Wednesday, December 29, 2021

CHESS this Wednesday, Dec. 29th at Starbucks!


Hi Everyone!

Despite the wet weather this past Sunday at least 9 or 10 players came by our regular Starbucks venue to enjoy an afternoon and evening of chess over the boards. Herb, Mike T., Ranen, Tony, Irakli, Olaf, Diego, Mike O. and Eric were there, and several tried to solve the day's chess puzzle on the first attempt, but alas, it was quite a tough nut to crack this time!

Come by anytime after 3:00 p.m. this Wednesday, December 29, 2021, for our last session of the year, the earlier the better, for the best tables, more matches, and some really nice company! Players there early have a chance to be the first to solve a chess puzzle on the first try to win a free tall Starbucks drink of choice !

We welcome players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to masters! There are no dues, and there is no purchase required (but it would be nice).

(Expect more players in the next few weeks before the 13th Golden State Open!)

See you soon. Have a great week and a happy New Year, 2022!

-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate ID #A6024746

Tuesday, December 21, 2021

CHESS this Wednesday Dec. 23rd at Starbucks!


Hi Everyone!

Holiday Greetings to all, and yes we've got a regular chess-over-the-boards session at our regular Starbucks venue this Wednesday, December 23, 2021!

Come by anytime from 3:00 p.m. until the closing time of 8:00 p.m. to get away from the shopping hubbub for a while, and to enjoy some good company -- players of all ages and skill levels -- and perhaps a surprise holiday treat or two!

Players arriving early have a chance to be the first to solve a chess puzzle on the first try to win a free tall Starbucks drink of choice!

Ranen has been the first to the solution on the first try a couple times recently, including this past Sunday... the next puzzle may have to be a checkmate in 3 moves instead of two! Other players having some chess fun last Sunday were Eric, Maria, Evan, Jaden, Irakli, Diego, Tony, and Mike T., with the latter two grinding it out for a good draw by closing time!

See you there if you're there, Happy Holidays again, and Happy New Year...!

-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

Sunday, December 19, 2021

CHESS this Sunday Dec. 19 at Starbucks!


Hi Everyone!

Chess over the boards has been quite active these last few sessions, rain or shine ! While last Sunday's session saw more than a dozen players, this past chilly Wednesday saw at least a dozen players, including Eric, Evan, Tony, Mike T., Olaf, Tom, Sam, Diego, Miguel (welcome, Miguel!), Maria, and Ronald, with Marzia and Mikey O. having fun just watching from time to time!

We meet again this Sunday, December 19, 2021 at our usual Starbucks venue, come by anytime between 3:00 p.m. and the closing time of 8:00 p.m., we welcome players of all ages and skill levels, there are no dues, and there is no purchase required (but it would be nice)!

Players arriving early have a chance to be the first to solve a chess puzzle on the first try to win a tall Starbucks drink of choice!

See you soon!

-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A602746

Sunday, December 12, 2021

CHESS this Rainy Sunday Dec. 12 at Starbucks!


Hi Everyone!

There's nothing like staying indoors on a rainy day and playing chess over the boards. If you can't do it in your abode this rainy Sunday, by all means come to our regular Starbucks venue anytime from 3:00 p.m. on through their 8:00 p.m. closing time to get your fun, challenging chess fix!

We welcome players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to masters, and we're located just a couple driveways up from the corner of Clayton Rd. & Ygnacio Valley Rd, at the Starbucks located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, CA.

Players there early have a chance to be the first to solve a chess puzzle on the first try to win a free tall Starbucks drink of choice !

See you there if you're there,

-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

Wednesday, December 8, 2021

CHESS at Starbucks this Wednesday December 8th!


Hi Everyone!

It was good to see Art and Sam again, Art (from surgery) and Sam (back from a long trip abroad), along with Evan, Eric, Diego, and Ranen, with Ranen thinking out loud through all candidate moves to arrive at the winning move to solve last Sunday's chess puzzle!

We welcome players of all ages and skill levels as we meet again this Wednesday, December 8, 2021, from 3:00 p.m. on through the closing time of 8:00 p.m., at our usual Starbucks venue located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., in Clayton, CA, just on the border with Concord, CA.

Come early for the better tables and for more games, plus a chance to be the first to solve a chess puzzle on the first try to win a tall Starbucks drink of choice!

See you soon,

Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

Friday, December 3, 2021

CHESS this Sunday, December 5, 2021 at Starbucks!


Hi Everyone!

At least a dozen players last Wednesday enjoyed an afternoon and evening of chess over the boards once again at our regular venue, Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass, Clayton, CA, which is just a couple of driveways up from the corner of Clayton Rd. and Ygnacio Valley Rd. in Concord, CA.

