high-elevation point within the park or trail system (e.g., a hilltop or ridge). Benefit: This single repeater can provide park-wide communication coverage, linking hikers with handhelds in low-lying valleys back to the GOTA operator's base station and to each other. It dramatically increases the range and reliability of the service being provided. Use Case: An operator sets up their base station at a main trailhead and deploys a solar-powered repeater on a nearby peak. Now, they can hear and assist people from anywhere in the park, not just those within direct line-of-sight. 7. Key Terminology & Procedures The Activity: "Going On Station" or "Conducting a Watch" The Participants: "GOTA Operators" (those on station) and "Monitors" (those listening in) The Log: "Station Log" (a record of time, location, contacts, and assistance provided) Procedure: An operator finds a location, sets up their station, and makes an announcement on a designated GMRS calling channel (e.g., Channel 20, CTCSS 141.3 Hz), stating their call sign, location, and the channel they will be monitoring for their watch. 8. Code of Conduct Operators are volunteers, not officials. They must never represent themselves as park staff or law enforcement. All FCC rules and regulations for GMRS must be followed at all times. Operators must be courteous, professional, and helpful to all members of the public. The primary goal is service and safety. The program is not for contesting or simply making contacts. 9. Awards & Recognition To encourage participation, the National Association will offer awards for achievements such as: Conducting a watch in 10, 25, or 50 different AOs. Logging 24, 50, or 100 hours "On Station." A "Public Service Award" for operators who provide documented, critical assistance. 10. Web Domains WSJI765 has purchased the following domains for this program. gmrsontheair.com - the primary site where the GOTA program will be hosted with access to transmission (watch) reports. joingota.com - This will be the forwarding domain for recruit of GMRS Operators. gmrsontheair.org - A secondary backup domain for GOTA. It will forward to the dot com. --------------------------------------------------------------------- If you have any thoughts or additional ideas for this program, please discuss them below. This is OUR program, let's make it the best! --------------------------------------------------------------------- EDIT: There would be the option for specific GOTA Operator Training to get you prepared. BUT the GOTA program will not be owned, ran, or directly managed by GMRUS. Ask any questions you have below!

Hello and welcome to the official forum for the General Mobile Radio Users Society (GMRUS)! We are a new online community-focused club dedicated to the promotion, education, and responsible use of GMRS and FRS radio all over the United States. Who are we for? If you're an individual, a family, or a small business looking for a simple and effective way to communicate without the deep dive into HAM radio, you've found the right place. We are here for the everyday user who enjoys GMRS for: Family events and coordination Camping, overlanding, and hiking Small business operations Emergency preparedness And so much more! Our Mission is Simple: To create an additional supportive and educational community for GMRS users of all skill levels. We want to empower you with the knowledge to use your radios effectively and confidently for recreation, work, and safety. We believe there's a seat at the GMRUS table for everyone. We're excited to have you here and look forward to chatting on the forums. -------------------------------------------------------------------- Club Activities, Training, and Events So, what do we actually do? GMRUS is all about hands-on learning and community fun. Here’s a look at the activities and programs we're building: Regular Get-Togethers: Monthly Meetings: A mix of virtual meetings to hang out, discuss different club news, and maybe learn from guest speakers. Weekly On-Air Net: A designated time each week to "jump on the radio" (simulated) through the use of Discord, talk about gear, practice your skills, and chat with fellow members. Training & Education: We would like to eventually offer unofficial training for all skill levels! GMRS Licensing Workshops: We'll walk you through the FCC application process. Beginner's Bootcamp: Learn basic radio programming and on-air etiquette. Advanced Workshops: Dive deeper into topics like mobile stations, repeaters, and GMRS-based APRS. Net Control Training: Learn how to run an on-air net like a pro. Community & Social Events: Group Activities: We'll help people with their local group events, trail rides, kayaking trips, and family picnics where you can put our radios to good use. Community Service: We'll help provide some information and support for local charity events. Stay tuned to the forums for announcements about upcoming events! -------------------------------------------------------------------- How to Join the GMRUS Discord Go to: https://discord.gg/YsutNfxe3H and sign up. that's it. You'll have access to ALL club resources.