Dear Reader's, It is with a great deal of regret that I feel I must enlighten you about the "problem" facing our Chess community. Since the mailing of the "Constitution News Letter" presented by Eric Bohlen and company of Far North Chess, the Alaska Chess League has received many inquiries concerning the nature and over all tone of said "News Letter".
The ACL's only motivation is to try and clear the air and present an over all picture of what has been going on behind the scene. This "problem" has been going on for approximately 18 months and hasn't been brought to the forefront until now simply because it's a distraction from positive Chess growth and will eventually require a decision by you, the Players. Please, read carefully the John McCrary, USCF President's e-mail, dated October 25, 2002 concerning a resolution of the "problem" by "mediation, arbitration, or holding a secret ballot election for state officers" and John McCrary, USCF President's e-mail, dated November 5, 2002. The ACL supports the "secret ballot election" if it should become necessary or the traditional elections for the State Affiliate during the Fur Rondezvous Tournament in February. And that Alaska Chess Players, is where you come into this mess. The Players will have to cast a vote for the entities that they trust to fulfil the responsibilities of the "Alaska State Affiliate to the United States Chess Federation". Responsibilities that have not been realistically met in approximately 18 months. In a nutshell the responsibilities of the "State Affiliate" deal with State Championship Tournaments for both adults and children and overall support for Chess at all levels throughout Alaska. It is our sincere wish that if a "USCF sponsored election" should come to pass that our Great State does not find itself divided but instead United, regardless of the outcome. In an effort to give you the Reader's some information to make your own decision the ACL presents the following. All of my comments are in green. Edited for spelling, and contact information for everyone's protection.
Rick Everett, President/Alaska Chess League
This "Welcome Aboard" message appeared on the "Eagle River Chess Club" website on Saturday night February 17, 2001, during the "infamous 8 player Fur Rondezvous Chess Tournament" where officers were "elected" for the State Affiliate. The "Alaska Chess League" was "born" approximately 14 days prior to this meeting. The ACL falls under the category of "old-timers". We chose to "GO FOR IT".
During the 16 years I have helped with "organized" chess in Alaska, I have seen participation go from almost nil to all kinds of people volunteering to help. Those who whine "what's wrong with Chess in Alaska" generally fall into one of two categories. First, we have those who just arrived in our state from someplace like California decrying the "lack" of activity--why aren't there 80-plus people at each club meeting and where are the tournaments with massive prize funds that they played for in California? Every time I have asked these players if they would be willing to help organize such events they want no part of that, NO WAY!!! They usually disappear into the long, dark night and don't want to participate--only sponge off the labors of others. Hopefully, they went back to the People's Republic of California (and left us our electricity too.)
The second category of whiners are the so-called "old-timers" who remember how good things were decades ago, back in their version of the "Golden Age" of chess in Alaska. At least SOME of these people tried many years ago to help chess thrive in Alaska. But that was then, this is now. Living in the past is often a sign of old age setting in; "the good old days of youth" and all of that nostalgia. Enjoy your glories of the past--you have earned them. However, remember that was then, but this is NOW.
I have been happy to have supported the following leaders of Alaskan Chess during the last sixteen years (in chronological order and apologies if I've forgotten a name or two:) John McCumisky, Norman Miller, Robert Curry, Mike McKinney, Robert Hall, Abraham Nebuchadnezzar, Ed Sawyer, Robert Moore, Caesar Lawrence, Rick Toenies, K.C. Jones, Fred Conley, Dave Allum, and Lew Brown-Coon. I will not list those who have done nothing but cause trouble by their wild accusations of "conspiracies" against them or whine about tournament directors who don't find in their favor; it is interesting that these people don't usually volunteer to direct or organize a tournament open to the public. It is SO EASY to be critical of others but not to put YOUR neck out to help others.
Tonight (Feb. 17th) our state's affiliate with the USCF elected new officers. These people need your support or else organized chess in Alaska may soon follow the buggy whip into the twilight zone. If you want to help but don't want to work with me then I'll be glad to leave my burdens behind and step away. Feel free to do YOUR part, for either the first time or once more. GO FOR IT! Volunteers are needed to help with problems like maintaining the FNC website or helping with publicity.
Finally, thanks to Eric Bohlen, Dick Clendaniel, and Jim Hanlen for stepping up to the plate. May chess once more "be right" in Alaska!
Before we move to far ahead, I feel that I must make something clear. In late September of 2000 I was asked by the then President and only officer of FNC, Ron Campbell, if I would assume the responsibilities of the State Affiliate. I declined at that time due to the fact that I was heading for the lower 48 and wouldn't be returning for at least 4 months. It didn't seem right to me to assume responsibilities and then leave town with them. I returned to Alaska on January 31, 2001 and checked into the plans being made for the upcoming Fur Rondezvous in February. To my chagrin, I found that no plans had been made at that time. Within a couple of days Mr. Campbell contacted me and again asked if I would assume the responsibilities of the State Affiliate, without hesitation I accepted. He consequently "appointed" all that was FNC to me.
There is quite a span of time where it may seem that nothing was going on. Actually there was a lot. After "this" (see above) the ACL asked itself if it was really necessary to push on with our plan of "Chess - Integrity and Promotion"? The path to the answer was a simple one, we would have a "petition". There were approximately 30 chess people that signed that "petition" for a change in the direction that Chess seemed to be heading. The Fur Rondezvous Tournament mentioned above drew only 8 participants, and I mention this not to ridicule the players or organizers of said tournament, but only to show the reader where Chess in Alaska was at that time. We decided to push on.
In addition, there were communications with the USCF and Far North Chess during the summer of 2001 concerning the situation with the State Affiliate. It seemed we would have an "election", but as time drug on it "appeared" to be forgotten and that Chessic year went on without a resolution. Prior to the state affiliate certificate, still in Ron Campbell's name, expiring in November 2001, Eric Bohlen President/Far North Chess, called the USCF and had the "affiliate" established in his name for two years. The ACL held the "only adult" State Chess Championship that year and unfortunately the winner wasn't recognized as the Alaska State Champion by USCF because the ACL didn't have the "authority" to proclaim him as such (i.e. no state affiliation). The ACL continued on, and by the time the Fur Rondezvous Tournament of 2002 arrived we had established several Sponsor's and managed to put on the "biggest Rondy in 5 years", as was said by virtually all the participants there. Forty-five participants, 34 in the Open section and 11 in the unrated Coffee House section.
