Proceedings of the 2003 USCF Annual Meetings

Introduction:

We have been asked to record and prepare the minutes for the 2003 USCF Membership Meeting (including the Executive Board / Staff Forum) and the USCF Delegates' Meeting.

The Delegates' Meeting minutes will cover all ADMs (Advance Delegate Motions published in the 2003 Delegates' Call) and all NDMs (New Delegate Motions) that were brought to the floor. NDMs that were withdrawn before being presented may not be included. All Motions are presented in the order in which they were brought to the floor, which may differ from the order in which they were placed on the agenda. They are assigned sequential DM numbers, which are referenced to the corresponding ADM or NDM number. NDM numbers are also listed sequentially. A cross-reference table is provided to allow quick access to disposition of motions. Speakers may be identified from time to time. Usually participants in a discussion, when listed, are in alphabetical order rather than in order of recognition, but there may be exceptions. Speakers who were not recognized by the Chair or who did not approach the microphone and identify themselves are not likely to be mentioned. (Please note: The Delegates' Call is now available in its entirety to everyone on the USCF website at www.uschess.org.) Please also note that certified Delegates are presented by state, with EB members and DALs listed first, then Delegates who have been certified from the original published list. Delegates who were certified at the meeting who were not on the original list are listed last. The states indicated for Delegates refer to the state delegation that seated them if different from their home state. The state will be listed for the sponsors of motions and Delegates lists, but not included with lists of speakers and other mentions where the state is not a major consideration. Please refer to the Delegate list to determine the state for any Delegate. If an organization is mentioned multiple times it will be listed by its full name followed by a shortened name or abbreviation in parentheses. Subsequent mentions will usually be in the shortened form only. There may be some exceptions. Thanks to Diane Reese, Barb Vandermark and Gary Prince for their help in facilitating the documentation of the meetings.

Respectfully submitted,

Myron and Rachel Lieberman - August 2003

Minutes of the 2003 USCF Membership Meeting and Board / Staff Forum

08/08/2003 - Los Angeles, CA

President John McCrary called the 2003 USCF Board / Staff forum to order at 4:07 PM and introduced those staff members present, which included Jami Anson, Tom Brownscombe, Joan Dubois, Peter Kurzdorfer, Judy Misner, Gary Prince, Diane Reese, and Barbara Vandermark.

Bill Goichberg expressed concern over errors in TLA announcements and lack of responsiveness when trying to correct them. Jami Anson indicated that someone was hired recently to work on TLAs and that Mike Nolan and Gary Prince were helping. Bill Goichberg pointed out that the office should acknowledge any TLA corrections submitted by email.

A quorum was established at 4:15 PM and President John McCrary convened the 2003 USCF Membership meeting. Among those present during the meeting were Jami Anson, Joel Berez, Jay Blem, Tom Brownscombe, Frank Camaratta, Joan Dubois, Bill Goichberg, Mike Goodall, Roger Gotschall, Tim Hanke, Cindy Hawkinson, Guy Hoffman, Peter Hopkins, Carol Jarecki, Tim Just, Richard Koepcke, Peter Kurzdorfer, Myron and Rachel Lieberman, Beatriz Marinello, Diana McCrary, John McCrary, Judy Misner, Mike Nolan, Gary Prince, Andrew Rea, Diane Reese, Luis Salinas, Harry Sabine, Kenneth Sloan, Harold Stenzel, Robert Tanner, Barbara Vandermark, and Harold Winston.

President John McCrary explained the qualification process for the US Championship in response to a question from Andrew Rea. Bill Goichberg participated in the discussion.

Tom Brownscombe suggested that Delegate Motion 01-68, which strongly encourages a 12 round format for the US Open at least once every three years, be reconsidered. Tim Hanke, Myron Lieberman, John McCrary, Mike Nolan, Diane Reese, Luis Salinas, and Harold Winston participated in the discussion. Tom Brownscombe then offered the following motion with wording perfected by Harold Winston and Mike Nolan:

MEM03 – 01 – Brownscombe - The USCF Membership Meeting recommends that the Delegates pass the following motion: The Delegates repeal a prior motion (DM01-68) that the US Open should be held as a two week event once in three years. PASSED. (Please note: This motion was considered by the Delegates and failed at the Delegates’ Meeting by a vote of 19 in favor and 32 opposed.)

Bill Goichberg then raised the issue of display ads which do not list the conditions that are in the TLA for the same event (such as not mentioning that a prize fund is based on entries). Tim Just, Myron Lieberman, Gary Prince, and Andrew Rea participated in the discussion. Bill Goichberg offered the following motion:

MEM03 – 02 – Goichberg - The USCF Membership Meeting recommends that the Delegates pass the following motion: Chess Life shall print no display ads for “based-on” tournaments which mention the “based-on” prize fund without indicating that this prize fund is based on entries. PASSED. (Please note: This motion was considered by the Delegates and passed at the Delegates’ Meeting as well.)

Mike Goodall praised Barbara Vandermark and Tim Just praised the entire office staff. Positive comments were also made about Barbara and the staff by John McCrary and Gary Prince. Rachel Lieberman called for a round of applause for the staff, which was given.

Richard Koepcke then asked about TLA problems. Jami Anson replied. She indicated that Gary Prince will provide training for online publication of TLAs. Gary Prince indicated that the TLA person will generate TLAs that will go to both the website and Chess Life without a need for a separate procedure. Currently they go from the TLA person to the magazine and then to the website. John McCrary also commented.

Andrew Rea asked whether there can be a contact at the office on Saturday mornings to handle situations that might arise at tournaments. Jami Anson pointed out that Publications is in the office but cannot answer the phone. Joan Dubois suggested leaving a message.

Bill Goichberg noted that someone should put important breaking news (such as cancellation of national tournaments) on the website. There can be serious consequences if someone makes travel arrangements to attend an event and has not been informed as soon as possible that the event has been cancelled. He also mentioned delays in the ratings on the website.

Gary Prince cautioned that too many banners on the home page can also be a problem. He indicated that the ratings are currently on Al Losoff’s website but that they will soon be brought in house so that corrections can be made internally. He noted that the “What’s New” page on the website is not being maintained.

The meeting was adjourned at 4:50 PM.

WHAT HAPPENED TO YOUR ADVANCE / NEW DELEGATE MOTION?

This chart is the quick and easy way to determine what happened.

Please note: The naming of members of the LMA, Bylaws, and Ethics Committees did not appear in the Advance Agenda as ADMs. They were listed as part of ADM 9, which was unrelated. They therefore appear below as NDMs.

Minutes of the 2003 USCF Delegates' Meeting

August 09 - 10, 2003 – Los Angeles, CA

SATURDAY SESSION

President John McCrary called the 2003 USCF Delegates’ Meeting to order at 9:15 AM on Saturday August 9.

Board members Frank Brady and Bob Smith were not present. President John McCrary called the roll.

Appendix A lists the 72 Delegates who participated. (Please note that not all Delegates were present during roll-call. Some were certified later, but 66 Delegates were present at roll call, which was sufficient for a quorum.)

DM 03-01 - ADM 03-01 (John McCrary, SC): The Delegates re-elect as Delegates at Large those whose terms are expiring or have expired and are present at this meeting: Jerry Hanken, Rachel Lieberman, and Harold Winston. PASSED. .

DM 03-02 - ADM 03-02 (Bob Smith, FL; John McCrary, SC): The Delegates approve the advance agenda. PASSED

(Please note: Two motions from the Membership Meeting were added to the agenda prior to it being adopted).

DM03-03 - ADM 03-03 (John McCrary, SC): The appointment of the Parliamentarian for the 2003 Delegates’ Meeting is affirmed. PASSED. (Please note: Mike Nolan was appointed parliamentarian.)

