Chessblog

Mon, 20 Oct 2003 15:31:26 GMT

In this position, the key move is 2. ...Re6+! Notice that 3. Kxe6 results in stalemate. After 3. Kc7 Rxe7+ a draw ensued.

Sun, 19 Oct 2003 23:03:31 GMT

Black's first move is forced. 1. ...Re1 prevents the pawn from queening. (The threat was 2. Rg8+ followed by 3. e8=Q.) What does Black play after 2. Rxg2?

Sat, 18 Oct 2003 00:57:40 GMT

GM Nick de Firmian visited the Mechanics' Institute on October 15th. The following position occurred in a game between us back in 1981. Can you tell what the result should be? Black to move.

Mon, 13 Oct 2003 16:20:15 GMT

The distinction between the USCF and the US Chess Trust had apparently blurred in some people's eyes. Trust Treasurer Steve Doyle has insisted that the control over the Trust's checkbook be returned to him. The Trust officers held a conference call last Thursday and agreed with him.

Many of us, who watched helplessly as the USCF frittered away the Life Membership Assets, were concerned that the Trust would be the next target. Kudos to Doyle for stepping up to the plate.

Tue, 07 Oct 2003 15:42:19 GMT

The US Chess Trust (a charitable organization) has sent a bill to the USCF for over $60,000. Apparently, the USCF was charging the Trust for expenses that were not related to Trust business. Steve Doyle is the Trust's Treasurer, and he is calling for a conference call in order to discuss the situation. I am the Trust's Assistant Treasurer and fully support Doyle. If what Doyle thinks may have happened turns out to be the case, it may well turn out to be the most shocking development yet in the mishandling of USCF affairs.

Thu, 02 Oct 2003 21:49:44 GMT

The USCF's Executive Board last Sunday and decided to postpone a decision to outsource their books and equipment business until after the holiday season. Outsourcing and expense cutting are the only viable options left to the cash strapped organization. These moves should be expediated, not delayed.

Thu, 25 Sep 2003 15:49:19 GMT

The Kasparov-Ponomariov match has been canceled. Ponomariov really let his fans down. The schedule now says that there will be a knock-out tournament in December to determine the new challenger for Kasparov. The winner of that match will take on the winner of the Leko-Kramnik match. That is, if any of the matches actually take place.

Reunification, which seemed a done deal not too long ago, may once again prove elusive.