CHESS this Wednesday Dec. 28 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

Holiday Greetings, and here's to a Happy New Year ahead for you . . . !

For challenging yet relaxing, fun chess over the boards this Wednesday evening, December 28, 2016, join us at our usual venue, Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., from 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really nice, interesting people!

We had a nice turnout last week, with a couple new players, Matthew and Tom, along with returning players Dmitri and Liliana, Chris B., Tony T., John S., Stewart, Kwaku and Sarah, Jonathan, Priya, Rich K., Alan, and Mike T.

See you soon!

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS, Yes, Wednesday Dec. 21 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

Yes there's chess, and it's fun over the boards this evening at our regular Wednesday venue, Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif. from 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really nice, interesting people!

Last week's session saw some 14 players, and last Sunday's session at Panera Bread Restaurant saw a meet-up game club join us to swell the attendance up to more than 16 players!

See you soon,

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS at Panera Bread Restaurant, Sunday Dec.18th!

Hi Everyone . . . !

Just a short note reminder that we'll have our usual 3rd Sunday of the Month session this Sunday, December 18, 2016, at the Panera Bread Restaurant, located at the corner of Treat Blvd. and Bancroft Rd. in Walnut Creek, from 2:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.  All ages, genders, skill levels welcome, as it's fun, free, challenging chess over the boards at a very nice venue (yet another opportunity to practice for the upcoming January 2017 Golden State Open -- with 5 divisions, from novice to master -- at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Concord, Calif., right next to the local airport and golf course).

This week's session at our Starbucks venue had a very nice turnout, with as many as 16 players coming and going at various times, catching a game or two or three, meeting new players, and making new friends!  On hand to welcome newcomers and mix and match through several games were Priya, Jonathan, Tony T., Chris B., John S., Dylan, Sydney and Kristin K., Ronald, Rich, Allan, Quaco (or Kwako?), Dan K., Bob C., Elisa, and Mike T.  Capping the evening was a set of sharp speed chess games between Ronald and John S.!

Looking forward to seeing you this Sunday afternoon, rain or shine,

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
U.S. Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS Wednesday at Starbucks! Sunday at Panera Bread!

Hi Everyone . . . !

There's lot of chess as usual at our usual Wednesday evening venue, Starbucks, from 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., this Wednesday, December 14, 2016.!

We had quite a bit of challenging fun last week, with 3 chess masters in our midst!  Ronald Cusi was there along with Rich K., and Christopher Y. to wow the other players with their chess playing skills, including some speed chess contests that brought along quite a few onlookers at Starbucks!  Also enjoying chess matches and exhibition games were Bob C., Tony T., Anthony, Chris B., Hanza, Mike T., and Young . . .

. . . with all looking forward to this week's chess sessions at either or both Starbucks (Wednesday evening) and Panera Bread Restaurant (this coming Sunday, December 18, 2016, from 2:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., located at the corner of Treat Blvd. and Bancroft Rd., in Walnut Creek).

So then, come join us!  Newcomers welcome, and if you haven't been by in a while, renew old friendships, even make new ones!

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS SPECIAL this Wednesday, December 7, at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

We'll have a special chess session this Wednesday evening, December 7, 2016, from 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really nice, interesting company!

This Wednesday evening's special session will feature visiting Chess Master Ronald Cusi, and possibly Chess Master Manny Perez . . . !  Ronald and Manny will be available to give some tips to improve one's game, or how best to prepare for an upcoming tournament (such as the Golden State Open at the Concord Crowne Plaza next month) . . . Ronald may even have some fun with club players of all skill levels, such as in a quick simul, or even in speed chess, when he gives each of his opponents the usual five minutes, while he takes only one minute . . . !

Last week's session was fun, with Rich K., Tony T., Chris B., Bob C. (long time no see, Bob!), Mike T., Chris Th., and -- even longer no time no see -- Dylan K. and Kristen K. . . . !  Special thanks to Chris Th. and Chris B. for welcoming Dylan back with some interesting chess games, including a "960 Chess" match with Chris Th. . . . !

This coming Wednesday evening would be a nice one to come by and see your chess friends, even renew old friendships, or even make new friends!  New players -- all ages, genders, skill levels -- always welcome!  Looking for chess instructors? Just ask!

See you soon,

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS Wednesday Nov. 23 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

Most of the time over the past decade, we've had a good turnout of players
on the evening before Thanksgiving Day, so if you feel like having fun over
the chessboards this Wednesday evening, November 23, 2016, from 5:30p.m. -
9:00 p.m. (come and go anytime), by all means come and join us -- the
earlier the better, for the best tables, more games, and good conversation
with some really nice people!

The Golden State Open chess tournament, with various skill sections, from
master to novice, will once again be at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Concord,
Calif. during the long Martin Luther King holiday weekend, this coming
January 2017 . . . !  If you haven't received the tournament flyer in the
mail, check on line or stop in at any of our sessions and I'll have the
info for you.

See you soon, and have a very, very nice Thanksgiving holiday!

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

CHESS this Sunday Nov. 20th at Panera Bread Restaurant!

Hi Everyone . . . !

Just a short note reminder that we have chess over the boards again this Sunday, November 20, 2016, at Panera Bread Restaurant, located at the corner of Treat Blvd. and Bancroft Rd., in Walnut Creek, Calif., from 2:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., come by anytime, the earlier the better for the better tables, more games, and some really nice and interesting company!

