08/22/2002 | K2AXX The first weekend was great! I've got to admit, the volume was way down here in Western NY, but the thrills are still there! First, thanks to KA1UAG for being so dang persistent! We made it from FN44ig to FN12cs (552km) with minutes to spare! When I was getting his final Rogers - a loud CRACK in my headphones and bright flash outside. Yep - lightining just a little too close for my well-being. Later, worked AF1T, NS1O and K2AEP on Mt. Graylock, with some help from the rain clouds that were overhead earlier! Thanks to all the intrepid hill-toppers for making this event so much fun every year! I've got my stuff on the tower all the time, so there's no need to wait for a contest to get on and play!

Mark -- K2AXX