10.19.14 Mark your calendars! The dates of the 2015 State Scholastic Chess Championship at the University of Maine in Orono are: Teams March 7th, (snow date March 14th) and Individuals March 21st. The Maine Association of Chess Coaches (MACC) had their semi-annual planning meeting on Saturday, October 18th at UMO to determine the dates of the tournament and take care of the many details involved in hosting the largest chess event in the state. The next MACC meeting is scheduled for Saturday, January 10th at the Memorial Union at UMO. All chess coaches are welcomed and invited to attend.

In addition to determining the dates of the State Scholastic Chess Championships other important issues were discussed and voted on including:

1) The inclusion of a "tournament central" at the event. All national tournaments and well-run regional tournaments use a concept known as "tournament central." This is a location where results are entered into the software and subsequent rounds are paired. Having a tournament director dedicated to this location and these specific tasks frees up the "Floor TD's" to spend their time where they are needed most--in the tournament rooms. We are looking forward to this additional resource creating a more efficient, streamlined and enjoyable event for all.

2) Ways of encouraging chess coach participation in MACC and the gleaning of chess coach opinions.

3) Online registration forms will be launched this year. Coaches and anyone responsible for registering players will have access to an interactive registration form at ChessMaine.net.

4) Tie-breaks for the team event will be determined by Rule 34G2 U.S. Amateur Team System in the 6th Edition of the Rulebook.

5) Other business and details were also discussed.

After a 90-minute discussion the meeting was adjourned.