DM03-04 - ADM 03-04 (John McCrary, SC): The Delegates approve the standing rules. PASSED

(Please note: A copy of the standing rules was provided to all Delegates and they were summarized by Parliamentarian Mike Nolan prior to approval and primarily consisted of guidelines for limitation of debate.)

A moment of silence was then in order for those friends of chess that we lost recently. The names of Jessica Wilder and Conrad Batchelder were added to the list that was published on page 57 in the Delegates’ Call. Those remembered were Michael D. Barton, Conrad Batchelder, Brian Bugbee, John W. Collins, Eduard Gufeld, Robert W. Hyde, Ollie La Freniere, Norman Lessing, Edmar Mednis, Anthony Miles, Carmine Nigro, Mark Ostreich, Ronald Allan Pease, John (Jack) Pratt, Oscar Shapiro, Richard Verber, Archie Waters, and Jessica Wilder.

DM03-05 - ADM 03-05: (Bob Smith, FL): Moved, that the Minutes of the 2002 Delegates’ Meeting be accepted as published. PASSED

DM03-06 - ADM 03-06 (Bob Smith, FL): The Delegates certify the election of Executive Board members for the 2003-2007 term. PASSED The results of the election were as follows:

Those elected (with vote totals): Beatriz Marinello (1009), Tim Hanke (888), Don Schultz (870)

Other candidates on the ballot: Dr. Joseph Wagner (707), Sam Sloan (653), Mikel Peterson (601)

Write – ins: There were a total of 291 write-ins and two ballots that contained comments instead of votes. Those write-ins who received more than one vote were: Steve Doyle (159), Al Lawrence (10), Susan Polgar (6), Kevin Bachler, John Fernandez (4 each), John Donaldson, Bill Goichberg, George John, Tim Just, Boris Spassky, Ed Yetman (3 each), Lev Alburt, Tom Martiniak, Yasser Seirawan, Jennifer Shahade, Hal Terrie, Helen Warren (2 each). There were 78 names that each received one write-in. The list can be found on the USCF website (www.uschess.org) on the Governance page. 1822 ballots were received.

(Please note: The Board has since met and named the following officers: President – Beatriz Marinello, Vice President – Steve Shutt, Secretary – Frank Brady, Vice President of Finance – Tim Hanke. Members-at-Large of the new Board are Frank Camaratta, John McCrary, and Don Schultz.)

Next to be considered was the ratification of the actions of the Executive Board (EB) since the last Delegates’ Meeting. Minutes of a conference call held on June 9 were handed out to the Delegates and were added to the actions to be ratified by Harold Winston. President John McCrary read the motions as well. He and Harry Sabine presented information about the planned move to Crossville, TN. Brochures about Crossville and Cumberland County were available to everyone. President McCrary noted that neither the sale of the building in New Windsor nor the move have been finalized as yet. Ralph Bowman and Larry Cohen participated in the discussion after which the motion passed.

DM03-07 - ADM 03-07 (Harold Winston, IL): The delegates ratify all actions of the Executive Board appearing in Minutes published in Executive Board Newsletters and the Delegates’ Call, since the conclusion of the 2002 Delegates’ Meeting and the minutes of the Executive Board conference call of June 9, 2003 that have been distributed to the USCF Delegates at this meeting. PASSED

REPORTS OF USCF OFFICERS AND STAFF

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

President John McCrary reported on the state of the USCF. He pointed out that two years ago we had payables of $650,000 and Book and Equipment inventory, a major source of revenue, had been depleted. Vendors were upset because of the lack of timely payment and members were becoming frustrated because of long lead times and poor product selection. The dues increase has had a negative effect on membership. The aftermath of 9/11 adversely affected investment value and fundraising efforts. The LMA fund is now so small that it can no longer support services owed to Life Members.

He indicated that the Board outsourced much of Book and Equipment Sales through strategic partnerships, began to rebuild an inventory, and found savings in other areas as well. We are $250,000 ahead of where we would have been had those measures not been taken, but the situation is still critical. He believes that we have bought two years in which to plan and move toward the future. Dr. McCrary indicated that the next few months should determine the future for USCF from among three scenarios.

The best scenario is that we complete the sale of the building and the move to Crossville successfully, reduce costs, establish strong partnerships with other groups, complete necessary improvements in office services, and remake the USCF office.

If that cannot be done the second scenario is that the current model of USCF operations would not be able to sustain itself economically and the USCF would become a national coordinating agency and not provide member services.

Without successful fundraising efforts and support from members and organizers chess will fragment and have no national presence. There will be many organizations with rating systems and websites but with no national direction.

He then summarized what needs to be done in the next two years.

1. Sell or mortgage the building and use the proceeds to fund the move and obtain the necessary capital equipment.

2. Use computers to operate more effectively and reduce personnel cost.

3. It is essential that partnerships be established. USCF must continue to be the primary source of chess information. Continuation of the rating system is of paramount importance. USCF must continue to coordinate scholastic chess activities and coordinate competition at all levels through ratings and dissemination of information.

Examples were given of how easily bad information can be obtained and accepted from websites when there is no national organization to be a credible source of information.

Vice President Steve Shutt pointed out that if we didn’t have tournaments here the Grandmasters wouldn’t be here. They would be in Europe. He also emphasized that a national organization must maintain the “chess culture”.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT – Executive Director Frank Niro resigned due to health considerations prior to the meeting. Please refer to the Delegates’ Call for the Executive Director’s report, which was later reviewed in the report of the Vice President of Finance.

CHESS TRUST REPORT – Chairman Harold Winston reported on the US Chess Trust (The Trust). Three Trustees were present in person and seven were connected by conference call to the Trust’s annual meeting. Chairman Winston apologized for the technical difficulties in setting up the conference call that delayed the start of the Chess Trust meeting. He then pointed out that it was a rough year financially for the Trust and that the Trust has had difficulty getting regular financial information from the USCF office. He indicated that the Trust addressed that problem and established a procedure whereby USCF requests for money from the Chess Trust must be submitted on invoices to the Treasurer (Steve Doyle) and the Managing Director (Barbara DeMaro). He cautioned that the Patron program needs to be publicized in Chess Life every month to have maximum effectiveness.

He then focused on the positive news regarding projects supported by the Trust. First was the World Chess Hall of Fame and Sidney Samole Museum (Hall of Fame). He urged everyone to try to get to the Hall of Fame next year when the US Open and annual meetings are in Florida. He pointed out that the annual ceremony has been scheduled on an ongoing basis for the first weekend in March each year and urged everyone’s attendance. He also pointed out that all of the Grandmasters who have visited the museum have been impressed. (Please note: See also Al Lawrence’s additional report on the Hall of Fame.)

The next success he reported was the Arnold Denker Tournament of High School Champions. Arnold Denker contributes $5,000 each year to the event, the Chess Trust contributes $1,000, and the University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) provides scholarships to those with the best results who qualify academically. There was an excellent opening ceremony organized by Dewain Barber, where the participants were able to have their pictures taken with GM Arnold Denker and GM Susan Polgar, in addition to an excellent awards ceremony. (Please note: GM Arnold Denker was present this year and participated in the award ceremony as did GM Susan Polgar, USCF President John McCrary, UTD professor and former USCF President Dr. Tim Redman, and USCF Scholastic Director Tom Brownscombe, who was a winner of the first Denker tournament). Harold Winston, as Trust Chairman, also participated in the award ceremony.

The Scholar-Chessplayer program is a successful project supported by the Trust in conjunction with the Scholastic Council. They will work together to promote the program and seek sponsors.

