CHESS this Wednesday, April 24, 2024 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone!

We meet again this Wednesday afternoon, April 24, 2024, from 3:00 p.m. through to closing time as we do every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon. Players come and go anytime, all ages and skill levels are welcome, from beginners to masters; 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!

This past Sunday's session saw quite a few players, including several youngsters and adults brand new to the club: There was Claudia with Zafar; Laura with Felipe, Daniel, Catalina and Alejandro; and, Anh and his sister Trammy! Welcoming them were Mike T., Kevin, Reza, Daniel C., Sam, Tony, Red, Evan, Lou, and Olaf Once again, however, no player was able to solve the day's chess puzzle on the first try...!

We may have, by popular demand, an unrated blitz & rapid tournament! Stay tuned for details, which would include players' not needing to be members of the USCF. In the meantime, perhaps we'll see you soon to help iron out the details as you get your game up, make new friends, and renew old friendships!

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

CHESS this Wednesday, April 17th at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone!

Last Sunday's session saw well over a dozen chess players enjoy an afternoon and early evening of fun challenging chess over the boards accompanied by live keyboard music courtesy of the talents of Robert Z. and . . . Red (!) -- who really wowed the Starbucks patrons, chess players and all, yes everyone, even the busy baristas!! They will probably be back next week for encores!

Our chess club also welcomed young Bruce and his Dad Greg, and there to welcome them and get them in a game or two were Mike T., Matthew, Red, Tony, Daniel C., Jackson, Kevin, Evan, Olaf, Ben, Benoit, Sam, Robert, and Mark. No player was able to solve the day's chess puzzle on the first try, but bragging rights probably go to Evan for figuring out the key first move toward solving it!

We meet every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon from 3:00 p.m. to closing time at the Starbucks located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., in the Clayton Shopping Center, just up from the corner of Clayton Rd. and Ygnacio Valley Rd. on the border of Concord and Clayton, CA. Our next session is this Wednesday, April 17, 2024. Players can come and go anytime. All ages and skill levels are welcome, there are no dues, and there's no purchase required. 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! We do have USCF-rated club tournaments from time to time, and the next one will be scheduled soon, so stay tuned for details.

So then, come see us, get your game up, make new friends, and renew old friendships!

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

CHESS this Sunday, April 14th at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone!

We meet again this Sunday, April 14, 2014 at our usual Starbucks venue to enjoy an afternoon and evening of chess over the boards... we start at 3:00 p.m. and, though players can come and go anytime, we have the place along with regular customers through to closing time and...

... and for the second Sunday in a row, Robert Z. will be on hand from about 4:30p.m. or 5pm to entertain everyone with live music as he plays his electronic keyboard! Additionally, anyone with keyboard music skills may shine his or her talents on the instrument, as well. (Last Sunday, a barista displayed her ability which also drew quite a few smiles!)

We meet every Sunday and Wednesday afternoons, same time, same place, and as ever, all ages and skill levels are welcome, 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 one to solve it on the first try wins a free tall Starbucks drink of choice! Last Wednesday's puzzle was indeed a tricky one, and no one solved it on the first try. (This Wednesday's puzzle will be a lot easier, more of a speed-test to find out who can solve it the quickest on the first try for the prize!)

So then, perhaps see you this Sunday - make new friends, renew old friendships, plus there's going to be live music, (there's even space for dancing), and definitely lots of fun challenging chess over the boards, so enjoy!

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

CHESS this Wednesday, April 10, 2024 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone!

More than a dozen players came by our regular Starbucks venue last Sunday and enjoyed not only an afternoon of chess over the boards, but also live music, courtesy of Robert Z. and his electric keyboard! Additionally, while Robert was on a break, one of the baristas even tried her hand at the keyboard, resulting in some very cool riffs!

We also had a couple new players, Mike M. and John M. (not related) come by to say hello, and Mike M. even got a game in. There to welcome them or play with or alongside players new to the club this time were Mike T., Max H., Mark, Irakli, Matthew, Tony, Ben C., Yancy, Evan, Daniel C., and Lou. Did I miss anyone?

We meet again this Wednesday afternoon, April 10, 2024, from 3:00 p.m. on through closing time, as we do every Sunday and Wednesday at the Starbucks located at the Clayton Shopping Center, on Kirker Pass Rd., just a couple driveways up from the corner of Clayton Rd. and Ygnacio Valley Rd, on the border of Concord and Clayton, CA.! 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 one to solve it on the first try wins a free tall Starbucks drink of choice!

Robert Z. (a keyboard artist and music teacher) and his electric keyboard will be back to entertain us and other Starbucks customers once again for a late afternoon into evening, next Sunday, April 15, 2024. Robert's talent is welcomed by the management of our regular Starbucks venue. And oh by the way, Robert is an old friend and no stranger to the chess club, as he used to play chess with us many years ago. He's back!

We'll soon be scheduling our next club tournament, which may very well be on a Saturday or Sunday late this month or early next month. Time Control this time will be G/30;d10. Stay tuned for more details! In the meantime, perhaps we'll see you soon for some fun, challenging chess over the boards as you make new friends, and renew old friendships!

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

CHESS & Live Music this Sunday, April 7, 2024 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone!

This Sunday, April 7, 2024, there will be lots of fun, challenging chess over the boards, with live keyboard music! Yes, we will have our regular chess session from 3:00 p.m. through to closing time at our regular Starbucks venue, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., in the Clayton Shopping Center Center. In addition, Ron Z., a noted keyboard player/artist/music teacher, will play for us and other customers during the later part (around 4 or 5pm on) of our session. It's being cleared with Starbucks and by the way, it won't be the first time there -- Ron used to perform there for us some 10 or more years ago and ... he's back!!

