ARI Potenza (IQ8PZ): The Heart of Amateur Radio in Basilicata

Potenza, Italy – The A.R.I. (Associazione Radioamatori Italiani) Sezione di Potenza, identified by its call sign IQ8PZ, serves as a key gathering point for amateur radio enthusiasts in Basilicata. The section is located at C/O MERCATO COPERTO - VIA MILANO 63, 85100 POTENZA PZ. For inquiries, you can reach out to IZ8GUR Sguazzo Fulvio. The section is open to members and visitors every Tuesday from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

What is a Radio Amateur?

In the world of radio, a radio amateur—often called an OM (Old Man) or ham—is an experimenter. They engage in radio and telecommunications for study, research, and educational purposes, never for profit. This activity is recognized internationally as a service, carrying specific rights and duties.

Beyond their personal pursuits, radio amateurs are frequently active in civil protection. Many recognized associations, organized nationally and equipped with mobile radio rooms and other specialized gear, allow them to be operational across the country at short notice in times of need. With prior authorization from the Ministry of Economic Development, participating radio amateurs can also provide radio assistance for sporting events, public demonstrations, or other events, collaborating with local authorities and law enforcement.

A.R.I. National Organization

A.R.I. has its national headquarters in Milan and is structured with regional committees and local sections like Potenza. Regional committees facilitate interaction between the national board (CDN) and local sections, coordinating activities and resolving disputes. They also represent members at general assemblies, typically held annually. Local sections are generally established one per province, though populous areas might have more.

Social Structure and Goals

Nationally, A.R.I. is governed by a Board of Directors (CDN) comprising nine individuals: eight members elected by referendum (who then appoint the president, two vice-presidents, the national secretary, and a deputy secretary) and one member appointed by the Ministry of Economic Development (Department of Communications). A Board of Auditors, consisting of three members, oversees the CDN's activities, manages elections, and verifies the budget. Regional and local bodies also have their own governing and auditing committees, operating autonomously within the national statute.

A.R.I.'s main objectives are to support members in their various activities, provide services, foster relationships with other radio and technology-focused institutions, and promote radio-electrical culture and techniques.

Activities

Amateur radio encompasses a wide range of interests and activities:

• Global Communication: Simply communicating with fellow radio amateurs around the world.
• Technical Study: Exploring electronics applied to radio, and studying the propagation of electromagnetic waves.
• Self-Building: Constructing radio equipment, antennas, and various accessories.
• Contests: Participating in organized competitions with specific rules where points are awarded based on radio contacts, distance covered, and communication modes.
• Digital Techniques: Experimenting with various digital communication modes.
• Satellites: Utilizing amateur radio satellites for communication.
• Civil Protection (ARI-RE): Contributing to emergency communications and disaster relief efforts.

ARI Potenza, as part of this national network, embodies these principles, offering a local community for learning, experimenting, and contributing to the broader world of amateur radio.