November 2008 uschess.

org Holiday Catalog Inside

Also in our
U.S. Open Report:

FM DANIEL YEAGER
Wins Denker Tournament
For High School
Champions

IM DANIEL FERNANDEZ
Wins Inaugural
College Tournament
Of Champions

IM Enrico
Sevillano
A USCF Publication

U.S. Open Champion

$3.95
 Chess Life
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2 Chess Life November 2008 uschess.org

 Contributors
FM Allan Savage
(Looks at Books, p. 10) is a chess bibliophile
and long time contributor who lives in Maryland.
He is currently writing volume four of The Chess
Biography of Marcel Duchamp.
Jerry Hanken
(U.S. Open, p.18) is a frequent contributor
with over 100 Chess Life articles carrying his
byline since 1975 and is the president of the
Chess Journalists of America.
Jonathan Hilton
(Denker and College, p. 23 27) is a high school
senior in Ohio, served as chief judge for the 2008
Chess Journalists of America awards, and is a
frequent blogger for Chess Life Online at uschess.org.
Frank Camaratta
(Staunton Collecting, p. 28) is a retired aerospace
FRIEDEL BY JEN SHAHADE; KAMSKY BY IAN ROGERS
I WANT YOU
to follow the Olympiad!
Be sure to cheer on the American teams at the Dresden
Olympiad (November 12 25). Kamsky, Nakamura, Onischuk,
Shulman and Akobian are lined up to play for the men
while Krush, Zatonskih, Goletiani, Rohonyan and
Abrahamyan will represent the women. Watch out for
exclusive blogs on uschess.org by GM Ian Rogers,
FM Mike Klein, and Jonathan Hilton.
uschess.org
engineer/rocket scientist, a CC international
master, 1976 Absolute champion, 1990 1993
USCF vice president, 1993 `1996 USCF treasurer,
2002 2004 USCF VP of finance, and founder of
The House of Staunton, Inc.
Al Lawrence
(Gadget Guide, p. 32) has written 13 books, the
latest being Chess Training Pocket Book II, written
with GM Lev Alburt. He is a former executive director
of both the USCF and the World Chess Hall of Fame.
FM Mike Klein
(Olympiad Preview, p. 38) is a frequent contributor
to Chess Life.
IM Eli Vovsha
(New England Masters, p. 40) is originally from
Israel but now lives in New York, where he plays
for the Queens Pioneers in the U.S. Chess League.
November on uschess.org
Root Kamsky on!
We will offer on uschess.org cover
age of the Kamsky/Topalov match,
currently set for November 25
December 16 (as we go to press),
but which has seen a dramatic
arc of scheduling changes. Gata
Kamsky is Americas greatest hope
to reclaim the world championship
crown since Bobby Fischer.
Josh on the Pan-Ams
GM elect Josh Friedel reports
from the Continental Pan Am
Championships, a 2009 World
Cup qualifer, set for Boca Raton,
Florida, November 1 7. Josh
Friedel won the CJA humor award
for his tales of American triumph
and trouble in European opens.
Turkey sandwich
U.S. Chess League semi finals go
down November 10 19, so check
out uschess.org for contests and
reports, carve turkey on the 27th
and come back to Chess Life Online
for our coverage of the National
Chess Congress (November 28 30).
Chess Life November 2008 3
November Chess Life
18 | COVER STORY
U.S. Open
Our coverage of the
U.S. Open features
reporting on the main
event by Jerry Hanken
and reports by Jonathan
Hilton on both the Denker
Tournament of High
School Champions and
the brand new Tournament
of College Champions.
4 Chess Life November 2008
Features
28 | COLLECTING
On Collecting Staunton Chessmen By Frank Camaratta
For some chess players, the pieces are as important as the
game itself. If youve ever wanted to build a collection of the
pieces that almost define tournament play, the founder of
the House of Staunton helps guide the way.
32 | GADGET GUIDE
Holiday Shopping Guide for
the Chess Player & Family By Al Lawrence
Looking for that special something for a chess friend?
For yourself? For someone new to the game? Our shopping
guide will help steer you to just the right gadget.
38 | 2008 OLYMPIAD
Handicapping the U.S. Olympiad Teams
By FM Mike Klein
With a world championship candidate leading the way for
the mens team and the powerful duo of Irina Krush and
Anna Zatonskih leading the womens team, medal hopes are
high for the U.S. this year. Mike Klein tells you what to expect.
40 | 2008 NEW ENGLAND MASTERS
Masterful Erenburg By IM Eli Vovsha
GM Sergey Erenburg wins the New England Masters
outright over a strong field in the continually growing
event, which this year moved to Rhode Island.
Columns
10 LOOKS AT BOOKS
The Business of Chess By FM Allan Savage
12 CHESS TO ENJOY
The Idiots Maneuver By GM Andy Soltis
16 SOLITAIRE CHESS
Morphy had technique By Bruce Pandolfini
46 BACK TO BASICS
Taking the Fifth By GM Lev Alburt
48 ENDGAME LAB
Positional Draws By GM Pal Benko
50 WHATS THE BEST MOVE?
Composed Endgame Studies By GM Larry Evans
Departments
3 PREVIEW
6 COUNTERPLAY (includes call for nominations)
8 FIRST MOVES
51 USCF AFFAIRS
54 TOURNAMENT LIFE
70 CLASSIFIEDS
71 SOLUTIONS
On The Cover
Our new U.S. Open champion, who joins an illustrious
list that includes recent winners GM Boris Gulko in 2007
and current U.S. Champion GM Yury Shulman in 2006,
strikes a thoughtful pose.
Cover design by Frankie Butler; Photography by Thomas Alleman
uschess.org
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Counterplay
To the TDs: Thank you!
I just wanted to applaud U.S. Champion GM Yury Shulman
and other important chess figures around the United States for
their efforts in promoting chess to people of all ages. I think that
the efforts of these [chess] celebrities are partly responsible for
the reemerging popularity of chess, particularly at the scholas
tic level. If you think about it, in how many sports do you
have a chance to meet, shake hands, and take pictures with your
idols that you read about (and that may even be published in
a national magazine like Chess Life!)?
However, I think that these organizers need more help from
local chess players to promote their events. Just having star
power alone doesnt guarantee a good turnout. We adult chess
players should take more responsibility for boosting atten
dance so that future generations can enjoy well funded
tournaments where they can meet their chess heroes.
We should also show more appreciation to the tournament
directors by at least saying a simple thank you after each tour
nament for all the time and effort they put into professionalizing
our sport. Without them, we wouldnt have an organized sys
tem to enjoy our sport.
Sherwin Chan
via e-mail
What about 22. Ke2?
Its clear from the magazine that you prefer e mail correspon
dence, but my circumstances as a prisoner make that
impossible.
In the six years that I have been a member of the USCF, I have
learned a great deal from the magazine. My favorite feature is
Solitaire Chess. Many times I dont fully understand why
one of my choices is bad, and it remains a mystery because Mr.
Pandolfini doesnt disuss it; in these cases, I generally conclude
that my move choice must lose the initiative or something. How
ever the May 2008 Solitaire Chess game is so vexing that I
absolutely must search for answers.
The text move is 21. ... Be3+ 22. fxe3 for a par score of 5. This
line results in allowing the black queen to call check on h2 fol
lowed by the black queen sacrificing herself to destroy whites
checkmate combination and reach an about even endgame
materially. And Mr. Pandolfini notes at the end of the column
that a repetitious set of moves was deleted, a little dance that
ensued in the actual game after 22. ... Qh2+.
My own analysis is that 22. fxe3 deserves not a par score of
5, but at the very least a question mark. It seems better in every
respect for the king to simply move to e2. After 22. Ke2, the black
queen is stuck on h1 and unable to call check (except for
back rank checks that are simply followed by KxQ and Whites
checkmate threat remains pristinely intact.) On two separate
days no less than four chess players here analyzed the position,
trying to guess what possible reason makes 22. fxe3 superior
to 22. Ke2. We reset the board and played again, step by step,
from the beginning to ensure that the position after 21. ...
Be3+ was set up correctly. I am simply overwhelmed with frus
tration. I know that magazine editors hate requests for personal
replies, but if you dont publish this letter, I am enclosing a SASE
in the hopes that someone will take pity and write a one sen
tence scrawl explaining what possible resource Black has if
White plays 22. Ke2.
Thanks for your assistance, and keep up the great work!
Matt Leachman
Iowa Park, Texas
6 Chess Life November 2008
We applaud you for your diligent effort at analysis and for not
taking what we print for granted. The main reason certain lines
are not explored is simply one of space. Editors are always bal
ancing what we want to print with what we can print.
As to 22. Ke2: the main reason this does not work is due to
piece count. Reminding our readers of the moves to this point:
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4 exd4 4. Nxd4 Bc5 5. Nb3 Bb6 6. a4 Qf6 7.
Qe2 a6 8. Nc3 Nge7 9. Nd5 Nxd5 10. exd5+ Ne7 11. a5 Ba7 12. h4 h6
13. Bd2 0-0 14. Bc3 Qd6 15. 0-0-0 Nxd5 16. Rxd5 Qxd5 17. Qg4 g6 18.
Qf4 Kh7 19. Bd3 Qxg2 20. Qf6 Qxh1+ 21. Kd2 Be3+
Now if 22. Ke2, then 22. ... Bd4 23. Bxd4 Re8+ 24. Be3 Qd5
(or 24. Be5 Rxe5+ 25. Qxe5). White no longer has any active
threats and is simply far behind in material. Black will soon catch
up in development with a winning advantage.
Call for Nominations
The U.S. Chess Federation (USCF) will hold an elec
tion in 2009 for four at large positions on the USCF
executive board. Each position is for a period of four
years.
Any current USCF member who is not a current
USCF employee or designated contractor (see the USCF
bylaws for those definitions) can be nominated as a
candidate for election to the USCF executive board.
Nominations must be by petitions containing the sig
natures of 30 or more voting members of the USCF
and by a filing fee of $250 payable to the U.S. Chess Fed
eration. The petition to nominate a candidate and the
filing fee must be received at the USCF office in Ten
nessee by Monday, January 12, 2009. (Send nominations
and the filing fee to Cheryle Bruce, U.S. Chess Federa
tion, P.O. Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557 3967.)
The nomination petitions must contain the dated sig
natures, printed names and USCF IDs of each voting
member, and should contain the following text: We,
the undersigned, being voting members of the U.S.
Chess Federation, nominate (candidate name goes
here) as a candidate for election to the USCF execu
tive board in the 2009 election. We also consent to
having our names and USCF IDs published as having
signed this petition. A sample nomination form will be
made available on the USCF website.
Candidates must consent to be on the ballot, either
by signing their own nominating petition or by a sepa
rate notice to the USCF.
A voting member for this election is any current USCF
member whose membership as of April 30, 2009, expires
on or after June 30, 2009, and who will be age 16 or older
by June 30, 2009.
Ballots will be distributed to voting members around
June 1st and will be counted in July. The terms will
begin at the conclusion of the 2009 delegates meeting
and will run through the conclusion of the 2013 dele
gates meeting. For further information, see the USCF
website, uschess.org.
~ Mike Nolan, USCF election committee
uschess.org
 Official Sponsor of the 2008 US Mens and Womens Olympiad Teams.

Kasparov Chess Foundations

mission is to bring the many
educational benefits
of chess throughout the
United States by providing
a complete chess curriculum
and enrichment programs.

Highlights of the Foundations

Worthwhile
Programs and Initiatives:

* KCF developed blueprint chess educational

curriculum for schools, working with schools
throughout the country to establish KCF
program as de-facto curriculum standard
* Organize and conduct teachers seminars
and workshops
For more information about
* Official Sponsor of 2006 U.S. Olympiad
Kasparov Chess Foundations
Teams; U.S. Mens team won bronze medal
programs, please visit us at
* Sponsored and conducted training program www.KasparovChessFoundation.org
for 2004 U.S. Womens Olympiad Team,
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info@kasparovchessfoundation.org
* Founder and organizer of the All-Girls Nationals
* Sponsor of Greater New York Scholastic
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* Create program for talented children with
Annual Master Class Series conducted by
Garry Kasparov

Kasparov Chess Foundation is a not-for-profit 501 (c) (3) educational organization

Supported by charitable donations from concerned individuals, private foundations and corporate sponsors.
First Moves

Burning to Play Chess on TV?

We need 10-15 chess players for Monday, June 16. We will be filming
in South Beach. It is for the TV series Burn Notice on ABC. You will
be paid $125 for a full day. Please contact us if you are interested.

he forwarded e-mail was from a casting agency seek-
ing chess players to play in the background of a scene
T for Burn Notice, a USA Network show about a black-
listed spy. The location would be South Beach in Miami,
Florida. I told my friend Neil Parsont that we could play chess
on South Beach, get paid $125 for it, and be on TVwhat
a no brainer! He immediately said, Sign me up!
On the shooting day, we were referred to as the real
chess players and told to meet at 9:00 a.m. in the parking
lot near the Miami Convention Center. The wardrobe rules
were: Wear whatever you normally wear when you play
chess. They also reminded us to bring our boards, pieces,
and our little chess clocks. When we explained to a pro-
logos visible on our clothing. We were lucky enough to have
the wardrobe woman give us both new outfits. My approved
wardrobe consisted of a white/gray collared shirt (opened
up at the chest), brown shorts, and flip flops. Neil got the
worst of it! He had to wear a tie-dye tank-top shirt, army
shorts, shoes, and a fishermans hat. He looked so funny;
a typical South Beach denizen.
We walked to the chess scene with the beautiful beach in
the background. Neil and I set up our pieces on one of the
custom built tables and started playing blitz chess. How can
you call this work? We must have played over 40 games and
enjoyed every minute of it. We met the director, the actors,
and the fifty other extrasbikini models, dog walkers,
PHOTO: JEFFREY ROTHMAN

duction assistant that we were the real chess players, we
heard, You guys dont look like real chess players. We
responded by taking out our chessboard and clock and
playing blitz in front of everyone.
We were escorted to wardrobe to see if we were approved.
We both got declined immediately because of brand-name
surfers, bicyclists, and even more real chess players.
We were done by 4:00 p.m., thanked everyone for
having us, and took photos of the staff and scenery. We
gave back the clothes we borrowed. Neil was just get-
ting used to his wardrobe and actually started liking it!
The show aired on August 14. ~John White

Noam Rothman (foreground table, left) playing Cory Riegelhaupt (right) on camera. Noam plays K-1 and Cory plays K-3 USCF scholastic
chess, and both enjoyed the TV experience that John White writes about above.

8 Chess Life November 2008 uschess.org

 DONATE See Page 5 For New USCF
Membership Options
TO U.S. TRUST ONLINE!
Now you can donate online
through a secure website at
www.uschesstrust.org

Simply click on
Donate
and then on the
Make a Donation
button!

The

and the
Gata Kamsky International Chess
and Sports Foundation

Invite you to support Gata Kamsky in his

quest to win the world chess championship
and continue Bobby Fischers legacy
Please direct your private donations to hire coaches and seconds for training
GM Kamsky for the World Chess Championship semi-final match directly to:

P.O. Box 204, Massapequa Park, New York, 11762

For direct wire:

Swift No: CITIUS33 Routing No: 021000089 Account No: 9933155929

This is a non-profit corp. endorsed by the USCF. The USCF urges its members
and affiliates to contribute in order to help Gata train properly in his goal
of winning the World Championship.

www.01chess.com

uschess.org Chess Life November 2008 9

Looks at Books

The Business of Chess

Chess entrepreneur Bob Long publishes his long-awaited semi-autobiography.

By FM Allan Savage

nce you get past the somewhat startling cover that annotations. There is also a set of combination diagrams (with
somehow perfectly fits the enigmatic title, the reader solutions) from super tacticians Tal, Nezhmetdinov, and Richter.
O is presented with a semi autobiographical account of A good deal of chess advice is scattered about, even though
Bob Long who has been a businessman for 35 years and chess the author disavows that being the true purpose of the book.
player for 40. The book gives his unique perspective of some For instance, there are some lengthy discussions about certain
one who is in the business of chess marketing and publishing. openings valuable for club level players, including a short
It is peppered with stories, business tips, and chess informa chapter on a weird opening played by some grandmasters.
tion that are meant to be engaging and compelling. This is an There is some general advice about chess improvement, mem
unusual potpourri of subjects and specifically designed that way. ory, and pattern recognition.
The authors stated purpose was to present chess instruction, A good number of personal photographs are interspersed
entertainment, and a business manual. throughout, but the quality of many of
It has elements of all three but the mix is them is somewhat poor, though there is
not easy. The books three sections (each a nice one of Judit Polgar at age 12
with many chapters) are titled Busi with her father Laszlo, standing at
ness, Business and Chess, and Longs bookstall.
Chess. The attempt to segregate the There are some fascinating chess
three topics was not completely success anecdotes you never heard, such as
ful. There are chess discussions in the the story of when historian Ken Whyld
business section and business topics in once sat on a review board for a doctoral
the chess section. Long states that he thesis in chess and flunked the stu
wrote as things occurred to him, but felt dent! The recounting of Longs famous
that he curbed his previous tendency chess festivals is also not to be missed.
to go tangential. Unfortunately, I still There is a chapter about book review
found evidence of this and as a reader it ing and also many interesting book
was sometimes difficult to focus on what recommendations, but most concern
was intended. business and self help.
There is a forward by GM Karsten In full disclosure, I should say that
Mller that presents the highlights of the I have known Bob Long for many years
book (especially the chess part) via a few in a variety of capacities as his writer,
pithy quotes, but it does not go far enough editor, customer, and friend. The book
as there is so much more. There are cer is written in a tone that captures his
tainly quite a number of business tips true nature he tells it as he sees it,
throughout, both general and specific. holds nothing back, and meets his
This alone will be worth the price of the stated goal of honesty of being fair in
book for some, but may be of little inter The Chess Assassins Business Manual
word and deed. I, too, must be hon
est to others. The business topics include by Bob Long. Thinkers Press, Inc. est in this review. It is an unusual
advertising, customers, tricks and traps, 294 pages. List Price: $30.00 book that has many virtues, but its
from bob@thinkerspressinc.com
techniques, buying and selling, and run or Chessco,1524 LeClaire St., attempted audience may be on one
ning a niche business. Davenport, IA 52803 hand too broad (business people and
The book is filled with frequent biting chess players) and on the other hand
and sarcastic remarks on all aspects of business and chess, and too eclectic (the chess entrepreneur). The writing is at times
is certainly entertaining. The author has an amusing tendency original, engaging, and funny, but at other times quite
toward hyperbole when describing absurd situations or actions. opaque. He admits that originally the book was a bunch of
Many pages are enhanced with excellent comments in the disjointed chapters and that it was rewritten and rearranged
actual margins, and the side bars picture many books and mag several times. Clearly things have been tightened up but I am
azines that Bob has published over the years. not sure the results will be satisfactory to all readers. Being
In the chess section the choice of full games is a mixed bag. semi autobiographical, the author has tried to fit in all
Some personally memorable, more heavily annotated games of aspects of his life, but it may be a difficult fusion for some
the authors are given, but their quality ranges from entertain readers who are only familiar with one area. It might have
ing to boring. Games of famous players are also presented (a worked better as two separate books but should still satisfy
number by Kramnik, Bronstein, and Gufeld), but with light the right reader. .
10 Chess Life November 2008 uschess.org
 Chess to Enjoy
The Idiots Maneuver
You know the Alekhines Defense and maybe the Lucena position as well. But do
By GM Andy Soltis
you know the Swiderski shift? Or the Flohr-Saemisch maneuver? You should.
Openings honor the players who
invented or popularized them. The list is
long and it begins with the Abrahams
Variation, Alapin Opening, Alekhines
Defense, Allgaier Gambit, Anderssens
Attack and so on.
Combinations also remember their
innovators, with names like Lgals mate
and Bodens mate. So do endgame
themes, as in the Lucena position and the
Philidor drawing method used in rook
endings.
But maneuvers dont get respect.
Among the few that are recognized are
Richard Retis rearguard attack on the
center Whites queen goes to a1 to sup
port a bishop at b2 and the Lasker rook
advance mentioned a few months ago in
this space. But they are the very few.
And thats wrong. The player who
comes up with an original strategic idea
that can be applied in several positions is
at least as deserving of recognition as
the guy who finds a new move in the
Sicilian Defense. Thats why Ive been
trying for years to trace some of the great
maneuvers back to their origins.
One of the strangest maneuvers occurs
in a hedgehog pawn formation: a black
bishop snakes its way from f8 to e7 d8
c7. This happens in lines of the Sicilian,
English Opening, and even the Queens
Indian. An early example:
Symmetrical English (A31)
Karel Treybal
Salo Flohr
Ujpest 1934
1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 e6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5.
Bd3 d6 6. 0-0 Be7 7. c4 Nbd7 8. Nc3 a6 9.
Be3 Qc7 10. Rc1 b6 11. f3 Bb7 12. Qe1 0-0
13. Qf2 Rac8 14. Rfd1
(see diagram top of next column)
The term hedgehog is quite old Aron
Nimzovich used it in his 1929 book Chess
12 Chess Life November 2008
+r+ rk+
+lqnlppp
pp ppn +
+ + + +
+PNP+ +
+ NLLP+
PP + QPP
+ RR+ K
After 14. Rfd1
Praxis and the pawn structure it
describes is much older. By 1934 it was
well known that Black was supposed to
play ... Rfd8 to prepare ... d5. But:
14. ... Qb8!? 15. Bf1 Bd8! 16. b3 Bc7
Black is making ... Bxh2+ possible after
... d5. After seeing this game I thought the
positional stylist Salo Flohr deserved
credit for the ingenious bishop dance.
Then I found a reference on some Russ
ian website to the Flohr Saemisch
maneuver.
Friedrich Saemisch? Hes certainly not
remembered as a master of maneuver.
Hes the butt of the story that ends with
Nimzovich shouting, Why must I lose to
this idiot?
But if you see ... Bd8 c7 as a tactical
idea, a disguised attack on h2, it makes
sense that Saemisch was its pioneer.
After a bit of searching I found:
Symmetrical English (A31)
Karel Opocensky
Friedrich Saemisch
Bad Pistyan 1922
1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 e6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 a6 5. c4
Qc7 6. Nc3 Nf6 7. Be2 b6 8. Be3 Bb7 9. f3 d6
10. Qd2 Nbd7 11. 0-0 Be7 12. Rfd1 0-0 13.
Rac1 Rac8 14. Bf1 Qb8 15. Qf2 Kh8 16. Nc2
Bd8! 17. Na1 Bc7!
After White safeguarded h2 with 18.
g3 Black turned his attention to the newly
weakened diagonal, 18. ... Qa8!, la Reti.
A maneuver is a mini plan. Like many
good plans if not most it only takes
two or three moves to complete. One of the
most popular is the shift of Whites knight
from b1 to d2, then to f1 and g3 in the
Ruy Lopez and Giuoco Piano. It was made
famous by Wilhelm Steinitz, who used it
to plant an attacking knight on f5.
But Steinitz did it with a pawn on d3.
It took some time for players to appreci
ate that the knight shift to g3 was more
valuable after White pushes to d4 because
then his e pawn is well protected. One of
the first examples of that was:
Closed Ruy Lopez,
Chigorin Defense (C96)
Siegbert Tarrasch
Carl Schlechter
Monte Carlo 1902
1. e4 e5 2 Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 a6 4. Ba4 Nf6 5.
0-0 Be7 6. Re1 b5 7. Bb3 d6 8. c3 0-0 9. h3
Na5 10. Bc2 c5 11. d4 Nc6 12. Nbd2 Re8 13.
Nf1!
r+lqr+k+
+ + lppp
p+np n +
+pp p +
+ PP+ +
+ P +N+P
PPL+ PP+
R LQRNK
After 13. Nf1
Now on 13. ... Bf8 14. Ng3 White can
continue with normal moves like Be3
without fear that ... exd4 will expose and
win his e pawn.
uschess.org
 Problem I Problem II Problem III
Foxwoods 2008 GM Alexander Ivanov IM Dean Ippolito GM Alexander Ivanov
GM Pascal Charbonneau Jonathan Hilton Marc Esserman

Most fans could easily locate on a r+ +k+ r r+n+ rk+ r+ k +r+

map the famous tournament loca
tions like Moscow and New York.
pp+ +p+p pl+ +plp + +llp+
Some could even find Wijk aan Zee
+lQp+p+ +p+ +p+ p+p+p+ p
and Linares. But where is Mashan + + + + + P p + + + + q
tucket? You guessed right if you +L+P+ + qp +P+ + + + +P+
know thats where the annual Fox
woods Open is played in
+ q + + +N+ L P + + +Q+
Connecticut. This years version
P+P+ PPP PPQ+ PLP PPP+ +LP
ended in a five way tie for first prize +R+ +RK R +R+ K + +R+R+K
in the open section. GM Yury Shul White to play White to play White to play
man won a blitz playoff to be named
tournament winner. In the following Problem IV Problem V Problem VI
six positions from Foxwoods 2008 David Hua Mike Mason Christopher Williams
GM Mark Paragua
FM Norman Rogers Alex Cherniack
you are asked to find the fastest
winning line of play. Usually this + r +k+ + +k+ +
will mean the forced win of a decisive
r+ + rk+
amount of material, such as a rook
pp+ +p+p pp+r+ppn +p+n+ +
or minor piece. For solutions, see +pp qp+ + + + p p+ + +p+
page 71. + + + + + + + +q + + p +
+P+P+l+ + R + + l +pp +
+PNKLn+n +P+Q+PP + rq+ +P
P+L+ + + PL + + P + + PP+
R + +Q+R + +R+ K QNL +RK
Black to play Black to play Black to play

Play continued 13. ... h6 14. Be3 Bf8 15.
Ng3! Qc7 16. a4 Bd7 and White obtained a
solid edge after 17. d5! Ne7 18. Nh4, prepar
ing f2 f4. Black stopped that with 18. ... g5
but then another common Lopez maneu
ver, 19. Nf3 Ng6 20. Nh2! and 23. Ng4!,
helped White win.
Attacking maneuvers tend to be older
than defensive maneuvers. The first
known rook lift appears in one of
Gioacchino Grecos illustrative games,
circa 1620. A white rook went from a1 to
a3, then scooted to d3 at the start of the
middlegame and finally to g3 to wind up
an English amateur. Hes so forgotten Today we appreciate that Nc3 Nd5 can
that some sources say he was Harry be prepared by the clever maneuver Nf3
Wilson and others say D. Wilson. e1 c2 e3! so that White can retake on d5
with another knight. The earliest exam
The French maneuver ple of that seems to be this game:
Louis Charles de la Bourdonnais
D. Wilson Symmetrical English (A35)
London 1837 Rudolf Swiderski
Jacques Mieses
+kr + r Coburg 1904
pp+ll pp
1. c4 c5 2. Nc3 Nc6 3. Nf3 e5 4. g3 f5 5. d3
qn+p+ n
Nf6 6. Bg2 Be7 7. 0-0 d6 8. Bd2 0-0 9. a3 Bd7

the crushing attack. + ppP + 10. Ne1!

Retreats arent well appreciated even
when they sharpen play. One of the most
common retreats occurs in various lines
of the Sicilian Defense when White pulls
back his knight from d4 to b3. In this way
he discourages a trade of knights.
First class positional play, said the
tournament book. White spies the weak
+ P + +
P P +N+ point in the enemy camp the square
d5 and directs his knight there.
PL+ +PP
RNLQ+R+K 10. ... Qc8 11. f4 Be6 12. Nc2! Qd7 13. Ne3!

The stem game may be Johann Bauer

Jacques Schwartz, Vienna 1890 which
went 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 e6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4
Nc6 5. Nc3 a6 6. Nb3!?. When Black
played 6. ... Nf6 7. a3 d5 8. exd5 exd5 his
Nd4 14. Ned5!
After 12. fxe5
White dominates d5 and his superior
He played 12. ... Be8! and then 16. ... ity was clear after:
Bh5 to obtain an excellent game. But
facing a much stronger opponent, Black
14. ... Bxd5 15. Nxd5! Nxd5 16. Bxd5+! Kh8

d pawn came under fire from Be2 f3 and lost this game.
17. b4 Bf6 18. Rb1 Rab8 19. e3 Ne6 20. Qf3

White won.
But more often the innovator of a
maneuver loses the first time he tries it.
Take the case of Blacks chronic problem
in the French Defense: What does he do
with his pawn pound queens bishop after
he restricts it with 1. ... e6?
The first player to come up with a now
standard French maneuver seems to be
The most successful case I found of a
new maneuver occurred in a Black ver
sion of the queenside stonewall pawn
structure. Thats when he plays ... c5
and ... e5, creating a hole at d5.
Its not easy to exploit that square.
Black can meet Nc3 Nd5 with ... Nxd5!
and if White has to recapture with a
pawn, the hole is gone.
He went on to win in fine style.
Rudolf Swiderski was one of the worlds
top two dozen players a century ago. But
hardly anyone knows his games today.
The Swiderski shift Ne1 c2 e3! is a
worthy legacy. .
Check out all of your new USCF member
ship options! See the ad on page 5.

uschess.org Chess Life November 2008 13

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Solitaire Chess

Morphy had technique

Despite being best known for a particular facet of his chess game, Morphys
By Bruce Pandolfini

game, like that of most great players, exhibited great depthas illustrated
by this months workmanlike example.

Its easy to think of the great Paul Mor
phy (1837 84) as being the consummate
attacking player, and surely, his games
are replete with wonderful combinations
and sacrifices. But truly he was a com
plete player, who was often content to
get an advantage and to nurse it home
through good strategy and proper tech
nique. We see this simple and direct
approach applied in his 6th match game
against J. Lwenthal, played in London in
1858. Morphy soon wins material, simpli
fies the position to nuts and bolts, and
wields a passed pawn as a powerful
weapon. An early Sicilian Defense, the
game began:
Sicilian Defense (B32)
Paul Morphy
Janos Lwenthal
London 1858, 6th match game
correctly, give yourself the par score.
Sometimes points are also rewarded for
13. Ng4
Black plunges into attack as his center
second best moves, and there may be
is collapsing. Lets see how well it does.**
bonus points or deductions for other
moves and variations. Note that ** means
that the note to Blacks move is over and
14. Qxd5 Par Score: 5
Accept only 3 points part credit for 14.
Whites move is on the next line.
h3, if you spotted 14. ... Bh2+ 15. Kh1?
Nxf2+ and intended 15. Kf1. Add 1 bonus
point if you continued the analysis, see
10. Bxd7+ Par Score: 5
Retreating 10. Be2 scores only 2 points
ing 15. ... Nxf2 16. Kxf2 (add 1 bonus
part credit, and was not the type of move
point more if you thought to continue
that would have appealed to Morphy. Nor
with 16. Qxd5); 16. ... Qf5+; add 1 bonus
would 10. a4 or 10. Qe2 (each of which
point more if you then saw 17. Qf3!. Thats
also gets 2 points part credit) have proved
far enough for now.
attractive to him. He trades to keep the
initiative. 14. Bxh2+
10. Qxd7
In a way, Morphy is playing hypermod
15. Kh1 Par Score: 5
Receive only 2 points part credit for 15.
ernly, ceding the center for now, hoping
Kf1, since it makes more sense to keep the
to attack it.**
bishop under attack.
11. Re1 Par Score: 6
Accept only 3 points part credit for 11.
15. Qxd5

Bg5 Ne4; or for 11. Nc3 d4 12. Qf3 Rd8

1. e4 c5 2. d4 cxd4 3. Nf3 Nc6 4. Nxd4 e5 5.

13. Ne4 Be7, both of which are satisfac

Nxc6 bxc6 6. Bc4 Nf6 7. 0-0 d5 8. exd5 cxd5 16. Nxd5 Par Score: 4

tory for Black.

9. Bb5+ Bd7
16. 0-0
r+ qkl r Facing 17. Rxe4+, Lwenthal removes
his king from the center.**
11. Bd6
 p +l+ppp Maroczy suggested 11. ... e4 12. Nc3
Rd8 13. Bg5 Be7, which perhaps was too
solid for Lwenthals tastes. With his
+ + n + 17. f3 Par Score: 5
Deduct 3 points for falling into the trap
pawn going to e4 he wants the bishop
17. Rxe4? Nxf2+ 18. Kxh2 Nxe4.
+L+pp +
+ + + + posted at d6, pressuring the kingside.**
17. exf3
+ + + + 12. Nc3 Par Score: 5
White develops with a threat. Blacks
center is under fire.
PPP+ PPP 18. gxf3 Par Score: 4

RNLQ+RK 18. Ne5

Your starting position
12. e4
Pick up 1 bonus point for seeing that 12.
Now make sure you have the above ... d4 is refuted by 13. Qxd4, thanks to the
19. Re3 Par Score: 5
Lwenthal still has his tricks. Give
position set up on your chessboard. As pin.**
yourself 1 bonus point for seeing that 19.
you play through the remaining moves in
this game, use a piece of paper to cover Kxh2 is met by 19. Nxf3+ and 20. ...
Nxg5. Now the f3 pawn is guarded and
13. Bg5 Par Score: 5
the article, exposing Whites next move Deduct 3 points if you fell for 13. Nxd5?
only after trying to guess it. If you guess Nxd5 14. Qxd5 Bxh2+. the bishop on h2 is threatened.

16 Chess Life November 2008 uschess.org

 Problem I Problem II Problem III
ABCs of Chess Fork Mating net Pin

These problems are all related to

+ + +k+ +
+r+k+ +
qr+ k
key positions in this months game.
+pl + p + +
+ + + +
+ p
In each case, Black is to move. The + + + + l + + + + + + p
answers can be found in Solutions + + + + + + + + + + N +
on page 71. +q+ +n+ + +p+ + + PP+ +
November Exercise: Take a col
+ + P + + + + + + + +P+
lection of tactics. It could be a book PP + +P+ + + +P+ + Q K +
of stratagems or a tactical database. + +QR K + +RRK+ + + + +
Starting wherever, try to analyze the
first problem from the attacking
sides perspective. After solution, go Problem IV Problem V Problem VI
back to the initial position and pre Discovery Discovery Mating net
tend its the other player's move.
Then try to find a move that thwarts +
+ +k+ + +k+ + +
+k+ +
the winning line. Do this regularly + pq+pp + pp + + p
p +
and soon you're thinking more two + l n + + + q + + + + +
way chess, with a greater sensitivity
to spotting potential threats ahead of
+ +N+ + + P r + + + q +
time. As your sensors deepen, widen + + + + + Q + + + r + +
and sharpen, watch your game + + + + + + + + + + +K+
improve, feeding off the special pleas + + PP+ + + RP+ +Q+ +P+
ure inspired by frustrating an
opponents insidious schemes.
+ +QR K + + +K+ + +L+ R

Award yourself 1 bonus point if youve

been operating under the realization that
19. f6 27. c7 Par Score: 5
Add 1 bonus point for seeing that 19. Add 1 bonus point if you recalled an ear
Black cant play a rook to c8 because of
Bg3 is answered by 20. Kg2; also add 1 lier note and remembered the possibility
the knight fork at e7.
bonus point for seeing that 19. ... Nc4 of 28. Re8+.
can be met by 20. Rc3.** 23. Rf7
Black hopes to stem the invasion of
27. Rcxc7
Theres nothing else worthy of being
the white rooks.**
20. Kxh2 Par Score: 4
Time for Morphy to take a piece, and done. Hes got to give a rook to stop the
now we see the other wonderful side to pawn.**
Morphy. He is going to do all the neces
24. Rae1 Par Score: 5
White looks to simplify further, plan
sary things to simplify the position, so
ning 25. Re8+. Give yourself full credit if
28. Re8+ Par Score: 6
that his material edge is decisive. This is Morphys final finesse, and its
your general analysis you reversed the
slightly better than 28. Nxc7.
20. Rad8 order of Whites 23rd and 24th moves.
Take 2 bonus points for analyzing 20.
28. Kg7
fxg5 21. Rxe5 Rxf3 22. Rxg5 Rf2+ 23.
24. Kf8
Black defends the home rank, trying to
Rg2, and Morphy keeps his stuff. After the
prevent further trades.**
29. Nxc7 Par Score: 5
text move, Black hopes to move the knight On 29. ... Rxc7, the invasion, 30. Re7+,
with tempo and then get the white forces off the last black rook, leaving
bishop.** Black rookless and hopeless. So, Black
25. c5 Par Score: 5

21. Rxe5! Par Score: 6

Passed pawns must be pushed. Morphy
knew the idea before it was articulated.
Accept only 3 points part credit for 25.
resigned. Morphy had technique. .
This puts an end to all tricks, and, of Download a .pgn file of this issues
course, heads toward further simplifica Re7, which, though White is a piece games, read new articles at Chess Life
tion and the gaining of ultimate control. ahead, drags out the winning process. Online, and participate in the USCF discus
If 21. ... fxe5, then 22. Bxd8 leaves Black sion forums all at uschess.org.
with even less with which to fight back.
25. g6
Append 1 bonus point if you saw that
21. fxg5 25. ... Rc8 26. c6 Rxc6?? allows 27. Re8 Total your score to determine your
approximate rating below:
mate. Also give yourself 1 bonus point for
22. Kg3 Par Score: 5 seeing that 25. Rfd7 26. c6 Rxd5 27. Total Score Rating
White defends his loose pawn, as does c7 leads to a simplifying check at e8 and 95+ 2400+
Black on the next move. the promotion of the c pawn.** 81-94 2200-2399
66-80 2000-2199
51-65 1800-1999
36-50 1600-1799
22. h6 26. c6 Par Score: 5
21-35 1400-1599
06-20 1200-1399
0-05 under 1200
23. c4 Par Score: 5 26. Rc8

uschess.org Chess Life November 2008 17

Cover Story

Sevillano Triumphs
PHOTO: THOMAS ALLEMAN

18 Chess Life November 2008 uschess.org

 After an exciting finish with three tied at the top,
IM Enrico Sevillano finishes in first place on tiebreaks
but a disappointing turnout leaves the USCF looking
for creative ways to increase participation.

By Jerry Hanken

he granddaddy of U.S. chess tournaments is facing an uncertain future. The 109th incarnation of the
U.S. Opena unique national eventwas played deep in the heart of Texas in Dallas between August
T 2-11 and was, for the most part, an artistic success. But in the areas of attendance and number of
grandmasters (GMs), somewhat less so. There were 379 attendees but only two grandmasters. The tourna-
ment was enjoyable for all who did play, but granddad is badly in need of a blood transfusion.
First, let me make it clear as to where I am coming from. Your reporter wears many hats in the Federation
and in this report, full disclosure requires that I share with you the fact that I serve as the volunteer chair-
man of the USCF U.S. Open committee, charged with finding ways to improve and perpetuate this most venerable
of USCF national tournaments. My committee consists of Hal Terrie from New Hampshire, Walter Buehl from
upper New York state, and Jim Mennella from New Jersey. Between the four of us, we have played in over
150 combined U.S. Opens. I have not missed one since 1972 in New Jersey and all four of my committee mem-
bers have long personal streaks of Open attendance. More will be said of our plans for Indianapolis next year
at the end of this report. Now we will take a look at the results and play of this year in Dallas.

Over Reduced Field

Nothing that has been said above in any way diminishes the fine performances turned in by the competi-
tors in this Open. With excellent scores of 8-1, three topped the field. Last years U.S. champion, GM Alex
The Pittsburgh Pounder Shabalov took a half-point bye in the accelerated five-day schedule and yielded only
a draw to senior master Gabriel Battaglini in round five while winning all the rest.
Texas native son Rade Milovanovic picked up a full-point forfeit in round one (which hurt his tiebreaks)
and survived a sixth-round loss to GM Alex The Yerminator Yermolinsky to finish with a flourish of three
sparkling wins in a rowthe last against local hero IM Big Joe Bradford. Joe, now a senior but playing like
a kid, was trying to add a second U.S. Open title to the one he garnered 30 years ago in Phoenix, falling just
short. No one has ever won U.S. Opens 30 years apart.
But the winner was 40-year-old IM Enrico The Tiebreak Kid Sevillano from southern California. I gave
him that nickname as after he won the Open on tiebreaks he then grabbed the Southern California Open
the same way. He had just won the Southern California Invitational Championship (a separate state under
the USCF) in July on tiebreaks also. That is quite a trifecta!
The victory was especially sweet for the humble and always cheerful Enrico as it carried an invitation to
the $130,000-prize-fund in the U.S. Championship scheduled for May 2009 at the great new Saint Louis Chess
and Scholastic club. Please see the interview on page 21`.

uschess.org Chess Life November 2008 19

 Cover Story
Sicilian, Alapin Variation (B22)
IM Enrico Sevillano (2534)
Barry Endsley (2000)
U.S. Open (3), 08.06.2008
This was Enricos favorite game from
this Open. The database and ratings
report has it played against a Mark
Muecke but in fact it was played against
Mr. Barry Endsley in round three. That
which we call a rose by any other name
would smell as sweet.
1. e4 c5 2. c3 d5 3. exd5 Qxd5 4. d4 Nf6 5.
Nf3 Bg4 6. Be2 e6 7. h3 Bh5 8. 0-0 Nc6 9.
Be3 cxd4 10. Nxd4 Bxe2 11. Qxe2 Nxd4 12.
Bxd4 Be7 13. Rd1 Qc6
Not the best. 13. ... Qh5 14. Qxh5 Nxh5
15. c4 0 0 16. Nc3 is equal.
14. Nd2 0-0 15. Nf3 a6
It appears that Black is preparing a
minority attack but this admirable posi
tional plan is inappropriate for the
moment as there will soon be a raging fire
on the black kingside. The move 15. ...
Qe4 would still leave Black worse but it
is playable.
16. Rd3 Rad8 17. Ne5 Qc7 18. Rg3 Bc5 19.
Qe3 Bxd4
+ 
r rk+
+pq +ppp
p+ +p n +
+ +  N +
+ 
l + +
+ P Q 
RP
PP + PP+
R + + 
 K
After 19. ... Bxd4
20. Rxg7+!
A sparkling rook sac which wins by
force. This was pleasing to the spectators.
20. ... Kxg7 21.Qg5+ Kh8 22. Qxf6+ Kg8 23.
cxd4 Rd5 24. Qg5+ Kh8 25. Rc1 Qd8 26. Qh6
Rxd4 27. Rc7 Kg8 28. Rc3, Black resigned.
Black has just run out of any plausible
defensive moves.
Unorthodox Opening (A40)
Chaitanya Vaidya (2327)
IM Enrico Sevillano (2534)
2008 U.S. Open (9), 08.10.2008
Going into the last round, Sevillano
had black and needed to win to keep up
with the other two with whom he was
tied.
1. d4 e6 2. c4 b6 3. Nc3 Bb7 4. f3 f5 5. e3
Bd6
20 Chess Life November 2008
Already an unusual move in the
Queens Indian. It is reminiscent of the
Kopec System against the Sicilian.
6. Nh3 a6 7. g3 Nf6 8. Bg2 0-0 9. 0-0 Nc6 10.
a3 e5
Enrico takes the first shot at the cen
ter as he tries to seize the initiative.
11. b4 exd4 12. exd4 a5!
With this well timed thrust, he gets it.
White has no good way to answer this and
keep equality. The b pawn is under direct
attack. If he advances it, then 13. ...
Nxd4! when 14. Qxd4 is met by 14. ... Bc5
and, of course, taking on a5 gives up the
c5 square after 13. ... Nxd4. Chess is a
game of setting problems for your oppo
nent hoping he wont or cant solve them.
13. Nb5 axb4 14. Nxd6 cxd6 15. Bf4 d5
Quickly resolving his only weakness,
the doubled pawn.
16. cxd5 Nxd5 17. axb4 Qf6 18. Rxa8 Bxa8
19. Re1 Qxd4+ 20. Qxd4 Nxd4 21. Bd6 Rc8
22. f4 Nf6
The champion now has a clear and
lasting advantage in both material and
position. He shows his very smooth tech
nique the rest of this game.
23. Bxa8 Rxa8 24. Rd1 Ne2+ 25. Kf1 Nc3 26.
Rc1 Nce4 27. Be5 Ng4 28. Ra1 Rc8
It is wise to keep his rook as he has
much better late middlegame attacking
chances.
29. Ra2 Rc1+ 30. Kg2 Rd1 31. Bc7 Ne3+ 32.
Kf3 Nd5 33. Bd8 Rf1+ 34. Nf2 Nxb4 35. Re2
Nd5 36. Kg2 Rxf2+
Now that he has two pawns, the rook
can safely be traded. Whites resignation
here would be no surprise to anyone.
37. Rxf2 Nxf2 38. Kxf2 Kf7 39. Ke2 Ke8 40.
Bh4 d6 41. Kd3 Kd7 42. Kd4 Kc6 43. Bd8
Nc7, White resigned.
Now the long wait for the tiebreaks
began.
Aside from the big three, the single
fourth place finisher deserves serious
mention. Doug Root, a professor at Texas
Tech, playing as an amateur, came as
close as anyone could and not win, with
seven and a half points. This score has
been enough to win or tie for first in prior
nine round U.S. Opens. (Some of you
young ones may not know that the U.S.
Open was at least 12 rounds for more
than 60 years. The last 12 rounder was
Los Angeles 2003. This was only the 12th
9 rounder in Open history.)
Doug Root grew up in Southern Califor
nia and we all expected him to become a
grandmaster. He chose another path how
ever. He married former U.S. woman
champion, and current frequent Chess
Life contributor, Alexey Root and settled
down to a life of academia. They pro
duced two beautiful children who
(surprise, surprise!) both like and play the
game.
Dougie, as we called him in those
days in Los Angeles, did get an interna
tional master title but played very little
after his and Alexeys move to Texas.
When he did play, he dominated as sug
gested by the 2570 rating he brought to
this Open.
It was clearly the proximity of the Open
this year along with the decision of his
oldest child to play, compounded by the
fact that Alexey had to be there as a del
egate and to conduct scholastic
workshops, which lured Root out of
retirement.
I had not seen Doug for quite a long
time before this Open and when we played
our third round game I asked him how old
he was. Though I could have done the
math if I had thought of it, I was blown
away when he told me he was 45. To me,
he looks exactly like the same teenager he
was when he beat the pants off of me a
couple of times so many years ago. Was
that really in the late 80s?
He had stumbled slightly in round four,
yielding a draw with real teenager and up
and coming master, Jeff Haskel. In round
seven Dougs hopes for a U.S. Open title
took a severe setback when he lost his
only game, to IM Michael Mulyar, from
Colorado, who had one of the better tour
naments in his chess career. Michaels
loss to a resurgent Shabalov in the last
round put him at seven but he was play
ing for at least a tie for first.
Doug made a great comeback, winning
his last three, but this strong effort was
not quite enough to grab the brass ring.
French Defense,
Tarrasch Variation (C06)
IM Michael Mulyar (2445)
IM Doug Root (2570)
U.S. Open (7), 08.08.2008
This is nondescript French which
explodes into tactics very early. Its hard
to pinpoint just where Root went wrong
but it is a fun game to play over.
1. e4 e6 2. d4 d5 3. Nd2 Nf6 4. e5 Nfd7 5.
Bd3 c5 6. c3 Nc6 7. Ne2
7. Ndf3 is more popular here.
7. ... f6 8. Nf4 Qe7 9. Nf3 cxd4 10. cxd4 fxe5
11. dxe5 Nc5
The try 11. ... Ndxe5 or 11. ... Ncxe5,
is actually good for White as it opens
lines to the black king before he can get
to a safe haven.
12. Bc2 g6 13. Be3 Bg7
uschess.org