So then, perhaps make it a point to join us this Sunday! All ages and skill levels are welcome, there are no dues, there's no purchase required, come and go anytime, and there's usually a chess puzzle to solve, with the first to do so on the first try winning a free tall Starbucks drink of choice!

We meet every Wednesday as well for chess, same time, same place,and last Wednesday's session saw several interesting matches. There for most of the afternoon and into the evening were Ben C., Tony, Chris N., Sam, Mark, Evan, Bert, Mike T., and Irakli. No player solved the mate-in-two chess puzzle on the first try, though the first move was found fairly early!

See you soon, perhaps get your game up, or at least come by, say hello, make some new friends, renew old friendships, and ... oh yeah, this Sunday, enjoy the live music!

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

CHESS this Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone!

We continue to meet every Wednesday and Sunday afternoon from 3:00 p.m. to closing time at our regular Starbucks venue, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., in the Clayton Shopping Center, just a couple driveways up from the corner of Ygnacio Valley Rd. and Clayton Rd. Players come and go anytime, there are no dues, and there's no purchase required. Be the first to solve a chess puzzle on the first try to win a free Starbucks drink of choice! Perhaps we'll see you there this Wednesday, April 3, 2024 for fun, challenging chess over the boards!

Despite the rather light customer traffic at Starbucks this past Sunday, being Easter Sunday, at least a dozen players came by to enjoy an afternoon of good company and the game of chess! Ben C. garnered bragging rights for being the first to solve the day's chess puzzle, albeit on his second run at it! There with Ben were Michelle and daughter Vivian, and several chessters such as Sam, Tony, Kevin, Reza, Mike T., Damon, Red, Lou, and another whose name I did not get, playing Lou outside on a nice, clear blue sky day!

Next Sunday, April 7, 2024: We'll have our regular session, same time, same place, but there will be an event that should bring a smile or two to all chess players and Starbucks customers at large. Ron Z., a noted keyboard player/artist/music teacher, will play for us during the later part (around 4 or 5pm on) of our session. It's been cleared with Starbucks, by the way, and it won't be his first time to do so there --- Ron used to perform for us some 10 years there, and . . . he's back! So, perhaps make it a point to be with us next Sunday afternoon, maybe get your game up, or at least make new friends, renew old friendships! See you soon!

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

CHESS this Sunday, March 31, 2024 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone!

After Easter morning activities this Sunday, March 31, 2024, chess players can still relax and have more fun with chess over the boards in the afternoon at our usual Starbucks venue located in the Clayton Shopping Center, just a couple driveways up from the intersection of Clayton Rd. and Ygnacio Valley Rd.! All ages and skill levels are most welcome from 3:00 p.m. on through closing time. There are no dues, and there's no purchase required (but it would be nice). There will be a chess puzzle to solve, and the first to solve it on the first try wins a free tall Starbucks drink of choice!

We meet every Wednesday afternoon as well, same time, same place. Last Wednesday's session saw Tony and Matthew combine to somehow solve a fairly tough puzzle (mate in two), with one figuring out the first move, and the other the second . . . ! There with Tony and Matthew that day were Meredith (on her collegiate spring break!), Ben C., Chris N., Daniel C., Benoit, Evan H., Damon, Alwin, Bert, Samuel, and Mike T.!

We will have our next USCF-rated club tournament sometime either late April or early May. The Time Control may be back to 30 minutes with a 10-second delay ("G/30;d.10"). Stay tuned for more details in the next email message or two, or soon after the tournament date and start times are established. In the meantime, keep coming by to enjoy the game of chess, along with making new friends and renewing old friendships! See you soon!

--- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #6024746

CHESS this Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone!

Last Sunday's USCF-rated club tournament at Carl's Jr. Restaurant was quite a success (despite several players being quite brain-fried at the end of the day)! 10 players competed, with 4 in a Quad and 6 in the one other group. The time control was game in 40 minutes with a ten-second delay ("G/40;d.10").

The 3-round Quad contest resulted in Irakli and Tony with 2 wins each, sharing top honors and the cash prize of $100, with runner-ups Ben C. and Chris S. each winning one match. Every match was well contested, and there was only one blunder of major consequence (of course I won't name who made that boo-boo). Tony managed to win his last two matches to tie for first, as Irakli had come very close to winning all three of his matches.

The 4-round group of 6 players resulted in another tie for the top two places: Matthew and Daniel C. each won 3 matches, with Daniel needing a win against Matthew in his last match to tie and split the $120 total cash prize for 1st and 2nd Places. 3rd Place was also up for grabs, and Benoit garnered it with 2 wins, for which Will with one win was also competing against Benoit in his last match. Kevin and Jackson had exciting contests, with each getting a draw, and a win for 1 1/2 pts. each, as Jackson extricated himself out of a 1-more-move checkmate loss by finding key forcing moves that led or would lead to a checkmate to win the last match!

It was also very nice to see several observers there, including Chris's friend Mckenzie, along with Sam, Mark, Evan, and Max H. Later, at Starbucks, Max won bragging rights by solving the day's rather difficult chess puzzle!

We will have our club's regular Wednesday afternoon session at our usual Starbucks venue this Wednesday, March 27, 2024. All ages and skill levels are most welcome, there are no dues, and there's no purchase required (but it would be nice). We'll also meet next Sunday (Easter!), same time (from 3:00 p.m. on, as usual come and go anytime), same place. So then, see you soon!