The Trust sent a letter to the IRS to document its intention to support the participation of US teams in the Chess Olympiad and is now supporting the participation in the Olympiad. Susan Polgar, with help from Garry Kasparov, has established a training program for the US Women’s Olympiad team. The Trust supports this effort and is accepting donations earmarked for that program. Additionally, the Board of Trustees pledged $4,300 to the Women’s Olympiad as part of a total pledge of $11,500.

Donations to the US Chess Trust can be unrestricted or they can be earmarked for any of the projects supported by the Trust which include those described above as well as support for the blind, for prison chess, scholastic chess, women’s chess and many other charitable chess causes.

Joel Channing and Arnold Denker (after the conclusion of his term on the USCF EB) have been added to the Board of Trustees

Al Lawrence, Executive Director of the World Chess hall of Fame and Sidney Samole Museum (Hall of Fame), then presented his report. He noted that the Hall of Fame is a high spot of things that go well for chess, and provided details about the induction ceremony that was held this March. He thanked Susan Polgar for her help. He described a tag-team simul that was held. Several chess stars, including Boris Spassky, Susan Polgar, and Alexandra Kosteniuk, alternated moves in the same game. Charter memberships to the Hall of Fame are available for a one-time $250 fee. Charter members get permanent recognition at the Hall of Fame with their names inscribed in bricks near the entryway and on a wall plaque inside the building. The success of the Hall of Fame is a direct result of partnership between the USCF, the Chess Trust, Excalibur Electronics and the Samole Family. Sharon Samole is now the museum director and will be there five days per week. USCF has provided a coordinator on site. He is Gil Luna, who was previously the Miami Dade County School Coordinator for Excellence in Academics and a former High School chess champion. He schedules many field trips to the museum, which introduces tens of thousands of kids to chess. Al Lawrence points out that this position should continue as it essentially provides USCF with a branch office at the Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame hosts many USCF National Championships, most recently the US Junior and US Cadet. They also hosted the “Final Four of College Chess” again this year (Stanford won). That event gets good media coverage. Someone who learned of the Hall of Fame by reading a newspaper article donated correspondence pertaining to the New York 1924 tournament and personal letters by Emmanuel Lasker to the Hall of Fame. Al Lawrence concluded by saying that we have a lot of good things going and we should concentrate on our commonality and understand that everyone involved wants the best for chess. While we have a difficult job, there are plenty of volunteers and it can be done if we all work together.

Harold Winston then presented the concept of planned giving to the US Chess Trust and thanked Susan Polgar for all that she did at the National Scholastics. A round of applause for Susan Polgar followed.

President John McCrary then commented on his experience at the induction ceremony this year and announced his financial contributions to the Hall of Fame and other Chess Trust programs.

FIDE REPORT – USCF’s FIDE Delegate Bill Kelleher, FIDE Zonal President Robert Tanner, and FIDE General Secretary for the Continental Assembly of the Americas (and USCF President-Elect) Beatriz Marinello presented the report.

Bill Kelleher spoke first and updated the Delegates regarding the issue of drug testing. The Delegates mandated that our FIDE Delegation do what they could to eliminate the FIDE requirement for drug testing. While they were unable to succeed in their attempts to do so, they made significant progress. The new head of the FIDE Medical Commission is a chessplayer and is trying to make the program for chess as unobtrusive as possible. Penalties have been lowered and the variety of drugs to be monitored has been reduced. Events that require drug testing have been restricted to those in the FIDE championship cycles. Drug testing has not been eliminated, however. The apparent reason is that while it is clear that chess will not become an Olympic sport in the near future and the US Olympic Committee does not provide funding for USCF, many national chess federations obtain some degree of financial support from their National Olympic Committees. They would need to follow the guidelines set by the International Olympic Committee (which include drug testing) in order to continue to receive that funding. The other motion supported by the Delegates last year was to break up the continent of the Americas so that the US could be considered a continent on its own (for the purposes of determining Zonal qualifiers). After negotiation with representatives of other countries in the Americas, the US agreed to withdraw the motion in exchange for the other countries to support the US Championship to continue having status as a Zonal qualifier. Zonal status is extremely important in fundraising for the US Championship. Our friends in Latin America will support us regarding breaking up the continent of the Americas if FIDE does not agree to the US Championship being a Zonal. They also support us on keeping the Zonal structure (which FIDE wants to eliminate entirely).

Robert Tanner spoke next. He indicated that there is a strong demand throughout FIDE for the US to take a more active role, especially in hosting events. Sponsorship is needed to do this. Beatriz Marinello agreed that events need to be brought to the US and pointed out that we are not alone. We need to be globally conscious. She is working with other FIDE member nations. Bill Kelleher emphasized the need to negotiate with other nations and reach out.

Dr. Joseph Wagner then revisited the subject of drug testing from a medical perspective. He pointed out that FIDE has used a chiropractor to impose drug testing and labs in third-world countries over which there is no control to administer tests. He asked about the qualifications of the new head of the FIDE Medical Commission. Bill Kelleher responded that they now have a female MD from the UK who is committed to minimize the impact of drug testing on chessplayers within the existing structure. Robert Tanner confirmed that she is an MD and is also a Women’s International Master (WIM)* who has written articles on chess. He agreed to send Dr. Wagner a sample article. John McCrary indicated that he believes she heads a clinic. Andrew Rea asked about Robert Tanner’s chess credentials. Robert Tanner replied with his experience as a player, Tournament Director, state association president, and full time chess coach. Bill Goichberg asked what would happen if the US refused to allow drug testing of its players in the US Championship. Bill Kelleher replied that there would probably be a rebuke, but such a situation is unlikely at least in the short term. Robert Tanner asked that an issue not be made of it. (*Please note: Robert Tanner indicated after the meeting that the new head of the FIDE Medical Commission is Dr. Jana Bellin, who is in fact a WGM. Also, additional coverage of the FIDE Medical Commission meeting can be found in Tim Redman’s Olympic Participation Committee report, which is presented later.)

CHESS LIFE EDITOR’S REPORT

Editor Peter Kurzdorfer indicated that he was looking for diversity and balance. School Mates has not been completely destroyed but has been subsumed into Chess Life. Balance is necessary to assure that adult and scholastic members both get something. The School Mates annual issue is scheduled to come out in November. He is asking for more people to send in material for the “Chess News” column, which covers local and regional news regarding American chess.

Dave Small asked whether Chess Life was profitable. His question was referred to the financial people. Frank Camaratta indicated that there were a number of other things such as the catalog, advertising, TLAs, etc. involved. He believes that it is probably close to break-even but did not have exact figures. Ordinarily membership dues are expected to make a profit and the magazine is considered a benefit of membership. Mike Nolan pointed out that Chess Life is only a minor revenue producer and is a cost rather than revenue operation. He mentioned that the actual cost of shipping an issue is about $1.25 without counting editorial costs. We do not have sufficient information to determine costs as if the magazine was a standalone operation. There are advertisements for our book and equipment sales as well as other advertising that produces no direct revenue but utilizes space in the magazine. Some revenue that can be traced to the magazine may show up in other areas, such as book and equipment sales, tournament activity, etc. rather than magazine revenue.

REPORT OF THE VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE – VP of Finance Frank Camaratta commented that he thought that Frank Niro was a great talent and presented the organization well. A combination of his health problems, the pressure of his job, the required travel (which was against his doctor’s advice), and his spending time and energy trying to respond to attacks on the Internet put him in a position where his health was at risk if he continued in the Executive Director position. He stressed that this body should have more of an appreciation of the difficulty of the Executive Director’s job. We need to be responsible and try to help. He expressed the thought that a person in the Executive Director’s position does not allow the time to get involved in political discussions in public forums. He understands why Frank Niro left but considers his departure a great loss.