We meet at that specific Panera Bread Restaurant on the afternoon of every 3rd Sunday of a month.  Last month's session saw only a few players enjoy the game and the afternoon.  If you enjoy the game and would like to continue having this Sunday session available, drop in, enjoy a match, renew friendships if you haven't been by in a while, even make new friends!

See you there,

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS this Wednesday Oct. 19th at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

There's chess over the boards to be played this Wednesday evening, October 19, 2016, from 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif.  Come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really nice and interesting company!

Last week's turnout was pretty good, and we welcomed Gilbert, our newest player, to the club!  On hand to welcome Gilbert were Mike T., Tom H., Rich K., Jonathan, Anthony, Tony T., Hanza, and yet another player we haven't seen in a while, Hans!  There were several good matches, with games tightly contested all the way to a draw between Hanza and Mike; then Hanza and Tony T.; and, between Rich and Anthony! 

At the Panera Bread Restaurant yesterday, matches between Mike T. and Jackie C., and between Raymond and Tony T. went down to the end games, with Raymond and Mike barely eking out wins.  Next month's Panera Bread session will be on Sunday, November 13, 2016, so please mark your calendars and try to join the chess fun to help keep the venue a going one for the club. (Perhaps chess masters Ronald and Manny can join us again there for some exhibition speed matches!).

See you soon,

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS Sundays and Wednesdays!

Hi Everyone . . . !

In addition to our chess sessions every Wednesday evening at Starbucks, and every 3rd Sunday at Panera Bread Restaurant, we now have an opportunity to enjoy the game of chess, and perhaps other games such as backgammon, at a different venue in Walnut Creek, a place called The Coffee Shop, every other Sunday, starting this Sunday, October 9, 2016 !

So then, for calendaring purposes, here below is a summary of chess sessions, their locations, and times:

1.  As usual, every Wednesday evening, from 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., (just up a couple of driveways from the corner of Clayton Rd. and Ygnacio Valley Rd., as Ygnacio changes its name to Kirker as it crosses Clayton Rd.).  Also as usual, come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really nice company!  Next Wednesday is October 12, 2016, and I hope to see you there!

2.  On every 3rd Sunday of every month, from 2:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., at Panera Bread Restaurant, located at the corner of Treat Blvd. and Bancroft Rd. in Walnut Creek, a fine place and time to play chess and meet players usually unable to make our evening sessions!  Our next session at Panera Bread is on Sunday, October16, 2016,  -- the one in November will be on November 20, 2016and I hope to see you there, too!

3.  Starting Sunday, October 9, 2016,  from 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., at The Coffee Shop, located at 1321 Locust St., Walnut Creek.  Next one there will be on Sunday, October 23, 2016, same time.  Subsequent ones may need to be adjusted as to which alternate Sundays so as not to conflict with the Panera Bread monthly sessions.

Chess is gaining more popularity as we head into the last two or three months of the year, as players play for fun and/or practice for tournaments (figure on playing in the Golden State Open, probably at the Concord Crowne Plaza Hotel again in January 2017).  There also have been at least three recent pretty good movies featuring chess as central to the film and the characters in it (name all three when you see me and you could win a free drink at Starbucks)!

Let me know if you have questions or need more info regarding any of the above, and I hope to see you soon, thanks!

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID# A6024746

CHESS Wednesday Oct. 5th at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

It's the challenge and fun of chess over the boards again this Wednesday evening, Octorber 5, 2016, from 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really nice company!

Last week's session saw several players come by for a game or two or three.  We hadn't seen Hanza in quite a while, and without any warmup he played Rich K. at least a couple of games before the night was over.  Also on hand were Tony T., Jonathan, Mike T., Chris Th., Tom H., and Mike T. for several games, which even included towards the end of the evening a four-handed game of Chronology!

If you're new (all ages and skill levels welcome) or haven't been by in a while, drop in, let us know how you're doing, get in a game or two, renew some old friendships, and make new ones!

See you soon,

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

CHESS Wednesday Sept. 28 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

Just a short note to say there's Chess over the boards this Wednesday evening, September 28, 2016,at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., as usual, from 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really nice, interesting company!

. . . and for your calendar next month, on the 3rd Sunday of the month, we're at Panera Bread Restaurant, located at the corner of Bancroft Rd. and Treat Blvd. in Walnut Creek, on Sunday, October 16, 2016, from 2:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

See you soon,

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS this Wednesday Sept. 21st at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

There's fun and challenging chess over the boards as usual every Wednesday evening from 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at Starbucks located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., come by anytime this Wednesday evening, September 21, 2016, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really interesting company!

After some real good turnouts the past few sessions, there's been a bit of a drop-off last Wednesday evening, and at our monthly session at Panera Bread Restaurant last month and yesterday.  Nevertheless, we still had a combined turnout of a dozen or so players, plus interested onlookers and kibitzers who indicated their desire to join us soon!

We welcomed Nathalie P., a new player to the club, but not to chess, and Chris B. and Nathalie had, despite distractions from the peanut gallery, a fun game that went down to pawns and bishops!  We also welcomed back Jackie C., who played pretty well in matches with "Meet-up" John, as tough playerTony T. played the King's Gambit against Raymond, who defended well and won -- welcome back, Ray, long time no see!  Also seen enjoying the game over the past week were Priya and Jonathan, Rich K., and Mike T.

