Remembering IM Jeremy Silman (1954-2023)

On September 21, 2023, the chess world lost one of its most beloved and influential figures, International Master Jeremy Silman. Silman was a prolific author, chess educator, and commentator. His books, such as How to Reassess Your Chess and The Amateur’s Mind, are considered classics and have helped millions of players improve their game.

Silman was born in Del Rio, Texas, in 1954. He learned to play chess at a young age but did not become serious about the game until his early twenties. In the mid-1970s, he moved to the Bay Area, where he flourished in the competitive chess scene. He earned his international master title in 1988 and reached his peak US Chess rating of 2593 in 1990.

Silman was a gifted player, but he was even more gifted as a teacher. His writing style was clear, concise, and engaging. He was able to explain complex chess concepts in a way that was easy to understand. His books are full of practical advice and exercises that can help players of all levels improve their game.

In addition to his writing, Silman was also a popular chess lecturer and commentator. He was known for his wit and his ability to make chess fun and accessible to everyone. He was also a strong advocate for chess education and worked tirelessly to promote the game to the next generation.

Silman’s impact on the chess world is immeasurable. His books have helped millions of players improve their game, and his teaching has inspired countless others to pursue chess. He was a true chess legend, and he will be deeply missed.

How Silman Impacted Chess Education

Silman had a profound impact on chess education in a number of ways. First, his books were some of the first to be written in a style that was accessible to players of all levels. He avoided using jargon and technical language, and he explained complex concepts in a clear and concise way.

Second, Silman’s books were full of practical advice and exercises that players could use to improve their game. He didn’t just teach theory and openings; he taught players how to think about the game and make better decisions.

Third, Silman was a strong advocate for chess education. He believed that chess was a valuable educational tool that could help children develop their problem-solving and critical thinking skills. He worked tirelessly to promote the game to schools and other organizations.

Silman’s impact on chess education is still felt today. His books are still widely read and used by players of all levels. His teaching methods have been adopted by many chess coaches and instructors. And his advocacy for chess education has helped to make the game more accessible to children and adults alike.

Silman’s Legacy

Silman left behind a rich legacy of chess education. His books, lectures, and commentary have helped millions of players improve their game and learn more about the game they love. He was a true chess legend, and he will be deeply missed.

Here are some specific examples of how Silman’s work has impacted chess education:

  • His books are some of the most popular and widely used chess instructional books in the world.
  • His teaching methods have been adopted by many chess coaches and instructors.
  • His advocacy for chess education has helped to make the game more accessible to children and adults alike.
  • His work has inspired countless people to pursue chess and to learn more about the game.

Silman’s impact on chess education is truly immeasurable. He was a pioneer in the field, and his work has helped to shape the way that chess is taught today. He will be remembered as one of the greatest chess educators of all time.

Magnus Carlsen Continues Winning Streak, Niemann Loses to Kramnik

Magnus Carlsen Continues Winning Streak, Niemann Loses to Kramnik

Magnus Carlsen is still on a roll. The Norwegian grandmaster won the Julius Baer Generation Cup last weekend, his third victory on the $2 million Champions Tour. This comes just a month after he won the World Cup, the only major individual competition he had never won.

In the Julius Baer Generation Cup, Carlsen defeated Alireza Firouzja in the final. Firouzja is a rising star in chess, but Carlsen proved to be too strong. Carlsen also defeated Fabiano Caruana and Nodirbek Abdusattorov en route to the title.

One of Carlsen’s best games in the tournament was against Firouzja. Carlsen played the rare 6 Rg1 against the Najdorf Sicilian, and he was able to overrun Firouzja’s position with a sustained attack.

Niemann also had a strong showing in the tournament, but he lost to Kramnik in the quarterfinals. Kramnik played the Fool’s Mate in the second game, and Niemann resigned rather than play 3 Qh5 mate.

Niemann is still the No. 1 seed for the upcoming World Junior Championship, but he needs to start taking his chess more seriously if he wants to win the event. He needs to create a bank of opening novelties, study the games of his rivals, and hire a second to provide him with support.

Garry Kasparov will also be in action this weekend. He will be playing in the Chess 9LX tournament in St. Louis. Kasparov is the rival to Carlsen and Fischer as the all-time No. 1, so this will be a great opportunity to see him in action.

If you are interested in learning more about chess, or if you are looking for a great place to improve your chess skills, please contact Summit School of Chess. We offer a variety of chess classes for all ages and levels. We also offer private lessons, group lessons, and summer camps.

Summit School of Chess: The Best Chess Program for Your School

Led by National Chess Master Jesse Cohen, Summit School of Chess has been serving hundreds of students around the Greater Denver Area since 2012. In that time, we have helped our students develop chess skills that have led to 17 state championships.