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

CHESS this Sunday, March 24th at Carl's Jr. & Starbucks!

Hi Everyone!

There's lots of chess to be played over the boards this Sunday, March 24, 2024, at both Carl's Jr. Restaurant (for the club's USCF-rated tournament that starts at 10:45 a.m.) and after 3:00 p.m.at our regular Starbucks venue, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., which is just across the side parking lot from Carl's Jr., within the Clayton Shopping Center!

USCF-Rated Club Tournament, Sunday March 24, 2024:

(As of this writing, more than 12 players have expressed serious interest in competing, with at least 10 players confirming their participation.)

Requirement:  Current membership in the US Chess Federation.  To join or renew, simply go online at www.uschess.org.  The Tournament Director (TD) needs to validate a player's current membership and current rating, or whether a player is unrated or has a provisional rating before the tournament starts.  This validation is mostly done well before the start.

Location:  Carl's Jr. Restaurant (across the side lot from our regular Starbucks venue).

Format:  3Rd.-Quads, or 4-Rd.-Groups of 6 or more players, depending on number of entries and spread of current ratings.

Start Times: 10:45a.m.; NLT 12:30p.m.; NLT 1:45p.m; and, for larger groups, NLT 3pm.

Time Control:  G/40;d.10.  Please have your chess clock set and available as needed.

Entry Fee:  $25 paid/confirmed before 03/24/2024; $30 otherwise, on 03/24/2024.

Cash Prizes: As in all our club tournaments, at least 90% or more of entry fees are returned as cash prizes (1st and 2nd Place for Quads; and, for groups of 6 or more players, paid to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Places.  Amounts to be determined based on number of entries and prize fund).

Visitors/Observers:  Visitors or observers are welcome and of course are expected to not comment or react to any of the chess moves or matches in progress.  Visitors are also welcome to play chess among other non-participants of the tournament, but on tables that are clearly separate from the tournament participants.

After the tournament, it is common for players to either stay at the restaurant or go over to Starbucks across the way to go over their games and even play more chess! Therefore, this Sunday our usual club session goes on as usual at Starbucks from 3:00 p.m. on through closing time! As always, players of all ages and skill levels are welcome, there are no dues, and there's no purchase required. There may even be a chess puzzle to solve, with the player solving it on the first try winning a free tall Starbucks drink of choice! (Our session last Wednesday saw more than a dozen players, with another new player, named Max V., joining us, as Matthew impressed all by being the first to solve the day's chess puzzle on the first try! His prize that day was one that Kevin donated for the occasion: a 2024 desk calendar featuring one chess puzzle to solve for each remaining day of the year!

Any questions or need for more info regarding any of the above, just let me know, and I hope to see as many of you as can make it this Sunday, be it at Carl's Jr. or Starbucks!

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

CHESS this Wednesday, March 20th, at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone!

At least a dozen or more players came by our regular Starbucks venue, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., in the Clayton Shopping Center, to enjoy chess over the boards this past Sunday, and it was Irakli who was the first to solve the day's chess puzzle on the first try to win a free tall Starbucks drink! There with Irakli were Kevin, FBen, Tony, Jackson, Will, Nate, Daniel C. Chris N., Chris S., Sam C., Mark, and new player to the club Max V.!

Most of that day's players are planning to compete in next Sunday's USCF-rated Club Tournament. It's looking good for the tournament to feature at least 2 Quads if not 3, or at least 1 Quad and 1 Group of 6 or more players! Here are the specs, including location, format, time control, starting times, and -- oh yes, entry fees:

Format:  3-RD Quads and/or 4-RD Swiss for Groups of 6 players or more.

Time Control:  G/40;d.10

Location:  Carl's Jr. Restaurant (across the side parking lot from our Starbucks).

Start Times: 10:45 a.m.; NLT 12:30 p.m.; NLT 1:45 p.m.; NLT 3:00 p.m.

Entry Fee:  $25 paid before 03/24/2024; $30 if paid on 03/24/2024.

Prizes:  At least 90% of Entry Fees are returned as cash prizes:  Quads pay 1st and 2nd Place; and, for groups of 6 or more players, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place. The balance of funds go to the USCF (with perhaps enough left over for a sandwich for the TD).

Requirement:  Current Membership in the US Chess Federation.  To join or renew membership, simply go online at www.uschess.org.

[Note: Chess players not participating in the tournament are welcome to observe, and to even play among themselves at Carl's Jr. or, after 3:00 p.m, as usual. Several players usually go over to Starbucks across the lot after the tournament.].

I hope to see you this Wednesday, and certainly next Sunday!

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

CHESS this Sunday, March 17, 2024 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone!

We meet every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon from 3:00 p.m. through to closing time for fun, challenging chess over the boards. As usual, we've got a fun session ahead at our usual Starbucks venue this Sunday, March 17, 2024 and another this coming Wednesday, March 20th. However, the following Sunday, March 24, 2024 we are also having our USCF-rated Club Tournament that, for participating players, starts at 10:45 a.m. at the Carl's Jr. Restaurant which is across the side parking lot from our Starbucks venue! Details (e.g., G/40;d.10, etc.) of the tournament have been posted and are available on our Upcoming Club Tournaments page.

Last Wednesday's session saw about ten players enjoy the game of chess, with Matthew snagging bragging rights for solving the day's chess puzzle, albeit on a subsequent, successful attempt! There with Matthew were Chris N., Daniel C., Mark, Ben C., Tony, Mike T., Evan, and Irakli. The session ended with a very spirited blitzing set of games involving Matthew, Mark and Evan -- and somehow in one rather interesting end game, Matthew made very good use of his tripled pawns!