Rather suddenly, after Mr. Bohlen's maneuver, the issue of the "election" and the "affiliate" came up again and contact was established with an official of the USCF. After 2-3 lengthy telephone conversations over several weeks, it was decided, that in the best interest of the Alaska Chess community the ACL would not seek an election and would remain a Club Affiliate. This good faith decision made by the ACL was intended as a "peace" offering in an attempt to keep our Chess community united.
Things were looking up, at least from this end and I believed the Alaska Chess community at large.
After Fur Rondezvous 2002 comes the Memorial Day Open 2002 in May. This is where the "dispute" took it's current form. Rather than recognizing the ACL's worthwhile Chessic accomplishments and trying to work together, our now "official USCF affiliate" FNC, contacted the ACL and told us that we wouldn't be holding any more Chess Tournaments, with possibly the exception of the Rondy. Wow, what a turn of events.
For those of you that know me and those of you who don't, I hope it doesn't come as a big surprise that the ACL certainly didn't snuggle up to this "demand". We continued on with planning the Memorial Day Open 2002 only to find out that FNC was holding a conflicting tournament in the same time frame. An endeavor I believe was motivated out of spite and jealousy. This trend continued during the Labor Day Open 2002 and apparently will continue on to the State Championship 2002.
The ACL Tournament Calendar is a annual calendar and has been in place since the very beginning of this website in order to give as much advanced notice as possible, and we are committed to making sure these tournaments take place. You may check the Tournament Results of this website for a list of tournaments to date and the number of participants in each.
Next came the "Lew Brown-Coon negotiation". I thought prior to this meeting that things were going to finally work out for the best. Chuck Sherwood Vice President/Alaska Chess League and I conversed at length prior to the "negotiation", expecting good things and in return, prepared to offer good things. Chuck and I decided that we would try to hold a joint State Championship 2002 with FNC if they so desired. However, before the "negotiation" got started good, Mr. Brown-Coon was threatening to sue the ACL on behalf of FNC for the "thoroughly abused chess equipment" and $420 that Ron Campbell had "appointed" to me almost 18 months prior.
Needless to say, I'm a Chess Player at heart, and in Life as in Chess, threats should not be taken lightly. Did I miss something or are "threats" conducive to compromise? The "negotiation" was a complete flop.
I believe that Mr. Brown-Coon "appointed" Ron Campbell the sole ownership of FNC and the State Affiliate, in the same manner that Mr. Campbell "appointed" said to the ACL.
The day after the "negotiation", the following e-mail was sent on behalf of FNC, which started this ball rolling.
July 11, 2002
Dear Mr. McCrary,
On July 10, 2002 I met with Mr. Rick Everett, President of the Alaska Chess League (ACL), a USCF club affiliate. The reason for this meeting was to see if I could help resolve some of the problems between them and Far North Chess (FNC), USCF's state affiliate for the State of Alaska. Our discussion centered on the monies and the equipment Ron Campbell gave to Mr. Everett which belonged to FNC. FNC authorized me to accept as settlement in this dispute the return of less than half the monies, ($200 of the $460), plus the return of all the equipment. Mr. Everett's response was that Mr. Campbell had the right to give these items to whomever he wished to and therefore, he, (ACL), has no intention of returning any money or equipment . Our contention is that these items were given to Mr. Campbell as an officer of FNC in his role as custodian of FNC's assets, not to be used or dispensed as if they were his personal possessions. Indeed, the cashier's check I made out to Mr. Campbell in Nov '00 states " Ref: Opening New Far North Chess Account". Mr. Campbell violated his custodial duties as an officer of FNC when he turned these items over to someone with no authorization or official status in FNC to carry on its activities and operations. He also violated the trust and interests of FNC's members. On behalf of FNC, we are appealing to the leadership of USCF to:
1) Request Ron Campbell to answer to these charges and/or make FNC whole in monies and equipment he illegally gave away.
2) Request Rick Everett to assist and cooperate with Mr. Campbell in seeing these items are returned.
3) Impose sanctions against Mr. Everett and Mr. Campbell if they refuse USCF's request to make Far North Chess whole in these matters.
We would like a reply from you by July 25th, 2002 as to what USCF 's role will be in helping to resolve this issue. At that time, Far North Chess will employ a lawyer and seek to address this matter legally. We believe FNC has shown their willingness to resolve these matters by making ACL and Mr. Everett a more than fair offer, which he has rejected.
Thank you, once again.
Most Sincerely Yours,
Lew Brown-Coon
cc. Eric Bohlen
September 17, 2002
Dear Mr. Brown-Coon and Mr. Everett:
I apologize for being so late in responding to earlier communications. I have been traveling extensively in relation to my duties as USCF President, and I just returned from a week in Moscow, after another week in the Philadelphia area.
Let me make some general comments here: I was very positively impressed with you both on the phone. Sometimes when there are disputes we forget the larger picture of working together for chess; and we also forget that others see that larger picture, and appreciate and admire those of you who have made excellent organizational contributions.
I also want to clear up an apparent misunderstanding: Mr. Everett has had very little contact with me. I think we have spoken only 2-3 times total, and none in recent months. The software provided to his club was in payment of a prize his affiliate had won legitimately as part of the affiliate incentive program. We did make a minor substitution in that prize at his request.
Regarding the general issues raised: I will make only general comments, as there is some question of the appropriate procedure for USCF involvement. I think that any money transferred should be used for its expressed purpose. However, I think the amount of money involved here is quite small, and should not be the subject of a dispute that splits a state. An amicable settlement along 50-50 lines always seems best.
I also think that the state affiliate must always have regular and announced elections. I am thinking of proposing this as a strict requirement in USCF regulations.
In any event, an amicable settlement among good people should always be possible. I apologize again for my extreme tardiness in responding and commenting. I wish all of you in Alaska the very best on behalf of the USCF.
