tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13963301943654647102024-03-12T21:43:58.243-04:00Checkmate!Chess in Canada --> WFM Hazel SmithHazel Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09676419341210003511noreply@blogger.comBlogger376125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1396330194365464710.post-39045850568359436902012-05-13T00:48:00.000-04:002012-05-13T00:50:54.415-04:002012 Ontario Girls' Chess Championship - One Week to Go!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Join in on the excitement at this year's Ontario Girls' Chess Championship! The OGCC is one of the largest tournaments for female chess players in Canada. Now in its 10th year, there are even more opportunities and surprises! With over 100 girls already signed up, as well as guests, simuls, activities (and who could forget the pizza lunch?)...don't miss out! Registration is still open. More details at this site: <a href="http://www.ogcc2003.ca/index.html">http://www.ogcc2003.ca/index.html</a></div>
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<strong>Tournament date:</strong> Saturday May 19, 2012</div>
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<strong>Location:</strong> Marshall McLuhan Catholic S.S., 1107 Avenue Road, Toronto</div>
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If interested, please register by May 17, 2012. Siblings & parents tournaments also available...or just drop by for a visit! All are welcome.</div>
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NEW THIS YEAR: </div>
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<strong>"Ontario - Quebec: </strong>Champion of each section from G.1 to G.6 in OGCC 2012 will be invited to represent Ontario to play the top girls from Quebec on June 9 in Kingston."</div>Hazel Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09676419341210003511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1396330194365464710.post-70338100353665452482012-02-16T18:34:00.003-05:002012-02-16T18:43:24.494-05:002011 Elaine Howie Fund - Finalist Achievements Notice<span style="font-family:courier new;"><span style="font-family:georgia;">Please take time to read through the wonderful achievements of the Elaine Howie Fund "Top 12" finalists, below. All of them had such a great year! Awards were much-deserved. </span></span><br /><span style="font-family:courier new;"><span style="font-family:georgia;"><br /><strong>Note:</strong> If any of the information is incorrect, please send me an email: <a href="mailto:checkmateupdate@gmail.com">checkmateupdate@gmail.com</a></span></span><br /><span style="font-family:courier new;"><span style="font-family:georgia;"></span></span><br />I am also looking to contact the following players:<br /><br />* Qiyu Zhou<br />* Yuanchen Zhang<br />* Michael Song<br />* Richard Wang<br />* Melissa Giblon<br />* Zong Yang Yu<br /><br />If you know any of these juniors, please inform them of their award. They can contact me at the email above to claim their prize.<br /><br />Good luck to all in 2012. Hope everyone had a happy Valentine's Day!<span style="font-family:courier new;"> </span>Hazel Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09676419341210003511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1396330194365464710.post-36116005752309702272012-02-16T18:22:00.007-05:002012-02-16T18:33:28.004-05:002011 Elaine Howie Fund - Nicholas Lee (Gold)<div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CFdFIrlNelI/Tz2P3syGgdI/AAAAAAAABV4/OUYPMh16hpY/s1600/IMG_1626_3%255B1%255D.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 234px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5709878089652535762" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CFdFIrlNelI/Tz2P3syGgdI/AAAAAAAABV4/OUYPMh16hpY/s400/IMG_1626_3%255B1%255D.JPG" /></a><em> <span style="font-size:85%;">Nicholas Lee, 2011 Alberta Youth Chess Championship</span></em></div><br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Nicholas Lee<br /></span></strong><em>GRADE 7, Calgary, Alberta<br /></em><br /><strong>School:</strong> Glenmore Ac.<br /><br /><strong><em>Nicholas Lee</em></strong> is a grade 7 student from Calgary, Alberta. During 2011, he attended Calgary Chess Club as well as various tournaments across Alberta. Nicholas demonstrated significant progress in all fourteen events he took part in, reaching new heights at an incredible pace. Many times, he finished not just with great results, but amazing spirit and placements amongst much higher-rated players. Almost half his performances were at least 250 points above his pre-tournament CFC rating, and that doesn’t even account for his remarkable second place finishes at the Alberta Chess Challenge and Calgary Youth Chess Championship. These factors alone were enough to credit the “Gold Award” to Nicholas’ name. However, I knew I had made the right decision when his family sent a very touching letter describing Nicholas’ chess journey. Nicholas started playing chess only a couple years ago, in the fall of 2009, when he had just turned nine years old. Combining personal passion and a self-directed drive to compete and improve, he developed with increasing strength in a relatively short period of time. “The Elaine Howie Fund Gold Award is tangible affirmation of Nicholas’ hard work and improvement and provides reinforcement for his continued chess development.”<br /><br />Nicholas would like to thank God, his family, and the Calgary chess community. Special appreciation goes to Tony Ficzere, Roy Yearwood, Simon Ong, and especially Dan Kazmaier – for their interest, encouragement and support of his tournament chess journey. Nicholas’ family would also like to congratulate all fund award winners.<br /><br /><em>Photo provided by Nicholas' family.</em><br /><br />Full list of Nicholas' best achievements in 2011:<br /><br />· Ranked 14th in U14 (CFC 1474) and 25th in Grade 7 (CMA 1431) by the end of the year<br />· CFC +373, CMA +355<br />· Rating progress in all 14/14 tournaments in 2011!<br />· Representing Calgary Chess Club and various tournaments in Alberta<br />· 1st place (5.0/5.0), Back2School Tournament<br />· 2nd place (3.0/4.0), Alberta Chess Challenge, Grade 6, winning two playoff games<br />· 2nd place (3.0/4.0), Calgary Youth Chess Championship, U12, performance rating of 1222 (121 pts. above Nicholas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1101)<br />· 2nd place (3.5/5.0), Calgary Regional Chess Challenge, Grade 6, winning two playoff games<br />· 2nd place (4.0/6.0), Calgary Junior Knockout Championship & Reserves<br />· Tied for 3rd place (3.0/5.0), AYCC, U12, performance rating of 1423 (259 pts. above Nicholas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1164)<br />· Tied for 3rd place (3.0/5.0), Schleinich Memorial Championship, performance rating of 1307 (180 pts. above Nicholas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1127)<br />· Performance rating of 1733 (458 pts. above Nicholas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1275), Calgary International<br />· Performance rating of 1692 (259 pts. above Nicholas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1433), Alberta Junior Championship<br />· Performance rating of 1639 (417 pts. above Nicholas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1222), Alberta Reserves Championship<br />· Performance rating of 1630 (267 pts. above Nicholas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1365), Calgary Chess Club Championship<br />· Performance rating of 1587 (262 pts. above Nicholas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1325), Edmonton International ReservesHazel Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09676419341210003511noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1396330194365464710.post-58870323204803531002012-02-16T18:16:00.002-05:002012-02-16T18:20:29.601-05:002011 Elaine Howie Fund - Olivier Kenta Chiku-Ratte (Gold)<strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Olivier Kenta Chiku-Ratte<br /></span></strong><em>GRADE 7, Montreal, Quebec<br /></em><br /><strong>School:</strong> Jean-Eudes (coll.)<br /><br /><strong><em>Olivier Kenta Chiku-Ratte</em></strong> is a grade 7 student from Montreal, Quebec. During 2011, he participated extensively in a variety of events across Canada, including those at the Montreal Chess Club, Varenne Chess Club, and Ahuntsic Chess Club. At the international level, he set the stage with an admirable winning streak in the Under 12 section of the World Youth Chess Championship. Furthermore, as one of the most talented juniors in the country, he posted numerous fantastic results in CFC, FQE, and CMA events. Highlights include first place in the competitive Under 12 section of the Canadian Youth Chess Championship, first place at the Quebec Chess Challenge, second place at the Canadian Chess Challenge, second place at the Quebec Sponge Towels Championship, second place at the Quebec Open, and an incredible 2200 performance in the Open section of the Canadian Open. Olivier Kenta continues to strive to challenge himself and reach new heights. His efforts have not gone unnoticed. I will let these words, sent by a supporter (whom I will keep anonymous), speak for themselves: “He is an incredible player with a great talent and a very good fighting spirit...when people around here see him, they immediately think about Lesiege and Roussel-Roozmon, who looked like him at his age and are now grandmasters.”<br /><br />As you can see, Olivier Kenta was a natural choice to receive the “Gold Award”. Congratulations!<br /><br />Full list of Olivier Kenta's best achievements in 2011:<br /><br />· Ranked 1st (FQE 2187) & 6th (CFC 2072) in U14 and 1st in Grade 7 (CMA 2246) by the end of the year<br />· CFC +396, FQE +101, CMA +140<br />· Representing Montreal Chess Club, Varenne Chess Club, and Ahuntsic Chess Club<br />· Participation in various secondary school matches<br />· Extensive participation in Open Sections within the CFC, FQE, and CMA!<br />· Participation in the WYCC, U12, including an admirable winning streak at the start<br />· 1st place out of 45 players (6.5/7.0), CYCC, U12, performance rating of 2084 (355 pts. above Olivier-Kenta’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1729)<br />· 1st place (5.0/5.0), Quebec Chess Challenge, Grade 6<br />· Tied for 1st place (4.5/5.0) and tied for 2nd place (4.0/5.0), Quebec Grand Prix Tournaments, U12<br />· 2nd place (7.5/9.0), Canadian Chess Challenge, Grade 6, after winning playoff<br />· Tied for 2nd place out of 60 players (6.5/9.0), Quebec Sponge Towels Championship, Open Section, performance rating of 2237 (139 pts. above Olivier-Kenta’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 2098)<br />· Tied for 2nd place (6.5/9.0), Quebec Open, performance rating of 2182 (236 pts. above Olivier-Kenta’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1946)<br />· Tied for 2nd place (3.0/5.0), Varennes Tournament, Invitational Section, CFC performance rating of 2324 (278 pts. above Olivier-Kenta’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 2046), FQE performance rating of 2328 (151 pts. above Olivier-Kenta’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 2177)<br />· Tied for 2nd place (4.0/5.0), Ahuntsic Club Championship<br />· Tied for 3rd place (3.5/5.0), Oasis Tournament<br />· Tied for 88th place out of 152 players (4.0/9.0), Canadian Open, Open Section, performance rating of 2200 (355 pts. above Olivier-Kenta’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1845)<br />· Score of 5.0/5.0, K-6 Team Championship<br />· Performance rating of 2271 (223 pts. above Olivier-Kenta’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 2048), Saint-Jean Tournament<br />· Performance rating of 2073 (397 pts. above Olivier-Kenta’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1676), Ottawa Spring Open<br />· Now the highest-rated member of Team-QuebecHazel Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09676419341210003511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1396330194365464710.post-64174970785682481892012-02-16T18:07:00.005-05:002012-02-16T18:54:51.175-05:002011 Elaine Howie Fund - Finalist Achievements (Silver)<strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Sergey Noritsyn<br /></span></strong><em>GRADE 3, Richmond Hill, Ontario</em><br /><br /><strong><em>Sergey Noritsyn</em></strong> is a grade 3 student from Richmond Hill, Ontario. During 2011, he attended ten events in Canada, nine in which he performed well enough to progress his rating! He also participated in the Under 8 section of the World Youth Chess Championship. Other highlights of his year include a first place finish at the Canadian Youth Chess Championship and second place at the Canadian Open (U1600). Even more, as the youngest member of this year’s “Top 12”, Sergey has many years ahead of him. I wish him all the best as he continues to develop. Congratulations!