ARI Forlì (IQ4FC): A Century of Connections and Community Service

Forlì, Italy – The A.R.I. (Associazione Radioamatori Italiani) Sezione di Forlì, known by its call sign IQ4FC, is a local chapter with a rich and enduring history in the amateur radio community. While currently temporarily without a physical headquarters, the spirit of radio in Forlì remains strong. For inquiries, you can contact IZ4IFR Casadei Turroni Monti Antonio, or visit their website: www.ariforli.it.

The Enduring Legacy of Romano Lombardi (I4LJQ)

The section fondly remembers its past, including a former location behind the "ODEON" cinema on Viale della Stazione, where they ingeniously used the cinema's heating pipes for warmth. To honor the constant dedication of one of its cherished members, Romano Lombardi (I4LJQ), the section has adopted his call sign. This gesture is a heartfelt tribute to his unwavering commitment and selfless contributions, ensuring his memory, along with all other departed members, remains alive within the community.

A Journey Through History: The ARI Forlì Section

The origins of amateur radio in Forlì trace back to June 2, 1951, with the formation of the first ARI group, founded by I4CEA. This initiative stemmed from a desire to establish a local Forlì group, as ARI regulations at the time didn't permit multiple sections per province (Rimini already had one). Official recognition from Bologna arrived later, on September 22, 1985.

By 1954, a true ARI Forlì Section was officially recognized by ARI Milano. However, local press coverage of this institution only emerged roughly two decades later, when the Section finally secured an institutional headquarters in Corso Mazzini. In its early years, meetings were often held in members' homes.

Despite the initial lack of a fixed location, member activity was vibrant. In 1965, Forlì hosted both the National ARI Congress and the Romagna Convention at the Hotel Universal. The 1960s also saw the beginning of a long-standing collaboration with the ENAIP Institute of Forlì, driven by a shared interest in radiotechnology for technical and scientific study and instruction. The institute provided its premises for section activities and, at times, for courses preparing individuals for amateur radio license exams.

The 1970s were marked by an intensive search for a stable and definitive home, leading to several moves within the city. After initial gatherings at the San Biagio parish halls or members' homes, the Section established its headquarters at Corso Mazzini 37 in 1973 (thanks to Leone IK4BZX), in premises adjacent to CISL Forlì. Photos from the time show members like Leone IK4BZX and Germano I4TJG during the renovation phase. This period marked a time of strong cohesion and organization for the Forlì group.

In 1975, the Forlì Section's participation in the Forlì Fair earned significant praise from ARI Milano, particularly for the effective promotional activities at their stand. The text from their display posters, which explained the meaning of "radio amateur" and related concepts, as well as the technical and social goals of amateur radio, was even requested by Secretary-General Sergio Pesce I1ZCT for potential publication in Radio Rivista due to its originality.

The late 1970s and early 1980s saw another relocation, after a renewed search, to the former "Gioventù Italiana del Littorio" building in Via Borghetto Accademia 1. This was granted by the Emilia Romagna Region thanks to ZFY's efforts. This era was characterized by strong camaraderie among members who actively worked to solidify the concept of "section."

However, due to necessary renovations, this location also proved temporary. By the late 1980s, the Forlì group had to move its meeting point first to Via delle Torri, next to the Volunteer Consultation center, and then, in the mid-1990s, to Viale Salinatore, in the building now used by the Provveditorato agli Studi. From 2002 to 2022, the Forlì amateur radio community was located at Via Cadore 75, a shared facility with Civil Protection.

To celebrate its fiftieth anniversary, the A.R.I. Section of Forlì "Romano Lombardi" activated a special station with the call sign IQ4FC on September 3-4 and 11-12, 2004. A specially created commemorative diploma was sent to all radio amateurs who achieved a qualifying score, and a personalized copy bearing their call sign was also given to all registered members as a memento of the event.

Despite current challenges, ARI Forlì's long and active history demonstrates its deep roots in the community and its enduring commitment to the amateur radio hobby.