Regards, John McCrary, USCF President
September 19, 2002
Dear Mr. McCrary and Mr. Everett,
First, thank you Mr. McCrary,for your response. We understand in the light of your far flung duties as USCF President that our problems here are really quite trivial, though they are very real to us. I've inserted below the letter I sent to you on July 10,2002 concerning my meeting with Mr. Everett on behalf of Far North Chess to try to resolve the issues existing between these two bodies. As stated in that letter, the offer I was authorized to make to them on behalf of FNC was even more gracious than the one that you have proposed of 50/50. I have this day spoken with Mr. Bohlen, President of FNC, and he had planned to file the civil court action within the next 10 days. After conferring with him, I am for the last time making an offer on behalf of FNC of $350. This figure is less than half of the money and value of the chess clocks and sets that were misdirected into Mr. Everett's possession. Mr. Everett has 30 days, until October 19,2002), to surrender the above funds to either myself or Mr. Bohlen, via a cashier's check or money order. Mr. Bohlen also asked me to relate to all parties that should this fail to happen, the civil suit he already has in hand to submit includes the full cost of $750. In addition, court and retrieval costs entailed by FNC and himself in the processing of this legal action have also been included in the reparations sought in the above mentioned suit. Should FNC be forced into litigation and win their case, they will, at that point, come back to USCF requesting the sanctions mentioned in the July 11th letter. Compliance,on the other hand, would end all further claims/requests from Far North Chess for action from the courts or USCF. Mr. McCrary, both FNC and I concur with you that the settlement you have suggested is fair and would close the issue between these two affiliates. This is now in Mr. Everett's hands and I am trusting him to make a decision that is wise for all of us with the interests of Chess at heart in our great state. Please refer replies to XXXX@YYY. Also note I am leaving town on Sunday 9/22 and will not be returning until 10/7.
Most Sincerely, Lew Brown-Coon
September 23, 2002
Dear Mr. McCrary,
My name is Charles Sherwood and I serve as vice president of the Alaska Chess League, under Richard Everett. I've recently read the e-mails sent to you by Mr. Lew Brown-Coon, and the recommendations you sent back in answer to issues mentioned in his e-mail dated July 17th. First off, on behalf of the ACL, I would like to apologize for having dragged you into this mess. We have tried to maintain the peace in and around the Alaska chess scene, by simply ignoring the harassment and negative tactics of this rival chess entity. A very few individuals are responsible for creating this dilemma we find ourselves facing today. Unfortunately, since these individuals will stop at nothing to disrupt chess organization except under their auspices, you are due some explanation as to what has transpired since the Alaska Chess League was organized. Ordinarily, Rick and I would, simply push forward promoting chess in Alaska, ignoring the venom and innuendo these folks continue to persist in. However, the allegations and demands presented in Lew Brown-Coon's e-mails to you, need to be addressed immediately if for no other reason than to tell a story you might find interesting. We know you're a busy man with little time for local squabbles, so I'll try to keep this as short as possible.
I am a chess player of the Fischer era; starting in the 70's as a member and eventual president of my high school chess club. I joined the USCF during the heyday of American participation in our great game. I quit playing OTB altogether in the late 80's to devote my time to raising a family, rather than studying constantly and contesting the game whenever the opportunity arose; an experience thousands of chess players must have lived through. I rediscovered chess experimenting with computers and on-line-internet gaming. After a short time competing on the net, I found myself wanting to play over the board, once again. The timing was right, with the young ones near majority and life's monetary requirements somewhat under control. I found and posted a note on a local, (internet) chess message board, and that is how this whole mess got started.
Shortly after this posting, close friends, from my chess days of old telephoned me, and informed me they too, wanted to see chess rejuvenated in Alaska. It was explained to me that, "they", had been monitoring the website of the local chess club, but like so many others were not participating in any events sponsored by these individuals, for several reasons I will not expound on here. Suffice it to say that many of the reasons were trivial, but that some were substantial enough to bring chess, all but to a complete halt in our great state. Under the auspices of the individuals you've been hearing from lately, our annual reunion event of all Alaskan players in and outside of the state of Alaska, the "Fur Rendezvous", had deteriorated into an 8-player event in the basement of a local church. I was dismayed! The last time I assisted in organizing this event we attracted over 100 contestants (138 was the exact number if I'm not mistaken). I was also informed that I had just posted a message of support on the website of the very persons responsible for this travesty. I immediately withdrew my support (an action, I've since apologized for, publicly, more than once) and, I believe, started this whole ball of nonsense in motion.
By simple coincidence and nothing more, events begin to run a course of their own at this point.
I was informed by Rick Everett that the Far North Chess Club had virtually disbanded except for one individual; Ron Campbell. Ron was handed all of FNC (Far North Chess) monies and equipment by one, Lew Brown-Coon. Lew was washing his hands of all responsibilities to Far North Chess. By default, Ron became the president and caretaker of Far North Chess such as it was. By Ron's account, the FNC had ceased to exist. No officers or members were willing to volunteer or participate in any chess activities. Given the state of affairs at that time, this should have come as no surprise. Ron, accepted by default, the responsibility of president and sole proprietor of Far North Chess, simply because no one else would. Ron renewed the state affiliate certification in the name of Far North Chess and set about finding a way to keep chess on the map. At this same time, Mr. Campbell was working in the North Slope oil fields on a 3-weeks-on/1-week-off schedule. Ron soon realized, his long absences from the Anchorage chess scene and the Alaskan chess community at large, would not allow him to promote, organize or manage chess activities in our state with the proper level of hands-on participation required.
At this point, the officers of FNC were, David Allum, Lew Brown-Coon and Ron Campbell. David had transferred to Germany in a military capacity, leaving his office vacant; Lew handed over all authority to Ron Campbell, pleading a lack of available time to devote toward chess and also leaving his office vacant. As a final result, Ron, made a decision to ask Rick Everett to help keep chess in Alaska, alive. Rick accepted! Ron gave Rick all the chess equipment in his possession, (battered and unserviceable by the way), all the monies Lew Brown-Coon had given him (less the state affiliate fees) and the state affiliate certificate itself that was in Ron's name at the time. All of FNC's manifesto fell into Rick's hands with the high hope that he could make a go of revitalizing chess in Alaska.
