Sunday, May 28, 2023
CHESS this Sunday, May 28th at Starbucks!
Hello!
It's our long Memorial Day weekend! If you're in the area and would like to enjoy an afternoon and even an early evening of fun, challenging chess over the boards at our usual Starbucks venue this Sunday, May 28, 2023, by all means come on by! We're there from 3:00 p.m. on through closing time! We welcome players of all ages and skill levels, come and go anytime, there are no dues, there's not even a purchase required (but it would be nice). There usually is a chess puzzle, and the first one to solve it on the first try wins a tall Starbucks drink of choice!
We meet every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon, same time, same place (Starbucks at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., in the Clayton Shopping Center, just a couple driveways up from Concord's corner of Ygnacio Valley Rd. and Clayton Rd.).
Last Wednesday saw about a couple dozen players and supporters enjoy the game of chess: First timers Reuben, Sochie, Mark, and Luis were welcomed and made many new friends! It sure was fun to see young Zachary and Sammy, two of Ronald and my chess students, along with their grandparents Igor and Zhanna! Not to be out done were young gamers Ian and JJ, along with mom Paige! And there was Meredith, a graduating senior from Clayton Valley High, congratulations! Certainly on hand to enjoy the company and all that chess has to offer were Hossam, Red, Matthew, Nando, Bert, Mike S., Tony, Ben, Angel, and of course, Mike T.!
That's it, come on by, make new friends, renew old friendships, play chess! See you soon!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Wednesday, May 24, 2023
CHESS this Wednesday, May 24th at Starbucks!
Hello!
Well more than a dozen players enjoyed the afternoon and early evening of chess over the boards at our usual Starbucks venue! It was so nice to see Keko there with Ona, and that chess masters Ronald and Manny were there too, along with Mike T., Farbod, Reza, Ron, Tony, Kevin, Meredith, Balraj, Yancy, Red, Olaf, and new player Leo!
We meet every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon from 3:00 p.m. through to closing time at the Starbucks located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., in the Clayton Shopping Center, just a couple driveways up from the corner of Concord's Ygnacio Valley Rd. and Clayton Rd. All ages and skill levels are welcome, and players can come and go anytime. There are no dues, and there is no purchase required (but it would be nice). There usually is a chess puzzle to solve, and the first one to solve it on the first try wins a free tall Starbucks drink of choice (no player was able to solve last Sunday's puzzle on the first try).
So then, the weather's just fine, come on by and enjoy the game of chess over the boards, make new friends, renew old friendships! See you soon.
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Saturday, May 20, 2023
CHESS this Sunday, May 21st at Starbucks!
Hello!
It's going to be quite a nice day for chess over the boards this Sunday, May 21, 2023 at our usual Starbucks venue!
We meet every Sunday and Wednesday afternoons from 3:00 p.m. through closing time at our Starbucks (1536 Kirker Pass Rd, in the Clayton Shopping Center). We welcome players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to masters! Players can come and go anytime, there are no dues, and there's no purchase required (but it would be nice). There usually is a chess puzzle to solve, and the first to solve it on the first try gets a free tall Starbucks drink of choice!
Our session last Wednesday saw most players enjoying chess in the shade outside of Starbucks! Having fun with chess that day were Farbod, Tony, Red, Mike T., Bert, Samuel, Matthew, Adrian, Yancy, Irakli, Ian (who solved the puzzle!), and FIDE Master Rich K.!
So then, come on by, enjoy the fun and challenge of the game of chess, make new friends, and renew old friendships!
See you there,
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Tuesday, May 16, 2023
CHESS this Wednesday, May 17th at Starbucks!
Hello!
It's always so nice to have new players join us and see them interact with our regular players as well as those who come by time to time, and those who return after a long absence from the chess-over-the-boards scene at our usual Starbucks venue!
We continue to meet every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon, from 3pm through to closing time, with players coming and going anytime. We welcome players of all ages and skill levels, there are no dues, and there is no purchase required (but it would be nice). There usually is a chess puzzle to solve: first one to solve it on the first try wins a free tall Starbucks drink of choice!
Last Sunday's session, despite the observance of Mother's Day, saw about 10 players enjoy the afternoon of fun, challenging chess! There to welcome new players Samuel and Jordy were Farbod, Chris N., Red. Kevin, Tony, Mike T., Keko, and -- long time no see -- David T.! We certainly can't predict the number of players who will come by for chess, whether it be on a Sunday or Wednesday afternoon: it could be six, or twenty-six or more! So then, see you soon or when you can make it! Here's to making new friends, and renewing old friendships!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Saturday, May 13, 2023
Hello!
It's Mother's Day this Sunday, May 14th, and if you have the opportunity to join in the fun and challenge of chess over the boards later in the day, we meet as usual from 3:00 p.m. on through closing time at our usual Starbucks venue!
We meet every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon, same time, same place. Players of all ages and skill levels are welcome, there are no dues, players come and go anytime, and there is no purchase required (but it would be nice). There usually is a chess puzzle to solve, and the first one who solves it on the first try wins a free tall Starbucks drink!
If anyone noticed that I wasn't around much the last two sessions, it was only because I got jammed with certain pollen allergies that turned into a nasty case of sinusitis (and that's all it was, per tests and visit to doctor's office). So then, here's looking forward to seeing many of you this Sunday or whenever you can make it to our regular sessions!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Wednesday, May 10, 2023
CHESS this Wednesday, May 10th at Starbucks!
Hello!
Just a short note to say we meet once again this Wednesday afternoon, May 10, 2023, at our usual Starbucks venue for fun, challenging chess over the boards! The first one to solve a certain chess puzzle on the first try wins a free tall Starbucks drink of choice!
We meet every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon from 3:00 p.m. on through closing time. All ages and skill levels are welcome; come and go as you wish, there are no dues, and there is no purchase required (but it would be nice).
Last Sunday, we welcomed yet another new player to the club. On hand to welcome Luis (and wife Ona) to the club were Tony, Mike T., Kevin, Sam N., Suhas and his Dad, and Yancy (who solved that day's chess puzzle on his first try)!