We also welcomed Eric and Lori to the club! There to welcome them were Tony, Mike T, Diego, Irakli, Evan, Suhas and his Dad, and Ronald, Morgan, Andrew, and John S!

We meet again at the same venue this Sunday, December 5, 2021. Come by anytime between 3:00 p.m. through closing time of 8:00 p.m. for as much fun, challenging chess over the boards that you want! Players arriving early have a chance to be the first to solve a chess puzzle on the first try to win a free tall Starbucks drink of choice!

We welcome players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to masters. See you soon!

-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

Sunday, November 28, 2021

CHESS this Sunday November 28 at Starbucks!


Hi Everyone...!

Last Wednesday's chess session at our usual Starbucks venue was a lot of fun, featuring classic chess, blitz games, and even some chess lessons and puzzle solving! There for the challenge of chess over the boards were Evan, Jeremiah, Tony, Mike T., Ronald, and Andrew. Not a bad showing for the day before Thanksgiving, and most of us continued into the late evening at the Carl's Jr. across the parking lot!

There's more chess over the boards again this Sunday at our Starbucks venue! Come by anytime after 3:00 p.m., the earlier the better for the better tables, more games, and some really nice company. We welcome players of all ages and skill levels. Players there early have a chance to solve a chess puzzle on the first try to win a free tall Starbucks drink of choice!

See you soon,

Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate ID #A6024746

Wednesday, November 24, 2021

CHESS this Wednesday Nov. 24 at Starbucks!


Hi Everyone . . . !

We will have our usual fun session of chess over the boards this Wednesday, November 24, 2021 at our usual Starbucks venue. Players of all ages and skill levels are welcome!

Get your chess fix in anytime from 3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.and then have a fine, happy Thanksgiving Day this Thursday! Players arriving early have a chance to solve a chess puzzle to win a free tall Starbucks drink of choice!

See you soon,

-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

Saturday, November 20, 2021

CHESS this Sunday Nov. 21st at Starbucks!


Hello Everyone ... !

There's more chess over the boards this Sunday, November 21, 2021 at our usual venue, Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, CA, just up from the corner of Clayton Rd. and Ygnacio Valley Rd. in Concord!

Come by anytime after 2:00 p.m. Players who arrive early have a chance to solve a chess puzzle on the first try ("touch-move!") to win a free tall Starbucks drink of choice!

Several players came by last Wednesday, and we also welcomed Ivan! There for the fun and challenge of it all with Ivan were Bert, Tony, Setsal, Evan, Diego, and Ranen. It was also quite nice to meet Alexei and his daughter Mira! We won't see Setsal for a couple of months, as we wish him bon voyage, a safe and happy trip across two continents and an ocean and back!

See you soon,

-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

Monday, November 8, 2021

CHESS this Wednesday, Nov. 10th at Starbucks!


Hi Everyone!

Come by anytime from 2:00 p.m. on for fun, challenging chess over the boards this Wednesday afternoon, November 10, 2021 at our usual Starbucks venue! We're located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, CA, just up from the corner of Ygnacio Valley Rd. and Clayton Rd., Concord, CA.

We welcome players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to masters! Players arriving early have a chance to solve a chess puzzle on the first try (touch move!) to win a tall Starbucks drink of choice ! Setsal solved last Sunday's puzzle, by the way, as we enjoyed the afternoon with him along with Art, Tony, Ranen, Evan, Haseeb, Chris B., Irakli, and Mike T. Come by early, if you can, for the puzzle, and for the better tables, more matches, and some really nice company!

There are no dues, and there is no purchase requirement (but it would be nice). Though it's mainly social, coffeehouse chess, from bullet, blitz and rapid to classic chess games, don't be surprised to see some players practicing for upcoming local club and regional tournaments (e.g., January 2022's 13th Annual Golden Gate Open in Concord, Calif.).

See you soon,

-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

Saturday, November 6, 2021

Chess this Sunday, November 7, 2021 at Starbucks!


Hi Everyone!

At least a dozen players of all skill levels enjoyed chess over the boards this past Wednesday ! Players included an IM, an NM, and of course the local DM ! On hand for the fun were Maria, Andrew, Ronald, Olaf, Setsal, Bert, Irakli, Sam, Evan, Jeremiah, Rich, and Mike T. We also wish Sam a safe and enjoyable journey to and from India !

Join us this Sunday, November 7, 2021 anytime after 2:00 p.m. for chess at our regular Starbucks venue located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, CA, just a couple of driveways up from the corner of Ygnacio Valley Rd. and Clayton Rd. in Concord, CA. There are no dues, and there is no purchase required (but it would be nice).

