Spotlight on the 20 OVER 9 RADIO CLUB INC (K8TKA)

Spotlight on the 20 OVER 9 RADIO CLUB INC (K8TKA)

The 20 OVER 9 RADIO CLUB INC is a vibrant, family-oriented amateur radio club based in Austintown, Ohio. With a rich history and a focus on community service, this club is dedicated to promoting amateur radio across all its facets, from contesting and public service to educational activities and mentoring.


Club Overview

Founded in 1958, the 20 OVER 9 RADIO CLUB INC has been a key part of the local amateur radio community for decades. The club welcomes all licensed amateur radio operators as well as those interested in learning about the hobby. It has a strong focus on public service, supporting local ARES (Amateur Radio Emergency Service) groups, SkyWarn weather spotting, and community outreach.

  • Call Sign: K8TKA
  • Affiliation Date: May 8, 1958
  • Website: www.20over9.org
  • Meeting Time:
    • Second Tuesday of every month at 7:00 PM
  • Meeting Place:
    • Westchester Dr. Suite 110, Austintown, OH 44515

Club Features & Activities

  • Contest, Digital Modes, DX: The club supports a wide range of activities, including contesting, digital modes, and DX (long-distance) communication. Members participate in national and international events, testing their skills and promoting the hobby.

  • Public Service: The club is involved in public service events, offering communication support for local emergencies and assisting the ARES and SkyWarn programs to help with weather spotting during severe conditions.

  • Club Newsletter: Members receive the club newsletter, which keeps everyone updated on upcoming events, meetings, and topics of interest in the amateur radio world.

  • Hamfest: The club hosts an annual ARRL-sanctioned hamfest that is free to attend. This event, held every year in early July, provides a great opportunity for local hams to meet, share knowledge, and buy/sell equipment.

  • License Classes & Testing: The club offers free licensing classes to help prospective hams prepare for their Technician, General, or Extra exams. The club also offers license testing for $15 per person, as required by FCC regulations. Learning materials for the classes are available for a small fee (~$27).

  • Support for Antenna Projects: The club supports local hams with antenna projects, group builds, and maintenance advice. Whether you need help with setting up a new antenna or improving your current setup, the club is there to offer guidance.

  • Mentorship: The club offers mentoring for new hams, helping them navigate the world of amateur radio and improve their skills.


Club Leadership

The 20 OVER 9 RADIO CLUB INC is led by a dedicated group of officers who are passionate about both amateur radio and community involvement:

  • President: George M. Meleski (KC8RJS)
  • Vice President: Dorothy O Neil (KC8SYF)
  • Secretary: Janet Hamaker (KC8PUO)
  • Treasurer: Richard C. Hamaker (KB8YHC)
  • Editor: Shawn A. Donley (KE8ENU)

Membership & Community

With 75 members, including 45 ARRL members, the 20 OVER 9 RADIO CLUB INC has a robust and active membership base. The club’s open membership policy means that anyone with an interest in amateur radio is welcome to join.

  • Voting Members: 75
  • Voting Licensed Amateur Members: 75
  • Voting ARRL Members: 45

Get Involved

The 20 OVER 9 RADIO CLUB INC is always looking to expand its community and welcome new members. Whether you're an experienced ham or just starting out, the club offers something for everyone, from license classes to public service activities and group antenna projects.

For more information on how to join, upcoming meetings, or the club’s hamfest, visit their website at www.20over9.org.


Conclusion

With a focus on community service, education, and supporting amateur radio in all its forms, the 20 OVER 9 RADIO CLUB INC (K8TKA) is a cornerstone of the local ham radio community. Whether you’re interested in contesting, digital modes, or simply giving back through public service, this club offers plenty of opportunities to get involved and connect with fellow amateur radio enthusiasts.

Reading next

Spotlight on the WESTERN RESERVE AMATEUR RADIO CLUB (W8WRC)
Spotlight on the Mahoning Valley Amateur Radio Association (W8QLY)

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