Amateur radio means different things to each of us. For some, it is a window to the world. For others it is an opportunity to learn and experiment with electronics, digital and new equipment. For others, it is the public service aspect of weather spotting and emergency communication. For all of us, our hobby is way to connect with others around the world, and especially right here in central Illinois.
The common denominator of amateur radio is fellowship. On the local level we connect through events and activities of the Peoria Area Amateur Radio club and its four repeaters. The W9UVI 147.075 repeater, for example is one of the most popular and most used repeaters in the area. This is due, in large part to a generous coverage area and a well located antenna site.
The Peoria Area Amateur Radio Club celebrated 100 years in 2019. It is the second oldest ham radio club in the country. This is something to be proud of!
Our repeaters are important to central Illinois, especially with more and more people relying only on cellular phones for their communication needs. They must be always available and reliable. They would not exist without the dedication of members of PAARC. It is important to realize that although the repeaters are free and open to all, they cost money to operate.
PAARC relies on two major sources of revenue: member dues and its major fundraising event: Midwest Superfest™. Unfortunately, it was necessary to cancel it during 2020 because of the pandemic, then in 2021 and 2022 we had to move our venue at the last moment. Midwest Superfest™ 2023 was held in our new permanent home and the results were promising but still not back to pre-pandemic numbers.
In order to maintain our repeaters, which include tower rent, insurance, broadband, parts, etc., we must keep the revenue flowing. Membership fees alone will not cover tower rent, which leaves us with very few choices. We do not want to raise membership dues in order to keep the club available to as many hams as possible.
As you renew your club dues, we hope you will add a few dollars to that amount to support club activities, such as Field Day, license instruction, license testing, weather spotting, education, and of course, our repeaters. If you are not a member, this is a great time to join.
Thank you for helping to keep PAARC strong for the next 100 years.