Players arriving early have a chance to solve a chess puzzle on the first try (touch move!) to win a tall Starbucks drink of choice !

All ages and skill levels are welcome, from beginners to experts and masters and all in between! Some players will be practicing for rated club games and even the large tournament (the 13th Annual Golden State Open) scheduled for the long Martin Luther King weekend in January 2022!

See you soon,

-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

Sunday, October 31, 2021

CHESS this Sunday Afternoon, Oct. 31 (Halloween) at Starbucks ? 1:00 - 4:00 pm!


Hi Everyone!

Owing to Sunday, Oct 31st being Halloween, an evening for kids and parents and for yet others staying in to give out treats to trick-or-treaters as soon as darkness falls, our club chess session will run only from 1:00 p.m. - no later than 4:00 p.m. at our regular Starbucks venue. Players can of course stay longer, if desired.

So then, come by anytime between 1pm and 4pm this Sunday, Oct 31 for your chess fix !

More interest has been shown for USCF-rated competition held by our chess club, as in rated Quads or other formats. The rated matches (using tournament rules such as "touch move," and having a certified TD available) are good practice for the large January 2022 tournament (13th Annual Golden State Open, in Concord, CA !). The rated matches will also give our unrated players their provisional ratings so that they are better set for the exciting experience of playing in their first major chess tournament within their appropriate rating or skill levels!

In case you missed the announcement, with full specs, for the 13th Annual Golden State Open, here once again is the link/website (if you have questions about it, just ask):

https://new.uschess.org/13th-annual-golden-state-open

See you soon,

-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate ID #A6024746

Wednesday, October 27, 2021

CHESS this Wednesday, Oct. 27 at Starbucks!


Hi Everyone!

There's more chess over the boards this Wednesday afternoon, at our usual Starbucks venue, with an earlier start now that night falls earlier along with colder weather! Come by anytime now between 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.! We're located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, CA, just a couple driveways up from the corner of Clayton Rd. and Ygnacio Valley Rd. in Concord.

As usual, we'll have a chess puzzle to solve for players who arrive early. Solve the puzzle on the first try (touch move!) and win a tall Starbucks drink of choice!

Announcement!: The announcement for the 13th Annual Golden State Open just came out! It's to happen on the long Martin Luther King holiday weekend January 14 - 17, 2022 in Concord, at the Crown Plaza Hotel (right by the Buchanan Fields Airport)! All the specs can be found using the following link:

https://new.uschess.org/13th-annual-golden-state-open

For our club's new unrated or new provisional-rated players, if you need help deciphering some of the specifications contained in the announcement, just ask me or one of our experienced tournament players, who will be more than happy to help. There's lots of time to practice and get some more rated games in before the Golden State Open ($25,000 Guaranteed Prize Fund, spread over several skill levels, from masters and experts to beginners)!

See you soon,

-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

Saturday, October 23, 2021

CHESS Earlier this Rainy Day Sunday, Oct. 24 at Starbucks!


Hi Everyone !

Come by earlier, anytime between 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. or so at our usual Starbucks venue (They close at 8:00 p.m.) this Sunday, October 24, 2021 for fun, challenging chess over the boards!

Players arriving early will have a chance to be the first to solve a chess puzzle on the first try (touchmove!) to win a grande Starbucks drink of choice, since no player was able to solve the puzzle last Wednesday! Mike T. was on hand along with Setsal, Sam, Bert, Hasseb, Irakli, and Rich K. to welcome yet another new player to the club, Jeremiah!

A super-soaker rainstorm is expected Sunday, so we can expect to be playing indoors. (Carl's Jr across the parking lot is an alternate venue, if needed.) Please keep pandemic masks on if indoors and not eating or drinking. If the weather keeps you home safe and dry, perhaps we'll see you another time! For those game to play chess at Starbucks, drive safely!

We're located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, CA, just a couple driveways up from the corner of Ygnacio Valley Rd. and Clayton Rd., in Concord. We welcome players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to masters and all in between! There are no dues, and there is no purchase required (but it would be nice).

See you soon,

-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

Wednesday, October 20, 2021

CHESS this Wednesday Oct. 20th at Starbucks !


Hi Everyone !

Despite much cooler and windy weather with rain finally expected, at least seven players came by our usual Starbucks venue this past Sunday to enjoy the game of chess over the boards and indoors! No player was able to solve the chess puzzle on the first try to win a free drink, as Setsal, Mike T., Ranen, Irakli, Hasseb, Andrew, and Olaf settled in to play mostly blitz and otherwise rapid chess games through the afternoon and early evening . . .

