Opportunities Available To Serve as Delegate to US Chess Business Meetings in Wisconsin During Late Summer of '18

 

Late next summer, representatives from most states will convene in Middleton, WI (outside Madison) to discuss updates to the US Chess rulebook and matters of importance in the governance of the nation's primary chess organization.

Based on its membership, Illinois is currently authorized to send five delegates, along with multiple alternates.

Under ICA bylaws, notice is required to be "posted on the ICA website at least 30 days in advance of such selection" and shall ask those interested in serving in these positions "apply in writing and confirm their ability and intent to attend."

Selection should be based on "demonstrated commitment to ICA and USCF" as gauged by a) the length of membership and b) the degree of participation. 

The evaluation of participation shall include but not be limited to:

• organizing (tournaments or club play)
• promoting (chess)
• writing articles
• directing (tournaments)
• playing in tournaments
• participation on (ICA) committees
• attendance at (annual) meetings

The ICA is charged with ensuring a "geographic balance" in the selection and shall designate a chief delegate. In recent years, we've had the benefit of long-time delegate Tim Just serving in that capacity and there is every reason to believe Mr. Just is up for that duty again. But Illinois was unable to send a complete roster to Virginia this year so it is hoped we will have a full delegation in Middleton.

Please respond by Dec. 1, 2017 to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. It is hoped we can advise US Chess and the delegates themselves of the board's decisions by the end of 2017.

While travel and accommodation expenses are borne by the delegate, in the past, the ICA board has authorized a nominal per diem to cover the cost of a meal or two. Although the business meetings themselves will be held on a Saturday and Sunday in conjunction with the US Open, it is highly recommended to attend one or more committee meetings leading up to the weekend.

Those committee meetings are generally open to any US Chess member. The ICA is happy to provide information on those committees -- and hopes to provide more information as "Delegates Call" information is distributed.

This is a tremendous opportunity to be the eyes and ears -- as well as the voice -- of Illinois chess on a national level. If you or a family member might be playing in the 2018 US Open, why not partake in these meetings for the betterment of our community.