If you're up for USCF-rated Quads competition next Sunday and Wednesday, let me know.
See you soon!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Saturday, May 6, 2023
CHESS this Sunday, May 7th at Starbucks!
Hello!
There's chess over the boards every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon at our usual Starbucks venue, from 3:00 pm on through closing time! We welcome players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to masters! Come and go anytime, there are no dues, and there is no purchase required (but it would be nice). This Sunday, May 7th, is no exception, and we can expect to see more new players! There's usually a chess puzzle to solve, with a free tall Starbucks drink for the one who is the first to solve it on the first try!
Last Wednesday's session saw about a dozen players, and we welcomed our newest player, Ben, to the club! There to welcome him were Maria, Mike T., Mike S., Bert, Tony, Sam C., Irakli, Manuel, Ernie, and Yancy (who, once again, solved the day's chess puzzle on the first try!). Did I miss anyone?
For those interested in rated competition (especially those who still have provisional ratings), on either or both Sundays, May 14 and 21, 2023, we can have USCF-rated Quads, to be played over 2 sessions at either Starbucks or Carl's Jr (which is just across the side parking lot from Starbucks). These matches would also be good matches for those planning to compete in the Las Vegas Chess Festival this coming June! For our Quads, Time Control=G/45;d10. EF=$15. Starting time: 2:00 p.m. 1st Place=$30; 2nd Place=$25. Let me know if you're up for this, see you soon!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Tuesday, May 2, 2023
CHESS this Wednesday, May 3, 2023 at Starbucks!
Hello!
There's lots of chess over the boards this Wednesday afternoon, May 3, 2023 from 3pm on through closing time at our usual Starbucks venue, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., in the Clayton Shopping Center, just up from the Concord corner of Ygnacio Valley Rd. and Clayton Rd. We meet every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon, same time, same place! We welcome players of all ages and skill levels, there are no dues, there is no purchase requirement, and there's usually a chess puzzle to see who will be the first player to solve it on the first try, to win a free tall Starbucks drink of choice!
Last Sunday several players enjoyed the afternoon of chess, and we also concluded our club's April fun, USCF-rated tournament. There for the games were Ohm and his family, along with Myles, Juliana, Kevin, Tony, Mike T., Red, Sam C., Jay, Vin, Vin Sr., and Roman!
Our USCF-rated club tournament concluded with Red once again taking 1st Place (and it's noted that he has won two club tournaments in a row, having now won 7 straight USCF-rated matches! Coming in a clear 2nd was Tony T., and tied for 3rd Place were Matthew and Trenton!
Our next club tournament may be for 3 rounds or matches, either in Quads or groups of six, all scheduled for Sunday, May 14, 2023, same time control (G/45;d10), with a first match starting time of 11:00 a.m. and an Entry Fee of only $25 (as, usual, at least 90% of entry frees are returned as cash prizes). Let me know if you're up for it! See you soon!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Tuesday, April 25, 2023
CHESS this Wednesday, April 26th at Starbucks!
Hello!
Our regular session once again meets this coming Wednesday, April 26, 2023 for fun, challenging chess over the boards!
This past Sunday's USCF-rated 4-round club tournament is underway, to possibly be completed this Wednesday, April 26, 2023 at our usual Starbucks venue (or tournament players may decide to play their matches at Carl's Jr. Restaurant, which is just across the side parking lot from Starbucks). So far, Red, Tony, and Trenton each have 2 wins, and Matthew has 1; and at stake are: 1st Place = $67; 2nd Place = $56; and, 3rd Place = $45. (As usual, more than 90% of entry fees are returned as cash prizes, with the balance going toward recent nominal local and USCF admin costs).
We meet every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon at our usual Starbucks venue, from 3:00 p.m. through to closing time. We welcome players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to masters! Players come and go anytime, there are no dues, and there is no purchase required. For this coming Wednesday, however, those players competing in the USCF-rated tourney in progress for cash prizes may actually start their matches as early as 2:30 p.m. All other players are welcome to observe, and certainly to play chess with others who are not in USCF-rated matches.
Our next USCF-rated club competition will be on Sunday, May 14th! More details to follow, and if you have any questions or need more info, just let me know, see you soon!
-- MIke T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Sunday, April 23, 2023
CHESS this Friday & Sunday, April 21st and 23rd at Starbucks!
Hello!
Just a quick reminder that we can enjoy chess over the boards this Friday, April 21, 2023 at our usual Starbucks venue from 4:30 p.m. on through closing time. This is for this Friday only, as we continue to meet on Sunday and Wednesday afternoons.
We also have our USCF-rated club tournament this Sunday, April 23, 2023, starting at 12:30 p.m. at the Carl's Jr. Restaurant which is just across the side parking lot from our usual Starbucks venue. For details of the tournament, please check the Upcoming Club Tournaments page. At least half a dozen players so far have committed to competing in this Sunday's 1st two rounds, with subsequent rounds to be played on either or both the following Wednesday or Sunday, depending on agreed upon date and timelines between players and the Tournament Director, to accommodate personal work schedules. Those not participating in the tournament are welcome to observe and may play chess there or at Starbucks with others who are also not in the competition.
This past Wednesday's session saw about a dozen players enjoy chess: Irakli, Yancy, Red, Sam, Trenton, Tony, Mike T., Mike S., Diego, Bert, and Ronald . . . did I miss anyone? We welcome players of all ages and skill levels, see you soon!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Tuesday, April 18, 2023
CHESS this Wednesday, April 19th at Starbucks!
Hello!
This Wednesday, April 19, 2023 we'll have our usual afternoon session of chess over the boards from 3:00 p.m. on through closing time, at our usual Starbucks venue! Our session this past Sunday saw at least a dozen players come by and play several very interesting matches: Trenton and Hayley were there, as were Suhas and his Dad Predbi; and, Red, Yancy, Matthew, Sam C., Meredith, Mike T., Kevin, and Reza!