r+l+k+  r
pp+ 
 q lp
+n+p+p+
+ np
P +
+ + N +
+ + LN+
PPL+ PP
P great white knight on e5. It will come in
R +Q
 K +R
After 13. ... Bg7
Should Black try to avoid the coming
sac on g6? The rest of the game is about
just that question. And how? A queen
move seems awkward. This is the beauty
of over the board chess. These questions
play out as a clash of human wills, imag
ination, and ideas. You can put the
position on any strong program and you
will get a didactic answer. But an engine
does not sweat or worry or wonder if
being out of the money will mean not
being able to pay the rent! I dont neces
sarily mean these two international
masters, but make the broader point as
to why we all fervently pursue the game.
14. Bxg6+!? hxg6 15. Nxg6 Qc7 16. Nxh8
Qa5+ 17. Nd2 Nd3+ 18. Kf1 Ncxe5
It appears that Black has found great
counterplay but he is now an Exchange
down and, in the end, it is the white king
which is safer.
19. Qh5+ Kf8 20. f4 Qb5 21. Kg1 Kg8 22.
fxe5 Bxh8 23. h4 Bg7 24. Rh3 Qxb2
When making this move I suspect that
Doug knew that his counterattack had
fallen short. He yields the back rank to the
white queen.
25. Rf1 Qxe5 26. Qe8+ Kh7 27. h5, Black
resigned.
There is no longer any way to fight on.
Looking backward with 20 20 hindsight,
it probably was better for Black to have
tried to avoid the sac.
Dutch Defense (A90)
IM Michael Mulyar (2445)
GM Alexander Shabalov (2657)
2008 U.S. Open (9), 08.10.2008
For this critical deciding round, The
Pounder trots out the old Horowitz
Stonewall. He makes it work in a game
which does define the subtle but real
boundaries between a strong interna
tional master and a grandmaster. Shaba
has not had a particularly good year but
here he demonstrates his clear grand
master virtuosity.
1. d4 d5 2. c4 e6 3. Nf3 c6 4. Qc2 f5 5. g3 Nf6
6. Bg2 Bd6 7. 0-0 0-0 8. Bf4
uschess.org
This is a major early decision. The dou
bled pawns dont look especially weak, but
Michael pays a price in king safety later
in the game. More prudent might be the
quieter simple developing move 8. Nc3.
8. ... Bxf4 9. gxf4 Qe7 10. Nbd2 Nbd7 11. e3
Ne4 12. Nxe4 fxe4 13. Nd2 Nf6 14. f3 exf3 15.
Nxf3 Bd7 16. Ne5 Be8
Black keeps his bishop in spite of the
handy later.
17. Qb3 Bh5 18. h3 Kh8 19. Qa3 Qe8 20. Rf2
Bg6
The position has changed. Now Black
is willing to trade the bishop to facilitate
the heavy pieces getting to the kingside.
ENRICO SEVILLANO:
My opportunities increased when I came to the U.S.
After Enrico had concluded a highly
successful month of August with a
number of tournament wins, he sat
down to talk to me.
Jerry Hanken: You prevailed on
tiebreaks in the U.S. Open without
even knowing the consequences! But
IM Enrico Sevillano: Yes, I know Ill
you do now ...
be playing in next years U.S. Cham
pionship. Thats very important to
me, and I look forward to the new
venue and format. (It will be a 24
player Swiss, with qualifications
mainly based on rating with the
U.S. Open champion as one of the
few exceptions. ~JH)
Yes, sometimes. I have some regular
As a professional, do you teach?
students, including my stepson John
Bryant, whos about 2350. Hes only
16, and I think hell be a grandmas
ter. And Id like to mention an adult,
Indra Lahiri, an expert who resumed
playing after a few years off. And two
young twins from San Diego, Darren
and Aaron Chow.
In the Philippines, when I was four.
When did you learn chess?
My dad played almost every day. I
learned a lot just watching him. He
didnt play in tournaments and did
nt know theory kind of like me in
that respect!
Oh, from what Ive seen youre hardly
theoretically ignorant! Do you recall at
Im not sure, but I was pretty young,
what age you could beat your dad?
maybe ten. He had mixed feelings
about it!
The Philippines has lots of activity
When did you come to the U.S.?
All is now in balance.
21. Kh2 Bf5 22. Rg1 Nd7 23. Nf3 dxc4
It is odd to take the gambit pawn so late
in the game but Shaba has an interest
ing idea.
24. Nd2 Bd3 25. Be4 e5!
And this is it. He takes advantage of the
pinned pawn on f4. Now the tactics begin
in earnest.
26. Bxd3 cxd3 27. dxe5
With 27. Rfg2 exf4 28. Rxg7 fxe3 29.
Qxd3 Rf2+ 30. Kh1 Nf6 Blacks advantage
is huge and obvious.
27. ... Nxe5 28. Rfg2 Ng6 29. Qxd3 Qe7 30.
Nf3 Rae8
and a rating system. But my opportu
nities increased when I came to the
U.S. in 1995. I needed a fresh start.
Im very lucky that my wife, Rose,
allows me to devote myself to chess.
Yes, I earned that title way back in
You were already an IM then?
1986 by winning the Asian Junior
Championship. I followed in the foot
steps of Anand!
I got one at a round robin here in Los
Do you have any GM norms?
Angeles in 2003, beating GM
Minasian and drawing Akobian,
Khachiyan, and Becerra. I need to
get more such opportunities.
Going back into your thoughts about
Its a life. There are elements of art,
chess, what is chess to you?
science, and competition really, ele
ments of everything in life. When I
occasionally lose to lower rated play
ers (like you!) I accept it
philosophically and move on.
Is there any chance that chess will
ever get the public recognition it
Its not taken seriously now, though
deserves in the U.S.?
things are improving. Were still struggling.
Heres my signature question: what
historic player would you most like to
I dont have a single favorite any of
spend an afternoon with?
the world champions ... If you held a
gun to my head, Id choose either
Fischer, Capablanca, or Kasparov.
OK, Ill have to accept that! Getting
back to the U.S. Open, you scored 8 of
Yes, [my draws were] with GM Yer
9. A fine score, with two draws.
molinsky and IM Mulyar. My best
win was against IM Blanco of Mexico.
Chess Life November 2008 21
 Cover Story
+ +r
r  k
pp+ 
 q pp
+p+ +n+
+ + + +
+ + 
P +
+ +QPN+P
PP + +R K
+ + +  R
After 30. ... Rae8
31. Rxg6!
This Exchange sac keeps Mulyar in
the game!
31. ... hxg6 32. Ne5 Kg8 33. Rxg6
Taking with the knight leads to a
slightly better ending for Black.
33. ... Rf6 34. Rg5 Qe6 35. Ng4 Rff8 36. Qd4
Re7 37. f5
The game is even after Ne5.
37. ... Rxf5 38. Nh6+ Qxh6 39. Rxf5 Rxe3 40.
Qc4+ Kh7 41. Qg4 Qd6+ 42. Kg2 Qd2+ 43.
Rf2 Qd5+ 44. Kh2 Qd6+ 45. Kg2 Re6 46.
Qf5+ Rg6+ 47. Kh1 Qg3, White resigned.
Now its over. The spectators loved this
closing round donnybrook and Mulyar
has nothing to hang his head about. He
had a fine tournament. Michael deserves
a nickname. With his long chin and
Roman nose, I will call him Caesar.
I have been following the chess career
of young Matt Parry of Rochester, New
York for some time now. One of the nicest
people I know, I was afraid he was too nice
to be the killer one needs to be to win on
the highest level. But this was a fine tour
nament for Matt who finished with seven
of nine and shared fifth thru 19th places.
Further, he produced what I believe to
be the best game of the 2008 U.S. Open.
This is a true Parting with the Lady in
its best sense and his opponent Michael
Wang, when he resigned, acknowledged
the special beauty of this game. Here the
young master annotates and gives his
thoughts during the game.
Alekhines Defense (B03)
Matt Parry (2288)
Michael Yang (2187)
U.S. Open 2008 (6), 08.07.2008
Notes by Parry
1. e4 Nf6 2. e5 Nd5 3. d4 d6 4. c4 Nb6 5.
exd6 exd6 6. Nc3 Be7 7. Bd3 c5
Probably too soon, as White gains space
and cramps Blacks position.
8. d5 0-0 9. Qc2 g6 10. Nge2 Re8 11. 0-0
22 Chess Life November 2008
N8d7 12. f4 f5 only hope of tieing up the white pieces.
This structure: white pawns c4 d5 f4,
and black pawns c5 d6 f5, gives White a
50. Kd1 Kxg7 51. Bxf5 Kg8
Now it is simple. 51. ... Be8 52. Kc2 Bg6
nice advantage.
53. Bxg6 Kxg6 54. d6 Qxg5 55. d7 Qd8
56. Rd3 and the simple plan of maneu
vering the knight to support the pawn
13. b3 Nf6 14. Bb2 Ng4 15. Rf3 Bf8 16. h3
push will win.
Nf6 17. Nd1
Whites plan of Nf2, Ng3 f1 h2 and g2
g4 is very slow, but Blacks cramped
position makes it difficult for him to
52. Bxd7 Qxd7 53. Nh5 Qd8 54. Rd3 Kh7 55.
maneuver.
d6 Kg6 56. Nf4+ Kf5 57. d7 Kxf4 58. g6,
Black resigned.
What a nice finish! The queen cannot
dance at both weddings! Matt lost a tough
17. ... Bg7 18. Nf2 Qe7 19. Ng3 Bd7 20. Nf1
game to co winner Milovanovic in the
Nh5
Trading will make it easier for Black to
next round but won his last round to
maneuver. White now tries his g4 break
secure his place in the money. I will not
before Black can fully organize his pieces.
doubt Matts killer instincts again! (JH)
21. g4 Bxb2 22. Qxb2 Ng7 23. Ne3 Kf7
With the idea of ... Qf6, so White has to
The Open will survive
move his rook from the diagonal.
Of course the U.S. Open is not going
away, despite this years attendance prob
lems. It is more than just a chess
24. Rf1 Qf6 25. Qc2
25. Qd2 immediately is better, as the
tournament: it is the hub of USCF gover
game move wastes a tempo.
nance and the occasion for both the now
traditional Arnold Denker Tournament
of High School Champions and the new
25. ... Re7 26. Qd2 Kf8 27. Nh1 Rae8 28. Ng3
College Tournament of Champions event
Qd4 29. Ne2 Qf6 30. g5 Qf7 31. Ng3 Qg8! 32.
which will be much bigger next year in
Kf2
The immediate h3 h4 h5 may be
Indianapolis. There are also the U.S.
stronger, but in time pressure I did not see
Open Blitz (won this year by Julian Lan
Blacks plan here.
daw) and a host of other smaller events.
I raised an alarm in the beginning of
this report to get your attention and to
32. ... Qh8 33. Qc3 Rf7 34. h4 h5 35. gxh6
give an honest account of the fact that we
e.p. Qxh6 36. Rh1 Nc8 37. Qe1!
It is important to keep the queen on the
fell below our expectations in Dallas. Over
e1 a5 diagonal. Whites break is a bit
the next eight months you will see a deter
early right now, for example 37. Ng2 Ne7
mined push to make 2009 a really big and
38. h5 gxh5 39. Nxh5 Nxh5 40. Rfh3
successful event. We have a million
Qf6.
ideas and some fine promotional minds
working on this project, but we welcome
your ideas and any donations to the U.S.
37. ... Ne7 38. Qa5! Ng8 39. Qc7 Nf6 40.
Open fund.
Qxd6+ Kg8 41. h5!?
Having just made the second time con
The five year attendance awards certifi
trol, I was quite exhausted, and although
cates, which we revived in 2006, have
the subtle 41. Ke1! should keep a winning
proved very popular and if you will be at
advantage, I seemed to have no patience
five or any multiple of five U.S. Opens next
for such a quiet move and also the
year, be sure to contact me at jerryhanken
queen sacrifice was so interesting.
@aol.com. You must be in attendance
41. ... g5 42. fxg5 Ng4+ 43. Nxg4!
And here it is in all its splendor. Matt
and playing to get your award.
For more U.S. Open reporting, see
.
Hankens reports in the August
underplays this point in the game but it
is the climax! (JH) archives of Chess Life Online.
43. ... Qxd6 44. Nh6+ Kf8 45. Nxf7 Kxf7 46.
U.S. Open
h6 Rh8 47. Re1
Not 47. hxg7? Rxh1 48. Nxh1 Qh2+. At A Glance
47. ... Re8 48. hxg7 Date: August 1 10, 2008
Matt still does not have quite enough Location: Westin Park Central,
material if youre just counting, but the Dallas, Texas
protected passed pawn on d5 will be the Top Finishers: 1st 3rd: Alexander
decider. Just watch it work! (JH) Shabalov, Enrico Sevillano, Rade
Milovanovic, 8; 4th: Douglas Root,
7.
48. ... Rxe1 49. Kxe1 Qe7+
Better is 49. ... Qe5+. This active square Chief Tournament Director: Bill
for the queen is Blacks best option and Snead
uschess.org
 Shaking Up College Chess
By Jonathan Hilton
or a group of high school students,
almost no conversation topic is
F taboo. From so called hot button
issues like religion and politics to the
most bizarre details of our personal lives,
were willing to talk about nearly anything
once the adults clear the room. Some
times, we talk about our hopes and
dreams for the future. And for those of us
in the teenage chess world, this means
sharing our personal answers to the
tough question we face: Will I play chess
in college?
As a master level player in the 2008
2009 graduating class of high school
seniors, this question represents a sharp
fork in lifes road for me, just like it does
for chess playing students nationwide.
Although many colleges have chess clubs,
they often suffer from a lack of participa
tion. Youre more likely to find a handful
of students playing blitz in a dorm than
actively participating in a college club.
Yet the prospect of leaving campus to
travel to a major tournament more than
once in a blue moon seems dubious for
most full time students. For someone at
the expert or master level hoping to con
tinue playing seriously in college,
attending a school with built in support
for its chess program makes sense. Yet,
as young people in a highly competitive
world, were constantly reminded by par
ents and academic advisors that we arent
going to college to play chess. Thus,
most of us eventually choose tournament
abstinence during our college years.
For the chess nation, the consequences
of this decision are staggering. There are
9,946 USCF members between the ages
of 14 and 18. From ages 19 to 23, how
ever, there are only 2,503 members. That
means only about one in four students
choose to continue rated chess immedi
ately after their high school years.
Although some of these young men and
women may return to the game later in
life, the lack of interest in chess at the col
lege level prevents us from retaining
thousands upon thousands of tourna
ment competitors.
The message I am hearing from col
lege students who are fading out of the
game is this: We dont want to quit. There
are just so few real opportunities to com
PHOTO: ELIZABETH VICARY
pete! Unlike the world of scholastic chess,
with its solid support infrastructure of
school coaches and local organizers, col
lege chess organization is haphazard at
best. At worst, its un hyped and unpub
licized, or even nonexistent. In this vast
desert wasteland, the Pan American Inter
uschess.org
collegiate Team Championship is but a
small oasis, too distant to offer much
inspiration for the average college expert
with no other tournament players for
teammates.
College chess suffers from a lack of a
unified individual championship as well
similar to the overall international
situation in chess. The former Collegiate
Championship, which was held in con
junction with the K 12 individual grade
level championships in December each
year, had a crucial problem for many col
lege students, it was during finals week.
Attendance at the event was usually mis
erable. The 2007 Collegiate Championship
held last December drew only 29 players.
For comparison, this years high school
nationals drew 1,221 players.
This year, however, the USCF took out
an axe and hacked a small opening over
the icy permafrost of college chess. The
executive board, joining forces with the
USCF college committee, took a leaf from
the tree of Arnold Denker and created a
Tournament of Champions for college
players. The six round affair was held in
conjunction with the Denker, lending it
additional prestige. Students represented
their colleges the way that Denker repre
sentatives represent their home states.
This in itself has the potential to make the
newly established College Tournament
of Champions an enticing event, but as
icing on the cake, a robust prize fund of
five grand was offered!
The journey needed to raise this kind
of money for a new tournament could
make for an entire article in itself. The first
$2000 came from the individual pockets
of USCF officials in a strong show of com
mitment to righting the situation in college
chess. $250 came from the ever charita
ble New Jersey State Chess Federation,
and another $250 from small individual
contributions. The last $2,500 was
donated by the family friendly online
chess server World Chess Live (WCL).
Joel Berez, C.E.O. of WCL, wrote: We
donated the money at the last minute
when we heard this event was short of its
sponsorship goal. We expect to return
next year as the principal sponsor. Berez
explained his hopes to promote the bud
ding tournament through WCLs
increased participation with the event,
possibly by holding Internet qualifiers.
It fits in with our specific mission:
encouraging young players to enjoy chess
as a lifelong interest, whatever their lev
els of skill and ambition. WCL supports
a broad range of chess programs for stu
IM Daniel Fernandez
dents, from AF4Cs First Move curricu
lum for 2nd and 3rd graders to the
Junior Grand Prix. Sponsorship of the
College Tournament of Champions will
help them expand their work to include
college level chess.
Yet, despite the awesome prize fund,
this years College Tournament of Cham
pions, held August 2 5, drew only 17
players from seven states. The three orig
inal sections the U1700, U2100, and
Open had to be merged to create a large
enough playing field. According to market
ing aficionado James Stallings, director of
the University of Texas at Dallas chess
program, the tournaments advance mar
keting proved to be its Achilles heel.
$5,000 has the potential to draw a lot
more than 17 people, Stallings said. We
need to find a way to get the message out,
but the difficulty is that the very people
were targeting probably arent reading
the TLAs in Chess Life.
Stallings is already working actively to
increase awareness among colleges in
Indiana about the tournament, which
will be held in Indianapolis in August of
2009. Many colleges are willing to pay the
way for students to represent them at
prestigious events, chess tournaments
included. We need to make college chess
players alert to this fact.
I believe it will take time for the tour
nament to build up to the size and
significance of the Denker. Despite the
unpromising first year turnout, it may
well take root and do for college chess
what the Polgar has done for girls chess:
create a one of a kind experience that
Chess Life November 2008 23
 Cover Story
keeps players fighting to earn the right to
come back and represent their peers. As
universities establish tournaments to
decide their representatives, a gradual
ripple effect could occur, helping to shake
up the stagnant college chess scene. Play
ers in the Denker might eventually go on
to play in the College Tournament of
Champions. College representatives
might elect to also play in the U.S. Open.
High school students sitting around a
table may ask each other not whether
theyre going to play any chess during col
lege, but whether theyll have a shot at
making it to the College Tournament of
Champions at the school of their choice.
The winner of this years College Tour
nament of Champions was IM Daniel
Fernandez of the University of Texas at
Brownsville. Despite being the top seed,
Fernandez described his tournament as
being a bit of a roller coaster, with some
close calls. Leading the tournament by
a half point going into the last round, Fer
nandez felt confident. I have a history of
being able to close out tournaments and
take the first prize, he said. Yet in his
last round game against Corbin Yu of
Iowa, his ship nearly sank. I had White,
but out of the opening my opponent was
winning. Im a solid player so that kind
of thing is not supposed to happen! Here
Fernandez describes his comeback in
that critical last round:
English, Symmetrical (A33)
IM Daniel Fernandez (2454)
Corbin Yu (2136)
Tournament of College Champions,
Dallas (6), 08.06.2008
Going into this game I had a mere
half point lead over the competition and
felt pressure to win in order to clinch
clear first. Playing down and with white
I was confident nothing could go wrong.
Interestingly, I played my opponent sev
eral months earlier in the online
collegiate chess tournament and was
fortunate to draw, so, although I knew
it would not be easy, I felt better pre
pared this time around.
1. Nf3
This has been my signature first move
for the last few years. Being a full time
student and part time chess teacher has
not allowed me to study many openings,
so instead of playing sharply I aim for
quiet positions where I can utilize my
experience and positional understand
ing (which you wouldnt know I had after
seeing this game!).
1. ... c5 2. c4 Nc6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5.
Nc3 e6
24 Chess Life November 2008
I was happy to see this move. I feel
that it is hard for White to prove an
advantage in the main line of the Maroczy
Bind, namely: 5. ... g6 6. e4 d6 (frequently
played also is 6. ... Nxd4 7. Qxd4 d6 8.
Be2 Bg7 9. Bg5 0 0 10. Qd2 Be6 11. Rc1
Qa5 12. f3 Rfc8 13. b3 a6 14. Na4 Qxd2+
15. Kxd2 Rc6) 7. Be2 Bg7 8. Be3 0 0 9.
0 0 Bd7 10. Qd2 Nxd4 11. Bxd4 Bc6 12.
f3 a5 13. b3 Nd7 14. Be3 Nc5 15. Rab1
Qb6 16. Nd5 Bxd5 17. cxd5 Qb4 and in
both lines White gets nowhere.
6. Ndb5 d6
I wasnt prepared for this move,
although it is the main line. I had only
studied 6. ... d5 7. Bf4 e5 8. cxd5 exf4 9.
dxc6 bxc6 10. Qxd8+ Kxd8 11. Nd4
(According to Korchnoi, the dubious 11.
Rd1+ only aids Blacks development, for
example: 11. ... Bd7 12. Nd6 Bxd6 13.
Rxd6 Rb8 14. Rd2 Ke7 with approximate
equality. Blacks development advantage
and activity makes up for his somewhat
sloppy pawn structure) 11. ... Kc7 12.
g3 and although theory assesses this
position as approximately equal, Korch
noi seems to think White has a small
edge.
7. Bf4 e5 8. Bg5 a6 9. Bxf6?!
A slightly dubious and older move. The
more modern trend seems to be 9. Na3
Be7 10. e3 0 0 11. Be2 Be6 12. 0 0 with
a slightly superior positional game for
White.
9. ... gxf6 10. Na3 f5 11. e3 Be6 12. g3
This move is redundant and a waste of
time. Whites bishop needs to be devel
oped to e2. I felt that this move was
necessary because of the pressure that
Black will apply along the g file with ...
Qg5 and ... Rg8, but it was nothing to be
afraid of after all.
by playing 18. Bf1 but overlooked(!) the
12. ... h5 13. Bg2 h4 14. Qe2?
r+ qkl r
+p+ +p+
p+npl+ +
+ + pp+
+P+ +  p

N N 
P P
PP +QPLP

R + K +R
After 14. Qe2
A waste of time. This becomes appar
ent in a few moves.
14. ... e4!
A very strong move that I underesti
mated. At first glance, this move seems
quite weakening conceding the d4 and
f4 squares to White but with my queen
on e2, how can I exploit this? Meanwhile,
Blacks c6 knight is ready to go to e5,
with a major offensive against my king.
15. f4
I also considered 15. f3 but did not
like my position after 15. ... h3 16. Bf1
Ne5! 17. fxe4 fxe4 18. Nxe4 Bg4 19. Qc2
Bf3 20. Rg1 Qb6 when Black has more
than adequate compensation for the
pawn. The numerous positional advan
tages such as the bishop pair, far better
development and the terrible coordination
of Whites pieces gives Black a decisive
advantage.
15. ... Bg7 16. Qd2
A sad concession to have to make after
playing 14. Qe2 just two moves ago. With
... Qa5 on the horizon, c3 (and conse
quently a3) need protection.
16. ... Qa5 17. Kf2
I finally get a chance to play 17. 0 0 but
still it is no good after 17. ... Bxc3 18.
Qxc3 Qxc3 19. bxc3 hxg3 20. hxg3 and
White is plagued with structural weak
nesses all over the place (a2, c3, c4, g3).
17. ... Nb4 18. Ke2
After making this forced move, my self
esteem had hit rock bottom. The thought
of losing this game finally crossed my
mind as a very real possibility. At this
moment, a montage of chess scenes went
through my head. In my chess career I
have had the good fortune of being able
to close out tournaments (for the most
part), and thought that finally luck had
come up with me and it was time for me
to finally lose a decisive game. But instead
of giving in, I remembered the words of the
late GM Edmar Mednis: when losing, sit
tight and hope for a blunder.
I had planned to respond to 17. ... Nb4
obvious 18. ... hxg3+ 19. Kxg3 0 0 0
when Black can choose how to destroy
me. A ... d5 break in the center as well as
the possibility of an attack on my king are
both possible, with ... d5 looking much
stronger.
18. ... Rc8 19. Rhd1?
A careless mistake. Clearly it was bet
ter to use the other rook in order to get
it off the menacing g7 bishops diagonal.
19. ... 0-0?
An obvious but careless move. How
can ... 0 0 be wrong? After this move it
appears as though the tables will turn.
20. g4!
I shoot after my only real compensation:
getting rid of the e4 pawn by attacking the
pawn base, f5, and capitalizing on the
uschess.org
 pinned b4 knight.
20. ... Rfd8?
Blacks last mistake. After this move,
Whites position becomes playable. Nec
essary was 20. ... Bxc4+ 21. Nxc4 Rxc4
22. gxf5 Qxf5 23. Kf1 is best and although
some dust has cleared, Black maintains
firm control of the game with an extra
pawn and strong piece activity. After the
game my opponent and I saw the follow
ing neat line: 22. ... Bxc3? 23. bxc3 Nd3
24. Bxe4 Nxf4+ 25. Kf3! Qe5 26. Bxb7
Qxf5! 27. Rg1+ Ng6+ 28. Kg2 with approx
imately equal chances in this crazy
position.
21. gxf5 Bxf5 22. Nd5!
Taking advantage tactically of Blacks
only real weakness in his position, the
pinned knight on b4. The following six
moves are forced:
22. ... Bg4+ 23. Kf1 Bxd1 24. Rxd1 Nc6 25.
Ne7+! Kf8 26. Nxc8 Qxd2 27. Rxd2 Rxc8
(see diagram top of next column)
28. Bxe4
Now White is the one with the clear
advantage. I liked my chances of win
ning here because, normally,
opposite color bishops are drawish
endgames, but having the rook and
The Denker Trio
By Jonathan Hilton
ome play chess for fun. Others play
chess for blood. We play chess for
S honor. Who are we? We are the
Denker representatives, and we come
from Alaska to Hawaii, from California to
Maine. We represent not only ourselves,
but our state federations, home clubs,
schools, coaches, friends, and families
the chessplayers and non chessplayers
that have shaped us into champions.
Success for a Denker representative
does not solely consist in winning the
tournament. Success is achieved by play
ing with pride. Fighting spirit,
camaraderie, and etiquette are traits pos
sessed by the ideal representative.
Personal respect at the Denker is unpar
alleled there are no cheap psychological
tricks, no routine intimidation tactics.
During this six round, four day, 48 player
PHOTO: ELIZABETH VICARY
tournament, not a single dispute arose,
reported chief tournament director
Dewain Barber.
By the afternoon of the fourth day,
however, a true champion of champions
is decided. The champion of champions
is someone with extraordinary mental
uschess.org
34. ... Kd7 35. Nb5 Re6 36. Rg2
+r+ k + The rule of multiple weaknesses. I wont
get anywhere merely attacking d6, so I
+p+ +p l
bring the rook to the unoccupied g file
p+np + + with the intention of penetrating into
+ + + + Blacks position and going after his other
weaknesses (f5 and h4).
+P+pP p
N + 
 P +
36. ... Bf8 37. Rg5 Rf6 38. Rh5 Rh6 39. Rxf5,
Black resigned.
PP 
R +L P With a two pawn lead and consistent
+ + +K+
After 27. ... Rxc8
pressure, Black decided to resign. .
See additional scholarship information at
knight makes a big difference. uschess.org/scholastic/scholarship.php
28. ... Re8 29. Bxc6 bxc6 30. Kf2 Ke7 31.
Kf3?!
A careless mistake. Better was 31. e4
College Tournament of
taking advantage that after 30. ... Ke7,
Champions
Black blocked the rook, making the pawn
push possible.
At A Glance
Date: August 2 5, 2008
31. ... f5
Now I have a self inflicted backward
Location: Westin Park Central,
pawn on e3.
Dallas, Texas
Top Finishers: 1st: Daniel Fer
nandez, 5; 2nd: Aibek Iskakov,
32. b3 a5 33. Nc2 c5? 34. Na3!
I played 33. Nc2 bluffing that I would
4; 3rd 4th: Bayaraa Zorigt,
continue with Nd4. This encouraged Black
Arturo Gracia Jr., 4.
to play ... c5, now I have a permanent out
Chief Tournament Director: Bill
post for my knight on b5, where it attacks
Snead
Blacks backward d6 pawn.
stamina, a fierce sense of danger at the
board, and an incredible ability to win
games when the chips are down. This
year, three co champions shared the glory
with 5/6 a rare tie, making 2008 an
exception in the Denkers recent trend
toward clear winners. In fact, the last
time more than two tied for first place was
eight years ago!
Each winner had a unique story, with
FM Daniel Yeager on one side, Julian
Landaw on the other, and expert Scott
Low falling somewhere in between. One
thing the members of this unlikely trio
shared? They all admitted to having fol
lowed, consciously or unconsciously,
some piece of advice given by USCF Exec
utive Director and former Denker
representative Bill Hall during his rous
ing speech at the opening ceremony!
FM Daniel Yeager
Daniel Yeager: A fierce competitor
takes time to travel With the unyielding concentration of a
It is hard to get ones head around the fighter pilot and the thorough eye of a
powerful brain of FM Daniel Yeager. A computer, Yeager did not lose a single
young man of few words, he lets his game during his entire stay in Texas four
incredible chess record speak for itself. wins and two draws in the Denker; three
Chess Life November 2008 25
Cover Story
draws, five wins, and a bye in the U.S.
Open. Total: fourteen consecutive games
without a single loss!
Yet, to many, Yeager remains a mystery.
Perhaps the most reticent player in the
Denker, the Pennsylvanian can hold an
entire conversation without saying a sin
gle word! Often, he communicates
through grins, shrugs, and laughter. He
has a hunger to hunch over the chess
board in deep concentration, and comes
to scholastic tournaments with the clear
intention of capturing the top prize. He is
disciplined and does what it takes to
churn out top performances during his
7 0 victory at this years high school
nationals, Yeager was sure to look after
himself, heading off to bed early on mul
tiple nights. A few days after the Denker,
I asked Yeager what he enjoys most about
chess. He instantly broke into a grin;
after some initial hesitation, he gave a sur
prisingly honest answer: I love to win!
he exclaimed.
Thus, I was surprised to discover how
much traveling and socializing Yeager
accomplished during his stay in Texas.
Even before the start of the Denker, he
and his father, Richard Yeager a likeable
extrovert whose supportive presence is a
key factor in Daniels success took a
day trip out to see the University of Texas
at Dallas (UTD). James Stallings, the
director of the UTD chess program, had
arranged a special tour for Denker partic
ipants, so both Yeagers eagerly signed
up to go. This turned out to be a wise
move: Daniel Yeager wound up capturing
one of two full four year scholarships
awarded by UTD during the Denker event!
(The other was awarded to Low. Landaw,
who has graduated high school, had
already enrolled in UC Berkeley.)
I rarely saw Yeager unaccompanied by
fellow Denker comrades. Whether he was
visiting local eateries with Scott Low,
hanging out in the weight lifting room, or
just exploring the hotel with friends, the
Pennsylvanian chess machine always
showed his human side between rounds.
He was living the chess players dream,
traveling the country and enjoying every
moment in Dallas. Yet he maintained an
unrelenting positional control throughout
all six rounds, including this last round
win over then tournament leader Matt
Parry:
Queens Indian Defense (E15)
FM Daniel Yeager (2353)
Matt Parry (2279)
2008 Denker Tournament of High School
Champions (6), 08.05.2008
Notes by Yeager
1. d4 d5 2. c4 e6 3. Nf3 Nf6 4. g3 Bb4+
Forcing Whites bishop to the awkward
26 Chess Life November 2008
d2 square. The downside is that the move
5. Bd2 could also be a useful developing
move for White.
5. Bd2 Be7 6. Bg2 0-0 7. 0-0 c6
Aiming for a closed Catalan position.
After 7. ... dxc4 8. Qc2, Whites fifth move
has proved useful, clearing the way for
Rc1.
8. Qc2 b6 9. b3 Ba6
A good move, preventing 10. Nc3 due to
the attack on the c4 pawn.
10. a4
Aiming to play a4 a5 and exploit the
slightly awkward position of the bishop on
a6. 10. Rd1 Nbd7 11. Bf4 is another
option, reaching a Queens Indian
Defense. Black soon strikes with ... c5,
leading to a complicated position.
10. ... Nbd7 11. a5 c5 12. Nc3!?
Offering a pawn sacrifice on c4 which
Black should accept. 12. Rd1 would have
been the safer and better option, when
Black is running out of useful moves. If
12. ... Rc8 13. axb6 Black has to take
back with the queen, leading to a struc
tural advantage for White: 13. ... Qxb6 14.
Ba5 Qb8 15. Nbd2.
12. ... bxa5?
Once White regains the a5 pawn with
Qa2, Black will have a tough time hold
ing everything together. Black must accept
the pawn sacrifice: if he doesnt, the
bishop on a6 did not fulfill its duty. 12.
... dxc4! 13. bxc4 Bxc4. The diagonal has
opened for the bishop on g2, but Black is
solid. White has no immediate threat.
13. cxd5 exd5 14. Qa2 Qb6 15. Qxa5
Even better is 15. Ne5! Rybka gives
15. ... Rad8 (15. Qe6 16. Qxa5 Bb7 17.
Nd3 cxd4 18. Nf4) 16. Nxd5 Nxd5 17.
Bxa5 Qe6 18. Bxd8 Nb4 19. Bxe7 Nxa2
20. Bxf8 Nxf8 21. Rxa2 with a clear
advantage for White.
15. ... Bb7 16. Na4
16. Ne5 was again worthy of consider
ation.
16. ... Qxa5 17. Bxa5 Rfe8 18. e3 Rab8 19.
Rfc1 Ne4?!
19. ... Rec8 20. Bh3 cxd4 21. Nxd4
Bd6 is a better try.
20. Bh3!
The bishop finds a great diagonal and
attacks one of the key defenders of the c5
pawn.
20. ... Bc6 21. Nxc5
I considered 21. Bxd7 Bxd7 22. Nxc5
Nxc5 23. dxc5 Rxb3 24. c6 but I didnt like
the idea of giving up my great bishop.
However, this option would have been
great for White.
21. ... Ndxc5 22. dxc5 Nxc5 23. Nd4
Of course not 23. b4? Nb3.
23. ... Ba8 24. b4 Nd3 25. Rc7 Rb7 26. Rxb7
Bxb7 27. Bd7 Rb8 28. Bc7 Ra8 29. b5 Nc5
30. Bc6
Removing a key defender and planning
to play Nd4 c6.
30. ... Bf6 31. Bxb7 Nxb7 32. Ra6
Preparing to play b5 b6. 32. b6? a5
was certainly not to my liking.
32. ... Nc5 33. Ra5 Nb7 34. Ra2 Bxd4 35.
exd4 f6 36. Ra6 Rc8 37. Bf4 g5 38. Be3 Rb8
A better try was 38. ... Rd8 39. Rxf6
Nd6 40. Bxg5 Nxb5, but White has the
shot 41. Rb6! axb6 42. Bxd8 Nxd4 43.
Bxb6 with a winning endgame.
39. Rxf6
39. Rxa7 Nd6 and Black could hang on
for awhile. Now Blacks kingside pawns
fall, and he resigned on move 58.
Julian Landaw: Hakuna matata
Julian Landaw, the representative from
southern California, blundered in round
three to Karel Gonzalez of Florida, losing
on the spot. He laughed the loss off
quickly and came back fighting only to
trade a winning position for a losing one
in round four against Haizhou Xu of Ver
mont. But, through Caissas divine
intervention, Xu returned the favor and
dropped a rook in a nutty endgame time
scramble. But then in round six, his
closed Sicilian brought him a dismal posi
tion. He held on for dear life as his
opponents dark square bishop ravaged
his kingside. I kept messing up and get
ting bad positions, but I kept my cool
and managed to turn them around, says
Landaw. This was indeed the truth in
that fateful round six game, Landaw
regrouped mentally, regrouped his pieces
to the center, and then capitalized swiftly
on a blunder from his opponent to win the
game.
What brought Landaw success in the
Denker? Although he admits luck was
involved, Landaws unusually relaxed
attitude allowed him to breeze through a
Denker winning ordeal that would have
proved an emotional roller coaster for
anyone else. His calm attitude which
reminds one of the Swahili phrase
hakuna matata, meaning no worries
allowed him to rise to the top of the pack
when the four days of Denker drama were
done.
In an audio interview I did with Landaw
shortly after the tournament (available at
chessclub.com/mailing/2008/08ewcl/
news.html), Landaw explained that he
uschess.org
 Cover Story
has grown and matured in his emotional
handling of chess. When I was younger,
I used to be very emotional, he admitted.
I dont feel much pressure ... I just walk
around, cool myself off, get some water,
talk to people and I feel really light,
really relaxed. He said that he definitely
agreed with Bill Halls message about not
letting a Denker loss bring one down.
Here Landaw describes his emotional
reaction to one of his tournaments many
surprises.
Birds Opening (A03)
Tony Chen (1926)
Julian Landaw (2297)
Denker Tournament of High School
Champions (1), 08.02.2008
Notes by Landaw
1. f4 d5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. e3 Bg4 4. Be2 Bxf3 5.
Bxf3 c5 6. 0-0 Nc6 7. b3 e5 8. fxe5 Nxe5 9.
Qe2 a6 10. Bb2 Qc7 11. d4 Nxf3+ 12. Qxf3
Bd6 13. g3 0-0 14. dxc5 Be5 15. Bxe5 Qxe5
16. Nd2 Qc3 17. Qe2 Rae8 18. Rfe1 Qxc5 19.
Qd3 Re7 20. c4 Rfe8 21. Nf1 dxc4 22. Qxc4
Qxc4 23. bxc4 Ng4 24. Rab1 Ne5 25. Rec1
Rc8 26. Nd2 Rd7 27. Nb3 Rxc4 28. Rxc4
Nxc4 29. Nc5 Rd2 30. Rxb7 h6 31. Nxa6 Rxa2
32. Nc5 Nxe3
Even after analyzing with Fritz, I am still
not certain as to whether this position is
theoretically a win for Black or a draw.
33. Rb1 Rg2+ 34. Kh1 Rc2 35. Ne4 f5 36.
Nd6 g5 37. Re1 f4 38. h4!
A powerful move. White trades off two
pairs of pawns, leaving me with only one
pawn left on the board. If he could then
trade his knight for the pawn, a drawn
R+N vs R position might be reached.
38. ... Kh7 39. hxg5 hxg5 40. gxf4 gxf4 41.
Nb5?
+
+ + + +k
+ + +
+ + + +
+N+ + +
+ + p +
+ + 
n +
+r+ + +
+ + 
R +K
After 41. Nb5
41. ... Rd2?
I unfortunately miss the powerful move
41. ... Nf5! After 42. Na3 Ra2 43. Nc4
Ng3+ 44. Kg1 f3, when the threats of ...
f2 and ... Rg2 mate cannot be stopped. Its
good news that I didnt find this line,
because otherwise I wouldnt have gotten
to see Chens brilliant idea later on!
42. Nc3 Kh6 43. Ne2 f3
uschess.org
At this point I felt very confident. My Then, there was a strange twist of fate
pawn cannot easily be stopped, and I can
soon move my king up the board with Sicilian Defense (B32)
strong penetration. Scott Low (2184)
Erik Patchell (2085)
Denker Tournament of High School
44. Ng1!!
After this move I felt probably three Champions (6), 08.05.2008
different emotions. First I was thinking, Notes by Low
Wow, what is this kid doing? I thought
Chen just had to go 44. Ng3, in which
case I would play 44. ... Ng4, threatening
1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 e5 5.
45. ... Rh2+ 46. Kg1 f2+. Then, after look
Nb5 d6 6. N1c3 a6 7. Na3 b5 8. Nd5 Nge7 9.
ing over some of the lines in my head I
c4 Nd4 10. Bg5 h6 11. Be3 Nxd5 12. cxd5
found Chens stalemate idea. My reaction
Be7 13. Bxd4?
was, Oh no, did he just completely trick Losing the bishop pair and turning the
me here? And finally, with about a cou initiative over to Black.
ple of minutes left in the game, I felt an
acceptance and thought, Well, lets just
13. ... exd4 14. Qxd4 0-0 15. Be2 f5 16. 0-0
see if this will work out somehow.
Bf6 17. Qb4 fxe4 18. Nc2 Qb6 19. Rad1 Bd7
20. Ne3 Rae8 21. a4
44. ... f2 45. Rxe3 f1=Q 21. Bh5, with equality, was better.
And here is the brilliance in Chens
play: he has stalemated his own king
21. ... a5 22. Qb3
22. Nc4 Qa7 23. Nxa5 e3 24. f4 bxa4
and has the plan of simply checking me
holds the balance.
with his rook until I have to capture it.
The game would end in a lousy draw! 22. ... Rb8 23. axb5 Bxb5 24. Bxb5 Qxb5 25.
46. Rh3+?? Qa3 Qc5 26. Qxc5 dxc5 27. Ra1 Rxb2 28.
Unfortunately, White does not find the
Rxa5 Bd4 29. Nd1 Rb1 30. Ra2 Rc1 31. Re2
correct plan! He needs to prevent my king
Rb8 32. Rxe4 Rbb1 33. Ree1 Bc3??
33. ... Kf7 and Black is only slightly bet
from entering the queenside, as we will
see in a couple of moves. White could ter, surprisingly.
draw with 46. Re6+!! Kg5 47. Rg6+!!, after
which Black has the surprising 47. ...
34. Nxc3, Black resigned.
Kf4! 48. Rf6+ Kg3! (Threatening mate! During a post Denker interview, I asked
Low his favorite part of Bill Halls opening
Isnt this exciting?) 49. Rg6+ Kf2 50. Rf6+
speech. The message to thank your par
Ke1 51. Rxf1+ Kxf1 52. Nh3 with a the
oretical draw! Of course, I would try for ents for being behind you every step of the
a swindle in this type of endgame with way was something really important I took
Black, but it is still disheartening that I away from it, Low remarked. After a
might not have been able to win! moment of reflection, he began to wonder
aloud if hed actually remembered to do it.
He gave me permission to thank them
publicly here in Chess Life. To Scotts par
46. ... Kg5 47. Rh5+ Kf6 48. Rh6+ Ke5 49.
Re6+ Kd4 50. Rd6+ Kc3 51. Rc6+ Kb4 52.
ents, and to all the parents of the Denker
Rb6+ Ka5
Now my king finds a safe haven since
after 53. Ra6+ or 53. Rb5+ I can snag the
champions including my own thanks!
See the August archives of Chess Life
.
rook with my queen. Online at uschess.org for more about
the Denker by Jonathan Hilton.
53. Rb2 Qg2 mate.
Scott Low: The middle ground 2008 Arnold Denker
Scott Low from Maryland fell some
where in between the contrasting styles
Tournament of High
of Yeager and Landaw. His first three School Champions
games were won with Yeager like preci
sion; he made few, if any, slight mistakes
At A Glance
and patiently outplayed his opponents.
Date: August 2 5, 2008
Yet his tournament turned into a Landaw
Location: Westin Park Central,
styled roller coaster during round 4, in
Dallas, Texas
which he had to rely on a flag fall to score
Top Finishers: 1st 3rd: Daniel
the full point in a messy position versus
Yeager (PA), Julian Landaw (CA),
Karel Gonzalez. Then, in round 5, he suf
Scott Low (MD), 5; 4th 6th:, Matt
fered defeat at the hands of Matt Parry.
Parry (NY), Michael Yang (MN),
His hopes of winning the tournament
Ricky Selzler (WA), 4.5.
rested on beating Kentuckys Erik Patchell
Chief Tournament Director: Bill
in round 6 and his prospects seemed
Snead
bleak from his unlucky thirteenth move.
Chess Life November 2008 27
Collecting
On Collecting
Staunton Chessmen
A guide for the serious collector
y chess set collecting obsession
had its start a few months after
M I first learned the moves of the
game. That was the summer before my
16th birthday. A few friends in my new
neighborhood took the pains to explain
the moves to me and I was addicted. All
I could do was eat, drink and sleep chess.
I was entering my junior year in high
school. I turned 16 in the fall of that year
and, for my birthday, my mother gave
me a nice set of wooden Staunton chess
men. These were nothing spectacular,
just a good, solid, German made weighted
set of lacquered chessmen in a wood
slide top box. The pieces were tourna
ment size and I made good use of them in
the years that followed.
The lessons Ive learned in the interven
ing 22 years I would like to now share
with you. I hope to help you avoid some
of the pitfalls and costly mistakes that can
befall a new collector. An education in col
lecting can cost more than tuition to a
four year college. Make no mistake about
it, this can be a costly education. First,
having been a serious tournament chess
player, my interest was in practical play
ing sets the Staunton design in
particular. What I had discovered very
early in my collecting career was that
there was woefully little information on
the Staunton chessmen and what did
exist was mostly incorrect. So, I decided
to pull together as much information on
the Staunton pattern as I could.
The Staunton chessmen were designed
and first manufactured in the United
Kingdom by the firm of John Jaques. I
28 Chess Life November 2008
By Frank Camaratta
obtained a copy of the design registration
for the Staunton chessmen from the
patent office in London. The Staunton
chessmen design was registered as num
ber 58607 on March 1, 1849. The title of
the registration was Ornamental Design
for a set of Chess Men. It was registered
by Nathaniel Cook, 198, Strand, London,
under the Ornamental Designs Act of
1842. Interestingly, the registration was
limited to Class II, articles fabricated
mostly from wood.
There have been allusions to a set of
similar chessmen having been designed
around 1835. That fact seems to have
been repeated several times in the liter
ature. However, there is no evidence to
support that contention.
Well, who was Nathaniel Cook and what
was his connection with John Jaques,
the original manufacturer? Moreover, how
did Howard Staunton get into the mix?
What is known is that the first Staunton
chessmen were manufactured by the firm
of John Jaques, whose business premises
were in Hatton Garden, and later on the
Strand in London. What is also known is
that Cook managed to obtain the endorse
ment of the then self proclaimed world
champion, Howard Staunton who, after
defeating the leading French champion
Pierre de Saint Amant in their landmark
1842 match, became the worlds
unofficial world champion.
What is not known is the relationship
between Jaques and Cook or between
Cook and Staunton. We do know that
Staunton wrote a daily chess article for
the Illustrated London News (ILN). It has
been reported, but not verified, that Cook
was affiliated with the ILN, possibly as a
partner. It has also been reported, again
without verification, that Cook was John
Jaques son in law.
What to look for in the early sets
Make no mistake about it. If you are
looking for a set of antique Staunton
chessmen to enhance your collection,
there are chessmen produced by Jaques
of London and then there are the rest.
Jaques Chessmen, Staunton or other
wise, are by far the most collectible and,
as a consequence, the most expensive.
This is not to say that there are not other
Staunton chessmen that are worth col
lecting. For example, British Chess
Company Xylonite chessmen quickly
come to mind. However, if you are look
ing for one set of vintage Staunton
chessmen, you must have a Jaques.
What follows is a distillation of the
important details that will serve as a
roadmap for anyone who is seriously con
templating this investment.
The chessmen
The original Staunton chessmen pro
duced by Jaques were and still are quite
unique in appearance. Although generally
described as a radically new design for their
time, the form was based on the earlier
Northern Upright Chessmen which were
designed in the 1840s by Lord John Hay.
The Staunton chessmen featured very
broad bases, gracefully contoured stems
and attractively turned and carved head
pieces. From the graceful forme cross
uschess.org
 The original Jaques Staunton design from 1849,
still familiar to all chessplayers 160 years later.
atop the king to the six crenelled rook,
these chessmen make an impression.
The knights, however, are their hallmark.
They were derived from the visages which
adorn the Elgin Marbles, which form a
part of the east pediment of the Greek
Acropolis. The Marbles were expropri
ated in 1816 by Sir Thomas Bruce and
brought to London. They can be viewed
today at The British Museum in London.
Here are some important details to look
for in the chessmen:
1. The original Staunton chessmen were
available in a standard size (8.9 cm)
and a full club size (11 cm king) only.
2. The original chessmen were available
in boxwood and ebony, ivory and
Wedgwood Carrara(!). This latter is
largely unknown to both the Wedg
wood and the chess collector
communities.
3. The large club size ivory set was intro
duced to the line in very limited
quantities in April of 1850.
4. Jaques originated the weighting of
their chessmen for enhanced stability.
5. Only the 11 cm boxwood and ebony
PHOTOS COURTESY OF FRANK CAMARATTA
chessmen were weighted initially. Ivory
chessmen were NEVER weighted.
6. The 8.9 cm standard size chessmen
could be felted or unfelted. Ivory chess
men were NEVER felted.
7. The black knight heads for the box
wood and ebony chessmen were
actually stained boxwood. Apparently,
carving the rock hard ebony was dif
ficult and more time consuming than
boxwood, so, for the first three years
or so of production, the knight heads
uschess.org
for the ebony side were stained box
wood. If you find a set of Jaques
chessmen with stained boxwood black
knight heads, the set is pre 1852.
8. In a true Jaques set, the kings crosses
are removable. Also, the knights are
two pieces the head and the base
which are screwed together.
9. Jaques was the first chess set manu
facturer to affix the symbol of a kings
crown to the summits of the kingside
rooks and knights. This praxis was
largely copied and is no longer unique
to sets produced by Jaques. These
knock offs are often offered on eBay as
authentic Jaques chessmen. Dont be
fooled. Look for the Jaques London
mark imprinted on the base.
10. The library size (7.3 cm king) was
added around 1852; the small club
size (10 cm king) around 1856.
11. Although library sized and ivory sets
were NEVER weighted, the standard
size sets were available in both
weighted and unweighted configura
tions. The small club and full club size
wooden sets were always weighted.
12. Every Jaques chess set will have
Jaques London imprinted on the
upper part of the rim of the base of the
white king if the set is boxwood and
ebony and on the underside of the
base of the ivory king. Both kings are
so marked for sets produced after
around 1890.
13. The kings from the earliest Jaques
chessmen, which I refer to as the
Cook style in my codex of Jaques
chessmen, will have the imprint J.
Jaques London on their bases. This
is true for both the boxwood and
ebony as well as ivory chessmen. The
J. can sometimes be difficult to dis
cern. All legitimate Cook style Jaques
chessmen will have both the J.
Jaques London imprinted on the base
of the king as well as a white label
which have been hand signed and
hand numbered by Howard Staunton.
Find one of these and you have found
a very valuable collectible set of
Jaques chessmen.
14. The Jaques London mark on the
underside of the ivory chessmen
varies in configuration and can be
confidently used to date the set. The
earliest marks were printed on two
parallel arcs. Later ivory sets were
marked in two parallel straight lines
and then in a single straight line.
Registration certificates
1. Each chessman in a Jaques set, sold
during the first three years of produc
tion, had a small green paper disk
affixed to the underside of their bases.
2. This disk bore a registration mark
consisting of a small diamond which
identified the day, month and year
the design was registered, the class
and a parcel number. This protected
the design from piracy during those
three years.
3. Although the pamphlet from the
patent office in the U.K. lists one reg
istration disk design for 1849, the
year the Staunton chessmen were reg
istered, I have discovered that there
Chess Life November 2008 29
Collecting
One of the hand-signed and numbered labels that were
affixed to the box of each of the early Staunton sets
were actually three designs printed
and distributed. The first two had
printing errors and omissions. These
were used from 1849 to 1852, after
which the patent office printed the
registration disks correctly.
Boxes and carton-pierre caskets
Perhaps the most intriguing aspects of
collecting Jaques Staunton are the richly
adorned Gothic style carton pierre cas
kets in which they were housed, designed
by Joseph L. Williams. Matching carton
pierre treatment adorned leather
chessboards were designed and sold by
William Leuchars and first offered to the
public in December 1849.
1. Chessmen were initially housed in
hinge top mahogany boxes with a
semi mortise lock and key, carton
pierre caskets in three configurations
for unweighted wooden and ivory
chessmen, and the large Spanish
mahogany coffer with removable com
partmented trays for the small and
full club size ivory chessmen.
2. The mahogany boxes which housed
the earliest boxwood and ebony chess
men were distinctive. They had unique
hand made dovetail joints, soft,
slightly rounded corners, and they
bore their manufacturers label on
their undersides. Some of the earliest
boxes also bore a small green label on
the underside of the lid. Printed on
that small label were the words The
Staunton Chessmen Jaques, London.
This label is quite rare and a good
indication that the box is one of the
earliest made to house the Staunton
chessmen. Later mahogany boxes
would carry their labels on the under
side of the lid. This did help preserve
the labels since they were not placed
30 Chess Life November 2008
directly on a wear surface.
3. The mahogany boxes were lined in a
green billiard cloth and lacked the
center partition found in later boxes
(post 1890).
4. The mahogany boxes which housed
the club size wooden chessmen had a
large scalloped brass escutcheon inset
into the lid and around the keyhole.
Mahogany boxes which housed later
sets would use circular plaques rather
than the scalloped brass on the top of
the lid and a thin brass strip set inside
the keyhole.
5. Carton pierre caskets were made in
three configurations. All three config
urations utilized the same four side
and lid moldings. For the library size
sets, which were introduced around
1853, the casket had a false, raised
bottom. The 8.9 cm and later the 10
cm sets were both housed in caskets
with the bottom located in its normal
position. Carton pierre caskets, which
housed the club size ivory sets, utilized
a height extender which increased
the casket height by around 1 inch.
6. The underside of the lid of each carton
pierre casket has a decorative gold
leaf fleur de lis. The specific pattern
can be used to date the earliest cas
kets. The decorative pattern was
standardized around 1853.
7. The earliest carton pierre caskets had
ivory colored satin interiors.
8. A l l c a r t o n p i e r r e c a s k e t s h a d a
leather hinged lid and side mounted
ribbons which held the lid in a near
vertical position. There was also a
small leather or cloth tab on the front
of the lid to facilitate opening. These
boxes are almost always found with
the straps and tabs severed or miss
ing and the lids detached.
9. The large weighted wooden chessmen
were not offered in carton pierre cas
kets. These caskets are very fragile
and the heavy pieces would simply
break through the sides.
Early labels (18491851)
1. Each box bore a manufacturers label
affixed to the underside of the box or
on the bottom inside of the large Span
ish mahogany caskets. This praxis
was later changed to affix the label to
the underside of the lid of the
mahogany boxes.
2. The earliest labels were white with a
decorative black fleur de lis. A slightly
different label was designed for sets
numbered 600 or so to 999.
3. Along with the box contents and reg
istration number (58,607 5&6 Vict.
Cap. 100.), each label bore an original
(not a facsimile) signature of Howard
Staunton and the production num
ber of the set, also in Stauntons hand.
Based on certain observations, I
believe Staunton hand signed and
numbered 999 labels (or signed as
many as he could until hampered by
writers cramp).
4. These early labels were numbered
sequentially, so set #120 could be an
8.9 cm wooden set in a small
mahogany box, while set #121 might
be a large ivory set in a large carton
pierre casket.
5. Little known is the fact that the ear
liest labels also have the Jaques
London imprint invisibly embossed
into the label. The same tool used to
mark the bases of their kings was
used to make this imprint. This little
known fact alone should be worth the
time you took to read this article.
6. Labels were used for sets sold during
the first two years of production.
Numbered labels (1852-1856)
After three years, the design registra
tion expired and was not renewable. On
August 11, 1852, Nathaniel Cook entered
into an arrangement with Howard
Staunton for the exclusive use of his
name and facsimile signature on the
labels. This next group of labels was pro
duced under this new arrangement.
Labels within each of the three color
PHOTOS COURTESY OF FRANK CAMARATTA
groups were numbered sequentially with
out regard for the size of the chessmen.
1. Following the Staunton hand signed
labels, there were a series of labels
which showed box contents, registra
tion number (58,607 5&6 Vict. Cap.
100.), a facsimile signature of Howard
Staunton and a mechanically printed
production or entered number.
2. These early manufacturers labels were
printed in green, yellow and red. The
green labels bore entered numbers
uschess.org
 from 1000 to 1999. These were used
exclusively on the mahogany boxes
which housed the wooden chessmen.
Yellow labels bore numbers from 2000
to 2999 and were used exclusively on
carton pierre caskets which housed
Library sized and 8.9 cm boxwood
and ebony chessmen. Finally, red
labels were numbered from 3000 to
3999 and were used on BOTH the
large fitted Spanish mahogany cas
kets and carton pierre caskets which
housed ivory sets of all sizes.
3. After the supply of numbered manu
facturers labels was exhausted, new
labels were produced which displayed
the box contents and registration
number, but no longer bore a produc
tion number. These labels were printed
in green, yellow and red. Yellow and
green were used exclusively on boxes
which housed boxwood and ebony
sets, while, as before, the red labels
were used exclusively for the ivory
chessmen. These labels were used
from around 1856 through 1862. The
final run of these labels in the late
1850s had an incorrect registration
number (58,697 5&6 Vict. Cap 100.)
4. In 1862, a new label was introduced
which commemorated an award
Jaques received. The label now bore
the words Two Prize Medals Awarded
1862. The box contents and facsimile
Staunton signature still appeared, but
the entered number was dropped.
Eventually, the box contents were
dropped from the face of the label.
The Leuchars factor
The earliest advertisements for the new
Staunton chessmen have the following
statement: The Nobility and Gentry are
respectfully informed that these new and
elegant CHESS MEN are now obtainable
of W. Leuchars, 28. PICADILLY The
earliest Jaques chessmen were sold
through Leuchars and are quite valuable.
They have the following unique features:
1. The Jaques London mark on the bases
of both the wooden and the ivory sets
were over stamped Leuchars. In the
case of the ivory sets, the Jaques Lon
don mark is actually scratched out
and over stamped. In addition, a
Leuchars green sticker was affixed to
the underside of the white kings base.
2. Leuchars ivory sets were sold only in
carton pierre caskets and only in the
8.9 cm king. The label on the casket
bore a green Leuchars sticker.
3. Leuchars ivory sets also featured a
very unique knight design, not asso
ciated with the Elgin Marbles in any
way. These are quite rare.
4. Leuchars were only offered boxwood
and ebony sets in the 8.9 king. Box
wood and ebony sets offered by
uschess.org
An early registration disc and the
Jaques imprint on the base of an ivory set
Leuchars were weighted. Although
somewhat difficult to see, the Jaques
London mark on the upper bevel of the
kings base is over stamped Leuchars.
The design evolves
The Jaques Staunton chessmen have
evolved over the 150 or so years since
their introduction. Many of the changes
were made to improve the robustness of
the chessmen. Among the other changes
made were the relative proportions of the
chessmen. Queens and pawns were made
taller and the weight of the chessmen
was increased.
Boxes and labels also underwent signif
icant changes. Boxes housing sets
produced after 1895 or so were fitted
with a partition which separated the white
pieces from the black. Labels changed
every five years or so.
How to choose
When you make your commitment to
invest in a set of vintage Jaques chess
men, you must decide: Are you looking for
a set which is the most collectible, or one
which is the most playable? If you intend
to use the chess set for play, then you
probably do not want an ivory set. Also,
you probably want a set with a 4 or
larger king. If you are looking for collec
tability and investment growth potential,
then you want a very early club size
wooden set or an ivory set. Ivory sets
prices increase exponentially with size. A
good rule of thumb to follow when collect
ing for value rather than utility is larger
is better than smaller, older is better than
newer, and ivory is king.
Original boxes and labels are important
considerations as well when contemplat
ing your purchase. So is condition. A well
restored set of chessmen will always com
mand a considerably higher price than a
set in original condition that is damaged,
has a poor finish or both.
Conclusion
Beware of counterfeits. With the rising
price for a good set of Jaques chessmen,
coupled with their increasing scarcity,
sets made up from pieces assembled from
unrelated sets, as well as freshly turned
counterfeits, are becoming alarmingly
more common. Labels from old Jaques
boxes are often affixed to boxes which are
not original to the chessmen. Off brand
chess sets are frequently passed off as
authentic Jaques chessmen.
The safest course is to purchase your
antique Jaques chess set from a rep
utable dealer. Ask for a letter certifying the
authenticity of the chessmen. Obtain a
letter of provenance, if available. In the
end, the extra cost will prove to be money
well spent.
Finally, antique chess sets are not for
everyone. Boxes are worn and often split.
Labels are tattered. The chessmen them
selves will be dinged and the baize base
pads ratty. There will most certainly be
hairline cracks in the ebony chessmen.
If, in the end, you decide that you
really dont want to own an antique
chess set, do yourself a favor. Purchase
a fine set of House of Staunton chess
men, which can be purchased directly
from houseofstaunton.com or through
uscfsales.com. Theres none finer at
any price! .
Chess Life November 2008 31
 Gadget Guide

Holiday Shopping Guide

for the Chess Player & Family
Want that special chess-something this holiday season?
Leave this article in a conspicuous place with one
or more of the following chess gifts circled!