All ages and skill levels are most welcome, there are no dues, and there's no purchase requirement (but it would be nice), so come on by, get your game up, have some fun, make new friends, even renew old friendships!

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

CHESS this Wednesday, March 13, 2024 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone!

At least 15 players dropped in on our regular Starbucks venue to enjoy fun, challenging chess over the boards this past Sunday: Ben C., Diego, Jackson, Daniel C., new player Alex H., Kevin, Mike T., new player Mehedi, Lou, Damon, Yancy, Mark, Juan, Reza, and Red, who solved the day's chess puzzle on his first try, after several players had a go at it!

We meet every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon from 3 p.m. on through closing time at the Starbucks located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., in the Clayton Shopping Center. We're therefore there again this Wednesday, March 13, 2024. All ages and skill levels are most welcome, there are no dues, and there's no purchase required, as players come and go anytime. There usually is a chess puzzle to solve, with the player solving it on the first try winning a free tall Starbucks drink of choice!

USCF-Rated Club Tournament Sunday, March 24, 2024!

Format:  3-RD Quads and/or 4-RD Swiss for Groups of 6 players or more.

Time Control:  G/40;d.10

Location:  Carl's Jr. Restaurant (across the side parking lot from our Starbucks).

Start Times: 10:45 a.m.; NLT 12:30 p.m.; NLT 1:45 p.m.; NLT 3:00 p.m.

Entry Fee:  $25 paid before 03/24/2024; $30 if paid on 03/24/2024.

Prizes:  At least 90% of Entry Fees are returned as cash prizes:  Quads pay 1st and 2nd Place; and, for groups of 6 or more players, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place.

Requirement:  Current Membership in the US Chess Federation.  To join or renew membership, simply go online at www.uschess.org.

[Note: Chess players not participating in the tournament are welcome to observe, and to even play among themselves either at Carl's Jr. or, after 3:00 p.m., at Starbucks, as usual. Several players usually go over to Starbucks across the lot after the tournament.]

Any questions, or need for more info, just let me know, --- see you soon, come get your game up, and make new friends, even renew old friendships!

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

CHESS this Sunday, March 10, 2024 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone!

It's Daylight Savings Time Chess over the boards this Sunday, March 10th at our usual Starbucks venue, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., in the Clayton Shopping Center! Lots of players (two dozen or more) of all ages and skill levels have been joining the fun and challenge of the game these past few Sundays, with several staying through closing time! We start at 3:00 p.m., players 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 wins a free tall Starbucks beverage of choice!

We also meet on Wednesday afternoons, same time, same place, and this past Wednesday saw at least eleven players enjoy the game, with FBen the player who rather quickly solved the chess puzzle of the day on his first try! There with Fben were Ben C., Mike T., Tony, Trucker, Evan, Daniel C., a new player named Alex, Evan, Mark, and Matthew, whose spiffy countermove in one game late in the day wrecked Mark's crafty endgame stratagem!

USCF-Rated Club Tournament Sunday, March 24, 2024:

Time Control:  G/40;d.10

Format: 3-RD Quads and/or 4-RD Swiss, Groups of 6 or more players.

Location:  Carl's Jr. Restaurant (across the side parking lot from our usual Starbucks).

Start Times: 1st Rd: 10:30 a.m.; then NLT 12:15p.m.; NLT 1:45 p.m.; NLT 3:00 p. m.

Entry Fee:  $25 paid before 03/24/2024; $30 if paid on 03/24/2024.

Cash Prizes:  TBD based on number of paid entries.  At least 90% of paid entries are returned as cash prizes.  For Quads: 1st Place = $50; 2nd Place = $40.  For a Group of 6 or more players, payouts go to !st, 2nd, and 3rd Place winners.

Requirement:  Current membership in the US Chess Federation.  To join or renew membership is easy, just go online at www.uschess.org.

If you have any questions or need more info, let me know. In the meantime, see you at Starbucks soon, get your game up, have fun making new friends and even renewing old friendships!

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

CHESS this Wednesday, March 6th, at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone!

About two dozen or more players came to play chess over the boards this past Sunday at our usual Starbucks venue, with a bit of an overflow of players into the neighboring Munchy's Lounge! Sam was quick to be the first to solve the day's chess puzzle on the first try to win a free tall Starbucks drink! There with Sam were: Kevin, FBen, Jackson, Ben C., Tony, Mark, Trenton, Max, Daniel C., Daniel U. with Samantha, Juan, Mike T., Jordin, Lou, Evan, Myles with his Dad and little sister; Matthew, and... George and Mihaela with their kids Charlise, Alex, and Andre... Did I miss anyone, I think maybe I did...? There was no question that players had a lot of fun, going by the great games played, the laughter, and even the food and drink both at Starbucks and Munchy's!

We meet again this Wednesday afternoon from 3:00 p.m. on through closing, same place, and all ages and skill levels are most welcome. There are no dues, come and go anytime, and there's no purchase required (but it would be nice). There usually is a chess puzzle, and the first to solve it on the first try wins a free tall Starbucks drink of choice!

We also meet Sunday afternoons, same place and time, and next Sunday, March 10th, Daylight Savings Time starts! Our USCF-rated Club Tournament will be scheduled for Sunday, March 24th, and I will have full details in my next email, stay tuned, and see you soon!

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

CHESS this Sunday, March 3, 2024 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone!

Join us if you can this Sunday afternoon at our usual Starbucks venue from 3:00 p.m. on through closing time (come and go anytime) for fun, challenging chess over the boards! All ages and skill levels are welcome, there are no dues, and there's no purchase required (but it would be nice). Be the first to solve the day's chess puzzle on your first try and win a free tall Starbucks beverage of choice!

