The Anderson Island Amateur Radio Club welcomed a new member this month, Ellen Hardin, AI7FP, who recently moved from Steilacoom to the island with her wife Ronda. Like many operators, Ellen’s interest in technology and electronics started early, experimenting with parts and manuals passed along by a family friend who worked in electronics maintenance. After retiring in 2019, Ellen decided it was finally time to pursue amateur radio more seriously. During the pandemic she earned her Technician and General licenses, and soon after completed the Amateur Extra exam. She has been active with the Tacoma Radio Club and enjoys the mix of conversation, technical experimentation, and the monthly swap meet where radio gear often finds new homes. She has also found a similar community on Anderson Island with the AIARC weekly “Hamsters” gathering at the Anderson Island Historical Society Share and Care. Ellen has converted a small backyard shed into her ham shack (and quilting sewing room). She recently installed the base for a vertical antenna, and with help from fellow club members the next step will be laying radials and getting the station fully on the air. The club looks forward to hearing Ellen on the air soon and welcomes her to both the island and the Anderson Island Amateur Radio Club.