Shortly there after, Rick and myself, along with an old friend by the name of Robert Curry, organized ourselves and set about the task of rejuvenating chess interest in our area. We dropped the name of Far North Chess in favor of the Alaska Chess League so as to put a new face on our efforts and leave off the baggage of a failed entity. We have since had a falling out with Mr. Curry due to unethical behavior on his part. Mr. Curry can now be located at the new "Far North Chess" club placing calls to our constituents informing them that the "chess club" now meets at a different location on a different night than the ACL's regularly scheduled get-together's. We have recently been informed of this new tactic on the part of FNC. Obviously this is an unscrupulous attempt to prop-up their (FNC's) attendance at our expense by insinuating that our (ACL's) meetings, are now taking place at a new time and location which just coincidentally happens to be FNC's meeting time and location (imagine that). These sorts of activities by FNC have only bolstered our membership, as people become aware of what has occurred. This should be self-evident given the number of players turning out for our respective tournaments. Numbers you can easily verify by examining our most recent, event turn-ins, for USCF rating. It would be easy to dive into more of the fun things FNC has tossed our way; however, I would rather let you know what the ACL is really guilty of. In the last year and a half, the Alaska Chess League is guilty of:
1. Promoting chess and USCF membership.
2. Organizing tournaments regularly.
3. Contacting and promoting chess within the University of Alaska system. (We hope the USCF will realize their presence in a positive way during the coming school year.)
4. Establishing a website with information about upcoming, past and current events with links to several chess organization throughout the USA and the world. The website also contains an opinion and message board as well as a guest book. (http://home.gci.net/~Alaska)
5. Through cooperation with GCI Alaska Communications, establishing an internet chess server, currently being tested. (games.gci.net) A site we hope to use as a platform to launch scholastic events for children in the bush who are prohibited by long distance air travel.
6. Acquiring sponsors who have donated playing sites, prizes/awards and communications capabilities.
7. Conducting the largest chess tournament in Alaska in the last decade and reestablishing the Fur Rendezvous. A tournament, by all indications, we anticipate will have a 70 - 100 player attendance level this coming winter. Playing site and official event status have already been acquired at the cost of $350.00 (event scheduled for Feb. 15th through 17th, 2003)
8. Expanding tournament organization and participation throughout the entire state of Alaska not just the Anchorage bowl area.
9. Increasing "renewing membership" numbers. (This is significant in our case.)
10. Receiving positive mention in statewide media for our efforts.
Sure, we may have made some mistakes in our short history, but we've also explained the reasons for our actions to anyone effected, or interested. We never claimed to be perfect when we started out, just concerned and dedicated to reviving chess in our state.
Now, rather than planning our next event, we find ourselves answering accusations and charges leveled by someone who not only quit the chess scene and left us in this situation, but as far as I can tell, hasn't lifted a piece in tournament play in years. (Probably not an unusual disposition for organizers on the national level but certainly peculiar in our environment.) Once again, we apologize for your having to deal with this, but since these people are willing to pursue litigation on a local level, we would like to take this opportunity to explain our position and hopefully clear our name with the USCF. We will deal with the local issues, as required.
The monies we received from Ron Campbell have been recycled continuously over the last year & one/half promoting chess in Alaska. We found this war chest indispensable in reestablishing contact with old and new USCF members. To address any financial reimbursement due Far North Chess concerning the $460.00 mentioned in Lew's e-mail. We are aware that $300.00 of this amount was fundamentally embezzled after a tournament it was earmarked for, never took place, yet the money was retained by FNC/ACL de facto. We would like to return this money to the USCF in the name of Far North Chess, rather than possibly sharing this money with the Alaska District Court system. The remainder of $160.00 shall be further reduced to $120.00 by the admission into evidence of the receipt of paid USCF affiliate fees in the name of Ron Campbell.
By the way, we understand one, Eric Bohlen, contacted the USCF representing himself as an officer of the now defunct FNC, and claim-jumped the state affiliate title. We were intending to apply for the vacant state affiliate certificate upon the lapsing of FNC tenure. No legal election or meeting, we have been made aware of, ever took place in order to reestablish FNC. Ron Campbell's presence could and should have been requested in order to start and validate any such proceedings; this never occurred. As a result, Mr. Bohlen's acquisition of the state affiliate position, is questionable at best, and suspect, to say the least.
As to the remaining $120.00, we will be glad to appear before small claims court and explain it's whereabouts and accept local adjudication as it may decide. We can only hope we hear from you before we enter litigation.
As you are aware, we have been willing to overlook the maneuver, whereby Mr. Bohlen absconded with the "state" USCF affiliation, in order to maintain peace throughout the local chess community. As far as returning chessic supplies to FNC, we are willing to comply with the return of new and/or serviceable equipment upon your request. I believe the value of the boards and clocks would be the sum of $290.00 (brand new?), one half of this value being $145.00, if all parties agree, of course. As far as our ability to insure FNC is "whole again", we will do our best under the circumstances, but we can in no way insure increased, PLAYER (USCF members) participation in their activities. We would like to be able to work in conjunction with the FNC, but given the style and demeanor of their management we would like to keep them at least at arms' length, so to speak, from our association.
In regards to any sanctions the USCF may impose on Richard Everett and or Ronald Campbell, I would like to add the following. Our obligations and commitments, as the ACL, extend to February 17th 2003 (the Fur Rendezvous chess tournament). We will meet and complete these obligations no matter the circumstances. We owe this to our sponsors and benefactors as well as our expected participants. As a matter of fact, the only detractors we have in achieving total success in the rejuvenation of chess with this event, is the few and same individuals calling themselves FNC. At the close of the Fur Rendezvous chess tournament, The ACL shall, by your command, cease to exist upon the application of any sanctions, what so ever. The ACL will, "shut down", in it's entirety. Your call.
If the USCF is so inclined, character witnesses on behalf of the Alaska Chess League, from the ranks of USCF members at large, should be solicited before sanctions take place. However, should this not occur, the ACL will still abide by any decisions the USCF shall impose. Our only regret is that these actions or sanctions will have been inspired by a small group of bitter and disappointed individuals with nothing better to do, than to try their level best to stop anything "good" from happening in chess WITHOUT THEM. I would also like to add, that in my opinion, given any sanctions imposed by the USCF, you will have stopped a local movement to reintroduce a small portion of the thousands of Fischer era players that have recently become available to the USCF throughout the United States of America and beyond. In our very small microcosm we've discovered, we're out there, we'd love to be back; just gotta clear up a few things along the way. The talent and maturity of these individuals is a resource we are using, even now, to grow the ranks of chess throughout Alaska.