See you soon,

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID# A6024746

CHESS this Sunday Sept. 18th at Panera Bread Restaurant !

Hi Everyone . . . !

The third Sunday of the month has rolled around again, and we're having another fun and challenging session of chess over the boards from 2:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. at Panera Bread Restaurant, located at the corner of Treat Blvd. and Bancroft Rd. in Walnut Creek, this Sunday, September 18, 2016 !

Come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more matches, and some really interesting company!  . . . and for NFL followers, the restaurant has overhead television monitors which more than likely will be carrying a game or two, so I'll be sure to be there, and remember to bring your chessboard and pieces if you have them . . . thanks!

See you there,

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
USChess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS Wednesday Sept. 14th at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

There's lots of chess over the boards as usual this Wednesday evening at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Calif., from 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., and the turnouts have been pretty good, lately, with players of all ages and skill levels, so come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really interesting company!

See you there,

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS Wednesday Sept. 7th at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

Our chess club saw quite a nice turnout last week, highlighted by 10-minute speed games between Anthony and youngster Chris Y., which resulted in a tie at 2 wins apiece!  Chess was rampant inside and outside the doors of Starbucks, as Chris B., Rich K., Tony T., Josh and his Dad Dan, Chris Y. and his Dad Young, Chris Th. and his rather large model F-104, Priya, Mark, Tom, John S., and Mike T. and several onlookers and kibbitzers were there to enjoy the evening!

We meet every Wednesday evening, and our next one is tomorrow, September 7, 2016, at our regular venue, Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., now from 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really nice and interesting company!

See you there,

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS this Wednesday Aug. 31st at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

Last week's session saw a pretty good turnout of players, both regular, occasional and brand new players enjoy the grand old game of chess over the boards both inside and outside of our favorite venue, Starbucks! 

There were several matches that highlighted the evening.  Young Chris Y. battled Rich K. in a duel that ended in a draw, featuring a rook and a pawn vs. a knight and three pawns, with both kings in on the action!  Tony T. and Chris B. were in a fine end-game match, and there were other contests with players Young (Chris Y's Dad), Anthony, Chris Th., Priya, Jonathan, John S.,  and two or three other new players whose name we didn't quite catch for this article . . .

. . . plus we met another player by name of Ed C. who enjoyed making new friends and joining in a multi-topic conversation (including the latest national political circus) under the Starbucks umbrellas outside with Mike T., Chris Th., Dennis, John S., and whomever else wanted to join in . . . this Wednesday's get- together may feature both the game of chess and the history-oriented game of Chronology!

We meet every Wednesday evening, and we're expanding our time available for chess over the boards, by half an hour, by now going from 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more matches, and some really interesting company!

 

See you soon,

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club

US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS this Wednesday Aug. 24th at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

It's more chess over the boards from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. this Wednesday evening at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., come by anytime, the earlier the better for more matches, the best tables, and some really nice company!

Last week's session saw Jonathan, Priya, Mike T., Rich, Tony, Jeff W., and John S. mix it up over the boards in some interesting matches.  Join us for a fun challenge or two this week!

See you soon,

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS this Wednesday August 17 at Starbucks (and Sunday Aug. 21 at Panera Bread)!

Hi Everyone . . . !

Our Starbucks venue finally got its air conditioner fixed!  It's a nice, cool place again to play chess over the boards, as we meet every Wednesday evening at the Starbucks located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.  Come by anytime this Wednesday evening, August 17, 2016, the earlier the better for the best tables, more matches and some really nice company!

Our last session featured interesting matches between Tony and Rich, and Mike T. and John S., with the latter match remarkable in that a losing position turned into a terrific, attacking winning position!  I won't say who was who, just that it wasn't Mike who suddenly found himself busy snatching defeat from the jaws of victory . . . there may be a rematch sometime soon . . .

. . . And the 3rd Sunday of the month is this coming Sunday, August 21, 2016, which means our club will be meeting once again for chess over the boards at the Panera Bread Restaurant on the corner of Bancroft Rd. and Treat Blvd. in Walnut Creek, from 2:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., and as usual come by anytime, the earlier the better!

See you soon,

Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club

US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS Wednesday Aug. 10 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

Last week's chess session saw several players mix it up over the boards, with Draw Master (DM) Mike T. playing Anthony and John S. each to a draw, as Jonathan and Chris Th. were locked in a couple of duels, as were Tony and Rich, while Chris B. had matches with Tony and Anthony!

Our club has another fun session this Wednesday evening, August 10, 2016, at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more matches, and some really nice company!

See you there,

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS Wednesday Aug. 3 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

Our session last Wednesday evening saw club players over the boards welcome two new players to the club!  We welcomed Jonathan, who played a few games, and young Dylan, who went head-to-head with Tony and split their two games, doing quite well to win the second game as the evening came to a close!

On hand to welcome Jonathan and Dylan (I think that's the right spelling, or it could be Dillon?) were Tony, Mike T., Anthony, Chris B., Chris Th., and John S. . . .

. . . . we continue to meet every Wednesday evening at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really nice company!

This month, our 3rd Sunday of every month session at Panera Bread Restaurant (corner of Treat Blvd. and Bancroft Rd., in Walnut Creek), will be on Sunday, August 21, 2016, from 2:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. . . . see you soon!

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

CHESS this Wednesday July 27 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

There's more hot chess these hot days, but we play every Wednesday evening over the boards in the cool temperatures of Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif. from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., and this Wednesday evening, July 27, 2016 is no exception . . . !  Come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really nice company!