We start our sessions earlier now, given that nightfall comes earlier. Come by anytime between 3:00 p.m. and closing time of 8:00 p.m. to play chess at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, CA, just a couple of driveways from the corner of Ygnacio Valley Rd. and Clayton Rd., in Concord, this Wednesday, October 20, 2021.

We meet every Wednesday and Sunday afternoons, same times, same place. We welcome players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to masters! Players arriving early have a chance to solve a chess puzzle on the first try -- touch move! -- to win a free tall Starbucks drink of choice! There are no dues, and there is no purchase required (but it would be nice).

Players who wish to compete in USCF-rated Quad(s) need to inform me so I can set it(them) up. So far, Setsal and Irakli are clearly up for a Quad, which is open to anyone who is a member of the US Chess Federation. {If you need info on how to join, or renew your membership, you may go on the USCF website, or join/renew through the mail using the official form available in our club.}

See you soon,

-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

Tuesday, October 12, 2021

CHESS this Wednesday Oct. 13th at Starbucks -- Indoors OK again!


Hi Everyone!

Join us once again for chess over the boards both indoors and outdoors at our regular venue, Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, CA, very close to the intersection of Clayton Rd. and Ygnacio Valley Rd. in Concord CA. We welcome players of all skill levels, from beginners to masters and all in between. There are no dues, and there is no purchase required (but it would be nice).

Come by anytime now between 3:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. every Wednesday and Sunday afternoons. Our next session is tomorrow, Wednesday, October 13, 2021 and, as usual, players arriving early for the better tables and more matches have an opportunity to be the first to solve a chess puzzle on the first try (touch move!) for a free tall Starbucks drink of choice!!

Please Note, Due to the Ongoing Pandemic: Customers/chess players who purchase Starbucks food and/or drinks and go immediately back outdoors probably will not need to show either proof of vaccination or proof of negative results of a Covid-19 test done within the last 72 hours. However, customers/chess players who intend to remain indoors may or will be requested to present such proof along with a valid photo I.D.

We will soon start our club Quads for players who are members of the US Chess Federation. Possibly as soon as next Sunday, October 17th! More specifics in my next email, stay tuned!

-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

Wednesday, October 6, 2021

CHESS this Wednesday Oct. 6th at Starbucks!


Hi Everyone!

We meet every Sunday and Wednesday, come by anytime from 4pm - 8pm at our regular venue, Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, CA, just a couple driveways up from the corner of Clayton Rd. and Ygnacio Valley Rd. in Concord, CA. Our next session is this Wednesday, October 6, 2021, all ages and skill levels, from beginners to masters and all in between are welcome as chess is to be enjoyed over the boards, in person!

We had a lively outdoor session last Sunday, with players that ranged from a 7-year-old phenom and a sharp teenager who solved the difficult chess puzzle, to a couple of masters who shared in the fun by playing blitz, bullet vs. blitz, and even by an impressive win via checkmate playing blindfolded !! Along for the fun that went into evening hours were Raquel, Paul, Mike T., Setsal, Matthew, Hasseb, Ronald, Manny, Andrew, Irakli, Olaf, Chris B., and Suhas and his Dad!

More players can be expected once Starbucks restores inside dining in the very near future, after their Covid-19 training. In the meantime, should weather be an issue, the Carl's Jr. establishment across the parking lot from Starbucks may welcome indoors chess players who are vaccinated.

We are soon going to have rated Quads, stay tuned, and see you soon!

-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

Friday, October 1, 2021

CHESS this Sunday October 3rd at Starbucks!


Hi Everyone!

Join us this Sunday, October 3, 2021, anytime between 4:00p.m. - 8:00p.m. for fun, challenging chess over the boards at our usual venue, Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, CA, just a couple driveways up from the corner of Ygnacio Valley Rd. and Clayton Rd. in Concord! We welcome players of all ages and skill levels, from novices to masters!

Come by early for the better tables and more games, plus an opportunity to be the first to solve a chess puzzle on the first try (touch move!) to win a free tall Starbucks drink of choice!

At least 7 players came by last Sunday, and 11 players this past Wednesday to enjoy the game of chess outdoors at Starbucks, despite the venue's prohibition of staying indoors due to the County's required Covid-19 mandated training of staff. Indoor play might be available once again starting this Sunday. Players included Tony T., Art S., Andrew, Hasseb, Evan, Mike T., Matthew, Irakli (who solved the chess puzzle), Bert, Alexei, Olaf, Setsal (welcome to the club!), and one other who did not leave his name, but will return soon after having won one blitz game. Evan will be away for a month, and Tony for three weeks, travel safe!

Breaking News: If Starbucks still does not permit staying inside due to Covid-19 training of staff this Sunday, it may be possible for us to play indoors at the Carl's Jr. Restaurant, which is across the parking lot. I will confirm that with Carl's Jr. 's on-site manager again this Sunday.

