Rochester Amateur Radio Association, Inc.

The Rochester Amateur Radio Association, Inc. is a widely diversified, highly active amateur radio club centered in the Rochester, NY area. It was founded in 1930, incorporated in September of 1960 and has over 500 active members.

An American Radio Relay League (ARRL) affiliated club since 1931, and a charter Special Service Organization, RARA provides a focal point for much of the amateur radio activity in Western New York.

Public Services

RARA also excels in many other areas of amateur endeavor. A working agreement exists between RARA and the Monroe County Office of Emergency Preparedness to provide communications during disasters and other emergencies. RARA members participate in excess of two dozen public service events each year. Our extensive Public Service activities help build public awareness and goodwill while fostering and enhancing operator ARES/RACES preparedness.

RARA maintains ongoing relationships with the National Weather Service, The American Red Cross, and strategically positioned area hospitals. This includes maintaining station facilities at each location. This network is tested annually in conjunction with Rochester Gas and Electric's, Federally observed, nuclear power plant exercise known as the Ginna Drill.

Classes

For many years, RARA has sponsored spring and fall licensing courses in the greater Rochester area. These courses cover all license classes and provide many opportunities to prepare for a license or upgrade.

Testing Sessions

License testing sessions are held monthly, September through May, by our dedicated RARA Volunteer Examiner Team. These examination sessions are given for all levels and elements of licenses. The May testing session is held in conjunction with our annual Hamfest.

Meetings and Guest Speakers

RARA meets regularly on the first Friday of every month. September through May our meetings are held at Henrietta Fire Station No. 1, 3129 East Henrietta Road (15A, just south of Lehigh Station Road). Summer meetings are held at various outdoor locations.

Each month a new and interesting guest speaker joins us to entertain and educate, covering a broad spectrum of topics. Topics range from the highly technical, pushing the boundaries of amateur radio, to the non-technical, practical and fun for the whole family.

Our Officers and Directors are continually searching for new programs, projects, and fun social activities to keep interest high and give members the opportunity to become better acquainted. Anyone interested in amateur radio is encouraged to attend any of our meetings and invited to join RARA.

Hamfests

RARA is the sponsor of the Rochester Hamfest, one of the largest in the northeast. The Rochester Hamfest is a major club activity and has grown from its modest beginnings in 1934 to attracting visitors world-wide. It is held each May and hosts the Atlantic Division and New York State ARRL Convention.

Associated Clubs

Many RARA members enjoy one or more special interests within amateur radio. We are very fortunate to have so many special interest clubs in the area to be associated with. These include: Rochester DX Association (RDXA), Rochester Institute of Technology ARC, Rochester Radio Repeater Association (RRRA), and Rochester VHF Group.

Additional Member Benefits and Club Activities

RARA provides the following additional benefits, services, and activities...

* Annual Directory of all amateurs in the Greater Rochester area
* Annual Members Only Auction in November
* Summer Family Picnic
* Monthly newsletter: The RARA Rag
* Monthly meeting with guest speaker
* K2JD Club Station
* Amateur Radio License Courses
* Amateur Radio License Testing
* Reduced rates for ARRL membership
* Club jackets, shirts, and other logo items are available for purchase

The Rochester Amateur Radio Association, Inc. is a 501(c)3 Educational Corporation
Updated: August 12, 2008 SeanM@Axiom-NY.com