Welcome to the West Chester Amateur Radio Association (WCARA), a dynamic group of Amateur Radio enthusiasts who are passionate about promoting the hobby and connecting with fellow radio operators. Let's dive into the heart of WCARA, what they offer, and how you can get involved!
Club Overview
The West Chester Amateur Radio Association (WCARA) is an active club based in West Chester, Ohio, and is uniquely affiliated with the National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting. The club operates out of the museum, offering a special opportunity to experience the rich history of broadcasting while participating in modern amateur radio activities.
- Call Sign: WC8VOA
- Affiliation Date: December 11, 2001
- Website: www.wc8voa.org
- Meeting Time: 1st Thursday of the month at 7:00 PM (ET)
- Open Shack: Every Wednesday from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM (ET)
- Location: National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting
Club Features & Activities
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Fully Equipped Club Station: WCARA boasts a club station located within the National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting, featuring five fully equipped operating positions. These positions are available for rag chewing, contesting, and general experimentation, making it a great space for both beginners and experienced operators.
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Monthly Meetings: The club holds a monthly meeting on the first Thursday of each month at 7:00 PM (ET). It's a great opportunity to connect with fellow members, learn more about upcoming events, and discuss the latest in amateur radio.
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Open Shack Nights: Every Wednesday evening from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM, WCARA hosts Open Shack nights, where members and newcomers alike can come by and explore the club station. Whether you’re interested in testing equipment, chatting with other operators, or learning from experienced hams, these nights are an excellent way to immerse yourself in the world of amateur radio.
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Specialties & Services:
- Contesting: Participate in friendly competitions and improve your skills.
- Digital Modes: Explore the world of digital communications.
- Public Service/Emergency Communications: Get involved in providing emergency communications when needed.
- License Test Sessions: The club offers mentor programs and assistance with license testing to help newcomers get licensed.
- Repeaters: Utilize and learn about repeaters, a crucial aspect of amateur radio communication.
- Youth Engagement: The club welcomes school or youth group participation, encouraging the next generation to explore amateur radio.
Meet the Officers
The West Chester Amateur Radio Association is led by a team of passionate volunteers who help steer the club and organize activities:
- President: Mark K. Haverkos (KE8CIE)
- Vice President: Joseph P. Molter (N8IDA)
- Secretary: Michael D. Shipley (WE8HAM)
- Treasurer: Michael D. Braun (KB8ZYE)
- Contact: Jocelyn Brault (KD8VRX)
Membership & Community
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Membership: WCARA has a strong community of 124 members, including both voting members and licensed amateur radio operators. The club is an active participant in the ARRL (American Radio Relay League), with 65 ARRL members contributing to the ongoing success of the club.
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Get Involved: Whether you're a seasoned ham or just starting your amateur radio journey, WCARA is open to all! The club offers plenty of opportunities for learning, networking, and growth. Visit their website, attend an upcoming meeting, or drop by for Open Shack Night to see what it's all about.
Conclusion
The West Chester Amateur Radio Association (WCARA) is a welcoming, active, and well-equipped community for amateur radio operators of all levels. Located at the National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting, the club offers excellent resources for contesting, digital modes, and public service activities. With regular meetings, open shack nights, and a dedicated team of officers, WCARA is a great place to learn, grow, and connect with other amateur radio enthusiasts.
For more information, visit their official website: www.wc8voa.org.
Whether you're a local looking for a new club to join or a newcomer wanting to dive into amateur radio, WCARA is a fantastic place to start. So why wait? Get involved today and start exploring the exciting world of amateur radio!
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