[Seattle Go Center] Go Congress 2013 Organizing HERE

Folks,

A few weeks ago, I announced that it was likely (about 97%) that the Seattle/Tacoma area would become the venue for the 2013 US Go Congress. It took a bit longer than I expected, but the final 3% of the puzzle has been filled in. We are IT.

The purpose of this first organizing meeting is to start getting the team together, talk about what needs to be done, when, and by whom, and to answer questions.  I am expecting many, so don't hesitate.

Until then, feel free to email me at chrisk.aga@comcast.net - or call at 206-579-8071

This is actually a late start for organizing a Congress, so we need to get going promptly.  All interested are invited to come to the Go Center Sunday May 6 to see the final games of the Pro Qualifying tournament. We will meet as soon as it is over, probably around 3:30 or a bit later.

I attach a “task list” I developed for the 1986 Congress (updated a bit from then with respect to technology advances). It not only defines the various tasks, but also indicates size and timing. Please take a look and see if you find one (or more) interesting.

This is a huge undertaking, but one with many rewards. We have some advantages, and some issues.  Here is a list of each.

Advantages:

We have more highly experienced organizers than any other area in the country. Many of you took on major tasks in 2005, and we also have people who worked in 1986, 1995, and 1998. (1998 was in Santa Fe, but Seattle people were deeply involved.)

The AGA administration will take responsibility for organizing registration, database management and financial management. This is a significant load off our backs.

Seattle is an attractive tourist destination – particularly for visitors from Asia. And, the Japanese Yen is very strong, which makes it very attractive economically for Japanese visitors. We are in fact a cheap vacation for them. Very cheap right now.

The institution of American certified pros is a big deal this year. It is likely to be bigger next year. Among other things, it is likely that the qualification tournament will occur in the week before the Congress as it will this year. That may induce other events that will in effect extend the Congress.

It looks like the economy is picking up, so by next year it should be easier for people to come.

Disadvantages:

We are in an expensive corner of the country. Our Congresses have always been expensive by comparison to East coast events. Can't be helped.

We may be significantly distracted – and some people's time may be occupied – by the survival issues at the Go Center.  We need to be careful not to overburden anyone.

--   Best,    Chris Kirschner,  AGA VP - Development  Phone 206-579-8071