We have an opportunity to add this Friday, April 21st as an extra session this week, from 5:00 p.m. through to closing time, so let me know if you're up for that and I'll confirm it in an email message to you.
This coming Sunday, April 23rd, we'll have another USCF-rated club tournament: check the Upcoming Club Tournaments page for all the details. This will be at Carl's Jr. Restaurant, located just across the side parking lot from our Starbucks venue. Those not playing in the tournament are welcome to observe, or play chess with other non-participants at either Carl's Jr. or Starbucks that day!
We welcome players of all ages and skill levels, there are no dues, no purchase requirement, plus there's usually a chess puzzle to solve, and the first one to solve it on the first try wins a free tall Starbucks drink!
Any questions or need for more info, just let me know, see you soon!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Saturday, April 15, 2023
CHESS this Sunday, April 16, 2023 at Starbucks!
Hello!
Enjoy the fun and challenge of chess over the boards once again this Sunday, April 16, 2023 from 3pm on through closing time at our usual Starbucks venue, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd, just a couple driveways up from the corner of Clayton Rd. and Ygnacio Valley Rd; in the Clayton Shopping Center.
We welcome players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to masters and all in between! We meet every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon, same time, same place, and players there early usually 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!
Our session last Wednesday, April 12, 2023 saw at least 17 players and supporters enjoy an afternoon and evening of chess, right through closing time! We welcomed two players new to the club: Ty, and Ron S.! There to welcome them were Sam C. (who solved the puzzle!), Tony T (back from surgery!), Mike T., Sam S., Trenton and Hayley, John S., Diego, Red, Matthew, Duncan, Suhas and his Dad Prudhi, William, and Farbod!
Club Tournament Next Sunday, April 23!
Location: Carl's Jr. Restaurant (across side parking lot from Starbucks).
Format: Quads (3rds); or Groups of 6 or more players, 4rds Swiss.
Time Control: G/45;d.10 (Forty-five minutes each player; 10-second delay).
Entry Fee: $30 paid before 04/23/23; $35 if paid on 04/23/23. (At least 90% of entry fees are returned as cash prizes for 1st and 2nd Place in Quads; and, for 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and perhaps even 4th Place for larger groups, depending on number of entries).
Starting Times: 12:30 p.m. and No Later Than 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 23. The last round for Quads or last 2 rounds for larger groups may be completed on the same day, OR at time(s) agreed upon by matched players and the Tournament Director for completion the following Wednesday (April 26) or Sunday (April 30).
Requirement: Current membership in the US Chess Federation. It's easy to join or renew, by going online at www.uschess.org
Note: Players not participating in the club tournament may also play chess, at either Starbucks or Carl's Jr., but only with players who are also not participants.
Let me know if you have questions or need more information, see you soon!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Tuesday, April 11, 2023
CHESS this Wednesday, April 12th at Starbucks!
Hello!
There's chess over the boards at our usual Starbucks venue this Wednesday, April 12, 2023 as players of all ages and skill levels can come and go anytime after 3:00 p.m. on through closing time for some fun, challenging matches!
This past Sunday saw more than a dozen players, including more new players like Greg and his kids Noah and Nicky; and, Thomas and his kids Myles and Mila, along with Mike T., William, Farbod, Ron Clf., Vin and Vin Sr. were there to welcome them. More players will be joining the fun as the weather gets so much sunnier!
Our next club tournament is still a go for Sunday, April 23, 2023. Visit our Upcoming Club Tournaments page for details.
Any questions or need for more info, just let me know. See you soon!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Saturday, April 8, 2023
CHESS this Sunday, April 9th at Starbucks!
Hello!
After any celebrations this Sunday morning and if you have the time and need for a good chess fix, there's chess over the boards this Sunday afternoon, April 9, 2023 from 3:00 p.m. on through closing time at our usual Starbucks venue! 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!
We welcome players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to masters! There are no dues, and there's no purchase required (but it would be nice), and players come and go anytime.
On Sunday, April 23rd we'll start another club tournament! Please see the Upcoming Club Tournaments page for more details.
This past Wednesday's session saw at least a dozen or so players enjoy an afternoon of chess over the boards. We welcomed two or three new players, William for one, and Jaden for another along with mom Jen and bro Mateo! On hand to welcome them were Serg and his Uncle Paul, Yancy, Matthew, Bert, Mike S., Mike T., Meredith, Red, Ethan V. and John S.!
Let me know if you have questions or need more info, see you soon!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Tuesday, April 4, 2023
CHESS this Wednesday, April 5th at Starbucks!
Hello!
Just a short note to say we're playing chess over the boards at our usual Starbucks venue again, same time (3:00pm through to closing), this Wednesday, April 5, 2023. All ages and skill levels are welcome, from beginners to masters and all in between. Come and go anytime, there are no dues, and there's no purchase required. Players there early usually have a chance to be the first to solve a chess puzzle on the first try to win a free tall Starbucks beverage!
This past Sunday's session saw a dozen players enjoy an afternoon of chess over the boards: Serg was there with his dad Paul, IM Ronald, Sam N., Kevin, Ethan and Evan V. with mom Stacy, Red, Mike T., Morgan, and Ruby! Last Wednesday's session saw at least a couple dozen players!
We meet every Sunday and Wednesday afternoons at the usual Starbucks, and on Sunday, April 23, 2023 we'll have another club tournament. Please see the Upcoming Club Tournaments page for more details.
See you soon,
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Sunday, April 2, 2023
CHESS this Sunday, April 2nd at Starbucks!
Hello!
We meet every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon from 3:00pm through to closing time at our usual Starbucks venue, and last Wednesday's session drew at least 24 players, including half a dozen players new to the club!