Note, however, that it is very likely that players will have to show their vaccination cards and photo I.D. -- and to keep masks on -- if staying indoors to eat, drink, -- or play chess, whether at Starbucks or Carl's Jr. For playing chess outdoors, masks are optional, though masks are required if going indoors to buy something or use the restroom.

See you soon,

-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

Wednesday, September 22, 2021

CHESS & Starbucks Alert!


Hi Everyone !
Alert: (Info received thru Starbucks corporate channels, effective tomorrow, Wednesday, September 22, 2011, for perhaps as long as two weeks):

Starbucks, along with several other establishments with indoor dining facilities in local/county locations, will for perhaps as long as two weeks starting tomorrow, not permit indoor dining or drinking due to a new local/county requirement for all their employees to take specialized Covid-19 training.

Customers are still welcome to purchase Starbucks drinks, food and other products, (and use the bathroom as needed it's believed), but must leave the interior of the store with their goods.

Chess players, as are the other customers, are welcome to occupy the outside tables and chairs. Though there is no purchase requirement, I would recommend that players have a Starbucks product at or by the outside tables (to discourage any possible complaints from non-chess playing customers). Though we've taken over all the outside tables for chess before with no problem whatsoever, I guess we have to be more circumspect about it until the indoor facilities are once again open to everyone to enjoy.

Thanks for taking note,

-- Mike T.

CHESS this Wednesday Sept. 22 at Starbucks!


Hi Everyone...!

Chess over the boards is quite a going thing on Wednesdays at the Starbucks located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., in Clayton, CA (just up from the corner of Ygnacio Valley Rd. and Clayton Rd. in Concord) !! 20 players came by last Wednesday, and at least 9 players came by for the fun this past Sunday at the same venue ( the nine were: Art S., Irakli, Hasseb, Matthew, Mike T., Evan (long time no see, Evan!), Roger, Diego, and Maria!).

We meet at the above Starbucks every Wednesday and Sunday from 4:00p.m - 8:00 p.m. Come by anytime, the earlier the better for the better tables, more matches, and some really nice company! Players of all ages and skill levels are welcome, from beginners to masters and all in between! There are no dues, and there is no purchase required (but it would be nice).

*******For those arriving early, there will be a challenging chess puzzle to solve. First one to solve the puzzle on the first try (touch move!) wins a free tall Starbucks drink of choice ! No player was able to solve last Sunday's puzzle ("mate in two") on the first try. We'll have a different one this Wednesday. While the try for the free tall drink is free, a try for a grande-size drink will have an "entry fee" of 50 cents (which goes toward future club Quads)!********

See you soon!

-- Mike T
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

Saturday, September 18, 2021

CHESS this Sunday Sept. 19th at Starbucks!!


Hi Everyone!

No less than 20 players came by our Starbucks venue last Wednesday to enjoy chess games over the boards! Sam C. was there early, and he was the first to solve the early-bird chess puzzle on his first try to win a free tall Starbucks drink of his choice!

After Sam came several players, namely Hasseb, Matthew, Mark, Irakli, Bert (long time no see, Bert!), Ranen, Armen, Alwyn, Mike T., Olaf (another new player!), John S., Chris Th., Maria, Arturo (yet another new player!), Michael J., Serena, Omar, Isaacqui, and Rich K. !! However, we will not be seeing Michael & Serena until the holidays, as they have now returned to their studies at UCLA in Southern California. A highlight of Wednesday's session was a grueling match between Mark and Rich, with Rich managing to eke out the win!

We meet again this Sunday, September 19, 2021, at the Starbucks located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, CA (just up from the intersection of Ygnacio Valley Rd. and Clayton Rd.). Come by anytime between 4:00p.m. - 8:00 p.m. All ages and skill levels are welcome! There are no dues, and there is no purchase required (but it would be nice), so see you there!

The early bird chess puzzle will be a continuing feature. The first one to solve it on the first try wins a free tall Starbucks drink! Also: we'll be having USCF rated Quads in October, so stay tuned!!

-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

Monday, September 13, 2021

CHESS this Wednesday Sept.15th at Starbucks!


Hi Everyone . . . !

More than a dozen players came by last Wednesday, and at least 9 players came by this past Sunday to enjoy the game of chess over the boards,despite the persistent summer heat, in the cool indoors of our Starbucks venue. Last Wednesday saw John S., Mike T., Tony T., Irakli, Hasseb, Diego, Sam C., Michael J., Serena, Jon, Omar, and Omar's pal Isaaqui at the long chess table there; and, this past Sunday saw Primo, Jocelyn, Jose, Hasseb, Diego, Maria, Irakli, Mike T., and Rich K. (one of our toughest players, long time no see, Rich!) enjoy the game's challenges!

