Harry George wrote:

I stumbled onto the North American QSO party and responded to 3 CQ's
before I realized what was happening. Then I found and read the rules
on the web. What I can't figure out is:

a) I have no intention of competing. Should I just stay out of this,
and go find other places in the spectrum? Or should I dive in, and
respond to any stations I can reach?

Whatever turns you on. Some compete seriously, some leisurely, some just
make a few QSOs and some stay away.

b) Do I need to turn in a log for those 3 contacts (and any more if
"a" is "go for it"), so that the other guys' logs can be confirmed?

No. As long as you don't show up in just one claimed log (i.e. a
unique), your QSOs will be valid for the stations who worked you.
However, contest organizers encourage sending in "check" logs.

c) I heard some people asking for QSLs. I've just been reading about
WAS and see that NAQP could be a great way to get some states. But I
also realize that a contest is a hectic time for anything as civilized
as QSL cards. What's considered proper form here?

No one is stopping you from mailing your QSL and a SASE to the US
stations you worked. You don't have to make an official on-air request
for the QSL. Use qrz.com for the address lookup and most people will
send you their card back. As for the ones who don't - never work them
again in any contest, ever, until the end of time.

73 .... WA7AA



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