<br /><br />Full list of Sergey's best achievements in 2011:<br /><br />· Ranked 1st in U10 (CFC 1714) and 6th in Grade 3 (CMA 1388) by the end of the year<br />· CFC +252, CMA +750<br />· Rating progress in 9/10 tournaments in 2011<br />· Representing various CFC tournaments in Toronto, Guelph, and Hamilton<br />· Participation in the WYCC, U8<br />· 1st place (6.5/7.0), CYCC, U8<br />· 1st place (4.5/5.0), Guelph Winter Pro-Am, U1600, performance rating of 1681 (219 pts. above Sergey’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1462)<br />· Tied for 2nd place (7.0/9.0), Canadian Open, U1600, performance rating of 1666 (105 pts. above Sergey’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1501)<br />· Tied for 3rd place (3.5/5.0), Hart House Holidays Open, U1900<br />· Performance rating of 1894 (257 pts. above Sergey’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1637), Guelph Fall Pro-Am, U2000<br />· Performance rating of 1816 (307 pts. above Sergey’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1509), Hamilton Winter Open, U1900<br />· Performance rating of 1762 (167 pts. above Sergey’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1595), Toronto Thanksgiving Open, U2000<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Zong Yang Yu<br /></span></strong><em>GRADE 7, Montreal, Quebec<br /></em><br /><strong>School:</strong> Notre-Dame (coll.)<br /><br /><strong><em>Zong Yang Yu</em></strong> is a grade 7 student from Montreal, Quebec. During 2011, he attended Montreal Chess Club and Chess ‘n Math’s Montreal Saturday Club, as well as various secondary school matches and other events around Quebec. He consistently posted top scores in these events. Particularly noteworthy were his first place finishes at the Quebec Sponge Towels Championship and Pepsico Junior Championship. Zong Yang clearly has excellent spirit for the game. Congratulations!<br /><br />Full list of Zong Yang's best achievements in 2011:<br /><br />· Ranked 3rd in U14 (FQE 1814) and 5th in Grade 7 (CMA 1951) by the end of the year<br />· FQE +542, CMA +463<br />· Representing the CMA Montreal Saturday Club, and Montreal Chess Club with consistent top finishes/high performances<br />· Participation in various secondary school matches<br />· Extensive participation within the FQE and CMA<br />· 1st place (8.0/9.0), Quebec Sponge Towels Championship, Section B, performance rating of 1870 (238 pts. above Zong Yang’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 1632)<br />· 1st place (4.0/5.0), Pepsico Junior Championship, U12<br />· 1st place (5.0/5.0), two Quebec Grand Prix Tournaments, U12 and U14<br />· 1st place (7.0/8.0), Notre-Dame Holiday Tournament<br />· 1st place (4.0/4.0), Notre-Dame October Tournament<br />· 3rd place (4.0/5.0), Quebec Chess Challenge, Grade 6<br />· Tied for 3rd place (4.0/5.0), Santa Claus (Pere Noel) Tournament, Section C, performance rating of 1550 (278 pts. above Zong Yang’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 1272)<br />· Tied for 3rd place (3.5/5.0), Quebec Class Championship, Section D, performance rating of 1672 (265 pts. above Zong Yang’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 1407)<br />· Score of 5.0/5.0, K-6 Team Championship<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong>John Doknjas<br /></strong></span><em>GRADE 7, Surrey, British Columbia<br /></em><br /><strong>School:</strong> Lochiel U-Connect Education Centre<br /><br /><strong><em>John Doknjas</em></strong> is a grade 7 student from Surrey, British Columbia. During 2011, he attended Langley Club, various elementary school matches, and many large events in BC. Of particular note were his first place finishes at the Canadian Chess Challenge, BC Junior Championship, BC Youth Championship, Canadian Open (U2000), and BC Chess Challenge. John continues to represent his family and province with amazing spirit. I’m sure he will excel for many years to come. Congratulations!<br /><br />Full list of John's best achievements in 2011:<br /><br />· Ranked 8th in U14 (CFC 2063) and 6th in Grade 7 (CMA 1944) by the end of the year<br />· CFC +160, CMA +272<br />· Representing Langley Club<br />· Participation in various elementary school matches<br />· 1st place (8.0/9.0), Canadian Chess Challenge, Grade 6<br />· 1st place (5.0/5.0), Fraser Valley Regional Chess Challenge, Grade 6<br />· 1st place (4.0/5.0), BC Junior Championship, performance rating of 2156 (120 pts. above John’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 2036)<br />· 1st place (4.5/5.0), BCYCC, U12<br />· Tied for 1st place (7.0/9.0), Canadian Open, U2000, performance rating of 2106 (137 pts. above John’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1969)<br />· Tied for 1st place (4.5/5.0), BC Chess Challenge, Grade 6<br />· Tied for 2nd place (5.0/7.0), CYCC, U12<br />· Tied for 2nd place (4.5/6.0), BC Open, performance rating of 2269 (241 pts. above John’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 2028)<br />· Tied for 2nd place (3.5/5.0), New Year Open, performance rating of 2123 (220 pts. above John’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1903)<br />· Tied for 11th place out of 86 players (4.0/6.0), Grand Pacific Open, performance rating of 2129 (195 pts. above John’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1934)<br />· Score of 5.0/5.0, BC Elementary Team TournamentHazel Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09676419341210003511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1396330194365464710.post-8390201461283811732012-02-16T17:55:00.004-05:002012-02-16T18:58:56.631-05:002011 Elaine Howie Fund - Finalist Achievements (Bronze)<strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Melissa Giblon<br /></span></strong><em>GRADE 7, Thornhill, Ontario<br /></em><br /><strong>School:</strong> Henderson Av. P.S.<br /><br /><strong><em>Melissa Giblon</em></strong> is a grade 7 student from Thornhill, Ontario. During 2011, she attended twelve events in Canada, eleven in which she performed well enough to progress her rating! She represented Canada in the Under 12 Girls section of the World Youth Championship, and had a standout first place finish at the Canadian Youth Chess Championship. In addition to ongoing successes, the Giblon family has been extremely dedicated to chess for many years. Congratulations!<br /><br />Full list of Melissa's best achievements in 2011:<br /><br />· Ranked 28th in U14 (CFC 1528) and 21st in Grade 7 (CMA 1453) by the end of the year<br />· CFC +180, CMA +218<br />· Participation in the WYCC, U12 Girls<br />· Rating progress in 11/12 tournaments in 2011<br />· Participation in various elementary/secondary team tournaments<br />· 1st place (7.0/7.0), CYCC, U12 Girls, performance rating of 1586 (195 pts. above Melissa’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1391)<br />· Tied for 1st place (4.0/5.0), OGCC, Grade 6<br />· 2nd place (3.5/5.0), OYCC, U12 Girls<br />· 2nd place (4.0/5.0), York Region Chess Challenge, Grade 6<br />· Score of 4.5/5.0, Ontario Teams Chess Championship, K-6<br />· Score of 3.0/4.0, Ontario Teams Chess Championship, K-9<br />· Performance rating of 1685 (211 pts. above Melissa’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1474), Toronto Labour Day Open, U2000<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Nicolas Robichaud<br /></span></strong><em>GRADE 9, Moncton, New Brunswick<br /></em><br /><strong>School:</strong> Ste-Bernadette<br /><br /><strong><em>Nicolas Robichaud</em></strong> is a grade 9 student from Moncton, New Brunswick. During 2011, he attended sixteen events in Canada, fifteen in which he performed well enough to progress his rating! He and his family are extremely committed to the game, travelling not just around the Maritimes, but across the country to events such as the Canadian Youth Chess Championship and Canadian Chess Challenge. Not only did he represent his province well in both these events, he brought a great, positive attitude. As quoted by his family, “Nicolas really enjoyed his experience as a member of team New Brunswick and his travel at Victoria BC for the CCC2011 (Canadian Chess Challenge), a wonderful experience at the other side of Canada.”<br /><br />Nicolas also finished first place at the New Brunswick Chess Challenge, second place at the Nova Scotia Youth Tournament, and gave shining performances at the Charlottetown Open & Maritime Open. Congratulations!<br /><br />Nicolas would like to send out a huge thanks to the Maritime chess community, and to his parents for supporting his experience (including travel opportunities). His family would like to congratulate the rest of the fund finalists as well.<br /><br />Full list of Nicolas' best achievements in 2011:<br /><br />· Ranked 39th in U16 (CFC 1518) and 41st in Grade 9 (CMA 1318) by the end of the year<br />· CFC +254, CMA +300<br />· Rating progress in 15/16 tournaments in 2011<br />· Representing various tournaments across the Maritimes (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, PEI), including the Maritime Team Championship<br />· Great commitment to chess – over half of his tournaments involved travel, including to the CYCC and Canadian Chess Challenge<br />· 1st place (5.0/5.0), New Brunswick Chess Challenge Championship, Grade 8<br />· 1st place (4.5/5.0), October seasonal tournament, performance rating of 1635 (167 pts. above Nicolas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1468)<br />· 2nd place (4.0/5.0), Nova Scotia Youth Tournament, Section 2<br />· Tied for 2nd place (3.0/5.0), March winter tournament, performance rating of 1618 (308 pts. above Nicolas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1310)<br />· 3rd place (3.0/5.0), Dec-Feb tournament, performance rating of 1556 (292 pts. above Nicolas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1264)<br />· Performance rating of 1736 (374 pts. above Nicolas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1362), Charlottetown Open<br />· Performance rating of 1628 (173 pts. above Nicolas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1455), Maritime Open<br />· Performance rating of 1621 (216 pts. above Nicolas’ pre-tournament CFC rating of 1405), CYCC, U14<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Nikola Isaev<br /></span></strong><em>GRADE 11, Saint-Hubert, Quebec<br /></em><br /><strong>School:</strong> Jean-Eudes (coll.)