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Considering the stagnated membership numbers of the USCF for the past 30 years, it is disappointing that the only response I received from the following letter was a 15 second voice message from Judy Misner who stated, "our policy is to 'never, never' share anyone's e-mail with other members??" Maybe its time that some of their antiquated policies be changed. The powers that be seem to be living in the past... 5-2-16 USCF I have been a member of the USCF since 1970. Naturally, I have seen many regimes come and go. Some good; some not so good. As time has passed, various administrations have adopted questionable policies in the name of progress. One of those current poorly designed policies has to do with "E-mail Blasts." The idea of sending out E-mails which are specifically directed toward various zip-code groups is a logical one. (But, it is my understanding that it is rarely used). Regardless, the organizer is paying for the service and "blindly" communicating with an audience which includes "everyone." The organizer should have a right to choose the recipients to his own liking, particularly if he is required to pay for the service. (We shouldn't even be charged; after all, it is our efforts that help pay your salaries...) Many years ago, we were able to pay a small fee for "mailing labels" of members in order to send ads by mail. Now, the trend has become the use of E-mail for that same purpose. The paradox is, we may still obtain the names and physical addresses of members on mailing labels, but we can't have their E-mail addresses?? I mean, let's be realistic. For reasons of security, I had rather allow my E-mail address be available than my physical address!? {Case in point: Weirdo sees a pretty girl at a chess tournament, obtains mailing labels from the USCF and finds out what her physical address is, etc.} Besides, all E-mail addresses are "public information." Furthermore, that information should be shared with organizers and directors who are attempting to communicate with their chess public. The current policy is diametrically opposite of that which it should be. In this day and age, physical addresses should not be made available and E-mails should! Therefore, please reverse the prevailing policy in order to make it a little easier for organizers who are attempting to attract new members and advertise their events. The curiosity is, it won't cost one penny to allow E-mails to be shared. In fact, you could charge a fee for providing them. You may also dodge potential law suits for providing members addresses!That having been said, please send me a list of E-mail addresses of all "adult" USCF members in the state of North Carolina and northern South Carolina. (I could narrow it down a bit if someone would actually respond). Respectfully yours, NM Leland Fuerstman**************************************************************
David Blackwelder: No offense to you or
any other chess organizer but I would not want
the USCF sharing my personal email with
every organizer. I don't disagree that the USCF
could do a better job of promoting events but
your proposal of sending you all the emails is
not the way.
NM Leland
Fuerstman: Members may order them from
the USCF who readily provide them
for a small fee. They still have the idea
that people send out post cards!?
LM Jerry Wheeler: I've always believed the USCF sees state and local organizers as competitors to their business, rather than members of OUR federation. Look at the evidence, most everything is done with a closed shop mentality, as well as having one privileged tournament organizer for the last 25 plus years. |