My First Kilo Award at Holly State Recreation Area (US-3313)

I’m thrilled to share that I’ve earned my first Kilo Award in the Parks on the Air (POTA) program at my beloved Holly State Recreation Area (US-3313). This park, where my family and I spend countless hours hiking, swimming, and playing disc golf, holds a special place in my heart. The late shift activation on 20 and 40 meters was a bit of a challenge, but steadily, I climbed towards my goal of 59 QSOs. As I approached that critical number, the noise floor rose ominously due to worsening solar conditions and approaching thunderstorms, adding an extra layer of urgency to the activation.

Around my 41st QSO, my friend Louis, N8LEK, made a call that rallied our local South Lyon Area Amateur Radio Club to support me. With the storm’s noise closing in, I reached my goal with Markus Jones, KQ4LTE, as my 59th contact. Achieving this milestone at a park that means so much to me, with the support of my radio community, made the victory even sweeter. Here’s to many more activations and the joy of amateur radio!

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