There to have fun with chess over the boards and to make new friends were Mike S., Steve, Vernon, Zachary and Sammy with parents Zhaana and Baha, Mike T., Yancy (who solve the chess puzzle of the day), Red, Duncan, Sam C., Sam S., Matthew, Bert, John S., Trenton, Diego, welcoming new players Ethan and his Dad Sonny, along with Zooey and Robent, and mom Meredith and her daughter Charlie with those yummy girl scout cookies somehow sold to some of the chess players!
We meet again this Sunday, April 2, 2023, same place, same time -- and players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to masters, are welcome to come and go anytime, and there are no dues, nor is there any purchase required (but it would be nice). Players there early usually have a chance to be the first to solve a chess puzzle on the first try to win a free tall Starbucks drink!
Our Next Club Tournament:
On the afternoon of Sunday, April 23, 2023 we will start a 4-round USCF-rated tournament that will have all participants playing 2 matches that Sunday afternoon, and the next two on either the following Wednesday and/or Sunday depending on the schedules or availability of the players. We've done this before, it's not complicated at all.
Format: Group(s) of 6 players or more, Swiss Pairing System; 4 rounds.
Location: Carl's Jr. Restaurant (across the side parking lot from Starbucks).
Time Control: G/45;d.10
Entry Fee: $30 if paid before 04/23/2023; $35 if paid on 04/23/2023. At least 90% or more of Entry Fees are returned as cash prizes (to be determined based on number of entries) for at least 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place; and, possibly even 4th Place!
Starting Times: Sunday 04/23/2023: 1st Match 12:30 p.m.; 2nd Match NLT 2:30 p.m. (3rd and 4th Matches on either the following Wednesday or Sunday afternoons to be at times agreed upon by the matched players and the tournament director, who will need to be present.)
Requirement: Current membership in the US Chess Federation. New or renewal memberships can be done online at www.uschess.org.
See you soon!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Wednesday, March 29, 2023
CHESS this Wednesday, March 29th at Starbucks!
Hello!
We meet for chess over the boards every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon at our usual Starbucks venue from 3:00 p.m. through to closing time -- we welcome players of all ages and skill levels, there are no dues, players come and go anytime, and there is no purchase required (but it would be nice). Players there early usually have a chance to be the first one to solve a chess puzzle on the first try to win a tall Starbucks beverage!
Our next session will be this Wednesday, March 29, 2023. Last Sunday saw Carl, Myles, Joe, Vin, Vin Sr., Meredith, Sam C., Mike T., and Yancy enjoy the game, with Yancy even solving a rather difficult chess puzzle!
Our Next USCF-rated Club Tournament (Based on 6 or more players)
Our next USCF-rated tournament will be 4 rounds, using the Swiss Pairing System, played over two sessions. The first will be on the afternoon of Sunday April 23, 2023 starting at 1:00p.m., followed by the last two rounds on the following Wednesday and/or Sunday, depending on players' schedules or availability, to complete the competition.
Time control will once again be G/45;d10.
The Entry Fee for this time will be $30 if paid before 04/23/23, or $35 if paid on 04/23/23.
Note: All players or participants must be current US Chess Federation members. Renewals or new memberships, allowing players of any age or skill level to play in any USCF-rated tournament in the nation, can be obtained easily online at www.uschess.org.
Let me know if you have any questions or need more info, see you soon!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Saturday, March 25, 2023
CHESS this Sunday, March 26th at Starbucks!
Hello!
Good weather this Sunday, March 26, 2023 (before the next rains) for a really nice afternoon of chess over the boards at our usual Starbucks venue! We welcome players of all ages and skill levels! We're there from 3:00 p.m. on through closing time; players come and go anytime, there are no dues, and there is no purchase requirement (but it would be nice). 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 beverage!
Last Wednesday's session still saw about 10 players go at it despite the damp afternoon and evening: Red, Sam N., John S., Mike S., Mike T., Yancy, Bert, Steve, Matthew, and a new player ahead by name of Romo! No player was able to solve a challenging chess puzzle on the first try to win a free tall Starbucks drink, it was indeed a tough puzzle!
Looking ahead: Another USCF-rated club tournament will be set for Sunday, April 23. Similar format(s) as before, more details in the next email or two, with even larger cash prizes. As usual, more players will be playing in club tournaments as the weather gets better and we get closer to the Las Vegas Chess Festival this coming June!
See you soon!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Wednesday, March 22, 2023
CHESS this Wednesday, March 22nd at Starbucks!
Hello!
Despite some rather gloomy weather this past Sunday, at least six players took part in the club's USCF-rated 3-round tournament held at the Carl's Jr. Restaurant across the side parking lot from Starbucks: Ron, Matthew, Kevin, Red, Steve, and Mike S. were the contestants for the fun and challenge of playing for cash prizes and ratings! On hand also to help was Ranen; and Sam C.and John S. came by later to get some post-tournament games in.
Results of the tournament: A clear 1st Place finish and top cash prize went to Red, who managed to win all three of his well-contested matches! A well-earned tie for 2nd Place went to Matthew and Mike S., who each won 2 matches to split the total of the 2nd and 3rd Place cash prizes!
The club will have an even larger USCF-rated tournament late next month, date and format to be announced very soon.
We meet again this Wednesday, despite the rains perhaps, at our usual Starbucks venue. If for some reason the Starbucks closes early or if you do not see any players, always check the Carl's Jr. Restaurant across the side parking lot, where we are always also welcomed!
We welcome players of all ages and skill levels, and there are no dues, and there is no purchase requirement (but it would be nice). See you soon!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #6024746
Saturday, March 18, 2023
CHESS this Sunday, March 19th at Carl's Jr. & Starbucks!
Hello!
Last Wednesday saw at least a dozen players enjoy an afternoon and evening of chess over the boards, with Yancy eventually solving a rather difficult chess puzzle on his first try! Among the players at our usual Starbucks venue were Sam C., another but much newer player named Sam, Yancy, Red, Steve, Matthew, Justin, Bert, Joe, Mike S., & Mike T.
