The ARRL search results revealed the Southwest Idaho Amateur Radio Club (K7SWI) as another excellent option in Meridian, Idaho. Their large membership, diverse activities, strong focus on community and youth outreach, and frequent meetings make them a compelling choice.
Diverse Activities and Strong Community Focus
Founded in 2018, the Southwest Idaho Amateur Radio Club boasts a large membership of around 348, offering a bustling community atmosphere. Their website (https://www.facebook.com/groups/591948597889511/) highlights their diverse interests and active approach:
- Motto: "Do Something Club": They emphasize hands-on activities beyond just meetings.
- Contests: They participate in contesting.
- Digital Modes: They explore digital communication modes.
- DX: They're interested in DXing (long-distance communication).
- General Interest: They seem to welcome hams with various interests.
- Public Service/Emergency: They are involved in public service activities.
- Repeaters: They manage repeaters, facilitating communication for members in the area.
- School or Youth Group: They actively support youth involvement in ham radio.
- VHF/UHF: They likely use VHF/UHF for communication, but details are unclear.
Learning and Support
- License Classes: They offer entry-level and general or higher license classes.
- License Test Sessions: They hold license test sessions, convenient for obtaining your license.
- Mentorship: With a large membership, the chances of finding a mentor are high.
- TVI/RFI Committee: They have a dedicated committee to help with technical interference issues.
Regular Meetings and Activities
- Meeting Time and Location: Meetings are held on the 1st Thursday of the month with a 6 PM social hour followed by a 7 PM meeting at 405 E Fairview Meridian Idaho.
- Monthly Activities: They host monthly activities that go beyond meetings, potentially including POTA events, special event stations, or build events. This fosters a hands-on learning environment.
Contact Information
- Contact: Reach out to Kim E. Gross KI0E, the president and contact person, using the provided email (swidahoarc@gmail.com@arrl.net) for any questions you might have. Their website is a Facebook group, so consider joining for the latest updates.
Making a Choice
The Southwest Idaho Amateur Radio Club might be a great fit if:
- Location: You're in Meridian, 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 hands-on, active club environment.
- Experience Level: You're a beginner seeking licensing classes and mentorship or a seasoned ham radio enthusiast looking for a large and active club.
Recommendation
Given the large membership, diverse activities, strong community focus, emphasis on youth outreach, and frequent meetings with hands-on activities, the Southwest Idaho Amateur Radio Club (K7SWI) seems like an excellent option, especially if you value a supportive and engaging club environment. They might be a top contender based on the variety of aspects they offer. Here's how to proceed:
- Contact the Club: Join their Facebook group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/591948597889511/) and reach out to Kim Gross using the provided email to learn more about their specific activities, youth outreach programs (if applicable), and confirm details about their monthly activities.
- Consider Other Options: Briefly consider the American Legion Post 113 Amateur Radio Club (N7LGN) and Snake River Amateur Radio Club (K7SI) to compare meeting schedules and activity focus. However, the Southwest Idaho Amateur Radio Club (K7SWI) seems to offer a more well-rounded experience.
Ultimately, by contacting the clubs that interest you most, you can make an informed decision about which club best aligns with your interests and preferences.
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