Frank Camaratta mentioned that Frank Niro was the first Executive Director in recent times to establish a strategic plan and the plan was sound. Frank Niro wanted to improve services and evaluate relocation options. He wanted to establish various strategic partnerships with other organizations to help meet our goals. He wanted to re-establish a viable Books and Equipment operation. He was able to get the accounts payable down to below $200,000 from $600,000 at one point and was able to negotiate with vendors to get them to work with the USCF during hard financial times. Frank Camaratta then reviewed the Executive Director’s report in the Delegates’ Call. (Please note that the Delegates’ Call can be found online at www.uschess.org.)

Frank Camaratta noted that some ads and TLAs from the last fiscal year had not been billed and were therefore not listed as accounts receivable. The bottom line will improve when that correction is made. The preliminary year-end financial report appeared to show a modest gain, however the audited report showed a substantial unexpected loss. This was primarily due to multi-year membership income being treated as current revenue rather than deferred income. Adult memberships continue to drop. Scholastic memberships are leveling off. There is a cash flow problem. This is a slow time of the year. The LMA reserves are down to about $300,000 and our line of credit is also about $300,000. Essentially the remaining value of the LMA is the building, which is about $620,000. The operation needs to be modernized and able to function on a reduced payroll while maintaining services. (Please note: Audited yearend financials for fiscal year 2002 – 2003 can be found at www.uschess.org.)

He then explained the financial aspects of the Crossville relocation. The USCF will be receiving three acres of land in Crossville on the condition that the building for the USCF office is to be located on that site. The intent is to use the value of the land as a down payment on a 15 year loan in an amount sufficient to build the new building and make the necessary equipment upgrades. Construction of the building must begin within 12 months from when the USCF receives the deed to the land. Until the new building is completed the USCF has been offered the use of a large building (the Dennison building), including maintenance and utilities, rent free. The cost of the building is estimated at about $500,000. It is located in an area where the land value is expected to increase.

He reviewed his report in the Delegates’ Call and focused on the concept of the LMA being treated as a cash reserve rather than a separate account. A motion was printed in the text of his report, numbered ADM 03-35, which was not printed in the advance agenda. The motion was sponsored by Frank Camaratta (AL), Stan Booz (PA), Joe Wagner (CA/S), and Mike Nolan (NE) and read “We propose that the current LMA account be replaced with a cash reserve account (CRA). The purpose of this account would be to fund future long-term and short-term expenditures and emergencies. The account would have a target corpus, a savings and expenditure plan, and access controls. Contributions to the account would be a budgeted line item. A four-person investment advisory committee to the EB, appointed by the Delegates, will be established.” While Frank endorsed the concept he did not bring the motion to the floor, but asked everyone to think about it.

Also included in the printed report was ADM 03-34, sponsored by Frank Camaratta (AL), Mike Nolan (NE) and Stan Booz (PA), which would establish an independent audit committee. The sponsors of the motion, Ralph Bowman, Arnold Denker, Roger Gottschall, Myron Lieberman, Ernie Schlich, and Harold Winston participated in the discussion. Harold Winston and the Bylaws Committee and Bylaws Workshop offered a friendly amendment which was accepted by all sponsors of the motion. It added wording to item 5 and added a new item 13 to the wording in the Delegates’ Call. The motion passed as amendment with the following wording:

DM03-08 - ADM 03-34 (Frank Camaratta, AL, Mike Nolan, NE; Stan Booz, PA): The purpose of this motion shall be to establish an audit committee consisting of three persons whose purpose is to advise the Executive Board (EB) on matters dealing with internal control and the Annual Audit.

And, the Delegates shall appoint two committee members from among the delegates and alternate delegates who are knowledgeable and, where possible, a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or a Certified Management Accountant (CMA).

And, the EB shall appoint one member from the Executive Board, normally the Vice President for Finance.

And, the duties of the Committee shall be:

1. To advise the EB on the appointment of the External Auditors, the audit fee, the provision of any non-audit services by the External Auditors and any questions of resignation or dismissal of the External Auditors.

2. To discuss, if necessary, with the External Auditors before the audit commences the nature and scope of the audit.

3. To discuss problems and reservations arising from interim and final audits and any questions the External Auditors may wish to discuss ( in the absence of management, where necessary.)

4. To consider and advise the EB on the establishment of the internal audit service and Head of Internal Audit, if any.

5. To review the internal audit plan, to consider major findings of internal audit investigations and management’s response and to promote coordination between the Internal and External Auditors and to advise the EB and the Delegates accordingly.

6) To keep under review the effectiveness of internal control systems and, in particular, review the External Auditors’ Management Letter, the Internal Annual Report and management responses and to advise the EB accordingly.

7. To monitor the performance and effectiveness of external and internal audit.

7. To consider, if necessary, the draft of the Audited Financial statements.

7. To monitor annually or more frequently, if necessary, the implementation of approved recommendations arising from internal audit reports, external audit reports and management letters and to advise the EB accordingly.

7. To oversee arrangements made by the Executive Board for the internal audit service and the External Auditors to examine the agency-wide financial statements.

7. To advise the Executive Director, as requested.

12) To report, as appropriate, to the Executive Board.

13) To advise the Delegates as requested and to report, as appropriate, to the Delegates PASSED AS AMENDED

DM03-09 - NDM 03-36 - (Frank Camaratta, AL): The Delegates appoint Mike Nolan and Stan Booz to the new Audit Committee with another member to be named by the Executive Board. PASSED

DM03-10 - NDM 03-37 - (John McCrary, SC: Mike Nolan, NE; Harold Winston, IL; Frank Camaratta, AL): The Executive Board is authorized to hire an auditing firm. PASSED

(Please note: The financial statements originally received at the Finance workshop were substantially incorrect due to the need for corrections pointed out by the audit. The audit was not completed until the last minute and the audited financials were going to be brought by Frank Niro. The Finance workshop discussed the need for major changes in the proposed budget and named an ad-hoc committee which consisted of Stan Booz, Frank Camaratta, Tim Hanke, Al Lawrence, Beatriz Marinello, Mike Nolan, and Harry Sabine to revise the budget prior to the Delegates’ Meeting. They met for 2.5 hours and presented a revised budget to the Delegates. They deserve our thanks.) Mike Nolan then presented the revised planning budget and compared it with the original budget. Delegates were given a printed report that included both as well as a one page summary of the capital planning budget for the move to Crossville, which will be considered separately after the approval of the budget for operations. Dewain Barber, Stan Booz, Frank Camaratta, Mike Carr, Larry Cohen, Arnold Denker, Richard Koepcke, Al Lawrence, John McCrary, Mike Nolan, Steve Shutt, and John Surlow participated in the discussion of the planning budget for operations.

Al Lawrence pointed out the need for all to understand that the implementation of the budget is mandated and that it may be necessary to reduce services to meet the budget. He presented a motion that he and Mike Nolan sponsored, which assigns responsibility and authority to the EB to do whatever might be necessary to implement the mandated budget, including the modification or elimination of services. During the discussion Al Lawrence and Mike Nolan also submitted a motion (NDM 03-38) that “The Board is authorized to reduce Regular Membership dues to $39/year.” John McCrary noted that the Board has even broader authority in the Bylaws, and the motion was withdrawn. Although the motion on assigning responsibility and authority was still on the floor it was treated as part of the general budget discussion, which continued. President John McCrary then called for a vote on adoption of the planning budget, which passed.

DM 03-11 - ADM 03-08 ( Frank Camaratta, AL): The Delegates adopt the Planning Budget for the Fiscal Year ending in 2004. PASSED

Discussion then centered on the Lawrence / Nolan motion: “The USCF EB is assigned responsibility and granted all necessary authority for modifying or eliminating services to meet budgeting mandates.” Dewain Barber expressed concern about the shift of authority from the Delegates to the EB and asked that the vote not be taken until after lunch in order to give people time to think about it.

