ARES Vest
NEWINGTON, CT, Sep 1, 2002--ARRL has announced that new gear for Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) volunteers is now available. The initiative to offer stylized ARES gear to volunteers arose during the ARRL Board of Directors' meeting last January--in the wake of Amateur Radio's deep involvement in responding to the September 11 terrorist attacks. The Board asked ARRL staff to look into the possibility of developing distinctive garments for use by ARES team members that would be similar to jackets and vests worn by other public service volunteers.
A questionnaire circulated among ARRL field volunteers indicated overwhelming interest in the idea. Results of the survey plus additional feedback from ARES volunteers led to arrangements to make available ARES vests, windbreakers and equipment bags.
ARES Vest
The ARES vest is a reflective-style garment similar to those worn by law enforcement officers or joggers. This orange "bib" can be worn over a shirt or jacket. Constructed of neon mesh with large front and back reflector panels, the vest is imprinted with the words "AMATEUR RADIO COMMUNICATIONS" on one side.
The vest is lightweight and easily folded and
stored in your immediate-response kit. It features adjustable side straps, and
one size fits most. The ARES vest retails for $9.95 plus shipping and
handling.
ARES Windbreaker
The brightly colored, royal blue jacket makes the wearer immediately recognizable as an ARES volunteer. It features an embroidered ARES logo on the front and the words "AMATEUR RADIO COMMUNICATIONS" in white lettering on the back. The jacket is 100% Nylon and has a snap front and a polyester lining. There's a bottom drawstring to keep out drafts, plus side slash pockets and elasticized cuffs.
ARES members may personalize their
windbreakers with FIRST NAME and CALL SIGN (optional) for an additional $4.
Sizes are medium (M), large (L) and extra-large (XL). The windbreaker retails
for $30.95 (sizes 2X are $34.95 and 3X are $38.95), plus shipping and handling.
ARES Equipment Bag
The ARES equipment bag is a high-quality equipment and sports bag with many, many pockets. It comes in black only. The bag offers lots of places to store hand-held radios, spare batteries, paperwork and manuals, portable rigs, coaxial cable, clothing, and more. It's perfect for use as an immediate-response kit!
The ARES equipment bag is embroidered with an attractive three-color ARES logo. It includes both hand and shoulder straps, heavy-duty zippers, Velcro and quick-snaps. It's great for travelers or as an airplane carry-on too. The bag measures 20 inches long by 11 inches tall and 10 inches wide. It retails for $24.95, plus shipping and handling.
Ordering ARES Gear
All orders must be placed through ARRL's authorized agent--Barker Specialty Company. We're sorry, but orders cannot be placed directly with ARRL headquarters. Barker Specialty offers these new ARES products as well as other official ARRL sportswear and supply items.
Order online via the Barker Specialty Company Web site (click on the "ARES Products" link).
ARES stickers, decals, patches and other
public service supply items are available directly from ARRL's
online store.
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