Our August meeting was combined with the NIDXA group as was done for the past several years. The gathering was held at the Moran Athletic Club in Joliet and was arranged by Paul, K9NU. Approximately 45 NIDXA and Metro members attended and the normal meeting agenda was suspended as there was a very interesting program. Craig K9CT, Jim N9TK and Jerry WB9Z presented details of their upcoming DXpedition to 3YØX in February 2018. Many items was demonstrated to the group and we all received a much better understanding of what the individual responsibilities are for each team member. The sleeping bag, insulated clothing, etc. were very impressive. Craig announced that the NCDXF had made a donation of $100,000.00 to the DXpedition, the largest single donation in history.