<br /><br /><strong><em>Nikola Isaev</em></strong> is a grade 11 student from Saint-Hubert, Quebec. During 2011, he attended Chess ‘n Math’s Montreal Saturday Club as well as various secondary school matches and other events around Quebec. Highlights include first place finishes at the Quebec Sponge Towels Championship and Montreal Open. As the only senior student in this year’s fund, Nikola will serve as a great example for rising juniors. His great attitude towards the game will inspire both now and in the future. Congratulations!<br /><br />Full list of Nikola's best achievements in 2011:<br /><br />· Ranked 23rd in U18 (FQE 1676) and 24th in Grade 11 (CMA 1473) by the end of the year<br />· FQE +520, CMA +306<br />· Representing the CMA Montreal Saturday Club<br />· Participation in various secondary school matches<br />· 1st place (8.0/10.0), Quebec Sponge Towels Championship, Section C, performance rating of 1488 (156 pts. above Nikola’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 1332)<br />· 1st place (5.0/5.0), Montreal Open, Section C, performance rating of 1703 (169 pts. above Nikola’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 1534)<br />· Tied for 3rd place (4.0/5.0), Santa Claus (Pere Noel) Tournament, Section C, performance rating of 1560 (404 pts. above Nikola’s pre-tournament rating of 1156)<br />· Tied for 3rd place (3.0/5.0), Florence Tournament, Section A, performance rating of 1787 (365 pts. above Nikola’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 1422)<br />· Tied for 4th place (3.0/5.0), Pepsico Junior Championship, U16, performance rating of 1754 (103 pts. above Nikola’s pre-tournament FQE rating of 1651)<br />· Score of 3.0/3.0, Secondary Team ChampionshipHazel Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09676419341210003511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1396330194365464710.post-85100709561529352642012-02-16T17:29:00.004-05:002012-02-21T20:55:21.298-05:002011 Elaine Howie Fund - Finalist Achievements (Special Mention)<strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Qiyu Zhou<br /></span></strong><em>GRADE 6, Ottawa, Ontario<br /></em><strong><br />School:</strong> Huron St. J.P.S.<br /><strong></strong><br /><strong><em>Qiyu Zhou</em></strong> is a grade 6 student from Ottawa, Ontario. During 2011, she attended RA Chess Club, Hart House Chess Club, and Annex Chess Club. Altogether, she participated in twenty events in Canada, seventeen in which she performed well enough to progress her rating! She also attended the World Youth Chess Championship with a sensational 12th place (tied for 9th place) finish. Qiyu was selected to receive the Youth Girls Award for her all-around success, including a first place finish at the Ontario Youth Chess Championship and second place finishes at the Canadian Youth Chess Championship and Ontario Chess Challenge. Congratulations!<br /><br />Qiyu's family would like to give "many thanks for the great support from all members from Hart House Club, Annex Club, and RA Club, special thanks to Mr. Alex Ferreira from Hart House, Mr. Ted Winick from Annex Chess Club, Mr. Robert Hamilton & Mr. Gordon Ritchie from RA Club, for their high attention to her chess development".<br /><br />Full list of Qiyu's best achievements in 2011:<br /><br />· Ranked 3rd in U12 (CFC 1953) and 30th in Grade 6 (CMA 1280) by the end of the year<br />· CFC +334, CMA +422<br />· Rating progress in 17/20 tournaments in 2011<br />· Representing RA Chess Club, Hart House Chess Club, and Annex Chess Club<br />· 12th place (tied for 9th), WYCC, U12 Girls<br />· 1st place (5.0/5.0), OYCC, U12 Girls<br />· 1st place (5.0/5.0), Toronto Qualifier, Grade 5<br />· Tied for 1st place (4.0/5.0), Seaway Valley Open, performance rating of 2223 (412 pts. above Qiyu’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1811)<br />· Tied for 1st place (4.0/5.0), Kingston Open<br />· 2nd place (6.0/7.0), CYCC, U12 Girls<br />· 2nd place (4.5/5.0), Ontario Chess Challenge, Grade 5<br />· 3rd place (4.5/6.0), Hart House Reading Week Open, U1900, performance rating of 1842 (165 pts. above Qiyu’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1677)<br />· Tied for 6th place (3.5/6.0), Ontario Open, U2000, performance rating of 1895 (222 pts. above Qiyu’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1673)<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Yuanchen Zhang<br /></span></strong><em>GRADE 5, Markham, Ontario<br /></em><br /><strong>School:</strong> Ashton Meadows P.S.<br /><br /><strong><em>Yuanchen Zhang</em></strong> is a grade 5 student from Markham, Ontario. During 2011, he attended Scarborough Chess Club as well as various tournaments across Ontario and Quebec. Yuanchen was chosen as part of the “Top 12” for his remarkable 9th place finish in the Under 10 section of the World Youth Chess Championship. Other highlights include first place finishes at the Canadian Youth Chess Championship and Ontario Chess Challenge, as well as commendable performances at many regional events. Yuanchen is well-known to the chess scene and continues to excel. Congratulations!<br /><br />Full list of Yuanchen's best achievements in 2011:<br /><br />· Ranked 2nd in U12 (CFC 2029) and 2nd in Grade 5 (CMA 1774) by the end of the year<br />· CFC +191, CMA +264<br />· Representing Scarborough Chess Club as well as various CFC tournaments across Ontario and Quebec<br />· 9th place, WYCC, U10<br />· 1st place (6.0/7.0), CYCC, U10<br />· 1st place (5.0/5.0), Ontario Chess Challenge, Grade 4<br />· Tied for 3rd place (3.5/5.0), Ottawa Winter Open, Section B, performance rating of 2068 (230 pts. above Yuanchen’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1838)<br />· Tied for 3rd place (3.0/5.0), Ottawa Autumn Open, Section B<br />· Tied for 3rd place (3.5/5.0), Guelph Winter Pro-Am, U2000<br />· Tied for 3rd place (5.0/9.0), SCC Spring Into Summer, Over 2000, performance rating of 2063 (131 pts. above Yuanchen’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1932)<br />· Performance rating of 2199 (212 pts. above Yuanchen’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 1987), Hart House Holidays Open<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Michael Song<br /></span></strong><em>GRADE 7, North York, Ontario<br /></em><br /><strong>School:</strong> Denlow P.S.<br /><br /><strong><em>Michael Song</em></strong> is a grade 7 student from North York, Ontario. During 2011, he attended Scarborough Chess Club as well as various tournaments across Ontario. Michael was chosen as part of the “Top 12” for his outstanding 3rd place finish in the Under 12 section of the World Youth Chess Championship. Very few Canadians have been able to reach such an amazing accomplishment at the international level. Michael also excelled at the national & regional levels with highlights including first place finishes at the Ontario Chess Challenge and Toronto Junior Championship. Congratulations!<br /><br />Full list of Michael's best achievements in 2011:<br /><br />· Ranked 3rd in U14 (CFC 2184) and 8th in Grade 7 (CMA 1859) by the end of the year<br />· Representing Scarborough Chess Club as well as various CFC tournaments across Ontario<br />· 3rd place, WYCC, U12<br />· 1st place (5.0/5.0), Ontario Chess Challenge, Grade 6<br />· 1st place (5.0/5.0), Toronto Grand Prix event, U14<br />· Tied for 1st place (5.5/7.0), Toronto Junior Championship<br />· Tied for 1st place (5.0/7.0), SCC Jack Frost, 2000+, performance rating of 2323 (136 pts. above Michael’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 2187)<br />· Tied for 1st place (3.0/4.0), London June Open<br />· Tied for 2nd place (5.0/7.0), CYCC, U12<br />· Tied for 2nd place (4.0/5.0), OYCC, U12<br />· 3rd place (6.5/9.0), Canadian Chess Challenge, Grade 6<br />· 3rd place (5.5/9.0), SCC Championship<br />· Tied for 4th place (3.0/5.0), Hamilton Summer Open, Top Guns, performance rating of 2252 (182 pts. above Michael’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 2070)<br />· Performance rating of 2440 (331 pts. above Michael’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 2109), SCC Falling Leaves, 1800+<br />· Performance rating of 2422 (287 pts. above Michael’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 2135), Hart House Holidays Open<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Richard Wang<br /></span></strong><em>GRADE 9, Edmonton, Alberta<br /></em><br /><strong>School:</strong> Grandview Heights E.J.H.<br /><br /><strong><em>Richard Wang</em></strong> is a grade 9 student from Edmonton, Alberta. During 2011, he attended Edmonton Chess Club as well as various tournaments across Alberta. Richard was chosen as part of the “Top 12” for his stellar 10th place (tied for 4th place) finish in the Under 14 section of the World Youth Chess Championship. Richard has proven time and time again that he is one to watch at the international level. Other events he excelled in include the Canadian Youth Championship & Alberta Youth Chess Championship (both first place finishes), the Edmonton Chess Club Capablanca Classic (first place & performance rating of 2470 - wow!), and the Northern Alberta Open (tied for first place). I’m sure we will see a lot more of Richard’s success in the future. Congratulations!<br /><br />Full list of Richard's best achievements in 2011:<br /><br />· Ranked 1st in U14 (CFC 2306) and 1st in Grade 9 (CMA 2317) by the end of the year<br />· CFC +42, CMA +15<br />· Representing Edmonton Chess Club as well as various CFC tournaments across Alberta<br />· 10th place (tied for 4th), WYCC, U14<br />· 1st place (6.0/7.0), CYCC, U14<br />· 1st place (5.0/5.0), AYCC, U14<br />· 1st place (4.0/5.0), ECC Capablanca Classic, performance rating of 2470 (160 pts. above Richard’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 2310)<br />· Tied for 1st place (4.0/5.0), Northern Alberta Open, performance rating of 2378 (112 pts. above Richard’s pre-tournament CFC rating of 2266)<br />· 3rd place (3.0/4.0), ECC Skeel Memorial<br />· Tied for 3rd place (3.0/5.0), Alberta Junior Championship<br />· Tied for 3rd place (4.0/8.0), Edmonton ChampionshipHazel Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09676419341210003511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1396330194365464710.post-50098330539573510872012-01-30T14:29:00.005-05:002012-01-30T15:48:36.052-05:002011 Elaine Howie Fund - The Big Announcement!It's finally time to announce the prize order for the Elaine Howie Fund "Top 12" finalists!<br /><br />This year's prizing was an extremely tough decision. All the players mentioned had a spectacular year, and deserve to be recognized for their achievements. However, there were two players who stood out the most. Both reminded me of all-around values this fund was set up to highlight, but in two very different ways. Therefore, I would like to award two “gold” placements (instead of one “gold” and one “silver star”), each which will receive a cheque for $100. There will still be three “silver” placements, displayed below, leaving three “bronze” awards, one Youth Girls Award, and the three special mentions (that were announced earlier). I want to stress that all placements are incredible achievements. Decisions often came down to very slight differences because everyone in the “Top 12” had a lot of positive aspects that set him/her apart. I believe you will all have bright futures.