The meeting was recessed at 12:04 PM and reconvened at 2:15 PM, after which discussion continued. (Please note: The awards luncheon was sold out.) Dewain Barber asked how passage of this motion would differ from authority the Board already has. Al Lawrence and Harold Winston replied. In essence the Bylaws probably provide the authority, but the motion emphasizes that the Delegates want it to taken seriously and lets the Board know that they understand that it may be necessary to affect basic services. The EB might have been reluctant to do that even though the Bylaws allow it. Mike Nolan pointed out that in the past the Delegates have made a number of unfunded mandates that couldn’t be implemented due to the lack of money. This motion sends the message that the EB must implement this motion regardless of the impact it might have. Guy Hoffman pointed to the need for a time limit as the original wording did not address how long the motion would remain effective. Sentiment was that it may be needed now, but the Delegates probably do not want to give the EB that level of authority indefinitely. Guy Hoffman suggested a friendly amendment to include expiration effective at the start of the 2004 Delegates’ Meeting. Dewain Barber suggested that it be expanded to two years (the 2005 meeting). The makers of the motion accepted the one year limitation. Al Lawrence pointed out that if it was needed next year he would be asking that it be renewed next year. The two year suggestion was withdrawn. Mike Nolan pointed out that in times of financial exigency motions such as this may be necessary. Larry Cohen called the question. The motion passed with an expiration of one year.

DM03-12 – NDM 03-39 – (Al Lawrence, NY, Mike Nolan, NE): The USCF EB is assigned responsibility and granted all necessary authority for modifying or eliminating services to meet budgeting mandates, expiration to be effective at the beginning of the 2004 USCF Delegates’ Meeting. PASSED AS AMENDED

Mike Nolan pointed out that we are already nearly three months in to this fiscal year and we have already incurred significant expenses. He and Frank Camaratta then talked about the capital budget for the possible move to Crossville, which was distributed to the Delegates. Frank pointed out that if the move does not take place there will be an expense of over $30,000 for capital equipment already purchased. Since the likely source of funds will be the LMA, Al Lawrence addressed the LMA fund status. He acknowledged the other LMA Committee members Stan Booz, Frank Camaratta, Mike Nolan, Harry Sabine, and Fred Townsend. He referred to the LMA report in the Delegates’ Call. In essence the LMA would be capitalizing the move and the upgrading of equipment. The largest LMA asset is the building in New Windsor, which would generate about $500,000 net after expenses for repairs needed prior to sale, with the remainder being about $300,000 in investments. The line of credit has been “maxed out” and payment is due in December. Unless cash becomes available through other means, the LMA investments will probably be the primary source for payment of the line of credit. There is about $400,000 in capitalization expenses for relocation and system replacement. That leaves about $100,000 in the LMA fund, assuming that it is not depleted to support operations. Since the LMA has funded operations, the relocation and systems replacement, the LMA would be the owner of the new property in Crossville as well as the growing equity in the building. Arnold Denker suggested that $105,000 can be saved by not replacing the Executive Director. Al Lawrence pointed out that that is beyond the scope of Al’s report, but that he opposes that idea and believes that those are false savings.

DM03-13 - NDM 03-40 - (Frank Camaratta, AL): Moved, that the planning budget for the Crossville move be adopted. PASSED

DM03 - 14 – NDM 03-41 - (LMA Committee): The LMA Committee for 2003 - 04 shall be made up as follows: Stan Booz; Tim Hanke (VP of Finance); Al Lawrence; Mike Nolan; Harry Sabine; and Fred Townsend. PASSED

(Please note: Al Lawrence continues as chair. Tim Hanke replaced Frank Camaratta when he took office as VP of Finance.)

COMMITTEE REPORTS

BYLAWS – Co-chairman Harold Winston referred to the written report. He indicated that the only motion to be considered with the committee report was ADM 03-31 on special elections, which was allowed without objection. Mike Nolan then explained that the motion was a result of a recent situation when two EB members resigned shortly after the Delegates’ Meeting, but the Bylaws did not provide adequate procedures to conduct a special election. The motion allows the EB to determine the details based on the specific situation. Harold Winston mentioned that there were two parts. The first paragraph, which deals only with special elections, was favored by the Bylaws Committee 10-2 with 1 abstention and by the Bylaws Workshop 10-0 with 2 abstentions. The sponsors accepted amendments (proposed by the Bylaws workshop) to change "shall" to "may" so the EB had flexibility to not schedule an election specifically if only one vacancy existed or if the timing of a special election made it impracticable to hold one, and to add “, or the Office if the Executive Board is unable” after “Board” in the first sentence. The revised wording was:

Modify the Bylaws to include the following in Article VI: (Please note it is a replacement of Article VI section 9 on Vacancies)

“Special Elections. The Executive Board, or the Office if the Executive Board is unable, may decide the schedule for a Special Election for the Executive Board, using the deadlines and dates for a regular election as a guide for scheduling reasonable intervals for announcing the special election and calling for nominations, the date for candidate petition filings and the issue of Chess Life which will contain the ballots. The requirement for candidate statements and election supplements may be reduced to having this information in a single issue of Chess Life. The Board may choose to waive any filing fees for a Special Election.”

Harold Winston moved to divide the first paragraph from the balance of the motion. This was accepted by the sponsors. The first paragraph passed.

Harold Winston reported that the Bylaws Committee and the Bylaws workshop opposed the remainder of the motion (3-7 on the Committee and 0-12 at the workshop). Mike Nolan indicated that at the time the motion was prepared the number of ballots that would be cast was unknown. He suggested referral to the Bylaws and Election Procedures Committee, which was done.

DM03-15 - ADM 03-31A - Mike Nolan, NE; and Bill Goichberg, NY; on behalf of the Election Procedures Committee): Modify the Bylaws to include the following in Article VI:

“Special Elections - The Executive Board, or the Office if the Executive Board is unable, may decide the schedule for a Special Election for the Executive Board, using the deadlines and dates for a regular election as a guide for scheduling reasonable intervals for announcing the special election and calling for nominations, the date for candidate petition filings and the issue of Chess Life which will contain the ballots. The requirement for candidate statements and election supplements may be reduced to having this information in a single issue of Chess Life. The Board may choose to waive any filing fees for a Special Election.” PASSED

DM03-16 - ADM 03-31B - Mike Nolan, NE; and Bill Goichberg, NY; on behalf of the Election Procedures Committee): Modify the Bylaws to include the following in Article VI:

The Executive Board shall, by January 15^th of an election year for a regular Executive Board election, choose a date on which ballot counting shall be performed, which date is to be no earlier than the 20^th of July and no later than the Wednesday prior to the annual meeting of the Board of Delegates. For a special election, the Executive Board shall choose a date for ballot counting no later than 90 days prior to that date. Ballots shall be authenticated by use of voting member information to be provided with or printed on the ballots. All properly authenticated ballots that have been received by the date designated for counting the ballots shall be counted. The Executive Board shall designate an address for the return of ballots at the time the date of counting the ballots is set. REFERRED TO THE BYLAWS AND ELECTION PROCEDURES COMMITTEES

Harold Winston then proposed the members of the Bylaws Committee for 2003 – 2004.

DM03-17 – NDM 03-42 - (Bylaws Committee): The Bylaws Committee for 2003 - 04 shall be made up as follows: Steve Doyle; Bill Goichberg; Guy Hoffman; Randy Hough; Gary Kitts; Richard Koepcke; Myron Lieberman; Al Losoff; David Mehler; Mike Nolan; Robert Persante; Ernie Schlich; and Harold Winston. PASSED

ETHICS – Chairman Dr. Kenneth Sloan referred to the printed report and proposed the members of the Ethics Committee for 2003 – 2004. All are re-elections of current members. .