We do meet every Wednesday, same time, same place and all, and last Wednesday saw at least a dozen or more players stop in for the challenge of chess and that day's puzzle, which no player was able to solve on the first try! In the mix were Ben C., Tony, FBen, Mike T., Chris M., Will, Daniel C., Sam, Matthew, a new player also named Daniel, Bert, Ernie, and Joshua of UPS!

Our next USCF-rated Club Tournament will be scheduled for either Sunday, March 17th or Sunday, March 24th, stay tuned for full details in your next email. From the informal poll taken recently, it may very well be set for the 24th. Hmmm, maybe on both days?

See you soon, come on by, make new friends, renew old friendships, play chess!

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

CHESS this Sunday, February 25, 2024 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone!

We meet again, as we do every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon, this coming Sunday, February 25, 2024 at our regular Starbucks venue from 3:00 p.m. through to closing time. 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, with the first one solving it on the first try winning a free tall Starbucks drink of choice!

This past Wednesday saw at least 10 players play chess over the boards: Irakli (who has bragging rights for being the first to solve the rather tricky chess puzzle, albeit on the third try), Ben C., Tony, FBen, Matthew, Chris N., Daniel, Mike T., Evan, and another occasional, and at times also a rather loquacious player who lately has given me a couple, quite different names...

Stay tuned for more details regarding our next USCF-rated club tournament. Expect the time control to be G/40;d.10 instead of G/45;d.10 and that it will be held on either Sunday, March 17th or Sunday, March 24th, at the Carl's Jr. across the parking lot from our usual Starbucks venue, with a starting time of 10:30 a.m. Format to be Quads or Groups of Six. Participating players are required to be current members of the US Chess Federation. To join or renew membership, simply go online at www.uschess.org. For those interested, I would in turn be interested in your preference as to competing on March 17 or March 24. Entry Fee = $25 if paid before tournament date, $30 if paid on date of tournament. If you have questions or need more info, let me know.

See you soon!

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

CHESS this Wednesday, February 21, 2024 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone!

There's lots more fun, challenging chess to be played over the boards this Wednesday, February 21st, from 3:00 p.m. to closing time, at our usual Starbucks venue, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd. in the Clayton Shopping Center! We meet at the same time, same place, every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon. Players come and go anytime, there are no dues, and there's no purchase required (but it would be nice, after all, they're hosting us, and the baristas are 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!

This past rainy Sunday's session (Feb. 18) saw at least 19 or 20 players and chess friends come by to enjoy the fun of the game. There was Ben C., Kevin, Sam, Daniel, Lisa, Tony, Juan (new to the club, a good player!), Chris N., Chris M., Yancy (who solved the rather difficult puzzle, on his third try!), FBen, Max, Malek, Evan H., Tam (also new to the club, and will bring a different version of chess for the curious), Mike T., and Sofia with Mom Amparo and sisters Ashley and Victoria! Did I miss anyone?

Our next USCF-rated club tournament will be scheduled soon, more than likely on a Sunday in mid-to-late March, soon after the return of Daylight Savings Time. Format will be 3-round Quads and/or 4-round groups of six, with a Time Control of G/45;d10. Stay tuned, see you soon, do drop by, get your game up, make new friends, renew old friendships!

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

CHESS this Sunday, February 18, 2024 at Starbucks, Rain or Shine!

Hi Everyone...!

We're back to having quite a few players enjoy an afternoon and early evening of chess over the boards every Sunday and Wednesday, from 3:00 p.m. on through closing, at our regular Starbucks venue located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., in the Clayton Shopping Center! Players come and go anytime; all ages and skill levels are welcome, from beginners to masters; there are no dues; and, there's no purchase requirement (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!

Our next session is of course this Sunday, February 18, 2024, and as what happened during the last rain-stormy session, many chess players dropped by to play some pretty good chess in the fine coffeehouse ambiance, instead of staying home! There may be a Category 2 rain and wind storm sometime this weekend, but perhaps we will still see you at Starbucks?

Last Sunday was Super Bowl Sunday, so not much chess went on, for sure, that afternoon, as the broadcast of the game went well into the evening hours! Last Wednesday was a drizzly Valentine's Day, and as expected, less than a dozen players came by to play chess: Tony, Mike T., FBen, Daniel, Bert, and Mark among them, despite rather damp weather!

So then, let's get together over the chess boards, make new friends, and even renew old friendships as we stay healthy... and dry!

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

CHESS this Super Bowl Sunday, February 11, 2024 at Starbucks!

Hello Everyone...!

Our chess club will still have a regular session for avid chess players this Sunday afternoon, February 11, 2024 from 3:00 p.m. to closing time at our regular Starbucks venue. The Super Bowl broadcast starts at pretty much the same time, and will run for a few hours, more than likely causing many of our regular chess players to take in the game, with most if not all rooting for the SF 49ers to win over the KC Chiefs!

Our next session after this Sunday is of course Wednesday, February 14th, ValDay, same time, same place where we meet every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon. All ages and skill levels are welcome, there are no dues, and there's no purchase required (but it would be nice).

Our session last Wednesday saw at least 10 players enjoy chess over the boards, despite some rather chilly, damp weather! There to play were Ben C., Tony, Mike T., Daniel (who solved a tough puzzle to win the prize), Sam, Bert, Irakli, Chris M., Moses, and Matthew! 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!

So then, here's hoping to see you soon, get your game up, and make new friends, or renew old friendships! Also, stay tuned for info on our next rated club tournament!

