On December 7, 2012, the Gwinnett Amateur Radio Society held their annual Christmas party. A Lifetime Membership was awarded to Norman Schklar (WA4ZXV). The following is the introduction given by John Davis.

According to the GARS By-Laws, when a nomination is received for a Lifetime Membership, the President appoints a Special Committee and Chairman of the Committee to review the nomination and make a recommendation to the President. A Special Committee was appointed and I was asked to serve as Chairman. We received the following nomination for Norman Schklar.

Within GARS, Norm has served as President, Board Member, activities director, Field day band captain, JOTA participant, Aluminum Overcast participant, Techfest organizer and any other duty asked of him.

In addition to his activities within GARS, Norm is the ARRL public relations liaison for our area. He is also active and supportive of Gwinnett ARES. He has served as VP and President of SEDX. He often leads the monthly North Georgia QRP roundtable meetings. Norm Schklar is a founding member of the Greater Atlanta Ham Council which seeks to encourage cooperation among the various local radio clubs. This year he focused some of his energy on HamJam which is a fundraising activity that provides scholarships and activities for youth.

Schklar is an AL Operator (an award obtained only by being nominated by peers) who has earned WAS and DXCCJ He mentors all who seek his help.

He maintains a station that serves as a digital link from Georgia to the National Traffic System. He enjoys phone, CWJ and digital modes.

He would just as soon work on your antenna as his own. His spud launcher has seen duty in more than a few instances putting wires over the tops of 88 foot trees.

He has spent time with several of us untangling the mess we made trying to connect our computer to our ham station. He has assisted the families of several silent keys (deceased) with the removal of antennas, sale of equipment, and comforting words.

Norm also represents the community and GARS in various Civic organizations and local events. In summary, Norm Schklar is extremely deserving of this honor and will be suitably embarrassed if he is selected.

The Committee, consisting of the President (Kyle), Hal Collier, Scott Hartlage, Sid Weaver,Earl Whatley, Karen Albritton, and myself, unanimously recommends that a Lifetime Membership be awarded to Norm Schklar, WA4ZXV. 

John Davis