Overview
The Olympia Amateur Radio Society (OARS) is an ARRL Special Services Club based in Olympia, WA, and affiliated with Thurston County Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES). Dedicated to promoting amateur radio, OARS actively supports community events and emergency communication efforts within Thurston County. With a focus on education, community service, and technical advancement, OARS welcomes members and non-members alike.
Club Details
- Call Sign: NT7H
- Affiliation Date: May 20, 1978
- Annual Report Date: January 5, 2025
- Meeting Time: 3rd Wednesday of every month, 7:00 PM
- Meeting Place: Tugboat Annies, 2100 West Bay Dr, Olympia, WA, and via Zoom (Meeting ID: 435 905 935, Password: 147360)
Specialties
- Contesting
- Digital Modes
- DX (Long-Distance Communication)
- General Interest
- Public Service/Emergency Communications
- Repeaters
- School or Youth Group Engagement
- VHF/UHF Operations
Services Offered
- Club Newsletter
- Entry-Level License Classes
- General or Higher License Classes
- License Test Sessions
- Mentor Support
- On-The-Air Bulletins
- Repeater Access
Membership
- Total Members: 200
- Voting Members: 200
- Licensed Amateur Members: 170
- ARRL Members: 60
Community Involvement
OARS actively participates in and supports a variety of community events, including:
- MS Walk
- Capital City Marathon
- Road Rallies
- Scout Night Hike
These events showcase the club's ability to provide essential communication support, enhancing public safety and event coordination.
Educational Opportunities
- Monthly Testing Sessions: Held on the second Wednesday of each month at 5:00 PM.
- Quality Education Programs: Delivered during monthly meetings, covering technical, operational, and general interest topics.
Leadership
- Contact & President: Howard Lim, W1COL
- Vice President: Paul Smieten, NT7PS
- Treasurer: Rick Miller, KK7RMH
- Secretary: Mark Gayman, KK7MCI
- Editor: Corinne Tobeck
Contact Information
- Phone: (360) 539-8657
- Email: NT7H@arrl.net
- Website: www.olyham.org
Club Features
- Repeaters: OARS operates three linked repeaters, offering reliable communication throughout the region. Details about these repeaters are available on the club's website.
- Community Hub: OARS serves as a vibrant center for amateur radio enthusiasts, offering technical assistance, mentorship, and a welcoming environment for newcomers.
Conclusion
The Olympia Amateur Radio Society is a cornerstone of the amateur radio community in Olympia and Thurston County. With its dedication to education, public service, and fostering goodwill among radio enthusiasts, OARS continues to make a significant impact. Whether you are a seasoned ham operator or new to the hobby, OARS provides opportunities for learning, growth, and community engagement.
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