<br /><br />Now for the big announcement...<br /><br />The <strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Gold Award</span></strong>, which consists of a "gold" certificate, 2011 Top 12 pin, and $100 prize money (each), goes to <em><span style="font-size:130%;">Olivier-Kenta Chiku-Ratte</span></em> and <em><span style="font-size:130%;">Nicholas Lee</span></em>!<br /><br /><em>Olivier-Kenta Chiku-Ratte (QC)</em> demonstrated outstanding leadership in 2011, progressing with performances seldom seen for juniors his age. He also participated in a broad range of clubs/events, served as a role model for development in Quebec (and the rest of Canada), and set the stage for Canadian Team confidence at the international level. He is definitely one to watch as a forerunner in Canadian chess.<br /><br /><em>Nicholas Lee (AB)</em> is the kind of player I had dreamed of awarding through this fund process. Others sometimes wonder why I don’t just pick the #1 players in each age category and make them the “Top 12”. Well, here’s my answer: although rating is a significant factor in decisions, it is just one number. It does not necessarily show who made progress during the year, who participated in a variety of events, who demonstrated commitment/consistency/spirit, or even how long a player has been playing (it takes time to build up a rating, so a newer player, or one from a particular region, could have a lot of potential but still not be at the very top of rating lists). I want to make sure players like Nicholas Lee receive recognition too. His performances have grown significantly throughout the year, with consistent progress in ALL fourteen events he participated in! Multiple times, he placed in the top three spots among players much higher in rating. He also seems very committed to chess in his home province of Alberta.<br /><br />The <strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Silver Award</span></strong>, which consists of a "silver" certificate and 2011 Top 12 pin, goes to <em><span style="font-size:130%;">Sergey Noritsyn (ON)</span></em>, <em><span style="font-size:130%;">Zong Yang Yu (QC),</span></em> and <span style="font-size:130%;"><em>John Doknjas (BC). </em></span><br /><em><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></em><br />The <span style="font-size:130%;"><strong>Bronze Award</strong></span>, which consists of a "bronze" certificate and 2011 Top 12 pin, goes to <em><span style="font-size:130%;">Melissa Giblon (ON),</span></em> <em><span style="font-size:130%;">Nicolas Robichaud (NB),</span></em> and <em><span style="font-size:130%;">Nikola Isaev (QC). </span></em><br /><em><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></em><br />The <strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Youth Girls Award</span></strong> (Special Mention), which consists of a certificate, 2011 Top 12 pin, $100 prize money, and free entry into the 2012 Ontario Girls' Chess Championship (<a href="http://www.ogcc2003.ca/">http://www.ogcc2003.ca/</a>, entry courtesy of Corinna Wan), goes to <em><span style="font-size:130%;">Qiyu Zhou (ON).</span></em><br /><em><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></em><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Special Mention</span></strong>, which consists of a certificate and 2011 Top 12 pin, goes to <em><span style="font-size:130%;">Yuanchen Zhang (ON),</span></em> <em><span style="font-size:130%;">Michael Song (ON</span>),</em> and <em><span style="font-size:130%;">Richard Wang (AB). </span></em><br /><br />In early February, I will be posting a full set of 2011 highlight achievements for each member of this year’s “Top 12”. Please let me know if you would like to share a positive message for one or more of the recipients with that post!<br /><br /><strong>Note:</strong> Award recipients may be eligible for future fund prizes (based on performance each year). However, those receiving $100 will not be eligible for further prize money unless the fund structure is changed to allow for a significant prize difference.<br /><br />If you have been mentioned in the award lists above and have not contacted me yet, please do so to receive your prize. I would also appreciate if someone would spread the word, especially in French to the players in Quebec.<br /><br />Good luck to everyone in 2012. Looking forward to seeing more great results from our youth players!Hazel Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09676419341210003511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1396330194365464710.post-5393751671653899582012-01-19T17:19:00.004-05:002012-01-19T17:59:18.362-05:002011 Elaine Howie Rating ClubsJuniors are capable of so much progress in chess! In recognition of their efforts, I have assigned players to "clubs". Each club is based on a certain amount of rating increase in <strong>both</strong> CFC (and/or FQE) and CMA in the year 2011. CFC and FQE ratings are based on regular (slow) games. Those mentioned have also met the criteria of being in the top fifty lists for the CFC/FQE/CMA and have recent participation in a CFC or FQE event (since September). Even the "100 club" is a huge achievement, so keep up the good work!<br><br>In bold are the names of players who were in the “Top 12” last year. This year’s progress is a very significant achievement for them since they have made great strides two years in a row. Congrats!<br><br><strong>Note:</strong> Rating increase is not the only factor considered in the selection & ordering of the “Top 12” finalists. The finalists are named in my previous post, and their award order will be announced soon.<br><br>EH 100 club<table border="“1”"><tr><td><b>Name</b></td><td><b>Grade</b></td><td><b>Province</b></td><td><b>CFC Rating</b></td><td><b>FQE Rating</b></td><td><b>CMA Rating</b></td></tr><tr><td>Kaixin Wang</td><td>3</td><td>AB</td><td>+ 624</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 105</td></tr><tr><td>Kaining Lin</td><td>3</td><td>AB</td><td>+ 382</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 101</td></tr><tr><td>Frank Wang</td><td>3</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 658</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 119</td></tr><tr><td>Hou Han Zhang</td><td>4</td><td>QC</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 162</td><td>+ 141</td></tr><tr><td>Varun Sekar</td><td>4</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 127</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 265</td></tr><tr><td>Jiaxin (Dora) Liu</td><td>5</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 184</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 119</td></tr><tr><td>Dennis Shamroni</td><td>5</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 215</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 113</td></tr><tr><td>Ananda Saha</td><td>5</td><td>QC</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 143</td><td>+ 435</td></tr><tr><td>Jingzhi (Edwin) Xu</td><td>5</td><td>BC</td><td>+ 220</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 144</td></tr><tr><td>Terrence (Terry) Ju</td><td>5</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 216</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 146</td></tr><tr><td>Jason Cao</td><td>6</td><td>BC</td><td>+ 132</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 297</td></tr><tr><td>Matthew Zita</td><td>6</td><td>AB</td><td>+ 126</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 740</td></tr><tr><td>Olivier-Kenta Chiku-Ratte</td><td>7</td><td>QC</td><td>+ 396</td><td>+ 101</td><td>+ 140</td></tr><tr><td>Yu Qing Liu</td><td>7</td><td>QC</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 117</td><td>+ 169</td></tr><tr><td>Lakes Liang</td><td>7</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 257</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 119</td></tr><tr><td>Sheng-Ming Gu</td><td>8</td><td>QC</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 113</td><td>+ 139</td></tr><tr><td>Cedric Lepine</td><td>9</td><td>QC</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 143</td><td>+ 286</td></tr><tr><td>James Fu</td><td>9</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 161</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 112</td></tr><tr><td>Yimang Yang</td><td>9</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 144</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 221</td></tr><tr><td>Aquino Inigo</td><td>11</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 121</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 242</td></tr><tr><td>David Itkin</td><td>11</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 105</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 259</td></tr></table><br>EH 150 club<table border="“1”"><tr><td><b>Name</b></td><td><b>Grade</b></td><td><b>Province</b></td><td><b>CFC Rating</b></td><td><b>FQE Rating</b></td><td><b>CMA Rating</b></td></tr><tr><td>Harmony Zhu</td><td>1</td><td>BC</td><td>+ 156</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 274</td></tr><tr><td>Rohan (Shiyam) Talukdar</td><td>3</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 160</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 481</td></tr><tr><td><b>Patrick Angelo Tolentino</b></td><td>4</td><td>AB</td><td>+ 164</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 194</td></tr><tr><td>Matthew Geng</td><td>4</td><td>BC</td><td>+ 196</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 217</td></tr><tr><td>Yuanchen Zhang</td><td>5</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 191</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 264</td></tr><tr><td>Jeffrey Xu</td><td>5</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 259</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 177</td></tr><tr><td>Matthieu Johnson-Constantin</td><td>5</td><td>QC</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 170</td><td>+ 260</td></tr><tr><td><b>Razvan Preotu</b></td><td>7</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 180</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 570</td></tr><tr><td>John Doknjas</td><td>7</td><td>BC</td><td>+ 160</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 272</td></tr><tr><td>Melissa Giblon</td><td>7</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 180</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 218</td></tr><tr><td>Chang Yun</td><td>8</td><td>QC</td><td>+ 315</td><td>+ 159</td><td>+ 174</td></tr><tr><td>Qun Tian Xiang</td><td>9</td><td>QC</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 165</td><td>+ 182</td></tr><tr><td>Michael Gomes</td><td>9</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 177</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 184</td></tr></table><br>EH 200 club<table border="“1”"><tr><td><b>Name</b></td><td><b>Grade</b></td><td><b>Province</b></td><td><b>CFC Rating</b></td><td><b>FQE Rating</b></td><td><b>CMA Rating</b></td></tr><tr><td>David Yao</td><td>4</td><td>AB</td><td>+ 559</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 240</td></tr><tr><td><b>Varshini Paraparan</b></td><td>4</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 203</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 568</td></tr><tr><td><b>Yue Tong (Davy) Zhao</b></td><td>4</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 252</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 208</td></tr><tr><td>Richard Chen</td><td>5</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 546</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 222</td></tr><tr><td>Jackie Peng</td><td>8</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 241</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 412</td></tr><tr><td>Dragos (Octavian) Manailoiu</td><td>8</td><td>QC</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 372</td><td>+ 205</td></tr><tr><td>Emile Trottier</td><td>12</td><td>QC</td><td>+ 305</td><td>+ 248</td><td>+ 389</td></tr><tr><td>David Miller</td><td>12</td><td>AB</td><td>+ 205</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 513</td></tr></table><br>EH 250 club<table border="“1”"><tr><td><b>Name</b></td><td><b>Grade</b></td><td><b>Province</b></td><td><b>CFC Rating</b></td><td><b>FQE Rating</b></td><td><b>CMA Rating</b></td></tr><tr><td>Sergey Noritsyn</td><td>3</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 252</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 750</td></tr><tr><td><b>Luke Pulfer</b></td><td>3</td><td>BC</td><td>+ 289</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 337</td></tr><tr><td>Kevin Yi-Xiao Yie</td><td>4</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 270</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 259</td></tr><tr><td>Dinny Wang</td><td>5</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 424</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 262</td></tr><tr><td>Constance Wang</td><td>5</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 264</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 347</td></tr><tr><td>Michael Chang</td><td>7</td><td>QC</td><td>N/A</td><td>+282</td><td>+ 296</td></tr><tr><td>Mathew Herdin</td><td>8</td><td>BC</td><td>+ 256</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 496</td></tr><tr><td>Ryan Lo</td><td>9</td><td>BC</td><td>+ 250</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 300</td></tr><tr><td>Owen Qian</td><td>9</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 253</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 315</td></tr><tr><td>Nicolas Robichaud</td><td>9</td><td>NB</td><td>+ 254</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 300</td></tr><tr><td>Krishneel Singh</td><td>10</td><td>AB</td><td>+ 300</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 258</td></tr></table><br>EH 300 club<table border="“1”"><tr><td><b>Name</b></td><td><b>Grade</b></td><td><b>Province</b></td><td><b>CFC Rating</b></td><td><b>FQE Rating</b></td><td><b>CMA Rating</b></td></tr><tr><td>Shawn Rodrigue-Lemieux</td><td>2</td><td>QC</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 311</td><td>+ 719</td></tr><tr><td>Immanuel Huang</td><td>4</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 300</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 325</td></tr><tr><td>Qiyu Zhou</td><td>6</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 334</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 422</td></tr><tr><td>Nikola Isaev</td><td>11</td><td>QC</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 520</td><td>+ 306</td></tr></table><br>EH 350+ club<table border="“1”"><tr><td><b>Name</b></td><td><b>Grade</b></td><td><b>Province</b></td><td><b>CFC Rating</b></td><td><b>FQE Rating</b></td><td><b>CMA Rating</b></td></tr><tr><td>Jia Yu Luo</td><td>3</td><td>QC</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 350</td><td>+ 462</td></tr><tr><td>Eric Zechen Wang</td><td>6</td><td>ON</td><td>+ 421</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 371</td></tr><tr><td>Zong Yang Yu</td><td>7</td><td>QC</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 542</td><td>+ 463</td></tr><tr><td>Nicholas Lee</td><td>7</td><td>AB</td><td>+ 373</td><td>N/A</td><td>+ 355</td></tr></table><br><strong>Further Honourable Mentions </strong><br />Taylor Zhang (ON, Grade 3) and Benjamin Lin (ON, Grade 2) would have been in the “EH 200 Club”<br><br><em>Our 2011 WYCC Team:</em> <strong>Luke Pulfer</strong>, Frank Wang, Sergey Noritsyn, Rohan (Shiyam) Talukdar, Taylor Zhang, Jeannie Zhang, Yuanchen Zhang, Dinny Wang, Constance Wang, <strong>Varshini Paraparan</strong>, Lily Zhou, Michael Song, <strong>Razvan Preotu</strong>, Olivier-Kenta Chiku-Ratte, Qiyu Zhou, Melissa Giblon, Rachel (Long-Xin) Tao, Dorsa Moayyed, Richard Wang, Mark Plotkin, James Fu, Agastya Kalra, Yimang Yang, Bryant Yang, Rebecca Giblon, Joanne Foote, Louisa (Qian Qian) Hou, Konstantin Semianiuk, David Zhang, Nikita Gusev, Mike Ivanov, Simon Gladstone, Myriam Roy, Chang Yun, Regina-Veronicka Kalaydina, Tina Fang, Kimia Moayyed, Loren (Brigham) Laceste, Yelizaveta (Liza) Orlova, Linda Fu<br><br><em>Our 2011 Pan-Am Team:</em> Jackie Peng, Dezheng Kong, Jiaxin (Dora) LiuHazel Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09676419341210003511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1396330194365464710.post-9169514771746580472012-01-15T16:56:00.006-05:002012-01-16T11:36:58.248-05:002011 Elaine Howie Fund<em>Who's excited to find out this year's "Top 12"? Well, you'll be happy to know I've been toiling at it all weekend...and the results are in!</em><br /><br />Donations this year: $145 for the main part of the fund + $100 specifically for the Youth Girls Award + a bit more to come for Chinese New Year<br /><br />So there will be two main awards, $100 each, and one Youth Girls Award, $100. Twelve juniors, including the three receiving monetary prizes, will be announced as the "Top 12". Each will receive an award pin & certificate. Certificates will be marked Gold (x1), Silver (x3 - one which will be "Silver Star"), Bronze (x4), and Special Mention (x4 - one which will be the "Youth Girls Award"). Below, I will announce the twelve selected, but will not announce the full selection of awards until later this month. For now, if you see your name as part of the twelve recipients, please contact me (<a href="mailto:checkmateupdate@gmail.com">checkmateupdate@gmail.com</a>) as soon as possible with your mailing info so that your package can be ready to go by February.<br /><br /><strong>Selection rules were pretty much the same as last year. In particular, the following process was used:</strong><br /><br /><strong>1.</strong> Rating lists were looked up for juniors under the age of eighteen. Those considered were within the top fifty players in their age category for the CMA (<a href="http://www.chess-math.org/">http://www.chess-math.org/</a>), and either the CFC (<a href="http://www.chess.ca/">http://www.chess.ca/</a>) or FQE (<a href="http://www.fqechecs.qc.ca/cms/index.php">www.fqechecs.qc.ca/cms/index.php</a>). Province and gender were not used as major selection criteria (except for the Youth Girls Award), though overall diversity of the fund was considered. Last year's recipients were also considered. However, past students and others I have worked with were not eligible. To further narrow the pool, juniors considered had to have played in at least one CFC or FQE event since September 2011.<br /><br /><strong>2.</strong> After the first lists were composed, rating differences from Jan. 1 - Dec. 31 were calculated (2011 ending rating minus 2011 starting rating) for each rating category (CFC, FQE, CMA). Only those with positive rating differences were still eligible.<br /><br /><strong>3.</strong> In all rating categories, I looked for this as minimum progress: progress of 150 if initial rating <1000, progress of 100 if initially rated 1000-2000, progress of 50 if initially rated 2000-2200, progress of 25 if initial rating>2200<initial><initial><br /><br /><strong>4.</strong> Individual tournaments/performances of those remaining were analyzed, particularly participation & performance in larger Canadian tournaments (CYCC/YCCs, Canadian Open, Quebec Open, “Junior” tournaments, Chess Challenge, etc.)<br /><br /><strong>5.</strong> Looked at overall participation & consistency.<br /><br /><strong>6.</strong> Other considerations, such as international results, were used to determine the final list.<br /><br /><strong>7.</strong> We had such a great team in Brazil this year that I wanted to leave some space in the "Top 12" for juniors who achieved spectacular WYCC results. These juniors will receive a "Special Mention" certificate, but to be fair, will not be eligible for monetary prizes since the award categories (gold, silver, ...) are primarily based on Canadian event performance.<br /><br />Sooooooo.....drum roll please.....the "Top 12" this year are:<br /><br />*ordered by grade; monetary prize winners & award categories are still TBA*<br /><br /><strong>Nine still eligible for full awards:</strong><br />Sergey Noritsyn (ON, Grade 3)<br />Qiyu Zhou (ON, Grade 6)<br />Olivier-Kenta Chiku-Ratte (QC, Grade 7)<br />Zong Yang Yu (QC, Grade 7)<br />John Doknjas (BC, Grade 7)<br />Melissa Giblon (ON, Grade 7)<br />Nicholas Lee (AB, Grade 7)<br />Nicolas Robichaud (NB, Grade 9)<br />Nikola Isaev (QC, Grade 11)<br /><br /><strong>Three receiving "Special Mention" awards:</strong><br />Yuanchen Zhang (ON, Grade 5) - 9th place U10 WYCC<br />Michael Song (ON, Grade 7) - 3rd place U12 WYCC<br />Richard Wang (AB, Grade 9) - 10th place U14 WYCC<br /><br />My heart also goes out to Taylor Zhang (ON, Grade 3) and Benjamin Lin (ON, Grade 2). They both had amazing years, and I've had the pleasure of working with them in the past, but as a result of this affiliation, they were not eligible for fund awards.<br /><br />An additional note: I found this year's fund list kind of interesting. It ended up quite representative of diversity in Canada, but a coincidence to include so many from grade 7 and a few "Nicks". Grade 7 players made a lot of progress this year, no doubt, but there were so many keen players in various grades that made my decision tough. Canadian juniors are doing very well!<br /><br />Thanks to organizers, supporters, coaches, parents, and anyone else who has made junior chess possible. On a computer screen, it looks like a bunch of words and numbers, but behind those words and numbers is a lot of work...a lot of potential! There are people spending countless hours putting together events, maintaining all the information (that we often take for granted), providing travel opportunities, encouraging the kids, teaching life skills, and so much more. Kudos goes to those who have been updating the CFC/FQE/CMA websites. This fund would be impossible without you...the new CFC site has some very nice features, the CMA site is a pleasure to surf through as usual (and it didn't block me out for a couple days like it did last year - I think the site got confused when I searched so much info at once haha), and the FQE site has a lot of really cool stuff - the graphs and general organization of the site is great. Fortunately I still remember some high school French...at least enough for these purposes. Lastly, a big shoutout for the wonderful person who inspired this fund - my aunt Elaine Howie. Cancer took her life nearly five years ago, yet her spirit lives on. She would have been extremely proud of all of you.