DM03-18 - NDM 03-43 - (Ethics Committee): The Ethics Committee for 2003 - 04 shall be made up as follows: Richard Buchanan; Michael Carr; Wick Deer; Al Losoff; James Mennella; Kenneth Sloan; Bill Smythe; Hal Terrie, and Andrew Thall. PASSED

CHESS IN EDUCATION – Chairman Tim Redman gave the report. He pointed out that the committee was not very active. Freezes on travel and budget cuts in a number of states caused problems. In particular, the devastating effect of severe budget cuts in California on the California school system made it necessary to postpone the two-day teacher’s workshop (for continuing education credits) scheduled to be held at the US Open. Dewain Barber indicated that teachers in California wouldn’t have funding to attend. The intent is to try again at the next US Open. He pointed out that Gary Prince was planning to set aside space on the website for special purposes. The chess in Education Committee intends to take advantage of this and collect chess curricula from around the country to make available on the website. The idea is to enable people to get ideas from what other people are doing.

COLLEGE CHESS – Tim Redman presented the report in the absence of Chairman Alan Sherman. He referred everyone to Alan Sherman’s detailed report in the Delegates’ Call and mentioned that an ad-hoc committee (chaired by Tim Redman) was appointed by the EB to look into college eligibility requirements. This was an outgrowth of a widely publicized case which gained national exposure. Chess has gained media recognition as a college sport, but with the increased visibility comes increased media scrutiny. Questions arose regarding college team eligibility which were addressed by the committee. (Please note: The committee recommendations were subsequently accepted by the EB and can be found in Appendix B.)

CORRESPONDENCE CHESS – The report was presented by Chairman Harold Stenzel. He discussed the workshop. There was one major issue, which was the participation of prisoners in correspondence tournaments. Some prisoners are not allowed to play others. Some prisoners are not allowed to play children. How can we accommodate more prisoners than we have sections? There was a temporary ban on prisoners competing, but that was rescinded. The help of Joan and others in the office in compiling a collection of games from the absolute correspondence championship was appreciated. The intent is to post the collection on the USCF website.

CRAMER AWARDS – Chairman Don Schultz presented the report. He reviewed the history of the Cramer Awards from Fred Cramer’s original bequest until now. He noted that the Cramer Awards Committee and the Chess Journalists of America (CJA) are working closely together. Winners of the Cramer Awards for 2003 are listed in Appendix C. He highly recommended Susan Polgar’s interview with Paul Truong on the Chess Café website and noted that the new President of the CJA is Dan Lucas.

DENKER TOURNAMENT – Chairman Jack Mallory commended Diane Reese for doing a wonderful job. Attendance was down to 36 from 44 last year, but the field was strong. It was special this year because Arnold Denker was present. Congratulations to the winners, William Aramil of Il and Ryan Milisits of PA, who scored 5 points each.

ELECTION PROCEDURES – Co-Chairman Mike Nolan mentioned that there were 1822 ballots received out of about 40,000.Around 60 of them were disqualified. There was no indication of a single case of a ballot being returned for insufficient postage. Mike Nolan said that he will introduce motions designed to improve the election procedures for later in the agenda, but not as part of the report. He considers the election to have been “not bad for a first time”. The estimated cost of the election was probably around $15,000. He expressed appreciation to Barb Vandermark and the office staff and to Chief Teller Glenn Petersen for their help. Glenn Petersen’s report was made available to those who were interested. Glenn received a round of applause.

FIDE ADVISORY – Chairman Don Schultz reported that the committee recommendations, which can be found in the printed committee report in the Delegates’ Call, will be put on the agenda for the Executive Board.

FINANCE – The printed report is in the Delegates’ Call. Chairman Mike Nolan mentioned that even though five members of the Finance Committee resigned during the year, all nine made positive contributions and he thanked all.

HALL OF FAME – No oral report was presented. Please refer to the published report in the Delegates’ Call.

INTERNET CHESS – Chairman Myron Lieberman referred to the report in the Delegate’s Call and emphasized the critical need for standards, rules, and an FAQ that will enable Over-the-Board players to know what to expect with online chess. People who are new to Internet chess need to know what to expect, new terminology, different problems and situations that they might not encounter over the board, and standards for servers. What should an online player expect? What should a server be expected to provide? He had hoped to have an Internet Chess chapter available for the new rulebook, but could not get sufficient volunteer help to do it. He asked that anyone with significant experience in online chess and a willingness to help on this project contact him or the EB liaison. (Please note: Subsequently Tim Hanke was named liaison to the Internet Chess Committee, so he would be the appropriate EB member to contact.)

MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS (MIS) – Mike Nolan, who chaired the workshop, presented the report in the absence of Chairman George John. He indicated that some very noticeable improvements will be seen in the very near future.

OLYMPIC PARTICIPATION – Tim Redman presented the report. He referred to his published report in the Delegates’ Call and summarized it. In particular, he described the FIDE Medical Commission meeting in Bled. He described Dr. Jana Bellin as an intelligent, fair minded and tough individual with both medical and chess experience. The World Anti Doping Agency (WADA) does not consider chess as a high risk area for drugs. When asked about what would happen if a player refused to be tested, Dr. Bellin reacted strongly. She pointed out it would not be tolerated. The player attended an event where it was known that there will be drug testing. She indicated that as members of the Olympic community, our top players must adhere to Olympic ideals and be proper role models. No US players were tested as part of their random sample last year, however all winners are sure to be tested. Tim Redman pointed out that our Women’s Olympic team has been playing well, and with the training program in place is likely to do even better in the future. The EB and the team need to be aware that if a team with a significant chance of winning is sent, drug testing is likely and that a refusal to be tested would seriously damage the reputation of US Chess and the individual(s) involved. Dr. Bellin indicated that the penalties are being reduced as they are far too draconian, and substantial tolerance and forgiveness is built into the program. She emphasized, however, that a refusal to be tested would be considered a slap in the face to the International Olympic movement and would have serious consequences. This differs somewhat from the views expressed by Bill Kelleher in his report. Tim Redman mentioned that John Fernandez did a good job of gathering data and would be a good person to chair this committee. He also commended Bill Kelleher, Robert Tanner, and Beatriz Marinello for their work. John McCrary also attended a meeting with Dr. Jana Bellin and was appointed as a lay member of the FIDE Medical Commission.

OUTREACH – Chairman Myron Lieberman referred to the report published in the Delegates’ Call and asked that everyone read it as he was going to bring up three new items rather than review the report at the microphone (except to answer questions from the published report if any). He noted that a good news-bad news situation developed at the office. The Marketing and Outreach department was dropped at the senior staff level, however Paul Truong, a professional marketer, presented an opportunity for the USCF to use his services for that function as an unpaid volunteer with the title of Director of Marketing. That will be considered by the EB. The Outreach Workshop unanimously endorsed and supports this concept. In the event that the EB continues the Outreach Committee (which the workshop also supports), Paul Truong would work closely with the Outreach Committee.

Not only has fundraising for the USCF and US Chess Trust been hurt, but fundraising has been very challenging for most organizations in the aftermath of 9/11/01and with severe budget cuts most companies and organizations are experiencing. He urged everyone to make an effort to be aware of possible sources of funding and opportunities for outreach and fundraising. Everyone is urged to let the Outreach Committee know of these opportunities and to make the US Chess Trust aware of the opportunities. It is necessary that we all do what we can to recognize potential opportunities and to act on them. When someone wants to contribute to chess they should be made aware that the US Chess Trust is a 501c3 charitable trust and as such donations are tax deductible. They should also know that their donations can either be for all areas supported by the Chess Trust or they can be earmarked for any specific area supported by the Chess Trust. Please contact Harold Winston, Barbara DeMaro, or any Trustee for more information, to pledge a contribution, or as a contact reference for others. (Please note: This is very important because many foundations and corporate community service departments will only consider 501c3 organizations.)