Players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to experts and masters, are welcome to join us anytime from 4:00 p.m - 8:00 p.m. at Starbucks located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, CA, just a couple driveways up from the Concord, CA corner of Ygnacio Valley Rd. and Clayton Rd. There are no dues, nor is there any purchase required (but it would be nice).

Beginning with this Wednesday's session, early birds will have a chance to solve a chess puzzle. First one to solve it on the first try wins a free tall Starbucks drink! If you haven't been by in a while, the weather's going to get better, and the company's quite good, as usual!

See you soon,

-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

Sunday, September 12, 2021

CHESS this Sunday Sept. 12th at Starbucks !!


Hi Everyone . . . !!

There's also fun, challenging chess over the boards every Sunday now at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, CA (just up from the corner of Clayton Rd. and Ygnacio Valley Rd. in Concord, CA.) ! Come by anytime between 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. and enjoy chess with players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to experts and masters!

Despite the brutal heat last Sunday, at least 8 players dropped in to enjoy the air-conditioned coffee-house setting to play the game of chess indoors (usually players are seen both indoors and outdoors there). We welcomed Primo and his sister Jocelyn, along with Art S., Matthew (who brought his daughter Emmaline earlier); and, Irakli, Hasseb, Chris B., and Mike T.!

Join us this Sunday, September 12, 2021 -- and for early birds, there will be a chess puzzle to be solved: first one to solve it on the first try gets a free tall drink from Starbucks!!

We meet at the above Starbucks every Sunday and Wednesday, from 4pm - 8pm. Those who play indoors are requested to keep their pandemic masks on (unless eating and drinking, of course). Masks are optional for those playing outdoors, but players who are not vaccinated need to keep their masks on, with our thanks for their consideration.

There are no dues, nor is there a requirement to purchase anything (but it would be nice).

Stay tuned for news regarding our rated club tournaments, regarding format, time control, entry fee, prizes, and tournament date and venue. The US Chess Federation just today renewed my US Chess Tournament Director (TD) Certification for another term of 3 years, so get ready! To be eligible to play, players must be current members of USCF. Let me know if you need more info or help regarding joining or renewing membership.

See you soon!

-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
ID #A6024746

Saturday, September 4, 2021

CHESS on SUNDAY Afternoons at Starbucks, Starts this Sunday Sept. 5th!!!


Hi Everyone . . . !

Our chess club now meets on both Sundays and Wednesdays at our Starbucks venue at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, (just up from the intersection of Clayton Rd. and Ygnacio Valley Rd.)!!

Beginning this Sunday September 5, 2021, and every Sunday hereon, we meet at Starbucks starting at 3:30 pm thru to closing time! Come by anytime, the earlier the better for the better tables, more matches, and some very nice, interesting company.

As usual, there is no purchase requirement (but it would be nice), and there are no dues. However, masks are required due to the pandemic if you're inside, unless you are eating or drinking, of course. Masks are optional outside, but those who are not vaccinated are requested to keep masks on.

See you there this Sunday, and/or have a very fine Labor Day weekend!!

-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
ID #A6024746

CHESS this Wednesday Sept. 1st at Starbucks!!


Hi Everyone !

About 18 players of all ages and skill levels came by to enjoy chess over the boards at our usual venue, Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd, Clayton, just a couple of driveways up from the intersection of Clayton Rd. & Ygnacio Valley Rd., in Concord!

We meet again this Wednesday, September 1, 2021, at our usual Starbucks noted above, from 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Come by anytime, the earlier the better for the better tables, more games, more challenging fun...!

We welcomed 3 or 4 new players to the club last week, namely Sam C., Haseeb, Greg, and young Greg Jr.! On hand to welcome them were Tony T., Irakli, Ranen, Travis, Diego, Armen, Patrick, Max and Jon, Michael J., Serena, Maria, Chris B., and Mike T...!

Looking ahead, figure club quads or other types of USCF-rated tournaments can be expected to start happening sometime during September or October. Additionally, we may very well have a regular venue for chess over the boards on Sunday afternoons, and it could very well be our regular Starbucks place (meaning it's possible to have both Wednesdays & Sundays at our Starbuck!).

Stay tuned, and see you soon !!

-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
ID #A6024746

Wednesday, August 25, 2021

CHESS this Wednesday Aug. 25 at Starbucks!


Hi Everyone . . . !

The weather's a bit better and more players of all ages and skill levels are coming by every Wednesday at our Starbucks venue for fun, challenging chess over the boards!

Join us this Wednesday, August 25, 2021, at the Starbucks located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd. (just up from the corner of Clayton Rd. and Ygnacio Valley Rd.); come anytime between 4:00 p.m. and the closing time of 8:00p.m.

