In September of 1975, a small group of dedicated radio enthusiasts in Johnston County came together with a shared vision: to promote the hobby of amateur radio, mentor new operators, and provide a reliable communication backbone for the community. What started as a local gathering has grown into the Johnston Amateur Radio Society (JARS)—an organization that has stood the test of time for half a century.

The Heart of Our Signal: 147.270 MHz

For decades, the "home" of JARS has been the 147.270 MHz repeater. Its prominent location at 1000ft on the WRAL/WRDC TV tower in Auburn, NC, provides our members with expansive coverage across the region.

This technical feat is made possible by the Auburn Repeater Corporation, a dedicated entity comprised of JARS members. This unique partnership ensures that our equipment remains state-of-the-art and our "footprint" remains one of the most reliable in the state.

A Community That Stays Connected

While the technology has evolved from vacuum tubes to digital modes, the spirit of JARS remains unchanged.

The Monthly Newsletter: For 50 years, our newsletter has been the pulse of the club, keeping our 200+ members informed on everything from technical clinics to local "eyeball QSOs."

Public Service & Education: From emergency weather spotting to "Elmering" the next generation of hams, JARS has always been more than just a radio club—we are a service organization.

Looking Forward: The Golden Anniversary

As we celebrate our Golden Anniversary, we honor the founders who keyed up the first mics in 1975 and the current members who keep the airwaves alive today. Whether you are a "salty" Extra-class operator or a brand-new Technician, JARS continues to be a place where the static clears and the friendship is always "5-and-9."

73 to all our members—past, present, and future!