We’re safe from a two-cent postal rate increase…for now.
A commission denied the USPS request this week. For anyone who thinks underdogs don’t stand a chance in the post-season, look in the mirror. Who didn’t think the 46-cent stamp January rate hike was a done deal? We are the underdogs!
Celebrate by sending out some more letters. Stock up on those FOREVER stamps, just in case.
For years, I’ve gotten apologies in my autograph responses.
The signer has no photos.
OR…
He’s out of photos.
For all of you talented customized index card (CIC) makers
out there, stop being humble. Your work rocks! Make an
extra. Tag it with a post-it note that says FOR YOU TO KEEP.
Note in your letter that you are including an extra so they
can share with another fan. I’m not talking about rookies who’ll
be in dozens of sets in the next year. Look at the overlooked
men of baseball’s past, those snubbed by Bowman and Topps.
Watch your success rate go up. You may even get a
printing order from a retiree.
Let me know how it turns out.
“They’ll probably just sell the autographs on ebay.”
“They all write the same thing. It’s probably a form letter.”
“Why do they want MY autograph? They have no idea who I am.”
Your envelope has been opened. There are at least three major reasons why a signer may not pick up a pen and respond. He’s rehearsed all the reasons to say no.
How are you different? Why should that signer sign for YOU?
Before you gamble another stamp or risk a paper cut, make sure you can answer those questions.
“Tom — One Iowan To Another.”
In the coming week, I’ll share who signed a photo to me with this inscription.
Meanwhile, here’s a challenge for all the autograph collectors out there, those who are unsure about asking questions. In fact,I predict there’s some skeptical hobbyists who are unsure if the signers even read the letters.
Ask for a personalized inscription. Don’t wait for the signer to surprise you. Request something made out to YOU, not the generic “2X All-Star” notation. Spell it out for them Maybe you’re writing to a fellow alum from your college? Have someone wish you a happy 40th birthday. Make a connection.
See if it works. See if your letter gets read and your request followed. In fact, you might get more of a response than you ever imagined. If you hear from that signer, write them back with a thank-you note. Then, ask a question about their career.
Memories by mail. It’s one of the best bargains a baseball fan can find these days.
The counter says “post 150.” I see it as a MILEpost. I’m still here. Still having fun! I’m here because of you, good readers. In coming weeks, I’ll be seeking out your hobby goals and achievements. Many of you have impressive blogs, but you still find time to stop by. I’m grateful.
As I touched upon when praising “The Angels, In Order,” I think every autograph collector needs to start with one defined goal. Team collecting is just one option. Consider focusing on:
1. Players from your state. (I had one retiree write and say he looked my hometown up on his map. Others will include tales of playing in your state, visiting, etc.)
2. Players from your university — be it as a student or fan. Watch how player ALUMS clamor to sign for a fellow school booster!
3. Players from one particular season — year of your birth, year you saw your first game, etc.
That’s just a start. As long as your goal is personal, there’s a better chance the recipient of your letter will make a personal effort to respond.
Readers: what other reachable collector specialties are out there, waiting for a goal-setting hobbyist?