The latest edition of OnBoard is now available from the database (login required).
The committee prepared the following statement, which is also downloadable, that was intended to be sent out with postal copies. However subsequent guidance from government means that we are unable to post OnBoard at the present time as it does not qualify as an essential journey. All members who usually receive a postal copy should still be able to download the latest version from the database.
STOP PRESS — Urgent Member Communication
The latest OnBoard has been published in the midst of an extraordinary and unprecedented situation for us all. Almost all our daily lives are being impacted in some way by the Global Pandemic Covid-19, also known as Coronavirus.
For the ABSP, these are also worrying and uncertain times. Face-to-face tournaments are on an indefinite pause, and it is currently unclear if and when things will be able to return to normal. As a result, the committee must be mindful of the potential impact and effects over the coming months, and potentially longer.
With no ratings levy, and an expected dip in membership, the ABSP's income is expected to be severely reduced. It is prudent, therefore, to hold onto funds in order to protect the future of the organisation, and ensure we can weather this storm and come out on the other side.
OnBoard is our biggest ongoing expense, so we have taken the difficult but necessary decision to suspend production of at least the postal version for the time being. Maintaining current standards and sourcing fresh interesting content will be increasingly challenging with no events taking place, and there is no guarantee we would even be able to have it printed and posted. We hope to still produce a version of OnBoard in some form, so please continue to send contributions to the editor to help us with this.
We hope you understand the reason we have taken this decision, and we will review it on an ongoing basis as events unfold. During any break, we will still endeavour to send out any essential communication to all members via email if possible, and regular post otherwise, as well as continuing to share interim updates on social media and the ABSP Website.
Our members-only Facebook discussion group is the best way to keep in touch with all things ABSP. During these times, when other social interaction will be more limited, we'll strive to have more regular and varied online activity including Consensus Games and Real-Time Online ISC Tournaments. If you are not already joined, find us by searching for 'ABSP Discussion', or via the link above.
We also have a members-only online league, which renews every two weeks and is currently played through the EA Scrabble Facebook app. Typically, this means completing ten games over two weeks at your own pace, making moves at times that suit you. Your commitment to the league is only ever for two weeks at a time, and you can opt in and out as you wish. Search for 'ABSP Online (League)' or join at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/absponline/.
Please stay safe and well in these challenging circumstances, and we all look forward to a time when it is safe to meet again across the boards and we can look to the future with renewed energy and confidence.
ABSP Committee