Armed and dangerous:

2Robot from Perfect Chess by Novag

A chess present is like an over-the-board sackits not the gift that counts so much as
the thought behind it. Choosing a holiday present for a chessplayer from among the thou
sands of current possibilities even if that player is you requires knowledge and analysis.
We risk the equivalent of wrapping up a Guitar Hero for someone who turns out to be just
one lick short of Clapton (oh, look, this set shows how each piece moves), or putting the CERN
particle accelerator in the hands of Forrest Gump (gee thanks for ChessBase; Ill save both
my games). Lets not even mention that red and white set with elephants for rooks (look at
those tusks!) kept around for a decade in the event that Aunt Betty visits to see that her treas
ure is still taking up sandwich room on the family coffee table.
This article can help by calling attention to some of the newest and coolest chess gadgets,
gizmos, and treasures on the market. Feel free to leave this section open when your own Aunt
Betty comes calling. (Products listing members prices can be found in your members cata
log, bound into this issue between pages 36 and 37 or online at USCFsales.com.) By Al Lawrence

32 Chess Life November 2008 uschess.org

 Moving, but
in different ways
The Novag brand founded by the
courtly German chess computer pioneer
Peter Auge manufactured units by 1978,
just over a year after Sidney Samole,
inspired by a Star Trek episode,
produced Fidelity Electronics pioneer
ing Chess Challenger. Nowadays, both
companies traditions are carried on by
family scions, Auges daughter Jeannine
and Samoles son Shane. The two compa
nies each offer chess computers that
would make a welcome gift under your
tree. Both computers move the pieces
automatically, eliminating the bother of
having to make your opponents move.
Both computers have a similar street
price. But there are important differences
between the two automatons.
All I want for Christmas
is my 2Robot, please
(See photo left)
Under the branding Perfect Chess by
Novag, Jeannines company has publi
cized a dramatic, new entry into the
market, 2Robot. It uses a robotic arm that
makes its move after you enter yours in the
normal autosensory way by pushing the
from square and then pressing the to
square. I reviewed a sample said to be
essentially the same as the final product,
due out in time for holiday shoppers.
Obviously, playing chess with a robotic
arm offers a wow factor. The unit is a
great before dinner conversation piece.
Even as a jaded veteran of chess electron
ics, I enjoyed playing it and showing off the
sample. Novags units are known for offer
ing solid playing strength. 2Robot offers
128 selectable levels, which means it can
adapt to family members and keep up
with you as you improve. (The best train
ing technique is to play at a level
challenging but not overpowering to your
current strength.) It lets you set up any
position, verify a position at any time,
modify a position, take back up to 25 half
moves, switch colors, get best move hints,
and enjoy the usual features populating an
upscale computer.
On the con side, special training options
are limited to revealing legal moves in any
position, and the unit runs only on its
included AC adaptor. The arm takes time
to move it starts from the same ready
position and returns to it between picking
up a piece and putting it on its new square.
(Its clock stops when it decides on a move,
before the arm starts its routine, not when
its move is finished which seems the only
reasonable solution and is the same
method adopted by Phantom Force below.)
And although, like the Phantom, 2Robot
neatly sets up captured pieces in desig
uschess.org
nated spots on the sides of the board it be turned on or off.) And Phantom offers
will not reset the pieces for a new game. Excaliburs normal training features
like a teaching mode that will help
beginners learn the moves. It offers selec
Take advantage of the YouTube age by view-
table opening lines to let you practice
ing a short video of 2Robot going through its
your favorites. It will even estimate your
paces. I found one that supplies audioso
rating. Excalibur has built a convenient
you hear the quiet operation of the arm:
piece storage compartment into the unit.
youtube.com/watch?v=hSuwLhVq3oY
A big advantage is that it works either
Overall dimensions: 15 X 15 X 9
with six C batteries (not included), freeing
(including arm); -inch king, 1 1/8-inch squares,
you from the tyranny of the cord or an
MSRP: $200-$250.
included AC adaptor.
Phantom
of the oh-ah
Once again, see it in action on YouTube, in a
three-minute video, which has a clear audio of
voice and sound effects, as well as the notice-
able noise Phantom Force makes while moving:
youtube.com/watch?v=QJADuhQAUQ0
Overall Dimensions: 12 1/2 x 15 1/2 x 2;
1 5/8 king, 1 squares. MSRP: $244.95.
USCF Member Price: $239.95
Is that a GM
in your pocket?
Moving pieces by telekinesis?
Phantom Force from
Excalibur Electronics
If the telekinesis of Heroes Sylar is
more your style than Robosapien, Excal
iburs Phantom Force could be for you. You
enter your moves just as with 2Robot.
Then Phantom also makes its own move,
but not with an arm. Phantom slides its
piece onto its new square, using below
the board magnets. Like its robotic
competitor, when it captures, it removes
your piece first; then it moves its own
man to occupy the vacated square. Knight
moves are an oo ah moment. Since its
Four million chess games
chessmen are board bound, Phantom will in your pocket
deftly scoot blocking pieces to the far edge
of their squares, making way for the horse
PocketFritz 3.0 is just out. Im strictly
man to glide through. Then Phantom
Blackberry, so I didnt have a way to test the
jadoubes the displaced pieces back to
ChessBase (CB) software. The idea is that
the center of their squares. Watching
anyone with a Pocket PC now has unfettered
Phantom set up the pieces for a new game
access to a 2650 (estimated Elo) player.
or watching it play itself either a whole
Moreover, according to the CB website,
game or the remainder of one youve tired
PocketFritz 3 gives you direct access to
of is another entertaining sidelight.
the new high speed online database of over
But Phantom is hardly all glitz. It plays
four million games, developed by Chess
a tough game. It offers 136 levels and all
Base. Lets hope the director is watching.
the standard upscale features discussed
in regard to 2Robot it will let you set up
positions, verify them and give you hints
and more takebacks than anyone should
SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS: PocketFritz 3.0
ever use. But it does offer some substan
runs on Pocket PCs with Microsoft Windows
tial extras. First of all, it talks, in a kind
Mobile 2003 for Pocket PC, Microsoft Win-
of sexy bossy robo woman voice, announc
dows Mobile 2003 Second Edition, Microsoft
ing all moves. (You can select or switch
Windows Mobile 5.0, Microsoft Windows
between English, French, or Spanish
Mobile 6.0, Microsoft Windows Mobile 6.1.
each unit comes equipped with all three.)
Installation requires a Windows computer with
All the spoken words show up on the
a DVD drive. MSRP: $64.95. USCF Mem-
scrolling dot matrix display. Phantom also
ber Price: $62.95
offers special sound effects. (Sounds can
Chess Life November 2008 33
Gadget Guide
Oh, boy!
Its a MonRoi!
(Ou si vous parlez un petit peu franais:
Oo la la! Cest un MonRoi!)
Hi-tech scorekeeping:
Monroi
Like me, do you sometimes have trou
ble deciphering your score sheets after a
tournament, or reconstructing missing
moves? Do you keep a database of your
games on your computer, typing or mous
ing them in with specialized software?
MonRoi (in French, something like mon
rwah, my king) is produced by a Quebec
company of the same name and gives
you a high tech alternative. The prod
uct, a Personal Chess Manager (PCM) (a
chess PCA), gives you the ability to record
your chess games at the board by tapping
a clear, backlit, and generous 2 1/8 x 2
7/8 LCD board with the included stylus.
With its built in safeguards against
misuse to gain an unfair advantage, Mon
Roi is a fully approved way of keeping
score by both FIDE and USCF. (Its likely
that MonRoi was some years ago the
impetus that led to rescinding the old
rule allowing you to record your move
before making it. Obviously, you see the
new position onscreen.) The products
advantages relieve players of some long
standing annoyances.
I test drove a MonRoi in two USCF
national tournaments and quickly got to
love the convenience. MonRoi offers a
long, reliable run time from its built in
battery, which can be recharged with the
included AC adaptor or USB connection.
Recording games was easy. I could change
quickly between the view of the diagram
and an onscreen score sheet. And I loved
the convenience of sitting in the lobby
or coffee shop, analyzing or showing my
games. (Only after youve finished and
saved a game does the unit allow you to
34 Chess Life November 2008
move the pieces around and conve Random is good
niently return to game positions.) Besides,
I felt very cool. Bond with his Walther
PPK had nothing on me.
When I got back to my PC, I could
upload games into PGN files. I could print
out copies of score sheets. And I could
download games in PGN by putting them
on an SD card, which the unit accepts.
Some tournament organizers have even
purchased related MonRoi equipment
that allows your unit to broadcast your
game on the Internet and receive your
pairings for the next round automati
cally. (Didnt I tell you it was cool?) Such
upcoming tourneys are listed on the Mon DGT clock:
Folds and generates Fischer
Roi website. Random Chess positions
Innovation produces apprehension in
some. The MonRoi screen requires that
Theres a new clock that folds to fit in
you, your opponent, and the director use
your shirt pocket its about the same
the stylus to sign windows on the screen
size as a small eyeglass case and offers
before you can save the game. One of my
all the features you need. Not only that,
opponents at the 2008 U.S. Team East
its the only clock that generates
refused to sign on the grounds that I
Chess960 (Fischer Random) chess posi
could use his signature to steal his iden
tions. This clock is made from cool. So
tity! (For the record, MonRoi doesnt allow
even if your recipient (well keep pretend
you to reproduce anyones signature. And
ing this isnt all about you) already has a
I wonder if my opponent realized that I
chess clock, at $37.95 for members, the
could easily scan his signature from a
DGT960 makes a unique gift.
paper score sheet. For that matter, I have
Karpovs, Kasparovs, and John Updikes
autographs. Hmm. If I can figure out how
to implement whatever my opponent was
2 years of operation on one CR2032-3V
afraid of, perhaps this could be a very
battery (included). Folded, it measures 5"
special Christmas at the Lawrence house
long, 2-5/8" wide and 1" high. Display
hold.) But such hyper technophobia is
measures 4" x 1". MSRP: $39.95.
rare and unimportant in practice. I
USCF Member Price: $37.95
quickly caught on to scribbling anything
in the windows and saving the game.
Cat-proof chess
MonRoi makes a great gift, for you, a
chessplaying family member, or a friend
but a very good friend, because currently
the units are available for $359 at Mon
Roi.com, where you can get lots more
info on the PCM.
SPECIFICATONS: Handheld; White &
Black; LCD display: color, 240 x 320;
Dimensions: 8.1 cm (W) x 12.6 cm (H) x 1.8
cm (D); Weight: 200 g (including battery);
SRAM Memory: 512kB; Flash Memory:
4MB; stores more than 50 chess games;
New Wave Chess:
Power: lithium-ion battery, AC over mini-
analyze in a windstorm
USB; Wireless: 2.4GHz RF, 64kb/s; Run
I cant leave a position set up in my
time: minimum 10 hours
house because my cats seem to love to
Available at MonRoi.com: $359
analyze in my absence. (My dog prefers a
ball.) And the cats never have the cour
More Gift Ideas! tesy to reset the position. So I may have
a special use for this next product, New
Dont see something you like here? Wave Chess. The 8 x 8 board is
Your USCF Sales catalog, packed made from corrugated cardboard that
with items you can purchase with a can withstand 275 pounds of pressure.
USCF-members discount, can be found Two dimensional pieces slip into laser cut
between pages 36 and 37 of this issue! slots to stand up. (The set also comes
with similarly constructed checkers.) The
uschess.org
visual effect is a bit holographic, but you
can play a game. The functional benefit
is that the pieces are undisturbable.
Indeed, opponents can sail this set back
and forth like a Frisbee without putting
a piece out of place. So if, say, you need
to analyze in a windstorm or are chained
on the opposite side of a slave galley ship
from your opponent this is the set for
you. Seriously, its a low cost set I think
Marcel Duchamp would admire for its
design. Not for all of us, but at least for
collectors and players with felines.
SPECIFICATONS: 1 5/8 pieces stand
up on 8 square with a full 3-D effect.
Laser-cut corrugated board. Double-wall
corrugated board manufactured to withstand
275 lbs. of compression.
Available at paradoxyproducts.com:
$12.00
Worldwide sled
Santas sleigh of chess goodies glides
along merrily on the web. Lets face it, at
the end of this year of four dollar a gal
lon gas, and resulting staycations, many
of us will be trimming more than the tree
this holiday season. If youre a computer
user with access to the Internet, you can
supplement your paid for chess gifts, or
even make it a cost free chess for the hol
idays altogether, by downloading your
presents from the Internet. There are
perfectly good versions of high priced
software (for both Windows and Mac)
available free on the web from database
management software, to mega sized
game collections, to playing engines (pro
grams you can play and analyze with on
your computer). And these arent mere
toys for tyros. Crafty, for example, is a
completely free chessplaying program for
your PC that plays blitz in the neighbor
hood of a 3000 Elo and plays tournament
controls at about 2800.
Of course you can do your own
searches online, but heres a few sites to
get you started merry downloading:
A well organized site that offers
chesszone.org
descriptions and download sites
for all kinds of chess software.
Another site linking to excellent
chess.kearman.com/html/software.htm
free chess software, including Win
board, a game viewer that will
provide an onscreen board to let you
view PGN (portable game notation)
files, a format widely available on
the web for example, at www.pgn
mentor.com/files.html.
uschess.org
Literally millions of games in
www.chessgameslinks.lars-balzer.info
electronic databases, grouped
in dozens of ways.
USB Chess
USB Chess connects,
but not to us
If you Google new chess products, you
may turn up USB Chess, a product
that allows you to hook up a 10 x 10
rubberized board with a plastic set to
your Windows computer. It works. You
can play chess against a built in computer
program or against a friend. But warn
Aunt Betty of this one. The game is not
saved in PGN or any other workable for
mat. And I could get it to save only the
final (or most recent) position, and was
unable to run the position backward to
play through a game.
Google USB Chess to find shopping sites.
Interactive USB chess board. Flexi board so it
can be rolled up. Chess pieces. CD with soft-
ware. Requires Windows XP. Requires a USB
port. Size: 29 x 26 x 1 cm. MSRP: $28.95.
New Classic Series
Chessmen
Wood is good: the new Classic Series
Chessman in Sheesham
Aunt Betty needs special guidance here.
To non tournament players, all our offi
cial sets look humdrummingly alike. Have
you had the experience of playing on a
friends objet dart? (Blindfold, please!)
My late old college pal and chess expert
Jack Winters pointed out that whenever
youre tempted to record Space Ship X
Mushroom, youre probably playing
chess at a collectors house.
Like a trained jeweler noting the vari
ations in his gems, we see differences in
our Stauntons. We may have a plastic
set for tournaments, but we want a wood
set in our family room. Weighted pieces
are a must. Theres balance to consider,
height to width ratio, the detailed carving
of the knights, the angle and depth of
the bishops miter stop me.
Heres a brand new one to consider for
Christmas: the New Classic Series Chess
men. Its designed to give you a seriously
high quality wood set without the com
mensurate reduction in your net worth.
It offers a 3 7/8" king with a 1 5/8" diam
eter base, weighs an impressive 52
ounces, and includes four queens, mak
ing upside down rooks dclass at your
house. For the black army, you can
choose from four different wood tones,
brown to black. Your choice determines
the exact price, ranging from a members
price of $69.95 to $99.95. They play well
on any standard tournament board
(although the extra scootch on the 2
square version gives them the Leben
sraum they deserve). Board is not
included. See them exclusively in your
USCF catalog.
King: 3 7/8, 1 5/8 diameter base.
USCF Members price: $69.95-99.95;
see catalog in center of this issue.
Master chess lessons
Perhaps chess gadgets arent your idea
of stocking stuffers. In that case, have you
ever fantasized about getting a lesson
from a world famous chess guru? Make
it a Christmas present to yourself. The
cost of getting to the mountaintop is not
as out of reach as you might think (less
than $100 an hour).
My writing partner and three time U.S.
champion, GM Lev Alburt (212 794 8706),
and Bruce Pandolfini (212 777 0576) are
Chess Life columnists who give lessons
over the phone. Youll remember such a
lesson forever. And who knows, you may
become permanently chess enlightened.
Feel free to leave this article open on the
coffee table, highlighting your favorites.
Better yet, use the new Wish List reg
istry at USCFsales.com. Send Aunt Betty
the link. If colors are reversed and you
remain clueless in time pressure, sign
onto USCFsales.com to buy a gift certifi
cate, and write a card that says Santas
on the way with the USCF sled. .
Make sure you see the USCF Sales
catalog between pages 36 and 37!
Chess Life November 2008 35
 SuperNationals IV

$50,000 in cash scholarships to be awarded!

www.SuperNationalsIV.com
for tournament information and registration.

Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center

2802 Opryland Drive
Nashville, TN 37214
(615) 883-2211
Chess Rate: $139.00 Single Quad

ENT R IES TO:

US Chess Federation
Attn: SuperNationals
P. O. Box 3967
Crossville, TN 38557

Questions and Team Rooms: Cheryle Bruce cbruce@uschess.org 931-787-1234 ext. 147
On site entries after 10 a.m., Friday 4/3/2009 will receive a 1/2-point bye for the first round.

See TLA this issue (Nationals section) for detailed tournament information.
 2008 NATIONAL SCHOLASTIC
K-12 CHAMPIONSHIP
December 12-14, 2008
DISNEYS CORONADO RESORT
1000 W. BUENA VISTA DRIVE LAKE BUENA VISTA, FL 32830
Reservations: 407-939-1000 Group Reservations: 407-939-1020

Opening Ceremony 12/12 Friday: 12:30pm SIDE EVENTS

Rounds Friday: 1pm, 6pm Bughouse: Thursday: 11am
Saturday: 10am, 2pm, 6pm On-site entry only Thursday, 9am until 10am
Sunday: 9am, 1pm $25 per team.

Awards Ceremonies Sunday: 4:30pm (K-1) & 5pm (Approx.) Blitz: Thursday: 5pm
On-site entry until 4pm Entry in advance $15
Special round times Friday: 1:30pm, 5:30pm by 11/28 $20 after 11/28 or 0n-site Register at
for K- 1 sections Saturday: 9:30am, 2:30pm, 5:30pm www.uschess.org/tournaments/2008/K12
Sunday: 9:30am, 1:30pm
Simul: TBA
On-site registration 12/11: 9am-10pm Register on-site only.
12/12: 8am-Noon
Players registering late (after 10am Friday) may Team Rooms are limited!
not be paired for round 1, will receive a contact Cheryle Bruce
1/2 point bye, and will begin play round 2. cbruce@uschess.org 931-787-1234 ext.147

7SS, G/90, 13 sections: Play only in your grade. December Rating Supplement will be used. Team Score = total of top three (minimum two)
finishers from each school per grade. First place individual and team will be National Champion for their grade.
Awards: Trophies to top 10 individuals & top five teams in each grade (minimum). Many other class prizes. Every player receives a
commemorative item!
Blitz: Trophies in K-6 and K-12 sections, individual and team.
Bughouse: Trophies to be announced.

Name____________________________________USCF ID #_____________________________Rating____________________________________
Address______________________________________________City________________________________State____________Zip_____________
e-mail Address__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
School____________________________________________________________________Grade _________________________________________
Bye Requested: Rd. 1 2 3 4 5 6 1/2-pt bye available if requested in advance (except rd. 7)
USCF Membership Dues: Please go to www.uschess.org for appropriate membership category and rates.
Entry Fees: $40/participant postmarked by 11/11, $60/participant postmarked by 11/28, $75 after 11/28 or $80 on site. (Add $5 for phone entry.)
Blitz entry: $15 until 11/28 or $20 after 11/28 or on-site.
Amount Enclosed: Entry Fee $____________ Blitz $____________ USCF Dues $___________ Total Enclosed $______________________________
In advance: Make checks payable to: U.S. Chess Federation (USCF).
On site: Make payments in Cash, by Money Order, or Credit Card.
MASTER CARD DISCOVER AMEX VISA V-Code (last 3 digits on the signature line) _______________________________________________________
Number __________________________________ EXP. ____ /____ SIGNATURE: _______________________________________________________

Registration information: USCF membership is required and must be current. You may pay USCF membership with your entry. Adult: Please check our website (uschess.org) for Adult
and Young Adult options. Advance entries must include players name and all fees to be accepted. Roster changes are considered new entries and will be charged according to date
received. List name, address, phone, section, grade, school (even if no team), coachs name, e-mail, birth date, USCF ID #, USCF expiration (enclose USCF dues if necessary) and rating.
Players must be eligible to play in accordance with USCF Scholastic Regulations. Please bring clocks. Ent: K-12 Champ., c/o USCF, PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557-3967. For more
info or to register online: www.uschess.org. Please make all checks payable to USCF.
2008 Olympiad
Handicapping the U.S. Olympiad Teams
Can our olympiad mens team top their
2006 bronze-medal performance?
With a world championship candidate
of players backing him up,
race yourself for the next six weeks
of chess. GMs Vladimir Kramnik
B and Viswanathan Anand will play
a world championship match, followed
shortly thereafter by GMs Veselin Topalov
and Gata Kamsky squaring off for the
right to challenge the winner. But if
nationalism is what you are looking for,
your post Beijing olympics lull can be
satiated at the upcoming chess olympiad,
to be played this month from November
12 25 in Dresden, Germany.
The United States will field its strongest
team ever in the mens division. The quin
tet of GMs will be led by Gata Kamsky, the
countrys highest rated player (FIDE 2723
as of July). Kamskys appearance is some
what surprising but nonetheless
appreciated by domestic chess fans his
planned match with Topalov is slated to
begin the day after the olympiad ends
(whether that match will take place as
planned remains to be seen, but the dates
and location of Lvov, Ukraine have been
guaranteed by FIDE President Kirsan
Ilyumzhinov). Kamsky, 34, is a top 20
world player who took a seven year hia
tus from chess, eventually returning to
38 Chess Life November 2008
and a murderers row
the chances are yes.
By FM Mike Klein
lead the U.S. team to bronze in the 2006
Olympiad in Turin, Italy. Although he
has the lowest career olympiad percent
age of any of his teammates (56 percent
in two events), Kamsky often faces 2750+
competition round after round.
Close behind on rating and presumptive
board two is GM Hikaru Nakamura (FIDE
2697), the youngest member of the team.
Although Nakamura, 20, deferred his
board two status at the Turin Olympiad,
he has gained 33 points and has acquired
heaps of experience since 2006. In a recent
interview, Nakamura promised to play
more mainstream openings going forward.
He played 11 of 13 rounds at the last
olympiad, going +4=6 1 (63.6 percent),
and his youth means he may play nearly
every round in this edition too.
GM Alexander Onischuk is the third
highest rated team member at 2670. He
is one year Kamskys junior but has
played in no less than five olympiads
totaling 54 games, scoring a respectable
60.2 percent overall (his first three
appearances were with the Ukranian del
egation, but he moved to the U.S. in
2001). Onischuk is also the only Ameri
can left from the 2004 team.
Board four will be occupied by GM Yury
Shulman, who will be competing in his first
olympiad for the U.S squad. He automat
ically qualified by winning the 2008 U.S.
Chess Championship. Shulman is also 33
and he will surely be eager to get back to
the olympiad after a decade break. He
played three times for his native Belarus
in the 1990s, scoring 65 percent, the
best career record on the current team.
The American men will take GM
Varuzhan Akobian as their lone alter
nate. The Armenian born talent will turn
25 in the middle of the tournament. Ako
bian, rated 2610, was in a virtual
dead heat for the final spot with GM Alex
Shabalov (who was actually one point
higher on the July FIDE rating list). But
according to USCF qualification rules, a
sliding scale of bonus rating points are
awarded for players under the age of 26
(the complete formula also factors in
PHOTO: JEFF WEISS
USCF rating, peak ratings and has min
imum activity requirements). Akobians
ten extra points for being 24 years old net
ted him the final spot. He will look to
play as well as he did in Turin, where the
uschess.org

THE OLYMPIAD
Structure, history and
rule changes for 2008
The chess olympiad is chess premier
team event. The biennial contest pits the
top male and female players from nearly
every FIDE country against one another
in a Swiss system pairing format. The
best player from one country will play
the best player from the opposing coun
try, and so forth on down to fourth
board.
This year is the 37th running of the
olympiad, which was first held unoffi
cially in conjunction with the summer
olympics in Paris in 1924 (FIDE was
born on the final day). The first official
olympiad took place three years later in
London. Like the summer and winter
olympics, the chess olympiad awards
medals to the top three finishers. Both
team and individual medals are
awarded, with the former being the
focus. The American men have com
piled five team gold medals (the last in
1976), five silver medals and seven
bronzes. Their first medal was a silver
in 1928, where the team was led by
GM Isaac Kashdan, who remains the
most successful American ever at the
event. His lifetime record was +52=22
5, or 79.7 percent better than GM
Garry Kasparov and fourth to only for
U.S. used him often in the early rounds
and he delivered with a +3=3 1 perform
ance (64.3 percent).
The team chose as its captain IM John
Donaldson and will be one of the pre
tournament favorites to medal; they will
likely enter as a top five seed.
The olympiads keep getting stronger
and stronger, Donaldson said. My first
time as captain was 1986 and few teams
had all grandmaster lineups much less all
players over 2600. I expect in Dresden
there will be at least a dozen teams with
average ratings over this benchmark. The
competition will be very tough.
The current installment of American
women will be a blend of veteran talent
and less familiar faces. Top player IM
Irina Krush, 24, is the likely number
one board. Her tremendous history at
four olympiads (including the last three)
has yielded a 69.1 percentage over 47
games (the most by any American woman
on this years team). Although this would
be the first year she has played top board
since 2002, it was there in Bled, Slovenia
that she went undefeated, remarkable
since she played 13 out of 14 rounds. She
uschess.org
mer World Champions and GMs Mikhail
Tal, Anatoly Karpov and Tigran Pet
rosian. Kashdan would go on to help the
U.S. win three of its four gold medals of
the 1930s. The last mens medal was a
bronze in 2006, where team members
performed at a 2656 level. They have a
lifetime record of +920=887 309 (64.4
percent) spanning 33 olympiads.
This year Russia comes in as the heavy
favorite. Trying to rebound from their
disastrous sixth place finish in 2006,
the six time champions lineup consists
of GMs Vladimir Kramnik, Alexander
Morozevich, Peter Svidler, Alexander
Grischuk and Dmitry Jakovenko. Their
FIDE average is a gaudy 2750, the high
est for any team in history.
As of the registration deadline, 135
federations nominated teams to com
pete; in 2006 an all time high 148
nation teams played. From IM Jacob
Aagaard of Scotland to Arne Zwaig of
Norway, a total of 5,512 men have com
peted in at least one olympiad. Only
two have perfect scores in a minimum
of nine games Alexander Alekhine in
1930 and IM Robert Gwaze in 2002.
No country has played in all 36 events
but several have missed only one.
The womens olympiad began in 1957
and now coincides with the mens event.
The Americans are not as well known
here, having won only a lone silver in
2004. They finished fourth in 2006 and
have a lifetime record of +314=227 221
will arrive in Dresden with her highest
ever olympiad rating 2470.
Current U.S. Womens Champion
WGM Anna Zatonskih, 30, played board
one for the womens squad in 2006 but
is once again outrated by Krush and
may cede her the top board. The two
women have a lot in common both were
born in the Ukraine and both have
played in four past olympiads (Zaton
skihs first two trips were under the
Ukrainian flag). Additionally, the duo
were part of the 2004 silver medal team,
the only top three finish in American
history. Led by GM Susan Polgar, that
teams average FIDE rating was 2490,
the highest ever for the Americans,
whereas this years team is 2375, its
lowest since 2000.
Occupying board three will be fellow
WGM Rusudan Goletiani, 28, three time
World Youth chess champion and a
native of the republic of Georgia. This will
be her second olympiad. Goletiani is
rated 2359. In 2006 she scored six wins,
five draws and a single loss, for a 70.8
percent score, the best of any American
competing in Dresden.
(56.1 percent) over 20 olympiads. China
is the most decorated country in recent
history, with four consecutive gold
medals from 1998 2004. Their women
have medaled in nine olympiads in a row
and have never finished worse than
sixth in their 14 appearances.
The Dresden incarnation has installed
some significant rule changes, causing
some to dub this the reform olympiad.
Mens teams will now only have one
alternate (down from two) and womens
teams will now have four boards compet
ing (up from three). The uniform four
plus one system makes full equality
amongst the two tournaments. This will
generally benefit countries that have
deep womens programs and may also
benefit countries with younger men the
reduction in alternates means top play
ers will now have to play more in early
rounds and fatigue may become an
issue. Perhaps to partially offset this, the
tournament has been reduced from 14
rounds (women played 13) to 11. In
addition, match points are now the scor
ing system instead of game points,
making for some intriguing decision
making by players.
Other rule changes include barring
teams from changing team members at
the last minute and abolishing all draws
before move 30. Players are now
required to show up on time for each
game and shake hands to commence
play or they will be forfeited.
Olympiad newcomers WGM Katerina
Rohonyan, 24, and WFM Tatev Abra
hamyan, 20, will round out the team.
Rohonyan is the third Ukrainian American
on the womens team and Abrahamyan,
like Akobian, got the selection based
partly on the age bonus. She gets 30
bonus rating points for being 20 years old,
which narrowly edged her past both WGM
Camilla Baginskaite and WIM Batchimeg
Tuvshintugs.
The womens team will be an underdog
to medal but will be aided by the experi
enced support staff of Captain Michael
Khodarkovsky and Coach GM Gregory
Kaidanov. Gregory will not play after a
string of six consecutive olympiads he
competed in from 1996 2006 (over which
time he chalked up one team silver, two
team bronzes, and one individual silver for
going +6=4 0 on board four in Calvia,
Spain in 2004).
To follow all the action, go to the
official web site of the 2008 Olympiad
dresden2008.de and also look for regular
updates on uschess.org as well as an
in depth feature in February 2009 in
these pages. .
Chess Life November 2008 39
 2008 N.E. Masters

Masterful Erenburg

Despite a move to a new home in Rhode Island, the New England

Masters continues to attract top players looking for norm opportunities.

By IM Eli Vovsha

he time is 3:30 p.m. Having arrived at Pawtucket a cou
ple of hours before the first round, I set out exploring the
T area in an attempt to find a good place to eat. An hour later,
I return to my hotel room with my loot: two cold sandwiches
of dubious quality. A seasoned amateur on the American chess
scene, I am not entirely displeased. After playing in the World
Open (at the old location) and the Amateur Team East, I have
learned that if you cant have your way with Burger King, you
better run on Dunkin or at least have a car.
Fast forward. Walking from the hotel to the playing venue, my
thoughts drift to the tournament. Chris Bird, who undertakes
almost every aspect of the organization, and who ran the
2006/7 editions of the Masters, is highly regarded among
chess players, and I am curious to find out whether the hype
This year, the Masters is hosted by the Blackstone Chess
Academy at the comfortable To Kalon Club. The reduced fee for
foreign players and the decent hotel rate helped to attract an
intriguing field of players, among them a few strong grandmas
ters, some hungry international masters, and a bunch of
underrated youngsters. As my own preparation for the tourna
ment consisted of a few wipeouts by computers on the Internet
Chess Club (ICC), I cant help but wonder whether the liquor
store I passed by earlier is indeed as useless as I thought.
These impressions are partially confirmed in the very first
round when four of the top seven seeds (including myself) con
cede a draw. Perhaps a bit tired after the trip, or maybe just
excited by the rearranged tables (lessons from the U.S. cham
pionship?) which make it more pleasant to play on the spacious
PHOTO: BETSY DYNAKO

is justified. Such open tournaments, where strong players are
actually offered conditions (i.e. free or reduced accommodation,
appearance fees), and lower rated players are given the chance
to make norms, have been too rare a bird in the U.S. until
recently. Between large opens and one night rapids, they are
almost a missing link in the chess food chain.
top boards, most of the favorites recover in the second round
(this humbled no typo here author prefers crowded areas).
This trend continues in the next round, and in round four we
have the first real heavyweight clash on board one.
Jorge Sammour Hasbun is well known to ICC and U.S. Chess
League fans for his enterprising play and superb blitz skills, but

40 Chess Life November 2008 uschess.org

in this game GM Timur Gareev showed his
true class, leaving Jorge no chance.
Nimzo-Indian (E20)
Jorge Sammour Hasbun (2575)
GM Timur Gareev (2613)
New England Masters, Pawtucket (4),
08.13.2008
1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. f3 d5 5. a3
Be7 6. e4 dxe4 7. fxe4 e5 8. d5 Bc5 9. Nf3
Bg4 10. h3 Bxf3 11. Qxf3 Nbd7
r+  qk+ r
pp
 pn+ppp
+ +  n +
+  lP
p +
+P+P+ +
P 
 N +Q+P
P + +P+
 went south and he failed to win another
R 
 L 
KL+R
After 11. ... Nbd7
The opening stage is almost over and we
can draw conclusions. White obtained a
strong center, a pair of bishops and some
space advantage. He can hope to develop
some initiative on the kingside by push
ing his pawns. Black on the other hand,
has a very concrete plan of playing on the
dark squares with ... Ne8 d6, ... a7 a5, ...
Bd4, ... Nc5 and later ... c7 c6 and ...
Qb6.
12. g4
A typical move in this type of structure,
but I prefer 12. Bd3 0 0 13. Bg5 hinder
ing Blacks plan, as played in
Krush Sarkar, 90th ch Marshall, 2006.
12. ... 0-0 13. Bd3
13. g5 Ne8 14. h4?! Nd6 15. h5? can
not go unpunished: 15. ... f5! and White
is in trouble. 13. Bg5 is possible but
makes less sense in combination with
12. g4.
13. ... Ne8 14. Bd2
14. b4 Bd4 15. Bd2 a5 and Black has
nothing to worry about.
14. ... a5
14. ... Qh4+?! 15. Ke2 only helps White.
Since the center is closed, Whites king is
perfectly safe, while Black just wasted a
couple of tempi (the queen cant stay on
h4 for long).
15. 0-0-0 Nd6 16. Kb1 c6 17. Rdf1
Vacating the d1 square for the queen.
17. ... Qb6 18. Qd1
Necessary to prevent ... Qb3 and ...
a5 a4. 18. Na4? Qb3.
uschess.org
attack is very strong after 24. ... b4.
18. ... Bd4
18. ... Bxa3? loses a piece: 19. Na4
Qa6 20. bxa3 cxd5 21. exd5 and Black
24. ... b4 25. Nd1 Rb7
Preparing to double the rooks. 25. ...
has insufficient compensation.
Rfc8 is also good.
19. Na4
Otherwise ... Nc5 is coming.
26. h4 Rfb8 27. a4?
27. Bc1 was the only move. Black
would then have to regroup his pieces (e.g.
queen to b6, rooks to the c file) before
19. ... Qa7 20. Qe2
r+ +  rk+ delivering the final blow.

qp+n+p pp 27. ... b3 28. Bd3 Nxa4 29. g5 Nxb2!
+p
n + + An emphatic finish.

p +P p + 30. Nxb2 a4 31. Be3 a3 32. Bxd4 Qxd4 33.
Qf2 Qc3
N+PlP+P+
White cant stop ... Rc7 followed by

P +L+ +P a2(+), without losing a lot of material.
P 
 LQ+ + 34. h5 Rc7, and White resigned.
+K+ +R+R
After 20. Qe2 After this game, Jorges tournament
An attempt to stop ... b7 b5. By now it game, while Timur remained in the lead
is clear however, that something went
until the last round. In the meantime, over
wrong with Whites middlegame plan. on board two, the eventual winner played
Wait a second! Both sides were making one of his best games of the tournament.
logical moves and White looked better
just 10 moves ago. So how is this possi
Sicilian Defense, Pelikan
ble? Looking at the position after Blacks and Sveshnikov Variations (B33)
11th move again, you may notice however,
GM Sergey Erenburg (2621)
that despite being a bit passive, Black has IM Justin Sarkar (2487)
no weaknesses. Crucially, he does have
New England Masters, Pawtucket (4),
a long term positional advantage: control 08.13.2008
over the dark squares and a closed cen
ter which favors the knights. Therefore,
the onus was always on White to prove
1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nf6 5.
tangible compensation for his strategic
Nc3 e5 6. Ndb5 d6 7. Bg5 a6 8. Na3 b5 9.
deficiencies.
Nd5 Be7 10. Bxf6 Bxf6 11. c4 b4 12. Nc2 a5
13. Be2 Bg5 14. Qd3 0-0 15. 0-0
All this is well known. Black has also
20. ... Rab8!
20. ... b5 21. dxc6 (21. cxb5 cxb5 22. tried 15. ... Be6 and 15. ... Rb8 here, see
for example, Kamsky Ivanchuk, Sochi
Bxb5 Rab8) 21. ... bxc4 is also possible,
as the ensuing complications favor Black. 2008.
But why rush when White is limited to
passive defense?
15. ... Bb7 16. Rfd1
Perhaps better then Rad1 which was
tried in Malakhov Carlsen, Bosnia 2006,
21. Rf3?
21. Bc3! may have been the last chance. since the rook on a1 is used to support
a2 a3.
White must at least exchange the bishop
turned monster on d4 to take away some
of the bite in Blacks attack. In this case,
16. ... Nb8
Black maneuvers the knight to c5. The
21. ... b5 22. dxc6 bxa4 23. Bxd4 Qxd4
24. cxd7 is still premature. drawback is that this gives White time to
play a2 a3 and gain the initiative. An
alternative plan is ... Ne7 trying to
exchange Whites knight on d5.
21. ... b5 22. cxb5
Surprising as it may seem at first sight,
White is already lost here. For example,
22. dxc6 bxa4 23. Bc1 Nc5 and White can
17. a3 bxa3 18. Qxa3 Na6
Only a temporary pawn sacrifice, but
do nothing to stop Black from taking the
one that ultimately leads to a difficult
c6 and then the c4 pawns, or 22. Nc3 b4. endgame. However, it is not easy to find
a better continuation as White threatens
Nc3 (followed by Nb5 or c5) targeting the
22. ... cxb5 23. Nc3 Nc5
23. ... b4 is also strong.
weakness on d6. For example, 18. ... Nc6
19. Nc3 Be7 20. c5 winning a pawn.
24. Bc2
24. Na2 is a better try. Still, Blacks 19. Qxa5
Chess Life November 2008 41
 2008 N.E. Masters
Since Justin played rather quickly up
to this point, Sergey suspected that this
Nc6 Nb8 Na6 plan could be home prepa
ration. He therefore spent some time
evaluating the resulting endgame, even
though the alternatives allow Black to
play ... Nc5 and are not very promising.
19. ... Qxa5 20. Rxa5 Nc5 21. Rxa8 Rxa8
r+ + +k+
+l+ +p pp
+ p + +
+ nN
p l
+P+P+ +
+ + + +
PN+L
 PPP
+ +R+  K
After 21. ... Rxa8
22. b4!
Not 22. f3? Ra2 23. Rb1 Na4 and Black
wins the pawn back with equality.
22. ... Nxe4 23. Bf3 Nd2?
This move almost loses by force. Black
had to play 23. ... f5 24. Nce3 (or 24.
Bxe4 fxe4 25. Nce3) 24. ... g6 (24. ...
Bxe3 25. Nxe3 f4 26. Nf1 Rb8 27. b5)
25. Bxe4 fxe4 26. b5 and White has a
small but pleasant advantage. Even worse
is 23. ... Bxd5? 24. Rxd5 when Black
cannot stop one of the following ideas:
Rxd6 or Rxe5.
24. Ne7+ Kf8 25. Bxb7 Ra2
The only move. If 25. ... Ra7 (or 25. ...
Rb8) then after 26. Nf5 Rxb7 27. h4 Bf4
28. g3 Black loses either the bishop or the
knight.
26. Nf5 Rxc2 27. Ra1!
Activating the rook and exploiting
Blacks back rank problems.
27. ... Bd8 28. g3!
An excellent move. Now Blacks pieces
are far too disorganized and Ra8 (or Bd5
and Ra7) is unstoppable.
28. ... g6
28 ... Rxc4 was the last chance, but 29.
Ra8 Rc1+ 30. Kg2 Ke8 31. b5 (preparing
Bc6[+]) 31. ... Kd7 32. Bc6+ Ke6 33. Nxg7+
Kf6 34. Rxd8 (34. Ne8+ may be even
stronger) 34. ... Kxg7 35. Rxd6 and White
is winning.
29. Ne3 Rb2 30. Ra8 Rxb4
30. ... Ke7 31. Bc6! wins a piece.
31. Rxd8+ Ke7 32. Nd5+ Kxd8 33. Nxb4
Nxc4 34. Bd5, Black resigned.
Since Black loses the f7 pawn, the
endgame is hopeless.
42 Chess Life November 2008
A typically clean effort from the two
grandmasters who solidified their position
atop the standings in rounds 5 7. With
the top seed, GM Leonid Kritz, off his
best form, it looked increasingly like a two
horse race.
The virtues of preparation
My goal for the tournament was to play
as many interesting games as possible. In
the bigger scheme of things, I just cant
quite understand, why is winning in any
way important? Nevertheless, the desire
to succeed is sometimes just too strong,
and somehow I won a few too many
games, helped no doubt, by some of my
esteemed opponents who fearing my
not so secret lack of preparation, simply
avoided their regular opening lines. Thus,
in round eight I was unexpectedly involved
in the decisive game of the tournament.
The game itself was less entertaining than
I would have liked. But there was ade
quate compensation in the form of some
thrilling post game analysis provided
below.
Post-game compensation
GM Sergey Erenburg (2621)
IM Eli Vovsha (2519)
New England Masters, Pawtucket (8),
08.15.2008
q + +k+
 Bc5+ (27. ... Qd4+ 28. Ke1 is probably not
+l+ lppp
r+ ppn +
+ + + +
+rNP+ +
+ N 
LP+
P+ +Q+P P
+RR + K
Black to play
In this position I blundered with 20. ...
Rc8? completely missing 21. Qb5! Ra3 22.
Nc6! after which White is clearly win
ning. Instead Black must try,
20 ... d5
20. ... Rc7?? 21. Qxa6!
21. exd5
21. Qb2? doesnt work because of 21.
... Rb4.
21. ... exd5 22. Nxd5!
Let the fireworks begin!
22. ... Rxc1+ 23. Bxc1 Nxd5
Black must give up material since 23.
... Bd6? loses to 24. Nxf6+ gxf6 25. Bh6.
24. Qxa6
I calculated this far assuming that
Black can resign, while Sergey saw,
24. ... Qe5!
+ + +k+
+l+ lp
pp
Q+ + + +
+ +nq +
+ N + +
+ + +P+
P+ + +P P
+R
L + K
After 24. ... Qe5!
But thought that White is winning after
25. Qc4. In the post mortem, however,
together with GM Gareev we discovered
that the position actually contains some
fantastic resources for both sides.
25. Qd3!
It turns out that Black counters 25.
Qc4? with 25. ... Ba6!! (25. ... Bc5? 26.
Bb2 and White wins) and now White must
be careful since 26. Bf4 Nxf4 27. Qxa6
Qxd4+, or 26. Qxa6 Qxd4+ 27. Kf1 Qd1+
28. Kf2 Qc2+ loses material. The main line
continues 26. Rb8+! Qxb8 27. Qxd5 and
Black has plenty of compensation for the
pawn. Another possibility for White is
25. Rxb7 Qxd4+ 26. Kf1 Qd1+ 27. Kf2
sufficient for Black. For example, 28. ...
Bb4+ 29. Rxb4 Qg1+ 30. Qf1 Qxf1+ 31.
Kxf1 Nxb4 32. a4 and White wins.) 28.
Kg3 Qe1+ (28. ... Qxc1 leads to a similar
line) 29. Kh3 Qxc1 30. Rb8+ Bf8 31.
Rxf8+! Kxf8 32. Qd6+ Ke8 33. Qxd5 with
good chances to win the endgame.
25. ... Bc5
The only move since 25. ... Ba6 loses to
26. Qe4!.
26. Bb2
The most logical move, but White has
a couple of alternatives. 26. Kf1 Nb4 27.
Rxb4 (27. Nc6 looks pretty but doesnt
work 27. ... Bxc6! 28. Qd8+ Qe8 29.
Qxe8+ Bxe8 and Black is ok) 27. ... Bxb4
with sufficient compensation. 26. Qe4 is
very interesting as White gives up a piece
but Black has problems with his back
rank and untangling his pieces. 26. ...
Qxd4+ (26. ... Qxe4 is possible although
after 27. fxe4 Bxd4+ 28. Kh1 Nb6 29.
Bf4 Black has some problems) 27. Qxd4
Bxd4+ 28. Kh1 to avoid checks from a6;
28. ... Bb6 29. Be3! Bxe3 30. Rxb7 and I
think Black can hold, but please consult
your local super grandmaster first.
26. ... Nf4
26. ... Nb4 27. Qd2 is winning for White.
uschess.org
 But White has the simple 30. Rf1! and
Black can resign. 29. ... Nxd4 30. Bxd4
27. Qd2! 28. ... Rc8 29. d4 Kg5 30. Rhf1 g6 31. R1f7
Other moves let the advantage slip. 27.
Bxf3+ 31. Kg1 Qf5 is similar to the main
Bc6 32. Re7, Black resigned.
Qc4? (27. Qb5 leads to similar lines) 27. With this resounding victory, his fourth
line.
... Qe3+ 28. Kh1 (28. Kf1? Nd3 29. Qc2 straight, 13 year old Parker Zhao secured
Ba6 30. Qe2 Nb4 and Black wins) 28. ... his first international master norm with
Nh3! (28. ... Nd3 just gives White more a round to spare. With the pressure off,
30. Rf1!
Bravo. If you had any doubts, this is the
options since ... Qg1+ is not a threat: 29. he duly lost his last round game to GM
only move to play for a win. 30. Qxe2?
Rf1) 29. Qe2 (29. gxh3?? Qxf3+ 30. Nxf3 Erenburg, propelling the latter to sole
Qxb1+ 31. Kg2 Qxa2 and White should be
Bxf3 mate) 29. ... Nf2+ 30. Kg1 Nh3+ 31. first. Still, his total of six points was suf
looking to equalize.
Kh1 with a draw. ficient for a shared fourth place and the
under 2400 prize. A similar feat was
accomplished by Canadian junior Victor
30. ... Nxd4
30. ... Nxg3+ 31. hxg3 Qh3+ 32. Kg1
27. ... Ne2+
Black must continue the onslaught; Kaminski, who with half a point less but
wins easily for White.
otherwise White manages to consolidate. against stronger opposition achieved his
first norm before the last round.
Several other players including Marc
31. Bxd4 Bxf3+ 32. Kg1
The storm is over. White is up an
28. Kh1
28. Kf1? Nxd4 29. Bxd4 Ba6+ 30. Kg1 Esserman and Louie Jiang were in the
Bxd4+ and Black is playing for a win. Exchange for no real compensation. Black running for the coveted norm, but could
can put some resistance though, so win nt pull it off in the last two rounds. WFM
28. ... Bd6 ning this position is by no means Alisa Melekhina came even closer, need
Again, the only chance. elementary. ing a draw in the last round for a WGM
norm. Alas, drawing with Black against
29. g3 Apparently, in round eight, queens GM Kritz proved too difficult.
White must be careful too, 29. f4?? in werent only flying in the skittles room. In
fact loses to 29. ... Qe4 hitting b1 and g2; the following diagram the top seed had
30. Rg1 Nxg1 31. Kxg1 Bxf4 32. Qe2 just played 21. ... Rb8 attacking b2, how The long road home
Be3+ 33. Kf1 Qb1+. should White continue? The time is 11:00 a.m. I am on the
train heading back to N.Y. Some of the
+ + +k+ participants have prolonged their stay to
How to continue? play four more rounds in the Blackstone
+l+ +ppp Parker Zhao (2283) Open which follows the Masters. However,
+ 
l + + GM Leonid Kritz (2666) I cannot afford such luxury and am brac
New England Masters, Pawtucket (8), ing myself for the most difficult facet of a
+ + q + 08.15.2008 chess tournament: the moment, invari
+ 
N + + ably occurring during the trip back home,
rl+n
 r k when reality sinks in; when school, work,
+ + +PP and all these hitherto remote concerns are
P
L 
Qn+  P + + +p
p suddenly as tangible as the plastic pieces.
q +p+ 
 p Some play for fun or for the experi
+R+ + +K ence. Others hope to gain a few rating
After 29. g3 p +p
 P + points or enjoy the competition. And then
there are those who simply want to live in
This is an amazing position. Black can
+ + +  P
this little world of pure thought for a
sac his queen in three different ways (!) P 
 NL+ 
Q short while. But in that moment of rude
but, what a pity, nothing seems to save awakening, when reality knocks so
him.
PP+ +P+

harshly at the door, they all intuitively dis
+  K +R+R cover why they play this silly old game,
29. ... Qf5
In our analysis we also looked at 29. ...
After 21. ... Rb8 and why they keep playing it. .
See more reporting on the New England
Qxd4 30. Qxe2 (30. Bxd4 Bxf3 mate!) 30.
Masters at Chess Life Online, and
... Qd5 31. Kg2 Qxa2 32. Rd1 and Vovshas interview with Erenburg in
22. Qg6!!

although it is not simple, White should be Game over!

the online version of this article.
winning. 29. ... Qe4 is even more remark
able.
22. ... Qe3+ 23. Kd1
23. Kb1 also wins. New England Masters
+ + +k+ 23. ... fxg6 At A Glance
+l+ +p
pp 23. ... f5 is hopeless; 24. exf6 e.p. Nxf6
25. Rxf6! and White wins. Date: August 11 15, 2008
+ 
l + + Location: Blackstone Chess Club,
+ + + + 24. Rxf8+ Kh7 25. h5 Qxd3+ Pawtucket, Rhode Island
Black has no choice but to part with the Top Finishers: 1st: Sergey Eren
+ 
Nq+ + lady. burg, 7; 2nd: Timur Gareev, 7;
+ + +P
P 3rd: Eli Vovsha, 6; 4th 7th:
26. cxd3 Bd7 27. hxg6+ Kxg6 28. Kc2 Leonid Kritz, Joshua Friedel,
P
L 
Qn+ P White is up an Exchange and has a Jacek Stopa, Parker Zhao, 6.
+R+ + +K dominating position. Black resigned after Chief Tournament Director:
a few more moves. Carol Jarecki
After 29. ... Qe4 (Analysis)

uschess.org Chess Life November 2008 43

 Thank You, U.S. Chess Trust!
The World Chess Hall of Fame in Miami thanks the U.S. Chess Trust for funding both
the travel and hotel expenses of all three 2008 U.S. Chess Hall of Fame inductees and their
wives. The U.S. Chess Trusts support made possible the recent public celebration of the
careers of GMs Joel Benjamin, Larry Christiansen, and Nick de Firmian.
The U.S. Chess Trust is an independent 501(c)(3),
non profit organization. Created in 1967, the Trust
was organized to promote, stimulate and encour
age the study and play of the game of chess as a
means of intellectual development. Its trustees act
without compensation, and are dedicated to the
U.S. Chess Trusts mission. Your valuable contri
butions help make a difference!

Joel Benjamin receives his Hall of Fame plaque from U.S. Chess
Trust chairman Harold Winston (r.) and then World Chess Hall of
Fame executive director Al Lawrence (l.)

Go to www.uschesstrust.org to make a donation today!

13755 SW 119th Avenue, Miami, Florida 33186
Phone: 782.242.HALL

uschess.org Chess Life November 2008 45

 Back to Basics
Taking the Fifth
Think long and hard when facing an early opening surpriseperhaps this non-
By GM Lev Alburt
theoretical move is a mistake which allows, and deserves, swift punishment.
Resist the temptation to go quickly into familiarand not so promisinglines.
Ive picked up the game below not for
its brilliancies, but for its very common
(alas) errors. The first came only on move
two as a provocative, and bad, 2. ... Nc6,
and for two more moves Black allowed,
(invited!) and White refused to apply, the
punishing d4 d5.
In the final stage of the short game, rich
in both strategy and tactics, Black failed
to find an adequate developing plan, thus
permitting Rob Dolan, winner of this
months award, to expose the black king
to a decisive and well conducted attack.
Writes Mr. Dolan:
This game was played in the San Diego
Chess Club in Balboa Park; the time con
trols were G/40 and it was the first round
of a four round tournament. I had the
white pieces and the lower rating, while
my opponent was a strong class A player
with the black pieces. I had performed
fairly well in the previous rounds, having
two wins, and a draw against another
class A player. Now all that stood between
me and first place was my opponent.
(As usual, Levs comments are in italics.)
Sicilian Defense (B22)
Rob Dolan (1788)
Joselito Penaflor (1904)
San Diego Chess Club, 2008
1. e4 c5 2. d4 Nc6?!
r+lqklnr
pp+ppppp
+n+ + +
+ p + +
+ PP+ +
+ + + +
PPP+ PPP
RNLQKLNR
After 2. ... Nc6
My opponent declined the Smith Morra
46 Chess Life November 2008
Gambit. If he takes on d4 then I offer
another pawn with 3. c3 and if he takes
3. ... e6
As shown in my previous note, 3. ...
on c3 then I recapture with the knight,
cxd4 4. cxd4 d5! was both needed, and
gaining rapid development for the price of
adequate, for achieving equality.
a pawn and resulting in lots of pressure
on the Black position. When my opponent
declined the gambit in this fashion, I
4. Nf3
Whites best here is the same 4. d5,
knew he wasnt familiar with these ideas
albeit his edge here (after 4. ... Ne5) is
for White or Black and I instantly felt
that I was going to get a big advantage. smaller (+/=) than +/ in the 3. d5 line.
In my book, 2. ... Nc6 deserved a full Remember: if you can push a central pawn
question mark. to the fifth rank attacking the enemy
knight, do it or at least consider it very
3. c3 seriously.
Here I should have played 3. d5! which
pushes the knight around while gaining
4. ... Nf6
space in the center, but since I normally After 4. ... d5, were in an (equal) French.
play the c3 Sicilian (1. e4 c5 2. c3) I felt
very comfortable going back into familiar
5. d5!
lines. Also, if my opponent had captured
on d4 with 3. ... cxd4 I simply recapture r+lqkl r
4. cxd4 and Ive got a nice two pawn cen
ter on d4 and e4.
pp+p+ppp
+n+pn +
r+lqklnr + pP+ +
pp+ppppp + +P+ +
+n+ + + + P +N+
+ + + + PP + PPP
+ PP+ + RNLQKL+R
+ + + + After 5. d5
PP + PPP Now the central assault begins! Blacks
c6 knight is going to have to find a new
RNLQKLNR
home, while White is winning space,
Analysis diagram after 4. cxd4
tempo, and awesome piece development.
Unfortunately, Rob didnt act on his
instant feeling (yes, 3. d5 gives White a
5. ... exd5
real, substantive edge, +/ , after, for exam A serious mistake. Black had to play
ple, 3. ... Ne5 4. f4 Ng6 5. Nf3). And in the either 5. ... Nb8 or the more provocative 5.
line he opted for (see the analysis dia ... Ne7. In both cases hes worse (by no
gram) the move 4. ... d5 takes care of more than +/=).
Whites nice center, while the only famil
iar line to be reached, with 5. exd5 Qxd5 6. exd5 Nb8
6. Nf3, leads only to equality. Rob faced a
clear choice a large advantage or an
apparent familiarity (and equality), and
(see diagram top of next column)
he made an archetypically (alas) wrong
choice.
7. Bg5
uschess.org

rnlqkl r
pp+p+ppp
+ + n +
+ pP+ +
+ + + +
+ P +N+
PP + PPP
RNLQKL+R
After 6. ... Nb8
If 7. d6! Qb6 8. Qe2+ Kd8 9. Ne5 Bxd6
10. Nxf7+, White wins the rook while per
manently confining the black king to the
center. I found that variation after the
game, but my move, 7. Bg5, develops a
new piece, pins the knight to the queen,
and prevents the bishop from coming to
e7 because of 8. d6. If he tries to check
with the queen I simply develop my bishop
to e2 and then castle.
If Black had nothing better than to lose
a rook like above, or even to lose a piece
for a pawn with 7. ... Be7, then, undoubt
edly, 7. d6 was a winner, while 7. Bg5
would have required a question mark.
However, Black can counter 7. d6 with 7.
... Ne4 8. Qe2 f5 9. Nfd2 or 9. Bf4, and
while White has a big edge the game is not
over yet.
7. ... Bd6?
Perhaps 7. ... d6 was relatively better.
8. Be2 0-0 9. 0-0
rnlq rk+
pp+p+ppp
+ l n +
+ pP+ L
+ + + +
+ P +N+
PP +LPPP
RN+Q+RK
After 9. 0-0
9. ... b6
My opponents bishop on c8 is unable
to develop on the c8 h3 diagonal because
his dark square bishop is blocking his d7
pawn. Moving his pawn to b6, he tries to
get the light square bishop to either b7 or
a6.
Black is severely cramped and finding
it hard to develop!
Another critical moment in the game.
To get out of the bind, Black has to play ...
d7 d6 (the attempt to develop with 9. ... b6
is inadequate, as will be clear very soon).
Thus Id suggest 9. ... h6, and if 10. Bh4,
uschess.org
then 10. ... g5 11. Bg3 Bxg3 12. hxg3 d6;
also deserving attention is 9. ... Re8, r+lqr+ k
preparing ... Bf8 (and then ... d7 d6). p np+p+
10. c4 Na6 11. Nc3 Nc7 p l p L
r+lq rk+ + pPN +
p np+ppp +P+ +Q+
p l n + + +L+ +
+ pP+ L PP + PPP
+P+ + + R + R K
After 18. Qg4
+ N +N+
PP +LPPP Black resigned, because there is no
defense to mate. If Black plays 18. ...
R +Q+RK Rg8, 19. Nxf7 mate, and capturing the
After 11. ... Nc7 knight allows 19. Qg7 mate.
I was beyond excited to have beaten
Blacks last three moves were a pure such a high rated player in this fashion,
waste of time. and as a result I took clear first in the
under 1800 category, won $75, and
achieved a class A rating. It will be a very
12. Ne4
White is winning. memorable game and tournament for the
12. ... Qe7
rest of my chess career. .
Now Black is dancing to my tune. Im
forcing him to defend for the rest of the
game. If 12. ... Be7, 13. d6! wins a piece. Encyclopedia of Chess Openings
(ECO) codes referred to:
+/-
13. Bd3 h6
Poor Black is trying desperately to Advantage for white
break the pin, but White no longer needs +/= Small advantage for white
it and simplifies the position.
Too late indeed! Shop for ECO books
and CDs at uscfsales.com.
14. Nxf6 gxf6 15. Bxh6 Re8
r+l+r+k+
p npqp+ Send in your games!
p l p L If you are unrated or were rated
1799 or below on your Chess Life
+ pP+ + label, then GM Lev Alburt invites
+P+ + + you to send your instructive games
with notes to:
Back to Basics, c/o Chess Life
+ +L+N+
PP + PPP PO Box 3967 Crossville, TN
38557 3967
R +Q+RK
Or e mail your material to
After 15. ... Re8
backtobasics@uschess.org
GM Alburt will select the most
16. Re1?! instructive game and Chess Life
I missed the impressive 16. Nd4! which will award an autographed copy of
Levs newest book, Chess Openings
leads to quick victory no matter how
Black responds. for White, Explained (by Lev Alburt,
True, but White still has many easy Roman Dzindzichashvili and Eugene
roads to victory. Perelshteyn) to the person submit
ting the most instructive game and
16. ... Qd8 17. Ne5 Kh8? annotations.
I threaten mate if Black captures the Do not send games with only a
knight. Now I could instantly win the few notes, as they are of little instruc
queen with 18. Nxf7+ but I saw an even tive value and cant be used. Writing
better move. skills are a plus, but instructiveness
is a must! Make sure your game (or
18. Qg4!, Black resigned. part of it) and your notes will be of
interest to other readers.
(see diagram top of next column)
Chess Life November 2008 47
 Endgame Lab

Positional Draws

GM Benko looks to Chess Life readers questions to inspire his column.