In closing, I can only hope that the actions and behavior of the USCF state affiliate in Alaska is not indicative of USCF representation throughout the United States of America. This would surely be a shame. It's time to stop the alienation of chess players, worldwide, by organizations that are willing to conduct themselves in such a manner.
Sincerely,
Chuck Sherwood VP / Alaska Chess League
September 25, 2002
Dear Mr. Sherwood,
Thank you very much for your communication. Please allow me to clear up one thing: I have no desire to consider imposing sanctions on anyone in Alaska. By our own regulations, sanctions would be addressed by the Ethics Committee if an individual filed a complaint, and it found clear evidence of unethical conduct after due process investigation and a full response from the defendant. I do not encourage anyone to file with the Ethics Committee. I formerly chaired Ethics, and we imposed sanctions in only one case out of the twelve we considered during my year as Chair.
I think that anyone looking at this situation from the outside would see a group of dedicated USCF members trying to promote chess, and would admire and appreciate their work as I do.
Furthermore, it seems to me that both sides of this dispute agree on certain facts. It seems evident that FNC had reduced its activity level and was not holding regular meetings or elections advertised to all USCF members in Alaska even when the existing officers could not remain active. This kind of thing happens periodically in any organization. The ACL has obviously done good work in restoring important chess activities in Alaska and in adding new activities. I doubt that anyone, even persons on the other side of this dispute, would disagree with these basic facts.
Instead, the primary differences seem to center around the issue of assuming the activities of the state affiliate when its activity level was reduced. Unfortunately, I could not reach Mr. Campbell, I believe, when I tried around early summer. ( I have dealt with so many things since then that my memory of these details is fuzzy.)
I remain of the opinion that all persons involved in this matter are good people and hard-working organizers. The amount of money or property involved is far too small to split a state over. Admittedly, I have to deal with a $5,000,000 USCF budget, so a problem over an amount less than one ten-thousandth of that just does not seem to be of great significance, even on a state level. I am sure that when you or I go to the bank, we have that much cash in our pockets when we leave.
For that reason, I am encouraged that both sides have made compromise offers regarding this money and property. Perhaps you are closer to resolution than you think. I suppose that if both sides expressly requested that the USCF arbitrate this, we could do so; but I would be afraid that our intervention would only perhaps make things worse if our ruling were not deemed to be satisfactory. It would be much better if the sides could work things out themselves. I am unsure if the $300 you refer to includes the state affiliate support money ( SASP) that was given for a specific purpose. If so, perhaps return of this amount to USCF would be an acceptable disposition of these funds to both parties. Would you like me to convey your offer regarding this and the equipment to Mr. Brown-Coon?
One additional point here, that I would make to all: sometimes in chess leadership, it is necessary to put aside past differences and resolve simply to move ahead. It is hard to do but it must be done for the greater good, so all of us national "politicians" learn to put aside past problems. At a local or state level, the same ability to put aside the past is also necessary at times, regardless of who was right or wrong in a given situation. I suspect that personal feelings are more at issue here than the money or property. If so, it seems time for a statewide meeting with a positive, forward-looking focus, and perhaps election of a consensus group of officers, to move ahead and resolve all these issues.
In any event, I repeat my admiration and appreciation for your efforts on behalf of chess and the USCF. I hope my response has been helpful.
Regards,
John McCrary, USCF President
October 3, 2002
Thanks for your quick response Mr. McCrary.
First let me give my point of view on this subject and maybe some light will be shed. This whole problem seems to stem from an on going personal conflict between a couple of long time Alaskan chess players who for some reason seem to seriously dislike one another. I don't know any real details of this conflict but it seems to be affecting us all who enjoy chess in this state. Let me start by telling you how things came to be as they are now. Around two years ago a gentleman by the name of Lew Brown-Coon was the official holder of the Alaska State Affiliate to the USCF. One day he decided that he wasn't up to it anymore and asked me if I was interested in taking control of Far North Chess since he no longer wanted to try and keep things going. I agreed to this, and in turn Mr. Brown-Coon handed me everything he had that had anything to do with Far North Chess.This included some chess sets, a few clocks and of course the $460 which is at question now. I gladly received these things and as far as I knew Mr. Brown-Coon had washed his hands of it and no longer was involved in Alaskan chess. Shortly after receiving these things I renewed the affiliate into my name but kept Far North Chess as the club name with $40 of the $460 and that left $420.(in hindsight I should have changed the name to ACL) I soon after acquired a very good job working on the north slope oilfields which demanded that I spend weeks at a time away from home. This caused many problems in my pursuit to further chess. So much so that I wasn't really able to do anything at all for chess. So I took the first opportunity to offer this responsibility to a close friend and long time Alaskan Richard Everett who has tremendous experience at organizing and knows all the ins and outs of running a successful chess club due to his past experience. Mr. Everett accepted my offer and I in turn gave everything that Mr. Brown-Coon gave to me to Mr. Everett. I believe that what I did was right and best for all involved in alaskan chess. In my opinion at that time FNC no longer existed and was now ACL. I am still wondering how Mr. Eric Bohlen came into this whole picture. I do not believe that he had any right at all to call the USCF and renew the affiliate under his name stripping ACL of its right to hold state championships or any other tournament that must be overseen by the (official) state affiliate. Since there is so much concern over who holds the affiliate I believe that the USCF should force a vote by mail in ballots to resolve the affiliate issue. An easier course would be to give ACL back the affiliate status due to the fact that everyone already knows that the ACL is the most organized and successful club in this entire state . (This is not an opinion but visible fact) On the matter of the remaining funds, the ACL has kept receipts of all expenses and has used this money to promote and hold chess tournaments and has even taken more out of their own pockets than they received from me. One example is the $350 Chuck Sherwood used of his own money to pay the Fur rondy committee so that our annual tournament will be officially recognized and advertised as a Fur Rondy event. One thing I would like to know is why this other chess club believes they should have the affiliate and why they insist on holding tournaments on the same days that the ACL has a tournament when the ACL advertised months in advance of these events. In my opinion they are blatantly trying to undermine the ACL and its efforts. This kind of club activity will not be accepted by the majority of chess players and this is indicative of the turn outs that each club has had respectively. Furthermore, threats of lawsuits have been thrown at us and we are still wondering what kinds of other madness are at play in this other chess club. These kinds of activity's will do more harm than good to any chess entity. It is of my personal opinion that the ACL is the rightful affiliate and would do great things as such. I have never seen the days when more than 100 people showed up for a tournament, but I do know that the ACL founders have seen those days and are in fact responsible for such great chess events in Alaska, and are presently working to renew those past efforts.
