IGDA Chicago dead?
I'm wondering if the IGDA in Chicago is dead or dormant? I haven't seen any activity lately.
I think the IGDA Chicago should host a round-table discussion on unionization. So many game developers are manipulated and taken advantage of, with relation to other industries.
Discussing the problem is not going to cause anyone to not get a job. That would certainly be illegal for employers to discriminate against candidates publicly discussing ways to improve their quality of life.
But it's up to everyone to decide on their own.
Hey there -
Not dead, but the website is. IGDA is revamping and looks like an end of October launch date, but that could change. We are talking to a few speakers about an event in October if everyone is available.
Thanks!
Carrie
Originally posted by GBGames
I think part of the problem is that the local game industry is hurting. Midway just closed, and there aren't many mainstream developers left in the area.
Many game developers are out of a job, so talking about being manipulated or taken advantage of while in one is kind of putting the cart before the horse.
That said, I haven't seen an event since the Demo night come across my email inbox, so ideas for new meetings and events are probably more than welcome. Has anyone heard from Carrie?
Just a quick correction: Midway has not closed, they were purchased by Warner Bros. and are actively hiring and working on projects. GO CHICAGO WOOOOOOO!!!
Hey all.
Not entirely related to the IGDA, but we're having a Chicago Game Developers' meetup at Dave and Busters -- 1030 N. Clark, in Chicago, on November 6th at 8pm.
So far the group looks like a handful of casual industry folks (my company), some coin-op guys, some flash guys (full indie), at least two different iPhone companies, and perhaps 2 or so guys from local mainstream companies.
At any rate, it's just a local meet n' drink, so feel free to come out and show off your games (if you can) or just come talk shop with everyone!
EVERYONE is welcome! Even you recruiter-types (I think there might be at least one job seeker in the mix...) 
-Tim
I'm There!
Aww man, I missed this!! Hmmm, I wish I would have known, it would have been great to meet up at our old spot!! I know I should check the forums more...but still, I would have really liked to attend this. When will you be doing this again...and how did it go?
Have you guys gotten this e-mail?
When: Wednesday, November 4th, Doors open at 6:00 PM, Presentation starts at 7 PM.
Where: Flashpoint Academy, 28 N. Clark, Chicago, IL 60602. Flashpoint Academy is near the intersection of Clark & Washington and is very close to all major el lines in Chicago. The closest parking facility is near the intersection of Washington & Wells.
Cost: $5 non-members, $0 IGDA members and Flashpoint Academy Students. Light snacks and refreshments provided
Yep, got the email about the meeting on the 4th.
Sadly, I can't make it out for that one...
Flashpoint is taking over, it would seem. 
-Tim
I was told by my school, DeVry University in Tinley Park IL. That we had to RSVP in order to be eligible to go to this meeting... Is that true or can I just show up and pay the $5 entrance cost? Any information would be helpful.
Matthew
mlivengood@my.devry.edu
For future reference, normally you can show up, but if you don't rsvp I believe it may be $10. Either way, as a dev, I can't see turning away a brother in arms 
Hey there,
Sorry I'm late to reply on this one. Normally you are right, we would not turn anyone away but sometimes we are limited in space. This last meeting we were limited to a capacity of 150 people so it definitely helps to RSVP in advance!
Carrie
I think part of the problem is that the local game industry is hurting. Midway just closed, and there aren't many mainstream developers left in the area.
Many game developers are out of a job, so talking about being manipulated or taken advantage of while in one is kind of putting the cart before the horse.
That said, I haven't seen an event since the Demo night come across my email inbox, so ideas for new meetings and events are probably more than welcome. Has anyone heard from Carrie?