By GM Pal Benko

Back to baseics SarichevVersion by P. Benko Breaking Whites fortress.

Charles Nacc of Pennsylvania writes: I
am puzzled that the very beautiful
3. bxc7
+ +K+l+
Sarichev position has no prelude. He Turning into your version of this
enclosed the following. +p+ + + endgame. Not too long and a great addi
PPl + + tion but at least it shows how a white
Sarichev brothers pawn appeared at c7.
Shatmatni Listok 1928 + + + +k Chernov has enriched this endgame.
+ + P +
+K+ +l+ Here I add a bit more to the prelude.
+ + + +
+p+ + + A. Chernov P. Benko
after Sarichev brothers
+ + + +
PPl + + + + + +
+ + + + White to play and draw + + + +
+ + P + +p+ K +
+ + +k+ Andrey Chernov P + + +
+ + + + after Sarichev and P. Benko
+ + + L
+ + + + + + + + + + + +
White to play and draw
+p+K+ + +l+ + +P
Intention: P + + + + + + k
1. Kd7 + + + L + + l +
Yet 1. Kxb7 Bd5 2. Kc8 Bxc6 3. b7 is + + +kP White to play and draw.
equal or 1. c7 etc. also draws.
+ + + + 1. Kd7!
Not 1. h4? since 1. ... Kh3 or 1. ... Bf2
1. ... Bxf4 2. c7 Bxc7 3. bxc7 Bh7
l+ + + +
This is the original endgame but wins.
because the beginning is faulty, the first + + + l
part is usually omitted and printed only White to play and draw 1. ... Bg3
from this stage. 1. ... Kxh3 2. Kc7 Bd5 3. Kb8 and the
white king is in a safe haven, which is
what Black will try to prevent next. If 1.
4. Kc8!! b5 5. Kd7 b4 6. Kd6 Bf5 7. Ke5 Bc8 1. Bd8!
8. Kd4, Draw. 1. Kc8? Bd5 2. Bd8 Bh2 3. Be7 (3. Bc7 ... Bd5 2. h4 Kh3 3. h5 Kg4 4. Bd8 Kxh5
Here I correct the original by eliminat Bxc7 4. bxc7 b5) 3. ... Bg3 4. Bd8 Be4 5. 5. Bc7 and Kc8 Kb8 draws.
ing the cooks. Be7 (5. Kd7 Bf5+) 5. ... Bxh4 6. Bd6 Bg3
7. Be7 and the black king goes to the
queenside to take the b6 pawn and wins.
2. h4 Kh3 3. Bd8!
The try 3. h5? Kg4 4. Bd8 Kxh5 5. Bc7
(see position top of next column)

The solution is same as before. 1. ... Bh2 Bxc7 6. bxc7 allows 6. ... Bd1! and wins.
This is the best try. (1. ... Bd5 2. Bc7
An additional concept Be3 3. Kc8 Bf4 4. Kb8 Be4 5. Ka7 and the
3. ... Kg4

No less noteworthy is the following let
ter from Andrey Chernov of Minnesota A
challenge about the same famous work.
(see second diagram, next column)
White fortress results in a positional draw
while 1. ... Bb1 2. Kc8 Be4 3. Kb8 Bf2 4.
Ka7 is equal.)
2. Bc7 Bxc7
Two drawing lines are 3. ... Bxh4 4. Bc7
Bg3 5. Kc8 Bxc7 6. bxc7 b5 7. Kd7 Bd1
8. Kc6 draws or 3. ... Bd1 4. Kc8 Bf3 5.
h5 Bf4 6. h6 draws.
4. Bc7 Bxc7 5. bxc7 Bc2

48 Chess Life November 2008 uschess.org

 Problem I Problem II
Benkos Bafflers Yochanan Afek, Israel-Holland Velimir Kalandadze, Tbilisi, Georgia
Benko 80 Benko 80

Most of the time these studies

resemble positions that could actu
k+ + + + R +
+ +
ally occur over the board. You must + + + + + +
 p +
simply reach a theoretically won + + + + + + +P+
position for White. Solutions can be + +pP + + + + p
found on page 71. + P + + + + +Pq
Please e mail submissions for + + + + +K+ + p
Benkos Bafflers to: pbenko@ + n + K + + +P+
uschess.org + + + + +k+ + +
White to play and draw White to play and draw

Also drawing is 5. ... Kf5 6. Ke7! Be6 7. A missed draw

h5 Bc8 8. Kd8. Jozsef Foldi
84. Rb6! Kb8 85. Rh6 Ka7 86. Rxh3 Ra3 87.

Jozsef Gonda
Kf4 Rd3 88. Rxg3 Rd8
Can White win? Perhaps there is some
Budapest, 1951
way to give up the pawn at the right
6. Kc8!! b5 7. Kd7 Bf5+ 8. Kd6 b4 9. h5 Kg5

moment to win the rook and bishop vs.

10. h6 Kxh6 11. Ke5 Bc8 12. Kd4, draws.
With these additions to the front and + + + + rook ending. By the way, here is the dia
back ends, this classical endgame can
gram after 88. ... Rd8, reached it seems
start a new life. This last addition resem + + + +
to me more or less by force if I have time
bles a better known positional draw also +l+ k + to continue the game.
on the b file.
+ + + + I answered IM Taylor that the position
is drawn because whenever the white
Safe shelter pK + + + king approaches it is always possible to
L.I. Kubbel 1934
+p+ + R chase it away with checks. Of course, it
is fatal to trade rooks. I had worked this
+ k + + P + +p+ theme out in an artistic endgame some
+  +
l + + + + + years before.
White to play
+ + +P+ P. Benko
+ + + + Sakkelet, 1997 First Prize
Buried bishop
Another positional draw is given in the
p + + + +k+ + +
+ +l+ + next letter from Californian IM Timothy + + K p
Taylor.
This is my game, where I lost on time
P + L + + + + +
+ + K + in what appears to be a winning position. + + + +
White to play and draw But no one can show me how to win,
and I am baffled myself. The computer is + R + +
no help either. I am also including this + + + +
game in my next book.
1. Bb6+ Kd7 2. Ba5 b3 3. Kd2 Bxg6 4. Kc1
And now we have a positional draw. +r+ + +
After 5. Bd2 it is impossible to remove the IM Timothy Taylor (2383)
GM Robert Fontaine (2683)
bishop from the c1 h6 diagonal and after
+ + + +l
trading, the white king cant be chased Las Vegas, Nevada 2006 White to play and draw
away from c1 (it can only be stalemated).
It is useful to get acquainted with such L+ + + +
positional draws, otherwise failures can
1. Rd8+ Kc7 2. Rg8 Rg2 3. Kf7 g5 4. Ke6! g4

occur over the board as happened in this

5. Rg7+ Kc6 6. Rg6! g3 7. Kf5+ Kd7 8. Rg5
kP+ + +
next case:
Rf2+ 9. Kg4 g2 10. Kh3 Rf5 11. Rg7+ Ke6 12.
+R+ + + Kh2 Kf6 13. Rg3 Rg5 14. Rf3+ Ke5 15. Kg1!

+ + +K+ Not 15. Re3+? Kf4 16. Re1 g1=Q+! 17.

Rxg1 Rh5 mate.
(see position top of next column)
White lost after playing 1. Kc4, but a r+ + + +
draw arises after: 15. ... Rf5 16. Rg3, Draw.
+ + + pp
White chased the g7 pawn as far as
g2 to bury the h1 bishop, thereby reach
1. Rxg2!
+ + + +
Not 1. Kc5? a3.
+ + + + ing a positional draw.
Take a look at this months Bafflers for
1. ... Bxg2 2. Kxa4 Bd5 3. Kb4
Now the white king can reach the safe
c1 square with the draw assured.
White to play

Here I lost on time, but intended:

even more positional draws. .
Download a .pgn file at uschess.org.

uschess.org Chess Life November 2008 49

Whats The Best Move?

Composed Endgame Studies

By GM Larry Evans

They look so real 1. White to play and win 2. White to play and win
The beauty of endgame studies is
they look so real, unlike artificial + + + + + + + +
problems requiring mate in a set + + + + kp+ + +
number of moves. 365 Selected
Chess Endings by Norman T.
+ + + + + + + +
Whitaker and Glenn E. Hartleb in
+PK + + + +P+ +
1960 proffered a sparkling gem for + N + + + N + +
each day of the year. The book has + + + + +P+ + +
now been reprinted by Ishi Press
with a colorful new introduction.
+ + kl+ + + + +
Solutions on page 71. + + + + +l+K+ +
(a) b6 (b) Nc6 (c) Kd6 (a) Kc1 (b) Kd2 (c) d6
Readers are invited to send their posi
3. White to play and win 4. White to play and win
tions in for possible consideration in
this column. Send to whatsthebest
move@uschess.org or mail to Chess
+ +L+ + + + + +
Life, c/o Whats The Best Move, PO + +P+ + + +
 P
p +
Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557. + + Knk + + +R+
+ + + + + + + +r
+ + + P + + + +
+ + + + + + + +
+ + + + + + K +
+ + + + + + + +k
(a) Bh7 (b) h5 (c) Ke6 (a) Rg1+ (b) Kg3 (c) Rxg7

World Championship

HELP THE USCF SEND Candidate

GM GATA KAMSKY

OUR OLYMPIAD TEAM leads our Olympiad

team to Dresden!

TO DRESDEN, GERMANY!
In 2006, the U.S. took the bronze medal at the 37th Chess Olympiad in Turin,
Italy. In 2004, the U.S. women took the silver medal at the 36th Chess
Olympiad in Calvia, Spain. We need your support to help the U.S. do even
better at the 38th Chess Olympiad in Dresden, Germany!

How Can I Help?

Send your contribution to:
U.S. Chess Federation, PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557
Attention: Olympiad Donations
Or contribute online at www.uschess.org/webstore/donate-Dresden2008

50 Chess Life November 2008 uschess.org

 USCF Affairs November
Volunteer of the Month:
New Membership Options
Dewain Barber

With the goal of providing our members

The USCF Volunteer of the Month is named by a different member of the executive board
each month. This month, Paul Truong named our honoree, pictured above (middle) with GM
Susan Polgar and the late GM Arnold Denker.
Dewain Barbers dedication to scholas
tic chess is unprecedented. It all began in
1974 after he had been teaching for six
years. Every year he hosts two free chess
tournaments in southern California and
provides trophies. He also is a member of
the scholastic committee and was a mem
ber of the scholastic council helping write
the scholastic regulations.
Dewain is the author of the very pop
ular The Guide To Scholastic Chess. He
was the recipient of the Dondis award
(U.S. Chess Trust), scholastic service
award, and the special services award
from USCF. Just prior to his retirement
from teaching, he received the teacher of
the year award from his district.
In 1984, GM Arnold Denker wanted to
start a high school tournament where
one champion from each state would
attend a tournament to decide who would
be the champion of champions. Dewain
was asked to make this tournament pos
sible. Nearly 25 years later, this
tournament is still going strong.
In 2003, he was asked to do something
similar for girls. Once again, he came
PHOTO: COURTESY OF PAUL TRUONG
through and co founded the Susan Polgar
National Invitational for Girls with GM
Susan Polgar. This tournament also invites
one girl from each state along with winners
of selected qualifying tournaments.
This tournament has revolutionized
girls chess in America and it has clearly
become the most prestigious all girls
championship in this country.
He currently serves as the chairman for
both the Polgar and Denker committees.
He also organizes these two events and
provides medallions and other prizes to
the participants.
Through his love and passion for
scholastic chess, and his commitment to
the Denker and Polgar events, more than
a million dollars in scholarships and
prizes have been awarded to young,
deserving, and talented young chess play
ers across the country.
On behalf of our chess community,
especially the countless young players
who have benefited by his commitment to
scholastic chess, I would like to sincerely
thank him for everything he has given to
our game. ~Paul Truong
maximum choice, the USCF is now offer
ing new membership options. These
categories will enhance your member
ship benefits.
You are now able to join the USCF as
either a Premium or Regular mem
ber. Premium membership provides all
of the benefits of Regular membership,
but you will also receive a printed copy of
Chess Life (or Chess Life for Kids), just like
current members always have received.
Regular membership provides all the
benefits you are used to: Playing rated
events, receiving a USCF rating, and
access to members only content on
uschess.org. However, it also allows you
to receive online access rather than a
printed copy of Chess Life (or Chess Life
for Kids for Regular scholastic members).
Chess Life has been available online
since 2006 and Chess Life for Kids for
the last few months. In addition to the
online version you are used to, we have
begun to offer .pdf downloads of the
magazines. These .pdf files will include
all pages in the magazine, including
advertisements, that are not currently
available in the html (web) versions.
Adobe Acrobat offers a free download of
a reader that will allow you to read .pdf
files at adobe.com/products/acrobat/
readstep2. html.
To see all of your membership options,
please see the ad on page 5 of this issue
or visit our uschess.org webstore by click
ing on the Join/Renew link at the top
right of the home page. To view the online
versions of Chess Life, click on the Chess
Life Magazine link on the left side of the
home page. To view the online version of
Chess Life for Kids, click on the Scholas
tic/College link on the left side of the
home page, then the Chess Life for Kids
link on the left side of the page.
The USCF is committed to keeping up
with evolving technological changes and
enhancing your membership by providing
the new Regular and Premium member
ships as a key component of this
commitment.

The USCF Mission

USCF is a not-for-profit membership organization devoted to extend-
ing the role of chess in American society. USCF promotes the study
and knowledge of the game of chess, for its own sake as an art and
enjoyment, but also as a means for the improvement of society. It
informs, educates, and fosters the development of players (profes-
sional and amateur) and potential players. It encourages the
development of a network of institutions devoted to enhancing the
growth of chess, from local clubs to state and regional associations,
and it promotes chess in American society. To these ends, USCF offers
a monthly magazine, as well as targeted publications to its mem-
bers and others. It supervises the organization of the U.S. Chess
Championship, an open tournament held every summer, and other
national events. It offers a wide range of books and services to its
members and others at prices consistent with the benefits of its mem-
bers. USCF serves as the governing body for chess in the United States
and as a participant in international chess organizations and
projects. It is structured to ensure effective democratic procedures
in accord with its bylaws and laws of the state of Illinois.

uschess.org Chess Life November 2008 51

 2008 WORLD CHESS LIVE GRAND PRIX SUMMARY
World Chess Live sponsors $20,000 at the 2008 Grand Prix!

Welcome,
Welcome to World Chess Live (WCL), a new family-
friendly service with special benefits for USCF members.
WCL is pleased to sponsor USCFs 2008 Grand Prix (GP)
and 2008 Junior Grand Prix. Were providing prize funds
of $20,000 and $7,500 (in cash, merchandise, and mem-
berships), and will also be running online grand prize
satellite events throughout the year.
As long as Ive been writing these blurbs, Julio Becerra
has always been ranked somewhere around the middle
of the pack. It was as if the Grand Prix were a giant game
of Candy Land and Becerra was stuck in the Molasses
Members!
he was ranked behind GMs Ivanov, Kudrin, Erenburg, and
Paragua, the Floridian fighter has seen the end of a
long layover in the doldrums. Hes emerged to take a
whopping ten-and-a-half point lead!
Why has Becerra been a sleeper so long? Although
he has consistently been ranked in the top 10, one
could count his tournament victories on a single
hand. Becerras apparent inactivity on the Grand
Prix list put him safely under the radar. Back in
March, Becerra won more Grand Prix points than
there are feathers on a turkey by winning Foxwoods;
that, he dropped out of Grand Prix action almost
completely.
To date, Becerra still has only won Grand Prix points in
five tournaments! For comparison, Ivanov, now #2 on
the Grand Prix list, has won points in nine events spread
throughout the course of the year. New Yorker IM Alex
Lenderman, who surged from #9 to #6 this month,
has won points in a whopping eighteen events.
Be sure to check for live updates on the Grand Prix stand-
ings at www.uschess.org/datapage/GP-standings.php

~Jonathan Hilton
Swamp. Yet Becerra has proved to be the great sleeper he then won a cornucopia of points at a qualifier for as GMs Ivanov and Kudrin make their plays to push
of the Grand Prix top 10 this year. Although last month the U.S. Championship later that month. But after Becerra out of the top spot

2008 WORLD CHESS LIVE GRAND PRIX STANDINGS

The following point totals reflect all rated event information as of September 23 for the 2008 World Chess Live Grand Prix. All Grand Prix updates are unofficial and subject
to change during the year or until year-end tabulation is complete.

OVERALL STANDINGS JUNIOR CATEGORIES

NAME STATE PTS. NAME STATE PTS.
Players born between 1985 and 1987 inclusive:
2 GM Alexander Ivanov MA 166.68 1 IM Kirill Kuderinov TX 90.11
3 GM Sergey Kudrin CT 160.54 2 GM Hikaru Nakamura NY 66.71
3 IM Joshua Friedel NH 58.50
4 GM Sergey Erenburg MD 150.54
5 GM Mark Paragua NY 141.63 Players born between 1988 and 1990 inclusive:
6 IM Alex Lenderman NY 139.26 1 IM Alex Lenderman NY 139.26
2 GM Alejandro Ramirez TX 91.00
7 GM Alex Yermolinsky SD 136.96
3 Maxx Coleman KS 41.00
8 GM Alexander Shabalov PA 135.18
9 GM Melikset Khachiyan CA 113.75 Players born between 1991 and 1992 inclusive:
1 FM Daniel Yeager PA 41.66
10 IM Enrico Sevillano CA 102.58
2 IM Robert Hess NY 36.80
11 IM Jay Bonin NY 98.14
3 Warren Harper TX 36.00
12 GM Alexander Stripunsky NY 96.58
Players born between 1993 and 1994 inclusive:
1 FM Ray Robson FL 73.26
2 Mark Heimann PA 43.50
SENIOR CATEGORY 3 Steven Zierk CA 26.25
Players born 1943 and before: Players born 1995 and after:
1 GM Anatoly Lein OH 18.33 1 FM Daniel Naroditsky CA 26.25
2 FM John Curdo MA 18.00 2-3 Aquino Inigo CAN 10.00
GM Julio Becerra has vaulted to the top
3 FM Alex Dunne PA 10.00 2-3 Stuart Finney RI 10.00
spot despite winning Grand Prix points
in only five tournaments.

CATEGORIES AND PRIZES

$12,000 IN CASH PRIZES! SENIOR CATEGORY $7,500 IN JUNIOR GRAND PRIX PRIZES!
FIRST PRIZE: $5,000 ! 1943 / before 1st: $300 2nd: $200 3rd: $100 FIRST PRIZE: $1,000 !
2nd: $2,500 3rd: $1,000 4th: $800 2nd: $600 3rd: $300 4th: $200
5th: $700 6th: $600 7th: $500 JUNIOR CATEGORIES 5th: $150 6th: $100 7th: $75
(according to date of birth)
8th : $400 9th: $300 10th: $200 8th : $50 9th: $25
1985-87 1st: $250 2nd: $150 3rd: $100
1988-90 1st: $250 2nd: $150 3rd: $100 The first place JGP winner will also receive U.S. Open entry and
$4,000 IN MERCHANDISE PRIZES! a plaque from the USCF. 1st 10th place winners will receive 2 year
PHOTO: BETSY DYNAKO

1991-92 1st: $250 2nd: $150 3rd: $100 WCL junior and USCF Young Adult memberships; 11th 20th place
11th: $200 13th: $200 15th: $150 1993-94 1st: $250 2nd: $150 3rd: $100 winners will receive 1 year WCL junior and USCF Young Adult
12th: $200 14th: $150 1995/after 1st: $250 2nd: $150 3rd: $100 memberships. Each state JGP winner will receive 1 year WCL
junior and USCF Young Adult memberships and a $20 WCL store
Top 40 non titled players: 1 year WCL membership worth $50. For all of the above junior categories: 1st place is also awarded a gift certificate.
(FIDE titled players are always free on WCL) 3 year WCL junior membership ($75 value); 2nd 5th places are
awarded a 2 year WCL junior membership ($50 value); 6th 10th
places awarded 1 year WCL junior memberships ($25 value).

www.worldchesslive.com Real chess. Real people. Real fun!

 World Chess Live, a new family-friendly online chess service, is sponsor of the 2008 World Chess Live Junior Grand
Prix (JGP). Official standings for events received and processed by October 1, 2008 are unofficial and subject to change
during the year or until year-end tabulation is complete. There are currently 4,469 players with JGP points. 363 JGP
events resulted in points earned. Top prize includes free entry and $1,000 in expense money to the 2009 U.S. Open as
well as a plaque. Other prizes awarded to the top 20 finishers and the top individual in each state.

2008 World Chess Live

Junior Grand Prix Top Overall Standings

Name State JGP Pts. Name State JGP Pts.

HUTTON, JACK NY 135 HELLWIG, LUKE AL 100
GIANNATOS, PETER NC 135 MC CLANAHAN, GAVIN JACOB IL 100
ZHAO, SHICHENG VA 135 HARMON-VELLOTTI, LUKE ID 100
PENA, JOEL ANTHONY U NJ 135 CHILLAKANTI, KARTIK CA-N 100
HEUNG, CHRISTOPHER FL 130 AMARASINGHE, PRASHANTHA N MI 100
PINKERTON, JAMES CARL MD 125 HALL, ROBERT MI 95
DEJONG, ANDREW NC 125 KLEINMUNTZ, ROBBIE S IL 95
SHEINWALD, NOWELL R NY 120 PAPALIA, STEVEN A UT 95
CHEN, JEREMY NJ 115 SREENIVASAN, RAMANUJA MD 95
VIRKUD, APURVA MI 115 GUREVICH, DANIEL GA 95
BODEK, MICHAEL H NY 110 CHIANG, MICHAEL NY 95
GRAIF, WILLIAM NY 110 DANG, MICHAEL MI 95
CACHAY, JOHN JEFFERSON CA-S 110 WEINER, ALEX AL 95
LI, BRIAN S VA 110 OSMULSKI, MAX NJ 95
LARSON, ERIC DANIEL MI 105 KUTIKOFF, ADAM FL 95
SCHNEIDER, THOMAS GEORGE WI 105 MALHOTRA, AKSHAY TX 90
SINGH, REVA SHREE NY 105 SCHILLEMAN, ANDREW MI 90
ROSENTHAL, NICHOLAS FL 105 CLAYTON, RYAN DANIEL OH 90
FISHER, WILLIAM PA 105 CHINCHWADKAR, OJAS G CA-N 90
MOST, ERIC M VA 100 BAT-AMGALAN, MARAL CA-N 90

A new family-friendly online

chess service from the Internet
Chess Club, is pleased to
welcome our friends from
the U.S. Chess Federation.

To celebrate its launch, this year WCL will be:

Sponsoring the USCFs 2008 Grand Prix and Junior Grand Prix
Running weekly and monthly Online Grand Prix tournaments
Giving every USCF member a free six-month subscription to WCL
And more...

For details, go to www.worldchesslive.com/uscf

uschess.org Chess Life November 2008 53

 Tournament Life

TheTournament Announcements on the following pages are provided

for the convenience of USCF members and for informational pur-
poses only. Unless expressly indicated otherwise, neither the U.S.
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING NOVEMBER 1-14

Chess Federation nor Chess Life warrants the accuracy of anything

USCF National Events 2012 National Elementary (K-6) contained in these Tournament Announcements. Those interested

May 11 13 Nashville, Tennessee

See TLA in this issue for details:
2008 National Scholastic K-12
Championship in additional information about or having questions concerning any
of these tournaments are directed to contact the organizer listed.
Chess Life will exercise all due diligence in providing accurate
2015 National Elementary (K-6) typesetting of non-camera-ready copy but assumes no responsibil-
ity for errors made in such work.
May 8 10 Nashville, Tennessee
Championship

December 12 14 Kissimmee,
Championship SUBMISSIONS: If possible e-mail your tla to: tla@uschess.org
(Joan DuBois). For tla deadline schedule, formatting help and Grand
Florida
Noote: Organizers previously awarded options for Prix information see October 2008 pg. 52-53 or check
USCF National Events must still submit proposals www.uschess.org/tla/grprixstdarc.php and click on a WCL GP Sum-
mary. Payment can be done online through the TD/Affiliate area or
2008 Pan American Intercollegiate (including sample budgets) for their events. sent to: U.S. Chess, TLA Dept., PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557.

December 27 30 Ft. Worth, Texas

Chess Tournament
Bids on the following tournaments are
Overdue Bids
Nationals
All tournaments listed in Tournament Life are USCF
World Amateur Team & U.S. Team past deadline and will be considered rated. USCF MEMBERSHIP IS REQUIRED FOR ALL
immediately: EVENTS. If not a member, add dues to advance
February 14 16 Parsippany, New
East - 39th Annual
2008 U.S. Masters entry fee or pay them with entry at site.
Jersey 2009 U.S. Amateur Team (West) Dec. 12-14, Florida

2009 U.S. Amateur (South, North,

2008 National Scholastic K-12 Championship

April 3 5 Nashville, Tennessee East)

2009 SuperNationals IV 7SS, G/90. Disneys Coronado Springs Resort, 1000 W. Buena Vista Drive, Lake

2009 U.S. Senior Open

Buena Vista, FL 32830. 407-939-1020 or 407-939-1000 and ask for the chess
rate ($120). 13 Sections (No collegiate section). Play only in your grade sec-

Future Events (Watch for details) 2009 U.S. Junior Open & Closed
tion. December rating supplement will be used. 1/2- point bye available any
round (except round seven) if requested in advance of rd. 1. Zero point byes
available for any round if requested prior to pairings. Team score = total of

Feb. 14 15 Waukesha, Wisconsin 2009 U.S. G/15 (QC)

2009 U.S. Amateur Team - North Bids due by Dec. 1, 2008: top three (minimum two) finishers from each school per grade, first place indi-
vidual and team, including ties, will be National Champion for their grade.

2009 U.S. Action G/30

Schedule: Opening ceremony Fri. 12:30 pm. Rds.: Fri. 1 pm-6 pm, Sat. 10 am-

Feb. 13 15 or 14 15 Orlando, 2009 U.S. G/60

2009 U.S. Amateur Team - South 2 pm-6 pm, Sun. 9 am-1 pm. Awards Ceremony Sun., Approx. 5 pm. Special round
times for K-1 sections: Fri. 1:30 pm-5:30 pm, Sat. 9:30 am-1:30 pm-5:30 pm,

Florida 2009 U.S. Masters

Sun. 9:30 am-1:30 pm. Awards Ceremony Sun Approx. 4:30 pm for K-1 EF:

2009 U.S. Class Championships

$40/participant (postmarked by 11/14), $60/participant (postmarked by
11/28), $75 later or $80 at site, $5.00 extra for all phone registrations, $20

Feb. 28 Mar. 1 Anderson, Indiana 2009 National Youth Action

2009 U.S. Junior Chess Congress change fee for roster or section changes after 11/14 or any onsite changes.

2009 Pan Am Intercollegiate

Onsite registration Thurs. 9 am-10 pm & Fri. 8 am-noon. After 10 am players
may not be paired for round 1. Awards: Trophies to top 10 individuals & top

May 23 25 Tucson, Arizona 2009 Collegiate Final Four

2009 U.S. Amateur - West five teams (minimum) in each grade. Class prizes: 1st-3rd place K-3: 800-999,
600-799, U600, Unr. 4-6: 1000-1199, 800-999, 600-799, U600 Unr. 7-9: 1200-
1399, 1000-1199, 800-999, U800, Unr. 10-12: 1400-1599, 1200-1399, 1000-1199,

June 4 7 Las Vegas, Nevada

2009 National Open
2010 U.S. Open*
Bids due by Dec. 15, 2008: U1000, Unr. Every player receives a commemorative item! Side Events: Bug-
house: Thurs. 11 am, Reg. onsite only Thurs. 9 am-10 am, $25/team. Blitz

July 6 10 Crossville, Tennessee

Sections: K-6 and K-12, Thurs. 5 pm, Reg. onsite until 4 pm. Blitz EF: Onsite
2009 U.S. Cadet - $20; Advance/online entry: $15. Blitz Awards: Trophies in K-6 and K-12 sec-

2011 U.S. Open*

Bids due by June 15, 2009: tions. Individual: TBA, Team: 1st-15th place. K-6 Class: 1000-1199, 800-999,
2009 Tournament of College 600-799, U600 Unr. K-12 Class: 1400-1599, 1200-1399, 1000-1199, U1000, Unr.
Bughouse Awards:Trophies for Bughouse,TBA. Team Rooms are limited. Con-

August 1 3 Indianapolis, Indiana

Champions tact Cheryle Bruce 931-787-1234 ext.147. Hotel info: disneyworld.disney.go.com/

Please contact the National Office if

Bidding Deadlines wdw/resorts/resortLanding?id=CoronadoSpringsResortLandingPage Ques-

you are interested in bidding for a

tions: Cheryle Bruce: 931-787-1234 ext. 147, Email: cbruce@uschess.org or

December 11 13 Dallas, Texas

2009 National Scholastic K-12 Ent: U.S. Chess, Attn.: K-12 Championship, P.O. Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557

National Event. The USCF recommends

or online at https://secure.uschess.org/webstore/tournament.php. Web-

that bids be submitted according to

site: main.uschess.org/tournaments/2008/k12/. WCL JGP.
2010 National Elementary (K-6)
the following schedule. However, bids
Dec. 27-30, Texas

May 7 9 Atlanta, Georgia

Championship 2008 Pan American Intercollegiate Chess Tournament

may be considered prior to these dates.

Location: DFW Airport Marriott South, 4151 Centreport Blvd, Fort Worth,
Texas, 76155. HR: $79/79/79/79. marriott.com/dfwam?groupCode=panpana&
2011 National Elementary (K-6) app=resvlink, or call 800-228-9290 reserve by 12/5 (or rate could go up) and

*USCF reserves the right to decline all

May 6 8 Dallas, Texas
Championship ask for Pan American Intercollegiate Chess rate. Free Parking. Tournament

bids and organize the event itself.

Tournament memberships not valid for National events
Junior Tournament Memberships (JTMs) Available
USCFs Tournament Membership (TM) program, which allows players the option of joining for only
one event at a greatly reduced rate, has been modified. Junior TMs for age 24 or below may be
Dates: December 27-30, 2008. Intercollegiate Tournament Format: 4 Player
Teams, up to 2 Alternates, traditional 6 round Swiss Tournament, Game/120
with a 30 second increment. Coach/captain must hand in proposed team ros-
ter changes one hour before the beginning of the round. Rounds: Rd. 1: 12/27
6 pm, Rd. 2: 12/28 10 am, Rd. 3: 5 pm, Rd 4: 12/29 10 am, Rd 5: 5 pm, and
Rd 6: 12/30 9 am. Open to: College and University teams (at least two Play-
ers) from North and South America including the Caribbean. Teams must
supply letter from University stating that the players meet eligibility require-
ments. Entry Fees: Priority Registration by December 2, 2008 - $200 per
team. After December 2, 2008 $225 per team. Prizes: 1st place team =
$1250, 2nd place team = $750, 3rd place team = $600, 4th place team = $400,
5th place team = $250, Top InternationalTeam = $500, Top 4 boards = $100
each. Team Trophies: Division I Champion 2200 and above, Division II Champ

purchased from affiliates and are now available to them for $7 online with rating report submis
2000-2199, Division III Champion 1800-1999, Division IV Champion Under

sions. They include one issue of Chess Life or Chess Life for Kids, and $5 of this fee may be applied
1800, Top 5 teams, Top 3 International Teams, Top four Boards, and Top Alter-

to a full membership within 60 days. JTMs not valid for National events.
nate.Tournament is Fide Rated but uses USCF rules. For Additional information

Many scholastic tournaments exist that are not USCF rated, and the USCF is concerned that the
or online registration go to: www.swchess.com or contact Barbara Swafford,
214-632-9000, info@dallaschess.com Ent: Dallas Chess Club, C/O Barbara
reason is that organizers fear losing players unwilling or unable to pay entry fee plus dues of $17
Swafford, 2709 Longhorn Trail, Crowley, TX 76036. NS NC W FIDE. WCL JGP.

(Scholastic), $19 (Youth), or $25 (Young Adult). The availability of a $7 option should cause some Feb. 14-16, New Jersey
of these events to switch to being USCF rated, promoting membership. The idea behind the TMs
World Amateur Team & U.S. Team East
is not to sign up a lot of them, but rather to cause more USCF rated tournaments to be held.
39th Annual Celebrate the 60s!

More details on uschess.org.

6SS, 40/2, SD/1. Parsippany Hilton, 1 Hilton Ct., Parsippany, N.J. 07054. Chess
Rate valid until 1/16. Reserve early 973-267-7373 or 1- 800-HILTONS. Mor-

Beginning in 2007 with the February rating List, the rating supplements will be
ris/Essex train to Morris Plains 1.5 miles. Open to 4- player teams with one

updated EACH MONTH on the USCF website, and each monthly rating supplement will
optional alternate. Team average (4 highest ratings2008 Annual Rating list)

be used for all tournaments beginning in that month, unless otherwise announced in
must be under 2200, no more than 1000 points between 3rd & 4th board if team

Chess Life.
average over 2000. EF: $140 postmarked by 2/5/09. $180 after or at door.
all teams, any changes at site $25 charge. Check out official website www.nj

The USCF website at www.uschess.org also frequently lists unofficial ratings.The pur-
scf.org. Prizes: 1-5th Place teams, plaque and 4 digital clocks; Top Team

pose of unofficial ratings is to inform you of your progress; however, most

(Denis Barry Award) U2100, 2000, 1900, 1800, 1700, 1600, 1500, 1400,

tournaments do not use them for pairing or prize purposes. If you would otherwise be
1300, 1200, 1000 each plaque and 4 Digital Clocks; Top college team (same

unrated, organizers may use your unofficial rating at their discretion, even without
school) 4 Digital Clocks & plaque; Top HS team (grades 9-12 same school),

advance publicity of such a policy.

Top Middle School (grades 5-9 same school), Top Elementary School (grades
K-6 same school), Top 2 Scholastic Teams (mixed schools okay) (Collins

54 Chess Life November 2008 uschess.org

 Tournament Life

Award), Mixed Doubles (2 males, 2 females-no alternates), Seniors (all play-
ers over age 50), Military, each plaque & 4 Digital Clocks to top team;
CompanyTeam (same employer) Old Timers Trophy (all players over 65), Fam-
ily (4 family members), State teamsCT, DE, MD, MA, NJ, NY, (Benjamin
Award), PA, VA, NC, Canada, Ethel Collins Perseverance (lowest scoring
scholastic) each plaque top team; Best Player 1-4 and top alternate, All 6-
0 scores each Digital clock. Biggest Individual upset each round Engraved Cross
pen; Entry fee refunded to team with Best Chess related name, Sunday
night Best Chess Related costumes or gimmick1960s themegour- 4SS, Rd. 1-3: G/45, Rd. 4: G/60. Main Place Mall Upper Level, 390 Main Street,
met dinner for four. Reg. 9-12 Sat 2/14. Rds. 1-7:30, 11-6, 9-3:30. Special
Events!! Surprises and special give-aways each round. Sunday night
Bughouse $20 per team-cash prizes, Sunday Morning 960 Tournament
8AM-Two Person team event $20 per teamprizes per entries. HR: Parsip-
pany Hilton, chess rates expire 1/16/2009. Rates $117 (up to 4 in room) 2nd
hotel now attached to Hilton also up to 4 in room $112 per night-Hampton Inn
-includes breakfast for 4 each day. For help forming teams and more information
contact esdoyle@aol.com: Chks payable to NJSCF, mail by 2/01 to: E.Steven
Doyle, 17 Stonehenge Road, Morristown, NJ 07960. (Include Team name,
Captain, players full names, USCF Expiration, ID numbers and ratings in board
order). Include SASE for confirmation if wanted, No registered or certified mail
easiest & cheapest transportation from Cincinnati Airport. Ent: Continental
Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills NY 12577. Questions: 845-496-9658. $10 serv-
ice charge for refunds. Advance entries will be posted at chesstour.com. WCL
JGP.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
Nov. 15, New York
Buffalo Kellogg Leadership for Community Change Monthly Grand
Prix - Every 3rd Saturday
U2200/unr. $100. FIDE. Under 2000. $$ 200-100, U1800 $100, $100 unr. prize
Buffalo, NY 14202. Food Court has several vendors available during Mall Oper-
ation. EF: $50.00. No checks or credit cards onsite. $$GTD: $250-150.00.
U1750 $80.00, GUARANTEED. Reg.: 8:15AM AND 9AM. $40.00 If postmarked
no later than 7 days prior to the start of the tournament. Rds.: RD1: 9:30AM,
RD2:11:15AM, RD3:1PM AND FINALS, RD4:2:45PM G/60. One half byes avail-
able if directed to tournament director by the prior round. Chess gear &
supplies available for purchase by Sophia Lynn. Ent: Archangel 8 Chess Acad-
emy. No phone entries. Email: arcangel8chess@yahoo.com. INFO: Mc Duffie
Chess Ambassador. Advanced entries greatly appreciated! Canadians
Welcomed! NS NC W.
Info: Scott Parker, 770-939-5030, president@georgiachess.org, www.georgia
chess.org. WCL JGP.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced)
Nov. 22-23 or 23, New York
What A Turkey Open!
4-SS, 30/90, SD/1, Chess Center at the Marshall Club, 23 W 10 St, bet. 5th-6th
Ave, NYC: 845-569-9969. $$ 1,200 b/60 paid entries, minimum half each prize
Gtd. May be limited to 1st 62 entries! 2 sections, Open. $$ 400-200-100,
limit. Both, EF: $45, Club membs $30, GMs free ($25 from prize), specified
Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. Online entry at www.chesscenter.cc
thru 11/20. 2 options: 2-Day, rds 12:30-5:30 pm each day; 1-day (rds 1-2 G/30),
10-11:15 am-12:30-5:30 pm Sun., merge rd 3. 2 byes max, commit by rd 2. Reg.
ends 15 min. before game. Re-entry $20, counts half. Foreign unr. must enter
Open. CCA Ratings may be used. EF $10 extra by phone! WCL JGP.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
Nov. 23, New York
Cordiscos Chess Center Monthly Open
4 Round SS, Time control G/60. Reg.: 8:45 AM to 9:30 AM. Entry: $30/$35 at

World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 20 (enhanced)

accepted. NS, NC, W.
Apr. 3-5, Tennessee
SuperNationals IV
2009 Elementary, Junior High and High School National Championships in one
great event! 7SS, G/120 (K-1 G/90), Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention
Center, 2802 Opryland Dr., Nashville, TN 37214. (615) 883-2211 HR: $139 sin-
gle-quad. All under one roof! $50,000 in Cash Scholarships!! 20 Sections
(Select only one): High School: K-12 Championship; K-12 U1600; K-12 U1200;
K-12 U800; K-12 Unrated. Junior High: K-9 Championship; K-8 Championship;
K-9 U1250; K-8 U1000; K-8 U750; K-9 Unrated. Elementary: K-6 Champi-
onship; K-5 Championship; K-6 U1000; K-5 U900; K-3 Championship; K-3 U800;
K-1 Championship; K-6 Unrated; K-3 Unrated. EF: $40 postmarked, faxed or
Nov. 15-16, New Hampshire
Southern New Hampshire Open
Best Western Executive Court Inn, 13500 S. Willow Street, Manchester, NH
03103. In 2 Sections, Open: 5SS, GAME/110 + 10 Sec. FIDE rated. $$GTD: $500-
250. U2250 $150, U2000 $150. U1750: 5SS, GAME/110 + 10 Sec. Open to 1750
& under. $$GTD: $400-200. U1500 $100, U1250 $100. ALL: EF: $50 in advance,
$55 at site. Reg.: Registration 9:00-9:45. Advance entries must be postmarked
by 11/9/2008. Rds.: 10-2:30-7, 9-2. Unrated may only win 50% of place prizes
in U1750. ENT: Alex Relyea, 49 Technology Dr. #89, Bedford, NH 03110. INFO:
Alex Relyea relyea@operamail.com. HR: $89.99 877-627-2525. www.rely
eachess.com. FIDE NS W. WCL JGP.
site. (checks payable to Cordiscos Corner Store) Rounds: 9:45-12:15-2:45-5:15.
Prizes: 1st $200 - 2nd $100 - 3rd $50 !!!GUARANTEED!!!!! Limited to first 20
entries. Please bring sets and clocks. Cordiscos Chess Center. 308 Chenango
St. (corner Robinson & Chenango Sts.), Binghamton, NY 13901 (607)772-8782.
jcordisco@stny.rr.com.
A Heritage Event!
An American Classic!
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 80
Nov. 27-30, California Southern
44th Annual American Open
8SS, 40/2, SD/1. LAX Renaissance Hotel, 9620 Airport Bl, Los Angeles, CA 90045.
$$36,000 b/o 400 entries, 50% of each prize gtd. In 6 sections (Unr. must play

World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 20

online by 3/5, $60 postmarked, faxed or online by 3/19, $75 after 3/19, $80
on site. DO NOT mail entries after March 19 they may not be received in time.
$5 extra for all phoned registrations. $20 change fee for roster or section
changes after March 19. USCF membership is required (may be paid with entry).
AWARDS: Trophies awarded in accordance with Scholastic Regulations and
based on number of participants. Team score = total of top four (min. two)
finishers from each section. March 2009 rating supplement will be used.
BYES: One 1/2 pt. bye available in rounds 1-6 if requested prior to 10am, Fri
(4/3). On site entries after 10am, Fri 4/3 will receive a 1/2-point bye for
the first round. SCHEDULE: Rounds 1-2: Friday (4/3) 1:00pm & 7:00pm,
Rounds 3-5: Saturday (4/4) 9:00am, 2:00pm, & 7:00pm, Rounds 6-7 (4/5)
9:00am, & 2:00pm. Main Event Awards Ceremonies, Sunday (4/5); K-1 at
approximately 5pm, all others approximately 7pm. SIDE EVENTS: Bughouse
Championships:Thursday, 4/3, 11:00am, Register ON SITE ONLY by 10:00am.
EF: $20 per team/2. Blitz Championship:Thursday, 4/2, 5:00pm, register online
or on site by 4:00pm. EF $20. Please refer to the website: www.Super
NationalsIV.com for updated schedule details, Simuls, lectures, and other activ-
ities. Advance entries must include players name/information and all fees to
be accepted. Roster changes are considered new entries and will be
charged according to date received. List name, address, phone, section,
grade, school (even if no team), coachs name, email, birthdate, USCF ID num-
ber, USCF expiration (enclose USCF dues if necessary) and rating. Players must
Nov. 15-16, Virginia
13th Annual Northern Virginia Open
5SS, Rds 1-3 G/2, rds 4-5 30/90 SD/1. $$2,100 (Top 3 G) B/80. New Loca-
tion: Hotel Sierra, 45520 Dulles Plaza, Sterling, VA 20166. www.hotel-sierra.com
luxurious single and double suites. 20 Reserved Single Suites available by Oct
21 at $99. Doubles are great for families! Contact hotel at 703-435-9002 or 1-
800.4.SIERRA (Be sure to ask for Virginia Chess rates) or lauren.osburn@
hotel-sierra.com or book it online at stay.hotel-sierra.com/?id=VIR Near
Dulles Airport. Wonderful new playing site! See tournament website for direc-
tions and more information. Open: $575-300-200 (G);Top X/A-Unr/B/C/D each
$175, Top U1200 $150, Reg.: Saturday Nov 3: 8:30 am-9:45am. Rounds: Sat
10-230-7, Sunday 10-3:30p. One 1/2 pt bye allowed, must commit to byes before
Rd 1, and are irrevocable after play starts. EF: $45 if recd by Nov 8th, $55 at
site. Ent: Michael Atkins, PO Box 6138 (yes 6138!), Alexandria VA 22306.
Make checks to: Virginia Chess. Email: matkins2@cox.net, but NO e-
mail entries, just information Web: www.vachess.org/nova.htm. W, NS, FIDE.
WCL JGP.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 (enhanced)
Nov. 18, New York
St. Johns Masters at the Marshall Chess Club
4SS, G/30.ThirdTues. of every month. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. Open
in Unr. or Open). Open: $3600-1800-800-600-500-400, U2450/Unr. $800-400,
U2300/Unr. $600-300. U2200, U2000, U1800: Each $3000-1500-700-300.
U1600 $2400-1200-500-300. U1400/Unr: $2000-1000-500, U1200 $900-450 (not
a separate section; U1200s also eligible for U1400 prizes), Unrated: $300-150
(Unrateds in this section eligible for these prizes only). Special prizes $1400
in memory of Joyce Jillson: Best tactical games 200-100, best positional
games 200-100, best tactical game non-Master 200, biggest rating gain by
woman 400, biggest rating gain under age 13 200 (established ratings over
1000). EF: Open, U2200, U2000, U1800, U1600, U1400 $120 if recd by 11/25,
$50 more for players rated under 2000 playing in Open, Unrated $40. All: $30
more at door. SCCF membership reqd, $18, $10 jrs under 19 includes Rank &
File magazine, OSA. No checks at door cash, credit card or money order only.
4-day schedule: Reg. closes noon 11/27, Rds. 12:30-7:30, 12:30-7:30, 10:30-
5, 10-4:30. 3-day schedule: Reg. closes 11:30 a.m. 11/28, Rds. 12-2:30-5-8
(G/1), schedules merge in Rd 5 and compete for common prizes. Byes (2
max) with advance notice. CCA minimum ratings andTD discretion used to pro-
tect you from improperly rated players. November Rating Supplement used. Lec-
tures and videos. HR: $99, (310) 337-2800, mention chess. Parking only $6. Info:
NTD Randy Hough (626) 282-7412, randallhough@yahoo.com. Ent: American
Open, PO Box 205, Monterey Park, CA 91754 or www.americanopen.org. NS,
W, F. WCL JGP.
A State Championship Event!

World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15

be eligible to play in accordance with USCF Scholastic Regulations. Entries may
be faxed to: 931-787-1238. Mail Entries To: 2009 SuperNationals IV, P. O. Box
3967, Crossville, TN 38557. Enter online at: www.uschess.org. WCL JGP.
Grand Prix
A Heritage Event!
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 20
Nov. 8-9, Oklahoma
OCF Championship - 63rd Jerry Spann Memorial
5-SS, G/90 + 30 sec, $$G 1,700. Quality Inn, 2515 W. 6th Ave (Hwy 51), Still-
water, OK 1-405-372-0800 HR: $60-60-60. Wi-Fi, EF: $25 reserve, $40 Open,
$10 more at site. OCF $10. Two Sections: FIDE Open: Gtd 1st 500, 300, 200 A:
to players rated over 2100 (plus all players scoring 2.5 or more at any CCNY Nov. 28-30, Louisiana
at MCCThursday 4 Rated GamesTonight! since the prior months SJM) EF: $40,
members $30, GMs $10 (returned on completion of tournament). For each event, 2008 Louisiana State Championship
money added to prize fund by the sponsors, St. Johns University, and other gen- (Gustav-free Edition!) 7-SS, G/150 (Rnd. 1: G/2). Site: Hilton New Orleans Air-
erous patrons. Top three prizes guaranteed. $$G 300-200-100. Top U2400 and port, 901 Airline Dr., Kenner, LA 70062. EF: $80 if mailed by 11/19, $90 at site.
Top U2300 prizes. Special prize for biggest upset. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7-8:15-
9:30-10:45pm. One bye available, rds 1 and 4 only; declare at registration.
LCA Memb. reqd ($10 Adult, $5 Schol.), OSA. Prizes: $4500 b/100, 50% Gtd.
One Section: Open: $800-450-250, U2000: $450-250; U1800: $400-250; U1600:
$400-200; U1400: $350-200; U1200/Unr.: $350-$150. Reg.: Fri. 11/28, 8-9 AM.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced)
Nov. 20, New York
Rds.: Fri.: 9:30-2-7:30, Sat.: 10-6, Sun.: 9:00-3:00. Business meeting: Sat.
11/29, 3:30 PM. HR: (800)872-5914, $79 single/double, $89 triple/quad
10 Grand Prix Points Tonight!
reserve by 11/7, ask for Louisiana Chess Association rate. Ent/Info: Adam
4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at the Marshall Club, 23 West 10 St, bet. 5-6 Ave, NYC:
Caveney, 1301 Gen. Taylor St., New Orleans, LA 70115, cb20234@yahoo.com,
212-477-3716. EF: $35, Club membs $25, GMs free ($20 from prize), specified
(504) 895-4133 (evenings), (504) 615-6730 (on day of tourney). NS, NC. WCL
Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$560 b/32 paid entries (may be lim-
JGP.
ited to 1st 36 to enter), top 2 Gtd: $$ 200-110-50, Top U2200/unr $105, U2000

World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30

$200 B: $200 Reserve: U-1600 Gtd 1st $200, 100, Class $ per entries; Reg.: $95. Limit 2 byes (1 bye for U2000), commit by 8:15. Reentry $15. CCA ratings Nov. 28-30, Michigan
9-9:45am. Rds at 10-2:30-7, 9-1:15. 2 half pt byes rds 1-4, Open is FIDE rated, may be used. Class pairings OK rd. 4. Reg ends 10 min before game. Rds 7-
NC, CMV, LS, W, Free Parking. Jim Berry, Box 351, Stillwater, OK 74076, 1405 8:15-9:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible! 2008 Motor City Open
762-1649. WCL JGP. 6-SS. 3 Sections: OPEN, U1800, U1300.Top section FIDE-rated. $9,250 OVER-
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 (enhanced)
Nov. 21-23, Florida
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 120 (enhanced)
Nov. 14-16 or 15-16, Ohio ALL. 66 2/3% Guaranteed. Held at the CROWNE PLAZA AUBURN HILLS,
7th Annual Turkey Bowl
17th annual Kings Island Open 5SS, G/120, Sat. (2-day Sch.) Rd. 1 G/60. Hosted by the Student Union at Florida
5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75), Kings Island Resort, 5691 Kings Atlantic University, 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton. $$5,200 b/160 paid entries, USCF Membership Rates
(U.S., CANADA, MEXICO)
Island Drive (I-71, 6 mi north of I-275), Mason OH 45040. Free parking. $$ 25,000 60% min. Gtd. 4 Sections: Open: $800/Trophy-500-300, U2300/Unr $200-100.
based on 360 paid entries (re-entries count as 70% entries, U1000 Section EF U2100: $600/Trophy-300-200. U1700: $600/Trophy-300-200. U1300: $600/Tro-
30% entries, unrated not counted); minimum $20,000 (80% of each prize) phy-250-150, top U1000/Unr $100. Unr. may enter Open or U1300 only. EF: $59
guaranteed. Free analysis of your games by GM Arthur Bisguier. In 7 sections: by Nov. 18, $10 more later and on-site, GMs & IMs free ($59 deducted from Type 1 yr 2yr 3yr
Open: $2500-1200-600-300-200, 1st on tiebreak $100 bonus, top U2300/Unr prize). Reg.: ends 1/2 hr before 1st rd. Rds.: 3-Day 1st Rd. Fri. 7:15, 2-Day 1st
$1400-700. FIDE. Under 2100: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 1900: $2000- Adult $49 $83 $116
Rd. Sat 10, Rds. 2-5 Sat. 1:15, 6:30, Sun. 9:30, 2:30. 2 1/2 pt. byes, if reqd before
1000-500-300-200. Under 1700: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 1500: rd. 2. HR: $74 by Cut-off Date, Fairfield Inn, 561-417-8585. Ent: Boca Raton Adult (online purch) $41 $76 $109
$1500-700-400-200-100. Under 1300: $1500-700-400-200-100. Under 1000: Chess Club, 2385 Executive Ctr. Dr., Ste. 100, Boca Raton, FL 33431. Online entry
$100-60-40, trophies to top 10. Unrated prize limits: U1000 $40, U1300 $100, Senior (65+) $36 $65 $93
& addl info: www.bocachess.com, 561-883-2917. FIDE. WCL JGP.
U1500 $200, U1700 $300, U1900 $500. Balance goes to next player(s) in line. Young Adult (U25) $25 $44 $62
EF: 3-day $103, 2-day $102 mailed by 11/6, all $105 online at chesstour.com A State Championship Event!