I do hope that you can help resolve this matter for I fear that things may get out of hand very soon.
Ronald Campbell
Gentlemen,
I do not immediately have handy the e-mail address of the other persons in Alaska who have contacted me. As I am leaving shortly for a trip to talk to a potential USCF sponsor in Florida and cannot check those addresses, I ask Barb ( copied on this) or either of you to forward this message to others in Alaska. I will be back next week. The USCF Executive Board on October 23, 2002 empowered me to intervene officially in Alaska to help resolve the current problems. The possible methods of intervention would be mediation, arbitration, or holding a secret ballot election for state officers, with all Alaska adult members voting. I request that plans by anyone to go to court be curtailed until we have determined which of the above methods will best help resolve things amicably for the benefit of all our current and future Alaska Members. I will try to follow up on this next week before leaving for the FIDE meetings the following week.
Regards, John McCrary, USCF President
November 01, 2002
Holy cow! This "IS" something that needs to see the light of day. I don't know how things will turn out, old buddy, but I'm in! I can only hope, everyone, will understand our frustration with all this and our conviction to finally share with all, what has transpired since we simply tried to get chess back on the map in Alaska.
Chuck Sherwood / VP Alaska Chess League
To USCF members in Alaska: Greetings to everyone. I hope you all are okay in the aftermath of the earthquake. By way of introduction, I have been USCF President since August 2001. A number of persons in Alaska have contacted me over the past few months about an ongoing dispute in Alaska, with the request that the USCF assist in resolving this dispute. I have been reluctant to place the USCF into that role, since such matters are usually best resolved locally. If the USCF were to arbitrate, it would do so at the risk of alienating one or both groups. Unfortunately, several recent communications to me have indicated that there has been no progress in achieving resolution despite the fact that some efforts were made by both sides.
Accordingly, the Executive Board on October 23, 2002, empowered me to take steps to help resolve the Alaska dispute. I hope that all concerned realize that the Board acted solely in response to requests from various USCF members in Alaska. I still hope that an amicable resolution can be achieved at the state level, without USCF intervention being required. If progress is being made toward such a solution at this time, please inform me.
I will note that all the persons with whom I have spoken have made good impressions on me. I genuinely believe, based on various conversations, that all involved support the growth of chess in Alaska. Accordingly, I believe that compromises should be possible. Compromise is an essential activity of any organization if it is to retain the ability to work together. For that reason, I strongly discourage any attempt to take matters to court. I also discourage any talk of USCF sanctions against any person in Alaska. I personally have seen no need to consider such actions in this matter.
It appears that are two issues:
1) A relatively small amount of money, I believe about $460;
2) A question of the organization and identity of the state affiliate;
Matter # (1) above should be a matter of compromise among the parties. I think that I have heard two offers of compromise. I ask that a representative of each group please remind me by e-mail of what these offers involve. My recollection is that they were not far apart, especially given the fact that the amount of money is small. After receiving both offers, I may offer an opinion regarding what the most appropriate compromise might be.
On issue (2), we have the fundamental question of whether officers of the state affiliate are being regularly-elected by a procedure which allows regular participation of all USCF members in Alaska. I recently received a copy of the constitution of Far North Chess, which is currently recognized by USCF as the state affiliate. This recognition was continued after I spoke with a representative of a challenging affiliate a few months ago, and he told me that his affiliate would withdraw its challenge in the interest of resolving the dispute. After receiving this withdrawal, the USCF cancelled plans to hold an election to determine the officers and identity of the state affiliate.
My main question about the constitution of Far North Chess is its membership provision, which appears to limit membership to persons who have played in a recent rated event, and whose local affiliate is in active association with Far North Chess. While I appreciate the reasoning behind this provision, I think that the membership of the state affiliate should be open to all USCF members in the state, without these additional conditions. On a national level, many USCF members join only for Chess Life, or correspondence chess, or US Chess Live etc., or to support the USCF, and are not active in rated play. An individual should be able to join the state affiliate even if the local affiliate is not associated with it. I am unaware of any other state that has such conditions on its membership ( Although there may be some). Here in South Carolina, membership is open. I therefore ask Far North Chess if it is willing to open its membership to all USCF members in Alaska. Doing so might help avoid the need to hold a special election, if such members could then vote at the Annual meeting in February to elect officers. At least, this may be a point of compromise to consider.
I am leaving in a few minutes for the FIDE meetings in Slovenia, ( so please forgive typos as I am rushed), and I hope that it will be convenient for those concerned to offer comments on the above issues by the time of my return around November 12 or shortly thereafter. To avoid possible misunderstandings, it might be better to send replies initially only to me.
I am sending this to addresses provided to me. Please feel free to forward this message at your discretion. If anyone does not wish to be involved in this discussion, please let me know.
I hope that we can help resolve any difficulties soon. Thanks to all concerned for all the work you do for chess!
Regards, John McCrary, USCF President
November 6, 2002
What's wrong Rick? Is the truth catching up with you. You're not a very nice person. Hate will get you nowhere. Hope you can find a better way soon, chess is suffering because of a 20 year old grudge you keep. Return the items that don't belong to you, we'll hold a vote at the State Championships on November 30 and it will all be over with. You will still have your club and the State affiliate will have new officers, then any changes wanted can go through motions to be changed. By the rules and bylaws of the USCF. What is so hard about that?
Hootdooggy (Eric Bohlen, President/FNC, I assume)
cc. John McCrary
The only e-mail I've received from Eric
November 7, 2002
Mr. Eric Bohlen:
Apparently there are some general rules of thumb about official correspondence that you remain unaware of. If I'm not mistaken, you have broken most, if not all of them with your ridiculous message below (above). I felt like I was listening to an elementary school kid with a dispute that was being brought to "Teacher".
1) Sending the USCF President your diatribe, particularly the way you worded it, was not professional to say the least. Does the USCF President really need to hear what you think about Rick personally? What possessed you to send those types of comments to the leader of chess in the U.S.A.?? Did you honestly believe that you were forwarding your cause with this email?
2) Asking Rick to give up "hate" was uncalled for and you offer no further information to explain your comment. What are you referring to? See above comment for further details.