As usual: There's no purchase required (but it would be nice); however, face masks are required if playing indoors and when not eating or drinking. Masks are optional outdoors, but please wear one if you are not vaccinated.

Last week saw at least 15 or so players -- all enjoying the game of chess outdoors! Players included Tony T., Bob C. (long time no see, Bob C.!), Matthew, Mike T., John H., Armen, Art, Michael J., Serena, Irakli, Ranen, Alwyn, Cassidy (welcome, Cassidy, our newest player to join us!), -- and even Ronald dropped by briefly to observe some games and play a couple of whiz-blitz -- that's bullet vs regular blitz -- chess exhibition games (guess who won those) !!

Let me know in person whether you're interested in playing in our very own USCF-rated club matches within the next month or so . . . however, you must be a current member of the US Chess Federation to play in any USCF-rated tournament of any size in the USA. For our club, expect the time control to be G/45d5. More info regarding venue, time, entry fees, etc. will take shape,depending on the number of players interested. After all, it will be our first one since the pandemic thing all started. Let me know if you need help or info joining the USCF, or just go on line to join or renew.

See you soon!

-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

Tuesday, August 17, 2021

CHESS at Starbucks this Wednesday August 18th!

Hi Everyone . . . !!

Join us once again, or for the first time, for challenging chess over the boards at our regular venue, Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, this Wednesday, August 18, 2021, anytime from 4:00 p.m. to closing time at 8:00 p.m.!  We welcome players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners and novices to club players, experts, and masters! 

Come by anytime, earlier the better for the better tables, and more matches!  There is no purchase required (but it would be nice).  However, due to the ongoing pandemic, Delta Variant and all that's been in the news, please wear face masks if playing indoors, especially if unvaccinated, whereas if outdoors face masks are optional.

Despite the ongoing heat wave last week, at least a dozen players came by for the fun of the game, plus to renew old friendships, and make new ones!  Players who came by to enjoy the game of Chess were Max, Irakli, Ranen, Diego, Jim, Tony, Eric, Maria, Mike T. and Chris Th., and newcomers to the club, Armen and Alexei ! 

Note:  We may also play on Sunday, Aug. 29 from 4pm - 7pm at a different location.  Please let check in with me for more information.

Looking ahead:  We will have USCF-rated club quad tournaments.  Venue, Time Controls, Entry Fees, etc. to be determined,  We've done these before, so stay tuned!

-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
ID #A6024746

Wednesday, August 11, 2021

CHESS this Wednesday Aug.. 11 at Starbucks !


Hi Everyone . . . !! 

More chess players are joining our club each week! We meet this Wednesday, August 11, 2021 as we do every Wednesday, from 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., just up from the intersection of Clayton Rd. and Ygnacio Valley Rd.

Come by anytime, the earlier the better for the better tables, more games, and some really nice company! There is no purchase requirement (but it would be nice).

Last week, at least 15 players of various ages and skill levels came in for chess over the boards, both indoors and outdoors at our Starbucks venue! We also welcomed Serena, Irakli, and Travis to the club, and we'll have Alex K. as a new player very soon . . . ! On hand to welcome them last week were Mike T., Chris B., Maria, Matthew, Michael J., Mark, Alwyn, John H., Ranen, John S., with several continuing on to Diego's place quite nearby to continue enjoying the game of chess!

If you haven't been by in a long while, c'mon get your game up, renew old friendships, make new ones! If possible, bring a chess set and board. Oh, and a face mask too, owing to the ongoing pandemic, for wear indoors -- especially if you're not vaccinated -- or for optional wear outdoors.

Note: If you are up for playing chess at Diego's place on Sunday August 29 (9am-11am; 2pm-5pm), let me know so I can pass the info as to who and how many to Diego. 

See you soon,

 -- Mike T. 
Contra Costa Chess Club 
US Chess Federation ID 
#A6024746

Tuesday, August 3, 2021

CHESS this Wednesday Aug. 4th at Starbucks !


Hi Everyone!

Despite the heat of the day last Wednesday, at least 10 players came by for chess over the boards, and we meet again with perhaps even more players this Wednesday, August 4, 2021, at Starbucks, our regular venue located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., near the intersection of Clayton Rd. & Ygnacio Valley Rd, in Concord!

We now meet from 4:00pm - 8:00pm. Come by anytime, the earlier the better, for the best tables, more matches, and time to renew old friendships and make new ones! 

There is no purchase required (but it would be nice); however, masks will be required if playing indoors.  (Masks are still optional outdoors. ) Stay healthy!