<br /><br />Questions? Please contact <a href="mailto:checkmateupdate@gmail.com">checkmateupdate@gmail.com</a>.Hazel Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09676419341210003511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1396330194365464710.post-91495291480785353492011-12-10T17:19:00.007-05:002011-12-10T17:44:26.907-05:002011 Elaine Howie FundHi Everyone,<br /><br />Apologies for the long delay. It's been a hectic few months, as I'm sure it's been for everyone. Nonetheless, I have not forgotten about this blog, and will continue to offer the Elaine Howie Fund through it. To refresh your memory, the Elaine Howie Fund provides recognition for junior chess players in Canada based on their performance & other factors throughout the year. Please see the posts labelled "Elaine Howie Fund" for more information, including last year's recipients. Lists will be composed after December 31, 2011, with the final list determined in late January/early February. If you wish to nominate someone as a potential recipient, or if you would like to contribute to the fund, please send me an email (see "About Me" on the side bar). In general, I collect fund dollars in place of holiday gifts, but I will not turn down contributions that can benefit the kids. The same process applies as what was used last year - $100 is guaranteed to go out to one junior, and for every $100 after that, another junior will receive a monetary prize. Twelve juniors in total, including those receiving monetary prizes, will receive a special 2011 Elaine Howie Fund pin & certificate. I will be looking at the results of juniors (<18 years old) from any province in Canada. Good luck!<br /><br />HazelHazel Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09676419341210003511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1396330194365464710.post-68761732165003465252011-07-04T10:27:00.009-04:002011-07-04T13:12:05.336-04:00Marvelous Monday - Quote<div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0H4UW5BRE4c/ThHz_zgh29I/AAAAAAAABVw/1sc9WyJulDU/s1600/would%2Byou%2Breally%2Bwant%2Bto%2Bbe%2Ba%2Bpawn.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 278px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625545687046413266" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0H4UW5BRE4c/ThHz_zgh29I/AAAAAAAABVw/1sc9WyJulDU/s320/would%2Byou%2Breally%2Bwant%2Bto%2Bbe%2Ba%2Bpawn.JPG" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><em>Avoid the crowd. Do your own thinking independently. Be the chess player, not the chess piece.<br /><br /></em></span></strong><strong><span style="color:#333399;">Ralph Charell</span></strong></div>Hazel Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09676419341210003511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1396330194365464710.post-35265177916508669782011-07-03T13:51:00.002-04:002011-07-03T13:56:46.154-04:00A Few Pix From Steph's Graduation<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bqu3lmIQVpM/ThCtOoZy54I/AAAAAAAABVg/cnyHyhzXd4c/s1600/IMG_2083.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625186401461135234" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bqu3lmIQVpM/ThCtOoZy54I/AAAAAAAABVg/cnyHyhzXd4c/s320/IMG_2083.JPG" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4zSy6MDvc74/ThCs_aAtpaI/AAAAAAAABVY/rsUcuaGqac4/s1600/IMG_2097.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625186139899798946" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4zSy6MDvc74/ThCs_aAtpaI/AAAAAAAABVY/rsUcuaGqac4/s320/IMG_2097.JPG" /></a> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K4e3pU7EIRo/ThCsuGm2QrI/AAAAAAAABVQ/AniGqM79bRs/s1600/IMG_2093.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625185842633261746" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K4e3pU7EIRo/ThCsuGm2QrI/AAAAAAAABVQ/AniGqM79bRs/s320/IMG_2093.JPG" /></a>Hazel Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09676419341210003511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1396330194365464710.post-55855934946322834962011-07-02T16:43:00.005-04:002011-07-02T16:53:49.270-04:00CITL Quiz Answers<strong>CITL Quiz</strong><br /><br />1. CITL's logo is blue.<br />2. When the quiz was created, CITL operated in 20 library branches. However, a 21st library confirmed its participation in the program just before the festival!<br />3. WIM Yuanling Yuan is President of CITL.<br />4. For a list of branches, please visit <a href="http://www.chessinthelibrary.com/">http://www.chessinthelibrary.com/</a><br />5. CITL operates in Ontario, Alberta, and B.C.<br />6. CITL started operating in 2009 at the Brookbanks branch.<br />7. Brookbanks won the 2010 CITL Festival.<br />8. Answers may vary.<br />9. Barrie (this is when CITL had 20 branches).<br />10. Answers may vary; most said they like chess!<br /><br /><strong>Fun Chess Quiz</strong><br /><br />1. b) Thousands of years ago (though we had a good joke going about chess being invented 'yesterday')<br />2. c) GM Viswanathan Anand<br />3. a) Hedgehog Chess<br />4. c) Italian<br />5. d) More than 250 moves (actual number = 269 moves)<br />6. b) Encyclopedia of Chess Openings<br />7. d) A rook on the 7th rank<br />8. a) GM Bobby Fischer<br />9. c) Blind Chess<br />10. b) Knight<br />11. d) Bulgaria<br />12. c) 400<br />13. c) draw<br />14. c) veterinarian<br />15. a) catHazel Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09676419341210003511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1396330194365464710.post-33545104581162735992011-07-02T15:40:00.006-04:002011-07-02T15:53:09.359-04:00More Happy Face Coupons<div align="center"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 208px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624845155626295538" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xd4pz6tGzpc/Tg923gmuoPI/AAAAAAAABVI/ae2XuX7kpgA/s400/CYCC%2B2011%2Bhappy%2Bface%2Bcoupon.JPG" /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dMNT26yn6uU/Tg92y4N_mfI/AAAAAAAABVA/who2R_kctmw/s1600/Canadian%2BOpen%2B2011%2Bhappy%2Bface%2Bcoupon.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 208px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624845076065655282" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dMNT26yn6uU/Tg92y4N_mfI/AAAAAAAABVA/who2R_kctmw/s400/Canadian%2BOpen%2B2011%2Bhappy%2Bface%2Bcoupon.JPG" /></a>I will be visiting the Canadian Youth Chess Championship on July 9, and the Canadian Open on either July 10 or July 16. I highly recommend attending, since these are two of the largest, most prestigious, tournaments in Canada!<br /><br />(I will bring ten happy face pins per event, since I have extras from previous tournaments)<br /><br /><strong>CYCC</strong> website: <a href="http://www.2011cycc.ca/">http://www.2011cycc.ca<strong></strong></a><br /><strong><br />Canadian Open</strong> website: <a href="http://www.canadianchess.info/home">http://www.canadianchess.info/home</a></div>Hazel Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09676419341210003511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1396330194365464710.post-79146711209754003982011-07-01T17:54:00.005-04:002011-07-02T15:54:52.196-04:00Happy Canada Day!<div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OnzJnqFQiXQ/Tg5CwPm2GOI/AAAAAAAABUk/zDiABF1O-J0/s1600/Canada%2BDay.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624506381222942946" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OnzJnqFQiXQ/Tg5CwPm2GOI/AAAAAAAABUk/zDiABF1O-J0/s320/Canada%2BDay.JPG" /></a><strong><em>What a great country! </em></strong><strong><em>Keep supporting Canadian chess :)<br /><br /></em></strong>Image designed using CorelDRAW</div>Hazel Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09676419341210003511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1396330194365464710.post-44482562424154194102011-06-29T15:17:00.003-04:002011-06-29T15:50:33.826-04:00Wacky Wednesday - Brain Teaser!As mentioned before, I have switched the Tuesday and Wednesday topics for this week.<br /><br />This one's kind of silly, but here it goes...<br /><br />Monkeyopolis has a population of 12,345 monkeys. To regulate such a large group, Monkeyopolis' head monkey, Guyrilla, has made a new rule regarding 'monkey do chess' (<a href="http://www.pathguy.com/chess/MonkeyDo.htm">http://www.pathguy.com/chess/MonkeyDo.htm</a>). If a game is won, the losing monkey must give two bananas to the winning monkey. If a game is drawn, the monkeys must exchange one banana each in good faith. Fred Isachimp decides to play in a 'monkey do' tournament. He comes in with fifteen bananas. After all five games, his score is 3.0/5.0. Exactly two of his games were drawn. Assuming no bananas are consumed, created, destroyed, or given away outside of what is required by the new rule, how many bananas does Fred walk home with?<br /><br />Answer below<br />*<br />*<br />*<br />*<br />*<br />*<br />*<br />V<br /><br />If you said seventeen, good try, but Fred got a 1 point bye in his first game. He took home fifteen bananas. Since tournaments don't award byes to the same person (or monkey) twice, "fifteen or seventeen" is the most logical answer. That is, assuming Fred was in the pairing system every round, with no 1/2 point byes or withdrawn games.<br /><br />Okay that one wasn't a very fair trick, so I'll have more brain teasers from Monkeyopolis some other time...Hazel Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09676419341210003511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1396330194365464710.post-15328996006563950682011-06-28T12:53:00.025-04:002011-06-28T14:00:39.912-04:00Twisted Tuesday - Artsy Stuff/Funny Pics<div align="center">Hey Everyone!<br /><br />Chess art is a Wacky Wednesday topic, but it's raining out here in T.O. (again) and photos always cheer me up :) I decided to switch the Tuesday & Wednesday topics for this week, so that I could share these with you today.<br /><br /><strong>PART I: Chess art...or at least my attempts at it...</strong></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8h0yRHC1HPQ/TgoJzuKB_OI/AAAAAAAABT0/IWhyioL_inc/s1600/knight%2Band%2Bbishop.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 210px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 209px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5623317868893568226" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8h0yRHC1HPQ/TgoJzuKB_OI/AAAAAAAABT0/IWhyioL_inc/s320/knight%2Band%2Bbishop.JPG" /></a> 1. My first attempt at graphic design using CorelDRAW. It's a lot harder than it looks!</div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3DfQi9o4whs/TgoJsDrlrMI/AAAAAAAABTs/4MS9-JM-BmY/s1600/chess%2Bis%2Bcool.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 212px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5623317737232510146" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3DfQi9o4whs/TgoJsDrlrMI/AAAAAAAABTs/4MS9-JM-BmY/s320/chess%2Bis%2Bcool.JPG" /></a> 2. What can I say? Chess is cool!</div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PHK-xdUlE64/TgoJg78nP7I/AAAAAAAABTk/xKfydG2yggs/s1600/chess%2Bcat%2Bcoach.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5623317546177871794" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PHK-xdUlE64/TgoJg78nP7I/AAAAAAAABTk/xKfydG2yggs/s320/chess%2Bcat%2Bcoach.jpg" /></a> 3. Chess cat teaching birds how to play. You may question the irony of it, or how good a coach the cat could be if it holds the pencil the wrong way around, but hey, it was past midnight when I drew this!<br /><br /><strong>PART II: Summer baking<br /><br /></strong>I went on my usual baking craze this year. These are just a few of my creations...</div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QWIA96chirs/TgoJZZh3a6I/AAAAAAAABTc/hJmo5EIHxdk/s1600/star%2Bbrownie.