World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15

by 11/11, $110 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 11/11 (entry only, no questions), Nov. 21-23 or 22-23, Georgia Youth (U16) $19 $33 $46
$120 at site. Under 1000 Section EF: 3-day $33, 2-day $32 if mailed by 11/6, Scholastic (U13) $17 $30 $42
Youth provides bimonthly Chess Life,
$34 online at chesstour.com by 11/11, $36 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 11/11, 2008 Georgia Class Championships

Scholastic bimonthly Chess Life for Kids,

$40 at site. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Re-entry $70; not available in
Open Section. All: FREE ENTRYTO UNRATED. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based
on 4 or more games usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF
5-SS, G/120 (2 day schedule, rd 1 G/90), Atlanta Chess Center, 5155A E.
Ponce de Leon Ave, Scottdale, Ga 30079. $4,000 based on 84 entries, 75% Gtd.
others listed above monthly Chess Life.
6 Sections. Premier (over 1999): $500-325-225, u2200: $275-175; A (1800-

See www.uschess.org for other membership

dues with Chess Life if paid with entry- online at chesstour.com, unrated $20, 1999), B (1600-1799), C (1400-1599), D (1200-1399), U1200: $250-150-100 each

categories. Membership dues are not refund

rated $30. If mailed, phoned or paid at site, unrated $30, rated $40. Cost of section. Note: u2200 is not a separate section. Players may play one section

able. Dues may be changed without notice

reduced dues borne by Continental Chess. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, above current rating. Trophy to top Georgia resident each section. EF: $49 if
recd by 11/19. $60 later or at site. Reg.: 6-7pm on 11/21 or 8:30-9:30am on

and promotional rates may be withdrawn or

rds Fri 7 pm, Sat 11-6, Sun 9-3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds
Sat 11-2:30-6, Sun 9-3:15. Byes: (note change): OK all, limit 2, must commit 11/22. Rds.: 7:30; 2-7; 10-3. 2 day schedule: rd 1 at 10am on 11/22, then

modified.
by rd 3 and have under 2 pts. HR: $71-71, 800-727-3050, 513-398-0115, schedules merge. Half point bye any round, limit 2, must commit when enter-
reserve by 10/31 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use ing. No changes. GCA membership reqd for Ga residents. Ent: GCA, PO Box
AWD #D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Car rental is 1611, Decatur GA 30079-1611. Make check payable to GCA. No credit cards.

uschess.org Chess Life November 2008 55

 Tournament Life
1500 Opdyke, Auburn Hills, MI 48326 (Directions and Lodging Info below). 2-
Day & 3-Day Schedules available. Up to three 1/2-pt. byes available; must be
requested before start of RD 4. All sections merge after RD 3. Unrated eligi-
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING NOVEMBER 1-14
ble only for UNR and Overall prizes in ALL sections, can play in ANY section.
Cell phones must be turned off or in silent mode while in tournament room.
INFRACTION: deduct 1/2 the remaining time or game forfeiture if less than
10 minutes remaining on clock; automatic forfeiture for 2nd infraction. Spec-
tators will be subjected to expulsion for the remainder of the event for any
offense. Headphones cannot be used if opponent objects for any reason and
cannot be used in the last round by players with a plus score. Player must be
willing to present same toTDs for examination at any time. Failure to do so will
result in removal from tournament without refund. Strict headphone and cell
phone rules in effect. Rules posted at site. USCF and MCA memberships
required; can be purchased on site. Bring boards, pieces, clocks. IM Ben
Finegold Lecture on Fri, 11/28, 3:30-4:30pm ($10). EF by Mon., 11/24 (add
$10 after): OPEN: $100 ($90 for Oage 64, Uage 16 or UNR). IMs and GMs Free
($100 EF deducted from prize). NO Re-Entries in OPEN Section. U1800: $90
($80 for Oage 64, Uage 16 or UNR). U1300: $80 ($70 for Oage 64, Uage 16 or
UNR). Re-Entries: $45, $40 (Up to two 1/2-pt. byes allowed from previous RDS).
TL: 3-Day Schedule: G-120. 2-Day Schedule: Rds 1-3, G-60; Rds 4-6, G-120.
REG: 3-Day Schedule: Fri, 11/28, 9:00-11:00am. 2-Day Schedule: Sat,
11/29, 8:30-9:30am. RDS: 3-Day Schedule: Fri, 11-6; Sat, 12-6; Sun, 10-2:30.
2-Day Schedule: Sat, 10-12:30-3-6; Sun, 10-2:30. $$9,250 OVERALL (66 2/3%
guar.): OPEN: $4,600 (b/56): 1st-2nd-3rd, $1,200-$600-$400; 1st-2nd U2400,
$350-$250; 1st-2nd U2200, $350-$250; 1st-2nd U2000, $350-$250; 1st-2nd
U1800/UNR, $350-$250. U1800: $2,450 (b/40): 1st-2nd-3rd, $700-$400-
$350; 1st-2nd, U1600, $300-$200; 1st-2nd U1300/UNR, $300-$200. U1300:
$2,200 (b/38): 1st-2nd-3rd, $600-$400-$300; 1st-2nd U1200, $275-$175; 1st-
2nd U1000/UNR, $275-$175. Mechanical or Quartz Clock for Biggest Upset in
each section! Directions & Lodging: CROWNE PLAZA AUBURN HILLS,
located off I-75 at Exit 79 (University Drive). Turn left over overpass, right at
the first light (Opdyke). Go 1/2 block down. Reserve online at www.cpauburn
hills.com or call toll-free at 1-800-593-5434. Ask MCO chess rate ($69) by 11/7.
Info, Ent: Ed Mandell, All The Kings Men, 28546 Dequindre Rd, Warren, MI
48092, (586) 558-4790. Toll-Free, (866) 538-7890. Fax, (586) 558-2046. Email:
allthekingsmench@aol.com, Web: www.allthekingsmenchess.com. WCL JGP.
An American Classic!
A Heritage Event!
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 150 (enhanced)
Nov. 28-30 or 29-30, Pennsylvania
39th annual National Chess Congress
6SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-3 G/50). Trophy sections play separate
2-day schedule only, 11/29-30, G/50. NOTE CHANGE: There is no Unrated
Section; unrateds may enter any section between Under 800 and Under 2200.
Sheraton Hotel Philadelphia City Center, 17th & Race Sts., Philadelphia 19103.
$30,000 GUARANTEED PRIZE FUND. Free analysis of your games by GM Arthur
Bisguier. In 10 sections. Premier, open to all rated 2000/above and juniors under
18 rated 1800/above. $3000-1500-700-400-200, clear win or 1st on tiebreak
$100, U2400/Unr $1400-700. FIDE. Under 2200: $2000-1000-500-300-200.
Under 2000: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 1800: $2000-1000-500-300-200.
56 Chess Life November 2008
Under 1600: $2000-1000-500-300-200. Under 1400: $1400-700-400-300-
200. Under 1200: $1400-700-400-300-200. Unrated may not win over $100 in
U1200, $200 in U1400, $300 in U1600, $500 in U1800, or $700 in U2000. Top
7 sections entry fee: 3-day $108, 2-day $107 mailed by 11/19, all $109
online at chesstour.com by 11/25, $115 phoned by 11/25 (406-896-2038, no
questions), $130 at site. GMs free, $100 deducted from prize. Re-entry $60, not
available in Premier. Mailed EF $3 less to PSCF members. No checks at site,
credit cards OK. 3-day late entry ends Fri 11 am, rounds Fri 12 & 7, Sat 11 &
6, Sun 10 & 4:30. 2-day late entry ends Sat 9 am, rounds Sat 10, 12:45, 3:30
and 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. Trophy Sections: Under 1000, Under 800, Under 600.
Trophies to top 8 players in each section. Entry fee: $27 mailed by 11/19, $28
online at chesstour.com by 11/25, $35 phoned by 11/25 (406-896-2038, no ques-
tions), $40 at tmt. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Late entry ends Sat 9
am, rounds 10 am, 12:45 pm, 3:30 pm each day. All trophy sections: Entry
fee: $27 mailed by 11/19, $28 online at chesstour.com by 11/25, $35 phoned
by 11/25 (406-896-2038, no questions), $40 at site. No checks at site, credit
cards OK. Late entry ends Sat 9 am, rounds 10 am, 12:45, 3:30 pm each day.
All sections: FREE ENTRY TO UNRATED. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based
on 4 or more games usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF
dues with Chess Life if paid with entry- online at chesstour.com, unrated $20,
rated $30. If mailed, phoned or paid at site, unrated $30, rated $40. Cost of
reduced dues borne by Continental Chess. Student/Alumni trophies to top 5
teams of 4 (regardless of section) representing any U.S. college, HS or pre-HS
players attend or have graduated from. Half point byes OK all rounds; limit
2, must commit before rd 3 or have under 2 pts. HR: $91-91-91-91, reserve by
11/13 or rate may increase. Parking $5/day to all players; guest room not
required. Car rental: 800-331-1600, use AWD D657633 or reserve car online
through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills NY
12577. $10 charge for refunds. Questions: chesstour.com, ccaguide.com, 845-
496-9658. Advance entries will be posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP (top 7
sections).
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30
Nov. 28-30 or 29-30, Texas
8th Annual Ken Smith Memorial Open
5SS, Open: G/90 with 30 sec increment, Rest: 30/90, SD/1 (Rest 2-day
options rd 1 G/120). DFW Marriott Hotel & Golf Club at Champions Circle, 3300
Championship Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76177 HR: $89-89, (888)-236-2427,
reserve by 10/26 or rate may increase, mention Dallas Chess. Open is Fide rated
but uses USCF rules. $$8,400 base on 200 full entries (excludes scholastic),
75% GTD. 7 $$ sections. Note that Unrated section may be merged with U1600
section, but in that case, unrateds only eligible for unrated prizes and class pair-
ings possible. EF: 3-day $79, 2-day $78 mailed by 11/20, $90 thereafter/site;
Junior (U19) 3-Day $71, 2-day $70 mailed by 11/20, else $80, Junior (19) counts
90% toward base; Seniors(over 65), Handicap, additional family member and
unrated 3-day $44, 2-day $43 if mailed by 11/20 else $55, these count %60
toward base. GMs free if complete tournament & turn in legible scoresheets,
$80 deducted from prize. GMs must register at site. Re-entry $55 counts
60% toward base. Re-entry not allowed in open section. 3-day: Reg.: Fri.
6:15-7:15pm, Rds.: 11/28 7:35pm, 11/29 2pm-7, 11/30 8:30am-2. 2-day:
Reg.: 11/29 8:35-9:05am, Rd 1: 9:30am then merge with 3 day. Open: $900-
500-250, U2400: $550, U2200: $500-125. U2000: $600-300-125, U1900: $125.
U1800: $600-300-125, U1700: $125. U1600: $550-250-125, U1500 $125.
U1400: $500-200-125, U1300 $125. U1200: $400-200-125, U1100 $125, U900
$125. Unrated: $200-$100. online reg: www.active.com/event_detail.cfm?
event_id=1637832. Note that Active.com charges a small fee. CCA min. rat-
ings. Up to two 1/2 pt. byes if requested before end of Rd. 2, but not for BOTH
4th & 5th Rd. K-12 Scholastic on Fri. 11/28 see DFW K-12 Championships ad
elsewhere. Ent: Dallas Chess Club, 212 S Cottonwood Dr, #A, Richardson TX
75080. Ph: 214.632.9000. Info: info@dallaschess.com or www.swchess.com
NS, NC, W. FIDE. WCL JGP.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 20
Nov. 28-30, Washington
WA Class Championship
Marriot RedmondTown Center, 7401 16th Avenue NE, Redmond, WA 98052 (425)
498-4000, hotel room 89.00 for single and double. Check nwc website www.nwc
chess.com for tournament info. 40/2 SD, 6 rd. swiss. Entry Fees and Prize
Fund $5,000 Guaranteed by the Entry fees listed as: By Oct 12 / By Nov
9 / At site: Master (2200&above) EF $65 / $70 / $80, $525, $325, U2300 $200.
Expert (2000-2199) EF $60 / $65 / $75, $425, $275, U2100 $150. Class A (1800-
1999) EF $55 / $60 / $70, $325, $200, U1900 $125. Class B (1600-1799) EF $55
/ $60 / $70, $325, $200, U1700 $125. Class C (1400-1599) EF $55 / $60 / $70,
$325, $200, U1500 $125. Class D (1200-1399) $55/$60/$70, $325, $200,
U1300 $125, Class E (1199&below) $50/$55/$65, $175, $100, U1000 $75
U800 $75 unrated $75. WCL JGP.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
Nov. 29, California Southern
American Open Quick Chess Championship (QC)
5-SS (double round), G/10. LAX Renaissance Hotel, 9620 Airport Bl., Los Ange-
les, CA 90045. $1000 Gtd.: $250-150; U2200, U2000, U1800, U1600, Unr.
each $100 (Unrated eligible only for Open and Unr. prize). EF: $30 received by
11/25, $35 at site. Reg closes 8 pm. Rounds: 8:15-9-9:45-10:30-11:15. Dou-
ble bye (1 pt) available for round 1. Enter: www.americanopen.org or American
Open, PO Box 205, Monterey Park, CA 91754. Info: Randy Hough (626) 282-7412,
randallhough@yahoo.com.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
Nov. 29, Ohio
House of Chess Open
4SS, G/45. House of Chess, Great Northern Mall, North Olmsted, OH (W of JC
Penny). Sections: Open, U1600. Reg.: 11-11:25 AM. Rds.: 11:30-1:15-3:30-5:15.
Prizes (guaranteed): Open: 1st $200, 2nd $100; U1900 1st $100; Reserve
(U1600): 1st $100 Ent: $25, Club members $20. Info & entries: House of Chess,
Great Northern Mall, North Olmsted, OH 44070. Phone: (440) 979-1133. E-mail:
info@houseofchess.com. Web www.thehouseofchess.com/.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced)
Nov. 29, Ohio
Tryptophan Open
4-SS G/75, New Song Comm Church, 13873 National Rd, Reynoldsburg, OH
43068. EF: $20 by 11/26, then $30; $5 less w/Golden Buckeye Card. Sections:
Open, Reserve (U1600). Prizes $725 Gtd: Open 200-150 U1800 100 Upset
uschess.org
25; Reserve 100-75 U1400 50, Upset 25. Reg.: 8:30-9, Rds.: 9:30, 12:30,
3:15, 6:30. More Info: www.neilley.com/chess, grant@neilley.com, 614-314-
1102. WCL JGP.
A Heritage Event!
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
Nov. 29, Tennessee
48th Mid-South Open
2 sections: Open and Under 1600. 5 round swiss, G/60. $525 guaranteed prize
fund. EF: $30.00 by 11/22. $40 at site (MCC members $30 anytime). First 4
entries with uscf ratings greater than 2100 get free entry fee with fee subtracted
from any winnings. Prizes: Open: 1st $200, 2nd $100 Under 1600: 1st $150,
2nd $75. Site: Hampton Inn, 962 South Shady Grove Rd., Memphis, TN 38120.
Hotel reservations: (901) 762-0056. Registration (11/29) 7:30am-8:45am.
Rounds: 9-11-1:30-3:30-5:30. Entries: Memphis Chess Club Inc., PO Box
17864, Memphis TN 38187-0864.
A Heritage Event!
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
Nov. 30, Massachusetts
Pillsbury Memorial
4SS, G/60. Leominster Veterans Association, 100 West Street, Leominster, MA
(formerly Boys & Girls Club). $$1350 b/45 fully paid entries, 75% guaranteed.
In 3 sections: Open: $300-$150, U2100 $75. Under 1900: $250-$125, U1750
$75. Under 1600: $200-$100, U1300 $75. EF: $39 postmarked by 11/24 or online
(PayPal) at www.MassChess.org by 11/28; $45 on site. Discounts: Seniors
(65+): $10 off; additional family members: $10 off (first family member pays
full entry fee). Limit one discount per player. No credit cards on site (cash or
check OK). Reg.: 8:30-9:30. Rds.: 10-1-3:15-5:30. Bye: limit one, any round,
if requested with entry. Memb. reqd: MACA ($12 adult, $6 junior under 18).
WMCA, OSA. Ent: Online at www.MassChess.org or mail check (payable to
MACA) to Ken Ballou, 27 Fenway Drive, Framingham, MA 01701-4012. Info:
George Mirijanian, 978-345-5011, or PillsburyInfo2008@masschess.org.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced)
Nov. 30, New Jersey
GAME 10s Galore #3 (QC)
2 sections (Open and U2200). Dean of Chess Academy, 1161 Route #202,
Branchburg, NJ 08876 (near Chubb Lane) GRAND PRIX SECTION: 9RR, G/10,
All Masters will be in top section, which will be a 9SS if necessary. $300, G$$
100-100-100. U2200 SECTION: 10RR OR 10SS based on entries. G$$ 90% of
EF collected returned in prizes. 1-2-3 get 50%-30%-20%. BOTH SECTIONS:
Rounds 11pm then ASAP. No Byes: $33 if mailed by Nov 26, $36 online at
entryfeesrus.com, $39 at site. Reg.: to 11am, Nov 30. Entries to: KenThomas,
115 W Moore St., Hackettstown, NJ 07840. Contact Ken at Cell 908-763-6468
or acn@goes.com. NS NC W.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 40 (enhanced)
Dec. 5-7 or 6-7, Florida
North Florida Open
5-SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/70), Hyatt Regency Jacksonville River-
front, 225 East Coast Line Drive, Jacksonville FL 32202. Downtown hotel,
adjacent to Jacksonville Landing and Times-Union Center for the Performing
Arts. $$G 5000. 4 sections. Open: $800-400-300, U2200/Unr $300-150. FIDE.
Under 2000: $500-250-150, U1800 $300-150. Under 1600: $400-200-150,
U1400 $250-150. Under 1200: $300-150-100. No unrated may win over $100
in U1200, $200 U1600 or $300 U2000. EF: 3-day $68, 2-day $67 mailed by 11/27,
all $69 online at chesstour.com by 12/3, $75 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 12/3
(entry only, no questions), $80 at site. $30 less to Under 1000. No checks at
site, credit cards OK. All: FREETO UNRATED. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based
on 4 or more games usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF
dues with Chess Life if paid with entry- online at chesstour.com, unrated $20,
rated $30. If mailed, phoned or paid at site, unrated $30, rated $40. Cost of
reduced dues borne by CCA. Re-entry $40; not available in Open Section. 3-
day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6:30 pm, rds. Fri 7, Sat 11-6, Sun 9-3:15. 2-day
schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10:30 am, rds. Sat 11-2:30-6, Sun 9-3:15. Byes
(note change0: OK all (limit 2), must commit before rd 3 and have under 2 pts.
HR: $89-89, 904-588-1234, reserve by 11/21 or rate may increase. See
www.northfloridaopen.com for low cost parking; hotel garage is $15. Ent:
Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills NY 12577. $10 charge for refunds.
Questions: www.chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at
chesstour.com. WCL JGP.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
Dec. 6, California Southern
The Bakersfield Open
4-SS, G/60, Clarion Hotel 3540 Rosedale Hwy, Bakersfield, CA. $$1,000 b/o 35,
80% GTD Open: $350 (min. $300 Gtd. 1st), $175, $100 top U2000 $150, U1800
WA RN I N G !
$125, U1600/Unr $100. Scholastic (K-8) 5-SS, G/30,Trophies awarded to 1st-
3rd place in each scholastic category. All: 1/2-pt bye available with entry any
CELL PHONE
THE USE OF A
PROHIBITED!
IN THE TOURNAMENT ROOM IS
AT MOST TOURNAMENTS!
IF YOUR CELL PHONE RINGS IN A ROOM WITH
GAMES IN PROGRESS, YOU COULD BE SEVERELY
TURN IT OFF!
PENALIZED, MAYBE EVEN FORFEITED!
uschess.org
round Reg.: 9-9:30am EF: Open $35 by 12/3, $45 after, Scholastic $20 by 12/3,
$30 after, $5 discount for BCC members. GMs & IMs FREE ($35 from prize)
Open rounds: 10-1-3:30-6pm, Scholastic rounds: 10-11:30-1-2:30-4. Info: Ken-
neth Poole 661-304-7468 Ent: Bakersfield Chess Club, P.O. Box 176, 3501 Mall
View Rd., Suite 115 Bakersfield, CA 93306.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
Dec. 6, New Hampshire
Manchester December Blitz (QC)
6 Rd. DBLSS, Game/5. Best Western Executive Court Inn, 13500 S Willow
Street, Manchester, NH 03103. Blitz rule #3A is in effect. EF: $25, $5 less with
Manchester December Swiss entry. $$GTD: $200-100. U2000 $100, U1600 $100.
Registration: 7:00-7:45 PM. Rds.: Round 1 8 PM then ASAP. ENT: Alex Relyea,
49 Technology Dr. #89, Bedford, NH 03110. INFO: Alex Relyea relyea@opera
mail.com. www.relyeachess.com. NS W.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 (enhanced)
Dec. 6, New Hampshire
Manchester December Swiss
Best Western Executive Court Inn, 13500 S Willow Street, Manchester, NH 03103.
In 2 Sections Open: 4SS, GAME/65, $$GTD: $250-150-100. U1900 $100.
U1650: 4SS, GAME/65, Open to 1649 & under. $$GTD: $150-100. U1300 $100.
ALL: EF: $28 in advance, $33 at site. Registration: 9:00-9:45. Advance entries
must be postmarked by 11/28/2008. Rds.: 10-12:30-3:00-5:30. Unrated may
only win 50% of top prize in U1650. ENT: Alex Relyea, 49 Technology Dr. #89,
Bedford, NH 03110. INFO: Alex Relyea relyea@operamail.com. www.relyea
chess.com. JGP. NS W. WCL JGP.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced)
Dec. 6, New Jersey
GAME 10s Galore #4 (QC)
2 sections (Open and U2200). Dean of Chess Academy, 1161 Route #202,
Branchburg, NJ 08876 (near Chubb Lane) GRAND PRIX SECTION: 9RR, G/10,
All Masters will be in top section, which will be a 9SS if necessary. $300, G$$
100-100-100. U2200 SECTION: 10RR OR 10SS based on entries. G$$ 90% of
EF collected returned in prizes. 1-2-3 get 50%-30%-20%. BOTH SECTIONS:
Rounds 4pm then ASAP. No Byes: $33 if mailed by Dec. 2, $36 online at entry
feesrus.com, $39 at site. Reg.: to 4pm, Dec. 6. Entries to: Ken Thomas, 115
W Moore St., Hackettstown, NJ 07840. Contact Ken at Cell 908-763-6468 or
acn@goes.com. NS NC W.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
Dec. 6 & 7 or Dec. 7, New York
New York Marshall CC December GP!
4SS, 30/90, SD/1; Marshall CC, 23 W. 10 St., NYC, 212-477-3716. EF: $45, Mem-
bers $25. $$625 Gtd: 250 -100-75, U2200/Unrated $100, U2000 $100. Reg.
ends 15 min. before game. Rds.: 2 schedules: 2-day, rds 12:30-5:30 pm each
day; 1-day, (rds 1-2 G/30), 10-11:15 am-12:30-5:30 pm Sun; both merge rd 3.
Limit 2 byes, commit at entry. NO RE-ENTRY. May be limited to first 60 players.
WCL JGP.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 6
Dec. 7, New Jersey
ICA Early Winter 2008 Open Championship
NEW FORMAT & INCREASED PRIZE FUND Bergen Academy, 200 Hackensack
Ave., Hackensack, NJ 07601. Open To All Ages With Rating >1400 4SS G/60
U. S. Chess Federation Membership Required, Prize Fund ($$ b/40) 1st - 3rd
$300, $250, $200, U2000, U1800, U1600 each $100. Best Under 13 Years Old
$75, Best Over 65 Years Old $75. Prize Fund Will Not Be Reduced Below 70 %.
Reg Ends at 9 Late Entrants Will Receive 1/2 Point Bye For Rnd 1. EF: Adv (pmk.
By Dec 3rd) $40, AT Site $45. GMs Free Entry. Make EF: and/or USCF member-
ship checks payable to: International Chess Academy. INFO 201 287 0250 or
201833 1741, Email: Diana@icanj.net (Web Site Entries: www.icanj.net). Rds.:
9:30 AM, 11:45 AM, 2:15 PM, 4:30 PM. ENT: DianaTulman, 28 Canterbury Lane,
New Milford, NJ 07646. NS NC W.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced)
Dec. 13, New Jersey
GAME 10s Galore #5 (QC)
2 sections (Open and U2200). Dean of Chess Academy, 1161 Route #202,
Branchburg, NJ 08876 (near Chubb Lane) GRAND PRIX SECTION: 9RR, G/10,
All Masters will be in top section, which will be a 9SS if necessary. $300, G$$
100-100-100. U2200 SECTION: 10RR OR 10SS based on entries. G$$ 90% of
EF collected returned in prizes. 1-2-3 get 50%-30%-20%. BOTH SECTIONS:
Rounds 4pm then ASAP. No Byes: $33 if mailed by Dec. 8, $36 online at entry
feesrus.com, $39 at site. Reg.: to 4pm, Dec. 13. Entries to: Ken Thomas, 115
W Moore St., Hackettstown, NJ 07840. Contact Ken at Cell 908-763-6468 or
acn@goes.com. NS NC W.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced)
Dec. 13, New York
Jennifer Woods Memorial Grand Prix
4SS RDS. 1 & 2 G/60, RDS. 3 & 4 G/90 @RCC (GTD) $150-90-60 class $80. Reg.:
8:30-9:15. RDS.: 9:30-12-2:15-5:30 EF: $30 Adv Ent/Info: Rochester Chess Cen-
ter, 221 Norris Drive, Rochester, NY 14610. (585)442-2430.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced)
Dec. 13-14, Alabama
7th Dothan Open
6-SS Rd 1 G/75 Rds 2-6 G/90 Holiday Inn Express 4090 Ross Clark Circle,
Dothan, AL. (334-699-6868) Excellent Playing Conditions! 2 Sections - Open:
$300 (Gtd) $150 U2000 $100 (Conditional) U1800 $75 Reserve: $200 $100
U1400 $75 U1200 $45 Unr $40 EF: $45 Prereg (By Dec 8) $55 On-Site Rd times
Sat: 9:30, 1:00, 4:30 Sun: 9:00, 1:00, 4:30 Byes: max 2 must commit before
1st round. TD: Jeff Rizzo, 334-237-0534 or jeffrizzo@centurytel.net see flyer
at alabamachess.com. WCL JGP.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10
Dec. 13-14, California Southern
10th Annual Joseph Ileto Memorial
5SS, 30/85, SD/30 (1st 3 rounds), 40/2, SD/1 (last 2 rounds). Sierra Vista Rec
Center, 311 N Rural Drive, Monterey Park, CA 91755. $1300 guaranteed: $300-
200-100, U2300, U2100, U1900, U1700, U1500 each $100, U1300, U1100 each
$75, Unrated $50. EF: $30 if recd by 12/11, $40 at door. Special option for
HS/below: $10, 5 trophies only. SCCF membership reqd of So. Californians:
$18, $10 jrs. Reg.: 9-9:40 am, Rds.: 10-2-6, 10-4. Info: Randy Hough (626) 282-
7412, randallhough@yahoo.com. Ent: SCCF, PO Box 205, Monterey Park, CA
91754. State Championship Qualifier. WCL JGP.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10
Dec. 14, Connecticut
UCONN December Open Grand Prix
UCONN Castleman Bldg., Room 204, 261 Glenbrook Rd., Storrs, CT 06269. 4-
SS, G/60. EF: $35, $45 at site. $$ 350-200 both gtd.,Top U2000, U1800, U1600,
U1400 $100 each b/30. Prizes increased as entries allow. Reg.: 9-9:45 AM.
Round 1 at 10AM, all others ASAP. Parking is across the street behind the Bron-
well building. Advance Entry & Info: Tom Hartmayer, 963 Mansfield City Rd.,
Storrs, CT 06268. Make checks payable to: Tom Hartmayer. 860-989-5394,
tomhart3@charter.net, www.uconnchess.uconn.edu.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15 (enhanced)
Dec. 16, New York
St. Johns Masters at the Marshall Chess Club
4SS, G/30.ThirdTues. of every month. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. Open
to players rated over 2100 (plus all players scoring 2.5 or more at any CCNY
at MCCThursday 4 Rated GamesTonight! since the prior months SJM) EF: $40,
members $30, GMs $10 (returned on completion of tournament). For each event,
money added to prize fund by the sponsors, St. Johns University, and other gen-
erous patrons. Top three prizes guaranteed. $$G 300-200-100. Top U2400 and
Top U2300 prizes. Special prize for biggest upset. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7-8:15-
9:30-10:45pm. One bye available, rds 1 and 4 only; declare at registration.
A Heritage Event!
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10
Dec. 19-21 or 20-21, Georgia
38th Annual Atlanta Open
5-SS, 30/90, SD/1 (2-day schedule Rd. 1 G/90). Atlanta Chess Center, 3155A
East Ponce de Leon Avenue, Scottdale, Georgia 30079. $4,200 b/ 84 maximum,
Chess Life November 2008 57
 Tournament Life
$2,100 Guaranteed! In 5 sections: Open/Unr.: $600-400, u2200: $300-200-100.
Under 2000: $300-200-100. Under 1800: $300-200-100. Under 1600: $300-
200-100. Under 1400: $250-200-100, u1200-$150. EF: $64 3-day if received
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING NOVEMBER 1-14
by 12/18 and $63 2-day if received by 12/18; $69 at site. GMs and IMs free;
$65 deducted from prize. Re-entry: $35. Bye: all rounds except last, limit 2, must
commit before 1st round. 3-day schedule: Reg.: ends at 7 p.m. on 12/19.
Rounds: 7:30; 2-7:30, 10-3:30. 2-day schedule: Reg.: ends 9:30 a.m. on 12/20.
Rounds: 1st at 10 a.m., then merges with 3-day. Hotel/Info: (404)-377-4400
or atlantachess@yahoo.com. Enter: Same as above. NS. NC. www.atlanta
chessclub.com. WCL JGP.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced)
Dec. 20, New York
New York December Action!
5-SS, G/30, Chess Center at the Marshall Club, 23 W 10 St, bet. 5-6 Ave, NYC:
845-569-9969. EF: $40, Club membs $25, GMs free ($20 from prize), specified
Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free! $$ 840 b/42 paid entries, minimum
half each prize Gtd: $$ 300-200-115, top U2200/unr. $125, U2000 $100. Limit
2 byes, commit by 1:30. Re-entry $20. CCA ratings may be used. Rds. 12-1:30-
2:45-4-5:20 pm. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Online entry at www.chess
center.cc thru 12/18; $10 extra to enter by phone!
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 40 (enhanced)
Dec. 26-28 or 27-28, New York
4th annual Empire State Open
6SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-3 G/60), Saratoga Hilton Hotel, 534
Broadway (I-87 Exit 13-N, 4 miles north on US 9), Saratoga Springs NY 12866.
Free parking. $$G 5000. In 4 sections. Open: $800-400-300, top U2200/Unr
$300-150. FIDE. Under 2000: $500-250-150, top U1800 $300-150. Under
1600: $400-200-150, top U1300 $250-150. Under 1200: $300-150-100. Unrated
may not win over $100 in U1200 or $200 in U1600. EF: 3-day $83, 2-day $82
mailed by 12/18, all $84 online at chesstour.com by 12/23, $86 phoned to 406-
896-2038 by 12/23 (entry only, no questions), $90 at site. Special EF: FREE
TO UNRATED. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games usu-
ally used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 yr USCF dues with Chess Life if paid
with entry: online at chesstour.com $30; mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. Re-
entry $50; not available in Open. GMs free, $60 deducted from prize. All: No
checks at site, credit cards OK. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 10:30 am, rds.
Fri 11-6, Sat 11-6, Sun 9-3:15. 2-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat 9:30 am, rds
Sat 10-1-3:30-6, Sun 9-3:15. Bye: all, limit 2, must commit before rd 3 & have
under 2 pts. HR: $102-102, 888-999-4711, 518-584-4000, reserve by 12/12 or
rate may increase. Car rental: 800-331-1600, use AWD D657633, or reserve
car online through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury
Mills NY 12577. Inquiries: www.chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. $15 service
charge for refunds. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 200 (enhanced)
Dec. 26-29 or 27-29, Nevada
18th annual North American Open
7SS, 40/2, SD/1 (3-day option, rds 1-4 G/75), Ballys Casino Resort, 3645 Las
Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas NV 89103. $$ 150,000 based on 750 paid entries
(seniors count as 3/4 entries, re-entries & GMs as half entries, U1000/Unr Sec-
tion rated players as 1/5, unrateds in U1000 not counted), else in proportion;
$100,000 minimum (2/3 each prize) guaranteed. Unrated must enter U1000/Unr
or Open Section. In 7 sections. Open: Open to all, but EF is $200 more if Under
1900 or unrated. $12000-6000-3500-2500-1400-1000-800-700-600-500, clear
winner or 1st on tiebreak bonus $200, 2300-2499 $3000-1500, U2300/Unr
$3000-1500. FIDE. Under 2100: $10000-5000-3000-2000-1000-800-700-600-
500-400. Under 1900: $10000-5000-3000-2000-1000-800-700-600-500-400.
Under 1700: $10000-5000-3000-2000-1000-800-700-600-500-400. Under
1500: $8000-4000-2000-1500-1000-800-700-600-500-400. Under 1300: $8000-
4000-2000-1500-1000-800-700-600-500-400. Under 1000/Unr: $400-200-
120-80, trophies to top 10, no unrated may win over $100. Prize limits: 1) Play-
ers with under 26 games played as of 12/08 list may not win over $1500 U1200,
$2500 U1500 through U2100. Games rated too late for 12/08 list not counted.
2) If more than 30 pts over section maximum on any list 12/07-11/08, prize
limit $1500. 3) Balance of any limited prize goes to next player(s) in line.
Mailed EF: 4-day $244, 3-day $243 mailed by 10/15, 4-day $274, 3-day $273
58 Chess Life November 2008
mailed by 12/12. Online EF: $245 online at chesstour.com by 10/15, $275 by
12/19, $300 12/20 until two hours before round 1. Phoned EF: $250 phoned
to 406-896-2038 by 10/15 (no questions), $280 by 12/19. No phone entry after
12/19. EF at site: $300. Open Section EF surcharge: Open Section EF $200
more if under 1900 or unrated; 90% of surcharges added to prize fund. Spe-
cial EF: Seniors over 65 in Under 1300 or above, $70 less. Re-entry $120; not
available in Open Section. GMs $150 from prize. U1000/Unr Section EF: 4-day
$44, 3-day $43 if mailed by 12/12, $45 online at chesstour.com by 12/19, $50
phoned by 12/19 (406-896-2038, entry only, no questions), $60 at site. FREE
ENTRY TO UNRATED in U1000/Unr Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings
based on 4 or more games usually used if otherwise unrated. All: No checks
at site, credit cards OK. Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with
entry- online at chesstour.com, unrated $20, rated $30. If mailed, phoned or
paid at site, unrated $30, rated $40. Cost of reduced dues borne by Continen-
tal Chess. 4-day reg. ends 12/26 5 pm, rds 12/26 6 pm, 12/27 10-5, 12/28
10-5, 12/29 10-4:30. 3-day reg. ends 12/27 4 pm, rds 12/27 5-8:30, 12/28
10-1:30-5, 12/29 10-4:30. Byes (note change): OK all, limit 3, must commit
before rd 3 and have under 2 pts. HR: $96-96, 800-833-3308, 702-739-4111,
rate may increase if not reserved by 11/22, all rooms in chess block may sell
out about 11/1. Free parking (garage at adjacent Paris Las Vegas Hotel is most
convenient). Car rental: for special Avis rate reserve car through chess-
tour.com or call 800-331-1600, use AWD #657633. Foreign player ratings:
Usually 100 points added to FIDE, 100 to FQE, 200/more to most other foreign,
no pts added to CFC or Jamaica. Most foreign ratings other than CFC, FQE or
Jamaica not accepted for U2000 or below. Highest of multiple ratings usually
used. Players who fail to disclose foreign or FIDE ratings may be expelled. US
player ratings: December list used; FIDE ratings not used. Special rules: In
round 3 or after, players with scores of 80% or more and their opponents may
not use headphones, earphones, or cellphones or go to a different floor of the
hotel without Director permission, and must submit to a search for electronic
devices if requested by Director. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills
NY 12577. Questions: www.chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Advance entries
posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced)
Dec. 27, Oklahoma
18th Holiday Open 2008
4-SS, G/80 white, G/85 black. Quality Inn 2515 W 6th St., Stillwater, OK 1-405-
372-0800. HR: $60. Free Parking. $$200 1st, $$100 2nd.other $ per entries. Reg.:
9-9:45am. RDS.: 10-1-4-7. EF: $20. OCF req $10. Jim Berry, P O Box 351, Still-
water, OK 74076 405-762-1649. jaberrycg@aol.com. CMV, LS, W. WCL JGP.
A Heritage Event!
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 100
Dec. 27-30, District of Columbia
35th Annual Eastern Open
8-SS. $14,000 Guaranteed Prizes. No based on prizes! Westin Washington
DC City Center Hotel, 1400 M St. NW, Washington, DC. TC: 40/2, SD/1. Rds.:
Sat: 1 - 7:30, Sun: 11 - 5:30, Mon: 11 - 5:30,Tues: 10 - 4:30. EF: $98 if by 12/11,
$110 at site. Reg.: Sat., 12/27, 10 - 12 noon. $$G Open Section: 1,500-
1,100-750-500-300, Under 2400/Unr. $750. Under 2300 $725 Under 2200
Section $1,000-500-250 U2000 $300-150. Under 1900 Section $1,000-500-
250 U1700 $300-150. Under 1600 Section $1,000-500-250 U1400 $300-150.
Under 1300 Section $750-375-200 U1100 $300-150. Note that U2000, U1700,
U1400 & U1100 are prizes but not separate sections. No unrated player may
win more than $800 in Under 2200, $400 in Under 1900, $200 in Under 1600
or $100 in Under 1300 Section. No credit cards accepted. GMs free, $80
deducted from prize. Special EF: $40 less to juniors (under 20) in Open Sec-
tion or playing up. $50 less to unrateds in 4 lower sections. Re-entry: $80. Byes
available any round but rds. 6-8 must commit before rd. 3. Limit 2 byes for class
prizes. HR: Only $73! Call 202/429-1700 by 12/3 for this very low rate. Ent:
Make checks payable to Eastern Open. Mail to U.S. Chess Center, 1501 M St.
NW, Washington, DC 20005. Info (no entries) 202/857-4922. FIDE. WCL JGP.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 20
Dec. 27-30, Texas
2008 Pan American Class Championships
Location: DFW Airport Marriott South, 4151 Centreport Blvd, Fort Worth,
Texas, 76155. HR: $79/79/79/79. marriott.com/dfwam?groupCode=panpana&
app=resvlink, or call 800-228-9290 reserve by 12/5 (or rate could go up) and
ask for Pan American Intercollegiate Chess rate. Free Parking. Tournament
Dates: December 27-30, 2008. Tournament Format: 6 round Swiss System.
G/120, 30 sec. inc. 7 Sections. Open: Open to all, U2000: Open to 1999 & under.
Unrateds may play in this section but not be eligible for prizes. U1800: Open
to 1799 & under. Unrateds may play in this section but not be eligible for prizes.
U1600/Unrateds: Open to 1599 & under. Unrateds play in this section. Unrated
may only win unrated prizes that are determined by unrated entry fees. The
unrated entry fees do not apply for U1600 prizes. U1400: Open to 1399 & under.
Unrateds may not play in this section. U1200: Open to 1199 & under. Unrat-
eds may not play in this section. U1000: Open to 999 & under. Unrateds may
not play in this section. Rounds: Rd. 1: 12/27 6 pm, Rd. 2: 12/28 10 am, Rd.
3: 5 pm, Rd 4: 12/29 10 am, Rd 5: 5 pm, and Rd 6: 12/30 9 am. Entry Fees:
Priority Registration by December 14, 2008: $60. After December 14, 2008: $75.
Guaranteed Prizes: Open: 1st= $600, 2nd = $300, 3rd = $200, 1st U2200
= $400, 2nd U2200 $200. For all other sections (U2000, U1800 etc.) 60%
returned as prizes (30% for 1st, 20% for 2nd and 10% for 3rd). Additional Info:
One bye available if requested by end of round 2. However players in the Pan
Am Intercollegiate may have byes any time as long as requested 45 minutes
before round starts AND as long as they are paired in the Pan American Inter-
collegiate. Open section is Fide rated but uses USCF rules. Sections may be
combined if there is a low turnout in one of the sections. More info:
www.swchess.com or contact Barbara Swafford, 214-632-9000, info@dallas
chess.com Ent: Dallas Chess Club, C/O Barbara Swafford, 2709 Longhorn
Trail, Crowley, TX 76036. FIDE NS NC W. WCL JGP.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 15
Dec. 29, District of Columbia
Eastern Open Blitz Championship (QC)
Westin Washington DC City Center Hotel, 1400 M St. NW, Washington, DC. 5-
Rd Double Swiss, See Eastern Open TLA for hotel details. TC: G/5 in One
Section: Open $$1400 B/50 (top 3 in Open G) $$: $400-$225-$175 (G) U2200-
$150, U1900 - $150 U1600 - $150, U1300 - $150 EF: $35 if Recd by 12/22, $45
at site, only cash entries. Mail will not be checked after 12/24 so do not send
late entries! At Site Reg.: Any time during tournament and 12/29 until 10PM.
Rds will start 10:15p promptly and successive rounds posted as soon as they
are ready. One bye allowed for two-1/2 points, only for late entry. Regular USCF
ratings used for pairings and prizes, and a variation of the new USCF rules will
be used (posted at site). Make check payable and send to: Michael Atkins,
PO Box 6138, Alexandria, VA 22306, members.cox.net/tournaments/eoblitz-
.htm W, NS.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 30 (enhanced)
Dec. 29, Nevada
North American Blitz (QC)
5-SS, G/5 (double round,10 games), Ballys Las Vegas (see North American
Open). $$G 2500. In 2 sections: Open: $400-200-150, top U2400/Unr $240-
120, U2200 $220-110. Under 1800: $300-150-100, top U1600 $180-100, U1400
$150, U1200 $80, no unrated may win over $150. EF: $40, no checks, enter at
site only. Quick-rated, but higher of regular or quick USCF rating used for pair-
ings, prizes. Reg. ends 10:15 pm, rds. 10:45-11:30-12-12:30-1. Bye: 1.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced)
Dec. 31, New York
(22nd Annual!) Your Last Blunder Of 2008!
4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at the Marshall Club, 23 West 10 St, between 5-6 Ave,
NYC: 845-569-9969. EF: $40, Club membs. $25, GMs free ($20 from prize), spec-
ified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ 920 b/40 paid entries,
minimum half each prize Gtd: $$ 300-200-115, top U2200/unr. $110, U2000 $100,
U1800 $95.Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000), commit by 1:30. Re-entry $20. CCA
ratings may be used. Reg. ends 15 min before game. Rds. 12-1:30-2:45-4 pm.
Online entry at www.chesscenter.cc thru 12/29; phone entry a Big Blun-
der!
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced)
Jan. 1, New York
First 10 Grand Prix Points In 09!
4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at the Marshall Club, 23 West 10 St, bet. 5-6 Ave, NYC:
212-477-3716. EF: $35, Club membs $25, $5 less if also entering 12/31 Last
Blunder, GMs free ($20 from prize), specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewin-
ners free. $$560 b/32 paid, top 2 Gtd: $$ 200-110-50, Top U2200/unr $105,
U2000 $95. Limit 2 byes (1 bye for U2000), commit by 8:15. Reentry $15. CCA
ratings may be used. Class pairings OK rd. 4. Reg ends 10 min before game.
Rds 7-8:15-9:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible!
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced)
Jan. 3-4 or 4, New York
Happy New Year Open!
4-SS, 30/90, SD/1, Chess Center at the Marshall Club, 23 W 10 St, bet. 5th-6th
Ave, NYC: 845-569-9969. $$ 1,200 b/60 paid entries, minimum half each prize
Gtd. May be limited to 1st 62 entries! 2 sections, Open. $$ 400-200-100,
U2200/unr. $100. FIDE. Under 2000. $$ 200-100, U1800 $100, $100 unr. prize
limit. Both, EF: $45, Club membs $30, GMs free ($25 from prize), specified
Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. Online entry at www.chesscenter.cc
thru 1/1. 2 options: 2-Day, rds 12:30-5:30 pm each day; 1-day (rds 1-2
G/30), 10-11:15 am-12:30-5:30 pm Sun., merge rd 3. 2 byes max, commit by
rd 2. Reg. ends 15 min. before game. Re-entry $20, counts half. Foreign unr.
must enter Open. CCA Ratings may be used. EF $10 extra by phone! WCL JGP.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 20
Jan. 9-11 or 10-11, Florida
Central Florida Class Championships
G/120 (2-day: Rd.1 G/60), Orlando International Airport Hotel & Confer-
ence Center, 3835 McCoy Road, Orlando, FL 32812. $$7100/ b150, 75%
Guaranteed. 6 Sections: OPEN: $1000-400-200, U2200 $200, U2100 $150. Class
A: $600-300, U1900 $150. Class B: $600-300, U1700 $150. Class C: $600-300,
U1500 $150. Class D: $600-300, U1300 $150. U1200: $500-300, U1000 $100,
U800 $50. Rated players may play up one class only. Unrateds limited to $50
unless Place prize in OPEN. EF: 3-day $69, 2-day $68 by Dec 26, both $80
later and on-site. Re-entry $40. $15 less to students in grades K-8 in U1200
section. CFCC members receive $15 ($5 for Jr/Sr memb) discount. Trophies to
top in each section (& Class X) also Class F, G, H, I, J & Unr in U1200 having
more than one entry. FCA members eligible for FL GP Awards. Reg.: ends 1/2
hr before 1st rd. Rd. 1: 8pm Fri (2-day: 10am Sat at G/60). Rds.: 2-5: Sat 1 &
uschess.org