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

CHESS this Wednesday, February 7, 2024 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone!

Despite the rather stormy weather last Sunday morning, 8 players arrived at our Carl's Jr. tourney location to form and compete in two Quads in our club's first USCF- rated tournament of the year! Each player was to play three matches, with first place winning $50 and second place $40.

The results (which have been submitted to USCF):

Quad A, featuring Ranen, Red, Irakli, and Ben C., was won by Ranen, taking 1st Place, having won all 3 of his matches. Ben C. took 2nd Place, having won two of his games; and, Red took 3rd, having won 1 game. Irakli may not have won a match, but he was definitely a tough opponent!

Quad B, featuring Tony, Sam, Daniel C., and Vinn, was won by Daniel C. taking 1st Place having drawn his first game with Sam; then winning his second match; and then given a win by virtue of a forfeit due to his opponent's having to leave before the start of the third round, for a total of 2 1/2 pts. Tony took 2nd Place, having won two matches for 2 pts.; and, Sam placed 3rd with a win and a draw for 1 1/2 pts. Vinn was a gamer, but had to leave early.

Several players said they definitely enjoyed the tournament, and clearly indicated that the club should have a tournament of any kind of format about once every six weeks or so. That is very doable, hopefully will continue to have the support of the players of the Contra Costa Chess Club! Stay tuned for the details descriptive of the next one, sometime mid to late March . . . that's not far off!

In the meantime, it should be noted that several of the tournament players went over to Starbucks to play more chess this past Sunday, along with Will, Mark, Matthew, Adam, Samuel, Daniel U., Mike T., and first time club players Jackson and Nate, both of whom we hope to see again over the boards!

We meet as usual every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon, from 3:00 p.m. to closing, players come and go anytime, at our usual Starbucks venue. Our next session is therefore this Wednesday, February 7th. There are no dues, all ages and skill levels are welcome, from beginners to masters, 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 wins a free tall Starbucks drink of choice!

So then, see you soon, get your game up, make new friends, renew old friendships!

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

CHESS this Sunday, February 4th, at both Carl's Jr. AND Starbucks!

Hi Everyone!

Chess over the boards this Sunday, February 4, 2024, starts off with a USCF-Rated Club Tournament that begins at 11:15 a.m. at the Carl's Jr. Restaurant, which is just across the side parking lot from our regular Starbucks venue! At least 8 players are in it to win it, with more players welcome to join, or even just observe, of course without commenting or "kibitzing" during the tournament. Full specs of the tournament are listed below.

Our regular Sunday session for more social, unrated chess at our usual Starbucks location (1536 Kirker Pass Rd., in the Clayton Shopping Center), starts at its usual time, going from 3:00 p.m. to closing, as players can come and go anytime, etc. as stated in previous emails. Our session this past Wednesday saw at least 12 players enjoy the game of chess despite some rather chilly and inclement weather: Bert, FBen, Ben C., Will, Chris M., Red, Mark, Daniel, Tony, Sam, Irakli, and Mike T.!

For Sunday's USCF-Rated Club Tournament:

Time Control: G/30;d.10

Format: 3 Rds., Quads or Groups of 6 or more players.

Starting Times:  11:15 a.m; then, NLT 1:00 p.m.; and, NLT 2:30 p.m.

Entry Fee:  $25 paid before 02/04/24; $30 if paid on 02/04/24.

Cash Prizes:  Quads: 1st = $50; 2nd = $40; For groups of 6 or more, prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd places are determined based on the number of entries.  Note:  90% or more of entry fees are returned as cash prizes, with the balance going to USCF for ratings, with maybe some left over for a sandwich for the tournament director (TD) and organizer, who may also compete).

Requirement:  Current Membership in the US Chess Federation.  To join or renew, just go online at www.uschess.org.

Remember to bring your chess set and chess clock!

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

CHESS this Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone!

At least 16 players enjoyed an afternoon and evening of fun, challenging chess at our usual Starbucks venue this past Sunday. We welcomed new players Amir, Chris M., Adam, George, George's kids Alex and Charlise along with mom Mikaela; and, there to welcome them were Tony, Will, Red, Daniel with Lisa, Sam, FBen, Eric M., Ben C., Irakli (who solved the day's chess puzzle to win the prize), and Mike T.!

We meet again this Wednesday, January 31st, at our regular Starbucks venue located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., in the Clayton Shopping Center, just up from the corner of Ygnacio Valley Rd. and Clayton Rd. All ages and skill levels are welcome, from beginners to masters! We start at 3:00 p.m. and go through to closing, as players can come and go anytime. There are no dues, and there is no purchase required (but it would be nice to buy something). 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!

USCF-Rated Club Tournament Sunday, February 4, 2024 

Location:  Carl's Jr. Restaurant (across side parking lot from our Starbucks venue).

Format:  3 Rds., Quads, or Groups of 5 or more players.

Time Control:  G/30;d.10

Starting Times:  11:15 a,m; then, NLT 1:00 p.m. and, NLT 2:30 p.m.

Entry Fee:  $25 paid before 02/04/24; $30 if paid on 02/04/24.

Cash Prizes:  Quads:  1st Place $50; 2nd Place $40.  For groups of 5 or more, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place cash prizes are determined based on the number of entries.  [Note: 90% or more of entry fees are returned as cash prizes, with the balance to USCF for the ratings, with maybe some left over for a sandwich for the tournament director (TD) and organizer, who may also compete!]

Requirement:  Current membership in the US Chess Federation.  To join or renew membership is easy, just go online at www.uschess.org

Remember:  Bring your chess set and chess clock!

