Wrap up Letter to Summer Program Participants

Hi, everyone, It's hard to believe that the Summer Program is over already -- guess that means all you players will be heading back to school real soon! (Sorry!)

Just to remind you what is happening with the gift certificates: Out of 55 players, 42 won a prize! I expect to order gift certificates from the US Chess Federation next week. I will ask the USCF to send them all to me, so that I can make sure that they are all correct and accounted for. As soon as I receive them, I will mail them on to you. You should expect to get yours in mid-September. If you want to check out the USCF website in the meantime, the URL is www.uschess.org . My experience is that the merchandise shown online is just a fraction of what is available from the catalogue, which is itself something you can order online.

Now, I have a few "thank yous" to give out:

First, to all you players who made this event so successful. I am very impressed with the enthusiasm and dedication you showed in coming week after week. A particular thanks to the nine of you who, as veterans of last year's program, came back for more. And to all you newcomers to tournament chess, I hope to see you in many future tournaments.

Second, to all you parents who invested the time and interest and support that made this program possible. It couldn't have happened without you.

Third, to all who completed surveys, especially you who volunteered additional comments. We value your feedback.

Fourth, to a special group who came on every single night: Max Abugov, Matt Bailey-Adams, Joe Kreinsen, Brian Lee, Jonathan Michaelson, Jeff Salemi, and the Kwok brothers, Thomas, Brian and Derek. Eight other players missed only one night, and ten others missed only two nights. That's simply a terrific turnout!

No plans have been made for a summer program next year. There is obviously a lot of interest on the part of players and their parents to continue the program in 2002, and I'm sure that the MCC Board of Directors will very seriously consider continuing it. In the meantime, get involved in the various MACA and other scholastic tournaments that happen during the school year, and watch the MCC website in the spring for announcements.

        Regards,
        Alan Hodge