We had at least 10 players in last week's session, perhaps more expected this week, and one player will no longer be simply experimenting with radical chess openings like he did last week with John S., and so as the saying goes, "en garde . . .!"  

It should be fun - see you there!

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS this Wednesday July 6 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

Just a short note to remind you we have chess over the boards as usual this Wednesday evening, from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., at our usual venue, Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif. Come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really interesting people!

Last week we had a dozen or so players and welcomed yet another new player to the club.

See you there,

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A602746

CHESS this Wednesday June 29 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

Summertime chess over the boards is the thing now every Wednesday evening from 6:00p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd. Clayton, Calif.  Come by anytime, the earlier the better, for the best tables, more games, and some really interesting company!

Our last session saw at least nine or ten players in some fairly challenging matches, and it looks like Rich K., Chris B. and Anthony are on winning streaks as hot as the temperatures have been, but I understand a cooling trend may be just around the corner . . . ?

See you soon,

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS this Wednesday June 22nd at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

There's lots of chess this Wednesday evening, June 22, 2016,  from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at Starbucks, located at  1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., come by anytime, the earlier the better fr the best tables, more games, and some really fun, interesting company!

There were as many as 9 players that came by for chess this past Sunday afternoon at Panera Bread Restaurant, and we welcomed John C., a new player who is also looking to establish a regular meeting venue for our club on another day within Walnut Creek.   We may know more about that in the weeks ahead . . . On hand to welcome John were Jackie, Chris T., Bill K., Bob C., Sevien, Ronald C., Mike T., and Tony T.  Considering it was Father's Day and the afternoon/early evening for Game 7 of the NBA Finals between the Warriors and the Cavaliers, the turnout was actually better than expected!

Also ahead sometime in the summer, yet to be scheduled as to when and where, another simul exhibition featuring chess master Ronald Cusi . . . !

See you soon,

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS this Wednesday June 15 and Sunday June 19, 2016!

Hi Everyone  . . . !

There's chess over the boards as usual this Wednesday evening, June 15th at Starbucks at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd. in Clayton from 6 - 9 p.m.

Also, be sure to note that we will be having a Sunday session this week  on June 19th from 2 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. at Panera Bread Restaurant at 744 Bancroft Ave. (corner of Treat Blvd.) in Walnut Creek.

See you soon,

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

CHESS this Wednesday June 8th at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

There's chess over the boards as usual this Wednesday evening, from 6:00p.m. - 9:00 p.m., at our usual venue, Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, CA.  Come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really interesting company!

Last Wednesday, we welcomed Drew O., who will be getting a chance to play different players of various skill levels in a fine coffeehouse atmosphere . . . there were a dozen players on hand, and John S. seems to be on a win streak that's as hot as the weather outside, but the weather report indicates a cooling trend this week . . .

For the calendar: We meet every Wednesday evening as noted above.  Our Sunday afternoon session at Panera Bread Restaurant (corner of Treat Blvd. and Bancroft Rd, in Walnut Creek) this month will be on Sunday, June 19, 2016 from 2:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. As usual, all ages, all skill levels are most welcome!

See or hear from you soon,

-- Mike T.
Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A624746

CHESS this Wednesday June 1st at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

Just a short note reminder that we're having lots of chess over the boards from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. tomorrow, Wednesday, June 1, 2016, at our usual venue, Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif.  Come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really nice company!

. . . and in June, mark your calendars, our Sunday afternoon session from 2:00 p.m.- 5:30 p.m. at Panera Bread Restaurant at 744 Bancroft Ave. (corner of Treat Blvd.) in Walnut Creek will be on Sunday, June 19, 2016.

See you soon,

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS this Wednesday May 25th at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

As usual this Wednesday evening there's lots of chess over the boards at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., and, for those game, could go into extended time just a stroll across the parking lot at Carl's Jr.!

We had another nice turnout last Wednesday evening, which featured a couple of pretty good games between Chris B. and Tony T. as well as between other players there like Evan and Mike T., Priya and Tom, Robin and Ana, Robert and Anthony, with a couple of onlookers who just might join us in the near future!

See you soon,

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS this Wednesday May 18 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

We had a nice couple of sessions this past week with just over a dozen players coming by to enjoy last Wednesday evening at Starbucks, and the same number over at Panera Bread Restaurant on Sunday . . . !

We welcomed back Bev M. and Jay, both of whom we haven't seen in quite a while!  Bev is interested in getting coached on her game, so if you have the knack for teaching chess, join us again next month and meet her, when our session at Panera Bread is on the 3rd Sunday of the month, which will be June 19, 2016 from 2:15 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. at the Panera Bread Restaurant on the corner of Bancroft & Treat in Walnut Creek.

In the meantime, we continue to meet every Wednesday evening, and our next session is as usual from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., this Wednesday at our usual venue, Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really nice company!

See you soon,

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

CHESS Wednesday May 11th at SBUX & Sunday May 15th at Panera !

Hi Everyone . . . !

There's lots of chess over the boards this Wednesday evening at Starbucks, and Sunday afternoon at Panera Bread Restaurant . . . !

Starbucks:  Weds. evening, May 11, 2016, from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif.

Panera Bread Restaurant:  Sunday afternoon, May 15, 2016, from 2:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
744 Bancroft Rd., Walnut Creek (corner of Treat Blvd. & Bancroft Rd.).

