Calling all Anne Arundel County, Maryland residents curious about ham radio! The Anne Arundel Radio Club (AARC), operating under the call sign W3VPR, is a vibrant community that welcomes anyone interested in exploring this fascinating hobby. Whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned operator, AARC offers a comprehensive and engaging environment to learn new skills, contribute to your community, and connect with fellow ham radio enthusiasts.
A Large and Active Club with a Rich History
Established in 1951, AARC boasts the distinction of being the largest Amateur Radio Club in Anne Arundel County and one of the biggest in Maryland. They take pride in their rich history and strong commitment to promoting ham radio in the area.
What the Anne Arundel Radio Club (W3VPR) Offers:
- Become Licensed or Expand Your Knowledge: AARC offers entry-level and general or higher license classes, along with mentor programs to guide your learning journey (contact the club to confirm details on class schedules and mentor availability).
- Support Public Service Initiatives: AARC is a dedicated ARRL Special Service Club, actively providing communication support for various events within Anne Arundel County and even beyond, like the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington DC. They are committed to ensuring reliable communication during critical situations (contact the club to confirm details on their specific public service involvement).
- Embrace Different Operating Modes: With a focus on VHF/UHF, Digital Modes, and Repeaters, AARC keeps pace with advancements in ham radio technology, offering various ways to connect and participate.
- Join Exciting Contests: The club description mentions participating in both Field Day and Winter Field Day, showcasing their operational skills and teamwork spirit.
- Pursue DXing Adventures: For those interested in contacting distant stations, AARC might offer guidance and resources (contact the club to confirm details on their DXing activities).
- Build Your Skills with Hands-on Activities: The club holds monthly kitbuilding and troubleshooting workshops, providing a valuable platform to learn practical skills (contact the club to confirm details and workshop schedules).
- Connect with Fellow Ham Enthusiasts: AARC offers numerous opportunities for connection. Attend their general meetings held twice monthly on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays at 7:30 PM at the Davidsonville Family Recreation Center. They also have open shack sessions on Sundays (12:00 PM to 4:00 PM) and Tuesdays (10:00 AM to 2:00 PM) for casual conversation and socializing with fellow ham enthusiasts.
- Stay Informed and Engaged: The club publishes a newsletter (contact the club to confirm details on how to access it) and maintains a Packet Radio BBS (electronic bulletin board system) for information sharing and announcements.
- Participate in Historical Nets: AARC maintains two nets: a Wednesday evening net for general membership and the "Holly Net," held every morning from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM, honoring the memory of a dedicated net controller, Holly Bevin (N3MB).
Become Part of a Thriving Ham Radio Community!
The Anne Arundel Radio Club offers a comprehensive and welcoming environment for anyone interested in exploring the vast world of ham radio. Whether you're looking to get licensed, develop your skills, contribute to public service initiatives, participate in exciting contests, or simply connect with like-minded individuals, AARC might be the perfect fit for you!
Contact William Daniel Ryan (N3RY) at N3SZW38@arrl.net for more information and to get involved!
Don't wait! Spark your interest in ham radio and join the Anne Arundel Radio Club today!
Note: Due to some details being unconfirmed, contacting the club is recommended to get the latest information on class schedules, mentor availability, specific public service involvement, DXing activities, and how to access the club newsletter.
Leave a comment
All comments are moderated before being published.
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.