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5623317416679795618" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QWIA96chirs/TgoJZZh3a6I/AAAAAAAABTc/hJmo5EIHxdk/s320/star%2Bbrownie.jpg" /></a> 1. A brownie that's too cute to eat.</div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FboWdjC1s-8/TgoJP1L8ffI/AAAAAAAABTU/Q2D2DScoKFY/s1600/smile%2Bcupcake.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5623317252305354226" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FboWdjC1s-8/TgoJP1L8ffI/AAAAAAAABTU/Q2D2DScoKFY/s320/smile%2Bcupcake.jpg" /></a> 2. A cupcake that's too cute to eat.</div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ul0fb18ZmI8/TgoJEkZTfQI/AAAAAAAABTM/sgC9Q3LaeZM/s1600/check%2Bcupcakes.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5623317058819423490" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ul0fb18ZmI8/TgoJEkZTfQI/AAAAAAAABTM/sgC9Q3LaeZM/s320/check%2Bcupcakes.jpg" /></a> 3. More cupcakes that are too cute to eat, and happen to look like checks.</div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gc-M2_ay7v4/TgoI9nClzCI/AAAAAAAABTE/rIPf8JVGekk/s1600/fudge%2Btray.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5623316939270376482" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gc-M2_ay7v4/TgoI9nClzCI/AAAAAAAABTE/rIPf8JVGekk/s320/fudge%2Btray.jpg" /></a> 4. Fudge that is NOT too cute to eat. Alright, guys, now you can dig in!<br /><br /><strong>PART III: Bits and pieces from the CITL Festival</strong></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MpwCWEQ3Qho/TgoI1EkmN0I/AAAAAAAABS8/zkSR63-bJI4/s1600/activities.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 148px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5623316792578815810" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MpwCWEQ3Qho/TgoI1EkmN0I/AAAAAAAABS8/zkSR63-bJI4/s320/activities.JPG" /></a> 1. An "Activities" sign unintentionally made the perfect spot for kids to test out pens (notice the pen marks).</div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rRxtYFkzdC0/TgoIxIcfOII/AAAAAAAABS0/cxPx5KHgO6U/s1600/chess%2Bbook%2Bprizes.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 252px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5623316724899068034" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rRxtYFkzdC0/TgoIxIcfOII/AAAAAAAABS0/cxPx5KHgO6U/s320/chess%2Bbook%2Bprizes.JPG" /></a> 2. Mickey Mouse made his appearance on this sign.</div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SY3ohr30nw8/TgoIsahYGFI/AAAAAAAABSs/BsCOatg6y5U/s1600/register%2Bhere.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 148px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5623316643852064850" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SY3ohr30nw8/TgoIsahYGFI/AAAAAAAABSs/BsCOatg6y5U/s320/register%2Bhere.JPG" /></a> 3. This sign didn't actually get used but I think it's quite retro :)</div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--77Wy_MUadw/TgoIk4pI7aI/AAAAAAAABSk/SXkcYACLEig/s1600/puzzle%2Bballot.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5623316514498735522" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--77Wy_MUadw/TgoIk4pI7aI/AAAAAAAABSk/SXkcYACLEig/s320/puzzle%2Bballot.jpg" /></a> 4. Someone submitted this cute answer without a name. I love how kids write "pawn" as "pond". Chess kids are awesome.</div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8vZ_SGQWUcc/TgoIc9di8QI/AAAAAAAABSc/2zXtnxXYNDM/s1600/chess%2Bin%2Bthe%2Blibrary%2Btee.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5623316378353332482" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8vZ_SGQWUcc/TgoIc9di8QI/AAAAAAAABSc/2zXtnxXYNDM/s320/chess%2Bin%2Bthe%2Blibrary%2Btee.jpg" /></a>5. The CITL t-shirt design, by Lennart, is stunning. I think I'll use it again to promote CITL in WLU's chess club. FM Hans Jung mentioned the nearby Waterloo Library as a potential opportunity if we get enough volunteers.<br /><br /><strong>PART IV: A gift for mom's birthday</strong></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TGfhURAvibc/TgoIW8CQ5GI/AAAAAAAABSU/veF4ghX-M6U/s1600/wolf%2Blatch%2Bhook.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5623316274891252834" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TGfhURAvibc/TgoIW8CQ5GI/AAAAAAAABSU/veF4ghX-M6U/s320/wolf%2Blatch%2Bhook.jpg" /></a> 1. This is not chess-related, but I spent three days making it! Anything that takes three days of my time deserves a place on my blog!</div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nK7vtqKPIf4/TgoIQx5anDI/AAAAAAAABSM/wmVSxkypO1w/s1600/mom%2Bangry%2Bface.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5623316169090571314" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nK7vtqKPIf4/TgoIQx5anDI/AAAAAAAABSM/wmVSxkypO1w/s320/mom%2Bangry%2Bface.jpg" /></a>2. Mom's reaction to finding out I spent three days hiding out with a latch hook.</div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WGou9E3voL0/TgoIKj4nrAI/AAAAAAAABSE/B9nN0kkqMzc/s1600/hazel%2Bsurprised%2Bface.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5623316062249921538" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WGou9E3voL0/TgoIKj4nrAI/AAAAAAAABSE/B9nN0kkqMzc/s320/hazel%2Bsurprised%2Bface.jpg" /></a> 3. Caught with nowhere to turn.<br /><br /><strong>PART V: Random</strong></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-COmXJM0awOE/TgoIFhFX9vI/AAAAAAAABR8/xGDz8PN5xTw/s1600/garfield%2521.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5623315975598765810" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-COmXJM0awOE/TgoIFhFX9vI/AAAAAAAABR8/xGDz8PN5xTw/s320/garfield%2521.jpg" /></a> 1. Garfield is great...just thought I'd mention that.</div>Hazel Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09676419341210003511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1396330194365464710.post-71595005613445263402011-06-27T11:37:00.004-04:002011-06-27T11:43:48.708-04:00Marvelous Monday - Joke!<div align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OmMYg7DlE_0/TgikSoUAe-I/AAAAAAAABR0/9mhUee6G4FI/s1600/Canadian%2BPostal%2BStrike.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 227px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622924774738000866" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OmMYg7DlE_0/TgikSoUAe-I/AAAAAAAABR0/9mhUee6G4FI/s320/Canadian%2BPostal%2BStrike.JPG" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong> Why do chess players despise the recent postal strike?<br /></strong></span><em><span style="font-size:85%;">Answer: They can't send their "checks" in the mail.<br /><br /></span></em>Image: <a href="http://www.stokeseeds.com/articles.aspx?id=56496&checkCookies=1">http://www.stokeseeds.com/articles.aspx?id=56496&checkCookies=1</a></div>Hazel Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09676419341210003511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1396330194365464710.post-52758216099689442732011-06-26T08:14:00.008-04:002011-07-03T13:37:39.642-04:00CITL Festival + QuizzesThe <strong>Chess in the Library</strong> Festival yesterday was awesome! We have an amazing, new executive team, and a great year to come. Everyone should pitch into this program - we're hoping to build a nationwide movement for the benefit of kids, families, and chess fans everywhere!<br /><br />Website: <a href="http://www.chessinthelibrary.com/">http://www.chessinthelibrary.com/</a><br /><br />I had the honour of hosting the CITL activities. We had a puzzle contest, a CITL quiz, and a fun chess quiz. The puzzles were derived from <a href="http://homepage.ntlworld.com/adam.bozon/ChessPuzzles.htm">http://homepage.ntlworld.com/adam.bozon/ChessPuzzles.htm</a> (some were slightly modified, since we had five levels of difficulty). I will be posting the quiz questions here. Answers will be posted in a few days.<br /><br />Thanks so much to <strong>Lennart</strong>, <strong>Stefan</strong>, and other volunteers who helped set up the puzzles/quizzes + assist the kids. Thanks to <strong>WIM Yuanling</strong> and <strong>CITL sponsors</strong> for providing twelve chess book prizes. With your help, the events were very successful.<br /><br />Thanks also to <strong>GM Mark Bluvshtein</strong> for making a stellar speech on behalf of volunteers...including a joke about broccoli :) Eat broccoli and play chess!!! Mark's blog: <a href="http://markbluvshtein.wordpress.com/">http://markbluvshtein.wordpress.com/</a><br /><br />Congrats <strong>North York Central Library</strong> for taking home the big trophy! Both the library and the trophy are beautiful - a good match!<br /><br />Now for the quizzes:<br /><br /><strong><em><span style="font-size:130%;">CITL Quiz</span></em></strong><br /><br />1. What colour is CITL's logo?<br />2. How many library branches does CITL currently operate in?<br />3. Who is President of CITL?<br />4. Name three branches and leaders of those branches.<br />5. Name three provinces CITL operates in.<br />6. What year did CITL start operating and what was its first branch?<br />7. What library branch won last year's festival?<br />8. Find the names of five CITL participants + something cool about them!<br />9. In what town did CITL most recently open?<br />10. What's one thing you like about CITL?<br /><br /><em>Top score at the festival: 10/10</em><br /><em>Second highest: 8/10</em><br /><br /><strong><em><span style="font-size:130%;">Fun Chess Quiz</span></em></strong><br /><br />1. When was chess invented?<br /><br />a) Millions of years ago<br />b) Thousands of years ago<br />c) Hundreds of years ago<br />d) Yesterday<br /><br />2. In May 2011, who was the top ranked chess player in the world (FIDE rating 2817)?<br /><br />a) GM Garry Kasparov<br />b) GM Magnus Carlsen<br />c) GM Viswanathan Anand<br />d) GM Hikaru Nakamura<br /><br />3. One of the following is not a true chess variant. Which is it?<br /><br />a) Hedgehog Chess<br />b) Bomb Chess<br />c) Bug Eyed Monster Chess<br />d) Chicken Chess<br /><br />4. “Scacchi” means chess in what language?<br /><br />a) Greek<br />b) Spanish<br />c) Italian<br />d) Chicken Language<br /><br />5. The longest game of chess ever played lasted how many moves?<br /><br />a) Between 100 and 150 moves<br />b) Between 150 and 200 moves<br />c) Between 200 and 250 moves<br />d) More than 250 moves<br /><br />6. What does ECO stand for?<br /><br />a) Educational Chess Organization<br />b) Encyclopedia of Chess Openings<br />c) Early Childhood Opportunities<br />d) Easy Candle Oils<br /><br />7. What is a “pig” in chess?<br /><br />a) A player that eats too much before a game<br />b) An isolated pawn deep in the opponent’s territory<br />c) A move that wins a lot of material<br />d) A rook on the 7th rank<br /><br />8. Who said “chess is life”?<br /><br />a) GM Bobby Fischer<br />b) GM Anatoly Karpov<br />c) GM Mark Bluvshtein<br />d) GM Alexander Alekhine<br /><br />9. What did the USSR (around Russia) ban in 1930?<br /><br />a) Simultaneous Chess<br />b) Correspondence Chess<br />c) Blind Chess<br />d) All Chess<br /><br />10. Which chess piece was once called an “asp”?<br /><br />a) Pawn<br />b) Knight<br />c) Rook<br />d) King<br /><br />11. Which country was the first to issue a stamp with a chess theme?<br /><br />a) Poland<br />b) Armenia<br />c) United States<br />d) Bulgaria<br /><br />12. How many possible positions exist after white and black make their first move?<br /><br />a) 200<br />b) 300<br />c) 400<br />d) 500<br /><br />13. The first game between astronauts in space and people on earth ended in a:<br /><br />a) win for the astronauts<br />b) win for people on earth<br />c) draw<br />d) crash<br /><br />14. GM Judit Polgar’s husband held what type of job?