We had a fine turnout again last Wednesday at our Starbucks venue, with more than a dozen players enjoying the evening of chess.  I hope to see as many if not more at this Wednesday and Sunday's sessions.  As usual, come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some very nice and interesting company!

See you soon,

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS this Wednesday, May 4th at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

Last Wednesday evening's chess session had a very good turnout, and we welcomed a visiting chess expert (or better) from Canada by name of Pacha, who said he will be with us again this Wednesday, May 4, 2016 at our usual venue, Starbucks, from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif.  We have players of all skill levels, and players are welcome to come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really nice and interesting people!

On hand to welcome Pacha were Mike T., Tony, Chris Th., Chris B., Sevien, Dale, Priya, Rich K., John S., and Bob C.  Pacha's relentless attacks blew away Mike T.'s castle and game; dominated John's pieces in blitz games; and, managed to crush Rich's defenses for a victory in an untimed match just before the famed coffeehouse closed for the night!

If you would like to meet Pacha, an accomplished blitz player who apparently will also join us at Panera Bread Restaurant on Sunday, May 15, 2016, from 2:00 p.m. -5:30 p.m., be there or also come by this Wednesday evening, the 4th of May, from 6:00 p.m - 9:00 p.m.  For any close games still in progress this Wednesday, we can always move to Carl's Jr. across the lot from Starbucks.

See you soon,

-- Mike T.

US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS this Wednesday April 27th at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

Just a short note reminder we meet once again this Wednesday evening, April 25, 2016 at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really nice company!

Our turnouts every Wednesday night at Starbucks and every 3rd Sunday afternoon at Panera Bread Restaurant have been very good, thanks to our game chess enthusiasts that come from different parts of Contra Costa County!  And for this Wednesday, despite the Warriors game (Steph Curry isn't playing, anyway) we should have our usual fun, and perhaps a chess puzzle or two, and a platter of Starbucks goodies, too!

See you soon,

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

CHESS this Wednesday April 20th at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

There's lots of chess over the boards this Wednesday evening, April 20, 2016 at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really nice and interesting company!

Last week's session saw a pretty nice turnout considering that there was a historic Golden State Warriors game that evening!  . . .

. . . And this past Sunday's afternoon session at Panera Bread Restaurant was another fine chess day as no less than 18 players and friends and family were there to enjoy some matches and even some dinner after it was all over!  The management and staff of Panera Bread also expressed its appreciation for the group by coming out with a large platter of baked goodies . . . !!

Along with our Wednesday evening chess sessions, our 3rd Sunday afternoon of every month chess sessions have become a hit, especially for those who cannot have fun with us on Wednesdays due to work or school concerns  . . . the question now is whether we could or should have a second Sunday afternoon of chess at Panera Bread Restaurant.  How about sessions there every 1st and 3rd Sunday of each month?  What say you?  Let me know . . .

. . . and we'll see you soon, thanks!

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS this Sunday April 17 at Panera Bread Restaurant!

Hi Everyone . . . !

Just a short note reminder that there's lots of chess over the boards this 3rd Sunday of the month, April 17, 2016, from 2:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. at Panera Bread Restaurant, located at 744 Bancroft Rd., (corner of Bancroft Rd. & Treat Blvd.) . . . come by anytime, the earlier the better for the better tables, more fun and challenging games (even some speed chess for the speed freaks), for all ages and skill levels, with some really nice and interesting people!

See you there or if not, see you soon I hope,

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS Wednesday 4/13 at Starbucks & Sunday 4/17 at Panera Bread!

Hi Everyone . . . !

Lots of fun and challenging chess over the boards ahead this week!

This Wednesday evening, April 13, 2016, from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. we're as usual at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really interesting company!  Last week's session saw over a dozen players enjoy the evening, as on hand were Tony T. and Anthony B., Bob C., John S., Ana, Robert, and Julia, Maria, Rich K, Bill K., Mike T., and Mark S., . . . and Chris Th. and Sevien, who continued their match at Carl's Jr. across the lot, after Starbucks closed!  By the way, a big thanks to Sevien for bringing us a sampling of some delicate chocolates, all the way from France!

. . . And the 3rd Sunday of the month is this Sunday, April 17th, and we're having another fun session at Panera Bread Restaurant at 744 Bancroft Rd (corner of Bancroft and Treat Blvd.) in Walnut Creek from 2:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., so come by anytime, but of course the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and yes some great company, too!

. . . And, to answer a couple questions that came my way:  No, there are no dues required for joining our chess club; and, at either of our venues, there is no purchase requirement (although we and the business owners would very much appreciate it you would express your gratitude for their generosity in allowing us to use their space by making a purchase) . . .

See you soon,

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

CHESS this Wednesday April 6 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . .  . !

We meet again at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., for fun and challenging chess over the boards with a growing cast of players of all skill levels!  Come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really nice company!

Last week's session saw at least 15 or more players come by for a match or two or three.  Along for the evening of chess were Chris B., Chris Th., Bob C., Kitty, Priya (who had a couple excellent games with checkmate endings!), Anthony B., Tony T., Mike T., John S., Tom, Robert, Julia & Ana, and Rich K., Peter, and Mark S.. . . .

. . . and for this Wednesday, we may have a puzzle to solve on the first try for a Starbucks prize; and, a bonus prize for anyone who, without asking anyone for a hint, gives a birthday greeting straightaway to one of our regular players, who assures me he will definitely be there . . . !