Our team of coaches is ready for students of all ages and skill levels. We specialize in having fun, respectful, and controlled environments where students can be safe to flourish. We also have the flexibility to accommodate your schedule, offering both after-school and weekend programs.

Here are just a few of the benefits of bringing Summit School of Chess to your school:

  • Chess improves academic performance. Studies have shown that chess can help students improve their critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. These are all skills that are essential for success in school and in life.
  • Chess teaches valuable life lessons. Chess is a game of strategy, tactics, and perseverance. By playing chess, students learn how to think ahead, plan their moves carefully, and never give up. These are all valuable life lessons that can be applied to any field.
  • Chess is a fun and engaging activity. Chess is a game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a great way to relieve stress, have fun, and make new friends.

If you are looking for a chess program that will help your students learn and grow, Summit School of Chess is the perfect choice. We offer a variety of programs to fit the needs of your school, and we are committed to providing a fun and challenging learning environment for all students.

To learn more about our school programs, please visit our website or contact us today. We would be happy to answer any questions you have and schedule a free consultation.

Visit our website to learn more: https://summitschoolofchess.com/

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation: (720)-243-1450

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Chess and Other Brain-Boosting Activities

Chess and Other Brain-Boosting Activities

I recently read an article in The Telegraph that highlighted the benefits of chess for brain health in later life. This got me thinking about all the other activities that can help keep my mind sharp as I age.

I’m not a natural chess player, but I do enjoy playing card games like bridge and poker. I’ve also been thinking about learning a new language, and I’ve always wanted to learn how to play a musical instrument.

I know that exercise is also important for brain health, so I’ve been trying to get more active. I’ve started going for walks more often, and I’m thinking about joining a dance class.

I’m excited to try all of these activities and see how they help me keep my mind sharp. I’m also interested in learning more about the benefits of other brain-boosting activities.

If you’re looking for ways to keep your mind sharp as you age, I encourage you to try some of these activities. You may be surprised at how much they can help!

Here are some additional tips for keeping your brain healthy:

  • Eat a healthy diet.
  • Get enough sleep.
  • Stay socially active.
  • Learn new things.
  • Keep your mind active.

By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your brain stays healthy and sharp for many years to come.

I hope this blog post has given you some ideas for activities that you can do to keep your brain healthy. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Thanks for reading!

Sincerely,

Jesse R Cohen

If you are interested in learning more about Summit School of Chess, please visit our website at https://summitschoolofchess.com/.

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The Detroit City Chess Club: A Model for Success


The Detroit City Chess Club (DCCC) is a non-profit organization that has been providing chess instruction and mentorship to Detroit youth for 20 years. The club’s mission is to “provide opportunities for Detroit youth to learn and grow through the game of chess.”

The DCCC has a long and successful history. The club has produced many state and national champions, and its alumni have gone on to attend top colleges and universities. In addition, the club has helped to develop many young people’s critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

The DCCC is a model for success in several ways.

The club has a strong and dedicated leadership team. The club’s founder, Kevin Fite, is a passionate advocate for chess education, and he has assembled a team of experienced coaches and mentors who are committed to the club’s mission.

The DCCC has a strong community base. The club is supported by a network of parents, volunteers, and donors who are committed to providing chess opportunities for Detroit youth. This community support has been essential to the club’s success.

The DCCC has a well-designed program. The club’s curriculum is based on the latest research on chess education, and the club offers a variety of programs and activities to meet the needs of different groups of youth.

The DCCC is a valuable resource for Detroit youth. The club provides opportunities for youth to learn and grow through the game of chess, and it helps to develop the skills that they need to succeed in school and in life. The DCCC is a model for success, and it is an example of how chess can be used to improve the lives of young people.

How the Detroit City Chess Club Can Inspire Our Own Chess Programs

The Detroit City Chess Club is a shining example of how chess can be used to improve the lives of young people. The club’s 20-year history of success is a testament to the power of chess to teach valuable life skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making.

Our own chess programs can learn a lot from the Detroit City Chess Club. Here are a few key takeaways:

  • Focus on providing a high-quality chess education. The Detroit City Chess Club’s curriculum is based on the latest research on chess education, and the club offers a variety of programs and activities to meet the needs of different groups of youth. We should strive to provide our own chess students with the same level of quality instruction.
  • Build a strong community base. The Detroit City Chess Club is supported by a network of parents, volunteers, and donors who are committed to providing chess opportunities for Detroit youth. This community support has been essential to the club’s success. We should work to build a similar community base for our own chess programs.
  • Be flexible and adaptable. The Detroit City Chess Club has been able to adapt its programs and activities to meet the changing needs of its students. We should be similarly flexible and adaptable in our own chess programs.