6, Sun 9 & 2. 1/2 pt. byes if reqd before rd. 2 (max 2). HR: $85 (Interior) 407-
859-2711; $69 (Exterior) 407-367-4225; (mention Chess). Reserve by Dec
26. Ent: CFCC, c/o Harvey Lerman, 921 N. Thistle Ln., Maitland, FL 32751; or
online: 2009CFclass.eventbrite.com. Info: 407-629-6946 or www.centralflchess.
org. WCL JGP.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 10 (enhanced)
Jan. 10, New York
New York Winter Game/45!
5-SS, G/45, Chess Center at the Marshall Club, 23 W 10 St, bet. 5-6 Ave, NYC:
845-569-9969. EF: $40, Club membs $25, GMs free ($20 from prize), specified
Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free! $$ 840 b/42 paid entries, minimum
half each prize Gtd: $$ 300-200-115, top U2200/unr. $125, U2000 $100. Limit
2 byes, commit by 2 pm. Re-entry $20. CCA ratings may be used. Rds. 12-2-
3:45-5:30-7:15 pm. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Online entry at www.
chesscenter.cc thru 1/8; $10 extra to enter by phone!
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 80 (enhanced)
Jan. 16-19, 17-19 or 17-18, California Southern
16th annual Western Class Championships
7SS, 40/2, SD/1 (3-day option, rds. 1-2 G/75; Class E & U1000 play 1/17-18
only, G/65). Renaissance Agoura Hills Hotel, 30100 Agoura Road, Agoura Hills
CA 91301 (US-101 to Reyes Adobe Road exit). Adjacent to the Santa Monica
Mountains, 26 miles west of Burbank, 12 miles from Malibu, 28 miles from Ven-
tura. Free parking. $$20,000 based on 230 paid entries (re-entries, E, U1000
count as half entries), minimum $16,000 (80% each prize) guaranteed. In 8 sec-
tions. Master (over 2199): $1600-900-500-300, clear or tiebreak winner $100,
top U2300 $800-400. FIDE. Expert (2000-2199): $1400-700-400-200. Class A
(1800-1999): $1400-700-400-200. Class B (1600-1799): $1400-700-400-200.
Class C (1400-1599): $1300-700-400-200. Class D (1200-1399): $1200-600-
300-200. Class E (1000-1199): $600-300-200-100. Under 1000: $600-300-
200-100. Rated players may play up one section. Unrated must play in A or
below with maximum prize A $600, B $500, C $400, D $300, E $200, U1000 $100;
balance goes to next player(s) in line. Top 6 sections EF: 4-day $114, 3-day
$113 mailed by 1/9, all $115 online at chesstour.com by 1/13, $120 phoned to
406-896-2038 by 1/13 (entry only, no questions), $130 at site. Class E, Under
1000 Sections EF: $52 mailed by 1/9, $55 online at chesstour.com by 1/13
(entry only, no questions), $60 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 1/13, $70 at site.
All: FREETO UNRATED. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games
usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 yr USCF dues with Chess Life if
paid with entry: online at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at site $40.
Re-entry (except Master) $60. SCCF memb. ($18, jr $10) required for rated South-
ern CA residents. 4-day schedule: Reg. Fri to 6:30 pm, rds Fri 7, Sat 11-6, Sun
11-6, Mon 10-4:30. 3-day schedule: Reg. Sat to 10 am, rds Sat 11-6, Sun 11-
6, Mon 10-4:30. Class E & U1000 schedule: Reg Sat to 9:30 am, rds Sat
10-1-4-7, Sun 9-12-3. All schedules: Byes OK all, limit 3, must commit before
rd 3 and have under 2 pts. HR: $87-87, 818-707-1220, reserve by Jan 2 or rate
may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633. Questions:
chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Ent: Continental Chess, c/o Goichberg, Box
661776, Arcadia CA 91066. $15 service charge for withdrawals. Advance
entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.
uschess.org
A Heritage Event!
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 80 (enhanced)
Jan. 16-19, 17-19 or 18-19, Pennsylvania
41st annual Liberty Bell Open
7SS, 40/2, SD/1 (3 day option, rds 1-2 G/75; 2 day, rds 1-4 G/40). U900 Sec-
tion plays 1/18-19 only, G/40. Sheraton City Center Hotel, 17th & Race Sts.,
Philadelphia 19103. $$20,000 b/320 paid entries (U900 Section counts 1/3, GMs
), else in proportion, except minimum 60% of each prize guaranteed. In 2006
to 2008, the tournament had over 320 paid entries each year and the $20,000
projected prize fund was increased. In 8 sections. Open: $2000-1000-500-300-
200, 1st clear or on tiebreak $100 bonus, 2300-2399 $800-400, U2300/Unr
$800-400. FIDE. Under 2100: $1000-600-400-300-200. Under 1900: $1000-
600-400-300-200. Under 1700: $1000-600-400-300-200. Under 1500:
$1000-600-400-300-200. Under 1300: $700-400-250-150-100. Under 1100:
$700-400-250-150-100. Under 900: $150-100-50, trophies to top 8. Unrated
may enter any section, but may not win over $50 in U900, $100 in U1100, $200
U1300, $300 U1500, $400 U1700, or $500 U1900. Top 5 sections EF: 4 day
$99, 3 day $98, 2 day $97 mailed by 1/8, all $100 online at chesstour.com by
1/13, $105 phoned by 1/13 (406-896-2038, entry only, no questions), $120 (no
checks, credit cards OK) at site. GMs free, $80 deducted from prize. U1300,
U1100 Sections EF: All $20 less to rated players. U900 Section EF: $27
mailed by 1/8, $28 online by 1/13, $30 phoned by 1/13, $40 at site. All: FREE
TO UNRATED. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games usu-
ally used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 yr USCF dues with Chess Life if paid
with entry: online at chesstour.com $30; mailed, phoned or paid at site $40.
Mailed entry $3 less to PSCF members. Re entry (except Open Section) $80.
4-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds 7 pm, 11-6, 11-6, 10-4:30. 3-day
schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds.11-2:30-6, 11-6, 10-4:30. 2-day sched-
ule: Reg ends Sun 9 am, rds 10-12-2-4-6, 10-4:30. Under 900 schedule:
Reg. ends Sun. 9 am, rds 10-12-2-4, 10-12-2. Bye: all, limit 3, must commit before
rd 3 and have under 2 pts. HR: $93-93-93-93, 215-448-2000, reserve by Jan 2
or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633 or
reserve through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills
NY 12577. Questions: 845-496-9658, www.chesstour.com. $15 service charge
for refunds. Advance entries will be posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.
A Heritage Event!
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 60
Jan. 29-Feb. 1, Bermuda
2009 Bermuda International Open, 25th Anniversary
5SS, 40/2, G/1. Fairmont Southampton Resort. Thurs. Jan. 29. Cocktail recep-
tion 6:30 followed by 8 pm Blitz tournament. Rounds: Fri. 8pm, Sat./Sun. 9am,
3pm. 1 bye any rd. but 5th. Coffee, tea, cookies served S & S. Closing party:
Sun. 7:30pm Buffet dinner free for all participants and spouses. Prize fund Gtd.
$5000: Open $1000 (plus air from East Coast and hotel for 10), $800, $600,
$400, $200. U2200, U2000, U1800, U1600 all $250, $150, $100. Top non-titled
also wins RT from East Coast and hotel for 2010. EF: $100, payable on site. Free
to GMs, IMs, EF deducted from prize. Sets provided, bring clock. Fairmont
Southampton 1-866-540-4497, chess tournament rate ($199+tx). More
info contact: Nigel Freeman cadilly@northrock.bm or IA Carol Jarecki car-
olj10280@yahoo.com. FIDE Ratings available. WCL JGP.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 100 (enhanced)
Mar. 6-8 or 7-8, California Northern
Western Chess Congress
5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (3-day option, rds. 1-2 G/75; U1100 & U900 sections are 6SS,
3/7-8 only, G/65). Concord Hilton Hotel, 1970 Diamond Blvd, Concord CA
94520 (I-680 Willow Pass Rd exit). Free shuttle between hotel and Concord
BART station. Free parking. In 8 sections. $$G 20,000. Premier, open to all over
1950 and juniors under 18 over 1800: $1600-900-500-300, clear or tiebreak win-
ner $100, top U2300 $800-400. FIDE. Under 2100: $1400-700-400-300. Under
1900: $1400-700-400-300. Under 1700: $1400-700-400-300. Under 1500:
$1200-600-300-200. Under 1300: $1200-600-300-200. Under 1100: $600-
300-200-100. Under 900: $600-300-200-100. Unrated must play in U1900 or
below with maximum prize U1900 $600, U1700 $500, U1500 $400, U1300
$300, U1100 $200, U900 $100; balance goes to next player(s) in line. Top 6 sec-
tions EF: 4-day $119, 3-day $118 mailed by 2/26, all $120 online at
chesstour.com by 3/3, $125 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 3/3 (entry only, no ques-
tions), $140 at site. U1100, U900 Sections EF: $57 mailed by 2/26, $60
online at chesstour.com by 3/3 (entry only, no questions), $65 phoned to 406-
896-2038 by 3/3, $70 at site. All: FREE TO UNRATED. Unofficial uschess.org
ratings based on 4 or more games usually used if otherwise unrated. Special
1 yr USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry: online at chesstour.com $30;
mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. Re-entry (except Master) $60. Mailed EF
$7 less to rated CalChess members. 3-day schedule: Reg. Fri to 6:30 pm, rds
Fri 7:30, Sat 11-6, Sun 9-3:30. 2-day schedule: Reg Sat to 10 am, rds Sat 11-
2:30-6, Sun 9-3:30. U1100 & U900 schedule: Reg. Sat to 11:30 am, rds. Sat.
12-3-6, Sun. 9-12:30-3:30. All schedules: Byes OK all, limit 2, must commit
before rd 3 and have under 2 pts. HR: $99-99-109, 925-827-2000, reserve by
2/20 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633.
Questions: chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Ent: Continental Chess, c/o Goich-
berg, Box 661776, Arcadia CA 91066. $15 service charge for withdrawals.
Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 100 (enhanced)
Mar. 13-15 or 14-15, Missouri
13th Annual Mid-America Open
5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/70), Crowne Plaza Hotel St. Louis-
Clayton, 7750 Carondelet Ave., St. Louis MO 63105 (I-64 W/US 40-W Exit 32B,
1.2 miles north on Hanley Rd). $$ 20,000 based on 250 paid entries (re-entries
count half, unr in U1200-U2000 half, U900 Section one quarter), minimum
$16,000 (80% of each prize) guaranteed. In 7 sections: Open: $2000-1000-600-
400, clear winner or 1st on tiebreak $100 bonus, top U2300 $900, U2200
$800, U2100/Unr $700. FIDE. Under 2000: $1500-700-400-300. Under 1800:
$1500-700-400-300. Under 1600: $1500-700-400-300. Under 1400: $1200-600-
300-200. Under 1200: $1200-600-300-200. Under 900: $100-600-40, trophies
to top 7. Unrated may enter any section, with prize limits: U900 $50, U1200 $150,
U1400 $300, U1600 $400, U1800 $500, U2000 $700. Balance goes to next
player(s) in line. EF: 3-day $103, 2-day $102 mailed by 3/5, all $105 online at
chesstour.com by 3/10, $110 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 3/10 (entry only, no
questions), $120 at site. Under 900/Unr Section EF: 3-day $23, 2-day $22 if
mailed by 3/5, $25 online at chesstour.com by 3/10, $27 phoned to 406-896-
2038 by 3/10, $30 at site. FREE TO UNRATED IN U900 OR U1200 SECTIONS.
Chess Life November 2008 59
 Tournament Life
All: Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games usually used if
otherwise unrated. Special 1 yr adult USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with
entry: online at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. Re-entry
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING NOVEMBER 1-14
$60; not available in Open Section. No checks at site, credit cards OK. MCA
memb. ($5; higher with printed magazine) required for MO residents. 3-day
schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds Fri 7 pm, Sat 11-6, Sun 9-3:15. 2-day
schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds Sat 11-2:30-6, Sun 9-3:15. Byes: OK all;
must commit before rd 3, having under 2 pts. HR: $87-87, 888-303-1746, 314-
726-5400, request chess rate, reserve by 2/27 or rate may increase. Car
rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633, or reserve car online through
chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills NY 12577. Ques-
tions: 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.
An American Classic!
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 200 (enhanced)
Apr. 8-12, 9-12 or 10-12, Connecticut
11th annual Foxwoods Open
Open Section, Apr 8-12: 9SS, 40/2, SD/1. GM & IM norms possible. Lower
Sections, Apr 9-12 or 10-12: 7SS, 40/2, SD/1 (3-day option, rds. 1-4 G/50).
Foxwoods Resort Casino & Hotel, Rt 2, Mashantucket CT 06339 (I-95 to Exit
92 to Rt 2 West, or I-395 to Exit 85 to Rt 164 to Rt 2 East). Free parking. 45 miles
fromT.F. Green Airport (Providence, RI), 14 miles from Groton/New London Air-
port; for shuttle from New London Amtrak station call 1-800-USA-RAIL. Bus
transportation: 1-888-BUS2FOX. Free shuttle to Mashantucket Pequot Museum,
largest Native American museum in USA. Prizes $100,000 based on 650 paid
entries (Seniors count as 3/4 entries; U1000 Section, re-entries, GMs, WGMs
& foreign IMs/WIMs as half entries), else proportional, minimum $70,000 (70%
of each prize) guaranteed. In 7 sections: Open: $10000-5000-2500-1500-
1000-700-600-500-400-400, 2300-2499 $3000-1500-700, Under 2300/Unr
$3000-1500-700. If tie for first, top 2 on tiebreak play speed game (white 7 min-
utes, black 5 minutes & gets draw odds) for title & free room at 2010 Foxwoods
Open. FIDE rated. Under 2100, Under 1900, Under 1700: each $5000-3000-
2000-1000-700-600-500-400-300-300. Under 1500, Under 1300: $4000-2000-
1500-1000-700-600-500-400-300-300. Under 1000: $1000-600-400-300-250-
200-150-100. Prize limits: 1) Players with under 26 lifetime games rated as
of 4/09 list may not win over $500 in U1000, $1500 in U1300, or $2500 in U1500.
Games rated too late for 4/09 list not counted. 2) If more than 30 points over
section maximum on any USCF rating supplement 4/08-3/09, prize limit $1500.
3) Unrated (0-3 lifetime games rated) cannot win over $300 in U1000, $600
U1300, $1000 U1500, $1300 U1700, $1600 U1900, or $2000 U2100. Initial rat-
ings that will appear after the 4/09 list used at Directors discretion; if used,
rule 1 applies. 4) Balance of limited prize goes to next player(s) in line. Mailed
EF: 5-day (Open only) $205, 4-day $204, 3-day $203 if mailed by 1/10; 5-day
$225, 4-day $224, 3-day $223 mailed by 3/31; all $250 at site. CSCA members
may deduct $4 from mailed EF only. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Online
EF at chesstour.com: $207 by 1/10, $227 by 4/6, $250 after 4/6 until 2 hours
before rd 1. Phone EF at 406-896-2038 (entry only, no questions): $210 by 1/10,
$230 by 4/6. No phone entry after 4/6. GMs, foreign IMs, foreign WGMs, for-
eign WIMs free; $150 deducted from prize. US WGMs $100; another $100
deducted from prize. EF $70 less to seniors over 65 in Under 1300 & above
sections. Under 1000 Section EF: 4-day $104, 3-day $103 if mailed by 3/31,
60 Chess Life November 2008
all $107 online at chesstour.com by 4/6, $110 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 4/6
(entry only, no questions), $120 at site. All: FREE TO UNRATED IN U1000 OR
U1300 SECTIONS. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more games
usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 yr USCF dues with Chess Life if
paid with entry: online at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at site $40.
No checks at site, credit cards OK. Re-entry: $100, no re-entry from Open Sec-
tion to Open Section. 5-day Open Section schedule: Reg. ends Wed 6 pm,
rds. Wed. 7 pm, Thu 12 & 7, Fri/Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. 4-day Lower Sec-
tions schedule: Reg. ends Thu 6 pm, rds. Thu 7 pm, Fri/Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 &
4:30. 3-day Lower Sections schedule: Reg. ends Fri 7 pm, rds Fri 8 pm, Sat
10,12:30, 3, 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. 4-day & 3-day merge & compete for same
prizes. Byes: OK all; limit 4 (limit 2 in last 4 rds), must commit before rd 3, hav-
ing under 2 pts. Bring sets, boards, clocks if possible- none supplied. HR: Grand
Pequot Tower (tournament site, very luxurious) $132-132, Great Cedar Hotel
(connected building; very close) $118-118,TwoTrees Inn (15 minute walk; free
shuttle) $108-108. 1-800-FOXWOOD, must reserve by 3/26 or you will have to
stay at least 3 miles away. Car rentals: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633
or reserve car online at chesstour.com. Foreign player ratings: Usually 100
points added to FIDE, 100 to FQE, 200/more to most other foreign, no pts added
to CFC, PR or Jamaica. Most foreign ratings other than CFC, PR, FQE or
Jamaica not accepted for U2000 or below. Highest of multiple ratings usually
used. Players who fail to disclose foreign or FIDE ratings may be expelled. US
player ratings: April list used; FIDE ratings not used. Special rules: Players
must submit to a search for electronic devices if requested by Director. In round
4 or after, players with scores of over 80% and their opponents may not use
headphones, earphones or cellphones or go to a different floor of the hotel with-
out Director permission. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills NY
12577. Questions: 845-496-9658, www.chesstour.com. You may request low-
est possible section if April rating unknown. $15 service charge for refunds.
Advance entries will be posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 200 (enhanced)
May 22-25, 23-25 or 24-25, Illinois
18th annual Chicago Open
7SS, 40/2, SD/1 (3-day option, rds 1-2 G/75; 2-day option, rds. 1-4 G/45). Under
900 section plays separate 2-day schedule only, G/45. Westin Chicago North
Shore Hotel, 601 North Milwaukee Ave, Wheeling IL 60090 (from Chicago, I-
294 north to US-45 north; from Milwaukee, I-94 east to Lake Cook Rd to US-45
south.) Free parking. $100,000 guaranteed prize fund. In 8 sections. Open:
$8000-4000-2000-1200-800-600-500-400-400-400, clear winner bonus $200,
top Under 2500 $2000-1000. If tie for first, top 2 on tiebreak play speed game
(white 7 minutes, black 5 minutes & gets draw odds) for title & bonus prize.
Under 2300, Under 2100, Under 1900, Under 1700: each $6000-3000-1500-
1000-700-500-400-300-300-300. U2300 Section is FIDE rated. Under 1500:
$5000-2500-1200-1000-700-500-400-300-300-300. Under 1300: $3000-1500-
1000-800-600-500-400-300-300-300, top U1100 $800-400. Under 1100 play for
both U1300 section prizes & U1100 class prizes; receive larger if winning both.
Under 900: $200-120-80, trophies to top 10. Prize limits: 1) Players with under
26 lifetime games rated through 5/09 list may not win over $1500 U1300 or
$2500 U1500. Games rated too late for 5/09 list not counted. 2) If more than
30 points over section maximum on any list 5/08-4/09, prize limit $1500. 3)
Unrated (0-3 lifetime games rated) cannot win over $100 in U900, $600 U1300,
$1000 U1500, $1300 U1700, $1600 U1900 or $2000 U2100. 4) Balance of any
limited prize goes to next player(s) in line. Mailed EF: 4-day $199, 3-day
$198, 2-day $197 mailed by 3/16; 4-day $219, 3-day $218, 2-day $217 mailed
by 5/13; all $250 at site. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Online EF at chess-
tour.com: $200 by 3/16, $220 by 5/19, $250 after 5/20 until 2 hours before rd
1. Phone EF at 406-896-2038: $205 by 3/16, $225 by 5/19 (entry only, no ques-
tions). No phone entry after 5/19. GMs free; $150 deducted from prize. WGMs
$100; another $100 deducted from prize. EF $70 less to all in Under 1300 Sec-
tion and to seniors over 65 in Under 1500 & above sections. Under 900 EF:
$24 if mailed by 5/13, $25 online at chesstour.com by 5/19, $30 phoned to 406-
896-2038 by 5/19 (entry only, no questions), $40 at site. No checks at site, credit
cards OK. All: FREE ENTRY TO UNRATED in U900 or U1300 Sections. ICA
membership ($15, scholastic $10) required for rated Illinois residents. Spe-
cial 1 yr adult USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry: online at
chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. Re-entry: $100, no re-
entry from Open to Open. $20 fee for switching section after 5/19. 4-day
schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, Rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 12 & 7, Sun 12 & 7, Mon 10
& 4:30. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Sat 11 am, Rds. Sat 12, 3:30 & 7, Sun 12
& 7, Mon 10 & 4:30. 2-day schedule (U1300 & up): Reg. ends Sun 9 am, Rds.
Sun 10-12:30-2:30-4:30-7, Mon 10 & 4:30. Above schedules merge & com-
pete for same prizes. Under 900 schedule: Reg. ends Sun 9 am, Rds. Sun
10-12:30-2:30-4:30, Mon. 10-12:30-2:30. Byes: OK all, limit 4 (limit 2 in last 4
rds), must commit before rd 3 having under 2 pts. Hotel rates: $94-94-94-94,
800-937-8461, 847-777-6500, reserve by 5/9 or rate may increase. Car rental:
Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD #D657633, or reserve car online through chess-
tour.com. Foreign player ratings: Usually 100 points added to FIDE, 100 to
FQE, 200/more to most other foreign, no pts added to CFC or Jamaica. Most
foreign ratings other than CFC, FQE or Jamaica not accepted for U2000 or below.
Highest of multiple ratings usually used. Players who fail to disclose foreign
or FIDE ratings may be expelled. US player ratings: May official ratings
used; FIDE ratings not used. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4 or more
games usually used if otherwise unrated. Special rules: 1) Players must sub-
mit to a search for electronic devices if requested by Director. In round 4 or
after, players with scores over 80% in U1300/up and their opponents may not
use headphones, earphones, cellphones, or go to a different floor of the hotel
without Director permission. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills,
NY 12577. Questions: 845-496-9658, chesstour.com. You may request low-
est possible section if May rating unknown. $15 service charge for refunds.
Advance entries will be posted at chesstour.com. WCL JGP.
A Heritage Event!
An American Classic!
World Chess Live Grand Prix Points: 300 (enhanced)
July 1-5, 2-5, 3-5 or June 29-July 5, Pennsylvania
37th Annual World Open
9SS, 40/2, SD/1 (4-day option, rds 1-2 G/75, 3-day option, rds 1-5 G/45), Under
900/Unr Section plays separate 3-day schedule only, G/45. Sheraton City Cen-
ter Hotel, 17th & Race Sts., Philadelphia 19103. Parking $5 for hotel guests
playing in tournament. Downtown location, Franklin Institute, many muse-
ums, stores, restaurants within a few blocks. Prizes $250,000 unconditionally
uschess.org
guaranteed. Free analysis of your games by GM Sam Palatnik; free lectures
by other GMs 9 am 7/3 & 7/4. In 9 sections (Unrated eligible only for Open,
Under 2400, or Under 900). Open: $20000-10000-5000-2500-1500-1000-800-
700-600-500, clear winner bonus $200, top U2500 $2000-1000. If tie for first,
top 2 on tiebreak play speed game 7/5 (white 7 minutes, black 5 minutes & gets
draw odds) for title & bonus prize. GM & IM norms possible in 5-day & 7-day
schedules. FIDE rated. Under 2400: $14000-7000-3000-2000-1000-900-800-
700-600-500, top U2300 $2000-1000. FIDE Under 2200: $14000-7000-
3000-2000-1000-900-800-700-600-500, top U2100 $2000-1000. Under 2000:
$14000-7000-3000-2000-1000-900-800-700-600-500, top U1900 $2000-1000.
Under 1800: $14000-7000-3000-2000-1000-900-800-700-600-500, top U1700
$2000-1000. Under 1600: $12000-6000-3000-2000-1000-900-800-700-600-
500, top U1500 $2000-1000. Under 1400: $10000-5000-2500-1500-1000-
900-800-700-600-500, top U1300 $1500-800. Under 1200: $5000-2500-1500-
1000-800-700-600-500-400-300. Under 900/unrated: $300-200-100, trophies
to top 10, no unrated may win over $100. Prize limits: 1) Players with under
26 games played as of 7/09 list may not win over $1500 in U1200, $3000 U1400
to U1800. Games rated too late for 7/09 list not counted. 2) Players with offi-
cial rating more than 30 points over section maximum any month 7/08-6/09
have a prize limit of $2000. 3) Balance of any limited prize goes to next
player(s) in line. EF, if mailed by 2/17: 7-day $307, 5-day $305, 4-day $304,
3-day $303. Mailed by 5/15: 7-day $317, 5-day $315, 4-day $314, 3-day $313.
Mailed by 6/18: 7-day $327, 5-day $325, 4-day $324, 3-day $323. At site: All
$350; no checks, credit cards OK. Online entry at chesstour.com: $310 by 2/17,
$320 by 5/15, $330 by 6/24, $350 after 6/24 until 2 hours before rd 1. Phone
entry at 406-896-2038: $315 by 2/17, $325 by 5/15, $335 by 6/24 (entry only,
no questions). No phone entries after 6/24. GMs free; $200 EF deducted
from prize. WGMs $100; another $100 EF deducted from prize. EF $100 less
to all in U1200 Section and seniors over 65 in Under 1400 & above. Under
900/Unrated Section EF: $25 if mailed by 6/17, all $26 online at chess-
tour.com by 6/24, $30 phoned by 6/24 (entry only, no questions), $40 at site.
FREE ENTRYTO UNRATED in U900/Unr Section. No checks at site; credit cards
OK. Re-entry: $160, no re-entry from Open to Open. $20 fee for switching
section after 6/30. Special 1 yr adult USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with
entry: online at chesstour.com $30, mailed, phoned or paid at site $40. 5-day
schedule: Wed 7 pm, Thur 11 am & 6 pm, Fri 11 am & 6 pm, Sat 11 am & 6
pm, Sun 10 am & 5 pm. 7-day schedule: Mon-Fri each 7 pm, Sat 11 am & 6
pm, Sun 10 am & 5 pm. 4-day schedule: Thurs 11, 2:30 & 6, Fri 11 & 6, Sat
11 & 6, Sun 10 & 5. 3-day schedule: Fri 11, 1:30, 3:30, 6 & 8:30, Sat 11 & 6,
Sun 10 & 5. All schedules merge & compete for same prizes. Under 900/Unr
schedule: Fri 1:30, 3:45 & 6, Sat 11, 1:30, 3:45 & 6, Sun 10 & 12:30. Half point
byes OK all, limit 4 (limit 2 in last 4 rds), must commit before rd 3 and have
under 2 pts. Entries, re-entries close 1 hour before your first game. Bring sets,
boards, clocks if possible- none supplied. HR: 93-93, 215-448-2000, may
sell out about 5/31, two night minimum 7/3-4. Backup hotel: Radisson Plaza
Warwick, 215-735-6000, $93-93. Special car rental rates: Avis, 800-331-1600,
AWD #D657633, or reserve car online through chesstour.com. Foreign player
ratings: 100 pts added to FIDE, 100 to FQE, 200 or more to most foreign, no
pts added to CFC. Most foreign ratings other than CFC or FQE or Jamaica not
accepted for U2000 or below. Highest of multiple ratings used. Players who fail
to disclose foreign or FIDE ratings may be expelled. US player ratings: JULY
uschess.org
LIST USED; FIDE ratings not used. Unofficial uschess.org ratings based on 4
or more games usually used if otherwise unrated. Special rules: 1) Players
must submit to a search for electronic devices if requested by Director. In round
4 or after, players with scores over 80% and their opponents may not use head-
phones, earphones, cellphones or go to a different floor of the hotel without
Director permission. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY
12577. Questions: www.chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. You may request low-
est possible section if June rating unknown. $15 service charge for refunds.
Advance entries will be posted at chesstour.com. Bring set, board, clock if pos-
sible- none supplied. WCL JGP.
Regional
Alabama
Nov. 22-23, Magic City Open
USCF rtd 5rd SS, 30/90; SD 30. Loc: Bridge Club, 2116 Columbiana Rd.,
(Columbiana Crossing strip mall) Bham, AL 35226. Entry fees: $45 by 11/15;
$55 at site. USCF mem. rqd. 2 sects, OPEN & RESERVE. Checks to Bham Chess
Club 2336 Tyler Road Bham, AL 35226. USCF # and Sect. on memo line.
Prizes b/50: OPEN $300 + trophy; $175, $100. U/2000 & 1800 $100 + tro-
phy. RESERVE (U/1600) $200 + trophy; $150, $75. U/1400 & U/1200 $75 +
trophy. U/1000 UNR $55 + trophy. RDS.: 11/22: 9am, 1:45pm, 6pm. 11/23:
8:30am, 1:30pm. Tie breaks USCF Rule 34E. Cell phones VIBRATE. Score
sheets provided. REG.: Sat. 11/22, 7:20am-8:20am. Questions: R.W. Ellis
(205-979-6068) or kee@bellsouth.net. WCL JGP.
Nov. 29-30, Athens-Huntsville CC November 2008
4SS, G100, T/D5, Athens Rec. Ctr., 270 US Hwy 31 N @ US Hwy 251 I-65/Ex.
351; Athens, 35611. $250/b/20:125-75-50, U1800/$30 U1600/$20. EF: $19,
if received by Nov. 26, $25 Nov. 29. RDS. 9:00-12:30 daily. ENT/Checks:
Edward Labate; P.O. Box 1404; Athens 35612. INFO: www.labatechess.com. WCL
JGP.
Dec. 3, 10, 17 Athens-Huntsville CC December Wednesdays
4SS, G90, T/D5, 270 US Hwy 31 N @ US Hwy 251 I-65/Ex. 351; Athens,
35611. EF: $5. 1st Rd. 6:15 RDS.: 6:45. INFO: 256.829.2298. WCL JGP.
A State Championship Event!
Dec. 6, ACF Inc. G/45 Championship
5SS, G/45; USCF dual-rated; Multicultural UMC Center; 604 Jordan Lane,
Huntsville, Alabama 35816. From I-565, take Jordan Lane exit, turning north
off exit ramp. Continue north crossing Holmes Avenue intersection. Multicul-
tural Center is (0.1 mile further on right). $$ (b/45); Open: $100-70-50, A $70,
U1800/Unr $70. Reserve (U1600): $90-60-40, D $70, E $70; U1000 $60; Unr
$20; Open and Reserve championship trophies and titles awarded to top ACF
members; Eligible players must play round 5 to win prize or title. EF: Open &
Reserve $20 postmarked by 11/30, $30 on site. Reg.: 8am 9:00am on
12/6. Rds.: 9:15-11:00-1:00-2:45-4:30. Memb. reqd: USCF ($ see uschess.org),
Alabama $10, OSA. Ent.: Gerald Larson, 2909 Gallalee Road, Huntsville, AL
35801. Info: glarson@knology.net. This tournament abides by Alabama Chess
Federation, Inc. Policies and the most recent edition of USCF Rules and Reg-
ulations. Flyer/Entry Form: logicalchess.com/hcc or alabamachess.com -
link to calendars.
Dec. 13-14, 7th Dothan Open
See Grand Prix.
Dec. 20, Bham Chess Club
USCF rtd G/45. Loc. Rocky Ridge Church (Fellowship Hall) 2404 Altadena Rd.,
Bham, AL. EF: $25 by 12/5; $35 at site. USCF mem. reqd. 1 sect. Checks to
Bham Chess Club 2336 Tyler Rd., Bham, AL 35226. USCF # on memo line.
PRIZES b/25: 1st-$150; 2d-$100; 3d (U1700)-$80; 4th (U1400/UNR)-$65.
RDS.: 9:15am; 11:30am; 1:30pm; 3:30pm.Tie Breaks USCF Rule 34E. Cellphones
vibrate; score sheets provided. Reg.: Sat. 12/20 8:00am-8:45am. Questions?
R.W. Ellis (205) 979-6068; kee@bellsouth.net.
Dec. 27-28, Athens-Huntsville CC December 2008
4SS, G100, T/D5, Athens Rec. Ctr., 270 US Hwy 31 N @ US Hwy 251 I-65/Ex.
351; Athens, 35611. $250/b/20:125-75-50, U1800/$30 U1600/$20. EF: $19,
if received by Dec. 24, $25 Dec. 27. RDS. 9:00-12:30 daily. ENT/Checks:
Edward Labate; P.O. Box 1404; Athens 35612. INFO: www.labatechess.com WCL
JGP.
Arizona
Dec. 26-29 or 27-29, 18th annual North American Open (NV)
See Grand Prix.
California Northern
Nov. 15, Cupertino G/60 Open Tournament!
4SS, G/60. 10675 S. De Anza Blvd #4, Cupertino, CA 95014. 408-996-1236.
($500 b/32) $150-100-50, u1600 $100-$60-$40. EF: $30 by 11/14, $40 same
day. Reg.: 10-10:45. Rds.: 11-1:30-3:45-6:15. Site capacity: 32. Info:
albertjrich@yahoo.com.
Nov. 15, Fresno Chess for Kids
Manchester GATE School, 2307 E Dakota, Fresno CA 93726. In 4 Sections
High School (9-12): 5SS, G/30, Middle School (7-8): 5SS, G/30, Elemen-
tary (4-6): 5SS, G/30, Primary (K-3): 5SS, G/30, ALL: EF: $12 advance; $20
at the door. Individual and Team Trophies. Reg.: 11/15 8:30-9:15. Advance reg
recd by 11/12. Rds.: 10:00, 11:30, 1:00, 2:30, 4:00. ENT: Chess for Kids, PO
Box 27, Visalia CA 93279. INFO: Allan Fifield, 559-734-2784 & 559-967-3379
sequoiachess@sbcglobal.net. OTHER: Also non-rated sections K-3 & 4-6.
sequoiachess.com. Food on site. NS NC W.
Dec. 6, Fresno County Championship
St. Agnes Medical Center, Education Room B, 1303 E. Herndon, Fresno, CA 93720.
In 2 Sections Open: 4SS, Game/60, Reserve (Under 1600): 4SS, Game/60,
Open to 1599 & under. ALL: EF: $35 if received by 12/03/08; $45 thereafter.
Trophies. Reg.: 12/06 8:45-9:30. Rds.: 10:00-12:30-3:00-5:30. 1/2 pt bye
available. ENT: Fresno Chess Club, 4085 N. Peach #166, Fresno, CA 93727.
Vaness French 559-243-6226. frenchchessman@sbcglobal.net. Non-rated
side event for Non-USCF members; No analysis in playing room; Full service
cafeteria at site. NS W.
Chess Life November 2008 61
 Tournament Life
GOLD AFFILIATES
Cajun Chess
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING NOVEMBER 1-14
7230 Chadbourne Drive
New Orleans, LA 70126
504 208 9596, cajunchess@yahoo.com
www.cajunchess.com
Continental Chess
Association
PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577
845 496 9658
chesstour@aol.com, www.chesstour.com
DC Chess Association
2520 Tenth St. NE, Suite 28,
Washington, DC 20018
202 506 2927
vbennett@dcchess.com, www.dcchess.com
New Jersey State Chess
Federation
c/o Roger Inglis, 49 A Mara Rd.,
Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034
973 263 8696, rwij@njoychess.com,
www.njscf.org
New York State Chess
Association
c/o Karl Heck, 5426 Wright Street, County
Route 67, East Durham, NY 12423,
518 966 8523, sldkth@nyair.net,
www.nysca.net
North American Chess
Association
2516 North Waukegan Road, Suite 342,
Glenview, IL 60025
888 80 CHESS
info@nachess.org, www.nachess.org
SPICE
Box 45080, Lubbock, TX 79409
806 742 7742
SPICE@ttu.edu
www.SPICE.ttu.edu
Susan Polgar Foundation
6923 Indiana Avenue, Suite 154,
Lubbock, TX 79413
212 748 9584
PolgarFoundation@aol.com
www.SusanPolgarFoundation.org
Tri-State Chess
288 Third Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215
1 888 CHESS 35
MKurtzman@TriStateChess.com,
www.TriStateChess.com
Unity Chess Club
9375 E. Shea Blvd., Suite 100, Office 136,
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
480 949 5464 (KING)
info@unitychess.com
unitychess.com
SILVER AFFILIATES
Michigan Chess Association
www.michess.org
Oklahoma Chess Foundation
www.OKchess.org
Orange Crush Chess Club (IN)
akakarpov1@mw.net
Sparta Chess Club (NJ)
www.spartachessclub.org
Renaissance Knights (IL)
www.RKnights.org
62 Chess Life November 2008
Dec. 13, Reedley Chess for Kids
T L Reed School, 1400 N Frankwood, Reedley CA 93654. In 4 Sections: High
School (9-12): 5SS, G/30, Middle School (7-8): 5SS, G/30, Elementary (4-
6): 5SS, G/30, Primary (K-3): 5SS, G/30, ALL: EF: $12 advance; $20 at the
door. Individual and Team Trophies. Reg.: 11/15 8:30-9:15. Advance reg recd
by 12/10. Rds.: 10:00 11:30 1:00 2:30 4:00. ENT: Chess for Kids, PO Box 27,
Visalia CA 93279. INFO: Allan Fifield, 559-734-2784 & 559-967-3379
sequoiachess@sbcglobal.net. sequoiachess.com. Food on site. NS NC W.
Dec. 26-29 or 27-29, 18th annual North American Open (NV)
See Grand Prix.
Jan. 16-19, 17-19 or 17-18, 16th annual Western Class Champi-
onships (CA-S)
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 6-8 or 7-8, Western Chess Congress
See Grand Prix.
California Southern
LA CHESS CLUB * www.LaChessClub.com
Fridays: 8 PM-10 PM (Blitz Tournament) Saturdays:
10AM-10 PM (Class& 2 Tournaments) Sundays: 12
PM-6 PM (Tournament) Tuesdays: 7:30 PM-9:30 PM
(Intermediate/Advanced Lecture) 11514 Santa Monica
Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025 * (310) 795-5710 (4 blocks
West of 405, Santa Monica& Butler * Second Floor)
Private (1:1) Lessons * Group Classes * Tournaments.
Nov. 27-30, 44th Annual American Open
See Grand Prix.
Nov. 29, American Open Quick Chess Championship (QC)
See Grand Prix.
Nov. 29, American Open Scholastic
5-SS, G/45. LAX Renaissance Hotel, 9620 Airport Bl., Los Angeles, CA 90045.
Open to HS/below. In 4 sections K-12: trophies top 5, 2 each grades 9-12, 1
each K-8. K-8: trophies top 5, 2 each K-8. K-6: trophies top 5, 2 each K-6. K-
3: trophies top 4, 2 each K-3. EF: $16 received by 11/25, $20 at door. Reg.: 9-9:45
Rounds: 10-11:30-1-3-4:30. Enter: www.americanopen.org or American Open,
PO Box 205, Monterey Park, CA 91754. Info: Randy Hough (626) 282-7412, ran-
dallhough@yahoo.com.
Nov. 30, American Open Action
5-SS, G/30. LAX Renaissance Hotel, 9620 Airport Bl., Los Angeles, CA 90045.
EF: $20 received by 11/25; $25 at door. 80% of entry fees returned in prizes
Reg.: 11-11:45 a.m. Rounds: 12-1:15-3-4:15-5:30. Enter: www.americanopen.
org or American Open, PO Box 205, Monterey Park, CA 91754. Info: Randy Hough
(626) 282-7412, randallhough@yahoo.com.
GOLD & SILVER AFFILIATES
GOLD
Any affiliate that has submitted at least 50
USCF memberships during the current or
previous calendar year, or is the recognized
State Affiliate, is eligible to become a Gold
Affiliate. Gold Affiliates are honored in a spe
cial list in larger type in Tournament Life each
month, giving the affiliate name, address,
phone number, e mail address, and website.
Gold Affiliation costs $350 per year, and exist
ing affiliates may substract $3 for each month
remaining on their regular affiliation, or $20
for each month remaining on their Silver Affil
iation. As of August 6, 2007, by paying an
annual payment of $500 (instead of $350),
Gold Affiliate status may be obtained with no
minimum requirement for memberships sub-
mitted.
SILVER
Any affiliate that has submitted at least 25
USCF memberships during the current or
previous calendar year, or is the recognized
State Affiliate, is eligible to become a Silver
Affiliate. These affiliates will be recognized
in a special list in Tournament Life each
month, giving the affiliate name, state, and
choice of either phone number, e mail
address, or website. Silver Affiliation costs
$150 per year, and existing affiliates may
subtract $3 for each month remaining on
their regular affiliation. As of August 6, 2007,
by paying an annual payment of $250.00
(instead of $150), Silver Affiliate status may be
obtained with no minimum requirement for
memberships submitted.
Dec. 5, 12, 19, 26, LACC Friday Nite Blitz G/5 (QC)
5SS, G/5 (10 Games). LACC, 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, CA 90025, 2nd floor
(4 blks 405W). EF: $10. USCF Quick rated. Reg.: 7:30-8. Rds.: 8-8:30-9-9:30-
10. 2 Free Parking lots SW of S. Monica & Purdue; or in the bldg. basement
($2). Prizes: 1/2 collections. Inf: (310) 795-5710 or Mick@LaChessClub.com.
Dec. 6, The Bakersfield Open
See Grand Prix.
Dec. 6, 13, 20, 27, LACC LA Masters G/30
4SS, G/30. LACC, 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, CA 90025, 2nd Fl (4 blks
405W). EF: $30, ($20 LACC memb). Reg.: 5:30-6. Rds.: 6, 7, 8, 9. Prizes: 3/4
collections. 2 Free lots SW of S. Monica/Purdue; or bldg. basement ($2). Inf:
(310) 795-5710.
Dec. 6, 13, 20, 27, LACC Saturday Swiss G/30
4SS, G/30. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, CA 90025, 2nd Fl (4 blks 405W). EF:
$20, (15 LACC memb). Reg.: 11:30-12. Rds.: 12, 1, 2, 3. Prizes: 1/2 collections.
2 Free lots SW of S. Monica/Purdue; or bldg basement ($2). Inf: (310) 795-5710.
Dec. 7, 14, 21, 28, LACC Sunday Swiss G/60
3SS, G/60. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, CA 90025, 2nd Fl (4 blks 405W). EF:
$20, ($15 LACC memb). Reg.: 11:30-12. Rds.: 12, 2, 4. Prizes: 1/2 collections.
2 Free lots SW of S. Monica/Purdue; or bldg. basement ($2). Inf: (310) 795-
5710.
Dec. 13-14, 10th Annual Joseph Ileto Memorial
See Grand Prix.
Dec. 26-29 or 27-29, 18th annual North American Open (NV)
See Grand Prix.
Jan. 16-19, 17-19 or 17-18, 16th annual Western Class Champi-
onships
See Grand Prix.
Colorado
Dec. 6-7, Manitou Springs: Winter Springs Open
4-SS, 40/2 and G/1, Masonic Lodge, 455 El Paso Blvd, Manitou Springs. 3 Sec-
tions: June (open to all), July (U1800), August (U1400). Entry fee $30 if
recd by 12/4, $35 at site. $8 off EF for Juniors, Seniors, Unrated. Cash prizes
per entries. Register 8:30 - 9:30, rds schedule 10, 4; 9, 3. Entries to Richard
Buchanan, 844 B Prospect Place, Manitou Springs CO 80829. Phone (719)
685-1984 or e-mail buckpeace@pcisys.net. CSCA membership required ($15,
10 for juniors/seniors), OSA. Colorado Tour Event. WCL JGP.
Dec. 9, December 2008 G/29 Series Event - Fort Collins (QC)
A CO G/29 Grand Prix Event. (Not a USCF GP Event) 3SS, G/29, no delay. One
Section, Accelerated Pairings with more than 12 entries. EF: $3. Prizes: 100%
minus USCF rating fee. (60% for tourney prizes, remainder to Grand Prix Prize
Fund.) Reg.: 630-700pm onsite only, e-mail if you intend to come. Rds.: 7pm,
8pm, 9pm. Site: Lory Student Center, 2nd Floor Food Court, Colorado State Uni-
versity campus, Fort Collins, Colorado, 80525. For Info: Lee Lahti, Phone:
970-372-8590, E-Mail: lee.lahti@comcast.net.
Connecticut
UCONN Chess Club
Tues. & Thurs 7:30PM. Castleman Building, Room 204,
261 Glenbrook Rd., Storrs, CT 06269. Contact: TOM
HARTMAYER. Contact Phone: 860-989-5394. Email:
tomhart3@charter.net. Web Site: www.uconnchess.
uconn.edu. No dues required. Casual Play, USCF Rated
Events, Blitz Events, League Play, Matches, Club Cham-
pionships, Sets & Clocks Available, Chess Items for
Sale, Classes, Lectures, Simuls, Under Age 18 & Begin-
ners Welcome, Handicap Accessible. As location may
change, please check website or call contact phone #.
Nov. 15-16, 29th Townsend Cup
4-SS, 40/2, SD/1. Comfort Suites, 64 Knotter Dr., Southington, CT. Three sec-
tions: OPEN, EF: $40, $$50%-30%-20%, trophies top 3 Under 2000. RESERVE
(Under 1700), EF: $25, trophies 1-2-3. NOVICE (Under 1400), on Sat., 4/SS,
G/1, EF: $20, trophies 1-2-3. Unrated players in Reserve, Novice not eligible
for first prize. ALL: EF $10 more at door. Reg.: 8:30-9, Rds.: 9-2, 9-2. (Novice
9-11-2-4). HR: $89. Ent: Fred Townsend, 11 Cole Dr., Wolcott, CT 06716.
ftownsend@snet.net, (203)-879-2009. NS. NC. WCL JGP.
Nov. 20, Dec. 4, 11, 18, UCONNs Uncle Ken Montenegro Memo-
rial
UCONN Castleman Bldg., Room 204, 261 Glenbrook Rd., Storrs, CT 06269. 4
- SS, G/90. Reg.: 7-7:30pm. Rds.: 7:30pm. EF: At site $10, $5 students. $$ 50%
- 30% - 20% net EFs. 1/2 point byes available in rounds 1 - 3 only, no last round
byes. Info: Tom Hartmayer, 860-989-5394, tomhart3@charter.net. WCL JGP.
Dec. 14, UCONN December Open Grand Prix
See Grand Prix.
Dec. 14, UCONN School of Engineering December Scholastic
UCONN Castleman Bldg., Room 204, 261 Glenbrook Rd., Storrs, CT 06269. 3
Sections: K-2, 3-5, 6-8 All: 4-SS, G/30. EF: $25, $30 at site. Reg.: 9-9:45 AM.
Round 1 at 10AM, all others ASAP. Prizes: Trophies to top 3 in each section.
Sections may be combined for pairing purposes, if less than 5, but prizes
remain the same. Parking across the street behind Bronwell bldg. Advance
Entry & Info: Tom Hartmayer, 963 Mansfield City Rd., Storrs, CT 06268. Make
checks payable to: Tom Hartmayer. 860-989-5394, tomhart3@charter.net,
www.uconnchess.uconn.edu.
Dec. 26-28 or 27-28, 4th annual Empire State Open (NY)
See Grand Prix.
Apr. 8-12, 9-12 or 10-12, 11th annual Foxwoods Open
See Grand Prix.
Delaware
A State Championship Event!
Nov. 22-23, 2008 Delaware State Open Championship
Howard Johnsons Hotel (Constitution Room), 1119 S. College Ave., Newark,
DE 19713. 5-SS: TC: Rds 1-3, G/90; Rds 4&5, G/120. REG.: Sat 8:45-9:30.
uschess.org
Rounds: Sat 9:45, 1:15, 5:15 Sunday 10, 3 (DCA meeting 9:15 Sunday) Byes:
limit 1, byes in rounds 4 & 5 are irrevocable and must be requested prior to
round 3. In 4 Sections OPEN SECTION: EF: $40 by 11/17, $50 at site (GM, IM
free). $$60% Rtd: 40%-25%-15%. under 2000 10%, under 1800 10%. StateTitle
andTrophy to Delaware Mens champion and Delaware Womens champion (both
must play in open section). Open Trophy for 1st (if 1st is DE player, that player
gets DE champion trophy & open trophy goes to next in line). RESERVE SEC-
TION (Under 1800): EF: $35 by 11/17, $45 at site. $$60% Rtd: 40%-25%-15%.
Under 1600 - 10%, Under 1400- 10%. Trophy to Reserve Champion. AMATEUR
SECTION (under 1200): EF: $35 received by 11/17, $45 at site. $$60% Rtd:
50%-30%-20%. Trophy to Amateur Champion. SCHOLASTIC: Rounds 5 SS,
G/30, EF: $10. Prizes: Trophies for top 3. Reg.: 8:45-9:30. Rds.: 9:45, 11:15,
1:00, 2:30, 4:00. ALL: Memb. Reqd: DCA membership $10 ($5 under 18). OSA.
ENT: David Power, 7005 Pleasant Court, Wilmington, DE 19802. INFO: David
Power, bikedavid@aol.com. (302)-762-4695 (home only). HR: $69 single, $74
double 1-888-268-8521 or 302-368-8521 must reserve by Friday 11/14.
www.delawarechess.org. NS NC W. WCL JGP excluding Scholastic Section.WCL
JGP.
District of Columbia
Dec. 13, Rated Beginners Open (RBO)
4-SS, G/30. US Chess Center, 1501 M St. NW, Washington, DC 20005. Open to
players rated under 1200 or unrated. EF: $15 ($12 if by 12/6). 5 sections by
age. Reg.: 12-12:45. Info: 202/857-4922. www.chessctr.org/rbo.php.
Dec. 27-30, 35th Annual Eastern Open
See Grand Prix.
Dec. 28, Eastern Open Sunday Quads
Westin Washington DC City Center Hotel, 1400 M St. NW, Washington, DC, 3-
RR, G/75. EF: $30 $$ $90 each quad. Reg.: 11 - 11:45. Rds.: 12 - 3 - 6.
Dec. 29, Eastern Open Blitz Championship (QC)
See Grand Prix.
Florida
Palm Beach Gardens Chess Club
Rated tournaments and skittles games every Saturday
morning 9:00 am till 4:00 pm. www.palmbeachchess
club.info, (561) 762-3377.
Boca Raton Chess Club Friday nights, Game 90 Tournament, one
game a week for 4 weeks. www.bocachess.com, 561-883-2917.
WCL JGP.
Nov. 15, 4th DBCC Game/45 Open
5SS,G/45, Schnebly Recreation Center, 1101 N. Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach,
FL 32118. 2 sections: Open EF $25, $$(250b/12): 100-75, Top U1600 50-25.
Scholastic: EF $5, Trophies. Reg.: 9:00-9:45. Rds.: 10-11:35-2-3:35-5:10.
Ent: P. B.Tomaino, 575 N. Williamson Bl., #116, Daytona Beach, FL 32114. INFO:
386-239-9485. pibit@cfl.rr.com. www.daytonabchcc.org W NS NC.
Nov. 15, Orlando Bonus Tornado
4-SS, G/75, Melody Manor, 813 Montana St. EF: $30, CFCC mbr:$25, Masters
free-EF deducted from prize. $$605 b/30: 200-100-80, U1800, U1600, U1400
$75 ea. Prize increased 50% for 4-0 score. Reg.: 9:30am. Rds.: 10-12:30-3-
5:30. Info: (407)629-6946, centralflchess.org. WCL JGP.
Nov. 21-23, 7th Annual Turkey Bowl
See Grand Prix.
Nov. 23, Tampa Chess Club U600/Unr Sizzles
10936 N 56th, Temple Terrace, 33617. 4SS, G/30 +5 secs. Entry: $20. Grades
K-12 only. U600 & Unrated players. b/20 each sect. $100, 60, 40. USCF
required. Trophies 1-5 plus team. Rd1-1pm, 2-4 asap. No pre-reg. ENT/INFO:
www.wflachess.org. CoachT Call 813-727-8852. NS, NC.
Dec. 5-7 or 6-7, North Florida Open
See Grand Prix.
Dec. 6, Jan. 10, $500 Guar. Cash Opens
5rd Swiss G/30 EF: $25; $30 at door. $100-$60-$40; U1600, U1400, & U1200
$50-$30-$20 each. 1st rd 10:15 AM. Sunshine Center, 330 Fifth St. N., St.
Petersburg, FL. NS, NC, W. preregister at: www.stpetersburgchessclub.com.
727-822-1171.
Dec. 6, Jan. 10, St. Petersburg Rated Beginners Open (RBO)
5rd Swiss G/30 USCF RBO 4 Sect. K-2U400; K-5U500; K-8U700; & K-
12U1000; top 12 in each get trophy; all others medal. Team (2 or more) - best
four scores from all divisions. EF: $18. 1st rd: 10:15 AM. Sunshine Center, 330
Fifth St. N., St. Petersburg, FL. NS, NC, W. pregister online at www.stpetersburg
chessclub.com. 727-822-1171.
Dec. 7, Jacksonville USCF Booster Quads
3RR, G/30, Hyatt Regency (see North Florida Open). EF: $20. 1st prize each sec-
tion: choice of 2 year USCF Adult membership with Chess Life, 4 year USCF Young
Adult Membership with Chess Life, or $40. Reg: 9-11 am, Rds: 11:30-12:30-1:30.
Ent: at site only, no checks.
Dec. 12-14, 2008 National Scholastic K-12 Championship
See Nationals.
Dec. 13, 5th DBCC Game/45 Open
5SS,G/45, Schnebly Recreation Center, 1101 N. Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach,
FL 32118. 2 sections: Open EF $25, $$(250b/12): 100-75, Top U1600 50-25.
Scholastic: EF $5, Trophies. Reg.: 9:00-9:45. Rds.: 10-11:35-2-3:35-5:10.
Ent: P. B.Tomaino, 575 N. Williamson Bl., #116, Daytona Beach, FL 32114. INFO:
386-239-9485. pibit@cfl.rr.com. www.daytonabchcc.org W NS NC.
Dec. 13-14, 7th Dothan Open (AL)
See Grand Prix.
Dec. 27-29, 11th Annual Jr. Orange Bowl International Scholastic
Chess Championship
7SS, G/60, Embassy Suites Hotel, Miami Intl Airport, 3974 South River Drive,
Miami FL 33142. In 4 Sections: Ages 9 and under, 10-12, 13-15, 16-20.
Players must have a USCF membership EF: $50 individual, $160 team (4 play-
ers in a team). Prizes: Trophies to top 10 individuals and top 5 teams. HR:
$139.00, 1-800-EMBASSY or 305-634-5000, reserve by 11/26 or rate may
uschess.org
increase. ENT: Make checks payable to JOB. Send checks and registration forms is in the back, down the stairs by the office. When: Starts Every Friday except
to Kennedy Chess Association, 6280 Coral Way, Miami FL 33155. For info and the Fri before the second Sat doors open at 6:00 P.M. tournament starts at 6:30
registration forms go to www.jrorangebowl.com - chess championship, email P.M. Type: 3 Rounds, Game/5, Round Robin Quad, U.S.C.F. Rated. EF: $7.00 if
to wtmkennedy@flash.net or call 305-984-9896, fax 305-666-4031. received one week before tournament starting date, $8.00 at the door. Prizes:
Based on 4 full Pd. entries per quad, First in each quad: $20.00, Second in each
Jan. 9-11 or 10-11, Central Florida Class Championships quad: chess merchandise. Send advance entries to: Donald Urquhart, 501
See Grand Prix. N. East St. #802, Indianapolis, IN 46204-1629. For more info: call Don at (317)
634-6259 or e-mail akakarpov1@mw.net.
Georgia FREE ENTRY: Quad Quick Chess Tournament (QC) Fri. before the sec-
Nov. 21-23 or 22-23, 2008 Georgia Class Championships ond Sat. of the Month
See Grand Prix. G/15, U.S.C.F. rated. Located at 2302 West Morris St. at the West Morris St.
Nov. 29, 2008 Atlanta November G/45 Championship Free Methodist Church in the Ellis Hall Room. Entrance in back, down stairs,
4-SS, G/45. Atlanta Chess Center, 3155A East Ponce de Leon Avenue, Scottdale, by office. Late Ent. 6-6:25pm. Rd 1, 6:30pm. Prizes: First in each quad gets
Georgia 30079. In 2 sections: Open: EF: $22 if received by 11/29; $25 at site. choice of 50% off entry fee for Sat. Monthly a $15.00 value certificate, or chess
(b/35), $150-100-70, u1900, u1700, u1500 each $60. Under 1300: (not part merchandise. A cash buyback option is available on the certificate, call for details.
of base) $17 if received by 11/29; $19 at site. Unrateds play for FREE!Trophies Second gets the prize not chosen by First EF: Free. Adv. ENT: Donald Urquhart,
to top 3, top 2 under 1100, top u900, top unrated, top girl. Reg.: ends 10:30 501 N. East St. # 802, Indianapolis, IN 46204-1629. Info: call Don at 317-634-
a.m. Rounds: 11-1-3-5. Info: (404)-377-4400 or atlantachess@yahoo.com. 6259 or e-mail akakarpov1@mw.net. A ORANGE CRUSH EVENT.
Enter: Same as above. NS. NC.
Every SECOND Sat. of the Month. OPEN CHESS TOURNAMENT
5 Round, G/61, U.S.C.F. rated. 2302 West Morris St. at the West Morris St. Free
Dec. 5-7 or 6-7, North Florida Open (FL)
See Grand Prix. Methodist Church in the Ellis Hall Room. Entrance in back, down stairs, by office.
Late Ent. 8-9am, Rd 1, 9:30am. Prizes: $465.00 b/o 20 full pd. Ent. 1st $150;
Dec. 19-21 or 20-21, 38th Annual Atlanta Open 2nd $75; Class A, B, C, (D, E, Unr) $60 each. Prizes increased if entries allow.
See Grand Prix. EF: $25 if recd one week before tournament date, $30 at door, $5.00 discount
Dec. 28, 7th Annual Time Control Open for your birthday month, FIDE Titled Players Free. + Free Sack Bar Adv. ENT:
4-SS, Rd. 1 G/30, Rd. 2 G/45, Rd. 3 G/60, Rd. 4 G/75. Atlanta Chess Center, Donald Urquhart, 501 N. East St. # 802, Indianapolis, IN 46204-1629. Info: call
3155A East Ponce de Leon Avenue, Scottdale, Georgia 30079. In 2 sections: Don at 317-634-6259 or e-mail akakarpov1@mw.net. Note: there must be at
Open: $675 b/37, 50% GTD. $150-125-100, u1900, u1700, u1500 each $100. least 3 entries in a class for that class prize to be awarded. If two adjoining
Under 1300: (not part of base) EF: $16 if received by 12/27; $18 at site. Unrat- class prizes are vacant, a combo prize will be awarded. News Flash!!! OCCC
eds play for FREE! Trophies to top 3, top 2 u1100, top u900, top unrated. Reg.: Has won the bid for 09 US Open. All Sat Monthlys will offer Orange Points
ends 10:30 a.m. Rounds: 11-12:30-2:30-5. Info: (404)-377-4400 or that may be used for FREE ENTRY to US Open in 09. WCL JGP.
atlantachess@yahoo.com. Enter: Same as above. NS. NC. Nov. 14-16 or 15-16, 17th annual Kings Island Open (OH)
See Grand Prix.
Idaho
Dec. 6-7, A-B-C Open
Nov. 22-23, 2008 Southern Idaho Open 5-SS, G/120, Jameson Inn, 215 Dixie Way S. (Roseland), South Bend, IN
Obenchain Insurance Building Community Room - Rear Entrance, 260 South 46637. (574) 277-3211. All 1 section, open only to players rated 1400-1999.
Main, Twin Falls, ID. 4SS, G/120. ONE 1/2 pt bye rounds 1 - 3, must notify TD EF: $20 if recd by 12/3, $25 at site. $$ 1,500 b/30 (min. $1,000 G): $500, 250,
before FIRST round. Rounds: 9, 2, 8, 1. Reg.: 8 - 8:30am Saturday Nov 15. SEC- 150, B 200-100, C 200-100. Reg.: 9-9:30, Rds.: 10-2-7, 10-2. ENT & Info: Roger
TION: OPEN. EF: $30 by 11/14/2008, $40 at door. SECTION: U1400. EF: $20 Blaine, P O Box 353, Osceola IN 46561. (574) 257-9033, reblaine@hotmail.com.
by 11/14/2008, $30 at door. PRIZES: OPEN = $125, $100, $75 b/15. PRIZES:
WCL JGP.
U1400 = $100, $75, $50 b/15. CONTACT: Idaho Chess Association, % Barry
Mar. 13-15 or 14-15, 13th Annual Mid-America Open (MO)
Eacker, MOL@q.com. 208-733-6186. NS, NC, W. WCL JGP.
See Grand Prix.
Illinois May 22-25, 23-25 or 24-25, 18th annual Chicago Open (IL)
See Grand Prix.
Nov. 15, Quad Tournament
Three rounds at Game/80 time controls. Holiday Inn Hotel, 495 Airport Road,
Elgin IL. The playing site is conveniently located at the northeast intersection Iowa
of I-90 and Rt. 31. Entry fee is $20. Cash prizes of $40 for first and $20 for Nov. 23, Maharishi Action Open
second in each Quad. Registration begins at 8:30 AM, first round starts at 9:30. Argiro Student Center, garden level classroom, Route 1 and Wallace Drive,
This single day event ends by 6:30. For more information, visit our website at
www.mchenryareachess.org or call Bob at 815-519-3323.
Nov. 25, 1st Annual JJC Turkey Bowl (QC)
5SS, G15, Joliet Jr. College, Bldg J, 1215 Houbolt Road,Joliet, Il 60431 (Park
in J lot). $$$230 b/30, $50-30 A,B,C,D,E/F each $30, unrated book prize. EF:
$10 by 11/19, $15 at site, one half pt bye max. Reg.: 6:00pm-6:50pm. Rds.:
7:00-7:35-8:10-8:45-9:20. Checks payable to: Dennis Doyle, 536 Springwood
Drive, Joliet, IL 60431, No phone or credit card entries, bring chess set and
clocks, none provided. Bring USCF id to tournament. E-mail:ddoyle@jjc.edu.
Dec. 14, Knights Quest
4ss, Game/30. Renaissance Chicago North Shore Hotel, 933 Skokie Blvd.,
Northbrook, IL. 3 Sections: Open (Juniors & Adults), U1200 & U800 (Juniors
only). Prizes:Trophies top five each section, medals all others. EF: $25 by 12/8,
$30 after. Reg.: 12:00-12:30 pm. Rds.: 1 at 1:00 pm, rest ASAP. Ent: Renais-
sance Knights, PO Box 1074, Northbrook, IL 60065. Online Ent/Info:
www.rknights.org, Sheila Heiser 847-526-9025.
Dec. 27, Mayor Daleys Holiday Chess Championship
Come play chess at Mayor Daleys Holiday Sports Festival, Americas largest
indoor play ground with over one million square feet of fun. 4ss, Game/30.
McCormick Place Lakeside Ballroom, 2301 S. Martin Luther King Drive, Chicago,
IL. 9 Sections - Open (USCF-rated): K-2, K-5, K-8, and Open (Adults &
youth); Reserve (non-USCF rated): K-2, K-5, K-8, and Open (Adults & youth)
Plus High School: 5-board team non-USCF rated (meets ISHA requirement).
Awards: Open & Reserve - Trophies to top 10 individuals & top 3 teams*
(scholastic sections) in each section. High School - Trophies to top 3 teams
with medals for team members. Rounds: 10 AM, 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM & 3:00
PM. EF:$10 per player before 12/20; $15 Day of event. Onsite Reg. 8:30-9:00
AM. Special hotel rate of $89 at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place (312) 567-
1234; mention Mayors Office of Special Events. Ent: Renaissance Knights, PO
Box 1074, Northbrook, IL 60065. Online Ent/Info: www.rknights.org, Sheila
Heiser 847-526-9025.
Jan. 11, Indian Trails Public Library Championship (QC)
4ss, Game/20. Wheeling Park District Community Recreation Center, 333 W.
Dundee Rd., Wheeling, IL 60090. 8 Sections: Open (USCF-Rated)- Primary
(Grades K-3), Elementary (4-5), Middle School (6-8), High School & Adults.
Reserve (non-USCF rated for individuals only) K-3, 4-5, 6-8, High school & Adult.
Awards: Trophies top 3 individuals each section& top teams in Open Sections;
Ribbons Reserve Section EF: $17 Open, $5 reserve - Advanced Registration only.
Rds.: 1 at 1:00 pm, rest ASAP. Ent: Indian Trails Public Library, Attn Elva
Arreola, 355 S. Schoenbeck Rd, Wheeling, IL 60090. Info: www.rknights.org,
Sheila Heiser 847-526-9025.
Mar. 13-15 or 14-15, 13th Annual Mid-America Open (MO)
See Grand Prix.
May 22-25, 23-25 or 24-25, 18th annual Chicago Open
See Grand Prix.
Indiana
Chess Club Friday Night Blitz (QC)
2302 West Morris St. at the West Morris St. Free Methodist Church. Entrance
Chess Life November 2008 63
 Tournament Life

Maharishi University of Management (M.U.M.), Fairfield, Iowa 52557. 5 round

Maryland if received by 11/13/08, otherwise $27, $17 BCC members. $$b/entries.