Also don't forget, we meet again for an afternoon of chess 2:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. on Sunday April 17th at Panera Bread Restaurant, corner of Bancroft Rd. and Treat Blvd, in Walnut Creek!

See you soon,

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS this Wednesday March 23rd at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

We meet once again for chess over the boards this Wednesday evening, March 23, 2016, at our usual venue, Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really interesting people!

Last Wednesday's session saw about a dozen players enjoy the evening, including Jeff W., Priya, Chris B., Anthony B., Peter, Tony T., John H., John S., Rich K., Bob C., and Mike T. . . .

. . . and our now regular 3rd-Sunday-Afternoon-of-the-Month session saw at least 18 players enjoy an afternoon of chess over the boards at Panera Bread Restaurant in Walnut Creek!  Players and chess afficionados of all skill levels were there, including Bob C., Kitty, Jackie, Priya, Chris Th., Sevien, Chess Master Ron Cusi (who as usual wowed players with his speed-chess magic), Irving, Ginger, Michael, George S. and his son, Mark S., Bill K., Dimitri, Liliana, Tony T., and Mike T. . . .

. . . our next Sunday afternoon session at the Panera Bread Restaurant will be from 2:00 p.m. - 5:30p.m. on April 17, 2016, something nice to put on your calendar as a reminder . . . !

See you soon,

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS this Wednesday 3/16 at Starbucks & Sunday 3/20 at Panera Bread!

Hi Everyone . . . !

There's lots more fun and challenging chess with all skill levels over the boards at two different locations this week!

--  This Wednesday evening, March 16, 2016, from 6:00 p.m. - 9:0 p.m. at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more matches, and some really interesting company!

--  This coming Sunday afternoon, March 20, 2016, from 2:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. at Panera Bread Restaurant, located at 744 Bancroft Rd., Walnut Creek, Calif. (corner of Bancroft Rd. & Treat Blvd), again come by anytime, the earlier the better, etc. . . . as we'll be meeting now every 3rd Sunday of each month, at this new venue!  Our first session at this venue last month saw at least 18 players enjoying the afternoon over the chessboards!

Last Wednesday evening's session also saw a nice turnout, with at least a dozen players enjoying the evening at Starbucks, and we had the opportunity to meet and welcome Joe B., a prospective new player who enjoys chess and who just might bring his son(s) to join us sometime!  On hand for chess and to meet Joe or simply take in the scene last week were Ron H., Mike T., Chris Th., Dale K., John H., Sevien, Tamara, Tony T., Bob C., John S., Tom, and Rich K. . . .

. . . See you soon,

-- MIke T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS this Wednesday March 9th at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

We meet again for fun and challenges over the boards this Wednesday evening from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at our usual venue, Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif.  Come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really interesting company!  First player to come in and mention the Golden State Warriors' record of wins and losses for the NBA season through Wednesday wins a free Starbucks drink, courtesy of the chess club!

Last week's session saw only about 10 players enjoy the evening.  It was great to see John H. again after so long a time.  We also saw that more players are taking down the moves of their games, as John H. did, then analyzing them afterwards . . . !  On hand for chess and conversation were Bob C., Ron H., John H., John S., Mike T., Tony T., Dan K., Peter, Colleen, Chris Th., Rich K., and Anthony B., followed by a game of Chronology across the lot after the chess session!

Put the afternoon of Sunday, March 20, 2016 from 2:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. at the Panera Bread Restaurant (at the corner of Treat Blvd. and Bancroft Rd. in Walnut Creek) on your calendar for another fun chess session with players of all skill levels -- from masters to novice and everything in between -- featuring regular chess, off or on the clock, "960" chess, and even speed chess!

See you soon!

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

CHESS this Wednesday March 2nd, and Last Sunday Was a Hit !

Hi Everyone . . . !

There's chess fun and challenges as usual over the boards this Wednesday evening, March 2, 2016, at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more matches, and some really interesting company!

Last Wednesday's session was pretty good, with about a dozen or so players, including Chris Th., Mike T., Anthony B., Rich K., Robert and Ana with Julia, Bob C., Ron H., Hanza, John S., Tom, all welcoming our newest player, Peter, that evening . . . !

. . . And our very first Sunday afternoon of chess at Panera Bread Restaurant (at 74 Bancroft Rd., Walnut Creek -- at the corner of Bancroft and Treat) was indeed a happening yesterday, Sunday, February 28, 2016, from 2:00 p.m. to about 5:00 p.m. or later, with at least eighteen (18) players there to enjoy an afternoon of chess in what turned out to be a very nice venue and atmosphere . . !!  We had the privilege of meeting players new to the club, namely George S., Irving and Ginger, and Jackie C., and it was fun to see Mark S. and Priya again, as Sevien was also there along with Ron H., Tom, Bill K., chess masters Ron Cusi and Manny Perez, with draw master Mike T., and Chris Th., Tony T., Hanza,  Kitty and Bob C.. . .!

We have Bob C. and Kitty to thank for brokering a very good relationship and agreement with the Panera Bread management and staff, for them to reserve space for our chess club, the Contra Costa Chess Club, to enjoy an afternoon with the fine game of chess, over the boards!  We also thank Ron Cusi and Manny Perez for having fun with us, including holding the usual amazing exhibition of taking on (and winning) any and all players at speed chess, giving each challenger 5 minutes while having only 1 minute to go on!

