Hi Folks-

Certificates for the 2007 November Sweepstakes (SSB and CW) went out the door today. Plaques are on order and should be shipped in the next couple of weeks.

On a less thrilling note, I have to announce that the cost of contest plaques is going to be increasing from $67 to $75, beginning with the 2009 RTTY Roundup. This is the first increase in plaque prices in several years. It comes down to simple economics; our suppliers have been steadily increasing our costs, and we've done as much shopping around and haggling as we could to keep the price reasonable. We've reached the point where we need to raise the price to cover our own costs.

This increase makes the Sponsored Plaque Program even more important. If you or your club has sponsored plaques in the past, we are grateful for your sponsorship and ask that you continue to do so if you are able. Getting a plaque in the mail is a great treat, especially for a contester that's never received one before. It's a great way to give back to the contesting community.

Feel free to contact me with any questions you may have.

Thanks & 73,

Sean Kutzko KX9X

ARRL Contest Branch Manager