[Logic] LOGic 6: "Grooming" the log for QSLs still needed

Thu, 2 Oct 2003 16:09:36 -0600

Art, AB4RL, wrote:
> In any case, another way of doing the same thing is to just reprint
> (to screen) the cards/labels on the date you finally ship and then
> selecting "Yes" to update the QSLSDATE info. Either way works.

Yes, I've used the print-to-screen feature to reset the QSL codes, mostly while
I was developing the report formats and procedures. I do tend to send out QSLs
immediately, just 'cuz I'm a newbie on 6M and I'm the one sending out the "Pse
QSL" card 99 times out of 100. :-) And, since I want a 100% response rate
(yeah, right), I try to set a good example.
I don't use labels, actually. I print directly on the QSL card, and I print
envelopes directly, usually business size because they will easily accept a QSL
and a SASE. But I can also print letter size envelopes, or print addresses
directly on the backs of the QSL cards.
Since getting back into ham radio in June of this year, however, my response
rate for domestic QSLs sent out as postcards is somewhere around 15%. Was, I
should say, as I don't do it anymore. I can remember when I was a kid, everybody
sent QSLs that way, and you would no more think of ignoring a QSL card than of
ignoring a call from JT1AA. QSLing was just something you did 'cuz you were a
ham. Nowadays, you have to practically bribe people to respond to QSLs. At this
point, when I make a commitment to go after a particular award, I simply resign
myself to the fact that if I really want cards back, I'm going to have to send
out cards in envelopes with SASEs and/or IRCs and/or green stamps, and
frequently follow with an email and/or a second card and SASE. <shrug> I guess
that's just the way the game is played these days.
73,
Bill / W5WVO