Our next Sunday afternoon session at the Panera Bread Restaurant will be on Sunday, March 20, 2016, from 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. or later (come anytime, the earlier the better, of course), which will actually be the third Sunday of March.  So then, put March 20th on your calendar, and that also happens to be the first day of Spring!

See you this Wednesday, or see you soon, . . . and if you haven't been by in a while, it may be a good time to renew old friendships, and even make new ones.

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club

US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

 

CHESS this Sunday Feb. 28th at Panera Bread Restaurant!

Hi Everyone . . . !

Just a short note to say we're having a fun and challenging chess session over the boards, all skill levels, regular chess as well as speed chess and even "960" chess for the chessnuts, this Sunday afternoon, February 28, 2016, at the Panera Bread Restaurant at the corner of Treat Blvd. and Bancroft Rd. in Walnut Creek, Calif.! 

Address of Restaurant:  744 Bancroft Rd., Walnut Creek.  Ample parking, in a shopping center, with driveways into the place from both Treat Blvd. and Bancroft Rd..

Time:  We're there from 2:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. or later for those who want to stay later, so come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more matches, and some really nice, interesting company!

This will be our first session at this venue, and we'll have a section of the restaurant all to ourselves.  I'll be interested in your feedback regarding this location for future chess sessions!

We had a good session this past Wednesday evening at our regular venue, Starbucks, with more than a dozen players, including our newest player, a fellow named Peter who we look forward to meeting again, as we do all of you!

Thanks, and see you soon!

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS Wednesday at Starbucks, and Sunday at Panera Bread!

Hi Everyone . . . !

There's chess over the boards as usual this Wednesday evening, February 24, 2016, at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. . . .

. . . then, this coming Sunday, February 28, 2016, we'll have our first once-a-month chess afternoon session of this year at Panera Bread Restaurant, located at 744 Bancroft Rd., Walnut Creek, right at the corner of Bancroft Rd. and Treat Blvd., from 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. or as late as players want to stay . . . !

I hope you'll be able to join us for the chess challenge and fun at one or both sessions, come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really nice company!  . . . and we're also looking forward to seeing players of all skill levels at either session, especially the Sunday one for those who normally can't make it to our Wednesday evening events due to work or school!

See you soon,

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS Wednesday Feb. 17th at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

There's more fun and challenging situations over the chess boards this Wednesday evening from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at our regular venue, Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., come by anytime, the earlier the better or the best tables, more games, and some really interesting company!
Last week's session was especially fun and interesting, with two players new to the club . . . !  There was Tom from Discovery Bay, and Ralph all the way from Munich, Germany, accompanied by Robert, Ana, and Julia . . . and also on hand to welcome them were Rich K., Anthony B., Tony T., Sevien, Hans, Bob C., John S., and Mike T . . . and a few observers still a bit shy despite our having chess players of all skill levels . . . !
___________________________________________________________________

While we continue to meet every Wednesday evening at Starbucks, we will also be meeting on afternoon on the last Sunday of each month, but at the t Panera Bread Restaurant located in Walnut Creek!  We have Bob C. to thank for brokering the arrangement with Panera Bread Restaurant (at 744 Bancroft Rd, Walnut Creek, between Ygnacio Valley Rd. and Treat Blvd.), and we will meet there on Sunday, February 28, 2016, from 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. 

The restaurant, where there is ample parking, will have a section set aside for us, and certain chess masters like Ron Cusi and Manny Perez as well as other players of all skill levels who normally can't make it to our Wednesday evening sessions due to school or work may also be on hand to help inaugurate our new Sunday site that day . . . !  If you have any questions or need more info, just let me know.

See you soon,

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

CHESS this Wednesday, Feb. 10 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

More chess players of all skill levels are having fun and challenging games over the boards these Wednesday evenings at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., and when players want to continue the evening, we go across the parking lot to Carl's Jr., so come by Starbucks anytime between 6 and 9p.m., this Wednesday, February 10, 2016, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really interesting company!

Last week's session saw another new player to the club enjoy the evening - Hanza's friend Cassidy, welcomed by other players on hand, namely Hans, Bob C., Mike T., Anthony B., Tony T., Rich K., Chris Th., Dan, Robert and Ana with Julia, and John S. rounding out the group, which also drew a few onlookers still a bit shy about joining the fun . . .

. . . and while we continue to meet every Wednesday evening, we will also have a session the last Sunday of this month, and that will be on Sunday, February 28, 2016.  We'll see if we can inaugurate another venue for the club for that day, or whether we just meet at our regular Starbucks. 

Stay tuned, and we'll see you soon!

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
USCF Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS this Wednesday, Feb. 3rd at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

There's more fun and challenging chess over the boards from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. this Wednesday evening, February 3, 2016, at Starbucks located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really interesting company!

Our session last week saw more than a dozen players enjoy an evening of chess, with Anthony B., and a tournament player new to the club (didn't catch his name, darn!) enjoying speed chess, while others were jousting in their own fun matches . . . as also on hand for the fun were Dale (really long time no see, Dale!), Chris Th., Tony T., Rich K., Bob C., Kitty, Bill K., Hanza and Andrea, Sevien, John S., and Mike T. . . . it was really great to see players of all skill levels mix and match over time, with new friendships made every time we meet . . . !

