ARI Loano (IQ1LA): A Section Dedicated to DX and Community

Loano, Italy – The A.R.I. (Associazione Radioamatori Italiani) Sezione di Loano, identified by its call sign IQ1LA, officially came into being in January 1982. Born from the desire of a group of radio amateurs to focus more on DX (long-distance contacts), rare connections, expeditions, and telegraphy, while still embracing all amateur radio activities, the section has a rich history of dedication and perseverance.

The section is located at VIA MAGENTA 8, 17025 LOANO SV. For inquiries, you can contact President IK1QBT Gallo Antonio.

Meetings are held on the 1st and 3rd Friday of each month, from 9:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

For more information, visit their website: www.ariloano.it.

The Vision and Founding

In early 1981, a group of OMs (Old Men - a term for radio amateurs) regularly meeting to discuss DX activities and share information (before the widespread use of DX bulletins and clusters) often expressed a desire for their ARI sections to delve more into rare connections, expeditions, and telegraphy, rather than solely focusing on common topics like rally assistance, VHF repeaters, or transponders.

Over time, the idea for a new section gained traction – one where, while not neglecting other amateur radio activities, they could primarily develop their passion for long-distance communication: DX. Libero Meriggi, I1YXN, a key promoter of the initiative, began contacting other OMs in the area, sharing the project, listening to their opinions, and incorporating their advice. Several meetings among supporters quickly led to the idea becoming a concrete reality.

Overcoming Challenges and Securing a Home

After completing all necessary formalities, the ARI Loano Section was officially founded in January 1982. The founding members were: Boragni Mauro I1WNB, Burastero Umberto I1JOH, Carrara Nerio I1XKN, De Marco Domenico I1DWD, Ferrari Ferruccio I1JKS, Ferrario Domenico I1WLC, Finzi Roberta I1UQW, Frey Carlo I1FYA, Giacchero Mario I1GHC, Giorgis Gian Carlo I1GGL, Lauretta Giovanni I1LYT, Majandi Sergio I1ONZ, Meriggi Libero I1YXN, Moreno Silvano I1WSM, Paganelli Pietro I1HJK, Pallavicino Enrico I1ZRV, Pizzorno Riccardo I1UXP, Ricci Angelo I1RHL, Rinaldo Feliciano I1ATW, Rizzi Algori I1RZG, Schneck Felice I1AOQ, Squeri Giovanni I1GC, Tibberio Nicola I1TJL, Tonin Luciano I1HLI, and Zerbini Antonio I1ZB.

The newly formed section faced significant organizational challenges, but these were overcome thanks to the determination and trust placed in its President, Libero Meriggi. Following his persistent requests, the Municipality of Loano granted them the use of a floor in the Pentagonal Tower within the Town Hall, where the section remained for about ten years.

Due to the need for extensive restoration of the Tower, the Municipality later offered the section its current headquarters, which, while less historically prestigious, is significantly better suited for their amateur radio activities.

Libero Meriggi, I1YXN, served as President until his passing in 1992, with the exception of one year when Giovanni I1LYT held the position. He was succeeded by Alberto I1QOD and the current president, Tony IK1QBT.