More players are expected this Sunday, March 19, 2023, as we will have a USCF-rated set of chess matches starting at 11:00 a.m. at the Carl's Jr. Restaurant, which is just across the side parking lot from our usual Starbucks venue, which is at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., just up from Concord's corner of Ygnacio Valley Rd. and Clayton Rd., in the Clayton Shopping Center. Only current USCF members can participate in those matches; however, non-members may play chess with other non-members either at Carl's Jr. or at Starbucks this Sunday. Details regarding the USCF-rated matches are as follows:
1. Format: Quads (groups of 4 players); or, Groups of 6 or more players, with the Swiss Pairing System; 3 Rounds or Matches.
2. Time Control: G/45d.10 (Game in 45 mins.w/10-sec. delay for each player).
3. Entry Fees: $25 on Sunday; or $22 if paid or commitment made before Sunday. (Note: At least 90% of the Entry Fees are returned as cash prizes for 1st and 2nd Place in Quads; and, for 1st; 2nd, and 3rd Places for Groups of 6 players or more.) Cash Prize amounts to be determined depending on the number of entries.
4. Starting Times: 1st Round=11:00a.m.; 2nd Round=No Later Than 1:15p.m.; 3rd Round=NLT 3:15p.m. The starting times of the 2nd and 3rd rounds can be earlier than the times posted, if all players in a Quad or Group are done with their prior time's match and all agree to start at a specific, earlier time. The time between the 1st and 2nd matches allows time for lunch.
If you have any questions or need more information, just let me know. If you need to join the USCF or renew your membership for this or future rated club tournaments, you can do so online at www.uschess.org.
See you soon!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Tuesday, March 14, 2023
CHESS this Wednesday, March 15th at Starbucks!
Hello!
Looks like good weather ahead, let's play chess over the boards! We meet this Wednesday, March 15th at our usual Starbucks venue from 3:00 p.m. on through closing time, as the days get longer due to Daylight Savings Time!
We meet every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon, same time, same place, and last Sunday saw a good handful of players enjoy the afternoon and early evening despite unpredictable, sometimes fairly wet weather! No dues, come and go anytime, and there's no purchase required (but it would be nice).
We welcomed Andy, yet another new player to the club! Among players there Sunday were John S., Mike T., Myles, Donovan, Red, Yancy, Duncan, Farod, Connor, Kevin, Adrian . . . . . and this Wednesday there definitely will be a chess puzzle, with a prize of a tall Starbucks drink of choice going to the first player who solves it on the first try!
On Sunday, March 19, 2023, we will have USCF-rated Quads as described in the last email. Current membership in the USCF is required. Check our Upcoming Club Tournaments page for all details. Players who are not USCF members are still welcome to play chess at either Starbucks or Carl's Jr. that day; however, their matches can only be with other players not participating in the Quads.
Any questions or need for more info, let me know, thanks and see you soon!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Saturday, March 11, 2023
CHESS Sunday, March 12th at Starbucks, More Rain or Shine!
Hello!
While we had about 20 players at our last Sunday's session (including Max, one of our most experienced young players), about half a dozen players came by our usual Starbucks venue came by our usual Starbucks venue this past Wednesday. On hand for chess over the boards Wednesday were Tony, Mike T., Matthew, Steve, Bert, and new players George and Joe! Matthew solved the chess puzzle on his first try to win the free Starbucks drink!
Our next session is on Sunday, March 12, 2023, same time, same place!
We meet every Sunday and Wednesday afternoons from 3:00 p.m. on through closing time at the Starbucks located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., in the Clayton Shopping Center, just up from the Concord corner of Ygnacio Valley Rd. and Clayton Rd. We welcome players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to masters and all in between. Players come and go anytime, there are no dues, and there is no purchase required (but it would be nice). Players there early usually have a chance to be the first player to solve a chess puzzle to win a free tall Starbucks drink of choice!
USCF-Rated Club Tournament Sunday, March 19, 2023
Format: 3 Rounds, Either Quads or Groups of Six; depending on number of entries..
Time Control: G/45;d.10. Players of all ages and skill levels are welcome!
Entry Fee: $22 prior to 03/19/23; or, $25 if paid on day of tournament. At least 90% of EFs are returned as cash prizes for 1st and 2nd Place in Quads, and an added 3rd Place for each group of 6 or more players.
Location: Carl's Jr. Restaurant (across the side parking lot from Starbucks).
Start Times: 1st Match 11:00am; 2nd Match no later than 1:15pm; and, 3rd Match no later than 3:15pm. Cash prizes are given after the end of the last match (we're usually done well before 5:00 pm), and results are reported to the US Chess Federation for ratings within a week. Players receive their new ratings by email from USCF soon after.
Requirement: Current membership in the US Chess Federation. To join or renew, the website is www.uschess.org
Let me know if you have questions or need more info!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6014746
Tuesday, March 7, 2023
CHESS this Wednesday, March 8th at Starbucks!
Hello!
Last Sunday, we welcomed about 6 new players to the club, and three of them were kids by the name of Mateo, Cadeo, and Santiago, who were with their Dad Antonio! Young Myles and Donovan were there to welcome them and enjoy games with them as well as with several adults. We also welcomed new players Farbod and Adrian! Along for the fun of the afternoon and evening at our usual Starbucks venue were John S., Kevin, Sam, Red, Tony, Joe, Julia, Vin, Vin Sr., Andreena, . . . and Mike T. --- that's 19 players, did I miss anyone?
We meet every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon, from 3:00 p.m. on through closing time at our usual Starbucks venue located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., in the Clayton Shopping Center, just a couple driveways up from the Concord corner of Ygnacio Valley Rd. and Clayton Rd. Our next session is this Wednesday, March 8, 2023, same time, same place!
We welcome players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to masters and all in between. Players come and go anytime, there are no dues, and there is no purchase required (but it would be nice). Players arriving early usually have a chance to be the first player to solve a chess puzzle on the first try to win a free tall Starbucks drink of choice!
Our next USCF-rated club matches will be on Sunday, March 19, 2023.