Myron Lieberman then read portions of a letter that he received from a hospitalized elderly man who was told by his physician that he might want to consider learning chess. One of the most important but least visible achievements of the Chess as a Positive Alternative (CAPA) project of the Outreach Committee is that chess has gained a great deal of credibility in the health and social service industry. Chess as a tool for prevention is discussed at medical, youth, and social service meetings and conventions. (Please note: The basic achievement is that a doctor or social worker will be more likely to give serious thought to recommendations from colleagues than from any chess-related organization. They talk to each other and often they exchange stories about their successes. We receive many letters, but we emphasize this one because it clearly expresses what you can do to help spread the joy of chess without spending a penny.) Rachel, in her unpaid volunteer capacity of Director of Prevention Programs, sent a packet of beginner’s information that included the usual brochures available from USCF, some newspaper articles, and selected old issues of both Chess Life and School Mates. Why children’s magazines? They contain information that is very helpful to beginners of all ages. It is very important for everyone to understand the value of often neglected items such as old issues of magazines. The letter referred to how he learned chess notation from a 1999 issue of School Mates and was particularly helped by the article “How to Study and Improve Your Chess Game” in a 1994 issue. He talked about taking pride in reading Chess Life and the joy of setting up positions and playing over the games. He referred to the brochure Ten Tips to Winning Chess as a “jewel”. He pointed out that the packet changed his entire mindset and that his joy and excitement spread interest throughout the ward, including the other patients, nurses, and even the cleaning crew. A few patients knew how to play chess and many did not, but they crowded around him discussing each move as it was played. The letter contained much more and was made available for those who wanted to read it, but the point has already been made. Myron Lieberman urged that you please do not throw out old issues of Chess Life, School Mates, or other chess materials. Donate them to a hospital or senior center or community center, or anywhere else that can use them to “open a new world” to other people. Please do not tell USCF that you do not need another magazine. You do need another magazine so you can donate it and have the satisfaction that in your own way you have helped others enjoy the world of chess. He then pointed out that much of the material included in the packets is provided by the office and he thanked Barb Vandermark, Jami Anson, and everyone in the office who provided materials to make this program possible.

(Please note that subsequently Paul Truong’s offer was accepted by the EB and he is USCF’s new Director of Marketing, working as an unpaid volunteer. The Outreach Committee has been continued with Myron Lieberman as the chair. Paul Truong and Rachel Lieberman have been appointed project leaders on the 2003-2004 Outreach Committee.)

PUBLICATIONS – Chairman Herman Chiu gave the report and referred to the report that was published in the Delegates’ Call. He read an additional statement and asked that it be included in the minutes. That statement follows:

“The Publications Committee opposes any further fragmentation of the Chess Life staff. Such moves would do nothing but increase disorganization at the magazine and decrease its quality. There would be even less accountability than there is now, and it would make it impossible to train new people. In summary, we think that the Chess Life office should either be kept intact in New Windsor or moved as a whole to Crossville.

In addition, as we mentioned in our annual report, we suggest in the strongest possible terms that a full-time assistant editor who is both a chess player and a trained journalist be hired to work on-site in the USCF office. This person should work and take instructions directly from Peter, and together they should be the ultimate authority for all editorial copy at Chess Life.”

Al Lawrence asked who should be in charge of the magazine from cover to cover. Herman Chiu responded that editorial copy can be interpreted as written material other than ads, and that the editor should ultimately be responsible for the magazine. Jay Stallings asked for clarification about scholastic material in Chess Life. Editor Peter Kurzdorfer mentioned that a scholastic section appears every other month in Chess Life and gave some examples of what he considered to be appropriate content.

Spencer Lower replied to a point in the published report and pointed out that brief news items of local interest do belong in a national magazine since, for example, students of local chess coaches may be located anywhere after a few years and would still have an interest. John McCrary pointed out that the Editor is looking for brief local news items, but can only consider printing what he has received. People who want their local news covered should submit it to Chess Life. Andrew Rea asked about consultant Ron Burnett’s responsibilities. Peter Kurzdorfer indicated that he was essentially a part time assistant editor. Bill Goichberg asked if Chess Life can be produced in a more economical manner and referred to magazines that were produced manually in the seventies. The reply was that it could, but it would not be as attractive and that it is possible that appearance may be more important now than in the seventies. John Surlow asked about the timing of the magazine. Peter Kurzdorfer replied that the intent was to get the magazine out by the first of the month. Occasionally that date is missed due to problems at the printer’s or at the office. Publications is trying to improve on-time performance.

RATINGS – No oral report was presented. Please refer to the published report in the Delegates’ Call.

RULES – Chairman Dave Kuhns held up a copy of the new rulebook and indicated that it will be available from USCF by the end of September. He indicated that advance orders can be taken at $9.95 but once the catalog is out it will be $14.95. Rule changes will be printed in Chess Life and posted on the website at www.uschess.org. The committee received and acted upon five appeals. They received a sixth appeal that they did not consider since it was not within their jurisdiction. (Please note: There was no printed report from the Rules Committee, so the oral report summarized here for your convenience was actually presented at a later time.)

SCHOLASTIC COUNCIL AND COMMITTEE – Steve Shutt suggested that we should get more kids interested in college chess and create an adult section open to relatives of participants in the national scholastics. College activity might help retain some members that drop out after high school. An adult section would help the kids to encourage parents to get involved. It would give the parents of scholastic members a reason to join. Hans Poschmann asked whether family tournaments could be established. Steve Shutt indicated he would refer the idea to the Scholastic Committee.

SENIOR – Chairman Mike Carr presented the report. He announced that Boris Gulko won the US Senior Open Championship this year. He also described the successful 2002 event in Ventura, in which IM Anthony Saidy and FM Stephen Jones tied for first. Next year the US Senior Open will be held in Florida either on 7/31 – 8/7 or 9/20 – 9/27. The senior workshop endorsed the idea of seeding the winner of the US Senior Open into the US Championship. Don Schultz described plans for the Orlando event. Among the extras he listed were a bus trip to the hall of Fame and a boat trip chartered for the group. Bill Goichberg expressed his concerns about the organization and promotion for the 2003 US Senior. The organizer did not consult the Senior Committee.

STATES – Guy Hoffman presented the report. He indicated that the committee will be looking at conflicts between affiliates that are seeking to be the state affiliate for some states.

SURVEY – Mike Nolan gave the report. He indicated that there is no survey currently, but we will be piggybacking with a survey being prepared by a graduate student at Florida State University and should have a survey within a year.

TOURNAMENT DIRECTOR CERTIFICATION (TDC) – Chairman Tim Just indicated that they will consider providing the correct answers to questions that were missed on TD exams taken by people who pass the exams. Previously this was not done.