The Detroit City Chess Club is a model for success, and it is an inspiration to us all. By following the club’s example, we can help to ensure that chess continues to be a force for good in the lives of young people.

If you are interested in learning more about Summit School of Chess, please visit our website at https://summitschoolofchess.com/.

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Ju Wenjun Retains Women’s World Chess Championship Title

Ju Wenjun (32) successfully defended her Women’s World Chess Championship title by defeating challenger Lei Tingjie (26) in the final game of the match. The match was held in Chongqing, China, and ended with a score of 6.5-5.5.

Ju Wenjun is now a four-time Women’s World Chess Champion, equaling the record set by Hou Yifan. She is considered one of the best chess players in the world, and her victory is a testament to her skill and determination.

The match was closely contested, with both players playing some excellent chess. Lei Tingjie gave a good account of herself, but Ju Wenjun was simply too strong. She was able to find the right moves at the right time, and she never gave her opponent a chance to get back into the match.

In the final game, Ju Wenjun took advantage of a mistake by Lei Tingjie to build a winning position. She then played with great accuracy to secure victory.

Ju Wenjun’s victory is a major achievement, and it is a testament to her hard work and dedication. She is an inspiration to chess players of all levels, and her victory will surely encourage more people to take up the game.

Summit School of Chess Congratulates Ju Wenjun

The Summit School of Chess congratulates Ju Wenjun on her victory in the Women’s World Chess Championship. Ju is a role model for our students, and her victory shows that anything is possible if you work hard and never give up.

We are proud to have Ju as an ambassador for our school, and we look forward to following her continued success.

If you are interested in learning more about chess, please visit our website or contact us today. We offer a variety of chess classes and programs for all ages and skill levels.

We hope to see you soon!

If you are interested in learning more about Summit School of Chess, please visit our website at https://summitschoolofchess.com/.

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Learning chess is easy – From Beginner to Problem Solver

Learning chess is easy, as anyone can grasp the basics of how the pieces move and start playing. However, as you progress and face tougher competition, you might hit a wall and feel frustrated. But, rather than giving up and throwing away your chess set, you should focus on becoming a good problem solver.

As an AI-powered assistant, I recommend a methodical and objective approach to help you improve your chess game. Firstly, compile data from all your games, focusing on your last 10-20-30 losses. Analyze the reasons behind your losses, such as tactical blunders, endgame play, opening issues, poor nerves, or a lack of understanding of the positions.

This data will help you identify your top areas for improvement. Secondly, once you have assessed the data objectively, work diligently to fix each area of problem, starting with the worst ones. Keep repeating this process until you reach your desired playing level.

Remember, success takes time and effort. Don’t expect to become a grandmaster or world champion in just a few years by spending a couple of hours a day. Be disciplined, work hard, work smart, and persevere. Good luck on your journey to becoming a better chess player! – Susan Polgar

In conclusion, mastering chess requires dedication and a problem-solving mindset. By analyzing your games, identifying weaknesses, and diligently working to improve, you can progress from a beginner to a skilled player. Embrace the journey, and success will follow. Happy chess playing!

♟️

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US Judge Dismisses $100M Defamation Lawsuit vs. Magnus Carlsen

US Judge Dismisses $100 Million Defamation Lawsuit Filed by Hans Niemann Against Magnus Carlsen and Others

A US judge has dismissed the $100 million defamation lawsuit filed by American chess grandmaster Hans Niemann against Magnus Carlsen, online platform Chess.com, its chief chess officer Daniel Rensch and popular streamer Hikaru Nakamura.

The lawsuit alleged that the defendants had been “egregiously defaming him and unlawfully colluding to blacklist him from the profession to which he has dedicated his life.” Niemann said in the lawsuit that the saga caused him “devasting damages.”

The judge dismissed the accusations of an antitrust violation with prejudice, meaning Niemann cannot file again about antitrust violation allegations against these defendants on this evidence.

However, the judge dismissed the claims of libel and slander without prejudice, meaning Niemann can refile another suit based on those allegations.

Niemann’s lawsuit described the cheating scandal which sent shockwaves through the sport, beginning in September 2022 when world No. 1 Carlsen accused Niemann of cheating at the $350,000 Sinquefield Cup in St. Louis, Missouri.

Niemann has previously admitted publicly to cheating in online matches at the ages of 12 and 16 but the investigation alleged he had cheated more recently. Niemann has denied these accusations.

In his second amendment, Niemann alleged that Carlsen paid a friend $328 (€300) to shout “Cheater Hans” from the stands at the closing ceremony of a tournament. Carlsen has not responded to this allegation.

The judge’s decision is a victory for Carlsen and Chess.com, who have been accused of unfairly targeting Niemann. The case had cast a shadow over the chess world, and its resolution will allow the sport to move on from the controversy.

