[FARC] Meeting Discussion Topic

[Kirk Talbott]

I have a possible meeting discussion topic, QSL cards, especially the bureau system.

I received what I can best describe as an indignant letter from Irv and Sandy McWherter, mail sorters at the Third Call Area QSL Bureau of the National Capitol DX Association.  The issue, 1 OUNCE of QSL cards, about 6 or 7 cards according to them, costing 42 cents to mail to me, plus they want reimbursement for the cost of the stamps and envelope to mail me the indignant letter.  They didn't consider the printer ink, there are 31 sentences in this letter.  

They are also recommending that if I want to continue to receive QSL cards in the mail that I keep on file with them 1-3 SASEs for future mailings of the cards with "Forever" stamps at 42 cents so I don't have to worry about a stamp price increase.  They did include a couple QSL cards with the indignant letter so the weight of the single page letter and the included cards added up to require a full 42 cents postage, wanting me to get my full money's worth for my stamp reimbursement.  I happen to think it is 0.0001 of an ounce light, I want change.

They indicated that if it was difficult for me to get out and buy envelopes and stamps that I could just send them the money to cover the cost as they charge 8 cents for an envelope and of course the 42 cent "forever" stamps.  They also recommended that, "If you aren't really familiar with the service that the ARRL provides for amateur radio operators, it is in QST magazine."  They indicated that if I had my E-mail address in QRZ.com they could have E-mailed me the indignant letter and saved me the 50 cent reimbursement penalty for the mailing.  

I suppose ignorance of the system is no excuse but I had no idea this was even happening with QSL cards.   At first I felt contrite for the infraction but after considering the tone of the letter and pondering it a while my contrition has turned to anger.   

73
KB3ONM
Thoroughly admonished and seething
Kirk








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