CANADIAN ASL ASSOICATION (originally published Nov. 2002)
Canadian ASLers have long been united by a game, yet separated by geography. This has been a problem and a problem that needed addressing. Through the formation of a Canadian ASL Association, it was hoped that we could redress this situation.
Founded in March of 1997 by myself, the Canadian ASL Association (CASLA) was created to put Canadian ASL players in touch with each other through a player directory and the CASLA News-Journal, the "Maple Leaf Route." This endeavour has been a success to a degree.
Beginning 02 Nov 02, the CASLA has "officially" entered a new era in it's existence. Prior, the CASLA members were names on a player directory and the CASLA was run on the whim of the CASLA director. As of now, the CASLA is comprised of both Charter and Associate Members and has an elected Executive who perform certain functions within the CASLA.
Charter Members (CM's) have paid to become CM's, they have a vote on matters regarding the CASLA, receive a subscription to the MLR and they may serve on the CASLA Executive. All other non-Charter CASLA members are Associate Members who, while still members of the CASLA, do not have the the same priviledges as the CM's. Currently, there are CM's from Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba and Alberta.
This election was held during the CASLA's first "Virtual Meeting" (VM). This VM was a week long discussion by the CM's of Proposals on a VM Agenda . As far as I know, this is the first time an ASL group has met in this manner. Having seen the VM function, I can safely say that it is indeed a viable means for the CM's to meet and discuss matters regarding the CASLA. Separation by geography is no longer a problem in this regard.
A hot topic of current and future discussion by the CASLA CM's is the Draft CASLA Charter. How the CASLA functions is spelt out in this Charter. The document is rough around the edges but it is providing a workable platform upon which we can improve the Charter.
A new and very important function of the CASLA is the sponsoring and running of the Canadian ASL Open Tournament.
This is where most of the CM's membership fees will be directed.
Another important decision by the CM's during this VM was to allow the CASLO to move
from city to city within Canada. In doing so, the CASLA hopes to increase national participation in the CASLO.
All in all, I believe that this has been an interesting and exciting week for Canadian ASL!
Jim McLeod, CASLA Director