13 Colonies Certificates All Sent Out:

The 13 Colonies special event was a super hit this year. We just about tripled the "Q" rate of last year (over 34,000 in 2010). We are proud to say that as of July 28th, all certificates have been mailed out to those who requested one for their shack, except for the late requests recieved after the 28th. There were so many requests, we ran out of all supplies (stamps, envelopes, QSL cards, et.) but all requests were completed.

For next year our only request is that you include a self addressed-self sticking return label for your return certificate envelope. This will make the response time even faster! Most of the time is taken up by hand addressing all of the certificate envelopes. 99% of the time everyone followed the instructions for obtaining a certificate or QSL card-Thank you for this.

Again, I cannot QSL for other Colony stations. QSL card requests must go to each individual Colony station for a reply.

Everyone had fun, and I felt bad opening up those certificate requests, where the operator missed "All 13" by only one station! All of the Colony stations would like to thank everyone who participated this year. Only for a very few exceptions, all operators calling us were polite, patient and operated with-in the spirit of the Independence week on-air celebration.

Next year (2011) will be even better. A new certificate featuring the Declaration of Independence-Nice! (See it at my QRZ.com bio-KU2US).Many thanks to the MN5ALJ stations in N.Ireland for their participation. Most wanted to "Q" the bonus station for the endorsement too! In 2011 we have another participating station with a certificate endorsement also! WM3PEN, representing "Independence Hall" in Phil. PA., will operate along side us also. Folks, it doesnt get better than this! We are preparing for 2011 now, so hope to work all in better propagation. Best 73, and again, thank you for making this years SE a huge success...

Ken Villone-KU2US
The US 13 Colonies Group
Administrator

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