Format will be either Quads or 3-rd Swiss group(s) depending on number of entries;
Time Control G/45;d.10; Players of all skill levels welcome, including beginners.
Entry Fee of $22 prior to March 19,or $25 if paid on day of tournament.
Prizes: At least 90% or EFs returned as cash prizes for 1st and 2nd Place in Quads, and an added 3rd Place for each group of 6 or more players.
Location: across the side parking lot from Starbucks, at the Carl's Jr. Restaurant, where we've been hosted many times for past club tournaments (there's more space, it's quieter, and still fun!).
Start Times: 1st match 11:00 a.m.; 2nd no later than 1:15 p.m.; and 3rd match no later than 3:15 p.m. Cash prizes are given out immediately after the last match (we're usually done well before 5:00 p.m.), and results are reported to the US Chess Federation for ratings adjustments within a week.
Requirement: Current membership in the US Chess Federation. To join or renew, the website is www.uschess.org.
Let me know if you have questions or need more info, see you soon!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Sunday, March 5, 2023
CHESS this Sunday, March 5th at Starbucks, Rain or Shine!
Hello!
At least a dozen players got their chess fixes over the boards at our usual Starbucks venue despite the chilly weather this past Wednesday; and, at our session last Sunday, despite the stormy weather, nearly 20 players of all ages and skill levels dropped by for the fun and challenge of the game! We meet again this Sunday, March 5, 2023, from 3:00 p.m.through to closing time, with players able to come and go anytime; and, 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!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Monday, February 27, 2023
CHESS this Wednesday, March 1st at Starbucks!
Hello!
We meet again this coming Wednesday, March 1, 2023, at our usual Starbucks venue, at our usual time of 3:00 p.m. on through closing time! We meet every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon, same time, same place, and early arrivals usually have a chess puzzle to see who can be the first to solve it on the first try to win a free tall Starbucks drink of choice! Last Sunday's puzzle was quite difficult, but it was finally or eventually solved by Ranen! This Wednesday's puzzle will be much, much easier!
Last Sunday's gathering saw at least 18 players enjoy the rainy afternoon playing chess over the boards. We welcomed 3 more players new to the club: Joe, George, and Stephan! Myles hung in there quite well with the adults, and Julia's game is getting noticeably stronger! Several close contests were played by and among all players that included Reza, Mike T., Olaf, Tony, Duncan, Patrick, Vin with Vin Sr., Red, Steve, Ranen, Connor and Diego, as well as Myles, Julia, George, Stephan and Joe! Did I miss anyone?
As mentioned in a previous email, we'll have USCF-rated Quads on Sunday, March 19, 2023, with details to be confirmed soon. Also in the works for anytime 4 to 6 players can get together --- an unrated Blitz tournament! Let me know if you're interested.
See you soon,
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Saturday, February 25, 2023
CHESS this Sunday, Feb. 26th at Starbucks Rain, Snow, or Shine!
Hello!
Last Wednesday's session saw at least 14 players enjoy chess over the boards at our usual Starbucks venue, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., in the Clayton Shopping Center, just up from the corner of Concord's Ygnacio Valley Rd. and Clayton Rd. We welcomed Ihauk, our newest player! There to welcome him were Matthew, Julia, Steve, Albert, Bert, Tony, Mike T., Ernie, Mike S. and Ernie -- and there were 4 or 5 players who seemed like high school students who came in and kept to themselves playing blitz chess!
We meet every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon, from 3:00 p.m. on through closing time. We welcome players of all ages and skill levels. There are no dues, and there is no purchase requirement (but it would be nice). Players arriving early have a chance to be the first player to solve a chess puzzle on the first try to win a free tall Starbucks drink of choice! While no player solved last Wednesday's puzzle on the first try, Tony did outscore 5 other players to win a special chess contest!
Our club will have USCF-rated matches (either Quads or 3-rd Swiss; G/45;d.10) on Sunday, March 19, 2023. Entry Fee = $25; with 95% or entry fees returned in cash prizes. Players must be current members of the US Chess Federation to participate. However, if unrated Blitz Quads are held, anyone can play!
See you soon!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate ClubID #A6024746
Wednesday, February 22, 2023
CHESS this Wednesday, Feb. 22nd at Starbucks!
Hello!
About 27 players of all ages and skill levels came by for the fun and challenge of chess over the boards over our last two sessions, and it was more fun with kids in the mix along with their parents! We welcomed Steve, a new player; and we welcomed back after a long, long time away, Justin! Along with Justin and Steve were Sam, Tony, Mike T., Ernie, Dan, Matthew, Mark, Red, Morgan, Julia, Mike S.,Bert, Kevin, Meredith, Duncan, Vin, Vin Sr., Roman, Myles with Mila, Ly, and Thomas; and Sabina, Jackson and mom Susie! Did I miss anyone? (A few regulars were away on trips.)
Our next session is this coming Wednesday afternoon at our usual Starbucks venue, from 3:00 p.m. through to closing time. Players there early will have a chance to be the first to solve a chess puzzle on the first try to win a tall Starbucks drink of choice! Sabina once again helped with the solution to this past Sunday's chess puzzle; and, Vin won a drink credit by outscoring 5 other players in a contest that required predicting a master's winning chess moves!
Our club will hold USCF-rated Quads on March 19, 2023, more details to follow!
We meet every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon starting at 3:00 p.m., and players can come and go anytime; there are no dues, and there is no purchase required (but it would be nice). We're located at the Starbucks at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., just a couple driveways up from the corner of Ygnacio Valley Rd. and Clayton Rd., on the border of Concord and Clayton, Ca., in the Clayton Shopping Center.
See you soon!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Saturday, February 18, 2023
CHESS this Sunday, Feb. 19 at Starbucks!
Hello!
Just a quick note to say there's the usual fun, challenging chess over the boards this Sunday, February 19, 2023, at our usual Starbucks venue, from 3pm through to closing!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Wednesday, February 15, 2023
CHESS today, Wednesday Feb. 15th at Starbucks from 3pm!
