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I'll start out with comments on what I would like to see changed and then continue with others' comments that I agree with.

1. If I recall correctly, years ago when 13 Colonies started, the exchange was the signal report, the K2(X)'s state and the operators given name (no personal callsign, however). While the 13 Colonies website today does not require a name, I think that using the operator's name adds some protocol discipline to the exchange and adds to the event being a non-contest operation. Note that the N1MM+ event log implementation has a space for the operator's name and is for use by K2(X) operators as well as those making contacts with K2(X) or other special call sign stations. The event has become too much like a competitive contest and less like a more relaxed event, like some QSO parties are conducted. I suggest that the 13 Colonies web site should specify the exchange protocol and give examples for exchanges by mode. As a mostly CW operator (all CW in this year's 13 Colonies as K2B), I suggest a CW exchange that looks like, e.g.,

[K2B operator] CQ CQ 13 COL DE K2B K2B? K(optional)
[Responder] K2B(optional) de(optional) WA1XYZ K(optional)
[K2B operator] WA1XYZ 599 (or 5NN) VA (K2(X)'s state) OP JOE(given name) K(optional)
[Responder] DE(optional) WA1XYZ(optional) 599 (or 5NN) NH (WA1XYZ's state; optional for DX) OP SAM(given name) K(optional)
[K2B operator] WA1XYZ(optional) TU 73 es 76* QRZ? DE K2B K(optional).

A similar protocol would be used for SSB and other modes.

*Note: Not specifically as feedback or a comment, I am proposing "76" or SEVENTY SIX as a new "Numbered Radiogram" specifically for use on or around Independence Day with the meaning: "Wishing you a happy Independence Day this July Fourth" when ending a QSO with another station during the 13 Colonies event as well as any other QSO during this holiday time frame.

2. I was called by several K2(X) stations and one of the special callsign stations while operating as K2B. I am not sure why they were calling me for a contact while they are part of the event. If they are collecting contacts toward obtaining an award I think they should contact the event station using their own call sign, not using their K2(X) event callsign, otherwise how can they claim credit for an award? Perhaps they were operators new to the event? Since these were CW contacts I assume they have been hams for at least several years? Perhaps a note on the 13 Colonies website would help.

3. [to David] Concerning the groups.io reflector: I am not sure why it was necessary to create a new reflector for 2022. You could have continued using the old reflector and just added or subtracted operators for this year. It is now tied to the year 2022 and you will have to create a new one for next year. Perhaps you had a specific reason for doing this, but I suggest going back to a generic reflector which can be used year after year. Perhaps the group name could just be changes by removing "2022" without creating a whole new reflector group. It may be useful for both new and former operators to review some of this year's emails next year before 2023 operations begin. What do you plan to do next year?

4. I don't know what logging software others are using, but I recommend using N1MM+ and the 13 Colonies User Defined Contest (.udc) file. You can eliminate the need to use DX Summit or the Reverse Beacon network by connecting to a spotting network and sorting the spots on the band you are using, by callsign, to find out where the K2B stations are operating without having to filter out all the other stations. If you are not operating as K2B, you can find the other event stations and quickly pick them up, assuming the propagation is good between you and the event station. (Be sure to use your own call sign if you are collecting for an award.) Using N1MM+ you can set up the "Run" messages to send K2B information, since you, of course will be running and calling CQ, and you can set up the S&P messages to send your own callsign information since you will only be searching and pouncing for event stations.

5. I agree with one hour time slots on the sign-up spreadsheet.

6. I agree with freezing the Row 1 and Column A on the sign-up spreadsheet. I was checking to see if it could be done like in an MS .xlsx spreadsheet and you can. I modified the July 7 page to do this if anyone cares to take a look at it.

I did enjoy operating again as "DX" this year and I think all went well in general. I hope there are fewer thunder storms in my area next year which caused me to unhook my antennas during times that I may have been able to operate. I also wish that operators would treat the event less like a contest and more like a relaxed QSO party AND a celebration of American Independence.

Good job, David!