3) 20 year grudge?? What in God's Holy Name Are You Blathering About?? I was around 20 years ago, where were you? I don't recall ever hearing your name until recently. Where were you 20 years ago to have such an "educated" opinion on what went on 20 years ago...I was unaware you were in the know about anything that happened at that time. I was there (Anchorage) during that time period and I recall no such "grudge" between Rick and anyone else.
4) You ask if the "truth if catching up" with Rick. What are you referring to? How is Mr. McCrary supposed to know what you are talking about? What was the point of this comment?
After reading your message, I was actually embarrassed to be an Alaskan chess player. To think that the USCF President has to read such drivel and listen to your blathering about God knows what and then be associated in any way, shape or form with Alaskan chess was humiliating enough. I have discussed this with a few of my Fairbanks colleagues and we have reached a consensus: In the future, FOR THE SAKE OF ALL ALASKAN CHESS PLAYERS, please be sure to be more professional in your dealings with our national organization. You are, like it or not, whether we like it or not, representing all of us in some way when you correspond with the USCF. Please act accordingly.
Travis J. Norman
November 7, 2002
Dear Mr. McCrary: As an Alaskan chess player from Fairbanks, I thought I would take the time to introduce myself and update you on the current situation here regarding the dispute between FNC (Far North Chess) and ACL (Alaska Chess League).
As an ACL Member-at-large, I was privy to some of the correspondence between the two groups, though by no means all. I have included for your perusal my (exasperated) response to one of the messages sent to you by Mr. Eric Bohlen. This is the first time that I have corresponded with anyone from FNC, and I felt it was necessary to contact you via email due to my suspicion that you were receiving correspondence from them and that it was all in a similar vein to the one that I have responded to. I am certain that you have heard the FNC perceptions on events here, and I did not know if you had received any messages from interested players that did not see the situation in quite the same way. After discussing this matter today with other chess players in the Fairbanks area, I thought it would be a good idea if we individually messaged you with our concerns.
In my opinion, the type of message that was sent to you by Mr. Bohlen does not help the situation in any way, and does nothing but put all of Alaskan chess in a poor, negative light. I have thus far not directly involved myself in this dispute and have maintained a certain distance from it, hoping that it would resolve itself at some point in time. Apparently this is, regrettably, not the case. We have here a very small minority of players (about half a dozen by my count), living in Anchorage, who have attempted to hijack Alaskan chess for whatever purposes. In Fairbanks alone, there are no supporters for the FNC that I am aware of. None. The vast majority of players in Anchorage support the ACL as well. As far as Southeast Alaska (Juneau for example), I am unaware of any support for the FNC. What about the stronger players you might well ask, do they support the FNC or the ACL? With one exception, there are none that support the FNC. That particular individual is a disaffected former member of ACL with an axe to grind and his own agenda.
The way I understand it, statewide elections are to be held sometime in February to determine officers for the State Affiliate. I ask if there is any way that players who cannot attend this election can vote in absentia, as I do not believe that any players from Southeast Alaska or the Fairbanks area will be in attendance. The distance to travel is simply too great. My fear is that, once again, half a dozen players will hold "elections" at a place and time of their choosing and the rest of us will simply be left out in the cold. Some sort of monitoring system needs to be enforced to prevent such things from occurring yet again.
In closing, I would like to thank you for your time and assistance on this matter, I am sure you have many more important issues that require your attention. If there is anything I can do to assist you in any way on this matter, please let me know.
Cordially yours, Travis J. Norman
November 7, 2002
Dear Mr. McCrary, As a two-time former Alaska Chess Champion (1997, 1999), I, too, am dismayed at the pettiness demonstrated by FNC. Having personally met Mr. Everett over-the-board and away from it, I am absolutely appalled at Mr.Bohlen's comments. The conduct of a select few players in Anchorage (e.g., FNC) reminds me of a renegade in Nevada (a certain Clemson University alumnus) who attempted a hostile takeover of the Nevada USCF affiliate a few years back.
But right now I'd like to add a few details in support of Mr. Norman's memo:
1. Right now it is very difficult for chess players who live in the interior, the bush, north slope, and southeast to get to Anchorage for an election. Fairbanks to Anchorage is about an 8-hour drive in the summer. The Parks highway is no doubt by now covered with patchy ice, as it is definitely winter by now.
2. Chess players in Bethel, Nome, Juneau, Barrow, and Prudhoe Bay will have to fly an average of 1000 miles each way to get to Anchorage if an in-person election were to be held there. There are only 5 highways in all of Alaska (And 99% of them are two-lanes), so it's not like coming up from Charleston (my old stomping grounds) to Columbia in the old days.
The best way to have valid elections (to determine the state affiliate and its officers) is to have a mail-in or on-line vote from all the UCSF members currently residing in Alaska. (You have already noted that FNC only includes active rated players.) I suggest that an independent organization, such as a disinterested accounting firm in Alaska, count the ballots and tabulate election results. This way, all chess players in Alaska get to decide.
Very respectfully, Douglas Taffinder
November 07, 2002
Mr. Sherwood,
Far North Chess has attempted a 50/50 settlement, of which the USCF found to be fair. This was turned down, even though the money and items that ACL received were stolen. Half of what's not yours is a good deal. As to date the ACL has, at no time, attempted any settlement of any kind. The Rondy is a club level event and had a wonderful turnout, I hope to see it continue. However the State Championship is a USCF State Affiliate Requirement which FNC is obligated to hold. Mr. McCrary pulled the February meeting from past information. He would really like this settled as soon as possible, as would I. I am not sure why you are attacking me when my questions are for Ricky?? I have no problems with you, I don't know you. However Ricky has not been very nice and not telling the whole truth to a lot of people. Now I'm going to defend myself. Ron Campbell started this problem by abandoning his duties as an FNC officer. All he had to do was call a meeting and tell everyone he needed to be replaced because of his new job. Instead, he left everyone in the dark and left the Rondy hanging. All I tried to do was help the Alaska chess scene. I offered to direct that Rondy with only 7 days to prepare. When only 8 people played, Dan Callahan, Bob Curry and ACL started attacking me about how much I "suck" and telling everyone it's my fault things went the way they did. Not only did they attack myself, Dan Callahan, whom I had only met once called my house while I was at chess club and berated my wife about who I was and what I was going to do about John Peters who in his words "ruined chess in Alaska in the 80's" (about 20 years ago). Did Ron or Ricky come forward to set the record straight about anything? No, they let it go knowing it would make them look better. So yes, I have a personal problem with a THIEF and a LIAR, and I'm not sure why your answering for Rick. Richard Clendaniel has talked of you often and you seem reasonable enough. My only interest is following the rules, getting FNC's property back for the next officers, holding the State Championships and the State Affiliate elections at the same time so this ridiculous fiasco is over in 24 short days. This is enough time for everyone to call, write, speak and get chess back on track THIS MONTH. I want out of this position, I'm in over my head because of someone else's lies and deceit, but I will finish what was started by the rules. I hope you can let Rick, Ron and Myself have our problems and just continue to support chess in Alaska.