Hello!
Just a quick note to confirm we meet as usual today, as we do every Wednesday and Sunday afternoon, at our usual Starbucks venue from 3pm on through closing time. Chess players there 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!
Players of all ages and skill levels are welcome; there are no dues, players come and go anytime, and there is no purchase required (but it would be nice).
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Saturday, February 11, 2023
CHESS Tomorrow, February 12, 2023? On Super Bowl Sunday?
Hello!
Yes, for players who prefer to play chess instead of watching the Super Bowl!
Our regular Starbucks venue is available as usual every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon from 3:00 p.m. through to closing time as chess players can come and go anytime. I'll probably drop in at halftime and/or after the championship contest.
Our chess club will have USCF-rated Quad Tournaments March 5th, a Sunday. Four players to a Quad, grouped by skill level. At least one Quad will play Blitz or Rapid. Other Quads to play the classic game, with Time Control at G/45;d10. First matches start at 10:30 a.m. Location and Entry Fees to be determined (figure $25; location across lot from Starbucks). Current membership in the US Chess Federation is required. Let me know if you are interested, or if you have any questions.
Our Wednesday, February 15, 2023 session will feature a chess puzzle to challenge players to be first to solve it on the first try to win a free tall Starbucks drink of choice. Winners of the last two challenges: Yancy and Tony! Last Wednesday's session saw at least a dozen players enjoying chess over the boards despite some rather damp, chilly weather: Sam C.,Tony, Red, Duncan, Morgan, Bert, Mike T, Mike S., Trenton, Zachary, Yancy, and Diego!
See you soon,
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Wednesday, February 8, 2023
CHESS this Wednesday, February 8th at Starbucks!
Hello!
Several chess players (about 20 or so) dropped in for fun, challenging chess over the boards this past Sunday, including another new player, and a couple of players we haven't seen in a long, long time! The chess puzzle was a rather difficult one, and it took some time before it was solved, after several tries. (Yancy solved it, eventually!)
There to enjoy the coffeehouse atmosphere as well as all that chess had to offer (including Kevin's "Stealth Chess" version of the game), were: Rich P. and spouse; Donovan and Andreena; Meredith, Red, Yancy, Vishwa, Nando, Mike T., Kwaku, Vin Sr. and Vin Jr., Sam C., Sam N., Ron Z., Dave T., Tony, Connor, Mike O., and . . . Kevin! Did I miss anyone?
We meet every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon from 3:00 p.m. through to closing time at our usual Starbucks venue. All ages and skill levels are welcome! Players come and go anytime, there are no dues, and there is no purchase required (but it would be nice). Players there early usually 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'll have a fun USCF-rated tournament soon, stay tuned for details!
See you soon,
-- Mike T
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Sunday, February 5, 2023
CHESS this Sunday, February 5th at Starbucks!
Hello!
At least 18 players enjoyed chess over the boards this past Wednesday, including at least three more new players and at least a couple players we haven't seen in quite a long time! They all are: Tony, Bert, Eric Z., Albert, Matthew, Ernie, Zachary, Sam M., Mike T., Mike S., Meredith, Vishwa, Nando, Red, Ty, Morgan, Duncan, and Julia! Did I miss anyone?
We meet every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon from 3:00 p.m. through to closing time at our usual Starbucks venue, in the Clayton Shopping Center, at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., just up from the Concord corner of Ygnacio Valley Rd. and Clayton Rd. . . . We welcome players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to masters! There are no dues, there is no purchase required (but it would be nice), and players come and go anytime. To play rated club tournaments, however, entry fees are in order, and players must be members of the US Chess Federation.
We meet again this Sunday, February 5th, same times, same place, and players there early have a chance to compete to be the first to solve a chess puzzle on the first try to win a free tall Starbuck drink of choice! Join us, have fun, make new friends, renew old friendships!
See you soon,
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Tuesday, January 31, 2023
CHESS this Wednesday, February 1st, at Starbucks!
Hello!
This past Sunday, despite rainy weather and televised NFL championships, well more than a dozen players dropped in on our usual Starbucks venue to enjoy fun, challenging chess over the boards! There to welcome three more new players (Trenton, George and George's uncle) were Tony, Mike T., Ron Cl. and Ronald C., Mark, Jason with kids Sabina and Jackson, along with Donovan, Meredith, Red, and Julia. Did I miss anyone?
We welcome players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to masters! We meet every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon from 3:00 p.m through to closing time at the Starbucks located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., in the Clayton Shopping Center, just a couple driveways up from the Concord corner of Ygnacio Valley Rd. and Clayton Rd. Our next session is this Wednesday, February 1, 2023, and there are no dues, players come and go anytime, and there is no purchase required (but it would be nice). Players there early will 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!
Some players were wondering when our next rated club tournament would be. Sunday, February 26, 2023 looks good, or even sooner, so stay tuned for details as to format, time control, entry fees, divisions, etc.. Not all players need to compete in rated matches; however, for those who do, current membership in the US Chess Federation is required. New or renewing members may sign up on line at www.uschess.org.
Anyone up for 4-Way Speed Chess?
See you soon,
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Saturday, January 28, 2023
CHESS this Sunday Jan. 29 at Starbucks!?!
Hello!
Last Wednesday's session saw at least a dozen or so players enjoy an afternoon and evening of chess over the boards, as we welcomed 3 more new players to the club! No player was able to solve a rather difficult chess puzzle on the first try, perhaps an easier one will be on the table next Wednesday! Having fun with the challenges of chess last Wednesday were Tony, Mike T., Yancy, Red, Bert, Jake and Jennifer, Rich P., Chris B., and new players Will, Mike S., and Julia!
We usually meet every Sunday and Wednesday afternoons, from 3:00 p.m. through to closing time at our usual Starbucks venue. Will we have our usual session and turnout this Sunday, January 29, 2023?? The NFC Championship game between the SF 49ers and the Philadelphia Eagles kicks off around noon and should finish by 3:30 p.m., so we'll likely see some players drop in for chess Sunday afternoon, after all!
