The ARRL search also revealed the Snake River Amateur Radio Club (K7SI) as another option. While they have a smaller membership, their diverse activities and focus on community might be a good fit. However, their website could be more informative.
Diverse Activities and Fun Atmosphere
Founded in 2007, the Snake River Amateur Radio Club boasts a membership of around 22. Their website (http://www.k7si.org) highlights their interests, which include:
- Contests: They participate in contesting, a competitive aspect of ham radio.
- Digital Modes: They seem open to exploring digital communication modes.
- DX: They're interested in DXing (long-distance communication).
- General Interest: They welcome hams with various interests.
- Public Service/Emergency: They are involved in public service activities.
- VHF/UHF: They likely use VHF/UHF for communication, but details are unclear.
Their description emphasizes a fun and community-oriented atmosphere, mentioning "camping, electronics and radio repair, and FOOD. Especially cast iron camp food." This suggests a club that enjoys activities beyond just technical aspects of ham radio.
Learning and Support
- License Classes: They offer entry-level license classes, helpful for those seeking to get their ham radio license.
- License Test Sessions: The information doesn't explicitly mention license test sessions, but it's worth inquiring about.
- Mentorship: With a smaller membership, personalized mentorship might be readily available.
Regular Meetings
- Meeting Time and Location: Meetings are held on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 6:00 PM at the Sunrise Cafe, Caldwell, Idaho.
Contact Information
- Contact: Reach out to Anthony Laird KI7TMZ, the treasurer, secretary, and contact person, using the provided email address (k7si.srarc@gmail.com) for any questions you might have. The website could be more informative, so contacting them is a good way to learn more specifics.
Making a Choice
The Snake River Amateur Radio Club might be a great fit if:
- Location: You're in Caldwell, Idaho and the meeting schedule works for you.
- Focus: You're interested in a variety of ham radio activities, including contesting, DXing, public service, and enjoy a fun and community-oriented atmosphere.
- Experience Level: You're comfortable with a smaller club and a focus on diverse activities beyond just technical aspects of ham radio.
Recommendation
Given the diverse activities, established presence, and focus on community, the Snake River Amateur Radio Club seems like a viable option, especially if you value a fun and community-oriented club. However, their website could be more informative. Here's how to proceed:
- Contact the Club: Reach out to Anthony Laird using the provided email address to learn more about their specific activities, public service involvement (if any), confirm details about license test sessions (if offered), and get a better sense of the club's overall atmosphere.
- Consider Other Options: Explore the American Legion Post 113 Amateur Radio Club (N7LGN), Eagle Rock Amateur Radio Club (KE1RAN), and Island Park Ham Radio Club (no call sign) to compare meeting schedules, activities, and size.
Ultimately, by contacting both clubs and considering your preferences, you can make an informed decision about which club best suits your needs.
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