Hootdooggy (Eric Bohlen, President/FNC, I assume)
November 7, 2002
Well Folks, Take all of this for what you think it's worth. You wanted to know and this is it. There will undoubtedly be more correspondence to share with you soon. However, this mess shall come to pass, and then focus for Chess will once again be on the future and not the past.
Rick Everett, President/Alaska Chess League
November 8, 2002
Dear Mr McCrary: I am a purchaser for the Alaskan Pipeline; my name is Paul Austin. I have been a member of USCF off and on since the late 1960's. My current membership has lapsed but with the recent good promotional work done by the Alaska Chess League (ACL) it looks like there may be some new life infused in the chess scene here. Therefore I intend to renew soon.
I give my full support to the higher rated and more professional players of that organization. The other group, Far North Chess (FNC), has done some unseemly things and should have their charter revoked. They have broken pairing rules and altered pairings (even in grade school tournaments) to skew tournament results. I have no confidence in them. Some high rated players quit chess because of the politics emanating from that group but with the appearance of the ACL there is hope that leadership will fall into fresh hands. I read your e-mail addressed to Alaskan members suggesting elections. In past the FNC has held arbitrary last minute elections breaking the groups own election rules. I have no faith in their fairness or leadership. We Fairbanksans have to travel 7 hours to get to Anchorage. Last minute decisions exclude us. Although the ACL is also in Anchorage the leadership there keeps us in the loop and encourages our participation. The ACL promotes the game of chess for all; the FNC promotes favoritism for their own insiders.
Paul Austin
November 9, 2002
Dear Mr. McCrary! I am writing this to comment on the current situation on chess in Alaska. My name is Artem Ratchkovski, I have been involved in Alaska chess scene from 1994 since I came from Russia. I am a national master and 4-time State Champion (1998, 1999, 2000 and 2001). I am a winner of Alaska's Fur Rondy tournaments (1997, 1999 and 2002) and many other local tournaments. I am also a 1997 US Open co-winner in U2200 and active participant in many State and National USCF tournaments. I have had highest and second highest rating in Alaska since 1997. I was USCF Alaska delegate from 1998-2001, the position I was appointed to by the former Far North Chess (FNC) organizer Lee Brown-Coon. Since he resigned from his position as president things got worse in FNC as current leadership seem to be interested more in political power for themselves not in the interests of chess in Alaska for all as they do not include all players in the election and decision-making process. As someone who lives in Fairbanks I feel that we are excluded from having a voice on important USCF and local state chess matters. I agree with Paul Austin and Travis Norman when they noted that FNC policies and practices have turned away many strong high-rated players from playing in state tournaments. Current president of FNC Eric Bohlen went so far as appointing himself a new USCF delegate without even letting me now about elections for this position. He also used my name without my permission to promote his organization in 2001. It's no surprise that majority of Alaska chess players, myself included, opt not to deal with FNC at all and not play in their tournaments.
I would like to throw my support for Alaska Chess League (ACL) and acknowledge great job they are doing to promote and grow chess in Alaska. Mr. Everett and Mr. Sherwood made a difference when they started ACL. They are honest decent people and work tirelessly to promote chess in Alaska. Thanks to them and ACL chess is on the rise in Alaska again.
Respectfully, Artem Ratchkovski
Fairbanks, Alaska
November 13, 2002
Hello to all,
This past weekend Far North Chess and the Alaska Chess League held two meetings to resolve the issues stalling the progress of Alaska chess. We believe, with the forthcoming cooperation between Far North Chess and the Alaska Chess League, our favorite game will have a bright future. The following understanding has been agreed upon.
1. Far North Chess is the Alaska State Affiliate for the USCF.
2. Eric Bohlen - Pres. FNC & Chuck Sherwood - VP ACL will CO-direct the Alaska State Championships. FNC will host with ACL direct support.
3. The Alaska Chess League will host the Annual Fur Rondy with FNC direct support.
4. The overlapping of large tournaments shall be avoided.
5. $300.00 shall be returned to the USCF.
6. The remaining $120.00 was to be split between FNC and ACL, however it was then agreed to be spent purchasing prizes for upcoming events.
7. Nominations for State Affiliate Officers will be taken until the 15th of Dec. 2002
8. Shortly after the nominations are in, FNC will attach an election ballot to its January mailer. The ballot return dead line will be enclosed.
9. FNC shall announce the election results two (2) days after the deadline.
10. The new FNC Officers shall be Introduced and take office during the Fur Rondy meeting.
11. Far North Chess and The Alaska Chess League shall work together to promote Chess for the benefit of all Alaska Chess Players.
To Mr. Everett and Mr. Campbell, I apologize for referring to you as a liar and a thief. This was an emotional defense of my opinion and an overly harsh labeling of your character.
Sincerely, Eric Bohlen
Far North Chess
November 13, 2002
I am delighted to hear of constructive progress. This is far better than having USCF try to arbitrate or mediate. I have just returned from the FIDE meetings in Bled, Slovenia, and am almost immediately going to the USCF Board meeting this weekend. Thus, I have not had time to read all the messages received, but I hope things will be resolved by the time I return next week.
Regards, John McCrary, USCF President
November 20, 2002
I am just returning from my USCF Board meeting, and have had time to look at this agreement. If it is acceptable to both affiliates, it is acceptable to the USCF. It appears very reasonable, and well formulated. I hope that Alaska can indeed have a very active chess future, as it is apparent to me that the USCF is fortunate to have many fine members in Alaska.
Best wishes, John McCrary, USCF President