About Summit School of Chess

Summit School of Chess is a leading online chess school that teaches students of all ages and skill levels.

Our experienced and passionate instructors use a variety of teaching methods to help students improve their chess skills and knowledge.

We offer a variety of courses and programs, including beginner, intermediate, and advanced classes, as well as private lessons.

We also offer a variety of tournaments and events throughout the year.

If you are interested in learning more about Summit School of Chess, please visit our website at https://summitschoolofchess.com/.

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Summit School of Chess Responds to Alice Lee’s Accomplishments

We are thrilled to see Alice Lee’s recent accomplishments in chess. Her achievement of becoming the third youngest female international master in history is a testament to her dedication and hard work. We are proud to have Alice as a member of our school, and we look forward to seeing her continued success in the years to come.

Alice’s story is an inspiration to all young chess players. She started playing chess at a young age, and she quickly showed a natural talent for the game. She has worked hard to improve her skills, and she has received excellent coaching from GM Dmitry Gurevich.

Alice’s recent success is a reminder that anything is possible if you set your mind to it. She is an example of how hard work and dedication can lead to great things. We are excited to see what she accomplishes in the future.

In addition to Alice’s accomplishments, we would like to take this opportunity to highlight some of the other great things happening at Summit School of Chess.

  • We have recently expanded our curriculum to include more advanced topics, such as endgame studies and opening theory.
  • We have also added a new coaching staff, which includes several grandmasters and international masters.
  • We are currently offering a summer camp for students of all ages.

We invite you to learn more about Summit School of Chess and to sign up for one of our upcoming classes or camps. We are confident that you will be impressed with our program and our staff.

Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,

The Summit School of Chess Team

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How to save losing positions in chess?

1. COMPLICATE & CREATE ROOM FOR MISTAKES If you’re losing, and you and your opponent continue to make normal moves, you’ll eventually lose. Your only chance to save a losing game is if your opponent makes a mistake. So complicate the position. “Help” the opponent to go wrong.

2. AVOID EXCHANGES More pieces = more chance for the opponent to go wrong. It also means having the chance to use your pieces to target the opponent’s King. One exception: In losing endgames, trade pawns. Because many endgames are drawn once you remove the pawns.

3. MAKE ADJUSTMENTS When losing, some ‘normal rules’ don’t apply. Like you can’t fight for open lines, exploit weaknesses if it means trading more pieces. Instead, you often have to do the opposite and forget some common chess principles. Make those adjustments to your game.

4. TARGET THE KING If your attack succeeds, you win no matter the material count. If you expose the enemy King, your chances of making a draw by perpetual checks increase. Attacking could make the opponent nervous and cause them to blunder. So go after the King!

5. SACRIFICE FEARLESSLY If you had a 3m debt and it becomes 3.1m, would you feel much difference? Mostly not. Similarly, if you’re a Queen down, do you think twice about sacrificing a pawn? Not really, right? You have nothing to lose so you can sacrifice fearlessly.

6. MAKE YOUR PIECES HAPPY The happier our pieces, the more headache the opponent will have. Dealing with just 1 active piece is far easier than dealing with 5 active. And in which direction should we activate our pieces? Towards the opponent’s king!

7. MAKE PRACTICAL DECISIONS Look for the PRACTICAL best moves! They may/may not be the objective best but they’ll give your opponent all the chances to go wrong. And in SLP mode, it’s always good to encourage the opponent to make a mistake.

8. CREATE TRAPS Usually, playing for traps isn’t a good idea. But when lost, it’s an absolute must-have weapon. If you see a nice trap, and there is even a 10% chance the opponent can fall in, think about it. And if it doesn’t damage your position too much – just go for it!

9. STALEMATE Most stalemates happen in the endgames. But sometimes they can happen even in the middlegames. GM Robert Hovhannisyan has made a name for himself, saving lost positions with stalemates. Below is one. Robert makes a miracle happen: 1.g3! Qg3 2.Qh5!!

10. DIRTY TRICKS AND LAST CHANCES Put on your shameless masks! The tricks are dirty but ethical. Every top player uses them. Even though they don’t work always, saving 1-5% of lost positions with them can be worth a lot long-term. EXAMPLE 1…Qd3+??! 2.Kg2?? (2.Qxd3 wins) Qxh7.

11. PSYCHOLOGICAL DYNAMICS When losing, most get upset, giving the winning side a big psychological edge. Instead, a skilled defender of lost positions puts themselves in a mental state of joy and fun. This subtle shift makes a big difference to the quality of the moves.

If you are interested in learning more about Summit School of Chess, please visit our website at https://summitschoolofchess.com/.

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