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