Silver Knights Chess Tournaments

swiss, time control: G30. Reg.: 9am - 9:45 am. Rds.: 10 am, 11:15 am, 1:15 Reg.: 9:15-9:55 am. Rds.: 10, 12:40, 3:00, 5:15. NS, NC, W. Tel. 617-629-

We organize USCF-rated tournaments on Saturdays

pm, 2:30 pm, 3:45 pm. EF: $25. if received by Nov 22nd, $35. at site, Jrs and 3933.

for adults and kids. Free analysis by a National Mas-

SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING NOVEMBER 1-14

Srs $25 anytime. Prizes: $400. based on 20 players, 1st: $100., 2nd $80.
Under 1800: $70.; Under 1600: $60. Under 1400: $50. Under 1200 or unrated:
$40. Send entries to: John Salerno, M.U.M., 1000 N 4th St, MR# 692, Fair-
field, Iowa 52557 email: jsalerno@mum.edu, Tel: 641-472-1718.
Kentucky
Nov. 16, BCC Sunday Scholastic Quads
ter at every tournament for the scholastic players.
3RR, G/40. Boylston C.C. 240B Elm St. Suite B9, Somerville, MA 02144. EF: $15;
Trophies to top scholastic finishers; 70% of entries
$10 BCC members. Prizes: $30 top in quad 2nd Medal. Reg.: 9:15 9:55 AM.
returned as prizes in open (adult) sections. To see a list
Rds.: 10, rest asap. NS, NC, W. Tel. 617-629-3933.
of dates and locations, see our website at www.silver
knightschess com. Phone: 610-446-0818. Email: chess@
Nov. 19, Dec. 3, 10, 17, Early Bird Wednesday Rapid Quads

Elizabethtown Chess Club Special
Rated tournament the 2nd Tuesday of each month and we meet every Tues-
day between 6:30-10:00. We meet at the Elizabethtown Community and
Technical College, in Room 108A of the OccupationalTechnical Building. For fur-
ther details visit our website @ www.geocities.com/elizabethtownchessclub/
Nov. 22, KY Action Champ 2008
5SS, G/30. U1600 or U1400 section depending on entries. UK Student Cen-
ter Room #231, Avenue of Champions (Euclid Ave), Lexington KY. Parking
should be available in the Student Center lot. Do not park in posted areas that
are off-limits. EF: $12. Prizes: Trophies 1st overall in each section, Top
X,A,B,C,D,E, Top Female, Top College Student. Rds.: 10:15 - 11:30 - lunch - 1 -
2 - 3:15. Speed chess tournament starts after G/30 tournament ends. $3
entry for Speed tournament. 100% entries returned with prizes based on
players. ENT: Stephen Miller, 859.200.8460, zepper55@yahoo.com, Jerry
Baker, 859.806.0637, Lexchess@insightbb.com. Lexchess.com.
Dec. 5-6, The Lexington Chess Tournament 2008
See October CL.
Louisiana
Nov. 28-30, 2008 Louisiana State Championship
See Grand Prix.
Nov. 29, Kickoff Scholastic
(Gustav-free Edition!) 4-SS, G/30. Site: Hilton New Orleans Airport, 901 Airline
Dr., Kenner, LA 70062. EF: $15 if mailed by 11/19, $20 at site. LCA Memb. reqd
for grades 9-12 ($5), OSA. Three Sections: K-3, K-6, K-12. Trophies to top 3
in each section, medal and chess gift to all participants. Reg.: 10-10:45am. Rds.:
11-12:30-1:45-3. Ent/Info: Adam Caveney, 1301 Gen. Taylor St., New Orleans,
LA 70115, cb20234@yahoo.com, (504) 895-4133 (evenings), (504) 615-6730
(on day of tourney). NS, NC.
Maine
Nov. 22, MECA Augusta Series Fall Quads
Maine Chessplayer of the Year event, (memb reqd:$5/$10, available on site;
OSA). Ground Round Restaurant, Augusta, ME (next to Augusta Civic Ctr, Exit
112 ME turnpike). Quad/G75; PRIZES: $25 1st in each quad ($b/36 entries).
EF: $20 by 11/19, $25 on site REG.: 8:30-9:15. RDS.: 9:30-12:15-3:00. ENT:
Lee Doucette, 33 Belfort St., Portland, ME 04103. INFO: LFDoucet@maine.rr.com
(207)797-4215.
silverknightschess.com.
Nov. 7, 14, 21, Catonsville Action Championship
6SS, G/30, EF: $10.00, Rds.: 8:00pm & 9:15pm two rounds each week. Bye:
1-4. Reg.: 7:15pm. Prizes based on entries with 65% returned in prize fund.
Bloomsbury Community Center, 106 Bloomsbury Ave., Catonsville, MD 21228.
Info: Joe Summers: josephas2@comcast.net or 410-788-1009. www.geocities.
com/catonsvillechess.
A State Championship Event!
Nov. 22-23, 2008 Delaware State Open Championship
See Delaware.
Dec. 5, Catonsville Blitz Championship (QC)
6SS, G/10, EF: $10.00, Rds.: 8:00, 8:25, 8:50, 9:15, 9:40, 10:05. Bye: 1-2. Reg.:
7:15pm. $$b/24 $90-$45 U1700 $25. Bloomsbury Community Center, 106
Bloomsbury Ave., Catonsville, MD 21228. Info: Joe Summers: josephas2@com
cast.net or 410-788-1009. www.geocities.com/catonsvillechess.
Dec. 7, Catonsville First Sunday Tornado
4SS, G/60, EF: $15 in advance $18 at door, Rds.: 10:00-12:30-2:45-5:00. Reg.:
9:15am. Bloomsbury Community Center, Room 118, 106 Bloomsbury Ave.,
Catonsville, MD 21228. $$b/24 $100-$50 U1700 $40 U1300 $40. Bye 1-3.
Info: josephas2@comcast.net or 410-788-1009. www.geocities.com/catonsville
chess. Ent: Joe Summers, 1201 Daniels Ave., Baltimore, MD 21207. Include USCF
ID and rating and make checks payable to Joe Summers.
Massachusetts
Nov. 15, 6th annual UMass G/60
4SS, G/60, UMass Campus Center Aud., UMass/Amherst, MA; EF: $26, by 11/10,
$31/at site. ALL COLLEGE STUDENTS: $20 adv. EF; Open: $780 b/30; Prizes:
1st $200, 2nd $150; U1800/1st $150, 2nd $100; U1400/1st $100, 2nd $75. Reg.:
8:30 AM. Rds.: 9:30-12-2:30-5. Titled Masters of any kind- FREE ENTRY (Adv.
EF deducted fr/PRIZE WINNINGS) New/UNR players, $15 by 11/10, must
play in U1400 Section. W.M.C.A. MEMBER DISCOUNTS: $2 off. Mail check,
payable to W.M.C.A., and entry form to: Frank Kolasinski, 119 Brunswick
Street, Springfield MA 01108 Questions? Call Frank at 413-209-9450 or e-mail:
horseyman5000@aol.com. wwWesternMassachusettsChessAssociation.org.
Nov. 15, BCF $10 Open 2 Sections: Open & Under 1800
4SS, G/60. Boylston C.C. 240B Elm St. Suite B9, Somerville, MA 02144. EF: $10
3RR, G/30. Boylston C.F., 240B Elm St. Suite B9, Somerville, MA 02144. EF: $24,
$17 BCC members; $$50 1st per Quad. Reg.: 6:00- 6:25 PM. Rds.: 6:30. Rest
asap. NS, NC, W. Tel. 617-629-3933.
Nov. 22, Greg Hager Memorial
Open, Under 1800, Under 1400 4SS, G/60. Boylston C.C., 240B Elm St. Suite
B9, Somerville, MA 02144. EF: $25, $20 BCC members. $$400b/30: 1st $100
2nd $50, Under 1800 1st $100 2nd $50, Under 1400 $60 2nd $40. Reg.: 9:15-
9:50 am. Rds.: 10:00, 12:30, 2:45, 5:00. NS, NC, W. Tel.617-629-3933.
Nov. 29, Legends of Chess: Horatio Caro
2 Sections: Open & Under 1800. 4SS, G/65. Boylston C.C., 240B Elm St. Suite
B9, Somerville, MA 02144. EF: $27, $17 BCC members. $$b/entries. Reg.: 9:15-
9:50 am. Rds.: 10:00, 12:40, 3:00, 5:10. NS, NC, W.Tel.617-629-3933. WCL JGP.
Nov. 30, Pillsbury Memorial
See Grand Prix.
Dec. 1, 8, 15, 22, Monday Night Swiss
4SS; G/100. Boylston C.F., 240B Elm St. Suite B9, Somerville, MA 02144. EF: $27,
$17 BCC members; Prizes b/entries. Reg.: 6:30- 6:50 PM. Rd at 7PM - NS, NC,
W. Tel. 617-629-3933. WCL JGP.
Dec. 4, 11, 18, Thursday Night Swiss
3SS; 40/90, G/20. Two sections: Open & Under 1800; Minimum 5 players to
have an Open section or these players will roll over the Under 1800 section.
Boylston C.F., 240B Elm St. Suite B9, Somerville, MA 02144. EF: $27, $17 BCC;
Prizes: b/20 1st $100, 2nd $20 in each section. Reg.: 6:30- 6:50 PM. Rd at 7PM
- NS, NC, W. Tel. 617-629-3933.
Dec. 5, 12, 19, 26, Billerica Friday Swiss
5 Rds. 40/90, SD/30. Billerica COA, 25 Concord Rd, Billerica, MA. EF: $12. Reg.:
7:30pm. Cash prizes minimal b/entries. For info, call Brad Ryan, (978) 369-8533.
NS, NC. WCL JGP.
Dec. 6, Quads 8-12
3RR; G/60. Boylston C.F., 240B Elm St. Suite B9, Somerville, MA 02144. EF: $27,
$17 BCC members; $$50 1st per Quad. Reg.: 9:15- 9:55 AM. Rds.: 10:00, 12:40,
3:00. NS, NC, W Tel. 617-629-3933.
Feb. 28-Mar. 1, New York State Scholastic Championships (out of
state welcome)
See New York.

THANK YOU TO ALL WHO HAVE DONATED TO THE U.S. CHESS TRUST! (June 2007 through March 2008)
Legacy Donors: Deborah Doll, Nearing, GM Arnold Denker. Future Legacy Donors: Harold B. Dondis, Wil Wakely. Corporate Donors: Aetna, Exxon, IBM,
Microsoft, WalMart, X3D, Mobil, WaMu, Nugent & Haussler, PC Partners. Chess Philanthropists ($50,000 or more): Harold B. Dondis, Frank P. Samford
III. King Supporters ($10,000 or more): Frank Berry, Mark Fins. Friends of Chess ($5,000 or more): Anonymous, Mitchell Denker, Gerald Hoag, Adam
Sufrin, JDG Management, Shane Samole, Nearing Trust. Ben Franklin Donors ($1,000 or more): Anonymous NJ, Joel & Susan Channing, Gary Cooper,
John Dozier, Leroy Dubeck, Jim Eade, Leonard Helman, Roger Spero, Sunil Weeramantry (National Scholastic Foundation), Mr. & Mrs. Michael T. Graves,
Dr. William Henkin, Karl Irons, Victor Laurie, Harvey Schein, Mark Schein, Adam J. Semler, Randy Slifka, Mariko Zeitlin. Heritage Donors ($500 or more):
Richard Allen, Norman Forsythe, Clifford Lester, Rick Lester (Ursula Foster Scholarship), Henry Odell, Harold Winston, Steve Doyle, Ann Marks, Drs. Luann
Mostello & Art Milholland, Bill & Vesna Kelleher, Eric Lester, Robert Messenger, Henry Terrie, Selden Trimble, Mosh & Arianne Weinberger, Yuriko Young,
Randall & Leilani Sears, Dave Sutherland, Erland Millikan, J. William Cowart, Paul Albert. Associate Donors ($100 or more): Harvey Susswein, John M.
Bartkiw, Randy Bauer/Deborah OLeary, Walter Brown, Bernie Letner, David Kuhns, Jim Berry, Alan/Judy Cohen, Gary Fine, Martin/Joy Goldberg, Roger
Gotschall, Jim Gray, Randy Hough, Christopher Lerbs, Myron/Rachel Lieberman, Luke Neyndorff, Glenn Petersen, Larry Weston, Charles/Debrah Unruh,
Edward Zatorski, Joe Feagin, Marc Levine, Michael Goodall, Walter Buehl, Jr, GM Susan Polgar/Paul Truong, Dr. Jon E. Quinn, Burton Carpenter, Michael
Clark, James Kelley, Jeffrey Davidson, Paul Tomaino, Phyllis Narveson, Brian Bezenek, Robert Emke, Scott Kenyon, Kenneth Rogoff, Hans Morrow, Robert
Miller, George Berry, Dr. Ed Epp, Peter Dyson, Harold Blajwas, Denis Strenzwilk, Dr. Benton Wheeler, Donald Stetzer, Fred Gruenberg, Barbara Forbes, Lawrence
Goch, James Wheeler, Carol McCloud, Arthur Montgomery, Andrew Marshall, Barbara Falcner, Alexander Blum, Helen Kittsley, Kent Bach, Peter Knopf, Zevi
Miller, Dr. Rebecca Meyer, Bruce McMaster, Tim Redman, Robert Goodman, Rick Armagost, John Crawford, David Kerkhove, John Fitch, Jeffrey Quirke,
Herbert Drechsler, Neil Levy, Richard Shuford, Roy Eikerenkoetter, Lewis Henry, Robert Pociask, Gail Maury, Dr. R.A. Letourneau, Gilbert Saulter, Roger
Hale, Albert Epostein, John Elder, Dr. Joe Wagner, Peter Stasz, Community Health Charities, Dayton Foundation (Ken/Peg Champney), Peter Tamburro, Don
Schultz, John/Eleanor Schweinsberg, Todd Lunna, Jorge Calderon, L.J. Lyell, Katherine Gasser, Richard Cheshire, Sheila Donoghue. Contributors ($50
or more): Alexander Reis, Anonymous WI, Frank Brady, Harvey Drutowski, Woodrow Harris, Michael James, Michael Nietman, Arlen Overvig, Robert Ras-
mussen, Thomas Richardson, Joseph Roster, Garret Sauber, Stephen Smith, Hal Sprechman, T. Torricellas, Donald Twombly, Douglas Southon, Robert Strickler,
Charles Behler, Peter Scott, Thomas Bagby, Matthew Grinberg, Chess Now Ltd, Peter Spizzirri, Dan Mayers, Joseph Slawinski, Robert Werdan, Robert Ras-
mussen, Steve Krevinko, Karl Filzer, William McClain, Andrew Nowak, James Lorentz, Robert Carey, Richard Nepolitan, John Brendel, Edmund Breider,
Peter Lahde, George Hermes, Ricard Vincent, Arhur Lewis, Allen Kaufman, Imgre Toth, Edward Dowdy, Gordon Gray, Baron Powell, Tony Newhall, Gerald
Larson, Donald Farrelly, Kenneth John, David Sachs, Tom Beckman, Captn Gary Black, Peter Hanen, Richard Adams, Michael/Laurie Stein, Thomas/Nancy
Simpson, John/Emily Summy, Ken Ballou, Ken Marks, Larry Reifurth. In Memory Of George Krauss: Blaine/Carol Asbrock, Edwary/Loretta Sytnik, Gabriel/Joann
Trotta, Wayne Rahe, Robert Lardon, Richard Cheshire, Carberry, Mary Alice Burke, Carol Wirtz, James/Jennifer Roth.

64 Chess Life November 2008 uschess.org


Michigan
Nov. 28-30, 2008 Motor City Open
See Grand Prix.
Missouri
Nov. 22, Saint Louis Swiss 6
4SS, G/90, Chess Club & Scholastic Center, 4657 Maryland Ave., St. Louis, MO
63108. EF: $35, $25 for annual members of the club. MCA Membership Reqd
from $5. OSA. $$GTD $1,200: $175 1st in each M/X, A, B, C, D, U1200. $50
1st Unrated. Reg.: 8:00 - 8:50. Rds.: 9, 12:30, 3:45, 7. 1/2 point bye if declared
before round 1. Ent: PO Box 4641, St. Louis, MO 63108. 314-361-CHESS. Info:
info@saintlouischessclub.org or www.saintlouischessclub.org. NS NC W. WCL
JGP.
Nov. 29, Thanksforchess
Chess Club and Scholastic Center of Saint Louis, 4657 Maryland, Saint Louis,
MO 63108. In 3 Sections O1700: 5SS, G/60, $$b/15: $200-90-30. 1300-1700:
5SS, G/60, $$b/15: $200-90-30. U1300: 5SS, G/60, $$b/15: $200-90-30.
Unrates qualify and count solely for top unrate prize $50. ALL: EF: $30 before
11/22. Onsite $35 cash. Send adv. entries to Isaiah Angeli, 4611 Starview Dr.,
St. Louis, MO 63128. USCF memb. reqd and dual rated. Rds.: 9, 11:15, 1:45,
4:15, 6:45. One 1/2 point bye available before round 1. INFO: Matt Angeli 314-
315-0222. mja.inc@gmail.com. NS.
Dec. 6, Saint Louis Swiss 7
4SS, G/90, Chess Club & Scholastic Center, 4657 Maryland Ave., St. Louis, MO
63108. EF: $35, $25 for annual members of the club. MCA Membership Reqd
from $5. OSA. $$GTD $1,200: $175 1st in each M/X, A, B, C, D, U1200. $50
1st Unrated. Reg.: 8:00 - 8:50. Rds.: 9, 12:30, 3:45, 7. 1/2 point bye if declared
before round 1. Ent: PO Box 4641, St. Louis, MO 63108. 314-361-CHESS. Info:
info@saintlouischessclub.org or www.saintlouischessclub.org. NS NC W. WCL
JGP.
Mar. 13-15 or 14-15, 13th Annual Mid-America Open
See Grand Prix.
Apr. 8-12, 9-12 or 10-12, 11th annual Foxwoods Open (CT)
See Grand Prix.
Nevada
Dec. 26-29 or 27-29, 18th annual North American Open
See Grand Prix.
Dec. 29, Las Vegas USCF Booster Quads
3RR, G/30, Ballys (see North American Open). EF: $20. 1st prize each section:
choice of 2 year USCF Adult membership with Chess Life, 4 year USCF Young
Adult Membership with Chess Life, or $40. Reg: 10 am-12 noon, Rds: 12:30-
1:30-2:30. Ent: at site only, no checks.
Dec. 29, North American Blitz (QC)
See Grand Prix.
CHECK OUT USCFS CORRESPONDENCE CHESS RATED EVENTS
USCFs 61st ANNUAL
2008 Open Correspondence Chess
Golden Knights Championship
$1,000 First Prize
(plus title of USCFs Golden Knights Champion and plaque)
2nd place $600 3rd place $400 4th place $300 5th place
$200 6th thru 10th place $100 each. Entry fee: $25.
The entry deadline is November 30, 2008.
These USCF Correspondence Chess events are rated and open to all USCF
members who reside on the North American continent, islands, or Hawaii,
as well as those USCF members with an APO or FPO address. USCF
members who reside outside of the North American continent are welcome
to participate in e mail events. Your USCF membership must remain
current for the duration of the event, and entry fees must be paid in U.S.
dollars. Those new to USCF Correspondence Chess, please estimate your
strength: Class A: 1800 1999 (very strong); Class B: 1600 1799 (strong);
Class C: 1400 1599 (intermediate); Class D: 1399 and below (beginner level).
Note: Prize fund based on 300 entries and may be decreased proportion
ately per number of entries assigned.
Correspondence Chess Matches (two players)
$5 entry fee per person with two, four or six-
game options.
Win A Correspondence Chess Trophy
Four-player, double round-robin with class-level
pairings. 1st-place winner receives a trophy.
Entry fee: $10.
Victor Palciauskas Prize Tournaments
Seven-player class-level pairings, one game with
each of six opponents. Players must have a USCF
CC rating to enter. 1st-place winner receives
$130 cash prize and a certificate signed by Victor
Palciauskas.
Entry fee: $25.
John W. Collins Memorial Class Tournaments
Four-player, double round-robin with class-level
pairings (unrateds welcome). 1st-place winner
receives a John W. Collins certificate.
Entry fee: $7.
uschess.org
Wizards of the Mind Chess School
15 Center Street, Springfield, NJ - Lessons on Wednes-
Jan. 16-19, 17-19 or 17-18, 16th annual Western Class Champi-
days and Saturdays for beginners, intermediate and
onships (CA-S)
advanced students. Scholastic USCF-rated tourna-
See Grand Prix.
ments. For schedule and information visit our website
Mar. 6-8 or 7-8, Western Chess Congress (CA-N)
at www.wizardsofthemind.com, email info@wizardsofthe
See Grand Prix.
New Hampshire mind.com or call 973-262-1395.
Nov. 15-16, Southern New Hampshire Open Nov. 15, Hamilton Chess Club Quads
3RR 40/80 15/30 15/30. Full K. Ray Dwier Recreation Center, Bldg. 392,
See Grand Prix.
Groveville, NJ 08620. Quads open to all EF: $10. $25 per Quad. Reg.: 9-
Dec. 6, Manchester December Blitz (QC) 10:30/am. Rds.: 10:30/am-1:30/pm-4:30/pm NJ State Chess Federation, no
See Grand Prix. dues magazine Subscription per year, OSA NS NC W.
Dec. 6, Manchester December Swiss
Nov. 15, Kings Chess Club Quads
See Grand Prix. Morning quads and afternoon quads, G/30, K-12, Bethlehem Church, 758
Route 10, Randolph, NJ 07869. EF: None. Reg.: 9-9:20 am., 1st rd. 9:40. Medal
New Jersey
International Chess Academy (Fair Lawn, NJ)
to each quad winner. Info: Bethlehem Church 973-366-3434 or Bob McAdams
973-694-3988, rwm@fambright.com.
Affiliate Type: School. Chess Classes: Tuesday 6:30 PM
- 9:00 PM, Thursday 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM. Saturday
Nov. 15, Union County (Kids are Kool) Open
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM. Add. 17-10 River Road, Fair Lawn,
Trophies Galore! Church of the Little Flower, 110 Roosevelt Ave., Berkeley
NJ 07410. Phone 201 797 0330. Website: www.icanj.net
Heights, NJ 07922. In 4 Sections, Union HS Championship: 5SS, G/30, Open
Contact: Diana Tulman, 201 287 0250. Email Diana@
to High School. Union Grade 6 - 8 Championship: 5SS, G/30, Open to
icanj.net. Add. 28 Canterbury Lane, New Milford, NJ
Grades 6-8. Union Grade K - 5 Championship: 5SS, G/30, Open to Grades
07646.
K-5. Players must be or become USCF member to play in top 3 sections. K-8
Unrated-Beginners Event. 5SS, G/30. Open to K-8 unrated players. USCF mem-
International Chess Academy (Teaneck, NJ)
bership is not required in unrated section. First round starts 10 am, then
Affiliate Type: School. Chess Classes: Monday 6:30 PM
ASAP with lunch break after game two. ALL: EF: $20 if mailed by Nov. 10, $21
- 7:30 PM, Wednesday 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM, Sunday
with credit card via website entryfeesrus.com by 11/14, $25 at site by
10:00 AM - 3:30 PM. Add. 185 Court Street, Teaneck,
9:45am on Nov. 15th.Trophies to all who finish event,Top in each grade (in rate
NJ 07666. Phone 201 833 1741. Website: www.icanj.net
sections) is Union County Champion. Two byes allowed in first 4 rounds if
Contact: Diana Tulman, 201 287 0250. Email: Diana@
requested with EF. ENT: Mail to Ken Thomas, 115 West Moore St., Hack-
icanj.net. Add. 28 Canterbury Lane, New Milford, NJ
ettstown, NJ 07840-2233. Enter on entryfeesrus.com website. INFO: Ken,
07646. The Teaneck facility offers a Summer Chess
(908) 763-6468 or acn@goes.com. NC W.
Champ, and Monday night tournaments 6:30 PM -
Nov. 16, Westfield Swiss #55 (QC)
9:00 PM (tournaments can run later if necessary).
5 Rd. game/15 full k (QC) Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield, N.J. $500
Silver Knights Chess Tournaments
Guaranteed $125,$85, $50 under 2100, under 1850, under 1600, under 1350
2-3 Saturdays per month we run scholastic USCF-
$60 each. Entrance Fee: $35, $25 members. Registration: 2-2:30 p.m.
rated tournaments throughout the Philadelphia area.
Rounds: 2:45-3:25-4:05-4:45- 5:30 p.m. Info: Todd Lunna 732-946-7379
Tournament locations include Philadelphia, Mt. Laurel
www.westfieldchessclub.com.
(NJ), Bryn Mawr, Horsham, Collegeville, and more.
Nov. 20, ATKM 3rd Thursday Quads
Tournaments are open to grades K-12. Free game analy-
3 RR G/30 in rated/unrated sections. All the Kings Men Chess Shop, 62 S. Broad-
sis by a National or International Master at each way, Pitman, NJ 08071. Prizes: $25/1st each rated quad, $10/1st each unrated
tournament. We have players of all skill levels compete
quad. $$b: 4/quad. EF: $10 Rated, $5 Unrated. Reg.: 6-7pm. Rds.: 7-8-9pm.
in our tournaments, from brand-new kindergarteners up
Info: Stephen Dick, 856-582-8222 or cs@ATKMchessSets.com. All: No cks
through some of the highest-rated scholastic players in
onsite. Visa/MC/Disc OK w/$1 paid surcharge. Bring clocks!
the state. To see a list of dates and locations, see our web-
site at www.silverknightschess.com. Phone: 610-446-
Nov. 21, Greater Cherry Hill Rapid Chess
0818. Email: chess@silverknightschess.com.
For info. and registration, go to novemberrapidchess.eventbrite.com. Info. also
available by calling Dan at (856) 287-2393.
USCFs 5th ANNUAL
2008 E-mail Correspondence Chess
Electronic Knights Championship
(Seven player sections, one game with each of six opponents.)
$700 First Prize
(plus title of USCFs Electronic Knights Champion and plaque)
2nd place $400 3rd place $300 4th thru 10th place $100
each. Entry fee: $25.
The entry deadline is November 30, 2008.
These USCF Correspondence Chess events are rated and open to all USCF
members with e mail access. Your USCF membership must remain
current for the duration of the event, and entry fees must be paid in U.S.
dollars.
Maximum number of tournament entries allowed for the year for each
player is ten.
Note: Prize fund based on 200 entries and may be decreased propor
tionately per number of entries assigned.
E-mail Rated Events (need e-mail access):
Lightning Match Two players with two, four or
To Enter: 800903USCF (8723), Fax 9317871200
six-game option. Entry fee $5 per person.
Swift Quads Four-player, double round-robin Name
or on-line www.uschess.org
format. 1st-place prize merchandise credit of $30.
Entry fee: $10. USCF ID#
Walter Muir E-Quads (webserver chess) Address City
Four-player, double round-robin e-mail format
tournament with class-level pairings. 1st-place State ZIP
receives a certificate.
Entry fee: $7. Phone E mail
Express Tournament Credit card # (VISA, MC, Discover, AMEX)
Seven-player events, one game with each of six Exp. date
opponents.
Prizes: 1st place $30 merchandise credit, 2nd If using VISA, need V code
place $20 credit.
Entry fee: $15. Check here if you do not wish to have an
Please circle event(s) selected.
opponent who is incarcerated. *Note: This may
slow down your assignment.
NOTE: Except for Lightning Matches, Swift Quads,
Walter Muir E-Quads, Electronic Knights & Express
Tournaments, players will use post office mail, Make checks payable to U.S. Chess and mail to: Joan
unless opponents agree to use e-mail. DuBois, USCF , PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557
Chess Life November 2008 65
 Tournament Life
A State Championship Event!
Nov. 22-23, 2008 Delaware State Open Championship
See Delaware.
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING NOVEMBER 1-14
A State Championship Event!
Nov. 23, New Jersey K-12 Grade Championship
5SS, G/30. Brookdale College, 765 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft, NJ 07738.
Student Life Center, use Parking Lot #7 or #6; 4 miles from Garden State Park-
way exit 109. 13 Sections: Play only in your grade! MORE TROPHIES! Grades
K-6:Trophies to top 10 individuals, top 5 teams - top 3 from each school/grade;
50% of players receive trophy or medal! Grades 7-12: Trophies to top 5 indi-
viduals, top 5 teams. Rds.: 10am and ASAP. EF: $30 by 11/16, $50 at site. USCF
mem reqd. Reg.: 8-9:00 am. After 9:00am 1/2 pt bye rd 1. Info: 732 259-3881,
hsprechman@characterkings.org Ent: Please make checks payable to NJSCF
and send to NJSCF, PO Box 1511, Jackson, NJ 08527. Entries must include name,
grade, school, date of birth, USCF ID # & expiration, mailing address, phone
number & entry fee, please include email address.The 1st Place player and team
from NJ in each grade will be recognized as the NJ Champion for that grade!
Chess sets and boards will be provided!
Nov. 23, Westfield Quads
3 RR game/45 full k. Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield N.J. Prizes: $50
to first in each section. Entrance Fee: $20, $15 members. Registration: 2-2:15
p.m. Rounds: 2:30-4:20-6:10 p.m. Info:Todd Lunna 732-946-7379www.westfield
chessclub.com.
Nov. 28-30 or 29-30, 39th annual National Chess Congress (PA)
See Grand Prix.
Nov. 29, Viking Last Saturday Quads
Somerset Ramada Inn, 60 Cottontail Lane, Somerset Exit 12, Route #287. In
4 player Quads. G/90, Regs.: before 9am, Rds.: 9-12-3, EFTop quad $30, lower
Quads EF is $20 or $30. Prize: Top quad is $80, Lower quads between $40 and
$80. Prize is based on the number of players paying $30. Player paying $20 may
win only $40. Info: KenThomas, acn@goes.com / cell 908-763-6468. No elec-
tronic scoresheets. NS, NC, W.
Nov. 30, GAME 10s Galore #3 (QC)
See Grand Prix.
Nov. 30, Westfield Quads
3 RR game/45 full k. Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield N.J. Prizes: $50
to first in each section. Entrance Fee: $20, $15 members. Registration: 2-2:15
p.m. Rounds: 2:30-4:20-6:10 p.m. Info:Todd Lunna 732-946-7379www.westfield
chessclub.com.
Dec. 6, GAME 10s Galore #4 (QC)
See Grand Prix.
Dec. 6, The Greater Princeton Championship
Princeton Day School, 650 The Great Road. Trophies to top 3 school teams and
top 6 in each section. Trophies to all players. Sections: FUTURE MASTERS and
CLOSED begin 10:45 (must preregister). FUTURE MASTERS G/60 3 rounds
(Players K-12 over 1200), CLOSED G/45 (K-12 over 1000) 4 rds, ALL OTHER
SECTIONS On Site Reg.: 11:30-12:30. 4 Rds.: 1, 2, 3, 4pm. (times will be
accelerated if possible) G/30: OPEN (Players K-12 U-1000), Reserve (K-12 U-
800), Novice II (K-8 U-600), Novice I (unrated K-6), K-1 (unrated) NO SCORE
K-1 (unrated). PARENTS OF PLAYERS G/30, rated, 3 rounds. Info and Regis-
ter online: www.pds.org/chess. Inquires to Bonnie Waitzkin. Chessteach@
gmail.com. Registration $35 (On-site $45).
Dec. 7, ICA Early Winter 2008 Open Championship
See Grand Prix.
Dec. 7, ICA Early Winter 2008 Scholastic Championship
4 SS, EVERYONE PLAYS 4 GAMES, ALL PLAYERS WITH 2.5 POINTS OR MORE
WILL RECEIVE A TROPHY!!! Bergen Academy, 200 Hackensack Ave., Hacken-
sack, NJ 07601. U.S. CHESS FEDERATION MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED FOR
SECTIONS 1 AND 2. Info: 201 287 0250 or 201 833 1741 E-mail: Diana@
icanj.net. (Web Site Entries: www.icanj.net) EF Adv (pmk by Dec. 3rd) $25 AT
Site $30 Reg ends 1/2 hr before 1st rnd. Late entrants will receive 1/2 point
bye for rnd 1. In 4 Sections Section 1: G/45 Open to players rated below 1200
K through 12th grade. Rds.: 9:45 AM, 11:30, 1:15, 3:00 PM. Section 2: G/60
Open to players rated below 1600 K through 12th grade. Rds: 9:45 AM, 12:00,
2:15, 4:30 PM. Section 3: Open to unrated players K through 2nd grade.
Rds.: 10:15 AM (tournament will end at approximately 1:00 PM). Section 4:
Open to unrated players K through 12th grade. Rds.: 10:00 AM (tournament
will end at approximately 2:00 PM). ENT: Diana Tulman, 28 Canterbury Lane,
New Milford, NJ 07646. NS NC W.
Dec. 7, Westfield Quads
3 RR game/45 full k. Westfield Y, 220 Clark Street, Westfield N.J. Prizes: $50
to first in each section. Entrance Fee: $20, $15 members. Registration: 2-2:15
p.m. Rounds: 2:30-4:20-6:10 p.m. Info:Todd Lunna 732-946-7379www.westfield
chessclub.com.
Dec. 13, GAME 10s Galore #5 (QC)
See Grand Prix.
DROPPING OUT?
Have to miss a round?
It is very important that you
NOTIFY THE DIRECTOR
before pairings are made, so no one
is deprived of a game! If you forfeit
without notice, you may be FINED up
to the amount of the entry fee!
66 Chess Life November 2008
Dec. 26-28 or 27-28, 4th annual Empire State Open (NY)
See Grand Prix.
Jan. 16-19, 17-19 or 18-19, 41st annual Liberty Bell Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
Feb. 14-16, World Amateur Team & U.S. Team East
See Nationals.
July 1-5, 2-5, 3-5 or June 29-July 5, 37th Annual World Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
New York
The Chess Exchange: Chess and Games Club
G/30 Rated Quads 1st Sunday of every Month. G/5 BlitzTournaments Last Sun-
day of every Month. 288 Third Ave., Brooklyn (718) 645-5896. Mon-Fri 12-8pm,
Sun 12-6pm. www.TheChessExchange.com www.TriStateChess.com Email:
TheChessExchange@TriStateChess.com.
Nov. 15, Buffalo Kellogg Leadership for Community Change Monthly
Grand Prix - Every 3rd Saturday
See Grand Prix.
Nov. 15-16, Marshall CC November Open
4-SS, 30/90, SD/60. Marshall CC, 23 W 10th St, NYC: 212-477-3716. EF: $45,
Members $25. ($360 b/24) $120-70-50, U2000/unr $65, U1700 $55. Reg.: ends
11:50am. Rds.: 2 schedules: 2-day, rds 12:30-5:30 pm each day; 1-day, (rds
1-2 G/30), 10-11:15 am-12:30-5:30 pm Sun; both merge rd 3. NOTE CHANGE:
Byes: limit two, with entry. NO RE-ENTRY. May be limited to first 60 players.
WCL JGP.
Nov. 18, St. Johns Masters at the Marshall Chess Club
See Grand Prix.
Nov. 20, 10 Grand Prix Points Tonight!
See Grand Prix.
Nov. 22, Prove Your Point!
3-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W 10th St, NYC: 212-477-
3716. EF $20. 3-0 wins $40, 2.5 wins $20, 2 wins $10. Reg ends 7:20 pm. Rds.
7:30-8:30-9:30.
Nov. 22, Syracuse Monthly Open
4SS, Rds 1 & 2 G/60, Rds 3 & 4 G/90. Courtyard by Marriot, 6415 Yorktown Cir-
cle, E. Syracuse (exit 35 I-90, Carrier Circle, 298 E, left at Holiday Inn). $(b/14):
$100-50, Class: $30. Reg: 8:30-9:15, Rds: 9:30-12- 2:15-5:30. EF: $30. Ent: Joe
Ball, 310 Helfer Lane, Minoa, NY 13116.
Nov. 22-23 or 23, What A Turkey Open!
See Grand Prix.
Nov. 23, Cordiscos Chess Center Monthly Open
See Grand Prix.
Nov. 23, Studio November Quad
3RR Game in 2. Reg.: 9:00 am Rds.: 10-2-6. Studio of Bridge and Games, 1639
Eastern Pkwy., Schenectady, NY 12309-6011.
Nov. 26-Dec. 17, Marshall CC Under-2000 Wednesday Swiss
NOTE CHANGE: 4SS, 30/90, SD/60. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40,
members $20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1700 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7pm
each Wednesday. NOTE CHANGE: Byes ok, limit 2, request by round 2. WCL
JGP.
Nov. 28-30 or 29-30, 39th annual National Chess Congress (PA)
See Grand Prix.
Nov. 29, Marshall CC Saturday G/60
4SS, G/60. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. ($360 b/24) $120-
70-50, 1700-1999/unr $60, U1700 $60. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.:
11:15-11:45. Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45-7. NOTE CHANGE: One bye available, request
at entry.
Nov. 30, Marshall CC Sunday Action
5SS, G/30, Marshall CC, 23 W. 10 St., NYC, 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members
$20. ($$ 360 b/24): 120-70-50, U2200/unr $65, U2000 $55. Rds.: 12-1:30-2:45-
4-5:20pm. NOTE CHANGE: One bye available, request with entry.
Dec. 1-29, Marshall CC Under-1600 Monday Swiss
5SS, 30/90, SD/60. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members $20.
$$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1300 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7pm each Mon-
day. Byes ok, limit 2, request by rd. 3. WCL JGP.
Dec. 2, Marshall CC New York Experts
4SS, G/30. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10 St., NYC, 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members
$20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1800 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-
10:45pm. NOTE CHANGE: One bye available, request at entry.
Dec. 4, 4 Rated Games Tonight!
4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W 10th St, bet 5-6 Ave, NYC: 212-
477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20,
specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (480 b/32 paid): 150-100-
50, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000), commit by
8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Rds. 7-8:15-
9:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible! $5 extra if entering under
10 min. before game.
Dec. 4-Jan. 15, Marshall CC Thursday Members-Only Swiss
5SS, 30/90, SD/60. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. Open to members only.
EF: $20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U2000 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7pm each
Thursday; NO GAMES Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. Byes ok, limit 2, request by round 3.
Dec. 6, 11th Annual Greenwich Holiday Open
3SS, Rd 1 G/75, Rd 2, 3 G/90, Greenwich Free Library, Academy & Main St. (NYS
Rt. 29), Greenwich, NY. Sections: Open: EF $20, U1500: EF: $15; both sections
EF $5 less for Life and New members (joining at site). $$b/16 $270. Open: $70-
35, top U1750 $50; U1500: $50-25, top U1250 $40. Reg.: 9:00-9:45 AM, Rds.:
10-1:15-5. Info: John Hartnett 518-692-9030, truhart2@verizon.net.
Dec. 6 & 7 or Dec. 7, New York Marshall CC December GP!
See Grand Prix.
Dec. 7, The Chess Exchange Sunday Trophy Quads
3-RR, G/30,The Chess Exchange: Chess & Games Club, 288Third Ave., Between
Carroll and President, Bklyn. EF: $15 $$: Trophies to top 2 in each quad. Reg.:
ends 10 minutes before rd. 1. Rds.: 3-4:15-5:30 718-645-5896.
Dec. 7, The Right Move #148 Team and Individual Championship
FREE EF. 4SS, G/30. Play starts promptly at 10:00. Players must check in by
9:30A.M. Brandeis H.S., 145 W. 84th St., 10024 (near Columbus Ave, Manhat-
tan, NYC). Open to gr. K-12. Five rated sections: Open, Under 1700, Under
1200, Under 800, Under 600. (May renew or join USCF at tournament). Non-
member sections by grades: K-3, 4-6, 7-12. Trophies to top 3 in each section
except Open ($50, $30, $20 for 1st-3rd); medal to each player with 2.5 or more
points. Team plaque to 1st and 2nd each section, with top 4 scores counting
in each section (minimum 3 players on team in section). Non-member sections
offer additional prize of USCF membership to players scoring 4 points. To reg-
ister: use website at www.therightmove.org or email - thechessstop @aol.com
or Fax to 718-455-2863 before 6:00 P.M. on Fri. Give full name, school, grade,
USCF ID#, exp. date, and section. NO ON-SITE REGISTRATION.
Dec. 11, 4 Rated Games Tonight!
4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W 10th St, bet 5-6 Ave, NYC: 212-
477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20,
specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (480 b/32 paid): 150-100-
50, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000), commit by
8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Rds. 7-8:15-
9:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible! $5 extra if entering under
10 min. before game.
Dec. 13, 2nd Farmingdale CC Quick Rated Open (QC)
7SS, G/15. Farmingdale Public Library, 116 Merritts Rd. Farmingdale, NY
11735. Open to all U-2300/unr.: $(b/20): $100-80,Top U-1800/U-1500/U-1300
$65 each. EF: $25. Reg.: 9:15-9:45 AM. No adv. ent. Rds.: 10-10:30-11-11:30-
12:15-12:45-1:15. 3 byes 1-7. Info: www.farmcc.webs.com. Please do not call
the library. NS. W.
Dec. 13, Jennifer Woods Memorial Grand Prix
See Grand Prix.
Dec. 13-14 or 14, Marshall CC December Open
4-SS, 30/90, SD/60. Marshall CC, 23 W 10th St, NYC: 212-477-3716.; EF: $45,
Members $25. ($360 b/24) $120-70-50, U2000/unr $65, U1700 $55. Reg.: ends
11:50am. Rds.: 2 schedules: 2-day, rds 12:30-5:30 pm each day; 1-day, (rds
1-2 G/30), 10-11:15 am-12:30-5:30 pm Sun; both merge rd 3. NOTE CHANGE:
Byes: limit two, with entry. NO RE-ENTRY. May be limited to first 60 players.
WCL JGP.
Dec. 16, St. Johns Masters at the Marshall Chess Club
See Grand Prix.
Dec. 20, New York December Action!
See Grand Prix.
Dec. 20, Syracuse Monthly Open
4SS, Rds 1 & 2 G/60, Rds 3 & 4 G/90. Courtyard by Marriot, 6415 Yorktown Cir-
cle, E. Syracuse (exit 35 I-90, Carrier Circle, 298 E, left at Holiday Inn). $(b/14):
$100-50, Class: $30. Reg: 8:30-9:15, Rds: 9:30-12- 2:15-5:30. EF: $30. Ent: Joe
Ball, 310 Helfer Lane, Minoa, NY 13116.
Dec. 21, 8th Annual Greater NY December Under 13 Open!
4-SS, G/30, open to all born after 12/21/95, Chess Center at Marshall Chess
Club, 23 West 10th St, bet. 5-6 Ave, NYC: 845-569-9969. May be limited to 1st
52 entries. 2 Sections. 1. Open, EF: $32 postmarked by 12/12. 2. Novice, for
Under 1000 or Unrated, EF: $31 mailed by 12/12. Both, EF: $30 online at
www.chesscenter.cc by 12/18, $35 by phone at 845-569-9969 by 12/18,
$40 at site, Club members $10 less ($5 fee for refunds).Trophies to top 10, top
Unr, top 3 teams (top 3 scorers from same school) each section. 8 weeks free
entry to 1st, 4 weeks free to 2nd each section. Speed playoff for 4-0. Limit of
2 byes, commit by 11:30. On-site reg. ends 9:30 am. Rds 10-11:30-12:45-2 pm.
Ent: Chess Center of NY, PO Box 4615, New Windsor, NY 12553. List USCF ID,
rating, section, school/grade, DOB.
Dec. 21, NEW Sunday Sliding Scale Quads!
3-RR, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W 10th St, NYC: 212-477-
3716. EF: Master $35, Expert $30, A $25, U1800 $20. $$ (all EFs returned less
$36 per quad). Reg ends 7:20 pm. Rds. 7:30-8:30-9:30. NO FREE ENTRIES!!
No phone entry!
Dec. 21, Sunday Under 1400 Action!
4-SS, G/30, Marshall Chess Club, 23 West 10 St, between 5-6 Ave, NYC: 212-
477-3716, for Under 1400 or unrated. EF $30, Club Members $20, specified
Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$200 b/20 paid: $100-60-40, $60
limit to unr. Reg. ends 3:45 pm. Rds. 4-5:15-6:45-8 pm. No advance entries.
Dec. 23, Marshall CC Victory U-1800
4SS, G/30. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10 St., NYC, 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members
$20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1400 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-
10:45pm. One bye available, request at entry.
Dec. 26-28 or 27-28, 4th annual Empire State Open
See Grand Prix.
Dec. 27-28 or 28, Marshall CC December Open
4-SS, 30/90, then SD/60. Marshall CC, 23 W 10th St, NYC: 212-477-3716. EF:
$45, Members $25. ($360 b/24) $120-70-50, U2000/unr $65, U1700 $55.
Reg.: ends 11:50am. Rds.: 2 schedules: 2-day, rds 12:30-5:30 pm each day;
1-day, (rds 1-2 G/30), 10-11:15 am-12:30-5:30 pm Sun; both merge rd 3. Byes:
limit two, with entry. NO RE-ENTRY. May be limited to first 60 players. WCL JGP.
Dec. 28, Saratoga USCF Booster Quads (NOTE DATE CHANGE)
3RR, G/30, Saratoga Hilton (see Empire State Open). EF: $20. 1st prize each
section: choice of 2 year USCF Adult membership with Chess Life, 4 year
USCF Young Adult Membership with Chess Life, or $40. Reg: 9-11 am, Rds: 11:30-
12:30-1:30. Ent: at site only, no checks.
Dec. 31, (22nd Annual!) Your Last Blunder Of 2008!
See Grand Prix.
Jan. 1, First 10 Grand Prix Points In 09!
See Grand Prix.
Jan. 3-4 or 4, Happy New Year Open!
See Grand Prix.
Jan. 5-Feb. 9, Marshall CC Under-1600 Monday Swiss
5SS, 30/90, SD/60. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members $20.
uschess.org
$$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1300 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7pm each Mon-
day. Byes ok, limit 2, request by rd 3. No round January 19. WCL JGP.
Jan. 6, Marshall CC New York Experts
4SS, G/30. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10 St., NYC, 212-477-3716. EF: $40, members
$20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1800 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-
10:45pm. One bye available, request at entry.
Jan. 7, Feb. 4, Marshall CC Under-2000 Wednesday Swiss
NOTE CHANGE: 4SS, 30/90, SD/60. 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $40,
members $20. $$300 b/20: $120-70-50, U1700 $60. Reg.: 6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7pm
each Wednesday. Byes ok, limit 2, request by rd 3. WCL JGP.
Jan. 8, 4 Rated Games Tonight!
4-SS, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23 W 10th St, bet 5-6 Ave, NYC: 212-
477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36 entries. EF $30, Club membs $20,
specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. $$ (480 b/32 paid): 150-100-
50, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if U2000), commit by
8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min. before game. Rds. 7-8:15-
9:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible! $5 extra if entering under
10 min. before game.
Jan. 10, New York Winter Game/45!
See Grand Prix.
Jan. 11, NEW Sunday Sliding Scale Quads!
3-RR, G/30, Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W 10th St, NYC: 212-477-
3716. EF: Master $35, Expert $30, A $25, U1800 $20. $$ (all EFs returned less
$36 per quad). Reg ends 7:20 pm. Rds. 7:30-8:30-9:30. NO FREE ENTRIES!!
No phone entry!
Jan. 11, NY Winter Under 1800!
4-SS, G/50, Chess Center at Marshall Chess Club, 23 W 10th St, bet 5-6 Ave,
NYC: 845-569-9969. EF $40, Club members $30, $5 less if also entering 1/10
Winter G/45, specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewinners free. Online entry
at www.chesscenter.cc thru 1/8. $$ (480 b/32 paid entries): 150-100-50,
top U1600 $95, top U1400 $85. Limit 2 byes, commit by 2 pm. Reg. ends 15 min
before game. Rds. 12-2-4-6 pm. CCA Ratings may be used. $10 extra to
enter by phone!
Jan. 16-19, 17-19 or 18-19, 41st annual Liberty Bell Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
A Heritage Event!
Jan. 31, Kasparov Chess Foundation presents the 43rd Annual
Greater NY Junior High Championship USCFs Longest-Run-
ning Scholastic!
5-SS, G/30, open to all born after 1/31/93 not yet in 10th grade, New Yorker
Hotel, 481 8th Ave & 34th St, NYC. 3 sections: Varsity, open to all. EF: $48.60
postmarked by 1/09/09. Trophies to top 12, top U1200, top 3 unrated, top 6
school teams. Free entry to all Chess Center tmts. except quads thru 8/1/09
to 1st, thru 7/1 to 2nd, thru 6/1 to 3rd. Junior-Varsity: open to Under 1000
or unrated. EF: $48.50 postmarked by 1/9. Trophies to top 12, top 3 unrated,
top 6 schools. Free entry to all Chess Center tmts. except quads thru 7/1/09
to 1st, thru 6/1 to 2nd, thru 5/1 to 3rd. Novice, open to Under 700 or unrated.
EF: $48.40 postmarked by 1/9. Trophies to top 12, top 3 unrateds, top 6
schools. Plaques to top 2 each grade: 4-6 (you can win both plaque & trophy).
Free entry to all Chess Center tmts. except quads thru 6/1/09 to 1st, thru 5/1
to 2nd, thru 4/1 to 3rd. All: EFs $7 extra postmarked 1/10-16, all $65 at site.
Mail entries $5 less per player if 4 or more from same school in SAME
ENVELOPE! All substitutions from advance entry list charged late fee; $15 extra
to switch sections. $15 charge for each refund. All players scoring 4 or more
who dont win a trophy will receive a medal! 8 weeks free entry, except quads,
to 1st team each section, 4 weeks free, except quads, to 2nd team (top 4 scores
from same school = team). Speed playoff for 5-0. Limit 2 byes (rds. 4-5 com-
mit before rd. 3). Mail entries: list name, rating, ID# (proof of current USCF
membership required, enclose dues if necessary), school, grade, birthdate,
address. Checks to (specify section): Chess Center of NY, PO Box 4615, New
Windsor, NY, NY 12553. To confirm receipt, enclose SASE. No mail postmarked
after 1/16. Phone entries: $59 by credit card thru 1/26. Online entries at
www.chesscenter.cc: $46 thru 1/16, $53 1/17-1/26. No phone or on-line
entries after 1/26. On-site entry fee: $65. On-site reg. ends 9:15 am. Rds. 10-
12-2-3:30-5:15. Questions, credit card entries, team rooms: 845-569-9969
(or 406-896-2191: 24 hours, entries only) or chesscentr@aol.com (Jan 30-
31 only: 212-971-0101).Bring sets, clocks, boards NONE SUPPLIED!
A Heritage Event!
Jan. 31, Kasparov Chess Foundation presents the 30th Annual
Greater NY Primary Championship!
5-SS, G/30, open to all born after 1/31/99 in grades 3/below, New Yorker Hotel,
481 8th Ave & 34th St, NYC. 3 sections: Varsity, open to all. EF: $46.60 post-
marked by 1/09/09. Trophies to top 12, top rated U900, top 3 unrated, top 6
school teams. Free entry to all Chess Center tmts. except quads thru 8/1/09
to 1st, thru 7/1 to 2nd, thru 6/1 to 3rd. Novice: open to Under 700 or unrated.
EF: $46.50 postmarked by 1/9. Trophies to top 12, top 3 unrated. Free entry
to all Chess Center tmts. except quads thru 7/1/09 to 1st, thru 6/1 to 2nd, thru
5/1 to 3rd. K-1, open to grade 1/below. EF: $46.40 postmarked by 1/9. Tro-
phies to top 12, top rated U500, top 3 unrateds, top 6 schools. Free entry to
all Chess Center tmts. except quads thru 7/1/09 to 1st, thru 6/1 to 2nd, thru
5/1 to 3rd. All: EFs $7 extra postmarked 1/10-16, all $65 at site; $15 extra
to switch sections. Mail entries $5 less per player if 4 or more from same
school in SAME ENVELOPE! All substitutions from advance entry list charged
late fee. $15 charge for each refund. All players scoring 4 or more who dont
win a trophy will receive a medal! 8 weeks free entry, except quads, to 1st team
each section, 4 weeks free, except quads, to 2nd team (top 4 scores from same
school = team score). Speed playoff for 5-0. Limit 2 byes (rds. 4-5 commit before
rd. 3). Mail entries: list name, rating, ID# (proof of current USCF member-
ship required, enclose dues if necessary), school, grade, birthdate, address.
Checks to (specify section): Chess Center of NY, PO Box 4615, New Windsor,
NY, NY 12553.To confirm receipt, enclose SASE. No mail postmarked after 1/16.
Phone entries: $59 by credit card thru 1/26. Online entries at www.chess
center.cc: $46 thru 1/16, $53 1/17-1/26. No phone or on-line entries after 1/26.
On-site entry fee: $65. On-site reg. ends 9:15 am. Rds. 10-12-2-3:30-5:15.
Questions, credit card entries, team rooms: 845-569-9969 (or 406-896-2191,
24 hours, entries only) or chesscentr@aol.com (Jan 30-31 only: 212-971-
0101). Bring sets, clocks, boards NONE SUPPLIED!
A Heritage Event!
Feb. 1, Kasparov Chess Foundation presents the 43rd Annual
Greater NY Elementary ChampionshipUSCFs Longest-Running
Scholastic!
5-SS, G/30, open to all born after 2/1/96 not yet in 7th grade, New Yorker Hotel,
481 8th Ave & 34th St, NYC. 3 sections: Varsity, open to all. EF: $47.60 post-
marked by 1/09/09. Trophies to top 12, top U1200, top 3 unrated, top 6 school
teams. Free entry to all Chess Center tmts. except quads thru 8/1/09 to 1st,
thru 7/1 to 2nd, thru 6/1 to 3rd. Junior-Varsity: open to Under 1000 or
unrated. EF: $47.50 postmarked by 1/9. Trophies to top 12, top 3 unrated, top
6 schools. Free entry to all Chess Center tmts. except quads thru 7/1/09 to
1st, thru 6/1 to 2nd, thru 5/1 to 3rd. Novice, open to Under 700 or unrated.
EF: $47.40 postmarked by 1/9. Trophies to top 12, top 3 unrateds, top 6
schools. Free entry to all Chess Center tmts. except quads thru 6/1/09 to 1st,
thru 5/1 to 2nd, thru 4/1 to 3rd. All: EFs $7 extra postmarked 1/10-16, all $65
at site. Mail entries $5 less per player if 4 or more from same school in
SAME ENVELOPE! All substitutions from advance entry list charged late fee;
$15 extra to switch sections. $15 charge for each refund. All players scoring
4 or more who dont win a trophy will receive a medal! 8 weeks free entry, except
quads, to 1st team each section, 4 weeks free, except quads, to 2nd team (top
4 scores from same school = team). Speed playoff for 5-0. Limit 2 byes (rds.
4-5 commit before rd. 3). Mail entries: list name, rating, ID# (proof of cur-
rent USCF membership required, enclose dues if necessary), school, grade,
birthdate, address. Checks to (specify section): Chess Center of NY, PO Box 4615,
New Windsor, NY, NY 12553. To confirm receipt, enclose SASE. No mail post-
marked after 1/16. Phone entries: $59 by credit card thru 1/26. Online
entries at www.chesscenter.cc: $46 thru 1/16, $53 1/17-1/26. No phone
or on-line entries after 1/26. On-site entry fee: $65. On-site reg. ends 9:15
am. Rds. 10-12-2-3:30-5:15. Questions, credit card entries, team rooms: 845-
569-9969 (or 406-896-2191: 24 hours, entries only) or chesscentr@aol.com
(Jan 30-Feb 1 only: 212-971-0101). Bring sets, clocks, boards NONE SUP-
PLIED!
A Heritage Event!
Feb. 1, Kasparov Chess Foundation presents the 43rd Annual
Greater NY High School ChampionshipUSCFs Longest-Running
Scholastic!
5-SS, G/30, open to all grades 12/below born after 2/1/89, New Yorker Hotel,
481 8th Ave & 34th St, NYC. 3 sections: Varsity, open to all. EF: $49.60 post-
marked by 1/09/09. Trophies to top 12, top U1700, top 3 unrated, top 6 school
teams. Free entry to all Chess Center tmts. except quads thru 8/1/09 to 1st,
thru 7/1 to 2nd, thru 6/1 to 3rd. Junior-Varsity: open to Under 1600 or
unrated. EF: $49.50 postmarked by 1/9. Trophies to top 12, top U1400, top 3
unrated, top 6 schools. Free entry to all Chess Center tmts. except quads thru
7/1/09 to 1st, thru 6/1 to 2nd, thru 5/1 to 3rd. Novice, open to Under 1000
or unrated. EF: $49.40 postmarked by 1/9. Trophies to top 12, top 3 unrateds,
top 6 schools. Plaques to top 2 each grade: 7-9 (you can win both plaque & tro-
phy). Free entry to all Chess Center tmts. except quads thru 6/1/09 to 1st, thru
5/1 to 2nd, thru 4/1 to 3rd. All: EFs $7 extra postmarked 1/10-16, all $65 at
site. Mail entries $5 less per player if 4 or more from same school in SAME
ENVELOPE! All substitutions from advance entry list charged late fee; $15 extra
to switch sections. $15 charge for each refund. All players scoring 4 or more
who dont win a trophy will receive a medal! 8 weeks free entry, except quads,
to 1st team each section, 4 weeks free, except quads, to 2nd team (top 4 scores
from same school = team score; no combined schools, even if one school
feeds another). Speed playoff for 5-0. Limit 2 byes (rds. 4-5 commit before
rd. 3). Mail entries: list name, rating, ID# (proof of current USCF member-
ship required, enclose dues if necessary), school, grade, birthdate, address.
Checks to (specify section): Chess Center of NY, PO Box 4615, New Windsor,
NY, NY 12553.To confirm receipt, enclose SASE. No mail postmarked after 1/16.
Phone entries: $59 by credit card thru 1/26. Online entries at
www.chesscenter.cc: $46 thru 1/16, $53 1/17-1/26. No phone or on-line
entries after 1/26. On-site entry fee: $65. On-site reg. ends 9:15 am. Rds. 10-
12-2-3:30-5:15. Questions, credit card entries, team rooms: 845-569-9969 (or
406-896-2191: 24 hours, entries only) or chesscentr@aol.com (Jan 30-Feb
1 only: 212-971-0101). Bring sets, clocks, boards NONE SUPPLIED!
A State Championship Event!
Feb. 28-Mar. 1, New York State Scholastic Championships
Open to grades K-12 in any state (top NYS player & team in each section are
NY champions). Saratoga Hilton, 534 Broadway (I-87 Exit 13-N, 4 miles north
on US 9), Saratoga Springs NY 12866. Free parking. Team prizes based on top
4 scores from same school; no combined school teams allowed even if one
school feeds another. Teams of 2 or 3 players allowed, but are at a disad-
vantage. In 6 sections, each is a 6SS, G/65 except K-1 is 5SS, G/30 playing Mar
1 only. High School, grades K-12. EF $42 mailed by 2/6. Top NYS grade 9-12
qualifies for Denker Tournament of HS Champions (Indianapolis, 8/1-4). Jun-
ior High, grades K-9. EF $41.90 mailed by 2/6. Elementary, grades K-6. EF
$41.60 mailed by 2/6. Elementary Novice, grades K-6 under 800 or unrated.
EF $41.50 mailed by 2/6. Primary, grades K-3. EF $41.30 mailed by 2/6. K-1,
grades K-1. EF $41.10 mailed by 2/6. Postmarked 2/7-17: All EF $10 more.
Do not mail entry after 2/17. Online at chesstour.com, all sections: EF $43 by
2/6, $53 by 2/23. No online entry after 2/23. Phoned to 406-896-2038, all sec-
tions: EF $45 by 2/6, $55 by 2/23. Credit cards only, no questions. No phone
entry after 2/23. Entry at site: all $60. 1 year NYSCA membership to all NY
residents who are not members. Trophies to top 20 players, top 3 Unrated,
and top 8 teams each section and top each U1400, U1200, U1000 (HS), U1200,
U1000, U800 (JHS), U1000, U800 (Elem), U600, U400 (Elem Novice). Speed play-
off if perfect score tie. Free entry to NY State Championship, Labor Day
weekend 2009 (Albany), to top player each section. Schedule: Late reg. ends
Sat 11 am, rds Sat 12-3-6, Sun 9-12-2:45. Awards 5:30-6 pm. K-1 schedule:
Late reg. ends Sun 9 am, rds Sun 10-12-1:30-3-4:30. Half point byes OK all, limit
2, must commit before rd 2. HR: $114-114, 888-999-4711, 518-584-4000,
reserve by 2/29 or rate may increase. 48 hours notice required for room
cancellation. Backup hotel: Courtyard by Marriott, 2 blocks away, 518-226-0538.
Special car rentals: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #657633. Mail entry: Con-
tinental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills NY 12577. Include name, rating,
USCF ID, USCF expiration (non-members enclose dues), section, school, grade,
birth date, address of each player. Checks payable to Continental Chess. $15
per player service charge for refunds. $10 extra to switch sections, all substi-
tutions from advance list charged $60. Questions: chesstour.com, 845-496-9658.
Bring set, board, clock if possible- none supplied. WCL JGP (top 5 sections).
July 1-5, 2-5, 3-5 or June 29-July 5, 37th Annual World Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
Ohio
Nov. 14-16 or 15-16, 17th annual Kings Island Open
See Grand Prix.
Nov. 16, Kings Island USCF Booster Quads
3RR, G/30, Kings Island Resort (see Kings Island Open). EF: $20. 1st prize each
section: choice of 2 year USCF Adult membership with Chess Life, 4 year
USCF Young Adult Membership with Chess Life, or $40. Reg: 9-11 am, Rds: 11:30-
12:30-1:30. Ent: at site only, no checks.
Nov. 29, House of Chess Open
See Grand Prix.
Nov. 29, Tryptophan Open
See Grand Prix.
Dec. 13, Toledo Dec Swiss
Open, 4SS, Rnd 1 G/75, Rnds 2-4 G/90.The University ofToledo Health Science
Campus, Center for Creative Education - Room CE0111, 3000 Arlington Ave.,
Toledo, Ohio 43614. Can split into 2 sections if enough players. EF: $20 by 12/11
$25 at site. Reg.: 9-10 a.m., Rds.: 10, 1, 4, & 7. Prizes: $360 b/20, $100-50,
1st Class A ,B,C,D/Under $40, 1st U1600 $50. Ent: James Jagodzinski, 7031
Willowyck Rd., Maumee OH 43537. 419-367-9450. WCL JGP.
Jan. 10, Toledo Jan Swiss
Open, 4SS, Rnd 1 G/75, Rnds 2-4 G/90.The University ofToledo Health Science
Campus, Center for Creative Education - Room CE0111, 3000 Arlington Ave.
Toledo, Ohio 43614. Can split into 2 sections if enough players. EF: $20 by 1/8
$25 at site. Reg.: 9-10 a.m., Rds.: 10, 1, 4, & 7. Prizes: $360 b/20, $100-50,
1st Class A ,B,C,D/Under $40, 1st U1600 $50. Ent: James Jagodzinski, 7031
Willowyck Rd., Maumee, OH 43537. 419-367-9450. WCL JGP.