See you soon,
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Wednesday, January 25, 2023
CHESS this Wednesday, January 25 at Starbucks!
Hello!
Two Sundays ago we welcomed 3 new players, Rich P., Don G., and Sean, as nearly two dozen players enjoyed an afternoon and early evening of chess over the boards, as did at least seven players last Wednesday, despite rather wet weather!
We have a regular session this coming Wednesday, January 25, 2023, from 3:00 p.m. through closing time, at our usual Starbucks venue, located at 1536 Kirker Pass, in the Clayton Shopping Center, just a couple driveways up from the corner of Clayton Rd. and Ygnacio Valley Rd. 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 beverage of choice!
We welcome players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to masters and all in between. Players can come and go anytime; there are no dues; and, there is no purchase required (but it would be nice).
However, when we do have rated matches or tournaments with either cash or non-cash prizes, competing players -- regardless of skill group or division -- must be current members of the US Chess Federation. Membership costs are quite reasonable, --- moreso for students and seniors --- and can be easily obtained online at www.uschess.org. Rated matches or tournaments are announced well in advance, with info as to date(s), location, start times, skill divisions, entry fees and prizes, as well as format and time control(s).
For those interested, we lately have set time aside to experiment with and possibly develop our own version of four-player chess, but amp'ed up for speed, to be known as 4-Player Speed Chess! So far, based on a couple timed games (one at 5 minutes, the other at 10), the feedback has been that it's certainly offbeat, a bit crazy and fun, -- and Kwaku is the player to beat! -- would you like to try it sometime?
Let me know if you have questions or need more information, see you soon!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Saturday, January 21, 2023
CHESS this Sunday, Jan. 22nd at Starbucks??
Hello!
Just a short note to say that chess players are welcome as usual to play chess at our usual Starbucks venue this Sunday afternoon -- however, we'll not have our usual features such as a chess puzzle to solve for a free Starbucks drink, etc., as not too many players (myself included) are expected due to the much-hyped afternoon NFL playoff match between the Dallas Cowboys and the San Francisco 49ers!
We'll resume our session with more players this coming Wednesday afternoon, and I'll have more info in the next email, see you soon!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Wednesday, January 18, 2023
CHESS Today, January 18th, at Starbucks!
Hello All,
Just a quick note to say we meet as usual today, as we do Sunday and Wednesday afternoons, from 3pm thru closing time at our usual Starbucks venue. 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!
I'll have lots of club info or updates (like Kwaku being the defending champion of our new 4-Way Speed Chess Challenge!) in my next email!
See you soon!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Sunday, January 15, 2023
CHESS this Sunday, January 15th at Starbucks!
Hello All!
Just a short note to confirm that our chess club meets as usual this Sunday, Jan. 15th from 3:00 p.m. on through closing time at our usual Starbucks venue, come more rain or some sunshine! We welcome players of all ages and skill levels, and those who are there early will have a chess puzzle to solve, and the first one to do so on the first try wins a free tall Starbucks drink of choice!
We wish good, winning games and top prizes for those very few club players (e.g., Chris B., Max, Eric M., Ranen) who decided to compete in the Golden State Open in Marin County this weekend despite the flooding rains there, along with the distance and costs.
We meet Sundays and Wednesdays, same time, same place, for fun challenging chess over the boards --- see you soon!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Tuesday, January 10, 2023
CHESS this Wednesday, January 11th at Starbucks!
Hello!
This past Sunday's session saw at least a dozen players mix it up over the chessboards: Kids Myles, Jackson, and Sabina were there along with Susie, Yancy, Sam, Ron, Mike T., Ray, Jil, Kevin, Vinn Jr., and Mark! Did anyone solve the mate-in-two chess puzzle? Well, if it weren't for Sabina showing everyone what the correct first move was, it may never have been solved! For her key participation, Sabina won a Starbucks treat for her and her brother!
We meet every Wednesday and Sunday afternoon, from 3pm through closing time at our usual Starbucks venue. We therefore convene again this Wednesday, January 11, 2023. 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 there early usually have a chance to be the first to solve a chess puzzle on the first try to win a free tall Starbucks drink!
Join us also to try 4-Way Speed Chess! Last Sunday, Ron, Mike T., Sam, and Kevin gave it a try without clocks, and it was fun! On the clocks, set at 5 minutes each, it should be quite interesting with special club rules and an initial $$$ prize for the winner!
See you soon!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Saturday, January 7, 2023
CHESS this Sunday, Jan 8th at Starbucks, Rain or Shine!
Hello!
Last Wednesday's session had at least half a dozen players enjoying an afternoon and early evening of chess over the boards despite the late rains! Sam, Tony, Matthew, Mike T., Meredith, and Donovan were there to play, and check out the new 4-way chessboard to add to the fun!
Rain or shine, from 3:00p.m. on through closing this Sunday, January 8, 2023, at our usual Starbucks venue, let's have a fun, challenging time over the boards, with a couple special challenges: first, as usual, players have a chance to be the first to solve a chess puzzle on the first try to win a free tall Starbucks drink of choice! Second, for players who would like to try something new, there will be $$ prizes for winning experimental 4-Way Speed Chess Games! Yup, you heard or saw it here first!
We welcome players of all ages and skill levels, there are no dues, and there is no purchase required (but it would be nice). Come and go anytime, see you soon!
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
Tuesday, January 3, 2023
CHESS this Wednesday, January 4th, 2023 Rain or Shine at Starbucks!
Hello All . . . !
Just a short note to confirm that there's chess over the boards this Wednesday, Jan 4th at our usual Starbucks venue!
It will probably be wet weather, and probably a good day to stay in, but if you're up for the game of chess for the afternoon/evening from 3pm on, (come and go anytime), I'll see you there! (If some players are interested, I'll preview a 4-way chessboard tournament, something that can be played for a nominal cash prize at next Sunday's session!)
See you soon,
-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #6024746