Founded in 1981, the Tompkins County Amateur Radio Club (TCARA), call sign AF2A, serves as a dynamic hub for amateur radio enthusiasts in Ithaca and surrounding areas. This vibrant club brings together individuals with a passion for exploring every aspect of amateur radio, from contesting and DX chasing to building repeaters and fostering new talent in the field. The club meets monthly on the first Tuesday at 7:00 PM at the Tompkins County Department of Emergency Response on Brown Road, offering a warm invitation to all interested in amateur radio.
TCARA is not just a club; it’s a community of diverse enthusiasts. Its members are DX chasers, public service volunteers, emergency responders, antenna erectors, CW operators, students, and retirees—all united by a shared passion for radio. The club’s comprehensive activities include mentoring new operators (Elmers), organizing hamfests, providing license classes, and managing an array of communication services such as repeaters, packet radio BBS, and Tvi/RFI committees.
Under the leadership of President Bill Klinko (KC2OYN) and supported by Vice President Jamie P. Arnold (W2GPR), Secretary Richard A. Freedman (N2HH), and Treasurer Ellen J. Cramer (KD2TCN), TCARA upholds a strong commitment to innovation and public service. The club actively supports emergency communication initiatives and engages in regular on-the-air bulletins, making it a valuable resource for the local community.
With 79 total members and an emphasis on inclusivity and mentorship, TCARA welcomes all—from new licensees to seasoned operators. For more information, visit TCARA's official website and join a community where experimentation, learning, and camaraderie thrive.
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