If you have any questions or need more info, let me know, and see you very soon!

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

CHESS this Sunday, January 28, 2024 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone!

We meet again this Sunday, January 28, 2024 at our regular Starbucks venue, as usual from 3:00 p.m. through to closing, as we do every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon! All ages and skill levels are welcome, from beginners to masters; come and go anytime, there are no dues, and there's no purchase required (but it would be nice to buy something).

Last Wednesday, despite the damp, chilly weather, at least 13 players enjoyed chess over the boards. Two senior citizen players new to the club, Geoge and Malek, were welcomed by Sam, Mike T., Irakli, Tony, Daniel, Bert, Red, and NMRich K., who eventually solved the day's very tough chess puzzle to win the prize. Each session usually features a chess puzzle to solve, and the first player to solve it on the first try wins a free tall Starbucks drink of choice!

USCF-Rated Club Tournament Next Sunday, February 4, 2024!!

Time Control:  G/30.d10

Format: 3 Rds.; in Quads; or Groups of 6 or more, depending on number of entries.

Where: Carl's Jr. Restaurant (across side parking lot from our Starbucks venue).

Starting Times: 11:15 a.m.; then, NLT 1:00 p.m.; and NLT 2:30 p.m.

Entry Fees:  $25 paid before 02/04/24; $30 if paid on 02/04/24.  Note:  90% or more of entry fees are returned as cash prizes, with the balance to USCF for thr ratings, with maybe something left over for a sandwich for the tournament organizer.

Requirement:  Current membership in the US Chess Federation.  To join or renew is easy, just go online at www.uschess.org

Bring your own chess set, board and chess clock!

So then, for this Sunday, January 28th, despite the NFL playoffs on TV, perhaps we'll have a good turnout for the fun and challenge of chess over the boards. There's no NFL football next Sunday, Feb. 4th, the day of our tournament, as the Super Bowl is set for the following Sunday, the 11th. See you soon!

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

CHESS this Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone!

Despite the chill, the rain, and two NFL playoff games, more than a dozen players came by for fun, challenging chess over the boards at our regular Starbucks venue! We welcomed 3 players new to the Contra Costa Chess Club: Jeremy, Dylan, and Jay! There to welcome them and engage them in the fun were Will, Irakli, Ben C., Yancy (who solved the day's puzzle), Daniel, FBen, Mike T., Matthew, Red, and Tony!

We meet again this Wednesday afternoon, January 24th, same place, same time (3:00 p. m. to closing), as we do every Sunday and Wednesday afternoons and evenings! Come and go anytime, all ages and skill levels welcome, from beginners to masters! There are no dues, and there's no requirement to buy anything (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!

USCF Club Tournament Specs:
When: Sunday, February 4, 2024.
Where: Carl's Jr. Restaurant (across side parking lot from our Starbucks venue)
Format: 3 rds., Quads or Groups of 5 or more players, depending on entries.
Starting Times: 11:15 a.m.; then, NLT 1:00 p.m.; 2:30 p.m.
Time Control: G/30;d.10
Entry Fee: $25 paid before 02/04/24; $30 if paid on 02/04/24.
Cash Prizes: Quads: 1st Place $50; 2nd Place $40. For groups of 5 or more, cash prizes are determined based on the number of entries. Note: 90% of entries are returned as cash prizes, with the balance to USCF for the ratings, with maybe something left over for a sandwich for the tournament organizer.;
Requirement: Current membership in the US Chess Federation. To join or renew is easy, just go online at www.uschess.org
Bring your own chess set and chess clock.

See you soon, drop by Wednesday if you can, have fun, get your game up, make new friends, renew old friendships!

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

CHESS this Sunday, January 21, 2024 at Starbucks, Rain or Shine!

Hi Everyone!

Our chess club meets again this Sunday, January 21, 2024, at our regular Starbucks venue, rain or shine. All ages and skill levels, from beginners to masters, are welcome! We start at 3:00 p.m. and go through to closing time. 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 wins a free tall Starbucks drink of choice!

We meet every Wednesday and Sunday afternoon, same time same place, and last Wednesday's turnout saw about 15 players, from Erin and son Evan, Lisa with son Daniel, and Prudi with son son Suhas (who solved the tough chess puzzle to win the prize!), along with new players Andres and Kellan, plus Mike T., NMRich K., Sam, Bert, Red, Tony, and FBen (did I miss anybody?)!

We'll have our USCF-rated Club Tournament on Sunday, February 4, 2024. For details go to the Upcoming Club Tournaments page. Players who do not play in this tournament are still welcome to play chess at Starbucks that afternoon, or at Carl's Jr., across the side parking lot, where the tournament will be held. Let me know if you have questions or need more info.

So then, perhaps see you this Sunday, kids and adults alike, to have fun with chess and to make new friends, and renew old friendships!

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

CHESS this Wednesday, January 17, 2024 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone!

Last Sunday's session at our regular Starbucks venue saw at least 23 kids and adults share the fun and challenge of chess over the boards, either to a great degree or a keen interest to start getting deeper into the game! Samuel was first to solve the day's chess puzzle to win a free tall Starbucks drink, and on the boards with him were Vin (with Dad Vincent and Mom Katherine); Gene and Bodie (with Dad Vince); Ajay and Rayden (with Dad John and Mom Rochelle); Daniel (with Mom Lisa); Theo (with Dad FBen); Sophia (with Mom Amparo); along with Red, Yancy, Tony, Sam, Max, Ben C., Mike T., and a new player, a senior citizen named John who's coming back to the game of chess! Did I miss anyone?