. . . One of the many highlights of the evening was Mike T.'s victory over an opponent who will remain nameless because it's been years since Mike scored a win over that esteemed player, a rarity indeed, as it is doubted that John S. could soon forget the shock of having his queen trapped, like a Sasquatch in a vat of molasses with a chess rodeo about to run amok amidst the rest of his pawns and pieces . . . and while other players were comfortable at the Starbucks long table, others such as Kitty, Sevien, Chris Th., and Dale were awash in luxury in their leather lounge chairs in the conversation pit with their chessboards going full throttle . . . nice going !

See you soon, and if it's been a long while since you've joined us, come on by, renew old friendships, make new ones . . . !

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club

US Chess Federation
Affiliate Club ID #A6024746
www.ccchess.com

CHESS this Wednesday Jan. 27 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

We meet once again this Wednesday evening, January 27, 2016, at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.. Come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really interesting, fun company!

Several players turned out for chess over the boards last week, and we welcomed yet another new player to the club, Jeff W. . . . !  On hand to welcome Jeff were Bill K., Bob C., Anthony B., Mike T., John S., Robert and Ana (and little Julia), and Rich K. . . . !  Several of the players had just competed in the Golden State Open and shared a game or two from that tournament, then off everyone went into new games . . . that didn't take long, and it looks like more players will be coming to this next and subsequent sessions . . . !

We may be starting up an additional meeting date and location soon.  Stay tuned, as a restaurant within Walnut Creek would like to host a few sessions, for starters, of the Contra Costa Chess Club!  We'll keep you informed... 

In the meantime, we will re-institute our sessions held on the last Sunday afternoon of the month, starting next month, starting on Sunday, February  28, 2016, from 1:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m . . . .

. . . and, if you haven't been by in a while, come on by, renew some old friendships, and make new ones.  See you soon,

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club

US Chess Federation

Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

(10th Anniversary Feb. 2016 !)

www.ccchess.com

CHESS this Wednesday evening Jan. 20th at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

First of all, congratulations and thanks for a very nice club turnout at this past weekend's Golden State Open Chess Tournament held at the Concord Crowne Plaza!  While there are a couple more rounds left to go as this is written, it appears that the experience of this yearly competition has been a fun one for most, and additionally a learning one  . . as the wins, losses and draws add up!

There will be even more chess this Wednesday evening, January 20, 2016, from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really nice, interesting people!

Featured this week will more than likely be both some celebrating -- and commiserating -- regarding tournament results, with players welcomed to bring in their recorded games to be replayed and analyzed by fellow club players of all skill levels, whether they competed in the tournament or not.  The first couple regular club sessions are really fun, with lots of discussion regarding openings, tactics, end games, brilliant moves, nifty traps, missed chances to turn drawn or lost games into wins, and of course those tide-turning narrow escapes !

... and, based on a couple conversations at the tournament site, it looks like the Contra Costa Chess Club may be hosting the East Bay Open once again, later this year, schedule to be announced within a few months if there is sufficient interest, coordination, promotion, and some help in putting it all together again.  More info to follow in the weeks or months ahead, stay tuned!

We celebrate the start of our 10th year as an Affiliate Club of the United States Chess Federation, recalling the time when just six players (John S., Hossam, Rudy, Stewart, Mike B., and Mike T.) started the club, which gained its USCF affiliation in February of 2006.  The club has now more than 70 players who have requested to be on its mailing list; it has its own web site; and, it has hosted the East Bay Open twice, each time at the Concord Crowne Plaza.

See you soon,

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
USCF Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS this Wednesday Jan. 13th at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . .

There's lots of chess over the boards this Wednesday evening, January 13, 2016, from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif., come by anytime, the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really nice, interesting company!

At least a dozen players came by last week despite the damp, chilly weather to have some challenging fun over the chess boards. Some came by simply get a game or two in, others to practice for this coming weekend's Golden State Open, with 7 divisions, from novice to expert and master and the rest in between, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Concord, Calif. !  On board for last week's fun session were Bob C., Chris Th., Chris B., Rich K., Anthony B., Tony T., Mike T., John S., Tom D., and long-time-no-see Robert, Ana and Julia! 

If you haven't been by in a while, drop in and renew old friendships, and make new ones!

See you soon,

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
USCF Affiliate Club ID #A6024746

CHESS this Wednesday Jan. 6, 2016 at Starbucks!

Hi Everyone . . . !

Another interesting and fun session is in store for us this Wednesday evening, from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at Starbucks, located at 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Clayton, Calif. as players of all skill levels come by to practice on or off the clock for the Golden State Open.  The Open, with 7 divisions from novice to master, is scheduled for Jan. 15 - 18, 2016 at the Concord Crowne Plaza, and players have a choice of competing over 4, 3, or even just 2 days. 

More details available, just ask or come by the club session, or go to the web site of Continental Chess, which is running the tournament.

Our last session saw players Tony T. and Mike T. practicing gambit openings, along with Bob C. practicing games on the clock with Mike T. and Priya, with notations.  We welcomed Dan, who had his first club matches with us,which were with Rich K. and then Anthony B.; Priya got into a match or two with Kitty, then a game with Bob C. . . . Later Rich K. went over over various openings with Kitty as she might be playing in her first ever tournament . . . !

Whether or not you will be playing in the tournament, come on by anytime and say hello to old friends, or make new ones . . . the earlier the better for the best tables, more games, and some really nice, interesting people.

See you soon,

-- Mike T.

Contra Costa Chess Club
USCF Affiliate Club ID # A6024746