We will adding a meeting every 4th Sunday of each month on one of our member's spacious back patio!  If you are interested in playing there on Sunday morning and/or afternoon, August 28, 2021, please contact me and I will let you know the address.

Players of all ages and skill levels are welcome whenever and wherever we meet.  See you soon!

--Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
ID #A6024746

Tuesday, July 27, 2021

CHESS at Starbucks this Wednesday July 28!


Hi Everyone !

Chess over the boards happens every Wednesday afternoon and evening at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, is gaining more new players every session since we started back up this month !  16 players came by last week, with new players Michael B., Matthew R. and Jayden joining the group!  On hand to welcome them were Maria, Sebastian, Art S., Mike T., Rey, Tony T., John S., John H., Roger, Ranen, Chris B., Dennis, and Diego along with Diego's daughter Athena!   (Did I miss anyone? ) Nice to see players of all ages and skill levels joining us for the first time or returning after some time away from our venue due to the pandemic !

Join us as we meet again this coming Wednesday, July 28, 2021, from 4:30 pm - closing time of 8:00 pm.  Come by anytime, the earlier the better, for the best tables and more matches! There is no purchase requirement (but it would be nice).  Wearing a mask is still optional if you have been fully vaccinated; however, if you have not been vaccinated, please wear a mask, especially if playing indoors.

Looking ahead, we may have an additional day and time to get together for chess.  Tentatively set for every 4th Sunday of each month, starting Sunday, August 22, 2021, Diego may be hosting chess players over at his house's expansive back patio area!  Stay tuned for more info as to time of day/evening, and other specs; and, by all means let Diego know you're interested in playing at his place, when you see him . . . !

See you Wednesday! 

-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
ID #A6024746

Tuesday, July 13, 2021

CHESS at Starbucks this Wednesday, July 14, 2021 (We're Back!)


Hi Everyone !

Chess is back over the boards again every Wednesday late afternoon until closing time at the Starbucks located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., just a couple driveways up from the corner of Ygnacio Valley Rd. and Clayton Rd.!

We start at 4:30 p.m. and wind up by 8:00 p.m.  Come by anytime, the earlier the better, for the better tables and for more matches. Don't be surprised if there are other games to be played, but chess is the main attraction!

At least 15 players of different ages and skill levels came by last week to enjoy the game of chess once again in person.  At least that many or more will be there this Wednesday, July 14, 2021. 

There's no purchase required (but it would be nice) !  Masks are optional inside if you have been vaccinated; however, if you haven't been please wear a mask or notify others so they could put theirs on.

See you there, enjoy the game and the ambience, renew old friendships, make new ones!

-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
USCF ID #A6024746

Wednesday, July 7, 2021

CHESS Club Meets Again in Person at Starbucks this Wednesday July 7, 2021!!


Hi Everyone . . . ! 

At long last, Chess players of all ages and skill levels can once again meet and play over the boards starting this Wednesday, July 7, 2021, at our usual venue, Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., in Clayton, Calif., just a couple driveways up from the corner of Clayton Rd. and Ygnacio Valley Rd.! 

Come by anytime between 4:30 p.m. and closing time of 8:00 p.m. (earlier the better for the better tables) this Wednesday, get some games in, renew old friendships, make new ones! There is no purchase required (but it would be nice). However, please do not bring food in from other places, other than a small snack if necessary, in deference to our host, the staff of Starbucks. 

Need to wear a mask? Not if you're fully vaccinated. However, if you haven't been vaccinated yet, please wear a mask if playing indoors, for your benefit and that of others, owing to the pandemic's current events, e.g., Delta Variant and all. 

Let's get our chess sessions back as a regular thing, Starbucks on Wednesdays!! Yay!! 

If you have any questions or need more info, let me know. Thanks much! 

-- Mike T. 
Contra Costa Chess Club

Tuesday, January 12, 2021

CHESS: Club Still on Hiatus; but On-Line Club Tournaments Possible!

 Hi Everyone . . . !

Just a short message to let you know our club, the Contra Costa Chess Club, still cannot get together due to the pandemic lockdown.  Once it's lifted and we can once again play over the boards at our usual venues (Starbucks & Mona's Bar & Grill), I'll certainly let you know.

However, if you are game to play in fun on-line club tournaments (e.g., blitz (5 min.); or rapid (less than 30 min. -- usually 10 or 15); or longer (30mins. or more), please let me know if you are interested, and for which time control(s).

The site would be chess.com; and the club is the one with the penguins labeled Contra Costa Chess Club.  If not a member, create your login and password; then, connect to clubs, select our club, go to members, add your username or how you want to be known.

Any questions or need for more info, let me know, or email John S. on our website, which has been on hiatus, as well.

-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
ID #A6024746