WOMEN’S CHESS – John McCrary pointed out that the Women’s Chess Committee was Committee of the Year. A round of applause followed. Committee chair GM Susan Polgar referred to the published report and mentioned the Olympiad training program, the Polgar tournament for girls, modeled after the Denker tournament, and a proposed open tournament for girls. She called on Paul Truong to summarize what is being done. He indicated that there are three main things that they are trying to accomplish. The first is to retain scholastic players, especially girls. The second is to improve membership to build for future generations. The third is to provide a substantial incentive to build participation by seeking sponsorship. Most people don’t know that a national federation, or even organized chess, exists and there is nobody that they can relate to. There is a problem with marketing and branding. We want to capture the attention of a more general audience and focus on our top women players. A calendar has been produced with 120 photos of the players on the US Women’s Chess Olympiad training team, which will be used to promote both the players and the event. On September 20, 2003, GM Susan Polgar will play a two game match on USCL against the Grand Prix leader, GM Alexander Stripunsky. She will also play a two game match against GM Boris Gulko, the 2003 US Senior Champion on September 21. The idea is to gain general media attention and promote USCL as well as the players. Other ideas include a Susan Polgar vs. a computer match, a Kasparov vs. Polgar match, The Kasparov-Deep Junior match coverage on ESPN reached 400,000 households and ESPN was pleased with the ratings. That could increase media interest in a woman vs. machine match. Susan Polgar has volunteered to hold an online question and answer session with parents and coaches monthly as well as a session for young girls. These should not only help women’s chess but scholastic chess and chess in general as well. Spencer Lower asked if to maintain our relationship with FIDE and improve publicity we should support FIDE and promote a match between the FIDE World Champion and FIDE Women’s World Champion instead. Paul Truong didn’t think so. He also pointed out that the winner of Kasparov – Ponomariov will probably be the FIDE World Champion and that Susan Polgar was the first woman ever to earn the GM title and is a pioneer of Women’s chess. (Please note: FIDE has since cancelled the Kasparov-Ponomariov match. Garry Kasparov will play against the winner of a FIDE knockout tournament for the world championship.) Phyllis Benjamin congratulated Susan Polgar on her ambitious program She also pointed out that although there is media attendance at chess events, coverage is still poor. We need to bombard the media with information and try to get chess columns everywhere we can. Myron Lieberman suggested that press releases are needed first. The more chess news items that appear, the more likely an editor is going to be willing to consider a chess column. Everyone should let the media know at all levels, and especially locally, if a local player is going to participate in a significant event. It publicizes the player and the event and has a high probability of being covered. Mike Carr then introduced Tatev Abrahamyan, the top US Player under age 16 (who had a perfect 3-0 score so far in the US Open). She received a round of applause. Paul Truong then mentioned that the Polgar Foundation intends to support a training program for our top level women players. He also mentioned that the Kasparov-Deep Junior match was mentioned over 2.5 million times in the news. They will attempt to use ESPN’s success as an example for other networks. Potential sponsors are not going to provide large amounts of money for sponsorship unless they can see what’s in it for them. ESPN’s experience can serve as an example to sponsors as well. Andrew Rea asked about funding for these projects. Paul Truong indicated that Susan Polgar will be funding the Polgar tournament in a similar way as the Denker tournament is funded. Garry Kasparov and others are donating their time to help with the training of the US Women’s Olympiad team. He thanked Barbara DeMaro, Frank Niro, Beatriz Marinello, the USCF Executive Board, and the US Chess Trust for their help. Additional funding is also expected. He predicted that in the next 12-15 months we will see drastic changes in American chess.

The Rules Committee report was then given (see above) after which President McCrary introduced the staff present at the time, which included Tom Brownscombe, Joan DuBois, Peter Kurzdorfer, Judy Misner, and Barb Vandermark. (Please note: Gary Prince and Diane Reese were also present throughout the meeting but apparently not at the time that the introduction was made.)

At 4:42 PM the meeting recessed until 9:00 AM.

SUNDAY SESSION

The meeting was called to order at 9:10 AM on Sunday, August 10, 2003. Old business was next on the agenda. The review of promotional memberships was the first item. The only promotional membership described was the college membership. Robert Tanner asked whether Junior Tournament Players (JTPs) aren’t promotional memberships. Tom Brownscombe pointed out JTPs aren’t members at all. The program is an exception to membership requirements for participation in certain scholastic events.

DM03-19 – ADM 03-09 – (Harold Winston, IL): Pursuant to Article III, Section 9 of the Bylaws, the Delegates have reviewed the promotional memberships offered by the Executive Board in 2002-2003 and authorize their continuation. PASSED

ADM 03-10 was withdrawn. Larry Cohen then brought up ADM 03-11 Myron Lieberman indicated that the motion is essentially moot since much of it has already been completed. He asked Gary Prince for a status report. Gary Prince confirmed that what hasn’t already been done is high priority. He also pointed out that anyone can already download crosstables and get rating and tournament history from msa.uschess.org. The sponsor then withdrew the motion.

DM03-20 – ADM 03-11 - (Larry Cohen, IL): The Executive Board shall make certain that a system for electronic media submission of rating reports is available and publicized by February 1, 2002. All effort is to be made to have this system in place as soon as possible. Furthermore, the Executive Board (along with the ED and Ratings Manager) should study the concept of sending crosstables back to affiliates, TDs, and organizers via electronic media, and is given power to enact such a crosstable electronic media system if feasible. (This was referred to the MIS Committee in 2002.). WITHDRAWN AFTER DISCUSSION

A substitute motion was presented for ADM 03-12 by its sponsor, Larry Cohen. The original wording was “All new affiliates receive one free TLA in either Chess Life or School Mates. Larry Cohen, Bill Goichberg, Guy Hoffman, Tim Just, Mike Nolan participated in the discussion. Tim Just moved to refer to the EB with the power to implement, and accepted an amendment by Bill Goichberg to endorse in principle. The sponsor accepted referral

DM03-21 – ADM 03-12 - (Larry Cohen, IL): The Delegates authorize the Executive Board or Executive Director to provide a promotional rate (up to free) on one Tournament Life Announcement to new affiliates. This would be available for one year after the initial affiliate dues fees have been paid. Length should not exceed six lines. ENDORSED IN PRINCIPLE AND REFERRED TO THE EB / ED WITH POWER TO IMPLEMENT

NEW BUSINESS

The first item of new business was Tom Brownscombe’s motion regarding the US Open format that was passed at the Membership Meeting. President John McCrary read the motion. Tom Brownscombe, Arnold Denker, Jerry Hanken, Myron Lieberman, John McCrary, Hal Terrie, and Harold Winston participated in the discussion. Ernie Schlich called the question. A vote count was taken. The motion failed 19-32

DM03-22 – NDM 03-44 – Membership / Brownscombe - The USCF Membership Meeting recommends that the Delegates pass the following motion: The Delegates repeal a prior motion (DM01-68) that the US Open should be held as a two week event once in three years. FAILED 19 in favor, 32 opposed.

President McCrary then read Bill Goichberg’s motion regarding advertising of based-on prize funds (which passed at the Membership Meeting). Bill Goichberg spoke to the motion after which it passed without further discussion.

DM03-23 – NDM 03-45 – Membership / Goichberg - The USCF Membership Meeting recommends that the Delegates pass the following motion: Chess Life shall print no display ads for “based-on” tournaments which mention the “based-on” prize fund without indicating that this prize fund is based on entries. PASSED

Ernie Schlich presented ADM03-13 in an amended form that changed the deadline from February to September of 2004. Myron Lieberman volunteered to create a website specifically for posting the documents covered in ADMs 13, 14, and 15 if for any reason the USCF could not post them at www.uschess.org. All that would be needed is for the USCF website to provide a link. Harold Winston mentioned the Bylaws Committee favored the motion 7-3-2 and the Bylaws workshop favored it 12-0. Mike Nolan moved to refer the motion to the EB, which was done.

DM03-24 - ADM 03-13 (Ernest Schlich, VA): The USCF shall post all past Executive Board Newsletters (EBNs) currently available in the office as an electronic file in a suitable electronic format in an archive on the USCF website. This should start as soon as possible and be completed not later than 1 Sept 200