<br /><br />a) magician<br />b) construction worker<br />c) veterinarian<br />d) plumber<br /><br />15. GM Alexander Alekhine found what kind of animal to be good luck?<br /><br />a) cat<br />b) dog<br />c) rabbit<br />d) elephant<br /><br /><em>Top score at the festival: 7/15</em><br /><em>Second highest: 6/15</em><br /><em>Top score by a volunteer: 8/15</em><br /><em></em><br />THANKS AGAIN TO EVERYONE WHO MADE THIS EVENT POSSIBLE! KEEP SUPPORTING CHESS IN CANADA!Hazel Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09676419341210003511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1396330194365464710.post-90886277534725950302011-06-23T00:48:00.006-04:002011-06-26T08:48:47.328-04:00Totally Thursday - Tournament Announcement<div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xnf1FB7AyyU/TgLFyeB5S1I/AAAAAAAABRs/SONZA3-V2D0/s1600/CITL%2BFestival%2B2011%2Bhappy%2Bface%2Bcoupon.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 208px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621272755756944210" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xnf1FB7AyyU/TgLFyeB5S1I/AAAAAAAABRs/SONZA3-V2D0/s400/CITL%2BFestival%2B2011%2Bhappy%2Bface%2Bcoupon.JPG" /></a>Consider attending the 2nd Annual CITL Festival, being held at North York Central Library this Saturday. I will be there all day helping with activities, so come pick up a happy face pin if you're around! As usual, I will only have free pins for the first five people who submit the coupon above to me at the event. Coupons will be available for the CYCC and Canadian Open soon!<br /><br />For more information about the CITL Festival, check out Yuanling's blog: <a href="http://yuanlingyuan.blogspot.com/">http://yuanlingyuan.blogspot.com/</a></div>Hazel Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09676419341210003511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1396330194365464710.post-76084233666712412842011-06-22T23:21:00.006-04:002011-06-23T00:34:23.597-04:00Wacky Wednesday - Personality QuizHappy summer! Now that spring cleaning season is over, it's time to figure out your <em>chess </em>organization habits :)<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong><em>What is your typical organization habit on the chess board?</em></strong></span><br /><br />For each of these questions, select the answer that suits you best!<br /><br /><strong>Question 1:</strong> In the middlegame, what are you most likely to do?<br />(a) Attack certain areas of the board with specific pieces, having little emphasis on other areas and pieces<br />(b) Coordinate between many pieces, making sure you structurally control as much of the board as possible<br />(c) Sometimes go for spontaneous attacks, and sometimes coordinate pieces quietly<br /><br /><strong>Question 2:</strong> How often do you sacrifice a pawn?<br />(a) Rarely<br />(b) From time to time<br />(c) Very often<br /><br /><strong>Question 3:</strong> In the first ten moves, do you tend to castle?<br />(a) Depends on the opening<br />(b) Sometimes, but it isn't the highest concern<br />(c) Always<br /><br /><strong>Question 4:</strong> Of the following, what type of endgame would you most likely enter into?<br />(a) Tight pawn endgame<br />(b) Unclear endgame with a couple pieces (rooks or minors, same for both sides) and pawns<br />(c) Highly unbalanced endgame involving pawn races and asymmetric material (such as B vs. N, opposite colour bishops, R vs. minor, etc.)<br /><br /><strong>Question 5:</strong> Where is the majority of your focus directed?<br />(a) Can be anywhere on the board, often multiple areas where you see the most play<br />(b) Usually an area on one of the wings where you have the strongest initiative; the other areas don't seem to matter as much<br />(c) The centre<br /><br /><strong><em>Total up your points:</em></strong><br /><br />Q1 (a) 3 points (b) 1 point (c) 2 points<br />Q2 (a) 1 point (b) 2 points (c) 3 points<br />Q3 (a) 2 points (b) 3 points (c) 1 point<br />Q4 (a) 1 point (b) 2 points (c) 3 points<br />Q5 (a) 2 points (b) 3 points (c) 1 point<br /><br /><strong><em>Score:</em></strong><br /><br /><em>5 points - 8 points</em><br /><strong>You don't mind a mess -</strong><br /><br />Who needs organization when you only have to create an advantage in one area of the board? You go against traditional thinking and come up with your own terms - spontaneous attacks, material imbalances, ... - as long as you feel you can benefit, there's no need to worry if a large part of the board is a mess. However, don't let your rebellious side take away from basic structure. Make sure you are logically placing pieces and deciding on good moves that will emphasize your creative potential.<br /><br /><em>9 points - 11 points</em><br /><strong>You're dynamic -</strong><br /><br />You follow the best of both worlds - a bit spontaneous, and a bit coordinated. This gives you the most possibilities in your games. Only thing to watch - make sure you're not allowing the possibilities to overwhelm you, or try so hard to fulfill both sides of the coin (spontaneous, coordinated) that you miss out on important chances in one or the other. Get to know situations you'll likely encounter, such as different openings, and determine how you should effectively deal with them.<br /><br /><em>12 points - 15 points</em><br /><strong>You like to keep organized -</strong><br /><br />Coordinating pieces and following general structural rules are key elements in your decision making. Anything that looks a bit "off", such as a sacrifice, is avoided - in fact, you could probably write a whole book on how to keep your position stable. While many envy your elegant play, try to be open to different possibilities. Positional rules are often guidelines that can be followed in most cases, but not all. Take time to look for creative solutions!Hazel Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09676419341210003511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1396330194365464710.post-74533732904053151182011-06-15T19:25:00.002-04:002011-06-16T19:29:05.749-04:00Taking a Break<div align="center"><strong><em><span style="font-size:130%;">Hey Readers,</span></em></strong></div><br /><div align="center">I won't be updating my blog from June 15 - June 21. </div><br /><div align="center">Thanks for visiting! Feel free to browse my past posts, or participate in the 'hair contest'. </div><br /><div align="center">Be back soon!</div><br /><div align="center"><strong><em><span style="font-size:130%;">Hazel</span></em></strong></div>Hazel Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09676419341210003511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1396330194365464710.post-64174546171749685532011-06-14T22:40:00.002-04:002011-06-15T01:48:25.780-04:00Twisted Tuesday - Chess Puzzles<strong><em>Brad Schaefer, a past MIT student, held campus-wide puzzle competitions, including a few chess puzzle selections. What a cool idea!</em></strong><br /><br />Find his work here: <a href="http://www.mit.edu/~puzzle/hunthistory.html">http://www.mit.edu/~puzzle/hunthistory.html</a>Hazel Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09676419341210003511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1396330194365464710.post-58862064961707836142011-06-13T23:38:00.004-04:002011-06-14T01:15:13.742-04:00Camel Story - the story continues!<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BzQq-G1JvjM/TfbZyIhlrtI/AAAAAAAABRc/xoZDyrt_jvg/s1600/camel%2Bwith%2Bsummer%2Bhat.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 301px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617917040496324306" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BzQq-G1JvjM/TfbZyIhlrtI/AAAAAAAABRc/xoZDyrt_jvg/s320/camel%2Bwith%2Bsummer%2Bhat.JPG" /></a><em><strong>Please read my past camel posts before reading this one (click the "Camel Story" label on the side bar)!</strong></em><br /><em></em><br /><em>"Suddenly, the same neck she visioned enrobed with jewels felt stiff. No, it certainly was NOT a necklace. It was a huge metal chain, and there was no way to escape! Without hesitation, Mansur began to pull her away."</em><br /><em></em><br />"Shhh...don't you dare make a sound. Look, I know I'm not the nicest guy in the world, but I promise to keep you safe. Once we get through this, you'll thank me a million times over. Those lavish riches, those jewels, they will be yours. You will be the most decorated camel in all of Egypt. Trust me."<br /><br />Gamala stared in disbelief. How could she possibly trust a man so cruel? A chain around the neck - how could he? Just the other day, she was a free camel. Hungry, but all the freedom in the world. How could she trust someone who took that away from her? Yet, what choice did she have?<br /><br />Mansur rounded a corner into a bustling marketplace. What a scene! People from all over the city talking, laughing, crying with joy. Exquisite linens of the most precisely chosen threads dancing in the gentle wind. A mosaic of finely painted glass shimmering upon every grain of sand. And every type of fruit and vegetable you could ever imagine. It was simply amazing!<br /><br />"We're looking for the stall of Zaima the potter," Mansur said to a young fellow roaming the square, "He has important news from my father."<br /><br />"Go eight thousand cubits (about four kilometres) down this path and you will find the stall on your left."<br /><br />"Ah, I see. Thank you for your service, kind man."<br /><br />Mansur proceeded down the path, through the market and into a dark patch of land on the outskirts of town. He seemed relentless - Gamala figured this news must be very important. Her legs ached in exhaustion, but the thought of being dragged around was a lot worse than putting up with tired feet. Even so, she was terrified.<br /><br />Finally, at what seemed to be the end of the path, a small stall appeared. This stall looked worn down, abandoned, and didn't seem to be selling anything in particular. Was this the right one? Slowly, they approached. Even Mansur started to sweat, and if you looked closely, you could see a frightened gulp sliding down the lining of his throat.<br /><br />"Hello? I am here to discuss matters about my father. I have brought a camel as you asked."<br /><br />Gamala winced. She didn't know what to think of Mansur's comment.<br /><br />Suddenly, a short man appeared from the back of the stall. "Yes, I have been expecting you. I regret to say I'm the holder of bad news - your father passed away the other day. I knew him well, and he would have liked to see you, but he did leave something for your taking. Wait right here."<br /><br />The man reached for a small bag, and then another one, and another one. "Bring these with you to the Ma'at tournament. Look inside, but don't let others peek. Your father worked his whole life collecting what these bags contain. Perhaps this camel can help. Take care with what your father has provided, and as I told you before your arrival here, it will surely make you very rich."<br /><br /><em>To Be Continued...</em><br /><br /><strong>"Camel Story" posts will be made each month - follow along for updates about Gamala and Gamalo, and the Ma'at tournament. The anticipated ending to the story will be posted in December 2011.</strong>Hazel Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09676419341210003511noreply@blogger.com0