The history of CMSARA is that it was founded to be more of an “association” than a “club” of amateur radio enthusiasts. Many clubs suffer from issues of authoritarianism (it’s the “officers” club), elitistism (e.g., Extra Class operators are superior to Technicians; No-Code licensees aren’t ‘real’ hams’), and being too tradition-bound (meet-and-eat clubs is what we’ve “always” done). CMSARA was organized to be less of a club and more of an organized group of ham radio enthusiasts and to be activity-oriented. In short, we do stuff! 

As a result, CMSARA makes sure that it is the membership that “owns” the group. Officers and members of the Board of Directors are elected to serve the membership. Presidents are limited to two consecutive terms. Board meetings are open to the membership. ARES officials, such as the county Emergency Coordinator, are appointed by the Section Manager of the American Radio Relay League. New ideas are welcomed, encouraged and supported by others in the group.