Since I last reported there have been a number of excellent tournaments for Maine chess players to attend. From the far north in Presque Isle to the Downeast Open in South Portland there has been action in the quieter summer months. A newcomer on the block, the Eastern Maine Championship in Bangor, attracted a grandmaster, while the popular Chessmaine.net championship continued to draw many participants despite its move to July. Coming up will be more events in Aroostook County while the long-awaited State Closed Championship will be held August 21-22 at the University of Maine.
Fortunately there are many different members of the Maine chess community who are able to find time to provide opportunities for chess throughout the summer season when there are so many other distractions. This month I give a shout out to the Cape Elizabeth chess boosters led by Dan and Ilene Fishbein. They have been tireless in making sure that there are opportunities in their area for playing chess while making sure that the more dedicated have been able to improve their game. Along with the Fishbeins, Mark Parker (Wesley and Brett's dad) and Peter Hatem (Matthew Reale-Hatem's dad) have been instrumental in keeping Cape Elizabeth scholastic chess one of the best programs in the state. Keep up the great work!
Each post I would like to recognize a member of the Maine chess community for their efforts. Please let me know of people who are out there supporting Maine chess.
MECA's own Policy Board member Steve Abrahams is having a strong impact on Maine chess both over the board and as an organizer. His idea for a Border Battle with New Hampshire is coming to fruition and will be a highlight of the fall chess calendar. Thanks, Steve!
The Maine Closed Championship is less than four weeks away, and we are hoping for a good turnout. The MECA Board will be meeting at Governor's August 15 to discuss the tournament and some other items of interest. Please check chessmaine.net for the agenda. Also let us know if there are any specific items that should be addressed at the annual board meeting coming up in the fall. One of the items that I'm proposing at our August 15 meeting is that a 2011 MECA membership be free for all who preregister for the tournament. This proposal comes from the fact that we have been unable to coordinate a player of the year competition for 2010, and members need to have incentives to be a part of MECA. I am hoping that between our upcoming Executive Board meeting and our annual MECA meeting in the fall we will be able to formulate a schedule for 2011 and a player of the year competition.
I appreciate the support that people continue to give to Maine chess. The events calendar has been busier this year than last. Thanks!
Don't forget to check out your local chess club before the summer is out! Often vacationers stop by and provide a new face to challenge.
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I was reading your blog and came across this line...(we have been unable to coordinate a player of the year competition for 2010)What does that mean?It was spoken to me very clearly by you and Lee that my responsibility was only to advertise the chess event 6 weeks out and use a program and of course be a meca member....roger
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