The Keuka Lake Amateur Radio Association hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including club meetings, on-air nets, hamfests, training sessions, and public service activities. Our events are designed to support learning, fellowship, and active participation in amateur radio. Whether you are a new ham or a seasoned operator, all are welcome to join us and get involved. ย For more information or questions about KLARA activities email our Activities Coordinator Tom (KB2TDH): activities@klara.us
2026 KLARA Simplex Challenge โ May 9th!
The Keuka Lake Amateur Radio Association is pleased to announce the return of our annual Simplex Challenge โ a fun, fast-paced operating event designed to sharpen your skills and get you on the air!
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Date: Saturday, May 9, 2026 Logs Submitted by June 10th, 2026
๐ Time: Noon โ 4:00 PM (local time)
๐ก Mode: 2M & 6M FM & SSB Phone > Simplex only
๐ Power Limit: 50 watts
The KLARA Simplex Challenge is designed to:
Teach contest basics
Give new operators a chance to "exercise" their equipment
Provide an enjoyable springtime club activity
This is a fun contest. Good operating practices and good sportsmanship are part of the challenge
Simplex operation builds:
Real-world operating skills
Understanding of terrain and coverage
Practical emergency communications capability
Confidence in your station setup
This is a great opportunity to test antennas, mobile setups, portable operations, and propagation โ all while having fun with fellow hams.
Each June, more than 31,000 Amateur Radio operators (also called "hams") across North America set up temporary radio stations in parks, fields, and public spaces. This nationwide event demonstrates how Amateur Radio provides emergency communications, public service, and worldwide connections โ even when traditional systems fail.
๐๏ธ Try It Yourself โ Get On The Air!
We welcome the public to stop by, ask questions, and even try making a radio contact yourself at our "Get On The Air" station. No license or experience required โ weโll help you every step of the way!ย Come see how it all works โ and maybe discover your next hobby!
FREE โข Family Friendly โข Open to the Public
For more information, just stop by during the event โ we'd love to meet you!
2026 ARRL Field Dayย
Connecting Communities When It Matters Most
Weโre excited to announce the Groundhog Day Hamfest 2026, sponsored by the Keuka Lake Amateur Radio Association (KLARA)! This is a great opportunity to connect with fellow hams, explore equipment, and enjoy a fun day celebrating amateur radio.
ย Date: Saturday, February 7, 2026
Location: Almond, NY Municipal Building โ 1 Marvin Lane, Almond, NY 14804
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Uo5cPPs6zJ3HjHNu8
Times: Doors open at 8 AM | Vendor Setup 7 AM | VE Testing at 10 AM
Highlights:
FREE admission for vendors and the public
Tables, chairs, and power available
Meet fellow ham operators, trade gear, and share knowledge
Directions: Take Exit 33 off I-86, follow signs toward Alfred โ the building is 1 mile from the exit on the right.
We hope to see you there! Letโs make this hamfest a fun and memorable event.
Location: Steuben County Civil Defense Center, Bath, NY
2026 STATS:
Category 5I WNY
We had over 200 SSB contracts andย
over 250 CW contacts