Tournament Life Abbreviations & Terms

All tournaments are non-smoking with no comput-
ers allowed unless otherwise advertised by S
and/or C (see below for explanations).
QC: Quick Chess events.
$$Gtd: Guaranteed prizes.
$$b/x: Based-on prizes, x = number of entries
needed to pay full prize fund. At least 50% of the
advertised prize fund of $501 or more must be
awarded.
Bye: Indicates which rounds players who find it
inconvenient to play may take -point byes
instead. For example, Bye 1-3 means -point
byes are available in Rounds 1 through 3.
C: Computers allowed.
CC: Chess club.
EF: Entry fee.
Enhanced Grand Prix points (see previous
page).
Ent: Where to mail entries.
FIDE: Results submitted to FIDE for possible
rating.
G/: Game in. For instance, G/75 means each
side has 75 minutes for the entire game.
GPP: Grand Prix Points available.
HR: Hotel rates. For example, 60-65-70-75 means
$60 single, $65 twin, $70/3 in room, $75/4 in
room.
ond day.
JGP: Junior Grand Prix.
Memb. reqd: Membership required; cost fol-
lows. Usually refers to state affiliate.
Open: A section open to all. Often has very
strong players, but some eligible for lower sec-
tions can play for the learning experience.
OSA: Other states accepted. Refers to state
dues.
PPHBF: Professional Players Health and Bene-
fits Fund.
Quad: 4-player round robin sections; similar
strength players.
RBO: Rated Beginners Open.
Rds: Rounds; scheduled game times follow. For
example, 11-5, 9-3 means games begin 11 a.m. &
5 p.m. on the first day, 9 a.m. & 3 p.m. on the sec-
Reg: Registration at site.
RR: Round robin (preceded by number of rounds).
S: Smoking allowed.
SASE: For more info, send self-addressed
stamped envelope.
SD/: Sudden-death time control (time for rest of
game follows). For example, 30/90, SD/1 means
each player must make 30 moves in 90 minutes,
then complete the rest of the game in an hour.
Section: A division of a tournament, usually
excluding players above a specified rating. Play-
ers in a section face only each other, not those in
other sections.
SS: Swiss-System pairings (preceded by number
of rounds).
T/Dx: Time delay, x = number of seconds.
Unr: Unrated.
USEF: Combined entry fee & USCF dues.
W: Site is accessible to wheelchairs.
WEB:Tournaments that will use a players on-line
rating.

uschess.org Chess Life November 2008 67

 Tournament Life

Oklahoma
Nov. 8-9, OCF Championship - 63rd Jerry Spann Memorial
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING NOVEMBER 1-14
www.northampton.edu/prof_com/youth/school_year/chesstournament.htm
or call Holly at 610-861-4120. Please print and mail form with payment (CC
or check) to: Horizons for Youth, 3835 Green Pond Road, Bethlehem, PA
by 11/14, $35 later, PSCF required $5, OSA. Reg.: 9-9:30. Rds.: 10-2:30-7, 10-
2:30. Info: 412-908-0286. Ent: PSCF, c/o Tom Martinak, 25 Freeport St,
Pittsburgh, PA 15223-2245. W. WCL JGP.

See Grand Prix.
Nov. 15 (Sat.), OCF November Saturday Open
Quality Inn, 2515 W. 6th Ave (Hwy 51), Stillwater, OK 1-405-372-0800 HR: $60-
60-60. Wi-Fi, 3-SS, G-60 + 30 sec, EF: $20; OCF req $10; USCF rated, $$ G:100
first, other prizes per entries. Rds.: 10, 1, 4 Reg : 9-9:45am, Pre-entries: Jim
Berry, P O Box 351, Stillwater, OK 74076, 1405 762-1649.
Dec. 27, 18th Holiday Open 2008
See Grand Prix.
Pennsylvania
Silver Knights Chess Tournaments
2-3 Saturdays per month we run scholastic USCF-
rated tournaments throughout the Philadelphia area.
Tournament locations include Philadelphia, Mt. Laurel
(NJ), Bryn Mawr, Horsham, Collegeville, and more.
Tournaments are open to grades K-12. Free game analy-
sis by a National or International Master at each
tournament. We have players of all skill levels compete
in our tournaments, from brand-new kindergarteners up
18020. Info: Holly 610-861-4120, Scott Zrinski (TD), sazmar00@rcn.com, or
Ira Riddle (Chief TD), iralee@aol.com.
Nov. 22, Early Bird Blitz (QC)
4 double Rd SS, Gm/5, (play wh & blk vs. ea. opp., 8 gms total) Clarion Hotel,
300 Meadow Ave., Scranton, PA (exit 184 off I-81). EF: $12 by 11/21, $15 at
site. Prizes (b/12): $50-$25,U1600-$25 upset prize & door prize! Reg.: 8:30-
9:15am. Rds.: 9:30 and asap. Entries/Info: Bernie Sporko, 127 S. Main St.,
Carbondale, PA 18407. ph: 570-282-2793, cell: 570-604-2461 e-mail:
basp0529@verizon.net.
Nov. 22, Perkiomen Valley Classic
Perkiomen Valley Middle School East, 100 Kagey Road, Collegeville, PA 19426.
In 3 sections: K-12 Champ, K-8 U/1000, K-3 U/1000. (Students in grades 8
and below may play in K-12 Champ if rated 800 or higher.) K-12 Champ: 3SS,
G/40. Rds: 10:00-11:20-12:40. K-8 U/1000 & K-3 U/1000: 4SS, G/30. Rds:
10:00-11:00-12:00-1:00. EF: $20 online by 11/19; $30 on-site till 9:30.Trophies
to top players and school teams in each section. 1/2 pt. byes available. Free
game analysis by a National Master. See www.silverknightschess.com to reg-
ister or for more information.
Nov. 28-30 or 29-30, 39th annual National Chess Congress
See Grand Prix.
Nov. 30, Philadelphia USCF Booster Quads
3RR, G/30, Sheraton Hotel (see National Chess Congress). EF: $20. 1st prize
each section: choice of 2 year USCF Adult membership with Chess Life, 4
year USCF Young Adult Membership with Chess Life, or $40. Reg: 10 am-12 noon,
Rds: 12:30-1:30-2:30. Ent: at site only, no checks.
Dec. 6, W.Chester 1st Sat. Quads
3RR, 40/80,sd/30. United Methodist Church, 129 S. High St. West Chester, Pa.
EF: $20; every tenth quad free. $$40, $50 for 3-0, $5 for 3rd rd win if not 3-0.
Reg.: 9am; Rds.: 9:30,1,4:30. Info: Jim White 484-678-3164.
Dec. 7, PCL December Quick Quads (QC)
3RR, G/15. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pittsburgh, 5th Ave. & Bigelow, Pittsburgh,
PA 15213. EF: $10, $7 Jrs. $20 to 1st/quad. Reg.: 11-11:15am, Rds.: 11:30am-
Noon-12:30pm. Info: martinak_tom_m@hotmail.com, 412-908-0286. W.
Dec. 13, 29th Abel Bomberault Memorial
4SS, G/60. Pittsburgh Chess Club, 5604 Solway Street, Suite 209, Pittsburgh,

through some of the highest-rated scholastic players in

Nov. 22, Turkey-Shoot Quads PA 15217. EF: $20 postmarked by 12/8, $25 later, $4 extra to play up one sec-

the state. To see a list of dates and locations, see our web-
3RR, Gm/50, Clarion Hotel, 300 Meadow Ave., Scranton, PA(exit 184 off I-81). tion, $3 discount to PCC members. 2 Sections: Championship, open to

site at www.silverknightschess.com. Phone: 610-446-

EF: $25 by 11/21, $30 at site. $$60 1st ea. sect. Thanksgiving Turkey for 3-0 1800-up: Trophies to 1st - 2nd - 1st U2000. Reserve Section, open to U1800:

0818. Email: chess@silverknightschess.com.

1st Saturday Lehigh Valley Super Quads
3 Rd. RR, St James Church, 11th &Tilghman Sts, Allentown, PA 18102. EF: $10.
$30 Perfect Score, else $25 1st. Reg.: 12:30-1:30. Rds.: 1:30-3-4:30. No adv
ent. Visit at www.lehighvalleychess.org/ or Call: 610-821-4320.
Every 2nd Saturday. Allentown 2nd Saturday Quads
3RR, G/40. St. Lukes Ev. Luth. Church, 417 N. 7th St., Allentown, PA 18102. Quads
open to all. EF: $12. $$24/quad. Reg.: 12-1, Rds.: 1:15-2:45-4:15. No adv. ent.
Info: 610-433-6518. Other rated events every week!
North Penn Chess Club
Main & Richardson, Lansdale, PA. See www.npchessclub.org for schedules &
info or call 215-699-8418.
Nov. 15, 7th Annual Horizons for Youth Scholastic Fall Chess Tour-
nament
5SS, G/30. Northampton Community College, 3835 Green Pond Road, Main Cam-
pus, College Center Building, Bethlehem, PA 18017. Reg.: 7:30-8:45am, Rds.:
9:30, 11, 12:30, 2, 3:30. Rated Section Age 16 and under. Non-Rated Sections
ages 14 and under. EF: $25 postmarked by November 10th, $30 later & on site.
Prizes: Rated-Trophies-1st, 2nd, 3rd, U1400, U1200, U1000, U800, U600,
U400, UNR. Non-Rated Trophies b/o age. Please bring chess equipment. Ran-
dom draw prizes between rounds. Ent: Online registration forms at
score! Reg.: by 11:45am, Rds.: 12- 2- 4. Entries/Info: Bernie Sporko, 127 S.
Main St., Carbondale, PA 18407. ph: 570-282-2793 , cell: 570-604-2461 e-
mail: basp0529@verizon.net.
A State Championship Event!
Nov. 22-23, 2008 Delaware State Open Championship
See Delaware.
A State Championship Event!
Nov. 22-23, 2008 PA State Junior Championships
5SS. 53 Trophies! (49 Individual, 4 Team). Wm Pitt Union, Univ. of Pittsburgh,
5th & Bigelow, Pittsburgh PA 15213. 7 sections: 2-day (Sat & Sun): Ages 16
to 20 Open, Ages 13 to 15 Open, Ages 9 to 12 Open. EF: $18 by 11/14, $28 later.
TL: G/90. Reg ends 9:30. Rds: 10-1:30-5, 11-2:30. 1-day (Sun only): Ages 8
& Under Open, Ages 9-20 U900, Ages 9-20 U600, Ages 8 & Under U600. EF:
$15 by 11/14, $25 later.TL: G/40. Reg ends 10:30. Rds: 11-12:30-2-3:30-5. All:
Trophies 1st-7th, additional medallions, teams of 4 to 7 combined from all sec-
tions, Trophies 1st-2nd schools, clubs. PSCF required $5, OSA. Info:
412-908-0286, martinak_tom_m@hotmail.com Ent: PSCF, c/o Tom Martinak,
25 Freeport St, Pittsburgh, PA 15223. W. WCL JGP (2-Day only).
A State Championship Event!
Nov. 22-23, 2008 Welsh S. White PA State Senior Championship
5SS, G/120. Wm Pitt Union, Univ. of Pittsburgh, 5th & Bigelow, Pittsburgh PA
15213. Open to ages 50 & Up. $$ (450G): 150-80, Ages 65 & Up $70, U1800
$60, U1600 $50, U1400 $40.Trophies to Champion &Top Ages 65 & Up. EF: $25
Trophies to 1st - 2nd - 1st U1600 - 1st U1400 - 1st U1200/Unrated. Reg.: 9-
9:45am. Rds.: 10 - 12:30 - 3 - 5:30. Info: 412-421-1881, www.pittsburghcc.org.
Ent: Pittsburgh Chess Club, Attn: Clyde Kapinos, 5604 Solway St., Suite 209,
Pittsburgh, PA 15217. Checks payable to Pittsburgh Chess Club. NC, W.
Dec. 13, ASAP Chess Challenge Tournament
Great Hall, Winnett Building, Comm. College of Phil., 1700 Spring Garden St.,
Philadelphia, PA 19130. 5 Sections. ALL SECTIONS FREE. Scholastic Non-Rated
Sections: K-5: 4SS, G/40, 6-12: 4SS, G/45. Non-USCF-rated. Medallions to win-
ners. All: Depending upon entries, an additional round may be added or
sections divided. Reg.: 8:30am-9:30am. 1st Rd at 10am. Ent/Info & Pre-Reg
(by Wed 5pm): Justin Ennis, 1520 Locust St., Suite 1104, Phila., PA 19102, jen-
nis@phillyasap.org, 215-545-2727 ext. 17.
Dec. 14, MasterMinds CC 2nd Sunday Swiss/Open Quads
Blair Christian Academy, Philadelphia, Pa., 220 W. Upsal St. 2 events. Quads:
3RR, 40/80, SD/30. EF: $20, Perfect score winner $60 else $50. Rds.: 10-2-5.
Scholastic Swiss: EF $15, ASAP $5 recd by Thursday before, $25 at the door.
3 sections: Open 3SS G/60, Rds.: 10-12:30-3; 1st, 2nd, 3rd, top under 1200,
top unrated; U1100 -1st, 2nd, 3rd, top under 800, top unrated & U750K-6 - 1st,
2nd, 3rd, top under 600, top under 400, top unrated 4SS, G/40. Rds.: 10,
11:45, 2, 3:45. 1st & 2nd school & club trophies. All Reg. ends 9:30am. Free
parking on site! Ent: MasterMinds CC, 36 E. Hortter St., Philadelphia, Pa.
19119. Checks made payable to: MasterMinds CC Info: Bradley Crable,
215-844-3881, info@mastermindschess.org, or www.mastermindschess.org.

ACTIVITY MEANS MEMBERS

New Affiliate programs, lower dues specials! Dues slashed for age 20-24!
The membership category previously called Youth has

Adult dues specials! >>
Free LONGER Tournament Life Announcements!
RUN AN ADDITIONAL TOURNAMENT THIS WINTER!
Each affiliate is entitled to one TLA per month of up to 8
lines and up to 2 issues of Chess Life, for any tournament
between January and March 2009, if no TLA for such an
event appeared in 2008, and the TLA is e-mailed by the
appropriate deadline. The 8 free lines cannot be applied
to longer TLAs.
SPECIAL CATEGORIES QUALIFY FOR FREE TLAS! Each
affiliate is entitled to one TLA per month of up to 8 lines
for events in the following categories, if submitted by
e-mail. The free lines cannot be applied to longer TLAs:
NEW! USCF BOOSTER TOURNAMENT. A tournament that
offers at least two USCF membership renewal prizes, or
a quad that offers at least one per section.
CHESS CLUB SPECIAL. A tournament playing only on
one or more weekday evenings.
RBO. Open to Under 1200/Unr or Under 1000/Unr.Tourna-
ment name must include Rated Beginners Open or RBO.
BLITZ. Time control of Game/5. TLAs such as USCF-
rated Blitz every Friday 7 pm are accepted.
been renamed Young Adult, and eligibility has changed
from under 21 to under 25. As a result, annual dues
for those aged 20 through 24 have been almost cut
in half, from $49 to $25!
One-year membership
COLLEGIATE. A tournament limited to college students.
USCF dues have recently been drastically reduced for with Chess Life:
most college students! If purchased online at uschess.org, now only $41 for
STUDENT. For college students or below or age 25 or below everyone! The sale is in effect through December
(age 25 must be eligible).
31, 2008 and may be extended if the response is suf-
JUNIOR. For age 20/below (age 20 must be eligible). ficient. Two year memberships are now $76 and three
NON-SCHOLASTIC WITH SCHOLASTIC. A tournament year memberships $109. (Note to affiliates: If you collect
for all ages held concurrent (same location) with a scholas-
tic tournament that in its previous year drew at least 50
a $49 membership and submit it online to USCF, there
players. We encourage organizers of scholastics to hold is a $10 affiliate commission; if you submit it by mail
open or collegiate events on the side. or phone the affiliate commission remains $2.)
SPECIAL RATES FOR CLUB ADS. Up to 5 lines $180 per
year, $100 for 6 months for unchanged club ads in the TLA
section. Announce meeting dates & times, activities, con-
tact info, etc.
USCF DISCUSSION GROUPS. See www.uschess.org/
forums for four groups: Tournament Organization, Chess
Club Organization, Tournament Direction, USCF Issues.

68 Chess Life November 2008 uschess.org

Jan. 16-19, 17-19 or 18-19, 41st annual Liberty Bell Open
See Grand Prix.
Apr. 8-12, 9-12 or 10-12, 11th annual Foxwoods Open (CT)
See Grand Prix.
July 1-5, 2-5, 3-5 or June 29-July 5, 37th Annual World Open
See Grand Prix.
Rhode Island
Every Tuesday, Cranston-Warwick CC Monthly
4SS, 40/75, SD/30. Garden City Center, Cranston. EF: $3/game (club mbrs:
$2/game). Reg.: 6:30-6:50pm; email preferred. Rds.: 1st 4 Tuesdays of the
month, 7pm sharp! 5th Tuesday extra rated games and events. One bye rd 1-
3; if notified in advance. Prizes based on entries. Info: www.cranstonchess.org,
info@cranstonchess.org, 401-575-1520. WCL JGP.
Nov. 1 & Nov. 22, BK Tournaments for Kids
Reg. online: www.rhodeislandchess.org, Email: rhodeislandchess@yahoo.com
phone: (401) 359-1602. See CL4K.
Tennessee
Nov. 22, Mid-State Scholastic Chess Championship
5-SS. Christ the King School, 3105 Belmont Boulevard, Nashville, TN 37212. 4
sections: HS (grades 10-12), JHS (grades 7-9), Elem (grades 4-6), Prim
(grades K-3). All: EF $10 if recd before 11/17, $20 later and at site. G/30 rds.
1-2; G/60 rds 3-5. Small sections may be combined. Reg.: 7:30-8:00 AM.
Rds.: Rd. 1 9:00 AM, other rds ASAP. Prizes:Trophies to top 10 individuals, top
unrated, top girl, top 5 teams in each section. Ent: Brentwood Chess School,
P.O. Box 1547, Brentwood, TN 37024-1547. Info: NTD Mark Ishee (615) 426-
1171, mark.ishee@gmail.com. Make checks payable to Brentwood Chess
School.
Nov. 29, 48th Mid-South Open
See Grand Prix.
Apr. 3-5, SuperNationals IV
See Nationals.
Texas
Nov. 15, Scholastic Turkey Tournament (K-12)
5SS G/30 Sloan Creek Middle School, 440 Country Club Road, Fairview,TX 75069
EF: $10 if registered before 11/01/08. $20 after 11/01/08. On-Site Regis-
tration: 8:30-9:00 am. 1st Round: 9:00 am, all others ASAP. 1st, 2nd, 3rd Place
Trophies in U500, 500-800, 800+, and unrated. 4th Place winners receive a
frozen turkey! Email: SloanCreekChess@aol.com.
Nov. 15-16, Fall Open
TNI Building, 4410 Medical Dr., San Antonio, TX. 4-SS, 30/90, SD/60. $$1,100
b/40, 2 sections. Open: $250-150, U2100 $100, U1900 $100. Reserve (U1800):
$150-100, U1700 $100, U1500 $75, unr. $75. Unr. may play for open section top
prizes or unr. only. EF: $30 if rec d by 11/13, $35 at site. Junior (18/under) or
Senior (65+) entry (count 2/3 toward based-on): $20 by 11/13, $25 at site.
Reg.: 11 am.-12:30 p.m., Rds.: 1-6, 10-3. Half-pt. bye any one rd., notice
before rd. 2. Entries: SACC, POB 501, Helotes, TX 78023. Info: home.
satx.rr.com/sachess/, 210-744-9852. NS. NC. W. WCL JGP.
A State Championship Event!
Nov. 22-23, 12th Annual Texas Collegiate Championships
5SS, G/90, 30 sec inc. Hilton Americas, 1600 Lamar, HoustonTX 77010. HR: $101-
$101-$101-$101, mentionTexas Grade and Collegiate Championships to get rate.
Reserve By 10/19 or rate may increase. College section open to any college
player. Only Texas Colleges can be Texas Collegiate Champs. Plaques to top 10
ind. & top 5 teams (top three players added for team scores, no more than 2
teams per school.) EF: $33 if postmarked by 11/14. $49 at site. Do not mail
after 11/14 as your entry may not be received. Entries to: Dallas Chess Club,
c/o Barbara Swafford, 2709 LonghornTrail, CrowleyTX 76036. Entry must include
Name, USCF ID (or new/pending), grade & school and school location. Incom-
plete entries will be charged at site entry fee. No refunds after 11/16. Email:
info@dallaschess.com 214-632-9000. Do not call after 11/14 as we are trav-
eling. Reg. Fri 11/21 from 7:00 pm-9:00 pm. Reg. Sat.11/22 at 7:30 am-8:30
am. Sat. registration may require a 1/2 pt. 1st rd. bye. Sat. rds 911:30-6:00.
Sun. rds 9-1:30. One 1/2 pt bye available, any round, if requested before end
of rd. 2 and if player has not received a full point bye. Fide rated but uses USCF
rules. Online registration (active.com charges a fee) : www.active.com/
event_detail.cfm?event_id=1625966 Limited number ofTeam rooms available,
www.swchess.com. Side events: 4 rd G/30 open tournament on 11/21 at 7:30
pm.This G/30 tournament has three sections: Open, U1400 and U750. EF: $15,
$$$60% of entry fees. Bughouse OpenTournament Sat. 8:35 pm. EF: $20/team.
Trophy prizes. Registration for side event online or onsite only. NS, NC, W. FIDE.
WCL JGP.
A State Championship Event!
Nov. 22-23, 12th Annual Texas K-12 Grade Championships
6SS, Rds 1-3 G/45, Rds 4-6 G/60. Hilton Americas, 1600 Lamar, Houston TX
77010. HR: $101-$101-$101-$101, mention Texas Grade and Collegiate Cham-
pionships to get rate. Reserve By 10/19 or rate may increase. The K-12 is Open
to TX residents or players attending Texas schools. 13 separate tourna-
ments, one per grade (K-12).Trophies to top 10 ind. & top 5 teams (top three
players added for team scores, no more than 2 teams per school in each grade.)
Winner of 12th Grade Section wins a 4 year scholarship to The University of
Texas at Dallas, worth up to $43,000. Scholarship winner must meet UTD
entrance requirements and follow team rules. EF: $33 if postmarked by 11/14.
$49 at site. Do not mail after 11/14 as your entry may not be received. Entries
to: Dallas Chess Club, c/o Barbara Swafford, 2709 Longhorn Trail, Crowley TX
76036. Entry must include Name, USCF ID (or new/pending), grade & school
and school location. Incomplete entries will be charged at site entry fee. No
refunds after 11/16. Email: info@dallaschess.com 214-632-9000. Do not call
after 11/14 as we are traveling. Reg. Fri 11/21 from 7:00 pm-9:00 pm. Reg.
Sat. 11/22 at 7:30 am-8:30 am. Sat. registration may require a 1/2 pt. 1st rd.
bye. Sat. rds 9:30-12:00-2:05-4:10. Sun.rds 10-1:15. One 1/2 pt bye available,
any round, if requested before end of rd. 2 and if player has not received a full
point bye. Online registration (active.com charges a fee) : www.active.com/
event_detail.cfm?event_id=1625920 Limited number ofTeam rooms available,
www.swchess.com. Side events: 4 rd G/30 open tournament on 11/21 at 7:30
pm. This G/30 tournament has three sections: Open, U1400 and U750. EF:
$15, $$$60% of entry fees. Bughouse Open Tournament Sat. 8:35 pm. EF:
$20/team.Trophy prizes. Parent/Child team tourney Sat. 6:35 pm. EF: $10/team.
Trophy prizes. Registration for side event online or onsite only. NS, NC, W.
Nov. 28, 2008 DFW K-12 Championships
5-SS, G/30. DFW Marriott Hotel & Golf Club at Champions Circle, 3300 Cham-
pionship Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76177. Opened to K-12. Two Rated Sections:
Champ. and U1000. EF: $22 if received by 11/20, $28 at site. Reg.: 8:00-8:30
am. Rd 1 Pairings at 9:00 am rest ASAP with short lunch break. $$Trophies
Champ. - top 10 ind, top 5 teams, U1000 -Top 10 ind, top 5 teams, top 3 unrated.
One Not Rated Section: K-12 Not rated.This section is not rated but is opened
to both rated and nonrated players. EF: $12 by 11/20 else $17. $$trophies for
not rated section - Top 7 individual, top 3 Teams. HR: $89-89, (888)-236-2427,
reserve by 10/26 or rate may increase, mention Dallas Chess. Make Checks
payable to: Dallas Chess Club. US Chess Federation Membership is required
Except for not rated section. Online Registration: www.active.com/
event_detail.cfm?event_id=1637842. Note that active.com charges a small fee.
Enter: Dallas Chess Club, 212 S. Cottonwood Dr, #A, Richardson,TX 75080. Ph:
214.632.9000. E-mail: info@dallaschess.com NS, NC, W.
Nov. 28-30 or 29-30, 8th Annual Ken Smith Memorial Open
See Grand Prix.
Dec. 27-30, 2008 Pan American Class Championships
See Grand Prix.
Dec. 27-30, 2008 Pan American Intercollegiate Chess Tournament
See Nationals.
Dec. 27-30, 2008 Pan American Under 20 Scholastic Chess Cham-
pionships
Location: DFW Airport Marriott South, 4151 Centreport Blvd, Fort Worth,
Texas, 76155. HR: $79/79/79/79. marriott.com/dfwam?groupCode=panpana&
app=resvlink, or call 800-228-9290 reserve by 12/5 (or rate could go up) and
ask for Pan American Intercollegiate Chess rate. Free Parking. Tournament
Dates: December 27-30, 2008. Under 20 years old Scholastic Tournament
Format: Open to players under 20 years old who are not yet enrolled in col-
lege. This is a 6 round Swiss, Game/120 with a 30 second increment. Rounds:
Rd. 1: 12/27 6 pm, Rd. 2: 12/28 10 am, Rd. 3: 5 pm, Rd 4: 12/29 10 am, Rd
5: 5 pm, and Rd 6: 12/30 9 am. Entry Fees: Priority Registration by Decem-
ber 2, 2008: $35. After December 2, 2008: $50. Prizes: Four-year scholarship
toThe University of Texas at Dallas to winner. Winner must meet UTD entrance
requirement and follow team rules. UTD is sole judge as to who wins the schol-
arship. Top 10 trophies, medal to all participants. For Additional information
or online registration go to: www.swchess.com or contact Barbara Swafford,
214-632-9000, info@dallaschess.com Ent: Dallas Chess Club, C/O Barbara
Swafford, 2709 Longhorn Trail, Crowley, TX 76036. WCL JGP.
Virginia
Nov. 15-16, 13th Annual Northern Virginia Open
See Grand Prix.
Dec. 5, 12, 19, Arlington Chess Club Friday Night USCF Rating
Ladder
30/90 SD/1. Lyon Village Community House, 1920 N Highland Rd, Arlington, VA.
Player with most monthly points - $50 and most total points May - December
wins $100. Must Join Club to play ($50 Adult, $40 U18) check web to make sure
we are open each week - members.cox.net/arlingtonchessclub/ladder.htm. Lad-
der has been running for over 40 years, now win money too! Contact: Matt
Grinberg for info: matt.grinberg@erols.com No advance entries, sign up for
ladder weekly by 8pm, games start 8:15pm. Last series. WCL JGP.
Dec. 6, VB Winter Swiss
4SS G/70 Courtyard by Marriott, 5700 Greenwich Rd., Va. Beach. Prizes:
$700 b/o 30 $200, $100, A-B & unr-C-D-U12 each $80 Increased with 35+ EF:
$32 by 12/4 else $40. Reg.: 8:30-9:00. Rds.: 9:20 - 12:15 2:45 5:15
Entries/Cks: Ernest Schlich, 1370 S. Braden Cres., Norfolk, VA 23502 (757) 853-
5296 mysite.verizon.net/eschlich WCL JGP.
Jan. 10, Kingstowne Quad #52/Action-Plus #24
Kingstowne Thompson Center, 6090 Kingstowne Village Pkwy., Alexandria, VA
22315. 2 Events. Quad #52: 3RR G/100. EF: $10 if received by 1/7, $15 at site.
Prizes: Medals to 1st and 2nd in each quad: gold to 1st if 3-0 score, else sil-
ver; bronze to 2nd. Rds.: 11-3-7. Action-Plus #24: 5SS G/45. EF: $15 if
received by 1/7, $20 at site. Prizes $$250/20: $100-60, U1800-U1400-Unr. each
$30. Rds.: 11-1-3-5-7. Both: Reg. 10-10:45. Ent (checks payable to): Don W.
Millican, 5901B Prince George Dr., Springfield, VA 232152. e-mail (info only):
dm407_92@hotmail.com W.
Washington
Nov. 28-30, WA Class Championship
See Grand Prix.
Wisconsin
Nov. 22-23, 50th North Central Open/Martz Memorial A WCA Tour
Event!
Comfort Suite Hotel, N14 W24121Tower Place, Pewaukee, WI 53072. In 2 Sec-
tions, Open: 5SS, 30/90 Then SD/1, $5 Discount to juniors and new members.
EF: $35 Before 11-22, $40 at the site. $$b/50: $200-150-110. A 90, B 90, C 80,
D 80, E 70, Under 1000 70, biggest upset 60. Rds.: ON 11-22, 10, 2:30, 7:30.
On 11-23, 10, 3. 1/2 Point byes, 2 at most. 1 FULL POINT BYES FOR MASTERS.
SCHOLASTIC: 5SS, G/30, EF: $15 Before 11-22, $20 at the site. Prizes: Tro-
phies to the top 3 in K-12, K-8, K-5, & K-3. Rds.: on 11-22, 10, 11:30, 1:30, 3,
4:30. Scholastic players that played in the scholastic section may play in the
open section starting in round 3 and will get a $10 discount for playing in the
open section. ENT: Ben Corcoran, N68 W24878 Stonegate Ct. #212, Sussex,
WI 53089. Info: Ben 262-506-4203 Ben38corcoran@yahoo.com. HR: $89/night.
Book before 11-7. 262-506-2000. WWW.WAUKESHACHESSCLUB.ORG/
NCO.HTML. NS NC W. WCL JGP (Open section).

U.S. Postal Service. Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation (required by 39 U.S.C. 3685). (1) Title of publication: Chess Life. (1) Publication number: 102-840.
(3) Date of filing: September 15, 2008 (4) Frequency of issue: Monthly. (5) No. of issues published annually: 12. (6) Annual subscription price: $50. (7) Complete mailing address
of known office of publication (street, city, county, state, and ZIP code) (Not printers): P.O. Box 3967, 137 Obrien Dr., Crossville, TN 38557 (8) Complete mailing address of the
headquarters of general business office of the publisher (Not printers): PO Box 3967, 137 Obrien Dr., Crossville, TN 38557. (9) Full names/complete mailing addresses of pub-
lisher, editor, and managing editor (this item must not be blank). Publisher (name/complete mailing address): Bill Hall, USCF, PO Box 3967, 137 Obrien Dr., Crossville, TN 38557.
Editor (name/complete mailing address): Daniel Lucas, P.O. Box 3967, 137 Obrien Dr., Crossville, TN 38557. Managing Editor (name and complete mailing address): same as
above. (10) Owner. (If owned by a corporation, its name and address must be stated and also immediately there under the names and addresses of stockholders owning or hold-
ing 1 percent or more of total amount of stock. If not owned by a corporation, the names and addresses of the individual owners must be given. If owned by a partnership or other
incorporated firm, its name and address, as well as that of each individual must be given. If the publication is published by a nonprofit organization, its name and address must
be stated.) (Do not leave blank.): United States Chess Federation, PO Box 3967, 137 Obrien Dr., Crossville, TN 38557. (11) Known bondholders, mortgagees, and other security
holders owning or holding 1 percent or more of total amount of bonds, mortgages or other securities (if there are none, so state): none. (12) For completion by nonprofit organi-
zations authorized to mail at special rates section 423.12, DMM only). The purpose, function, and nonprofit status of this organization and tax exempt status for Federal income
tax purposes (check one): has not changed during preceding 12 months; has changed during preceding 12 months. (If changed, publisher must submit explanation of change
with this statement.) (13) Publication Name: Chess Life. (14) Issue Date for Circulation Data Below: September 2008. (15) Extent and nature of circulation. (a) Total number copies
printed (net press run): average number copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 51,353; actual number copies of single issue published nearest to filing date, 47,187 (b)
Paid and/or requested circulation: (1) Paid/requested outside-county mail subscriptions: average number copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 44,255; actual num-
ber copies of single issue published nearest to filing date, 40,422. (2) Paid in-county subscriptions (include advertisers proof copies/exchange copies): average number copies
each issue during preceding 12 months, 0; actual number copies of single issue published nearest to filing date, 0. (3) Sales through dealers and carriers, street vendors, and
counter sales (not mailed): average number copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 1,870; actual number copies of single issue published nearest to filing date, 5,070.
(4) Paid distribution by other classes of mail through the USPS (e.g. First Class Mail): average number copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 665; actual number copies
of single issue published nearest to filing date, 661. (C) Total paid distribution (sum of 15b (1), (2), (3), and (4),: average number copies each issue during preceding 12 months,
46,790; actual number copies of single issue published nearest to filing date, 46,153. Free or nominal rate distribution; (15d (1), (2), (3); average number copies each issue dur-
ing preceding 12 months, 0; actual number copies of single issue published nearest to filing date, 0. 15d (4); average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months,
27; actual number of copies of single published nearest to filing date, 27. (e) Total free or nominal rate distribution (sum of 15d (1), (2), (3), and (4): 27; actual number copies of
single issue published nearest to filing date, 27 . (f) Total distribution (sum of 15c and 15e): average number copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 46,817; average num-
ber copies of single issue published nearest to filing date, 46,180. (g) Copies not distributed: average number copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 4,536; average number
copies of single issue published nearest to filing date, 1,007. (h) Total (sum of 15f and 15g) average number copies each issue during preceding 12 months, 51,353; actual num-
ber copies of single issue published nearest to filing date, 47,187. (i) Percent paid. 15c divided by 15f 100), per cent on average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months,
99.9; per cent on actual no. copies of single issue published nearest filing date, 99.9. 16. Publication of Statement of Ownership. Publication of this statement will be printed in
the November 2008 issue of this publication. 17. I certify that the statements made by me above are correct and complete (signature and title of editor, publisher, business man-
ager, or owner): Bill Hall (sig.), Publisher. P.S. Form 3526, September 2007.

uschess.org Chess Life November 2008 69

 Dec. 6-7, The Wisconsin Memorial Foreign Events
5SS, 45/2,25/1,SD/1 (45/2,SD/1 Round 4 only), Union South, UWMadison, 227
N. Randall Street, Madison WI 53715. EF: $20 (Juniors $16) by Dec. 2. $3 more Jan. 29-Feb. 1, 2009 Bermuda International Open, 25th Anniversary The TLA pages Information for
SEE PREVIOUS ISSUE FOR TLAS APPEARING NOVEMBER 1-14

later or on site. $$b/60 and 4 per class: $160-110. A - $90; B - $80; C - $70;
D - $60; E - $50; U1000 - $40; Unr - $40; Upset - $50. Reg.: 9-9:30 A.M. Dec.
See Grand Prix. Organizers, TDs, and Affiliates
6. Rds.: 10:00-2:30-7:30; 10:00-3:30. ENT: Guy Hoffman, PO Box 259822, and Information for Players
Madison, WI 53725. INFO: Guy Hoffman, (608)-262-0308 (11 A.M.-6:30 P.M.)
schachfuhrer@hotmail.com. HR: (608)-263-2600 Call for rates and availabil-
can now be found online at
ity. www.wischess.org. NS NC W. WCL JGP. main.uschess.org/go/tlainfo.

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Chess Life accepts classified advertising in these categories: Activities, For Rent, For Sale, Games, Instruc-
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70 Chess Life November 2008 uschess.org

 Solutions

Chess to Enjoy and Black will play ... Bc4 to capture the pawn 3. Kg3 Kb7 4. Kf4 Kc7
when it goes to b5. 4. ... Kc6 5. Ke5 reciprocal zugzwang trap.
B. Black also holds after 1. Kd2? Kb8 2. Kc3 Kc7.
Problem I.
5. Ke5 Kc6 6. Kf6!
C. The crusher is 1. d6! Kb8 2. Kc1 Bd3 (other
1. Rxb7! Black resigns in view of 2. Qxc6+ or 2. Qe7
6. Ke6? Ne8 7. Ke5 Nc7! and white is in zugzwang.
mate (or 1. ... Bxb7 2. Bb5+).
6. ... Ne8+ 7. Ke6 Nc7+ 8. Ke5!
Problem II. squares dont help since they are all forking dis- Black is in zugzwang.
1. a3! Black resigns because the queen is trapped tance from d7) 3. d7 Kc7 4. Ne6+ Kxd7 5. Nc5+ 8. ... Kd7 9. e8=Q+! Kxe8 10. Kd6 Kd8 11. Kc6 Kc8 12.
after, for example, 2. axb4 Qxb4 3. Bd2 Qb5 4. Bf1. Kc6 6. Nxd3. Kd6 Kb7 13. Kc5, Positional draw.

A. It looks easy but stalemate looms after 1. Bh7?

Problem III.
1. Rxd7+! Kxd7 2. Qxc6+ Kd8 3. Qxa8+ or 3. Rd1+.
Problem IV.
1. ... Nf4+! 2. Bxf4 Qd4+ 3. Ke2 Nh2+ wins most of
the white army (4. Ke1 Qxc3+ 5. Kf2 Qxc2+ and
then Black will play 6. ... Nxf1).
Problem V.
1. ... Rxd4 2. Bxd4 Ng5! wins with its threats of 3. ...
Rxd4, 3. ... Nxf3+ and 3. ... Ne6, e.g. 3. Kg2 Rxd4! 4.
Qxd4 Qxf3+ and mates. Or 3. Qe3 Qxf3! and 3. Rf1
Ne6.
Problem VI.
1. ... Qxf1+! mates (2. Kxf1 Rxc1+ 3. Ke2 Re1).
3. C. Composed by Behting. Problem II.
1. Kc3+ Ka2 2. Ra8+
Kxh7 2. h5 Ne5! 3. Kxe5 Kg7 4. Ke6 Kf8. 2. Kc2? Ka3 3. Kc3 Ka4 wins.
B. Black also slips the noose on 1. h5? Nf8 2. Ke7
2. ... Kb1 3. Rb8+ Kc1 4. Ra8 Kd1 5. Kd3 Ke1 6. Ke3
Kf1 7. Kf3 Kg1 8. Ra1+ Kh2 9. Re1! Qh6 10. Re6 Qh8
Kg7 3. Ke8 Ne6 4. h6+ Kh8 5. Kd7 Nf8+ 6. Ke7
11. Re8! Qh6 12. Re6 Kg1 13. Re1+ Kh2 14. Re6, draw.
Ng6+ 7. Ke8 Nf8 8. Bh7 Ng6!
C. The quietus is 1. Ke6! Kg7 2. h5 Nf4+ (or 2. ... Solitaire Chess ABCs of Chess
Nf8+ 3. Ke7 Kh8 4. Bh7! Nxh7 5. h6 wins) 3. Kd6
Fork: Black wins the queen with 1. ... Bh2+ 2. Kh1
Problem I.
Kf8 4. h6 Ng6 5. Ke6 Ne7 6. Ke5 Ng6+ 7. Kf5
Nh8 (or 7. ... Ne7+ 8. Kg5 Nxg8 9. h7!) 8. Kf6
Nf2+.
Nxf7 9. h7 Nh8 10. Be6 Nf7 11. Bg4 Nh8 12. Bh5
Mating net: Its over after 1. ... Rf8+ 2. Ke2 Rf2
Nf7 13. Kg6 Nh8+ 14. Kh6 Ke7 15. Kg7. Problem II.
A. Correct is 1. Rg1+! Kh2 2. Rg2+ Kh1 (if 2. ... Kh3
4. A. Composed by Prokop.
mate.

Pin: Since Whites queen is unprotected, the knight

Whats The Best Move?
A. Black can give the bishop up for the pawn after
1. B. Composed by Kosek.
1. b6? Ba8!
B. The blocking maneuver 1. Nc6! Bf1 (if 1. ... Bh3
2. b6 Bc8 3. Kd6 will dislodge the bishop) 2. b6
Ba6 3. Kd6 Bb7 4. Kc7 Ba8 5. Na5 Ke3 6. Nb7
Kd4 7. Kb8 wins.
C. Inaccurate is 1. Kd6? Ba8 2. Nc6 Ke3 3. Kc7 Kd3
4. Kb8 Kc4 5. Na7 Bf3 6. b6 Kc5 7. Kc7 Bg2 and
stands ready to take on b7 if the pawn advances.
2. C. Composed by Kubbel.
A. A false lead is 1. Kc1? Bg6 2. d6 Be8 3. Kc2 Kb8
4. Kc3 Kc8 5. Kc4 Bf7+ 6. Kc5 Kd7 7. b4 b6+
Problem III.
3. Kg1 wins) 3. Kg3 Rh6! (if 3. ... Rg5+ 4. Kf4
Rh5 5. Rxg7) 4. h8=Q! Rxh8 5. Ra2 threatens
is free for capture, 1. ... Rxe5. (Take the rook and
Ra1 mate.
B. Black draws instantly on 1. Kg3? Rh3+! 2. Kxh3
the queen hangs.)
Discovery: The simple 1. ... Nxd5 wins a piece,
Problem IV.
stalemate.
C. On the tempting 1. Rxg7? Rh3! 2. Ra7 Kh2 holds since 2. Qxd5 is met by 2. ... Bh2+ and 3. ... Qxd5.
because Whites king cant cross the Rubicon.
Discovery: Whites queen is won for a rook after
Problem V.
Endgame Lab Benkos Bafflers 1. ... Re1+ 2. Kxe1 Qxd4.
Problem I.
Mating net: Black puts White away with 1. ...
Problem VI.
1. e6
1. Kg3? Nb3! 2. e6 Nxd4 3. e7 Nf5+ and wins.
Rf4+ 2. Kg3 Qg5+. If 3. Kh2 (or 3. Kh3), its mate
1. ... Ne4 2. e7 Nd6
with 3. Rh4. And if 3. Bg4 first, then 3. Qxg4+
2. ... Nf6 3. Kg3 Kb7 4. Kf4 Kc6 5. Ke5 see main line.
4. Kh2 Qh4 is mate. Not bad for a moments work.

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Minimum: Pentium 1 GHz, Hz, 512 MB RAM,
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gram, Mega Database 2009 with off the program, and the book has been fine- Windows
W Vista
indows Vista or XP (SP2),
P2), DVD drive,
over 4 million gam
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Correspondence
esspondence Database 2009 and six Rybka 3 Book % 24.90 / US $ 40 2.4 GHz, 4 GB RAM, Windows
Windows V ista 64,
Vista
issues of ChessBa
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Windows 11, DVD ROM drive.

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