The Bellbrook Amateur Radio Club (BARC), located in Bellbrook, Ohio, is a dynamic and general interest amateur radio club offering a wide range of activities and services for radio enthusiasts of all levels. Originally founded in 1974 as the Communications Group for the Bellbrook-Sugarcreek Township Disaster Plan, the club became an official entity on July 4, 1976 with twenty charter members.
Key Features and Activities
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Club History:
- Founded in 1974, BARC was initially focused on emergency communications and disaster response.
- The club has operated out of its Clubhouse, located in a former elementary school, since 2007. This includes a Communications Center with four fully equipped stations, supporting voice, CW, and digital modes on all bands from 80m to 70cm.
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Meeting Details:
- Meetings are held on the third Thursday of each month at 7:30 PM, with a social time starting at 7:00 PM.
- Location: BARC Clubhouse & Communications Center, 51 S East Street, Bellbrook, OH.
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Specialties:
- Contesting
- Digital Modes
- DX
- General Interest
- Public Service/Emergency
- Repeaters
- School or Youth Group
- VHF/UHF
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Services Offered:
- Club Newsletter
- Entry-Level License Classes
- General or Higher License Classes
- License Test Sessions
- Mentorship
- Repeater Operations
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Public Service:
- BARC is actively involved in emergency communications and is the local support group for Greene County ARES.
- They also sponsor license courses with other local clubs and ARES.
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Annual Activities:
- Field Day (participating annually since 1976)
- Annual Family Picnic
- Dinner Meeting
- Chili Supper
- Weekly Lunch Bunch
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Motto:
- "FUN, FOOD & FELLOWSHIP" emphasizes the social aspect of amateur radio in addition to technical pursuits.
Club Statistics
- Total Members: 151
- Voting Members: 147
- Voting Licensed Amateur Members: 147
- Voting ARRL Members: 98
Club Officers
- Contact: James E. Totten, WA8HUB
- President, Editor: Ray A. Hitt, N8VMX
- Treasurer: John J. Westerkamp, W8LRJ
- Secretary: James M. Gifford, KD8APT
- Vice President: Glenn H. Rodgers, KE8LZD
Contact Information
- Email: W8DGN@arrl.net
- Website: bellbrookarc.org
Summary
The Bellbrook Amateur Radio Club (BARC) is a vibrant community of amateur radio operators in Bellbrook, Ohio, with a focus on emergency communications, contesting, and education. Established in 1976, the club offers a welcoming environment for individuals of all ages and skill levels, promoting fun, learning, and service to the community. Members enjoy a mix of technical and social events, making it a great place to develop amateur radio skills while fostering lifelong friendships.
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