“ Build It They Will Come.”

By
Gary M. Beckstedt Sr.

As a certified, paid and volunteer Fire Fighter of 30+ years, I have seen what many NEVER need to see. But from this experience I have come to learn, understand and respect the weaknesses of Radio Communications in the time of distress, emergency and disaster. Solid, reliable radio communications is the very back bone of our communities and the country. 

In 2007 when I learned about GMRS, it was then I remembered the Fellow American speech. Being too old to be an active fire fighter, I was still wanting to give back to my community. I did some research and found that this was a perfect place to help not only families, but also volunteer groups within the State of Georgia, who needed effective and reliable communications during emergencies, disasters, and severe weather situations. I also learned that I was not alone in such an endeavor. Upon the discovery of a nation wide web site, I found that over 377 GMRS repeaters throughout 41 states were doing the same thing. It was time to get busy and put Georgia on the map with GMRS coverage. 

As many of you know,  I am the owner and co-founder of The North Georgia GMRS Organization, here in Newnan Georgia. We have bought, assembled, installed and continue to support 29 repeater sites throughout the State of Georgia, and southern Tennessee. In addition we have 3 more new sites to complete in the near future. Five of our current sites are situated in mountain top settings of North Georgia, which provide reliable communications for areas with no cell service and limited simplex coverage. 

With the average cost of $ 9,000.00 per site for equipment, installation and support, one can see I have a substantial investment. In recent times I have been asked, “What has been the reason why you have spent so much time, money and resources in putting together the North Georgia GMRS network of repeaters? 

My answer had three replies. 

“ If this network will one day, save one life, in a time of need, then it’s all worth the time, money, and sacrifice” 

“And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you- ask what you can  do for your country” 

“Build It They Will Come”

The North Georgia GMRS Organization currently is the largest General Mobile Radio Service Repeater Organizations in the United States. Our membership roster has over 550 active licensed members, and their families which by definition of FCC rules, expands to well over 908 users across the State of Georgia. In addition there are in excess 2986 licenses issued in the State of Georgia as well. 

We are a member group by nature, formed in 2007. Our sole existence is to provide reliable GMRS communications, education, support sharing, and cooperation for GMRS users in Georgia. Our membership continues to grow at a rate of 25% per a year, since 2017. 

The North Georgia GMRS Organization was formed to provide an outlet to alternative sources of communications to our members and their families. We foster cooperation and sharing of repeater resources for both family use and provide access for emergency communication for area emergency response teams in times of need. In addition we provide local and state groups and agencies with interoperability agreements for emergency communications as required. 

The North Georgia GMRS Organization has been instrumental in enforcement of FCC rules in our area, as well as the promotion of proper licensing, self-coordination of repeaters, and radio usage. 

Many members of The North Georgia GMRS Organization are Professionals; and current members are Firefighters, Police Officers, EMS Personnel, Doctors, Lawyers, and Amateur Radio Operators. We also embody members from private emergency communications providers, commercial communications technicians, and every day citizens. Every walk of life is embodied in the membership of The North Georgia GMRS Organization.

Within this page you will learn just a little bit more about the original founders of our organization, and come to understand the individual drive, spirit, and dedication, each of us had. We celebrate the past 16 years of hard work and dedication, and look to enjoy the next many years in working with many members, both old and new. There's much to see here. So, take your time, look around, and learn all there is to know about us.

 We hope you enjoy our site and take a moment to drop us a line.