We meet again this Wednesday, January 17, 2024, same place, same time (3:00 p.m. to closing), come and go anytime, all ages and skill levels welcome, from beginners to masters! There are no dues, nor is there requirement to buy anything (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!

We will have a USCF-rated club tournament on Sunday, February 4, 2024. For the info regarding the tournament, please see our previous email or website posting. The specs will also be repeated in the next email to you.

So then, see you soon, rain or shine! Come by, play, make new friends, renew old friendships!

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

CHESS this Sunday, January 14, 2024 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone!

Despite the damp, chilly, sometimes rainy afternoon and evening this past Wednesday, about 15 players enjoyed themselves at our usual Starbucks venue to socialize and have fun competing over the chess boards! Young Daniel was there with his mom Lisa, and even younger Suhas was there with his Dad Prudi, to mix in with Sam, Matthew, Ben C., Red, Mike T., Alwin, Bert, Moses, NMRich K., Moses, and John S.! A highlight was Suhas battling chess master Rich K. to a draw!

We meet again this Sunday afternoon, January 14, 2024, same time (3:00 p.m. to closing, come and go anytime); same place (Starbucks at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., in the Clayton Shopping Center, just up from the intersection of Clayton Rd. and Ygnacio Valley Rd.). We get together every Sunday and Wednesday afternoons, all ages and skill levels are welcome, there are no dues, and there usually is a chess puzzle to solve, and the first player solving it on the first try wins a free tall Starbucks drink of choice!

Club Tournament: We'll have a USCF-Rated Club Tournament on Sunday, February 4, 2024. Time Control:G/30;d.10). 3 rds; Quads format, or slightly larger groups depending on number of entries and ratings; Location: Carl's Jr. Restaurant (across side parking lot from Starbucks); Starting Times: 11:30 a.m., NLT 1:15 p.m.; and NLT 2:30 p.m.; Entry Fee: $25 paid before 02/04/24; $30 if paid on 02/04/24. 90% or more of Entry Fees are returned as cash prizes, amounts for 1st & 2nd or more places to be determined based on number of entries. Required: Current membership in the US Chess Federation (If you need to join or renew membership, go online at www.uschess.org.).

Let me know if you have questions or need more info. See you soon, drop in especially if you haven't in a long while, get your game up, make new friends, renew old friendships!

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

CHESS this Wednesday, January 9th at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone!

Our next session of fun, challenging chess over the boards this new year is this Wednesday, January 9, 2024 at the same time, 3:00 p.m. to closing, at our usual Starbucks located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd. in the Clayton Shopping Center. We meet every Sunday and Wednesday, same time, same place, come and go anytime, there are no dues, and there's no purchase necessary (but it would be nice).

This past Sunday's gathering saw at least 22 players, including chess master Rich K., and a few parents with their kids who were really engaging with adults and other kids alike in the game of chess! There to greet, welcome and play with Gene, Bodie, Rayden and AJ (Ajay?) were Kevin, Yancy, Red, Daniel, Vin, Tony, Ben C., Tyler, Rich K., Will, Mike T., FBen and son Theo. Rochelle and John were with sons Rayden and AJ and their friends Gene and Bodie; and, Lisa was with son Daniel, as were Vincent and Katherine with son Vin !!

Daniel found the key move (castling kingside!) that led to the day's tough chess puzzle being solved! There usually is a chess puzzle at every club session, and the first player to solve it on the first try wins a free tall Starbucks drink of choice!

Looking ahead, plan on playing in our first club tournament of the year on the first Sunday of February, February 4, 2024 at the Carl's Jr. Restaurant across the side parking lot from our Starbucks. Expect 3 rounds (or games); Quads or slightly larger groups depending on number of unrated players and those with established ratings; the Time Control to be 30 minutes with a 10-second delay (G/40; d10); Start Times: 11:30 a.m.; NLT 1:15 p.m.; and, NLT 2:30 p.m.. Entry Fees: $25 paid before Feb. 4th; $30 if paid on Feb.4th. Bring your own chess sets and chess clock. Required: Current membership in the US Chess Federation. Joining or renewing membership can be done easily online at www.uschess.org. If you have questions or need more info, let me know.

So then, see you soon at Starbucks, do drop in to get your game up, make new friends, renew old friendships!

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

CHESS this Sunday, January 7, 2024 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone!

Here's to a very happy new 2024!! This past Wednesday's session at our regular Starbucks venue saw at least 16 or more players enjoy a very spirited, fun, yet competitive afternoon and evening (to closing time!) playing chess over the boards! There were even a couple chess masters, IMRonald and NMRich, who had some fun with the players! Along with Rich and Ronald were Sam (once again generous with those Girl Scout Cookies!), Red, George, Moses, Meredith, Will, Mark, Ben C., FBen, Tony, Lou, Daniel, John S., and Mike T. Did I miss anybody? The chess puzzle was a tough one, but it was NM Rich who figured it out.

We're back to meeting every Sunday and Wednesday afternoon from 3:00 p.m. on through closing time at the Starbucks located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., in the Clayton Shopping Center. Come and go anytime - there are no dues, and there's no purchase required (but hey, it would be nice to buy something as part of enjoying the chess and coffee shop atmosphere). There usually is a chess puzzle to solve, and the first one to do so on the first try wins a free tall Starbucks drink of choice!

Thanks for your support and well wishes as our club, the Contra Costa Chess Club, gets its 16th year underway!!! So then, drop by and get your game up (some may want to practice for the upcoming Golden State Open), make new friends, renew old friendships! See you soon...

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